Jul 31, 2024 4 min read City of Falls Church Police Department

City of Falls Church Gov't Updates for Week of July 31, 2024

Entrance to City Hall for the City of Falls Church at 300 Park Ave. Photo by Chris Jones.

Communications Weekly Update for Wednesday, July 31, 2024

On Wednesdays, the City of Falls Church’s Office of Communications provides top-line updates to local media outlets.

Announcements:

Trash, Recycling, and Yard Waste Pick-Up Time Change:
Starting Wednesday, July 31, and running through Labor Day, American Disposal Services (ADS) will start cart service at 6 a.m. This shift to an earlier start time will help crews manage the extreme heat. The curbside composting schedule remains the same. Residents with questions are encouraged to contact recycling@fallschurchva.gov.

Drought Watch Awareness:
Authorities across Northern Virgina announced a Drought Watch on July 29, 2024. City of Falls Church residents are among the six million residents across the metropolitan Washington region being asked to take voluntary measures to conserve water and help reduce demand on the region’s water supply systems. The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments provided these simple tips residents can use to limit indoor and outdoor water use:

Monitor watering lawns, plants and shrubs;
Sweep sidewalks and driveways (instead of using a hose);
Avoid washing your car – instead use a commercial car wash that recycles water;
Fix any plumbing leaks – especially toilets and faucets;
Reduce shower length to under 5 minutes;
Turn off water while brushing your teeth; and,
Wash full loads of dishes and clothes.

New One-Stop Shop for Community Energy Action:
The City's new One-Stop Shop for Community Energy Action is an online resource that connects people with strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, helping the community fight climate change. Learn about the benefits of going green, including savings on utility bills, improvements to homes, and tax incentives!

Registration for Fall Classes with Recreation and Parks:
On Thursday, August 1, at 10 a.m., city residents can begin registering for fall classes. The Recreation and Parks Fall Class brochure provides an overview of classes. To register, visit www.fallschurchva.gov/register. Registration opens to non-residents on Thursday, August 8 at 10 a.m.

Upcoming Public Meetings and Events

Accessory Dwellings (ADs):
Last week the City hosted two Community Open House/ Information Sessions to update and discuss with the public Accessory Dwellings. These meetings were the beginning of the process for the City. Residents learned more about ADs, what’s happening with them in the region, and participated in sharing their thoughts through Q&A and dot-voting boards. The next step is a Planning Commission meeting on August 7. Go to fallschurchva.gov/ADUupdate.

[The Falls Church Independent recently reported on The City of Falls Church Mayor Hardi's views on ADs and housing issues here.]

Summer Concerts in the Park:
These summer Thursday events continue in Cherry Hill Park over the next few weeks. Live bands begin playing at 7 p.m. Returning for its 32nd year, the Summer Concerts in the Park Series is hosted by the Falls Church Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS) and the City of Falls Church Recreation and Parks Department. Further information is available on the City website: fallschurchva.gov/Concerts.

Upcoming shows:

August 1: Big Howdy (Bluegrass)
August 8: Kiti Gartner and the Drifting Valentines (Rockabilly, Country, Americana)

Park Palooza – Wednesday, July 31 from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Cherry Hill Park:
This first-time event hosted by the City of Falls Church celebrates Recreation and Parks Month with live music, backyard games, mini sports tournaments, corn grinding class demoes, bingo, and other free activities all evening long! Anita’s Frozen Cotton Candy and Harvey’s will be onsite with snacks, eats, and sweet treats.*

Aurora House Fundraiser:
When visiting the Farmers Market this Saturday, August 3, from 8 a.m. to noon you can support the local community through the fundraiser, “Ice Cream Scoops & Flower Power” where you can indulge in some sweet treats while making a positive impact in our community. The fundraiser’s slogan is “Serving Kindness, Girls Empowered” with all proceeds going to the Aurora House.

National Night Out – Tuesday, August 6 from 6 – 8:00 p.m. at Cherry Hill Park:
The City of Falls Church Police Department is hosting their first annual community-building event that creates connections. This year’s event will include free food from local restaurants, touch a cruiser/ SWAT truck, K-9 demonstrations, games, activities and giveaways.*