Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D) will visit the site of a recent train derailment in Fredericksburg on August 14, 2024. The visit will occur from 8 to 9 a.m. at the VRE parking lot, specifically at the gravel lot behind VRE parking lots G & H. The entrance to the lot is located at the corner of Prince Edward and Frederick Street. Spanberger will then travel to the Railway Yard Gate at 1400 Railroad Avenue. Members of the Fredericksburg City Council are expected to attend.
A CSX train derailed on July 19, 2024, near Cobblestone Drive. Several rail cars derailed, damaging a garage adjacent to the Cobblestone Square apartment complex. No hazardous materials were involved, and no injuries were reported.
During a press conference, CSX representatives stated that the train crew’s whereabouts during the derailment were unknown. The train engine had been experiencing issues before the derailment, prompting the crew to park the Richmond-bound train next to Cobblestone Square. The crew’s failure to ensure that the train was securely parked is being scrutinized.
Fredericksburg Mayor Kerry Devine expressed the concerns of Cobblestone Square residents, who are frustrated and nervous. Devine noted that while residents seek answers, quickly removing the derailed cars was a positive outcome. In a letter sent by City Manager Timothy Baroody to CSX, the city sought assurances that a similar incident would not occur.
The derailment has sparked discussions about its potential impact on future rail projects in Virginia. The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation is working on expanding the state’s passenger rail network, with plans to purchase the Norfolk-Southern railroad’s B-line, which runs through Manassas. Mayor Devine acknowledged that the incident might prompt further discussions about the state acquiring additional track segments.
In addition, the Fredericksburg Metropolitan Area Planning Organization is educating residents about a significant project to expand rail capacity in Fredericksburg and Stafford County by adding a third railroad track. The project includes replacing several bridges, such as the Leeland Road Bridge, to accommodate the new track. This expansion will affect local traffic.
Ian Ollis, director of the Fredericksburg Metropolitan Area Planning Organization, explained that the project aims to replace a bridge over the rail line to accommodate the third track, which will extend from Union Station in Washington, D.C., down to the Fredericksburg region.
Fredericksburg Free Press: On Wednesday, a representative from CSX fielded questions from Fredericksburg city leaders and residents about the five-car train derailment that pierced a sound wall near the Cobblestone Apartments on Saturday night. Now, City Manager Tim Baroody is seeking more answers.
Friends of the Rappahannock and the Rappahannock Group of the Sierra Club will host an educational event on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, focusing on the data center’s impact on the community. The event will occur from 6 to 8 p.m. at 1201 Caroline Street in Fredericksburg.
The event will feature a one-hour presentation delivered by staff members from both organizations. Following the presentation, attendees can participate in a Q&A session to address any inquiries or concerns.
The session aims to provide insights into how data centers affect the local environment and community dynamics. It is open to all public members interested in learning more about this topic.
Regional Proliferation
The planned public meeting will take place after Fredericksburg Mayor Kerry Devine requested city staff to study the feasibility of establishing data centers during a July 9 city council meeting. This proposal aims to explore the potential economic benefits and address concerns related to data center development.
The centers, built in campuses, most of which are multiple football fields in size and more than 70 feet tall, power the Internet. They use large amounts of electricity and water to cool the computer servers. They employ only a handful of people and are mostly stacked with computer servers.
In recent years, there has been a proliferation of data centers in surrounding counties like Prince William and, more recently, Stafford and Spotsylvania counties. Elected officials are drawn to the prospect of data centers in their communities because of the promise of higher tax revenues, with little or no public infrastructure investment. The centers don’t generate traffic due to the few people they employ.
For data center operators like Microsoft, money appears to be no object. They spent nearly half a billion dollars on 124 acres across from the popular outdoor music venue, Jiffy Lube Live. The purchase has multiple Prince William County leaders (where the concert venue sits) asking if the venue will eventually be razed to make way for a data center.
Mayor Devine’s Proposal
Devine introduced the idea of data centers in the city, highlighting the significant investment in neighboring regions’ data centers. “Data centers are all around us at this point,” said Devine. “About 20 million square feet is being planned in Stafford, Spotsy, Caroline, King George, all around us. Billions of dollars will be invested in those data centers in our region.”
Economic Benefits
The mayor noted that these investments could bring substantial economic benefits, including lower tax rates and increased economic development. “Millions of dollars flowing into those communities can significantly impact and lower their tax rates. It will add very much to their economic development prospects,” Devine added.
Water Usage Concerns
One of the key concerns mentioned was the water usage of data centers. Devine addressed this by pointing to Stafford’s recent developments using water reuse and recirculation processes, which mitigate water use concerns. “Many of us were able to see that some of the ones that we looked at were developed with water recirculation, which lowers the concern about water use if it’s recirculated water,” Devine explained.
Potential Site for Development
Devine proposed Celebrate Virginia South, near the Fredericksburg Nationals stadium and Rappahannock River, as a potential site for data center development, noting that it includes about 300 acres of economic development opportunities. “If with further study from staff and recommendations, if it gets to where we develop a data center, that could significantly add to the city’s revenue and potentially lower the residential tax burden over time,” she said.
Council Members’ Support
Several council members expressed support for the mayor’s request. Council member Timothy Duffy agreed, emphasizing the need to diversify revenue streams. “I think it’s incumbent on all of us to find ways to diversify our revenue streams and not rely so heavily on property taxes. So I’m all in favor of your request and support it,” Duffy said.
Council member Jonathan Gerlach echoed this sentiment, stating, “I’ve been advocating that we find other sources of revenue for the city to relieve the burden on our taxpayers. If there is a way to bring a data center to Celebrate South in an environmentally responsible manner, I would be all in favor of it.”
Vice Mayor Charlie Frye also voiced support, mentioning the importance of exploring revenue opportunities to fund city services. “If there’s another opportunity to bring some revenue to the city, I say we go for it,” Frye stated. He also suggested informing the public about the land requirements for data centers in future meetings.
Council member Will Mackintosh believes data centers will produce many jobs. “Data centers produce many fairly highly trained and well-paid jobs. I think we should not overlook data centers as a potential employment generator in our city,” Mackintosh said. He emphasized the importance of aligning city school programs with the skills needed for these jobs.
Mayor Devine concluded the discussion by stressing the preliminary nature of the study and the need for further staff research. “Again, this is looking at this very preliminary to ask staff to study it, and they’ll come back to us with a report,” she said.
The council unanimously approved the proposal, directing city staff to proceed with the study and report their findings.
Marine Corps Historic Half Returns
The Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon will take place on Sunday, May 19, 2024. The race will impact Central Park, Cowan Boulevard, Hospital Hill, and Historic Downtown. Road closures and traffic delays are expected from 3:00 a.m. to approximately 11:00 a.m.
General Property Re-Assessment
The City’s general property re-assessment is complete. New assessment values are effective July 1, 2024. Property owners can appeal their assessments. The City Council is considering adjusting the property tax rate from $0.89 to $0.78 per $100 valuation. The City Council will make a final decision on May 28, 2024.
Executive Plaza Construction
Construction of a new Visitor Center at the Executive Plaza is underway. The main entrance will be closed for several weeks. Visitors should use the Sophia Street entrance.
Primary Election Ballots
Mail-in ballots for the June 18 primary election are being sent. The after-hours drop box is unavailable due to construction. Voters should use the office drop box during regular hours.
City Council Approves FXBG Main Street Lease
The City Council approved a plan for Fredericksburg VA Main Street Inc. to co-locate with the Visitor Center on the first floor of the Executive Plaza. The new Visitor Center is expected to open by early fall.
Emergency Operations Center Funding
Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger presented a check for over $630,000 for renovations, security improvements, and equipment upgrades at the Emergency Operations Center.
Bicentennial Celebration of Lafayette’s Visit
The city is celebrating the bicentennial of Lafayette’s visit with lectures and events. A Lafayette Trail Marker dedication will occur on May 23, followed by a lecture at the Fredericksburg Branch of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library.
National Military Appreciation Month
A ceremony to recognize the 80th anniversary of D-Day will be held on June 6 at the Fallen Heroes Memorial.
Sheriff Scott Foster Recognition
Sheriff Scott Foster was recognized by the Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute and the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association for earning his VSI Certification for continued professional development.
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, with resources available for learning how to help those in crisis.
Concerts by Canoe and Catfish Nights
Concerts by Canoe will return to Motts Run Reservoir every Wednesday in May. Catfish Nights will also be held at Motts Run Reservoir for after-hours fishing.
Law Enforcement Recruitment Fair
A Law Enforcement Recruitment Fair will be held on June 1 at Fredericksburg Nationals Stadium. Recruiters from 11 agencies will participate.
Parks, Recreation, and Events Summer Catalog
The summer catalog for Parks, Recreation, and Events is now available. Registration is open online and in person at the Dorothy Hart Community Center.
Brenda Wood, the city treasurer, explained the purpose of the ordinance, stating, “The state provides the authority for a city treasurer to do this. The ordinance is for imposing a collection fee on delinquent taxes to cover administrative costs, attorney, or collection agency fees.” The ordinance sets forth a collection agency fee of up to 20% of the taxes owed and establishes a timeline for addressing delinquent status if appeals are filed in a timely manner.
During the council session, Ward 2 Councilor Gerlach expressed his support, citing his extensive experience defending individuals in debt over the past 40 years. “This is not uncommon for municipalities,” Gerlach remarked.
Vice Mayor Councilor Charlie Frye inquired about the potential for flexibility in staggering the percentage based on hardship or other factors. Wood clarified that she did not have control over this aspect, stating, “Whatever agency we use will decide this. The standard is usually 20% with no variables, from my experience,” said Wood.
Mayor Kerry Devine requested clarification on the current collection process. Wood outlined the existing procedures, including initial billing, delinquent notices, and utilization of state tools. She also mentioned measures such as liens on bank accounts and property seizures, although the latter has been halted since the coronvairus pandemic.
Councilor Will Mackintosh, At-large, sought information on the expected magnitude of delinquent taxes in a calendar year. Wood indicated that thousands of delinquent notices are sent annually, with approximately 5,000 to 6,000 issued for the first notice.
Ward 1 Councilor Jason Graham inquired about anticipated revenue and payment arrangements with collection agencies. Wood explained, “I cannot predict this. Taxpayers pay 20% to the agency, and the city receives 100%. The city is not on the hook for paying the agency.”
Councilor Jannan Holmes, At-large raised concerns about the timeline’s adequacy for residents. Wood acknowledged that the process would take time but emphasized that attorneys would have additional tools at their disposal compared to the city.
Following the discussion, Gerloch moved to approve the ordinance, which was seconded by Councilor Graham and passed unanimously by the Fredericksburg City Council. The ordinance is slated to take effect on April 1, 2024.
Caitlyn Meisner is a freelance reporter for Potomac Local News.
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At a recent meeting of the Fredericksburg City Council on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, Ward 3 Councilman Timothy Duffy commended the James Monroe High School boys basketball team for their remarkable performance in the semi-finals.
The team’s impressive 91-67 victory over visiting Booker T. Washington has set them up for an important matchup against Lake Taylor at Norfolk State University on Friday, March 1, 2024, at 8 p.m., with a chance to advance to the state championship game, reports the Fredericksburg Free Press.
Councilman Duffy expressed regret for those who hadn’t yet attended a home game this season, emphasizing the team’s cohesive and selfless style of play, particularly highlighting the leadership of Chuck Ellis in anchoring their tenacious defense.
“It’s too bad if people haven’t gotten to a home game this year,” said Duffy. “They play an unselfish style of basketball with a tenacious defense led by James Monroe’s own Chuck Ellis.”
He further remarked on the city’s unity in supporting the young athletes, describing it as a “great thrill” to witness the community rallying behind them. Duffy extended congratulations and gratitude to all those involved with the basketball programs.
Following Duffy’s remarks, Vice Mayor Charlie Frye also addressed the council, recognizing the significance of the team’s achievements, particularly in light of recent instances of team violence that have affected the community, including the tragic loss of two team members last year.
Acknowledging the team’s roots in programs like “Midnight Madness,” Frye highlighted the positive impact of sports on the city, emphasizing the players’ dedication to honoring their fallen classmates.
“This is a good feeling for this city – especially with the team violence that has happened in the last year,” stated Vice Mayor Frye, acknowledging two team members who were killed. “Many boys players say they’re playing for their fallen classmates, according to city council members.”
Caitlyn Meisner documented the Fredericksburg City Council meeting.
The FredNats, Fredericksburg’s Minor League Baseball team, and the city’s convention center are working to draw more people.
During a city council meeting on January 9, 2024, the council discussed the significance of the Virginia Credit Union Stadium, home to the Fredericksburg Nationals baseball team and the neighboring Fredericksburg Convention Center. Victoria Matthews, Fredericksburg’s tourism sales Manager, highlighted that “the Fredericksburg Convention Center is booked for almost every weekend of 2024.”
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hyperbole: “This Sunday, Fredericksburg bids farewell to 2023, and with it to the leadership of Mayor Mary Katherine Greenlaw. For over 15 years (eleven as Mayor and four on City Council), Mayor Greenlaw has helped guide a growing city that’s striving to hold onto its small-town charm. As a lifelong resident, her work and efforts have touched upon local healthcare, homeless assistance, education, businesses development and the arts.”
Voters chose At-large Council member Kerry Devine to replace Greenlaw, who did not seek re-election. Devine ran unopposed.
Fredericksburg leaders are focusing on reducing teen violence following the shooting deaths of two teenagers shot and killed in March and June 2023.
The city council and school division partnered to create the FXBG Steering Committee on Teen Violence. It has more than 30 members, including city officials, parents, and community partners.
