Mount Airy Planning/Zoning Process

Position Statement:

CAMO believes the Town Council should implement changes to town code to bring a

commonsense approach to the zoning process and “put the horse before

the cart.” Proposed development projects should coordinate with the Town for an early assessment of a project's ability to meet the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO) and Maryland Department of Environment (MDE) recommendation for water availability, and other key adequacy requirements, before proceeding beyond a pre-concept plan.

The current process is a financial burden to the town and developers because officials and

staff proceed with the planning process and make decisions on pre-concept plans

prior to being fully informed about water availability and other public facilities adequacy including schools, traffic, and emergency services.

In addition, the town should conduct a full review of current zoning code (Chapter 112), prioritizing commercial, residential, and industrial districts, to ensure code aligns with the vision for the town.