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.
The Haymarket Town Council revisited the proposed Islamic Center at 14600 Washington Street during a work session on March 31, continuing its review of a special use permit (SUP) application submitted by Mohammed Kasim Gul. The application seeks approval to establish a permanent place of worship in the old Pace West school building for the local Muslim community.
It would share the space with federal contractor QBE.
The council members and town staff discussed key concerns raised at an earlier March 3 public hearing, including occupancy limits, parking availability, traffic circulation, and pedestrian safety.
The town staff presented updated findings following site visits and discussions with the applicant and property owner. Based on a walkthrough conducted earlier that day, a parking plan estimates that approximately 198 to 201 marked spaces could be striped on existing pavement.
However, staff noted that some of those spaces, particularly those in areas with tight drive aisles or those that are blocked by trailers, may not be usable. The landlord has not restriped the lot since taking ownership in 2013, and the faded lines have led to confusion about the current parking capacity.
In addition to parking, council members discussed the building’s occupancy classification. According to guidance from the Prince William County Building Department, occupancy for assembly use over 49 people would require additional safety upgrades, including more exit doors and possibly a fire alarm or sprinkler system. Final occupancy limits would depend on a review of the tenant’s layout and code compliance.
The lack of a current site plan was a significant point of debate. The property owner previously submitted a site plan with proposed improvements, but it was never bonded and has since expired. Several council members expressed concern over approving an SUP without an updated and accurate site plan showing existing conditions and proposed changes, including marked parking spaces and loading zones.
Also under review was the possibility of requiring police presence during high-traffic times, such as Friday prayers and Ramadan. Staff noted that other religious institutions on Washington Street already rely on police assistance for traffic management during peak hours.
The applicant confirmed the center may also host occasional youth events, typically on weekends and with limited attendance. A detailed prayer schedule with projected start times varying throughout the year was submitted.
While the proposal has drawn strong community support—more than 70 emails were submitted in favor, and dozens of residents spoke during the March 3 public hearing—concerns remain over its potential impact on parking, traffic congestion on Route 55, and neighboring businesses.
The proposed Islamic Center would serve residents who currently travel 20 to 30 minutes to the nearest mosque, providing a closer, dedicated space for daily and Friday prayers.
The council is expected to revisit the application at its next meeting on April 7, where a vote could take place.
Publisher’s note: We removed an earlier story with incorrect information about the March 31, 2025, Haymarket Town Council meeting.
Dumfries Town Manager Tangela Innis has presented the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget for the town. The budget outlines strategic investments in infrastructure, public safety, and community programs while maintaining the town’s real estate tax rate.
The first reading of the budget is scheduled for March 18, with a public hearing on April 1. If approved, the Town Council may adopt the budget the same evening.
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The Haymarket Town Council has deferred a decision on a special use permit (SUP) application for the proposed Islamic Center at 14600 Washington Street, opting to continue discussions at a March 31 work session at 7 p.m.
The application, submitted by Mohammed Kasim Gul, seeks approval to establish a permanent place of worship for the local Muslim community in the old Pace West school building at 14600 Washington Street, now home to QBE, a federal contracting firm in the old school building. The nearest Islamic center is about 13 miles away, requiring residents to travel 20-30 minutes for daily and Friday prayers.
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The Town of Haymarket’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 (FY2026) budget has sparked a mix of concern and debate among residents following its presentation to the Town Council on Monday, March 3. While the budget aims to balance financial stability with needed investments in public safety, infrastructure, and economic development, some residents question whether it does enough to address the town’s most pressing issues.
Residents Demand Transparency on Tax Rates
During the public hearing, several residents voiced concerns over rising property assessments and their impact on their tax bills. Bob Weir, a former Town Council member and current Prince William County Gainesville Distirct Supervisor, did not mince words when addressing the council.
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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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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.
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The long-awaited Mill at Occoquan development faces financial hurdles. The project's developer, Kevin Sills, is reaching out to the town council to discuss potential changes in the project's scope.
During the February 18, 2025, Occoquan Town Council meeting, town officials revealed that Sills contacted them regarding the increasing construction costs. Initially proposed in 2018, the project originally called for 52 residential units atop first-floor retail spaces but may no longer be financially viable under its current design.
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The Dumfries Town Council designated a Waterfront District off Possum Point Road, marking a significant step in the town’s broader economic development strategy.
During the February 4th, 2025, meeting, Councilman Shaun Peet emphasized the vision for the district on Quantico Creek, stating:
“Having this vision of a mini National Harbor down here with the boardwalk and some waterfront amenities that we can enjoy right here in the town, which we actually just named as a council of the town of Dumfries Waterfront District.”
