(8/9) During a meeting on August 8, the planning commission noted the recent appearance of a sign at Fountain Rock Park. Posted by Frederick County government, the sign suggests future designation of several landmarks within the park--including the limestone quarry and kilns--as historical sites. These landmarks hold a rich historical significance, dating back to their construction between 1857 and 1867, with quarrying operations commencing in 1874.
The proposed historical designation carries more than symbolic weight, as it comes with legal protection that acknowledges the property's importance according to criteria set forth by the state of Maryland. According to the Maryland Historic Trust website, "Properties must be historically significant at the local, state, or national level for one of the following reasons: associated with important events or broad patterns of history; associated with the life of a significant person; representative of a type or style of architecture, or the work of a master; or have the ability to yield new information (generally for archeological sites). Properties must also possess integrity – the physical features that convey the property’s significance."
Although Fountain Rock is technically within the county’s jurisdiction, the sign posted at the park stirred discussion within the commission, with commission member Dick Brady bringing attention to the apparent lack of communication from the county to the town regarding their intentions. Brady explained that his concerns mainly lie in any unintentional consequences on surrounding Walkersville property, such as changes in home value.
Although the county’s Historic Preservation Planner feels strongly that this will not occur, the larger issue at hand is inadequate consultation with town staff in a matter which involves Walkersville properties, even if indirectly. Brady mentioned several other instances in which this behavior had been previously repeated. "I think the exception has been when they talked about farm preservation programs, but even that came through farm preservation staff, not the planning staff or commission," said Brady.
Said Town Planner Susan Hauver, "I think it’s a matter of courtesy--in the past, there was an agreement that if things were in what they call a ‘growth area,’ they’re supposed to notify us--but it’s kind of fallen apart." Although this could be a result of staff changes, it highlights the importance of reinstating a strong relationship between town and county.
The commission also pointed out that in the particular case of Fountain Rock, surrounding properties are not the only concern as the park property contains town water facilities on its premises. "I think it would be appropriate for us to at least make our feelings on the subject known to the county, as in, if [they’re] going to do something in our growth area, our zone of influence, we feel that we should be notified and invited to participate in the discussion," said commission member Mike Kuster.
The County Council does plan to hold a public hearing about Fountain Rock Park on September 15, but further steps will need to be taken to address the greater break in communication. The absence of consultation, especially when a property holds historical, infrastructural, and community value to the town, raises significant questions about collaboration and representation. Setting a new precedent of transparency and inclusion could greatly benefit both town and county.
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