The debate over limiting the height of the planned 275-foot Plaza Residences in Columbia soon will make its way to the Howard County Council
Councilwoman Mary Kay Sigaty, D-District 4, plans next month to introduce two proposed zoning changes, which the Planning Board voted down last week.
“I didn?t hear compelling enough reasons to not go forward with height limits,” she said, especially because she proposed the limit expire after a downtown plan is finalized.
All proposed amendments must be brought as legislation, Sigaty said.
The Planning Board voted down both amendments after hearing testimony from supporters and opponents.
In a staff report, the county?s Department of Planning and Zoning recommended approval of the height limit, but denied recommendation of a clause saying the limits would apply to all buildings under appeal or judicial review.
Sigaty and other council members said they were awaiting the Planning Board?s written opinion to give more information on the ruling.
“I am going to very strongly consider their thoughts and decision, especially given the unanimity of their decision,” said Council Chairman Calvin Ball, D-District 2.
Councilwoman Jen Terrasa, D-District 3, said she would review the opinion and hear public opinion again once the amendments are introduced as legislation.
Meanwhile, County Executive Ken Ulman said he still is discussing a possible compromise with the builders, WCI Communities Inc.
“I would have hoped we?d have something by now,”Ulman said.
“I still feel the building is too tall as it is proposed.”
