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CFGF Issues 2026 Legislative Scorecard and Priorities


Citizens For Great Falls published its 2026 legislative priorities in advance of the 2026 Virginia Legislative Session "Pre-filing period," which began on Monday, Nov.17. The scorecard outlines the organization's list of topic areas it urges the General Assembly to consider. It was also submitted to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, which took up its own legislative program at its regular meeting on Nov. 18.


The complete CFGF Legislative Scorecard and Priorities document may be viewed here: CFGF Legislative Scorecard and Priorities 2026

CFGF Submits Comments on Policy Plan Amendment

In follow-up action, CFGF President John Halacy submitted comments to the Board of Supervisors on the Policy Plan Amendment to the County-wide Comprehensive Plan in advance of its consideration during a public hearing on the Amendment on Nov. 18.


The Policy Plan outlines the goals, policies, and objectives set by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors regarding various aspects of community planning, including:

  • Land Use: Strategies for sustainably managing growth and development.
  • Transportation: Policies to enhance mobility and connectivity within the county.
  • Housing: Guidelines to ensure diverse and affordable housing options.
  • Environment: Initiatives aimed at protecting natural resources and promoting sustainability


Read the CFGF's comments here: CFGF Comments for BOS re Policy Plan Amendment to Comprehensive Plan


News / Articles

CFGF Submits Comments on Proposed Zoning Amendment

Peter Falcone | Published on 7/15/2025

July 15, 2025 (Great Falls) As our community has commercial and Industrial districts in proximity to residential districts, CFGF has significant concerns regarding the anticipated expansion of BESS in Fairfax County, particularly due to the increasing preference for Lithium-Ion batteries, which are valued for their power density, operational performance, and economic advantages. These batteries present well-documented risks of fire and explosion, with certain incidents demonstrating that such fires can be difficult to control or extinguish promptly. Allowing BESS installations in densely populated areas may introduce unnecessary risk to local communities, particularly if By-right.

 

The CFGF is especially concerned that, in addition to potential noise and environmental impacts associated with future BESS facilities, Fairfax County should be evaluating stronger regulatory measures, including additional possible restrictions within specific zoning districts.

 

According to the staff’s preliminary discussion draft, DE has set a goal to develop or acquire 2,700 MW of energy storage capacity by 2035, with an additional requirement that at least 35% of this capacity be purchased. Moreover, many of DEs substations (potential sites for BESS) in Fairfax County are located near or within both commercial and residential areas. As a result, it is prudent to consider the potential community concerns that would arise regarding noise, pollution, and the documented fire and explosion risks associated with BESS using Lithium-Ion batteries. 

Market indications confirm that BESS constitutes a rapidly growing sector, not unlike our experiences in Fairfax County regarding the emergence of data centers in Northern Virginia. 

CFGF believes that the impending fast-paced development of BESS necessitates that this land use category requires a comprehensive understanding of the associated risks and the potential impacts on communities resulting from BESS deployment and more specificity in the zoning regulations.

 

Finally, at a minimum, we are opposed to By-right approval of BESS in residential or commercial areas and recommend that all BESS undergo the Special Exception application process. 

The complete comments are filed on the CFGF website Documents Menu Page.

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