Sagamore, 3366 Belmont Avenue

In 2022, a request was made to grant a special exception on parts of two parcels of land at 3366 Belmont Avenue. A barn is located on one of the parcels, outline in green, while a house is located on the other parcel, outlined in blue. The special exception area is outlined in red.

The special exception request was to allow spirits manufacture, including accessory retail and wholesale distribution of spirits on the premises, and temporary promotional events, such as spirits tasting or public gatherings associated with the distillery. A special hearing was also requested, to have the Administrative Law Judge approve a modified parking plan. Requested variances included permitting a parking area with no screening or landscaping, to permit a parking area to not have a durable and dustless surface, and to permit a parking area to not be striped.

VPC intended to oppose the request for the special exception. In October 2023, the applicant notified VPC of its intent to rescind the application for the special exception.

A special hearing to determine what uses are currently allowed on the property was scheduled for August 29 and August 30, 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm, but was postponed at the request of Sagamore’s owner because the property was on the market. It was rescheduled for January, but Sagamore’s owner filed a motion to dismiss the case. A hearing on that motion on December 9 resulted in the motion being to dismiss being granted. The entire matter was dismissed without prejudice, meaning VPC could refile with additional facts and materials, which was done. The hearing was held over two days in April, resulting in this decision, which VPC appealed.

A hearing before the Board of Appeals was been scheduled for October 30, continuing November 4 and 5. Sagamore’s owner requested a dismissal, which the Board granted. We are waiting for the final decision to be issued in writing, at which time we will decide how to proceed.

Sign a petition that will be submitted as evidence to the administrative law judge.

The petition reads: “We, the undersigned, are opposed to the use of Sagamore Farm as a catering hall or otherwise for the hosting of parties and events. We do not believe that such use is consistent with the property’s RC2 zoning, the conservation easements encumbering the land, or its location within a national register historic district. We believe that the noise, traffic, and other impacts from such use have been and continue to be substantial, particularly given the rural nature and topography of the surrounding area and the proximity of neighbors. We believe that allowing such uses in the rural areas of the County sets a terrible precedent and should not be permitted.”

VPC will collect the names of all petition signers, along with any associated comments. To sign, please click the button below.

Make a tax-deductible contribution to VPC to help offset expenses related to this special project. VPC has retained an attorney and will engage expert witnesses as appropriate. All contributions fund legal expenses and expert witnesses.

Please send a check to VPC, PO Box 5402, Towson, MD 21285 and add “3366 Belmont Avenue” in the memo line, or click “Make a Contribution Online” below to pay with credit/debit card.