ELKTON, MD — The new year has brought significant legislative changes to Cecil County, with the County Council enacting two bills during the first legislative session of 2024. The council approved a supplemental appropriation for the replacement of Wheatley Road Bridge and made significant amendments to the county’s zoning ordinance regarding cannabis.
Investing in Infrastructure
During the Legislative Session Day on January 2, 2024, the council enacted Bill No. 2023-10, which provides supplemental expenditure authority from existing bond proceeds. With an allocation of $63,000, the bill amends the Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.
This amendment will fund the replacement of Wheatley Road Bridge, under project number 52695, as part of the county’s 2024 Capital Budget. The enactment of this bill demonstrates the council’s commitment to maintaining and improving the county’s infrastructure. The bill will take effect on March 4, 2024.
Navigating New Terrain: Cannabis Zoning
In addition to infrastructure development, the council also addressed the evolving landscape of cannabis regulation. Bill No. 2023-11, also enacted on January 2, 2024, amends the Cecil County Zoning Ordinance to include definitions, permissible uses, home occupation stipulations, prohibited signs, and general loading specifications related to cannabis.
The comprehensive amendment includes the addition and definition of cannabis terms, the insertion of permissible uses tables for cannabis, and the inclusion of cannabis-related sections for growers, processors, independent testing laboratories, dispensaries, and on-site consumption establishments. The bill also adjusts the numbering of home occupations and adds to prohibited signs and general loading specifications for cannabis-related activities.
The enactment of this bill showcases the council’s proactive approach to managing the emerging cannabis industry within the county, ensuring it is integrated into the community in a structured and regulated manner. This bill is also set to take effect on March 4, 2024.
Copies of these enacted bills are available on the Cecil County Government website and at the County Administration Building in Elkton. For more information, residents can contact the County Council Office or email council@ccgov.org. The council has also ensured that these documents are available in alternate formats, aiming to provide accessibility for all Cecil County residents.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and Microsoft Start.