Public Meetings - Howard County, Maryland

The Howard County Alcoholic Beverage Hearing Board met in a hybrid public hearing noticed for 6:30 p.m. on October 13, 2026, in the Banneker Room at 3430 Court House Drive, Ellicott City, MD, and via WebEx. The board approved the prior meeting minutes, then heard and unanimously approved two license matters: a transfer of the Class D license for Judge's Bench and a new Class B license for Spice N Curry. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the September 29, 2026 meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the general public offered comments. The following testimony was given by applicants and their counsel. Judge's Bench Class D License Transfer - The first application was a transfer of a Class D beer, wine, and liquor 7-day on/off sale license, plus RBWC, from Em-Ja, LLC t/a Judge's Bench, in the names of Jane Johnson and Michael Johnson, to SK Industries, LLC t/a Judge's Bench, in the name of Shraban Khanal, for a 2,600 sq. ft. tavern with a 505 sq. ft. patio at 8385 Main Street, Ellicott City, MD. - Counsel noted that the tavern has operated since 1978 and has been owned by the Johnsons since 2007. An asset purchase agreement dated September 1, 2026 was in place, with closing anticipated on or before December 1, 2026. - Counsel corrected two application details: the application witnesses certified that Mr. Khanal was a Howard County resident, but he is a Baltimore County resident; and the application listed Jane Johnson as the real-property owner, although her entity MJ LLC owns the property. - Mr. Khanal testified that he is the sole owner of SK Industries, has never held a liquor license or been convicted of a criminal offense, completed Responsible Alcohol Service training on August 27, 2026, was fingerprinted, and obtained a bulk transfer permit on September 3, 2026. - He stated the operating hours are Monday–Friday 4 p.m.–2 a.m., Saturday 2 p.m.–2 a.m., and Sunday 1 p.m.–2 a.m. He plans to continue working remotely at the tavern from 4 p.m. to close, keep existing staff, and estimated that liquor has represented over 80 percent of sales. - Under board questioning, Mr. Khanal said Jane Johnson would train him during a transition period of about three weeks and remain available afterward. He also discussed buying only from state-approved vendors and his understanding of inventory and inspection requirements. He had not yet discussed the RBWC refillable-wine-container feature with the seller. Spice N Curry New Class B License - The second application was for a new Class B beer, wine, and liquor 7-day on/off sale license for Everest Spice, LLC t/a Spice N Curry, in the name of Madhav Sharma, for a 1,590 sq. ft. restaurant at 6590 Old Waterloo Road, Suite 3, Elkridge, MD. - Mr. Sharma testified that he owns and operates the Indian restaurant, which opened in 2023, has 11 tables seating 45 customers, and serves sit-down meals. He stated hours as Monday–Friday 11 a.m.–9 p.m. and Friday–Sunday 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. - He said customers requested alcohol with meals and that the primary focus will remain food service. He projected approximately 70 percent of revenue from food and 30 percent from beverages, including alcohol. - He stated the restaurant has about six employees, with two people, including himself, holding valid alcohol-awareness and food-safety certifications. All employees serving alcohol will receive training, and the restaurant will check identification and refuse service to anyone under 21 or without valid ID. - Board questions covered purchasing from certified vendors, record retention for inventory and employee records, and the floor plan. Mr. Sharma said there is currently no separate manager and that he works full-time in daily operations. Discussion Items - In the first matter, board members noted that Mr. Khanal faces a learning curve because he is coming from a corporate fund-accounting background, but they found that he had basic knowledge, relevant experience from his family's restaurant, a transition plan with the current owners, and a plan to retain existing staff. - In the second matter, board members described the restaurant as a small, low-risk Class B operation with earlier closing hours. They recommended that Mr. Sharma pursue community involvement and consider adding a second manager who could run the restaurant if he is unavailable. Key Outcomes - The board voted unanimously (4–0) to approve the transfer of the Class D license plus RBWC to SK Industries, LLC t/a Judge's Bench in the name of Shraban Khanal. Mr. Khanal waived the right to appeal. - The board voted unanimously (4–0) to grant the new Class B license to Everest Spice, LLC t/a Spice N Curry in the name of Madhav Sharma. Mr. Sharma waived the right to appeal. - The board approved the September 29, 2026 minutes as part of the consent calendar.

On October 5, 2026, the Howard County Council held a hybrid legislative session beginning at 7:00 PM. The meeting included introduction of new legislation, final consideration of previously introduced items, and several votes on appointments, bonds, and policy bills. Key debates centered on a bill to designate the Inspector General as a custodian of public records (CB69-2026), amendments to the public safety officer tax credit (CB53-2026), and motions to table grant reform (CB58-2026) and solar facility legislation (CB59-2026). Consent Calendar - Journal Approval (September 8, 2026 Legislative Session): Approved 5-0. - Minutes Approval (Monthly Meeting September 14, 2026; Legislative Public Hearings September 22 and 23, 2026; Work Session September 28, 2026): Approved 5-0. - Introduction of Legislation: The council introduced numerous appointment resolutions (CR163-182, CR183-187) and several bills (CB60-69, CR188-195) without objection. - Final Consideration – Bulk Appointments: CR124-125, CR127-128, CR130, CR132-148, CR150, CR152-158 (appointments and reappointments to various boards and commissions) were approved 5-0. - Bond Authorizations: CB49-2026 ($670,397 water infrastructure bonds), CB50-2026 ($150M public improvement and $50M metropolitan district bonds), CB51-2026 (refunding bonds), and CB52-2026 (daycare provider tax credits) all passed 5-0. - Supporting Resolutions: CR159-2026 (Arts & Culture Plan), CR161-2026 (Surplus School Use Committee), and CR162-2026 (legislative date change) passed 5-0. - Acting Director Extensions: CR190-2026 (Acting Director of Technology and Communication Services) and CR191-2026 (Acting Chief of Police) passed 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public testified during the legislative session. Written testimony was accepted for future public hearings. Discussion Items - Special Meeting Minutes (September 16, 2026 Closed Session): A motion to approve these minutes passed 4-0-1, with Chair Jones abstaining because he was not invited to that closed session. He stated, "I cannot vote on this motion as I was not invited to this meeting of the County Council." - Motion to Reject CB69-2026 (Inspector General as Custodian of Public Records): Councilmember Jones moved to reject the bill upon introduction, citing legal sufficiency concerns and pending state legislation. After debate, the motion failed 2-3 (Jones and Rigby in favor; Young, Walsh, Youngman opposed). CB69 was therefore introduced and will proceed to public hearing. - Appointment CR129-2026 (Rabbi Craig Axler to Interfaith Advisory Commission): Councilmember Walsh expressed objections based on the appointee's past statements, but the resolution passed 4-1 (Walsh opposed). Councilmember Rigby changed her initial "pass" to a "yes" after speaking. - CB53-2026 (Public Safety Officer Tax Credit for Retirees): An amendment (Amendment 1 to Amendment 1) was adopted unanimously to include 911 public safety telecommunicators and prevent double dipping. The main bill as amended passed 4-1 (Walsh opposed due to fiscal concerns exceeding $500,000 through FY2028). - CR160-2026 (BikeHoward 2026 Bicycle Master Plan): Councilmember Young raised concerns from residents in the King's Contrivance area about a proposed bike path. Councilmember Rigby clarified the plan only authorizes a feasibility study. The resolution passed 4-1 (Youngman opposed). - Tabulation of CB58-2026 (Grant Reform): Councilmember Young moved to table the bill after introducing a narrowed amendment (Amendment 1 to Amendment 1) focusing on construction/redevelopment grants. The motion to table passed 4-1 (Young opposed). The bill will be revisited later. - Tabulation of CB59-2026 (Solar Facility Temporary Hold): Councilmember Youngman moved to first approve then table the bill, citing last-minute legal conflicts with state law. The motion to table passed 5-0. Councilmember Youngman also proposed requesting an Attorney General opinion on the impact of HB1036 on county zoning powers; this was discussed informally without a vote. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved (September 16 Closed Session): Passed 4-0-1 (Jones abstained). - Motion to Reject CB69-2026 Failed: 2-3; bill introduced for public hearing. - CR129-2026 (Rabbi Axler) Approved: 4-1 (Walsh no). - CR131-2026 and CR149-2026 Tabled: 5-0. - CR151-2026 Withdrawn: 5-0. - CB49 through CB52 Approved: All 5-0. - CB53-2026 as Amended Approved: 4-1 (Walsh no). - CR159, CR161, CR162 Approved: All 5-0. - CR160-2026 Approved: 4-1 (Youngman no). - CB58-2026 Tabled: 4-1 (Young no). - CB59-2026 Tabled: 5-0. - CR190-2026 and CR191-2026 Approved: Both 5-0. - Next Steps: Public hearing on introduced legislation scheduled for October 19, 2026; work session on new legislation planned for October 26, 2026.

The Howard County Board of Appeals convened on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 9:00 AM in a hybrid format (Banneker Room and WebEx) to hear case BA823D, an appeal by David Marc et al. of a Hearing Examiner’s decision upholding the Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) approval of an alternative compliance waiver for steep slope disturbance and a variance to remove a specimen tree at 6135 Old Washington Road, Elkridge. The appellant (property neighbors) argued that the decisions were clearly erroneous, arbitrary, and capricious, while the respondent (Maryland International School, the property owner) defended the approvals. The hearing included testimony from appellant David Mark and respondent’s engineer Robert Vogel. The board, consisting of four members, noted that a split decision would result in dismissal. Summation was postponed to October 15, 2026 at 9:00 AM. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes of August 27, 2026 (regular and closed sessions) and September 17, 2026, by unanimous roll call votes. Discussion Items - Appellant’s Case: - David Mark (appellant and professional engineer) testified that the property is not unique, pointing to nearby properties (St. Augustine’s school and others) with similar steep slopes, forest cover, streams, and historic features. He argued that the need for the specimen tree removal was self-created, as the tree was planted by a previous owner (Howard County Board of Education) in the 1970s. He also contended that the school’s expansion could be reduced to avoid the need for waivers, making the hardship purely economic. - Appellant’s exhibits (1-11) included maps showing topography, slope, soil, forest cover, forest conservation easements, and stream buffers on the subject property and neighboring properties, as well as the circuit court order vacating a prior variance approval. - Respondent’s Case: - Robert Vogel (professional engineer with 40 years of experience) testified that the property’s combination of features (85-foot vertical grade, historic school building, streams, steep slopes, specimen trees, and a pump station) makes it unique. He detailed that the requested steep slope disturbance (15,535 sq. ft. total, with 8,730 sq. ft. permanent) is necessary for an athletic field and that the specimen tree (ST6) removal is required for ADA access and site development. He stated that the retaining wall and stormwater management improvements would benefit the neighbor by diverting runoff and preserving vegetation via a permanent conservation easement. - Legal Arguments: - Appellant’s counsel argued that DPZ’s decision was not based on sufficient evidence and that the property’s features are not unique compared to others in the area. They also raised a procedural issue regarding missing Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA) approval, but the board marked related exhibits for identification only. - Respondent’s counsel argued that the appellant failed to meet the heavy burden of proof, that the board’s prior finding of uniqueness in the conditional use case (though the variance was later vacated) supports the current decision, and that the “uniqueness or topographical conditions” standard is broader than the zoning variance standard. Key Outcomes - No final decision was rendered. The board continued the hearing to October 15, 2026, at 9:00 AM for closing summations and deliberation. - Appellants rested their case; respondent’s witness testified. Appellant waived rebuttal. - The board did not issue any rulings on pending objections or motions, including respondent’s motion to dismiss (which was not decided).

The Howard County Alcoholic Beverage Hearing Board convened on September 29, 2026, at 6:30 PM in a hybrid format to consider four license matters: a change of resident agent for First Watch Restaurants, Inc., and three applications for new Class B beer, wine, and liquor licenses for El Aguila, Kawa Sushi Ayce, and Al's Love Cafe. The board voted on each matter following testimony and deliberation. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes of the September 15, 2026 open session and closed session (motion by Chair Chen, seconded; vote: 4-0). Change of Resident Agent – First Watch Restaurants, Inc. (t/a First Watch) - Proposal: Change the resident agent from Krista Nicole Wagner to Emily Elisabeth Klank for the restaurant at 6478 Dobbin Center Way, Suite 300, Columbia, MD. The license is Class B beer, wine & liquor, 7-day on/off sale. - Testimony: Attorney Shreckhost presented. Emily Klank, the new resident agent and general manager (50 hours/week), testified she has 17 years in the industry, 10 in management. The restaurant serves breakfast/lunch (five alcoholic drinks, vodka and tequila). No violations since obtaining the license a year ago. Previous agent moved to North Carolina. - Discussion: Board members noted the simple change and Klank's direct presence. No opposition. - Key Outcome: Motion to approve carried unanimously (4-0). Applicants waived right to appeal. New License – ODJ, LLC t/a El Aguila (10035 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City) - Proposal: New Class B beer, wine & liquor, 7-day on/off sale license for a 7,866 sq. ft. restaurant with a 700 sq. ft. patio. Applicant entities: Dario Orellana (Sr.) and Dario Javier Orellana. Attorney Thernoff represented. - Testimony: The restaurant will serve Tex-Mex and Latin cuisine. Dario Orellana Sr. (43 years in business) operates two existing El Aguila locations in Montgomery County (Randolph Road and Georgia Avenue). Mark Eager, former Glory Days manager at the same location, will be day-to-day manager. Expected food-to-alcohol ratio: 80/20. Planned opening: October 15, 2026. All managers alcohol awareness certified. - Discussion: Board members raised concerns from an investigation by Officer Baxter: undisclosed traffic violations, a 2023 violation at Randolph Road for sale to a minor (applicants denied this, saying they never received notice), and a third violation at Georgia Avenue regarding alcohol awareness certification (2017). Labeling issues with pre-mixed margaritas also noted. Board member Hunt expressed discomfort with ownership's lack of disclosure and oversight. The board proposed changing the resident agent to Mark Eager, who would be present full-time. Applicants agreed. - Key Outcome: Motion to approve the license conditional on amending the resident agent to Mark Eager (with required experience and certification) carried unanimously (4-0). Applicants waived appeal. They must submit an amended application; no new hearing required. New License – Kawa Sushi Ayce, Inc. (t/a Kawa Sushi Ayce, 8221 Gateway Overlook Drive, Elkridge) - Proposal: New Class B beer, wine & liquor, 7-day on sale license for a 4,708 sq. ft. restaurant. Applicants: Wen Hao Chen and Xiao Yi Zheng. A Mandarin interpreter assisted. - Testimony: The restaurant is already open and serves sushi. Applicants have 20+ years of restaurant experience but no prior alcohol license. They estimated 30% of sales would be alcohol. The two managers (the applicants) plan to be on-site 50+ hours/week. They intend to serve wine, sake, and some liquor. No employees were alcohol awareness certified at the time of the hearing; applicants said they would train them if approved. - Discussion: Board members criticized the applicants for lack of preparation, no presentation, and no employees with alcohol certification. Chair Chen noted disrespect. Board member Hunt initially leaned toward denial but, after learning the two applicants themselves hold certifications and answered questions correctly, changed his view. However, other members still felt the applicants lacked experience with alcohol service. The board considered and rejected an outright denial (which would require a one-year wait). Instead, they voted to postpone the application to allow the applicants to identify and add a resident agent with prior experience selling alcohol and who is alcohol awareness certified. - Key Outcome: Motion to postpone (continue) the application carried unanimously (4-0). The applicants must submit an amended application identifying a qualified resident agent. No new hearing date set; the board will schedule after receipt. The board strongly recommended (but did not mandate) retaining an attorney or consultant for the next appearance. New License – Al’s Love Café, LLC (t/a Al’s Love Cafe, 3785 Hamilton Street, Ellicott City) - Proposal: New Class B beer, wine & liquor, 7-day on sale license for a 1,000 sq. ft. restaurant with a 162 sq. ft. patio. Applicant: Alarice Vidale de Palacios. - Testimony: Ms. Palacios made a detailed presentation. The cafe is a coffee shop/restaurant with a mission to employ and train neurodivergent individuals. She has 11 years as a support broker for DDA, operates five businesses (combined $1M revenue, 42 employees), and previously managed Fire Station Restaurant in Montgomery County. Since opening in February 2026, Al's Love Cafe generated $19,400 in sales over three months (1,454 transactions). The alcohol program would be limited (10-15% of sales), served table-side only by managers. She has alcohol awareness certification since 2016. She acknowledged a past CDS conviction from age 19 (1992) and unpaid moving violations. She plans to have managers become certified. - Discussion: Board members praised the mission and community impact. They noted her experience and responsible plan. Concerns about her Florida driver's license were resolved by confirming she can prove residency through leases. Expected low alcohol volume and clear policies were well received. - Key Outcome: Motion to grant the license carried unanimously (4-0). Applicant waived right to appeal. Key Outcomes - First Watch (Change of Agent): Approved unanimously. - El Aguila (New License): Approved unanimously with condition to change resident agent to Mark Eager. - Kawa Sushi Ayce (New License): Postponed; applicants must amend application to add an experienced resident agent. - Al’s Love Cafe (New License): Approved unanimously. - The board adjourned after completing all matters.

This hybrid legislative work session convened at 10:00 AM on September 28, 2026, to discuss CB59-2026, introduced by Councilmember David Yungmann. The bill seeks a temporary moratorium on certain approvals for solar energy facilities to allow Howard County to clarify its retained authority under the state's Renewable Energy Certainty Act (RECA, HB1036) and to evaluate the impact on agricultural preservation easements (AgPres) and community concerns. The meeting included presentations from state Senator Katie Fry Hester, DPZ Director Linda Eisenberg (via remote), DPZ staff Tim Lattimer, and public testimony from attorney/resident Ms. Singleton. The bill currently lacks legal sufficiency as written. Public Comments & Testimony - Ms. Singleton (Woodbine resident and attorney): Expressed strong frustration that residents in western Howard County have no meaningful voice in solar siting decisions. She cited concerns about well water contamination from potential chemical leaching, tree damage from storms, grid instability, and a lack of transparency in the pre-submission meeting process. She argued that the current three-week expedited timeline (since 2022) and the removal of conditional use have left residents powerless. She also noted that solar developers place panels to minimize costs, not to mitigate community impacts, and that the ag board's recommendations are non-binding. - State Senator Katie Fry Hester: Supported the need for clarity on RECA's interaction with AgPres easements. She stated she requested legal guidance from the state Attorney General's office and confirmed that Howard County did not designate a Priority Preservation Area (PPA) before RECA’s 2025 deadline, which limits certain view-shed protections. She indicated a state cleanup bill in 2027 may allow retroactive PPA designations (e.g., Somerset County) and offered to help coordinate state-level conversations. Discussion Items - CB59-2026 Purpose: Councilmember Yungmann emphasized the bill is not a referendum on solar energy (which he called “settled law”) but a temporary pause (maximum 180 days for agency meeting + 60 days for report) to allow DPZ to convene all relevant agencies (DPZ, Office of Law, PSC, state, etc.) to determine what authority the county retains under RECA. He argued the county has been operating under an incorrect assumption of full preemption, noting that easement contract rights, conditional use processes (where the final outcome is not a denial), and ag board requirements may not be preempted. He stated that at least three previously assumed preemptions are not preempted. - Concerns About Preemption and County Authority: Councilmember Rigby worried that creating a public forum under the easement without the ability to address concerns could be worse than the status quo. Councilmember Jung questioned why Howard County did not designate a PPA. Director Eisenberg explained that a PPA designation requires a general plan amendment and was not pursued before her tenure. Councilmember Yungmann clarified that the county still has authority over siting, screening, soil compaction reduction, and stormwater management—and that conditional use may still be permissible as long as it does not result in a final denial. - Impact on Agriculture and Community: Discussion centered on the tension between solar development and agricultural preservation. Yungmann noted that 1.1% of AgPres land (approximately 32 megawatts across about 16 projects) is committed to solar, and that most projects are on AgPres because it is cheaper land due to taxpayer-funded conservation easements. He argued that solar is the biggest threat to agritourism and farming viability, as it offers “mailbox money” rather than active farming income. Ms. Singleton highlighted that the 1–2 MW projects avoid PSC oversight, that federal tax credits (30%) expire December 31, 2027, creating a rush, and that community pre-submission meetings are ineffective without a binding public process. - DPZ Position: Tim Lattimer noted that a moratorium could conflict with RECA’s mandate to expedite compliant projects and could chill investment, potentially jeopardizing Howard County’s Climate Forward goal of 437 megawatts by 2030 (currently at 181 megawatts, 41% of target). He also stated that solar panels are primarily glass and aluminum, with minimal chemical leaching risk per peer-reviewed research. He urged the council to consider that a moratorium could kill projects by making them miss federal tax credit deadlines. - Legal and Procedural Clarifications: The Office of Law confirmed that pre-submission meetings are required but are advisory; the ag board provides advisory recommendations; and that RECA’s 100-foot setback from property lines and 150-foot setback from dwellings apply. Director Eisenberg confirmed that Howard County lacks a PPA, so the view-shed protection provisions of RECA do not apply, but the landscape manual and other RECA requirements (buffers, planting, watering plans) still apply. Key Outcomes - No vote on CB59-2026; the bill was discussed as lacking legal sufficiency in its current form. Councilmember Yungmann offered to shorten the moratorium period (from 180+60 to 60+60 days) and to exempt rooftop, parking lot, and industrial solar. - Directive: The council directed DPZ to convene a meeting with all relevant agencies (county and state) within the next 60 days to clarify the county’s retained authority under RECA, and to issue a report within 60 days thereafter. This is intended to inform the incoming council and administration, regardless of CB59’s passage. - Next Steps: The council acknowledged that a state legislative cleanup bill in 2027 could address retroactive PPA designations and other ambiguities. Councilmember Jung requested that if CB59 does not pass, the meeting and report still occur to provide clarity before the new council takes office in 60 days. Senator Hester committed to assisting in coordinating state-level participation. - Data Points: 1.1% of AgPres currently involved in solar; 16 projects proposed, all but one on AgPres; 49% of all solar (excluding rooftops/parking lots) in western Howard County (per DPZ). The county currently has 181 megawatts installed, with a 2030 goal of 437 megawatts.

The Howard County Council held a continuation of its September Legislative Public Hearing on September 24, 2026. The session was conducted as a hybrid in-person and virtual meeting, chaired by Councilmember Opel Jones. The most extensive public testimony focused on a proposed temporary moratorium on large-scale solar facilities (Council Bill 59-2026). The council also received testimony on bond authorizations (CB49-51), tax credits for child care providers and retired public safety officers (CB52-53), and resolutions supporting the county's arts and culture plan (CR159), bicycle master plan (CR160), and a surplus school use committee (CR161). A work session is scheduled for September 28, and a legislative session for final consideration is scheduled for October 5, 2026. Solar Facility Moratorium Debate (Council Bill 59-2026) Council Bill 59-2026, introduced by Councilmember David Yungmann, proposes a temporary hold on approvals and permits for solar energy facilities over one megawatt. The aim is to study the implications of the state's Renewable Energy Certainty Act (HB 1036) on local authority, particularly regarding agricultural preservation (AgPres) land. Yungmann noted significant confusion about what local authority remains after the state law. Supporters of the temporary hold argued it is necessary for good governance, transparency, and protecting rural character: Jeff Pollock (Ellicott City) stated that covering preserved farmland with thousands of panels is fundamentally inconsistent with the promise of agricultural preservation and raised concerns about historic burial grounds on the neighboring Richland Farm. Shannon Singleton (Woodbine) called the bill an issue of "good governance," citing a serious lack of clarity in the approval process and a need for transparency before projects move forward. Ryan O'Connor (West Friendship) characterized the bill as a "common sense pause" and argued that Howard County is the only county in the state without a cap on industrial-scale solar in AgPres areas. Mike McAllister (Woodbine) cited a 2025 study estimating residential property values within three miles of a solar site fell by 4.8%, while noting Howard County has not established a 5% priority preservation area threshold allowed by state law. Casey Meinekie (Woodbine) stated she moved to her home believing the "preservation parcel beyond the property" meant it could never be developed, and asked the council what vision they have for the county in 20 years. Gail Mackison (Woodbine), a 61-year resident, supported the pause to allow the state legislature to address "unintended consequences" in the state law. Matt Wilhite argued the county is subsidizing the solar industry through its AgPres program and that the county should protect residents from fast-moving private industry. Opponents argued the moratorium conflicts with state law, harms climate progress, and is unnecessary: Doug Siglin (District 5) said the bill "goes the opposite way" of the county's climate plan, which calls for removing barriers to solar. He noted the county has 180 megawatts of solar and has committed to cutting emissions 60% by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2045. John Lennon Miller (Woodstock, an employee of a solar company) argued that CB59 conflicts directly with the plain text of the state's Renewable Energy Certainty Act and that Howard County is already in compliance with the state law. Nader Cain argued the bill was a "half-measure" and that instead of a stop, the council should have proposed adhering to stricter guidelines in the interim. Gene Bolton (Ellicott City) called the bill a major step backward for climate change mitigation, stating, "Donald Trump wants to kill solar. Don't be on his side." Ruth White (Howard County Climate Action) testified that the bill is "irresponsible" and would jeopardize federal investment tax credits for which projects face strict deadlines. Spencer Rhoda questioned the scale of subsidies for the solar industry and raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest regarding state legislators who supported HB 1036. Bond Authorizations and Financial Items (CB49-51) County Finance Director Rafi Hillard testified in support of three bond bills. CB49 authorizes up to $670,397 in bonds through the Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration (MWIFA) at an interest rate under 2.5% for a service line inventory project; approximately 47.5% of the loan is expected to be forgiven. CB50 authorizes up to $150 million in consolidated public improvement bonds and $50 million in metropolitan district bonds for spring 2027. CB51 authorizes refunding bonds to refinance outstanding debt at better rates. Matt Wilhite questioned the county's large contingency funds and the continually rising budget for Ellicott City flood mitigation projects. Councilmember Deb Jung confirmed the total project cost has grown from roughly $200 million to an estimated $412 million. Tax Credit Legislation (CB52-53) CB52 (Daycare Provider Tax Credit): Rafi Hillard testified in favor of the bill, stating it would improve support for more than 400 child and adult care providers by repealing and replacing the current credit with separate credits consistent with state law. CB53 (Public Safety Officer Tax Credit for Retirees): Rafi Hillard testified in favor of expanding the existing property tax credit to include retired public safety officers. The bill was co-sponsored by Opel Jones, Christiana Rigby, and David Yungmann. Former Police Chief Wayne Livesay (Sykesville) testified in strong support, arguing the credit helps retirees afford to stay in the county they served and reinvest their pensions locally. He noted the retiree association has 207 members. Jim Daly (Howard County Police Supervisors Alliance) and Chuck Ridgely (Retired Firefighters Association) also testified in favor, emphasizing the importance of recognizing a career of service. Matt Wilhite supported the bill, arguing it keeps earned benefits and people in the community. Nader Cain questioned the bill's scope, suggesting the county should focus on other vulnerable groups for tax relief. Councilmember Liz Walsh questioned the timing of the bill (during a "lame duck" session), its eligibility criteria, and whether the cost to the county could be better spent on other county servants like teachers. Rafi Hillard responded that the total qualified pool is approximately 128 people, though currently only around 28 active officers are claiming the credit. Andy Liebnow (testifying virtually) noted that only 38 retired firefighter members would receive the benefit but urged approval, stating the bill was not brought forward in prior years because the state authorizing legislation had only recently changed. Resolutions (CR159-161) CR159 (Arts & Culture Plan): Colleen West, Executive Director of the Howard County Arts Council, testified in support of the resolution approving the 2026 Howard County Arts & Culture Plan. She described it as a 10-year blueprint developed over 20 months with input from over 1,300 residents via surveys, focus groups, and stakeholder interviews. Councilmember Christiana Rigby praised the plan and West's leadership. CR160 (Bicycle Master Plan / BikeHoward 2026): Chris Eatough of the Howard County Office of Transportation presented the update to the Bicycle Master Plan, which was developed with public workshops and an online survey. The plan is aspirational and not fiscally binding, with capital funding expected to stay at roughly $1 million per year. Nader Kane asked the council to strike the request for the League of American Bicyclists' "Bicycle Friendly Community" designation from the resolution, arguing the county has not yet earned the designation. Jason Hummel, a licensed civil engineer, objected to the Kinder-Edenbrook bridge project in the plan, arguing residents were not properly consulted and that upgrading the existing Old Columbia Road bridge would be a better use of funds. Ted Cochran (Free Bikes for Kids), Antoine Wright (Multimodal Transportation Board), and Emily Ranson (Bicycle Advisory Group) all testified in strong support of the plan, citing safety for children, connectivity, and the county's goals under the general plan. CR161 (Surplus School Use Committee): Emily Ayaki, Chief of the Bureau of Real Estate Management, testified in support of the resolution. The bill establishes a committee to study the disposition of the Howard County Public School System Central Office property on Route 108, which the school board has determined is surplus and which is intended for use as the site for Fire Station 15. Key Outcomes As this was a legislative public hearing to receive testimony, no final votes were taken on any of the agenda items. The council is scheduled to hold a work session on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 10 a.m. A legislative session for final consideration of the legislation will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 7 p.m.

The Howard County Council held a continuation of its September legislative public hearing on September 24, 2026, to receive testimony on several bills and resolutions. The hearing covered Council Bill 59-2026 (temporary hold on solar energy facilities), financial bond authorizations (CB49–CB51), property tax credits for day care providers (CB52) and retired public safety officers (CB53), and resolutions supporting the Arts & Culture Plan (CR159), the Bicycle Master Plan update (CR160), and establishing a Surplus School Use Committee (CR161). Council members heard from dozens of residents, organizational representatives, and county staff. No votes were taken; a work session is scheduled for September 28 and a legislative session for October 5. Public Comments & Testimony CB59-2026 – Solar Collector Facilities Temporary Hold - Jeff Polak (Ellicott City) testified in support, expressing concern that preserved farmland would be covered with solar panels and that the process lacks checks and balances for neighboring property owners. - Doug Siglin (District 5) testified in opposition, urging the council to reject the bill. He stated that Howard County has become a state leader in solar energy and that a moratorium would undermine the county's climate goals and its Climate Forward plan. - John Lennon Miller (Woodstock, District 5) testified in opposition, arguing that the bill conflicts directly with state law (the Renewable Energy Certainty Act) and is unnecessary because the county is already in compliance. He acknowledged working for a solar developer but said he was testifying as a resident. - Shannon Singleton (Woodbine) testified in support, stating the bill is about good governance due to a serious lack of clarity and transparency in the current process. - Ryan O'Connor (West Friendship) testified in strong support, calling the bill a common-sense pause to resolve unanswered questions, and criticized a fiscal analysis that conflated federal tax credits with county revenue losses. - Nader Cain (no residence given) testified in opposition, suggesting the bill is a half-measure and that the council should instead adopt the stricter of two existing regulatory paths as an interim solution. - Barbara Baker (Woodbine) testified in support, citing lack of clear standards, the absence of an owner-operator requirement for solar leases, and the lack of a cap on solar farms in agricultural preservation areas. - Michael McAllister (Woodbine) testified in support, noting that the state law says existing easements cannot be impaired, yet the county's implementation memo preserves county rights, creating confusion. He also cited a 2025 study estimating that nearby residential values could fall 4.8%. - Ian Nagengast (Woodbine) testified in support, stating the temporary pause is needed to understand how county rules will fit state requirements and to define what "farmland forever" means. - Gail Mackison (Woodbine) testified in support, highlighting that Howard County is the only district in the state that allows solar on preserved land and that the pause would allow time to address unintended consequences. - Elizabeth Franks (Woodbine) testified in strong support, emphasizing that large-scale solar projects are moving forward faster than communities can evaluate them. - Colt Romberger (testimony read by Kathy Heckman) testified in support, expressing concerns about environmental impacts, property values, and the lack of public service commission review for projects between one and two megawatts. - Ryan Powers (Glenwood) testified in support, drawing a parallel to the county's recent data center pause and stating that solar panels on preserved land destroy the land. - Jim Heckman (Woodbine) testified in support, noting that utility-scale solar on preserved land violates the intent of agricultural preservation and that a temporary pause would allow for more study. - Gene Bolton (residence not stated) testified in opposition, arguing that the county's climate goals require continued solar development, that stopping projects would harm solar companies and low-income families, and that the bill would put the county on the side of those who want to kill solar. - Ruth White (on behalf of Howard County Climate Action) testified in opposition, stating that the bill is irresponsible and that any delay makes the county's 2030 greenhouse gas reduction goals less attainable. She noted that delays could jeopardize federal tax credits and that state law prohibits local jurisdictions from prohibiting solar projects. - Spencer Rhoda (delegate candidate) testified in support, raising concerns about transparency and a potential conflict of interest involving a named councilmember. He demanded protection of farmland that the public has already paid to preserve. - Gary Cooper (Woodbine) testified in support, arguing that the county needs time to determine what local authority remains and to ensure proper placement of solar panels, citing viewshed and glare issues. - Casey Meinike (Woodbine) testified in support, describing how her family moved to Howard County expecting preserved land to remain farmland, and now faces a proposed solar project behind her home. She asked the council to define what preservation means. - Matt Wilhite (residence not stated) testified in support, stating that government needs to pause to catch up with private industry and that the bill is about good governance and protecting residents. CB49-2026, CB50-2026, CB51-2026 – Bond Authorizations - Rafi Hila, County Director of Finance, testified in favor of all three bills, explaining that CB49 authorizes up to $670,397 in bonds through the Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration (MWIFA) at an interest rate under 2.5%, with about 475% expected to be forgiven (this appears to be a misstatement; the transcript says "approximately 475%, is expected to be forgiven" which likely means 47.5% or a similar figure). CB50 authorizes up to $150 million in consolidated public improvement bonds and $50 million in metropolitan district bonds to finance capital projects. CB51 authorizes refunding bonds to refinance outstanding debt at favorable rates. - Matt Wilhite (public) raised concerns about contingency funds and the total debt level, questioning why the county adds new bonds and asking for more transparency on the Ellicott City flood mitigation project costs. CB52-2026 – Credit for Day Care Providers and Additional Childcare Credits - Rafi Hila testified in favor, stating the bill expands daycare tax credits to support more than 400 child and adult care providers and encourage new providers. CB53-2026 – Public Safety Officer Tax Credit – Retired Public Safety Officers - Rafi Hila testified in favor and thanked the council for his service. - Wayne Livesay (former Howard County Police Chief) testified in support, recounting his 34 years of service and stating that many retirees find it difficult to balance budgets on pensions. He argued the credit helps retain retirees in the county. - Chuck Ridgely (President, Howard County Professional Firefighters Retired Association) testified in support, asking the council to say thank you to retirees. - Nader Cain testified in opposition, questioning why the benefit is targeted at public safety retirees rather than other vulnerable populations, and suggesting pension adjustments instead. - Jim Daly (President, Howard County Police Supervisors Alliance) testified in strong support, stating that the credit demonstrates appreciation for sacrifices made by public safety officers and helps with recruitment and retention. - Matt Wilhite testified in support, arguing that keeping retirees in the county benefits the community and that the credit is a small token of respect. - Alan Schneider (Clarksville) testified in support but suggested the concept should be expanded to include other retired public servants like teachers and crossing guards. - Andy Liebno (Lisbon, District 5, via WebEx) testified in support, providing historical context that the state law was changed in 2023 to allow retirees but was never brought to the council until now. CR159-2026 – Supporting the Arts & Culture Plan - Colleen West (Executive Director, Howard County Arts Council) testified in favor, describing the plan as a 10-year blueprint developed with over 1,300 participants through surveys, workshops, and a 31-member steering committee. She stated the plan complements the county's general plan and prioritizes arts as a tool for economic strength and community belonging. CR160-2026 – Approving BikeHoward 2026 - Chris Eton (Howard County Office of Transportation) testified in favor, stating the plan updates the 2016 master plan, incorporates new analytical tools, and was developed with extensive public input (361 comments). The plan is aspirational and not fiscally binding; capital funding for bike infrastructure is expected to remain at about $1 million per year. - Nader Kane testified, stating he does not oppose the plan but requested striking the request for designation from the League of American Bicyclists, arguing the county has not earned that designation and it misrepresents current infrastructure. - Jason Hummel (Laurel) testified in opposition to the inclusion of the Kindler-Edenbrook Bridge project, stating the feasibility study predetermined a solution and that an alternative (upgrading the Old Columbia Road Bridge) would be less expensive and less impactful. He asked the council to delay approval until the plan is revised. - Ted Cochran (Columbia, representing Free Bikes for Kids) testified in support, emphasizing that safe bike routes are critical for children and that the plan will improve connectivity. - Antoine Wright (Chair, Howard County Multimodal Transportation Board) testified in strong support, stating that the plan delivers on the county's vision of connected, sustainable growth and that safe bikeways are public facilities that belong in how the county plans development. - Emily Ranson (Chair, Howard County Bicycle Advisory Group) testified in support, sharing a personal story about her child's safety and urging approval. CR161-2026 – Establishing a Surplus School Use Committee - Emily Ayaki (Chief, Bureau of Real Estate Management) testified in favor, explaining that the Howard County Board of Education determined a 4.5815-acre parcel (Lot 2) at the Central Office site is no longer needed for educational purposes and intends to transfer it to the county for Fire Station 15. The resolution creates a committee to study the disposition as required by county code. Discussion Items Council members engaged with several speakers: - Councilmember Yungmann asked John Lennon Miller whether he agreed with attorneys who said the Renewable Energy Certainty Act may not preempt agricultural preservation easements. Miller agreed that existing easements cannot be overruled but said that does not change the situation in Howard County because pre-RECA allowances for solar on ag-pres land already existed. - Councilmember Yungmann questioned Gene Bolton about her support for a recent data center pause but opposition to the solar pause. She replied that solar has been studied extensively while data centers are newer. - Councilmember Walsh asked Director Hila about "other sources" in the bond backup; Hila explained the MWIFA loan is considered other sources. Walsh also expressed frustration that the Ellicott City flood mitigation project continues to grow in cost, from about $200 million to an estimated $412 million. - Councilmember Walsh questioned the timing and policy of CB53, asking why the council should pass the bill in its final months. Director Hila responded that bills are brought forward when due diligence is complete. Councilmember Jung expressed support for the bill, stating she values retirees staying in the county. - On CR160, Councilmember Yungmann asked Nader Kane about spending on bike infrastructure versus other needs. Kane responded that his testimony was focused on the designation, not the plan itself. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken during the public hearing. The council is scheduled to hold a work session on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the C. Running Gray Room to discuss the legislation further. - A legislative session for final consideration of certain bills will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. - Written testimony will continue to be accepted and fully considered by the council prior to taking action.

The Howard County Hearing Examiner, Joyce Nichols, convened a hybrid meeting on September 23, 2026, at 5:30 PM to hear Administrative Appeal 833D, filed by Jay Komsa (listed as "Comsa" in transcript) regarding a DPZ decision on storage of recreational vehicles at 4335 Roxbury Mill Road, Brookeville, MD. The hearing was brief, with the examiner announcing a continuance and noting a pending motion to dismiss. Case Proceedings - The hearing examiner stated the case will be continued until November 18, 2026, at 5:30 PM. - The Office of Law, on behalf of the Department of Planning and Zoning, filed a motion to dismiss on September 22, 2026. - The appellant's response to the motion to dismiss is due by close of business on October 7, 2026. - Upon receipt of the response, the examiner will issue a decision and order on the motion to dismiss. Key Outcomes - Case continued to November 18, 2026. - Motion to dismiss filed; response deadline October 7, 2026. - No other decisions or votes were made. Note the discrepancy between the agenda (appellant "Komsa") and the transcript ("Comsa").

At 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, the Howard County Council held a hybrid legislative public hearing to receive testimony on appointments and Council Bill 58 (CB58-2026). Chair Opel Jones presided, with Councilmembers Christiana Rigby, Deb Jung, Liz Walsh, and David Yungmann present. The chair announced that several other agenda items would be moved to the following day (September 23). Appointments (Resolutions CR124-154 , CR155-158 , CR162) The council heard testimony from numerous appointees to various boards and commissions. Most spoke briefly in support of their own nominations. A notable exception occurred when Councilmember Liz Walsh questioned Rabbi Craig Axler (nominee to the Interfaith Advisory Commission) about his past conduct regarding interfaith dialogue after October 7, 2023, and Walsh stated she would not support his nomination. Rabbi Axler denied having any role in selecting commission membership and affirmed his commitment to honest dialogue. Other appointees included Larry Bratt (Opioid Restitution Fund Commission), Kim Lightfoot (Board of Social Services), Erica Davis (Housing Commission), Mustafa Akpinar, Rabbi Yanky Baron, Yolanda Bethea, Erica Cole, Ian Collier, Naresh Chandra Das, Kalpana Panigrahi, Emily Robertson, Alexander Ross, Jodi Saunders, Hamza Zgidou, Teresa Murbach (Commission on Disabilities), and several members of the SMART Data Center Task Force (Jennifer Jones, Hye Yeong Kwon, David Norfolk Jr., Jack Powell, Greg Zudock, Aftab Ahmed, Doug Siglin, Daniel Sweeney) . Josiah Wheeler (student) testified for his appointment to the Human Rights Commission. Reappointments to the Multimodal Transportation Board and Agricultural Preservation Board were also noted. Public Comments & Testimony on Council Bill 58-2026 Councilmember Deb Jung introduced CB58 , explaining it aimed to standardize county grant making, increase transparency, and require a 25% match for construction grants, among other provisions. She acknowledged concerns from nonprofits and offered to meet for amendments. A large number of community members and nonprofit representatives testified, with the majority opposing the bill: - Opponents argued the bill would create excessive administrative burdens, especially for small nonprofits; divert resources from direct services; risk client privacy through a public database; stifle innovation with a two-year experience requirement; and duplicate existing oversight. Speakers included Jessamine Duval (Bridges to Housing Stability), Lois Meek (Association of Community Services), Christy Page (Rebuilding Together Howard County), Lisa Markowitz (People's Voice Columbia), Jackie Ng (Housing Affordability Coalition), Linda Lampert Leslie (Columbia Democratic Club), Don Pop (individual), Jessica Nichols (individual), Seema Agarwal (individual), Cindy LaFollette (individual), Melissa Curtin (Community Foundation of Howard County), and others. Several cited the Office of Community Partnerships' current understaffing and the risk to vulnerable residents. - Supporters argued the bill is necessary for accountability and taxpayer protection, especially after concerns about a $25 million grant to Columbia Community Concepts for “The Source” project. They emphasized the need for clear deliverables, repayment provisions, and public transparency. Supporters included Stu Cohn (Howard County Taxpayers Association), Lisa Krause (individual), Shamica Preston (individual), Angela Bruce (individual), Andrea Levinson (individual), Ryan Powers (individual), Drew Roth (individual), Alan Schneider (individual), and Alan Steiner (individual). Several asked the council to work with stakeholders to refine the bill rather than reject it entirely. Discussion Items Deb Jung stated she was open to amendments and scheduled two meetings (September 23 evening and September 25 morning) to discuss changes with nonprofits. Councilmember Yungmann noted the bill primarily targets construction grants and supported a framework to protect the public fisc. No other councilmembers made substantive remarks on CB58 during the hearing. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken. The hearing served to collect testimony for the record. - All appointment resolutions and CB58 will be considered at a future legislative session (October 5, 2026, for final action, with a work session on September 28). - The remaining agenda items (CB49-53, CB59, CR159-161) were postponed to the next public hearing on September 23, 2026.