City of Alexandria, Virginia
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MEMORANDUM
DATE: APRIL 23, 2026
TO: THE HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL
THROUGH: JAMES F. PARAJON, CITY MANAGER
FROM: GRETCHEN BULOVA, DIRECTOR, HISTORIC ALEXANDRIA
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Introduction and First Reading. Consideration of Passage on First Reading of an Ordinance making provision for the support of the government of the City of Alexandria, Virginia for Fiscal Year 2026
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ISSUE: Consideration of a proposed ordinance to accept and appropriate funding support from the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission in the amount of $200,000 and other sponsorships, contributions, donations, and projected ticket sales in the amount of $176,000 for Sails on the Potomac.
RECOMMENDATION: That City Council:
1. Consider the proposed ordinance (Attachment 1) on first reading and schedule it for public hearing, second reading and final passage on Saturday, May 16, 2026; and
BACKGROUND: Alexandria played a significant role in the events leading to American independence, from the Fairfax Resolves to its connection with George Washington. As part of the nation's 250th anniversary in 2026, the Office of Historic Alexandria is planning a series of programs to engage residents and visitors in this history.
As a designated Affiliate Harbor for Sail Virginia 2026, Alexandria will host Sails on the Potomac, a free, three-day waterfront festival. The event will feature four historic tall ships-Kalmar Nyckel, Gazela, Sultana, and Providence-offering public tours and interpretive programming that highlights Alexandria's maritime and Revolutionary-era history.
Planned activities include:
? Public tours led by trained interpreters
? Dockside history stations with interactive exhibits
? Live music and cultural programming
? Participation from local history and genealogical organizations
The event is being organized in partnership with ...
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