Applicant proposes restructured parking and outdoor dining plans at North Bond location

The Planning Commission Town Hall Meeting held on July 3, 2025, in Bel Air, Harford County, focused on a proposed development that aims to enhance parking management and improve community aesthetics. The applicant presented plans to designate parking spaces specifically for employees and customers, complete with signage and a chain barrier to clearly delineate these areas. This initiative is expected to alleviate confusion and improve the flow of traffic in the vicinity.

Key adjustments to the building's footprint were discussed, including a proposed setback of 7 feet from North Bond Street and 10 feet from the adjacent property. The plan also includes a reduction of one non-metered parking space on Lisonbee Street, which will be compensated by relocating existing metered spaces to comply with code requirements. The applicant will oversee all changes, including the relocation of meters and repaving, under the supervision of the Department of Public Works.

The meeting also addressed landscaping concerns, particularly the buffering between the new parking lot and a nearby church. The applicant has committed to planting taller shrubs to provide adequate screening, which has been positively received by the community. Additionally, outdoor dining for the restaurant will be limited to 27 seats, with a layout that has been approved to ensure it fits within the designated area.

A fee of $3,600 was proposed to mitigate the loss of existing trees, as there is no space on-site for replacement. The applicant also assured that odor control measures for a nail salon within the development will meet the latest mechanical code requirements, addressing previous community concerns.

Overall, the discussions at the town hall meeting reflect a commitment to enhancing local infrastructure while considering the needs and concerns of residents. The next steps will involve finalizing the plans and ensuring compliance with all regulations, paving the way for a development that aims to benefit the Bel Air community.