Based on the number of bills that are filed each year, it is almost impossible to keep track of every one. Fortunately, I have many people in Charles County who contact me concerning specific legislation and ask that I take a closer look at the bill. Sometimes they are for the bill as written and sometimes they suggest changes that would improve the bill.
I recently heard from Edwin Baker in Nanjemoy asking that I take a close look at HB309 – Maryland Heritage Structure Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program. This bill would extend the Maryland Heritage Structure Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program, streamline and improve the application process; and insure that projects are undertaken before it is too late to save historic buildings. He supports this measure because it would 1) create jobs, 2) leverage private investment in older neighborhoods, 3) generate tax revenue, especially from commercial projects, and 4) makes the statement “The ‘Greenest’ Building is One That is Already Built.” This reminds me of the many treasures we have in Charles County that sadly need rehabilitation and preservation.