Front Royal public meetings in 2025

Planning Commission

At its regular meeting on December 18, 2025, the Front Royal Planning Commission will consider a Consent Agenda to publicly advertise three special‑use permit applications at a January 2026 hearing. The applications are for an auto‑repair shop at 3 West 14th Street, a tow yard on Kibler Street, and a shopping center on South Street, all in the C‑1 Community Business District. The commission will also forward its recommendation to approve a special‑use permit for an artistic mural at 202 E. 2nd Street.

• Special Use Permit for an auto‑repair shop at 3 West 14th Street (Tax Map 20A2‑3‑63‑24A)
• Special Use Permit for a tow yard on Kibler Street (Tax Map 20A4‑4‑5)
• Special Use Permit for a shopping center on South Street (Tax Map 20A18‑5‑7)
• Recommendation to approve Special Use Permit for an artistic mural at 202 E. 2nd Street

The commission approved the November 19, 2025 meeting minutes by a 3‑0 vote. It also approved the consent agenda to publicly advertise three special‑use permit applications for an auto‑repair shop, a tow yard, and a shopping center, also by a 3‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Approved November 19, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Approved advertising consent for auto‑repair shop permit (2500571) (3‑0)
• Approved advertising consent for tow yard permit (2500573) (3‑0)
• Approved advertising consent for shopping center permit (2500581) (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (3‑0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to discuss by-laws and conduct staff training using mock cases. The training will cover variance requests and zoning determination appeals.

• Staff training on mock Zoning Determination Appeals
• Staff training on mock Variance Requests
• Discussion of Board By-Laws

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting with a 3‑0 vote and one abstention. The regular meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous 4‑0 vote. Later, the work session was also adjourned unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved August 19, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0-1 abstain)
• Adjourned regular meeting (4-0)
• Adjourned work session (4-0)

Board of Architectural Review

The Board of Architectural Review approved the Certificate of Appropriateness for Stella Maris, LLC to replace a 288‑sq‑ft wood deck with Trex decking and to retain the existing handicap ramp at 25 S. Royal Avenue, adding contingencies on edging, handrail tops, and painting. The board also discussed draft Historic District Guidelines and set a work session for November 12 to continue the draft. A separate COA (Application #2500476) for Dollar House, LLC at 100 Peyton Street was approved with no issues. The meeting noted recent zoning text amendments affecting historic residential redevelopment.

• COA Application #2500531 – approve Trex deck replacement and ramp at 25 S. Royal Avenue with contingencies
• COA Application #2500476 – approve Trex decking and handrail changes at 100 Peyton Street (work completed)
• Draft Historic District Guidelines reviewed; work session scheduled for Nov 12
• Discussion of recent zoning text amendments permitting duplexes, townhouses, and two‑family dwellings in the Historic District
• Warren County Building Inspections issued a Stop Work Order on Nov 3, 2025 for the 25 S. Royal Ave project

The Board of Architectural Review approved Certificate of Appropriateness Application #2500531 to replace the existing wood deck with Trex and bring the handicap ramp into code compliance. The board also scheduled a work session on January 13, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. to review the Historic District Guidelines draft, agreeing to create a collaborative document and to review one chapter per meeting. No other motions were denied.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness Application #2500531 (voice vote, all 5 members in favor)
• Scheduled work session on Jan 13, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. (regular meeting time changed)
• Decided to have IT create a collaborative Google‑type document for the Historic District Guidelines
• Agreed to review one chapter of the draft guidelines per meeting
• Agreed to obtain photographs for the guideline document

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will meet to discuss industrial water and sewer requests in the Rt. 340/522 Corridor and review policies for vacating public rights-of-way. The session includes decisions on wastewater treatment plant equipment and a contract renewal with Retail Strategies. A following work session will address software licensing and multiple requests to vacate unimproved streets and alleys.

• Request for water and sewer for industrial use from 444 Baugh, LLC on Baugh Drive
• Purchase and installation of Variable Frequency Drive for Final Clarifier #2 at Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Award of Task Order for Solids Dewatering Preliminary Engineering Report
• Amendments to the Town Policy for Vacation of Public Rights-of-Way
• Retail Strategies Agreement renewal

The council approved the minutes from the November 24 and December 1 meetings. It removed Item #9 from the agenda and approved the consent agenda, including a $133,094.76 purchase of a variable frequency drive and a $270,000 task order for solids dewatering engineering. The Town adopted a new Policy for Vacation of Public Rights‑of‑Way. Finally, the council approved a water and sewer service request for the Route 340/522 corridor (4‑2 vote).

• Approved November 24 and December 1 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Removed Item #9 from the agenda (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of variable frequency drive $133,094.76 (unanimous)
• Approved $270,000 task order for solids dewatering report and FY26 budget transfer (unanimous)
• Adopted Policy for Vacation of Public Rights‑of‑Way (unanimous)
• Approved water and sewer service request for Rt 340/522 corridor (4‑2 vote)

Planning Commission

The Front Royal Planning Commission will review proposed changes to the Commercial Zoning District language. It will also discuss definitions and performance standards for hotels. The meeting is a work session and no formal votes are noted.

• Commercial Zoning District proposed text amendments
• Hotel definitions and performance standards

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority will vote to approve the minutes from the November 3 meeting. The board will hear a Retail Strategies presentation by Michael Warsaw. Members will recognize Vice Chair Nick Bass, followed by an open discussion before adjourning.

• Approval of November 3, 2025 meeting minutes
• Retail Strategies presentation by Michael Warsaw
• Recognition of Vice Chair Nick Bass
• Open discussion on the Town’s Special Event Policy notifications
• Adjournment of the meeting

The board approved the November 3 minutes with six votes in favor and one abstention. A motion to continue and renew the contract with Retail Strategies was made, seconded and carried. The meeting was adjourned unanimously. The board also recognized Vice Chairman Nick Bass for his service.

• Approved November 3 minutes (6-0, 1 abstain)
• Renewed Retail Strategies partnership (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
• Recognized Vice Chairman Nick Bass for his service

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The council will consider approving a $270,000 task order to CHA Consulting for a solids dewatering engineering report and related budget transfers. It will also vote on a $133,094.76 sole‑source purchase of a variable frequency drive for Final Clarifier #2 at the wastewater treatment plant. Additional items include ordinance amendments, a special use permit for a mural, and a water‑sewer request for an industrial site on Baugh Dr.

• Purchase/Installation of Variable Frequency Drive for Final Clarifier #2 – $133,094.76 (sole source, Evoqua Water Technologies)
• Solids Dewatering Preliminary Engineering Report task order – $270,000 (CHA Consulting) with FY26 budget transfers
• Ordinance amendments to Town Code §12‑1 Energy Services Fees & Chapter 70 – Electricity
• Special Use Permit for an artistic mural at 202 E. 2nd Street – submitted by Fussell Florist
• Request for water and sewer service in Rt. 340/522 corridor for industrial use – 444 Baugh, LLC on Baugh Dr

The council approved adding the purchase of a variable frequency drive for the wastewater plant and the solids dewatering engineering report to the Dec 8 consent agenda. It also approved advertising public hearings on Jan 26 for the energy‑services fee ordinance amendments and a special‑use permit for a new mural at 202 E. 2nd St. The water‑and‑sewer request for 444 Baugh, LLC was placed on the Dec 8 business‑items agenda.

• Added purchase/installation of Variable Frequency Drive for Final Clarifier #2 to Dec 8 consent agenda
• Added Solids Dewatering Preliminary Engineering Report & FY26 budget transfer to Dec 8 consent agenda
• Agreed to advertise public hearing on Jan 26 for Energy Services Fees ordinance amendments
• Agreed to advertise public hearing on Jan 26 for Fussell Florist mural special‑use permit
• Placed 444 Baugh, LLC water and sewer request on Dec 8 business‑items agenda

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will conduct public hearings regarding zoning text amendments for special circumstance housing and auxiliary dwelling units. The body will also consider ordinances regarding FOIA fees, yard waste drop-off fees, and the sale of public rights of way.

• Zoning text amendments to define Designated Special Circumstance Housing and Auxiliary Dwelling Units
• Ordinance to rescind Town Code §12-6 regarding FOIA fees
• Ordinance amendment to add yard waste drop-off fees for out-of-town residents
• Sale of approximately .2942 acres of public rights of way at N. Royal Avenue and the alley between N. Royal Avenue and Virginia Avenue
• FY25-26 Budget Amendment for outstanding purchase orders

The council adopted zoning text amendments to Town Code §175‑3 defining Designated Special Circumstance Housing and adding performance standards. The original motion passed with a 3‑3 tie broken by Mayor Cockrell voting YES (Yes: Veitenthal, Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne; No: Wood, Sealock, Rappaport). A substitute motion removing the R‑1 district reference failed after the mayor voted NO to break the tie. The council also approved ordinances rescinding FOIA fee code, adding a yard‑waste drop‑off fee for out‑of‑town residents, and referred the matter to the Planning Commission for further review.

• Adopt zoning text amendments to Town Code §175‑3 (original motion) – Passed (Yes: Veitenthal, Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne; No: Wood, Sealock, Rappaport; Mayor voted YES to break tie)
• Adopt zoning text amendments (substitute motion) – Failed (Yes: Wood, Sealock, Rappaport; No: Veitenthal, Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne; Mayor voted NO to break tie)
• Refer zoning amendment to Planning Commission – Approved (Yes: Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne)
• Rescind Town Code §12‑6 (FOIA fees) – Approved (Yes: Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne)
• Add Yard Waste Drop‑Off Fee for out‑of‑town residents (Town Code §12‑2 amendment) – Approved (Yes: Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to discuss a Special Use Permit application for an artistic mural. A work session is scheduled to follow the regular meeting.

• Public hearing for Special Use Permit 2500481: artistic mural exceeding 60 square feet at 202 E. 2nd Street (Fussell Florist)

The commission approved the September 17, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously and the October 15, 2025 minutes with one abstention. It voted to forward a recommendation of approval to the Town Council for Special Use Permit #2500481 for an artistic mural at 202 E. 2nd Street. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved September 17, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved October 15, 2025 minutes (4-0-1 abstain)
• Forwarded recommendation to approve Special Use Permit #2500481 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Architectural Review

The Board of Architectural Review will hold a work session to discuss the 2025 draft of the Historic Overlay District Design Guidelines. These standards are used to evaluate requests for demolition, new construction, major renovations, and signage within the Front Royal Historic District.

• Discussion of Historic District Guidelines draft
• Proposed signage standards including prohibitions on internally illuminated plastic box signs
• Proposed standards for cornices and roofing maintenance and replacement
• Proposed requirements for Certificates of Appropriateness for permanent exterior signs

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Front Royal Town Council will vote on a 60‑month lease of fourteen Toshiba multifunction printers from DDL Business Systems, replacing the current Ricoh fleet. The lease costs $2,761.53 per month, totaling $165,691.80 over five years, with annual payments of $33,138.36 funded from the Information Technology contract line. Staff recommends approval because the proposal provides full service, toner, parts, and a 4‑hour response guarantee. The agenda also includes a Microsoft User Volume Licensing renewal and a zoning enforcement budget transfer.

• Purchase of Copier/Printer Equipment, Lease and Service – 14 Toshiba MFPs, $2,761.53/month, $165,691.80 total (Contract #R241204)
• Microsoft User Volume Licensing Renewal – presented by Michelle Campbell
• Zoning Enforcement Budget Transfer – presented by Joe Petty
• Funding for Year 1 lease: $33,138.36 from Information Technology – Maint. Srvc. Contract (line 1204-43005)
• Closed session scheduled after agenda items

The Town Council voted to place three items—new copier/printer lease, Microsoft licensing renewal, and a $40,000 zoning enforcement budget transfer—on the consent agenda for the November 24 meeting. Council members also approved a closed meeting to consult legal counsel about Town‑owned property on Winchester Pike, and subsequently certified that only exempt matters were discussed in that closed session.

• Approved adding copier/printer equipment lease to Nov 24 consent agenda
• Approved adding Microsoft User Volume Licensing renewal to Nov 24 consent agenda
• Approved adding $40,000 zoning enforcement budget transfer from Happy Creek Phase II to Nov 24 consent agenda
• Approved closed meeting for legal consultation on Town property (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne)
• Approved certification that only exempt matters were discussed in the closed meeting (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne)

Planning Commission

The commission will consider a special use permit for an artistic mural exceeding 60 square feet on the east side of the building at 202 E. 2nd Street, submitted by Fussell Florist. It will also review a draft zoning ordinance covering the R-2, R-3, PND and C-1 districts, including standards for uses, setbacks, lot sizes and building heights.

• Special Use Permit Application for a mural >60 sq ft at 202 E. 2nd Street (Fussell Florist)
• Draft zoning ordinance review for R-2 residential district
• Draft zoning ordinance review for R-3 residential district
• Draft zoning ordinance review for PND district
• Draft zoning ordinance review for C-1 district

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority will approve the minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting, hear a VDOT SMART Scale presentation, and review updates on the Business Blueprint brochure, the retail contract renewal, and the 8th Street Bridge project slated for completion in February 2026. The board will also discuss a potential downtown parking study and tourism‑related visitor accommodations.

• Approve minutes of the October 6, 2025 regular meeting
• VDOT SMART Scale presentation (South Street project)
• Review and finalize the Business Blueprint brochure
• Discuss renewal of the retail strategies contract
• Update on 8th Street Bridge project with projected February 2026 completion

The authority voted to approve the September 8 regular meeting minutes; the motion passed with three yes votes and three abstentions. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. Other agenda items were discussed but no further actions were taken.

• Approved September 8 minutes (Yes: Bass, Miller, Gedney; Abstain: Novak, Elliott, Stankiewicz)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Front Royal Town Council will consider an ordinance amendment to rescind Town Code §12-6, which governs FOIA miscellaneous fees. It will also vote on a FY25 budget amendment that moves $17,569,786.47 of unpaid purchase orders into FY26 across several funds. Additional items include an Economic Development Access Grant Letter of Credit, zoning text amendments for auxiliary dwelling units, and an amendment to Town Code §12-2 Public Works Fees.

• Ordinance amendment to rescind Town Code §12-6 (FOIA miscellaneous fees)
• FY25 budget amendment to carry forward $17,569,786.47 of outstanding purchase orders to FY26
• Economic Development Access Grant Letter of Credit
• Zoning text amendments to define auxiliary dwelling units and set performance standards
• Ordinance amendment to Town Code §12-2 Public Works Fees

The council voted to convene a closed meeting to consider employment actions for FREDA and the sale of vacant property on N. Royal Avenue. Council also approved advertising public hearings on November 24 for several ordinance and budget amendments, and added the Economic Development Access Grant Letter of Credit to the consent agenda. Staff were tasked with scheduling a meeting with the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation about the McKay Springs property.

• Closed meeting approved (5-0, 1 absent) for personnel and property discussions
• Ordinance amendment to rescind Town Code §12-6 to be advertised for public hearing on Nov 24
• FY26 budget amendment to carry forward purchase orders to be advertised for public hearing on Nov 24
• Zoning text amendments for auxiliary dwelling units to be advertised for public hearing on Nov 24
• Ordinance amendment Town Code §12-2 public works fees to be advertised for public hearing on Nov 24
• Economic Development Access Grant Letter of Credit added to consent agenda on Nov 24
• Council directed staff to schedule meeting with Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation after Jan 1 regarding McKay Springs property

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will consider a rezoning request for vacant lots on Elsia Drive and several amendments to the Town Code regarding special circumstance housing and the Town Engineer's duties. The meeting also includes a consent agenda for police software, school zone beacons, and budget amendments.

• Rezoning request for vacant lots on Elsia Drive from C-1 Community Business District to R-3 Residential District
• Zoning text amendments to define and set performance standards for Designated Special Circumstance Housing
• Ordinance amendment to rescind Town Code §4-43 regarding Town Engineer appointment duties
• Purchase of School Zone Flashing Beacon Systems
• Purchase of Flex by Motorola Solutions Software Subscription Package upgrade for Police Department

The Council approved the rezoning of two vacant parcels on Elsia Drive from C‑1 to R‑3, removed the related public hearing and rescinded Town Engineer §4‑43 appointment duties. It also approved purchases of 13 TAPCO school zone flashing beacons ($103,858) and a Flex software upgrade for the Police Department ($78,485.37), and adopted FY‑26 budget amendments totaling $96,947 for traffic‑signal reimbursement and a DMV grant. Additionally, the Council appointed members to the Board of Architectural Review and reappointed a member to the Local Board of Building Code Appeals. All votes were unanimous among the six voting councilmembers.

• Approved rezoning of Elsia Drive parcels to R‑3 (6‑0)
• Removed Public Hearing #7B on zoning text amendments and directed re‑notice for Nov 24 (6‑0)
• Adopted ordinance amendment rescinding Town Engineer §4‑43 appointment duties (6‑0)
• Approved purchase of 13 TAPCO school zone flashing beacon systems and 6 solar modems for $103,858.00 (6‑0)
• Approved purchase of Flex software upgrade for Police Department for $78,485.37 (6‑0)
• Approved FY26 budget amendment to receive $51,889.20 traffic‑signal equipment reimbursement (6‑0)
• Approved FY26 budget amendment to receive $45,058.00 DMV grant for alcohol and speed enforcement (6‑0)
• Appointed Teresa Henry and Kevin Cuddeback to the Board of Architectural Review (6‑0)

Planning Commission

The Front Royal Planning Commission will vote on a recommendation to forward a zoning text amendment that defines Designated Special Circumstance Housing and allows it by Special Use Permit. The commission will also consider a zoning amendment for Auxiliary Dwelling Units and a proposed ordinance to regulate data centers in the Industrial Employment District. A special use permit application for a mural at 202 E. 2nd Street is on the consent agenda.

• Special Use Permit Application (2020481) for an artistic mural >60 SF at 202 E. 2nd Street, zoned C‑2
• Zoning Text Amendment (2500319) to define “Auxiliary Dwelling Unit” and amend residential districts
• Zoning Text Amendment (2500320) to define “Designated Special Circumstance Housing” and set performance standards
• Zoning Text Amendment (2500345) to add “Data Centers” to Town Code §175‑64 in the I‑2 Industrial Employment District
• Consent agenda to approve public‑hearing advertisement for November

The commission approved a consent agenda to advertise a special‑use permit for a mural at 202 E. 2nd Street. It also voted to forward a recommendation of approval to the Town Council for a text amendment to Town Code §175‑3 and related sections that would define and permit auxiliary dwelling units (ADUs) by right. Both actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda to advertise mural permit (4‑0)
• Forwarded recommendation of ADU text amendment to Town Council (4‑0)

Board of Architectural Review

The Board of Architectural Review will consider Certificate of Appropriateness Application #2500476 submitted by Dollar House, LLC to replace wood decking, wood steps, and wood handrails with Trex decking, composite steps, and black pipe handrails at 100 Peyton Street; the work is reported complete. The board will also receive a draft of updated Historic Overlay District guidelines that staff plans to distribute before the October 1 deadline. Members will receive updates on previously discussed items, including window replacements at a laundromat on E. Main Street, a fence on Blue Ridge Avenue, and window replacement at Poppy’s Place on N. Royal Avenue.

• COA Application #2500476 – replace wood decking, steps, and handrails at 100 Peyton Street (work complete)
• Draft historic district guidelines to be submitted to the board before Oct 1
• Update request for windows at the laundromat on E. Main Street
• Update request for fence on Blue Ridge Avenue
• Update request for window replacement at Poppy’s Place on N. Royal Avenue

The Board of Architectural Review approved the August 12 and September 9, 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote. It approved Certificate of Appropriateness Application #2500‑476 for Dollar House, LLC to replace the wood porch decking at 100 Peyton Street with Trex, contingent on covering the Trex edging, restoring handrail tops to wood, and painting exposed wood. Members agreed to hold a work session on November 12, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. to develop Historic District Guidelines. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.

• Approved August 12, 2025 minutes (voice vote: Waters, Aders, Vaughan)
• Approved September 9, 2025 work‑session minutes (voice vote: Waters, Aders, Vaughan)
• Approved COA Application #2500‑476 for 100 Peyton St with contingencies (voice vote: Waters, Aders, Vaughan)
• Agreed to hold Historic District Guidelines work session on Nov 12, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote: Vaughan, Aders, Waters)

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority will vote to approve the regular meeting minutes from September 8, 2025. The board will also discuss the draft Business Blueprint brochure and receive updates on workforce events, the VDOT South Street SMART Scale project, and the Retail Strategies contract. No other decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approve minutes of the September 8, 2025 regular meeting
• Review draft Business Blueprint brochure
• Discuss VDOT South Street SMART Scale project and request a presentation
• Receive update on Retail Strategies contract and prospective business leads
• Reminder of Worlds of Work career expo on October 2, 2025

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority approved the minutes from the September 8 meeting. The board then moved to adjourn, and the motion passed unanimously. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved September 8 minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Front Royal Town Council will vote on awarding a $212,376 contract to Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker for project management and implementation assistance for enterprise resource management software. Council members will also discuss a settlement participation resolution with several opioid manufacturers, and consider budget amendments for traffic signal equipment reimbursement, DMV grant funds, and a purchase of school zone flashing beacon systems. Additional items include contracts for merchant services, a software subscription upgrade, and zoning code amendments for data centers and special‑circumstance housing.

• Award contract to Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker for ERP software implementation assistance – $212,376
• Resolution to authorize settlement participation with opioid manufacturers (Alvogen, Amneal, etc.)
• FY26 budget amendment for traffic signal equipment reimbursement
• Purchase of school zone flashing beacon systems
• Zoning text amendments to define data centers and special‑circumstance housing

The council authorized a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters and certified its compliance. It approved contracts for project management ($212,376) and enterprise resource planning software ($686,266.63), a merchant services agreement at no cost, and a resolution allowing the town attorney and manager to sign the opioid settlement participation form.

• Approved closed meeting on personnel matters (6-0)
• Certified closed meeting compliance (6-0)
• Approved $212,376 contract to Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker for ERP project management (6-0)
• Approved $686,266.63 contract to Univerus Inc for ERP software (6-0)
• Approved merchant services contract to Paymentus at no cost (6-0)
• Approved resolution authorizing town attorney and manager to execute opioid settlement participation form (6-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a zoning text amendment (Item 2500319) that adds definitions for "Auxiliary Dwelling Unit" to Town Code §175‑3, revises residential districts to allow ADUs by right, and creates performance standards in §175‑115. The commission will also review the existing Agricultural and Residential zone ordinances. These items are scheduled for discussion during the work session.

• Item 2500319: Amend Town Code §175‑3 to define Auxiliary Dwelling Units (ADUs)
• Add §175‑115 performance standards for ADUs
• Amend residential district provisions to permit ADUs by right
• Review of the Agricultural and Residential Zones ordinance

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will hold a public hearing on a request to vacate about 13,324 square feet of N. Royal Avenue and the adjacent alley, with discussion of purchase terms and related water‑issue concerns. Council members will also consider three Special Use Permit applications for short‑term rentals at 1408 Old Winchester Pike, 101 The Hill, and 437 S Royal Avenue, and several zoning text amendments covering overhang definitions, short‑term‑rental standards, and historic‑district redevelopment restrictions. Additional agenda items include consent‑agenda approvals such as a FY26 budget amendment for an electric transformer reimbursement and business items like purchasing a replacement refuse truck and reviewing a water‑and‑sewer request for industrial use on the Rt. 522 corridor.

• Public hearing on vacation and sale request for ~13,324 sq ft of N. Royal Avenue alley
• Special Use Permit for short‑term rental at 1408 Old Winchester Pike (Shelly Cook/Cook‑Knighting Realty II, LLC)
• Special Use Permit for short‑term rental at 101 The Hill (Claude Van Sant)
• Zoning Text Amendment to redefine “Overhang” in Town Code §175‑3
• Purchase of replacement refuse truck

The Town Council approved Special Use Permits for short‑term rentals at 1408 Old Winchester Pike, 101 The Hill, and 437 S. Royal Avenue. It adopted a zoning text amendment redefining “overhang.” The council also adopted zoning amendments to short‑term rental performance standards, passing with one dissent. A motion to amend historic‑district redevelopment rules was presented, but the vote outcome was not recorded in the minutes.

• Approved Special Use Permit for 1408 Old Winchester Pike (6‑0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for 101 The Hill (6‑0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for 437 S. Royal Avenue (6‑0)
• Adopted zoning text amendment redefining “overhang” (6‑0)
• Adopted short‑term rental performance standards amendment (5‑1)
• Adopted recodification of tobacco performance standards (6‑0)
• Historic‑district redevelopment amendment motion presented; outcome not recorded

Planning Commission

The Front Royal Planning Commission held a public hearing on several zoning text amendments and special use permit applications. Commissioners voted to forward recommendations of approval for each item to the Town Council. Items include new definitions for Designated Special Circumstance Housing, Data Centers, overhangs, and Auxiliary Dwelling Units, as well as permits for short‑term rentals and a lodging house for women and children.

• Zoning Text Amendment (2500320) to define Designated Special Circumstance Housing and related performance standards.
• Zoning Text Amendment (2500345) to define Data Centers and add them to the Industrial Employment District.
• Zoning Text Amendment (2500317) to redefine “overhang” in Town Code §175‑3.
• Zoning Text Amendment (2500319) to add a definition for Auxiliary Dwelling Units (ADUs) and related standards across multiple code sections.
• Special Use Permit (2500336) to allow a lodging house for women and children at 437 S. Royal Avenue.

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting. The commission also voted to forward a recommendation to the Town Council to approve a zoning text amendment that defines Designated Special Circumstance Housing and permits it by Special Use Permit. Both actions were approved by all five commissioners present.

• Approved August 20, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Designated Special Circumstance Housing text amendment (5-0)

Board of Architectural Review

The Front Royal Board of Architectural Review will discuss a zoning text amendment to Town Code Chapter 175‑84.B that would restrict redevelopment of historic residential sites to single‑family dwellings, and Chapter 175‑29 that would prevent converting existing single‑family homes into multifamily or two‑family units. The board will also review the town's Historic District Guidelines and a survey from the Virginia Department of Historic Resources. These items address how historic district properties may be altered or repurposed.

• Zoning Text Amendment to Town Code Chapter 175‑84.B to restrict historic residential redevelopment to single‑family units
• Zoning Text Amendment to Town Code Chapter 175‑29 to prevent conversion of single‑family structures to multifamily or two‑family dwellings
• Discussion of Historic District Guidelines
• Review of Virginia Department of Historic Resources Survey
• General discussion of the Board of Architectural Review’s role in historic preservation

The Board of Architectural Review held a work session on September 9, 2025 to review items such as the lack of bylaws, potential training for members, a historic district survey, and updates on previous violations. No formal approvals or policy changes were made. A motion to adjourn the session was moved, seconded, and approved. The meeting concluded at 7:48 p.m.

• Adjourned work session (motion passed)

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will meet to discuss ongoing business, workforce, infrastructure, and asset development. The agenda includes a review of a business brochure and the Worlds of Work event.

• Discussion of business brochure
• Worlds of Work event scheduled for October 2, 2025
• Retail Strategies asset development

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority approved the minutes from the August 4 regular meeting and the August 18 work session. The motion passed with five votes in favor and none against. The board then adjourned the meeting unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved August 4 and August 18 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will discuss a contract to repair the Happy Creek bank and a budget amendment for electric transformer reimbursement. The body is also reviewing an ordinance to define and regulate auxiliary dwelling units (ADUs) and a water/sewer request for industrial use.

• Proposed $150,263.20 contract with Muller, Inc. to restore the creek bank at 8th Street Bridge
• Proposed $18,540.00 FY26 Budget Amendment for electric transformer reimbursement
• Ordinance to add definitions and performance standards for auxiliary dwelling units (ADUs) in Zoning Chapter 175
• Water and sewer request for industrial use from Stafford One Investments, LLC at Winchester Road and Winners Court
• Purchase of a replacement refuse truck

The council voted to send the proposed ADU zoning changes back to the Planning Commission for further review. Council also agreed to place the Creek Bank bridge repair, the FY26 electric transformer reimbursement, and the replacement refuse truck purchase on the September 22 consent agenda. Tourism was added to the agenda of the October Liaison Committee meeting. The staff will proceed with the FY26‑27 budget calendar option D as a consensus.

• Refer ADU zoning amendment to Planning Commission (vote: 5‑0, Vice Mayor absent)
• Add Creek Bank bridge restoration to September 22 consent agenda
• Add FY26 electric transformer reimbursement amendment to September 22 consent agenda
• Add purchase of replacement refuse truck to September 22 business agenda
• Add Tourism update to October Liaison Committee meeting
• Adopt FY26‑27 budget calendar option D as staff consensus

Planning Commission

The Front Royal Planning Commission will discuss two zoning text amendments at a work session. One would create a new 'Designated Special Circumstance Housing' category with performance standards for shelters and transitional housing. The other would add regulations for data centers in the Industrial Employment District.

• Zoning Text Amendment to define Designated Special Circumstance Housing (DSCH) for shelters and transitional housing
• Performance standards for DSCH including occupancy limits, licensing, and management plans
• Zoning Text Amendment to add Data Centers to Industrial Employment District (I-2) with performance standards
• Special Use Permit requirements for DSCH and Data Centers in specified zoning districts

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Front Royal Town Council will review multiple special use permit applications for short-term rentals at four properties and consider zoning text amendments. The meeting includes decisions on fee refunds, short-term rental regulations, and updates to definitions for accessory dwelling units and overhangs in the town code.

• Refund of $1,000 special use permit fee for 437 S. Royal Avenue (Warren Coalition request)
• Special Use Permit for short-term rental at 1408 Old Winchester Pike (Shelly Cook)
• Special Use Permit for short-term rental at 437 S. Royal Avenue (Life Repair Center/WP Royal Ave LLC)
• Special Use Permit for short-term rental at 101 The Hill (Claude Van Sant)
• Zoning text amendment to redefine 'overhang' and add accessory dwelling unit (ADU) definitions

The council voted unanimously to convene a closed meeting for discussion of employment, promotion, disciplinary actions, and pending litigation concerning town property. It also scheduled public hearings for several short‑term rental permits, a zoning overhang amendment, historic‑district redevelopment limits, and short‑term rental performance standards, all to be held on September 22. The ADU ordinance was postponed to the September 8 work session, and the request to refund a $1,000 special‑use permit fee was placed on the September 22 consent agenda.

• Approved closed meeting on personnel and litigation matters (6‑0 vote)
• Certified that only exempt items were discussed in the closed meeting (6‑0 vote)
• Added Warren Coalition fee‑refund request to September 22 consent agenda
• Scheduled public hearing for Shelly Cook short‑term rental permit (Sept 22)
• Scheduled public hearing for Life Repair Center short‑term rental lodging house (Sept 22)
• Scheduled public hearing for Claude Van Sant short‑term rental (Sept 22)
• Scheduled public hearing for overhang definition amendment (Sept 22)
• Moved ADU ordinance to September 8 work session

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will hold public hearings regarding a charter amendment to remove the Town Manager's residency requirement and a request to vacate land on N. Royal Avenue. The body will also consider several equipment purchases for Public Works and engineering services for the E. Prospect Street Bridge.

• Public hearing to remove residency requirement for Town Manager from Town Charter
• Public hearing on request to vacate 13,324 square feet of N. Royal Avenue and adjacent alley
• Task order for engineering services for E. Prospect Street Bridge replacement
• Purchase of 20-foot tilt trailer and 12-foot dump trailer for Public Works
• Participation in Purdue Direct Settlement of Opioid Related Claims

The Town Council approved the minutes of the July 28, August 4 and August 11, 2025 meetings as presented. The Council adopted an ordinance that conditionally approves the vacation and sale of approximately 13,324 square feet of the N. Royal Avenue alley. The vote on the ordinance was 3‑2, with Councilmembers Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne and Sealock voting Yes and Councilmembers Wood and Rappaport voting No.

• Approved minutes of the July 28, August 4 and August 11, 2025 meetings (as presented)
• Adopted ordinance conditionally approving the vacation and sale of ~13,324 sq ft N. Royal Ave alley (Yes: Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne, Sealock; No: Wood, Rappaport)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings to consider several special use permits and zoning text amendments. Discussions will focus on short-term rentals, auxiliary dwelling units, and lodging house regulations.

• Special Use Permit for short-term rental at 1408 Old Winchester Pike
• Special Use Permit for lodging house at 437 S. Royal Avenue
• Special Use Permit for short-term rental at 101 The Hill
• Zoning text amendment to define and establish standards for Auxiliary Dwelling Units
• Zoning text amendment to update short-term rental fees, parking, and building code regulations

The commission approved the July 16, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to forward recommendations to the Town Council approving a short‑term rental permit at 1408 Old Winchester Pike, a zoning text amendment redefining “overhang,” a comprehensive zoning amendment to add auxiliary dwelling units, a lodging house permit at 437 S. Royal Avenue, and a short‑term rental permit at 101 The Hill. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved July 16, 2025 minutes (Brooks, Marshner, Fedoryka)
• Forwarded recommendation to approve Special Use Permit #2500297 for short‑term rental at 1408 Old Winchester Pike (Marshner, Brooks, Fedoryka)
• Forwarded recommendation to approve zoning text amendment #2500317 to redefine “overhang” (Marshner, Fedoryka, Brooks)
• Forwarded recommendation to approve zoning text amendment #2500319 adding ADU definitions and related code changes (Fedoryka, Marshner, Brooks)
• Forwarded recommendation to approve Special Use Permit #2500336 for lodging house at 437 S. Royal Avenue (Marshner, Brooks, Fedoryka)
• Forwarded recommendation to approve Special Use Permit #2500337 for short‑term rental at 101 The Hill (Marshner, Fedoryka, Brooks)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request for a recently constructed two-family attached dwelling. The applicant is seeking to reduce the required side yard setback from 10 feet to 8.7 feet. Staff recommends denial of the request.

• Variance Application 2500335 for 15 & 17 W. 11th Street (Tax Map 20A2-4-43-24)
• Request to reduce side yard setback from 10 feet to 8.7 feet
• Property located in R-2 Residential District
• Stop Work Orders issued May 23, 2025 for 15 W. 11th Street and 17 W. 11th Street

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority is holding a special work session. The body will discuss the design of a new business brochure.

• Discussion regarding the design of a new business brochure

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority decided to produce a business start‑up guide in both printable (road‑map style) and digital (bullet‑point) formats. The guide will highlight the Small Business Development Center as a key resource. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Approved creation of printable and digital business start‑up guide (unanimous)
• Agreed to highlight the Small Business Development Center in the guide (unanimous)
• Moved to adjourn the meeting; motion seconded and passed unanimously

Board of Architectural Review

The Board of Architectural Review will meet to approve a 24" x 36" ground-mounted sign near the Town Gazebo to commemorate the dedication of Front Royal Commons as "John Marlow Plaza." The property is zoned C-2 and located within the Historic Overlay District.

• Consideration of a 24" x 36" ground-mounted sign for John Marlow Plaza
• Approval of March 11, 2025, meeting minutes
• Review of a log cabin re-chinking project at 123 Chester Street
• Review of window replacement at 507 E. Main Street

The Board of Architectural Review approved the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a 24" × 36" ground‑mounted sign to commemorate John Marlow Plaza near the town gazebo. The meeting was then adjourned. No other applications were decided.

• Approved March 11, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Approved COA Application #2500359 for 24" × 36" sign near gazebo (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Front Royal Town Council will decide whether to approve a $99,700 sole-source purchase of two fiberglass clarifier launder covers for the wastewater treatment plant. Staff recommends approval to reduce algae growth and protect equipment. A presentation on downtown initiatives will also occur.

• $99,700 sole-source purchase of two clarifier launder covers from Sherwood Logan for wastewater treatment plant
• Prospect Street Bridge Replacement engineering services discussed
• Enterprise Resource Planning software and project management proposals
• Merchant services contract review
• Authorization for opioid settlement participation form

The council appointed Hillary Wilfong as Clerk Pro Tempore for the work session. It approved the purchase of two secondary clarifier launder covers for $99,700 and placed the item on the consent agenda for the August 25 meeting. Items on bridge replacement engineering services, ERP software, ERP project‑management, merchant‑services contracts, and participation in the Purdue Pharma settlement were deferred to the August 25 meeting under new business or consent agenda. The council unanimously certified that the closed‑meeting requirements were met.

• Appointed Hillary Wilfong as Clerk Pro Tempore (motion carried)
• Approved purchase of two clarifier launder covers for $99,700 (added to consent agenda)
• Placed E. Prospect Street Bridge replacement engineering services under New Business for Aug 25
• Placed ERP software contract with Univerus Inc. under New Business for Aug 25
• Placed ERP project‑management contract with Berry Dunn for $212,376 under New Business for Aug 25
• Placed merchant‑services contract with Paymentus under New Business for Aug 25
• Placed Purdue Pharma settlement participation under Consent for Aug 25
• Certified closed‑meeting compliance unanimously (6‑0 vote)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss several zoning text amendments and one variance application. The session covers definitions for building overhangs, auxiliary dwelling units, and data centers, as well as standards for short-term rentals.

• Zoning amendment to define 'Auxiliary Dwelling Unit' and establish performance standards
• Zoning amendment to modify short-term rental fees, parking, and building code regulations
• Zoning amendment to define 'Data Centers' and allow them in the Industrial Employment District (I-2) via Special Use Permit
• Variance request from Orange Creek LLC for a side yard setback of 8.7 feet at 15 & 17 W. 11th Street
• Zoning amendment to redefine 'Overhang' as the part of a roof or wall extending beyond the facade of a lower wall

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority will discuss business retention, the EDA's web presence, and the Worlds of Work event. The board will also receive a presentation from the Director of the Laurel Ridge Small Business Development Center.

• Presentation from Andy Gyurisin, Director of Laurel Ridge Small Business Development Center
• Discussion on Business Retention Project
• Discussion on EDA web presence
• Update on Worlds of Work event

The board voted to approve the minutes from the July 7, 2025 meeting, with five members in favor and two abstentions. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved July 7, 2025 minutes (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council is reviewing proposed zoning amendments to restrict the redevelopment of historic residential sites and establish standards for Designated Special Circumstance Housing. The body is also considering updates to the employee handbook and the purchase of two trailers.

• Zoning amendment to restrict historic residential sites to single-family dwelling units
• Proposed standards for Designated Special Circumstance Housing via Special Use Permit
• Purchase of a 20-foot hydraulic tilt trailer for $9,278.00
• Purchase of a 12-foot dump trailer for $7,778.00
• Proposed update to Employee Handbook Section 5 to consolidate sick and vacation leave into a unified PTO policy

The council approved a motion to refer the proposed zoning text amendment to the Planning Commission, with four members voting yes and two members absent. The council also approved a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters, and added the purchase of a 20‑foot tilt trailer and a 12‑foot dump trailer to the consent agenda for the August 25 meeting.

• Refer zoning text amendment to Planning Commission (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport; Absent – Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne)
• Approve closed meeting on personnel matters (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport; Absent – Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne)
• Add 20‑ft tilt trailer and 12‑ft dump trailer purchases to consent agenda for Aug 25

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will consider a special use permit for a farmers market at 515-B N. Commerce Avenue. The body will also review police equipment purchases and a power purchasing agreement.

• Public hearing for a Farmers Market Special Use Permit at 515-B N. Commerce Avenue
• Purchase of in-car and body-worn camera systems for the Police Department
• Tallgrass Power Purchasing Agreement resolution and energy schedule with AMP
• Deed of Easement from Green Pearl Hospitality LLC for water and sewer facilities off Rt.522N Corridor
• Reappointment to the Planning Commission

The council authorized a $249,396.08 purchase of body‑worn and in‑car camera systems for the Police Department. It approved a deed of easement for public water and sewer facilities and a Special Use Permit for a farmers market at 515‑B Commerce Avenue. The consent agenda, including the reappointment of Andrew Brooks to the Planning Commission, was approved, and a closed meeting was convened to discuss property acquisition and IDA asset matters.

• Approved purchase of 26 body‑worn and 14 in‑car camera systems for Police Dept ($249,396.08)
• Approved deed of easement from Green Pearl Hospitality LLC for public water and sewer facilities
• Approved Special Use Permit for Farmers Market at 515‑B Commerce Avenue (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne; Abstain – Sealock)
• Approved consent agenda, including reappointment of Andrew Brooks to Planning Commission (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne)
• Approved Resolution and Energy Schedule for Tallgrass Power Purchase Agreement
• Reappointed Andrew Brooks to Planning Commission for a four‑year term
• Convened closed meeting to discuss acquisition of portion of Peyton Street Parking Area and IDA asset matters (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne)
• Certified that only exempted matters were discussed in the closed meeting (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico‑Payne)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on restricting the redevelopment of historic residential sites and establishing standards for Designated Special Circumstance Housing. The body will also consider several special use permits and zoning text amendments.

• Public hearing on restricting historic residential sites to single-family dwellings
• Public hearing on performance standards for Designated Special Circumstance Housing
• Special Use Permit for a lodging house at 437 S. Royal Avenue
• Special Use Permits for short-term rentals at 1408 Old Winchester Pike and 101 The Hill
• Zoning text amendment to define Data Centers and add them to the Industrial Employment District (I-2)

The commission approved the June 18, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved the consent agenda to advertise several items for a public hearing in August. Commissioners voted to forward a recommendation of approval to the Town Council for historic‑district zoning amendment #2500218. Commissioners also voted to forward a recommendation of approval to the Town Council for the Designated Special Circumstance Housing amendment #2500320.

• Approved June 18, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved consent agenda items for public‑hearing advertisement (voice vote)
• Forwarded recommendation to Town Council to approve historic‑district zoning amendment #2500218 (Yes – Marrazzo, Marshner, Fedoryka, Brooks, Neel)
• Forwarded recommendation to Town Council to approve Designated Special Circumstance Housing amendment #2500320 (Yes – Fedoryka, Marshner, Neel, Marrazzo, Brooks)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will review a proposal to purchase 2 MW of renewable baseload power through American Municipal Power, Inc. (AMP) starting January 1, 2027. The body will also discuss water and sewer excess volume determinations and police equipment purchases.

• Proposed Tallgrass Power Purchase Agreement for 2 MW at an average price of $53.60/MWh
• Water Supply Plan/Excess Volume Determination presentation by CHA
• Purchase of in-car and body-worn camera system for the Police Department
• Alley vacation request for Aaron Hike
• Repayment of Economic Development Access Grant

The Town Council voted to deny Aaron Hike's request to vacate the alley at 1516 N. Royal Avenue. The motion passed 3‑3 with Mayor Cockrell casting the tie‑breaking vote against the request. The council also moved three items—Tallgrass Power Purchase Agreement, police camera system purchase, and repayment of the VDOT economic‑development grant—to the July 28 consent agenda.

• Denied alley vacation request for 1516 N. Royal Ave (3‑3, Mayor broke tie)
• Added Tallgrass Power Purchase Agreement to July 28 consent agenda
• Added in‑car and body‑worn camera purchase ($249,396.08) to July 28 consent agenda
• Added repayment of VDOT Economic Development Access Grant to July 28 consent agenda

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority will receive updates on retail strategies and general initiatives. The board is also scheduled to vote on the approval of the May 5, 2025, meeting minutes.

• Retail Strategies update from Lizi Lewis
• Initiatives and Goals updates from Lizi Lewis
• Vote to approve May 5, 2025, meeting minutes

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority approved the minutes from the July 7, 2025 meeting with five votes in favor and two abstentions. The board expressed support for updating the business‑startup brochure and for the new Flowpage web tool. A special work session was scheduled for August 18, 2025, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved July 7 minutes (5 yes, 0 no, 2 abstain)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will discuss a request to reclassify two vacant lots on Elsia Drive from commercial to residential. The body is also reviewing a proposed deed of easement for water and sewer facilities serving a commercial property in the 522 Corridor.

• Rezoning of Tax Map 20A6, Section 1, Parcels 5C and 6 on Elsia Drive from C-1 (Community Business) to R-3 (Residential)
• Deed of Easement from GREEN PEARL HOSPITALITY LLC for water and sewer facilities at Tax Map 12J-2
• Update on Zoning Ordinance Revisions

The Town Council voted to approve a closed meeting and to certify that only exempt matters were discussed. Council also added a deed easement to the July 28 consent agenda and scheduled a public hearing for a rezoning application on the same date. Several items were placed on the Liaison Committee agenda for the July 17 meeting.

• Added Green Pearl Hospitality deed easement to Consent Agenda for July 28
• Scheduled public hearing for Elsia Drive rezoning on July 28
• Added nine items to Liaison Committee meeting agenda for July 17
• Approved closed meeting under Virginia Code (5‑0 vote)
• Certified closed meeting compliance (5‑0 vote)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is holding a work session to discuss several zoning text amendments. Key topics include restricting new construction and conversions in the Historic District to single-family dwellings and defining standards for Special Circumstance Housing.

• Proposed amendment to restrict new construction in the Residential Historic District to single-family residential structures
• Proposed amendment to prohibit converting existing single-family homes in the Historic District into multi-family or commercial properties
• Proposed zoning text amendment to define and set performance standards for Designated Special Circumstance Housing via Special Use Permits
• Discussion of Article 11 Definitions for the Draft Zoning Ordinance

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will consider special use permits for a private school, a farmers market, and a short-term rental. The body will also discuss ordinances regarding a franchise for Brightspeed of Virginia LLC and updates to state vehicular laws.

• Special Use Permit for Divinum Auxilium Academy private school at 16 N. Royal Avenue
• Special Use Permit for a farmers market at 515-B Commerce Avenue
• Special Use Permit for a short-term rental at 66 W. Strasburg Road
• Ordinance amending a franchise granted to Brightspeed of Virginia LLC
• Budget amendments for Royal Lane markings and signage and solid waste revenue

The council voted to approve a Special Use Permit for Divinum Auxilium Academy at 16 N. Royal Avenue. It also approved a Special Use Permit for a short‑term rental at 66 W. Strasburg Road and postponed the public hearing on a farmer’s market permit at 515‑B Commerce Avenue. A motion to adopt a franchise amendment for Brightspeed of Virginia was introduced, but the vote outcome is not recorded in the minutes.

• Approved Special Use Permit for Divinum Auxilium Academy (6‑0 vote)
• Approved Special Use Permit for short‑term rental at 66 W. Strasburg Road (4‑2 vote)
• Postponed farmer’s market permit hearing to July 28, 2025 (4‑1 vote, 1 abstain)
• Introduced ordinance to amend Brightspeed franchise agreement (vote not recorded)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a request to reclassify vacant lots on Elsia Drive from a business district to a residential district. The body will also consider a special use permit for a lodging house.

• Public hearing for rezoning vacant lots on Elsia Drive from C-1 (Community Business District) to R-3 (Residential District)
• Special Use Permit request 2500298 for a lodging house at 437 S. Royal Avenue submitted by the Warren Coalition
• Work session to discuss Article 11 – Definitions of the Draft Zoning Ordinance

The commission approved the May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0). It approved a consent agenda to advertise a public hearing for a special‑use permit at 437 S. Royal Avenue (5‑0). It voted to forward a recommendation of approval to the Town Council for rezoning two vacant Elsia Drive parcels from C‑1 to R‑3 (5‑0). The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (5‑0: Marrazzo, Brooks, Marshner, Neel, Fedorka)
• Approved consent agenda to advertise public hearing for 437 S. Royal Ave special‑use permit (5‑0: Marshner, Brooks, Neel, Marrazzo, Fedoryka)
• Forwarded recommendation of approval to Town Council for rezoning Elsia Drive parcels to R‑3 (5‑0: Marrazzo, Marshner, Fedoryka, Brooks, Neel)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0: Neel, Brooks, Marrazzo, Marshner, Fedoryka)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council is meeting to adopt the annual appropriation ordinance for the upcoming fiscal year. The body will also consider a telecommunications franchise extension and a contract for an electric rate study.

• Adoption of FY 2025-2026 budget with total expenditures of $56,759,285
• Proposed $68,750 contract with RGrid Power PLLC for Electric Cost of Service Analysis and Rate Study
• Proposed 15-year franchise extension for Brightspeed of Virginia, LLC to operate telecommunications systems
• Review of 2025-2028 Strategic Plan goals and action items
• Discussion regarding Town of Front Royal farm property and a SUP application fee reimbursement for Divinum Auxulium Academy

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss a rezoning application for vacant lots on Elsia Drive. The body will also review draft definitions for Article 11 of the Zoning Ordinance.

• Rezoning application 2500238 to change vacant lots on Elsia Drive (Tax Map 20A6, Section 1, Parcels 5C and 6) from C-1 Community Business District to R-3 Residential District
• Review of Article 11 Definitions for the Draft Zoning Ordinance

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will discuss several budget amendments, including funds for solid waste and road signage. The body is also reviewing contract awards for consulting and engineering services, as well as multiple special use permit applications.

• Proposed $30,000 annual contract for Benefits Consulting Services with One Digital
• Proposed on-call civil engineering contracts for CHA Consulting, Mattern & Craig, Potesta & Associates, and Timmons Group
• FY25 Budget Amendment of $259,130 for solid waste revenue and refuse truck replacement
• FY25 Budget Amendment of $34,000 for Royal Lane markings and signage
• Proposed write-off of $52,445.15 in bad debt across 146 utility accounts

The council approved adding the Benefits Consulting Services contract, the On‑Call General Civil Engineering Services contracts, the FY25 budget amendment for Royal Lane markings, the FY25 solid waste revenue amendment, and the FY2024‑2025 bad‑debt write‑off to the June 23 consent agenda. Council postponed discussion of the SUP application fee reimbursement to the June 9 work session. The council also agreed to advertise public hearings on June 23 for the farmers market, short‑term rental, and private‑school special‑use permits.

• Add Benefits Consulting Services contract ($30,000/yr) to June 23 consent agenda
• Add On‑Call General Civil Engineering Services contracts to June 23 consent agenda
• Add FY25 budget amendment for Royal Lane markings ($34,000) to June 23 consent agenda
• Add FY25 solid waste revenue amendment to June 23 consent agenda
• Add FY2024‑2025 bad‑debt write‑off to June 23 consent agenda
• Postpone SUP application fee reimbursement discussion to June 9 work session
• Advertise public hearing on June 23 for farmers market special‑use permit
• Advertise public hearing on June 23 for short‑term rental special‑use permit

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Front Royal Town Council met on May 27, 2025, to approve minutes, recognize awards, and hold public hearings. Two special use permits were approved: one for a 36-unit apartment complex off Royal Lane and another for a 20-bed skilled nursing facility expansion at 400 W. Strasburg Road. The council also reviewed budget amendments, including allocations for automated school speed cameras and donations from the Front Royal Independent Business Alliance.

• Special Use Permit for 36-unit apartment complex off Royal Lane with $34,000 for traffic signage
• Special Use Permit for 20-bed skilled nursing facility expansion at 400 W. Strasburg Road
• FY25 Budget Amendment for automated school speed camera revenue ($34,000)
• FY25 Budget Amendment to accept donation from Front Royal Independent Business Alliance
• Deed of easement for waterline easement and rights-of-way acquisition for Town Water Facilities

The Town Council approved a Special Use Permit for a lodging house at 506 N. Royal Avenue. It also adopted a zoning text amendment to allow lodging houses by Special Use Permit in the R‑1 zoning district. Additionally, the Council adopted ordinances to amend Town Code fees for general charges, boundary adjustments, and septic tank waste.

• Approved Special Use Permit for lodging house at 506 N. Royal Ave (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne)
• Approved zoning text amendment to allow lodging houses by SUP in R‑1 district (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne; No – Rappaport)
• Adopted ordinance amending Town Code §175-137(A) Fees, Charges and Expenses (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne)
• Adopted ordinance amending Town Code §148-1000(A) Fees (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne)
• Adopted ordinance amending Town Code §12-2.1 to increase septic tank waste fee (Yes – Wood, Veiten)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings for a farmers market and a short-term rental. The body will also consider a preliminary plat for a 97-unit subdivision and a rezoning request for lots on Elsia Drive.

• Preliminary plat approval for a 97-dwelling unit subdivision at 1321 Happy Creek Road
• Special Use Permit for a Farmers Market at 515-B N. Commerce Avenue
• Special Use Permit for a short-term rental at 66 W. Strasburg Road
• Rezoning application for vacant lots on Elsia Drive from C-1 to R-3

The commission approved the April 16, 2025 minutes with minor wording changes by unanimous voice vote. It approved the consent agenda to advertise rezoning application 2500238 for Elsia Drive lots at the June 18 public hearing. The commission voted to forward a recommendation of approval to the Town Council for Special Use Permit #2500104 for a farmers market at 515‑B N. Commerce Avenue, attaching four specific conditions.

• Approved April 16 minutes with modifications (Yes – Marshner, Neel, Brooks, Fedoryka, Marrazzo)
• Approved consent agenda to advertise rezoning 2500238 on Elsia Drive (Yes – Marshner, Brooks, Neel, Marrazzo, Fedoryka)
• Forwarded recommendation to approve Special Use Permit #2500104 for farmers market with conditions (Yes – Marrazzo, Marshner, Fedoryka, Brooks, Neel)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will hold a work session to discuss a budget amendment accepting a $2,250 donation from FRIBA for traffic barricades, a presentation on the Manassas Avenue disposal site costs and revenues, ordinance amendments aligning town traffic laws with state code, and a waterline easement for industrial service. They will also continue deliberation on a special use permit for Divinum Auxilium Academy to operate a private school for 25 male students at 16 N. Royal Avenue, after the Planning Commission approved it with an off-street parking condition.

• Budget amendment to accept $2,250 donation from Front Royal Independent Business Alliance for traffic control devices
• Presentation on Manassas Avenue disposal site: 2 part-time attendants costing $42,105/year, yard waste and metal fees, 2024 revenue of $12,917
• Ordinance amendments to Town Code §§158-6 and 158-6.1 to adopt state vehicular laws by reference effective July 1, 2025
• Deed of easement from RUSHMARK ROCKLAND ROAD, LLC for waterline serving industrial property in the 522 Corridor
• Special use permit for private school at 16 N. Royal Ave: 25 male students grades 7-12, condition requiring off-street parking within 300 feet

The council approved adding the Front Royal Independent Business Alliance $2,250 donation for water barricades to the May 27 consent agenda. It also approved adding the Rushmark Rockland Road LLC waterline easement to that agenda. The council directed the town manager to review disposal‑site fees and the attorney to prepare a summary of new vehicular laws and schedule a public hearing on June 23. Additional items were set for future discussion or agenda placement.

• Added FRIBA $2,250 donation to May 27 consent agenda
• Added Rushmark Rockland Road LLC easement to May 27 consent agenda
• Directed Town Manager to review disposal‑site fees and report back
• Directed Attorney to write summary of new vehicular laws effective July 1
• Agreed to advertise public hearing on June 23 for ordinance amendments
• Continued Special Use Permit discussion at June 2 work session
• Placed water and sewer request for Rt. 522 corridor as Business Item on May 27 agenda

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss several land-use applications, including a major residential subdivision and two special use permits. The body will also review topics related to special needs and alternative housing.

• Preliminary plan for a 97 single-family dwelling subdivision at 1321 Happy Creek Road
• Special Use Permit for a farmers market at 515-B N. Commerce Avenue
• Special Use Permit for a short-term rental at 66 W. Strasburg Road
• Board of Architectural Review text amendment
• Discussion on special needs housing and alternative housing/shelters

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will hold a work session to discuss the proposed FY25-26 budget, including ordinance amendments to increase water (2.25%) and sewer (3%) rates and septic haul fees (from $50 to $58.55 per 1,000 gallons). They will also hear a presentation on the town's investment accounts and consider special use permits for a lodging house at 506 N. Royal Avenue and a private school at 16 N. Royal Ave, plus a text amendment to allow lodging houses in R-1 zoning by special use permit.

• Proposed 2.25% water and 3% sewer rate increases effective July 1, 2025
• Septic haul fee increase from $50 to $58.55 per 1,000 gallons
• Transfer of $65,820 from Tourism budget to create a Town Engineer position
• Special Use Permit for Warren Coalition lodging house at 506 N. Royal Avenue
• Special Use Permit for Divinum Auxulium Academy private school at 16 N. Royal Avenue

The council voted to add a closed meeting item for discussion of prospective Town Attorney candidates and later certified that only exempt matters were considered. Council also agreed to place several agenda items—including budget amendments, rate increase ordinances, and special use permits—on the public‑hearing agenda for May 27. No other votes were recorded.

• Approved closed meeting on Town Attorney personnel matters (6-0)
• Certified compliance with open‑meeting law for the closed meeting (6-0)
• Agreed to advertise FY26 budget adoption for public comment on May 27
• Agreed to advertise sewer and water rate increase ordinance amendment for public hearing on May 27
• Agreed to advertise septic‑tank waste fee increase ordinance amendment for public hearing on May 27
• Agreed to add FY25 budget amendment for speed‑camera revenue to consent agenda for May 27
• Agreed to advertise special‑use permit for lodging house at 506 N. Royal Ave for public hearing on May 27
• Agreed to advertise special‑use permit for private school at 16 N. Royal Ave for public hearing on May 27

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority will meet to discuss updates on retail recruitment strategies and downtown parking signage. The board is also scheduled to vote on the approval of the April 7, 2025, meeting minutes.

• Retail Strategies update on potential development sites
• Update on downtown parking signage and markings
• Approval of April 7, 2025, meeting minutes

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority approved the minutes from its March 3, 2025 meeting. The motion received six affirmative votes, one abstention, and no negatives. No other formal actions or votes were recorded at this meeting.

• Approved March 3, 2025 meeting minutes (6 yes, 0 no, 1 abstain)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will hold public hearings on five items, including adoption of the 2025 tax rates, two special use permits for apartments and a nursing home expansion, a special exception for road width, and a lease agreement for solid waste containers. The consent agenda includes equipment purchases and a police grant. The meeting will also feature recognitions and proclamations.

• Adoption of 2025 Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Rates
• Special Use Permit for multi-family apartments and office building off Royal Lane
• Special Use Permit for expansion of Heritage Hall skilled nursing facility at 400 W. Strasburg Road
• Lease agreement with On Cue Sports and Billiards LLC and Front Royal Brewing Co. for solid waste containers in Peyton Street parking area
• Consent agenda: purchase of outdoor circuit breakers for Happy Creek substation expansion, truck chassis, and FY25 budget amendment for Local Law Enforcement Grant

The Town Council approved a Special Use Permit for Bereen and Berry Investments to build 36 apartment units and an office building on Royal Lane, with conditions on privacy fencing, a 60‑foot right‑of‑way dedication, and funding for signage up to $34,000. The Council also approved a Special Use Permit for Heritage Hall XIII to expand its skilled nursing facility by 20 beds with no conditions. The meeting minutes from March 24, April 7, and April 14 were approved. Votes were recorded for each action.

• Approved Special Use Permit for 36‑unit apartment project (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne; No – Rappaport)
• Approved Special Use Permit for Heritage Hall expansion (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne; No – N/A)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (Yes – Wood, Veitenthal, Sealock, Rappaport, Ingram, DeDomenico-Payne; No – N/A)
• Added revision to Consent Agenda Item 10D – purchase of truck chassis with utility bed and crane

Planning Commission

The Front Royal Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a zoning text amendment to allow lodging houses by special use permit in R-1 zoning, an ordinance amendment to adjust fees, and two special use permits: a lodging house at 506 N. Royal Avenue and a private school at 16 N. Royal Avenue. Consent items to advertise for May hearings include a farmers market at 515-B N. Commerce Avenue and a short-term rental at 66 W. Strasburg Road.

• Zoning text amendment to allow lodging houses by special use permit in R-1 district
• Ordinance amendment to amend fees (Chapters 175-137 and 148-1100)
• Special use permit for lodging house at 506 N. Royal Avenue (Warren County Community Health Coalition)
• Special use permit for private school at 16 N. Royal Avenue (Divinum Auxilium Academy)
• Consent to advertise for May hearings: farmers market at 515-B N. Commerce Ave and short-term rental at 66 W. Strasburg Road

The Planning Commission approved the March 16 minutes and the consent agenda to advertise two upcoming public hearings. It voted to forward a recommendation of approval for Ordinance Amendment #2500051 that updates fee schedules. It also voted to forward a recommendation of disapproval to the Town Council for Zoning Text Amendment #2500062 that would allow lodging houses in the R‑1 district. No vote was recorded for the recommendation on Special Use Permit #2500072.

• Approved March 16 minutes (Yes – Brooks, Marshner, Neel, Fedoryka; Abstain – Marrazzo)
• Approved consent agenda to advertise two public hearings (Yes – Marrazzo, Brooks, Marshner, Neel, Fedoryka)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance Amendment #2500051 (Yes – Marrazzo, Marshner, Fedoryka, Brooks, Neel)
• Recommended disapproval of Zoning Text Amendment #2500062 (Yes – Fedoryka, Marshner, Neel, Marrazzo; No – Brooks)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will hear a presentation from American Municipal Power on projected increases in wholesale power costs for 2025/2026, including a 15% average rate increase. Council will also discuss the proposed FY25-26 budget and consider approval of several equipment purchases at a future meeting, including circuit breakers for the Happy Creek Substation and a new dump truck for the Horticulture Department. Proclamations are scheduled for National Public Safety Telecommunicator's Week, Administrative Professionals Day, and Arbor Day.

• Purchase of two 38kV outdoor circuit breakers for Happy Creek Substation ($95,624.18, awarded to Ceeus, Inc.)
• Purchase of a Ford F-450 dump truck chassis and dump bed for Horticulture Department ($61,604.80)
• FY25 budget amendment for 2025 Local Law Enforcement Grant for Police Department
• 4-H and Jamestown Pump Stations Engineering Design Services
• 2025 Virginia Municipal League Policy Committee Nominations

The Town Council voted to convene a closed meeting to consider personnel and legal issues, including candidate interviews and stormwater matters. The Council also certified that only the exempted topics were discussed in that closed session. Several procurement items and a budget amendment were added to the April 28 consent agenda.

• Approved closed meeting on personnel and legal matters (vote 6-0)
• Certified that only exempted matters were discussed in closed meeting (vote 6-0)
• Added purchase of outdoor circuit breakers for Happy Creek Substation to April 28 consent agenda
• Added purchase of truck chassis and dump bed for Horticulture Department to April 28 consent agenda
• Added purchase of truck chassis and service body for Energy Services Department to April 28 consent agenda
• Added purchase of truck chassis with utility bed and crane for Fleet Maintenance Department to April 28 consent agenda
• Added FY25 budget amendment for law enforcement grant to April 28 consent agenda
• Added 4-H and Jamestown Pump Stations engineering design services task order to April 28 consent agenda

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission and Board of Architectural Review will hold a joint work session to discuss a proposed zoning text amendment. The proposal seeks to limit new construction in the residential portion of the Historic District to single-family homes and prohibit the conversion of existing single-family homes into multi-family or commercial uses.

• Proposed zoning text amendment to limit new construction in the residential Historic District to single-family residential structures
• Proposed prohibition of converting existing single-family dwellings in the Historic District into multi-family or commercial properties

Board of Architectural Review

The Board of Architectural Review and Planning Commission will hold a joint work session to discuss a proposed zoning text amendment. The amendment would limit all new construction in the residential portion of Front Royal's Historic District to single-family homes and prohibit conversion of existing single-family homes to multi-family or commercial uses. This is a discussion item only; no vote or decision will occur at this meeting.

• Proposed text amendment to restrict new construction in the historic district to single-family homes only
• Prohibition on converting existing single-family homes to multi-family or commercial uses
• Joint work session of the Board of Architectural Review and Planning Commission

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Front Royal Town Council will hear an update on automated speed cameras that generated $407,707 in revenue and reduced speeding by 97% in school zones. Council will also review the proposed FY2025-2026 budget and provide direction on advertising real estate and personal property tax rates, including a proposed drop to $0.067 per $100 assessed value. Additionally, they will consider a special use permit for a 20-bed expansion at Heritage Hall XIII and a special exception to reduce street pavement width at 1321 Happy Creek Road.

• Automated speed camera update: $407,707 total revenue from March 2024 – March 2025; 97% reduction in speeding instances across school zones.
• FY26 proposed budget discussion: real estate tax rate of $0.067 per $100 (down from $0.10), personal property tax rate of $0.64 per $100 with 43% relief rate.
• Special Use Permit by Heritage Hall XIII, LLC for expansion of 20 beds and associated facilities at 400 W. Strasburg Road.
• Special Exception request by Rappahannock HC LLC to reduce minimum street pavement width from 36 ft to 29 ft at 1321 Happy Creek Road.
• Proposed improvements at Royal Ln/John Marshall Hwy in exchange for not extending pavement.

The Town Council voted unanimously to hold a closed meeting to consider employee matters, a stormwater issue on W. Commonwealth Drive, and the Avtex property insolvency. Council also moved to hold public hearings on April 28 for a Special Use Permit for Heritage Hall and a special exception to reduce street width at 1321 Happy Creek Road. Staff was directed to advertise the real estate tax rate at $0.068 per $100 assessed value and the personal property rate at $0.64 per $100.

• Approved closed meeting (unanimous vote) to discuss personnel and legal matters
• Moved to public hearing on April 28 for Heritage Hall Special Use Permit
• Moved to public hearing on April 28 for street‑width special exception at 1321 Happy Creek Road
• Directed staff to advertise real estate tax rate at $0.068 per $100 assessed value
• Directed staff to advertise personal property tax rate at $0.64 per $100 assessed value

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes from March 3, receive updates on retail strategies and parking signage, and hear a presentation on energy services. An open discussion will follow, and the next meeting date will be set.

• Approval of minutes from March 3, 2025 regular meeting
• Retail Strategies update by Director of Community Development and Tourism Lizi Lewis
• Parking signage update by Lizi Lewis
• Energy Services update by Director of Energy Services Carey Saffelle
• Open discussion led by Chairman Rick Novak

The board voted to approve the minutes from the February 4, 2025 meeting, with all six present members voting yes. Members discussed the outdated 2019 Parking Study and agreed to explore improved signage for underused parking on Jackson Street. The meeting was formally adjourned after a motion passed.

• Approved February 4 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Agreed to explore signage improvement for Jackson Street parking
• Motion to adjourn passed

Local Board of Building Code Appeals

The Local Board of Building Code Appeals will hold an organizational meeting on April 3, 2025, to elect a chairman and vice chairman, review its by-laws, and receive state training from a Virginia DHCD official. No appeals are scheduled for hearing at this meeting.

• Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman for the board
• Review of board by-laws, approved by Town Council on 2/27/2023
• State training presentation by W. Travis Luter, Sr., Secretary to the State Building Code Technical Review Board
• Meeting is organizational with no pending appeals

The Local Board of Building Code Appeals elected Frank Stankiewicz as Chairman and George Cline as Vice Chairman. The board also voted to accept its by‑laws. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Elected Frank Stankiewicz as Chairman (yes votes: Shaffer, Cline, Whitehead, Gornowich, Stankiewicz, Spence)
• Elected George Cline as Vice Chairman (yes votes: Shaffer, Whitehead, Gornowich, Stankiewicz, Spence; abstain: Cline)
• Accepted board by‑laws (yes votes: Spence, Stankiewicz, Gornowich, Whitehead, Shaffer)
• Adjourned meeting (yes votes: Shaffer, Cline, Whitehead, Gornowich, Stankiewicz, Spence)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss amendments to town fees and zoning text. The body will also consider special use permit requests for a private school and a lodging house.

• Proposed fee increases, including Special Use Permits from $400 to $1,000 and Comprehensive Plan Amendments from $400 to $1,000
• Zoning Text Amendment to allow lodging houses by Special Use Permit in the R-1 zoning district
• Special Use Permit request for a lodging house at 506 N. Royal Avenue for the Warren County Community Health Coalition
• Special Use Permit request for a private school at 16 N. Royal Avenue for Divinum Auxilium Academy
• Discussion on shelters, alternative housing, and a Board of Architectural Review text amendment

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding the sale of 180 square feet of land on Kibler Street. The body is also deciding on subdivision plat approvals and development plan revisions for several residential projects.

• Public hearing for the sale of 180 square feet of Kibler Street adjoining 219 E. 7th St
• Bid award for waterline upgrades on N. Royal Avenue, W 12th Street, and Cherry Street
• Final subdivision plat approval for 8 residential lots at 336 W. Strasburg Road
• Revisions to subdivision development plan for Happy Creek Knolls, Section 4
• Note and Deed of Trust Agreement with Habitat for Humanity for 357 Osage Street

The Town Council voted unanimously to award a $902,132.25 waterline upgrade contract to Greenridge Contractors. It also approved the sale of 180 sq ft of Kibler Street to Apple Contractors Inc. for $2,500, a $400 reimbursement to Warren Coalition, and a pole‑attachment agreement with Brightspeed. The council approved a final subdivision plat for 336 W. Strasburg Road and a note/deed of trust with Habitat for Humanity for $11,093, while denying revisions to a Happy Creek Knolls subdivision plan and a curb‑gutter‑sidewalk waiver at 1011‑1013 Virginia Avenue.

• Approved $902,132.25 waterline upgrade contract to Greenridge Contractors (unanimous)
• Approved sale of 180 sq ft Kibler Street to Apple Contractors Inc. for $2,500 (unanimous)
• Approved $400 reimbursement of SUP fee to Warren Coalition (unanimous)
• Approved pole‑attachment agreement with Brightspeed (unanimous)
• Approved $11,093 note and deed of trust with Habitat for Humanity (unanimous)
• Approved final subdivision plat for 336 W. Strasburg Road (unanimous)
• Denied revisions to Happy Creek Knolls Subdivision Development Plan (unanimous)
• Denied curb, gutter and sidewalk waiver for 1011‑1013 Virginia Avenue (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Front Royal Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a zoning text amendment to permit lodging houses by special use permit in R-1 residential districts, a special exception to reduce street pavement width at 1321 Happy Creek Road, a fee ordinance amendment, and a special use permit for a nursing home expansion. The commission also consents to advertise two special use permits—for a lodging house at 506 N. Royal Avenue and a private school at 16 N. Royal Avenue—for an April public hearing.

• Public hearing on zoning text amendment to allow lodging houses by special use permit in R-1 district
• Public hearing on special exception to reduce required street pavement width from 36' to 29' at 1321 Happy Creek Road
• Public hearing on ordinance amendment to revise fees in Town Code Chapters 175-137 and 148-1100
• Public hearing on special use permit for Heritage Hall XIII LLC to add 20 beds at 400 W. Strasburg Road skilled nursing facility
• Consent to advertise for April public hearing: lodging house at 506 N. Royal Avenue and private school at 16 N. Royal Avenue

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a special exception allowing Rappahannock HC LLC to reduce required street pavement width from 36 to 29 feet for a 96-lot subdivision at 1321 Happy Creek Road. The commission also recommended approval of a special use permit for Heritage Hall XIII LLC to expand its skilled nursing facility by 20 beds at 400 W. Strasburg Road. A zoning text amendment was moved to a work session, and a fee ordinance amendment was postponed to the next meeting.

• Recommended approval of special exception #2500049 to reduce street width to 29 feet (4-0)
• Recommended approval of special use permit #2500054 for Heritage Hall nursing facility expansion (4-0)
• Removed zoning text amendment #2500062 from agenda to April 2 work session (4-0)
• Postponed fee ordinance amendment #2500051 to April 16 meeting (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda to advertise two special use permits for April public hearing (4-0)
• Approved February 19, 2025 meeting minutes as written (4-0)

Board of Architectural Review

The Board of Architectural Review will hold a work session to discuss previous Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) applications and enforcement procedures, followed by a regular meeting to decide on two new COA applications: one for re-chinking a log cabin at 123 Chester Street and one for replacing wood windows with vinyl at 507 E. Main Street, where work has already started.

• COA Application #2400691 – Re-chink log cabin and replace damaged logs at 123 Chester Street (Tax Map 20A8-2-4B), C-2 zone, Historic Overlay District.
• COA Application #2500047 – Replace 18 wood windows with vinyl at 507 E. Main Street (Tax Map 20A8-7-4); work already started.
• Work session discussion of previous COA applications (217 Lee Street, 24 Stonewall Drive) and enforcement procedures.
• Historic District Guidelines review during work session.

The Board of Architectural Review approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for re-chinking and possible log replacement at 123 Chester Street, and approved only three vinyl windows on a rear façade while denying all other vinyl window replacements at 507 E. Main Street. The board also approved the January 14, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved COA #2400691 for re-chinking and possible log replacement at 123 Chester Street (4-0)
• Approved three vinyl windows on the west-facing façade (facing laundromat) at 507 E. Main Street (4-0)
• Denied all other vinyl window replacements at 507 E. Main Street (4-0)
• Approved January 14, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0, 1 abstention)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will discuss a traffic analysis for the Royal Lane and John Marshall Highway intersection, requested for a Special Use Permit for 36 multi-family apartments and an office building off Royal Lane. VDOT will present three intersection improvement scenarios, including a continuous green-T design, to address public concerns about traffic safety.

• VDOT presentation on traffic analysis for Royal Lane and John Marshall Highway intersection
• Bid for waterline upgrades on N. Royal Avenue, W 12th Street, and Cherry Street
• Transfer of retired bucket truck to Warren County Public Schools
• First Amendment to Pole Attachment Agreement to extend mutual agreement for 15 years
• Lease agreement for town-owned property at Peyton Street Parking Area

Town Council agreed to move the Special Use Permit for 36 multi-family apartments and an office building off Royal Lane to a public hearing on April 28th. Council also reviewed a water and sewer cost-of-service study from Stantec recommending annual rate increases, and agreed to place several items on the March 24th agenda, including a waterline upgrade bid and a pole attachment agreement. A five-year lease for On Cue Sports and Billiards and Front Royal Brewing Co. in the Peyton Street parking area was agreed to, with a public hearing set for April 28th.

• Moved Royal Lane SUP for 36 apartments to April 28 public hearing
• Agreed to place waterline upgrade bid on March 24 consent agenda
• Agreed to add bucket truck transfer to Warren County Public Schools to March 24 agenda
• Agreed to add 15-year pole attachment agreement with Brightspeed to March 24 consent agenda
• Agreed to five-year lease for On Cue Sports and Front Royal Brewing Co. with public hearing April 28
• Agreed to repair dumpster enclosure before lease takes effect
• Convened closed meeting for Town Manager position and IDA legal matters (7-0)

Local Board of Building Code Appeals

This is a procedural meeting of the Front Royal Local Board of Building Code Appeals. The board will elect a chairman and vice-chairman, review its by-laws, and receive a training presentation from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. No specific appeals or substantive matters are on the agenda.

• Election of chairman and vice-chairman for the board
• Review of board by-laws
• Training presentation by W. Travis Luter, Sr. from the Virginia DHCD on state building code appeals

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss several land-use requests and ordinance amendments. Key items include a nursing facility expansion and a proposal to allow lodging houses in R-1 residential districts.

• Special Use Permit for Heritage Hall XIII, LLC to add 20 beds to a skilled nursing facility at 400 W. Strasburg Road
• Zoning Text Amendment to allow lodging houses by Special Use Permit in the R-1 zoning district
• Special Exception request by Rappahannock HC LLC to reduce street pavement width from 36 to 29 feet at 1321 Happy Creek Road
• Ordinance Amendment to Town Code Chapter 175-137 regarding fees, charges, and expenses
• Review of the 2024 Annual Report for the Department of Planning & Zoning

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council is reviewing a request to designate a revitalization area to enable VHDA financing for a proposed 90-unit apartment community off E Criser Road. The body will also consider subdivision plan revisions and a final plat approval for a residential project.

• Proposed VHDA Revitalization Area Designation for 90-unit apartment community off E Criser Road
• Subdivision Development Plan revision request for Happy Creek Knolls, Section 4, Lots 4, 5, 6, 29 & 30
• Final Subdivision Plat approval for 8 residential lots and 2 additional lots at 336 W. Strasburg Road
• Sidewalk waiver request for 1011 and 1013 Virginia Avenue
• Special Use Permit application fee reimbursement request from Warren Coalition

The Town Council approved a Revitalization Area Designation Resolution for Harwood Place Va, LLC, enabling a proposed 90-unit apartment community off E. Criser Road. The vote was 4-1, with Councilman Ingram dissenting over lack of public input. Several other items were discussed but not voted on, including revisions to the Happy Creek Knolls subdivision plan, a final plat for 8 lots on W. Strasburg Road, a SUP fee reimbursement for Warren Coalition, and a curb/gutter/sidewalk waiver for 1011 and 1013 Virginia Avenue — all were added to the March 24th regular meeting agenda. The Council also convened a closed meeting to discuss the Town Manager position and the sale of a vacated portion of Kibler Street.

• Approved VHDA Revitalization Area Designation Resolution for Harwood Place Va, LLC (4-1, Ingram no)
• Added Happy Creek Knolls Section 4 plan revision to March 24 agenda
• Added Ali Billoo final subdivision plat (8 lots, 336 W. Strasburg Rd) to March 24 agenda
• Added Warren Coalition SUP fee reimbursement request to March 24 consent agenda
• Added curb/gutter/sidewalk waiver for 1011 & 1013 Virginia Ave to March 24 agenda
• Convened closed meeting for Town Manager position and Kibler Street property sale (5-0)

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority will consider approval of the February 2024 minutes and receive updates on Retail Strategies, energy services, and the 2019 Parking Study. A new program introduction from People Inc is scheduled. No major financial decisions or rezonings are on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from February 3, 2024
• Retail Strategies update from Lizi Lewis
• Program Introduction to People Inc
• Energy Services Update
• 2019 Parking Study update

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority (FREDA) unanimously reappointed its four officers to their previous roles and approved the December 2, 2024 meeting minutes. The board agreed to keep the existing business survey open and discussed updates on retail recruitment and zoning recommendations, but took no other formal actions.

• Approved December 2, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Reappointed Rick Novak as Chairman, Nick Bass as Vice Chairman, Thomas Eshleman as Treasurer, and Hillary Wilfong as Secretary (5-0)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will conduct public hearings regarding tobacco shop regulations, a rezoning request on W. Strasburg Road, and FOIA policy updates. The body will also consider a budget amendment to award a contract for the 8th Street Bridge Replacement Program.

• Public hearing for rezoning property on W. Strasburg Road from C-1 to R-3
• Public hearing for FY25 Budget Amendment to award contract for 8th Street Bridge Replacement Program
• Public hearing for Zoning Text Amendment regarding tobacco, smoke, or vape shops
• Proposed ordinance for the vacation and sale of a portion of Kibler Street
• Consent items including purchase of salt spreaders and a bioretention pond rebuild

The Front Royal Town Council approved a $1,819,998.50 contract with WG Construction Company for the 8th Street Bridge Replacement Project, along with a $909,999.25 budget amendment to accept VDOT funds. The council also adopted a zoning text amendment for tobacco/smoke/vape shops, approved a rezoning on W. Strasburg Road, and passed several other ordinances and consent agenda items. All votes were unanimous except for the vape shop ordinance, which passed 6-1.

• Approved $1,819,998.50 contract to WG Construction for 8th Street Bridge replacement (6-0)
• Approved $909,999.25 FY25 budget amendment for VDOT funds for bridge project (6-0)
• Adopted zoning text amendment for tobacco/smoke/vape shops (6-1, Veitenthal no)
• Approved rezoning of W. Strasburg Road properties from C-1 to R-3 (6-0)
• Adopted FOIA policy amendments for remote participants and agenda removal (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including salt spreaders, bioretention pond rebuild, budget amendments, and appointments (6-0)
• Adopted ordinance conditionally approving vacation and sale of portion of Kibler Street (6-0)
• Held closed meeting for Town Manager search, IDA insolvency, and HEPTAD litigation

Planning Commission

The Front Royal Planning Commission will consider consent items to advertise public hearings for a special exception on pavement width, a fee ordinance amendment, and a zoning text amendment for lodging houses in R-1 districts. New business includes exterior renovations at 1355 N Shenandoah Avenue, subdivision revisions for Happy Creek Knolls Section 4, and final plat approval for an 8-lot subdivision at 336 W Strasburg Road. The commission will also elect officers and receive reports.

• Consent to advertise public hearing for special exception to reduce pavement width at 1321 Happy Creek Road from 36 to 29 feet
• Consent to advertise public hearing for ordinance amendment to Chapter 175-137 pertaining to fees
• Consent to advertise public hearing for zoning text amendment to allow lodging houses by special use permit in R-1 district
• Exterior renovation review for structure at 1355 N Shenandoah Avenue in C-1 district
• Request for final subdivision plat approval for 336 W Strasburg Road, splitting 3.52 acres into 8 residential lots

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend denial to Town Council of Maronda Homes' request to remove retaining walls from five lots in Happy Creek Knolls, Section 4, citing safety concerns about steep slopes. The Commission also approved exterior renovations at 1355 N. Shenandoah Avenue with conditions, recommended approval of a final subdivision plat at 336 W. Strasburg Road, and consented to advertise three items for March public hearings.

• Recommended denial of subdivision plan revisions for Happy Creek Knolls lots 4, 5, 6, 29, 30 (4-0)
• Approved exterior renovations at 1355 N Shenandoah Ave with non-glare metal panels and earthen tones (3-1)
• Recommended approval of final subdivision plat at 336 W. Strasburg Rd (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda to advertise special exception, fee amendment, and lodging house zoning text amendment for March hearings (4-0)
• Re-elected Connie Marshner as Chair (3-0, Marshner abstained)
• Re-elected Allen Neel as Vice Chair (4-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a largely procedural meeting to elect a Chairman and Vice Chairman, approve the minutes from the November 19, 2024 regular meeting, and review the Board's 2024 Annual Report. No variance requests or appeals are on the agenda.

• Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman for 2025
• Approval of November 19, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of the 2024 Board of Zoning Appeals Annual Report

The Board of Zoning Appeals held a regular meeting on February 18, 2025, with all five members present. The board unanimously approved the November 19, 2024 meeting minutes, elected Cody Taylor as Chairman and Clare Schmitt as Vice Chairman, and accepted the 2024 Annual Report. No zoning appeals or other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned at 7:19 p.m.

• Approved November 19, 2024 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Cody Taylor as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Clare Schmitt as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Accepted 2024 Annual Report (unanimous)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will hold a regular work session with several action items. They will consider a request for a revitalization area resolution for a proposed 90-unit apartment community on E Criser Rd. Other items include purchases of salt spreaders and a bioretention pond rebuild, budget amendments, and a solid waste collection proposal. Two closed meetings are scheduled for discussion of Planning Commission candidates.

• Purchase of three salt spreaders from Godwin Manufacturing for $59,413.95
• Bioretention pond rebuild at 1101 Manassas Ave by Muller, Inc. for $81,931.50
• FY25 budget amendments: receive funds from sale of transformer and accept grant from VA Department of Forestry
• Solid waste collection proposal from Vibrissa and On Cue
• Request for revitalization area resolution for 90-unit apartment community off E Criser Rd

The Town Council held a work session and took one formal action: directing the Mayor to send a letter of support to the Warren County Board of Supervisors, asking them to consider designating a vacant parcel off E. Criser Road as a revitalization area for a proposed 90-unit apartment community. All other agenda items were discussed and agreed to be added to the February 24th consent agenda, including purchases, budget amendments, and a solid waste proposal. The council also held two closed meetings, one regarding the Planning Commission and one regarding the Town Attorney.

• Approved letter of support to Warren County for revitalization area designation for 90-unit apartment community off E. Criser Road (6-0)
• Agreed to add purchase of salt spreaders for Public Works to Feb 24 consent agenda
• Agreed to add bioretention pond rebuild at Energy Services to Feb 24 consent agenda
• Agreed to add FY25 budget amendment for transformer sale funds to Feb 24 consent agenda
• Agreed to add FY25 budget amendment for Virginia Dept. of Forestry arborist grant to Feb 24 consent agenda
• Agreed to bring solid waste collection proposal from Vibrissa and On Cue back in March with possible public hearing
• Took no action on fiscal impact analysis study; determined it is County's responsibility under VSA
• Held closed meetings for Planning Commission and Town Attorney personnel matters

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss a major subdivision final plat creating eight residential lots at 336 W Strasburg Road, along with revisions to the Happy Creek Knolls subdivision plan and an exterior renovation at 1355 N Shenandoah Avenue. They will also consider revisions to the Schedule of Fees and review draft zoning ordinance articles. This is a work session; no votes are expected.

• Final subdivision plat for 336 W Strasburg Road: 8 residential lots, 1 stormwater lot, and residue lot (R-2 zone)
• Revisions to Happy Creek Knolls Section 4 subdivision plan for lots 4-6, 29, 30 by Maronda Homes
• Exterior renovations at 1355 N Shenandoah Avenue: converting a bank into a two-tenant mercantile building (C-1 zone)
• Discussion of revisions to the Schedule of Fees
• Draft Zoning Ordinance Review: Articles 3, 4, and 5

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will hear an update on the McKay Springs alternative water source evaluation, including cost estimates for three well targets ($24,000-$33,000) and options such as a quarry or interconnect with Winchester. Council will also discuss a special use permit for 36 apartments and an office building off Royal Lane, a rezoning on W. Strasburg Road, a waiver of utility fees for Habitat for Humanity, a budget amendment for the 8th Street Bridge replacement, and proposed ordinance amendments. Two closed meetings are scheduled for personnel matters.

• McKay Springs alternative water source evaluation with cost estimates for three well targets ($24,000-$33,000) and other options (quarry, Winchester interconnect)
• Special Use Permit for 36-unit apartment complex and office building on vacant parcel off Royal Lane (Tax Map 20A17-1-14B1)
• Rezoning of addresses and vacant lot on W. Strasburg Road from C-1 to R-3 (Skyline Realty Investments)
• Waiver of utility connection fees for Habitat for Humanity on Osage Street
• FY25 Budget Amendment and bid acceptance for 8th Street Bridge replacement project

The Town Council held a work session on February 3, 2025, and took several actions. Council agreed to advertise public hearings for February 24th on a rezoning request for W. Strasburg Road, a budget amendment and bid award for the 8th Street Bridge replacement, and a proposed amendment to Chapter 4 of the Town code. A special use permit request for three apartment buildings and an office off Royal Lane was tabled, with staff asked to gather more traffic and safety information for the March 3rd work session. Council also discussed a Habitat for Humanity request for utility fee waivers, with staff to work out logistics, and heard a presentation on alternative water source options.

• Tabled special use permit for Royal Lane apartments and office, pending more traffic data (work session)
• Agreed to advertise public hearing for W. Strasburg Road rezoning (Feb 24)
• Agreed to advertise public hearing for 8th Street Bridge budget amendment and bid award (Feb 24)
• Agreed to advertise public hearing for Chapter 4 Administration of Government amendment (Feb 24)
• Held closed meetings to discuss Planning Commission and Town Manager positions

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority (FREDA) will vote on approving December meeting minutes and elect officers for chairman, vice chairman, treasurer, and secretary. Old business includes updates on an existing business survey (954 businesses mailed, 32 additional surveys returned) and a retail recruitment contract with Retail Strategies in final review. New business features a presentation on the Front Royal Zoning Matrix by Planning and Zoning Director Lauren Kopishke.

• Election of officers (chairman, vice chairman, treasurer, secretary) — action item requiring board vote
• Existing Business Survey Update — 954 mailers sent, 32 additional surveys returned with 46 QR code responses
• Retail Recruitment Update — contract with Retail Strategies in final review; kickoff meeting to be scheduled
• Front Royal Zoning Matrix presentation by Director of Planning and Zoning Lauren Kopishke
• Approval of December 2, 2024 meeting minutes

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority approved the November 5, 2024 meeting minutes with a correction to who made the motion. The board received updates on the business survey and the Retail Strategies contract, which is in final review. Discussion covered Main Street trash issues and a potential 'Lunch and Learn' event. No major policy decisions were made.

• Approved November 5, 2024 minutes with correction (4-0, Gedney abstained)
• Discussed Retail Strategies contract, awaiting final review and kickoff meeting
• Discussed Main Street trash issues and solid waste study forum
• Discussed potential 'Lunch and Learn' event with Chamber of Commerce

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town/County Liaison Committee will discuss how the fiscal impact analysis is calculated for developers during rezoning requests, including the formula and who performs the calculations. They will also consider whether to increase solid waste tipping fees in 2025 to incorporate into the town budget. Additionally, a representative will provide an update on transportation subcommittee activities.

• Clarification on the formula used for fiscal impact analysis during rezoning
• Discussion of a potential increase in solid waste tipping fees for 2025
• Update from the Transportation Subcommittee

The Liaison Committee meeting on January 30, 2025, was a discussion session with no formal votes or decisions. The main topic was the outdated fiscal impact analysis used for developers; the County proposed sharing the $100,000 update cost, and the Town agreed to consider it at the February 10th work session. Other discussions included potential solid waste tipping fee increases, a federal review of an I-66 emergency exit, and water conservation enforcement for out-of-town customers.

• Agreed to add fiscal impact analysis cost-sharing proposal to Feb 10 work session
• Discussed potential solid waste tipping fee increase, decision expected by May
• Noted I-66 emergency exit review is tied up at federal level
• Discussed water conservation enforcement for out-of-town customers

Town Council Meeting Agendas

Front Royal Town Council will hold public hearings on a special exception for VFW parking relief, vacating a portion of Kibler Street, an ordinance amendment for tobacco/vape shops, and a comprehensive plan amendment. Council will also consider a final subdivision plat for Squirrel Hill Development on West Main Street.

• Special exception request from VFW Post 1860 for parking relief at 654-B W 11th Street
• Public input on vacating a portion of Kibler Street
• Ordinance amendment to Chapter 175 pertaining to tobacco, smoke or vape shops
• Comprehensive plan amendment for area between Strasburg Rd and Duck St to Rugby St
• Final subdivision plat for Squirrel Hill Development at 344 W. Main Street

The Front Royal Town Council approved a special exception for the VFW Post 1860 to relieve parking requirements at 654-B W. 11th Street, appointed viewers for a proposed vacation of 180 square feet of Kibler Street, and approved the final subdivision plat for the Squirrel Hill Development at 344 W. Main Street. The council also kept a public hearing open on a tobacco/vape shop ordinance amendment and approved a comprehensive plan amendment for the Riverton Planning District. All votes were unanimous (5-0) with Councilman Sealock absent.

• Approved VFW Post 1860 parking relief at 654-B W. 11th St (5-0)
• Appointed viewers for Kibler Street vacation of 180 sq ft (5-0)
• Kept public hearing open on tobacco/vape shop ordinance until Feb 24 (5-0)
• Approved Comprehensive Plan amendment for Riverton area to Neighborhood Residential (5-0)
• Approved Squirrel Hill final subdivision plat: 34 lots, 33 units at 344 W. Main St (5-0)
• Convened closed meeting to discuss Town Manager position (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a special use permit for 36 apartment units off Royal Lane and a rezoning of multiple parcels on W. Strasburg Road from C-1 to R-3. Old business includes a preliminary plan for a 9-lot subdivision at 336 W. Strasburg Road. The meeting also includes approval of December 2024 minutes and citizen comments.

• Special Use Permit hearing for 36-unit apartment complex (3 buildings of 12 units each) and office building on vacant parcel off Royal Lane (Tax Map 20A17-1-14B1), zoned C-1.
• Rezoning hearing request by Skyline Realty Investments to change parcels at 10, 30, 44, 52, 60 and a vacant lot on W. Strasburg Road (Tax Map 20A12, Section 3, Parcels 22, 26, 27A, 31C, 31, 23) from C-1 to R-3.
• Preliminary plan review for 9-lot, 16-dwelling-unit subdivision at 336 W. Strasburg Road (Tax Map 20A11, Section 4, Parcel 23B), zoned R-2.

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a special use permit for a 36-unit apartment complex off Royal Lane, with conditions including a barrier, driveway upgrade, and road extension. They also recommended approval of a rezoning on W. Strasburg Road from C-1 to R-3 for 24 townhomes, and approved a preliminary plan for a 9-lot subdivision at 336 W. Strasburg Road.

• Recommended approval of Special Use Permit #2400673 for 36-unit apartments off Royal Lane (3-1)
• Recommended approval of Rezoning #2400687 for W. Strasburg Road properties from C-1 to R-3 (4-0)
• Approved Preliminary Plan #2400421 for 9-lot subdivision at 336 W. Strasburg Road (4-0)
• Approved minutes of December 18, 2024 meeting (4-0)

Board of Architectural Review

The Board of Architectural Review will consider three Certificate of Appropriateness applications for work already completed at properties in the Historic Overlay District. The items include stairs and deck at 207 S. Royal Avenue, a pizza oven building at 201/205 S. Royal Avenue, and restaurant kitchen renovations at 10 W. Stonewall Drive.

• COA #2400693: After-the-fact approval for stairs, deck, window-to-door conversion, and window replacements at 207 S. Royal Avenue (zoned C-1).
• COA #2400694: After-the-fact approval for a building housing an outdoor pizza oven at 201/205 S. Royal Avenue (zoned C-1).
• COA #2400710: After-the-fact approval for exterior renovations to house a future restaurant kitchen at 10 W. Stonewall Drive (zoned C-1).
• All three applications are submitted by Shelly Cook/Cook Realty and involve properties in the Historic Overlay District.
• The board will also approve minutes from the December 10, 2024 regular meeting.

The Board of Architectural Review approved three Certificates of Appropriateness for properties owned by Shelly Cook/Cook Realty, all with conditions. The approvals cover a rear deck and window replacements at 207 S. Royal Avenue, a pizza oven building at 201/205 S. Royal Avenue, and exterior renovations for a future restaurant kitchen at 10 W. Stonewall Drive. All votes were unanimous (4-0).

• Approved COA #2400693 for rear deck, door, and vinyl windows except front façade, conditional on replacing front windows with wooden divided-light double-hung windows (4-0)
• Approved COA #2400694 for pizza oven building, conditional on painting to match, installing a gutter, and removal within 12 months (4-0)
• Approved COA #2400710 for restaurant kitchen exterior renovations, with conditions including metal roof, casement windows, and specific door/siding changes (4-0)

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will discuss a request for water and sewer service for a proposed warehouse center and a request to vacate a portion of Kibler Street. The meeting also includes a license agreement for a sign installation in the downtown area.

• Request to vacate 180 square feet of Kibler Street adjoining 219 E. 7th Street
• Request for Town water and sewer for 444 Baugh, LLC for a proposed 850,500 square foot distribution warehouse center
• License Agreement with Downtown Front Royal, Inc (DFRi) for a sign at Commerce Avenue and Main Street
• Estimated land value of $630.00 for the Kibler Street vacation request

The Town Council held a work session and agreed to schedule a public hearing for January 27 on a request to vacate a portion of Kibler Street to resolve a zoning setback issue. The council also discussed but took no formal action on a request for out-of-town water and sewer utilities, deferring it until more information is provided, and agreed to review a sign license agreement with Downtown Front Royal, Inc. in February. The council convened a closed meeting to discuss litigation, the Industrial Development Authority dissolution, and the Town Manager position.

• Agreed to hold public hearing on Jan 27 for Kibler Street vacation request
• Deferred water/sewer request for 444 Baugh LLC until additional info received
• Agreed to add DFRi sign license agreement to February work session
• Convened closed meeting for litigation, IDA dissolution, and Town Manager search

Town Council Meeting Agendas

The Town Council will appoint a Vice Mayor and assign members to various 2025 committees. The body will also discuss several zoning and planning amendments, including a parking exception request for the VFW.

• Appointment of Vice Mayor for a term expiring December 31, 2026
• Special exception request by VFW for parking relief at 654-B W. 11th Street
• Zoning text amendment regarding performance standards for tobacco, smoke, or vape shops
• Comprehensive Plan Amendment for the area between Strasburg Rd/Duck St and Rugby St
• Final subdivision plat for 33 dwelling units and 1 existing home at 344 W. Main Street

The Front Royal Town Council appointed BJ Wilson as Interim Town Manager effective January 13, 2025, with a 10% salary increase during his service. Councilwoman Amber Veitenthal was appointed Vice Mayor with a term expiring December 31, 2026. The council also approved the 2025 meeting order of business, committee appointments, and set public hearings for January 27th on a VFW parking relief request, a zoning text amendment for tobacco/vape shops, and a comprehensive plan amendment. The council agreed to keep the $425.00 trash collection rate for Main Street businesses and directed staff to notify them.

• Appointed BJ Wilson as Interim Town Manager effective Jan 13, 2025, with 10% salary increase (5-0)
• Appointed Councilwoman Veitenthal as Vice Mayor, term to expire Dec 31, 2026 (6-0)
• Approved 2025 regular meeting order of business (6-0)
• Approved 2025 committee appointments including Audit/Finance, Scholarship, Transportation/Infrastructure, and Regional Commission (6-0)
• Set public hearing for Jan 27 on VFW parking relief at 654-B W. 11th St
• Set public hearing for Jan 27 on zoning text amendment for tobacco/smoke/vape shops
• Set public hearing for Jan 27 on comprehensive plan amendment for area between Strasburg Rd/Duck St to Rugby St
• Kept $425.00 trash collection rate for Main Street businesses; directed staff to notify businesses with 60-day response window

Front Royal Economic Development Authority

The Front Royal Economic Development Authority's January 6, 2025, meeting was canceled, as indicated in the agenda. No votes or discussions occurred. The agenda had included approval of minutes, election of officers, old business updates, and open discussion.

• Meeting canceled; no action taken on planned items
• Cancelled agenda included election of officers (chairman, vice chairman, treasurer, secretary)
• Old business items (Existing Business Survey, Retail Recruitment update) were not discussed

Planning Commission

The Front Royal Planning Commission will hold a work session on January 2, 2025, to discuss four items: a preliminary plan for a 9-lot, 16-unit subdivision at 336 W Strasburg Road; a special use permit for 36 multi-family apartment units off Royal Lane; a rezoning request for six parcels on W. Strasburg Road from C-1 to R-3; and a discussion on data centers and solar. No votes are scheduled; these are review and discussion items.

• Preliminary plan for major subdivision (9 lots, 16 units) at 336 W Strasburg Road, zoned R-2
• Special Use Permit for 36-unit multi-family apartments (three 12-unit buildings) off Royal Lane, zoned C-1
• Rezoning application for six parcels on W. Strasburg Road (10, 30, 44, 52, 60 and a vacant lot) from C-1 to R-3
• Commission discussion on data centers and solar development