Crownsville Residents Challenge Water Tower Plans in Court

Residents of Crownsville have initiated legal action against Anne Arundel County in an effort to prevent the construction of a proposed 200-foot water tower near their homes. The lawsuit, led by local resident Dominic Prokop, comes after a year of community opposition to the project, which neighbors fear could negatively impact their property values.

The county's Department of Public Works has identified a site on Moose Lodge property off Crownsville Road as the most efficient location for the new water tower, which aims to address ongoing water pressure issues and service disruptions affecting the Heritage Harbour community. According to Public Works Director Karen Henry, the new structure is essential for enhancing fire safety and stabilizing water infrastructure for the over 3,000 residents in the area.

Prokop, who previously campaigned for a seat on the County Council, has voiced concerns about the lack of transparency in the decision-making process regarding the water tower's location. He argues that the site chosen by the county is not included in the official master water and sewage plan, claiming that the decision exceeds the county's legal authority and is therefore unlawful.

In the lawsuit filed on June 30, Prokop contends that the county failed to properly notify residents about the proposal and did not adequately consider alternative sites that might be less intrusive. A survey conducted by Public Works in November 2025 indicated that residents prioritized property values, with a different location on North River Road receiving significant support, yet it was ultimately not selected.

While the Department of Public Works has declined to comment on the ongoing dispute, Council member Lisa Rodvien acknowledged the necessity of the new water tower in light of recent fires and water main breaks in the Heritage Harbour area. She emphasized the importance of balancing community concerns with infrastructure needs.

The Stop the Tower coalition, which Prokop and his wife Tatyana have helped organize, continues to advocate against the current site, asserting that a more suitable alternative exists. As the legal battle unfolds, the coalition remains determined to challenge the county's plans.

Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).