County is making right call on the Mays Chapel school [Letter]

May 10, 2013 | 6:20 AM

County Executive Kevin Kamenetz deserves thanks for his leadership on the new school in Mays Chapel. It's disheartening to see baby boomers, most of whom benefited from public education (and a boom in school construction), refuse to support the needs of today's children.

As the county grows, officials must choose between "infill" — building densely in existing neighborhoods and filling in greenspace within developed neighborhoods — or expanding into the outer suburbs. Infill is almost always the right choice, leading to stronger communities, reduced traffic congestion and preservation of greenspace farther out in the county.

The 101 YORK project is another great example of infill development. I thank Kamenetz and Councilman David Marks for their support of this project. Councilman Marks has consistently shown vision and leadership in pursuing a walkable, bikeable Towson. Dense development in the Towson core is a crucial part of achieving this goal.

Unfortunately, any new development project (e.g., West Towson Elementary) features opposition from NIMBY (not in my back yard) activists who want development anywhere but within eyeshot of their own yards.

Thankfully, at least regarding the Mays Chapel school and the Towson core, our political leaders are willing to serve the county as a whole rather than a disgruntled few.

Allan Massie

Towson

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