Washington County may seek authority for transfer tax

The Washington County Commissioners, facing increased development pressure, are considering asking state lawmakers for approval to impose a transfer tax on real estate transactions.

Proponents say a 1 percent tax could generate $1.2 million a year for school construction, urban redevelopment and agricultural and historic preservation.

Board President Gregory Snook said this month that he thinks the county's legislative delegation will support either a transfer tax, an excise tax or impact fees.

Commissioner John Munson objected to any new taxes: "The answer is to quit this crazy spending," he said.

Frederick County planner returning to Carroll post

The director of the Frederick County Planning Division said Wednesday that he was resigning to return to his old job as planning director in neighboring Carroll County.

Steve Horn worked for Carroll County government for 14 years, serving as planning director there from 1999 to 2001, before taking the Frederick County job.

Horn is to continue in his Frederick County position through Jan. 10, Frederick County Manager Douglas D. Browning said. - Associated Press