The Montgomery County Council is set to discuss new legislation this week aimed at tackling the issue of excessive vehicle noise. The proposed bill, based on state legislation that passed earlier this year, seeks to install “noise camera” devices throughout the county to monitor and reduce noise emissions.
Council Vice President Kate Stewart, one of the sponsors of the county bill, emphasized the importance of addressing the negative health and quality of life impacts experienced by residents due to modified exhaust noise. She believes that the implementation of noise cameras will help to enforce existing laws that prohibit excessively loud vehicles.
These noise cameras, equipped with microphones, are designed to detect and measure noise levels. If a vehicle exceeds the noise threshold set by the state, the camera will capture a video recording of the offending vehicle. Offenses would be considered civil violations, resulting in a warning notice for a first offense and fines of up to $75 for subsequent offenses.
The collected fines from these violations would be used to fund the pilot program or support public safety initiatives, such as pedestrian safety programs.
In addition to addressing vehicular noise pollution, the council will also introduce legislation to streamline the approval process for affordable housing projects. The proposed bill aims to remove the requirement for the Housing Opportunities Commission to issue public notices and hold hearings before commencing work on new affordable housing developments.
The goal of this bill is to prevent delays in the construction of much-needed affordable housing. By aligning with a state bill, the county aims to simplify the approval process while still providing opportunities for public review through Montgomery Planning.
Lastly, council members will introduce a bill that seeks to change the county’s campaign finance law. This legislation would allow candidates to retain more funds after an election to cover post-election expenses. It also proposes adjusting the limits on campaign contributions periodically based on the Consumer Price Index.
With these proposed bills, Montgomery County is taking steps to address noise pollution, streamline affordable housing development, and update campaign finance regulations. The council’s agenda this week reflects its commitment to improving the quality of life for residents and addressing important community issues.
Frequently Asked Questions: Montgomery County Council’s New Legislation
1. What is the purpose of the new legislation being discussed by the Montgomery County Council?
The new legislation aims to tackle the issue of excessive vehicle noise and reduce noise emissions in the county.
2. How will the proposed bill address the issue of vehicle noise?
The proposed bill seeks to install “noise camera” devices throughout the county to monitor and enforce existing laws against excessively loud vehicles.
3. How do noise cameras work?
Noise cameras are equipped with microphones to detect and measure noise levels. If a vehicle exceeds the noise threshold, the camera will capture a video recording of the offending vehicle.
4. What are the consequences for violating noise regulations?
Offenses would be considered civil violations, with a warning notice for a first offense and fines of up to $75 for subsequent offenses. The fines collected would be used to fund the pilot program or support public safety initiatives.
5. Are there any other topics being addressed by the council?
Yes, the council will also introduce legislation to streamline the approval process for affordable housing projects and to update the county’s campaign finance law.
6. What is the purpose of the bill regarding affordable housing projects?
The proposed bill aims to remove the requirement for public notices and hearings before commencing work on new affordable housing developments, to prevent delays in construction.
7. How will the council update the campaign finance regulations?
The legislation would allow candidates to retain more funds after an election for post-election expenses. It also proposes adjusting the limits on campaign contributions periodically based on the Consumer Price Index.
Definitions:
– Noise Camera: Devices equipped with microphones to detect and measure noise levels emitted by vehicles.
Suggested Related Links:
– Montgomery County Official Website
The source of the article is from the blog tvbzorg.com