New Members Appointed to Planning Commission

Richard Friesner and James Beavers were appointed to the Fredericksburg Planning Commission this week by City Council. 

Friesner works for George Mason University (GMU) in Fairfax, where he serves as program director for the Washington Youth Summit on the Environment.  He is working on a Ph.D. in environmental science and policy at GMU, his thesis focusing on improving water quality in the Chesapeake Bay.  Friesner also serves on the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals.

In his application, Friesner said he is interested in sustainable development, historic preservation and the Fredericksburg watershed.

Friesner was appointed to a four-year term on the Planning Commission, to fill the seat currently held by Susan Spears, who is leaving at the end of her term.

James Beavers was appointed to complete the one-year term remaining for Commissioner Shawn Lawrence, who recently resigned.

Beavers retired this year from his position as a risk analyst for the Department of Housing and Urban Development.  He served on the Planning Commission previously, from 1996 - 2000.

The Planning Commission meets on the second Wednesday of each month to conduct public hearings and consider applications for special use permits, site plans, subdivisions, rezonings and zoning text amendments.