Prince William

Prince William County officials defended new permitting rules for school theater stages after teachers and students raised concerns at a School Board meeting on February 18.

The controversy stems from a January 13, 2026, memorandum issued by Prince William County Risk Management, enforced through the county permitting office. It mandates county permits, structural reviews by licensed engineers or contractors, and a four- to six-month approval timeline for any temporary theatrical stage or platform exceeding 16½ inches in height or 120 square feet in area, particularly when supporting 10 or more people.


Prince William

– Prince William County Parks and Recreation showcased strong 2025 growth through new parkland, amenities, programs, partnerships, and record visitor numbers.

– The address emphasized the system’s role in community health, inclusion, and economic vitality across Prince William County.


Stafford

Stafford County supervisors reviewed a proposed $45 million increase in the FY 2027 budget during a work session, as state mandates, rising costs, and collection challenges pressure local finances.

This one’s for the people who really care about local news.

Locals Only members get deeper reporting, more context, and fewer shortcuts.

Think that’s you?
👉 Join Locals Only
Already a member? Sign in


Event

Join us on Sunday, May 31st, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a beautifully curated afternoon celebrating the romance and inspiration of European travel. We recommend arriving at 2:45 PM for the best seating. We’ll begin with a brief presentation highlighting unforgettable journeys along Europe’s iconic rivers with AmaWaterways, followed by a special screening of Under the Tuscan Sun — a heartwarming story set against the breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany and the transformative power of embracing life abroad. A minimum $5 per person donation to Manna Food Center is required to attend, and we are proud to match donations up to $500. You may also elect to donate more. Non-perishable food donations are also warmly welcomed. Raffle proceeds will benefit Manna as well, helping provide nourishment and support to families in our community. Come immerse yourself in the beauty of Europe, enjoy wonderful company, and make a meaningful difference. We look forward to welcoming you.


Prince William

Prince William County restaurant owners and industry groups welcome Board Chair Deshundra Jefferson’s proposal to fully repeal the meals tax.

Prince William County Board Chair At-Large Deshundra Jefferson proposed fully repealing the county’s meals tax in the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, which begins July 1, 2026. The tax, reduced from 4% to 3% effective January 1, 2026, applies to prepared foods and beverages at restaurants ranging from fast food to fine dining.


Manassas

Manassas City Council received a proposed fiscal year 2027 budget that lowers the real estate tax rate to $1.05 per $100 of assessed value, but average residential bills would still increase by $289 annually due to rising property values driven by data center developments.

This one’s for the people who really care about local news.

Locals Only members get deeper reporting, more context, and fewer shortcuts.

Think that’s you?
👉 Join Locals Only
Already a member? Sign in


Traffic

Virginia Railway Express CEO Katie Choe presented an ambitious plan Feb. 20 to transform VRE into a full regional rail system by 2030 with tripled reverse-peak trains, expanded daily service, and robust weekend operations.

This one’s for the people who really care about local news.

Locals Only members get deeper reporting, more context, and fewer shortcuts.

Think that’s you?
👉 Join Locals Only
Already a member? Sign in


Prince William

Prince William County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. LaTanya McDade presented a proposed $2.1 billion Fiscal Year 2027 budget to the School Board, featuring significant staff pay increases and new strategic investments amid declining enrollment.

This one’s for the people who really care about local news.

Locals Only members get deeper reporting, more context, and fewer shortcuts.

Think that’s you?
👉 Join Locals Only
Already a member? Sign in


Manassas Park

Manassas Park will permanently extend the filing deadline for real estate tax relief and exemption applications from April 1 to June 30.

This one’s for the people who really care about local news.

Locals Only members get deeper reporting, more context, and fewer shortcuts.

Think that’s you?
👉 Join Locals Only
Already a member? Sign in


Prince William

The Prince William County School Board affirmed students’ First Amendment rights to peaceful protest during its February 18, 2026, meeting in Prince William County.

This one’s for the people who really care about local news.

Locals Only members get deeper reporting, more context, and fewer shortcuts.

Think that’s you?
👉 Join Locals Only
Already a member? Sign in