Highlights of Legislation

Legislative Session for October 5, 2009

The Howard County Council will hold a legislative session beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2009, to introduce new legislation for the month of November.

There are several pieces of legislation being introduced that may be of special interest to the public.

Council Bill Nos. 58 and 59-2009, introduced by the Chair at the request of General Growth Properties, are companion bills for the revitalization and redevelopment of Downtown Columbia. Council Bill 58 would adopt the Downtown Columbia Plan, a General Plan Amendment. Council Bill 59, which would amend the County’s zoning regulations, is the principal means of implementation of the Downtown Columbia Plan. CB 59 includes a new Downtown Columbia revitalization process for the New Town zoning district.

CB 60-2009 clarifies the maintenance requirements for cable companies by requiring cable companies to secure electrical cabinets and by limiting the use of temporary utility lines. This legislation is in response to resident complaints regarding public safety around exposed cables and open utility electrical boxes in their communities.