Update on 7201 Belair Road

The Overlea Community has endured almost three years of looking at the burnt out building on the corner of Belair Road and E. Elm Ave.

The Overlea Community Association leadership has worked tirelessly for all this time to get the building torn down or renovated. Multiple code enforcement complaints were submitted, hearings were attended and complaints were voiced to our elected officials. We are sad to report the office of Building Inspections has done a very poor job of communicating with the Association- if at all. It truly has felt like no one cares despite the efforts of the OCA.

The derelict owner finally took down the chimney because it was about to fall off the roof and took down the fire escape because it was collapsing. This property has received multiple fines and liens.

Graffiti and boarded up windows are an eyesore and demoralizing to a community. Thousands and thousands of people driving through our community every day and look at this building. And what must they think? That no one in the community cares? Our local government doesn’t or our elected officials?

The last time we asked for an update via our councilperson, a response provided to him on May 31st, indicated permits should be filed in a few weeks. No information was provided on what the permits are for. And no information since. Unfortunately we have come to expect this.

The OCA leadership will continue working on this for as long as it takes. And with the county permitting and building inspection offices, apparently that’s a longtime. If you are as concerned as the leadership is, contact the County Executive’s Office of Community Engagement to voice your concerns. D6Outreach@baltimorecountymd.gov