The idea of a slots parlor at LaurelPark could factor into Anne Arundel County?s master plan even before voters decide whether to legalize the controversial machines.
The county will do its once-a-decade review of the general development plan, a master guide to countywide zoning and land use.
Though the potential legalization of slots would likely occur after the plan?s passage, officials believe the effects of increased gambling ? development, traffic and infrastructure strain ? will be discussed.
“If slots are passed over my objections, these are the ?what if? issues we have to potentially deal with,” said County Councilman Jamie Benoit, D-District 4, who represents the area around Laurel Park and opposes slots.
“Deciding to zone the property [for slots] is a relevant part of the discussion.”
For slots to be legal, the General Assembly would have to pass enabling legislation if next November?s referendum favors slots. That would likely happen after the council approves the modified plan, which could happen in late 2008, officials said.
Slots zoning could be approved outside of the plan by simply making slots an accessory use to the horse track, said planning director Larry Tom.
But that might create headaches for officials if the plan is approved without factoring in slots. The county has to zone the track for slots ? and at least three council members and County Executive John R. Leopold oppose slots.
“In theory, yes, the county could zone for slots outside of the process ? but it makes it more difficult to get a zoning change,” said Michelle Corkadel, chairwoman of the Planning Advisory Board.
Mixed-use zoning already exists around the park, and most of the land in Maryland City is developed. But redevelopment could occur if slots do generate the economic growth that officials say it will.
Ray Smallwood, president of the Maryland City Civic Association, said he and other residents went to Dover Downs in Delaware, a horse track that he said Laurel may mirror if it acquires slots.
“We checked with the civic associations there, and nobody has a problem with [slots],” said Smallwood, who supports slots at Laurel Park. “We don?t want our track to leave.”
