“The Town of Dumfries of Virginia is honored to announce its participation as an official stop on the National League of Cities (NLC) Centennial Roadshow: 100 Years, 100 Cities. This initiative is part of NLC’s year-long celebration, marking a century of commitment to advancing local government and advocating for the interests of cities, towns, and villages nationwide,” notes a press release from the Dumfries Town Government.
“During the roadshow stop in the Town of Dumfries, we will have the opportunity to tour the new construction site of the Rose Gaming Resort, a testament to our Town’s growth and development. Additionally, we will visit the Town’s outdoor fitness court, a vibrant space that promotes wellness and community engagement, reflecting our commitment to a healthy and active lifestyle.”
“As the journey progresses, the roadshow will continue making stops in cities across the country, including Tampa, Florida, where NLC will host its annual City Summit conference and culminating event this November.”
By Derrick Wood
Dumfries Mayor
This year marks a significant milestone for the Town of Dumfries, Virginia — our 275th anniversary. As the oldest continuously chartered town in Virginia, we have a rich history to celebrate and an exciting future to look forward to. This dual focus on our past and future is the cornerstone of our upcoming celebrations, including a gala at the National Marine Corps Museum and a vibrant community festival.
Our Historic Roots and Resilient Spirit
Founded in 1749, Dumfries once thrived as a bustling port town, serving as a critical economic hub in colonial Virginia. Our strategic location along Quantico Creek made us a natural choice for trade, particularly in tobacco. However, as the creek silted, the town faced economic challenges that necessitated adaptation and resilience.
Despite these shifts, our community’s spirit has never wavered. Over the centuries, Dumfries has continuously transformed itself, overcoming adversity and forging new paths forward. Our resilience has paved the way for a resurgence, setting the stage for transformative developments that promise a bright future for our residents.
A New Chapter of Growth
The present and future of Dumfries are as exciting as our historical past. Today, we are witnessing transformative developments that redefine our town’s landscape and economic outlook. The $500 million redevelopment of a former landfill into the Rose Gaming Resort is a headline example, promising to become a new entertainment and hospitality hub in the region.
Additionally, the future construction of two communities for residents aged 55 and older, and over 250 new residential units on Main Street, are reshaping our town’s demographics and boosting our local economy. The realignment of Route 1 and the revitalization of Main Street are also underway, enhancing accessibility and rejuvenating our historic downtown area.
Celebrate With Us
To commemorate our 275th anniversary, we are hosting a gala on May 10th at the National Marine Corps Museum, followed by a two-day festival filled with activities, fireworks, historical displays, and entertainment. These events are not only a celebration of our rich history but also an exhibition of the vibrant community spirit that defines Dumfries today.
We invite residents and friends from near and far to join us in these celebrations. Whether you’re a history buff, a local business owner, or a family looking for a weekend of fun and education, there’s something for everyone at our anniversary events.
An Invitation to Potomac Local Readers
To our readers at Potomac Local, your participation in these events would not only enrich the celebrations but also help in spreading the word about the positive changes taking place in our town. We encourage you to come and discover the historical charm and modern vibrancy of Dumfries as we honor our past and embrace our future.
We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you and to continuing to write the story of Dumfries together.
Town of Dumfries press release: Dumfries Town Manager Tangela Innis is pleased to announce the hiring of Mr. James M. Nichols. Mr. Nichols will join us as the Director of Public Works with the Town of Dumfries.
His first day with us will be Monday, April 15, 2024. Mr. Nichols, a respected member of our local community, brings 22 years of operations management experience to the town, with 12 of those years in public works.
Mr. Nichols has developed annual budgets and overseen individual and major projects ranging from as little as $2 million up to $39 million throughout his career. Mr. Nichols’ past experiences include Assistant Maintenance Superintendent, Interim Maintenance Superintendent, Division Chief / Operations and Maintenance, and Superintendent of Landscaping and grounds.
He also has experience in stormwater management and street operations, where he led various projects to improve infrastructure resilience and mitigate environmental impacts.
Additionally, he has directly and indirectly supervised over 100 team members, fostering an environment where staff feel valued, motivated, and empowered to contribute their best work to the organization. In his most recent position, Mr. Nichols was the Residency Administrator Assistant for the Virginia Department of Transportation, where he was responsible for assisting with the leadership, coordination, integration, and management of resources allocated to the Fairfax residency maintenance program.
Mr. Nichols holds a Master of Public Administration and Policy degree from Walden University, a Bachelor of Science in Ornamental Horticulture Design from Auburn University, and an Associate of Science in Horticulture Science from Trenholm State College in Montgomery, Alabama.
He is also a Certified Public Manager, Certified Program Planner, and Certified Park and Recreation Professional, and he holds many other certifications and professional accolades. Mr. Nichols will report directly to
the Town Manager, Tangela Innis.
We are thrilled to welcome Mr. James Nichols to our team and look forward to the positive impact he will make in our community! Please visit the Town website.
Crews were called to an apartment fire on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at 4:18 a.m.
Prince William County fire and rescue crews went to the Shorehaven Apartments in the 16900 block of Porters Inn Drive in Dumfries for a fire to have been extinguished.
Crews arrived on the scene to discover a fire on a balcony and requested additional units to assist. The fire was confined to the balcony with limited extension into two units.
All of the building’s occupants had safely evacuated. No injuries were reported. The building official posted two apartment units that were unsafe to occupy.
The Red Cross assisted three of the displaced occupants. The Fire Marshal’s Office determined careless disposal of smoking material ignited the fire.
Police said they knew the man who shot and killed a man outside a Dumfries club.
On March 24, 2024, Prince William police detectives identified the suspect sought in connection to the fatal shooting of Carvell Jarmain Williams, 38, of Warrenton, outside Club Tempo located at 17650 Possum Point Road in Dumfries on March 23.
While investigating the incident, detectives identified the suspect and obtained arrest warrants. Preliminarily, the investigation revealed the two parties were known to one another and that the accused and victim were possibly involved in an altercation in the parking lot when the victim was fatally shot, police said.
Police have located the suspect. Detectives continue to actively investigate the incident and ask anyone with information regarding this case or the whereabouts of the accused to contact police.
The suspect is Jonathan Montile Middleton, 37, of the 100 block of Eustace Road in Stafford, police said.
He’s described as black, 5 feet 9 inches tall, 240 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He’s wanted for murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Prince William County police at 703-792-6500 or submit a tip online at pwcva.gov/policetip.
A Warrenton man was shot to death outside a club in Dumfries.
Today, March 23, at 2:08 a.m. Prince William police were called to Club Tempo, 17650 Possum Point Road, where they found 38-year-old Carvell Jarmain Williams suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers provided first aid to the man, who was taken to an area hospital and later died from his injuries.
Two vehicles in the parking lot were also struck by gunfire. No other injuries were reported.
No suspects have been located at this time. Detectives are actively investigating the incident to determine what led up to the shooting. They are seeking to speak with anyone who witnessed the incident or has information to aid in the investigation.
Preliminarily, the incident does not appear to be random.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Prince William County police at 703-792-6500 or submit a tip online at pwcva.gov/policetip.
In a recent presentation to the Dumfries Town Council, Chief Financial Officer Stacy Jordan unveiled a proposal for the town’s operating budget, marking a substantial increase from previous fiscal years.
The proposed FY 2024-25 budget is set to soar to $11 million, up from $6.9 million in FY 2021-22, signaling a significant financial commitment to advancing the town’s infrastructure and services.
The town is banking on revenues from The Rose, a gaming resort to open later this year. The driving forces behind this budget expansion encompass a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing various aspects of Dumfries’ municipal operations.
The 2025 budget begins July 1, 2024. The Town Council will hold a public hearing on the budget on April 16, 2024.
Among the key highlights outlined by Jordan during the presentation:
1. Implementation of Class and Comp Study: A comprehensive study will evaluate pay scales, job titles, and merit-based programs within the town’s workforce, aiming to ensure fair compensation and organizational efficiency.
2. Financial Advisory for Bond Rating: Collaborating with financial advisors to improve the town’s bond rating, facilitating access to crucial financing opportunities for future development projects.
3. Researching Funding Initiatives for CIP: We are continuing to explore funding avenues for the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which is essential for infrastructure upgrades and community development initiatives.
4. Organizational Stabilization: Efforts to bolster the stability and effectiveness of the town’s administrative structure, ensuring sustained progress and service delivery.
5. Master Planning: Undertaking comprehensive master planning endeavors to guide Dumfries’ long-term growth and development strategies.
6. Enhancement of Recreation Department: Allocating resources to strengthen the town’s recreation department, mainly focusing on programs catering to the needs of children and youth.
7. Employee Benefits: A proposed 4% increase in benefits for the town of Dumfries TLC and healthcare employees, reflecting the town’s commitment to its workforce’s well-being.
8. Retiree Health Credit: Introducing a retiree health credit of .14%, aimed at providing additional support to retired town employees.
Despite the ambitious budget proposal, tax rates are anticipated to remain unchanged. However, property owners may experience increased tax burdens due to rising property assessments. The average home value in Prince William County has witnessed a 5% uptick over the past year, according to data from the March 19, 2024 Board of County Supervisors meeting.
In a notable exchange during the council meeting, Councilman Shaun Peet advocated for allocating $15,000 to support two organizations, Party Crank and Generational Ballers, citing their impactful mentorship programs that have helped members pursue higher education and successful careers. Peet and Town Manager Tangela Innis had not responded to a comment requesting information about what services these two firms provided to the town and when when we posted this story.
Discussions also arose regarding introducing a formal grant program for non-profit organizations seeking taxpayer funds. Councilwoman Monea Nickerson expressed disappointment at the low turnout of town residents in public budget meetings. Innis acknowledged the need for greater community engagement in municipal finance matters.
Sarah Romero documented this meeting.
The Marine Corps Marathon Organization (MCMO) will hold the Marine Corps 17.75K at the national park near Dumfries. Over 2,000 runners will begin running the 11-mile course at 7 a.m., with the last participant estimated to finish around 11 a.m. Marathon organizers say that significant delays should be expected between 4:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. on event day.
Road Closures and Time:
The biggest delays will be seen on Route 234 between Waterway Drive and Country Club Drive. Closures and times will follow as such:Pleasant Road will be closed to vehicular traffic from 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
One southbound lane and one northbound lane of Route 234 will be closed from 3:45 a.m. until end of the event, estimated to be around 12:00 p.m.
Southbound Route 234 will be fully closed to all traffic from 6:30 a.m. until the start line clears, estimated to be around 7:30 a.m.
Scenic Drive will be closed from Parking Lot D to Turkey Run Road from 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.Event Day Detours:
South Route 234 traffic will be detoured onto Waterway Drive starting at 6:30 a.m. Traffic will be rerouted to Route 234 at Country Club Drive.Parking and Shuttle Information:
Participants and spectators will be able to utilize several parking lots along Route 234. It is highly recommended for runners to carpool and park at the following parking lots and use the provided shuttles:Route 234 Commuter Lot, 17300 Dumfries Road, Dumfries, Va.
Quantico Center (Fettler Commercial Buildings), 3850 Fettler Park Drive, Dumfries, Va.Grace Church, 17100 Van Buren Rd, Dumfries, Va.
Forest Park High School, 15721 Forest Park Dr, Woodbridge, Va.The designated shuttles will transport participants back and forth between the start/finish area at Montclair Tabernacle Church of God before and after the event. On event morning, the free shuttles will begin operating at 4:30 a.m., with the last pre-event shuttle departing the parking lots at 6:20 a.m. Post-event shuttles will begin running shortly after 8:30 a.m. from the 17.75K finish area and return to the designated parking lots. Each bus will be labeled with a specific parking destination.
There are also a limited number of parking spaces at Moncure Park and Montclair Commuter Lot. Due to the closer proximity to the start/finish area, there will be no shuttle service to these parking lots. Therefore, participants who choose to park in these areas are expected to walk to the start/finish area.
There is no participant parking at John F. Pattie Elementary School, Washington-Reid Preschool Center or Montclair Tabernacle Church of God.
Prince William Forest Park campground guests have been notified and provided detail through the park.
During the recent town council meeting, Tangela Innis, Dumfries Town Manager, spearheaded a discussion on establishing a civil engagement and recreation department.
This dialogue gained momentum during the Town Council meeting on Tuesday, March 4, 2024, as the town geared up to unveil its newest community center, slated to open at the old Dumfries-Triangle Rescue Squad on Graham Park Road, reflecting the growing need for enhanced recreational offerings within the community. A new community center is also slated to open as part of The Rose gaming facility.
Innis outlined the pressing demand for expanded civic engagement efforts, indicating that the workload had surpassed the capacity of the current civic engagement officer. To address this gap, Ennis proposed the allocation of resources for four full-time staff members for an estimated cost of $219,000, supplemented by part-time positions for young individuals at an approximate expense of $30,000, with hourly rates ranging between $12 and $15.
The proposed department’s initial funding would be integrated into the remaining budget for the 2024 fiscal year, with plans for a more comprehensive budgetary framework for the subsequent Fiscal Year 2025.
Councilman Tyrone Brown Mayor Derrick Wood emphasized the proposed department’s significance in catering to the diverse needs of Dumfries residents. He stressed the importance of establishing clear metrics to evaluate the department’s effectiveness and underscored the necessity of incorporating adequate funding from the capital projects budget.
Echoing Brown’s Wood’s sentiments, Councilwoman Selonia Miles advocated for the expeditious establishment of the department, emphasizing the urgency of providing recreational activities for children, particularly with the approaching summer vacation.
Addressing Brown’s Miles’ concerns about the evolving social landscape, characterized by challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and prevalent violence, Mayor Derrick Wood emphasized the pivotal role of the proposed department in rebuilding social skills among children.
Brown Wood further stressed the importance of strategically organizing activities near the south side of Dumfries, where a significant portion of the town’s youth resides, thereby eliminating transportation barriers and fostering community engagement.
Sarah Romero documented this meeting. Become a documenter.
