The following article was submitted by County Councilman David Marks as he supports all Charter Amendments that he said will preserve green space and reform government.
In the general election, voters will be asked to adopt five changes to Baltimore County’s charter, which can be thought of as the constitution for our local government. I supported advancing all five measures for approval by the voters, and was a principal sponsor of two of these proposals.
Question A.
I sponsored Question A, the Baltimore County Farmland Preservation Act, with the goal of preserving green space and agricultural land. Question A requires a supermajority of the County Council to approve changes to the Urban-Rural Demarcation Line. I strongly endorse Question A as a way to prevent irresponsible sprawl, protect our northern reservoirs, and protect green space.
Question B.
I cosponsored Question B, which would create a Baltimore County Department of Agriculture by consolidating those agencies that currently work on farm-related issues. There are more than 780 farms in Baltimore County, and they need one agency to champion and support their concerns.
Question C.
The Inspector General investigates fraud, waste, and abuse. This charter amendment, which I cosponsored, establishes an Inspector General Appointment Board to review the qualifications of applicants and determine who should best carry out the responsibilities of this office. It also establishes a residency requirement for the Inspector General. I cosponsored this legislation.
Question D.
This change increases the size of the Charter Review Commission to reflect the appointment of two additional representatives, since the County Council is expanding by two members. I sponsored this charter change, as well as the original legislation that created the Charter Review Commission.
Question E.
This charter change clarifies the responsibilities of the Board of Recreation and Parks. This volunteer panel helps advocate for park programs and improvements throughout Baltimore County.
I hope you will support all five of these charter changes which will preserve our green space and reform Baltimore County government.