'Reform the Appointment Process for the Planning Board'

One of the most important panels in Baltimore County is the Planning Board, an advisory body that recommends land use and infrastructure policies in Baltimore County.

The current Planning Board includes eight members nominated by the County Executive, and one nominated by each Councilmember; the chair and vice-chair require Council confirmation.

On April 15, I introduced legislation that would allow for the public and the County Council to review those individuals nominated for the Planning Board. Right now, almost all the Planning Board members are nominated without public review.

There are many fine men and women who have served on the Planning Board, but I am concerned that there is less accountability under this system.

The current Planning Board is also aggressively pro-development, particularly some of the members nominated by the County Executive.

Residents of Bowleys Quarters know this all too well.

In the summer of 2022, dozens of residents packed a Planning Board hearing to oppose the granting of public water to the former C.P. Crane plant until there was an agreement to limit development.

The Planning Board overwhelmingly supported extending public water anyway.

More recently, as part of the rezoning process, Planning Board members have recommended drastic increases to zoning that are largely opposed by residents. Several of those Planning Board members made critical comments about my effort to preserve open space throughout eastern Baltimore County.

No matter the orientation of the Planning Board, we deserve checks and balances that holds each unit of local government accountable.

I would like to thank four of my colleagues who have signed on to this important legislation. Approval by the Council would advance this change to the county charter to the voters in November.