Jud Ashman

The County Council's responsibilities are specified by the County Charter and state law. Some of the Council's principal responsibilities are: Appropriates money to fund the capital and operating budgets and sets the local property tax rate and other local taxes. Approves all land use plans including the General Plan, area master plans, and sector plans prepared by the Planning Board. Acts on zoning changes. Exercises oversight over County programs to ensure efficiency and effectiveness. Approves the six-year capital improvements, public services, and fiscal policy programs. Approves the county Ten Year Solid Waste and Water Supply and Sewerage System Plans. Serves as the Board of Health for Montgomery County. Enacts all County laws and amendments to the Code. The Council sets the tax rates required to fund the County budgets. The Council confirms major appointments made by the County Executive and appoints the members of the Montgomery County Planning Board and the Board of Appeals. Acts on or initiates reorganization plans for the County government's executive branch. Directs and reviews the annual independent audit of County government operations.