Sykesville candidates weigh in on future of Warfield

Sykesville candidates weigh in on future of Warfield

Published April 20, 2007 4:00am ET



The Warfield Complex is poised to become a crown jewel of economic development for South Carroll. What would you do to ensure that the business park is a success?

» Jonathan Caplan (photo not available): “First, I would like to have a meeting with an economic developer and the Sykesville residents to formulate some ideas for this property. This property would be successful with unique businesses that would set it apart from the businesses in the surrounding area.”

» Leo Keenan: “A comprehensive marketing plan needs to be established to market not only Warfield Complex, but the downtown area. … [Two other candidates and I] are poised to build an economic development committee for the town to work [with] the South Carroll Business Association and Carroll County.”

» Jim Kelley: “The key to … the success of this project is to continue [with] the plans … for the development of the site. There was extensive thought, consideration and input from numerous experts in the area of economic development.”

» Frank Robert: “Alternative energy, such as wind power [and] solar power, needs to be explored. There needs to be a comprehensive marketing plan to market Warfield including downtown Sykesville and Stuart?s Crossing [river area]. [Security cameras] must be installed in the tunnel from Cooper Park to Warfield.”

» Mark Rychwalski: “We are … negotiating with a master developer who will continue restoring the historic buildings and complete new construction that will expand Sykesville?s commercial tax base. My knowledge of historic preservation and experience with the project will assist me in these negotiations and ensure that Sykesville?s future is protected.”

» Scott Sanzone: “We must strive and develop a plan to attract businesses to Warfield in the short term. Business growth in Warfield will help bring a revenue source to the town.”

» Russell Vreeland: “Ensure that the property is redeveloped in the proper manner, keeping in mind of the historic nature of the property.”

kvolkman@baltimoreexaminer.com