Mayor and Council

Town of Easton

14 S. Harrison St.

Easton, MD 21601

Gentlemen:

As you know, I was opposed to the moratorium on big box applications that is now in effect. Since the moratorium was imposed, the remaining time should be used to find a compromise which can best address the concerns of all interested parties. This does not mean disallowing the construction of the stores, for this is no compromise at all.

I believe an objective look at the sites proposed for these stores will reveal they are the only logical places for them to be. Within the framework of the new zoning ordinance and with active input from the developers regarding what's practical for parking, etc. state of the art projects that are aesthetically pleasing can be built.

As demonstrated by market studies and surveys previously presented to you, many people in Easton and Talbot County would like to see a few more big box stores in addition to the nine now operating here. The comprehensive plan clearly shows the desire for more of all types of retailing including big box.

The moratorium should end in January as scheduled. Using the design standards currently in place and allowing the stores on the large parcels which comprise the "CL" zone is the only reasonable result to be achieved by this process. Good planning should allow for large and small retailing in Easton. Not the denial of any specific type.

Sincerely,

Greg J. Gannon