A proposed 11-acre housing and retail development has become a source of controversy. The project has spawned at least three organizations, ranging from those who oppose development on principle to those seeking major concessions from the developer. Ballard Spahr real estate partner Jon Laria is guiding the developer through these legal minefields. One major issue: the preservation of an old stone church on the building site. At the community's suggestion, the developer will use the stones to build a wall around the development. Another sticking point, the effect of traffic on the neighborhood, is being examined, the Baltimore City Paper reports.