PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — The verdict is still out on whether to approve construction of 45 new homes on one of the last open spaces in eastern Prince William County.
The county’s Board of Supervisors deferred a vote that is now scheduled for Feb. 14, 2017, on approving Mia’s Meadow, a planned rezoning of 19 acres of agricultural land to planned mixed residential at the intersection of Minnieville and Spriggs roads. Single family homes tightly packed on the parcel, and new homeowners and residents would join their neighbors in nearby Hope Hill Crossing, a newer development located on what used to be a farm.
Residents and members of the Board of Supervisors are concerned about the number of new public school students the development could generate for already reeling with classroom overcrowding issues. Official numbers from county staff indicate Mia’s Meadow would generate 23 new elementary, nine high school, and seven new middle school students at Montclair Elementary, Hylton High, and Saunders Middle schools, respectively.
But Supervisors, already at odds with a county School Board that has repeatedly blamed them for approving multiple developments that have to lead to overcrowded classrooms in the eastern side of the county, asked for more time to review the numbers.
“I’m looking at an email that says Montclair Elementary has a capacity of 698 students, but they currently have 581 students, so just by that alone, but just by that alone they’re under capacity,” said Prince William Brentsville District Supervisor Jeanine Lawson, citing a comprehensive report by Citizens Alliance of Prince William County.’
Gainesville and Woodbridge District supervisors Peter Candland and Frank Principi, respectively, asked for more time to review the report and to compare its findings with numbers provided by county staff. At the beginning of the school year in September, the county school division had at least 800 more students that it had anticipated, said Candland.
“We’ve had a School Board that has come out accusing us of overcrowding eastern end schools based on a whole host of reasons,” said Candland.
Prince William County Director of Planning Chris Price told Supervisors the plan for Mia’s Meadow conforms with the county’s comprehensive development plan, that the development fits with the projected, anticipated growth patterns of the school system.
Price also reminded leaders the developer of the proposed property Manassas-based NVP, Inc. has offered up nearly $2 million in proffers to the county to offset impacts to schools, fire and rescue services, water, utilities, and roadways. The offer was made in March 2016, four months before a new Virginia law took effect severely limiting how local jurisdictions negotiate with home builders and levy proffers.
“These are proffers that we will never see again. And not that proffers are the ultimate, but our legislators have done away with that, and anytime a rezoning comes up there will be no money for schools, there will be no money for transportation, and so this $2 million will go a long way,” said Potomac District Supervisor Maureen Caddigan.
The school system has not weighed in on this development, added Price.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
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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:
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