(11/2018) In the last four years of being President of the Frederick County Council it has become apparent to me that temperament is one of the key variables among people. A thoughtful and patient approach to issues many times reveals a kind heart and willingness to compromise. As I have traveled this beautiful and economically strong county,
it has been my good fortune to meet many different people, from all walks of life, backgrounds and who share the values of hard work, strong character, grit and love of their families and communities.
As I look out at the landscape of personalities who are running for office in our fair land, it occurs to me that rather than focus on political party, I tend to gravitate towards those who are fair-minded, open to discussion (whether we agree or disagree on a topic), and civil in their discourse.
Over my tenure on the Council, I have taken a moderate approach to issues ranging from the recently passed Adequate Public Facilities – Adjustment of School Construction Fees aka APFO/Mitigation Fees Bill #18-21, the Forest Resource Ordinance (FRO) Bill #17-17 and the Monocacy Scenic River Plan. All three have been viewed on both "sides" as
contentious issues. It was heartbreaking for me to see the level of criticism and at times vitriolic attacks leveled against me personally and those who support and oppose these issues. I believe our citizens want what is best for the county overall without polarization and negativity. Therefore, I tried to find a way to bring all stakeholders together in an open
environment with the ability to share their views and truly listen to each other. It has worked.
Regarding the APFO/Mitigation Fees Bill, after public hearings and workshops, I convened a meeting of the minds of both the school advocates and builders and developers. We met a few times to discuss the best way forward to institute an increase in mitigation fees on the current 12 DRRAs and allow the building industry consistency regarding
these fees as it affects their ability to qualify for loans and determine forecasting for their business. Neither "side" was happy, but at that time all those at the table agreed on this compromise. Bill #18-21 passed on October 16, 2018.
Earlier in the year, the same approach was used regarding the FRO Bill. Again, workshops, public hearings and meeting of the minds with environmentalists, landowners and developers. Folks were able to listen to each other and come to a workable compromise that protects our forests and interests overall. Were both sides happy? No. Were both
sides agreeable on a negotiated solution, Yes. Are there roadblocks along the way, certainly. By working with stakeholders, we crafted an Amended Bill that passed on February 28, 2018.
The Monocacy Scenic River Plan is another hot topic in Frederick County. I just saw so much sadness when farmers were being pitted against one another. I asked to meet with the Frederick County contingent of the River Board to hear their concerns and how best to move forward. In addition, I have met with environmentalists, other farmers,
landowners and other interested parties, including a water scientist from Hood College. This plan will come forward once all the changes that both Frederick County and Carroll County River Board members agreed upon have been incorporated and promulgated to the County Council and Carroll County Commissioners. The process here will include a stop at the Frederick
County Planning Commission (FCPC) after they conduct a public hearing and workshop. Once the FCPC has completed their review and voted on it, it will come to the Council for consideration. We all want to protect property rights and we all want clean water. There is a way to work this with protections for both.
I have given just three examples of working on legislation and a joint county plan. It is critical to utilize the tremendous brain trust we have in our community and within our experienced staff to work thru issues and find solutions that move Frederick County forward.
Please consider the choice of your next elected body from the local to the national level by asking yourself who is the candidate with the strongest character, positive outlook and will have the county’s best interest at all times. Working and listening to others is a key factor to creating a positive solution!
"Let us not seek the Republican answer or the Democratic answer, but the right answer. Let us not seek to fix the blame for the past. Let us accept our own responsibility for the future." John F. Kennedy, February 18, 1958.
Thank you for allowing me to serve you for the past four years, and I will certainly appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve for the next four years.
