Prince William County, Va. –– The political redistricting process in Prince William is a done deal for locally elected officials.
The county supervisors unanimously adopted a modified plan Tuesday night at will mandate magisterial districts for the next 10 years.
A major portion of the plan affected the Potomac Communities:
-The Dumfries Magisterial District was renamed to the Potomac Magisterial District.
-The River Oaks neighborhood remains in the Woodbridge District.
-Boundary lines were redrawn to include Freedom High School back in the Woodbridge District, after it was moved into to the Neabsco District.
-Occoquan was moved back into the Occoquan Magisterial District, after a previous plan had moved the small town into the Woodbridge District.
-The County Center development across from the Prince William County Government Center was moved back into the Neabsco District.
-The Saunders precinct was moved back into the Coles District.
Prior to adopting this redistricting plan that has seven magisterial districts and a target population of 57,429 residents in each district, county officials considered a map with eight districts. Popularity for the plan waned as residents learned it would cost at least $ 1 million to establish a new district.
And when it came to renaming the Dumfries Magisterial District to Potomac, which is located near the river itself, the elected of the leaders of the Town of Dumfries (which is independent from the magisterial district) all balked at the idea.
But supervisors and residents who live in the district liked the idea, and were urged in 2002 to change the name of the district.
“This was not some willy-nilly thing that was dreamt of by any member of this board, the urban development institute suggested that we start to connect as we start to develop the route 1 corridor, that we start to make the connection between the river front and other beautiful features that we have in the county and try to highlight those,” said Board Chairman Corey Stewart.
Stewart’s office also reached a consensus with the NAACP and the Human Rights Commission who last week protested a proposed movement of the River Oaks neighborhood into what is now the Potomac District.
Because the county is forbidden to ratify its own redistricting plan by the 1964 Voters Rights Act, the plan must now go to the U.S. Department for final approval.
By law, supervisors every 10 years must evaluate the magisterial districts to account for population change.
In the past 10 years, Prince William County’s population has grown by 43 percent, from 280,813 to 402,002, according to census data.
Recent Stories
Public safety officials recently gathered at Dunkin’ Donuts locations from Stafford County to Manassas to meet with community members in two separate events fostering engagement and conversation.
In Stafford County, Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins celebrated the grand reopening of their Next Generation restaurant on Warrenton Road with a unique community event on Saturday, February 8. Customers enjoyed free medium hot or iced coffee while participating in fun activities, including a prize wheel, face painting, and a visit from Dunkin’s mascot, Cuppy. As part of the event, local franchisee Pravina Bhalani hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and presented a $500 donation to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.
Stafford County Fire and Rescue expressed their appreciation, stating, “Thank you to Dunkin’ (Warrenton Road) for the invite to their reopening and thank you for the generous $500 contribution to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.”
The Dale City Farmers Market is open Sundays year-round, rain or shine! From December to March, shop from 10 AM – 1 PM at 14090 Gemini Way, Dale City.
Discover a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, specialty foods, and more! Whether you’re looking for farm-fresh ingredients, handcrafted treats, or unique artisanal products, the Dale City Farmers Market has something for everyone.
If you’re a Lab lover, Raven is waiting for you! This one-year-old Labrador mix is full of energy and enthusiasm, just as you’d expect from her breed. She has experience living with kids, cats, and dogs, making her a great fit for an active and pet-friendly household.
Raven was returned to the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter because she does best in a home with a fenced yard. Without one, she has a tendency to wander, so her ideal home includes a secure space or committed leash walks.
Dr. Janet L. S. Brown-Page has been appointed to the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Board of Trustees to represent Stafford County. She replaces Mary Becelia, who was removed in 2024. The Board oversees library policies across Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Westmoreland counties. Brown-Page, a retired federal senior manager and mediation expert, brings extensive experience in human and community relations. Her appointment follows the censure of Stafford Supervisor Monica Gary, accused of political maneuvering in Becelia’s removal.
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.
