The photos on the front cover are The Godspeed

The photos on the front cover are: The Godspeed, the replica of the 17th century ship that brought the first English settlers to Jamestown, Virginia in 1606. The Godspeed visited Stafford in August 2006 for the Discovery Days Festival at Aquia Landing. The photos on the bottom www.staffordcountyva.gov Page right): Stafford County Courthouse; Civil War reenactors; George Washington’s childhood home at 2007Farm; Gari Melchers are (left to2 Ferry Citizen’s Guide Home and Studio; and Hope Springs Marina in north Stafford. Table of Contents, Frequently Called Numbers Frequently Called Numbers All listed numbers are the (540) calling area unless otherwise indicated. County Administrator’s Office ............................ 658-4541 Animal Control .................................................... 658-7387 Assessment .......................................................... 658-4129 Budget.................................................................. 658-8617 Circuit Court ........................................................ 658-8750 Citizens Assistance .............................................. 658-4516 Code Administration............................................ 658-8650 Commonwealth’s Attorney.................................. 658-8780 Commissioner of the Revenue ............................. 658-4132 Cooperative Extension Service ............................ 658-8000 County Attorney’s Office .................................... 658-8636 General District Court.......................................... 658-8766 Crime Solvers ...................................................... 658-2020 Disaster Helpline.................................................. 658-HELP or 658-4357 Economic Development....................................... 658-8681 Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services ................. 658-7200 Health Department............................................... 659-3101 Human Resources ................................................ 658-8628 Infoline ................................................................ 658-INFO (Recorded messages on selected topics) or 658-4636 Jury Duty ............................................................. 658-8750 Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court.................. 658-8755 Landfill ................................................................ 658-4590 Litter Prevention & Recycling Office.................. 658-8680 Magistrates Office................................................ 659-2968 Metro Number ...................................................... (703) 690-8222 Table of Contents Board of Supervisors .................................................4 Welcome from County Administrator.....................4 Statistics......................................................................5 Annual Report ...........................................................6 Citizen’s Guide History...........................................................12 County Government .....................................13 Animals .........................................................15 Building and Construction.............................16 Courts and Legal Services.............................18 Fire and Rescue .............................................21 Health Services..............................................23 Landfill and Recycling ..................................25 Law Enforcement ..........................................27 Libraries ........................................................30 New Resident Information ............................31 Ordinances.....................................................33 Parks and Recreation .....................................35 Permits/Licenses............................................37 Public Services ..............................................39 Public Water and Sewer ................................40 Schools ..........................................................41 Social Services ..............................................43 Starting Your Own Business .........................45 Taxes .............................................................47 Transportation ...............................................48 Volunteering..................................................49 Voting and Elections .....................................50 Map of Stafford .........................................................51 Visit the official Stafford County Web site at www.staffordcountyva.gov for more information on any of these topics. Parks and Recreation ........................................... 658-4871 Planning ............................................................... 658-8668 Public Information ............................................... 658-4159 Purchasing............................................................ 658-8614 School Board ....................................................... 658-6000 Senior Citizens Center ......................................... 658-4871 Sheriff’s Office .................................................... 658-4450 Social Services..................................................... 658-8720 TDD ..................................................................... 658-4553 Treasurer .............................................................. 658-8700 Utilities ................................................................ 658-8630 Utilities (after hours emergencies)....................... 658-4857 Volunteer Services............................................... 658-4516 Voter Registrar..................................................... 658-4000 For departments not listed.................................... 658-8600 Call 911 for Emergencies Call the following numbers for non-emergencies: Fire and Rescue............................................. 658-4400 Sheriff’s Office ............................................. 658-4440 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 3 Welcome to Stafford! Board of Supervisors Chairman: Jack R. Cavalier, GriffisWidewater District; Term: 01/01/0412/31/07; Address: 2032 Coast Guard Drive, Stafford, VA 22554; Phone: 659-7651; Mobile: 840-0674; Fax: 288-1718; E-mail: jcavalier2000@aol.com. Vice Chairman: Mark Dudenhefer, Garrisonville District; Term: 01/01/06-12/31/09; Address: 3 Legal Court, Stafford, VA 22554: Phone: 659-5055; Email: mdudenhefer@co.stafford.va.us Greetings! I am pleased to present Stafford County’s 2007 Citizen’s Guide and Annual Report. This document has been prepared to provide you with quick and easily accessible information on various County services. I hope you find it helpful. Founded in 1664, Stafford has strong connections to events that shaped our nation’s history. Indian Princess Pocahontas and George Washington both lived in Stafford. During Colonial times, iron works in Stafford furnished arms for the American Revolution, and Aquia sandstone, quarried in abundance on Government Island in north Stafford, provided stone for the White House, the U.S. Capitol and trim for private homes. During the Civil War, more than 100,000 troops, drawn by the county’s proximity to the Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac Railroad to Aquia Creek, occupied Stafford for several years. Bordered by the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, Stafford provides wonderful opportunities for recreation with 51 miles of shoreline, more than 1,000 acres of parkland, and numerous shopping, dining and entertainment options. We continue to work hard to become the best local government in Virginia. Building upon our organizational values of Balance, Empowerment, Service and Teamwork, or B.E.S.T., we strive to create programs and services that will offer a high quality of life to our citizens. We would like Stafford to become a place where residents can not only live and play, but work and learn as well. We are home to more than 2,000 businesses offering high quality professional jobs. We have partnered with the University of Mary Washington, a leading higher education institution, to offer innovative graduate degree programs at the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, which is located in south Stafford, off of Route 17. Our public schools are among the best in the Commonwealth, and have been recognized as a Gold Medal District and rated in the top 17 percent of school districts nationwide. I think you will find much to love here in Stafford. I hope you and your family enjoy our vibrant community, rich history, and friendly people. Steve Crosby Stafford County Administrator M.S. Joe Brito, Hartwood District; Term: 01/01/06-12/31/09; Address: 544 Rocky Run Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22406; Phone: 752-9373; Email: jbrito@co.stafford.va.us Peter J. Fields, George Washington District; Term: 01/01/04-12/31/07; Address: 63 Cornwallis Drive, Falmouth, VA 22405; Phone: 371-4274; Mobile: 846-4226; Fax: 374-5090; E-mail: pfields@co.stafford.va.us Robert C. Gibbons; Rock Hill District; Term: 01/01/04-12/31/07; Address: 42 Beaver Lodge Road, Stafford, VA 22554; Phone: 752-7276; Mobile: 834-8282; Fax: 752-1936; E-mail: rgibbons@co.stafford.va.us Paul V. Milde III, Aquia District; Term: 01/01/06-12/31/09; Address: 10 Potomac View Lane, Stafford, VA 22554; Phone: 720-2195; Mobile: 845-1880; E-mail: pmilde@co.stafford.va.us George H. Schwartz, Falmouth District; Term: 01/01/06-12/31/09; Address: P. O. Box 833, Stafford, VA 22555; Phone: Mobile: 273-8056; E-mail: falmouthsupervisor@hotmail.com Page 4 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Stafford Statistics Demographics Estimated Population (2006): ............................................................................................................ 120,511 Population Growth in Virginia ........................................................................................................... 4th fastest growing county Population Growth in nation .............................................................................................................. 17th fastest growing county Registered Voters (2007).................................................................................................................... 66,271 Median Age (2006) ............................................................................................................................ 32.8 Average Household Income (2006).................................................................................................... $90,152 Economy Unemployment Rate (2006) ............................................................................................................... 2.2% Civilian Labor Force (2006) ............................................................................................................... 63,618 Retail Sales (2005) ............................................................................................................................. $816 million Total number of businesses (2006)..................................................................................................... 2,070 Average home price (2006) ................................................................................................................ $390,000 Location Size ..................................................................................................................................................... 277 square miles (177,280 acres) Stafford County is situated 40 miles south of Washington, D.C. and 60 miles north of Richmond, Virginia’s capital city. The county is bounded by the Potomac River and King George County to the east, the Rappahannock River to the south, Fauquier County to the west, and Prince William County to the north. Military Quantico Marine Corps Base is in the northern part of the county and encompasses 32,754 acres, or 21 percent of Stafford's land. Stafford is home to more than 45 defense contractors. Schools Elementary Schools ............................................................................................................................ 17 Middle Schools................................................................................................................................... 7 High Schools ...................................................................................................................................... 5 Total Students Enrolled (2006-2007 school year) .............................................................................. 26,203 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 5 Annual Report Stafford continues to be an appealing haven for individuals looking for a safe, peaceful community with modern amenities. Our current population is estimated to be just over 120,000. According to the University of Virginia’s Weldon Cooper Center, Stafford was the fourth fastest growing locality in Virginia from 2000 to 2006, with a 30.4 percent increase in population during that time period. For years, Stafford was known as a “bedroom community” to which residents traveled after working at jobs north or south of the county. But research has shown that Stafford citizens would like the opportunity to work closer to home. To that end, local government officials are working hard to make Stafford a place where individuals can live, shop, play and work. Five Million Square Feet of Commercial Space In response to a request from the Marine Corps Systems Command for commercial space close to Quantico, the following developments are underway: • • • • • • • Stafford County Population 150,000 100,000 50,000 0 Num ber of Individuals North Stafford Corporate Center Stafford Commerce Park Stafford Marketplace North Stafford Center for Business & Technology Riverside II – Jefferson Building Quantico Corporate Center Celebrate Virginia Stafford’s at-place employment is nearly 33,000. This means that approximately 33,000 people can say “I work in Staf2000 2002 2004 2006 ford.” New businesses in the county have added 6,700 new jobs since 2002 – growing 25 percent in that time period. In addition, Stafford has led all counties in the Greater Washington Metropolitan Area with a 368 percent increase in growth in the Professional and Business Services Sector Employment Economic Development since 1990. These are the family-sustaining jobs that all localities work to create. Working closer to home improves indiStafford is fortunate to have a strong economic development program, and has revised its marketing strategy in recent years viduals’ quality of life by reducing commuting time and decreasing traveling expenses. More importantly, it gives famito focus on bringing more high-tech – and higher paying – lies more time to enjoy with each other. jobs to the area. As a result, Stafford has led the Commonwealth with a 32 percent growth in businesses from 2002 to the 2nd quarter 2006, adding 509 businesses in that time period. At the same time, Stafford’s private sector is producing record numbers of commercial square footage, averaging more than 800,000 square feet annually over the past several years. More impressive is the large spike in the amount of current Members of the Board of Supervisors and commercial square footage in various stages of the planning process. Today, Stafford has more than 3 million square feet staff from the Department of Economic Dein progress – more commercial projects in the pipeline than velopment sought input from citizens for ever before. In addition, more than 1 million square feet of revitalizing these key areas in Stafford: new retail space is planned in Stafford, with a total of 71 commercial projects in various stages of planning throughout the • Falmouth and Route 17 county. Redevelopment Visions This represents 5 million square feet of office space potential – and possible new jobs for Stafford County residents. Today, • • Boswell’s Corner (north Stafford) Stafford Courthouse Page 6 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Annual Report Tourism The Economic Development Department spearheads the County’s tourism efforts, and staff continue to work on ways to make Stafford a tourism destination. Stafford’s Tourism Office uses a combination of information venues, such as the Visitor’s Center, located at the Gari Melchers Home and Studio (224 Washington Street, Falmouth), the Tourism Web site at www.TourStaffordVa.com, and a comprehensive tourism brochure, to spread the word about Stafford’s unique historical sites, recreational activities and tourism attractions. Individuals can also find more information about regional events and attractions at www.VisitFred.com. 2006 Tourism Highlights • • Discovery Days at Aquia Landing First Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Marker at the Moncure Conway House in historic Falmouth Three Stafford trails designated as part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail: Government Island Trail, Falmouth-Ferry Farm Trail, and Aquia Creek Water Trail. • Planning In February 2006, the Board of Supervisors selected the consulting firm, Design-Based Planning, Inc., of Buffalo, N.Y., to assist with the development of Stafford’s Comprehensive Plan, which guides and coordinates the development of Stafford, in accordance with present and future needs and resources, to best promote the health, safety and general welfare of residents. It involves all aspects of the community including population, roads, parks, environment, residential and business development, location of public services and utilities, public safety facilities and community identity. The Planning Commission, the Board of Supervisors and the public will all have an opportunity to provide input to the Comprehensive Plan. Planning—Major Initiatives • • • • • Hope Springs Marina, in north Stafford, is a popular launching point for boaters seeking to explore Aquia Creek and the Potomac River. Processed more than 6 million square feet of non-residential development Processed approximately 2,400 applications for new residential lots New Stafford Hospital Development of Government Island Park Comprehensive Plan 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 7 Annual Report Transportation As Stafford’s population continues to grow and more businesses come to the area, County officials are exploring opportunities to improve transportation. The Office of Transportation of the Public Services Department has taken an active role in the County’s overall development. Staff members review all transportation components of plans submitted by developers, and work with the Virginia Department of Transportation on various road improvement projects. Staff also manages the Transportation Impact Fee Program, which can be imposed on new development in the southeastern and western parts of Stafford. The fees cannot be used to fix existing conditions, and they can only be used on secondary roads. In fiscal year 2006, $650,000 was collected in transportation impact fees. Garrisonville Road Project The Garrisonville Road Project, currently underway, will include the following upgrades: • • • • • • Three lanes of travel in each direction Sidewalks with curbs and gutter on each side of the road New signals at Northbrook Drive Modified signals at Onville, Brafferton and Mine Roads Cost: Approximately $10 million Estimated completion date: 2009 Working for Stafford County Stafford County is a wonderful place to work, with a variety of jobs in different fields, competitive full-time and part-time benefits, and an enjoyable working environment. In addition to weekly job postings available on Stafford’s official Web site at www.staffordcountyva.gov, there are also opportunities with the Stafford County School system, and many parttime and temporary positions. All job applications must be completed on the Internet at staffordcountyva.gov. Click on the Employment link for a listing of current job openings. Interested applicants may also visit the Human Resources Department, located in the Stafford Administration Center, 1300 Courthouse Road, to fill out an online application. For more information, please call the Human Resources Department at (540) 658-8628. Chatham Manor served as a Union headquarters during the Battle of Fredericksburg. It is here that Clara Barton and Walt Whitman joined in the treatment of hundreds of Union soldiers. Chatham was built between 1761 and 1768 and is part of the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park. Chatham is located in south Stafford. Page 8 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Annual Report Utilities The Department of Utilities and the Board of Supervisors are committed to meeting citizens’ water needs in a responsible manner. The department currently serves 96,000 citizens and more than 1,000 businesses. It treated and distributed 3.6 billion gallons of water in 2006. High demands, combined with a lack of substantial rainfall last summer, prompted the department to urge all citizens to seriously conserve water. Although demands decreased somewhat during cooler months, the department continues to ask all citizens to use water wisely. A brochure offering conservation tips is available in the department’s offices, which are located at the Stafford Administration Center, 1300 Courthouse Road, Stafford, VA 22554. The phone number is (540) 658-8630. To help guide the department’s future direction, staff created a water supply plan using a $15,000 grant it had received from the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Stafford became the first jurisdiction in Virginia to submit a water supply plan to DEQ. Other projects to help meet future water needs include the development of the Rocky Pen Run Reservoir in the western part of Stafford County and expansions to both water treatment facilities at Abel Lake and Smith Lake. Customer Service Connections The Stafford County Citizen Assistance and Volunteer Services Office is designed to provide fast and efficient access to local government. Service Requests about Stafford Government Services Please contact the department involved first. If you do not know where to call or want someone outside the office to field the complaint, contact the Citizens Assistance and Volunteer Services Office at (540) 658-4516. Landlord/Tenant Complaints These issues can be confusing and staff cannot provide legal advice. However, staff can give you referral numbers and helpful resource materials. The more you know about your rights and how to file your complaint, the faster you will achieve a resolution. Contact the Stafford County Citizen Assistance office at (540) 658-4516 or send an e-mail to citizenassistance@co.stafford.va.us and staff will be happy to assist you. 2006 Utilities Snapshot • • • Serves 96,000 citizens and more than 1,000 businesses Treated and distributed 3.6 billion gallons of water Peak Daily Demand: 15.8 million gallons of water per day (summer 2006) 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 9 Annual Report Parks and Recreation Last year was a banner year for Parks and Recreation with the planning of new parks, renovations at existing ones, and participation in countywide events. The master planning of Patawomeck Park was completed in 2006 and construction is set to begin this year at the 180-acre park in north Stafford. This project is funded though the $11 million bond referendum approved in November 2001. At Woodlands Pool, Stafford’s only covered pool facility, staff replaced the fabric dome and built an enhanced indirect deck-mounted lighting system. At Willowmere Park, a new parking lot and landscaping improvements were completed. The 90-foot baseball field at Smith Lake Park also underwent renovations. To prepare for the first Discovery Days Festival in August 2006, Parks and Recreation staff completed a number of park enhancements at Aquia Landing, which included road paving and the addition of sand to the beach area. They also worked with the leaseholders of the Gauntlet Golf Course at Curtis Park to expedite repairs and improvements to the course, which was the site of another successful Stafford Film and Fun Festival in July. To help direct the department’s actions for the future, staff conducted community surveys and held public meetings to obtain citizen input for a 15-year Facilities Master Plan. A final draft plan was generated based on that input, and staff will begin working with the Board of Supervisors in 2007 on its implementation. Public Safety Center • • • • • • • Offices for Sheriff’s Office staff and Department of Fire and Rescue 114,000 square feet 911 Communications Center Emergency Operations Center Auxiliary building will house response vehicles Cost: Approximately $40 million Completion: 2009 Public Safety Stafford’s public safety agencies saw many “firsts” in 2006. Construction began on the County’s first Public Safety Center, across from the Government Center off of Courthouse Road. Construction also began on a new fire and rescue station off of Warrenton Road (Route 17), and a groundbreaking was held for another fire and rescue station off of Courthouse Road. Groundbreaking also took place for Medicorp’s new state-ofthe-art Stafford hospital near the intersection of Jefferson Davis Highway and Courthouse Road in north Stafford. This 100-bed hospital includes a myriad of services such as labor and delivery, a full-service emergency department with trauma, medical and urgent care, a surgical suite, medical cardiac services, respiratory therapy, a pharmacy, helipad, cancer center, radiation therapy, neurological testing, pathology with on-site lab, medical oncology, and an intensive care unit. The hospital is scheduled to open in 2009. Another “first” for the Fire and Rescue Department was the Ambulance Fee Cost Recovery Program, which began in October 2006. The program allows the department to charge fees for emergency medical transports. The funds are used for personnel, ambulance and equipment replacement, and supplies. The program is expected to generate about $1.9 million in revenue the first year. The ambulance fees allowed the Fire and Rescue Department to fund an additional 18 positions. These individuals joined four others in the County’s first Fire and Rescue Academy, which began in December 2006 and consisted of 17 weeks of academics and field training in emergency care and fire- Stafford’s Newest Fire and Rescue Stations Berea and Courthouse Road • • • • • • • • 15,000 square feet Includes three vehicle bays Dorms for fire and rescue staff Kitchen Ventilated tower to dry hoses and other equipment Estimated completion date on Berea station: late 2007 Completion on Courthouse Road station: 2008 Cost per station: Approx. $4 million Page 10 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Annual Report fighting. Instructors were staff and volunteer personnel from the Fire and Rescue Department in Stafford as well as from other jurisdictions. Graduation was held in March. All new recruits will go through the academy for initial training. In the Stafford Sheriff’s Office, staff continued using innovative approaches to meet law enforcement needs. A Special Problems Unit was created to identify and respond to specific trends of criminal activity, such as robberies, auto theft, vandalStafford’s new Public Safety Center is under construction and is scheduled to be ism and narcotics violations. The completed in 2008. It will house both the Fire and Rescue Department and the team consists of four members – one Sheriff’s Office. (Artist’s rendering provided by DVA Architects). sergeant and three deputies – who provide quick response and solutions to the community. It is this creativity and commitment to excellence that has won the Sheriff’s Office much regional, state and national recognition over the years. In 2006, the office won yet another Law Enforcement Challenge Award from the Virginia Association of Police Chiefs. This award recognizes and rewards the best overall traffic safely programs in the state. The International Association of Chiefs of Police completed an in-depth study of the Sheriff’s Office titled, “Domestic Security in Stafford County, Policing the County in the Post 911 Era.” The completed report was received by the Sheriff’s Office in late January 2007 and contains 122 recommendations for action that the Sheriff will use to enhance administration, management and field operations within the scope of normal operations and homeland defense needs. Staff in the Sheriff’s Office is planning to implement the recommendations over the next five years. Keeping You Informed Stafford County provides information to its citizens in a number of ways. The Public Information Office leads these communication efforts by working with media representatives, maintaining government cable channels, coordinating special events, and assisting with the maintenance of Stafford’s official Web site at www.staffordcountyva.gov. The office can be reached at (540) 658-4159. You can find out more about the Stafford County Government through these sources: Cable Channels—Government information is broadcast 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on Comcast Channel 17 and Cox Channel 24. Board of Supervisors meetings are broadcast live at 1 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of each month. The meeting is rebroadcast at 1 p.m. on Thursday of the same week in which the Board meets. Planning Commission meetings are broadcast live the first and third Wednesdays of each month beginning at 5 p.m. The meetings are rebroadcast on the Friday of that same week, at 5 p.m. Official Stafford Web site: www.staffordcountyva.gov. Infoline: Infoline is a 24-hour automated message line about various County services. Call (540) 658-INFO or 658-4636. Stafford Alert: Sign up at www.staffordalert.com. See box at left for details. Sign Up for Stafford Alert! Stafford Alert is an emergency messaging system that sends text messages to recipients’ cell phones, pagers, BlackBerrys and other handhelds, and e-mail addresses. Alerts could include information about hazardous weather, road closures, power outages, County facility and school closings and other emergencies. You can register at www.staffordalert.com. You must have an e-mail address to sign up Registration is free, but your private cell phone provider may charge standard text message rates. 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 11 Citizen’s Guide — History Native American Indians roamed and settled in Virginia centuries before the first documented Indian settlement in Stafford. Indians lived here as early as 1,000 B.C., hundreds of years before Indian Princess Pocahontas and English Captain John Smith visited these shores. In 1647, the Brent family migrated to Stafford from Maryland to establish the first permanent English settlement. Stafford County was formed a few years later in 1664. In 1675, Indians from Maryland killed an Englishman in Stafford. This incident set off a chain of events culminating in 1676 with “Bacon’s Rebellion,” the first popular revolt against royal authority in British America. By the early 1700s, Stafford prospered with a growth of farms, small plantations, gristmills, and sawmills. Mining and quarrying became important industries. It was the iron industry that attracted Augustine Washington, with his young son, George, to Ferry Farm. Iron works furnished arms for the American Revolution. Aquia sandstone, quarried in abundance on Government Island, provided stone for the White House, U.S. Capitol, and the trim for private homes. Stafford saw little action during the American Revolution and the War of 1812. With the coming of the Richmond, Fredericksburg, and the Potomac Railroad to Aquia Creek in 1842, the county became vulnerable to troop movements during the Civil War. Although Stafford saw no major battles, more than 100,000 troops occupied the area for several years, stripping the county of its livelihood, farmland and vegetation. Families gave up churches and private homes to be used as hospitals. Prosperity did not return until World War I, when the U.S. Marine Corps came to Quantico. At that time, the county was primarily agricultural, except for fishing industries situated along the Potomac River. In World War II, the expansion of Quantico created new employment opportunities. In the early 1960s, the county’s population began to increase with the completion of Interstate 95. The new highway allowed easy access to Washington, D.C., which lies approximately 40 miles to the north, and Virginia’s capital city of Richmond, approximately 60 miles to the south. Stafford continues to attract new residents, and the population is expected to reach close to 150,000 in the coming years. While exploring innovative solutions for sustainability, Stafford strives to maintain its wonderful atmosphere of suburban living at a relaxed pace. Constitutional Officers Five constitutional officers – Sheriff, Commonwealth’s Attorney, Commissioner of the Revenue, Treasurer and Clerk of the Circuit Court – are elected by citizens and serve four-year terms except for the Clerk of the Circuit Court, who serves for eight years. Constitutional officers are elected on a countywide basis. Stafford’s Constitutional Officers are: Clerk of the Circuit Court ..........Barbara Decatur Phone..........................................658-8750 Commissioner of the Revenue ...Scott Mayausky Phone..........................................658-4132 Commonwealth’s Attorney ........Dan Chichester Phone..........................................658-8780 Built between 1751 and 1757 in the shape of a Greek cross, Aquia Episcopal Church is one of the oldest, active colonial churches in America. It served as a parish church, established by the colonial government. Landowners paid required taxes to the parish in the form of tobacco. During the Civil War, the church was occupied by Union troops. Sheriff.........................................Charles Jett Phone..........................................658-4450 Treasurer ....................................Bill Colvin Phone..........................................658-8700 Page 12 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — County Government History Participating in local government has always been important to Virginians. In 1619, the Governor of the Virginia Colony ordered the establishment of a representative legislative assembly. Residents of each town, plantation, or area chose two representatives. Elections are held in November of oddnumbered years as part of the Commonwealth’s general election. fying time, place and matters to be considered. Action may be taken. Adjourned – Continued from a previous meeting. Action may be taken. Work Session – These adjourned meetings are scheduled to obtain information or to discuss complex issues. Formal action may be taken. Public Hearing – Scheduled to receive citizens' comments before the adoption of the budget, an ordinance, or a resolution which sets fees. Also scheduled to hear citizens’ views on other matters. Closed meetings – Closed to the public. The Board may discuss specific matters including personnel, purchase or sale of public land where discussion in public would adversely affect the bargaining position of the Board, investment of funds where publicity would adversely affect the financial interest of the County, and consultation with the County Attorney, staff or consultants related to actual or potential litigation or legal matters requiring the advice of counsel. Any action is taken in open session. The Board enacts local laws (ordinances) and sets County policies, priorities and goals. Once each year, the Board approves the County budget and sets the tax rates. The Board also appropriates funds and appoints citizens to boards and The colony was divided into sections which were served by a governing body, agencies that provide a service or act as a court, a sheriff and other civil and mili- advisory bodies to the Board. tary officers. These sections later became County Administrator counties, but it wasn’t until 1870 that the traditional form of government was esThe Board of Supervisors appoints a tablished by the Constitution, the form of County Administrator who carries out government in Stafford today. the policies of the Board, directs County business and administrative procedures, A Board of Supervisors is the elected and appoints department heads and emgoverning body. Five constitutional offi- ployees. cers – Sheriff, Commonwealth’s Attorney, Commissioner of the Revenue, Board of Supervisors Meetings Treasurer and Clerk of the Circuit Court Citizens are welcome to attend Board are elected and serve four-year terms, meetings. except for the Clerk of the Circuit Court, who serves for eight years. ConstituRegular – Held the first and third Tuestional officers are elected on a countyday of each month at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. wide basis. in the Board Chambers at the Stafford Administration Center, 1300 Courthouse Board of Supervisors Road. Board members are elected from seven election districts. Four-year terms are Special – Held when requested by the staggered to expire at two-year intervals. Chairman or two Board members speci- In 1916, renowned artist Gari Melchers and his wife, Corinne, purchased Belmont. The people and places in Falmouth, Fredericksburg, and the surrounding countryside were the subject of his many works. Today, the Gari Melchers Home and Studio overlooking the Rappahannock River and Falmouth is open to the public. His works and collected antiques are on display. 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 13 Citizen’s Guide — County Government Procedure At the annual organizational meeting held in January, the Board elects the chairman and vice chairman and adopts the rules of procedure. The Board adopts its own bylaws for conducting meetings. Actions Resolution: Establishes administrative government business. Examples: appointments to commissions, appropriation of funds. Ordinance: Establishes laws. More formal than a resolution, this action usually affects lives, liberties or property of citizens. Ordinances have permanent effect and are of countywide concern. Examples include the zoning ordinance, traffic-control laws, and no-shooting and noise regulations. Before the adoption or change of an ordinance, public hearings and notification of citizens are required as provided for in the Code of Virginia. There were several courthouses constructed between 1665 and 1752 in the Potomac Creek and Marlborough Point areas. The current location along Courthouse Road Proclamation: A ceremonial instrument was designated as a courthouse site in 1783 and has held three different structures. used to celebrate or recognize an event or One of them was occupied by Union Cavalry troops and resulted in court records being "scattered to the four winds." The present structure was constructed in 1922. person. Content Agendas: Agendas for regular meetings are available on the Friday afternoon preceding scheduled meetings. Agendas may be viewed at the Administration Center between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Agendas and board packets may also be viewed on the Internet at www.staffordcountyva.gov. Select “Board of Supervisors” and then “Calendar & Agendas.” The agenda is also published in the Free Lance-Star newspaper. pervisors. • Support Board members with comments and suggestions. • Get to know Board members, particularly your district representatives. • Assume the Board of Supervisors will listen to your presentation with an open mind. They want the best possible community. • Be objective. Research issues and understand the viewpoints of those involved. Offer constructive and productive ideas and suggestions. Stafford, VA 22555-0339. Public Presentations: At the beginning and end of each regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors, citizens are allowed to speak on any matter of concern. Individuals should fill out a Speaker’s Card which may be submitted to the Chief Deputy Clerk before each meeting begins. Speaker Cards may be completed in person, or online at www.staffordcountyva.gov. Click on “Board of Supervisors,” then choose “Presentations by the Public,” and “Fill out a Speaker Card” at the bottom of the page. Speaker Cards may also be obtained by calling (540) 658-4541. • Serve as a member of a board or commission. Applications are available from the County Administrator’s Office. • Help others to be selected to boards and commissions. When you find someone well qualified, urge him or her to fill out an application. • Attend meetings of the Board of Su- How to Get Involved Citizen Participation Public Hearings: Citizens may speak at public hearings. Presentations are limited to three minutes. Petitions/Letters: Petitions or letters may be presented to the Board of Supervisors during public presentations or public hearings, or they may be mailed to: Stafford Board of Supervisors, P.O. Box 339, Page 14 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Animals Animal Control The Animal Control Office, located at 473 Eskimo Hill Road, is open Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Contact the shelter manager at (540) 658-7387 or send an e-mail to dhart@co.stafford.va.us. Licenses All dogs four months of age and older must be licensed annually by January 1. One-year and three-year licenses are available. You must provide written proof of current rabies vaccination and spaying or neutering, if applicable, to purchase a license. Kennel A group of volunteers, the Stafford Relief for Animals Citizens licenses are reAssistance Team, or STRACAT, assists pet owners during quired based times of emergencies and crises. To volunteer, call the Citizens upon the number Assistance and Volunteer Services Office at 658-4516. of dogs. Call Animal Control for fees. Kennel licenses Rabies Vaccinations must be approved by the Department of The Stafford County Code requires that Code Administration. Call (540) 658dogs and cats four months and older be 8650 for more information. vaccinated for rabies. Animal bites should be reported to Animal Control or Applications for dog licenses may be downloaded from Stafford’s Web site at the local Health Department Office. www.staffordcountyva.gov. Choose DeAnimal Carcasses partments and then Animal Control from the drop-down menu. All licenses may If you are aware of an animal carcass on be purchased from the Animal Shelter a state roadway, call the Virginia Departand the Treasurer’s Office in the Adment of Transportation to have it reministration Center, 1300 Courthouse moved at (540) 659-4500. County Code Road. requires that owners properly dispose of their animals. They may be buried or taken to the Regional Landfill located at Barking Dogs 489 Eskimo Hill Road. Please advise the Complaints about barking dogs are adattendant of your cargo. Property owners ministered under Chapter 5 of the are responsible for any animal that dies County Code. Call 658-7387 for more on their land. information. Adoptions Dogs and cats may be adopted from the Animal Shelter. There is a $20.00 adoption fee for dogs and a $10.00 adoption fee for cats. All animals adopted from the shelter must be spayed or neutered. Animals may also be adopted through the Pet Assistance League, a non-profit organization devoted to finding homes for animals. For more information, contact the rescue coordinator at (540) 659-5018. To Turn in Animals Stafford residents may bring dogs and cats to the shelter. Other companion animals may be accepted depending on space and species. Healthy and nonaggressive animals may be placed for adoption. To Redeem Animals Impounded animals may be picked up during regular hours or by special appointment on Mondays. A fee of $25 per day plus $5 per day board fee per animal will be assessed. Animal Control Officers Animal Control Officers enforce the Comprehensive Animal Control Laws of Virginia and the Stafford Code. They investigate complaints, impound stray and injured animals, and enforce rabies vaccination and leash laws. The officers are available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 7 a.m. until 8:30 p.m., Thursday from 7 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., and on Saturday from 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. by calling 658-7387. In case of an emergency outside normal hours, call (540) 658-4440. Leash Law County law requires that dogs must be leashed or penned throughout Stafford from April through September so that young wild animals can mature unharmed. There is a year-round leash law in subdivisions. Owners who let their pets run at large without supervision are in violation of the law. Wildlife Wild animals are regulated by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. For more information, contact the Richmond office at (804) 367-9231, call Animal Control (540) 658-7387 or contact an animal control officer by e-mail to mnull@co.stafford.va.us. 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 15 Citizen’s Guide — Building and Construction Department of Planning and Zoning The Department of Planning and Zoning oversees community development in Stafford County. Department offices are located at the Stafford Administration Center at 1300 Courthouse Road. Business hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The phone number for Planning and Zoning is (540) 658-8668. The Department of Planning and Zoning handles the following services: rezoning, site plans for commercial development, construction plans for residential development; wetlands permit applications for piers and sea walls; comprehensive planning; environmental planning including shoreline management planning, tidal wetland regulations, stormwater management planning, and the implementation of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act; demographic information including topographic, planimetric, soils, environmental resources, wetlands, zoning issues, such as zoning verifications and regulations pertaining to building, erosion and sediment control and stormwater The department is divided into three sec- management. The phone number for tions: Comprehensive Planning, Develop- Code Administration is (540) 658-8650. ment Review, and Zoning. The Comprehensive Planning section deals primarily The Department of Code Administration with land use plan issues, environmental provides the following services: issues, historic preservation, geographic information systems, demographic infor- • processes building and grading permit mation, rezoning, conditional use perapplications for residential and commits , and other long-range planning acmercial development; tivities. The Development Review section • monitors and enforces the requirements handles all subdivisions, site plans and of the Building Code, Erosion and construction plan applications, and can Sediment Control, Stormwater Manaddress questions on past or current apagement Ordinances, and Chesapeake plications. The Zoning section reviews Bay Preservation Overlay District; residential/commercial/sign permit appli- • performs inspections of building and cations; handles all zoning verifications, land development; zoning inspections, and proffers; works • administers the Board of Building with the Board of Zoning Appeals; and Code Appeals process; assists the public with zoning related • investigates citizen-identified property questions. maintenance, land use, erosion, and stormwater drainage concerns. Department of Code • implements the County’s National PolAdministration lutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater permit requireThe Department of Code Administration ments; and oversees compliance with ordinances and • administers builder and developer securities. More information is available on the Stafford County Web site at www.staffordcountyva.gov. zoning inspections; and proffers. Permits Building Permits A building permit must be obtained for all structures undergoing any form of construction or remodeling. Ordinary and routine repairs do not require a permit. These repairs are tasks which a novice can accomplish in a short period of time using commonly available parts. For example, replacement of an electrical wall switch does not require a permit. However, installation of a new electrical circuit or extension of an existing circuit requires a permit. Citizens are encouraged to call the Department of Code Administration if they are unsure whether their work will require a permit. The Bluemont Concert series offers popular entertainment to all ages each summer. Audiences enjoy bluegrass, jazz, Celtic music, R&B, zydeco, and African dance. Page 16 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Building and Construction Grading Permits A grading permit must be obtained from the Department of Code Administration for land disturbing activities that exceed 2,500 square feet. For land development projects, a grading permit must be obtained prior to commencement of land disturbing activities. In addition, grading permits are required for all single family residential home construction: the grading permit is issued as part of the building permit. To obtain a grading permit, the applicant must provide an approved erosion and sediment control plan, and post applicable securities. Erosion and sediment control plans are submitted to the Department of Planning and Zoning for approval. Contact the Securities Office at (540) 658-8676 to determine the amount of securities required. For questions about grading permits or the erosion and sediment control program, call the Department of Code Administration at (540) 658-8650. Individuals should visit the Department of Code Administration to obtain building permits. The department processes permits using the Land Information and Permitting System (LIPS). LIPS facilitates plan review, developer securities and other department services resulting in accelerated permit processing and tracking. Single family and townhouse building permit applications require the following information: • original signature of property owner, contractor or agent; • copy of contractor’s Virginia license or signed affidavit by owner/builder; • original signatures of subcontractors; • flood zone identification; • two sets of design plans; • five plats showing the location of proposed structure(s), existing structure(s) and setbacks; • utility water and sewer contract application or a Health Department well and septic construction permit; and • grading/drainage plan. proffers or pro-rata share contributions required for building must be paid before Code Administration can issue a permit. Scheduling Building Inspections Code Administration provides the permittee a list of required inspections when issuing the permit. In conjunction with LIPS, the permittee schedules, cancels, and obtains results of inspections using a touch tone telephone through the HELLO system. The system is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (540) 658-4151. In addition to using the HELLO system, customers may use our integrated Web Response System, which is an online system that allows Internet users to schedule inspections, cancel inspections, obtain inspection results, review fees, and obtain plan review status. The system is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Inspections scheduled before 11 p.m. will be scheduled for the next business day. Inspections may be cancelled before 6 a.m. the day of the inspection. A professional third party must conduct certain specialized inspections, such as geotechnical and elevator inspections. Code Administration will review and approve these inspectors’ professional qualifications before they conduct inspections. Zoning Permits The Department of Planning and Zoning reviews all building permit applications for compliance with the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance. A zoning permit is also required for certificates of use, home occupations, small and group family day care, signs, sheds, and activities and development within a flood plain district. The design plans for construction and remodeling of single family dwellings or small commercial buildings may be prepared by a non-professional. Depending on the scope of the project, a narrative may be substituted for such plans. Small projects, such as the installation of a new Miss Utility sink, do not require plans or a narrative. The Virginia Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act requires anyone who Design plans for commercial, industrial engages in any type of excavation to proand multi-family permits must be previde advance notice of at least 48 hours Occupancy Permit Code Administration will issue a Certifi- pared by a Virginia licensed architect or to underground facility operators who cate of Occupancy once all required in- engineer. Individual permits must also be may be affected by the excavation. Such obtained for plumbing, mechanical and notice is provided by calling Miss Utility spections, including a final inspection, electrical work associated with the pro- at 811 in Virginia or 800-552-7001. Miss have been approved. For a residential ject. Utility will contact various utility owners building permit, the permittee must: who will visit the proposed excavation furnish a copy of a paid water and sewer contract or a well and septic operational A non-refundable application deposit is site and mark locations of underground utilities. permit; pay proffers, pro-rata shares, and required at the time a permit is submitted. transportation impact fees if required; and receive final approval of yard grad- Permit fees are paid when the permit is issued. The applicant may obtain a fee ing and stabilization. schedule at the time of permit application or by calling Code Administration. Any Obtaining Building Permits 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 17 Citizen’s Guide — Courts and Legal Services Circuit Court The Circuit Court, located at the Judicial Center at 1300 Courthouse Road, is the Commonwealth’s principal trial court in Stafford. The Circuit Court has jurisdiction over both original cases and appeals in criminal and civil cases. The Circuit Court: hears civil cases over $15,000; may hear civil cases where the issue is more than $500 but less than $15,000; hears appeals from lower courts; hears divorce and chancery suits; hears criminal cases appealed and certified to the grand jury; has jurisdiction over an inquiry into the misuse of a particular right or authority; and issues writs of mandaThe Brooke Point High School Madrigals performed with KinderMusic to celemus (orders to perform specific acts), brate a past Holly Days and the lighting of the Christmas tree in front of the writs of prohibition (orders to stop speciCourthouse. Holly Days is an evening event with hot chocolate and carols to ring fied acts), and writs of certiorari (orders in Christmas. to forward records of a case from a lower court). of the court and the Clerk’s Office. This preliminary hearings in capital cases. office issues show cause orders for those The Clerk of the Circuit Court is a con- The civil division handles claims for not making support payments; prepares stitutional officer elected to an eight-year money up to $15,000. This includes and dockets all cases for the court; and term. The Clerk’s duties are twofold: to debts, unpaid rent, contracts and personal issues summonses. administer the Circuit Court’s judicial injury. proceedings and serve as record keeper. The 15th District Court Service unit proThe Clerk records all deeds, deeds of You are not required to have a lawyer in vides intake, probation, after care, countrust, mortgages, land transfers and ease- most cases; however, it is suggested that seling and mediation services to juvements; records wills and divorces; preyou contact a lawyer in all cases to prop- niles. For more information about the serves military discharge records; issues erly protect your rights. Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, marriage licenses; collects state and local call (540) 658-8773 between the hours of recording taxes and probate fees; admin- For more information, call the General 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. isters all probate matters; records and District Court at (540) 658-8935. dockets judgments; records election reMagistrates sults; and swears in officials assuming Juvenile and Magistrates are judicial officers and are office. For more information about the the entry point into the criminal justice Domestic Relations Court Circuit Court, call (540) 658-8750. system. Magistrates provide an indeThe Juvenile and Domestic Relations pendent, unbiased review of complaints Court has several functions, including: General District Court brought before them by law enforcement hearing criminal cases involving juveThe General District Court is located in niles; hearing cases involving custody, staff and citizens. Magistrates are not the Judicial Center. Office hours are police officers, nor are they associated support, control or placement of ne8 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. glected, abandoned or delinquent chilwith law enforcement. They are employThe General District Court has three ma- dren; hearing criminal cases involving ees of the Supreme Court of Virginia and jor divisions: the traffic division, the juveniles; and hearing cases concerning have the power to: criminal division and the civil division. • Issue arrest warrants marital relations where laws have been • Issue search warrants violated. The traffic division handles traffic mat• Admit to bail or commit to jail ters from minor equipment violations to The Clerk of the Juvenile and Domestic • Issue warrants and summonses hit-and-run cases. Relations Court is appointed by the • Administer oaths and take acknowljudges of the Juvenile and Domestic Reedgements The criminal division handles criminal lations Court for an indefinite term. The • Act as a conservator of the peace matters from dogs running at large to clerk is responsible for the administration • Issue emergency custody orders Page 18 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Courts and Legal Services • Issue temporary mental detention orders • Issue medical emergency custody and temporary detention orders • Issue emergency protective orders handles only the prosecution of criminal cases that are felonies and serious misdemeanors. This office does not handle civil matters such as divorce, landlord/ tenant problems, wills, estates, debt collection, real estate transactions, or child Magistrates may assist the public by pro- custody and support. You may contact the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office viding information on judicial system at (540) 658-8780. processes and procedures, but may not provide legal advice. Jury Duty Jurors are randomly selected from the voter registration rolls and the Department of Motor Vehicles records for each court term. If you are selected for jury duty and have questions about your service, call the Jury Hotline at (540) 6584636 (code #473) by 6 p.m. the night before you are scheduled to confirm the trial will take place. County Attorney The Stafford County Magistrates Office is located in the Rappahannock Regional Jail, 1745 Jefferson Davis Highway. The office is open 24 hours a day every day of the year. The phone number is (540) 659-2968. The County Attorney’s Office provides full-time legal services for the Board of Supervisors and all government administrative offices and departments. All legal work is civil in nature. No private representation is provided by this office. If you need private representation, contact the Virginia Lawyer Referral Service. Juvenile Court Intake Juvenile Court Intake services are available to residents at the Stafford Judicial Center at 1300 Courthouse Road, by appointment, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. After hours, weekends and holidays, emergency-only intake services concerning delinquent children needing to be detained are available by contacting the Sheriff’s Office at (540) 658-4450. The Juvenile Court intake officer can help you with matters concerning child custody, support, visitation, spouse abuse petition, children in need of services or supervision, and children alleged to be delinquent. Stafford residents seeking information or wanting an appointment can call (540) 658-8770. Subpoenas Subpoenas or witness summonses may be obtained in all styles of cases by writing the court and stating whom you wish served, at what address the service is to be made and the date of the hearing. A minimum of 15 days advance notice is suggested. The mailing address is Stafford General District Court, P.O. Box 940, Stafford, VA 22555. More specific information is available from the Court at (540) 658-8935 or by visiting the Clerk of the General District Court in the Judicial Center located at 1300 Courthouse Road. Lawyer Referral Service If you need a lawyer, call the Virginia Lawyer Referral Service, which is sponsored by the Virginia State Bar, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at (800) 552-7977. Your call will be answered by a referral specialist who will request information. You will be provided with the name and telephone number of a lawyer in your community who has indicated a particular interest in handling your type of problem. If it appears that you do not need a lawyer, you will be directed to an agency that may be able to help. If you are referred to a lawyer, you will be entitled to consult with him or her for up to one half hour for an initial consultation fee of $35.00. This initial consultation may answer your questions and enable you to solve your problem. Juvenile Court Probation Juvenile Court Probation services are provided after the Juvenile Court orders a child on probation as a result of a delinquent offense. Traffic Tickets The majority of speeding, equipment, and inspection tickets may be satisfied by paying a fine. However, there are some cases in which your appearance is required in court. Examples are accidents, reckless driving, driving under the influence, driving while license is revoked, hit and run, and others. Specific information about the amount of the fine and costs may be obtained by calling the Clerk of the General District Court at (540) 6588935. All cases are assessed a processing fee of $56 unless the charges are dismissed. Alternatives such as community service work, law-related education, family counseling and psychological services If your problem requires additional time may also be offered to help resolve famand work, you will be responsible for any ily related problems. For further informaadditional legal fees which the attorney tion about the services provided by the will be glad to discuss with you. HowJuvenile Court Probation Office, call ever, there is no obligation for either you (540) 658-8772. or your lawyer to go beyond the initial one-half hour consultation. Wills For additional information, call the Vir- Wills are filed with the Clerk of the Cirginia Lawyer Referral Service at (800) Commonwealth’s Attorney cuit Court, located at the Clerk’s Office on the first floor of the Stafford Judicial The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office 552-7977. 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 19 Citizen’s Guide — Courts and Legal Services Stafford suffered greatly during the Civil War. Troops occupied the area for several years, destroying much farmland, vegetation and livelihood. Today, reenactors bring the stories of the war to modern day residents and visitors. Center located at 1300 Courthouse Road. You may call or visit the office to deterFor more information, contact the Clerk mine whether you are eligible for free legal assistance based upon your income, at (540) 658-8750. assets and type of case. Legal aid handles a full range of civil cases including Legal Aid Rappahannock Legal Services is a legal family, housing, government benefits, aid program that provides free civil (but consumer and employment. Initial applino criminal) legal services to low-income cation for assistance is made through the Potomac Legal Aid Society at residents and groups in the Rappahannock River Valley. The Fredericksburg (540) 374-9101. You may also contact the Fredericksburg office at (540) 371office is located at 910 Princess Anne 1105. Street, 2nd Floor, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 and serves the City of Fredericksburg and the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George and Caroline. Page 20 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Fire and Rescue Emergency Services The Department of Fire and Rescue provides direction, control, and continuity of government in times of man-made or natural disasters as well as public safety and awareness classes for citizens. The department’s headquarters is at the Rowser Building Annex at 1729 Jefferson Davis Highway, and serves the County with an integrated workforce of volunteer and paid personnel operating from 14 fire and rescue stations in cooperation with 14 volunteer rescue or fire/ rescue companies. Citizens are protected 24 hours a day, seven days a week by career and volunteer emergency response The Berea Fire and Rescue station is under construction off of Warrenton Road (Route 17). (Artist’s rendering provided by Teng). personnel. For more information, call (540) 658-7200 or visit When you call 9-1-1, the call goes di• Rely on local radio/TV stations for www.staffordfirerescue.com. rectly to the Emergency Communicaofficial emergency information contions Center. Trained professionals will cerning the weather, evacuation inDisasters handle your emergency. Your telephone structions, and other items. When County officials declare a disaster, number and the address from which you • Use the telephone only if emergency the following special services are proare calling are displayed on a computer help is needed. Otherwise, keep the vided: lines free for emergency communica- screen, should you be disconnected betions. Keep emergency telephone num- fore your call is completed. By calling 9• Evacuation Centers 1-1, a response unit will be dispatched bers for fire, rescue and law enforce• Emergency Operation Center, which immediately. ment available. coordinates response and recovery operations. • Dissemination of public information through emergency alerts, news releases, public service announcements, radio and television interviews. • Disaster Information Help Line (540) 658-HELP (4357). It is a good idea to keep these supplies on In an emergency, if you are at a residence, call 9-1-1. If you are at a business hand: or hotel, you must obtain an “outside” • light sources, such as flashlights (and dial tone and then call 9-1-1. If you are at a coin telephone, simply call 9-1-1. No extra batteries), coin is required. DO NOT use “0” for • a portable radio (and extra batteries); operator in emergency situations. • first aid kit, containing Band-Aids, aspirin, liquid soap, etc., plus any Preparing for Emergencies For fire department or ambulance nonmedication that must be taken reguBecause of the possibility of unforeseen emergency service, call (540) 658-4440. larly; and unpredictable events that have the For law enforcement non-emergency • water stored in plastic jugs or other potential for injuring people and destroycovered containers. Plan on one gallon situations, call (540) 658-4400. This sering property, it is important to know vice will provide greater safety to citiper person per day; and what to do in an emergency situation zens when used properly. You will not • baby supplies, such as food, canned before it happens. receive immediate assistance for nonmilk or formula, and disposable diaemergency situations by calling 9-1-1. pers, if necessary. The actions you take in response to an Prank calls and false alarms will be emergency will vary according to the treated seriously. Callers can be identitype of emergency and the circumstances For more information on emergency pre- fied through a voice recording and idensurrounding it. Here are things to keep in paredness, call (540) 658-7200. tification of the caller’s telephone nummind when facing an emergency: ber and address. Using 9-1-1 • Stay calm. You will more likely be able to help someone or make the right 9-1-1 is the telephone number citizens Hazardous Materials call to receive emergency assistance decision when you can think clearly If you have an emergency concerning from police, fire or ambulance services. and act quickly. hazardous materials, call 9-1-1. Hazard- 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 21 Citizen’s Guide — Fire and Rescue ous materials and chemicals are regulated by the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the Virginia State Police and the Stafford Fire and Rescue Department. If you have questions about hazardous materials or have information you wish to report concerning hazardous materials, contact the Fire and Rescue Department at (540) 658-7200, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. After regular business hours, call the Emergency Communications Center at (540) 658-4440. sleeping area and on each level of your home, including the basement. • Read labels and precautionary statements on containers. It is important to test and clean all smoke • Store all harmful products out of the detectors regularly. Replace the batteries reach of children. according to the manufacturer’s recom- • Avoid refilling food or drink containmendations or at least twice a year. Folers with harmful substances. low the manufacturer’s instructions for • Avoid storing edibles and non-edibles testing smoke detectors. Smoke detecon the same shelf. tors are available at no cost to Stafford • Do not call medicine candy. residents meeting low-income require• Educate older children about the danments. Call the Fire and Rescue Departgers of poisonous substances. ment at (540) 658-7200 for more information. The National Response Center is the National Capital Poison Center federal point of contact for reporting oil Stafford’s fire prevention program consists of fire prevention code enforcement, The National Capital Poison Center an- and chemical spills. You may contact the public fire safety education and fire ori- swers questions about poisoning 24 center by calling toll free (800) 424gin and cause investigations. hours a day. Call (800) 222-1222 or visit 8802. If you do not have 800 access, www.poison.org. please call (202) 267-2675. Additional Fire Prevention Code Enforcement acinformation about reporting requirements tivities are conducted to ensure fire pro- Poisoning ranks high as a cause of acci- and procedures is available on the tection and the safety of the public and dents in small children. The poisons that agency's Web site at www.nrc.uscg.mil. include: the review of construction plans are commonly taken are from medicine The National Response Center operates of fire-protection systems of proposed cabinets and household cleaning sup24 hours a day, seven days a week. buildings, inspection of buildings while plies. The following are some actions to under construction to witness acceptance take which may prevent accidental poitests of fire protection systems, and sys- soning in children: tematic inspection after occupancy to monitor conditions that compromise the established provisions in the fire prevention code. Fire Prevention Chemical and Oil Spills Smoke Detectors Smoke detectors are your most important protection against the threat of fire while you sleep. These units, powered by direct or alternating currents, should be installed on each floor of your home, in rooms or passageways between living areas and bedrooms. This configuration minimizes potential false alarms caused by kitchen smoke and warns you of a fire before deadly smoke and fumes can reach your sleeping quarters. When choosing a smoke detector, buy only “labeled” units, which are those bearing the mark of an organization that tests and evaluates products. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation, testing and maintenance. The Fire and Rescue Department held its first academy in 2006 to train new fireRecommended standards require a smoke detector inside and outside each fighter medics. Here, a recruit prepares to scale a ladder during a training exercise. Page 22 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Health Services The Stafford Health Department is open from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday The local office of the State Health De- through Friday. Most services are by partment, located at the Stafford Govern- appointment. For further information call (540) 659-3101. ment Center, 1300 Courthouse Road, provides services in maternal/prenatal Virginia Department of care, family planning and communicable Health Environmental Services disease control and prevention. The environmental health specialists in The maternal health program offers pre- this office provide services in these arnatal care to pregnant women. This ineas: restaurant and food; rabies control cludes regular scheduled examinations, and prevention; onsite water and sewage nutritional counseling, counseling for a treatment; and West Nile virus prevenhealthy pregnancy, service coordination tion. The Environmental Health Departwith other agencies and community ser- ment offices are located in the Rowser vices, lab work and post-partum follow- Building at 1739 Jefferson Davis Highup visits. Admission to the program is way. The mailing address is P.O. Box dependent upon financial eligibility and 365, Stafford, VA 22555. sliding scale charges apply. The restaurant and food program reviews Childhood immunizations required by building and remodeling plans; conducts law are given free, regardless of income, restaurant inspections and issues permits; from 8:00 a.m. until noon on Fridays. investigates food related illnesses and complaints; and provides consultation The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and training that includes a monthly food Program is a supplemental nutritional safety and sanitation training course. program for women, infants and children to age five. This is provided for pregnant The rabies control and prevention proand breastfeeding women, and for infants gram investigates possible rabies cases; and children up to age five who are nutri- offers advice on proper management; and tionally or financially at risk. Admission issues notices for animal confinement to the program is dependent upon finan- and release. When necessary, specimens cial eligibility. are collected and delivered to a lab for rabies analysis. The Family Planning Program provides services to citizens of child-bearing age. The onsite water and sewage programs Regular checkups, including annual pap provide a review of private soil consultsmears for females, are provided. Coun- ants’ submissions of sewage disposal and seling for good health as well as birth well construction permits; certification control methods for planning families is letters; and subdivision reviews. These provided. Admission to the program is applications are approved or denied dependent upon financial eligibility and based on compliance with regulations sliding scale charges apply. and policies. The environmental health specialists conduct soil studies for appliTuberculosis skin testing and HIV blood cations not requiring private soil work. testing are offered on Fridays from 8:00 They also evaluate malfunctioning septic a.m. until noon. Charges may apply. systems, and issue well permits for wells that go dry. The specialists issue permits Influenza vaccine is provided from mid- for onsite water and sewage systems after October through June of each year, or as all required paperwork has been submitlong as supplies are available. Pneumo- ted by the applicant/owner. In addition, coccal vaccine is offered throughout the the Health Department also inspects hoyear. Charges may apply. tels and motels, campgrounds, marinas, and investigates public swimming pool Virginia Department of Health Medical Services This artist’s rendering shows what Medicorp’s new hospital in Stafford will look like once construction is complete. complaints. For more information, call (540) 288-9018 or visit the health department offices located at the Rowser building at 1739 Jefferson Davis Highway. Hospitals Stafford is served by two hospitals: Mary Washington Hospital 1001 Sam Perry Boulevard Fredericksburg Phone: (540) 741-1100 Potomac Hospital 2300 Opitz Boulevard Woodbridge Phone: (540) 659-1800 or (703) 670-1313 Medicorp is building another hospital in Stafford, near the intersection of Jefferson Davis Highway and Courthouse Road. This state-of-the-the art 100-bed hospital will include a myriad of services such as labor and delivery, a full-service emergency department with trauma, medical and urgent care, a surgical suite, medical cardiac services, respiratory therapy, a pharmacy, helipad, cancer center, radiation therapy, neurological testing, pathology with on-site lab, medical oncology, and an intensive care unit. The hospital is scheduled to open in 2009. 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 23 Citizen’s Guide — Health Services AIDS Testing Free HIV tests are available at the Fredericksburg Health Department. The address is 608 Jackson Street in Fredericksburg. The phone number is (540) 899-4142 or (540) 899-4110. The times for anonymous testing (no ID required) are: fidential and services are free. A physician provides diagnostic tests and treatment for communicable diseases including syphilis, gonorrhea, herpes, chlamydia, and pubic lice. For information, call (540) 899-4142. • Overseas Travel Immunizations Immunizations and advice for overseas travel are offered, by appointment only, at the Fredericksburg Health Department, • located at 608 Jackson Street in Fredericksburg. Clinic appointments can be made for Fridays from 8:15 a.m. to This historic marker stands near the Stafnoon. Immunizations for typhoid fever, ford and King George County line. Similar Free confidential HIV testing is also hepatitis A, hepatitis B, yellow fever, available on Fridays from 8 a.m. until markers noting significant places and events noon at the Stafford Health Department, meningococcal, and others are offered. have been erected around Stafford. located at 1300 Courthouse Road (in the The cost of a visit is $40.00, plus the Government Center Complex). The tele- cost of each vaccine. Call (540) 8994142 to set up an appointment. chances of developing lung cancer. For phone number is (540) 659-3101. more information and to find out how to have your home tested, contact the VirRadon Sexually Transmitted Diseases Clinics for sexually transmitted diseases Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive ginia Department of Health at gas produced by decaying underground (804) 864-8162 or 1-800-468-0138. Inare held Mondays and Thursdays at the uranium. Radon can seep into homes and formation is also available at Fredericksburg Health Department, located at 608 Jackson Street in Fredericks- can go unnoticed unless a test is made to www.vdh.virginia.gov. burg. Walk-ins are accepted from 12:30 determine its presence. Exposure to elep.m. to 2:00 p.m.. Client identity is con- vated levels of radon increases a person’s Monday: 9 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – walk-ins; Wednesday: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. – walkins; and 1st and 3rd Wednesday: 1p.m. – 5:30 p.m. – walk-ins. Got Trash? Let the R-Board help you properly dispose of it! The R-Board offers several special cleanup events throughout the year: Community Pride Week Household Hazardous Waste Collection Days Electronics Recycling Goodwill Industries Collections The Stafford Regional Landfill at 489 Eskimo Hill Road and the Belman Road Recycling Center at 1200 Belman Road in the Fredericksburg Industrial Park offer recycling opportunities. All of these services are provided free of charge to Stafford and Fredericksburg residents. Call (540) 658-4579 or visit www.staffordcountyva.gov. Click on the Departments menu and then the Recycling, Litter Prevention and Landfill link for more information including directions to the landfill and recycling facilities. Page 24 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Landfill, Recycling, and Litter Prevention The Rappahannock Regional Solid Waste Management Board (R-Board) is a joint venture of the governments of Stafford County and the City of Fredericksburg. The R-Board operates and maintains the Regional Landfill, Belman Road Recycling Center, and other recycling facilities for the use and benefit of the citizens of Stafford and Fredericksburg. Residents can take their recyclable items and trash to the Regional Landfill or Belman Road Recycling Center; use any of the drop-off recycling sites; or contact a private hauler for refuse and recycling pickup. In addition, the R-Board sponsors several special programs throughout the year that enable residents to rid their homes of hazardous wastes or their neighborhoods of unwanted items. The R-Board meets bi-monthly at the Stafford Residents of Stafford and Fredericksburg can get free mulch from the RappahanAdministration Center. For more infornock Regional Landfill. The catch...you have to load it yourself. mation, call (540) 658-4590. Road; lection system. This means that you can • North Stafford High School: Located mix together certain recyclables: alumiRegional Landfill in the student parking lot at North Staf- num cans and foil; bi-metal (tin/steel) The landfill is open Monday - Friday, 8 cans; glass bottles and jars; and plastic ford High School, 839 Garrisonville a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.; food containers and bottles instead of Road; and Sunday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. The landfill sorting them. The second stream includes is closed on New Year's Day, Easter Sun- • Earl’s True Value Hardware: 300 all grades and types of paper products. day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Chatham Heights Road; For example, newspapers, cardboard Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and • Rowser Building: Located in the rear boxes, junk mail, magazines, cereal Christmas Day. parking lot, 1739 Jefferson Davis boxes, and any other paper products may Highway; and be recycled together. All R-Board faciliDirections to the landfill: • Gayle Middle School Drop-off Cen- ties accept the following materials: From Jefferson Davis Highway (U. S. ter: 100 Panther Drive. • aluminum beverage cans; Route 1), turn at the stoplight onto Es• cooking foil and pie plates; kimo Hill Road (SR-628, about two The Belman Road Recycling Center, • bi-metal steel/tin cans; miles south of the Stafford Courthouse). 1200 Belman Road in the Fredericksburg Follow Eskimo Hill Road approximately • glass bottles and jars (clear, brown and Battlefield Industrial Park offers the 2 miles to 489 Eskimo Hill Road. Resigreen); same recycling opportunities as the Redents must use the second entrance. Stop • plastic food containers and plastic botgional Landfill. The recycling center also at the gate attendant and follow the signs tles (Codes #1 – #7) keeps the same hours and holidays as the placed around the facility. • newspapers; Regional Landfill. • corrugated cardboard; Where can you recycle? Directions to the recycling center: Take • paperboard (cereal and shoe boxes); In addition to recycling at the Regional the Blue-Gray Parkway to Belman Road • junk mail; Landfill, there are six drop-off centers (between Lafayette Blvd. and Dixon St.). • office paper; around the county available on weekTurn onto Belman Road at the light and • magazines and catalogs; ends: follow for approximately 1/4 mile. The • telephone books; GEICO: Located behind the GEICO recycling center is on the right. • wrapping paper. complex off of Warrenton Road on Stafford Lakes Parkway; What Can You Recycle? • Kaz’s Automotive: 700 Garrisonville The R-Board offers a double stream col- 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 25 Citizen’s Guide — Landfill, Recycling, and Litter Prevention The Regional Landfill and Belman Road Recycling Center also accept: • antifreeze; • batteries; • cellular phones; • fluorescent light bulbs; • mercury; • motor oil; • scrap metal and propane tanks; • tires; and • yard waste. For additional information, call the Office of Litter Prevention and Recycling at (540) 658-4579. Rappahannock Goodwill Industries The R-Board has partnered with Rappahannock Goodwill Industries to collect working electronics and small appliances as well as gently used textiles including clothing, table linens, and curtains. These items are sold in the regional Goodwill stores or recycled. Proceeds go toward the job training that Goodwill provides for those in our community who require assistance obtaining employment. Members of the Rappahannock Regional Solid Waste Management Board and staff of the Stafford Regional Landfill held a groundbreaking in 2006 for a plant that will convert methane gas into electricity. The plant is expected to generate up to 2.14 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 1,500 homes per day. works closely with the Department of Code Administration to enforce the County Code by documenting, cleaning, and monitoring dump sites. To report an illegal dump or for more information, please call (540) 658-8680. Environmental Education Landfill tours are provided to groups of all ages to get a first-hand look at what goes on behind the scenes at the Regional Landfill. Call (540) 658-4579 to schedule a tour. The Stafford County Beautification Committee has developed several interactive presentations, appropriate for all ages, covering such topics as conserving natural resources, the harmful effects of litter, and the benefits of recycling. The Beautification Committee also sponsors several programs to improve the appearance of Stafford County. To request a presentation or information on the Beautification Committee programs, call (540) 658-4579. Community Pride The R-Board offers containers to homeowner’s associations for one weekend each April through September for neighborhood cleanups. The dumpsters are available on a first come/first served Illegal Signs basis and must be reserved in advance. Temporary signs often become litter Call (540) 658-4590 after February 1st to problems. Any type of sign placed in the reserve your weekend. right-of-way between the edge of the road and traffic signs, in medians, or on a Hazardous Waste Collections public pole is illegal in Stafford County. The Office of Litter Prevention and Reand Electronics Recycling cycling works with the County AttorSpecial collections are held at the Regional Landfill and Belman Road Recy- ney’s Office to document and remove cling Center several times each year. Call improperly placed signs. Offenders are contacted by the County Attorney’s Of(540) 658-8680 for more information. fice and may be liable for a $250 fine for each sign. To report illegally placed signs Litter Prevention: Illegal Dumps or for more information, please call the Dumping trash and unwanted items along Office of Litter Prevention and Recycling the side of roads or any place besides the at (540) 658-8680. landfill is illegal in Stafford County. The Office of Litter Prevention and Recycling Page 26 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Law Enforcement Sheriff’s Office The Sheriff’s Office is the primary law enforcement agency in Stafford. The Sheriff is elected by Stafford citizens and has an obligation to efficiently and effectively enforce the laws of the Commonwealth. He directs all Sheriff’s Office duties and has final authority in matters of policy, operations, and discipline. The Sheriff’s Office is located in the Judicial Center at 1300 Courthouse Road, and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Administration hours are Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The non-emergency phone number is (540) 658-4400. Use this number for general questions and information, to report crimes, or if you are a victim of a non life-threatening crime. Life-threatening situations should be reported by calling 9-1-1. The responsibility of the Sheriff’s Office is to protect the life and property of citizens. Other duties include enforcing state, county and federal ordinances and laws; conducting criminal investigations; investigating game violations; serving court documents; providing security for the courts; coordinating crime prevention efforts; and providing communications for fire and rescue personnel. The Professional Standards Unit investigates all allegations of misconduct and use-of-force incidents by Sheriff’s Office personnel. This unit is also responsible for recruiting applicants and processing applications. The Fiscal Management Section prepares statistical reports, feasibility studies, budget requests and fiscal analysis. for entering investigative reports, traffic summonses, and accident reports in the Sheriff’s Information Computer System; staffing the receptionist desk; and receivThe division is also responsible for Fleet ing incoming non-emergency telephone lines. Management accountability, maintenance, and cost effectiveness for all The Technology Section is responsible Sheriff’s Office vehicles. for management of the Sheriff’s InformaThe Records Section serves as the cen- tion Computer System, Regional Information Sharing Programs and developtral repository for all offense reports, ment of other related efforts. This section traffic accidents, traffic citations, and is also responsible for technological and juvenile and adult arrest records. This division handles all Freedom of Informa- grant research and maintenance of all tion requests and Arrest Record inquires. computer-related equipment and software programs to include the mobile The Evidence Section serves as the cen- computers and video cameras used in the patrol vehicles. tral point for all evidentiary items collected. They maintain complete accountability from the time the item is received Volunteer Services to the completion of the court process. Volunteers provide support in many arThis section is also responsible for trans- eas including traffic safety, data entry/ porting items to and from State forensic clerical, emergency communications, and laboratories. crime prevention. During 2006, volunteers donated more than 4,700 hours, The Property Section maintains and which constituted a savings of almost ensures the accountability of all Sheriff’s $84,000. Office equipment to include ordering, processing and inventories. The Volunteer Traffic Safety Unit supports the Traffic Safety Unit at schools The Data Entry Section is responsible and during special events. The Volunteer and policies necessary to comply with the Virginia Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission standards. Administrative Services Division The Administrative Services Division provides support services for the Sheriff’s Office. The division is responsible for maintenance and management of the Sheriff’s Office records, evidence and departmental property, and, files, reports The Stafford Sheriff’s Office conducts a youth football camp each summer to teach young people the value of teamwork, perseverance, commitment and sportsmanship. 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 27 Citizen’s Guide — Law Enforcement Crossing Guard program utilizes 125 trained volunteers to manage traffic at school cross walks, church events and other special activities. Other volunteers assist in the placement of special equipment such as the Sheriff’s Office speed study SMART trailers. Animal Control Division The Animal Control Division enforces animal welfare laws; houses stray and unwanted animals in a clean and safe environment; and coordinates adoption of housed animals. Staff provides prevention and awareness programs. Operations Division The Operations Division is responsible for maintaining law enforcement in constant operational readiness for immediate response to any call for service requiring The Sheriff’s Office’s Honor Guard performs during special events, such as funerlaw enforcement presence. als and award ceremonies. Here, they participated in a special ceremony to reThe Patrol Services Section is responsi- member the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. ble for law enforcement and community service. Staff provides 24-hour patrol (SWAT) Team, K-9 Unit, Search and deputy coverage throughout the county. business security surveys; manages the Neighborhood and Business Watch Pro- Rescue, Marine Patrol, Dive Team, Bike Patrol deputies are generally the first grams and Project Life Saver; and is re- Patrol and Color Guard. These assignresponders to any type of law enforcement call for service and are prepared to sponsible for the dissemination of crime ments are collateral to the regular fulltime duties and responsibilities of the information, to include collecting and respond to any emergency. They roudeputies involved. analyzing patterns. tinely enforce traffic and criminal laws, conduct criminal investigations and enThe Juvenile Services Unit creates, coEmergency Communications gage in proactive patrols. ordinates and implements all juvenile Division programs in the schools. School ReThe Traffic Safety Unit is responsible The Emergency Communications Divifor ensuring the efficient flow of traffic source Officers ensure a safe environsion serves as the initial point of contact on critical commuter corridors and solv- ment within the public schools. They for all public safety entities in Stafford provide educational assistance to classes County. The communications officers ing traffic safety issues that face the community. These units compliment the in criminal and traffic laws. They also receive and process all calls for service conduct criminal investigations involving via 911 and cellular 911, emergency and patrol unit’s activity through enforcestudents and crimes that occur on school non-emergency telephone lines, and disment of traffic laws in problem areas. Additional services include traffic safety property. patch the appropriate law enforcement education, awareness and accident prevention. Deputies monitor and enforce seatbelt and child safety seat use, provide on-site safety inspections, inspect towing companies, investigate towing-related complaints and traffic control at special events. The Drug Awareness Resistance Education Deputies teach the D.A.R.E. curriculum to both elementary and middle school students. These deputies also work with the school resource officers and assist in ensuring a safe environment for students and faculty. and/or fire and rescue response. The ECC also processes emergency calls for Stafford Government agencies on holidays and after regular business hours. This division is staffed 24 hours a day. The Crime Prevention Unit coordinates The Criminal Investigations Division community service and crime reduction The Special Operations Section consists supports law enforcement operations and of the Special Weapons and Tactics education programs; conducts home and Criminal Investigations Division Page 28 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Law Enforcement coordinates criminal investigations. It is divided into four investigative sections: Major Case/Crimes Against Persons Unit, General Assignment Unit, Drug Enforcement Unit, and Crime Analyst Section. The Major Case/Crimes Against Persons Unit is responsible for the investigation of violent crimes such as murder, rape and robbery. Staff also investigates accidental/suspicious deaths, child sexual abuse, missing persons, malicious wounding, and cold case homicides. The General Assignment Unit is responsible for the investigation of burglaries, larcenies, felony vandalism and pawn-related investigations. The General Assignment Unit also investigates all white-collar crimes, including fraud, forgery and uttering, embezzlements, computer-related crime, and identity theft. The Drug Enforcement Unit supports community policing initiatives by identifying drug-related offenders and distribution networks; gathering intelligence; maintaining databases; identifying and suppressing gang-related activity; managing forfeitures and assets; and working with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The Crime Analysis Unit provides statistical analysis of reported crime. By using the statistical data, the unit projects possible criminal activity and areas where crimes are likely to occur. for the transportation of juvenile and tions has bed space. Convicted persons adult offenders between correctional with sentences of 12 months or less serve facilities and the court; transporting men- their sentence at this facility. tal patients; and facilitating all extraditions. Game Warden The Game Warden is responsible for The Warrants Unit is responsible for enforcing the hunting, fishing, and boatthe processing and tracking of all crimi- ing laws of Virginia. The Game Warden nal warrants, including those of other also provides a Hunter Education Course. jurisdictions. For information about the Game Warden, call the Department of Game and Inland The Civil Process Unit serves civil pa- Fisheries at (540) 899-4169 between pers for the Sheriff’s Office and assists 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friwith court security as needed. day. To report violations of hunting, fishing, and boating laws, call Neighborhood Watch (800) 237-5712. The line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. An important mission of the Sheriff’s Office is to work in partnership with the community to maintain safe neighborCrime Solvers hoods. In an effort to develop crimeCrime Solvers is a community program prevention programs based on citizen designed to enlist the aid of concerned participation, the National Sheriff’s As- residents in helping the Sheriff’s Office sociation organized the National solve crimes. Crime Solvers is funded Neighborhood Watch Program. entirely by private donations, offers cash Neighborhood Watch Programs will help rewards to individuals who provide inyou implement crime-prevention techformation that results in an arrest or resoniques in your home and community. lution of an unsolved crime. Information Call the Sheriff's Office (540) 658-4450 is received through the Crime Solvers for more information. telephone, which is staffed 24 hours a day. You need not give your name when Jail calling; all callers are assigned a number, The Rappahannock Regional Jail serves assuring anonymity. If you have information about a crime, call Crime Solvers at Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Fredericksburg. The facility is man- (540) 659-2020. aged by a civilian superintendent who is a certified law enforcement professional and a regional authority with representation from all the jurisdictions served. The jail houses persons charged with misdemeanors and felonies from the jurisdictions. The jail also serves the U. S. Bureau of Prisons, the U.S. Marshals Service and the U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The facility houses between 950 and 1,000 inmates. The Commonwealth of Virginia abolished parole, so all convicted felons must serve 85 percent of their sentence unless it is related to a charge before January 1, 1995, when parole was still in effect. After inmates are sentenced to more than one year in prison, they remain at the jail until the Virginia Department of Correc- Court Services Division The Court Services Division provides court security, prisoner transportation, and service of criminal and civil legal documents. The Court Security Section is responsible for the security for the courts, as well as searching every person who enters the courthouse, to ensure a safe environment for all Courthouse-related matters. The Transportation Unit is responsible 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 29 Citizen’s Guide — Libraries Stafford residents can access all branches of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library. The collections of the main branch and the north Stafford branch of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library include more than 336,800 volumes of books, magazines, records, video and audio cassettes and other materials. The library participates in the nationwide interlibrary loan program in which books not generally available locally can be obtained from other areas. The library provides a public service program with reader’s advisory and programming through adult and children’s The Porter Library in north Stafford is named after John Musante Porter, a long-time member of services. Extension service the Stafford Board of Supervisors. The Board voted to name this branch in honor of Mr. Porter, a to nursing homes, correclibrary advocate, after he passed away in June 1992, before the library was scheduled to open. tional facilities, and the homebound is provided through the bookmobile and the ExtenMontross Library Branch Locations 56 Polk Street sion Department staff. Montross, VA 22520-0308 Library Headquarters Phone: (804) 493-8194 The hours of the main branch, located at 1201 Caroline Street 1201 Caroline Street in Fredericksburg, Fredericksburg, VA 22401-3701 are Monday through Thursday from Blake T. Newton Library Phone: (540) 372-1144 22 Coles Point Road 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Friday and SaturHague, VA 22469-0116 day from 9 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. The main Porter Library Phone: (804) 472-3820 branch is also open on Sundays from 2001 Parkway Blvd. 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The telephone numStafford, VA 22554-3972 ber is (540) 372-1144. Phone: (540) 659-4909 The North Stafford branch, which is the John Musante Porter Memorial Library, is located in the Park Ridge Subdivision at 2001 Parkway Boulevard just off of Garrisonville Road (State Route 610). The hours there are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. The Stafford branch is also open on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The telephone number is (540) 659-4909. Planning is underway for a new library at Plantation Drive in south Stafford. Salem Church Library 2607 Salem Church Road Fredericksburg, VA 22407-6451 Phone: (540) 785-9267 Snow Library 8740 Courthouse Road Spotsylvania, VA 22553-2513 Phone: (540) 507-7565 Abraham and William Cooper Memorial Library 20 Washington Ave. Colonial Beach, VA 22443-2337 Phone: (804) 224-0921 Page 30 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — New Resident Information • Northern Virginia Electric CooperaCable TV tive, 2430 Poplar Road, FredericksTwo companies provide residential cable burg, VA 22406, Phone: television service in Stafford: 1-888-335-0500 or (703) 335-0500. • Comcast Communications provides service in the northern portion of the • Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, P.O. Box 7388, Fredericksburg, VA county. Call 1-800-266-2278 to 22404, Phone: (540) 898-8500 or schedule service. • Cox Communications serves residents 1-800-552-3904. in the southern area of Stafford. Call To start a new account for electrical ser(540) 373-6343 for information. vice at a residence with an existing meIf you have cable services and are experi- ter, call the appropriate provider. If you have never had electrical service in your encing a problem, you should contact your cable TV provider first. If you feel name, a security deposit may be required your problem is not resolved to your sat- to begin service. isfaction, contact the Stafford Cable Natural Gas Television Advisory Committee at P.O. Box 339, Stafford, VA 22555. Commit- Residential natural gas service is protee members are appointed by the Board vided by Columbia Gas of Virginia. You of Supervisors. For a list of members, may apply for new service by calling please visit the Stafford Web site at Columbia Gas of Virginia DirectLink at www.staffordcountyva.gov. Click on (800) 543-8911. Due to the volume of Boards, Authorities and Commissions calls, it's best to call on a Wednesday or and then Cable Television Advisory Thursday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Committee, or call (540) 658-4159. If no service exists at the address, someone must be available at the location durDog Licenses All dogs four months and older must be ing the day of your service request. A minimal fee is charged to establish a new licensed annually by January 1. account or to transfer an account to a new address. A security deposit may be Licenses may be bought at the County Treasurer’s Office or the Animal Shelter, required. 473 Eskimo Hill Road. Tags are $5 per dog for dogs that are spayed or neutered If you smell natural gas, or even suspect and $10 for dogs that are not. A copy of a gas leak, leave your home immediately the dog’s current rabies certificate is re- and call the 24-hour emergency service line at (800) 544-5606 from a mobile quired when you apply for the license. phone or a neighbor's phone. An odor of gas outside your home should be reElectricity ported in the same manner. Electric service is provided to Stafford residents by four electric companies. Newspapers Most residents are served by Dominion Virginia Power, located at 980 Warren- Stafford is served by the following local newspapers: ton Road in Stafford. For service, call The Free Lance Star (888) 667-3000. The mailing address is 616 Amelia Street P.O. Box 26666, Richmond, VA 23261. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 The northwestern and southeastern areas (540) 374-5000 of Stafford County are served by one of the following electric companies: Potomac News/Stafford Sun • Northern Neck Electric Cooperative, Suite 103, 306 Garrisonville Road P.O. Box 288, Warsaw, VA 22572. Stafford, VA 22554 Phone: (804) 333-3621. (540) 659-4466 Post Offices Zip Code information may be obtained by calling any U.S. Post Office branch. Stafford County is served by five post offices: • • • • • Stafford Post Office, 2650 Jefferson David Highway, Stafford, VA 22554, (540) 659-7095. Garrisonville Post Office, 524 Garrisonville Road, Garrisonville, VA 22463, (540) 659-2636. Hartwood Post Office, 6 Hartwood Church Road, Hartwood, VA 22471, (540) 752-4200. Falmouth Post Office, 16 Lichfield Blvd., Fredericksburg, VA 22406. Ruby Post Office, 32 Arrowhead Drive, Ruby, VA 22545, (540) 7520428. Public Sewer and Water Some property in Stafford is served by onsite sewage treatment and well water. Other properties are served by central sewer and water, provided by Stafford County. To initiate service, fill out an application at the Utilities Department located in the Administration Center at 1300 Courthouse Road. An $80.00 advance service fee is required. For more information, call (540) 658-8616. Radio Stations Several radio stations cover Stafford County and the surrounding region. They are: WBQB 101.5 FM (540) 373-7721 WFLS 93.3 FM (540) 374-5503 WFVA 1230 AM (540) 373-7721 WGRQ 95.9 FM (540) 891-9696 WGRX 104.5 FM (540) 891-9696 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 31 Citizen’s Guide — New Resident Information WJYJ 90.5 FM (540) 582-5371 WYFJ 100.1 FM (804) 798-3248 School Registration To sign your child up for school in Stafford County, call the Stafford County school system at (540) 658-6000 and give your address. Children are then assigned to the elementary, middle, or high school they will attend. A parent will need to make an appointment with that school for registration. The individual school needs the child’s birth certificate, immunization records, and proof of a physical examination within the last year. Parents are encouraged to bring any records from the child’s previous school. Telephone Phone service in Stafford County is provided by Verizon. To establish new service, order changes to your present service, inquire about rates and charges, report annoying or obscene phone calls or to ask general questions about your bill, call (800) 483-4000. The Wildlife Center of Virginia presented “Critters Don’t Need Litter” to students at Hartwood Elementary. The presentation was sponsored by the R-Board to teach children about the harmful effects litter has on wildlife. accepts recyclable items and trash. There are also six recycling centers in Stafford and one in Fredericksburg that are available for Stafford and Fredericksburg residents (please see page 25 for locations and hours). across from North Stafford High School. Call 1-866-368-5463 or (800) 435-5137 for more information. The Stafford County Commissioner of the Revenue and the Treasurer’s offices both offer DMV Select, which provides a number of services to customers. These Stafford County does not provide trash Residential customers with questions pickup services. You may take your trash include titles, registration, license plate about existing accounts may call (888) and recyclables to the Regional Landfill orders, handicapped parking placards, 780-3964 24 hours a day. The number located at 489 Eskimo Hill Road or ob- and voter registration applications, to for business customers is (800) 599-0193. Residential and business tain trash and recycling pickup services name a few. For more information, visit from one of the commercial firms listed www.dmvnow.com or call customers requesting repair service in the phone book. For more information, 1-800-435-5137. The offices for the should call (800) 275-2355. Commissioner of the Revenue and the you may call (540) 658-4590 or (540) Treasurer are located in the Stafford Ad658-4579. The text phone number (TTY/TDD) for ministration Center, 1300 Courthouse hearing or speech impaired customers is Road. Vehicle Registration (888) 663-0363. This number is available If you are a new resident of Virginia 24 hours a day. (from out of state) and you are not mili- Stafford County does not require vehitary, you must change the registration of cles to display County decals on windFor long distance service, Verizon will your vehicle at the Department of Motor shields. connect you to the company of your Vehicles (DMV) within 30 days of movchoice. ing into the state. Recycling and Litter Prevention Stafford offers a number of recycling services to citizens. The Stafford Regional Landfill at 489 Eskimo Hill Road The DMV Office is open Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Stafford DMV office is located at 874 Garrisonville Road Page 32 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Ordinances County Code The Stafford County Code is a set of ordinances adopted by the Board of Supervisors to protect the life, liberty and property of residents. Copies of the County Code may be purchased by contacting one of the legal secretaries in the County Attorney’s Office. It can also be found online through the Stafford Web site at www.staffordcountyva.gov. The County Code is supplemented biannually. Individual copies of the Subdivision and Zoning Ordinances are available from the Department of Code Administration. Copies of the Noise Ordinance, the Weapons Ordinance and the Mobile Home Ordinance are available from the Citizen Assistance Office. Widewater areas; and a large area of developed subdivisions in the southern Stafford. Other provisions of state and local ordinances make it unlawful to: • shoot or hunt within 100 yards of any regularly occupied structure without written permission of its owner or occupant; • shoot or hunt within 100 yards of a private road located in a subdivision with lots of 10 or more acres without written permission of the property owner; and • shoot or hunt on any public property, such as schools, parks or pools and other facilities. dential zone between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. on weekdays, and 9 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. on weekends in excess of 60 decibels when measured at the property line. In addition, the ordinance sets forth maximum decibel levels permitted for various types of vehicles. Individuals who wish to use loudspeakers or sound amplifiers should contact the Sheriff’s Office. For further information on the noise ordinance or an Amplifier Permit, contact the Sheriff’s Office nonemergency number at (540) 658-4450. Open Air Burning Open air burning is regulated by the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Stafford Government through the Fire and Rescue Department. Residents are required to call the Emergency Communications Center at (540) 658-4440 before open burning can begin. Residents are allowed to open burn leaves, tree branches or twigs and grass trimmings, but must maintain a minimum of 50 feet from any structure, 300 feet from their neighbors’ homes or have written permission from their neighbors who are located within 300 feet of their burn site. The weapons ordinance also includes procedures for expanding or adding shooting prohibited areas. The owners of The charge for the complete County a parcel adjoining the existing zones may Code is $240.16 with supplements to request the Board of Supervisors to condate. It may be purchased from the County Attorney’s Office in the Admini- sider the expansion of the area in which stration Center at 1300 Courthouse Road. shooting is prohibited to include such land. It is also available online through the County’s Web site at www.staffordcountyva.gov by choosing Noise eServices, then “searchable databases,” The noise ordinance which is enforced and County Code. and administered by the Sheriff’s Office prohibits the operation of a sound source Copies may be viewed at the John Porter that would create a sound level in a resiMemorial Library, located at 2001 Parkway Boulevard or the Central Rappahannock Regional Library's Fredericksburg location at 1201 Caroline Street. For additional information about obtaining copies of the County Code, contact the County Attorney’s Office at (540) 658-8636. Weapons The weapons ordinance designates five areas in which the discharge of a firearm is prohibited. The general areas designated as “shooting prohibited areas” are: Lake Arrowhead Subdivision; the Garrisonville area around Garrisonville Road (State Route 610); the Aquia area from Courthouse Road (east) to the Aquia Harbor Subdivision along Jefferson Davis Highway (U.S. Route 1); the More than 120,000 Union soldiers camped in Stafford between 1862-1863. Experience the living conditions of these soldiers at the White Oak Civil War Museum, located at 985 White Oak Road in Falmouth. 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 33 Citizen’s Guide — Ordinances Open burning must be constantly attended at all times, and burning must be conducted in a way to minimize any nuisance to neighbors. The burning of garbage, trash, rubbish and other forms of solid waste, including but not limited to wastes resulting from residential, agricultural, commercial, industrial, institutional, trade and construction, is prohibited at all times. During the period from February 15 through April 30 of each year, open burning is prohibited except between the hours of 4 p.m. and 12 midnight. This law is strictly enforced by the Fire and Rescue Department and the Virginia Department of Forestry. Here are a few tips for safely burning yard waste: • Burn only dry leaves. Wet leaves generate excessive smoke. burn slower and burn deeper into the • Burn only small piles no more than pile. three feet wide and two feet tall; large, • Keep children away from the fire and long piles do not completely burn. out of the smoke. • Never use gas, lighter fluid or any other fuel to kindle or rekindle a fire. • Keep a garden hose handy in case of sudden uncontrolled fire spread. • Start the fire in your leaf pile against the wind. This will allow the fire to The Rappahannock River, flowing along Stafford’s southern border, provides many opportunities for fishing and boating. It is a favorite among kayakers. This photo was taken from Fredericksburg’s city dock, looking upstream towards the railroad bridge. If you are a contractor wishing to burn on a building site, you must obtain a permit from the Fire and Rescue Department, located in the Rowser Building Annex, 1729 Jefferson Davis Highway, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call the Fire and Rescue Department at (540) 658-7200. The Riverside Dinner Theater, located off of Warrenton Road (Route 17) features a variety of Broadway musicals and plays throughout the year. Page 34 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Parks and Recreation setting, a nature trail, picnic shelters, a playground, a ball field, an amphitheater, two sand volleyball courts, an Olympic Abel Reservoir Located on Kellogg Mill Road (SR-651), size swimming pool with diving area, a zero-depth entry wading pool with water 9 miles west of Mountain View Road (SR-627). The reservoir includes stocked umbrella, tennis courts, a skateboard park, a 91-acre fishing lake, and an 18fishing area, boating (electric motors hole golf course. There is a parking fee only), hiking, picnicking, and a boat of $3.50 per car on weekends and ramp with parking. It is open all year holidays for non-Stafford residents from The department’s mission is to provide a from dawn to dusk. A Virginia State Memorial Day through Labor Day. variety of leisure activities and facilities Fishing License is required to fish. that will develop and satisfy your recreaPark Hours: March 1— October 31, tional needs. Staff is committed to giving Aquia Landing Monday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. citizens equal access to recreational op- Located at 2846 Brooke Road (end of November 1 — February 28, Mondayportunities. Reasonable accommodations SR-608), 7 miles east of the Stafford and support will be provided to people County Courthouse. This popular public Sunday, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. with disabilities so that they may take beach offers sunbathing, picnicking, Curtis Park Pool advantage of these opportunities. For fishing, volleyball, concessions, and lifeinformation regarding accommodations guard-protected swimming areas from This facility boasts an Olympic size and support provided to facilitate partici- Memorial Day-Labor Day. Alcohol is not swimming pool with diving area, a zeropation for individuals with disabilities, depth entry wading pool with water permitted. Two large shelters are contact the Department of Parks and umbrella, and concession stand. Open available for rental ($100 county Recreation at (540) 658-4871. resident/$250 non-county resident) dur- from Memorial Day-Labor Day. ing our operational season; reservations Anyone can register online for Parks and can be made by calling (540) 658-5019 Picnic Shelter Rentals Recreation activities and events. Deor (540) 752-5660 ext. 24. at Curtis Park signed to be fast, efficient, and secure. Curtis Park is the perfect setting for your REGGIE is the name of the system that Autumn Ridge Park high school or family reunion, company lets you register for a class or event and This six-acre site located on Eustace or church picnic, or wedding reception. pay for it immediately with a Visa or Road in north central Stafford features a Shelters are available during regular MasterCard, all online. Visit baseball and soccer field (both irrigated), operational hours from April 1-October staffordparks.com for more information, one small picnic shelter, and a play31; rental fees apply. Each shelter is or call (540) 658-4871. equipped with electricity, grills, and ground. Open daily from 8 a.m.-dusk. Picnic shelter reservations can be made picnic tables. Shelters are located near Stafford Baseball League restroom facilities and other park ameniby calling (540) 658-5019 or The Stafford Baseball League, Inc., is a (540) 752-5660 ext. 24. ties. Reservations are required. Please non profit organization registered in Vircall (540) 752-5660 ext. 24 or (540) 658ginia and affiliated with Babe Ruth 5019. Additional fees may apply. Carl Lewis League, Inc., and Babe Ruth Leagues of Community Center Virginia, Inc., Membership is open to Curtis Lake Located at 154 Telegraph Road, every Stafford resident. For more inforCurtis Lake is open all year from dawn to approximately 1/2 mile from Jefferson mation, visit the league’s Web site at dusk, with a public boat landing (electric http://eteamz.active.com on the Internet Davis Highway, this site also has baseball and soccer fields. The center is motors only) and fishing pier access on or call (540) 658-4871. the perfect place for wedding receptions, Stony Hill Road (SR-662). A Virginia State Fishing License is required for reunions, and parties. For rental Stafford Area Soccer fishing. information, call (540) 658-5019. Parks and Recreation or visit www.Staffordsoccer.com. The Department of Parks and Recreation administers, operates, and maintains leisure services and areas for citizens. The Parks and Recreation administration offices are located at the Rowser Building at 1739 Jefferson Davis Highway (next to the Log Cabin Restaurant). Association The Stafford Area Soccer Association promotes participation in soccer and teaches principles of soccer excellence, sportsmanship, athletic skills, team spirit, character and social interaction. For more information, please call (540) 657-0734 Curtis Memorial Park Curtis Park is a beautifully wooded park located at 58 Jesse Curtis Lane off Hartwood Road (SR-612), 2 miles north of Warrenton Road (US-17). It has hiking opportunities in a varied natural The Gauntlet at Curtis Park This P.B. Dye, 18-hole golf course has been hailed as one of the best courses in the region. The Par-72 course is carved out of rolling, wooded hills along the shores of the 100-acre Curtis Lake. With 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 35 Citizen’s Guide — Parks and Recreation a total yardage of 6,857 from championship tees and four sets of tees per hole, this course challenges golfers of every level. Facilities also include the Hale Irwin Golf Learning Center with complete practice facilities, clinics and PGA staff, as well as a terrace restaurant serving lunch and dinner daily. For more information, call The Gauntlet at (540) 752-0963. brary, and an arts and crafts room with a kiln. Please call 658-5019 or 752-5660 ext. 24 for facility rentals. Stafford and Fredericksburg is $1.50 per car. Nonresidents are charged $3 per car. There is no charge on weekdays. Smith Lake St. Clair Brooks Memorial Park Located at 60 Butler Road in Stafford, St. Clair Brooks Memorial Park offers softball and baseball diamonds, youth league football field, tennis and basketball courts, three picnic shelters, and hiking trails. The charge for residents of Stafford and Fredericksburg is $1.50 per car. Nonresidents are charged $3 per car. There is no charge on weekdays. For more information, call (540) 373-7909. This 17-acre site located on Doc Stone Road in north Stafford features three baseball and two soccer fields (all lighted and irrigated). Other amenities include one large and one small picnic Courthouse Community Center shelter, paved trails, a playground, and a restroom/storage building. Please call Located at 29 Stafford Avenue across 752-5660 x24 or 658-5019 for picnic from the Stafford County Government shelter reservations. Smith Lake has the Center in Stafford. Courthouse Community Center’s gymnasium is used same hours as Curtis Park. for a wide variety of recreational programs including volleyball, basketball, Stafford Gymnastics & preschool and senior citizen programs, Recreation Center workshops, classes, and special events. Located at 500 Nelms Circle, in the Falls Our Sports Division is located at this site. Run Industrial Park off Warrenton Road Call (540) 658-4572 for information. (US-17), north of I-95. This facility is the home of the Stafford Gymnastics ProDuff McDuff Green gram and various community recreation Memorial Park programs, including classes for children, Located just off King’s Highway (Rt. 3 cheerleading, and the Royals, the East) in the southern portion of Stafford, County’s competitive gymnastics team. this park contains ball fields, picnic shel- Call (540) 373-8192 for operating hours ters, playground, and an overlook of the and additional information. Rappahannock River. Small picnic shelters are available for rental. Please Willowmere Park call (540) 752-5660 ext. 24 or Located at 21 Willowmere Pond Road in (540) 658-5019 for picnic shelter Stafford (just off Mountain View Road, reservations. The hours are the same as SR-627), this park contains ball fields, Curtis Park. picnic shelters, playground, concession Falmouth Waterfront Park Located on River Road in Falmouth, the Falmouth Waterfront Park has picnic tables, grills and a softball field. Swimming is allowed in the Rappahannock, but is discouraged because of safety concerns. Anyone who wishes to swim is urged to wear a personal flotation device, which is provided free of charge at the park. There is no charge for Stafford and Fredericksburg residents to enter the park, however, nonresidents must pay a fee of $5.00 per car. Marinas Four public marinas are located along Aquia Creek, easily accessible to the Potomac River. Please contact each marina for individual services and fees. stand, and a walking trail. Small picnic • Aquia Bay Marina shelters are available for rental. Please 432 Aquia Creek Road The boat ramp is located on the Rappa- call (540) 752-5660 ext. 24 or Phone: (540) 720-7437 hannock River in the southern portion of (540) 658-5019 to reserve. The hours are Stafford and is accessed by the Little • Hope Springs Marina the same as Curtis Park. Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant access 4 Hope Springs Lane road off Route 3 East, approximately 3 Phone: (540) 659-1128 Woodlands Pool & Splashpad miles east of the Blue-Gray Parkway. www.hopespringsmarina.com Located at 2 Northampton Blvd. (SRThere is no charge to use the ramp, and it 751) off Garrisonville Road (SR-610). • Holiday Harbor Marina & RV is open every day from dawn until dusk. This facility is open all year. Please visit 111 Hope Springs Lane Phone: (540) 659-9935 www.staffordparks.com or call (540) Rowser Building 658-4241for operational hours. • Willow Landing Marina In addition to housing the Parks and Rec121 Willow landing Road reation administrative offices, the Phone: (540) 659-2653 John Lee Pratt Memorial Park Rowser building is also home to the Sen- Located at 6 River Road in Falmouth, ior Center. The address is 1739 Jeff Pratt Park has tennis courts, basketball Davis highway. The building has meet- courts, softball and soccer fields, and ing areas, a commercial kitchen, a lihiking trails. The charge for residents of Little Falls Boat Ramp Page 36 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Permits and Licenses Bingo/Raffle Permit Any organization planning to conduct a bingo game or raffle must first obtain a permit from the Virginia Department of Charitable Gaming. For more information, call (804) 786-1681, or contact the office by fax at (804) 786-1079. The address is: Department of Charitable Gaming, James Monroe Building, 101 N 14th Street, 17th Floor, Richmond, VA 23219. The number to call to file a complaint with the department is (804) 786-0293. Driver’s Licenses The Stafford office of the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, or DMV, located at 874 Garrisonville Road, is a full-service agency offering: • new or duplicate title and registration for motor vehicles; • Virginia license plates, including vanity tags and special interest plates; • new or duplicate drivers licenses, including commercial drivers licenses; • written and road tests; • copies of driver history files; and • collection of fuels tax and liquidated damages for vehicle overload citations. To apply for a driver's license, learner's permit, commercial driver's license or commercial driver's license instruction permit, you must provide two identification documents, one proof of legal presence, one proof of Virginia residency, and proof of your complete Social Security number (if you have been issued one). Anyone applying for a commercial driver's license or commercial driver's license instruction permit must provide a Social Security number. To apply for a photo identification card, you must bring two identification documents, one proof of legal presence and one proof of Virginia residency. Acceptable forms of identification are: birth certificate, passport, military ID, out-of-state driver’s license, marriage license (if date is imprinted), and life insurance policies. Directions: Follow I-95 to exit 143B Sixth graders at Gayle Middle School learn how long common litter items such as plastic bags and aluminum cans, take to decompose on the ground during an Earth Day celebration at their school. (Garrisonville exit). At the top of the exit ramp you will merge onto Garrisonville Road (State Route 610 West). Proceed for approximately 3 miles. The DMV office is located on the right-hand side of the road, directly across from North Stafford High School. Commissioner of the Revenue and the Treasurer are located in the Stafford Administration Center, 1300 Courthouse Road. Fire Prevention Code Permits The Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code requires Fire Prevention Code PerThe Stafford DMV is open Monday mits for the following processes or uses: through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 • Acetylene cylinder storage p.m., and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. until • Acetylene generators noon. For further information regarding • Aerosol products fees and other services, call • Airports, heliports and helostops 1-866-DMVLINE (1-866-368-5463) or • Application of flammable finishes (800) 435-5137 or visit • Application of organic coatings www.dmv.virginia.gov. • Assembly/educational occupancies • Blasting/Explosives The Stafford County Commissioner of the Revenue and the Treasurer’s offices • Candles in assembly/educational occupancies both offer DMV Select, which provides a number of services to customers. These • Cellulose nitrate plastics • Combustible fibers include titles, registration, license plate • Compressed gases orders, handicapped parking placards, and voter registration applications, to • Corrosives name a few. For more information, visit • Crop ripening and coloring processes www.dmvnow.com or call • Cryogenic liquids 1-800-435-5137. The offices for the • Dry cleaning 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 37 Citizen’s Guide — Permits and Licenses • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Dust explosion hazard Fireworks Flammable liquids in bowling lanes Flammable solids Flammable/combustible liquid – storage, handling, use and processing Flammable/combustible liquid – tanks and equipment Fumigation and insecticidal applications Hazardous materials Hazardous production material facilities Highly toxic and toxic solids and liquids Irritants, sensitizers and other health hazards Liquefied petroleum gases Liquid and solid oxidizers Lumber yard and wood working plant Matches - bulk storage Oil and gas wells Open air burning (commercial contractors) Organic peroxides Pesticides Pyrophoric materials Radioactive materials Removing paint with a torch Storage of welding cylinders Tents/air supported structures • • • • • • Unstable (reactive) materials Use of calcium carbide Vehicle repair shop Water reactive materials Welding or cutting Wrecking yard, junkyard, wastematerial handling 3306 Jeff Davis Hwy, Stafford Phone: (540) 659-2347 Marriage Licenses Marriage licenses are available from the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s Office located at the Judicial Center at 1300 Courthouse Road. A Virginia resident Applications are available from the Fire must be 18 years of age to obtain a marand Rescue Department. For more infor- riage license without parental consent. Both parties must appear in person. For mation, call (540) 658-7200. more information, contact the Circuit Hunting and Fishing Licenses Court at (540) 658-8750. Citizens may purchase hunting and fishing licenses online from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries at www.dgif.virginia.gov. Payments may be made using VISA or MasterCard. A form can also be downloaded from this site and mailed to the address provided. Licenses may also be purchased by calling 1-866-721-6911. Licenses are sold at the following stores: The Commonwealth of Virginia no longer employs justices of the peace; however, marriage commissioners who are appointed through the Circuit Court may officiate at marriage ceremonies. Peddler/Solicitor’s Permit and Door to Door Sales Anyone who fits the definition of a peddler, solicitor or itinerant vendor as outlined in Chapter 18 of the Stafford County Code is required to obtain a Peddler/Solicitor Permit. Itinerant vendors also need to obtain a zoning permit from the Department of Planning and Zoning. More information about zoning permits is available on the County’s Web site at www.staffordcountyva.gov by following the department links to Planning and Zoning. Please read the County Code to determine exemptions. The Code can be found on the home page of the County’s Web site at by choosing “searchable databases” under the eServices menu on the left-hand side of the page. A hard copy is available in the County Administrator’s Office, located at the Stafford Administration Center at 1300 Courthouse Road. For information about obtaining a Peddler’s/Solicitor’s Permit, please contact the Sheriff’s Office at (540) 658-4400. Excluding yard sales, vendors selling from temporary accommodations are not permitted. For other information about other sales activities, please call the Department of Planning and Zoning at (540) 658-8668. • Al's Sporting Goods 280 Warrenton Road, Stafford Phone: (540) 373-3009 • Wal-Mart 217 Garrisonville Road, Stafford Phone: (540) 720-0059 • Taylor's Market Stafford County Government employees partner with other employees in the region to assist the community each year during the United Way’s Day of Caring event. Here, employees load sand for a new playground at a Stafford elementary school. Page 38 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Public Services The Public Services Team is comprised of three divisions: Stormwater Management, Property Management and Construction Projects. The Stormwater Management Division develops, reviews and researches the design, construction, inspection, maintenance and redesign of environmental and stormwater management systems. The division also investigates complaints about stormwater issues following construction, and determines who is responsible for repairs and maintenance of the systems. Staff in the office provide project management on approved maintenance and construction projects. Call (540) 658-4900 for more information. The Property Management Division maintains the County’s owned and leased real property, handles space allocation, provides mail service, maintains grounds, provides design and installation services for furniture systems, and provides for security in buildings. The phone number for this office is (540) 658-4814. The construction project manager serves as the project engineer for construction and renovation of all County-owned facilities. The manager prepares plans and specifications; reviews construction and renovation documents and construction cost estimates; inspects and monitors projects; and writes Requests for Proposals. The construction project manager can be reached at (540) 658-4814. The Stafford Administration Center houses most offices of the Stafford County Government and is the location of Board of Supervisors meetings. Tours for third grade students are given each spring through the Citizen Assistance and Volunteer Services Office. Tours can also be provided to interested individuals by calling the office at (540) 658-4516. Citizen’s Guide This Stafford County Citizens Guide is compiled by the Stafford County Public Information Office. 1300 Courthouse Road P. O. Box 339, Stafford, VA 22555-0339 (540) 658-4159 The Public Information staff extends a special thanks to all County staff who contributed information and photos. 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 39 Citizen’s Guide — Public Water and Sewer Opening a New Account You may apply for service over the telephone at least 24 hours in advance of the time you want service to begin. The numbers to call are (540) 658-8616 or Metro (703) 690-8053. An application will be mailed to you, and you have 10 days to remit payment. Water and sewer bills are mailed monthly to Stafford customers. Bills may be paid over the phone by calling 1-888-272-9829 and choosing jurisdiction code #1002. Payments made before midnight will be posted the following business day. The address to pay by mail is printed on utility bills. paid on time. Please allow a few days for delivery when paying by mail. Billing Inquiries For inquiries about your account balance, start-of-service date, close-of-service date, or to ask general questions about your bill, contact the Department of Utilities at (540) 658-8616 or Metro Residents may also visit the Department Payments may also be made in the Treas- (703) 690-8053. of Utilities which is located in the Staf- urer’s Office in the Administration Center, 1300 Courthouse Road. If County ford Administration Center at 1300 Repairs/Maintenance offices are closed, payments may be deCourthouse Road, Stafford, VA 22554, From time to time, the Department of posited in the drop-box at the main enand apply in person at least 24 hours in Utilities must make repairs to or maintain advance. The fee to institute new service trance to the building. the system that provides Stafford resiis $80.00. The payment is not a deposit, dents with water and sewer services. Bank drafts may also be used to pay and will not be refunded. When a scheduled service interruption is bills. Contact the department at (540) 658-8625 or 658-8616 to obtain a Bank required, the department delivers notices Closing an Account to affected customers and may request You may visit the department in person Draft Authorization Form. You may radio stations WFVA and WFLS to make or call the numbers above to close your make credit card payments online, 24 regular announcements concerning the account, providing the date you wish to hours a day, seven days a week by aclocation and duration of such interrupcessing www.staffordcountyva.gov/ terminate service and a forwarding adtreasurer. A computer terminal is avail- tions. dress. A final bill and any refunds due will be mailed to the new address within able in the Treasurer’s Office to make payments. Payment may also be made at If you experience a service interruption approximately three weeks. any local branch of the National Bank of that you think is not routine, call (540) 658-8695 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Fredericksburg. Payments must be rePayments ceived by the due date to be considered Monday through Friday. At all other times, call the after-hours number at (540) 658-4857. After-Hours Emergencies If you experience a water or sewer emergency between 4:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. on weekdays or any time on weekends or holidays, call the after-hours number for the Department of Utilities at (540) 658-4857. Examples of emergencies are water line breaks, sewer backups, or any problem that cannot wait until regular working hours. For more information, call (540) 658-8616 or the metro line at (703) 690-8053. Smith Lake is located in north Stafford and is one of the County’s two water reservoirs. The Smith Lake Water Treatment Facility has a peak production capacity of 15 million gallons per day. Page 40 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Schools Students in Stafford’s public schools learn skills to become successful citizens and productive workers. Currently, more than 25,500 students are educated in 25 fully accredited schools. Students learn in safe and modern facilities without portable classrooms. There are 17 elementary (grades K-5), seven middle (grades 6-8) and five high schools (grades 9-12). Every school serves students living in an attendance zone that adheres to the neighborhood school concept as much as possible. The boundaries are assigned by the School Board to enable the district to make the best use of staff and facilities. ice or other emergency conditions is made to protect the safety and well-being of students and employees. Major radio and television stations are informed whether school is closed for the full day, opens late, or is dismissed after students have arrived at school. Every effort is made to notify the media by 5:30 a.m. of full-day closings or late openings. In case of early dismissal, the media will be notified as soon as a decision is made. Radio and television stations that are notified of Call the Stafford County School Admini- inclement weather broadcasts are: stration Office at (540) 658-6000 if you are unsure which school your child will Television Channel be attending. If the student is transferring WRC 4 NBC from another school, the parent is enWTTG 5 FOX couraged to provide a copy of the stuWJLA 7 ABC dent's records at the time of registration. WUSA 9 CBS WWBT 12 NBC sion. Parents should enroll their child in school as soon as they arrive in Stafford by making an appointment at the school the child will be attending. A birth certificate, social security number, physical examination results, and immunization records are required. The Stafford Health Department provides immunizations on Fridays from 8 a.m. until noon on a walk-in basis. There is no fee for most student immunizations. Radio WFLS WFVA WBQB WJYJ WGRQ WMAL WPER WTOP WPGC AM 1350 1230 FM 93.3 101.5 90.5 95.9 107.3 89.9 103.5 95.5 The school day for elementary students runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and for middle school students from 8:20 a.m. to Everyone Can Learn 2:50 p.m. The high school schedule con- Stafford schools offer programs and sersists of seven periods. The day begins at vices to ensure a well-rounded education 7:40 a.m. and ends at 2:15 p.m. for all students. The regular program of studies is complemented by instruction Stafford schools are committed to ensur- for students with special needs. English ing that students, faculty, administrators for speakers of other languages classes and staff spend their days in a safe and are available to students in all grades for healthy environment. To that end, the whom English is not the primary lanSchool Board has instituted a policy of guage. The Head Start Program serves zero tolerance of drugs, weapons and preschool children from economically student violence. disadvantaged families. Programs such as Turning Point and the Regional AlterCommunity Input native Education Program provide educational options for students who have been A seven-member elected School Board suspended, expelled, or may have othersets the policies and direction of the wise dropped out. school division. The board holds open public meetings in various schools or the The gifted and talented program offers central office on the second and fourth selected students in all grade levels inTuesday of most months beginning at 7:00 p.m. Parents and other citizens are structional challenges in their particular areas of demonstrated abilities. At the invited to attend and address the board on matters of concern. Additionally, the high school level, advanced placement board receives community input through and honors classes are offered. A select group of these high school students apply the recommendations of seven superintendent-appointed advisory committees. for and attend the Commonwealth Governor’s School where educators teach utilizing video-conferencing, distanceEnrollment learning, and computer-driven technolVirginia law requires all children beogy. tween the ages of 5 and 18 to attend a School Closings and public or private school. Children who will be 5 years old on or before SeptemDelayed Openings ber 30 and have not reached age 20 on or The decision to close school for snow, before August 1 are eligible for admis- 630 Questions? Call (540) 658-6698. Information is also available at www.staffordschools.net, or by registering for e-mail and cell phone notifications at www.schoolsout.com. School Addresses and Phone Numbers Elementary Schools Anthony Burns Elementary 60 Gallery Road Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6800 Conway Elementary 105 Primmer House Road Fredericksburg,VA 22405 (540) 361-1455 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 41 Citizen’s Guide — Schools Falmouth Elementary 1000 Forbes Street Falmouth, VA 22405 (540) 373-7458 Ferry Farm Elementary 20 Pendleton Road Fredericksburg, VA 22405 (540) 373-7366 Garrisonville Elementary 100 Wood Drive Stafford, VA 22556 (540) 658-6260 Grafton Village Elementary 501 Deacon Road Falmouth, VA 22405 (540) 373-5454 Hampton Oaks Elementary 107 Northampton Blvd. Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6280 Hartwood Elementary 14 Shackleford’s Well Road Hartwood VA 22406 (540) 752-4441 Kate Waller Barrett Elementary 150 Duffey Drive Stafford, VA 22556 (540) 658-6464 Margaret Brent Elementary 2125 Mountain View Road Stafford, VA 22556 (540) 658-6790 Moncure Elementary 244 Moncure Lane Stafford, VA 22556 (540) 658-6300 Park Ridge Elementary 2000 Parkway Blvd. Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6320 Rockhill Elementary 50 Wood Drive Stafford, VA 22556 (540) 658-6360 Rocky Run Elementary 95 Reservoir Road Fredericksburg, VA 22406 (540) 286-1956 Stafford Elementary 1349 Courthouse Road Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6340 Widewater Elementary 101 Den Rich Road Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6380 Winding Creek Elementary 475 Winding Creek Road Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6400 Middle Schools Edward E. Drew Middle 501 Cambridge Street Falmouth, VA 22405 (540) 371-1415 Dixon Smith Middle 503 Deacon Road Fredericksburg, VA 22405 (540) 899-0860 T. Benton Gayle Middle 100 Panther Drive Fredericksburg, VA 22406 (540) 373-0383 H. H. Poole Middle 800 Eustace Road Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6190 Stafford Middle 101 Spartan Drive Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6210 Rodney Thompson Middle 75 Walpole Street Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6420 A. G. Wright Middle 100 Wood Drive Stafford, VA 22556 (540) 658-6240 High Schools Brooke Point High 1700 Courthouse Road Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6080 Colonial Forge High 550 Courthouse Road Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6115 Mountain View High 2135 Mountain View Road Stafford, VA 22556 (540) 658-6840 North Stafford High 839 Garrisonville Road Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-6150 Stafford High 33 Stafford Indian Lane Fredericksburg, VA 22405 (540) 371-7200 Page 42 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Social Services Social Services The Department of Social Services is located in the Administration Center at 1300 Courthouse Road. The telephone number is (540) 658-8720. The department administers financial programs such as Temporary Aid to Needy Families, food stamps, Medicaid and Energy Assistance. Service programs such as Child Protective Services, Foster Care, Child Custody Investigation, Adult Services, Day Care and Parenting Education are available. If you want to volunteer, call our volunteer coordinator to find out where you can help. Service providers are needed in the day care, adult services and foster care programs. tends; • the names of other people in the home; • directions to the home; and • the caller’s relationship to the child. the agency's responsibility after all efforts to keep the family together have been exhausted. The Department of Social Services arranges for temporary care of children who can no longer remain in their own homes. Child Abuse and Neglect According to Virginia law, the abused or neglected child is any child under 18 whose parents or any person responsible for his or her care who causes or threatens to cause a non-accidental physical or mental injury; neglects or refuses to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, emotional nurturing, or health care; abandons the child; neglects or refuses to provide adequate supervision; or commits or The funding streams placed within the allows to be committed any illegal sexual pool included: Department of Social Seract upon a child. vices, State and Local Foster Care, Foster Care Purchased Services, Department of Reports of child abuse and neglect can be Juvenile Justice, 286 Special Placements, made in person or by phone to the De239 Special Placements, Department of partment of Social Services at Education, Private Tuition, Interagency (540) 658-8720. You may call the tollAssistance, and the Department of Menfree Child Abuse Hotline at tal Health, Mental Retardation and Sub(800) 552-7096, 24 hours a day. Calls stance Abuse Services. may be made anonymously. Children who would have been served by Anyone may report a concern about a one of the funding streams placed in the child’s well-being, provided the report is pool are targeted for services through the made in good faith. It is helpful for the CSA program. For more information, caller to provide certain information: call (540) 658-4622. • the name and address of the child and the parent or other responsible person; Foster Care • the child’s age and sex; The Foster Care Program provides tem• a description of the alleged abuse or porary care of children under the age of neglect; 21 for whom the agency is given custody • the name of the school the child atprior to age 18. These children become All reports are investigated immediately by social workers of the Department of Social Services. A local worker is on call A full range of casework services is provided to the child while in the agency's at all times. custody. Services provided to the foster Comprehensive Services Act family and the birth family include continuous counseling and support. Services Office are provided to the child's family to help stabilize the family while working to In 1993, the Virginia Assembly passed a return the child home. Placement of the law that provided the pooling of specific child with relatives is arranged when funding streams used to purchase serreturning home is not possible. vices for high-risk youth. This is the Comprehensive Services Act for At-Risk Foster homes are needed for children of Youth and Families. These funds that all ages. There is a particular need for were pooled together are returned to the families willing to accept children over localities with a required state/local age 10. A completed application, a home match and are managed by local intervisit, a national background check, a TB agency teams. The purpose of this act is test and reference recommendations are to provide high-quality, child centered, required. Training for foster parents is family focused, cost effective, commurequired and is provided by the staff of nity-based services to high-risk youth the Department of Social Services. A and their families. State and local agen- social worker is assigned to each child, cies, parents and private service provid- and this worker will provide consultative ers work together to plan and provide support during the placement. A room services. and board payment is made. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, call the Department of Social Services. You do not have to be a resident of Stafford. The Volunteer Emergency Families for Children Program provides for emergency placement of children for a period of up to 21 days. This is a statewide program sponsored by the Virginia Council of Churches with units all over Virginia. There is no financial reimbursement provided under this program. Families must meet the same criteria as regular foster parents. Training is required. If you are interested in the VEFC program, call (800) 756-6167. Adoption Services The Department of Social Services provides adoption services in two broad areas: agency placement and independent 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 43 Citizen’s Guide — Social Services The Rowser building was constructed in 1939 as a school for black children and has served as a vocational annex and headquarters for the local Head Start program. Stafford County Government offices and School Board offices were located in the building in the 1980s and 1990s. After two years of renovations, it now houses offices for the Stafford Parks and Recreation Department, the Senior Center, Virginia Cooperative Extension, and the environmental section of the Rappahannock Regional Health Department. The building is named for Ella R. Rowser, who was a distinguished black teacher and school leader in Stafford for more than 30 years. placement. Adoption services are available for children under 18 years old whose parents have voluntarily terminated their parental rights. Most agency adoption placements are the culmination of a term of care as a foster child. Social and legal processes are instituted to terminate parental rights, when appropriate, if returning home is not possible. agency’s foster children, home studies are completed for Stafford residents. Children are available for adoption around Virginia. Children and families are registered with the Adoption Resource Exchange of Virginia (AREVA). Staff can assist interested individuals in reviewing its published directory or becoming an AREVA family. ing is a private, non-profit corporation that serves the needs of persons aged 60 or older in Stafford, Caroline, Fredericksburg, King George, and Spotsylvania. The Rappahannock Area Agency on Aging offers the following services: outreach, nutrition, transportation, legal assistance, telephone reassurance, home The Department of Social Services, pur- care and employment. The RappahanThe social worker assists the child in suant to orders from the Circuit Court, nock Area Agency on Aging offers the adjusting to the new family and assists investigates independent adoption place- following services to any age homethe adoptive parents in their new role. ments such as step-parent adoptions, owner: weatherization, emergency home Often, children who are adopted have direct placements by the parents, or for repair, and indoor plumbing. special needs that qualify for the provithe suitability of the adoptive parents and sion of an adoption subsidy payment. Eligibility for services is based on inThe Stafford Department of Social Ser- the separation from the natural parents. vices sponsors a monthly adoption sup- Fees are normally charged for the prepa- come. All information provided is kept ration of the adoption reports. completely confidential. The Rappahanport group for adoptive families. nock Area Agency on Aging does not Although they are limited, some adoption Parental placement adoptions will require discriminate on the basis of handicap, a home study prior to the consent to the sex, age, race, religion, or national origin placements are made directly from the adoption. Arrangements have to be made in its services, activities or employment. foster home into a new adoptive home. For more information, call the office, However, very few infants are placed in with a private agency for this service. Adoption is a legal process requiring the located at 11915 Main Street in Frederthis manner. filing of a petition in the Circuit Court. icksburg, at (540) 371-3375. If you or someone you know is interested in adoption, please contact the DepartArea Agency On Aging Community Services Board ment of Social Services. If proposed The Rappahannock Area Agency on Ag- The Rappahannock Area Community placement is child specific for one of the Page 44 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Social Services the City of Fredericksburg. This office operates under a grant program funded by the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice and local governing bodies to achieve the following goals: • to identify the needs of youth and families in the community, and develop plans and programs to address them; • to coordinate services and link youth and families to them appropriately so that available resources are used efThe Rappahannock Community Services fectively by the community; Board participates with many insurance • to educate the community about the plans, has financial assistance available needs and problems of youths so that based on an ability-to-pay scale, and will parents, youth-serving professionals, not refuse services because of an inabilcitizens and youths themselves can ity to pay. participate in meeting and solving them; Community Support Services offers day • to reduce the “high risk indicators” support, residential, prevention, infant that have a high correlation with deearly intervention and transportation serlinquency, such as child abuse, dropvices. Clinical Services offers individout rates and employment; and ual, family and group therapy. Case • to provide access for youth to socially Management is available for all service desirable roles, activities and opportuareas. For more information call nities designed to help them become (540) 373-3223. better citizens and parents in adulthood. The Rappahannock Community Services Board provides alcohol/drug services to For more information, contact the Rappaindividuals, families and groups at its hannock Area Office on Youth at (540) clinics in Stafford, Spotsylvania, King 372-1149. George, Caroline and Fredericksburg. The telephone number is (540) 373-6876. Hotline Alcohol/drug programs include: Hotline is a 24-hour listening, crisis in• day treatment; tervention, information and referral tele• residential treatment; phone service staffed by trained volun• counseling; teers who provide assistance for any • prevention services; problem. Hotline provides after-hours • community presentations; emergency services for the Rappahan• employee assistance; nock Community Services Board. Volun• A Woman’s Place; teers are always needed. All calls are • Project LINK for Pregnant and Parent- anonymous and free. The Hotline numing Women; ber is (540) 373-6876. Free calls are made daily to area senior citizens to • Career Club (youth 10-14); check safety and well-being. Call for a • Mother Mentors; volunteer application. • parent education (youth); and • crisis intervention. Services Board is a community-based mental health, mental retardation, and alcohol/drug abuse services provider. Residents of south Stafford are served at 600 Jackson Street in Fredericksburg. The telephone number is (540) 373-3223. Residents in north Stafford are served at the clinic at 15 Hope Road. The telephone number is (540) 659-2725 and VOICE/TDD is (540) 373-3223 for both locations. women and their children, gathering of evidence and supportive services for victims of domestic violence and abuse and educational/self help groups to aid men, women and children who have problems with domestic violence. Advocates are available 24 hours a day. If you need assistance or information call (540) 373-9373. The Rappahannock Council on Domestic Violence also provides educational programs about the agency and family violence, its prevention and treatment. Also included are children’s programs. Sexual Assault/Abuse The Rappahannock Council Against Sexual Assault offers 24-hour crisis intervention and support, peer counseling, companion services for medical and legal assistance, and support groups for victims of sexual assault and/or childhood sexual abuse and their families. Advocates are available 24 hours a day. If you need assistance or information call (540) 371-1666. The Rappahannock Council Against Sexual Assault also provides community educational programs about the agency, sexual assault/abuse issues, its prevention and treatment. The Rappahannock Council Against Sexual Assault is always in need of volunteers, donations of office equipment and financial support. For more information, call (540) 371-1666. Domestic Violence Office on Youth The Rappahannock Area Office on Youth serves Stafford, King George, Caroline, and Spotsylvania counties and The Rappahannock Council on Domestic Violence offers 24-hour hotline and emergency services, support groups, advocacy, emergency shelter for abused 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 45 Citizen’s Guide — Starting Your Own Business Let the Stafford County Department of Economic Development make starting your business easy! Come by and pick up a free information packet with helpful information and links to hundreds of resources. The packet includes an interactive CD titled “Starting a Business in Stafford” to guide you through the process of opening your own business. The CD provides information about state and local regulations and links to hundreds of resources. Because Stafford does not require business licenses, the packet also includes an official “No Business License Letter” for your records. The department offers several helpful brochures with the names and phone numbers for County departments you’ll work with as you start your business. It also has a brochure from the Rappahannock Regional Small Business Development Center about business-related programs and counseling services offered by the University of Mary Washington. The Department of Economic Development has partnered with the Virginia Electronic Commerce Technology Center to offer E-Commerce grants for a variety of electronic resources. The funds can be used for search engine development, online shopping services, and Web development. Stafford Focus, the department’s newsletter, provides a variety of businessrelated statistics, available retail space and information to help small business owners and entrepreneurs in the county. You can link your business Web site to a “Postcard” feature through the department’s business listing page at on the County’s Web site. A wide variety of maps and a tourism brochure are also available. The Department of Economic Development is open from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please visit www.GoStaffordVA.com for more information about opening a business in Stafford. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration can provide you with training or counseling in many areas, including: • starting a small business; • developing records and bookkeeping systems; • locating sources of financing; • developing customers; and • locating a site. Loans are also available from the Small Business Administration. The address is Federal Building, 400 North 8th Street, Suite 1150, Richmond, VA 23219. The phone number is (804) 771-2400, and the e-mail address is richmond.va@sba.gov. Doing Business With Stafford Vendors wishing to be on the Stafford government’s bidding information files should submit a written request, preferable on company letterhead, listing the types of supplies the company provides. Submit the information to the Stafford Purchasing Department, P.O. Box 339, Stafford VA 22555-0339. For more information, call (540) 658-8614. The Stafford Department of Economic Development provides interested individuals with a CD to assist them in setting up a business in Stafford. It is free of charge. Page 46 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Taxes Taxes The Commissioner of the Revenue’s office administers all local and property taxes. The County Treasurer bills and collects real estate and personal property taxes. Real Estate Tax The Commissioner’s office reassesses property every two years at 100 percent fair market value. The Board of Supervisors sets the tax rate annually. Additional real estate information may be obtained on-line by visiting our Web site at www.staffordcountyva.gov. and following the Department links to Commissioner of the Revenue. Tax Relief for the Elderly and Disabled Taxpayers over the age of 65 or permanently disabled may receive either full or partial relief of real estate taxes if they meet income and net-worth limitations. Please visit the Commissioner’s Web site at www.staffordcountyva.gov. Click on Departments and then the link to Commissioner of the Revenue, or call (540) 658-4122 for current requirements. Citizens can pay taxes and buy dog tags at the Treasurer’s Office on the first floor of the Stafford Administration Center, located at 1300 Courthouse Road. or disposal of personal property or the change in vehicle use (personal/ business). These changes must be reported within 30 days. Business owners are required to file annually all of their business property, machinery and tools and the value of their inventory as of January 1st with the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office. 2007 Tax Rates Classification: Rate per $100 of assessed value Real Estate................................... $0.70 Tangible Personal Property ....................................... $5.49 Motor Vehicles Specially Equipped for Disabled................ $0.10 Personal Property Fire and Rescue........................... $0.00 Motor Carrier Transportation ............................ $0.75 Machinery and Tools .................. $0.75 Merchant’s Capital ..................... $0.50 Mobile Homes.............................. $0.70 Aircraft ........................................ $3.00 Widewater Special Service District ............................ $0.00 Land Use Properties engaged in agricultural and forestry uses may qualify for a reduced assessment. More information may be obtained online at www.staffordcountyva.gov or by calling (540) 658-4130. State Income Tax Assistance is provided for Stafford residents in the preparation and filing of their state income tax returns and estimated payments. Information regarding refunds and balance due information is also available through the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office. Personal Property Tax Stafford County assesses personal property taxes on all vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, watercraft, aircraft, mobile homes, recreational vehicles, business property, merchants’ capital (inventory) and machinery and tools. More details about personal property, New residents or those registering a vehi- income tax forms and additional inforcle for the first time must file a personal mation are available online by visiting property registration form within 30 days the Stafford County Web site at after purchase or entry into the county. www.staffordcountyva.gov and following the Department links to CommisExisting residents are required to report sioner of the Revenue. changes such as name, address, purchase 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 47 Citizen’s Guide — Transportation Office of Transportation The Office of Transportation is responsible for the roads and drainage components of site plans, including residential subdivisions, church and school developments, performance agreements between developers and the County for streets, posting of securities for roadway components of site development and subsequent releases of those securities after completion of the project, maintaining green and white street name signs, and administering the County’s Transportation Fund. (VRE), Fredericksburg Regional Transit (FRED), Fredericksburg Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (FAMPO); and the George Washington Regional Commission (GWRC). In addition, staff assists the County’s Transportation Commission. For more information, contact the Office of Transportation at (540) 658-4900. cific as possible about the location of the problem. Residents who live in the area north of Poplar Road and Marlborough Point should call (540) 659-4500. If you live to the south of Poplar Road, call (540) 899-4160. For statewide road conditions during snow, call the VDOT Highway Helpline at (800) 367-7623. Car/Van Pools Street Signs Rideshare is a free service offered by the George Washington Regional Commission to make your commute faster, easier and less expensive. Rideshare matches hundreds of commuters from Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, Caroline and Fredericksburg. Required information includes where you work, your hours, your mailing address and what sort of commuter service you prefer. The information will be entered into a computer and your name will be matched with carpools, vanpools and buses with similar work hours and destinations. Usually, you will meet your ride at one of the area’s free commuter parking lots. For more information on Rideshare, call (540) 373-POOL (373-7665). On evenings and weekends, a recorder will take your name and number. The Office of Transportation is responsible for installation and maintenance of street signs. The developer is responsible for installing street signs in new residenOffice staff serve as a liaison between tial developments. If you wish to report County Administration and the Virginia the replacement or repair of a street sign, Department of Transportation’s (VDOT) call (540) 658-4900. local residency office on various issues, including transportation planning; Road Repairs/ VDOT’s Rural Addition Program, TrafSnow Removal fic Calming Program and Unpaved The Virginia Department of TransportaRoads Program; roadway maintenance tion (VDOT) welcomes your calls to issues; and acceptance of new roads into report a highway maintenance problem the VDOT Secondary System of State in Stafford. Some of the most frequent Highways. Staff also serve as a liaison problems involve potholes, snow refor the County and the Potomac Rappa- moval, traffic signals and dead animals hannock Transportation Commission in or close to the road. When calling to (PRTC), Virginia Railway Express report any of these problems, be as spe- Virginia Railway Express The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) provides commuter rail service from Stafford to Alexandria, Crystal City and Washington, D.C. There are three stations where VRE stops in Stafford: Leeland, Brooke, and Quantico. Free parking, though limited, is available at all three stations. For fares, schedules and station locations, call (703) 684-0400 or 1-800-RIDE-VRE. You can also find information online at www.vre.org. FRED Bus Service FREDericksburg Regional Transit offers regular bus service for Stafford residents. For information about fares and schedules, call (540) 372-1222. Online schedules and maps are available at www.fredericksburgva.gov. Click on the link to “Bus Schedules” on the right hand side of the Web site. At Falmouth’s 275th anniversary celebration, demonstrations were set up to show what life was like in the 1700s. Here, a blacksmith shows his skills at tool and horseshoe making. Page 48 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Volunteering Volunteers contribute to the quality of life in many ways in Stafford. Excellent opportunities are available to match a variety of talents and interests. If you are interested in providing fire and rescue response services, contact the Fire and Rescue Department volunteer recruiter at (540) 658-7200. More than 500 dedicated volunteers provide fire suppression and emergency medical services in Stafford. The Citizen Assistance and Volunteer Services Office recruits and trains volunteers who serve in the courts and government offices. Volunteers work at the information desk in the Judicial and AdministraVolunteers Al Thompson and Carolyn Beatson work in the lobby of the Stafford Adtion Centers, answer telephones, act ministration Center, answering phones and assisting visitors. Volunteers fill a number as tour guides, and assist in offices of roles throughout the Government Center and provide a valuable service to citizens. during busy times. They act as ombudsmen in the Administration Center, greeting newcomers, taking com- gram as participants strive to become self confident and contributing members to plaints and gathering resources for citiStafford. Excellent training and inzens to solve problems. service opportunities are offered with this mentor program. Specially trained teams of volunteers work to meet special needs in other ways. The Emergency Response Citizen There are many other volunteer opportuAssistance Team (ERCAT) is trained to nities with the Department of Social Serstaff information phone lines during dis- vices to assist children, elderly and disabled individuals. Contact the director of asters. The Sheriff’s Office Citizen Asvolunteer services at (540) 658-8720 for sistance Team (SHOCAT) assists with data entry of criminal records and mov- more information. ing the traffic trailer. Individuals are also placed in other offices where their talents The Recycling and Litter Prevention Office also needs volunteers to help with meet the need. school and community initiatives. For If you want to learn more about Stafford more information, call (540) 658-4579. while providing a valuable service to Volunteer and Information Services of residents, call the Citizen Assistance the Rappahannock United Way refers Office at (540) 658-4516. volunteers to a variety of non-profit Volunteers in the Social Services Office agencies serving the planning district. help provide innovative approaches that They also operate Volunteer Wheels, a transportation program providing rides aid families as they become more selfsufficient. The County needs volunteers for individuals to medical appointments with a strong personal work ethic and the when no other resources are available. To find out more about volunteering with initiative to accomplish individual program goals. Become a job coach or fam- the Rappahannock United Way, call (540) 371-5268. ily self-sufficiency mentor for the pro- 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 49 Citizen’s Guide — Voting & Elections Voter Registration The Voter Registration Office is located at the Stafford Administration Center, 1300 Courthouse Road. The hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., and the phone number is (540) 658-4000. How to Register You are eligible to vote in Stafford if you are: a citizen of the United States; a legal resident of Virginia; a legal resident of Stafford; at least 18 years of age or will be 18 by the next general election; and have not been convicted of a felony or adjudicated mentally incompetent (or the right to vote has been restored). Any legal resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia may register to vote in Virginia. Registration closes 29 days before card may be used as identification for a general or primary election. You may voting. register in any registrar’s office or by Once registered, you are always regismail. tered for any election. You will always You may also register to vote at any De- vote at the same polling place unless it is changed or you move. If the polling partment of Motor Vehicles office and place is changed, you will be notified by the John Musante Porter Memorial Library at 2001 Parkway Boulevard. Once the Registrar of Voters. registered, you are always registered as long as you keep the Registrar advised of Change in Address any change of name or address. It is your responsibility to inform the Registrar of your change of address. If you would like to register by mail, call If you move within the Commonwealth the Registrar’s Office and request that an of Virginia, you must notify the Registrar application be mailed to you. Applicaof the change in writing or in person. tions may also be downloaded from the The mailing address is: 1300 Courthouse Registrar of Voters Web site at Road, Stafford, VA 22554 or e-mail www.staffordcountyva.gov. registrar@co.stafford.va.us. You may use the reverse of your voter registration card If you are registering for the first time in for this purpose. You may also change Virginia and are registering by mail, your address in person in the Registrar’s please include a copy of your driver’s Office. If you have moved outside Virlicense or another form of identification. ginia, you must register in your new If not, the first time you vote, you must state. vote in person and present identification. Exempt to this requirement are students Absentee Voting away at school, uniformed and citizens You must be registered to vote in order living overseas, the elderly and handito vote by absentee ballot. You may recapped. quest an absentee ballot by mail up to 12 months prior to an election. You must When your registration is accepted, you submit a separate request for each elecwill be sent a Voter Registration Card tion. Absentee ballots are available at notifying you of your polling place. This Sunbathers enjoy the view of Aquia Creek from Aquia Landing, a manmade beach in north Stafford. Aquia Landing is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. least 30 days prior to an election. Absentee voting may be accomplished in person in the Registrar’s Office up to three days before an election. Absentee voting by mail is available up to seven days preceding an election. The application must be received by the Tuesday preceding an election. Call (540) 658-4000 to request a form. Forms may also be downloaded from the Stafford County Web site at www.staffordcountyva.gov. Click on the link to Voter Registrar in the Department menu. In case of emergency hospitalization or other emergency before an election, call the Registrar's Office for instructions. Military Voters Military personnel and their dependents claiming Virginia and Stafford as their legal residence may register to vote in Stafford. They should contact their Voting Assistance Officer for information. Contact should be made with the military legal assistance officer for information regarding personal property and income tax before changing their legal residence. For more information, call (540) 658-4000 or the metro number at (703) 690-8222, ext. 4000. Page 50 www.staffordcountyva.gov 2007 Citizen’s Guide Citizen’s Guide — Stafford County Map 2007 Citizen’s Guide www.staffordcountyva.gov Page 51 Stafford County Government Public Information Office 1300 Courthouse Road Stafford, VA 22554