Capital Debate
Streetcar funding to take center stage during consideration of capital improvement plan.
For years, the debate over streetcars has been about planning and vision. Now members of the Arlington County Board are about to reach into the pockets of taxpayers, including the $300 million project in the capital improvement plan.
Aquatics Facility Underwater
County officials delay $80 million facility after construction bids bust the budget.
Construction bids came in "significantly higher" than estimates, so she would not be bringing the construction contract to the County Board in early 2014 as expected. Now county officials have launched an investigation to determine why the bids were so high and what the county's next steps should be.
Calendar Events for 1/8/14
Calendar Events for 1/8/14
Anticipation
Costly initiatives, a special election and steady rise in student enrollment.
In looking ahead for what Arlington will be facing in 2014, a number of issues have carried forward from last year.
Bulletin Board for 1/1/14
Bulletin Board items for 1/1/14.
Arlington Calendar for 1/1/14
Arlington calendar for 1/1/14
Arlington County Board Accepts Updated Bluemont Neighborhood Conservation Plan
The Arlington County Board today accepted the updated Bluemont Neighborhood Conservation Plan, allowing the Bluemont Civic Association to pursue funding to transform the neighborhood to an “urban village” with slower traffic, better sidewalks and revitalized commercial corridors.
Streetcar Issue Dominates Political Landscape in Special Election for Arlington Board
Four candidates vying to replace Chris Zimmerman.
Where do they stand on the streetcar? Do they approve of the recent direction of the county government? What kind of accomplishments would they like to make?
New Approach to Mental Health
Reforms in wake of tragedy involving state senator's son.
Advocates for mental health services have been calling for improved services and increased funding for years, although the issue has been pushed aside year after year.
Democrats Shut Out of Power in Senate
Even if Democrats win in two special elections, control over committees is unlikely.
Don't expect Democrats to take control over state Senate committees anytime soon, even if the party manages to hold both of the seats where special elections are now underway.
$8 Million Shortfall in Arlington
Budget official says the forecast is difficult but manageable.
Arlington County is facing a $8 million shortfall heading into the next budget season, which will unfold over the next few months as County Board members consider the county manager's proposed budget early next year.
Decline in Sales Tax Threatens Ability of Local Governments to Balance Books
Sequester looms large over revenues across Northern Virginia.
Sales tax revenues are down across Northern Virginia, leading to concerns that balancing the books for the coming fiscal year could be even more of a challenge for budget officials and elected officials in the coming months.
Longtime Arlington County Board Memer Chris Zimmerman To Step Down
January departure to open the way for special election in April.
After 18 years on the Arlington County Board, Chris Zimmerman announced last week that he is stepping down to take a position as vice president for economic development of Smart Growth America, a Washington-based advocacy group that promotes walkable neighborhoods near public transit.
Brief: Police Launch @ArlingtonVaPD
The Arlington County Police Department has expanded its social media presence by joining Twitter. @ArlingtonVaPD will be a permanent tool for the department to share breaking news, stories, photos, crime tips and events.
Brief: Board Promotes Public Safety Communications in Construction
The County Board unanimously adopted a resolution on Oct. 22 to advance new public safety technology in construction within Arlington County. In recent years, new construction materials have degraded the ability of public safety personnel to communicate with radios within buildings.