Havre de Grace council approves 10-year tax credit for 1621 Clark Road despite resident objections

Havre de Grace — The Mayor and City Council on Sept. 15 adopted Ordinance 12‑03, approving a real property tax credit for property at 1621 Clark Road in the city’s enterprise zone.

Council moved the ordinance on second reading and approved it by roll call, 6‑0. The motion to adopt 12‑03 on second reading was made by the council president and seconded by Council member Boyer.

During the citizen comment period, Carol Zimmerman (211 Seneca Way, Unit B) urged the council not to approve the tax credit, saying the development had removed wetland forest that “shouldn’t have been cut down” and that granting a 10‑year credit would effectively reward that work. Zimmerman told the council the credit’s structure provides an 80% tax reduction for the first five years and that the total foregone city revenue over 10 years totals “over $53,000.” She added that while the state may reimburse up to half, that reimbursement “may never be fulfilled” if state finances deteriorate.

Bridget Johnson, director of economic development and tourism, said the enterprise‑zone incentive is part of a long‑standing state program that keeps the city competitive with nearby industrial and commercial areas. Johnson said the developer estimates the project will create about 20 full‑time jobs and 10 part‑time jobs; the city tracks job creation after lease-up and forwards that information to the state.

Council member Booger noted the projected 10‑year tax relief—described during the meeting as roughly $50,000–$60,000 depending on assessment—and said the credit could be worthwhile if it results in at least one Havre de Grace resident being employed at the site.

Ending: The council adopted the enterprise‑zone tax credit to support development at 1621 Clark Road. Opponents in public comment warned about environmental impacts and uncertain state reimbursements; city officials emphasized job creation and program monitoring.