Advisory group backs new natural-resources director role and expanded outreach for Green Infrastructure Plan

During the Jan. 16 Advisory Group meeting, members proposed establishing a county-level Director of Natural Resources to centralize coordination among environmental initiatives and to liaise with state agencies that implement or enforce environmental regulation. Several advisory members expressed support for the idea; staff said that while internal coordination already occurs, the new position is a topic to consider for the Green Infrastructure Plan.

The group also emphasized incorporating green infrastructure and multimodal accessibility into future project reviews, akin to adequate public-facilities requirements for roads and utilities, to encourage trail and active-transportation buildout. Advisory members raised concerns about climate-change impacts and resilience, and recommended that future development projects address those issues.

Discussion touched on park land portfolio and funding (including Project Open Space) and the importance of siting parks close to communities so residents can access them without a personal vehicle. Ballenger Creek Park was highlighted as the county’s most heavily used park. Members noted parking-capacity issues for parks and possible environmental trade-offs such as microplastics from synthetic turf fields.

Advisory members suggested highlighting local businesses and organizations that embrace green-infrastructure principles — Fox Haven Farm and Black Ankle Winery were named, as were education centers and nonprofits such as ThorpeWood — and recommended leveraging nonprofits and community volunteers to support trails and green-infrastructure projects.

Staff said Livable Frederick will develop the Green Infrastructure Network protocol, mapping and an outline incorporating advisory input and will schedule community meetings before reconvening the group and advancing to Planning Commission workshops. No formal adoption or funding decision occurred at the session.