Allegany County News

Merry Christmas to all

2011-12-24T15:10:00.000-05:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Cumberland ranked number 1 in inflation?

2011-11-02T15:51:00.000-04:00

From the desk of Allegany County News:

From MSNBC. It has been reported that Cumberland,Maryland is ranked number 1 yes number 1 for inflation. It goes to say that Although Cumberland has one of the lowest median incomes in the country, it has experienced significant growth in recent years. Between 2009 and 2010, the metro area’s Population: has increased by approximately 3.5 percent. Over this same period, both home vacancy and unemployment decreased. But how did they determine it was the highest inflation. Here are the facts by MSNBC.

2010 inflation: 5.3 percent

2010 population: 103,239 (up 3.51 percent)

2010 median income: $34,847 (down 3.9 percent)

2010 unemployment: 8.7 percent (down 1.1 percent)

2010 home vacancy: 13.6 percent (down 3 percent)

3 out of 4 is bad.
For more other cities click on this http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45008384/ns/business-eye_on_the_economy/t/ten-us-cities-highest-inflation-rates/#.TrC0dfHvm15

The BOP creation did indeed violate Code Home Rule Law

2011-09-24T02:11:00.001-04:00

From the desk of Allegany County News:

We at Allegany County News has discovered what opponents of the former BOP have said the creation of the BOP was illegal. Well those people were correct 100 percent it turns out when the former County Commissioners created a Separate Police force they did so without General Assembly Approval. How do we know we manage to snip the following from the Maryland Association of counties and it says the following for Code Home Rule Counties. Ability to establish separate police and corrections departments are as follow. Under code Home Rule Corrections Department or warden may be done through enactment by Commissioners of a Public local law. But here is what it says for Creation of Separate Police Department and it says this: Police Department still requires General Assembly approval. Allegany County since 1974 has been Code Home Rule and the creation of the BOP under Code Home Rule was illegal without General Assembly approval. Ladies and gentleman what Former Commissioners Hutchison, Lewis, and Stakem did in fact broke the law and hope the next Police Department creation is done through the General Assembly or by voters. The questions are why didn't the state General Assembly stop the creation of the BOP? Why didn't the Attorney General stop the Creation of the Bureau of Police? Of course we won't know the answers now. I'm attaching the imagine with this article.

This is the table by Code Home Rule,Commissioner,Charter form of County Governments. Allegany County is the Code Home Rule system.

Here is the link to the chart http://www.mdcounties.org/e_files/Counties/Code%20Home%20Rule%20vs.%20Commissioner%20vs.%20Charter.pdf

Commissioners to decide on Allegany High today

2011-09-15T03:33:00.000-04:00

From the desk of Allegany County News:

Today at the 5PM regular meeting the Allegany County commissioners will decide the fate of Allegany High School in Cumberland. 2 choices today is on the horizon either 1 Build a New School or 2 Renovation. Many months of talks and hearings are now down to the County Commissioners today. Meeting starts at 5PM today at the County Commissioner complex at 701 Kelly Road in Cumberland.

The residents showed up for US220 Hearing:

2011-09-15T03:29:00.000-04:00

From the desk of Allegany county News:

Yesterday Wednesday September 15,2011. Allegany County Residents showed up at Bel Air Elementary School to show support and opposition to building a new Highway in the area. Some officials have supported the idea of Corridor B for its great effects on business that would gain and keep jobs in Allegany County.

Alleganycounty News has launched a livestream page

2011-09-15T03:26:00.000-04:00

From the desk of Allegany County News:

Before 3AM on Thursday September 15, 2011 we launched a livestream website. We hope you come and see our livestream today. http://www.livestream.com/alleganycountynews

Local Woman Sings at Friday after Five

2011-08-26T22:39:00.001-04:00

From the desk of Allegany County News:

At Friday After five event held every Friday during the summer some band goes and sings. Sometimes they bands are lousy but the rest are great. Tonight a famous local woman Cathy Coughenour finally made her Cumberland debut. You just have to watch the video to see for yourself

****This was updated as the video is ready to be viewed

Allegany Experiences aftershocks as well

2011-08-23T17:29:00.000-04:00

From the Allegany County News Desk:

The 5.8 earthquake that struck Virginia eariler today its aftershocks were felt in Allegany County. There are sources that the LaVale Exxon caught on fire and little damages have been felt in this county.

Horrible Rainstorms struck eariler in the late Afternoon

2011-08-14T19:54:00.000-04:00

From the Allegany County news Desk:

Today sometime after 5 PM on August 14, 2011 a heavy rainstorm with thunder and lighting struck Cumberland that stayed for 30 minutes cooled the weather a little bit. Some storms sound did stayed for about 60 to 90 minutes after the rainstorm went away. As of 7:55 PM the temperatures are 69 degrees. Thunderstorm still possible for the rest of the night with some more thunder tommorrow.

Weather was extremely hot yesterday

2011-07-23T02:39:00.000-04:00

From the desk of Allegany County News:

Yesterday Friday July 22,2011 was extremely hot where during the noon hour the weather reached over 100 degrees and a heat index of 110 to 117 degrees. Then last night before 8PM storms moved into the area that rain occured and the temperature cooled a little from the mid 90's to 80's. But anyways not much other stories except where the lights was partially out that began from 12:30 AM and didn't get fully restored untill 2PM and was due to underground wire next to the Queen City McDonald's. But anyways that was it.

Mayor Brian Grim on solving the Property Tax Crisis in Cumberland

2011-07-21T01:59:00.000-04:00

From the desk of Allegany County News:

After the July 20, 2011 Municipal/County Forum Cumberland Mayor Brian Grim said that Cumberland Mayor and City Council wants to pursue either 1 year Property Tax Foreclosure or let the County pursue joint Tax Collection. That will have to be negotiated by the City and County. During the Forum Midland Mayor Craig Alexander responded to Mayor Grim idea of a 1 year Tax Foreclosure as a horrible idea that would result in distrust.

From the July 20 Public Municipal/County Forum

2011-07-21T01:53:00.000-04:00

Commissioner and Mayors of Municipal Towns/Cities

From the desk of Allegany County News:

The July 20 Municipal/County Forum lasted from 4PM to 5:30PM. Before the start of the Forum Commissioner jokingly said welcome to how to increase dry cleaning business in Allegany County. Of course he also jokingly said its cool in the room today. The meeting started with Commissioner McKay welcomes everybody to the Forum. Former Mayor Fiedler was the facilitator of the meeting. Mayor of the Municipals welcomed each other. The Mayor of Lonaconing was absent and a member of the City Council represented the Mayor of Lonaconing in his place. Former Mayor Fiedler of Cumberland gave a great introduction to everyone. Former Mayor Fiedler say that in 2000 the city of Cumberland had a 911 Center of its own and was later merged with the County 911 Center some years later. The Former Mayor also noted in 2000 the City of Cumberland had its own Election Board and System that also paid people to be Election Judges. That was later merged with the County Board of Election. Former Mayor Fiedler also said many ideas saved money that was long to list. Former Mayor Fiedler also admitted certain things didn't worked. Former Mayor Fiedler went on to say different things.

Commissioners before Meeting

Former Mayor Fiedler suggested to find strengths and weaknesses. Former Mayor Fiedler also said all Municipalities have equipment costs money to maintain. On strengths and Weaknesses. Mayor Brian Grim of Cumberland City said strengths are Police and Fire. Others include technological equipment, Grant Writing, and Water and Sewer Treatment. Mayor Grim goes on to say on Weaknesses are financing, bad business climate, and weak Real Estate Market. Mayor grim goes on to say more. The Mayor of Frostburg W Robert Flanigan states that Strengths says population grew in Frostburg from 2000 to 2010. Frostburg for Strengths is also a young Police Department. Frostburg as the mayor states its better cooperation between the city and Frostburg State University. The Mayor also states that Frostburg has a Volunteer and Paid EMS Personal. The Mayor of Frostburg didn't state any weaknesses. The Mayor of Barton John Bean didn't have much to state but was thankful it didn't have much problems. Lonaconing council member Warren Foote had only strengths like working with the county and not much money to do roads. the Mayor of Midland Craig Alexander has been in office since the late 1970's wanted to state first off he is a big supporter of Municipal Government and he also says if Midland is to unincorporate then the people of Midland would decide. The Mayor also goes onto say Midland does not manufacture anything that makes money. Midlands biggest strengths are volunteering like its Volunteer Fire Department that is one of the best, Streets, and cooperation. The Mayor goes onto say the county collects the taxes for Midland since the 1990's and has no tax deliquency since then. The Mayor of Westernport has said that Westernport has made tough challenges for the last few years. Westernport tough changes included the following, County assuming law enforcement, outsourcing of garbage collections, and so forth. The Mayor of Luke Ed Clemmons also stated that Luke is the backbone of Allegany County. The only Problem Luke has faced was a lack of communication regarding a death of a resident who left no will and the county auctioned off his home. The Mayor of Luke didn't have much to say. The following Mayors were there Craig Alexander Mayor of Midland; Mayor John Bean of Barton; Mayor Brian Grim of Cumberland; Mayor Bob Flanigan of Frostburg; Mayor Ed Clemons of Luke; Mayor Dan Laffey of Westernport and council member Warren Foote of Lonaconing, who was standing in for Mayor John Coburn.

Officals Reaction to Moody's Credit Watch

2011-07-21T00:47:00.000-04:00

From the desk of Allegany County News:

Yesterday we picked a story regarding Moody's Credit Watch that also included Maryland. The reaction from Allegany County Officals is that they said Every Government including Allegany County is now on Credit Watch.

Maryland is in big trouble with its Financial ratings

2011-07-20T02:14:00.000-04:00

From the Allegany County News desk:

This is from blogs.roanoke.com

Moody's the Big Financial Agency has placed Maryland,Virginia, and 8 other states on Credit watch. For more information click on this website http://alleganycountynews.blogspot.com/

Allegany County Commissioners invite Public to forum

2011-07-19T23:00:00.000-04:00

From the Allegany County news Desk:

The commissioners proclaimed on July 14, 2011that on July 20,2011 a Public forum will be held at Allegany College of Maryland. So on July 20,2011 in which it is on Wednesday the Public is invited to attend this forum from 4 PM to 6 PM. The Public Forum will involve bringing all the municipalities and County into one room to find ways to solve potential problems of Services. Cumberland City government is in debt and near bankruptcy. So please come and see this great forum from 4PM to 6PM at Allegany College on Wednesday July 20, 2011 in the Continuing Education Building in rooms 18,19,and 20. So stop by before going to the fair or anywhere else.

Want to attend the 2010 redistricting Public hearings?

2011-07-19T01:46:00.000-04:00

From the Allegany County News desk:

From The Governor's Redistricting Advisory Committee website.

People from this county would love to attend. Even protesting. You'll like the first location.

Public Hearings

The Governor's Redistricting Advisory Committee will hold 12 public hearings across the State that will help inform the committee as it drafts a recommended plan for the State's Legislative and Congressional redistricting.
Advance sign-in for the public hearings is required (by e-mail only) and must be received by 12:00 noon the day prior to the public hearing. People interested in speaking can sign up electronically in advance at the links below for the hearing at which you want to speak. Any e-mails requesting advanced sign-in received after 12:00 noon the day prior to the hearing will not be included on the speaking roster. After that time, sign-in sheets will be available at the public hearing location.
Testifiers are also requested to provide electronic written comments to the committee by 12:00 noon the day before the hearing. Comments should be sent by e-mail as a PDF attachment to Redistricting2011@mdp.state.md.us. A hard copy will also be accepted at the hearing from people who testify who did not submit an electronic copy. To adequately address accommodations for individuals with disabilities, we request five working days notice prior to the hearing date. Please submit your request by e-mail to Redistricting2011@mdp.state.md.us or by calling 410-767-4490; fax 410-767-4480, or contacting us through the Maryland Relay Internet.
Public hearings will start at the designated time and end following the last testimony of registered persons.
The hearings and start times will be:

Saturday, July 23, 2011

Hancock High School
School Auditorium
Starts at 11:00 a.m.
289 West Main Street
Hancock, MD 21750 (Driving Directions)
Parking available in school lot

Public Testimony Advance Sign-in

Hood College
Rosenstock Hall - Hodson Auditorium (Campus Map)
Starts at 2:00 p.m.
401 Rosemont Ave.
Frederick, MD 21701 (Driving Directions)
Parking next to Rosenstock Hall off of Ferndale Avenue

Public Testimony Advance Sign-in

Monday, July 25, 2011

Prince George's Community College
Largo Student Center – Rennie Forum (Campus Map)
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
301 Largo Road
Largo, MD 20774 (Driving Directions)
Ample parking in lots A, B and C

Public Testimony Advance Sign-in

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

The Universities at Shady Grove
Building #1 Auditorium
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
9630 Gudelsky Drive
Rockville, MD 20850 (Driving Directions)
Parking in lot 2

Public Testimony Advance Sign-in

Friday, August 12, 2011

Morgan State University
Student Center - Calvin & Tina Tyler Ballroom (Campus Map)
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
1700 East Cold Spring Lane
Baltimore MD 21251 (Driving Directions)
Park in the stadium parking garage (13 on map) and take bridge on 3rd level into the Student Center

Public Testimony Advance Sign-in

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

College of Southern Maryland
Center for Business and Industry, #113 (Campus Map)
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
8730 Mitchell Road
La Plata, MD 20646 (Driving Directions)
Park in lots 2, 6 & 7 – Most convenient to BI

Public Testimony Advance Sign-in

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Harford Community College
Amoss Center (next to Harford Technical H.S.) (Campus Map)
Starts at 11:00 a.m.
200 Thomas Run Road
Bel Air, MD 21015 (Driving Directions)
Parking all around school

Public Testimony Advance Sign-in

Towson University
Stephens Hall Theater (Campus Map)
Starts at 2:00 p.m.
8000 York Road
Towson, MD 21252 (Driving Directions)

Public Testimony Advance Sign-in

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Anne Arundel County
Site to be announced

Howard County
Site to be announced

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Salisbury University
Guerrieri University Center – Wicomico Room OR Perdue Hall (Campus Map)
Starts at 12:30 p.m.
1101 Camden Avenue
Salisbury, MD 21801 (Google Map)

Chesapeake College
Todd Performing Arts Center (Campus Map)
Starts at 4:00 p.m.
1000 College Cir
Wye Mills, MD 21679 (Google Map)

This page was last updated: 2011-07-18
http://www.mdp.state.md.us/redistricting/2010/publicHearings.shtml

Very Hot Weather towards the end of the week

2011-07-18T19:05:00.003-04:00

From the Allegany County News desk:

Weather towards the end of the week on Thursday and Friday will be 100 degrees. This week is the Allegany County Fair and this online blog news is advising readers is avoid the very hot weather by not going to the fair if you don't want heat exhaustion. But Saturday will be 95 degrees the last day of the fair. For more weather for 10 days go to this site http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USMD0115

More highlights from the July 14th County Commissioner Meeting

2011-07-14T23:49:00.000-04:00

From the desk of Allegany County News:

On the other note. Commissioner Valentine announced that the commissioners attended a Maryland Coal Association meeting in Annapolis on Monday that addressed concerns that the Federal Government wants to shut down all the coal furance plants in the entire state that would devaste the area economically in which the area is already trying to survive. Also the Commissioners attended a fair expo featuring the 4H club on Monday Night. Then on Tuesday the commissioners returned to Annapolis to attend the [MACO] Maryland Association of Counties meeting. That would end more Highlights from the July 14th County Commissioners meeting.

July 14th Public Meeting of the Allegany County Commissioners

2011-07-14T23:22:00.000-04:00

From the desk of Allegany County News:

At the Allegany County Commissioners meeting today on July 14, 2011. Code Home Rule Bill 3-11 titled Re-codification and Revision of the Public Local Laws,Acts, Ordinances, Resolutions and Bills of Allegany County, Maryland – providing for maintenance of said code, etc. – Attorney William M. Rudd. This portion lasted for at least up to 12 minutes. A Patricia Sweitzer of Flintstone spoke on whether the updated code included provisions for the handicapped, Disabled. Patricia Sweitzer reminded Attorney Rudd that the ordinance must have public notice in the newspaper. Attorney Rudd reminded Patricia Sweitzer that the law already requires public notice in the media before the law takes effect. The commissioners at the end approved the Code Home Rule Bill unamiously.
The Consent agenda listed here As Recommended by the County Administrator

Office of Community Services

Item 2 – Emergency Solutions Grant Application FFY2011 – Authorize the submission of an application totaling $50,000 for the emergency Solutions Grant Program on behalf of HRDC ($39,000) and FCRC ($11,000). Further authorize the President to sign the application.

Item 3 – Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher and Mod Rehab – Authorize the President to sign two MOU Assignments for the administration of the federally funded Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program and the Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation Program to HRDC for the period July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012.

Office of the Sheriff

Item 4 – Smooth Operator/DUI/Sobriety Check Point Grant – Authorize the Sheriff’s Office to utilize $11,000 in grant funding through the Maryland Highway Safety Office/SHA for off-duty deputies patrolling state highways and $2,000 for DUI Sobriety check points, and increase budget 1365 to cover the grant. This is a 100% total funded grant.

All items in the consent agenda passed unamiously.

Reports were as followed

County Clerk

County Administrator

County Attorney

Commissioners’ statements, comments, recognition

The County Administrator had a few words to say. The County Administrator reminded the residents there will be no Work Session and Public Session next week.

The County Commissioners had words to say today. Commissioner Brodie got a call this morning regarding a restriction on the 9/11 Memorial Motorcycle ride that takes place each year since 2002. Commissioner Brodie was busy the entire day to straighten out the problem and was resolved by late afternoon resulting in the problem fixed and will not take place on time. Commissioner Valentine also congratuated Commissioner Brodie for dealing with the problems of today. Commissioner McKay also reminded the people that when the motorcycle ride began in 2002 only 200 motorcyclists started the first ride and this year the motorcyclists are expected to be 1,500 people coming through AlleganyAllegany County, Maryland and Mineral County, West Virginia have 50 tickets each. Mike Wade also noted he sold about all 50 tickets at $30 dollars each. Several Constituents got up to speak including 2 people on the potential new High School that according to LaVale Resident Private Citizen Kevin Shaffer said from sources that the cost of the new School will be about $26 Million. John M Davis the owner of this blog also suggested in his own blog when he picked up the Times-News story on New High School that the High School should be built on the current site. Linda Martin Addressed the commissioners by reading a letter regarding the Board of Education in which her letter will appear on this news blog. Commissioner Mike McKay has also invited the General Public to Allegany College on Wednesday July 20 from 4PM to 6PM in the Continuing Education Building romms 18,19,and 20 regarding all the Municipalities Financial problems for the last few years and the commission he has proclaimed is to find a better way regarding better services for everyone. Commissioner McKay also announced that Former Cumberland Mayor Lee Fiedler has agreed to facilitate the meeting. Anyways the next Work Session will be held on Tuesday, July 26, 2011 at 5:00 PM and the Next Public Session will be held on Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 5:00 PM.

BREAKING NEWS AMC THEATERS WILL CLOSE

2011-07-13T14:10:00.001-04:00

From Allegany County News:

The Breaking news is that AMC Theaters will close at current location in LaVale will close on the July 17th 2011 and reopen after remodeling under new ownership. It is a true story and not a false rumor. This story was confirmed by a AMC employee.

Md. Rep. Bartlett Files For Re-Election

2011-07-13T01:02:00.001-04:00

This does relate to Allegany County

From CBS BALTIMORE:

FREDERICK, Md. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Roscoe Bartlett says he is filing for re-election in Maryland’s 6th Congressional District.
The 85-year-old Republican said Tuesday he hopes to win an 11th term representing western and north-central Maryland. He says he aims to create conditions for economic growth by cutting spending, reducing taxes and eliminating red tape.
Republican Joseph Krysztoforski of Baltimore County has also filed for the seat.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2011/07/05/md-rep-bartlett-files-for-re-election/

Study says to build new High School

2011-07-13T00:17:00.000-04:00

From the Cumberland Times-News

Study: Build new Allegany High

Architectural firm recommends renovations for Washington, Braddock middle schools

Kristin Harty BarkleyCumberland Times-News

CRESAPTOWN — The local cost to build a new Allegany High School could be anywhere from $9 million to $16 million, according to a feasibility study made public Tuesday before the Allegany County Board of Education.

In a much-anticipated recommendation, Grimm & Parker Architects say that the current Allegany High School, built in 1925, is not salvageable as a modern school. Officials here should build a new high school — at a new location, the firm recommends.

“We do recommend that a new high school gets built off site,” a representative of the Calverton firm told board members at their Tuesday night work session. “I think that’s the only way to really create for you a modern educational facility that this county and the students do deserve.”

A team of engineers and architects from Grimm & Parker have been working for months to come up with recommendations for how Allegany County should proceed with plans to renovate or rebuild three city schools — Allegany High, Washington Middle School and Braddock Middle School.

The firm recommends that Braddock and Washington be renovated, with modernizations and additions, with estimated local costs ranging from $5 million to about $10 million. Per a current state funding formula, the state would pay 93 percent of costs of construction, while the county would pay 7 percent.

Board members listened to a 45-minute report on the feasibility study Tuesday, but no vote is expected until August or September, President Mike Llewellyn said.

In the meantime, the board hopes to gain the support of Allegany County commissioners, who previously balked at placing the school construction projects on their Capital Improvements Project list, saying the county couldn’t afford them. An earlier estimate of $43 million for all three projects was premature and inflated, school board members have said.

Commissioners have indicated they would reconsider placing the projects on the list after cost estimates from the feasibility study became available.

In the report presented Tuesday night, Grimm and Parker indicated that although Allegany High School is structurally sound, its exterior needs major repairs, and all of its systems — electrical, plumbing and mechanical — need to be replaced.

But the main obstacle to renovating the school is its discombobulated configuration — a result of several additions and renovations over the years — which makes 21st-century teaching and learning difficult.

If the BOE isn’t able to find a site for a new school, the firm recommends that a new school be built at the current site, with several configurations possible. A number of design schemes and renovation options were provided for the middle schools, as well.

If the board is able to secure a site for a new high school, Grimm and Parker recommended that middle school students use the current high school while the middle schools are being renovated. The high school project is expected to take place first.

“We do understand the historical significance of this building to the school system and to the state, and recognize its value to the community and its value as an architectural monument,” the Grimm & Parker representative said Tuesday. “Renovation of the building creates so many costs that even if it were desireable, it does make the project almost impossible to accomplish.”

Contact Kristin Harty Barkley at kbarkley@times-news.com.

Source: http://times-news.com/local/x1005782717/Study-Build-new-Allegany-High

July 12, 2011 Allegany County Work Session

2011-07-12T20:37:00.001-04:00

County Commissioners are shown preparing for Work session

County Commissioner

Work Session.

From Allegany County News reports.

Before the meeting began. Dave Eberly County Administrator proclaimed the Tuesday Work Session to be a experiment to see if it works.

Not much on the county work session agenda. On the agenda was 2 items.

1. Was the PlanMaryland Initiative Update - Phil Hager, Planning Coordinator.

2. LaVale Sanitary Commission Code Update - William Rudd, Esq. and Nick Monteleone, Esq.

PlanMaryland Iniative Update was presented to the county commissioners by Phil Hager. Phil Hager gave around 30 minutes of discussion. Some of the discussion on where Allegany County if the PlanMaryland Iniative is signed by the Governor then rural counties like Allegany may not see any development including the possible 220 Corridor. What will happen with this PlanMaryland is that the counties may no longer have any say in planning without consulting with the state plan first.

Lavale Sanitary Commission might within a few months be allowed to bill its customers monthly. Although this reporter didn't stay for the rest of the time. This reporter also can gladly say that changes are coming very soon in the next few months.

Otherwise I have no further reports to report on involving this work session

No Word Yet On Parents' Appeal

2011-07-12T15:01:00.000-04:00

From WCBC 1270 AM Radio

No word yet on a group of parents’ appeal of the Allegany County Board of Education’s action to phase out the Washington County option- however a decision should be made in short order given that the new school year begins next month.
A group of Little Orleans parents have appealed to the State Board of Education- claiming that the local board not allowing their middle school children to attend school in Hancock is a violation of the federal No Child Left Behind act. It’s an issue that began with the local school board, and then saw both the County Commissioners and Delegate Leroy Myers intervene. Myers tells WCBC News that its clear there could have been better communication between all parties in handling this issue...
Source: http://www.wcbcradio.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=20947&Itemid=35

Minutes from the June 30 Allegany County Commissioners meeting

2011-07-12T14:00:00.000-04:00

http://gov.allconet.org/bcc/minutes.htm Just click on June 30,2011 Minutes

June 30, 2011

June 30, 2011

The regular meeting of the County Commissioners of Allegany County was held in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, 701 Kelly Road, at 5:00 p.m. on the above date. The following were present: President Michael W. McKay, Commissioner Creade V. Brodie; Commissioner William R. Valentine; Assistant County Attorney Barry R. Levine; County Administrator David A. Eberly; and Clerk Cathy E. Blank. The following business was transacted:

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Dan Williams of Mount Savage.

President McKay began the meeting with a prayer.

MOTION #1

There were no additions or deletions to this agenda.

MOTION #2

The Commissioners approved the minutes of the June 23, 2011, public meeting.

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT

President McKay said the Commissioners toured Washington Middle School today; he noted the hard-working maintenance/support staff and the good job they do maintaining a building that was built in the 60’s and has not been renovated since that time. This was a good opportunity, as they are getting ready for the feasibility study that will be presented to the Board of Education and both Boards will be meeting on this in the future (date will be announced).

ACTION AGENDA

Item 1 – Allegany County Office of the Sheriff and the Bureau of Police Consolidation MOU

Barry R. Levine, Assistant County Attorney, said this is a planning document with the re-integration of the Bureau of Police Officers into the Sheriff’s Department as Sheriff’s Deputies. The Sheriff’s Office is a constitutional office. The Sheriff appoints his own employees; Attorney Levine understands that the Sheriff will be reappointing those individuals. One of the last steps under the MOU in terms of procedures to be followed is the completion of some additions and amendments to the current collective bargaining agreement with regard to the Sheriff’s Deputies and their union. There was no discussion. By motion of Commissioner Valentine, seconded by Commissioner Brodie and unanimously carried with a 3-0 Roll Call Vote, the Commissioners approved the MOU.

Item 2 – Board of Education Budget Amendment – Transferred $1,000,000 from Administration ($125,000), Mid-Level Administration ($130,000); Instructional Salaries Reg. ($512,500); and Special Education ($232,500) - to Capital Outlay ($1,000,000) for future building projects with the Cumberland secondary schools.

Randall P. Bittinger, Chief Business Officer, ACPS, thanked the Commissioners for their support and time in touring Washington Middle School today. He noted it was a pleasure working with the County staff (Eberly, Bennett, Frantz, Kahl, and Patterson); there is much “behind-the-scene” work that goes on. The budget amendment was approved by the BOE and needs the Commissioners’ approval to spend money in different categories than what was previously budgeted and approved by County Government. It does not impact the level of the County appropriation. The School System last year looked at staffing positions (11.8 budgeted/not filled) in trying to be good stewards of the taxpayers’ money with fewer students enrolled. That is the majority of the funds that are being moved. There is also administrative savings (i.e. travel, and a position). This $1M would be moved to school construction - the same as approved last year by the County – bringing the cumulative total to $2 M to spend on local costs (architects, future studies, furniture/equipment). He said the School Board is committed to the Cumberland secondary schools projects; we don’t know what they may be; the feasibility study will determine that; it is not being committed to any one school or any one project. It is the concept of the Cumberland secondary schools.

Administrator Eberly asked for a point of clarification – that the total amount today is consistent with the BOE letter of transmittal – with a total amount of $2M – these funds will be segregated for the Cumberland area schools – is that correct? Mr. Bittinger said “that is correct.” Mr. Eberly said it is not considered part of any rainy day fund or any other component of the Board of Education fund balance, correct? Mr. Bittinger said “that is correct, sir.”

Kevin Shaffer, 829 National Highway, LaVale, wanted to ask some questions based upon the $1 M for Cumberland schools. He said he asked specific questions of the Board of Education at a recent meeting, and they refused to answer his questions. As Dr. Root was in the audience this evening, he asked the Commissioners to direct questions to the Board of Education.

President McKay asked that Mr. Shaffer please direct all questions to the Board of Commissioners.

Mr. Shaffer said we have asked the state to provide 93% of funding for schools (specifically one high school - not two); he was concerned that our tax dollars would be wasted with a 2-school system. He asked a series of questions: Are we going to have a 2 or 3 high school system? Are these buildings going to be in Cumberland or along Route 220? What will the school name be? How big a foot print are the buildings going to be? Will Randy Bittinger release financial worksheets on the funding possibility of a 2 or 3 high school system? Per Mr. Shaffer, the BOE said they would be releasing this at their July meeting, which he plans to attend.

President McKay said he would comprise this and we will go from there.

Commissioner Valentine asked for a copy of the questions. Mr. Shaffer said he would provide this to the Commissioners.

There was no further discussion

By motion of Commissioner Valentine, seconded by Commissioner Brodie and unanimously carried, and a 3-0 Roll Call Vote, the Commissioners approved the $1,000,000 transfer.

Item 3 – Retirement Incentive Budget Amendment – Transferred $829,324 from Unexpended Fund Balance (101.7889) to cover employee retirement incentives and end-of-service pay outs from various county departments.

Jason M. Bennett, Director of Finance, said on May 31^st, we had 22 retirees as a result of the incentive offered. It cost the County a total of $829,324, and this budget amendment will spread the cost to the appropriate departments. He detailed the breakdown: $273,000 was the actual incentive offered and bonus for longevity; $496,000 is for the balances paid out; approximately $60,000 is for FICA. We are allocating to the correct departments and it will come from the “unexpended fund balance.” We had 22 positions vacated, leaving 14 open (68% of positions). The retirement incentive will be paid back within 3 months; within 6 months the leave balance will be paid back; we will break even in 9 months; we will begin saving and save about $480,000 in this FY12. It has been a good savings – and will equal approximately $3.1M in five years. He felt we did quite well with this and thanked all of the operating departments.

Administrator Eberly asked about the $829,000: Were those numbers just related to the incentive? How did the rest relate to standard County policy for retirement leave?

Mr. Bennett said the incentive alone was $273,000; the $496,000, along with the bulk of FICA costs, would have been paid out regardless at some point over the next one to ten years depending upon retirement dates.

By motion of Commissioner Brodie, seconded by Commissioner Valentine and unanimously carried – and a 3-0 Roll Call Vote, the Commissioners approved the retirement incentive budget amendment.

CONSENT AGENDA

As Recommended by the County Administrator

Vote 3-0

Human Resources & Personnel Services

Item 4 – Hartford Workers’ Compensation Insurance Contract Renewal - Approved and authorized President to sign agreement with the Hartford Insurance Co. to continue workers’ compensation coverage for FY 2012. The County will pay a $218,274 premium plus claims, a reduction of $16,603 from FY 2011.

Department of Public Works – Roads Division

Item 5 – Bid Award for Unleaded Gasoline, Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel, No. 2 Heating Oil and Kerosene – Awarded the fuel contract to the lowest bidder, Southern States Cumberland Coop, Inc., 811 North Mechanic Street, Cumberland, in the amount of $1,288,319.02.

Tax & Utility Office

Item 6 – Tax Abatement –Abated taxes in the amount of $17,454.67 to cover tax years 1997-98 through 2010-11 on uncollectable accounts. (Real estate, personal property, and corporation assessment and tax are detailed on the motion for each tax year – please see chart below).

Tax Year Real Estate Personal Property Corporations

Assessment Tax Assessment Tax Assessment Tax

1997-98 5,000 123.50

1998-99 6,250 154.38

1999-00 7,810 192.91

2000-01 9,760 240.10

2001-02 12,200 300.12

2002-03 76,530 1,882.26 11,330 278.66

2003-04 32,360 786.64 14,730 365.46

2004-05 23,510 588.17 43,250 1,082.03

2005-06 82,440 2,032.89

2006-07 10,666 104.84 175,700 4,317.48 87,090 2,140.06

2007-08 12,000 117.95

2008-09 12,000 117.95

2009-10 19,300 189.70 9,900 223.15

2010-11 227,867 2,216.42

TOTAL 281,833 2,746.86 359,020 8,808.71 238,840 5,899.10

Allegany County Health Department

Item 7 – Senior Care System Annual Plan – Authorized County Administrator to sign the State Department of Aging Senior Care System annual plan review/approval sign-off for FY2012. The Health Department serves as the Lead Agency for this program at the request of the County and administers the grant funds.

Allegany County Finance Department

Item 8 – Tourism Budget Amendment – Transferred $42,658 from Tourism Grant (6923) to Advertising & Promotion (8140) as a result of being awarded unanticipated grant funds.

Reports:

County Clerk Cathy Blank reminded the public that Code Home Rule Bill 3-11 – Re-codification and Revision of the Public Local Laws, Acts, Ordinances, Resolutions and Bills of Allegany County, Maryland – providing for maintenance of said code, etc. – was introduced last week – with a hearing set for next Thursday, July 7^th.

County Administrator David Eberly –

Noted there has been some informal conversation about our work sessions (typically held at 4:00 prior to our public meeting) being moved to another date. Instead of a Thursday, they may be held on Tuesdays at 5:00 in the future. An announcement will be coming out by mid-July.
As a follow up to their tour of Washington Middle School, the Commissioners will tour Braddock Middle School next Thursday (July 7^th) at 1:00.
Earlier today at the work session Mr. Eberly stated he reviewed a draft press release - Memorandum of Understanding and Departmental Reorganization (that he asked be entered into the record): As a follow up to the Commissioners’ affirmative action of Item 1 of the agenda, and as a result of the consolidation, the Bureau of Police responsibilities will return to the role originally established for it in 2007, primarily focusing on the Allegheny Highlands Trail, and building security. Allegany County Bureau of Police Chief J. Robert Dick has executed a three-year contract to serve as the County’s new Chief of the Division of Public Safety effective July 1. Bureau of Police Lt. Rodney G. Bell will remain with the County and be assigned to the new division. In addition to supporting the general duties of the new division, Lt. Bell will continue his work on grants for public safety. He will also serve as the liaison officer for Allegany County with state and federal agencies on emergency management and homeland security affairs. The new Division of Public Safety will also include the County’s Code Enforcement Program. The new division will be part of the County’s Department of Human Resources and Personnel Services under the direction of Brian P. Westfall. Please note that the consolidation of the Bureau of Police road patrol under the direction of the Sheriff and the creation of the Division of Public Safety will only include existing County personnel. Allegany County Director of the Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security & Bureau of Police Gary E. Moore, whose contract expires today, has elected to step down from his current position. Moore has been serving in this capacity for the past 18 months on a part-time basis. He declined the County’s offer for a contract extension. Moore has agreed to serve as a consultant on an interim basis as needed. Moore retired with the rank of Lt. Col. from the Maryland State Police and also previously worked in the federal government with the Departments of Health and Human Services and Homeland Security. Moore has expressed a desire to return to federal service. Richard L. DeVore, Chief of Emergency Management, will assume full-time operational duties of the department and will serve as the Department’s Acting Director effective July 1. With the consolidation of the Office of the Sheriff and the Bureau of Police, this department will be downsized. The reorganization and a new department name are expected to be finalized by September 1. The new department will retain all the remaining components and include the divisions of Emergency Management, Emergency Medical Services, and 911 Communications.

Commissioners’ statements, comments, recognition

Commissioner Brodie gave a weekly update: On Friday they attended the Lincoln Day Dinner; Saturday was the Oldtown Summer Festival; Sunday was Summer in the Park in Coney; Monday was a meeting in Coney with FHA and the Town on bridge approaches, etc. Yesterday we obtained some vehicles purchased from Penn Dot for our County Roads Division. The 3 trucks and 2 loaders are not new equipment, but will take our fleet into the 80’s and 90’s. We will continue to try to replace one truck a year.

Commissioner Valentine said Wednesday night there was a public meeting in LaVale to discuss the re-writing of their bylaws; it has been 50 years since they were updated; the Commissioners felt public meetings were needed for discussion/input and this was the 2^nd meeting on this issue; the topic will also be discussed at a future Commissioners’ public work session and public business meeting. The Commissioners and Dave Eberly toured Washington Middle School today to view their needs and see what can be done. He thanked the BOE for the opportunities to tour the facilities.

Constituents - In order of sign-up sheet (Policy explained by President McKay)

Kenneth Wilmot, 513 Fort Ave., Cumberland, was quite concerned about the animal shelter; he has spoken for the last 7 months about the problems; it is now a rescue shelter/protection agency/free pet shop. Code 117 does not allow for a no-kill policy, it is illegal. He commented on sick dogs/cats, contagious disease, cats needing to be treated like dogs with rabies tags and not allowed to roam free, etc.

John Davis, P.O. Box 256, Cumberland, asked who was eligible for the tax abatement (Item 6). Jason Bennett responded that we abate those taxes largely for businesses. They attempt to collect, but some have gone out of business. He also explained that Nextel leases property and receives an exemption from County tax on that parcel.

Kevin Shaffer, 829 National Highway, LaVale, thanked the Commissioners for meeting in LaVale. Concerning the LaVale issue, he suggested the monthly billing continue because of cash flow; he wanted the customers to have 3 months before service was disconnected; he felt 18% interest rate was too high and should be capped at 9% (based on treasury bill); he felt the payment of $50 an hour was reasonable with what other agencies receive. He then commented on LaVale campaign signs saying political speech is the most protected speech per our Assistant County Attorney; he hoped the Commissioners would not suppress 1^st Amendment rights. His third topic was Kelly Road; he questioned when it would be paved. President McKay said concerning LaVale, that would be taken into consideration when they meet in the public work session; concerning the campaign signs, it is his intention to bring this to a work session in the next 30-60 days (to hear what has happened in the past, understand the law, decide upon it when it isn’t an election year); concerning Kelly Road, he called upon Administrator Eberly. Mr. Eberly said per Paul Kahl, he is still discussing the project with the City, and we are hopeful to find out in the next few weeks. Mr. Shaffer asked if 150 feet east of the RR viaduct could be fixed; the elevation is not correct and he asked if that (puddle/runoff problem) could be corrected. President McKay thought that would be Plan B.

Brenda Castle, 13101 Mann Rd., Little Orleans, appeared on behalf of the Little Orleans students. She commented on the Board of Ed bringing our 6^th to 8^th graders back to Allegany County and the lack of the BOE to respond to questions about: bus time, ride time, no sidewalks/street lights/bus stops with other children, safety of our children, and diesel fume problems, etc. She also mentioned selling their homes, a news article, declining student enrollment (that 20 students can’t fix), school funding, Cumberland school repairs, taxes, AYP, their passion about this issue, etc.

Linda Martin, 12712 Heaven’s Lane, Little Orleans, said she and her neighbors were here again because of the children of Little Orleans and to fight for their rights. She commented on the appeal filed with the BOE and State as the parents intend to fully exercise their rights by law. She also mentioned the “No child left behind act,” AYP, etc.

Donna Wallizer, 32609 Boden Rd., Little Orleans, commented on population growth in Little Orleans, taxpayers, economics, discrimination, communication, a Cumberland Chat conversation, AYP, the Maryland report card, etc. (all dealing with Little Orleans area. A school is built from the inside, she concluded, noting that families, children and teachers do a good job to make good schools.

Kenneth Bishop, 31717 Beautiful Plains Rd., Little Orleans, commented on the Commissioners’ leadership and how he appreciated their conduct, respect and attentiveness to those who speak at the meeting.

Patricia Sweitzer, Flintstone, commented on schools, Flintstone students moving to Cumberland schools, the American War of Independence/Declaration of Independence, Constitutional rights, voting referendum, code home rule, etc. and asked the Commissioners to bring this issue to a referendum. President McKay said they have given/received dialogue about concerns, but they would try to do better.

Mr. Wilmot appeared again about the Animal Shelter, the Foundation, epidemics, employees, costs, Constitution Park, etc. President McKay said we don’t discount what Mr. Wilmot has to say; when we have a concerned constituent we try to address the problem. He directed the County Attorney to look at legalities (leashes on cats), saying we will get back with Mr. Wilmot on that. He felt Attorney Rudd had sent him previous correspondence. Mr. Wilmot then talked about Code 117, trap neuter release; the City of Los Angeles, etc. President McKay called upon Dick DeVore about qualifications of our animal shelter manager. Mr. DeVore wanted to dispel any information that Mr. Brubaker was anything less than qualified for the position of Shelter Manger saying Mr. Brubaker was selected through an exhaustive search of close to 60 candidates. He reviewed the interview process, saying Mr. Brubaker had great qualifications. He discussed the issue of the Parvo virus at the Shelter saying they are getting over this outbreak. He talked about a new shelter being more adequately suited to their mission. With reference to trap/neuter/release, he mentioned that only 1 animal (a cat) was trapped in Constitution Park and he detailed the neuter clinic process. He then reviewed the euthanasia rates. They are working diligently with rescues; a large number of animals are going outside the County; he explained the adoption procedure. Animal Control Board members Peggy McDaniel & Linda Golden have been working on cat licensure and updating the County Code. He also reviewed adoption numbers.

Patricia Sweitzer asked if the Health Department has been told about the health risk from animals in the park and felt the City or County should be responsible for this. President McKay said we have not done that, but she or Mr. Wilmot may be interested in making that contact.

Mr. Wilmot asked if the Animal Control Board would meet on the 12^th. President McKay asked Mr. DeVore to confirm that.

Reminders:

Holiday Government Schedule – Monday, July 4^th - Allegany County Offices closed; no Transit

Svc; Refuse sites closed

Next Public Work Session - Thursday, July 7, 2011 - 4:00 p.m., Room 212

Next Public Business Meeting - Thursday, July 7, 2011 - 5:00 p.m., Room 100

ADJOURNMENT:

There being no further business to come to the attention of the Board, a motion to adjourn at 6:20 p.m. was made and duly carried.