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The Honorable Board of County Commissioners
met with the following present: Roy W. Crow, Scott D. Livie, and William
W. Pickrum, presiding.
Susanne Hayman, County Administrator,
was also in attendance.
Minutes of the previous meeting were approved.
W. Roger Williams, Treasurer, reported a balance of $8,749,509.00.
Commissioner Pickrum requested a moment of silence to remember the men
and women in uniform around the world who have died in defense of the
United States' freedom and America's way of life.
APPEALS BOARD
Carla Martin, Community Planner, appeared and reviewed the decisions made
by the Board of Appeals at its meeting on November 24. The Commissioners
reappointed Trey Hill as a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals Board
for a three year term ending January 7, 2008.
BAY BROADBAND
Commissioner Crow noted correspondence dated November 20 that was received
from Dr. Al Hammond, President and CEO, Bay Broadband Communications,
LLC, in which he indicated his agreement with the goal of the study conducted
and presented by The Yankee Group to the Eastern Shore Maryland Counties
regarding a proposed affordable, wireless broadband network.
In his letter, Dr. Hammond listed the four concerns which he has about
The Yankee Group's proposal (cit "Minutes", Commissioners' meeting, November
16, 2004) and provided attachment of a counter-proposal from Bay Broadband
Communications (BBC) entitled "Bringing Affordable Broadband to Maryland's
Eastern Shore: A Private Sector Counter-Proposal" (dated November 20,
2004) which was prepared with the assistance of John Dolmetsch of BIG
Wireless, Rattana Chhay of Friendlynet, and Barb Pivec of Atlantic Site
Acquisition Services.
Commissioner Crow reported that on November 24, the chairperson of the
Upper Shore Regional Council (USRC) met with Dr. Hammond who assured the
USRC that BBC and its partners will build a cost-effective, regional,
carrier-class wireless backbone covering the entire Eastern Shore.
John Dillman, Executive Director, USRC, appeared later in the meeting
and responded to several concerns expressed by the Commissioners who want
to support the initiative of BBC as well as to encourage the current momentum
of the Eastern Shore regional councils to establish a cooperative wireless
broadband service should the private sector not succeed in raising capital
and in implementing this service.
Mr. Dillman indicated that there are at least two ways in which the USRC
can assist the BBC with its initiative: (1) by identifying all of the
public facilities, e.g. water towers, located in the member-counties of
the USRC that could serve as the necessary infrastructure; and (2) by
putting out a bid to all vendors of wireless broadband service. Should
a vendor of the private sector other than BBC come forward to bid, that
vendor would have a number of options, e.g. partnering with BBC.
In Dr. Hammond's November 20 correspondence, he indicated that BBC will
also build a dense access network with broad coverage, with an average
of 15 access points per county. The access networks will use currently
available pre-WiMax technology, but will migrate to WiMax when reliability
and cost issues are resolved. The project will ensure affordable access
for Eastern Shore households by using low-cost federal loan funds, specifically
intended for rural broadband, to finance or subsidize customer premises
equipment, removing the "initial cost" barrier to widespread participation.
BBC and its partners will offer both high-speed Internet access and bandwidth-intensive
advanced services such as voice-over-internet phone service, video on
demand, and on-line business applications.
Dr. Hammond also indicated in his letter that BBC welcomes an appropriate
public-private partnership with the counties - one that does not ask for
huge public investments, but rather leverages existing facilities. In
the view of BBC, preferred and low-cost access to public towers and streamlined
licensing processes would facilitate and accelerate its network build-out
- and should be met in return by free access for several community centers
in each county, service to any County facility at half its commercial
rates, and other services. There are other ways the county governments
could partner with this private sector effort to help ensure access in
under-privileged communities, back-up service for emergency services and
other critical county networks, and to achieve similar goals.
In BBC's view, it is the role of the private sector to raise the necessary
investment and take the risks inherent in any venture, and not the role
of the public sector, unless the private sector is unable to provide this
support. In conclusion, the counter-proposal indicated that, in contrast
to The Yankee Group's proposal, BBC and its partners believe that they
can provide affordable broadband to the Eastern Shore, alone or in concert
with other operators, more rapidly, at lower cost, and with broader coverage
and more affordable access than a network owned and operated by the public
sector.
The Commissioners concurred to support Dr. Hammond's plan and strategy
for funding wireless broadband service on the Eastern Shore and, concurrently,
to support the USRC's strategy to open the bid to vendors who provide
this service should BBC not succeed with raising sufficient private capital
and to determine how much financial support would then be expected from
each County.
Commissioner Crow expressed his concern that The Yankee Group's study
and report did not include BBC and also his belief that the provision
for wireless broadband service in the more remote areas of the Eastern
Shore will generate even more excitement and support by the citizens and
local governments of Eastern Shore counties.
Mr. Dillman added that the Regional Councils have invited BBC to address
the Councils at the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Winter Conference
in December, and anticipates that the Councils and BBC will be ready to
finalize a plan to ensure affordable broadband coverage throughout the
Region.
BLACKBIRD-MILLINGTON CORRIDOR
Gail Owings, Director of Planning and Zoning, appeared and reported that
on November 15 the Nature Conservancy held a meeting at the Millington
Elementary School to review strategies for the Blackbird-Millington Conservation
Plan. She reported that the current strategies were not changed or any
new ones added. Mrs. Owings also reported that early in the summer of
2004, the Nature Conservancy began working with citizens in the Blackbird-Millington
Corridor to develop strategies.
For the record, this corridor is a band of farmland, forest, and wetlands
that stretches from the Cypress Branch and Millington area to the Delaware
Bay at the mouth of the Blackbird Creek and home to a great diversity
of plants, animals, and ecological systems.
BOARD OF EDUCATION (BOE)
Kent County High School - Angela Blake Ackerson, Coordinator of
the Mark Blake Memorial Scholarship Fund and sister to the late Mark Blake,
appeared and expressed what is, in her opinion, the importance of providing
lighting in the Kent County High School athletic field, as well as to
announce her donation of $1,000 towards the provision of lighting.
Bill and Catherine Blake, parents of Mrs. Ackerson and the late Mark Blake,
as well as John Larrimore, member of the BOE, Frances Miller, Assistant
Superintendent of Administrative Services, and Jon Baker, Public Information
Officer, both of Kent County Public Schools, were also in attendance.
Mrs. Ackerson began her presentation by praising her experience as a student
at Kent County High School and, along with her father, listed the many
benefits, tangible and intangible, that stadium lighting would provide
not only to the students but to all the citizens of the County. She provided
the following examples of events that could take place in a lighted stadium
which would generate revenue from concessions and registration fees: men
and women soccer leagues, band competitions, health fairs, concerts, potential
activities. She also indicated that, in her opinion, the citizens of the
County are ready for the provision of lighting and are tired of waiting
for it and would be willing to cooperate with efforts for fund-raising.
She reported that her own family anticipates organizing a fund-raising
effort beginning in January and continuing through June 2005.
Mr. Blake presented his observations based on his experience coaching
athletic games in other counties whose high school lighted stadiums are
filled to capacity for evening games. Among the intangible benefits of
having stadium lighting, he cited the increased commitment of citizens
to its youth, the instilling of pride in the students, and the greater
potential for constructive activities for County youth involvement. He
emphasized his belief that there is no greater or more important investment
than that made to increase the health and welfare of children and youth.
Each of the Commissioners concurred with Mr. Blake. Commissioner Pickrum
added that there have been occasions when the youth of the County have
expressed to the Commissioners that there is nothing to do in the County,
and that, in his opinion, such a complaint is an indictment of the adults
of the County.
Commissioner Livie indicated that the Board and the BOE have committed
to providing stadium lighting at the high school and recognized the Blake
Family's donation as the first private investment made, extending the
appreciation and gratitude of the Board for it. He suggested that a plaque
be erected in memory of Mark Blake.
Commissioner Livie also noted that for Fiscal Year 2005, $55,000 has been
committed in the County Budget for the provision of stadium lighting,
and that the County will match every dollar donated to this provision.
Therefore, the County will fund $1,000, matching the Blake Family donation
and will establish the scholarship fund.
Correspondence via electronic mail, dated November 23, directed to Susanne
Hayman, County Administrator, was received from the office of the Assistant
Superintendent of Administrative Services advising that the bids received
for the Project Manager/Architect for the KCHS Renovation Project came
in nearly 40% over budget.
At today's meeting, Commissioner Crow contacted Ms. Miller requesting
the project be rebid. Ms. Miller will relay the Board's request to Dr.
Ward, Superintendent.
Commissioner Pickrum, referring to this correspondence, expressed his
opinion that, since the BOE anticipated and provided for the possibility
of overage in its financial planning, the BOE should therefore provide
some possible solutions as well for the funding of this overage.
Rock Hall Middle School - Correspondence directed to Dr. Bonnie
Ward, Superintendent of Kent County Public Schools, received from Congressman
Wayne T. Gilchrest with attachment of correspondence dated November 15
via FAX from Congressman Gilchrest's constituent, Robert Hunter of Chestertown,
who issued a complaint related to an incident involving his son at the
Rock Hall Middle School (cit. "Minutes", Commissioners' meeting, 09/14/04).
BOARD OF ELECTRICAL EXAMINERS
The Commissioners reappointed P. Wayne Pinder as a member of the Board
of Electrical Examiners for a three year term ending January 12, 2008.
BRIDGE #K007, PEACOCK CORNER BRIDGE
A copy of the public notice sent by Ed Spray, Superintendent of County
Roads, to the Kent County News, was received indicating that the Peacock
Corner Bridge, located on Peacock Corner Road on the Andover Branch at
the Queen Anne's County line, will be closed to through traffic on Monday,
November 29, 2004 for replacement of the bridge. The new bridge should
be opened within ten months.
The public may contact the Kent County Public Works/Roads Division at
410-778-4252 for further information.
CHESAPEAKE COLLEGE
The Commissioners raised concern that, as per the copy of the minutes
of the Board of Trustees of Chesapeake College which they received, there
was no evidence of a commitment from the Trustees to make every attempt
to contract with Eastern Shore businesses and vendors for services and
products needed by the College.
The Commissioners expressed their concern in light of the fact that they
have conveyed, through correspondence to and conversations with Dr. Stuart
Bounds, President of Chesapeake College, what they believe to be the importance
of the support shown by a community college, such as Chesapeake College,
for its local businesses.
Commissioner Livie reported that, in a recent conversation with Dr. Bounds,
Dr. Bounds assured him that the College will be more assertive in its
effort to support local businesses.
COMMISSION ON AGING
The Commissioners reappointed Martha Wright, Ruth Brice, Dorothy M. Morlock
and Rebecca M. Startt as members of the Commission on Aging for a three
year term ending December 31, 2007.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Gail Owings, Director of Planning and Zoning, appeared and reported that
on December 1, at 7:00 p.m. in the Casey Forum of Washington College,
the Planning Commission will host a workshop to discuss the draft Economy,
Countryside, and Environment sections of the draft update of the Comprehensive
Plan.
COUNTY ROADS DIVISION
A copy of correspondence dated November 10 was received from W.S. Ingersoll,
Town Manager of Chestertown, and directed to Carter G. Stanton, Director
of Public Works, extending his appreciation for information conveyed by
Mr. Stanton regarding the sale of a County surplus dump body truck. Mr.
Ingersoll indicated that the Town had already made two purchases of dump
trucks from the State Highway Administration.
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Correspondence dated November 12 was received from Paula Gish, Assistant
Director of Service, Kent County Department of Social Services (DSS),
reporting that DSS was allocated Local Emergency Assistance Program (LEAP)
in the amount of $16,000 for Fiscal Year 2006. In July, DSS received one
half ($8,000) of its annual allocation.
To date, 45 Kent County families were served with the funding received.
LEAP funds remains an important resource to aid families in danger of
eviction, utility cut-off and to meet prescription and food needs. Funds
were expended as follows:
- Rent .................................. $4,967.00
- Prescriptions .................... 418.08
- Medical ............................. 176.66
- Electric ................................ 930.00
- Dental .................................. 200.00
- Fuel ...................................... 600.00
Ms. Gish requested permission to disburse the remainder of DSS' Fiscal
Year 2005 allocations in the amount of $8,000.00. A letter will go forth
to DSS conveying the Commissioners' approval of the disbursement.
DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND WASTEWATER SERVICES
Wayne Morris, Director of Water and Wastewater Services, appeared and
reported about the following:
Worton Service Area - On November 27, a gate valve broke at the
Worton water treatment plant, rendering the residents of Worton to be
without water for 2.5 hours. Mr. Morris reported that the valve has been
replaced and all further necessary repairs will be made when public schools
are in recess during the winter holidays. Mr. Morris indicated that all
of the residents of Worton have been contacted by his office and notified
about the repair work to be done.
Tolchester Service Area -
In follow up to the October 23 community meeting, Mr. Morris initiated
discussion concerning Tolchester growth issues, indicating that a total
of 12 allocations are pending and awaiting the approval of the Commissioners.
Commissioner Livie expressed his concern that the decision to limit approval
to only the 13 allocations would take away the value of some properties
as it would increase the value of others.
Mr. Morris concurred and added that
the State has approved the 10 additional allocations and based its decisions
on two limiting factors: the results of the hydraulic study which was
conducted by an engineering consultant, and the County's growth policy.
Responding to
Commissioner Livie's question, Mr.
Morris indicated that the allocation decision can be revised, barring
no environmental and sewer capacity issues; however, infrastructure and
legal concerns and needs, such as roads, ditches, and line capacity, would
also have to be re-addressed.
Commissioner Pickrum added that 12 of the 13 allocations are located in
approved areas and are still subject to the approval of other agencies.
Mr. Morris noted that he would research
the locations of the 12 requested allocations and will report to the Board
at its next meeting along with his recommendations.
No further action was taken at this time.
Fairlee Service Area - Correspondence dated November 10 was received
from Congressman Wayne T. Gilchrest with attached copy of correspondence
from his constituent, Margot Kindig, which was sent to the Congressman
via electronic mail and dated October 28. Congressman requested the Board's
review of and response to Mrs. Kindig's letter.
Mrs. Kindig indicated to Congressman Gilchrest that she cannot financially
afford to pay for her water/sewer bill. She expressed her objections to
the increased rates for the water and sewer services that she receives.
A letter will go forth to Mrs. Kindig
with copy to Congressman Gilchrest elaborating the County's rationale
for the increase in the water and sewer service rates and providing an
explanation of how the County continues to subsidize the water and sewer
services.
EASTERN SHORE AREA HEALTH EDUCATION
CENTER (ESAHEC)
Correspondence dated November 19 was received from Audrey V. Wahl, Coordinator,
Geriatric Assessment Interdisciplinary Team (GAIT), reporting that ESAHEC
and the Chester River Hospital Center coordinated their efforts to facilitate
a GAIT project on November 10 and 11.
Sixteen health care students participated in the GAIT project and represented
the Medicine and Nursing programs at the University of Maryland, Baltimore,
the Nursing Program from Chesapeake College, Occupational Therapy, Physician
Assistant and Gerontology programs from Towson University. She attributed
the increased knowledge and skills gained by the health care students
about the aging process to the featured speakers and the administration
and staff of the Chester River Hospital Center.
EASTERN SHORE LAND CONSERVANCY
Correspondence dated November 9 was received from Roben Etgen, Executive
Director, and Amy Owsley, Director of Community Planning, of the Eastern
Shore Land Conservancy (ESLC), informing the Commissioners that Kent County,
along with five other counties of the Mid-Shore, was honored recently
for its important land conservation efforts through the Rural Legacy Program
at the second annual Eastern Shore 2010 Achievement Awards - a program
that acknowledges outstanding contributions to land use planning on the
Eastern Shore.
Ms. Carla Martin, Community Planner, was also honored as representative
of the County's efforts.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY BOARD
The Commissioners reappointed Terwana Brown and James Gillespie as members
of the Economic Development Advisory Board for a three year term ending
January 5, 2008.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (EMA)
Correspondence dated November 19 was received from Robert Rust, Director,
EMA, notifying the Commissioners of the Annual Public Meeting to be conducted
by the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) on December 7 at 7:00
p.m. in the Commissioners' Hearing Room.
The purpose of this meeting is to provide information for a better understanding
of how the LEPC activities affect the Commissioners and the citizens of
the County, for example the Emergency Operations Plan, the Hazard Mitigation
Plan, the Emergency Response Synchronization Matrix, the U.S. Marines
Biochemical Drill, and the County Terrorism Guidebook, and also to issue
a formal Promulgation of the updated Emergency Operations Plan.
GOVERNOR'S COMMISSION ON HISPANIC AFFAIRS
Correspondence dated November 15 was received from Christopher J. McCabe,
Secretary, Department of Human Resources, giving notice of the appointment
of Carmen E. Pratt (Ex-Officio) to the Governor's Commission on Hispanic
Affairs by Governor Ehrlich. In this capacity, Ms. Pratt will act as the
liaison for Hispanics in Kent County and the State on matters concerning
Hispanic issues.
Commissioner Pratt may be contacted by e-mail at hispanic@dhr.state.md.us
or by phone at 410-767-7857.
A letter will go forth extending the Commissioners' congratulations to
Ms. Pratt.
HOTEL RENTAL TAX
Commissioner Livie read the proposed
Resolution Establishing Hotel Tax Rate into the record which, if approved,
would raise revenues by increasing Kent County's Hotel Rental Tax from
Three (3%) Percent to Five (5%) Percent and shall be used exclusively
for tourism development efforts in advertising, marketing and promoting
Kent County and its municipalities.
The Hotel Tax of 5% would be levied upon every "transient charge"; and
this rate would become effective January 1, 2005, remaining in effect
unless or until changed by the Board of County Commissioners. Martha Shane,
owner of The Lauretum Inn, Chestertown, was also in attendance.
Commissioner Livie emphasized that
there has been a lot of community discussion about the proposed Hotel
Rental Tax, noting that the majority of hotel and bed and breakfast businesses
in the County believe that it would prove to be an asset to their businesses.
He also indicated that it is the
belief of the entire Board that the proposed Tax would be in the best
interest of the County.
Mrs. Shane stated that she is in favor of the Hotel Rental Tax.
To Mrs. Shane's question as to how the County would be able to document
that the revenues generated from the proposed tax would in fact be used
"exclusively for tourism development efforts", Commissioner Livie responded
by indicating that unless a town participates in the Memorandum of Understanding,
an accurate documentation could not be possible.
Mrs. Shane also reported that some of her peers are concerned that the
tax rate increase would have the effect of decreasing the occupancy rates
of their businesses.
Mrs. Van Pelt responded by indicating that she produces a quarterly report
that provides, in her opinion, a decent analysis of occupancy rates.
Commissioner Crow expressed his hope that Rock Hall would change its mind
and eventually participate in a Memorandum of Understanding.
Commissioner Pickrum noted that the proposed Hotel Tax does not represent
a fee to be borne by its citizens but only by tourists, and that the increase
in that rate would not be onerous to business owners or tourists.
A motion was made by Commissioner Livie, seconded by Commissioner Crow,
and made unanimous by Commissioner Pickrum to approve the Resolution increasing
the Hotel Rental Tax Rate from 3% to 5% effective January 1, 2005.
KENT CENTER
The Commissioners approved and Commissioner Pickrum signed the Certification
for the Request for Release of Funds which will be forwarded to the Environmental
Section of the Department of Housing and Community Development for the
release of the County's $500,000 CDBG Award. The release is required for
the implementation of Phase Five of the New Kent Center, Inc., Project.
KENT FAMILY CENTER
Correspondence dated November 22 was received from Ralph Smith, Senior
Vice President of Families Count - Maryland, requesting that the Commissioners
join with the organization in congratulating The Kent Family Center which
is one of seven organizations named as Families Count - Maryland honorees.
Each organization will receive a $500,000 unrestricted award in recognition
of its work strengthening low-income families and communities in the State.
A letter will go forth extending the congratulations of the Commissioners.
KENT MUSEUM
Correspondence received November 24 was received from Donald L. Andersen,
President of the Board of Directors, Kent Museum, Inc., expressing the
appreciation of the Board of Directors for the interest and assistance
in recruiting an experienced volunteer fund-raiser for the "Granary Rehabilitation
Project."
Mr. Andersen indicated that the Board of Directors is interested in using
the granary, after it has been stabilized and restored, as an information
center for the Sassafras Natural Resources Management Area, the Turners
Creek Park, and the Kent Museum, as well as an educational center that
will provide historical and cultural information about the County to school
age people, adults and visitors to the County.
The granary of the Kent Museum is the only remaining granary and site
of those established before the Revolutionary War, and it served to provide
food and supplies that were transported until the Railroad Era.
LEGAL COUNSEL
At 11:45 a.m., a motion was made
by Commissioner Crow, seconded by Commissioner Livie and made unanimous
by Commissioner Pickrum to go into closed session to discuss legal matters
as it relates to contract negotiations in accordance with State Government
Article, Section 10.508 (a)(9) of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
Michael Thielke of Chester Bridge Foundation and Jim Wright, County Engineer,
were in attendance.
The closed session adjourned at 12:10
p.m.
At 12:30 p.m., a motion was made
by Commissioner Crow, seconded by Commissioner Livie, and made unanimous
by Commissioner Pickrum to go into closed session to discuss legal matters
in accordance with State Government Article, Section 10.508 (a)(2)(10)
of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
The closed session adjourned at 12:45
p.m.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT INSURANCE TRUST
Susanne Hayman, County Administrator, accepted appointment to the Local
Government Insurance Trust Claims Committee.
MASSEY PROPERTY
Correspondence dated November 9 was received from Richard K. Lindsay,
District Engineer, State Highway Administration (SHA) expressing his appreciation
to Commissioner Pickrum for his attendance at the Consolidated Transportation
Program (CTP) briefing and for his inquiry concerning the recent testing
of the former site of a SHA fuel tank.
Acknowledging that, as per discussion that took place with the County
Administrator about the area in question and having been advised by the
same that the County is proceeding with the testing of the wells in the
area to determine if there is any contamination, Mr. Lindsay reported
that there is no assistance required by SHA at this time.
MID-SHORE MENTAL HEALTH SYSTEMS
A copy of the Mid-Shore Mental Health Systems, Inc. 2005 Guide to Mental
Health Services in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne's and Talbot
Counties was received for the Board's information and files.
PARKS AND RECREATION
The Commissioners approved and signed Contractual Agreement between Character
Counts Mid Shore, Inc. and Kent County through the Parks and Recreation
Department which will function in a coordinating role for a community
based movement of character counts program in Kent County for Fiscal Year
2005.
It is agreed that the Parks and Recreation Department will employ an official
county coordinator for the Kent County Character Counts Program and follow
conditions specified in this Agreement based upon the Character Counts
Mid Shore, Inc. investing $20,000 per year toward the salary of this employee
beginning January 1, 2005.
PERSONNEL
At 11:00 a.m., a motion was made by Commissioner Crow, seconded by Commissioner
Livie and made unanimous by Commissioner Pickrum to go into closed session
to discuss personnel matters in accordance with State Government Article,
Section 10.508 (a)(i)(ii) of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
Ed Robinson, Human Resources Director, and Sheriff John Price were in
attendance.
The closed session adjourned at 11:45 a.m.
PLANNING
Gail Owings, Director of Planning and Zoning, appeared and reported about
the Maryland Citizens' Planning Workshop which took place on November
29 and which was attended by members of the Planning Commission.
Carla Martin, Community Planner, was also in attendance.
Mrs. Owings reviewed the following three strategies to stay and facilitate
a growth ordinance which were discussed at the workshop: establish an
adequate public facilities ordinance; establish a capital improvement
plan (needed in order to make the public facilities adequate); and to
determine a payment plan/funding sources for all of the above.
Mrs. Owings indicated that no formal recommendations were made as a result
of this workshop, the intention for which was to serve as an educational
venue. She also noted that the strategy described represents only one
tool of negotiation for use by counties in their interactions with municipalities
and developers; she suggested that the County look at other tools of negotiation
as well.
To Commissioner Livie's concern that the County be able to prevent the
sprawl as evident in Middletown, DE, Mrs. Owings reported that developers
cannot force the County to do anything and that she felt that the County
was fortunate in that its municipalities have agreed to work closely with
the Planning and Zoning Administration.
She also reported that one of the main issues discussed at meetings of
the Maryland Association of Counties is the authority of towns to annex
properties, thereby increasing the demands on water and sewer systems'
capacity, and added that the only authority counties can wield concerning
annexation is through their zoning ordinances.
Responding to Commissioner Pickrum's question, Mrs. Owings explained that
the County's ability to change its zoning ordinances for the purpose of
preventing the annexation of properties by its municipalities is extremely
limited. She indicated that she would acquire annexation agreements, such
as those that are used by other counties, to offer as samples to towns
in Kent County that are being faced with pressure from developers.
Ms. Martin also reported that she was selected to participate as a student
of the LEAD (Leadership-Education-Action-Developing) Maryland Foundation
program, a two-year fellowship program that seeks to develop the leadership
skills of people involved in agriculture or rural development. The Commissioners
extended their congratulations to Ms. Martin who will begin her studies
in February 2005.
PLANNING COMMISSION
The Commissioners reappointed Elizabeth H. Morris as a member of the Planning
Commission for a five year term ending January 7, 2010.
REGIONAL CORRECTIONAL FACILITY
The Commissioners received a copy of the Request for Proposals for Consultant
Services for a Regional Detention Center dated November 2004, the proposal
for which is due January 14, 2005, from John A. Dillman, III, Executive
Director, Upper Shore Regional Council.
Mr. Dillman expressed his appreciation to LaMonte Cooke, Queen Anne's
County's Director of Corrections for his leadership of the regional committee
and to John Scarborough, Chief of Engineering, and David Remaniak, Civil
Engineer III, of Queen Anne's County Department of Public Works for preparing
the Bid Request.
SAMARITAN GROUP
Patricia McDonald, Chairperson, The Samaritan Group, appeared and presented
a review of the services of the Emergency Winter Shelter Program, sponsored
by The Samaritan Group, which is an interfaith service ministry based
in Chestertown.
Jane Ann Martin, Art Kendall, Margaret Gribble, and Sandee Trakat, all
members of the Board of Directors of the Samaritan Group, were also in
attendance.
Mrs. McDonald requested the good wishes of the Commissioners for The Samaritan
Group and noted that the organization is currently recruiting volunteers
and seeking financial assistance from the community for the operation
of the emergency winter shelter program beginning January 3, 2005 through
and including March 27, 2005, and that it is projecting to be open again
in November and December 2005.
Mrs. McDonald stated that during the past two winters, The Samaritan Group
provided emergency shelter, a hot evening meal, breakfast and a bag lunch
at several Kent County churches on a rotating basis.
For the most part, the Shelter is staffed by volunteers, but because of
the generous support of local donors, The Samaritan Group was able to
hire an overnight supervisor to cover some of the 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
shifts. During the first three months of 2004, the shelter provided 210
bed nights for nine different guests, who might otherwise have had to
sleep outdoors. Currently, a total of seven churches plan to host the
shelter.
Responding to the Commissioners' questions, Mrs. McDonald reported that
The Samaritan Group has budgeted $15,000 for the current year, $5,800
of which has thus far been raised. She noted that the number of people
in the County requiring shelter increased over the past year.
Mrs. McDonald expressed her belief that affordable housing is needed in
the County for those people who, having once required the services of
The Samaritan Group, have subsequently become financially capable of purchasing
a home.
The Commissioners assured Mrs. McDonald of their commitment to providing
affordable housing and extended their appreciation to Mrs. McDonald and
to The Samaritan Group for their services to the homeless in the County.
A letter will go forth to The Samaritan Group extending the good wishes
of the Board of Commissioners.
For more information about The Samaritan
Group and/or the Emergency Winter Shelter Program, the public may contact
Mrs. McDonald and /or Shelter Coordinators at 410-928-5160; 410-778-3163;
410-778-5560.
SHORE EROSION CONTROL
Correspondence dated November 10 was received from David H. Wilson, Coordinator,
Maryland Eastern Shore Resource, Conservation, and Development Area Council,
Inc. (RC&D), directed to the County Administrator, referring to the petition
the County received from several residents of Tolchester to sponsor the
formation of a shore erosion control district (cit. "Minutes," Commissioners'
meeting, 11/09/04).
Mr. Wilson requested that he be informed as to the necessary subsequent
steps to obtain the sponsorship from the Commissioners. He advised that
following his receipt of said information, the State will do an analysis
of the Tolchester site shore erosion problem and provide the solutions
required.
STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION (SHA)
A Memorandum dated October 29 was received from Neil J. Pedersen, Administrator,
SHA, with attachment of a copy of the recently executed Memorandum of
Action adopting the 2003 edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control
Devices (MUTCD 2003) as the major component of the manual and specifications
for traffic control devices.
The MUTCD, the Maryland Supplement to the MUTCD, and the Standard Sign
Book comprise the official manual and specifications for traffic control
devices used throughout the State. The Office of Traffic and Safety has
procured and distributed a limited number of copies of the MUTCD 2003
and the manual is available on the following website: http://muted.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/2003/pdf-index.htm.
TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
Bernadette Bowman, Director of Tourism Development, appeared and reported
on the following:
Southern Living Magazine - Mrs. Van Pelt had an extensive
interview with an author of the magazine who will include an article about
the Chestertown Artist's Studio Tour and the downrigging of the Sultana
in the September 2005 issue. The author also indicated her intentions
of writing an article about Chestertown as her choice for her favorite
town in a "favorite things" series.
Maryland Life Magazine - Dan Putrell, editor, indicated
that an article will appear in this brand new magazine about the downrigging
of the Sultana, who also invited the County to submit a topic for a "hidden
treasure" article. Mrs. Van Pelt reported that she will submit her suggestion
that Kent County's hidden treasure is the Tolchester Museum.
Philadelphia Outdoor Show - Kent and Queen Anne's Counties will
partner in a tourism display at this show in January. Calendar of Events
- will be published in January for 2005 Kent County events.
Chesapeake Bay - Mrs. Van Pelt indicated that she will follow
up on Commissioner Livie's request that she initiate contact with representatives
of a federal parks program that is contacting and providing funding for
counties around the Chesapeake Bay to serve as interpretive centers, e.g.
visitors' centers.
She also will follow-up with Commissioner Pickrum's request that she contact
Congressman Gilchrest's office and inquire as to his position concerning
this federal program.
Chesapeake Fields - The County's Tourism Development and Economic
Development Departments are involved with Chesapeake Field's initiative
and planning for an agra-tourism center. Mrs. Van Pelt reported that she
has invited the Assistant and Deputy Secretaries of the State's Tourism
Office to be included in this planning.
Tourism Counts: Fast Facts 2004 - Mrs. Van Pelt distributed
copies of this booklet, the purpose of which is to educate local citizens
and legislatures as to how tourism impacts economic development, citing,
as examples, the following statistics: Kent County received $26.8 Million
in revenues generated by its tourism industry; 300 jobs were introduced
in the County as a direct result of its tourism, representing 2.9% of
the County's total employment.
Chesapeake Life Magazine - Mrs. Van Pelt reported that,
as a result of the County's investment of $1,000 for advertisement in
this magazine, $4,000 revenues were generated. She indicated that another
advertisement will be included in the spring 2005 issue.
Proposed Hotel Rental Tax - Responding to Commissioner Livie's
question, Mrs. Van Pelt indicated that the revenues generated by the proposed
Hotel Rental Tax would definitely increase the County's ability to advertise
in more venues and more frequently, and that she shares Commissioner Livie's
concern as to how the County can be equitable to all of the towns that
contribute to the tax, given that there are some towns that have refused
to contribute.
Mrs. Van Pelt indicated that the advertisements paid for by the Tourism
Development Office represent the entire County as a whole, without favoring
specific towns.
Commissioner Livie, citing Rock Hall's refusal to participate in the Memorandum
of Understanding supporting the proposed Hotel Rental Tax, expressed his
hope that the town would change its mind and contribute to the tax once
it sees evidence of its benefits for its own economic development as well
as that of all the towns of the County.
Mrs. Van Pelt reported that most of the towns in the County do understand
that their investment in County Tourism Development will benefit them
multi-fold, and that as more tourism places are sited in advertisement,
the greater the longevity of tourists' visits and, therefore, the greater
their expenditures in the County.
Civil War Trails - Mrs. Van Pelt distributed copies of Baltimore:
A House Divided - War on the Chesapeake Bay brochures, produced by the
Maryland Civil War Trails, and which includes a special notation of Chestertown
in a highlighted section on the brochure's map. She indicated the following
four locations of Civil War Trail markers located in Chestertown: Monument
Park, Court House, Lauretum Inn, and the Charles Sumner Post - Grand Army
of the Republic (G.A.R.).
Mrs. Van Pelt also reported that Kent County is the only county in the
State to be represented in two brochures produced by the State's Office
of Tourism.
UPPER SHORE AGING, INC. (USA)
Correspondence dated November 15 was received from Carl E. Burke, Executive
Director, USA, Inc., with attachment of a copy of Specific Uses of Local
Operating Appropriations, Fiscal Year 2004. Mr. Burke indicated that the
document shows how USA, Inc. uses the County's current fiscal year appropriation,
as well as that of other counties which USA serves. Kent County's contribution
fund the Senior Center, Meals-on-Wheels and USTAR Transportation services
in Kent County only, not those of other counties.
WATER MANAGEMENT ADMINISTRATION
Notice was received that application has been made by Henry R. Dierker
to appropriate and use an annual average of 160,000 gallons of ground
water per day for farm irrigation on his property located at 12451 Massey
Road in the First Election District.
There being no further business to claim their attention, the Board adjourned
to meet again on Tuesday, December 7, 2004.
THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF KENT COUNTY, MARYLAND
Janice F. Fletcher
Executive Assistant
Approved: William W. Pickrum, President
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