(3/2025) County Files Petition to Intervene in MPRP

County Executive Jessica Fitzwater announced that Frederick County has filed the legal paperwork to petition to intervene in the Maryland Public Service Commission’s consideration of PSEG Renewable Transmission’s application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for authority to construct the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project, or MPRP. The County filed the petition to intervene on February 6, 2025.

"Frederick County officials and community members have been clear that we oppose MPRP due to its impact on residents, natural and historic resources, the economy, and our quality of life," County Executive Fitzwater said. "While Frederick County does not have the legal authority to stop this project alone, we will continue to use the legal tools available to protect our community. I remain committed to working with the County Council and local leaders to amplify the voices of our residents and advocate against this project."

PSEG filed an application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity with the Commission on December 31. On January 14, the County Executive announced that Frederick County would petition to intervene in opposition to PSEG's application.

The Public Service Commission has indicated it will hold a public hearing in Frederick County to provide another opportunity for residents to be heard on this matter. Details will be posted to www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/MPRP. Members of the community are urged to check this website regularly for updates related to MPRP and to review the history of the project. The County will continue to update the page as more information becomes available.

Burn Permit Application And Payment Now Available Online

The Frederick County Health Department’s Environmental Health office is excited to announce that the application process for burn permits can now be completed completely online at Health.FrederickCountyMD.gov/BurnPermit.

The process begins when a community member submits an application for a burn permit. Health Department staff review and approve the application and then send the applicant an email with a link to pay. The fee for a burn permit is $15. When payment has been received, health department staff email the burn to the applicant within a couple of hours. Community members can also still apply for burn permits in person or by mail.

The health department encourages community members who are applying for a burn permit for the first time to call 301-600-1717 to ensure that the property is eligible for a burn permit before applying online.

All permits are valid from Jan 1 to May 31 and September 1 through December 31. There is a burn ban for Frederick County from June 1 through August 31. A new permit is required at the start of each new year.

"We are happy to be able to offer an online application process after hearing feedback from the community," said Alicia Evangelista, Program Manager for Community Services in Environmental Health, "We hope this updated option makes obtaining a burn permit user-friendly and efficient. This has already greatly decreased the time it takes for approved applicants to receive a permit"

For questions, please call 301-600-1717 or visit Health.FrederickCountyMD.gov/BurnPermit.

Resources Available for Laid Off Federal Employees

A new webpage launched today on the Frederick County Government website – www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/Federal – which provides information and links to resources available for federal employees who are affected by downsizing at their agencies. Over 4,500 Federal employees live in Frederick County.

"A sudden drastic reduction of the Federal workforce could affect thousands of Frederick County residents, as well as many small businesses that contract with Federal agencies," County Executive Jessica Fitzwater said. "Fortunately, our community partners offer resources to help during this difficult time. If you or someone you know is struggling as a result of federal layoffs, the information on the county website may help."

The web page provides information on where to find assistance with food, medical and health care needs, payments for utilities, employment and other financial relief.

The resource list will be updated as new information becomes available.