May18,2000

The Honorable Casper R. Taylor, Jr.
Speaker of the House
State House
Annapolis MD 21401

Dear Mr. Speaker:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the Maryland Constitution, I have today vetoed House Bill 323 - Baltimore City - Community Benefits Districts - Review by Mayor and City Council.

This bill repeals the General Assembly's authority to review the desirability of community benefits districts in Baltimore City and the power to terminate the operations of the community benefits districts. The Mayor and City Council of Baltimore City will review the desirability of the districts every four years, beginning with the Charles Village Community Benefits District in December 2002. This bill also names the Midtown Community Benefits District as one of the six community benefits districts that Baltimore City may establish, and sets its next review date for December 2003. Any additional community benefits districts created in Baltimore City would be reviewed four years after their date of establishment.

Senate Bill 850, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on April 25, 2000, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 323.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor