A debate is heating up in Baltimore County over a proposed 24-hour Denny’s in Perry Hall, pitting residents concerned about late-night disturbances against developers defending their investments and warning of a troubling precedent for future growth.
Community Concerns and Legislative Action
The controversy centers on a Baltimore County Council bill introduced by Councilman David Marks. The bill seeks to limit the operating hours of restaurants near residential areas, forcing establishments like the planned Denny’s to close from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Supporters argue the restriction is needed to prevent excessive noise, loitering, and traffic issues that could disrupt the neighborhood at night. Daniel Williams, a local resident, voiced alarm over “late night, early morning commotion well above a tolerance for livability,” while neighbors cited issues at another 24-hour business, Wawa, including trash, police calls, and street racing.
Pushback from Developers
Developers and the restaurant owner argue they followed all zoning rules, invested heavily in planning and construction, and feel blindsided by a bill introduced after approvals were secured. Paul Mazza, representing the Rommel Restaurant Group, underscored significant costs already incurred and expressed dismay at changing rules after committing to the site. The proposed law has drawn strong warnings from business leaders, who worry it could stifle future development and undermine confidence in the county’s approval process.
A Precedent for the Future?
County officials caution that targeting a single property or business—like Denny’s—could set a troubling precedent for other commercial projects if rules are changed midstream. Critics argue the legislation is a tactic to appease vocal residents at the expense of fair process and investment. The council is set to vote on the bill November 3, as both sides await the outcome to see how this debate could shape development across Baltimore County in the years to come.