The Howard County Board of Appeals has dismissed a plan to expand First Baptist Church of Guilford, paving the way for the church to try again to win approval.

The board signed a decision and order last night that confirmed a deadlocked 2-2 vote, which means the church may apply for the expansion again as early as spring.

Thomas M. Meachum, an attorney representing opponents of the expansion, had argued that the board's history suggested a 2-2 vote must be treated as a denial.

The Rev. John L. Wright said the church is planning to begin the process again "in a matter of two or three days."

Church leaders and community activists have clashed over the proposal for a 2,000-seat sanctuary, a 636-space parking lot and a 34,000 square-foot community center on 8.5 acres at Guilford and Oakland Mills roads.

Pub Date: 3/03/99