Harford County Considers Extending Warehouse Development Moratorium: Public Hearing Set For June

HARFORD COUNTY - At its recent legislative meeting, the Harford County Council proposed prolonging the existing ban on warehouse development in the county for another 90 days.

Council president Patrick Vincenti put forward the bill at the behest of Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly. The original 90-day ban was enacted into law by Cassilly on April 19, following its approval by the County Council the previous day.

Originally planned to last six months, the first ban was modified to a duration of 90 days, with a provision that allows for an additional 90-day extension given sufficient justification, as stated in the amendment to the bill. A public hearing for the ban extension is scheduled for June 20.

The moratorium on new warehouses is intended to block several projects, including the plan to turn 700 acres of farmland in Perryman into a five million-square-foot warehouse facility.

Perryman residents and advocacy groups have expressed their support for giving the community more input on what types of developments are built in Harford County.

Leigh Maddox, representing the Economic Development and Historical Context team, said, "[it is important to] reevaluate our approach to economic development while preserving the rich heritage of Harford County. We look forward to working with the community and policymakers to ensure a brighter future for all."