In July 2006 the Lower Back River Neck Community began the process to update the current community plan. This waterfront community, like many others in the region, is experiencing growth and development pressure, which threatens to alter the rural character of the area.
As part of the community plan update, this September, residents and business owners are encouraged to participate in a project to review the peninsula's current zoning regulations.
The focus of this project is to explore the issues of architectural compatibility, rural character, and environmental impact on the Lower Back River Neck peninsula. The desired outcome is a new coastal zoning code that is tailored to the community’s unique character.
A planning process, called a charrette, will be used to bring all property owners together to develop a new or alternate zoning code. The charrette will be held over five consecutive days, including one weekend. As a resident, property owner, business owner, or interested party, your participation in this process is crucial to its success.
In response to the community’s desire to study the zoning regulations, Baltimore County applied for and was awarded a grant from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources for this project. The grant funding will be used to hire a consultant team, specialized in the development of zoning regulations that are tailored to the unique character of the community.
They will lead the community through the process to revise zoning regulations in the study area. The funding for the grant is provided to the Department of Natural Resources by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Public Kick-Off Meeting
Wednesday, August 13 at 7 p.m.
Chesapeake High School Charrette Kick-Off Meeting
Thursday, September 11 at 7 p.m.
Deep Creek Middle School Community Work Session
Friday, September 12 at 7 p.m.
Chesapeake High School Open Design Studio
Saturday, September 13 at 7 p.m.
Back River Community Center Final Presentation
Monday, September 15 at 7 p.m.
Back River Community Center | | 6 Easy Ways to Get Involved Attend the Public Kick-off Meeting on August 13 at 7p.m. You will learn about the charrette process, learn about the steps to create a new zoning classification, and have an opportunity to participate in a discussion about the current zoning regulations. Attend the Charrette Kick-off Meeting on September 11 at 7p.m. You will get a brief overview of the charrette process and the steps to creating a new zoning classification, followed by a community conversation about the issues. Attend the Community Work Session on September 12 at 7p.m. This is an opportunity for everyone to roll up their sleeves, take what was discussed at the two previous public meetings, and start designing a new zoning code. Stop by the charrette design studio, specifically on the evening of Saturday, September 13, to see and comment on the new zoning classification as it develops. Fill-out the community survey that will be distributed by mail to property owners. The survey forms will also be available from Steering Committee members and leaders of local community groups. You can also complete this survey online. Sign up for email updates so you will get meeting reminders and other news sent directly to your email address. |
Charrette Design Studio
September 11-15
The Design Studio, which is open to
the public, will be located at the
Back River Community Center. |
Please continue to check back. More detailed information including the dates for the public meetings and the schedule for the charrette will be available in August.
Additional resources, including helpful maps, presentations and reports will be posted as they become avaialable.
If you would like to become involved in this project or you would like additional information please e-mail lbrn@baltimorecountymd.gov or contact Laurie Hay, 6th District Community Planner or Amy Mantay, Community Design Team Coordinator at 410-887-3480. Revised September 9, 2008
Courthouse 