By URIAH KISER
DUMFRIES, Va. — Saturday will be a good day for roadside barbeque vendors in Dumfries. The annual Charter Day celebration will be held there tomorrow, and that means grill masters can set up shop and satisfy the cravings of those who love slow-smoked meats in savory sauce.
But on the majority of days when there is no festival, roadside food vendors are not wanted here, though many if not all have the proper licenses and approvals from the health department. Even if they have permission from a private property owner, these roving vendors will be told to pack up and leave.
“They do a wonderful job, they have their health certificates on display, the food is wonderful, the competition is great, Dumfries is becoming the mecca for barbeque smokiness,” said Dumfries Mayor Gerald M. Foreman.
The town’s code prevents officials from issuing business licenses to roadside food vendors, many of whom make barbeque. It’s a bit odd, since last weekend the town held its “Dumfries Barbeque Battle” during its third annual Multicultural Festival.
Barbeque stand owners have complained, town staff has been forced to look at ways to change the code, and all this has made politicians worry that the town is sending the message: closed for business.
“This is money we are instantly losing because they’re going down the street to Prince William County and setting up there…it’s unfortunate because we’re driving businesses out to a location that they’ll maybe enjoy more,” said Town Council member Kristin Forrester.
Town staff has been working to address the issue since last month, when it was brought to the attention of the Town Planning Commission. But, since there are so many issues with the town code to be addressed in this matter, changing the barbeque rule will take time, officials said.
“If it’s part of an event, then they’re under the umbrella in the code that allows them to be there as part of an event. But right now the code does not permit them to have an established business on the side of the road,” said Dumfries Economic Development Director Debi Sandlin.
On the bright side, the Charter Day celebration will be held Saturday in the town’s Merchant Park next to the Weems-Botts Museum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. And, yes, we’re told there will be barbeque.
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The Stafford County Board of Supervisors began its first meeting of 2025 with a significant leadership transition. Supervisor Deuntay Diggs was elected chairman in a 4-3 vote, succeeding outgoing Chairwoman Meg Bohmke. Diggs addressed his new role during the meeting and outlined his expectations for the year ahead, emphasizing transparency and teamwork.
Supervisor Diggs took a moment to reflect on the responsibilities of his new position and the values he brings to the role. “The citizens in the George Washington District knew that I was a law enforcement officer in this community. I love my job. And part of being a law enforcement officer is conducting ourselves with integrity. And so I will continue to do so, and I can serve in this role and do that as well,” Diggs said.
He further expressed a strong desire to foster collaboration among the board members. “The goal is that we’re gonna work together as a team. I’m not asking, I’m demanding that. That’s the expectation,” he stated. Diggs’ remarks came as a call to unity, encouraging board members to prioritize cooperation and accountability.
The board also elected Supervisor Tinesha Allen as vice chair in a 5-2 vote.
On January 7, the U.S. House of Representatives convened for the first session of the 119th Congress and passed H.R. 29, the “Riley Laken Act,” with bipartisan support.
Prince William County government offices and facilities will be open on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Still, employees can take unscheduled leave or engage in unscheduled telework due to current weather conditions.
While the county remains open for business, residents are encouraged to check for the latest updates on facility-specific operations by visiting pwcva.gov/emergency.
Some county services may be impacted by the weather. Before visiting a county facility, call ahead or check the county’s website.
Several schools in our region have announced closures and delays for Wednesday, January 8, 2025, due to inclement weather and hazardous road conditions.
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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.
Featuring:
