The unusual election circumstances drew attention from local and national media, as they raised questions about the democratic process and the role of political competition in small-town politics. Some observers criticized the lack of choice for Taneytown voters, while others praised Heine's leadership qualities and commitment to the community.

Heine, a former council member, had announced his candidacy several months earlier but faced no opposition from other registered candidates. This meant he would be elected by default, without needing a formal campaign or a vote from many of the town's eligible voters.

The news of Heine's victory was met with mixed reactions from the Taneytown community. Some residents expressed relief and satisfaction that a familiar and experienced leader would be at the helm of the town, while others voiced disappointment and frustration that they had not been given a choice in the election. "I don't like the idea of only having one candidate," said John Martin, a resident. "It doesn't seem fair or democratic to me. We should have had a chance to vote for someone else, to express our opinions and preferences."

Others, however, praised Heine's character and credentials and argued that he had earned the right to be Mayor by his long service to the town and his commitment to its welfare. "Heine has been a good council member," said another resident, Anne Ford. "He knows what the town needs and how to get things done. I trust him to lead us in the right direction."

The lack of competition in the election was seen as a reflection of the unique character and dynamics of Taneytown politics. With a population of just over 4,000 people and a small-town atmosphere, the town was known for its close-knit community and its tradition of civic engagement.

Many residents had deep roots in the town and were actively involved in local affairs, serving on boards and commissions, attending town meetings, and volunteering for community events. Unfortunately, this meant that elections were often contested and spirited, with multiple candidates vying for each office and competing for the attention and support of the voters.

However, in the case of the mayoral election in 1999, no other candidates had stepped forward to challenge Heine. This was partly due to his reputation as a well-respected and influential public servant and partly to the need for more interest or resources among potential opponents.

Some observers speculated that the absence of competition was also linked to the town's recent political turbulence and conflict history. In the years leading up to the 1999 election, Taneytown had seen several high-profile disputes and controversies, including a divisive debate over a proposed Walmart store, a bitter dispute over the appointment of a town manager, and a contentious legal battle over the validity of a previous election.

These events had polarized the town and created a climate of distrust and hatred among some residents. As a result, some speculated that potential candidates for Mayor had been deterred by the prospect of entering a political arena fraught with tension and conflict.

Despite the lack of competition, Heine's victory was not without its challenges and controversies. Some residents had raised concerns about the election's legitimacy, arguing that having only one candidate on the ballot was unfair and undemocratic.

Others had criticized the lack of transparency and openness in the election process, arguing that it had been too easy for Heine to be declared the winner without serious scrutiny or debate.

So, who was the write-in vote? W. Robert "Bob" Flickinger, the outgoing Mayor. Some say the write-in campaign was born at Grace United Church of Christ, where Flickinger was an active member and his wife, Fairy, the organist. "That just stands to reason, because Bob is active in the church," Charles Barnhart, a Trinity Evangelical Church of Christ deacon, told the Baltimore Sun.

However, state officials had confirmed that the election was valid under Maryland law, which allows unopposed candidates to be declared winners if they receive at least one vote. This meant Heine's victory was technically legitimate, even if it had not been entirely satisfactory to some residents.

Henry Heine passed in 2018 but will always be remembered by friends, colleagues, and community members as a dedicated public servant who went above and beyond to help others. Throughout his tenure in Taneytown, Heine was known for his willingness to lend a listening ear and guide those who sought his assistance.

According to several residents, Heine was an excellent mentor who was always willing to share his knowledge and experience with others. In addition, he was known for taking the time to get to know his employees and community members and for his friendly and approachable demeanor.

In addition to his city manager role, Heine was a dedicated volunteer and community leader. He was involved in numerous local organizations, including the Taneytown Lions Club, and was always willing to lend his time and expertise to help others.

Overall, Heine's legacy is one of service and leadership, and he will be greatly missed by those who know him.

Bob Flickinger passed in 2021, Flickinger, who served as a City Councilman for sixteen years and Mayor for three terms, is remembered as a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly to improve his community.

According to friends and colleagues, Flickinger's commitment to Taneytown was unparalleled. He was deeply invested in the city and its residents and was always looking for ways to improve the lives of those around him.

Flickinger was also known for his strong faith and devotion to his family. He was an active church member and passionate about serving others. His love for his family was evident in everything he did, and he was a constant source of support and encouragement to those closest to him.

Throughout his life, Flickinger remained committed to his values and principles, and his legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who knew him. One Taneytown resident said, "Taneytown is better because he lived there."