(7/2025) July is a month brimming with excitement and community spirit. As we embrace the warm weather, our community comes together to celebrate our nation's independence. Fireworks will illuminate the sky on the Fourth of July, and we encourage everyone to enjoy the festivities safely and responsibly.
Freeze on Data Center Applications
I’ve heard concerns from the community about developers trying to rush data center applications before stronger regulations can be put in place.
That’s why I issued an executive order last month that temporarily prevents the consideration of any new applications for data centers. The order also applies to electrical substations that support data centers.
This temporary pause gives the Council time to act and should give the community peace of mind about the process.
The order is designed to prevent further development of data centers before new standards become law and while the County Council considers zoning regulations. On May 20, the Frederick County Council approved Bill 25-05, which created stricter design requirements for critical digital infrastructure facilities and substations. But like most bills, there is a 60-day delay before it takes effect.
Council members and I announced a separate bill to limit the construction of data centers to the area around the old East Alcoa property north of Adamstown. The bill to establish a zoning overlay was introduced June 17.
To learn more about Executive Order 03-2025 and legislation being considered by the Council, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov.
Tracking Progress of Livable Frederick
You can now track Livable Frederick goals through a newly launched online dashboard. This tool allows users to see how the County and its partners are making progress on implementing Livable Frederick.
The new online dashboard makes Livable Frederick more transparent, measurable, and collaborative. I encourage you to explore the dashboard to see how Frederick County is turning our shared vision into action.
Livable Frederick is Frederick County’s Master Plan. It lays out a vision for the future of our families, neighborhoods, and overall community. The plan includes actions designed to create a vibrant and unique community where people live, work, and thrive while enjoying a strong sense of place and belonging. The plan was adopted in 2019 after a multi-year public outreach process.
The dashboard will be updated regularly. You are invited to share their thoughts and ideas by emailing LivableFrederick@FrederickCountyMD.gov. To learn more and access the new Livable Frederick Dashboard, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/LFDashboard.
Celebrating Agriculture in our County
Frederick County continues to support agricultural innovation and economic growth through its Agriculture Innovation Grant Program. Last month, I announced $125,000 in grant awards as part of the March 2025 cycle. Seven agricultural businesses were selected to receive funding for projects through this competitive grant program.
The Agriculture Innovation Grants Program is a strong and successful partnership between County government and our farmers. Our targeted investments will help make farming more viable and sustainable, which is good for our economy and our quality of life.
Projects awarded in this cycle are expected to create 16 jobs across Frederick County’s agricultural sector. For more information and to see this cycle’s winners, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/Agriculture.
Our community is full of hardworking, passionate individuals who make Frederick County such a special place. The Office of Agriculture recently released the latest issue of Homegrown Frederick magazine to showcase the people, businesses, and products that drive our agricultural community.
The 2025 edition features inspiring stories on unique non-alcoholic craft beverages, women in agriculture, agricultural education in local schools, and innovative farming projects. From multi-generational family farms to emerging enterprises, Homegrown Frederick paints a vivid picture our community’s deep-rooted agricultural heritage and forward-thinking vision.
To get a copy, call the Office of Agriculture at 301-600-3039 or email FCAG@FrederickCountyMD.gov. A digital version of the magazine is also available at www.HomegrownFrederick.com.
July Celebrations
In addition to celebrating Independence Day this month, July is recognized as Disability Pride Month, a time to celebrate the achievements, contributions, and diversity of people with disabilities. To watch a recording of our Disability Pride celebration, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/FCGTV or tune in to Comcast channel 1072 or 19.
We also acknowledge the importance of Parks and Recreation Month, a time to appreciate the natural beauty of our County and the numerous recreational opportunities available thanks to the amazing team at our Division of Parks and Recreation. Take time this month to visit your local park or join a recreational sports league. Visit www.Recreator.com to learn more.
As always, we continue to celebrate our rich history in Frederick County while remaining committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone in our community.
