It’s designed to restrict where data centers can go.
Frederick, Md (KM) The next steps in the development of overlay zones for critical digital infrastructure or data centers in Frederick County are expected to begin next month This is an effort to limit data centers to areas where the infrastructure already exists, .and restrict this development to no more than one-percent of Frederick County’s landmass.
The County Council will hold a workshop on the proposed overlay zone on Tuesday, December 2nd beginning at 5:30 PM at Winchester Hall. A public hearing on the Livable Frederick Master Plan and potential changes to the CDI Overlay Zone is expected take place on Tuesday, December 16th.
After that, the Council can take a vote on the proposed ordinance.
During this time, the county says signs will be posted on properties affected by the overlay zone. Letters will also be sent to property owners affected by the overlay zone. They will contain information on changes the Council may consider and that includes potential changes to the Eastalco Community Growth Area, land use and zoning designations, water and sewer classifications, and the Priority Preservation Area and Rural Legacy Area Maps.
The County will also hold two community benefit listening sessions: one in Frederick; and the other in Adamstown. This will allow citizens to provide suggestions and ideas so the community benefits from these developments.
County Executive Jessica Fitzwater says she does not want to see Frederick County became like Northern Virginia when it comes to data centers. “Residents have been clear that they are open to responsible data center development, but will not tolerate the sprawl we’ve seen in Northern Virginia. With our partners on the County Council, we responded to the community and regulated data centers more heavily than any other industry in Frederick County,” she says in a statement.. “We did it the Frederick County way–by being inclusive, collaborative and innovative in our approaches to this rapidly changing industry.”
“This county is working to prevent over development and preserve our quality of life. We are committed to avoiding sprawl while allowing a modern industry to invest in Frederick County,” says County Council President Brad Young, in a statement. “The upcoming workshop and hearing will give residents another opportunity to participate in this planning process.”
By Kevin McManus