Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich said he expects to meet with, and most likely approve, the county council’s recommendations of Artie Harris Jr. as the next planning board chair and Josh Linden as commissioner.
Elrich has 30 days to make his recommendation, which he expects to do. However, he noted Wednesday, that previously the council approved a member of the planning board without waiting the 30 days.
Elrich used his executive powers to veto the appointment of Rockville resident James Hedrick to the Montgomery County Planning Board. However, the council still approved his appointment.
While Elrich called that a clear violation of the law, he said he did not expect that to happen this time as he expected to approve the nominations of both Harris and Linden within the next 10 days, after first meeting with them.
Elrich praised Harris’ “practical experience,”, especially in regard to affordable housing. Harris currently serves as vice president of real estate at Montgomery Housing Partnership (MHP).
Under the new leadership, Elrich said he expects to see more equity and more affordable units built. He hoped the planning board would enable the creation of affordable homes for people who work in the county.
Noting that Harris is African American, Elrich said, “I think that’s going to be helpful.”
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