The City of Laurel depends on its citizens for ideas, input and suggestions in order to run the City government efficiently and effectively.

Toward that end, the Mayor and City Council have established numerous Boards, Committees and Commissions which are staffed by elected officials, City employees and volunteer citizens.

If you are interested in serving on any of the City's committees, please call the Mayor's Office at 301-725-5300, extension 2125, or send an e-mail.

The City Council also participates in the Maryland Municipal League, the Prince George's County Municipal Association and the Baltimore Washington Corridor Chamber of Commerce and are actively involved in community promotions.

Maryland municipalities have the authority to establish advisory boards, commissions, and committees through Article 23A, Section 2 of the Annotated Code of Maryland. In addition, a municipal charter may include the general power to create boards, commissions  and committees. In Article 66B of the Annotated Code, the state government authorizes the creation of certain committees such as the Planning Board, Board of Appeals, and Historic District Commission. 

Boards. A board is a formal committee with structure, duties, and powers established by ordianance. A board usually performs a quasi-judicial or adjudicative fuction such as licensing or regulation.

Commissions. Commissions are formal, standing committees with structure, duties, and powers established by ordinance. A commission often has an administrative or functional responsibility, such as performing a review of economic development or preparing a land use plan. 

Committees. A committee is advisory in nature and can be either a formal (standing) committee established by ordinance or resolution, or an informal (ad hoc) committee created by the mayor and council. The committee may oversee and advise in service areas, such as housing or transportation, or it may advise the mayor and council on issues and recommend policy.