Harford County Executive Craig Signs 2012 Master Plan and Land Use Element Plan Bill into Law

From Harford County government:

Harford County Executive David R. Craig today signed Harford County Bill No. 12-01 as amended, “2012 Master Plan and Land Use Element Plan” into law. Councilman Chad Shrodes, Pete Gutwald, Director of the Department of Planning and Zoning and members of his staff were present for the bill signing in the County Executive’s Office.

“Today is a great day for the future of Harford County,” County Executive Craig stated. “The Master Plan and Land Use Element Plan are critical to outlining the vision of Harford County for the next 10 – 20 years. I am grateful for the dedicated and tireless efforts of Director Gutwald and members of his staff in developing the 2012 Master Plan and Land Use Element Plan. I also want to commend and congratulate Council President Boniface and the Harford County Council for their conscientious consideration of this bill,” County Executive Craig remarked.

The Department of Planning and Zoning commenced work on the 2012 Master Plan and Land Use Element Plan in February of 2011. The Land Use Element Plan identifies general areas in Harford County where agricultural, residential, commercial, industrial and open space uses will be allowed. The Plan serves as a policy document to ensure a compatible pattern of land uses throughout the county.

During the past year as the Master Plan and Land Use Element Plan were being developed, the Department of Planning and Zoning allowed for various opportunities for the public to comment on the draft plan, including workshops and the ability to provide comments on-line. Specifically, citizens using the “P&Z Online Community” were able to see all the comments that had been offered regarding the Plan and have a discussion with each other on the merits of the comments.

“Bill No. 12-01, as amended, the “2012 Master Plan and Land Use Element Plan” is another example of our partnership with the Harford County Council helping to ensure we remain good stewards of our county and promote environmental stewardship and a quality living environment for generations to come,” County Executive Craig stated.