Council refers Carr's Manor annexation petition to public works and planning for study

The Annapolis City Council on June 16 accepted for preliminary review a petition to annex roughly 7 acres known as Carr's Manor and referred the matter to the Department of Public Works and Planning & Zoning for technical analysis and recommendations.

The referral came after more than an hour of public testimony in which neighbors split between opposing annexation — citing cost, taxes, existing septic and wells and concern about development — and residents who support annexation and said the area lacks reliable sewer and water service. Petitioner representatives told the council the parcel is largely surrounded by city property, is close to existing utilities and that failing septic systems and a high water table created environmental and public-health concerns.

Why it matters: Annexation would change which government provides sewer, water and other municipal services. The council’s referral asks…