Fate of Parking Lot Remains in Limbo

The fate of a public parking lot in the Parkville business district remains uncertain as an expected decision by the Baltimore County Revenue Authority is delayed.

Don Hutchinson, chairman of the authority, told a standing-room only crowd of business and community leaders, elected officials and interested developers, that the five-member board would not decide whether it would sell the 55-space lot this morning.

"This is a big deal for us," Hutchinson said. "It's a big deal for us financially but we do respect the role we have in the community."

There are five bidders interested in the lot on Harford Road between Taylor and Lavender Avenues.

Hutchinson said he would like to see interested buyers meet with community leaders to outline plans before the authority makes a decision.

"I do think there is some sympathy with having some prior communication between the community and the developer," Hutchinson said.

Community leaders, backed by elected officials, told the authority at a meeting in Towson this morning that the lot is essential to the area's economic revitalization.

One developer wants to build a 10,000 square-foot building on the site.

What is unclear is if the community will support redevelopment of the lot or want to keep it in the current configuration.

Ruth Baisden, president of the Greater Parkville Community Council, said her organization estimates they need more than 100 spaces in order to support the 11 vacant store fronts in the area.

"I believe we do have reason to delay the decision for now," Hutchinson said.