Rick Dempsey will be the graduation speaker at Kent County High School in June. Rick is a former catcher in Major League Baseball who layed from 1969 to 1992. He is best known for his years with the Baltimore Orioles. He also played for the Minnesota Twins, New York Yankees, Cleveland Indians, Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers. Dempsey served as first, third and bullpen coach for the Orioles and he is currently a game analyst for the MASN network.
Kent County real estate report as of April 14, 2010: According to the Metropolitan Regional Information System there are 388 active residential listings in Kent County. Subdivisions (areas) with homes for sale include 9 listings at Kinnairds Point; 7 in Chesapeake Landing; 3 in Chesmar just outside of Chestertown; 6 in College Heights, Chestertown; 9 in Coventry Farms, Chestertown; 4 in Crestview, just outside of Chestertown; 6 in Dogwood Village, Galena; 8 in the historic district of Chestertown; 5 in Kentmore Park; 8 in Knights Landing, Worton; 8 in Millington; 5 at Rigbie Bluff, Betterton; 3 at Scott’s Point, Chestertown; 5 in Shorewood Estates, just outside of Galena; 7 in the Village at Chestertown; 12 in Tolchester Estates and 8 in Waterman’s Estates, Rock Hall. There are also 166 lots for sale, 42 commercial properties for sale and 5 multi-family properties for sale.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Chestertown, Maryland
It's worth a trip to the Kent County Commissioners office to see the beautiful orchid plant on the desk of Kathy Wirtz!
Did you know there is 100% funding available to replace failing septic systems in the critical areas of Kent County? So says Kent County Health Department representative John Beskid! Kent County has some 1800 systems in the critical areas and one half of these systems belong to people who use these as second homes. As of April 2010 Kent County has paid for the installation of 76 new units.
From the Minutes of the March 10, 2010 Kent County Commissioners Meeting:
Education Facts – Statistics for County Enrollments under 10,000 Students- Dr. Michael Harvey, Chairman, Board of Education, made a power point presentation regarding the Nimble 9, which is his descriptive term for the nine counties in the state with enrollments of less than 10,000 students (Allegany, Garrett, Queen Anne’s, Caroline, Talbot, Dorchester, Somerset, and Worcester). Of the Nimble 9, Kent County has the smallest enrollment with only 2,200 students. Dr. Harvey presented data as released in the 2009 MD Report Card and the latest edition of the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) The Fact Book. Dr. Harvey compared Maryland State Assessment (MSA) scores for Kent County, with those of other counties in the Nimble 9, for 5-8th grades, in the subjects of math, reading and science. Dr. Harvey informed that based on MSA scores for 2003-2009, it appears that Kent County is on an upward trend; however, he feels that the Kent County School system has many opportunities for improvement. Dr. Harvey addressed the Middle School Gap, and informed that Kent County has the highest drop off rate in the Nimble 9 from Middle School to High School at 15.1%. He informed that there has been a 3% overall decline in Maryland school enrollment, and a 13.5% decline in Kent County enrollment. He opined this could be attributable to fewer families moving into Kent County with young children, and parents choosing alternate education options for their children. Dr. Harvey informed that Kent County’s three middle schools have the smallest student populations in the Nimble 9 (Rock Hall, Chestertown, and Galena). He stated that if the Middle Schools are consolidated as proposed, the Kent County middle population would be approximately 472 students, which is close to the average middle school size. Dr. Harvey reviewed the High School Assessment Scores for Kent County and encouraged the students to bring the scores up to first place across the board.
In response to a question raised by a student in attendance, Dr. Wheeler stated that class sizes at Rock Hall Middle School are now 13-14 students or less. The school system is no longer able to afford to staff the very small class sizes. She added that if nothing is done to address this situation, the educational opportunities for the students will be compromised. She stated that the school system would like to provide Kent County students with an education that will allow them to compete globally in the job market.
Information Technology (IT)- Scott Boone, Director, appeared and informed the students of the substantial wireless network that has been developed in Kent County and which will allow greater opportunities for the students. Commissioner Crow commended Jim Corns, IT Director, Kent County Public Schools, for working with Mr. Boone to develop the network for the school system and the county. Mr. Boone noted that the network runs from the High School to the Community Center, then to the R. Clayton Mitchell County Office Building.
Did you know there is 100% funding available to replace failing septic systems in the critical areas of Kent County? So says Kent County Health Department representative John Beskid! Kent County has some 1800 systems in the critical areas and one half of these systems belong to people who use these as second homes. As of April 2010 Kent County has paid for the installation of 76 new units.
From the Minutes of the March 10, 2010 Kent County Commissioners Meeting:
Education Facts – Statistics for County Enrollments under 10,000 Students- Dr. Michael Harvey, Chairman, Board of Education, made a power point presentation regarding the Nimble 9, which is his descriptive term for the nine counties in the state with enrollments of less than 10,000 students (Allegany, Garrett, Queen Anne’s, Caroline, Talbot, Dorchester, Somerset, and Worcester). Of the Nimble 9, Kent County has the smallest enrollment with only 2,200 students. Dr. Harvey presented data as released in the 2009 MD Report Card and the latest edition of the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) The Fact Book. Dr. Harvey compared Maryland State Assessment (MSA) scores for Kent County, with those of other counties in the Nimble 9, for 5-8th grades, in the subjects of math, reading and science. Dr. Harvey informed that based on MSA scores for 2003-2009, it appears that Kent County is on an upward trend; however, he feels that the Kent County School system has many opportunities for improvement. Dr. Harvey addressed the Middle School Gap, and informed that Kent County has the highest drop off rate in the Nimble 9 from Middle School to High School at 15.1%. He informed that there has been a 3% overall decline in Maryland school enrollment, and a 13.5% decline in Kent County enrollment. He opined this could be attributable to fewer families moving into Kent County with young children, and parents choosing alternate education options for their children. Dr. Harvey informed that Kent County’s three middle schools have the smallest student populations in the Nimble 9 (Rock Hall, Chestertown, and Galena). He stated that if the Middle Schools are consolidated as proposed, the Kent County middle population would be approximately 472 students, which is close to the average middle school size. Dr. Harvey reviewed the High School Assessment Scores for Kent County and encouraged the students to bring the scores up to first place across the board.
In response to a question raised by a student in attendance, Dr. Wheeler stated that class sizes at Rock Hall Middle School are now 13-14 students or less. The school system is no longer able to afford to staff the very small class sizes. She added that if nothing is done to address this situation, the educational opportunities for the students will be compromised. She stated that the school system would like to provide Kent County students with an education that will allow them to compete globally in the job market.
Information Technology (IT)- Scott Boone, Director, appeared and informed the students of the substantial wireless network that has been developed in Kent County and which will allow greater opportunities for the students. Commissioner Crow commended Jim Corns, IT Director, Kent County Public Schools, for working with Mr. Boone to develop the network for the school system and the county. Mr. Boone noted that the network runs from the High School to the Community Center, then to the R. Clayton Mitchell County Office Building.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
March 31, 2010, Chestertown, Maryland
And finally the snow has melted!
It’s uplifting to see the daffodils bloom …I bet the first crocuses to spring up in Kent County were the ones in front of the Eliason home on Spring Avenue in Chestertown.
People are talking about Kent County school consolidation, the reduction of the $200,000 Kent County Local Management Board budget, possible closing of the Rock Hall and Galena branches of the Kent County Public Library, discontinuance by the County of curbside recycling and what’s happening at the County’s new community center in Worton.
Those living in the Fish Whistle area of Chestertown can expect more traffic and less parking availability when the kayak/canoe launch platform is complete at the foot of Cannon Street. It is now under construction.
It looks like Chestertown taxpayers will be footing the bill for a consultant to help ‘plan’ the private Stepney Manor project.
County offices will be closed on Good Friday. If you want to learn more about YOUR government, you can attend the Joint Meeting of the MD Upper Shore Transit & Delmarva Community Education Center at Chesapeake College at 10 a.m. on March 31; the Kent County Planning Commission meeting at 1:30 p.m on April 1 or the Community Center Authority Meeting also on April 1 at 5:00 p.m.
The Kent Commissioners met this week out at Kent County High School in Worton. Former Economic Development Director Jack Steinmatz reported that as of March 30, 2010, 2717 bills had been introduced in the Maryland legislature – 1583 in the House of Delegates and 1134 in the Maryland Senate. He said he had personally sent copies of 111 of these bills to Kent County School Superintendent Dr. Barbara Wheeler. He noted that one Bill in particular having to do with the shifting of the payment for county teacher pensions from the State to the counties would greatly impact Kent’s budget if passed. He also talked about House Bill 1175 which reduces the term of office on the Kent County School Board from 6 years to 4 years (Kent County is the only County in the State with 6 year terms). A second part of that bill gives the County Commissioners the authority to appoint a replacement Board member if a member resigns during their term of office. Currently, the Governor has the authority to make the appointment.
Did you know that Kent County’s new Community Center in Worton has the largest outdoor pool on the Eastern Shore? Other public pools located in Kent County include the Millington Pool and the Bayside Pool in Rock Hall.
Ever hear of the ‘Nimble Nine’ Maryland counties? The “Nimble Nine” refers to the nine ‘smaller’ counties in Maryland. This term is often used in reference to education statistics. The “Nimble Nine” includes Kent, Queen Anne’s, Caroline, Talbot, Dorchester, Somerset, Worcester, Garrett and Alleghany. According to information provided by Dr. Michael Harvey, Chairman of Kent’s Board of Education, Kent County is #7 in overall test scores in the group of “Nimble Nine”.
And finally the snow has melted!
It’s uplifting to see the daffodils bloom …I bet the first crocuses to spring up in Kent County were the ones in front of the Eliason home on Spring Avenue in Chestertown.
People are talking about Kent County school consolidation, the reduction of the $200,000 Kent County Local Management Board budget, possible closing of the Rock Hall and Galena branches of the Kent County Public Library, discontinuance by the County of curbside recycling and what’s happening at the County’s new community center in Worton.
Those living in the Fish Whistle area of Chestertown can expect more traffic and less parking availability when the kayak/canoe launch platform is complete at the foot of Cannon Street. It is now under construction.
It looks like Chestertown taxpayers will be footing the bill for a consultant to help ‘plan’ the private Stepney Manor project.
County offices will be closed on Good Friday. If you want to learn more about YOUR government, you can attend the Joint Meeting of the MD Upper Shore Transit & Delmarva Community Education Center at Chesapeake College at 10 a.m. on March 31; the Kent County Planning Commission meeting at 1:30 p.m on April 1 or the Community Center Authority Meeting also on April 1 at 5:00 p.m.
The Kent Commissioners met this week out at Kent County High School in Worton. Former Economic Development Director Jack Steinmatz reported that as of March 30, 2010, 2717 bills had been introduced in the Maryland legislature – 1583 in the House of Delegates and 1134 in the Maryland Senate. He said he had personally sent copies of 111 of these bills to Kent County School Superintendent Dr. Barbara Wheeler. He noted that one Bill in particular having to do with the shifting of the payment for county teacher pensions from the State to the counties would greatly impact Kent’s budget if passed. He also talked about House Bill 1175 which reduces the term of office on the Kent County School Board from 6 years to 4 years (Kent County is the only County in the State with 6 year terms). A second part of that bill gives the County Commissioners the authority to appoint a replacement Board member if a member resigns during their term of office. Currently, the Governor has the authority to make the appointment.
Did you know that Kent County’s new Community Center in Worton has the largest outdoor pool on the Eastern Shore? Other public pools located in Kent County include the Millington Pool and the Bayside Pool in Rock Hall.
Ever hear of the ‘Nimble Nine’ Maryland counties? The “Nimble Nine” refers to the nine ‘smaller’ counties in Maryland. This term is often used in reference to education statistics. The “Nimble Nine” includes Kent, Queen Anne’s, Caroline, Talbot, Dorchester, Somerset, Worcester, Garrett and Alleghany. According to information provided by Dr. Michael Harvey, Chairman of Kent’s Board of Education, Kent County is #7 in overall test scores in the group of “Nimble Nine”.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Monday, February 15, 2010, Chestertown, Maryland
IT SNOWED AND SNOWED
And while it snowed and thereafter we heard the roof collapsed on one section of the former Rent All Mart building on Morgnec Road and the tent collapsed which covered the flea market tables at the Bowling Alley in nearby Queen Anne’s County. Regarding ALL of the snow that still remains, according to a headline in the Orlando Sentinel with an AP Baltimore dateline: a “Bay scientist says environmental impact of dumping snow in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor minimal” – allegedly a Baltimore water quality scientist says ‘runoff of pollutants into the bay is always a concern, but the two recent snowstorms are no different than a heavy thunderstorm’!
BEWARE! BURGLARIES ABOUND IN AND AROUND CHESTERTOWN
There have been a number of burglaries in Chestertown recently including E & E Seafood, the home of Harry Morris and the Van Dyke car wash…and many cars have been broken into.
THE CHESTERTOWN BYPASS
There has been ‘talk’ for many years about the ‘need’ for a bypass around Chestertown over the Chester River. The ‘need’ seems to have to do with, among other things, traffic congestion on Rt. 213 north (also known as Washington Avenue) through Chestertown and the deteriorating condition of the present Chester River Bridge. Opposition has arisen due to the proposed routes as put forth by the Maryland State Highway Administration (MSHA)– especially from residents of Chester Harbor. It appears progress is being made in bringing about a compromise between those opposing a specific proposed bypass route and the MSHA. According to a Letter to the Editor in the Queen Anne’s Record Observer on February 11 (2010)the Chester Harbor Property Owners Association Board of Directors have acknowledged ‘recent developments that indicate the State Highway Administration is no longer proposing the route be a limited access road. Fey Road and Round Top Road would not be blocked to traffic and emergency vehicles’ and that they would support this ‘new’ proposal. They further state in their letter that this is the same proposal that was approved by the Federal Highway Administration in 1991. And so… we ask … WHEN will the public hear of this ‘new’ proposal??
LOCAL HEALTH CARE
Everybody’s talking about the reduction in the nursing staff at Chester River Hospital Center. So what IS the reason? Assuming it has something to do with ‘not enough patients’, some conjecture people are putting off non emergency ‘procedures’; some think people are going to the new Anne Arundel Medical Center Health Services on Kent Island which has ‘urgent’ care hours Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.to 5 p.m.; some think patients are being sent via helicopter from the emergency room to other hospitals.
The A. F. Whitsitt Center is on the Maryland Health Care Commission Agenda for Thursday, February 18, 2010 under ‘Action: Certificate of need.’
CHESTERTOWN ART
Coming in March – ‘Celebrate Chestertown’ hosted by Artworks and sponsored by Main Street Historic Chestertown. “Open to all mediums’, with the artists’ permission, their work will help to enliven downtown Chestertown with artistic depictions of the unique attractions, lively events, colorful history and stunning vistas of our vibrant community”. Selected entries will be reproduced on colorful banners to be displayed on light posts along High Street. Artworks, located at 306 Park Row, Chestertown, is a non-profit art center “dedicated to the establishment of a regional center for art and craft” – NOT to be confused with the Chestertown Arts League, 312 Cannon Street, which is “focused on education in the arts and collaboration among artists” and who “conduct workshops and classes to spread knowledge of the arts, to foster an appreciation of the arts, and to encourage activity in the arts within our community” – OR The Kent County Arts Council at 115 Philosopher’s Terrace, Chestertown, where Leslie Raimond is the Executive Director and which receives partial funding from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency of the State of Maryland, whose mission is “ to encourage and invest in the advancement of the arts for the people of our State”. And then there’s Main Street Historic Chestertown which is headed up by Holly Geddes who is also a member of the Chestertown Art League.
And while it snowed and thereafter we heard the roof collapsed on one section of the former Rent All Mart building on Morgnec Road and the tent collapsed which covered the flea market tables at the Bowling Alley in nearby Queen Anne’s County. Regarding ALL of the snow that still remains, according to a headline in the Orlando Sentinel with an AP Baltimore dateline: a “Bay scientist says environmental impact of dumping snow in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor minimal” – allegedly a Baltimore water quality scientist says ‘runoff of pollutants into the bay is always a concern, but the two recent snowstorms are no different than a heavy thunderstorm’!
BEWARE! BURGLARIES ABOUND IN AND AROUND CHESTERTOWN
There have been a number of burglaries in Chestertown recently including E & E Seafood, the home of Harry Morris and the Van Dyke car wash…and many cars have been broken into.
THE CHESTERTOWN BYPASS
There has been ‘talk’ for many years about the ‘need’ for a bypass around Chestertown over the Chester River. The ‘need’ seems to have to do with, among other things, traffic congestion on Rt. 213 north (also known as Washington Avenue) through Chestertown and the deteriorating condition of the present Chester River Bridge. Opposition has arisen due to the proposed routes as put forth by the Maryland State Highway Administration (MSHA)– especially from residents of Chester Harbor. It appears progress is being made in bringing about a compromise between those opposing a specific proposed bypass route and the MSHA. According to a Letter to the Editor in the Queen Anne’s Record Observer on February 11 (2010)the Chester Harbor Property Owners Association Board of Directors have acknowledged ‘recent developments that indicate the State Highway Administration is no longer proposing the route be a limited access road. Fey Road and Round Top Road would not be blocked to traffic and emergency vehicles’ and that they would support this ‘new’ proposal. They further state in their letter that this is the same proposal that was approved by the Federal Highway Administration in 1991. And so… we ask … WHEN will the public hear of this ‘new’ proposal??
LOCAL HEALTH CARE
Everybody’s talking about the reduction in the nursing staff at Chester River Hospital Center. So what IS the reason? Assuming it has something to do with ‘not enough patients’, some conjecture people are putting off non emergency ‘procedures’; some think people are going to the new Anne Arundel Medical Center Health Services on Kent Island which has ‘urgent’ care hours Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.to 5 p.m.; some think patients are being sent via helicopter from the emergency room to other hospitals.
The A. F. Whitsitt Center is on the Maryland Health Care Commission Agenda for Thursday, February 18, 2010 under ‘Action: Certificate of need.’
CHESTERTOWN ART
Coming in March – ‘Celebrate Chestertown’ hosted by Artworks and sponsored by Main Street Historic Chestertown. “Open to all mediums’, with the artists’ permission, their work will help to enliven downtown Chestertown with artistic depictions of the unique attractions, lively events, colorful history and stunning vistas of our vibrant community”. Selected entries will be reproduced on colorful banners to be displayed on light posts along High Street. Artworks, located at 306 Park Row, Chestertown, is a non-profit art center “dedicated to the establishment of a regional center for art and craft” – NOT to be confused with the Chestertown Arts League, 312 Cannon Street, which is “focused on education in the arts and collaboration among artists” and who “conduct workshops and classes to spread knowledge of the arts, to foster an appreciation of the arts, and to encourage activity in the arts within our community” – OR The Kent County Arts Council at 115 Philosopher’s Terrace, Chestertown, where Leslie Raimond is the Executive Director and which receives partial funding from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency of the State of Maryland, whose mission is “ to encourage and invest in the advancement of the arts for the people of our State”. And then there’s Main Street Historic Chestertown which is headed up by Holly Geddes who is also a member of the Chestertown Art League.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
January 19, 2010, Chestertown, Maryland
Finally found some time in this new year to get back to ‘observing’.
THE MIDDLETOWN TRANSCRIPT carries monthly Middletown Police Department statistics and their December statistics showed 933 calls for service; they also reported 258 vehicle stops, 59 property checks, 58 public relations matters, 86 alarms and 36 property damage accidents.
And speaking of our neighboring Middletown community, the most recent ‘PSEG Nuclear siren sounds test’ for residents was on January 12th. The nearby Salem Nuclear Power Plant (the one that can be seen around Middletown) is a two-unit pressurized water reactor nuclear power station located in Lower Alloways Creek Township, New Jersey (south Jersey) and is owned by PSEG Nuclear LLC and Exelon Generation LLC.
Have been to a couple of events at Heron Point in Chestertown recently. Interestingly there is a portable speed device sitting off the road as you approach the main building – not sure if this speed device belongs to the Heron Point community or the Town of Chestertown. It was announced at one of these events that Heron Point will soon be associated with ACTS Retirement-Life Communities – and yes, the name “ACTS” comes from THE BIBLE. ACTS has been in the active adult retirement community business for over 35 year and they have 19 retirement communities in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Florida. Heron Point is their first in Maryland. It is the largest not-for-profit owner, operator and developer of continuing care retirement communities in the U. S.
If you’re looking for hunting, fishing and other outdoor ‘stuff’ and missing Vonnie’s, try Shore Country Outdoor on Rt. 213 north from Chestertown (just before reaching Kennedyville) or Chesapeake Diesel right in the middle of Galena. Both have a wide assortment of all kinds of outdoor ‘stuff’.
Heard on the streets of Chestertown recently --- the closing of Andy’s on High Street caused an uproar for weeks – but haven’t heard a word about the demolition of the ‘community inspired’ Robert Leathers Playground at Garnett Elementary School. People got awards for building the playground – there were feature stories and a book was even written about it … and now almost twenty (20) years later – it’s true - hardly a word about its demise!
More Chestertown ‘talk’ – another park? To beautify Chestertown’s gateway? What are those officials doing to help REDUCE taxes? Parks are nice – trails are nice – sculptures are nice but at what cost?
Delaware’s Secretary of Agriculture has warned Delawareans about a rash of on-farm copper wire thefts that have been reported since November. Thieves are after the copper wiring on single pivot irrigation systems. Maryland farmers beware!
The January 14, 2010 issue of OCEAN CITY DIGEST reported “Convention center expansion gets nod, state funding”…the facility is expecting to add about 20,000 square feet and a 1200 seat performing arts center. The expansion is expected to cost $8.2 million and the performing arts space about $1.6 million. The state, through the Maryland Stadium Authority, is Ocean City’s partner in the facility and is expected to pay 50 percent of the operating costs of any expansion. Maryland’s Board of Public Works voted last week to spend $4.8 million on the project. Where is all of this money coming from????
Shore watermen have formed a new association called the Chesapeake Bay Commercial Fishermen’s Association for all who have a commercial fishing license. THE STAR DEMOCRAT reported on Sunday that those who organized this new group did not feel the Maryland Waterman’s Association, headed by Larry Simms of Rock Hall, was representing their interests. The new group is based in Dorchester County and Capt. Gibby Dean is its first President.
THE MIDDLETOWN TRANSCRIPT carries monthly Middletown Police Department statistics and their December statistics showed 933 calls for service; they also reported 258 vehicle stops, 59 property checks, 58 public relations matters, 86 alarms and 36 property damage accidents.
And speaking of our neighboring Middletown community, the most recent ‘PSEG Nuclear siren sounds test’ for residents was on January 12th. The nearby Salem Nuclear Power Plant (the one that can be seen around Middletown) is a two-unit pressurized water reactor nuclear power station located in Lower Alloways Creek Township, New Jersey (south Jersey) and is owned by PSEG Nuclear LLC and Exelon Generation LLC.
Have been to a couple of events at Heron Point in Chestertown recently. Interestingly there is a portable speed device sitting off the road as you approach the main building – not sure if this speed device belongs to the Heron Point community or the Town of Chestertown. It was announced at one of these events that Heron Point will soon be associated with ACTS Retirement-Life Communities – and yes, the name “ACTS” comes from THE BIBLE. ACTS has been in the active adult retirement community business for over 35 year and they have 19 retirement communities in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Florida. Heron Point is their first in Maryland. It is the largest not-for-profit owner, operator and developer of continuing care retirement communities in the U. S.
If you’re looking for hunting, fishing and other outdoor ‘stuff’ and missing Vonnie’s, try Shore Country Outdoor on Rt. 213 north from Chestertown (just before reaching Kennedyville) or Chesapeake Diesel right in the middle of Galena. Both have a wide assortment of all kinds of outdoor ‘stuff’.
Heard on the streets of Chestertown recently --- the closing of Andy’s on High Street caused an uproar for weeks – but haven’t heard a word about the demolition of the ‘community inspired’ Robert Leathers Playground at Garnett Elementary School. People got awards for building the playground – there were feature stories and a book was even written about it … and now almost twenty (20) years later – it’s true - hardly a word about its demise!
More Chestertown ‘talk’ – another park? To beautify Chestertown’s gateway? What are those officials doing to help REDUCE taxes? Parks are nice – trails are nice – sculptures are nice but at what cost?
Delaware’s Secretary of Agriculture has warned Delawareans about a rash of on-farm copper wire thefts that have been reported since November. Thieves are after the copper wiring on single pivot irrigation systems. Maryland farmers beware!
The January 14, 2010 issue of OCEAN CITY DIGEST reported “Convention center expansion gets nod, state funding”…the facility is expecting to add about 20,000 square feet and a 1200 seat performing arts center. The expansion is expected to cost $8.2 million and the performing arts space about $1.6 million. The state, through the Maryland Stadium Authority, is Ocean City’s partner in the facility and is expected to pay 50 percent of the operating costs of any expansion. Maryland’s Board of Public Works voted last week to spend $4.8 million on the project. Where is all of this money coming from????
Shore watermen have formed a new association called the Chesapeake Bay Commercial Fishermen’s Association for all who have a commercial fishing license. THE STAR DEMOCRAT reported on Sunday that those who organized this new group did not feel the Maryland Waterman’s Association, headed by Larry Simms of Rock Hall, was representing their interests. The new group is based in Dorchester County and Capt. Gibby Dean is its first President.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
November 17, 2009, Chestertown, Maryland
OUT AND ABOUT
Kent County's Daughters of the American Revolution Chapter (the oldest one on the Eastern Shore!) heard from two Maryland Military Generals at their meeting last week: General Allyson Solomon, Assistant Adjutant General for Air , Maryland National Guard; and General Annette Deener, Director, Joint Staff, Joint Force Headquarters Maryland. Two local veterans, former U. S. Navy Wave Shirley Baldwin and former U. S. Marine Helen Fritz were recognized.
We hear the first Chestertown Book Festival was a success despite the weather!
KENT COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AT WORK
(From October 20, 2009 approved minutes of the Kent County Board of Commissioners)
DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND WASTEWATER SERVICES
Edesville/Lovers Lane- In follow up to September 22 meeting, Commissioner Crow questioned Rock Hall Mayor Jay Jacobs as to the reasons behind the denial of the County’s request to connect eleven properties to the Edesville water system. Mayor Jacobs stated that the town hired a consultant to complete a feasibility study of the plant prior to the allocations being requested. The study, which was not completed until months after the allocation request, determined that there are problems within the system and the amount of water being dispersed is not matching usage being recorded. Mayor Jacobs stated that when the Town was requested to provide an answer as to whether or not they could provide the allocations, they were not in a position to grant the allocations because more time was needed to identify the problems within the system. Commissioner Crow questioned how long this identification will take. Mayor Jacobs informed that the Rock Hall Town Manager is contacting detection firms to investigate this problem. Commissioner Crow questioned whether there is a lack of available water. Mayor Jacobs stated that the feasibility study used a worse case scenario. He stated that with the amount of water left and without knowing the root of the problem within the system, the Town of Rock Hall is not comfortable providing allocations to locations outside of the boundaries of Rock Hall. He stated that if the problem is related to a leak and the leak is near an open body of water it could be hard to determine. Commissioner Fithian informed that the Town of Rock Hall will be conducting a workshop on November 2 and this matter will be addressed. He stated that some of the questions involving the system have been answered and will be discussed at this meeting. Commissioner Crow stated that if the Town is unable to provide water service, sewer service will still be provided.
Reverend Ruben Freeman, who was in the audience, commented that the citizens waiting for the allocations in Edesville are in limbo and stated that funding for this project has already been approved and could be rescinded if not used.
MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT (MDE)
Correspondence dated October 13 was received from A. Hussain Alhija, Chief, Nutrient Resources Division, enclosing Sewage Sludge Utilization Permit Applications submitted to the MDE to apply sewage sludge on the John and Andrea Rigdon property on the Stoltzfus Farm, LLC Property. Pursuant to Section 9-234 of the Environment Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Commissioners forwarded correspondence to request the Nutrient Resources Division to conduct a public information meeting regarding the proposed sewage sludge utilization project.
WASTE MANAGEMENT
Nicholson’s Landfill- At the request of Marty Holden, Waste Management Division Chief, the Commissioners approved and Commissioner Crow signed United States Department of Agriculture grant application for federal assistance for a groundwater remediation project to be completed at the Nicholson Landfill Drop-Off Site.
(From October 27, 2009 approved minutes of the Kent County Board of Commissioners)
COMMUNITY CENTER
Jim Wright, County Engineer, appeared and advised that he spoke with Mary Etta Reedy, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, who informed him that the Kent County High School (KCHS) Culinary Program would be interested in running the concession stand at the Community Center. Mr. Wright stated that John Keller, KCHS Culinary Arts Teacher, will be developing a business plan and providing it to Jack Steinmetz, Director of Economic Development, for review. The Commissioners expressed their support.
DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND WASTEWATER SERVICES
Wayne Morris, Director, appeared to discuss the following items:
Quaker Neck/Lover’s Lane Service Area- Mr. Morris presented copy of Kent Lawrence’s executed public works agreement for the Commissioners’ discussion and signature for the Quaker Neck/Lover’s Lane property. The County will agree to design and construct the facilities and Mr. Lawrence agrees to pay for design and construction of all facilities necessary to provide sewer service to his 12 lots. Commissioner Crow questioned whether or not Mr. Lawrence will pay allocation fees once the line has been installed. Mr. Morris stated that the proposed agreement provides that the allocation fees will be paid once the line is adjacent to the owner’s property and operational. This is consistent with the Commissioners’ earlier assent to request by Mr. Lawrence not to pay the allocation fees until there has been a connection of the valve to the line. Commissioner Crow also questioned item # 6 under additional arrangements. The Commissioners stated that they did not want an open ended time frame for Mr. Lawrence to pay these fees. Mr. Morris suggested that Mr. Lawrence be given a time limit not to exceed one year from the date the county line is adjacent to the owner’s property and operational to begin payment of full residential charges. The Commissioners agreed with this suggestion. Mr. Morris will change the agreement accordingly, discuss the changes with Mr. Lawrence and bring the agreement back for the Commissioners’ approval and signatures.
Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan- In follow up to suggestions made by Commissioner Crow during the Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan public hearing, Mr. Morris informed that he revised the plan to include Fox Hole Estates, Kentmore Park, Shorewood Estates, Gregg Neck and Georgetown under the sanitary surveys section so that the health department can move forward in the future with conducting sanitary surveys of these areas. Commissioner Crow requested Mr. Morris to review this language with Gail Owings, Director of Planning.
Later in the day, and after speaking with Ms. Owings, Mr. Morris informed that Ms. Owings recommended that the entire language be left out of the plan for realty purposes. He stated that he feels the language should be included so that the areas can be addressed in the future. The Commissioners approved for the language to be added to the plan.
Copies of correspondence dated October 15, addressed to Tom Leigh, Chester River Keeper, and Kascie Herron, Sassafras River Keeper, were received from Karl Weed, Deputy Director of Water and Wastewater Services, addressing comments received from the Chester River Association and the Sassafras River Association, regarding the proposed update of the Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan and providing reasoning why there were no changes made to the plan based on these comments.
Kent County's Daughters of the American Revolution Chapter (the oldest one on the Eastern Shore!) heard from two Maryland Military Generals at their meeting last week: General Allyson Solomon, Assistant Adjutant General for Air , Maryland National Guard; and General Annette Deener, Director, Joint Staff, Joint Force Headquarters Maryland. Two local veterans, former U. S. Navy Wave Shirley Baldwin and former U. S. Marine Helen Fritz were recognized.
We hear the first Chestertown Book Festival was a success despite the weather!
KENT COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AT WORK
(From October 20, 2009 approved minutes of the Kent County Board of Commissioners)
DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND WASTEWATER SERVICES
Edesville/Lovers Lane- In follow up to September 22 meeting, Commissioner Crow questioned Rock Hall Mayor Jay Jacobs as to the reasons behind the denial of the County’s request to connect eleven properties to the Edesville water system. Mayor Jacobs stated that the town hired a consultant to complete a feasibility study of the plant prior to the allocations being requested. The study, which was not completed until months after the allocation request, determined that there are problems within the system and the amount of water being dispersed is not matching usage being recorded. Mayor Jacobs stated that when the Town was requested to provide an answer as to whether or not they could provide the allocations, they were not in a position to grant the allocations because more time was needed to identify the problems within the system. Commissioner Crow questioned how long this identification will take. Mayor Jacobs informed that the Rock Hall Town Manager is contacting detection firms to investigate this problem. Commissioner Crow questioned whether there is a lack of available water. Mayor Jacobs stated that the feasibility study used a worse case scenario. He stated that with the amount of water left and without knowing the root of the problem within the system, the Town of Rock Hall is not comfortable providing allocations to locations outside of the boundaries of Rock Hall. He stated that if the problem is related to a leak and the leak is near an open body of water it could be hard to determine. Commissioner Fithian informed that the Town of Rock Hall will be conducting a workshop on November 2 and this matter will be addressed. He stated that some of the questions involving the system have been answered and will be discussed at this meeting. Commissioner Crow stated that if the Town is unable to provide water service, sewer service will still be provided.
Reverend Ruben Freeman, who was in the audience, commented that the citizens waiting for the allocations in Edesville are in limbo and stated that funding for this project has already been approved and could be rescinded if not used.
MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT (MDE)
Correspondence dated October 13 was received from A. Hussain Alhija, Chief, Nutrient Resources Division, enclosing Sewage Sludge Utilization Permit Applications submitted to the MDE to apply sewage sludge on the John and Andrea Rigdon property on the Stoltzfus Farm, LLC Property. Pursuant to Section 9-234 of the Environment Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Commissioners forwarded correspondence to request the Nutrient Resources Division to conduct a public information meeting regarding the proposed sewage sludge utilization project.
WASTE MANAGEMENT
Nicholson’s Landfill- At the request of Marty Holden, Waste Management Division Chief, the Commissioners approved and Commissioner Crow signed United States Department of Agriculture grant application for federal assistance for a groundwater remediation project to be completed at the Nicholson Landfill Drop-Off Site.
(From October 27, 2009 approved minutes of the Kent County Board of Commissioners)
COMMUNITY CENTER
Jim Wright, County Engineer, appeared and advised that he spoke with Mary Etta Reedy, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, who informed him that the Kent County High School (KCHS) Culinary Program would be interested in running the concession stand at the Community Center. Mr. Wright stated that John Keller, KCHS Culinary Arts Teacher, will be developing a business plan and providing it to Jack Steinmetz, Director of Economic Development, for review. The Commissioners expressed their support.
DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND WASTEWATER SERVICES
Wayne Morris, Director, appeared to discuss the following items:
Quaker Neck/Lover’s Lane Service Area- Mr. Morris presented copy of Kent Lawrence’s executed public works agreement for the Commissioners’ discussion and signature for the Quaker Neck/Lover’s Lane property. The County will agree to design and construct the facilities and Mr. Lawrence agrees to pay for design and construction of all facilities necessary to provide sewer service to his 12 lots. Commissioner Crow questioned whether or not Mr. Lawrence will pay allocation fees once the line has been installed. Mr. Morris stated that the proposed agreement provides that the allocation fees will be paid once the line is adjacent to the owner’s property and operational. This is consistent with the Commissioners’ earlier assent to request by Mr. Lawrence not to pay the allocation fees until there has been a connection of the valve to the line. Commissioner Crow also questioned item # 6 under additional arrangements. The Commissioners stated that they did not want an open ended time frame for Mr. Lawrence to pay these fees. Mr. Morris suggested that Mr. Lawrence be given a time limit not to exceed one year from the date the county line is adjacent to the owner’s property and operational to begin payment of full residential charges. The Commissioners agreed with this suggestion. Mr. Morris will change the agreement accordingly, discuss the changes with Mr. Lawrence and bring the agreement back for the Commissioners’ approval and signatures.
Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan- In follow up to suggestions made by Commissioner Crow during the Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan public hearing, Mr. Morris informed that he revised the plan to include Fox Hole Estates, Kentmore Park, Shorewood Estates, Gregg Neck and Georgetown under the sanitary surveys section so that the health department can move forward in the future with conducting sanitary surveys of these areas. Commissioner Crow requested Mr. Morris to review this language with Gail Owings, Director of Planning.
Later in the day, and after speaking with Ms. Owings, Mr. Morris informed that Ms. Owings recommended that the entire language be left out of the plan for realty purposes. He stated that he feels the language should be included so that the areas can be addressed in the future. The Commissioners approved for the language to be added to the plan.
Copies of correspondence dated October 15, addressed to Tom Leigh, Chester River Keeper, and Kascie Herron, Sassafras River Keeper, were received from Karl Weed, Deputy Director of Water and Wastewater Services, addressing comments received from the Chester River Association and the Sassafras River Association, regarding the proposed update of the Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan and providing reasoning why there were no changes made to the plan based on these comments.
Monday, November 16, 2009
November 16, 2009, Chestertown, Maryland
KENT COUNTY, MARYLAND ITEMS OF INTEREST (From October 13, 2009 approved minutes of the Kent County Board of Commissioners)
LAND ACQUISITION/LEGAL
At 10:40 a.m., a motion was made by Commissioner Fithian, seconded by Commissioner Pickrum and made unanimous by Commissioner Crow to go into closed session to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice on a legal matter relating to the consideration of the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto in accordance with State Government Article, Section 10.508(a)(3)(7) of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
Susanne Hayman, County Administrator, and Thomas N. Yeager, County Attorney, were in attendance as well as W. Roger Truitt, Esquire, J. Lawrence Hosmer, Consultant, representing Environmental Resources Management (ERM), David Sobers, Consultant, Jack Steinmetz, Economic Development Director, Carter Stanton, Public Works Director, Jim Wright, County Engineer, and Marty Holden, Waste Management Division Chief.
Topic of discussion related to consultation with legal counsel regarding acquisition of land for landfill and environmental and legal consultant’s progress reports on landfill site acquisition study.
At 1:05 p.m., a motion was made by Commissioner Fithian, seconded by Commissioner Pickrum and made unanimous by Commissioner Crow to adjourn the closed session.
In closed session, the County Commissioners were advised on the progress of the site selection study and no action was taken.
SHALLCROSS WHARF PUBLIC LANDING
Carter Stanton, Director, of Public Works, appeared to discuss electronic correspondence received from Mark Reynolds, informing that he resides at the end of Shallcross Wharf Road and requesting permission to purchase Shallcross Wharf Landing in Kennedyville. Mr. Stanton informed that the landing is 225ft x 40ft and Mr. Reynold’s property is located to the left of the landing. Mr. Stanton stated that public landings are already limited in the First Election District and that this landing is currently used for canoeing and kayaking. Commissioner Fithian commented that the Commissioners have denied previous requests to sell landings unless there was a substantial reason to sell. He stated that he would like for the county to retain the landing. Commissioners Pickrum and Crow agreed. Mr. Reynold’s request was denied.
KENT COUNTY, MARYLAND ITEMS OF INTEREST (From October 20, 2009 approved minutes of the Kent County Board of Commissioners)
MARYLAND ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES (MACo)
The Commissioners agreed for Commissioner Pickrum to continue serving as the MACo Legislative Committee Member for 2010. Commissioner Fithian and Jack Steinmetz, Director of Economic Development, will serve as alternates.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Chesapeake Fields Institute (CFI)- Jack Steinmetz, Economic Development Director, appeared to discuss the status of a bridge loan provided to CFI in the amount of $20,000. Mr. Steinmetz informed that on October 8, 2002, the Commissioners entered into a non interest bearing bridge loan agreement with Eric Johnson, Director, CFI Institute. It was understood that the loan would be repaid by the close of that current fiscal year (June 30, 2003.) The purpose of the loan was to assist the CFI’s operations prior to receipt of grant or other funds, with the presumption that the loan would be repaid upon receipt of grant or other funds. In April, 2003, the Commissioners approved a request to extend the maturity of the loan to December, 2003. In October, 2005, the Commissioners approved a further extension of the loan maturity through June 30, 2006 in an effort to allow CFI to continue its grant and equity drive activities. The latest extended maturity has passed with no repayment made or action initiated by CFI. Mr. Steinmetz informed that after speaking with John Hall, President, CFI Institute, he was informed that the CFI Board of Directors has been inactive for approximately three months and that the operation of CFI for all practical purposes is non-existent. Mr. Hall informed that there are some reserves which were raised for the purpose of purchasing land, but were never expended. He was unaware of the exact amount of the reserves. Mr. Steinmetz prepared correspondence to go forth to Chesapeake Fields outlining the history of the bridge loan and requesting that any reserves CFI currently holds be immediately applied to the $20,000 balance, due to the severely past due balance. The correspondence also requests a copy of the CFI’s last fiscal year end balance sheet and profit & loss statements, along with the current September 30, 2009 interim balance sheet and profit & loss statement, which would reflect the exact amount of the reserves held by CFI. The Commissioners approved for Mr. Steinmetz to proceed with forwarding the correspondence to CFI.
LAND ACQUISITION/LEGAL
At 10:40 a.m., a motion was made by Commissioner Fithian, seconded by Commissioner Pickrum and made unanimous by Commissioner Crow to go into closed session to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice on a legal matter relating to the consideration of the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto in accordance with State Government Article, Section 10.508(a)(3)(7) of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
Susanne Hayman, County Administrator, and Thomas N. Yeager, County Attorney, were in attendance as well as W. Roger Truitt, Esquire, J. Lawrence Hosmer, Consultant, representing Environmental Resources Management (ERM), David Sobers, Consultant, Jack Steinmetz, Economic Development Director, Carter Stanton, Public Works Director, Jim Wright, County Engineer, and Marty Holden, Waste Management Division Chief.
Topic of discussion related to consultation with legal counsel regarding acquisition of land for landfill and environmental and legal consultant’s progress reports on landfill site acquisition study.
At 1:05 p.m., a motion was made by Commissioner Fithian, seconded by Commissioner Pickrum and made unanimous by Commissioner Crow to adjourn the closed session.
In closed session, the County Commissioners were advised on the progress of the site selection study and no action was taken.
SHALLCROSS WHARF PUBLIC LANDING
Carter Stanton, Director, of Public Works, appeared to discuss electronic correspondence received from Mark Reynolds, informing that he resides at the end of Shallcross Wharf Road and requesting permission to purchase Shallcross Wharf Landing in Kennedyville. Mr. Stanton informed that the landing is 225ft x 40ft and Mr. Reynold’s property is located to the left of the landing. Mr. Stanton stated that public landings are already limited in the First Election District and that this landing is currently used for canoeing and kayaking. Commissioner Fithian commented that the Commissioners have denied previous requests to sell landings unless there was a substantial reason to sell. He stated that he would like for the county to retain the landing. Commissioners Pickrum and Crow agreed. Mr. Reynold’s request was denied.
KENT COUNTY, MARYLAND ITEMS OF INTEREST (From October 20, 2009 approved minutes of the Kent County Board of Commissioners)
MARYLAND ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES (MACo)
The Commissioners agreed for Commissioner Pickrum to continue serving as the MACo Legislative Committee Member for 2010. Commissioner Fithian and Jack Steinmetz, Director of Economic Development, will serve as alternates.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Chesapeake Fields Institute (CFI)- Jack Steinmetz, Economic Development Director, appeared to discuss the status of a bridge loan provided to CFI in the amount of $20,000. Mr. Steinmetz informed that on October 8, 2002, the Commissioners entered into a non interest bearing bridge loan agreement with Eric Johnson, Director, CFI Institute. It was understood that the loan would be repaid by the close of that current fiscal year (June 30, 2003.) The purpose of the loan was to assist the CFI’s operations prior to receipt of grant or other funds, with the presumption that the loan would be repaid upon receipt of grant or other funds. In April, 2003, the Commissioners approved a request to extend the maturity of the loan to December, 2003. In October, 2005, the Commissioners approved a further extension of the loan maturity through June 30, 2006 in an effort to allow CFI to continue its grant and equity drive activities. The latest extended maturity has passed with no repayment made or action initiated by CFI. Mr. Steinmetz informed that after speaking with John Hall, President, CFI Institute, he was informed that the CFI Board of Directors has been inactive for approximately three months and that the operation of CFI for all practical purposes is non-existent. Mr. Hall informed that there are some reserves which were raised for the purpose of purchasing land, but were never expended. He was unaware of the exact amount of the reserves. Mr. Steinmetz prepared correspondence to go forth to Chesapeake Fields outlining the history of the bridge loan and requesting that any reserves CFI currently holds be immediately applied to the $20,000 balance, due to the severely past due balance. The correspondence also requests a copy of the CFI’s last fiscal year end balance sheet and profit & loss statements, along with the current September 30, 2009 interim balance sheet and profit & loss statement, which would reflect the exact amount of the reserves held by CFI. The Commissioners approved for Mr. Steinmetz to proceed with forwarding the correspondence to CFI.
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