Alexandria · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Alexandria public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Front Yard Fence Variance at 3337 King Street
Applicant Joseph Delmontagne is seeking a variance to put up a 6-foot-tall fence in the front yard at 3337 King Street. Because front yard fences are usually restricted, this request will test local rules on streetscape visibility and neighborhood character.
Side Yard Garage Variance at 208 Virginia Avenue
Homeowners David and Rachel Helmreich are asking for permission to build a garage in the side yards of their R-8 zoned property at 208 Virginia Avenue. Neighbors might see changes to local property lines and setbacks if the board greenlights the plan.
Alterations at 700 Chetworth Place
The Board will evaluate proposed exterior alterations at 700 Chetworth Place to ensure compliance with historic district design standards.
Detention Center Study
An update on the study of the city's detention center, which touches on jail conditions, capacity, and criminal justice policy.
Community Lodgings Inc. Elbert Avenue Housing Project
An update on the affordable housing project by Community Lodgings Inc. on Elbert Avenue, which adds affordable homes in a city with a tight housing market.
Historic Property Alterations in Old and Historic Alexandria
The Historic Alexandria Foundation urged the board to discourage roof decks on early buildings and require reversibility and better documentation. The board agreed to add language requiring preservation of historic roof forms and minimal intrusion before final adoption.
Special Exception at 520 East Mount Ida Avenue
Homeowners requested permission to build an open front porch that sits closer to the street than the standard 10-foot minimum. Staff supported the request because historical maps show a porch used to be there, and similar porches line the neighborhood.
Residential Side-Yard and Rear-Yard Additions
Homeowners are seeking special exceptions to expand their older, compact homes while navigating tight setback rules. The board evaluated requests for second-story additions that align with existing non-complying side yard walls.
Variance Request at 9 Potomac Court
The board will evaluate a requested deferral for variances to construct a rear deck and reduce open space on Potomac Court.
Special Exception at 2807 Old Dominion Boulevard
The board will consider re-approving a special exception for a second-story rear addition.
Address Renumbering Appeal for 3600 and 3600 ½ Russell Road
Property owners appealed a city manager decision to renumber 3600 and 3600 ½ Russell Road to resolve delivery and digital navigation errors, sparking debate over historical property designations versus modern e-commerce logistics.
City News Updates
Stay in the loop with the latest Alexandria updates, covering everything from new pedestrian safety projects to upcoming transportation meetings and property tax notices.
School Superintendent Appointment
Alexandria City Public Schools just brought on a brand new leader, Dr. Jharrett Bryantt, to take over as superintendent this February. Get ready for some fresh leadership as he steps in to guide our local education system.
Retirement of Department of Emergency Communications Director Renee Gordon
City Council and staff honored Renee Gordon upon her retirement as Director of the Department of Emergency Communications, praising her leadership and the agency's industry accreditations.
Ramsey Street right-of-way vacation
Vacating part of Ramsey Street gives the two abutting owners land while the city gets a rebuilt, wider alley for trash trucks — but neighbors lose informal parking spots along it.
St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School Athletic Facility Expansion
The private school wants eight 85-foot sports lights at Kelleher and Moss Fields. Two students made an impassioned case for Friday night lights at home; neighbors raised no objections.