Developers in Howard County may have to test the soil and water on former golf courses before building, if a bill to be introduced to the County Council passes.
The bill requiring testing for the redevelopment of golf courses was pre-filed Friday and will be introduced at the council?s Sept. 4 legislative session.
The measure comes weeks after county officials discovered tests in 2005 that found high levels of arsenic in areas of Turf Valley. The county then called off talks with Turf Valley developer Louis Mangione of Mangione Family Enterprises and requested the developer enter a voluntary cleanup program.
Residents near Turf Valley have fought the development for months, concerned the arsenic in the soil poses a health hazard to their families and the construction workers.
Marc Norman, an opponent of Turf Valley development, said he was “very appreciative” of Howard County Executive Ken Ulman?s leadership on the issue.
According to the legislation, a developer must test a site before applying for and receiving approval of development plans.
The measure would require developers to have a site assessment and soil and water testing in accordance with the Maryland Department of the Environment?s standards.
The requirement would affect plans filed on or after Dec. 15, according to the legislation.
