Small Business, Jobs and the Economy are secondary only to education as a part of my campaign platform for moving Frederick County forward as your next County Executive. Our campaign slogan is "One Frederick, United in pursuing prosperity for all," and it is my passion to be the leader who will bring us closer together as one Frederick. We have a vibrant community positioned for premier status as a wonderful place to live, work and prosper; however, we can no longer be complacent with watching so many disparities in our community as highlighted during the pandemic. The disparities are not just based on race; though race is a major factor, gender, age, military veteran status, language, income status, sexual orientation, and health are other factors. Frederick County is fortunate to have nonprofit organizations supporting the human needs in our community. A thriving business community plays a
key part in a long range plan for prosperity.
Successful small businesses are the foundation of a strong economy and self-sustaining community. They bring growth and innovation to communities while increasing tax revenue and creating a robust job market. Small business owners tend to live, work, and serve in the community in which they establish their business. Supporting small business growth and sustainability can provide the tax revenue needed to help fund education and other community needs. Frederick County is missing a fantastic opportunity to develop and grow small businesses here in our community. But for small businesses to thrive they need opportunities to generate revenue. Unfortunately, Frederick County has not made developing a vibrant small business community a priority; as a result, we depend heavily on revenue generated via impact fees assessed to developers and for real estate taxes assessed to homeowners.
As your next County Executive, I will incentivize, support, and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit. Farmers and Agriculture based organizations are businesses. Frederick County’s rich history is synonymous with its successful farming and agriculture foundation. I will continue to nurture and support our farming and agriculture industries. My plans include expanding our business incubator program as we currently only have two supporting all of Frederick County. With community support, we will locate a farming and agriculture based business incubator program in the Thurmont community to continue creating new and efficient techniques for farming, agriculture, and environmental solutions.
As your County Executive, I will dedicate a portion of my time to collaborating with the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Clubs, and a diverse group of business leaders in developing initiatives that support, celebrate, and sustain small businesses and incentivizes entrepreneurship here in Frederick County. I will develop a business incubator expansion plan to support "Startups" (newly formed small businesses) in other cities, municipalities, and communities. Incubator support for Startups can include training in management, accounting, sales and marketing, and proposal development. In addition, the incubator will provide administrative support Startup can focus more on their products and/or services.
I will also establish a committee of business leaders from various industries to meet monthly and discuss issues impacting the business community and to provide advice regarding business matters. I will open County contracting opportunities to include more small business participation. The end goals will be better paying jobs, lower crime rates, greater support for our non-profit organizations, greater participation on our boards and better healthcare options. In addition, the County will have increased revenue to address growing infrastructure needs, education funding, and community based services. Frederick County residents will have greater opportunity to pursue prosperity in a more vibrant community. One Frederick, in pursuit of prosperity for all.
Our campaign’s main platform issues include post-pandemic education funding, support small business growth and sustainability, a "One Frederick United" initiative, and financial stewardship. Please visit our website at www.friendsofdboffman.com for more information.
