Uriah Kiser, Author at Potomac Local News

Prince William Supervisors Approve Data Center Near Unity Reed High School Amid Opposition

Published February 10, 2025 at 10:53PM | Updated February 13, 2025 at 10:17PM

Correction: This new data center is near Unity Reed High School, near Manassas. An earlier version of this story incorrectly reported Patriot High School.

The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved a 24-acre rezoning for a new data center development along Wellington Road, despite opposition from Supervisor Bob Weir and concerns about its proximity to Unity Reed High School.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg City Council’s Process for Filling Ward 3 Seat Questioned

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 10, 2025 at 10:16PM | Updated February 13, 2025 at 10:17PM

(FXBG Advance) – The process Fredericksburg City Council is following to fill the vacant Ward 3 seat could conflict with state code—especially with a provision added last year that states that governing bodies must publicly announce the names of those being considered to fill a vacant seat at least seven days before the appointment is made.

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Manassas Park

Manassas Park Celebrates 50th Anniversary Kick’s Off

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 10, 2025 at 10:11PM | Updated February 13, 2025 at 10:17PM

Manassas Park, the youngest city in Northern Virginia, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a year-long series of events and activities that began on July 1, 2024. The town, which gained independence from Prince William County in 1957 and became an independent city in 1975, has grown into a vibrant and diverse community.

To mark this milestone, the city will host various events throughout 2025, allowing residents to reflect on its rich history and bright future. One of the first major events is the 50th Anniversary Kick-Off on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Classroom 5 in the Recreation Center.

Pets

Meet Grant: A Petite Hound Mix Looking for His Forever Home

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 10, 2025 at 9:57PM

Grant may look big in pictures, but he’s a small and lovable hound mix, weighing just 23 pounds. This sweet pup is currently in short-term foster care, but he’s searching for a permanent home where he can thrive.

Grant does well with other dogs but could be happy as the only pet in a home as long as he has human companionship. While he craves love and affection—his tail wags whenever someone pays him attention—he’s still timid, so a home with children ages eight and up would be the best fit.

Breaking News

Winter Storm Forces School Closures and Early Dismissals Across the Region

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 10, 2025 at 5:05PM

A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for the region from 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, to 7 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025, prompting numerous school closings and early dismissals. The National Weather Service forecasts heavy snowfall between 4 to 8 inches, with snowfall rates reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour Tuesday afternoon and evening. Hazardous road conditions are expected to impact both the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes.

As a precaution, school districts across the area have announced schedule changes:

News

Prince William Board of County Supervisors to Revisit Meals Tax in Budget Discussions

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 10, 2025 at 12:30PM | Updated February 13, 2025 at 10:17PM

A waitress at Dixie Bones BBQ in Woodbridge.

Updated 10:30 p.m. – Local restaurant owners are voicing strong opposition to Prince William County’s meals tax, which is set to generate $42 million in Fiscal Year 2025—an increase of $10 million, or 31.25%, from the previous year.

Prince William County Board of Supervisors Chair At-large Deshundra Jefferson has signaled the meals tax will be discussed during the annual budget process this spring. “It would like to see a partial repeal of the meals tax, but it truly depends on our proposed budget for the next fiscal year,” Jefferson told Potomac Local News.

Business

Workout Anytime Gym to Open in Dumfries, Led by Former College Athlete

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 10, 2025 at 10:28AM | Updated February 13, 2025 at 10:17PM

A new gym is set to open in Dumfries, bringing 24/7 fitness access to the community. Workout Anytime will celebrate its grand opening on February 13 at 18069 Triangle Shopping Plaza (Suite C&D), offering state-of-the-art equipment, personalized training, and a commitment to fostering a healthier lifestyle.

At the helm of the new gym is Gary Wortham Jr., a former James Madison University football player and recruiter, taking on the general manager role. Wortham, a longtime Dumfries resident, is excited to bring his passion for fitness and community building to this new venture.

“We’re thrilled to be opening a full 24-hour fitness facility right in the heart of Dumfries,” Wortham said. “This town hasn’t had anything like this before, and I’m excited to provide a space where people of all ages can work toward their health and wellness goals.”

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Manassas

Manassas Proposes Tax Break for Micron as Part of Expansion Plan

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 9, 2025 at 11:28PM | Updated February 13, 2025 at 10:17PM

Mircon in Manassas

Manassas is considering a significant tax incentive to support Micron Technology Inc.’s planned expansion, which includes a $2 billion capital investment in its semiconductor manufacturing facility. The proposal, set to be discussed at the Manassas City Council meeting on Monday, February 10, 2025, would extend Micron’s favorable tax classification for semiconductor equipment through 2035.

The expansion comes as Micron is slated to receive $275 million from the U.S. Department of Commerce under the CHIPS and Science Act, a federal initiative to boost domestic semiconductor production. The funding will help Micron modernize and expand its Manassas facility, particularly by onshoring its 1-alpha DRAM technology, which improves memory chip performance and power efficiency. The project is expected to create over 400 direct manufacturing jobs and up to 2,700 indirect jobs at its peak.

Weather

Winter Storm Watch Issued: Heavy Snow, Hazardous Travel Expected Tuesday Into Wednesday

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 9, 2025 at 11:25PM

Updated – The National Weather Service (NWS) Baltimore-Washington office has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the region, warning of heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning.

Snowfall Forecast & Timing

News

Townhouse Fire Displaces Family in Lake Ridge

By Uriah Kiser

Published February 9, 2025 at 10:57PM

[Photo: Prince William Professional Firefighters]

Fire and rescue units responded at approximately 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, to the 3400 block of Aviary Way, near Lake Ridge Elementary School, after a resident reported seeing smoke coming from the back of their home. When crews arrived, they found smoke and flames moving up the rear of the house and into the attic. Firefighters quickly contained and extinguished the fire.

No injuries were reported, but the home sustained moderate damage. The Building Official declared the residence unsafe for occupancy. The American Red Cross assists two adults and three children displaced by the fire.