In a heartfelt farewell at the Arlington County Board Recessed Meeting on July 22, 2025, members expressed their gratitude and admiration for outgoing County Attorney Minh Chau, who is set to transition to a new role with the Virginia Railway Express (VRE). The atmosphere was filled with warmth as board members shared personal anecdotes and commendations, highlighting Chau's dedication and professionalism during her tenure.

Board member Maureen Coffey led the tributes, acknowledging the significant impact Chau had on the board's operations and the community. "Your years of experience have been so critical as we've onboarded quite a new board here," Coffey remarked, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that characterized their time together. Fellow board member Mr. Spain echoed these sentiments, praising Chau's legal expertise and her ability to communicate effectively, even in challenging situations.

As the meeting progressed, the board moved to appoint Ryan Samuel as the acting County Attorney, effective September 8, 2025. This decision was met with unanimous support, reflecting the board's commitment to ensuring a smooth transition in leadership. The motion passed with a 5-0 vote, underscoring the board's confidence in Samuel's capabilities.

With the formalities concluded, the meeting wrapped up on a light note, as members celebrated the successful proceedings and looked forward to the future. The camaraderie displayed during the meeting not only highlighted the board's dedication to public service but also set a positive tone for the upcoming changes within the county's legal leadership. As the board adjourned, the sense of community and shared purpose lingered, leaving attendees hopeful for what lies ahead.