To Grow or Not to Grow
So, the current aldermen overrode a veto by Mayor Jeff Holtzinger on the city’s Comprehensive Plan. Specifically, the Board of Aldermen voted to approve it. Mayor Holtzinger vetoed the plan, citing the approximately 1,100 acres intended for development in the future may not have future water and sewer capacities. Thus, the mayor doesn’t want to mislead those property owners by having them think their parcels could be developed.
This is a fair point – no one should think that their land will be able to be developed, only to have the proverbial rug pulled out from under them. Just ask the numerous landowners in this county who’ve had their land values reduced significantly through downzoning by the county commissioners.
However, just because land is put in the comprehensive plan for future development, doesn’t mean that it can be developed. Including these parcels gives control to the City of Frederick as to its future growth. No matter how hard the Board of County Commissioners work to de-value land throughout the county through multiple efforts, a municipality like Frederick should look at future growth areas.
On the City Administrative Officer…
The more I think about this position, the more I like it as a tool for Frederick City government. It’s good to have a “go-to” person that the mayor and aldermen can count on to follow-through on their decisions. If the county were to ever change to a charter form of government, the county would likely create a similar position.
Currently, speculation abounds as to whether Del. Rick Weldon would take over. Mr. Weldon would certainly be the most logical choice. Fortunately, the position of chief administrative officer doesn’t have to be filled right away. The new mayor and board could wait. Besides, the position hasn’t been approved as yet, so there’s no job to fill.
Mr. Weldon could complete his term as delegate and – by doing so – fulfill his promise to his constituents. Then, upon completion of his term, he could accept the job as chief administrative officer. This would also give the United Way time to find a replacement for Mr. Weldon.
The Republican Central Committee is doing the right thing by preparing for a replacement for Delegate Weldon, should he choose to accept a position with the city and not fulfill his term as delegate. It’s all about the process, and there is hope here that they will make the process an open one, very public, and very transparent.
Some quick hits:
Rotary thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Bob Holter, a member of the Fredericktowne Rotary since 1984, who served many years as its treasurer. His wisdom and moral compass will be sorely missed….
…Rotary thoughts and prayers also go out to Mary Pat Kulina and her family, on the tragic accident that took the life of her husband, Stephen. Mary Pat was the secretary for many years at Fredericktowne Rotary, and her love for her husband was unabashed and complete.…
…Spend a few moments this Thanksgiving weekend to say thank you to our servicemen and women around the world who cannot be with their loved ones for this holiday. They serve so that we don’t have to. Consider an extra place setting at your table this week in honor of our soldiers. Donate time at the soup kitchen and/or provide canned goods for the Food Bank….
…Kudos to my alma mater, Syracuse University, for defeating 4th ranked North Carolina in basketball. Well done ‘Cuse!
…Be sure to donate to the Christmas Cash for Kids this year! There will be a fundraiser on WFMD beginning Monday, Nov. 30, through Friday, Dec. 4. Thanks to everyone at WFMD for their efforts!
…I wonder how many city candidates who did not win the election will run for county commissioner next year…
…The new Frederick Indoor Soccer Facility (formerly Sportsplex) is a great venue for children and adults. If you haven’t seen it, check it out. My daughters love the indoor soccer turf. Props to Tony Checchia.
…Anyone listen to the Bob Dylan Christmas album? And survive?
…Happy Thanksgiving one and all!
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