Backyard windmills could become more prevalent in Baltimore County after lawmakers this week expressed support for them and for homeowners who want them to curb soaring power prices.
The Baltimore County Council Monday passed a resolution directing the county planning board to re-examine a current zoning law equating windmills to sheds with height limits at 15 feet. At that height, experts said significant wind generation is impossible.
The resolution comes as the county entertains its first request for abackyard windmill from Phoenix homeowner Barry Antonelli. Studies suggest residential windmills ? which cost between $14,000 and $120,000 ? could shave up to 25 percent off monthly electric bills.
Also on Monday evening, lawmakers heard testimony on proposed additions to the county?s roster of historical landmarks, including an 83-year-old Catonsville home built by chemist and developer Victor Bloede.
Known as the LaPenna house, the deteriorating Forest Avenue structure is slated for demolition to make way for a 23-unit town house development proposed by Catonsville builder Charles Skirven.
Skirven?s attorney, Scott Barhight, said Bloede?s home has no historical significance.
“I find it interesting to hear him described as a successful businessman,” Barhight told lawmakers. “I?d like to consider myself a successful lawyer. But when I die, please don?t list my house.”
Structures designated as historical landmarks are first placed on a preliminary list by the county?s landmarks preservation committee, then confirmed by the county council. Landmarked buildings are eligible for tax credits for certain improvements, but changes receive tighter scrutiny.
Residents also testified in support of adding Loch Raven Elementary School, which was built at the center of Loch Raven Village, one of Maryland?s first planned communities. Lutherville resident Jill Hettinger urged lawmakers to add the Weisbrod-Carroll on Forest Avenue, a rare example of the “Downing-Vaux cottage” of the Victoria era.
“It?s already part of the historic district whether on paper or not,” Hettinger said. “One of the neighbors described it as a one-block oasis.”
