The Town of Bel Air Board of Commissioners accepted the Harford County Annual Growth Report and honored two volunteers for their annual Independence Day work at Monday's town meeting.

County's Annual Growth Report

In the brief summer legislative session, the commissioners unanimously accepted updates to the county's growth report. The vote was for the board to acknowledge reviewing the document.

Director of Planning Kevin Small said the report is updated every December and June. 

"All the public schools in the town of Bel Air are operating at less than 115 percent capacity ... and will continue to do so for the next five years," Small said. "This is all a result of the redistricting."

Independence Day Recognitions

Donald Stewart and Michael Blum, president and vice president, respectively, of the Bel Air Independence Day Committee, were honored for organizing this year's event, which ran from about 6:45 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 4th.

There was record attendance at the pancake breakfast and Katie Meadowcroft served as the first-ever Ms. Bel Air Independence Day.

"Another great Fourth of July and Independence Day. ... It really is a full day of activities," Chair David Carey said. "Whenever [Stewart and Blum] get thanked or recognized for the work they do for the town of Bel Air, the first thing they do is thank other people. ... That's the sign of real committed volunteers."

Blum thanked town employees on behalf of the committee.

Planning Commission Reappointment

The commissioners also reappointed Phil Raub to a five-year term on the planning commission, effective immediately.

"Phil Raub was a real asset for our planning commission," Carey said. "Just a level-headed guy. We're real fortunate to have him sign up for another five years."

Announcements

The commissioners reminded residents of a number of local events.

"Elf" is scheduled to be shown Friday as part of the Shamrock Park Outdoor Movies series.

There are several concerts through August, also in Shamrock Park, all at 7 p.m. For the next three events, the U.S. Navy Band is scheduled to play Sunday, Sounding Brass on July 27 and the Upper Chesapeake Chorus on July 31.

All the events are free.

Duke Thompson and Jay DeWitt are scheduled to perform in the Bel Air Reckford Armory at 7 p.m. July 29. Tickets can be purchased by calling 410-399-9900 or 443-243-7265.

The Maryland State BBQ Bash is scheduled for Aug. 12–13 in the Mary Risteau parking lot on Bond Street.

The next town meeting is scheduled for Aug. 15 at 7:30 p.m.