Business group picks Owens as top leader in local government

The Annapolis and Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce recognized County Executive Janet S. Owens as the "Outstanding Government Leader for 2002" at an awards ceremony Tuesday night in Annapolis.

"In the business community, we attach great significance to this award," said chamber President and CEO Bob Burdon. "The business community values the county executive's untiring effort ... to citizens and the quality of life all of us enjoy."

Owens, a Democrat from Millersville, received the award at the chamber's annual awards dinner at the Marriott Waterfront Hotel in Annapolis. She is expected to announce her candidacy for re-election Saturday. So far, she is unchallenged in the September primary.

DNR presents program on using rain water

The state Department of Natural Resources will present an event about rain gardens at 7 tonight at the Tawes State Office Building in Annapolis.

The Lower Western Shore Tributary Team will present the program about techniques for naturally capturing and filtering rainwater. Rain gardens look like other landscaped areas, but actually help to cleanse and make use of storm-water runoff, officials say.

To register for the event, contact Tributary Strategies Coordinator Mike Bilet at 410-260-8988.

Council bills proposed to transfer Taylor center

Three bills to transfer the former David Taylor Research Center to private developers were introduced at Monday's County Council meeting. A public hearing on the legislation will be held July 15.

In another matter, Councilman Bill D. Burlison, a Crofton Democrat, introduced legislation to amend the charter to allow the Salary Standard Commission to set the county executive's salary. The legislation is the first of several expected to be introduced by council members. Charter amendments must be approved by referendum.