Leesburg Planning Commission Meeting – August 6, 2026

On August 6, 2026, the Leesburg Planning Commission held a work session focused on proposed revisions to the zoning ordinance rewrite in response to three state code bills: SB 531 (Accessory Dwelling Units), HB 888 (Parking Reductions), and SB 94 (High Energy Use Facilities). The meeting began at 12:00 PM (time inferred from agenda) and included a quorum with two commissioners participating remotely for health reasons. The commission adopted the agenda (6-0-1) and approved the July 16, 2026 draft minutes (4-1-2). No public comments were heard.

Consent Calendar

• Adoption of the agenda: Motion carried 6-0-1 (one abstention).
• Approval of the July 16, 2026 meeting minutes: Motion carried 4-1-2 (one opposed, two abstentions).

Public Comments & Testimony

• No petitioners signed up to speak.

Discussion Items

Zoning Ordinance Rewrite – State Code Updates (Work Session)

• SB 531 – Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Staff presented recommended changes to ensure ADU development standards are no more restrictive than those for principal dwellings. Key changes include aligning setbacks, building height (35 feet), and floor area (1,200 sq. ft.) across residential districts (RS, RH, RM, Downtown). The use table was updated to list ADUs as permitted (L) in all applicable districts. The commission debated whether to include a 30-day minimum rental term (letter G) that would effectively prohibit short-term rentals in ADUs. After discussion, the commission voted to remove letter G, allowing ADUs to be used as short-term rentals (subject to registration). Commissioner Robinson expressed concern that short-term rentals reduce long-term housing stock, while Vice Chair McAfee and others argued for property owner flexibility. The final motion removed letter G.
• HB 888 – Minimum Off-Street Parking Reductions: Staff explained that the state requires a minimum 20% parking reduction for residential, multifamily, and mixed-use developments. The commission cannot reduce the percentage but can set criteria. Staff proposed tying the reduction to sustainability incentives (e.g., green roofs, geothermal) or exceeding affordable dwelling unit requirements by five or more units. The commission discussed the impact on downtown parking and agreed to include a concurrent recommendation to the Town Council to study transit alternatives (e.g., shuttles, trolleys) to offset reduced parking. Commissioner Robinson noted that parking reductions may worsen downtown congestion.
• SB 94 – High Energy Use Facilities (Data Centers): Staff added mandatory requirements for applicants to submit a sound profile, site assessment (effects on water, ag, parks, historic sites, forest land), and utility information. These provisions apply to facilities anticipated to require 100 megawatts or more. Commissioners discussed the definition of 100 MW and the inability to enforce conditions if power supply changes. The commission supported the staff recommendation as a means to gather necessary information.

Key Outcomes

• Motion passed (6-0): The commission voted to forward the recommended revisions to the Town Council with approval, including the removal of section 11-2 Charlie 1 Golf (letter G on rental term) and a concurrent recommendation that the Town Council study additional transit options (shuttles, trolleys, etc.) to offset state-mandated parking reductions. The motion cited implementation of SB 531, HB 888, and SB 94, and furtherance of the Town Plan and good zoning practice.
• Staff Report: Director David reported that the Town Council has held three work sessions on the zoning rewrite, with more deep dives planned on topics like urban districts, downtown character, and use table permissibility. Future commission meetings: September 3 (solar facilities) and September 17 (affordable housing bills).
• New Business: Commissioner Robinson requested that the zoning document’s table of contents allow multiple article folders to remain open simultaneously and improve keyword search functionality. Staff will explore options.
• Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 1:30 PM (time inferred).