Contact: Esther Bowring, 240-777-6530
David Rotolone, Environmental Protection, 240-777-7770
For Immediate Release: June 28, 2001

County Finds Environmental and Other Code Violations
On Property in Germantown:
Fines Against Owners Could Reach Tens of Thousands of Dollars

Multiple County agencies conducted an on-site investigation yesterday of environmental, solid waste, housing, permitting, and fire code violations on approximately 10 acres of a property located at 19430 Waters Road, Germantown, Maryland.

The investigation began in March based on complaints made to the County and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). County and MDE inspectors responded to the complaints and gathered more information through on-site and off-site activities. Based on the additional information, the County had probable cause for suspecting multiple code violations and obtained a search warrant to conduct a joint on-site investigation between the County’s Department of Environmental Protection; Department of Public Works and Transportation, Division of Solid Waste Services; Department of Housing and Community Affairs; Department of Permitting Services; and Fire and Rescue Services, along with the Maryland Department of the Environment.

The Department of Housing and Community Affairs condemned four residences for health and safety concerns. The agencies gathered evidence that will form the basis of notice of violations or citations.

The goal of the investigation is to ensure that the property is cleaned up and restored, and that all activities conducted on the property comply with County and State laws and regulations.