Some on Council and Planning Commission have concerns about the proposed code that allows ADs up to two stories and 1,000sf, with no regulations on short-term rentals and occupancy nor parking review.
Planning Director Paul Stoddard leaves Falls Church for Alexandria as of November 30. The City now has three senior positions to fill, including directors for Human Resources and the Department of Public Works.
The Police Report for 2023 shows a 3.57% increase in crime overall, 22% increase in 911 calls and a third more crashes than 2022. Falls Church crime rate continues to be low, although theft, shoplifting and property damage are rising.
City Council decided to fund the long-awaited Fellows Park project and two EV school buses. The School Board was surprised that their share was only $449,000. $1.67M of the FY2024 budget surplus will go to capital reserve.
The FY2024 surplus was primarily due to a higher investment return than the 2% budgeted, and higher property tax and meals tax revenues. The capital reserve was $13 million, and projected to go down to $2 million by 2030.
City Council approved the zoning change to reduce the commercial parking requirement to attract small businesses to the City and enable adaptive reuse of older buildings.
At their August meeting, HARB received a proposal to build an 8-unit apartment building adjoining a historic property, taking advantage of the new T-Zone ordinance.
In response to condo owners who are not eligible for City solid waste collection today, the City is exploring options that are more equitable. Options to reduce waste are also discussed.
Caution is urged and there is a need for data analyses of housing, tax, privacy, parking and environmental impacts of the accessory dwelling code proposal. Public awareness and townhall attendance is low.
