From: Jane A. Ward

To: planning&Zoning@eastonmd.com

Subject: 'big box'

Date: Sunday, October 31, 1999 5:38 PM

As a property owner in the Town of Easton, I would like to express my views regarding the current subject of "Big Box" in Easton. I tend to agree with most of the people that have expressed opinions on the subject, that is, NO. However we must also consider the owners of the designated properties and their investment. As a Member (for 5 years) of the Planning Board in a mid-sized city it was always a challenge to be fair to everyone.

There are compromises that can be negotiated.

Although it seems as if we are closing the barn door after....it

may not be too late to rethink the regulations governing zoning, re-zoning, and annexation of properties into the town. The excessive growth in both residential and commercial uses needs to be addressed. Empty stores in closed down Malls are pretty ghostly and there isn't a sadder sight to see. It creates a depressing scene when entering any town or city that has experienced this. This happens when the 'anchor store' decides to move on to 'bigger' things! Solution: insist that the developer/owner invest in the town by way of special fees and closure bonds.

In addition," is it necessary for the Easton area to become the center for big box developement?" NO! It changes the nature of the town. However, there may be a big box store that would be a suitable response to the needs of the community.

I am pleased to have the opportunity to enter into the discussion about the welfare of the Town of Easton.

Jane A. Ward

506 Diamond Street

Easton, MD 21601