Under the bill, people who tattled on their neighbors for violations such as overgrown grass or junk in front yards would have had to attach their names to the complaints.
It had been pushed by a north county property rights organization that has been critical of the way county zoning inspectors do their jobs, saying zoning officers act like vigilantes and harass residents.
The group offered no proof of those claims, and county officials denied them. Civic groups from Severna Park and Linthicum have...
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A good decision on a bad bill - 2009-07-21 21:01:10
Congratulations to the County Council for defeating this irresponsible bill unanimously. It is absolutely necessary that the vulnerable and fragile feel safe, if they are to help protect their communities from zoning violations and criminal activities. Mr. Dillon is correct saying removal of the anonymity protection from reporting zoning violations could lead to violence. For 29 years I was on the receiving end of multiple threats as the go between my community and the County dept of Zoning.It was normal: for my community association to take the brunt of the anger on zoning complaints no matter where they originated.
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Maryellen Brady - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Reilly takes a powder - 2009-07-21 18:45:09
Ed Reilly again displayed his lack of respect to citizens of Anne Arundel County and the legisaltive process, again. He introduces a specious bill and then displays his lack of courage by leaving before the vote. That is his MO, similar to his taking a powder before a vote on the slots. He won't get my vote in the upcoming election. I will be discussing his non action with neighbors. His opponent, anyone other then Mr. Reilly will be get my support. Lack of legislative action by our elected official is an insult to constituents. If you don't want to do the job, don't run.
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harry trampolini - severna park, MD - Karma: Excellent
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