Planning commission conditionally approves Brookfield Parcels C, D and E improvement plan

The Emmitsburg Planning Commission on a majority vote conditionally approved improvement plans for Brookfield Parcels C, D and E, a proposal to build 10 single-family homes along Timber Mill Run.

Staff presented the plan and told commissioners that RK&K, the town engineer, issued comments in a memo dated 01/24/2025 and that reviewers from public works, water and sewer and the local fire company had submitted consolidated comments. A staff summary recommended conditional approval "with the conditions that are listed under suggested motion," including addressing RK&K comments, collaborating with town staff to meet all town-code requirements and paying any town fees for reviews and permits.

Commissioners asked detailed questions about site demolition and earthwork and whether the plan adequately addressed drainage from the steep hill behind several lots near the graveyard. One commissioner noted concern that runoff could increase the risk of basement flooding and asked whether terraces or other measures would be used; the presenter and staff said engineered dry wells and calculations were included and that engineers sized multiple dry wells to handle flows.

The commission also noted that stormwater management review and approval by Frederick County remained outstanding. Staff confirmed Frederick County had not yet completed its review, and the commission’s action is conditioned on the applicant satisfactorily addressing the town engineer’s comments and any additional reviewer requirements.

A motion to approve the improvement plan carried; the approval requires the developer to resolve RK&K’s comments, obtain necessary intergovernmental stormwater approvals, demonstrate compliance with town code before permits are issued and pay required review fees. The transcript records the motion and subsequent votes but does not provide a full roll-call tally in all cases.