Anne Arundel Council Adjusts Snow Penalties Amid Resident Backlash

Residents of Anne Arundel County expressed their concerns this week regarding a proposed bill that would increase penalties for property owners failing to clear snow from sidewalks. In response to the criticism, the County Council has amended the legislation, aiming to address community fears about the implications of the bill.

Maureen Carr-York, a resident of Millersville and president of the Greater Severna Park Council, voiced her apprehensions during a County Council meeting on November 6. She highlighted the dangers of the proposed fines, stating, “Our streets don’t get cleared as fast as you want our sidewalks cleared.” Carr-York emphasized that many residents worried about the potential for high fines and the risks associated with clearing snow and ice, particularly for vulnerable individuals. “You don’t have to be 70 years old and break more readily to be concerned about shoveling snow,” she added.

The bill, known as Bill 76-25, aims to shift enforcement responsibilities from the Anne Arundel County Police Department to the Department of Inspections and Permits. Currently, property owners who fail to clear snow from their sidewalks face misdemeanor charges and fines of up to $10. If the legislation is approved, fines would be categorized as civil violations, with penalties based on the number of infractions. For residential properties, fines would start at $50 for the first violation, rising to $100 for the second and $500 for subsequent violations. Other property types would incur higher penalties, starting at $125 for the first offense and escalating to $1,000 for repeated violations.

According to Ethan Hunt, director of government affairs for the county’s executive branch, the bill was initiated by County Executive Steuart Pittman in response to numerous complaints from residents last winter during significant snowfall. The council’s chair, Julie Hummer, a Democrat from Laurel, sponsored the bill.

During the recent council meeting, an amendment was passed to remove the requirement that residents cover the costs of snow removal. Additionally, the council extended the time allowed for residents to clear sidewalks when snowfall exceeds 3 inches. This change was made in an effort to alleviate pressure on property owners during severe weather.

Despite the amendments, public concerns remained prevalent. Resident Doug Nickels questioned the reliance on neighbors to report violations, stating, “We’re going to rely on our neighbors to tell on us, to complain — there is something wrong with that.” He expressed fears that the legislation could foster a divisive atmosphere within the community.

Another public hearing is scheduled for the next County Council meeting on November 17, allowing further opportunity for residents to voice their opinions on the proposed changes. The ongoing dialogue reflects the community’s engagement with local governance and the importance of balancing safety with civic responsibility.

This article was contributed to by James Matheson. For news tips, contact Bridget Byrne at [email protected] or 443-690-7205.