(April 9, 2015) The hubbub over a potential firearms business operating in Ocean Pines became a moot point on Wednesday, when homeowner and would-be business owner Jim Kosienski withdrew his request for a county zoning variance that would allow him to establish a home occupation that would involve storing guns in his home.
The hearing on the variance was scheduled for Thursday in Snow Hill but was canceled Wednesday morning.
According to County Zoning Administrator Jennifer K. Burke, the withdrawal of his request prohibits Kosienski from applying again in Worcester County for 12 months.
Kosienski told the Bayside Gazette on Monday there was no business – yet – and added on Tuesday that he had already bought a home in another community and planned to move within 30-45 days.
Kosienski was upset by a rumor allegedly spread by a neighbor on an Internet message board that he intended to distribute guns in Ocean Pines.
Kosienski had hinted at the withdrawal on Tuesday saying, “I’m moving out anyways … I’m just letting these people sweat a little bit.”