Some Columbia residents fear more housing could hurt their way of life in Wilde Lake, but some business owners said more growth means more business.
This debate in the oldest village in downtown Columbia surrounded a recent public hearing on a proposed zoning amendment that would open the door for any village center property owner, such as Kimco Realty Corp., which owns Wilde Lake Village Center property, to seek approval for more housing and businesses.
Some residents are concerned that Kimco will construct 500 rental apartments in four- to six-story buildings. Kimco could not be reached for comment.
“If you add 500 apartments and add more people to the proximity to the restaurant, it can only be a good thing,” said Duane Carey, spokesman for The Melting Pot, a fondue restaurant in Wilde Lake.
“The villages all need some life breathed into them. It’s certainly something I think all residents and businesses should support.”
Though residents, such as Joyce Baer, realized change at the village center was inevitable as more businesses closed, they said they didn’t want their village overrun with more housing, potentially compromising their way of life.
The redevelopment of the Wilde Lake Village Center has been a growing concern since the close of its anchor store, Giant grocery story, said Councilwoman Mary Kay Sigaty.
“It’s been two years since the Giant closed,” said Vince Marando, Wilde Lake Village Board member. “We saw this train coming down the track.”
The center has more than 10 businesses, including the Columbia Bank, Anthony Richard Barber Shop and Today’s Catch Seafood Market.
While Carey said development would be good for business, The Melting Pot’s sales have still been up the past five years.
“It’s not all the doom and gloom everyone thinks,” he said, referring to the village center’s perceived deterioration.
Others, though, have said that business has been down since the Giant closed.
“Apartments are a good thing, but we do need a grocery store,” said Sanjay Desai, owner of Absolutely Wine or Spirits.
“I hope something comes in. It’ll be good for everybody.
Some business owners said a grocery store is needed, but several indicated the grocery stores weren’t interested because Giant’s old location was too small. They said the nearest store for residents was Safeway in Harper’s Choice.
Howard’s Planning Board will continue to take testimony from residents until Jan. 8 before the board reconvenes later in the month, said Planning Board member Linda Dombrowski.
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