The Dumfries Town Council voted unanimously to hold a public hearing on September 15 for the renaming of Confederate Court to Liberty Lane.
The street is home to a row of townhouses located a tenth of a mile from town hall.
Councilwoman Cydny Neville introduced the motion:
“The Town Manager and I have been researching the renaming of Confederate Court for over a year now… Now is the time to take another step toward dismantling the intricate web of structural racism. To reach a brighter future we must help [people] heal by removing such symbols and amplify the messages of hope – a brighter day filled with peace and unity for all,” said Neville.
Mayor Derrick Wood asked how notice would be provided to the people living on Confederate Court, as well as the town post office.
Town Attorney Sharon Pandak stated that there were no notice requirements in Virginia’s state code:
“I think we’re talking about constructive notice. There actually are not notice requirements in the state code, but I’ve talked to the town manager and I believe he’s prepared to give notices to the people who live in the apartments and are otherwise on that court as well as to the post office,” Pandak said.
Wood followed by stating that some residents of Confederate Court had already been in touch with him:
“I have heard from some citizens that live on Confederate Court who are also in support of a name change already. They’ve already initiated communication to want to change the name of the street.”
Following this discussion, Neville motioned to hold a public hearing on September 15 for the renaming of Confederate Court. The motion passed unanimously with a final vote of 6-0.
Councilman Charles Brewer was not in attendance.
The Legality of a Name Change
The process of changing a street’s name varies depending on who owns the street in question.Â
According to Amy Wight, Virginia’s Assistant Secretary of Transportation, Confederate Court is not maintained by the Virginia Department of Transportation. As a result, the street does not fall under the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth Transportation Board.
Ultimately, that leaves the question of legality to the town’s attorney.
The street sign that noted the location of the Confederate Court is missing. Town officials have not responded to questions about the missing street sign.
The call to rename the street comes after the Prince William County School Board renamed Stonewall Jackson Senior High and Stonewall middle schools near Manassas earlier this month. The new names are Unity Reed High and Unity Braxton Middle schools, respectively.
Recent Stories
Fredericksburg Police have launched automated speed enforcement cameras in school zones at Hugh Mercer Elementary and James Monroe High School to curb speeding and improve safety. The move is part of a partnership formed in November 2024 between the Fredericksburg Police Department and the city, aiming to reduce speeding near schools and protect students, staff, and families.
To ease drivers into the new system, the city implemented a 30-day warning period following the installation of the cameras. During this period, violators received warnings instead of citations, a step the city said was designed to “educate drivers and encourage compliance with speed limits.”
Between December 12, 2024, and January 10, 2025, Fredericksburg Police issued 247 warnings for speeding violations. The highest recorded speed was 50 mph. At James Monroe High School, located on Washington Avenue, 66 warnings were given, 19 of which were for speeds at least 15 mph over the 15 mph school zone limit. The highest recorded speed at this location was 33 mph.
Cute and sweet Niffy has been at the shelter for four months, waiting patiently to find a family to call her own. This adorable girl is about four and has a gentle, loving nature. She gets along well with other dogs and loves going for long walks. Niffy is happiest when she’s curled up next to you for a cuddle session when she’s not out on an adventure.
Despite many visitors who promise to return for her, Niffy is still patiently waiting for the right family to take her home. This sweet girl deserves a loving home where she can feel safe, cherished, and adored.
If you’re interested in adopting Niffy, please don’t hesitate to ask for more information.
Looking for a fun and educational experience for kids? Check out Semillitas: Puerto Rican Bomba Kids. This event brings Puerto Rican bomba songs, dance, and music to Stafford every Sunday starting February 2, 2025, and running through June 1, 2025. Kids will enjoy learning rhythm, dance moves, and songs in an interactive environment.
The classes are designed for children up to 10, with a unique May 4 program featuring visiting artists from Puerto Rico!
Dates: Feb 2nd, Mar 2nd, Apr 6th, Jun 1st
Time: 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
Location: Virtuous Dance Center, 31 Utah Place #101, Stafford.
Cost: $10 for the first child, $7 for additional children per class, $32 for all four classes for the first child, and $24 for each additional child.
It’s free to submit your events to Potomac Local! Simply visit this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Just fill out the details, and we’ll feature your event!
Authorities have released additional details regarding the homicide of 61-year-old Charles Childress and 59-year-old Kimberly Newcomb, whose bodies were discovered on January 25, 2025, at a residence in the 10800 block of Heatherwood Drive.
The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office initially responded to the home after a concerned friend discovered a deceased female and called 911. Upon arrival, deputies found both victims dead at the scene. Investigators have now confirmed that both victims died from multiple gunshot wounds.
Following the autopsy, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as gunshot wounds. Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) continue their investigation and work around the clock to process evidence and interview potential witnesses. While the relationship between the victims remains under investigation, it has been confirmed that they were living together at the residence.
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.
