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HVBF Executive Briefing Loyola Graduate Center Stuart Kaplow, real estate attorney, lobbyist, and vice-chairman of the Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce, gave us an accounting of the deeds and miss-deeds of the 2002 Maryland General Assembly Session. A presentation, which began with the quotation “ No man’s life, liberty or property are safe while the legislature is in session”, delivered what it promised. Stuart also stated that Maryland is among the most liberal states in these United States. For newspaper coverage, Stuart recommends the best source as the Montgomery County Gazette. The Maryland General Assembly has one of the best websites in the nation at www.mlis.state.md.us. When looking at a bill, be sure to examine the corresponding physical notes that detail the bill. While at the website, click on the re-districting maps to get details for an understanding of the recent changes. Stuart examined the bills affecting business in Baltimore County that passed and those that didn’t. Some that didn’t were the regulation of light, and transfer and recordation taxes. The business community effectively opposed these initiatives, but you can be sure they will return. Revenues to fund a large deficit will be targeted on the business community in the next session. Baltimore County will benefit in the gubernatorial race regardless of the winner since both candidates reside in Baltimore County. The battle for the Congressional seat vacated by Bob Ehrlich will be another interesting contest as Dutch Ruppersberger and Helen Bentley compete. Stuart commented on the impact of the unfounded Thornton Commission bill for education. Tax credits for development of heritage properties are largely ignored by businesses according to Stuart. They present an opportunity for developers to invest in old properties and commit to improving them. We learned from Stuart that Wegman is planning one of their superstores on Beaver Dam Road near Lowe’s. This 130,000 square foot store of grocery goodies has the business community concerned about the ability of Beaver Dam Road to handle the traffic. Stuart says stay tuned in for an interesting contest. Stuart finished by commenting on those bills that passed but were later vetoed by the Governor and the reasons for the vetoes. Stuart can be reached at skaplow@skaplow.com and seen on the web at www.stuartkaplow.com. |