Prince William County, Va. –– The political redistricting process in Prince William is a done deal for locally elected officials.
The county supervisors unanimously adopted a modified plan Tuesday night at will mandate magisterial districts for the next 10 years.
A major portion of the plan affected the Potomac Communities:
-The Dumfries Magisterial District was renamed to the Potomac Magisterial District.
-The River Oaks neighborhood remains in the Woodbridge District.
-Boundary lines were redrawn to include Freedom High School back in the Woodbridge District, after it was moved into to the Neabsco District.
-Occoquan was moved back into the Occoquan Magisterial District, after a previous plan had moved the small town into the Woodbridge District.
-The County Center development across from the Prince William County Government Center was moved back into the Neabsco District.
-The Saunders precinct was moved back into the Coles District.
Prior to adopting this redistricting plan that has seven magisterial districts and a target population of 57,429 residents in each district, county officials considered a map with eight districts. Popularity for the plan waned as residents learned it would cost at least $ 1 million to establish a new district.
And when it came to renaming the Dumfries Magisterial District to Potomac, which is located near the river itself, the elected of the leaders of the Town of Dumfries (which is independent from the magisterial district) all balked at the idea.
But supervisors and residents who live in the district liked the idea, and were urged in 2002 to change the name of the district.
“This was not some willy-nilly thing that was dreamt of by any member of this board, the urban development institute suggested that we start to connect as we start to develop the route 1 corridor, that we start to make the connection between the river front and other beautiful features that we have in the county and try to highlight those,” said Board Chairman Corey Stewart.
Stewart’s office also reached a consensus with the NAACP and the Human Rights Commission who last week protested a proposed movement of the River Oaks neighborhood into what is now the Potomac District.
Because the county is forbidden to ratify its own redistricting plan by the 1964 Voters Rights Act, the plan must now go to the U.S. Department for final approval.
By law, supervisors every 10 years must evaluate the magisterial districts to account for population change.
In the past 10 years, Prince William County’s population has grown by 43 percent, from 280,813 to 402,002, according to census data.
Recent Stories
If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, look no further than Aria Mia, a sweet little kitten currently up for adoption at Prince William County Animal Services. This brave little one arrived as a stray with injuries to both of her eyes. Aria Mia has already undergone surgery on one eye and will need follow-up treatment for the other. Despite her challenges, she’s shown incredible resilience and is ready to start a new chapter with a loving family.
Aria Mia has already proven that she’s not just a cat lover but a dog lover too! During her recovery at Caring Hands Veterinary Clinic, she showed how well she gets along with dogs. So, if you’re looking for a kitten who can coexist with your furry canine companions, Aria Mia might just be the perfect fit for you.
Come meet Aria Mia today and see for yourself what a sweet, loving companion she can be. She’s eager to find her forever home and start the next phase of her life in a caring and compassionate environment.
Deuntay Diggs, Chair of Stafford County’s Board of Supervisors, indicated Tuesday evening that he is prepared to take legal action should some of his colleagues continue to ask for an amendment to the Code of Performance that “adversely affects my career, my calling,” reports the FXBG Advance.
A report from the Federal Railroad Administration requested by Fredericksburg City Council and Mayor Kerry Devine on this past summer’s freight car derailment blames human error for the mishap, reports the FXBG Advance.
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors is progressing toward finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Economic Development Authority (EDA) and the Department of Economic Development.
The draft MOU aims to clarify the roles and responsibilities of both entities in promoting economic growth and business attraction within the county. However, concerns raised by some Board members suggest that the document may need further refinement before it can be adopted.
During a work session on January 28, 2025, Liz Barber, the county’s Director of Economic Development, presented the draft MOU, highlighting the extensive process that led to its creation. The document was developed over the past year, with input from both county administration and EDA members. Its goal is to establish clear guidelines and expectations for the EDA and the Department of Economic Development, particularly regarding the administrative processes, division of duties, and collaboration between the two bodies.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.