Leesburg BAR reviews zoning-ordinance memo, proposes 2026 officers and adjusts October meeting

The Leesburg Board of Architectural Review on Jan. 5 reviewed a zoning-ordinance memorandum prepared by a subcommittee of Helen Aikman and Julie Pastor, discussed procedural conflicts between the town’s zoning ordinance and historic-district design guidelines, and agreed to take a proposed slate of 2026 officers up for a vote at its first January meeting.

Lauren, a planning staff member, said Helen provided a memo with line-by-line comments on the zoning ordinance and noted the subcommittee’s recommendation that the BAR be given similar authority to amend side-yard setbacks as it currently has for front-yard setbacks; the board agreed this change could help reconcile guideline recommendations with zoning constraints.

The board also reviewed a proposed slate of officers for 2026 (proposal circulated by Judd Fido in his absence): Julie Pastor to remain parliamentarian, Tom proposed as vice chair, and Helen Aikman proposed as chair. The group agreed to place the slate on the agenda for the next meeting and to accept floor nominations at that time.

On scheduling, staff explained that Town Council’s October meeting dates were moved due to the Virginia Municipal League conference, and the BAR voted to shift its October work session from Monday, Oct. 5 to Wednesday, Oct. 7 to avoid a chamber conflict; the motion passed 5-0-2 and staff said they would update the calendar on the town website.

No final zoning-ordinance amendments were approved; the matter remains under review by the BAR subcommittee and staff.