I’m reaching out to share an update on news regarding a matter that may directly impact the future of our community here in Reston 

As you may already know, there is pending state legislation in Richmond to bring a casino development near our vicinity that has raised concerns among our members. During the 2023 legislative session, State Senator David Marsden advanced legislation authorizing a casino development in Fairfax County, with Reston suggested as a likely location. While the bill didn’t pass, lawmakers are already pledging to reintroduce it this coming session. 

The Reston Association has been closely monitoring this situation and plans to take decisive action to protect the residential character of our community. We have decided to actively oppose the proposed casino and encourage our legislators to oppose this proposal as well. Our primary goal will be to preserve the quality of life in Reston for the over 60,000 people who call Reston home.  

In the coming weeks, we will raise greater awareness about the potential consequences of the proposed casino via channels including but not limited to media outreach and informational tools to ensure our collective voice is heard. We hope to also collaborate with all concerned stakeholders including members, local businesses, and public officials – to amplify our messaging. 

To date, Reston Association has taken the following actions to fight back against casino development: 

• Published a letter from the Board President in opposition to a casino and sent it to the Fairfax County elected officials, including members of the Senate and House of Representatives.  

• Published RA statement opposing casino to RA website and distributed to media. 

• Created a webpage to update the community on reston.org. 

• Proactively contacted all legislators in Fairfax County to advocate against a casino in our community. 

• Retained expert consultants to assist with legislative efforts in Richmond. 

• Met with Sen. Marsden after the new year to discuss any proposed legislation that might be introduced in January. 

• Spoke at a local legislator town hall in January. 

I addressed the Fairfax County General Assembly Delegation on Saturday, Jan. 6 during a public hearing on the 2024 legislative agenda to voice our opposition to a casino. Additionally, a few members of the Board of Directors and I will travel to Richmond to meet with the Virginia Delegation when the Virginia legislature is in session.  

To stay up to date on this issue, please visit our webpage. Thank you for your continued commitment to making Reston a wonderful place to work, play, and live. Your support is crucial in this endeavor, and we encourage you to join our efforts to safeguard our vibrant future. We will be in touch with ways for you to join us in this fight.