I along with Council Member Jerry Donald am sponsoring two Administration bills to help our local ag community (Bill 22-03 and Bill 22-04).

Bill 22-03 is titled Amendments Chapter 1-19 of the Frederick County Code (Zoning Ordinance) – Update Certain Definitions to Agriculture Uses. This legislation amends chapter 1-19 of the Frederick County Code (Zoning Ordinance) to update certain definitions related to agricultural uses and to change qualifying criteria.

Bill 22-04 is titled Amending Chapter 1-6 of the Frederick Code (Building Code) to create a new exception for, and to define, a farm stand. The proposed amendment to the building code will add a definition of a farm stand as well as to provide an exception for farm stands from certain provisions of the bill. The bill will define a farm stand as a structure that does not exceed 600 square feet. It may be used to process, treat, or package agricultural products, the majority of which are produced on the farm. A farm stand may not be used as a place of human habitation or employment, nor used or occupied by the public. It will be exempt from permits to state that farm stands that meet the outlined requirements that will be exempt from obtaining a building permit. The provision does not exempt the owner from obtaining the required zoning certificate.

As you are reading this you more than likely have heard that I am running for re-election to serve and represent the people of the 5th County Council District. It has been an honor to have been elected by the people of northern Frederick County to serve you. I have never forgotten the great distinction and privilege that you have afforded to me. I humbly look forward to continuing my service to you over the next four years.

You can call my office at 301-600-1034, or email me at MBlue@FrederickCountyMD.gov.