The Botetourt County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing Monday, Aug. 10, to consider a series of proposed amendments to the county’s zoning ordinance governing solar energy facilities, as well as a commission permit request from the Western Virginia Water Authority.
The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. in the Botetourt County Administration Center, 57 S. Center Drive in Daleville.
The proposed text amendments stem from authorization granted by the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors during its May 26 meeting. According to the public hearing notice, the Planning Commission will consider revisions to multiple sections of the Botetourt County Code related to solar energy facilities.
The proposed amendments include changes to Section 25-447, which governs solar energy facilities; Section 25-431, addressing accessory uses and structures and updating language related to solar facilities as accessory uses on residential and commercial properties; and Section 25-601, which contains definitions used throughout the zoning ordinance. The proposal also includes amendments to Chapter 25, Article II, to update where various types of solar energy facilities are permitted throughout the county’s zoning districts.
The Planning Commission also will consider a commission permit request from the Western Virginia Water Authority for a capital improvements project in the Amsterdam District.
According to the notice, the project would involve the construction of approximately 3,800 feet of waterline to connect two existing water lines, creating a loop intended to provide more consistent water pressure and service within the existing system. The proposed waterline would be constructed within the rights-of-way of Etzler Drive (Route 672) and Victoria Road (Route 1050).
Additional information is available through the Botetourt County Planning and Zoning Office at the County Administration Center and on the county’s Planning Commission agenda webpage.
Members of the public may provide comments during the public hearing in person or submit comments in advance by email, through the county’s online comment form, or by mail. Mailed comments must be received by the Friday preceding the hearing. Online and email comments must be submitted by 9 a.m. on the day of the meeting.
Editor’s Note: As previously reported by The Fincastle Herald, the Planning Commission’s public hearing notices for future meetings will not be published in print editions. The Herald is publishing this article to ensure readers are aware of the Aug. 10 public hearing and the matters scheduled for consideration.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
