Councilman David Marks Proposes Zoning Changes To Curb Apartment Construction In White Marsh

WHITE MARSH - Baltimore County Councilman David Marks has introduced a new bill to limit the construction of new apartment buildings in much of the White Marsh Town Center.

Bill 52-23 would revoke previous laws permitting the construction of apartment buildings east of White Marsh Mall. It would halt plans for at least 330 new apartments and prevent future residential projects in specific zones if passed.

The legislation focuses on altering zoning rules in the Manufacturing, Light (M.L.) Zone that adjoins certain C.T. Districts. The objective is to nullify Section 253.1.I of the Baltimore County Zoning Regulations, which allows for residential development under certain conditions.

Residents have voiced their concerns over three recently announced apartment buildings in White Marsh. In August, a Towson-based engineering firm filed plans for a new 330-unit apartment complex at 8020 Sandpiper Circle near the White Marsh Mall.

That announcement followed closely on the heels of another proposed housing project in June, which suggested constructing 200 apartments at The AVENUE in White Marsh. An additional 516-unit project was proposed in late 2022.

All three of the recently proposed apartment buildings fall within the Overlea High School attendance boundary - an institution that reached 112% of its maximum student capacity during the 2022 school year, according to BCPS data.

Bill 52-23 would not affect projects that had initiated their concept plan conferences before June 1, 2023, and would go into effect two weeks following its enactment.

Councilman Marks has also indicated that in the upcoming weeks, a task force he initiated will release recommendations focusing on the White Marsh Town Center's future. The issues to be examined include building heights, open spaces, and transportation options.

The Baltimore County Council is scheduled to vote on the new bill on Monday, September 18.

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