Question 1
Why did the Form of Government Committee unanimously recommend the County Commissioners put the adoption of Code Home Rule on the ballot?
Answer 1
The Committee believed that local issues should be decided locally, rather than in Annapolis, whenever possible. The Committee could find no reason why legislators in other counties should have a vote in determining Charles County citizens’ needs. Local self determination, the Committee felt, would be best achieved under Code Home Rule.
Question 2
What would Code Home Rule allow that the present Commissioner form does not?
Answer 2
Code Home Rule would allow a greater number of local legislative decisions to be made by the Board of County Commissioners rather than having to seek legislative approval of most local laws in Annapolis. It is estimated that between 30 to 40 percent of bills now requiring State legislative approval could be enacted locally instead.
Question 3
What are some examples of laws which could be enacted by local elected officials under Code Home Rule which now must be approved in Annapolis?
Answer 3
Some examples are nuisance abatement laws, noise restrictions, bond issues for schools, parks and other essential functions, public safety provisions, and the internal organization of local government. Subject to certain notice, advertising and referenda requirements, bills could be enacted at any time during the year rather than having to wait for the 90-day annual Maryland General Assembly session.
Question 4
Is Code Home Rule the same as charter government like Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties have?
Answer 4
No. While it has most of the same powers to enact local legislation that charter governments have, there is no elected County Executive or County Council. The title “County Commissioners” is retained and the Commissioners remain the governing body under Code Home Rule. There is no charter document drafted or enacted under Code Home Rule.
Question 5
Will Code Home Rule increase the amount of taxes I will have to pay? Can the Commissioners create new taxes if I vote for Code Home Rule?
Answer 5
No to both questions. There are no additional costs imposed by Code Home Rule which would necessitate any tax increases. Some additional bill advertisement, notification and publication costs may occur, but there would be negligible in the context of the County’s budget. The Commissioners may not, under Code Home Rule, create new taxes not specifically authorized prior to the adoption of Code Home Rule without General Assembly approval.
Question 6
When would Code Home Rule take effect if enacted by the voters?
Answer 6
Code Home Rule would take effect 30 days after the election.
