New Developments in Eldersburg-Sykesville May Face Delays
Carroll County officials are considering a temporary pause on permits for new developments in the rapidly growing Freedom area, which includes Eldersburg and Sykesville. This move aims to provide more time to review and potentially update zoning laws affecting the region.
Proposed Deferral Periods
- Self-storage facilities: 3-month pause on permitting
- Retirement homes and cluster subdivisions: 6-month pause
- Commercial centers: 8-month pause
Board Vote and Perspectives
The Board of Carroll County Commissioners voted 3-2 to instruct staff to draft a deferral ordinance. Commissioners Susan Krebs, Michael Guerin, and Joseph Vigliotti supported the move, emphasizing the need to manage development due to overcrowded schools and heavier traffic.
"The deferral would give the county government time to reexamine the way it regulates development in a fast-growing area of the county," said the commissioners in favor.
However, there are concerns about the county's legal power to enforce such an ordinance. Commissioners Ken Kiler and Tom Gordon opposed the deferral, warning it might create an “antidevelopment, antibusiness” image and potentially lead to lawsuits from developers.
"The deferral would signify an ‘antidevelopment, antibusiness’ attitude in Carroll — and that the county could be risking lawsuits from developers," said the opposing commissioners.
Summary
The deferral aims to balance growth and infrastructure capacity but faces legal and political challenges within the county leadership.
Author’s summary: Carroll County considers temporary permit delays in Eldersburg-Sykesville to manage rapid growth, sparking debate over development policies and potential legal risks.