Fairfax City Council recently approved a resolution to request a special election on November 3, 2026, for a potential 1% retail sales tax, with revenues dedicated solely to capital projects for schools and public transportation. This significant decision comes as the city also celebrates its 45th consecutive Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association for its Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.
During its July 14 meeting, the City Council made several appointments, including Douglas Skiba and George McAndrews to the Grievance Panel Board, and Thomas Davis to Historic Fairfax City, Inc. The council also discussed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, an update on the Urban Forest Master Plan, Housing Trust Fund guidelines, and the City Council Code of Ethics. In a move to enhance accessibility, city council meetings and work sessions are now translated in real-time into 70 languages, available via smartphone.
Community engagement remains a focus, with a recent guided birding event at Van Dyck Park on July 12, where 23 attendees, including first-time birders, counted 21 local bird species. The city partnered with the Northern Virginia Bird Alliance and Northern Virginia Bird Club for this citizen science project. Additionally, the deadline for Fairfax City homeowners to sign up for the Solarize NOVA program has been extended to August 15, with contracts due by September 15.
Artists and cultural organizations are encouraged to apply for a Commission on the Arts Grant by August 31, supporting educational programs, access to art, and artist development. Families can look forward to the City of Fairfax Band Children’s Concert on July 30 at the Sherwood Center, featuring music, free ice cream, face-painting, and a chance to win "Disney On Ice" tickets.
Residents should note a temporary, maximum 10-minute closure of Route 50 (Fairfax Boulevard) at 5:30 a.m. on July 17, for Dominion Energy to remove a guy wire. The city also reminds residents to report power outages to Dominion Energy via their website, app, or by calling 866-DOM-HELP, and to prepare for potential outages during summer months.