(10/2022) We have a strong and expanding economy in Frederick County. Under the leadership of County Executive Jan Gardner, the county has seen significant economic development while meeting and exceeding agricultural preservation goals. Our county economy is driven by traditional agricultural industries, biotechnology and other tech enterprises, construction, and vibrant tourism. Large and small businesses are choosing to locate here because Frederick County is a beautiful place to live. It’s an exciting time to do business here and new businesses are on the way with new opportunities to live and work in the county.

As Frederick County continues to grow, the county will continue to build and maintain infrastructure projects like schools, libraries, and roads. These are real county needs. To fund these projects, the county must be positioned to take advantage of all available products for financing. We currently hold a AAA bond rating from all three rating agencies. When the county gets better interest rates, taxpayers save money. Like any other enterprise, our demonstrated fiscal responsibility and cash reserves factor into decisions of credit worthiness. The county property tax rate has remained unchanged since 2014. Since then, county residents have seen more parks and trails built, and more resources have been dedicated to supporting county farmers and agrotourism.

It's true that county property assessments, which tend to lag behind market values, have increased during that time. Owning a home is still one of the biggest investments that families make to secure retirement or pass something on to future generations. The financial stability created by conservative fiscal management and a constant rate of property taxation allows the county to deliver the services we count on and future capital improvement projects like road improvements and school construction.

I will support responsible budgets that preserve Frederick County’s stellar credit rating and current financial stability. We can’t address the most pressing challenges in the county otherwise. To keep pace with the growth that follows successful economic development, responsive county budgets must reflect dedication to excellent public education and necessary transportation solutions. If I am elected to the County Council, I will be an advocate for both. I ask for your vote so I can keep Frederick County moving forward.

It's hard to believe mail-in ballots are already being mailed out and that Election Day is just about a month away. If you need any information about your voter registration, or your polling location during Early Voting or on Election Day (November 8th), you can visit www.elections.maryland.gov . You can also apply to be an Election Judge by visiting the Frederick County Board of Elections website.

Read other campaign articles by Renee Knapp