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The agenda preview and updates matter to residents because they include upcoming community events, procedural items that will come before the board, and local infrastructure and staffing notes.

Kite Day: Mr. Krantz said the town will proclaim April 12 as Kite Day in remembrance of founder Alan Alt; Aberdeen Proving Ground Federal Credit Union will again sponsor free kites while supplies last. Speakers said turnout in prior years drew roughly a couple thousand people early in the morning and organizers hope for good weather.

Explorer Award: The police chief said an Explorer Award ceremony is planned for the town hall meeting; organizers want to preserve a surprise element and will present the recognition publicly at the meeting.

Town budget: Mr. Krantz said Director of Finance Lisa Moody and Town Administrator Edward Hopkins are finalizing the FY26 budget. The budget binder will be distributed at the town hall meeting on Monday; the first budget session is scheduled for Wednesday, April 9 at 4:30 p.m.

Planning Commission annual report: Kevin Small reported the Planning Commission’s annual report for 2024 shows a steady year with items including approval of four new single-family homes near Bel Air United Methodist Church and about 30 apartments related to a mixed-use development; the board will consider acceptance of the commission’s annual report next Monday. Small noted state rules do not require board acceptance but that current town code calls for it.

Tollgate Marketplace sewer easement: A town staff member (Charlie) summarized a proposed deed of easement for a 12-inch sanitary sewer line (roughly 1,300 linear feet with seven manholes) through Tollgate Marketplace to be dedicated to the town. Staff said the easement would create a 12-inch trunk run that could be extended to serve future mall-area development.

Staffing and appointments: Mr. Krantz said two Board of Ethics members are willing to be reappointed when terms expire in May, and personnel vacancies are posted for part-time construction inspector and procurement officer positions (each 16 hours/week). The deputy director of planning search has three top candidates under review. A Historic Preservation Commission vacancy remains open.

Other updates: Commissioners reported on liaison activities: the Economic & Community Development Commission (ECDC) is advancing draft work on vacant commercial-property strategies and has begun a preliminary discussion on short-term rentals; the tree committee will distribute trees at Arbor Day and the farmers market opening; Rockfield Manor renovation is progressing; and a trampoline-park permit is under review for a Pep Boys retail space.

The board also agreed by consensus to staff’s recommendation to cancel the first town-hall meetings in July and August to help staff plan summer schedules. No formal votes were taken on the informational items during the work session; many items were scheduled for formal action at the April 7 town hall meeting.","mediaType","Video","parentTitle","04/01/2025 Board of Town Commissioners Work Session Meeting","oneSentenceSummary","Town staff and commissioners previewed the April 7 town hall agenda — including a Kite Day proclamation and an Explorer Award presentation — and provided updates on the FY26 budget timeline, planning reports, a sewer easement at Tollgate Marketplace and staffing vacancies.","taxTitle","Bel Air, Harford County, Maryland","taxId",54308,"location","headline","shortSummary",{"_33":75,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":76,"_41":77,"_43":78,"_45":79,"_47":80,"_49":81,"_51":82,"_53":83,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":84,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":85,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":56,"_73":56},6094180,"Historic Preservation Commission proposes two-tier tax-credit idea to encourage restorations",883,1947000,2830000,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=2844613-857cff2cbc9bf239e9023fd6c4c52a4c&start=1947&end=2830","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/2844613-857cff2cbc9bf239e9023fd6c4c52a4c/thumbnail_1947000.jpg","/articles/6094180/Bel-Air/Harford-County/Maryland/Historic-Preservation-Commission-proposes-two-tier-tax-credit-idea-to-encourage-restorations","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/6094180-cc696959b402be3c8ac60511caeb4ab6/orig.mp4?Expires=1770448153&Signature=SQw7EiCPiTjuHGWVxllha47CPwErSk2ShCqPZ~ScIKUsskzpFBOu963J2BETEG4yPG61W23DU2MW5KJmKtwinlkPLLP1~hLSzy-1tJzuH8gOCoPTtcZ-Gru4GUeFZb8fKz5XNg8IWIvofimgUksEP-klO51KMDc3mm6BTGKf8B2eArcHNGqCeoRCG3vyamIgHjgvPrRN6b8G3sRvsTY3ax3e7JhYvufxrmjQNA-QpObauPvzkjTU9KbIyQpEMg7VcTXLKSYpI542j1eK3iuqnwOISsgjFEf5J2Xf0buk2iz8PopOhv2JNGg~dIpErJmUtvJVVOVrxJnLlp2fYYJwLA__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","The Bel Air Historic Preservation Commission has proposed studying a two-tier tax-credit system to give larger incentives for full restorations rather than minimal repairs, the board heard on April 1.

The matter is relevant because it could alter how owners of properties in the town’s historic program are financially incentivized to restore architectural features. A speaker who serves as the board’s liaison to the Historic Preservation Commission described the concept: the town’s current program offers a single 10% tax credit for qualifying work, and the commission is considering an added tier that would provide a larger incentive for projects that restore a property “back in time” rather than perform only minimal preservation work.

The liaison explained the commission’s thinking: the commission would exercise discretion and rely on its expertise, including historical photographs and material analysis, when judging whether a proposed project meets the higher standard for the larger credit. The board heard examples of the kinds of work that might qualify for the enhanced tier: restoring historical roofing types, historically accurate windows or siding, or other treatments that more closely match the property’s original appearance.

Commissioners and staff discussed implementation questions, including whether the change would require an ordinance amendment or could be implemented through resolution, how to define restoration versus repair, and how the commission’s review process would rely on its technical expertise. Planning staff and legal counsel were asked to collaborate with the Historic Preservation Commission on draft language. If the HPC approves draft language, commissioners were told representatives would present the proposal at a future work session for the board’s consideration.

No formal change to the town code was adopted at the session; the board asked staff to continue drafting language and to coordinate with the HPC for future review.","The Historic Preservation Commission is exploring a two-tier tax-credit structure to incentivize high-quality historic restorations rather than minimal repairs; commissioners asked staff to work on draft language and the commission to vet it before the board considers any ordinance changes.",{"_33":87,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":88,"_41":89,"_43":90,"_45":91,"_47":92,"_49":93,"_51":94,"_53":95,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":96,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":97,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":56,"_73":56},6094185,"Commissioners ask staff to study zoning and safety rules for proposed indoor shooting range",884,3248000,4132000,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=2844613-857cff2cbc9bf239e9023fd6c4c52a4c&start=3248&end=4132","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/2844613-857cff2cbc9bf239e9023fd6c4c52a4c/thumbnail_3248000.jpg","/articles/6094185/Bel-Air/Harford-County/Maryland/Commissioners-ask-staff-to-study-zoning-and-safety-rules-for-proposed-indoor-shooting-range","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/6094185-102db54793ca3e50530adf3c91832cb8/orig.mp4?Expires=1770448153&Signature=T9YE-PDiU03PJKyH14WGr-dUXRXe0p3g5tTA7JqgA7EAiKv3z-2Ubr7uG8mal4imeqvJBd3wbNpDtKGwRw5MoFM4W1cxyEaoTAVnQWq5HdxPdWB2syWGYiVRyWuB3c75LOk4SAqc~Dph8GHzDGVc5m2~cXD3XoNl-QWzH0jrprWl1pL2M8aqmidYknC7P3n~LxGiDBRsIDKum1PMl~t~c3h0vXFmE~7jBjsNetYOBJ0qh6x--SLNfnikT4uNhp1QvJy0m5rukM5IK3Qk1pxi~lG8bqIy1jtKPdm76aTt-Kt83QKSWpMW0C3LxWqfToD4voJZKABs-vl~0S67UuEmbQ__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","Bel Air commissioners directed staff and town counsel on April 1 to research regulatory and zoning approaches for indoor shooting ranges after a prospective business inquired about opening a gun store with an indoor range.

The topic is significant because Bel Air’s zoning currently has no specific use category for indoor shooting ranges; absent a code category, planners treat a proposed use as prohibited unless a similar allowed use applies. Kevin Small, presenting the background, said several jurisdictions defer to state rules and use local performance standards to address setbacks, hours and operations.

Police Chief Moore said public-safety and operational controls are the “linchpin.” He recommended strict internal-security measures, a trained rangemaster, background checks (NICS) for rentals, a robust inspection regime to ensure the building contains discharged projectiles, and adherence to noise regulations. “I think if we keep an eye on the construction and make sure that nothing escapes from that building, I think we’ll be good to go,” the chief said.

Commissioners discussed where the use could be allowed and what conditions might apply. Proposed guardrails raised in the discussion included: setback distances used by other municipalities (examples discussed included 300 feet from schools and 100 feet from residences), adherence to state background-check rules for firearm rentals and sales, strict hours of operation, noise limits, and protocols for managing lead and other environmental contaminants.

Several commissioners expressed support for studying a permissive approach with strong safeguards. Commissioner Rutledge said the town should follow the county and state as a starting point; Commissioner Taylor highlighted the educational and safety benefits of supervised training and in-range instruction. Commissioners also noted existing examples in neighboring jurisdictions, and asked staff to examine Baltimore County, Harford County and other municipal approaches.

Town staff and legal counsel were asked to return with a comprehensive recommendation that would: identify applicable state and federal requirements (including background-check obligations), propose zones where an indoor range could be permitted, recommend setbacks and operational performance standards, and propose inspection and lead-management requirements. The board did not take a formal vote; the discussion concluded with consensus direction to continue study and prepare draft regulations for future review.

No ordinance or final policy was adopted at the work session.","The Board of Town Commissioners asked staff and town counsel to research state regulations, setbacks and operational standards after an applicant sought to open a retail gun store with an indoor shooting range; police chief and commissioners emphasized internal-security, noise and lead-management issues.",{"_33":99,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":100,"_41":101,"_43":102,"_45":103,"_47":104,"_49":105,"_51":106,"_53":107,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":108,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":109,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":56,"_73":56},6094190,"Bel Air Lions Club says May 18 Derby is on track; Main Street to close early for races",980,269000,1249000,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=2844613-857cff2cbc9bf239e9023fd6c4c52a4c&start=269&end=1249","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/2844613-857cff2cbc9bf239e9023fd6c4c52a4c/thumbnail_269000.jpg","/articles/6094190/Bel-Air/Harford-County/Maryland/Bel-Air-Lions-Club-says-May-18-Derby-is-on-track-Main-Street-to-close-early-for-races","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/6094190-848366780e93cf7f0acf42b2ed111270/orig.mp4?Expires=1770448153&Signature=WYCSffDEai~ZhSjnUcZKfveRpfejdB4ADGS0s-MsKQO0syPYIU4tMqlxd8BTjyehNC4CenQtrqG6iOthznXcZ39S1lYfvswPO5VmoTYwwbe3Vzjc284j4d8uOfXUZKSPWeKNJDodNrOVqS0S4zoz57HVZ2UYjk9cxFd4OrMU39T3dXqljIaSPDzkhca0gwaOjMnin6q~VTH13mA4~M3aqZquSH~h-LgFWat5myhWEvLDSRJEuXObRikoa1bqBuzfLd~XrflnoJKH6-~lMxKuxhTpgmDwiVyH~TM9KLNUWkWR5fApBdtqCa1mF0mNZe0Vth~3ofreha~8mLFBs7vd-g__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","The Bel Air Lions Club told the Bel Air Board of Town Commissioners on April 1 that the third annual Bel Air Town Derby is scheduled for Sunday, May 18 and is proceeding as planned, with expanded participation and community programming.

The Lions’ update matters to downtown businesses and residents because Main Street will close at 7 a.m. on race day and reopen under the group’s permit at 1 p.m. Racing is scheduled to run from 8 a.m. until about noon, followed by an hour for cleanup and presentations. The group expects double-elimination racing for roughly 26–27 cars, up from about 20 last year.

Dave Gazace, a Lions Club representative, said, “Bottom line is we’re on track,” and thanked town staff and the police chief for cooperation. Amy Biondi, who is assisting race coordination, said Hartford TV will record the event for later broadcast, Christy Breslin will announce, and “Miss Bel Air” will serve as the official starter to tie Derby promotion to the town’s Fourth of July activities. Gazace and Biondi said the Lions are doing door-to-door notification for downtown businesses, offering a free program-book ad to participating storefronts and encouraging sidewalk sales coordinated with town staff.

The Lions described several operational details: a derby-car clinic and test-run days were held in advance; two Main Street test closures for practice have been approved (Lee Street closures on April 26 and May 4); the Lions plan to place the announcer stage on Main Street to improve sightlines; and the group is improving timing and sound systems with volunteer-built equipment and assistance from the Downtown Alliance. Gazace credited local volunteers for building a new timing system with lights and improved displays.

Sponsors were also discussed. The Lions said Deer Creek is the title sponsor for the third year and recently added $1,000 to the club’s Camp Possibilities donation, a youth program for children with diabetes. Kona Ice is scheduled to attend and give free treats to drivers and volunteers, the Lions said.

Commissioners and the chair praised the Lions for outreach and coordination with town staff. Commissioner Chismar thanked the Lions for notifying businesses and providing free advertising. Chair Eddings and others noted the event’s family orientation and historical roots in Bel Air.

No formal vote or town action was recorded on the Derby at the work session; Lions representatives said permits and the memorandum of understanding with the town are in place and that they will continue coordinating logistics with staff.

Looking ahead, the Lions asked businesses to contact them with questions and said they will continue direct outreach leading up to May 18.","Bel Air Lions Club representatives told the Board of Town Commissioners the third annual Bel Air Town Derby on May 18 is “on track,” with Main Street closing at 7 a.m., racing 8 a.m.–noon, expanded car counts and community-focused programming including broadcast and business outreach.","actionData","errors"]

Article not found

Town staff previews April 7 town hall agenda and local updates including Kite Day, budget timeline and staffing vacancies

Historic Preservation Commission proposes two-tier tax-credit idea to encourage restorations

Commissioners ask staff to study zoning and safety rules for proposed indoor shooting range

Bel Air Lions Club says May 18 Derby is on track; Main Street to close early for races