The Howard County Citizens Association (HCCA) held its 50th annual meeting on May 14, with election of a new board of directors and an excellent general discussion of possible HCCA priorities for the coming year.

Election results (one-year terms): President – Cathy Hudson (Elkridge); Vice-President – Stu Kohn (Laurel); Secretary – Bridget Mugane (Columbia); Treasurer – Walter Carson (Woodbine); At-Large Directors – Brian England (Columbia), J.D. Smith (Columbia), Ros Williams (Ellicott City)

A general discussion by attendees cited these concerns: impact of development on traffic and public services; need for new initiatives to facilitate aging in place; stormwater management, and the future adequacy of well water; the relatively weak role of the Citizens Task Force in the General Plan process; affordable housing; better access to land use information including dates of hearings; and transparency of government processes.

Members of the public are invited to report any concerns or suggestions on local or county matters.

The new board of directors will hold its retreat in June to plan for the coming year including specific projects it may undertake.

Cathy Hudson, President