Anne Arundel drops age rule for pensions

In a 4-3 vote, the Anne Arundel County Council has delivered a new retirement plan to 2,600 workers that awards full pensions after 30 years' employment, regardless of age.

Yesterday morning, County Executive Janet S. Owens said thank you with lush bouquets of tulips, irises and daisies for council members who voted for it.

Administration officials estimate that the cost of the policy - including pension payouts, which represent the bulk of anticipated expenses - could reach $1.5 million this year; some say the cost could be twice that.

Sixty employees are said to be eligible for retirement this year.