A proposed low-income development on Frederick Road appears to be moving forward despite neighbors? claims it was on hold.
County officials told residents that County Executive-elect Ken Ulman “decided to put it on hold until he can further understand the project,”said John Lederer, member of neighborhood group Friends of Font Hill, who oppose the development.
Herman Charity, assistant to outgoing County Executive James Robey, confirmed he told residents that Ulman wanted to review it, not necessarily that it was halted.
Last week, residents received notice of a meeting with developers, a requirement before developers submit final plans to the county.
“Nobody told us it was on hold,” said Developer Donald Reuwer Jr., of Land Design and Development Inc.
The proposal, called Centennial Gardens, is a 59-unit development on 2 1/2 acres, which is owned by the county?s Housing Commission for affordable housing.
Reuwer said the county signed an agreement with developers requiring them to act in good faith, meaning they must negotiate and agree to implement the intended plans.”If they put it on hold, that wouldn?t be in good faith,” he said. “It?s pretty far down the track. I don?t know how they could unwind it.”
Jared Spahn, a general contractor for Old Town Construction, which is responsible for the construction, suggested in a letter to residents a meeting at Waverly Gardens, where residents could see a development similar to the proposed Centennial Gardens.
Ulman and Housing Commission Executive Director Leonard Vaughan did not return calls for comment.
IF YOU GO
» What: Pre-submission meeting for Centennial Gardens
» When: 6 p.m. Dec. 14
» Where: 9946 Frederick Road, Ellicott City
