From providing social services, keeping cops on the streets, to making sure street lights stay on: The weight of these responsibilities and more will be on the shoulders of Ann Wheeler, who will take the helm of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors as its new Chairman At-large.
- She’ll oversee the budget in Virginia’s second-largest locality behind Fairfax. And, crafting the county’s fiscal 2021 budget (which takes effect July 1, 2020) will be the first order of business.
- There won’t be a lot of procedural changes in the way we do the budget. There’s a process there,” Wheeler told me. “However, there will be priority changes.”
Wheeler expects a larger focus on finding additional funding for schools and working to reduce the number of students per classroom. Prince William County boasts the highest class sizes in the region.
- However, don’t expect the Board of County Supervisors and the county’s School Board to abolish a decades-old revenue-sharing agreement that automatically transfers 57% of the county’s entire budget to the schools every year, no questions asked.
As Chairman At-large, Wheeler, a Democrat, will represent the entire county and will lead set the agenda and tone for the new Board of County Supervisors taking their seats in January.
She’ll replace longtime Republican Corey Stewart who was elected Chairman At-large in 2007. And she’s one of five new Democrats taking seats on the Board, which flipped this month from being a 5-2 Republican-controlled Board to 4-3 Democrat-controlled body.
- Wheeler said Stewart called to congratulate her on her November 5 win (he didn’t seek re-election to the post after three failed attempts at higher office).
- “He congratulated me, and said there is going to be a lot of change in Prince William County,” said Wheeler.
- The two plan to meet soon to discuss the transition. Wheeler also plans to meet with County Executive Christopher Martino, as well as other county department heads to discuss policies and get to know them, she told me.
In her first few months, Wheeler said she plans to devote time during each Board of County Supervisors meeting to highlight positive aspects of the community.
- “We have so many communities in Prince William County, and it’s more than ethnic — we have veterans and religious communities that I want to highlight,” said Wheeler.
Wheeler won the four-way At-large Chairman’s race with 55% of the vote countywide.
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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.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
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:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
