Howard County Board of Appeals Considers Long-Awaited Procedure Revisions

The Howard County Council convened on July 21, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the rules of procedure for the Howard County Board of Appeals. The meeting featured testimonies from various stakeholders, highlighting both support and concerns regarding the proposed changes.

Stuart Cohn, representing the Howard County Citizens Association, emphasized the need for a more transparent and efficient appeals process. He criticized the current board structure, suggesting that the proposed alternate board member system lacks clear benefits and could complicate proceedings. Cohn also pointed out that the rules had not been updated in 35 years, calling for standardization with other boards and expressing dissatisfaction with the qualifications of current board members.

Gene Ryan, chairperson of the Board of Appeals, defended the proposed updates, stating that the board had conducted extensive work over the past 14 months to revise the rules. He noted that the changes aim to enhance civic participation and accountability while addressing inconsistencies in the county code. Ryan urged the council to approve the updates, which he believes will improve public trust in the appeals process.

Lynn Forforkold, another board member, echoed Ryan's sentiments, highlighting the importance of proper orientation and training for board members. She argued that the new rules would provide clearer guidance for both the board and citizens navigating the appeals process.

However, concerns were raised by Chris Alleva, who criticized the board for a lack of transparency and public confidence. He referenced past violations of the Maryland Open Meetings Act and called for a thorough investigation into the board's operations. Anwar Hassan, a long-time resident, echoed these concerns, arguing that recent decisions have favored corporate interests over community needs, urging the council to prioritize public input and ethical conduct.

The meeting concluded with a call for further consideration of the proposed changes, as council members and community members alike expressed a desire for a more equitable and transparent appeals process. The council is expected to deliberate on the proposed updates in the coming weeks, with the potential for significant implications for how appeals are handled in Howard County.