preserving the quality of life in Olney, Maryland

Presentation on Silo Inn Property

The Department of Permitting Services, after flip-flopping, has denied Finmark a permit to use the R-200 ground for parking. Upon investigation, DPS decided that the previous lawful but nonconforming use of the parcel for parking was abandoned more than 5 years ago, and that the zoning ordinance prohibits an abandoned nonconforming use from being reestablished.

The Olney master plan staff draft recommends rezoning all three acres residential (R200) consistent with the guiding principle in the development of Olney as a satellite town --  that all commercial activity occurs in Town Center. However, since the current zoning contains the commercial element, Finmark is proposing to build a small strip mall on the 2 acres zoned commercial with parking on the adjacent acre that is zoned residential.

Finmark is working with Roots (a natural food store - one is in Clarksville), Starbucks, and Chiccos (clothing) as possible tenants. The Victoria Springs development supports the proposed plan. GOCA has a policy to not take a position on the first presentation of a project.

The Council's PHED Committee voted 2 to 1 to rezone all three acres commercial.  The final decision will be made by the full Council when they vote on the plan in January or February 2005.