Monday, August 13, 2007

20070813 News Clips

News Clips

Aug. 13, 2007

STATE NEWS

O'Malley Encouraging Utilities Commission To Assert Its Powers
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/12/AR2007081201065.html
The hearing on the 16th floor of the state government building in Baltimore was as charged as a cross-examination. Two Verizon officials were called to appear before Maryland's utility regulators to explain a 50 percent increase in customer complaints about their phone service. And from the first moment, it was clear a grilling was in order. Officially, the five-member panel that regulates gas, electric, telephone, water and sewage disposal services in Maryland is a lot less prominent than Cabinet agencies with larger staffs, budgets and portfolios. The new commission faces soaring energy costs, increasing demand for electric ity and pressure to increase power from renewable sources such as solar and wind. Although state lawmakers delayed the BGE hike, rates jumped 50 percent July 1 after a 15 percent increase last summer. Many blame deregulation of Maryland's electricity markets, which has failed to create competition. Instead, it brought a backlash from consumers and a potential political problem for O'Malley.The governor has acknowledged that his administration could find no legal basis to roll back the recent rate increase, a political setback the commission has no power to address.

Counties Envision Cutbacks in State Funding
Governments 'Have to Be a Part of the Solution' as Md. Confronts $1.5 Billion Shortfall, Delegate Says
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/11/AR2007081101027.html
Hu ndreds of county officials from across Maryland are convening this week in Ocean City for an annual conference typically remembered as much for its golf tournament, crab feast and late-night outings to watering holes as for its panel discussions.
But belying this year's merriment is a growing concern that county governments could take it on the chin as state lawmakers confront a $1.5 billion shortfall in the budget they must balance next year. Lawmakers are also mindful that in recent years many county employees have enjoyed raises more generous than their state-level counterparts' and that many jurisdictions are sitting on far healthier reserve funds than the state's. Republican leaders in Annapolis have yet to offer a long-term budget fix but say that in coming weeks they will present options that do not require tax increases on the state level.

Operation Welcome Home draws a crowd
http://www.hometownglenburnie.com/vault/cgi-bin/gazette/view/2007G/08/11-30.HTM
Crowds of local volunteers have been welcoming homeward-bound troops at BWI Thurgood Marshall airport since March, but this week they were joined by a throng of TV news crews and reporters. Though several groups have been organizing the events - flag-waving volunteers greet debarking troops with thunderous cheers, bags of snacks and bottles of water - Wednesday's crowd assembled under the aegis of a newly formed nonprofit, Operation Welcome Home. w"We want, over time, to really grow this group so all our troops can get the welcome they deserve," said John Flynn, who started the group with Navy Capt. Kathy Thorp of Annapolis.He rejected the idea that Operation Welcome Home was an attempt to improve the GOP's image. "This is not something I'm doing in my professiona l capacity," Mr. Flynn said. "I've been involved in volunteer service all my life. This has nothing to do with the Republican Party." Capt. Thorp emphasized the group's grass-roots nature.

State GOP is almost broke
Treasurer's report shows $4,615 in cash and $50,500 in debt
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-md.gop11aug11,0,3472461.story
The Maryland Republican Party, reeling from the loss of the governor's mansion, is nearly broke, according to a copy of its financial statement obtained by The Sun."It's no secret that the Maryland Republican Party is having financial problems" in the wake of Ehrlich's loss, said state GOP Chairman Jim Pelura. "Why do big donors give a lot of money? It's for access. I'd be the first to admit that access is limited right now, but that will change. With every piece of lousy legislation that comes out of the General Assembly, our position will strengthen."

County Leaders to Meet This Week at Annual Conference
http://www.wjla.com/news/stories/0807/447031.html
Leaders of Maryland's counties will meet for a conference later this week in Ocean City. The annual summer conference of the Maryland Association of Counties will be held Wednesday through Saturday at convention center. The featured speakers include Governor Martin O'Malley, Senator Ben Cardin, Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger and Attorney General Doug Gansler.

Baltimore schools touted for BRAC influx
http://www.washingtontimes.com/ apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070811/METRO/108110039/1004/Metro
City public schools should be an option for families moving to the state as a result of the military's base reorganization plan, schools Chief Executive Officer Andres Alonso said yesterday. "There are existing and unused opportunities in the city schools for families who might want to move into the city," Mr. Alonso said at a meeting of the military Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) subcommittee, led by Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown. "We have some of the best magnet high schools in the state. There is an opportunity to expand on what those high schools already offer."

CSX, city plan to repair 5 bridges
Two sides to decide in a month which will pay for them
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/baltimore_city/bal-md.ci.bridges11aug11,0 ,5211010.story
The Baltimore Department of Transportation and railroad conglomerate CSX agreed yesterday to a one-month deadline to decide which entity will pay for improvements needed on five "structurally deficient" bridges in the city.
"We've essentially agreed to agree," said Jason T. French, a spokesman for CSX Transportation. "We today are committed to working with the city of Baltimore, despite what has happened in the past." The effort toward cooperation between CSX and the city comes shortly after the conclusion of a 4 1/2 -year dispute, in which the two entities argued about which was responsible for a train derailment and fire in the Howard Street tunnel. The dispute ended with CSX paying $2 million of the city's costs resulting from the accident, and neither side admitting responsibility.

Leopold appointee resigns to seek elected office
During 8-month tenure, Taylor oversaw county services for seniors, disabled
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/annearundel/bal-taylor0810,0,5734082.story
A member of County Executive John R. Leopold's Cabinet abruptly resigned this morning after eight months at his post, saying that he wants to pursue elected office. Wayne M. Taylor who was publicly reprimanded four months ago for announcing a nonexistent policy decision, stepped down as director of the Department of Aging and Disabilities. Leopold said in a prepared statement: "As an elected official for over 30 years, I can fully appreciate Mr. Taylor's desire to resume a career as an elected official."

Manchester: Residents question charter
http://www.carrollcountytimes.com/articles/2007/08/07/news/local_news/newsstory3.txt
The recent dismissal of Police Chief Charles Lewis is causing some Manchester residents to question the town's charter.
Town charters include the duties of elected officials, but most don't include what happens when those duties aren't being met or when the town is no longer happy with the decisions of an official.
On July 23, Manchester Mayor Chris D'Amario requested Lewis' resignation for the second time without the consent of the Town Council. According to the Manchester town charter, the police chief works at the pleasure of the mayor, so this is within D'Amario's rights. Though the request for resignation was legal, it is not sitting well with some Manchester residents who want to see the mayor dismissed for his actions.

Dems question suspect's political donations
http://www.examiner.com/a-878248~Dems_question_suspect_s_political_donations.html
Maryland Democrats are questioning tens of thousands of dollars donated to Republican candidates by Maryland businessman Alan Fabian, who was indicted last week in a $32 million fraud case. Fabian, who served as former Lt. Gov. Michael Steele's finance director during his 2006 bid for U.S. Senate, has donated more than $44,000 to the state's Republican Central Committee and various GOP candidates since 2001, the year federal prosecutors say he began one of the largest fraud schemes in Maryland history.

Harford water inadequate for BRAC
http://www.examiner.com/a-876106~State__Harford_water_inadequate_for_BRAC.html
Harford and Cecil count ies must expand their water supplies to accommodate growth surrounding Aberdeen Proving Ground, state officials said Friday. Harford has a "limited" supply of drinkable water, while Cecil's supply is "inadequate" for the residential growth projected through 2015 as a result of the Base Realignment and Closure, said Stephen Pattison, MDE assistant secretary for the Maryland Department of the Environment.

Lawmaker expenses add to cost of session
Some county legislators rent rooms instead of driving home
http://www.capitalonline.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/08_12-115/GOV
Lawmakers representing Anne Arundel County filed for more than $134,000 in expenses during this year's legislative session, according to an examination of state financial records. From meals to mileage, from Maryland flags to nights at the Loews Annapolis Hotel, the expens e reports provide a glimpse into the smaller ticket items that contribute to how much the General Assembly costs taxpayers. Some of the delegation, however, spent far less or didn't even apply for eligible expenses. The bottom five all live close to or in Annapolis: Sen. Janet Greenip, R-Crofton; Del. Ron George, R-Arnold; Sen. John Astle, D-Annapolis; Sen. Ed DeGrange, Sr., D-Glen Burnie, and House Speaker Michael E. Busch, D-Annapolis, who only filed for $314.01 worth of expenses. Mr. George spent the least out of the county's eight freshmen, filing for $3,234.70, and said it is result of his fiscally conservative beliefs. "It's just a principle thing," he said. "You have got to live by what you preach."

EDITORIALS/OP-EDS

Time for a national primary
http://www.carrollcountytimes.com/articles/2007/08/13/news/opinion/editorial/editorial926.txt
The oneupsmanship that some states are displaying in order to hold the "first" presidential primary or caucus is getting out of hand, and the time has come to set a national Primary Election day. Many states in recent years have been moving their primaries earlier and earlier. The moves are a direct response to presidential elections in which the party candidates are essentially chosen early on by a few states which may or may not reflect the thinking of the entire party. The political process is out of control, and states jockeying to try and be the first to hold a primary is just one of the problems that needs immediate fixing.

Early primaries lead to fatigue
The first 2008 primaries could happen this December
http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070813/OPINION01/708130328
At one time the two major political parties had a cadre of elder statesmen -- wise old veterans removed from the daily battle who could step in when the overly zealous began to run off the rails. Such adult supervision is badly needed at the moment.
In a race for attention and importance, the states have been moving their primaries and caucuses earlier and earlier in the year, and thanks to the latest escalation, there's a possibility the Iowa caucuses could be held before Christmas -- this Christmas. There's the problem of candidate fatigue, but an even greater problem of voter fatigue, people becoming so numb to the nonstop campaign that they tune it out.

NATIONAL NEWS

Cardin puts partisanship aside to back Schrader
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-ho.politics12aug12,0,7809497.story
It seems that the partisan bickering that Washington is infamous for does not apply in every situation, as Howard County Republican Dennis R. Schrader, learned on his way to a new high-ranking federal job. Schrader, a former county councilman and Maryland's homeland security director under Republican Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr., was confirmed by the U.S. Senate last week to be deputy administrator for national preparedness of the Federal Emergency Management Agency - with a big boost from a Maryland Democrat, Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin.

Dividends being realized
Solar energy system receives praise from FSU professors
http://www.times-news.com/local/local_story_224105426.html
Frostburg State University Professors Oguz and Hilkat Soysal are pleased by the efficiency of the solar array system installed atop the FSU Fuller House on Braddock Road.
"The solar array is producing more than we were expecting - the efficiency of the system is excellent," Hilkat Soysal said of the 2-kilowatt solar panels that began to generate electricity June 8. Community members are invited to attend a renewable energy symposium and expo Sept. 14 and 15 at FSU's Compton Science Center. During the event, renewable energy papers will be discussed and presented, a variety of products and projects will be displayed, and the FSU renewable energy system will be viewed. "The symposium attracted big interest. Keynote and invited speakers include Gibralter, Rep. Roscoe Bartlett and Chancellor of the University System of Maryland William Kirwan - they are activel y working on renewable energy climate and greenhouse mitigation issues," said Hilkat Soysal.

20070813 CCBOC Agenda for the week of August 6th, 2007

Carroll County Board of Commissioners Agenda for the week of August 6th, 2007

Please Note: This weekly agenda is subject to change. Please call 410-386-2043 to confirm a meeting you plan to attend. All meetings will be held at the Carroll County Office Building

Room 311. (Unless otherwise noted)

Indicates Outside Activities

Monday – August 13, 2007

1:00 p.m. Carroll County Farm Museum Board of Governors

Westminster, MD

Commissioner Zimmer

Tuesday – August 14, 2007

10:00 a.m. Board of County Commissioners Open Session

Bid Approval

Upgrade Existing Software for Dispatch Operations

Bureau of Purchasing ~ Mr. Rich Shelton

Office of Public Safety ~ Mr. Scott Campbell

Update on (BRAC) Base Realignment and Closure

Department of Economic Development ~ Mr. Larry Twele

Consideration & Possible Adoption ~ Amendment to Chapter 223

to Allow Business parks in the (IR) Industrial Restricted Zone

Department of the County Attorney ~ Ms. Kimberly Millender

Department of Economic Development ~ Mr. Larry Twele

Tuesday – August 14, 2007 ~ Continued

Request to Consider Exercising the Option to Purchase a

County Held Land Preservation Easement for Doris G. Zimmerman

Department of Planning ~ Mr. Steve Horn

Review of Draft ~ Maryland Department of Transportation Priority Letter

Department of Planning ~ Mr. Steve Horn

Letter for Signature ~ Builders for the Bay Roundtable

Department of Planning ~ Mr. Steve Horn

Report on Recycling & Update on Solid Waste

Department of Public Works ~ Mr. J. Michael Evans

Chief of Staff Time ~ Mr. Steve Powell

Wednesday – August 15, 2007

Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Summer Conference

Ocean City, MD

Commissioners Gouge, Minnich & Zimmer

Thursday – August 16, 2007

Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Summer Conference

Ocean City, MD

Commissioners Gouge, Minnich & Zimmer

Friday – August 17, 2007

Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Summer Conference

Ocean City, MD

Commissioners Gouge, Minnich & Zimmer

Saturday – August 18, 2007

Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Summer Conference

Ocean City, MD

Commissioners Gouge, Minnich & Zimmer

Sunday – August 19, 2007

8:05 a.m. “The Commissioners’ Report” – WTTR

Commissioner Gouge

2:00 p.m. Eagle Scout Ceremony

Manchester, MD

Commissioners Gouge & Zimmer

ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE: The Americans with Disabilities Act applies to the Carroll County Government and its programs, services, activities, and facilities. If you have questions, suggestions, or complaints, please contact Ms. Jolene Sullivan, the Carroll County Government Americans With Disabilities Act Coordinator, at 410-386-3600/1-888-302-8978 or TTY No. 410-848-9747. The mailing address is 225 North Center Street, Westminster, Maryland 21157.

Posted: 07/07/06

CARROLL COUNTY

a great place to live, a great place to work, a great place to play

20070812 Burglar steals computer equipment from Westminster business

“Burglar steals $2900 of computer equipment from Westminster business”

Westminster, Carroll County, Maryland, August 12, 2007

---- At approximately 7:40 PM, Carroll County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a reported burglary at Sel Tec Incorporated located in the 800 BLK of Klees Mill Road. Arriving for work Sunday evening, the owner discovered several doors leading into the business open and notified police.

The Sheriff’s Office’s initial investigation revealed that intruders “kicked-in” a side entry door leading into the office, removing several computers and an assortment of electronic equipment valued in excess of $2900. The Sheriff’s Office investigation continues…

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Unit at 410-386-2900, or the toll free anonymous TIPS Hotline at 1-888-399-TIPP (8477).

# # #

20070813 Quote of the day - Got Weeds?

Quote of the day - Got Weeds?

Monday, August 13, 2007

“When people will not weed their own minds, they are apt to be overrun with nettles.”

Horace Walpole (1717-1797) Writer

Thanks TC

20070813 COMMENTARY by Paul Gigot: The Mark of Rove

COMMENTARY by Paul Gigot: The Mark of Rove

'The Mark of Rove'

By PAUL A. GIGOT

Mr. Gigot is editorial page editor of the Journal.

August 13, 2007; Page A15

Washington

These are the days of Republican doubt, with President Bush fighting an unpopular war, Congress in opposition hands, and a 2008 presidential field trailing Democrats in nearly every poll. But don't tell that to Karl Rove, Mr. Bush's political alter ego, who even as he prepares to resign from the White House after six and a half years sees recovery ahead.

Sitting in the book-lined living room of his townhome on Saturday afternoon, a relaxed, cheerful and typically rambunctious Mr. Rove hands over two sheets of paper on which he has tapped out a pair of outlines. One says "Up to Now," and summarizes what he thinks are the achievements to date of the Bush presidency. The second, "Months Ahead," lays out an agenda for the next year and a half.

"He will move back up in the polls," says Mr. Rove, who interrupts my reference to Mr. Bush's 30% approval rating by saying it's heading close to "40%," and "higher than Congress."

Looking ahead, he adds, "Iraq will be in a better place" as the surge continues. Come the autumn, too, "we'll see in the battle over FISA" -- the wiretapping of foreign terrorists -- "a fissure in the Democratic Party." Also in the fall, "the budget fight will have been fought to our advantage," helping the GOP restore, through a series of presidential vetoes, its brand name on spending restraint and taxes.

As for the Democrats, "They are likely to nominate a tough, tenacious, fatally flawed candidate" by the name of Hillary Rodham Clinton. Holding the White House for a third term is always difficult given the pent-up desire for change, he says, but "I think we've got a very good chance to do so."

If that quinella pays off, however, Mr. Rove will have to savor it from somewhere other than his West Wing office. He's resigning effective Aug. 31 -- 14 years after he began working with Mr. Bush on his campaign for Texas governor, 10 years after they began planning a White House run, and after 79 months in the political cockpit of a tumultuous presidency.

Read the rest here: 'The Mark of Rove'

20070813 Wall Street Journal: Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

Wall Street Journal: Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

By a WALL STREET JOURNAL Staff Reporter

August 13, 2007 4:00 a.m.

Karl Rove, President Bush's longtime political adviser, is resigning as White House deputy chief of staff effective Aug. 31, and returning to Texas, he said in an interview with Paul Gigot, editor of The Wall Street Journal's editorial page.

(See related editorial.) 'THE MARK OF ROVE'

Read the editorial by The Wall Street Journal's editorial page editor, Paul Gigot, on his interview with Karl Rove.

Mr. Rove, who has held a senior post in the White House since President Bush took office in January 2001, told Mr. Gigot …

Read the rest of the article here: Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

The Wall Street Journal published the interview Monday.

20070813 Wall Street Journal: Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

Wall Street Journal: Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

By a WALL STREET JOURNAL Staff Reporter

August 13, 2007 4:00 a.m.

(See related editorial.) 'THE MARK OF ROVE'

Read the editorial by The Wall Street Journal's editorial page editor, Paul Gigot, on his interview with Karl Rove.

Mr. Rove, who has held a senior post in the White House since President Bush took office in January 2001, told Mr. Gigot …

Read the rest of the article here: Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

The Wall Street Journal published the interview Monday.

20070813 Westminster Common Council Meeting Minutes

Westminster Common Council Meeting Minutes

Minutes of City Council Meetings | Agenda for next City Council Meeting

For posts and information about Westminster Common Council meeting agenda on “Soundtrack” click here: Westminster Common Council Mtg Agenda

For posts and information about Westminster Common Council meeting minutes on “Soundtrack” click here: Westminster Common Council Meeting Minutes

Minutes of City of Westminster Council Meeting

August 13, 2007

QUORUM:

A meeting of The Mayor and Common Council was held in the John Street Quarters of the Westminster Fire Company, 28 John Street, on the evening of August 13, 2007 at 7:00 P.M. Mayor Ferguson, Council President Chiavacci; Council Members Albert, Wack, Utz, and Pecoraro; City Administrator Wolf; Acting Director of Planning and Public Works Glass; Chief Spaulding; City Treasurer Unger; City Attorney Walsh; and City Clerk Taylor were present.

Council President Chiavacci introduced Steve Powell, Chief of Staff for the Carroll County Board of Commissioners; Cindy Parr, Chief of Administrative Services for Carroll County; and Ashish J. Solanki, Director of the Office of Regional Aviation Assistance for the Maryland Aviation Administration. Mr. Powell, Ms. Parr, and Mr. Solanki gave a presentation on proposed expansion of the runway at the Carroll County Regional Airport ..

Mr. Powell began by reviewing the history of the airport from the 1960’s to the present. On June 12, 2007, the Commissioners voted to move forward with an environmental assessment of the proposed expansion. Ms. Parr summarized a tentative schedule for the study.

In response to questions from Mayor Ferguson, Mr. Powell described current plans to ensure adequate emergency services, to create an additional ingress and egress to the airport, and to make other road improvements. Mr. Powell added that the County does not plan to allow scheduled commercial flights.

Mr. Solanki spoke concerning several aspects of the project. He observed that the project would be funded by the federal government at 95 percent, by the State government at 2 ½ percent, and by the County at 2 ½ percent. He explained that the runway would be moved west approximately 350 – 400 feet, that the existing runway would become a taxiway, and that the types of aircraft using the airport would remain the same.

In response to questions from the Mayor and Council members, Mr. Solanki explained that the term “reliever airport” does not mean an airport becomes a backup for commercial jet traffic, but provides another location for smaller aircraft so they do not have to use major airports. He further described several expansion projects at other airports in the state.

Mr. Pecoraro recommended that the County consider establishing an airport advisory committee comprising representatives from all stakeholders, including, but not limited to, the City and local residents. Mr. Powell indicated that he would convey the suggestion to the County Commissioners.

Council President Chiavacci thanked Ms. Parr, Mr. Powell, and Mr. Solanki for their presentation.

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS:

Mayor Ferguson summarized the qualifications of Elizabeth Trescott and Kevin Beaver to serve on the Historic District Commission and the Planning and Zoning Commission, respectively. Upon Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mr. Utz and unanimously passed, Ms. Trescott’s appointment was confirmed. Upon Motion of Mrs. Albert, seconded by Mr. Utz and unanimously passed, Mr. Beaver’s appointment was confirmed.

MINUTES:

Mrs. Albert moved to approve the minutes of the meeting of July 9, 2007. Doctor Wack seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

CONSENT CALENDAR:

Council President Chiavacci noted that the Consent Calendar consisted of the approval of the June Departmental Operating Reports and approval of an Employee Assistance Program contract with GHE HealthCare, Inc. Mr. Utz moved to approve the Consent Calendar. Dr. Wack seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES:

Mr. Pecoraro remarked that representatives from the State Department of Housing and Community Development recently visited several City projects that the State helped fund.

Mr. Utz reported on his recent meeting with the Executive Committee of the Westminster Fire Company.

Council President Chiavacci complimented Chief Spaulding for achieving many of the Police Department’s strategic planning goals.

NEW BUSINESS:

Manager of Planning and Development Davis summarized Good Cause Waiver GCW 07-8, which would permit the occupants of 815 Washington Road to tap into the City water system. Mr. Pecoraro commented that the Committee on Growth and Annexation has recommended that water allocations for smaller parcels not be delayed pending adoption of the permanent water allocation policy. Upon Motion of Dr. Wack, seconded by Mr. Pecoraro and unanimously passed, the Good Cause Waiver was approved.

Mr. Glass summarized the terms of a new lease for T-Mobile to use space on the Sawgrass Water Tower for its wireless communications business. The lease provides for an initial term of ten years at a rent of $2,000.00 per month for the first year. Thereafter, unless terminated, the rent increases by three percent per year. Dr. Wack moved to approve the lease. Mr. Pecoraro seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS:

Ms. Wolf reported further on the walking tour with the representatives of the Department of Housing and Community Development. She thanked City residents Rebekah Orenstein, Darcel Harris, and Alissa Derr for assisting and summarized the locations visited.

Ms. Wolf announced that the State Highway Administration would present its study and recommendations concerning the Route 31 corridor on Monday, August 20, 2007 at 7:00 P.M. in Room 003-004 of the County Office Building. The Administration has been conducting a safety study for several months, particularly in the area where Route 31 intersects Tahoma Farm and Long Valley Roads.

Mr. Unger reported that training on the Eden Systems software was continuing.

Mr. Glass noted that mosquito surveillance would begin on August 20, 2007.

Council President Chiavacci introduced Chief Alexander, Assistant Chief Bangert, and President Cull of the Westminster Fire Company. Mr. Cull advised that the company has been complying with the code yellow voluntary water conservation measures.

CITIZEN COMMENTS:

Several City and County residents spoke against the proposed expansion of the runway at the Carroll County Regional Airport: David McElroy, Rebekah Orenstein, Edmund Kleve, Laurie Walters, Mary Kowalski, Pat Annis, Judy Spindler, Gary Johnson, Dr. Brink, Henry Hepner, and Steven Dodson. The concerns they expressed included increased traffic and noise, potential environmental problems, and a potential inadequacy of emergency services.

Ms. Orenstein observed that truck traffic on Pennsylvania Avenue has increased. Mayor Ferguson advised her that the City is preparing to study possible measures to limit truck traffic on City roads.

City resident Anna Deveney commented on the recent death of a sixteen-year old City resident.

Council President Chiavacci adjourned the meeting at 9:37 P.M.

Laurell E. Taylor

City Clerk

_____

For other things – all Westminster, on Soundtrack:

Westminster City Public Works Solid Waste Management

Westminster Advocate

Westminster Annual Main Street Mile

Westminster businesses

Westminster City Employees

Westminster City Finance

Westminster City Government

Westminster City Hall

Westminster City Planning and Zoning

Westminster City Public Works

Westminster City Public Works Street Department

Westminster Common Council Meeting Minutes

Westminster Common Council Meeting Report

Westminster Common Council Mtg Agenda

Westminster Councilman/Mayor Dayhoff

Westminster Eagle

Westminster events

Westminster Fire Department

Westminster Flower and Jazz Festival

Westminster matters

Westminster Municipal Band

Westminster Police Department

Westminster Profile

Westminster Road Runners Club

Westminster Rte 140

20070813 Westminster Council Meeting at WFD Fire Hall

Westminster Council Meeting at WFD Fire Hall

August 13, 2007

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND

The next meeting of the Mayor and Common Council for the City of Westminster will be held on August 13, 2007 and will be held at the John Street Quarters in Westminster. The agenda for this meeting will be posted on August 8, 2007.

Note: To the best of my knowledge – the agenda was not posted…

Sunday, August 12, 2007

20070811 “Will Main Street Bail Out Wall Street?” By Lawrence Kudlow

Will Main Street Bail Out Wall Street?

By Lawrence Kudlow, Saturday, August 11, 2007

Lawrence Kudlow is host of CNBC's Kudlow & Company

The Wall Street brainiacs are panicked about sub-prime mortgages and the current stock-market correction. But Main Street investors -- with their plentiful incomes and longer-term stock market horizons -- may ultimately bail them out.

Main Street rescuing Wall Street? It's a compelling thought -- not only for the stock market, but the economy at large.

Read the rest of the article here: Will Main Street Bail Out Wall Street?

Saturday, August 11, 2007

20070810 News Clips

News Clips

August 10, 2007

STATE NEWS

State deficit simple to fix
Senators say answer lies in limiting budget growth to 1.5 percent
http://www.capitalonline.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/08_09-45/GOV
Senate Republicans said this week that Maryland's deficit can be closed simply by limiting spending increases to 1.5 percent.
The statement from the Senate Republican Caucus is the latest public move from the minority party to shine the spotlight on spending, rather than revenue, as Gov. Martin O'Malley and the Democratic leadership begin to talk about raising taxes and fees in an attempt to close the $1.5 billion deficit. "By restraining spending we can close the deficit without the massive tax increases proposed by the Democratic leadership," Senate Minority Leader David Brinkley, R-Frederick, said in a statement. "These tax increases will cripple Maryland's working families and make Maryland less competitive in attracting jobs."

County GOP rift may disrupt leadership
http://www.capitalonline.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/08_09-35/GOV
As if the state Republican Party doesn't have enough internal problems of its own, now the county GOP is wrestling with its leadership. Sources say a move is afoot to oust Central Committee Chairman Mike Collins before his term is up. A cabal of ultra-conservative party members has been secretly plotting to force his departure because they oppose his leadership style and don't think he is conservative enough.

Aide's brother to fill new county position
http://www.examiner.com/a-874300~Aide_s_brother_to_fill_new_county_position.html
Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith has named the brother of one of his top aides to a newly created $96,000 position, officials confirmed Thursday. County lawmakers said they are just learning of the hire, and one alluded to the appearance of nepotism. Councilman Bryan McIntire, a Republican who represents much of the county's northern parts, questioned if Mohler is qualified for the job. "It concerns me, in the eyes of the public, if this job was not advertised for the best person sought for the lowest amount of money," McIntire said. "Someone automatically given the job is inherently wrong."

Background checks on nurses slow process
http://www.washingtontimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070810/METRO/108100058/1004&template=nextpage
A law that took effect this year requiring federal criminal background checks for Maryland nurses has created delays in licensing health care workers, even as the state suffers a nursing shortage. The Maryland Board of Nursing, which licenses nurses and nursing assistants, said applicants have been experiencing delays getting fingerprints processed because of the law, which took effect in January. But a solution may not come until next year.
"Until the law gets changed, there really isn"t that [they] can do or we can do," said Patricia Ann Noble, executive director of the nursing board. Maryland joined 30 other states in requiring the background checks, according to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. A spokeswoman for the council said she was unaware of any other states that had problems implementing the background checks. Sponsors of the background-check legislation, which passed both the Senate and House unanimously last year, said that bureaucratic tro ubles should not hold up qualified nurses who want to work in the state.
"It sounds like a problem with the bureaucracy," said Delegate Donald B. Elliott, Western Maryland Republican and co-sponsor of the legislation. "It appears to me however, that the board, in recognition of what's going on here, ought to give some relief to these people who are having these problems."

O'Malley will tell wealthy to pay up
http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20070810/METRO/108100062/1004
Gov. Martin O"Malley"s administration gave an update yesterday on plans to address the state"s $1.5 billion deficit, saying reforms will include closing corporate tax loopholes and demanding that the wealthy "pay their fair share."
The governor, in a statement released yesterday, voiced plans to "reform our tax system i n a way that makes it more modern, more inclusive and more fair." David R. Brinkley, Frederick Republican, said that without details, he was concerned that the governor's plan to raise taxes on businesses and the wealthy would be hostile to economic development. "We can take care of this problem without raising taxes, and we called earlier this week on the governor to propose a zero-increase budget," said Mr. Brinkley, the Senate minority leader.
Senate Republicans held a caucus Tuesday in Annapolis, calling on the governor to submit a fiscal 2009 budget that "protects Maryland's citizens from the onslaught of new taxes." Mr. Brinkley contends that the deficit could be eliminated by 2011 under the Republican plan.

Brown Visits Struggling Hospital
Lieutenant Governor Offers Reassurance but No Cash Pledge
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/09/AR2007080902039.html
Touring the financially troubled Prince George's Hospital Center yesterday, Maryland Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown said state leaders are committed to the facility's long-term survival but made no immediate offers of cash for the institution. Brown (D) said a deal between state and local leaders that fell apart on the last day of the legislative session in April would have been a departure from "patchwork" efforts to save the Cheverly hospital, creating a framework for long-term stability. He said he and O'Malley want to continue the talks but warned they do so now against the backdrop of a budget deficit.

EDITORIALS/OP-EDS

- Maryland politics getting cheesy
http://www.fredericknewspost.com/sections/news/reporters_notebooks_display.htm?StoryID=63611
When former Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. came to town Monday morning, I couldn't help but ask him what he thought of accusations linking him to a blog critical of his political foe, Gov. Martin O'Malley.
I was surprised when he said the accusations likely stemmed from melted cheese.
Most have probably forgotten when Maryland Democratic Party spokesman David Paulson dressed up in a "Bobby Baloney" suit to mock Ehrlich at a campaign event in 2002. But Ehrlich hasn't.

For once, Verizon couldn't hide from complaints
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-md.marbella10aug10,0,1517752.column
Maybe it was all gra ndstanding. Maybe after failing to do anything about the 72 percent BGE electric rate increase, the Public Service Commission was in the market for another target to beat up on. Maybe all the tough talk at its public hearing Wednesday will come to naught.
I don't care. If you've ever taken off from work to wait for a phone repair crew that never showed up, you had to love watching Verizon officials trying to explain an increase of their own: a 50 percent rise in consumer complaints to the PSC.
For once, Verizon couldn't hide in the dark corners of its press-one-for-this, press-two-for-that automated answering maze. It couldn't say, oh, someone will be there between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., sorry, can't give you a narrower window. And, best of all, it couldn't just not show up.I had no idea being stood up by Verizon was so common, and even acceptable: The company can miss 20 percent of its service appointments and still be in compliance with the PSC. And yet even with this ra ther generous standard -- two out of every 10 customers left idling at home, no closer to getting a working phone -- Verizon failed to meet it five out of the first six months of this year.

Comptroller Franchot as agenda-setter
http://www.gazette.net/stories/081007/poliras222048_32355.shtml
There's a joke making the rounds in Annapolis about Peter Franchot and his incessant quest for publicity. It goes like this: The only thing silent about Maryland's comptroller is the ''t" in his last name. Listening to Franchot on radio talk shows is like tuning in to a one-man filibuster.
Sometimes he's on the mark, but other times he's sadly off base. Franchot has continued to surprise as comptroller:
*He's put Gov. Martin O'Malley in some uncomfortable positions at Board of Public Works on a series of land deals.
B ut Franchot is not active in one area where he should be leading the charge: formulating a tax package to: a) erase Maryland's $1.5 billion structural general fund deficit, b) make headway in addressing $30 billion of unfunded transportation projects, and c) finance road, transit, school and infrastructure projects to accommodate 60,000 military-related jobs coming to Maryland by 2011.Franchot could be the Answer Man for legislators and the governor's office as they grapple with the unpleasant task of raising taxes. Is Franchot up to the task? We'll find out as Labor Day rushes rapidly toward us and the window of opportunity for a special session starts to close. It could be the sternest test yet for the new comptroller.

Will BRAC bring us together?
Maryland is a big winner in the BRAC competition
http://www.gazette.net/stories/08100 7/polilee222053_32358.shtml
Under the U.S. Military's Base Realignment and Closure cost-saving initiative we gain 28,000 new families and 60,000 new jobs during the next five years.
But this overnight population boom is like awarding Maryland another entire county (the new BRAC population is greater than any of Maryland's six smallest counties).If the Feds aren't paying the infrastructure tab, who is? And who gets the new amenities and who doesn't?

Elected officials have to break Taylor logjam
http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/08_09-47/OPN
Seven years ago the Annapolis community was embroiled in a debate over the future of the David Taylor Research Center, across the Severn River from the downtown. At the time, there were elaborate plans and promises - but so far nothing has happened.County Executive Janet Ow ens' mistake was giving the property to a developer and leaving the county no recourse if the project failed to materialize. Her successor, John Leopold, has little leverage - and little clout in dealing with federal agencies. Maryland's congressmen and senators do have clout. Rep. Elijah Cummings, a member of the Armed Services Committee, has agreed to intervene. He's from Baltimore. Where is Rep. Wayne Gilchrest, who represents the area around David Taylor? Where is U.S. Sen. Barbara Mikulski? We can't get them to respond to our inquiries, let alone show any interest in breaking this federal logjam.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Congress pursues disastrous tax on energy companies
http://news.mywebpal.com/news_tool_v2.cfm?pnpID=573&NewsID=828401&CategoryID=5798&show=localnews&om=1
When it comes to America's energy policy, everyone agrees that one of our goals is to make the United States less dependent on foreign sources of energy. A common-sense approach would involve conservation efforts that can bring about decreased use of foreign-supplied energy products, developing alternatives to foreign-supplied energy products and developing our own sources of energy.
Unfortunately, Washington has made little progress on achieving this goal. In fact, our so-called energy policy has been inconsistent and illogical. Witness the multi-year battle to develop the crude-oil supplies on the north slope of Alaska (the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge). Some of the same members of Congress who talk passionately about making America energy-independent have voted to block exploration and development of the generous supply of crude buried under ANWR.
Now Congress is about to make matters even worse. In pursuit of a government subsidy for the alternative-fuel industry, Congress is considering slapping additional taxes on American-owned energy companies. I know it is politically popular to tax the oil companies, but who really believes the companies will pay that tax? Additional costs to the energy companies will be passed on to hard-working Maryland families every time they stop at the pump or turn on their furnaces. That increase in the price of gasoline would be in addition to the looming increase in the state gasoline tax now being pushed in Annapolis.
Increasing the taxes on the very companies that we are depending on to develop America's energy resources is counter-productive, discouraging those companies from investing in that development and placing them at a disadvantage in competing with foreign suppliers.
Unfortunately, Sens. Barbara Mikulski and Ben Cardin support this tax package. If they have their way, oil-rich Venezualan dictator Hugo Chavez will cheer, and Maryland families will pay.
T. Kevin Carney
Towson
T. Kevin Carney is president of Thomas Builders in Hickory Ridge

NATIONAL NEWS

Cardin faces major battle to enact health-care plan
http://www.herald-mail.com/?module=displaystory&story_id=172066&format=html
When U.S. Sen. Benjamin Cardin, D-Md., visited Hagerstown this week, he backed the idea of a law that would require everyone who could afford it to purchase health insurance.
Those who didn't comply would pay a tax, which would be used to purchase insurance for those who don't do so voluntarily.
If Cardin's plan sounds familiar, it's because it's based on one enacted in Massachusetts in 2006.Whe n those not invited to a meeting speculate about what is going on inside, they often conclude that their interests are being harmed. Cardin needs to give all the players a seat at the table, because he will need the cooperation of all to make the Massachusetts plan work on a nationwide basis.

Area power needs could trump view of Antietam battlefield
http://www.herald-mail.com/?module=displaystory&story_id=172113&format=html
Antietam National Battlefield lies in a corridor where power lines could be raised to satisfy the mounting electricity needs associated with Western Maryland's population boom. Julie Ruggiero, a U.S. Department of energy spokeswoman, said the National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor surrounding Antietam was just one area the federal government recently identified as a proble m region. U.S. Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin's office said he would continue to review the issue "as the process moves forward," while the office of his fellow Democrat, U.S. Sen. Barbara Mikulski, did not return telephone messages. Lisa Wright, a spokeswoman for U.S. Rep. Roscoe Bartlett, R-6th, said the congressman would try to come up with a compromise that would provide electricity and preserve the battlefield. "He wants to facilitate both goals," Wright said

I Paid for This Microphone
New anger, old history, and the immigration debate.
http://article.nationalreview.com/?q=ZTc1OGUwZmZhM2EwYTA0OTQzMjNiMDc2N2Q1ZTc1YTU=
Late last Thursday night, Republicans quit the House after Democrats played a series of dirty tricks. Republicans were attempting to am end an agricultural appropriation to prohibit taxpayer funds "from going to illegal immigrants." The measure came to a vote and was passing 215 to 213 when the presiding officer, Rep. Michael McNulty (D., N.Y.), abruptly gaveled it close and declared a tie. Republicans protested, but moments later Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D., Md.) moved to take a brand new vote on the same measure. That's when the Republicans stormed out. And if they weren't sufficiently peeved about Democrats cheating on the vote, they woke up Friday morning to find that Democrats had gone one step further by scrubbing the whole episode from the official record.

20070810 Carroll County Progressives to hold “Honk to Impeach” vigil in Westminster

Carroll County Progressives to hold “Honk to Impeach” vigil in Westminster

From the www.democrats .com web site: http://www.democrats.com/node/13920

Submitted by BBinMD on August 7, 2007 - 11:46pm.

Honk To Impeach

VENUE: ***TIMES UPDATED*** Intersection of MD Rt. 140 & Englar Road

Westminster, MD 21157

starts: 08/11/2007 - 1:30pm ends: 08/11/2007 - 2:30pm

This Honk To Impeach demonstration will be held during heavy traffic times at this intersection, to help get the word out to the enormous amount of people that would like to change the Federal Government.

If this will be the first time you join us, please contact me at 410-440-2461 so that I can give you the information about the demonstration.

Thanks,

Brad Brown

brad.brown AT carrollcountyprogressives.com

####

Carroll County Progressives, Iraq War Reaction in Carroll Co., Women In Black Westminster

http://www.womeninblackwestminster.com/

http://www.carrollcountyprogressives.com/