Planning Commission Approves Technical Facility and Denies Telecommunication Tower in Winchester

The Winchester Planning Commission meeting held on August 19, 2025, focused on several key topics, including the adoption of the agenda, approval of previous meeting minutes, and updates from the Frederick County Planning Commission liaison.

The meeting began with a roll call, confirming the presence of all commissioners. The agenda was adopted without any changes, and the minutes from the work session and regular meeting held in June were also approved unanimously.

During the meeting, Mr. Stewart reported that the only correspondence received was a letter shared earlier in the week. The commission then opened the floor for citizen comments, inviting community members to address any concerns not listed on the agenda.

The liaison from the Frederick County Planning Commission provided updates from their recent meeting on August 6. Notably, a proposal from Laurel Ridge Community College for a rezoning to build an additional technical trade facility received a recommendation for approval. Conversely, a conditional use permit request for a new telecommunications tower on Lakeside Drive was recommended for denial. Additionally, an update on a Capital Improvement Plan related to VDOT funding was also approved.

The meeting proceeded to new business, where the commission discussed a conditional use permit requested by the City of Winchester. This permit aims to approve the installation of an eight-foot screening fence in the front yard of a CSX railroad storage yard located on two adjacent city-owned lots on North Kent Street.

The meeting concluded with no further discussions or public hearings scheduled for the following night, ensuring that the commission remains focused on the matters at hand. The outcomes of these discussions will play a significant role in shaping local development and community planning in Winchester.