Hundreds Attend Mount Vernon Town Hall

MOUNT VERNON, VA - From the Fairfax County Government: On Saturday, February 3, 2018, Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck hosted the 31st Annual Town Meeting. With approximately 400 residents and over 70 vendors in attendance, and more than 500 watching on live streaming channels, this was the most viewed Town Meeting in 31 years. The morning began with the Exhibit Hall, where visitors learned about and engaged with community organizations and County agencies. The formal part of the meeting began at 9:30 a.m. with the Harmony Heritage Singers entertaining all with rousing renditions of patriotic songs. Cub Scouts from Belleview Elementary School lead the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance, with the Mount Vernon High School Marine Corps JROTC Color Guard presenting the colors. Next, Supervisor Storck welcomed everyone and made a special presentation to retiring Mount Vernon District Planning Commissioner Earl Flanagan. Former Supervisor Gerry Hyland joined Supervisor Storck in recognizing Commissioner Flanagan’s many years of service to the Mount Vernon District, in particular the last twelve years as Planning Commissioner.

In his opening presentation, Supervisor Storck spoke about his vision for improving the quality of life for all Mount Vernon residents, while outlining his 2017 accomplishments and sharing his focus for 2018. Chairman Sharon Bulova informed the audience about important issues in the County this year and shared a recent example of how community engagement improved the new Burke VRE Station, making it a better fit for the community. Congressman Gerry Connolly provided updates on the Federal Government and encouraged citizens to actively engage in preserving our democracy. New County Executive Bryan Hill introduced himself and his family to the community, then shared his vision for the future of Fairfax County. Mount Vernon District School Board Member Karen Corbett Sanders highlighted the significant accomplishments of Mount Vernon District students and informed those assembled about several new school programs. New School Superintendent Scott Brabrand shared his goals to increase teacher compensation and ensure all Fairfax County schools receive full accreditation.

Throughout the morning, audience members had the opportunity to ask questions of the speakers and receive direct responses. For the grand finale, Supervisor Storck entertained everyone with a virtual boating, driving and flying tour of the District, highlighting changes throughout the past year and major improvements coming in the future.

Supervisor Storck concluded the Town Meeting by thanking those in attendance, adding, “The more our citizens engage with their community and local government, the stronger our bonds will be and the greater the quality of life will be for all Mount Vernon residents.”

Photo courtesy of Supervisor Dan Storck