Transcript: NewsCenter Podcast

Aug. 20, 2025

Good day, and welcome to the Fairfax County NewsCenter podcast. Coming up, learn about the county’s Opioid Response Plan, school bus safety and a technology award for Fairfax County. Links to topics mentioned in this podcast can be found online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov.

 

For many years, Fairfax County has worked to address the local impacts of the national opioid epidemic through a multi-pronged strategy involving a wide range of stakeholders. Significant local resources, strong cross-system collaboration and county leadership united in their commitment led to the creation of an Opioid and Substance Use Task Force in 2017 and has resulted in several programs and initiatives that have helped individuals and families dealing with the impacts of substance use disorder. While the national, state and local decline in fatal opioid overdoses from 2023 to 2024 is encouraging, there are still far too many fatal opioid overdoses in the Fairfax Health District and much work to be done to meet the multifaceted needs experienced across the community. As these programs and activities advance over the next three years, data-informed modifications will be made to enhance effectiveness and adapt to emerging issues/trends (such as the constantly evolving nature of the illicit drug supply). This will ensure that every possible tool and resource available is working towards the goals of reducing opioid deaths, preventing opioid misuse and improving the lives of those impacted by opioid use disorder. This work has been outlined in and guided by Fairfax County’s Opioid Response Plan, which was recently updated for FY 26-28. Learn more on NewsCenter; www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news.

 

It's back-to-school time! Fairfax County Public Schools began on Monday, Aug. 18. With more than a million residents, our roads are normally busy, but school buses add an extra layer of vehicles, while school zones and crossing guards are looking out for the safety of our children. There are more than 180,000 FCPS students and 200+ schools in Fairfax County. While it may be tempting if you’re in a hurry, it is never OK to pass a school bus, speed through a school zone or ignore a crossing guard’s direction. NewsCenter has more on driving rules near school buses, school zone speed cameras, and crossing guards.

 

Be sure to subscribe to “Weekender,” the county’s weekend arts and entertainment e-newsletter. “Weekender” brings together offerings from around the county and delivers that info right to your inbox. Don’t miss out on fun happenings throughout the county. Subscribe to “Weekender” at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news/weekender.

 

Fairfax County recently ranked No. 2 in the 2025 Digital Counties Survey by The Center for Digital Government, in partnership with the National Association of Counties. The survey identifies the best technology practices among U.S. counties, including initiatives that streamline delivery of government services, encourage open data, collaboration and shared services, enhance cybersecurity and contribute to disaster recovery efforts. This year’s ranking celebrated several achievements, including:

• Cybersecurity
• Business Process Automation
• AI, Generative AI and Machine Learning
• Expanding Channels for Outreach
• Improved Customer and Staff Experiences
• Inclusive Community Engagement
• Digital Equity

IT success aligns with the Countywide Strategic Plan, most notably the Effective and Efficient Government community outcome area. Fairfax County has often been ranked in the top 10 as a technical innovator over the last 22 years – and in the top five for 11 consecutive years (earning first place four times). NewsCenter has more details.

 

Finally, find other county podcasts at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/podcasts. And for 24/7 news and information from and about Fairfax County, listen to Fairfax County Government Radio online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/radio.

 

That’s all for this NewsCenter podcast. Thanks for listening. For more information about the topics in this podcast and for news updates, visit fairfaxcounty.gov/news. Follow the NewsCenter podcast on soundcloud.com/fairfaxcounty and our podcasts webpage, fairfaxcounty.gov/podcasts. You can also listen 24/7 online to Fairfax County Government Radio at fairfaxcounty.gov/radio. If you have questions, call 703-FAIRFAX, that’s 703-324-7329, weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or email publicaffairs@fairfaxcounty.gov. The NewsCenter podcast is produced by the Fairfax County, Va., Government.