Howard Health Dept. may lay off 15 workers
Howard County's Health Department has begun layoffs that may total 15 workers by June 30, as officials say slumping income tax and real estate revenues push a projected county budget shortfall in the current fiscal year toward $10 million. The county health officer, Dr. Peter L. Beilenson, said he has laid off five workers, including two who are part-time. The Health Department is a state entity that operates in the county. Another eight to 10 may lose their jobs by the end of the fiscal year, primarily because of lower state revenues, he said. County Executive Ken Ulman said the latest state figures mean that county revenues may fall up to $10 million short of projections - twice the figure forecast one month ago. Ulman said the county has funds set aside to cover the loss. In cost reductions this fiscal year, Ulman cut back on take-home vehicles and closed the county's print shop and TV studio, eliminating 15 jobs. Several of the workers transferred into other county jobs.
Larry Carson
Stabbing of boy, 17, ruled self-defense
The fatal Jan. 11 stabbing of a 17-year-old boy near City College has been ruled justified by self-defense, and no charges will be placed against the unnamed accused, authorities said yesterday. A letter of declination from the city state's attorney's office to the city Police Department absolved the accused of charges in the death of Shawn Green of the 1800 block of E. 31st St. After an investigation by homicide detectives and the state's attorney's office, it was determined that after Green attacked another person at The Alameda and East 32nd St. in the Coldstream Homestead Montebello neighborhood about 7:30 p.m., the accused stabbed Green in the chest in self-defense. Police said Green died about three hours later at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Police originally ruled Green's death a homicide, but it has been removed from this year's count. As of yesterday, there were 41 homicides in the city since Jan. 1, compared with 36 the same time last year, police said.
Richard Irwin
Teen boy shot, in good condition
