19371126 Carroll Theater Opened

Carroll Theater Opened

November 26, 1937

The 850 seat, air conditioned, art deco “Carroll Theatre”, ancestor of the Carroll Arts Center, opened Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 1937. Admission to the Carroll Theatre in 1937 was 25 cents for adults and fifteen cents for children.

The 10,500 sq. ft Carroll Arts Center is a great example of the adaptive re-use of one of only two existing examples of art deco architecture in Carroll County. Groundbreaking to renovate the old Carroll Theatre was held on a cold February 11th, 2002. The Carroll Arts Center opened April 4th, 2003.

“Carroll Theater Opened in 1937”

Carroll County Times Article for 29 July 2001

by Jay A. Graybeal

The Carroll County Arts Council’s redevelopment of the former Carroll Theatre on W. Main St. in Westminster opens a new chapter in the history of the building. The Art Deco style movie theater opened on Thanksgiving Day 1937; a highly detailed description of the building appeared in the November 26th issue of the Democratic Advocate newspaper:

“The modern Carroll Theatre opened to the public on Thanksgiving Day. This theatre is in all respects the most completely modern building in this city. The exterior presents an imposing picture in itself and the first story front is finished in black cerrara glass, and the second story in yellow tile brick. The ticket booth is also done in cerrara glass. There will be a store room on either side of the foyer, and each will be 17 feet wide, 25 feet long, with a four foot show window. The spacious lobby has a composition floor of terrazzo. An interesting feature of the lobby is a friese, on about a foot slant from the walk to the ceiling. This friese has a varicolored modernistic design and the design itself was originated by the architect, Oliver B. Wright. Another feature of the foyer is electrical signs which will be used to show the coming attractions. These signs will have a cardinal velvet backing, and a soft, indirect lighting effect.

The auditorium is spacious and artistic. The walls are completely finished in a rose off-shade with highly-glossed deeper rose at the bottoms. There is a deep rose panel at the top of the wall near the ceiling. A two-tone combination of baby and powder blue makes a striking effect, with a thin cream design. The leathered upholstered seats will be of mulberry color, and leather composition. There will be 850 seats. There is a large stage with a modernistic panel with the color effects around it. An especially made curtain and cyclorama will be used to diffuse the lighting effects, and apparently change the color of the curtain. A mix of brown design of harmonious colors will be placed. There will be lavatories and a ladies’ dressing room, fully furnished, also on the first floor.

The walls of the building will be fireproof. The second floor has five offices, eleven by twenty feet, all facing on Main street. These offices may be used as suites or separately. There are also lavatories on the second floor. The projection room is interesting. There are two large projection machines. An experienced operator will be in charge. Everything, even the door of the room, is fireproof. Next to the projection room is the managers’ office. This has an outlet into the theatre, so that at all times, he may inspect the pictures which are being shown. This theatre will be the only one in Westminster to have afternoon performances. These matinees will begin at 2 o’clock and the shows will run continuously. A fine array of pictures have been booked. The manager of the theatre will be Alvin Dohme, who is now residing on the Shriver property at Union Mills.”

The titles of the earliest films shown at the Carroll Theatre can be found in period newspaper advertisements. A December 3, 1937 ad in the Advocate announced the weekly schedule which included, Double or Nothing starring Bing Crosby and Martha Raye; The Life of the Party starring Joe Penner and others and The Lives of a Bengal Tiger starring Gary Cooper. Each showing also included shorts such as Charlie McCarthy in At the Races and newsreels. Admission to matinees was fifteen cents for adults and ten cents for children. Night showings cost adults a quarter; children still got in for a dime.

####

18970921 Francis P. Church: “Yes Virginia There is a Santa Claus”

“Yes Virginia There is a Santa Claus”

From the Editorial Page of The New York Sun,

written by Francis P. Church, September 21, 1897

"Dear Editor--I am 8 years old.

"Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.

"Papa says, 'If you see it in The Sun, it's so.'

"Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?

Virginia O'Hanlon

115 West Ninety-fifth Street

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the scepticism of a sceptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no child-like faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

####

18970921 Francis P. Church: “Yes Virginia There is a Santa Claus”

19970609 Mayor and Council meeting agenda for of June 9 1997

19970609 Mayor and Council meeting agenda for of June 9 1997

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND

Mayor and Council Meeting of June 9, 1997


A G E N D A

1. CALL TO ORDER - 7:00 P.M.

2. MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF MAY 12, 1997, AND BIENNIAL ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING OF MAY 19, 1997.

Presentation of Letter of Commendation to Police Officer Thomas J. Kowalczyk.

3. PUBLIC HEARING:

Public Hearing to receive comment on Zoning Map Amendment Case No. MA 95-1, requesting reclassification of the proposed 44.37-acre Union Ridge development from the R-10,000 Residential Zone to the PD-4 Planned Development Floating Zone.

4. CONSENT CALENDAR:

April Departmental Operating Reports, and the American Diabetes Association Walk-A-Thon fundraiser, to be held on September 13, 1997.

5. REPORTS FROM MAYOR

6. REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES

7. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS:

Introduction of Ordinance No. 619 changing the time of the Biennial Organizational Meeting from 7:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Introduction of Ordinance No. 620, revising procedure for impounding or immobilizing vehicles.

Suspend Rules of Order and Procedure to enact the following three Resolutions:

Resolution No. R97-3 supporting redevelopment of the Locust Street “Glass Building,” by Paradiso Restaurant.

Resolution No. R97-4 supporting construction of the new Fire Department building site on John Street.

Resolution No. R97-5 establishing Westminster as a designated community.

8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

a. Westminster Fire Company to present update on Building Fund.

(OVER)

CITY OF WEST­MINSTER, MARYLAND
Mayor and Council Meeting of June 9, 1997
A G E N D A (Continued)


9. NEW BUSINESS:

a. Confirmation of Mayoral Council Committee Appointments.

b. Request for handicapped parking spaces near Playground.

c. Cancel meeting of June 23, 1997, due to Maryland Municipal League Convention.

d. Acceptance of Assignment of Title for water main serving Griffith Auto Park.

e. Confirmation of Mayoral Appointment of Dennis Frazier to the Planning and Zoning Commission.

f. Auditor’s Engagement Letter for fiscal year ending June 30, 1997.

10. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS

11. CITIZEN COMMENTS

12. ADJOURN
-2-

19970512 and 19970519 Westminster Council Meeting Minutes

19970512 and 19970519 Westminster Council Meeting Minutes

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND

May 12, 1997

QUORUM:

A meeting of The Mayor and Council was held in the City Hall Council Chambers on the evening of May 12, 1997, at 7:00 p.m. Mayor Yowan; Council President Calwell; Council Members Albert, Chapin, Halstad and Pecoraro; Department Heads Beyard, Dutterer and Leppo; and City Attorney Walsh, were present.

MINUTES:

The Minutes of the meeting of April 28, 1997, and Budget Hearing of May 5, 1997, were approved, on Motion of Mrs. Albert, seconded by Mr. Halstad and duly passed.

BID:

The bid for a combined Phase I and II Archeological Investigation of the Fenby Farm Quarry and Lime Kiln Site, was awarded to Heritage Resources, Inc., in the amount of $28,551.00, on Motion of Mr. Chapin, seconded by Mrs. Albert and unanimously passed. The archeological investigation is necessary prior to the development of the site into an interpretative park. Both City staff and the Maryland Historical Trust, which must concur with the selection, felt the proposal of Heritage Resources, Inc., although not the lowest bid, was the bid that most suitably addressed the scope of work and purpose of the investigation. The City had appropriated $20,000.00 in the FY ‘95-96 Capital Budget and $2,000.00 of in-kind services, as matching funds towards a grant through the Maryland Historical Trust for the project.

REPORTS FROM MAYOR:

...Mentioned that he had talked, for three to four hours today, with Mr. Jerry Toadvine, a write-in candidate for the office of mayor in today’s election. He felt the discussions were very amicable and that they both found that the points they agreed on far exceeded those on which they disagreed.

...Acknowledged the presence of Mr. Steve Halstead, Assistant Scout Master, and members of Boy Scout Troop 381, who were observing the meeting to fulfill merit badge requirements.

REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES:

Public Safety:

Mr. Halstad announced that there were approximately 400 people in attendance at the Westminster Police Department’s ninth annual “Say No To Drugs” Awards Night held at Friendship Valley Elementary School, on May 8, 1997. Over 1,000 students participated in the contest, and he urged the Council to continue the commitment to this annual event.

Parks Board:

Mr. Pecoraro presented a recommendation from the Parks Board to permit the Westminster Optimist Club to locate a 20' x 20' prefabricated storage shed in the Jaycee Park on approximately the 50-yard line of the football field, in foul territory between softball fields 2 and 3, at the fence line. Thereafter, on Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mr. Chapin and unanimously passed, the recommendation of the Parks Board was approved. The Optimist Club will be allowed to utilize the flat-roof structure for announcing purposes during their football games. Mr. John Meyer, from the Optimist Club, was in attendance at the meeting.

Mr. Pecoraro also reported that he had represented the City at the annual membership meeting of the Carroll County Arts Council held on May 10, 1997. Outgoing Executive Director, Hilary Hatfield, was recognized for her contributions to the community, over the past five years, on behalf of the Arts Council. The donation by Mrs. Dorothy Tevis of her home on Bond Street, for a future, permanent headquarters for the Arts Council, was also announced at the meeting. Mr. Chapin recommended that The Mayor and Council extend its official appreciation to Hilary Hatfield, as well, for the remarkable job she has done and the contributions she has made to the City while serving as Executive Director of the Arts Council.

Planning and Zoning Commission:

Mr. Chapin reported on the various topics of mutual interest that were discussed at the joint meeting of the County and City Planning and Zoning Commissions held on May 1, 1997, including the Master Sewer and Water Plan, with an interest by the County in extending these services to Finksburg, and better coordination of projects on the City/County border. At the May 8, 1997, meeting of the City’s Planning and Zoning Commission, Dr. Lester Surber, Supervisor of School Facilities for Carroll County, advised that the next high school to be built, which was planned for the Westminster area, may now be constructed in the South Carroll area. The expansion of the County Jail, to house an additional 120 inmates, was also discussed and whether such a facility should be located in an urban or rural area; however, it appears that the expansion will occur at the present site.

Mayor Yowan suggested that the scheduling of joint meetings of the two Planning and Zoning Commissions on a more frequent basis, would perhaps be beneficial. Mr. Chapin stated he suggested that the County work, also, through the local Carroll County Chapter of the Maryland Municipal League.

ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS:

Mr. Pecoraro presented a proposal to reduce the proposed tax rate increase for FY 1997-98 from $0.06 to $0.05, which was a result of citizen input received at the Budget Hearing held on May 5, 1997. It is anticipated that a probable increase in Income Tax revenue will be sufficient to provide the funds that would have been generated by the additional $0.01 of tax rate increase. A Motion by Mr. Pecoraro to amend Tax Rate Ordinance No. 618 to reflect a $0.05 tax rate increase instead of a $0.06 tax rate increase was seconded by Mrs. Albert and duly passed, with voting recorded as follows:

Ayes - Mrs. Albert, Messrs. Halstad and Pecoraro
Nay - Mr. Chapin

Tax Rate Ordinance No. 618, as amended, which sets a tax rate of $0.88/$100.00, for FY 1997-98, was approved, on Motion of Mr. Pecoraro and seconded by Mr. Halstad, with voting recorded in the following manner:

Ayes - Mrs. Albert, Messrs. Halstad and Pecoraro
Nay - Mr. Chapin

On Motion of Mrs. Albert, seconded by Mr. Pecoraro and unanimously passed, the Rules of Order and Procedure were suspended to allow the simultaneous Introduction and Enactment of Resolution No. R97-2, which provides for a fee of $500.00 for the cost of appeals to the Board of Zoning Appeals from any decision made by an administration official. Thereafter, on Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mrs. Albert and unanimously passed, Resolution No. R97-2 was adopted, content of which follows:

RESOLUTION NO. R97-2

RESOLUTION of The Mayor and Common Council of Westminster

SUBJECT: Filing Fees for Application to Amend the Zoning Ordinance Text, and the Zoning Ordinance Map, and for Applications for Special Exceptions, Variances and Appeals from Administrative Officials

WHEREAS, Chapter 164 of the Code of the City of Westminster provides for the establishment by The Mayor and Common Council of Westminster of filing fees for applications to amend the Zoning Ordinance Text and the Zoning Ordinance Map, and for applications for special exceptions, variances, and appeals; and

WHEREAS, on January 25, 1993, The Mayor and Common Council adopted Resolution No. R93-1, establishing filing fees; and has subsequently revised said fees from time to time; and

WHEREAS, The Mayor and Common Council has determined that an adjustment should be made regarding appeals from orders, requirements, decisions, or determinations made by an administrative official with respect to Chapter 164 or relating thereto;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by The Mayor and Common Council that the following fees are established for filing applications for amendments to the Zoning Ordinance Text and Zoning Ordinance Map:

For applications for amendment of the Zoning Ordinance Text - $750.00

For applications for amendment of the Zoning Ordinance Map

For parcels of land 25 acres or less - $1,250.00

For parcels of land in excess of 25 acres - $1,250.00 plus $50.00 for each acre over 25

For parcels of land for which the Historic District Zone is sought - 0.00

AND, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by The Mayor and Common Council that the following fees are established for filing applications for special exceptions, variances, and appeals from an administrative official’s order, requirement, decision or determination:

Applications for owner-occupied special exceptions - $250.00

Applications for special exceptions for day care facilities for up to eight (8) children or elderly persons - $250.00

Applications for all other special exceptions - $1,000.00

Applications for owner-occupied variances - $150.00

Applications for all other variances - $500.00

Appeals from any order, requirement, decision or determination made by an administrative official with respect to Chapter 164 or any ordinance adopted pursuant thereto - $500.00

AND, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by The Mayor and Common Council that the Zoning Administrator is authorized to issue procedures for the payment of fees for applications for special exceptions.

AND, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by The Mayor and Common Council that the fees established in this Resolution shall supersede and replace the fees adopted in Resolution Nos. R90-2, R90-9, R92-4, R93-1, and R96-2.


INTRODUCED this 12th day of May, 1997.


_____________________________
John D. Dudderar, Clerk

PASSED this 12th day of May, 1997.


_____________________________
John D. Dudderar, Clerk

APPROVED this 14th day of May, 1997.


_____________________________
Kenneth A. Yowan, Mayor

Approved as to legal form
and sufficiency this 1st
day of May, 1997.


_______________________________
John B. Walsh, Jr., City Attorney

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Mr. Pecoraro noted the change in the Income Tax revenue projection of the proposed FY 1997-98 General Fund Budget from $700,000.00 to $733,400.00. Thereafter, on Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, and seconded by Mr. Halstad, the General, Water and Sewer Fund Budgets, and Capital Improvements Program, were approved, with voting recorded as follows:
Ayes - Mr. Pecoraro, Mr. Halstad and Mrs. Albert
Nay - Mr. Chapin

Prior to the vote on the Motion, Mr. Chapin read a prepared statement that included his objection to an increase in the tax rate; his belief that increased revenues would be forthcoming from the County’s piggy-back tax hike and an increased amount that would be paid to the City through the County/City revenue payment; and his challenge to the Council that if taxes are raised for the sole purpose of repairing roads and making a contribution to the fire hall, and the necessary revenue to do so is generated elsewhere, that the excess revenues be refunded to the citizens.

NEW BUSINESS:

On Motion of Mrs. Albert, seconded by Mr. Pecoraro and unanimously passed, the Mayor and Council meeting of Monday, May 26, 1997, was cancelled due to the Memorial Day holiday.

The following “Statement Or Return of Election” was presented by Chief Election Judge, Nancy A. Smelser:

“STATEMENT OR RETURN OF ELECTION

To The Mayor and Common Council of Westminster:

We the undersigned Judges and Clerk of the Biennial Municipal Election, held in the City of Westminster, Maryland, on Monday, May 12, 1997, (between the hours of 7 o’clock A.M. and 7 o’clock P.M.) for the election of Mayor and two Council Members to serve as members of the Common Council for the City of Westminster for four years commencing on the Third Monday of May, 1997, do hereby certify that the polls were opened at 7 A.M. and closed at 7 P.M. on this 12 day of May, 1997, and that at said election the whole number of votes cast was 903 and of that number those cast for the candidates for the respective offices was and is as follows:

FOR MAYOR NUMBER OF VOTES

Kenneth A. Yowan 227
Jerry Toadvine 121

FOR COUNCIL MEMBERS NUMBER OF VOTES

Edward S. Calwell 268
Damian L. Halstad 287

And it appearing that Mayor Kenneth Yowan and Edward Calwell and Damian Halstad for Common Council received a majority of the votes cast, we the undersigned Judges and Clerk of the election, do hereby certify and proclaim that the aforenamed persons were duly and fairly elected to their respective offices for four years.

And it further appearing that Kenneth Yowan, Edward Calwell and Damian Halstad were the 3 candidates who received the highest number of votes cast for Mayor and Common Council we do hereby declare that they will hold office for the four years.

And we do further certify that the above statement is correct in all and every respect, and that notice has been given to the candidates of their election.

Witness our hands this 12 day of May, 1997

s/ Nancy A. Smelser

s/ Fred L. Plunkert

Chief Judges”

DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS:

Mr. Dutterer noted that as soon as the appropriate amendments are made to the Budget papers, he will distribute the revised copies.

Chief Leppo thanked Mr. Halstad for his attendance at the “Say No To Drugs” Awards Night which was very well attended, and many favorable comments were expressed by parents and other relatives who were present.

Mr. Beyard commented that the filming of the movie “For Richer or Poorer,” with Tim Allen and Kirstie Alley, in the downtown area on May 5 and 6, 1997, went well, thanks, primarily, to the efforts of Police Department and Public Works personnel. Numerous local merchants benefited from the filming since many items that were needed were purchased locally.

CITIZEN COMMENTS:

Ms. Patty Keener, downtown merchant, commented on how nice the town looked during the movie filming, with all of the flowers the film crew had planted which have since been removed, and requested that money be allocated to provide flower plantings to make the town as attractive as it was during the filming of the movie.

Mr. Jesse Lockard, Buena Vista Drive, stated that he felt that a property tax increase was not needed at this time.

Mr. Daniel Levasseur, who moved here two years ago from Boston, was opposed to bringing MTA bus service into Carroll County and Westminster because of the increase in crime that will come with it. Mayor Yowan responded that his suggestion to consider MTA commuter buses between Westminster and the Owings Mills Metro Station, perhaps from a Park and Ride Lot located on Route 140, was only presented for discussion purposes at the joint meeting of the County and City Planning and Zoning Commissions held on May 1, 1997. Mr. Pecoraro commented that with the State Legislature requirement of the Mass Transit Administration that 50% of the cost of operation come from rider fares, the chances of bus service becoming a reality are not likely.

Ms. Joan Dopson, Finksburg, stated her objections to MTA bus service coming into Carroll County.

Mr. Robert Cumberland, Westminster area resident, mentioned that many years ago there was a private bus service that operated between Westminster and Baltimore, and eventually, the service was discontinued due to lack of ridership. He is not in favor of MTA bus service, but realizes that because people complain about pollution and traffic congestion, other alternatives need to be looked at, also.
As Vice President of the Westminster Fire Department, Mr. Robert Cumberland advised that the membership of the Fire Department voted, at their May meeting, to leave the bell in the clock tower as had been requested in Mrs. Albert’s Memorandum dated April 22, 1997, if an agreement can be drafted granting the requests contained in his Memorandum dated May 12, 1997, which was presented to the Mayor and Council.

Mrs. Laurie Walters, Park Avenue, stated that she intends to contact the Board of Education in support of a new high school for the Westminster area, and encouraged the Mayor and Council to offer their support, as well. Mayor Yowan and Messrs. Halstad and Pecoraro clarified several questions regarding the tax rate increase, which she did not oppose, and the Budget preparation process.

Mr. Brian Hogan, Ruby Drive, felt that a high school is definitely needed in the Westminster area and that we need to put up a fight for it. Mayor Yowan advised that he would draft a strong letter to the Board of Education in support of a new high school for Westminster. Mr. Hogan also requested that the Election Committee provide better posted instructions with regard to write-in votes at future elections.

Mr. Jerry Toadvine, Buck Cash Drive, a write-in candidate for the office of Mayor in today’s election, complimented Mayor Yowan on the gentlemanly manner in which he conducted himself at the polls today. He questioned whether Mayor Yowan had objected to the extension of light rail to Westminster when it was mentioned at the joint meeting of the County and City Planning and Zoning Commissions on May 1, 1997. Mayor Yowan replied that he had not because it would be a very expensive alternative which he felt was not really a possibility.

Executive Director of Greater Westminster Development Corporation, Doug Mathias, invited everyone present to attend the Second Annual Business History Walk Tour to be held on Saturday, May 17, 1997, from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m.

ADJOURN:
The meeting was adjourned by the Council President at 8:35 p.m.


MARY ANN KELLY
Secretary

_____

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND

May 19, 1997

The Biennial Organizational Meeting of The Mayor and Council was held in the City Hall Council Chambers on the evening of May 19, 1997, at 7:30 p.m. Holdover members of the Legislative Body, Council Members Albert, Chapin and Pecoraro; newly re-elected Mayor Yowan, and Council Members Calwell and Halstad; Department Heads Beyard, Dutterer and Leppo; and City Attorney Walsh, were present.

Clerk of the Circuit Court of Carroll County, Larry W. Shipley, administered the Oath of Office to newly re-elected Mayor Yowan, and Council Members Calwell and Halstad.

On Motion of Mr. Chapin, seconded by Mr. Halstad, Mr. Calwell was nominated as President of the Council. Thereafter, on Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mr. Chapin and unanimously passed, the nominations were closed and Mr. Calwell was declared Council President by acclamation.

Mr. Chapin was elected as Council President Pro Tem, on Motion of Mr. Halstad, seconded by Mr. Pecoraro and unanimously passed.
Mayor Yowan requested that Council Committee assignments be delayed until the next meeting of the Legislative Body, with the exception of Mr. Chapin’s appointment at this time as Council Liaison to the Town Center Corporation.

On Motion of Mr. Halstad, seconded by Mr. Chapin and unanimously passed, a closed meeting was scheduled to immediately follow the regular session, to consider a matter that concerns the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto, and to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice, as authorized in Sect. 10-508(a)(3) and (7) of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

The closed meeting held at 7:50 p.m., immediately following the regular session, in City Hall, was attended by Mayor Yowan; President Calwell; Council Members Albert, Chapin, Halstad and Pecoraro; Mr. Beyard and City Attorney Walsh. A unanimous vote authorized the meeting for the purpose of considering a matter that concerns the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto, and to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice. The action taken at the meeting was to request the extension of time on an Option Contract.

President Calwell adjourned the meeting at 7:40 p.m.

JOHN D. DUDDERAR
City Clerk

Westminster Dept Finance Budget 1997 - 1998 FY, Westminster Dept Finance Budget Tax Issues, Westminster Council Meeting Minutes,

19970519 Westminster Mayor and Council Biennial Organization Meeting

19970519 Westminster Mayor and Council Biennial Organization Meeting

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND

May 19, 1997

The Biennial Organizational Meeting of The Mayor and Council was held in the City Hall Council Chambers on the evening of May 19, 1997, at 7:30 p.m. Holdover members of the Legislative Body, Council Members Albert, Chapin and Pecoraro; newly re-elected Mayor Yowan, and Council Members Calwell and Halstad; Department Heads Beyard, Dutterer and Leppo; and City Attorney Walsh, were present.

Clerk of the Circuit Court of Carroll County, Larry W. Shipley, administered the Oath of Office to newly re-elected Mayor Yowan, and Council Members Calwell and Halstad.

On Motion of Mr. Chapin, seconded by Mr. Halstad, Mr. Calwell was nominated as President of the Council. Thereafter, on Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mr. Chapin and unanimously passed, the nominations were closed and Mr. Calwell was declared Council President by acclamation.

Mr. Chapin was elected as Council President Pro Tem, on Motion of Mr. Halstad, seconded by Mr. Pecoraro and unanimously passed.

Mayor Yowan requested that Council Committee assignments be delayed until the next meeting of the Legislative Body, with the exception of Mr. Chapin’s appointment at this time as Council Liaison to the Town Center Corporation.

On Motion of Mr. Halstad, seconded by Mr. Chapin and unanimously passed, a closed meeting was scheduled to immediately follow the regular session, to consider a matter that concerns the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto, and to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice, as authorized in Sect. 10-508(a)(3) and (7) of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

The closed meeting held at 7:50 p.m., immediately following the regular session, in City Hall, was attended by Mayor Yowan; President Calwell; Council Members Albert, Chapin, Halstad and Pecoraro; Mr. Beyard and City Attorney Walsh. A unanimous vote authorized the meeting for the purpose of considering a matter that concerns the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto, and to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice. The action taken at the meeting was to request the extension of time on an Option Contract.

President Calwell adjourned the meeting at 7:40 p.m.

JOHN D. DUDDERAR
City Clerk

19970512 Statement Or Return of Election

May 12, 1997 City of Westminster Statement Or Return of Election

The following "Statement Or Return of Election" was presented by Chief Election Judge, Nancy A. Smelser:

"STATEMENT OR RETURN OF ELECTION To The Mayor and Common Council of Westminster:

We the undersigned Judges and Clerk of the Biennial Municipal Election, held in the City of Westminster, Maryland, on Monday, May 12, 1997, (between the hours of 7 o'clock A.M. and 7 o'clock P.M.) for the election of Mayor and two Council Members to serve as members of the Common Council for the City of Westminster for four years commencing on the Third Monday of May, 1997, do hereby certify that the polls were opened at 7 A.M. and closed at 7 P.M. on this 12 day of May, 1997, and that at said election the whole number of votes cast was 903 and of that number those cast for the candidates for the respective offices was and is as follows:

FOR MAYOR NUMBER OF VOTES

Kenneth A. Yowan 227

Jerry Toadvine 121

FOR COUNCIL MEMBERS NUMBER OF VOTES

Edward S. Calwell 268

Damian L. Halstad 287

And it appearing that Mayor Kenneth Yowan and Edward Calwell and Damian Halstad for Common Council received a majority of the votes cast, we the undersigned Judges and Clerk of the election, do hereby certify and proclaim that the forenamed persons were duly and fairly elected to their respective offices for four years.

And it further appearing that Kenneth Yowan, Edward Calwell and Damian Halstad were the 3 candidates who received the highest number of votes cast for Mayor and Common Council we do hereby declare that they will hold office for the four years.

And we do further certify that the above statement is correct in all and every respect, and that notice has been given to the candidates of their election.

Witness our hands this 12 day of May, 1997

s/ Nancy A. Smelser s/ Fred L. Plunkert Chief Judges"

For more information:

History Westminster

####

19960900 The Five Most Dangerous Myths About Recycling

The Five Most Dangerous Myths About Recycling

Institute for Local Self-Reliance

2425 18th Street, NW · Washington, DC 20009

202-232-4108

bplatt AT ilsr.org

September 1996

MYTH #1: We can recycle only 25 to 30% of our solid wastes.(1)

FACT: Twenty five percent was considered a maximum level in 1985. Today it should be considered a minimum, not a maximum. By continuing to build the reuse, recycling, and composting infrastructure and integrating the best features from the best programs, local and state, the nation as a whole can achieve 50% recycling by 2005.

[…]

MYTH #2: Recycling is more expensive than trash collection and disposal.(8)

FACT: When designed right, recycling programs are cost-competitive with trash collection and disposal.

[…]

MYTH #3: Landfills and incinerators are more cost-effective and environmentally sound than recycling options.(15)

FACT: Recycling programs, when designed properly, are cost-competitive with landfills and incinerators, and provide net pollution prevention benefits. Recycling materials not only avoids the pollution that would be generated through landfilling and incinerating these, but also reduces the environmental burden of virgin materials extraction and manufacturing processes.

[…]

MYTH #4: Landfills are significant job generators for rural communities.(19)

FACT: Recycling creates many more jobs for rural and urban communities than landfill and incineration disposal options.

[…]

MYTH #5: The marketplace works best in solving solid waste management problems; no public-sector intervention is needed.(23)

FACT: The solid waste system has always operated under public sector rules and always will. Currently these rules encourage unchecked product consumption and disposal. Public-sector intervention is needed to shape a system in which materials are produced, used, discarded, and recovered efficiently. We need to change the rules so that disposal alternatives; source reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting, operate in a level playing field. Even after we level the playing field, favoring disposal alternatives makes sense because of its many community and public sector benefits.

Read the entire article here: The Five Most Dangerous Myths About Recycling

For questions or comments, contact:

Brenda Platt, Director, Materials Recovery, Institute for Local Self-Reliance

(Brenda Platt) bplatt AT ilsr.org

19960900 The Five Most Dangerous Myths About Recycling

_____

19960700 Kevin Fishing Oregon Inlet in North Carolina

Kevin Fishing Oregon Inlet on the Outer Banks, North Carolina

July 1996

Westminster Common Council Minutes for July 8 2009

19960708 Council Minutes

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND
July 8, 1996

QUORUM:

A meeting of The Mayor and Council was held in the City Hall Council Chambers on the evening of July 8, 1996, at 7:00 p.m.

Mayor Yowan; President Calwell; Council Members Albert, Chapin, Halstad and Pecoraro; Department Heads Beyard and Dutterer; Major Austin; and City Attorney Walsh, were present.

MINUTES:
The Minutes of the meeting of June 10, 1996, were approved as presented, on Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mr. Halstad and duly passed.

CONSENT CALENDAR:
On Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mrs. Albert and duly passed, the Consent Calendar was approved, consisting of May Departmental Operating Reports, and … ? …

BIDS:
Bare Truck Center, Inc., shall be awarded the Street Department Dump Truck Bid, on Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mr. Halstad and unanimously passed, based on their bid of $57,256.00. No other dealers submitted bids on the vehicle.

On Motion of Mrs. Albert, seconded by Mr. Halstad and unanimously passed, the Annual FY 1996-97 Roadway Paving Contract was awarded to Charles J. Miller, based on their low Base Bid of $137,512.50.

REPORTS FROM MAYOR:
Advised that R. Wayne Barnes, of Barnes-Bollinger Insurance Services, Inc., has consented to fulfill the remaining non-City position on the Westminster Town Center Board of Directors.

Noted the following arrangements in connection with the arrival of the Baltimore Ravens at Western Maryland College on July 15, 1996: daily shuttle-bus service to transport fans will be provided, the cost there of to be equally shared by the City and County; additional weekend shuttle service will be provided by the Maryland State Department of Transportation MTA buses; due to scheduling conflicts not allowing the participation of the Raven team members, the welcoming parade will not be held. An expenditure of up to $3,300.00 was authorized, from Unappropriated Surplus funds, on Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mr. Halstad and unanimously passed, to pay for the estimated one-half of the cost of daily shuttle-bus service.

REPORTS FROM COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Mr. Halstad commented favorably on the Music of the Shirelles, the first of the "A Month of Sundays Summer Concert Series" held on the City Playground; and further noted the interest shown by the Carroll County Public Library in utilizing the Post Office building when it is vacated in the future.

ORDINANCES:
The final enactment of Zoning Ordinance No. 612 was Moved by Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mr. Chapin and unanimously passed. Adoption of the Ordinance constitutes favorable action on Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment No. TA 95-3, applied for by Taneytown Bank & Trust Company, to allow construction of a local bank branch.

NEW BUSINESS:
Mr. Thomas K. Ferguson, General Campaign Chair of the Westminster Fire Department Building Fund, presented a status report on the volunteer efforts to raise $1,530,000.00, to fund relocation of their operations to the new John Street site. One hundred community volunteers have solicited $725,000.00 in pledged contributions to date. Mr. Ferguson requested a donation from The Mayor and Council, which was referred to the Finance Committee for further deliberation.

The Legislative Body pledged their financial support of the building program, in recognition of the firefighters' valuable service to the community.

Mr. Robert Cumberland requested the use of the Diffendal Parking Lot, by the Westminster Fire Department, to host the Cumberland Valley Firefighters' Convention on August 23 and 24, 1996.

Thereafter, on Motion of Mr. Halstad, seconded by Mr. Pecoraro and unanimously passed, the request was granted, to include the all-day use of the Parking Lot on both days, and a parade to be held on Saturday, August 24th.

Town Planner Tucker presented the Third Amended Development Plan of the Carroll Lutheran Village subdivision. The Plan basically adds fifteen acres to the overall site, to accommodate the construction of additional Assisted Living facilities and Cottage Residences; and reaffirms the validity of previous agreements relating to the extension of Luther Drive and upgrading and improvements to Bell Road.

Thereafter, on Motion of Mr. Chapin, seconded by Mr. Pecoraro and unanimously passed, the Third Amended Development Plan of Carroll Lutheran Village was approved. Carroll Lutheran Village officials Geary Milliken, Terry Snyder, and Roy Chiavacci were present at the meeting.

CITIZEN COMMENTS:
Downtown property owner, David Max, requested to purchase fifteen temporary parking permits, for use of up to one year, on the metered Babylon Parking Lot.

The permits are for the benefit of American Red Cross employees that occupy the Winchester West building located at 56 West Main Street, and owned by Mr. Max. The parking permit request was referred to the Public Improvements Committee. Greater Westminster Development Corporation Executive Director, Douglas Mathias, distributed entries for "The Welcome Ravens Window Contest" promotion. Best judged business window with a football theme will be awarded free tickets to a Ravens' home game.

ADJOURMENT:

Council President Calwell adjourned the meeting at 8:15 p.m.

JOHN D. DUDDERAR

City Clerk

Kevin Dayhoff: www.westgov.net Westminster Maryland Online www.westminstermarylandonline.net http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.com/
Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

19960422 "The Happy Colors" The Dream of the Pink Zebras 04.22.1996 Binder # 15 v. #4.0095 07.1995 –

19960422 The Happy Colors Binder #15

19960422 "The Happy Colors" The Dream of the Pink Zebras 04.22.1996 Binder # 15 v. #4.0095 07.1995 –

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/1996/04/19960422-happy-colors-dream-of-pink.html

"The Happy Colors" The Dream of the Pink Zebras 04.22.1996 Binder # 15 v. #4.0095 07.1995 – 04/22/1996

"Life has a value only when it has something valuable as its object". HEGEL, Introduction to Philosophy of History (1852)

"We love life, not because we are used to living but because we are used to loving". NIETZSCHE, "On Reading and Writing" _ Thus spoke Zarathustra (1883-1892)

"Always develop solutions to challenges that can withstand testing conditions that closely approximate reality". GRANDPA DAYHOFF, "The Frozen Chicken Test" (11.1994)

...of which reminds me of a story that has been in my head for years... a love story called:

"The Happy Colors"

© Kevin Dayhoff April 22, 1996

A sultry August ocean breeze drooled over them as they stood poised at the railing on the balcony of the large art-deco condominium overlooking a vast ocean beyond. Far below little people and cars scurried about putting away the remains of another day at the beach. The cries of tired children, squeals of laughter and the banter of parental instructions all jumbled together with the calls of the sea gulls and an ocean's heartbeat pumped waves that crashed upon the shore. It was music written by the Great Composer in the sky. A piece called "The Happy Colors".

The colors were to be remembered so well. The breeze ruffling her long hair ever so delicately. The sparkle of her eyes as she gazed at the deep azure expanse of the ocean below. The deep maroon of the setting sun as it echoed off her glass of red wine held so deftly in her seasoned, thoughtful fingers. A warm smile sprung from her inviting crimson lips, brightening her face which reflected the flickering yellow candle light. A lone white candle stood sentry, melting on to a black tablecloth that maintained the remains of abandoned china and dessert for two. The cream of her graceful gown mimicked the creamy black russian captured in the solid glass grasped in his deeply creased and weathered hands. His graying hair contrasted with the dark black of his finely tailored black tuxedo.

Their conversation drifted from the previous discussion of how they had met, and parted, in their childhood years. Perhaps they had even been lovers in a previous life. The years had marched by. And although they had lived separately for all these years, they had never left each other. They hadn't regretted their lives apart, but, then again, they did. Neither had known the other was to be at this function. This meeting again, for the first time, all over again; it was of serendipitous happenstance. As wave upon wave crashed and pounded upon the shore below, their eyes remained transfixed upon one another, oblivious to the party's banter, as their hearts crashed and pounded in unison in their warm chests. A grandfather clock dutifully stood sentry and watched the crowd beyond, and kept them away, as it quietly announced the time, seemingly, only to them...Midnight.

A stimulating intellectual discourse ensued. Alice B. Toklas was instrumental to whatever it was, that Gertrude Stein became. F. Scott Fitzgerald needed the catharsis of Zelda's being in order to create. Nietzsche fleshed out the paragraphs of their life but Hegel defined their meaning and Sartre gave them the punctuation. They had built their lives, their own way, and though they had had their shortcomings here and there, they were happy with the lives they had lived, albeit apart. They had made the best choices that they could make, not that they always had the criteria necessary in order to make the choices. They had made their choices in life because they had to make the choices. They had soared in hostile air. In a life of no inherent meaning, they had created a meaning. Their meaning. Now, older and wiser, the works that they had created, the thoughts they had promoted, the decisions they had made; were all the foundation of the work that laid ahead, that needed to be done.

They continued on to a poem that had marked their decisions in life, by a sage author they had long since forgotten....Does one build a fence at the top of the chasm of life or provide for an ambulance below?

At that, the handsome young waiter tentatively inquired about their needs.... They had none. Then again. Maybe one more drink before they left the party and parted company once again. To again do what they had to do. Because it is what it is, this life of their's.

"Yes, I'll have another black russian for me and a glass of red wine for the lady. Thank you".

The jazz quartet played a soft number in the background as the party in her honor grew quiet, reflecting about their chance meeting. Many smiled, some mused philosophically, others miffed jealously. Meanwhile, on the balcony, the lovers discussed their latest endeavors as they entwined in dance to the soft caresses of the music, oblivious to the quiet banter beyond.

They danced so softly together. Her hand ran longingly through his graying hair. Her long hair blowing across his eyes. The sun dipping below a wanting horizon. The sea gulls sang their good night praises of yet another great day in a great life.

The wise grandfather clock called to them that it was, indeed, time to go. They wanted this moment to never end. As the waiter appeared at the door of the balcony, as they held each others hand so tightly and gazed into each others eyes, as they whispered how much they were in lover and how glad they were that they had found each other again.

They a paused at the railing of the 17th floor and gazed into the sun's remains of the day and promised that they'd never part again... At that;


they climbed upon the railing, and jumped.


Grandpa Dayhoff 04.22.1996

"The more absurd life is, the more insupportable death is". JEAN-PAUL SARTRE, The Words (1964)

"Man's 'progress' is but a gradual discovery that his questions have no meaning". SAINT-EXUPERY, The Wisdom of the Sands (1948)

"Life has to be given a meaning because of the obvious fact that it has no meaning". HENRY MILLER, "Creative Death", The Wisdom of the Heart (1941)

"Man is the only animal for whom his own existence is a problem which he has to solve". ERICH FROMM, Man for Himself (1947)

To be an artist is to jump...to jump from the comforts and confines...from behind the railing...then experience the free-for-all-fall of the intellectual, artistic unknown and document the meaning, your own meaning that which you and you alone, give this existence.

This piece has been in my head for years. I have not a clue as to what "the jump" is all about. Perhaps I should have left "the jump" in my head, but I had grown tired of the space it was taking up. Perhaps, "the jump" is an existential artistic exercise and can be interpreted as affirming. Anyway, I've always gotten a kick out of the incongruous, Hemingway-twist ending. I guess I'm a bit worried that many will find this piece disturbing. Well, it is what it is. I think perhaps the piece is allegorical. It's art. It's done. Now I have room for another piece.....Mr. Eaton would have liked this I'll bet....

Grandpa Dayhoff 04.22.1996

"The Happy Colors" The Dream of the Pink Zebras 04.22.1996 Binder # 15 v. #4.0095 07.1995 –
Kevin Dayhoff, a slave to the masters of the page - the little soldiers in my life – words

19950508 Westminster St of Election Return

City of Westminster Statement or Return of Election

Three council members

May 8^th, 1995

There were a total of 598 votes cast.

Top vote getters were:

Stephan Chapin – 454 votes

Gregory Pecoraro – 381 votes.

Suzanne Albert – 337 votes.

_____

Rebecca Orenstein – 322 votes

Robert Ballenger - 137 votes

####

19940927 Republican Contract With America

REPUBLICAN CONTRACT WITH AMERICA

(Photograph from Newt.org – Contract with America)

See text below…

UPDATE:

{The Contract itself emerged publicly with the staging of the mass signing of the Contract on the steps of the U.S. Capitol by 367 candidates for office on September 27, 1994. On that day, all of these candidates publicly pledged: "If we break this Contract, throw us out." The Republicans who were already Members of the House of Representatives organized themselves into 11 working groups that eventually drafted ten bills that made up the Contract.}

For more information go here, and here, and here.

Newt.org’s: Download the 10-Year Anniversary Fact-Sheet

Other information sources retrieved from Wikipedia on June 10^th, 2007:

Text of the Contract, from the U.S. House website

The Contract with America: Implementing New Ideas in the U.S., from the Heritage Foundation

Beyond the Contract, criticism of the Contract from Mother Jones magazine

Contract on America's Environment, criticism of the Contract from the Sierra Club

Twelve years later, myths about the Contract persist, mixed picture from A.B. Stoddard of The Hill.

Ignoring evidence to the contrary, USA Today editorial asserted 1994 "Contract with America" was "effective ... in bringing Republicans to power", Media Matters For America cites variety of polls (including NBC/Wall Street Journal) showing low public awareness of Contract.

__________________

_________________

As Republican Members of the House of Representatives and as citizens seeking to join that body we propose not just to change its policies, but even more important, to restore the bonds of trust between the people and their elected representatives.

That is why, in this era of official evasion and posturing, we offer instead a detailed agenda for national renewal, a written commitment with no fine print.

This year's election offers the chance, after four decades of one-party control, to bring to the House a new majority that will transform the way Congress works. That historic change would be the end of government that is too big, too intrusive, and too easy with the public's money. It can be the beginning of a Congress that respects the values and shares the faith of the American family.

Like Lincoln, our first Republican president, we intend to act "with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right." To restore accountability to Congress. To end its cycle of scandal and disgrace. To make us all proud again of the way free people govern themselves.

On the first day of the 104th Congress, the new Republican majority will immediately pass the following major reforms, aimed at restoring the faith and trust of the American people in their government:

FIRST, require all laws that apply to the rest of the country also apply equally to the Congress;

SECOND, select a major, independent auditing firm to conduct a comprehensive audit of Congress for waste, fraud or abuse;

THIRD, cut the number of House committees, and cut committee staff by one-third;

FOURTH, limit the terms of all committee chairs;

FIFTH, ban the casting of proxy votes in committee;

SIXTH, require committee meetings to be open to the public;

SEVENTH, require a three-fifths majority vote to pass a tax increase;

EIGHTH, guarantee an honest accounting of our Federal Budget by implementing zero base-line budgeting.

Thereafter, within the first 100 days of the 104th Congress, we shall bring to the House Floor the following bills, each to be given full and open debate, each to be given a clear and fair vote and each to be immediately available this day for public inspection and scrutiny.

1. THE FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY ACT: A balanced budget/tax limitation amendment and a legislative line-item veto to restore fiscal responsibility to an out- of-control Congress, requiring them to live under the same budget constraints as families and businesses. (Bill Text) (Description)

2. THE TAKING BACK OUR STREETS ACT: An anti-crime package including stronger truth-in- sentencing, "good faith" exclusionary rule exemptions, effective death penalty provisions, and cuts in social spending from this summer's "crime" bill to fund prison construction and additional law enforcement to keep people secure in their neighborhoods and kids safe in their schools. (Bill Text) (Description)

3. THE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY ACT: Discourage illegitimacy and teen pregnancy by prohibiting welfare to minor mothers and denying increased AFDC for additional children while on welfare, cut spending for welfare programs, and enact a tough two-years-and-out provision with work requirements to promote individual responsibility. (Bill Text) (Description)

4. THE FAMILY REINFORCEMENT ACT: Child support enforcement, tax incentives for adoption, strengthening rights of parents in their children's education, stronger child pornography laws, and an elderly dependent care tax credit to reinforce the central role of families in American society. (Bill Text) (Description)

5. THE AMERICAN DREAM RESTORATION ACT: A S500 per child tax credit, begin repeal of the marriage tax penalty, and creation of American Dream Savings Accounts to provide middle class tax relief. (Bill Text) (Description)

6. THE NATIONAL SECURITY RESTORATION ACT: No U.S. troops under U.N. command and restoration of the essential parts of our national security funding to strengthen our national defense and maintain our credibility around the world. (Bill Text) (Description)

7. THE SENIOR CITIZENS FAIRNESS ACT: Raise the Social Security earnings limit which currently forces seniors out of the work force, repeal the 1993 tax hikes on Social Security benefits and provide tax incentives for private long-term care insurance to let Older Americans keep more of what they have earned over the years. (Bill Text) (Description)

8. THE JOB CREATION AND WAGE ENHANCEMENT ACT: Small business incentives, capital gains cut and indexation, neutral cost recovery, risk assessment/cost-benefit analysis, strengthening the Regulatory Flexibility Act and unfunded mandate reform to create jobs and raise worker wages. (Bill Text) (Description)

9. THE COMMON SENSE LEGAL REFORM ACT: "Loser pays" laws, reasonable limits on punitive damages and reform of product liability laws to stem the endless tide of litigation. (Bill Text) (Description)

10. THE CITIZEN LEGISLATURE ACT: A first-ever vote on term limits to replace career politicians with citizen legislators. (Description)

Further, we will instruct the House Budget Committee to report to the floor and we will work to enact additional budget savings, beyond the budget cuts specifically included in the legislation described above, to ensure that the Federal budget deficit will be less than it would have been without the enactment of these bills.

Respecting the judgment of our fellow citizens as we seek their mandate for reform, we hereby pledge our names to this Contract with America.

19940223 Carroll County Unified Municipal Solid Waste Management and Recycling Services Program

Maryland Municipal League's Award For Excellence Competition

Carroll County Unified Municipal Solid Waste Management and Recycling Services Program

February 23, 1994

Ms. Karen Liskey

Maryland Municipal League

1212 West Street

Annapolis, MD 21401

RE: Maryland Municipal League's Award For Excellence Competition

Dear Ms. Liskey:

Please find enclosed the City of Westminster's application for the Maryland Municipal League's Eleventh Annual Award for Excellence Competition. This entry describes a program the City coordinated among six of the eight municipalities in Carroll County which reduced the public cost in contracting services for the collection of solid waste and recyclables.

We hope that the Maryland Municipal League finds the Carroll County Unified Municipal Solid Waste Management and Recycling Services Program an innovative approach towards reducing costs incurred by small municipalities in the provision of public services. We look forward to hearing from you. If there are any question, or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at (410) 876-1313, extension 9002.

Very truly yours,

Thomas B. Beyard

Director of Planning and Public Works

TBB/KLT:klt

cc: Mayor and Common Council

APPLICATION

FOR

THE MARYLAND MUNICIPAL LEAGUE'S

ELEVENTH ANNUAL

AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

Submitted by

The City of Westminster

for the

Carroll County Unified Municipal Solid Waste

Management and Recycling Services Program

Population Category: Over 10,000 population

Respectfully,

W. Benjamin Brown

Mayor

Contact Person: Mr. Thomas B. Beyard

Director of Planning and Public Works

(410) 876-1313, extension 9002

OVERVIEW

Seven of the eight municipalities within Carroll County provide solid waste collection and disposal service to the residents within their corporate boundaries by contracting with a private waste management company. In June of 1992, the contracts for five of the municipalities expired. Prior to renewing their individual contracts, the City of Westminster under the direction and guidance of Mayor Brown, coordinated a program between six municipalities to jointly solicit unified bids for the provision of municipal solid waste management and recycling services. The unified contract would cover a three year period.

The municipalities which solicited the unified bid included the Town of Hampstead, the Town of Manchester, the Town of New Windsor, the City of Taneytown, the Town of Union Bridge, and the City of Westminster. By soliciting bids for solid waste management on a multi-jurisdictional level this program reduced the total cost of providing solid waste and recycling collection services. In the "Request for Bids" the total number of units from each municipality were combined together. The guarantee of a larger number of units permitted private haulers to reduce their overhead costs, and, therefore, submit bids which were lower than those submitted individually to each municipality.

The waste management company which submitted the lowest sealed bid was awarded contracts with five of the municipalities. The Town of Manchester retained their existing contractor, after the contractor lowered their rate equal to the rate quoted in the unified bid. Each of the other five participating municipality executed a separate contract with the successful bidder. Therefore, payment from each municipality is forwarded directly to the waste management company, forgoing the need to create a centralized bookkeeping and finance effort between the municipalities.

SAVINGS

Evidence that the service could be provided at a lower cost under a unified bid scheme was available since five of municipalities had already received individual bids. The contract for Manchester, the sixth municipality, did not expire until the end of 1993, therefore, a separate bid had not been requested.

Specifically, the unified bid approach will save Westminster $10,345.00 in collection costs over the course of the three year contract. Combined with the four other participating municipalities whose savings are clearly known, the total savings over the three year period of the contracts will be $91,175.00.

Under this unified bid approach only Union Bridge would have experienced a higher per unit cost than it would have had under an individual bid. So the that the other four participating municipalities could enjoy the cost savings available under this unified approach, in the spirit of intergovernmental cooperation they each agreed to pay a slightly higher fee to offset the increase that Union Bridge would have experienced. Therefore, Union Bridge retained their existing lower per unit fee, while the other municipalities were still able to save their taxpayers dollars.

Moreover, the cost savings did not end with the signing of the contracts. The bid specified curbside collection of recyclable products, such as glass, paper, and plastic. The contracts went into effect in August of 1993, and during Fiscal Year 1992-93 the combined curbside recycling rate averaged 18.7 percent. With the curbside recycling program, the five participating municipalities saved over $53,500.00 in avoided landfill tipping fees during FY 1992-93, in addition to the savings already described.

APPLICABILITY TO OTHER LOCALITIES AND PUBLIC SERVICES

This type of unified bid scheme can reduce costs to small individual municipalities which must contract with private sector companies for municipal services. Enlarging the number of units serviced by joint approaches allows the provider to experience economies of scale, and offer the service at a lower cost. Small municipalities can then provide the types of services at a cost comparable to that which are typically only found in more densely populated areas.

Furthermore, a unified approach eliminated duplication of efforts, such as the cost of advertising a "Request for Bids" and the cost of supplying bid documents. With the unified approach these costs are borne by several municipalities, and, therefore, are spread equally among them. It is not necessary for each to publish a separate advertisement or prepare and supply copies of the bid document to every interested company. Staff time is also saved in the preparation process, since each municipality does not have to create and produce and individual bid.

This program does not add any additional costs to the process of requesting and awarding bids for public services which must be contracted out to private companies. When public services can be provided at a lower rate, the savings can be used to lower, or maintain, the tax rate. Ultimately, the taxpayer experiences the real savings.

####

Environmentalism Solid Waste Management, Westminster City Public Works Solid Waste Management