The board approved a variance reducing the Atlantic Coastal Bays buffer from 100 feet to 25 feet (encroachment of 75 feet) and granted the special exception to replace an existing residence, subject to mitigation and a 3:1 mitigation ratio for permanent disturbance to the buffer as required by staff and the Critical Area Commission.

Worcester County placed a one-year moratorium on data centers and cable landing stations and requested staff draft zoning language and assessments addressing siting, water, wastewater, noise and sound-impact requirements.

Members debated whether the comprehensive plan should recommend eliminating the E1 district (Southpointe area), discussed sprawl and conservation trade-offs, agreed on protective language to prevent expansion, and passed a motion to advance the draft to public hearing with dates proposed for July.

Board denies motion for manufactured home for poultry operation citing objections