ORAL TESTIMONY TO THE COUNTY COUNCIL OF ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MARYLAND

BILL 78-23 AN ORDINANCE CONCERNING: FINANCE, TAXATION, AND BUDGET – SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT – ZONING – ESSENTIAL WORKER HOUSING ACCESS ACT OF 2023

POSITION: Support

BY: Abby Root, League of Women Voters of Anne Arundel County

DATE: November 6, 2023

Good evening. My name is Abby Root, 1336 Chicory Way, Odenton, representing the League of Women Voters of Anne Arundel County

The League supports Bill 78-23.

This bill will give workers who work in Anne Arundel County, but cannot afford to live here, the opportunity to own or rent housing near their workplace.

The League’s support of Bill 78-23 is based on its affordable housing and planning and zoning positions, to “promote and pursue balanced development that will have minimum impact on the environment and maximum long-term benefit to employment and the tax base including provision of opportunity for affordable housing by increasing housing opportunities for people of low or moderate income.”

Moderately Priced Dwelling Units have worked well in other jurisdictions where low- or moderate-income county workers have access to quality housing at a cost that is affordable.

Essential workers living in the county will have a sense of community. Their commitments will not be split between two counties.

They will shop here and go to local healthcare providers. Their children will attend school here, participate in sports and other after-school activities.  It will be easier for the parents who live here to attend these events. Living closer to the workplace is also good for the environment because it saves on gas and wear and tear on cars.

The League urges the Council to vote in favor of bill 78-23. Thank you.