Wildlife Rescue League seeks approval for facility expansion amid flooding concerns

The Caroline County Planning Commission convened on April 24, 2025, to address unfinished business concerning the Wildlife Rescue League's proposed facility. The meeting began with Mr. Pennington, representing the Wildlife Rescue League, presenting updates following a public hearing held on February 27, 2025.

During the previous hearing, community concerns were raised regarding potential flooding on Edge Hill Academy Road, the number of animals to be housed at the facility, and the design of outdoor enclosures that could pose risks of wildlife escape. In response, the Planning Commission conducted site visits to the property in March 2025.

The applicant submitted a new General Development Plan (GDP) and narrative, indicating that the existing structure will not be demolished but may be expanded by up to 432 square feet. The property currently features a structure of 1,568 square feet, which is permitted to expand to a maximum of 2,000 square feet due to a recorded conservation easement. Planned upgrades include new flooring and non-load-bearing walls to create smaller rooms for animal care.

The updated GDP also outlines potential outdoor caging areas for wildlife, which are designed to comply with the required rural preservation setback from Edge Hill Academy Road. The applicant provided examples of the cages intended for use at the facility.

Additionally, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) reported three documented flooding incidents on Edge Hill Academy Road between 2020 and 2025, with road closures occurring in January 2024, April 2024, and February 2025. VDOT noted that if flooding incidents exceeded the documented cases, the traffic operation center was not notified. The applicant anticipates that the facility will generate between five to ten trips per day and aims to rehabilitate approximately 305 animals annually at full operation.

The meeting concluded with the Planning Commission considering the implications of these developments and the ongoing community concerns regarding flooding and wildlife management. Further discussions and decisions regarding the Wildlife Rescue League's proposal are expected in future meetings.