Prince William County will introduce a 3-1-1 system this spring, streamlining residents' and businesses' access to non-emergency government services. The Board of County Supervisors (BOCS) officially recognized March 11, 2025, as National 3-1-1 Day, marking the county’s commitment to improving transparency and responsiveness in local government.
What is the 3-1-1 System?
The 3-1-1 service will provide a centralized contact point for residents to request county services, check service statuses, and obtain government information. It is designed to reduce non-emergency calls to 9-1-1 while offering residents multiple ways to engage with local government.
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Arrest: Abduction & Strangulation (Domestic) – Woodbridge (March 5, 11:12 PM)
A 39-year-old woman was assaulted and prevented from leaving a room. Mikael Lee Thomason, 42, was arrested and charged with strangulation, abduction, and domestic assault & battery.
Strong-Arm Robbery – Woodbridge (March 6, 1:41 AM)
A 27-year-old woman was robbed after an altercation with Salman Rahman, 29, who took her phone by force before fleeing. An arrest warrant has been issued, but Rahman remains at large.
Abduction & Assault Arrest – Gainesville (March 3)
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Data centers in Prince William County could see an increase in the tax rate for computers and peripherals used by data centers as the Board of County Supervisors deliberates on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The proposed tax rate for computer and peripheral (C&P) equipment is set to rise from $3.70 to $4.15 per $100 of assessed value, a move that could significantly impact data center operators and businesses utilizing advanced technology.
The Board of County Supervisors voted to advertise the new C&P tax rate, meaning they can lower the rate during their upcoming budget discussions but cannot raise it beyond the advertised amount. Some supervisors expressed concerns about the increase, arguing it could deter business investment, while others emphasized the need for additional revenue to support county services.
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The incident occurred around 3:45 p.m. on March 4, 2025, when OmniRide coach number 3005, returning to Washington, D.C., after dropping off passengers in Spotsylvania County, experienced a flat tire. There were no passengers on board at the time.
According to OmniRide, the bus operator safely pulled over and contacted dispatch for further instructions. However, the flat tire wrapped around the axle and began to smoke, ultimately leading to a fire that spread throughout the vehicle. By the time fire services arrived, the coach was engulfed in flames.
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Tuesday (March 4)
- Spring Flowers Paint by Numbers Take-and-Make, Ongoing while supplies last (Chinn Park Library)
- Talking to the Author Bookmark Contest, Ongoing (Chinn Park Library)
- Prince William Board of County Supervisors Meeting, 2 p.m. (Woodbridge)
Wednesday (March 5)
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Stafford County
Update: Malvern Lakes Shooting
Investigators have provided an update on the recent shooting in Malvern Lakes. The Stafford County Sheriff's Office confirmed the victim was a 21-year-old male who suffered non-life-threatening injuries. No further details have been released at this time.
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The Occoquan Town Council has directed town staff to research the feasibility of a business recruitment program. The goal is to explore ways to attract new businesses and strengthen the town’s economic landscape.
During the February 18, 2025, Town Council meeting, council members debated the potential benefits and challenges of establishing a structured business recruitment initiative. While previous discussions had stalled due to limited staffing and financial constraints, council members agreed to proceed with a formal evaluation.
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After more than ten years of bringing craft beer and community together, Tin Cannon Brewing Company is closing its doors. The announcement was made by co-founders John Hilkert and Aaron Ludwig, who shared a heartfelt message with their patrons, reflecting on their journey as small business owners and their decision to move on to new adventures.
"Tin Cannon Brewing Company has had the pleasure of bringing a large part of the community together for over ten years," the owners stated. "We have met so many wonderful people, formed amazing friendships, made a difference through important fundraisers, and created a ‘Cheers’ taproom atmosphere with our friendly staff, delicious beers, and fun events."
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The Town of Haymarket’s Fiscal Year 2026 (FY2026) budget will be presented to the Town Council on Monday, March 3, at 7 p.m. by Town Manager and Zoning Administrator Emily L. Kyriazi. The proposed financial plan outlines revenue projections, key expense changes, and priorities for town operations in the coming year.
The FY2026 draft budget builds on previous financial planning while incorporating adjustments for salaries, public safety, infrastructure, and economic development in alignment with the Town’s Strategic Plan.
