During a recent government meeting in Harford County, community leaders and residents voiced strong opposition to the continued development of mega warehouses in the Perryman area. The discussions highlighted the significant concerns surrounding the environmental impact and community well-being associated with these large-scale industrial projects.

Council members and residents expressed their discontent over plans to construct additional warehouse space, particularly a proposed 5.2 million square feet of warehouses on a local farm. This proposal has faced substantial backlash, with nearly 400 attendees at a community meeting and close to 1,000 signatures on a petition opposing the development. The community's apprehension is rooted in the fact that Perryman already hosts over 10 million square feet of warehouse space, translating to an average of 3,971 square feet per person—20 times the county average.

Concerns were raised about a recent decision by the county to increase the height of the proposed warehouses from 40 to 65 feet, effectively expanding their volume by 130 million cubic feet without adequate community consultation. Local leaders, including Councilman Jacob Bennett, have supported legislation aimed at limiting the size of new warehouses, emphasizing the need to protect the community from further industrialization that could exacerbate noise, air pollution, and traffic congestion.

In addition to the warehouse issue, residents urged the council to conduct a thorough evaluation of the Perryman well field to assess water quality and quantity, especially in light of potential contamination from nearby developments. The Perryman Coalition has been advocating for a comprehensive water management plan to safeguard the county's water supply, which is increasingly at risk due to industrial activities.

Community members also pointed out the trend of vacant mega warehouses in the area, questioning the sustainability of such developments. With several large warehouses currently unoccupied, there are calls to prioritize filling these existing spaces before considering new constructions. The meeting underscored a collective desire among residents to preserve open spaces and protect the local environment, as well as to ensure that future developments align with the community's needs and values.