MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF

MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

April 4, 2000

The Board of County Commissioners of Cecil County met in regular session in Courtroom 1 at the County Office Building, Elkton, Maryland, on Tuesday, April 4, 2000. The following members of the Board were present:

Nelson K. Bolender, President

Harry A. Hepbron, Commissioner

Phyllis Kilby, Commissioner

constituting a full Board.

The meeting was called to order by President Bolender at 7:00 p.m. and opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

- MINUTES – MARCH 21, 2000 –

The minutes of March 21, 2000, were approved as written.

- PUBLIC HEARING – HOUSING AGENCY PHA 1 & 5-YR. PLAN –

A public hearing was held on the Cecil County Housing Agency’s PHA 1 and Five-Year Plan. Mr. David Mahaney, Director of Housing, gave an overview of the program which sets the goals for his agency to assist low and moderate income families. Their mission is to assist those of limited means with a sanitary place to live. Their goal is to apply for more vouchers and to improve the SEMAP score which is a rating system by HUD.

Mr. Mahaney advised that their primary program is the Family Self-Sufficiency Program which assists people in getting into training programs, purchasing their first home, and establishing a savings account. Cecil County is the first in the state to have the Self-Sufficiency Program, and there have been several successful candidates.

Mr. Mahaney further stated that his office has assisted with the developments of Elk Chase I and II which is a nonsubsidized project. Also, construction will begin this Summer on Fairview in Rising Sun. This will be a new project for seniors and will consist of 75 new units. Mr. Mahaney stated they have also been successful with getting money for water and sewer lines to expand housing in Richmond Hill Manor.

Drug screening is done before the issuance of any assistance. Their waiting list is first-come first-serve with priority given to the elderly and the disabled. Mr. Mahaney stated his office has been able to help 20%-30% more families on 40% less money. Their goal is to help families become as self-sufficient as possible.

Mrs. Diane Carabetta, Mr. Joe Carabetta, Mr. Lambert, and Mr. Jim Monger all asked questions of Mr. Mahaney.

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to approve the PHA 1 and Five-Year Plans.

- COMMISSIONER COMMENTS –

Commissioner Kilby advised that she will be making an appointment to the CARC Citizen’s Advisory Board if anyone is interested.

She reported that she and President Bolender attended the arts display at the Fletchwood Community Center and that this is a positive program for children.

President Bolender reported that the Board has been attending banquets for the firemen. He also attended a Harford/Cecil memorial service to honor the passing of firemen.

- PRESENTATION – FAIR HILL NATURE & ENVIRONMENTAL CTR. –

Mr. Dennis Clower, President of the Fair Hill Nature and Environmental Center, advised that it is sponsored by the Fair Hill Environmental Foundation. The Center is a private, nonprofit organization, and financial support for the operation of the Center is provided through memberships, donations, and special events.

Its headquarters was formerly used by William duPont, Jr. as a hunting lodge. The Foundation leases the lodge for $1.00 per year which houses a classroom, museum, and offices.

The primary activity of the Center has been to educate children. The classes reinforce science and environmental education curricula in the schools. The mission is to educate students and citizens by increasing their understanding of the natural world, awareness of the nature of ecological problems, and appreciation for the natural resources which the area provides.

- PRESENTATIONS – FIRST CLASS SCOUTS –

The Board presented Certificates of Achievement to 26 Boy Scouts for earning the rank of “First Class Scouts”.

- COUDON CREEK – U. S. BD. ON GEOGRAPHIC NAMES –

Mr. Milt Diggins, of Perryville Middle School, and Mr. George Coudon appeared before the Board. Mr. Diggins advised that previously his students appeared before this Board relative to a creek near the Perryville Middle School being named “Coudon Creek”. He stated the U. S. Board on Geographic Names has approved the name of “Coudon Creek”.

- ADMINISTRATOR ITEMS –

Mr. Al Wein, County Administrator, reported that he attended a public hearing yesterday before the Public Service Commission relative to the application for the Old Dominion power plant. This was the first of a series of public hearings that are scheduled to be held at Cecil Community College. The purpose of yesterday’s hearing was to hear testimony from the applicant concerning various issues relating to the project. Testimony was presented from 11 witnesses. The next deadline is May 2 which is for filing of testimony for any interveners, and the next public hearing is May 23.

- PUBLIC COMMENT –

Mr. Ronald Ewing commented on the need for public sewer in Red Point.

Mrs. Rebecca Demmler expressed concern about the public not knowing what will be voted on until reading the agenda. She is concerned that action items are presented and voted on immediately.

Mr. Joe Carabetta congratulated the Board on the issue of the Finance Department.

He inquired about new street signs being erected, and Mr. Fred Orr responded by stating the signage is being updated in order to be more visible at night.

Mr. Carabetta advised that the sign at Cedar Corner Road is posted on the wrong side of the road.

Mr. Carabetta stated Harbison Walker, another company that received tax abatements, is going out of business.

He complimented Commissioner Hepbron on his statements about funding only what is affordable in the budget.

Mrs. Diane Carabetta thanked the Board for the abolishment of the Finance Department.

She said she is delighted to see positive press on Commissioner Hepbron and appreciates his comments on only spending what the County can afford.

Mrs. Carabetta inquired as to the funding to assist children with the art program and was advised that it was funded by the Hot Spots grant.

Dr. Vaughan Ellerton commented on the budget for the Board of Education stating spending more money to get better results is questionable.

Mrs. Judy Monger urged everyone to participate in Walk America on April 15.

Mr. Ronald Rae commented in favor of a tax abatement for volunteer firemen.

He also complimented Commissioner Hepbron stating he was elected as a part-time Commissioner and should be able to develop his land just like anyone else.

Mr. Roland Wills inquired about Ritchie Brothers and was told to file an official complaint. He also asked about the dirt pile in Rising Sun.

Mr. Vance Fields suggested that the Board should consider cutting expenses as opposed to increasing the tax rate.

Mrs. Diana Broomell referred to the Thomasville stormwater management appeal and suggested that the Board reopen the final decision as a mistake was made.

She stated Ritchie Brothers was not on fast track.

Mrs. Broomell recommended adopting the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance.

- APPOINTMENTS – ADULT PUBLIC GUARDIANSHIP REVIEW BD. –

Motion was made by Commissioner Hepbron, seconded by Commissioner Kilby, and unanimously carried to appoint the following persons as members of the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board:

Carol King, Cecil Co. Health Dept. – Term to expire April 30, 2002

William Hintze, Cecil Co. Activity Center – Term to expire April 30, 2002

Patricia Lieske, Dept. of Social Services – Term to expire April 30, 2002

Brenda Sexton, Attorney – Term to expire April 30, 2002

Susan Twigg, Dept. of Aging – Term to expire October 30, 2002

Rob Churnside, Cecil Co. Health Dept. – Term to expire October 30, 2002

Dr. Anna Klumpp, psychiatry – Term to expire October 30, 2002

Margaret Foley, Earleville – Term to expire April 30, 2003

Peggy Mills, North East – Term to expire April 30, 2003

Dr. Henry Farkas, Union Hospital – Term to expire April 30, 2003

Dr. Arramraju Nagaraju, Upper Bay Counseling – Term to expire April 30, 2003

- APPOINTMENTS – CECIL PARTNERSHIPS FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH & FAMILIES BD. –

Motion was made by Commissioner Hepbron, seconded by Commissioner Kilby, and unanimously carried to appoint the following persons as members of the Cecil Partnerships for Children, Youth and Families Board, terms to expire March 1, 2002: David Mahaney, Housing and Community Development, Suzanne Schunk, Family Services Assoc., Susan Twigg, Dept. of Aging, and Gary Sawyer, MRDC.

- APPOINTMENTS – ANIMAL CONTROL POLICY REVIEW TEAM –

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to appoint the following persons as members of the Animal Control Policy Review Team:

Dr. Kathleen Lackey, Chairperson, 1657 Turkey Point Road, North East, MD 21901

Robert Calehuff, 514 Little Egypt Road, Elkton, MD 21921

Jeanne Deeming, SPCA, 3280 Augustine Herman Hwy., P. O. Box 665, Chesapeake City, MD 21915

Sandra Didra, Town of Rising Sun, 114 S. Queen Street, P. O. Box 456, Rising Sun, MD 21911

John Farrell, 11 Norman Allen Street, Elkton, MD 21921

Dr. Michael Jacobs, North East Animal Hospital, 1771 W. Pulaski Hwy., Elkton, MD 21921

Patricia Ryan, 528 Rock Run Rd., Port Deposit, MD 21904

John K. Thompson, 3032 Singerly Road, Elkton, MD 21921

Herb Welch, 95 Russell Road, Elkton, MD 21921

Jim Yerkes, 1168 Calvert Road, Rising Sun, MD 21911

- REAPPOINTMENTS – EMPLOYEE PERSONNEL BD. –

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to reappoint the following persons as members of the Employee Personnel Board: Mrs. Toni Shivery – alternate: Mr. Henry Shaffer, Mr. Manly Pierce – alternate: Mr. John Burkley, II, and Mr. Earl Bradford – alternate: Mr. James Monger.

- PERSONNEL ITEMS –

Ms. Linda Anguish, Director of Human Resources, appeared before the Board. Upon recommendation by Ms. Anguish, motion was made by Commissioner Hepbron, seconded by Commissioner Kilby, and unanimously carried to accept the resignation of George E. Newman, Director of Finance, effective April 5, 2000.

Upon recommendation by Ms. Anguish, motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to appoint John D. Haggerty as Equipment Operator II, Roads District I, $22,526.40 (Grade 5).

Upon recommendation by Ms. Anguish, motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to approve the promotion of Walter E. Trego from Equipment Operator I at $20,507.14 (Grade 4) to Equipment Operator II at $22,526.40 (Grade 5).

Upon recommendation by Ms. Anguish, motion was made by Commissioner Hepbron, seconded by Commissioner Kilby, and unanimously carried to approve a 3% increase for the following employees for obtaining their CDL-B driver’s license:

Edwin C. Hoover, Water and Wastewater Operator Trainee, from $20,542.18 to $21,158.00 (Grade 4)

Larry N. Rice, Water and Wastewater Operator Trainee, from $20,113.60 to $20,717.00 (Grade 4)

Robert L. Burlin, Jr., Welder Fabricator, Roads Division, from $24,772.80 to $25,516.00 (Grade 6)

- RESOLUTION – ABOLISHMENT OF FINANCE DEPT. –

Mr. Al Wein, County Administrator, presented a Resolution to abolish the Finance Department.

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to adopt the Resolution. A copy is incorporated as a part of these minutes.

- BIDS – GRASS MOWING –

Mr. Fred Orr, Deputy Director of Public Works, recommended that the bids for grass mowing be awarded to CSMI for Areas 2A to 2E and 3A to 3D and to W. C. Logan for Areas 1A to 1G and 2F.

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to award the bids as recommended by Mr. Orr.

- PUBLIC WKS. AGREEMENT FOR SEWER – RITCHIE BROS. –

Mr. Fred Orr presented a Public Works Agreement for Sewer between this Board and Ritchie Bros. Properties, Inc.

Mr. Dwight Thomey, County Attorney, advised there was a typographical error (City Administrator instead of County Administrator) on the Letter of Credit. He recommended that the Agreement be approved subject to receipt of the corrected Letter of Credit.

Motion was made by Commissioner Hepbron, seconded by Commissioner Kilby, and unanimously carried to approve the Public Works Agreement for Sewer subject to receiving the corrected Letter of Credit.

- INSP. & MAINT. AGREEMENT OF PRIVATE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT FACILITIES – RITCHIE BROS. –

Mr. Fred Orr presented an Inspection and Maintenance Agreement of Private Stormwater Management Facilities between this Board and Ritchie Bros. Properties, Inc. pertaining to the property known as Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers.

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to approve the Inspection and Maintenance Agreement of Private Stormwater Management Facilities.

- PUBLIC WKS. AGREEMENT – MOUNT GOMERIE –

Mr. Fred Orr presented a Public Works Agreement between this Board and H. Barry Montgomery pertaining to 811.29’ of Rolling Green Lane in the subdivision known as Phase II of Mount Gomerie in the Fourth Election District.

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to approve the Public Works Agreement.

- RESOLUTION – AMENDMENT TO 1993 MASTER WATER & SEWER PLAN

Mr. Fred Orr presented a Resolution to amend Chapter 4 of the 1993 Master Water and Sewer Plan to reflect plans to expand the Cherry Hill Wastewater Treatment Plant to a hydraulic capacity of 250,000 gallons per day.

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to adopt the Resolution. A copy is incorporated as a part of these minutes.

- RESOLUTION – EARTH DAY –

Mr. Fred Orr presented a Resolution that during April 20, 2000, to be forthwith known as Earth Day, all registered public cleanup efforts along community beaches, County roadways, and within parks in the County may dispose of certain debris at the Central Landfill free of charge. Registration of cleanup efforts and acceptance of debris shall be administered by the Department of Public Works’ Solid Waste Division.

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to adopt the Resolution.

- POLICY – RESIDENTIAL LOT GRADING –

Mr. Free Orr presented the policy on residential lot grading for the Board’s approval. He advised that the document was reviewed by the Maryland Department of the Environment, and this is the final draft. The policy will become effective July 1, 2000.

Motion was made by Commissioner Hepbron, seconded by Commissioner Kilby, and unanimously carried to approve the policy on residential lot grading.

- BUDGET AMENDMENT NOS. 121-126 –

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to approve Budget Amendment Nos. 121-126. Copies of the Budget Amendments are incorporated as a part of these minutes.

Motion was made by Commissioner Kilby, seconded by Commissioner Hepbron, and unanimously carried to adjourn.

______________________________

Alfred C. Wein, Jr.

County Administrator

APPROVED:

______________________________

Nelson K. Bolender, President