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Topics At Hand
Maryland State Budget
Development of Glen Burnie Town Center
Business Retention and Creation
Vacant Buildings
Maryland State Budget
Issue: Over the last several years, our state budget has grown faster than our state’s economy. After enjoying a budget surplus just two short years ago, Maryland is now facing a budget deficit of more that 786 million dollars for Fiscal Year 2005. Difficult choices will have to be made to resolve our fiscal challenges, choices that may include program reductions as well as the enhancement or adoption of new revenue raising initiatives.
Position: The long term economic security of Maryland can best be achieved through a proactive economic development effort that expands the commercial tax base in Maryland, however, in this time of fiscal deficits, the Chamber urges our elected officials to seriously consider all revenue options in their efforts to re-establish the fiscal soundness of the state treasury.
Glen Burnie Town Center
Issue: Expansion and development of the Glen Burnie Town Center is a vital key to the economic well being of Northern Anne Arundel County. The Town Center will not only bring jobs to the area but also will also create new markets for area businesses and improve the quality of life for our citizens. The Town Center must be a primary hub of business activity in Anne Arundel County.
Position: The Chamber strongly supports the continued revitalization and growth of the Glen Burnie Town Center.
Business Retention and Creation
Issue: Business retention is a key element of any economic development policy and is critical to maintaining the regions business vigor. New businesses moving to or expanding operations in Northern Anne Arundel County will add to our already sound economic base and provide jobs and opportunity for our citizens.
Position: The Chamber supports public policy: that lowers the business tax burden; that repeals excessive or unnecessary regulation; that encourages investment in existing business; and that promotes competitiveness. Moreover, the Chamber recommends County legislation mandating economic impact statements for any business related legislation.
Vacant Buildings
Issue: In order to keep a vibrant business climate in Northern Anne Arundel County we must keep our commercial properties at a high occupancy level. At present we are experiencing a large amount of vacant commercial property within our marketing territory.
Position: The Chamber's charge is to work with local and state government in an attempt to attract businesses to these vacancies. The Chamber supports legislation that will give tax breaks to businesses that want to locate within these vacant commercial areas. The Chamber supports these efforts and any others that will strengthen the commercial business climate within our marketing area. |
