I am writing this petition with deep concern for the future of our beloved waterfront land at The Grachur Club, located on the Magothy’s North Shore in Pasadena, MD. This pristine Chesapeake Bay area has been cherished and protected by the club for over a century, serving as an oasis of natural beauty and wildlife habitat. However, our community is now facing a grave threat as the county proposes to re-zone this precious land from Open Space (OS) to Residential 1 (R1), which would allow for development.

My great grandfather lived in this neighborhood, and my family has witnessed firsthand how a tremendous amount of our once untouched surroundings has succumbed to relentless development. Our environment suffers with each new project that prioritizes profit over preservation. It is disheartening to see nature's delicate balance disrupted and wildlife habitats destroyed in the name of progress.

The current OS zoning designation has played a crucial role in safeguarding this waterfront land from any form of development. By preserving it as open space, we ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy its natural beauty and all the benefits it provides - clean air, water filtration, carbon sequestration, and recreational opportunities.

Moreover, The Grachur Club holds immense value for hundreds of youth who eagerly participate in MRSA sailing camps every summer. These camps not only provide valuable skills but also foster an appreciation for nature's wonders among young minds. Re-zoning this area would not only jeopardize their experiences but also deprive them of an opportunity to connect with their environment.

We cannot let greed triumph over conservation efforts! We must stand together as a community and urge our local authorities to protect The Grachur Club waterfront by maintaining its current Open Space zoning status (OS). Let us preserve this irreplaceable piece of land so that future generations can continue to enjoy its natural habitat. 

Public comments should be emailed to Region4@AACounty.org before August 28. Your comment should be both short and personal (not copied and pasted), staying in the range of 150 words.

Sign this petition to show your support for preserving The Grachur Club waterfront as Open Space (OS) and safeguarding it from any potential development. Together, we can make a difference and ensure the preservation of our environment for years to come.

Thank you for joining us in this important cause.