Gardner Extends Temporary Hold on Solar Projects
During her weekly public information briefing today, Executive Jan Gardner expressed her continued support for solar energy projects as a source of renewable energy. Due to some issues regarding large agricultural solar farms that remain to be addressed through the County Council’s legislative process, she extended an Executive Order issued in January by placing an additional six month temporary hold on the consideration of certain solar applications.
However, when the council moves forward with legislation, she will rescind the Executive Order.
The temporary hold addresses new applications for large solar projects that are seeking a special exception or site plan approval. It does not affect municipal, county government and residential projects.
Former Walkersville Burgess Ralph Whitmore’s farm just outside of Walkersville on Biggs Ford Road was impacted by the hold. The solar farm developer of that property chose to wait for a decision after the county discussed possible changes to its zoning ordinances.
“I continue to believe that solar power is a plentiful, clean source of energy,” said Executive Gardner. “I appreciate the public input I have received and the hard work by staff to address concerns that have been raised, especially by our agricultural community. But, at this point the final decision is out of my hands. Out of respect for the County Council, I have issued this temporary hold on new applications for large solar projects until they reach a consensus and make a final decision.”
In January, Executive Gardner invited representatives from the solar industry, farming community, tourism and other interested parties to a round-table discussion. After the public meeting, staff in the Planning and Permitting Division researched the issues further and proposed two options to the County Council for consideration. Since May, the council held two workshops on solar arrays and staff is drafting legislation to move through the council’s process.
A copy of today’s executive order may be found on the county executive’s webpage, www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/executive.
For additional information, contact Director Steve Horn, Frederick County Planning and Permitting Division, at 301-600-1172 or via e-mail at shorn@FrederickCountyMD.gov.
