Stephens City council hearings flag Gregory property development, western bypass issue and sewer repairs

Stephens City council members on Feb. 4 discussed multiple planning and infrastructure matters: a proposed age‑restricted development on the Gregory property north of town, efforts to restore a planned western bypass connection to Route 11 after a county planning change, a possible zoning amendment to allow utility‑scale battery storage in industrial/commercial zones, and sewer excavation that found at least one infiltration source.

Councilman Linden A. Fravel Jr. reported that a no‑quorum Planning Commission work session covered the Gregory property and an age‑restricted development proposal. The Frederick County Planning Commission recommended the Board of Supervisors approve a change of use and abandon planned transportation improvements on that property; Stephens City staff later met with county staff to press for reconnection to Route 11 and said participants “appear to agree” that reconnection should happen, though the county modification had not yet gone to the Board of Supervisors.

Planning discussion also raised a possible zoning amendment to permit utility‑scale battery storage in industrial/commercial zones. Councilwoman Regina Swygert‑Smith said the town would be amenable depending on identified negatives and asked Town Manager Mike Majher to research potential adverse impacts.

On infrastructure, Town Manager Mike Majher reported sewer excavation near Clem’s Garage and the Nichols apartments has been completed and that at least one infiltration source was identified; sewer repairs will be addressed in upcoming work. Majher also noted the Old School Renovation bid opening is scheduled for Feb. 18 at 2 p.m.; bids will be opened and forwarded to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for review and selection.

Council did not take final votes on land‑use changes at the meeting; items remain under review and will return to future agendas as appropriate.