MoCo Delays Decisions on Parking Ban and Building Permits

In their first day back since the holiday recess today, Montgomery County Council members put off decisions on two hot topics: a parking ban on oversized vehicles and a notification requirement on major home construction projects.

Council member Roger Berliner (D-Potomac-Bethesda) called his notification bill a "conversation starter" meant to get neighbors talking early about plans to tear down and rebuild older homes.

But the building industry and County Executive Isiah Leggett (D) oppose the measure in part because of concerns that it would create a false expectation that notice to neighbors would allow them to block or influence approval of a building permit.

Berliner agreed to narrow the scope of his proposal, but it was unclear today how the council would vote when the issue returns as soon as the end of the month.

On the parking ban, Council member Michael Knapp has the support of the three members of the public safety committee to keep large commercial vehicles, oversized pick-up trucks and recreational vehicles off residential streets. Residents have long complained that the trucks and trailers block visibility, making it hard to navigate busy intersections.

But some council members raised concerns today about the impact on small business owners during a fiscal crisis.

"This is not the time to ask them to undertake more expensive options," said Council member Nancy Floreen (D-At Large).

The bill is tentatively scheduled for a vote on Jan. 27.

By Ann Marimow |  January 13, 2009; 4:35 PM ET  | Category:  Ann Marimow
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