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Developers warn public meetings for waiver and variance requests would slow approvals; council hears both sides
Summary
Councilmember Liz Walsh introduced a bill to make certain waiver and variance decisions subject to the Open Meetings Act. The Maryland Building Industry Association opposed the change, saying early technical reviews would be politicized and delay projects; supporters said transparency is needed, especially for projects affecting Ellicott City.
Councilmember Liz Walsh introduced a measure (CB 27‑20‑25) proposing that certain waiver and variance deliberations be subject to the state's Open Meetings Act, and public witnesses offered sharply divided views at the April legislative public hearing.
Alex Andelsman, testifying on behalf of the Maryland Building Industry Association (MBIA),…
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