Thursday, November 27, 2008

County's Environmental Stewardship Touted

Fairfax County's programs continue to "improve and advance in their environmental stewardship, often setting the standard for the rest of Virginia's counties," according to the Environmental Quality Advisory Council's annual report, which provides an overview of environmental conditions and programs in the county.

The report requested that the county continue to support the environmental programs established by the Board of Supervisors, consider implementing a storm water utility fee and move forward with an energy coordinator position.

For information, call 703-324-1380 or visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/eqac.

New and gently used coats are being accepted by the Hunter Mill District Winter Coat Closet at the North County Governmental Center, 12000 Bowman Towne Dr., Reston. Coats for children and adults should be in good condition and clean.

The Coat Closet will be open 10 a.m. to noon Tuesdays, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, through March 14.

Volunteers also are needed to greet donors, sort donations and assist clients with selecting coats.

For information, call 703-478-0283.

Tips and suggestions for dealing with winter weather are available on the county's Web site at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov. Click on "emergency information" under subject areas, then "winter weather tips."

The county encourages residents to prepare for winter weather and to take precautions to avoid hypothermia, frostbite, vehicle crashes and injuries from improper use of portable heaters.

The Board of Supervisors recently approved a plan to expand the county's foreclosure assistance program using $2.8 million in new federal aid.

The money, from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Neighborhood Stabilization Program, will help first-time home buyers and nonprofit groups purchase foreclosed properties.

For information, call the Fairfax County Department of Housing and Community Development at 703-246-5104.

-- Compiled by SARAH LANE