Public Hearings - CHR 1-2013 ZTA DEFINITION MARINA

A public hearing was held today at 6:15 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Hearing Room, County Government Center, Chestertown, Maryland, for Code Home Rule Bill Number 1-2013 ZTA- Definition of Marina which is AN ACT to amend Article XI. DEFINITIONS, SECTION 2. DEFINITIONS, 189. Marina, of the Kent County Land Use Ordinance to clarify the definition of marina.

County Commissioners, Ronald Fithian, William Pickrum, and William Short were in attendance as well as Ernest Crofoot, County Administrator, and Amy Moredock, Director, Planning, Housing, and Zoning.

Commissioner Fithian read the proposed legislation into the record.

William Herb registered to testify. Mr. Herb directed questions to the Board relating to the amended language in the legislation. Mr. Herb was concerned that new language may exclude a current marina, defined by the existing language. Mr. Herb has concerns that the proposed amended definition may remove the County’s ability to regulate activities of any excluded marina.

Commissioner Fithian stated that clarifying the definition of marina will not impact any existing marinas.

Ms. Moredock explained that there is a finite list of existing marinas and they have been inventoried in the County. No marinas under the current definition should be negatively impacted by the proposed change in language. There are also a finite number of vacant properties zoned Marine, and it is anticipated that those properties would be developed as marinas which would provide marine services.

Commissioner Pickrum explained that there are still adequate ordinances to regulate activities that go on at a marinas defined by this designation.

Commissioner Fithian invited comments and questions from the audience.

No one else present requested to comment or ask questions.

Written comments will be accepted in the Commissioners’ Office until Friday, March 1, 2013 at 12:00 p.m.





The hearing was taped for reference and the Commissioners adjourned the public hearing at 6:18 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,



Sondra M. Blackiston, Clerk

Approved:
Ronald H. Fithian, President
The County Commissioners
Of Kent County, Maryland