The Town of Dumfries is considering forming its own Economic Development Authority (EDA), a move that town leaders say would give them more flexibility and control over how to attract, retain, and grow businesses within the town’s borders.

At its April 1, 2025 meeting, the Town Council received a detailed presentation outlining the authority and potential benefits of creating an EDA under the Virginia Industrial Development and Revenue Bond Act, passed by the state legislature in 1966. The act allows localities to establish Economic or Industrial Development Authorities (EDAs or IDAs) as separate legal entities to facilitate economic development.

The proposed EDA would have powers to acquire, lease, and sell property, issue tax-exempt revenue bonds for private or public development projects, and make business loans or grants. However, EDAs cannot tax or operate businesses themselves.

Dumfries already falls within the jurisdiction of the Prince William County Industrial Development Authority, which provides similar services across the county. The county’s IDA supports local business development by facilitating financing and development incentives for qualified projects. More information is available at pwcida.org.

Despite the existing county authority, Dumfries officials said a town-level EDA could act more nimbly and focus solely on the town’s priorities. The local EDA would serve as a strategic partner to the council, working closely with the business community to identify opportunities, administer local incentive programs, and assist in development planning.

Local Oversight, Independent Action

The proposed authority would be governed by a seven-member board of directors appointed by the Town Council. Directors must be Dumfries residents and would serve staggered terms ranging from one to four years initially, then four-year terms for subsequent appointments. Board members would not be paid a salary but could receive up to $200 per meeting and be reimbursed for travel and other necessary expenses.

The board would operate independently from the Town Council, similar to the town’s Board of Zoning Appeals. Council members would have no authority to direct or regulate board decisions once members are appointed.

Council members discussed transparency requirements, particularly around the board’s ability to sell property without a public hearing. Staff confirmed that while meetings would be public and minutes available, public hearings would not be required for decisions made by the EDA.

The Town Attorney and staff noted that this level of autonomy is granted under state law and is one of the primary benefits of forming a separate authority. They said the flexibility would allow the EDA to act quickly and creatively in support of economic development, particularly in areas where the Town Council itself may face legal constraints.

Funding Still Unclear

Council members also discussed how the EDA would be funded. By law, EDAs cannot impose taxes but can receive funds from property leases, asset sales, or dedicated portions of town revenue—such as a slice of the real estate or meals tax. They can also access grants from state or federal programs.

Vice Mayor Nickerson raised concerns about how the authority would be funded, particularly since the current fiscal year budget does not account for EDA startup costs. The town manager noted that establishing the authority would not require upfront capital unless the council chose to fund stipends or provide operational support. Over time, the EDA could generate revenue through economic activity or be funded through agreements approved by the council.

Council Member Russell Young asked about residency requirements and qualifications for board members. Staff confirmed that directors must live in Dumfries. While the state doesn’t require any particular experience, the draft ordinance gives preference to individuals with business, planning, or financial expertise.

Others emphasized the importance of moving forward strategically and with intention, pointing out that while the EDA would be independent, its success would depend on clear expectations and qualified leadership.

A public hearing on the creation of the EDA is expected to be scheduled in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the town staff will prepare a proposal outlining potential funding options and the structure of the authority for further council review.

In one of the first major events at the Prince William Chamber of Commerce’s new headquarters, Northern Virginia’s two newest congressmen will share insights from their first 100 days in office.

“The First 100 Days: Our Freshmen Congressmen’s Perspective” will take place Friday, April 25, 2025, from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Chamber’s new office, located at 9733 Buchanan Loop, Manassas. The event is open to Chamber members; admission is $10, with proceeds benefiting the Chamber Foundation. Breakfast will be served.

The discussion will be moderated by Jenn Siciliano of UVA Health and feature Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10, Manassas, Loudoun) and Congressman Eugene Vindman (VA-7, Woodbridge, Stafford, Fredericksburg). Both won their seats in the November 2024 General Election and are navigating their first terms in Washington. Each replaces former Congresswomen Jennifer Wexton and Abigail Spanberger, respectively, holding the seats for the Democrats.

“We just want to give our members an opportunity to meet them,” said Chamber President and CEO Bob Sweeney. “Since they’ve been elected, a wicked amount has gone down at the federal level.”

In an email interview, Congressman Subramanyam said he plans to focus on legislation protecting federal workers in the region, including the COST of Relocations Act and two bills targeting what he called “DOGE’s illegal actions.”

“We are hitting 100 days into my term and now is an important time to reflect on what my constituents are feeling and thinking during this time,” said Subramanyam.

“While I anticipated the President would take actions that would have a negative impact on all Americans, I am surprised at the scale of his actions, the disregard for Congress, and the blatant attack on our courts and constitution.”

Congressman Eugene Vindman said he will focus on the economy and small businesses. “I am honored to represent the Seventh District of Virginia and am working to make a difference for Virginians especially on the economy by lowering costs for working families, spurring growth by ending tariffs, and standing up for small businesses,” he said.

Vindman was sharply critical of House Republicans. “I have been absolutely floored by the incompetence of extreme Washington Republicans with their policies that are hurting Virginia’s economy and their inability to lower costs for hard-working families.”Both lawmakers stressed the importance of direct communication with constituents.

“I hope attendees leave with a better understanding on what we have been working on in Congress and feel satisfied by what we have been able to accomplish,” said Subramanyam.

“I value speaking to my neighbors directly – reassuring them that I have their backs in DC and will never back down from a fight,” Vindman added.

Chamber CEO Bob Sweeney emphasized the local impact of federal decisions. “We have 144,000 federal workers in Northern Virginia,” he said. “What happens when 5% of them are suddenly unemployed? That has a ripple effect in our economy.”

The event aims to be inclusive. “You don’t have to be an executive to come,” Sweeney said. “This is for anyone who cares about what their congressman thinks.”

For more information or to register, visit the event page.

If you’ve caught a whiff of cinnamon sugar in the air and followed your nose to a gleaming churro truck, chances are you’ve stumbled upon Noris Churros — a new local business serving up the sweet, golden treats of Mexico City right here in Northern Virginia.

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A Goodwill of Greater Washington store at 8014 Sudley Road in Manassas will relocate to 8117 Sudley Road, the Westgate Plaza shopping center, across from its current location.

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