May 2007

By FRANK M. JOHNSON, Mayor of Mt. Airy
As published May 16, 2007

Thanks again to the Messenger for allowing this report. I hope it helps to let more of you know about the issues our town government is working on.

1. The Budget. This has been a pre-eminent issue for the last few months. This budget creates a 5-year plan and separates capital spending from operational expenses. Future planning has allowed planning for pension costs, health care costs, and community needs such as additional police services and the potential for recreation coordination. This year’s budget will reduce the tax rate by adhering to the “constant yield” property tax rate, which is a policy proposed to continue throughout the 5-year plan. In addition, after consideration of all revenues and expenses for the coming year, no additional water or sewer rate increases should be needed.

2. Adequate Facilities Ordinance updates. Several town commissions have worked on updates to the adequate facilities ordinance since the initial proposal in October 2006. The changes would add a police and parks standard. Changes on traffic testing and processes would offer better community protection and allow better planning. The Town Council may be able to consider final changes in the next few months. Thanks to all who have helped in this process.

3. Water. The town council is in the process of considering a revised “consent agreement” with the state regarding our future water needs. The revisions would effectively eliminate the risk of state-imposed water restrictions. The South Branch of the Patapsco simple intake is also no longer the sole option for future water needs. Also, the town has received a consultant’s report considering the option of additional groundwater – in town or with cooperation from Carroll County. The report recommends pursuing groundwater exploration as a first step. Many thanks to staff, council member John Woodhull, and the Water and Sewer Commission for their work.

4. Downtown. We will in the next several months see additional activity downtown as new projects (Prospect Mill, 114 South Main) are proceeding and existing buildings are being renovated. Municipal parking lot improvements funded by a Community Legacy grant will proceed, and improvements to the steps to the parking lot will also be made. The Main Street Association and Downtown Business Association sponsor regular events in the downtown area. Watch your local papers for more information, and be sure to visit and shop downtown.

5. Schools. The need for good schools has been an issue for Mt. Airy since the beginning, as a recent 1905 petition found in town hall indicates. Our Frederick and Carroll task forces have been advocating for better schools and educating the community. In addition, the town and task forces on April 21 hosted a School Planning Forum for state and county officials. The ideas generated, and subsequent discussions with county officials, call for a renewed focus on considering the optimum future vision for schools for our community. We invite those interested to participate. Current task force meetings are on the third Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at town hall.

6. Growth and Development survey. The Growth and Development Task Force is working on a community survey that will be coming out, after final approval, in the next few months. If you are interested in suggesting questions or ideas, let us know or come to a Task Force meeting on the third Mondays, 7:30 pm at Town Hall.

7. Community Forum. The next community forum is scheduled for Thursday, June 14 at 7 p.m. at town hall. Community Forums are always on the second Thursdays, and are simply an opportunity for citizens to ask any questions they may have – you set the agenda.