Stafford

“First arriving units marked on scene less than 5 minutes later and confirmed heavy smoke and fire coming from the front and rear of at least two townhouses, spreading into their respective attic spaces,” Stafford County Fire and Rescue announced. “The fire was brought under control in approximately 30 minutes.”

No occupants were injured, though one firefighter was evaluated on scene. In total, 10 adults and 8 children are being assisted by the American Red Cross after two townhomes were severely damaged and others sustained moderate to mild damage. The cause remains under investigation by the Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office, with mutual aid from neighboring departments.


Prince William

“I believe instead of banning electronic dirt bikes, the town should create clear rules and enforce them,” Camden Pittman told the Haymarket Town Council, Prince William Times reported. “We have seen, in our neighborhood, adults who are swerving at children, adults who are cursing them out,” Candace Morriss said, Prince William Times reported.

The proposed ordinance would ban e-bikes on sidewalks, set a 20 mph speed limit, prohibit riders under 14 without adult supervision, require helmets for young riders, ban earphones in both ears, and impose a $5,000 license fee on commercial rentals. The Haymarket Town Council held its first public hearing June 1 before a standing-room-only crowd and plans a second hearing June 23, a work session June 29, and a vote in July.


Prince William

“I think it’s always a good thing to name a school after it’s community,” School Board Chair Babur Lateef, Prince William Times reported. “It’s a beautiful, special facility, and I’m excited to name it Woodbridge Elementary School.”

“It has been truly remarkable to see such strong citizen engagement, reflecting the connection we share,” Woodbridge Magisterial District School Board Member Loree Williams, Prince William Times reported.


Fredericksburg

“An affidavit for a search warrant filed in Fredericksburg Circuit Court names a suspect in a rape on Sunday at Ficklen Island,” the Fredericksburg Free Lance-Star reported. “The description of the man and the actions described by the victims are similar to an Oct. 19 attack on the City Canal path.”

A man matching the victim’s description was detained and interviewed, with police noting a fresh laceration on his finger consistent with the victim biting her attacker. He has not been arrested.


News

The Prince William County Board of Supervisors approved funding and staffing to expand the county’s automated traffic enforcement program during its June 3 meeting, building on what officials described as a successful school zone initiative now generating significant revenue and promoting safer driving.

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Features

Looking for a perfect midweek summer outing with the family? Head to Kenmore Memorial Park (also known as Memorial Park) every Tuesday through the end of June for the popular Picnic in the Park series — a beloved local tradition since 1997.

The free events run from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at 1401 Kenmore Ave., offering live music, food trucks and vendors, shaded areas, a playground, restrooms, and plenty of family-friendly fun. Bring a blanket, chairs, and a picnic lunch — or grab something from the on-site vendors.


Prince William

Prince William Water is encouraging customers to practice wise water use after the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments declared a regional Drought Watch today.

The declaration comes due to persistent dry conditions, record-breaking temperatures, historically low Potomac River streamflow and a nearly eight-inch rainfall deficit over two years. Officials say water supplies in the Potomac River and backup reservoirs remain adequate for now, but they are asking residents and businesses to voluntarily conserve to help prevent more serious drought conditions.


Prince William

Prince William County is simplifying the permitting and inspection process for temporary tents to save residents and businesses time and money. Starting July 1, 2026, building inspectors will handle routine fire code checks during their regular visits, ending the need for separate inspections by the Fire Marshal’s Office.

The change eliminates the FMO 149 inspection fee, previously set at $303.45 for the next fiscal year. The initiative came from frontline county employees who spotted overlapping work between departments. Officials say it reduces bureaucracy while keeping safety standards intact.


Features

The RiverFest & Craft Show features over 300–330+ artisans, crafters, and vendors lining the historic streets of Occoquan. Visitors can shop for handmade jewelry, artwork, pottery, woodworking, clothing, home décor, and much more while enjoying the charming small-town atmosphere.

The festival spills into scenic River Mill Park, where you’ll find live music, a Beer & Wine Garden, food vendors, and stunning river views.


Manassas Park

Manassas Park City Council has approved a 2-cent-per-$100-of-assessed-value reduction in the real estate tax rate for FY27, but most homeowners will still see their tax bills rise due to higher property assessments.

According to figures provided by City Manager Carl Cole, the average single-family home tax bill is projected at $7,272 in TY26 (FY27), up $190 from $7,082 the previous year. Townhouse owners can expect an average bill of $6,305, up $225 from $6,080. Condominium owners will see the largest jump, with the average bill rising $597 to $5,201 from $4,604.


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