When Compost Crew acquired the Key City operation, it was necessary to update and renew the existing county site approvals. The original site plan obtained by Key City was set to expire in January 2025, and they had not completed the steps required to vest that approval before its expiration.

A new site plan, reflecting the same scale and scope of operation as under Key City, was approved by the Planning Commission in February 2025 under Compost Crew’s ownership. Unfortunately a group of neighbors are now appealing the approval. These neighbors lived near the site while composting operations were active under Key City, and some voiced objections during the Planning Commission hearing. They filed an appeal immediately after the new approval was granted, seeking to block the facility’s continued operation.

These opponents aim to shut down an operation that has served the community responsibly and in full compliance with county requirements. Their appeal will be heard at a critical Frederick County Board of Appeals hearing on June 26, 2025.

Without strong public support, there is a real risk that this valuable local composting solution could be severely limited, or shut down entirely, forcing Frederick County’s growing volume of food scraps to be hauled elsewhere, increasing both costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Why Composting Matters:

·       Contributes to Frederick County’s climate and sustainability goals.

·       Supports local farmers with high-quality compost for healthier soils.

·       Provides a convenient option for residents who want to participate in composting.

·       Reduces landfill waste and cuts greenhouse gas emissions by composting locally.

·       Creates jobs in Frederick County.

·       Aligns with Maryland’s Organics Recycling and Waste Diversion Law (HB 264)