February 2008

By FRANK M. JOHNSON, Mayor, Town of Mt. Airy
As published Feb. 6, 2008

I again thank the Messenger for including this report.

1. The Budget: Goals and Objectives

The town is preparing for the next budget. In doing so, my goal has been and remains to avoid tax increases and water and sewer rate increases on average users (those using 20,000 gallons each quarter or less). Of course, cost continue to increase, and there are additional needs to be met, including police protection and continuing park development and upkeep.

In the water and sewer department, new efforts were made this year to preserve and maintain the system, primarily to save water by preventing water leaks, and we expect to continue that process. In addition, the Town Council has supported providing funding for a part time recreation coordinator.

2. The Budget: Where We Stand

In reviewing actual figures, we project that at year’s end the town will have slightly larger surpluses than anticipated, in both the general fund and the water and sewer department. This is true even considering that the planning and zoning department will not be able to cover as much of its costs as hoped, due to several factors.

The funds resulting from the surplus will, as planned, go to reserves for future capital projects, and could help fund the water system expansion program.

Next year, however, poses several challenges. Revenues will not significantly increase, but some costs – such as electricity – will increase by 50% or more, costing the town many thousands of dollars, and this will be in addition to normal increases in fuel, insurance, health care costs and the like.

3. The Budget: Taxes and Water Rates

At the February council meeting, the first draft of the budget was presented. Despite a difficult year ahead, this budget continues the fiscal plan of not raising taxes. In addition, I presented a proposal for a change to water and sewer rates.

The proposed rates would be slightly reduced for those using 20,000 gallons or less, but increased for those using more than 20,000 gallons. In addition, a 10% surcharge on those using more than 35,000 gallons was proposed, following the model used in other states as a way to keep rates affordable for those using less water.

4. The Budget Process

The budget will be discussed at the next several council meetings. A workshop is tentatively planned for mid April, where the budget is planned to be introduced. Final passage is planned for the May council meeting.

5. Cable Update

Comcast will soon be combining the town under the Carroll County franchise, but will be providing all public, educational and governmental channels for Frederick and Carroll counties to everyone. While this is a tentative arrangement, it should be finalized shortly. This will allow some public channels to be provided as digital rather than the traditional analog channels.

There will be no additional cost for basic digital or if needed, a cable box. There has been some delay in implementing this plan, but it should be implemented within the next several weeks.

6. The February 12 primary election

Please be sure to vote. In addition to the presidential and congressional primaries, there is a board of education primary in both counties.

On the Carroll side, a member of our community, Jennifer Seidel, is running. Jennifer is the only candidate who lives south of the Westminster area, and in addition to being a mom with kids in the school system is also an educator who cares about the education we’re giving our kids.

I encourage everyone to vote, and to consider supporting Jennifer, who can provide an important voice not only for our community but parents and children countywide. Her website is JenniferSeidel.org.

7. Commission memberships

Several openings are available. Those interested should contact me at frankmjohnson@verizon.net, or town hall at mtairy2@comcast.net or 301-829-1424.