Candidates for the Town Center Village Board all oppose the high-rise building slated for the middle of Columbia, but differ on how to address downtown growth.
Stephen Meskin wants the Village Board to be more assertive when dealing with developers.
“We should tell the developer and all potential residents that we would not annex them unless they abided by the charette,” he said “That?s a power we have; I think we should try to use it.”
Meskin is part of a group appealing the approved plans for a 22-story residential and commercial high-rise on Little Patuxent Parkway next to Wincopin Circle. A hearing will be held by the Department of Planning and Zoning on May 1.
A planning advisory group would help the Village Board communicate with the Department of Planning and Zoning and developers, Hugh Tousey said.
“That is not what we had for the 22-story building,” he said.
Linda Wengel stressed monitoring zoning and setting architectural guidelines, such as height restrictions.
“Things often go through without much public scrutiny,” she said.
Burt Knauft said he would encourage people to participate at planning board meetings.
“We have to be pointed at the county level, where the real decisions are being made,” he said.
At a glance
Four people are running for two Town Center Village Board seats in the Columbia Association. Stephen Meskin, Hugh Tousey, Linda Wengel and Burt Knauft. The election is April 29.
» Main polls: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Vantage Point Road Park.
» Vantage House residents: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., center.
» Evergreens residents: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., apartment complex.
