Going back to school/work

Like many of you, I'm savoring the last few hours of the holidays. I must say that this year's was one of the best. Lots of much needed family time. Went to Virginia Beach to see my mom and step-dad (we got at Wii), visited friends, attended my niece's baptism and just had an all around restful time. Now it's back reality! The kids are in bed, their outfits ready, coffee made and ... no more sleeping in!

Thought this would be a good time to update folks on what's going on with the City.

Today I attended several events around Northern Virginia and the talk was all about the budget. Needless to say the City will be impacted by what's going on with the state. One thing that I know is that because are elementary schools are Title I schools, full day kindergarten will continue. Will learn more on Thursday when the County school budget is presented.

Second, the budget that Governor Kaine is likely to be significantly altered by the General Assembly and like all localities we will see a reduction in funding. The staff is taking into account reductions, but we won't probably know much until March (in the middle of our budget process), how much less we will get. Something to think about.

Development in the City is picking up a bit and I'm happy to say that there is an application in for an unnamed grocery store at the Pickett Shopping Center. I know that area hasn't seen a lot of life lately, but I'm looking forward to its revival.

Finally, come to the groundbreaking of the Sherwood Community Center this Saturday, 11 a.m., January 9, 2010 at the spot where it will be build off of Old Lee Highway by the Police Station.

Happy New Year to all.