Ashburn
- Loudoun County Dedicates Over $32 Million to Affordable Housing Initiatives in New Budget
Loudoun County officials have officially directed a substantial portion of the newly proposed $5.4 billion budget toward addressing regional affordable housing shortages. The county allocated an initial $29 million directly to the Housing Fund to support a variety of attainable housing initiatives. This major financial commitment utilizes dedicated revenue streams to ensure long-term sustainabilit
- Loudoun County Approves $5.4 Billion Budget for FY2027, Balancing Public Investments with Targeted Tax Relief
The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors recently approved a comprehensive $5.4 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2027, prioritizing education, public safety, and affordable housing initiatives. This substantial financial plan fully funds a requested $105 million increase for Loudoun County Public Schools, bringing the district’s total operating budget to an unprecedented $2.1 billion. The budget was
- Northern Virginia’s Data Center Boom Threatens Family Health with Expanding Power Lines and Substations
Rapid data center construction across Loudoun and Prince William Counties is forcing a massive expansion of high-voltage transmission lines and substations that scientific research associates with higher rates of childhood leukemia and other serious illnesses. Loudoun County already contains the world’s densest concentration of these facilities, with roughly 250 operational data centers and more t
- Loudoun County Advances $5.4 Billion FY2027 Budget with Massive Education Funding Increase
The Loudoun County government is advancing a massive financial blueprint for the upcoming fiscal year, featuring a historic investment in local education. The proposed FY2027 budget totals $5.4 billion and includes significant funding increases across multiple county departments. A central component of this financial plan is the allocation of $2.1 billion for the school operating […]
- Loudoun County Advances $5.4 Billion Budget Fueled by Unprecedented Data Center Revenue
Loudoun County has officially moved forward with a massive $5.4 billion budget that relies heavily on the rapidly expanding data center industry to fund public services. This unique fiscal dynamic allows local government officials to support extensive infrastructure and workforce investments while simultaneously lowering the tax burden on individual residents. The data center sector currently […]
- Loudoun County Board Allocates $194 Million Unassigned Fund Balance to Reserves and Capital Projects
The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors recently finalized the allocation of a significant unassigned general fund balance totaling nearly $194.4 million for the upcoming fiscal cycles. This legislative body, consisting of Phyllis Randall, Koran Saines, Juli Briskman, Sylvia Glass, Matthew Letourneau, Caleb Kershner, Michael Turner, Laura TeKrony, and Kristen Umstattd, directed the surplus toward
- Public Health Expert Warns Loudoun County Leaders of Cancer and Alzheimer’s Risks from Expanding Power Infrastructure
Loudoun County’s rapid data center expansion is generating extensive new high-voltage transmission lines and substations that a leading public health physician has linked to elevated risks of childhood leukemia, adult cancers, and Alzheimer’s disease. The county already contains approximately 250 operational data centers and more than 100 additional projects in the pipeline, driving a 233 […]
- Discussion Emerges on Procedures for Loudoun County School Board Minutes
Amy Riccardi spoke at a Loudoun County School Board meeting about the differences between Robert’s Rules of Order and the board’s established policy for preparing meeting minutes. Her comments focused on how these frameworks influence the documentation of discussions and decisions. The presentation outlined specific aspects of each approach in the context of ensuring comprehensive […]
- Study Examines Radiation Absorption Differences in Children
A 2023 study has identified notable differences in how children and adults absorb radiation from cell towers. According to the findings, children take in approximately ten times more of this radiation compared to adults. The research focuses on the effects of ongoing and involuntary exposure on developing young brains. This observation stems from analysis of […]
- Loudoun County Substitute Bus Drivers Address Expanded Roles at School Board Session
Substitute bus drivers in Loudoun County addressed the Loudoun County Public Schools board during a public comment period about changes in their work responsibilities. They reported that their roles have expanded significantly compared to the terms of their original contracts. This includes handling additional routes and varying schedules that were not initially specified. The drivers […]
- Loudoun County Effort Seeks to Acknowledge Black Revolutionary Soldiers
Juli Briskman is leading an initiative aimed at recognizing Black soldiers from Loudoun County who participated in the American Revolution. The effort seeks to bring greater awareness to these individuals and their service during the conflict. Discussions have centered on how the county might address this historical element in a formal manner. The proposal involves […]
- Loudoun County School Board Discusses Budget and Enrollment Trends
Loudoun County School Board member Deana Griffiths addressed the board during a public meeting regarding the relationship between the school budget and student enrollment figures. Griffiths asked for clarification on why the budget continues to rise even as enrollment numbers have decreased. The exchange focused on aspects of budget transparency within the district. The Loudoun […]
- Loudoun County Terminates Commuter Bus Pilot Program After Low Ridership
Loudoun County has discontinued its commuter bus program after an investment of nearly $1 million yielded average ridership of less than one passenger per route. The Board of Supervisors reviewed the performance data and opted to conclude the pilot. This decision follows an assessment of the service’s operational results. Program Background and Expenditures The commuter […]
- Loudoun Guild President Testifies Against Valley Commerce Center Proposal
Sherry Shields serves as president of the Loudoun Bed & Breakfast Guild. She delivered testimony before the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors. The focus of her comments centered on the Valley Commerce Center proposal. Shields advocated for its rejection to protect Western Loudoun. The guild represents bed and breakfast operators in the county. These businesses […]
- Loudoun County School Board Examines Classroom Evacuation Alerts
During a Loudoun County School Board meeting, members engaged in discussion regarding policies for notifying parents when classrooms are evacuated due to student dysregulation. The session focused on identifying inconsistencies in how such incidents are communicated to families. Officials explored options for improving transparency while maintaining appropriate confidentiality standards. Details o
- Loudoun School Board Schedules Special Session on Transmission Line Request
The Loudoun County School Board has scheduled a special meeting for July 13, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at Rock Ridge High School to discuss a request from the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors. The request seeks authorization to use school property for alternative routes of Dominion Energy’s Golden to Mars transmission line project. The meeting […]
- Virginia Regulators Approve Data Center Power Line Route Through Ashburn Neighborhood
The Virginia State Corporation Commission has issued a final order approving Route 3A for the Golden-Mars transmission line project proposed by Dominion Energy. This route will involve the construction of approximately 185-foot tall power line structures passing through portions of the Loudoun Valley Estates subdivision in Ashburn. The decision addresses the need for additional electrical […]
- Loudoun County Officials Discuss High Permit Fees for Basic Backyard Sheds
Loudoun County has seen attention directed toward the costs involved in securing permits for basic backyard sheds. Recent comments from Supervisor Caleb Kershner noted that such projects can incur expenses reaching ten thousand dollars in permit fees alone. These figures arise from various requirements including those related to grading and other preparatory steps. The topic […]
- Loudoun County Addresses Utility Infrastructure Realities
A recent meeting in Loudoun County featured discussion on the placement of power lines and the factors keeping them above ground. Participants explored the practical aspects of utility infrastructure decisions. The exchange provided insight into the considerations that influence these choices. Several elements contribute to the continued use of overhead lines in the area. Existing […]
- Loudoun County Boosts Sheriff Funding for Overtime and Equipment Amid Growth
Loudoun County has approved increased funding for the Sheriff’s Office overtime and equipment upgrades as part of its FY2026 budget. The allocations respond to ongoing population growth and rising demands for law enforcement services in expanding suburban areas. County officials have tied these increases to measurable trends in call volume and staffing requirements. Population Growth […]
- Loudoun Supervisor Caleb Kershner Highlights Concerns Over Zoning Ordinance Adjustments
Loudoun County Supervisor Caleb Kershner has drawn attention to the challenges associated with modifying zoning ordinances to focus on particular development projects. The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors manages these land use regulations as part of its responsibilities. Kershner’s statements focus on the possible consequences for consistent policy application. Potential Effects on Development
- PJM gets green light to push data centers onto back-up power during heat wave
The nation’s largest electricity grid — which includes Maryland, Washington D.C, and a dozen other states — received a green light from the Trump administration on Tuesday to require data centers and other large customers to turn on back-up generators during this week’s heatwave. The order, signed by U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, allows […]
- Loudoun Supervisor Mike Turner Examines Vineyard Zoning Compliance Issues
Loudoun County Supervisor Mike Turner addressed questions regarding new zoning ordinances during a board meeting. The ordinances may classify vineyards as non-resident uses subject to a 50 percent standard. This development has prompted discussions about compliance for existing properties in the county. Details of the Proposed Zoning Standards Mike Turner explained that a vineyard could […]
- Loudoun County Board of Supervisors Hears Concerns on Data Center Growth
The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors received comments from a resident during a public meeting. The speaker inquired if the county was on track to become known primarily for data centers. This statement occurred amid discussions of local development priorities. Details of the Public Comment The resident described a situation where data centers take precedence […]
- Loudoun County School Board Updates Student Dress Policies
The Loudoun County School Board conducted sessions focused on updating its dress code regulations. Participants examined ways to define tops and bottoms more clearly while exploring compromises related to hoodies and pajamas. These efforts sought to address both regulatory needs and everyday school realities. Discussions involved multiple perspectives on how clothing policies affect daily operatio
- Loudoun County School Board Reviews School Funding Percentages Over 100 Percent
The Loudoun County School Board held a meeting to examine how certain school funding statistics can total more than 100 percent. This situation arises in the context of data used for meal program eligibility. Presenters explained the role of Community Eligibility Provision or CEP information in generating these results. The board reviewed historical data spanning […]
- Loudoun County School Board Discusses Potential Changes to School Calendar
Loudoun County School Board member Lauren Shernoff addressed the topic of school calendars in a recent public session. She posed questions regarding whether the existing summer schedule is meeting student needs. Shernoff inquired about the possibility of year-round schooling as an alternative approach. Her statements were part of a broader examination of educational structures in […]
- Loudoun County School Board Considers Amendment on Retiree Health Benefits
Loudoun County School Board member Amy Riccardi introduced an amendment focused on protecting retiree health benefits at a recent board session. The measure seeks to address potential silent budget gaps in the district’s financial planning. It also aims to increase transparency regarding staff benefits. This development occurred during standard proceedings on school district matters. The […]
- How Virginia became the world’s data center capital and how it’s going
Demand for internet access and electronic storage has grown alongside digital technology itself. At the center of that growth are the energy infrastructure and data centers that governments and companies began developing in Northern Virginia in the late 20th century. Today, the region houses the world’s largest concentration of data centers, making Virginia the nation’s […]
- Loudoun County School Board Members Address Student Dress Code Concerns
Loudoun County school board members Lauren Shernoff and Amy Riccardi are leading a discussion regarding student dress codes. The focus includes concerns about pajama pants and identity concealment within classroom settings. This development has prompted public attention to potential policy updates. The board members have highlighted specific issues that may impact daily school operations. Their […
- Loudoun County School Board Passes Budget Increase for Employee Bonuses
The Loudoun County School Board convened to address a proposed adjustment to its operating budget. Member Ross Svenson put forward a motion seeking an additional 6.2 million dollars dedicated to staff bonuses. The proposal received consideration during the meeting and advanced to a vote. The board members present reached a consensus in support of the […]
- Supervisor Juli Briskman Voices Opposition to 50 New Substations in Loudoun
Loudoun County Supervisor Juli Briskman stated that 50 more substations are planned for the county. She indicated her plan to vote against the proposals because of the appearance of current designs. These structures have been described as visually unappealing to nearby residents. The issue has arisen in the context of ongoing county development activities. Briskman […]
- Loudoun County Supervisor Advocates Innovation in Data Center Infrastructure
Loudoun County Supervisor Laura TeKrony spoke at a Board of Supervisors meeting about advancing innovation in data center infrastructure. She stated that it is time to move away from constructing unattractive substations in favor of designs that better serve community interests. TeKrony highlighted the role of companies such as Dominion in exploring new methods for […]
- Loudoun Board Chair Addresses Dominion Energy Stance at Supervisors Session
Loudoun County Board Chair Phyllis Randall spoke at a Board of Supervisors meeting about interactions with Dominion Energy. She characterized the company’s attitude as intransigent and dismissive in her statements. Randall described the challenges posed by this approach during discussions on local matters. The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors includes Chair Phyllis Randall along with […]
- Loudoun County Board Advances Data Center Approval on Consent Agenda
The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors moved a data center approval to its consent agenda during a recent session. Phyllis Randall participated in the decision along with other Democratic members of the board. This action resulted in the item receiving approval without extended discussion or individual votes. The procedural choice has led to comments from […]
- Loudoun County Allocates $85.8 Million to Attainable Housing Since FY2023 in Proposed FY27 Budget
Key components of the FY27 proposal include $10.5 million allocated to a loan program anticipated to fund 100 units and $4.5 million for the attainable housing fund targeting 110 units. Starting in FY2027, a penny from cigarette tax revenue will be dedicated to down payment and closing cost assistance. These efforts build on a property […]
- Loudoun Supervisor Koran Saines Denies Data Center Financial Ties During April 7 Board Meeting, But VPAP Records Show $15,000 in Donations from Construction Firms Tied to Data Center Projects
LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. — In a pointed defense of his integrity amid ongoing public scrutiny of data center development in Loudoun County, Sterling District Supervisor Koran T. Saines (D) told fellow Board of Supervisors members and residents on April 7, 2026, that he has not accepted any campaign contributions from data center companies. Yet Virginia […]
- Public Input Calls for Enhanced Sustainability Features in Loudoun County’s Tuscarora Land Bay 4 Government Center Proposal
The application addresses development on the property designated for county government use. Proposed conditions encompass stormwater protection and related design elements, invasive species certification and management, low-impact development practices, and water quality tree conservation. These measures aim to minimize ecological disruption while advancing the facility’s construction. The speaker
- Loudoun County Democrat School Board Votes Down Expansion of School Resource Officers to Elementary Schools
In a 5-3-1 vote during a special meeting on March 5, 2026, the board declined to endorse the expansion. The full board includes Chair April Chandler (Algonkian District), Lauren Shernoff (Leesburg District), Amy Riccardi (Sterling District), Ross Svenson, Jonathan Pepper, and members representing Ashburn, Blue Ridge, Catoctin, Dulles, Lovettsville, and Sugarland districts. Shernoff, speaking emoti
- Loudoun residents take fight against high-voltage power lines for Data Center Alley to SCC
All year, the residents of the Loudoun Valley Estates neighborhoods in Ashburn have been railing against a proposed high-voltage power line that could run through their community to energize dozens of data centers on the other side of town.
- Virginia regulators weigh expanded use of data centers’ polluting generators
This past summer, a fire at an electrical substation forced data centers in Loudoun County to rely on backup diesel generators as their power source.
- Loudoun School Board Hands Over Power to Unelected Teachers’ Union, Locking in Massive Raises at Taxpayer Expense
In a move that undermines the authority of our elected school board and silences the voices of parents and taxpayers, the Loudoun County School Board voted 7-1 on November 25, 2025, to ratify a historic collective bargaining agreement with the Loudoun Education Association.
- Loudoun County School Board Members Express Concerns Over Transparency in New Teacher Contract
Members of the Loudoun County School Board have voiced frustrations regarding limited access to key details surrounding the recently approved collective bargaining agreement with the Loudoun Education Association (LEA), highlighting issues with union vote management and budget transparency.
- Loudoun County Democratic Committee Under Criminal Investigation
The Loudoun County Democratic Committee is under criminal investigation for allegedly engaging in illegal fundraising activities in violation of Virginia Code § 18.2-340.36:1(A) — the state’s charitable gaming law. This statute is not vague: “No charitable gaming shall be conducted by, or for the benefit of, any organization that is established or conducted for the purpose of influencing elections
- Loudoun County neighbors fight proposed Dominion transmission lines for Data Center Alley
As the demand to pump power to energy-thirsty data centers concentrated in Northern Virginia swells, a debate about where to put towering high-powered transmission lines in populated areas has put one Loudoun County community on the defensive.
- Loudoun County School Board Approves School Renamings, Sparking Debate Over $1.2 Million Taxpayer Cost defended by Melinda Mansfield
The Loudoun County School Board has ignited controversy with its recent decision to rename several schools, a move estimated to cost taxpayers between $1.1 million and $1.25 million. The initiative, aimed at addressing historical ties to slavery and the Confederacy, has drawn both support and sharp criticism, particularly over its financial impact and priorities amidst […]
- As demand for AI rises, so do power thirsty data centers
The next time you’re on a Zoom meeting or asking ChatGPT a question, picture this: The information zips instantaneously through a room of hot, humming servers, traveling hundreds, possibly thousands of miles, before it makes its way back to you in just a second or two.
- Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office arrests Georgia Man in Ashburn for the Abduction of a 3 year old
Loudoun County, VA (March 10, 2025): The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) has arrested a suspect following a child abduction in Ashburn on Sunday
- Crash near Reagan sparks debate over air traffic risks and airport expansion
The deadly mid-air collision over Washington, D.C., has reignited concerns over air traffic congestion and safety risks at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, a tightly packed aviation hub that shares airspace with military and government flights.