Maryland Constitution Article XI-C - Off-Street Parking
Maryland Constitution – Article XI-C: Off-Street Parking
Article XI-C was added to the Maryland Constitution to give certain cities specific authority related to off-street parking facilities. Here's a clear summary of its provisions:
Purpose:
To allow Baltimore City and other municipalities to acquire, develop, and operate off-street parking facilities as a public service.
Key Provisions:
Authority to Acquire Property:
Baltimore City and other municipalities can acquire land (by purchase, lease, or condemnation) for the purpose of constructing off-street parking facilities.
Financing Through Bonds:
Municipalities may issue revenue bonds to finance the acquisition or construction of parking facilities.
These bonds are not considered municipal debt, meaning they do not count against debt limits.
Revenue Use:
The facilities must be self-sustaining through user fees or charges.
Revenues collected must go toward paying for the bonds, maintenance, and operation of the parking services.
No Use for Commercial Purposes:
The Constitution restricts municipalities from using off-street parking facilities for general commercial purposes unrelated to parking.
Public Purpose Declaration:
Providing off-street parking is declared a public purpose, justifying public expenditure and use of eminent domain if necessary.
Impact:
This Article empowers local governments, especially Baltimore, to address urban parking needs through public investment without affecting their constitutional debt ceilings.
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