PERRY HALL, MD—Baltimore County Councilman David Marks on Wednesday announced that he will move to block commercial development at Perry Hall Boulevard and Ridge and Gumspring Roads in the south Perry Hall area.

Councilman Marks will oppose an expansion of commercial zoning from the old Siefert’s Florist property, now a marijuana dispensary, to the two acres at the corner of Perry Hall Boulevard, Ridge, and Gumspring Roads.

“There is simply no need for an additional shopping center in this area,” said Councilman Marks. “The coronavirus pandemic will leave many retail vacancies in northeastern Baltimore County, and it makes no sense to allow more commercial development in an area where most residents do not want it.”

Councilman Marks has received dozens of messages in opposition, including from the South Perry Hall Boulevard Improvement Association.

The County Council will vote on the zoning maps in August.