I am responding to David Plymyer’s criticism of my effort to reform the Baltimore County Planning Board.

My legislation requires members of the Planning Board to be confirmed by the Baltimore County Council. This change would allow the public to weigh in on a nominee’s qualifications and temperament. The recent decision to compensate planning board members makes it even more imperative that the right members serve on this body.

My legislation has been endorsed by community groups across Baltimore County, including the reform-minded advocacy organization We The People. Why is Mr. Plymyer dismissive of giving the public this opportunity?

Plymyer raises complaints about Baltimore County Council actions, including what he perceives as problems with zoning and development. But instead of testifying on my legislation or offering his help as the County Council worked through a difficult improvement to the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance, he penned a piece critical of those of us working to reform county government.

Once this bill becomes law, others will still have the opportunity for constructive input, based on their participation in shaping the reform.

David Marks, Towson

David Marks is a member of the Baltimore County Council representing the Fifth District.