More News

Alternative energy systems can get on the grid in Poolesville.

The town has been drafting standards for solar, geothermal and wind energy systems since April, after the owner of a local hardware store applied to install a monopole wind energy system on his property. The town's code did not specifically allow or forbid such systems.

The commissioners unanimously voted to adopt regulations for alternative energy systems at their April 12 meeting.

Ground- and roof-mounted solar energy systems and loop geothermal systems would be permitted on all properties. Small roof-mounted wind energy systems would be allowed everywhere except in the central business district. Small ground-mounted wind systems would be allowed in the central business district and on properties in the rural density transfer zone.

Farmers markets move ahead

The commissioners unanimously voted on April 12 to authorize the town's Community and Economic Development Committee to spend $1,640 on a farmers market this summer. The money was left over from the CEDC's last budget.

Five farms and nine other local businesses said they would be interested in participating, CEDC member Tim Whitehouse said.

The CEDC recommended that the town hold four market days on Fridays in June through September at Whalen Commons, in connection with the town's summer concert series. The group did not recommend a weekly market due to concerns that it could detract from other businesses, Whitehouse said.

Members hope the event will be self-supporting by fiscal 2012.

Charter revisions passed

The commissioners have made several changes to the town's charter.

The 24 amendments passed April 12 meeting will become law if no referendum is submitted by May 24.

The amendments include:

-The commissioners may change their salary by passing a resolution. (Approved 3-2; Commission Vice President Jerry Klobukowski and Commissioner Link Hoewing were opposed.)

-Commissioners have the right to appoint a town manager and town clerk. The town manager has authority over all other employees.

-Residents are eligible to vote in town if registered with the county board of elections.

-Commissioners no longer have the authority to establish a municipal band or regulate the keeping of dogs.

-Commissioners may no longer waive water or sewer connection requirements except under certain conditions.

-Planning commission and sign advisory board members may not receive a salary.

-Park permits will be issued by town staff instead of the parks board.

All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted.

Planning appointment

The commissioners unanimously appointed planning commission member Charles Stump to the CEDC at their May 3 meeting. He will fill a government representative position vacated by planning commission chairman George Coakley.

Montgomery County Police representatives will meet with residents at 7 p.m. May 18 at Town Hall, 19721 Beall St., to discuss starting a neighborhood watch program.