Rep. Parker Strives for Zero Commercial Vacancies

State Rep. Cherelle Parker said at a recent community meeting that she has a vested interest in enhancing the commercial corridor of Germantown Avenue. 

“I’m angry when the suburbs get something that we don’t have,” Parker said.  “We need anchor chains or establishments that will attract other businesses to our commercial corridors.”

Parker made the statement at a recent meeting where Mt. Airy residents were objecting to a proposed Wingstop restaurant at 6700 Germantown Ave.

Parker did not say she was for or against the proposal, but she did say she supports Mt. Airy USA.

“I support the efforts of Mt. Airy USA to make this a better community.  I support zero commercial vacancies.”

According to Parker, there are currently 31 commercial vacancies on Germantown Avenue between Washington Lane and Cresheim Valley Road.

Parker’s office did put the hold on the Wingstop’s liquor license when residents complained to her office.

“I filed an objection,” Parker said.  “I filed an objection because you have to have a meeting before you can obtain a liquor license.”

Members of the community objected to the Wingstop because they believed it was a bar.

Parker assured the crowd that the proposed restaurant was a sit-down, family-style restaurant, and that beer would be available for purchase it would not be available for carryout.

“I want the businesses on our commercial corridors to be the champions of our community,” Parker said.  “I do not want them to have an adversarial relationship with the residents.”