The Fredericksburg City Council will meet on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. The council’s work session begins at 5 p.m., and their regular session begins at 7:30 p.m.
The regular meeting will be streamed live, and the agendas for both meetings has been posted online.
During the 5 p.m. work session, the council will hold a planning commission interview and then discuss the proposed technology district overlay with the planning commission. City staff presented plans for a 250-acre technology district at a December 10, 2024 council meeting. The district will be located in Celebrate Virginia South, parallel to the Rappahannock River.
After two public meetings in October, the council voted on October 23 to amend the city code in order to allow data centers within most commercial zoning districts in the city. The purpose of the district is to promote the development of data centers in areas where new or existing infrastructure could support the centers.
The noise limit for the data centers would be 60 decibels (dB) during the day and 50 dB at night; a graphic in the city’s presentation compares 60 dB to human conversation and 50 dB to the sound of a home refrigerator.
The district also will require that no buildings be visible from the Rappahannock River frontage throughout all four seasons.
The council has acknowledged its timeline for pursuing data centers is aggressive. Mayor Kerry Devine first proposed data centers in a July 2024 council meeting, and the council aims to have a final vote on the Technology Overlay District in February 2025.
In the 7:30 regular meeting, public comment will be allowed. Comments may be submitted by mail or e-mail four hours before the start of the meeting, or speakers may attend the meeting in person. The council plans to read submitted comments aloud during the meeting, and public speakers will be allowed five minutes.
The council will also consider a proposal to remove its Railroad Station Overlay District (RSO) zoning from areas surrounding the downtown train rail. The RSO was created in 1991 and modified in 2010, 2012, and 2013. The changes were intended to help fill vacant lots and smooth the transition from commercial to residential areas. The proposal notes little infill has occurred and suggests the presence of vacant lots is an unpleasant view for train riders.
At a December 11, 2024 meeting, 21 residents expressed concerns about removing the RSO, while four people spoke in favor.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
