Last-minute uncertainty about cable television wiring is forcing a delay in the County Council's return to the Banneker Room in the renovated George Howard Building in Ellicott City.

Howard County Public Works Director James Irvin said the council will meet Sept. 7 at school board headquarters one last time before the entire government staff begins moving back to Ellicott City.

Irvin said the wiring will probably be done in time, but since council meetings must be advertised in advance, the panel decided to stay at school board headquarters for one more meeting.

"Better safe than sorry," Irvin said.

Other agencies probably will begin the move back from temporary offices in Columbia the weekend of Sept. 11-12, he said.

larry.carson@baltsun.com