A group of Baltimore County residents gathered at a Perry Hall library on Tuesday to voice concerns over proposed development across the county.

The forum was hosted by the Republican Women of Baltimore County. Residents raised issues with proposed apartment complexes and affordable housing, which they said could burden existing infrastructure.

“I think it all needs to be done strategically,” said county resident Jeff McDonald.

County Councilmember David Marks said he worries about development around White Marsh Mall. “I was able to kill 320 units, but we clearly have to do better planning,” Marks said.

Marks believes infrastructure should be adequate before high-density projects are approved. “I don’t want a dead zone there, but it’s not just building apartments,” he said. “We need good roads, open space, public transit, and fixed schools.”

Residents also objected to SB484 and HB538 in the state legislature, which could spur affordable housing.

“There is a housing crisis in our county and Maryland,” said Nick Stewart of We the People in Baltimore County.

Stewart argued development and housing can revitalize dilapidated areas if infrastructure is addressed. “This wasn’t about making our county a city,” he said. “It was about strategically targeting underperforming properties that are blights and provide no opportunities.”

The forum highlighted divided views on balancing development and infrastructure needs in the county. More discussion is likely as proposals move forward.