Winchester City Manager reports flood warning and recognizes Officer Warren as employee of the month

A flood warning has been issued for Winchester, prompting city officials to urge residents to exercise caution while traveling. During the City Council meeting on May 13, City Manager Dan Hoffman informed attendees of the warning from the National Weather Service, advising against driving through floodwaters.

In a positive highlight, Officer Alexander Warren was recognized as the May Employee of the Month. Since joining the force in February 2017, Warren has made significant contributions, including 14 arrests and the removal of three firearms from the streets in April alone. She also serves as a field training officer and volunteers as a martial arts instructor, showcasing her commitment to community safety.

Additionally, the city announced a change in trash collection services set to begin on July 7. Residents will see their trash and recycling picked up on the same day, a move expected to save the city money thanks to new automated trucks. City officials encouraged residents to visit winchesterva.gov for more details and to stay informed about the upcoming changes.

The meeting also touched on public concerns regarding the Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS) and the juvenile domestic relations court. City Attorney clarified that these agencies operate independently from the city council, emphasizing that residents should follow the appropriate complaint procedures for any issues related to these state entities.

As the city prepares for the upcoming fiscal year, the council is set to discuss budget appropriations in future meetings, ensuring that Winchester continues to address both community safety and operational efficiency.