HCCA opposes any budget amount going towards HCC's
purchase of Belmont. This is a message asking you to carefully
consider this matter and not help enable the college to continue in a
stewardship role it has demonstrated it will not or cannot perform.
Each of you has made a commitment to being responsive to citizen's views
and needs, which is greatly appreciated. We ask you to be true to that
promise. I am unaware of any resident who supports HCC owning and
developing this invaluable historic property which is surrounded by state park
lands. I understand that every citizens organization which has taken a
position, opposes the funding. This includes the Save Belmont Coalition
(composed of residents of that community and others), the League of Women
Voters, Preservation Maryland, Preservation Howard County, the Howard County
Historical Society, the Grovement HOA, the Greater Elkridge Community
Association and HCCA.
Above all, there is the issue of stewardship. My daughter graduated from
HCC; it is a fine educational institution whose mission is to teach. That
mission does not include historical preservation or environmental protection.
Its actions have indicated it views the property solely as a teaching facility
or a profit-making enterprise. This has serious potential consequences. For
example, the college proposed to sell part of the property for a subdivision
of 59 duplexes. To many of us, this would be a desecration. Most
disturbing is that HCC has not been in dialogue with DNR which would be the
logical partner to ensure that parkland is not affected by changes at Belmont.
Nor has it worked with the Maryland Historical Trust. The Trust is unsure if it
can prohibit development on the property; it appears the Trust may not prevent
development that would change the historical character of the estate.
Lastly, $5 million of county money could be spent on many other important
needs and help balance the budget.
Your careful consideration will be appreciated, and thanks to all of you
for your hard work.
Bridget Mugane, President
Howard County Citizens Association
5/22/2007