“But you must remember, my fellow-citizens, that eternal vigilance by the people is the price of liberty, and that you must pay the price if you wish to secure the blessing. It behooves you, therefore, to be watchful in your States as well as in the Federal Government.” — Andrew Jackson, Farewell Address, March 4, 1837
What a privilege it has been for me to serve as HCCA president over the last two years. I have had wonderful board members who are committed to making sure that the voice of the Howard County citizens is heard. Each month we had nearly 100% participation in our board meetings, and each member worked hard to ensure that we became a stronger, more informed organization.
This past year we:
- Initiated a newsletter
- Increased our membership numbers
- Redid our website including the ability to take credit card payments
- Started an aging in place focus-look for a forum in the fall
- Met with the Department of Planning and Zoning to discuss zoning issues and how to improve communication with citizens
- Met with several council members to discuss rezoning issues in their district
- Testified to support the aging in place tax credits
- Testified on the General Plan and the Comprehensive Rezoning changes
- The Comprehensive Rezoning Plan will go before the County Council this June. We will once again provide testimony, especially looking at the long term effects that this plan will foster.
And a big thank you to all our members who brought issues to our attention, commented on our listserve, and who worked hard to make our community better. Eternal vigilance is not a threat, but a responsibility of each one of us. Thank you for your participation in our democracy, and HCCA looks forward to working with each one of you in the upcoming year.
Respectfully submitted,
Cathy Hudson, President
Howard County Citizens Association