Bevins: Seeking Community Input on Comprehensive Zoning

Baltimore County Councilwoman Cathy Bevins released the following update to those she represents in the sixth district:

August is a busy month for many of us in the sixth district. 

Coming to the realization that summertime is almost over, this last full month of summer is often filled with maximum sun exposure down by the waterfront. 

Many folks are busy fitting in that final getaway or family vacation, and, of course, tons of back-to-school shopping, and preparations for all the business that the end of summer brings.

From my perspective as a councilmember, August of this year will provide a time to reflect on the many undertakings of the County Council thus far and to look ahead to the next big task. Of course, a significant part of these first eight months in office have been focused on community outreach and constituent services; but they have also involved passing a fiscally responsible budget, appointing and carefully considering the recommendations of the Councilmanic Redistricting Commission, as well as the passage of numerous bills, resolutions, and other legislative agenda items. 

More so, this month I will be very busy preparing for what lies ahead: the Comprehensive Zoning Map Process (CZMP).

Every four years, the zoning maps of Baltimore County are reviewed by the County Council, with input from the Office of Planning, the Planning Board, as well as various county agencies and departments within the administration. During the CZMP the existing zoning classifications, and thus the permitted uses and density restrictions, for each parcel of property within Baltimore County are eligible for review. 

Any citizen may request a zoning change on any property in the county, although typically, the individual landowners, contract purchasers and community organizations are the most active. Beginning Sept. 1, the public may begin submitting applications for a proposed zoning change or reclassification on subject property. 

The Office of Planning, and the Planning Board will review each application and provide their recommendations, and we, the Council, will ultimately decide whether or not to reclassify the property. There is an abundance of information on the CZMP posted on the county website.

I am looking forward to embarking on this year-long mission, and working together with my colleagues, community leaders and property owners with the goal of shaping a positive impact on future growth and development in and around the sixth district.