[previously published in the most recent Fairlington newsletter]

The following were the main topics discussed at the recent meeting of the Fairlington presidents.

Safety concerns at King and Taylor Streets centered on drivers coming out of Bradlee who sometimes turn left onto King into oncoming traffic or do not give the right of way to drivers crossing from Taylor into Bradlee. Alexandria is responsible for signage at this intersection and will be asked to increase or adjust signs to improve safety for drivers and pedestrians.

There have been individuals living in hidden areas outside the Fairlington fence line along King Street. The encampment debris located in the area bordered by the Arbor was removed by Arlington County. Alexandria was also contacted by the Arbor as the grassy area bordering King Street belongs to Alexandria. The City is supposed to trim back the overgrown vegetation to make the fence line clearly visible and less attractive for “campers”.

There is a Limited Power of Attorney form that would allow the Arlington County Police Department to access private property to remove trespassers. The Mews has approved and submitted this form and will put up no trespassing signs as required. Some of the other Fairlington associations are considering doing the same.

Fairlington residents have complained of exceedingly loud vehicles along King Street and Quaker Lane. Current Virginia code allows jurisdictions to ticket drivers with excessive exhaust noise vehicles. Alexandria and Arlington will base enforcement of the excessive noise violations on areas with the most complaints.

The VA legislature passed House Bill 1842 amendment that went into effect this year. This new law broadens the rulemaking authority of Boards of Directors. Condominium Association Boards of Directors will have authority to establish reasonable rules that restrict smoking in the Condominium, which includes prohibiting smoking in common elements as well as within the units.  Property Owners’ Association Boards will have the authority to restrict smoking in common areas and attached private dwelling units (i.e. townhouses). The bills further amend the Virginia Condominium Act by allowing unit owners, by majority of votes cast at a meeting of the unit owners’ association, to repeal or amend any rule or regulation adopted by its Board.

Please contact your association’s president if you have topics pertaining to Fairlington that the presidents might discuss at a future meeting.

-Thora Stanwood