Hartford Council Approves HD Channel Request to Verizon for Local Programming

The Harford County Council convened on September 2, 2025, to discuss several key issues, including the approval of a memorandum of agreement and a request for a local HD channel from Verizon.

During the meeting, council members debated the importance of progress over perfection, with one member urging colleagues to support the memorandum of agreement, emphasizing that it represents an improvement over the current situation. The agreement ultimately passed with six votes in favor and one against.

Another significant topic was the request from Harford TV for Verizon to provide a high-definition (HD) channel. This request was part of a franchise renewal agreement approved earlier in the year. The council unanimously approved a letter requesting that Verizon implement the HD channel for Harford TV, ensuring that residents will have access to improved programming quality.

Additionally, the council addressed the withdrawal of Executive Order 25-02, which aimed to create an Office of General Services. Concerns were raised regarding the timing of the order and its potential impact on budget appropriations. The county executive acknowledged these issues and indicated that the proposal may be revisited in the future when the timing aligns better with fiscal policies.

The meeting concluded with an opportunity for public input, highlighting the council's commitment to community engagement. Overall, the discussions reflected ongoing efforts to enhance local services and governance in Harford County.