Committee backs study and preserves option to negotiate purchase of Loudoun historic estate for state park

The Senate committee voted to report a committee substitute on House Bill 2,306 that converts the underlying property transaction into a study led by the secretary of finance and directs a work group to review financing models, ownership structures and options for Commonwealth participation in establishing a state park on the Loudoun County estate.

Supporters, including the bill’s patron and several senators, described the property as historically significant and said the owners have declined larger commercial offers and are interested in a negotiated public‑private outcome that would include an endowment to maintain the land. Senators urged the committee to keep the conversation open and to use the substitute as a vehicle for continued negotiations.

Opponents raised procedural and fiscal questions in subcommittee earlier, but in committee discussion several members — including Senator Sevrillo — urged preserving the opportunity to secure the property as a ‘‘crown jewel’’ for the park system. The committee adopted the substitute and reported the bill with a recorded tally of 12 ayes, 0 nos and 2 abstentions.

The substitute expresses the Commonwealth’s intent to be a potential funding partner and calls for a finance work group to examine ownership, endowment and stewardship models; it does not transfer property or commit specific appropriations. Committee members said the next steps are further work‑group meetings and possible budget language or appropriations if negotiations progress.