While we have philosophical disagreements on policy, we have been sticking to the issues and moving from one topic to the next. Recently, the Council has been tackling issues that deal with land use and property rights from various perspectives. I should disclose that I write from a perspective of general support for individual property rights, and look for ways for owners to be able to do what they want with their own property.

First, the Monocacy Scenic River Plan has been a topic that has been in the news for several years now with a very convoluted history. After several years and several drafts incorporating comments from Frederick and Carroll counties, this plan was adopted by the Carroll County Commissioners with the support of the adjacent landowners because of additional language which makes it clear that the Monocacy River Plan should not encumber the property owners current rights to utilize their land.

While this plan has been contentious, I believe that supporters and opponents are not so far apart. I believe that all sides share some values in that everyone wants a plan that will protect the scenic Monocacy River and the treasure that it is without government encroaching upon an individual’s private use of their property. I am hopeful that we can bring this issue to a resolution with these shared principles.

Most recently, the Council voted down a proposed solar farm off of Biggs Ford Road in Walkersville. It was a unanimous decision because the application did not meet the criteria outlined in the law (size was too large, it covered 100% pure farmland, etc…). The neighbors played an important part in voicing their concerns about this location. Whether the ordinance is unnecessarily restrictive is something that will need further examination.

It does raise the issue of how to best meet state and federal goals of increased renewable energy production. We do need more solar energy in Frederick County. In fact, Frederick County is well positioned to provide renewable energy because of our proximity to London County Virginia. If you didn’t know, 70% of the world's internet traffic is routed through web servers in London County. All of those servers need a lot of energy, and we all benefit from not having that energy produced by coal power plants. So moving forward with what we have learned about the economics and feasibility of larger scale solar projects, the current ordinance may need some adjusting to allow more flexibility.

And bringing it back to the rights of property owners, if an owner wants to use their land to generate renewable electricity, which has benefits for all, generally the county should work to find ways to allow it.

Editor’s Note: Phil Dacey was elected to the County Council as one of the two County Councilman At-large in November. He has graciousley acept our offer to write a monthly coulmn to keep the residnets of Northern Frederick County up to date on the issues being brought before the Council.