Parrott's likes are Pierno's differences in debate HARFORD COUNTY ELECTIONS 1994

The proposal that came before the council in the spring of 1993 during the administration's semi-annual water and sewer update was defeated 4-3. The request, originated by the economic development director, again came before the council last fall. That time, all seven council members voted against it.

During a portion of the debate allowing the candidates to challenge one another, Mrs. Parrott questioned why Mrs. Pierno voted for tipping fees charged to trash haulers and for the transfer tax, a controversial tax on real estate transfers approved in 1993. Its approximately $5 million annual proceeds are divided equally between financing the county's agricultural land preservation program and school construction.

Mrs. Pierno said she supported the tipping fee because it supports the county's recycling program, which she has supported as critical to a successful waste disposal plan. And, in her closing statement, she defended her transfer tax vote, referring to a 1990 voter referendum as she addressed the audience:

"Yes, I did vote for the transfer tax, because you voted 3-1 for a strong agricultural preservation program and for better schools."