Due to time restraints the information on gang activity at schools was brief, but they will be addressed soon at some point. Gang activity does exist in the schools and the Board has recognized this dangerous problem. The Board’s stance is that if they feel that any incident is gang related they will use all available means to investigate and determine if it is gang related. If so determined as gang related they will use the utmost extent of their powers and remedies available in doling out a punishment. They referenced problems from the time around 1992-93 when they had similar problems with local gangs in schools. They expelled them and the problem was quelled. They did not go into much details about the situation during the time.
Expelling students is hard and very likely will lead to them to be lost souls and to problems within our community being out and about on their own. This brings us to the age old question is there a point when one is totally lost? I understand each individual is special and is afforded his personhood, but when one’s actions takes him away from being a good person so far that not even an intimation of the good person one once was or could be is found, is he to be left to his immanent demise? Educators face this dilemma everyday, especially administrators who have to deal with alternative kids who are on the cusp of falling too far away or gang members who pose that ever dreadful thought of some heinous act as a shooting. What are we to do? The mission of the education system is to provide the tools and structure which is to be utilized to become productive good citizens. Some choose to ignore this mission taught by our educators and subsequently will inhibit the classroom/school.
I work in these schools and let me tell you this is real! I can look at a problem student and work back throughout his life and ultimately back to the home and give a pretty close assessment of what the student has done and where he has come from. It’s sad, it really is. These students who are coming up are our future, not to use that hackneyed term, but it is the truth. I feel, as well as others in the profession is that one of the main problems in education, especially in the area, is the support at home. If the schools commitment is not echoed back at the home then there is only so much the schools can do and have done. These kids become lost and unfortunately a detriment to the school system. I pray and hope that these kids get some insight and change. The alternative programs and teachers/administrators do get to some of these kids and become success stories, but not enough.
Why have things been getting worse? Gangs? Demographics? Local opportunities? The administrators have a huge onus of responsibility and accountability. These educators are faced with both Federal Compliance coupled with the needs of the local community and individual schools. It is hard to get these kids to succeed with the pull of a unstable home life while maintaining the standards set forth by the government and our responsibility and belief in in education of each individual. Again they can only do so much and it is up to those at home to help.
This is a constant reminder that our decisions before we have children make an impact on when we have children. If we can not support ourselves or have the skills to be these all important parents then when those who have kids are going to be at a huge uphill climb to succeed in providing a good life for those children. I give kudos to all who work to give our children an education, administrators, teachers, substitutes, janitors, coaches… For now, as our administrators work to preserve our community through education of our generations we can only commit to the ideals of the good of education, work diligently to preserve and practice these ideals, and be unwavering in our continuing effort to education. This is one battle where as Lombardi would say, “There is no substitute for victory”!
This post reflects the opinions/feelings of the Wicomico Board of Education Administrators as well as partially mine. I tried best to reflect these feelings with a limited time to get the post up.
Nick
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
County Council Meeting Highlights
The Council meeting set off to a somber note with a kind words and a moment of silence for the passing of Richard Hazel lead by Councilman McCain. Again, Mr. Hazel you will be missed.
The first order of business was the discussion of the 2009 State Capital Project grants. Each branch’s representative spoke the usual on why their department were needing and deserving of the grant money for the 2009 fiscal year. There were no major objections by anyone in the public crowd during the hearing. Under General Government the Housing Authority request for $111,300 for Multifamily Apartment Complex was noted that it would be withdrawn from the CIP. 2009 was the only year that monies were to be allotted for the project.
The next major business dealt with the restoration of the Youth and Civic Center through a 2 million dollar bond. I’m all for keeping up the Civic Center but an interesting point was made on the amount of competition that it has to face. The list went on from Cambridge’s Hyatt to every string of centers to Ocean City and the colleges. One thing that the Civic Center has is an open venue for music. I for one am desperate to get great live music. The venues on the other side of the bridge bring in acts all the time, from the local circuit bands to the national headliners. This would be a great outlet for everyone as to adding to the lack of evening/night entertainment which the area lacks. Bring in the bands and get some economy in as well as money which will improve the Center.
Unfortunately I did not have the numbers in front of me from the Wicomico Liquor Board Audit but there were three interesting points made by Gail Bartkovich and Stevie Prettyman. Again, I’m sorry but not having the papers in front of me gave me a small problem of following along. Councilwoman Bartkovich raised the question to John Stern about a discrepancy in numbers from 2005 which affected the current audit numbers. I’m sure Joe will have the full details as he is so capable requisitioning by some means. John did say he would immediately look at the discrepancy Gail pointed out and report back.
Councilwoman Prettyman raised two key points which I believe were thrown around in a previous post. 1. Why was there a increase from $26,000 to $46,000 in advertising expenditures when the WLCB has a monopoly on liquor sales? And why was there over $50,000 plus in renovation expenditures to store #2 for services rendered by the Allessi Co? Makes your head wonder. The response was not there for the advertising question and the response for the renovations was that services from Allessi was the best bang for the buck. Plausible but thanks to Councilwoman Prettyman for pointing out some suspect stuff.
The original reason I attended the meeting was for the open work session concerning the gang activity in schools and the alternative program. I work in the trenches for the Board of Ed as a fulltime substitute and it is important to be informed about your working conditions as well as the procedures they go upon. The Board of Ed. Members first discussed the Choices and Ombudsman alternative learning programs which the County offers. The Ombudsman program was introduced and implemented at the beginning of the 07/08 school year to help provide support for the alternative program and to learn from the Ombudsman program ways and methods. Both programs have been working simultaneously. WBOE presented that the Ombudsman program was a good program it just was not cost effective. To date 33 kids have been a part of the program and around 23 students are currently enrolled. The number of enrolled students change based on the number of students who qualify to be let out of the program and the influx based on the number who qualify.
The WBOE entered a 3 year contract, with an no buy out opt out, at $360,000 total or at $6,000 per student which allows for 60 slots that are available. This price tag is over $3,000 less than the standard cost per student. The problem which was presented is that the $360,000 does not cover food or transportation. The Board has to transport these alternative students from their door, to school, and back to the door because they cause problems on the busses with the regular students. Both the Service and Ombudsman programs are two separate locations which requires more resources and money to be used to keep the regular students safe.
WBOE estimated that the program would be full, but it is not. The other costs and the fact that the program is not getting filled is not cost effective and thus will be opting out of the contract without penalty to the County. The Board is exhibiting some practical wisdom here. First of all they took a very big step in introducing this program to improve and save some kids from ultimate disaster in their lives. They are to be applauded. They assessed that it is not the best thing at the right time. They however have learned a lot from the Ombudsman program which they have implemented in the Service program which they have said has improved it immensely. They feel the Service program is the best course right now. The Board committed to continually finding solutions and a course of action to improve these troubled students lives.
For your information to get admitted into the alternative program a student must have either committed an egregious act, have been suspended for 11 days, all typical means of discipline exhausted, or be referred to a reviewing board on a case to case basis.
I'm sure Joe will have his take on some of this....
The first order of business was the discussion of the 2009 State Capital Project grants. Each branch’s representative spoke the usual on why their department were needing and deserving of the grant money for the 2009 fiscal year. There were no major objections by anyone in the public crowd during the hearing. Under General Government the Housing Authority request for $111,300 for Multifamily Apartment Complex was noted that it would be withdrawn from the CIP. 2009 was the only year that monies were to be allotted for the project.
The next major business dealt with the restoration of the Youth and Civic Center through a 2 million dollar bond. I’m all for keeping up the Civic Center but an interesting point was made on the amount of competition that it has to face. The list went on from Cambridge’s Hyatt to every string of centers to Ocean City and the colleges. One thing that the Civic Center has is an open venue for music. I for one am desperate to get great live music. The venues on the other side of the bridge bring in acts all the time, from the local circuit bands to the national headliners. This would be a great outlet for everyone as to adding to the lack of evening/night entertainment which the area lacks. Bring in the bands and get some economy in as well as money which will improve the Center.
Unfortunately I did not have the numbers in front of me from the Wicomico Liquor Board Audit but there were three interesting points made by Gail Bartkovich and Stevie Prettyman. Again, I’m sorry but not having the papers in front of me gave me a small problem of following along. Councilwoman Bartkovich raised the question to John Stern about a discrepancy in numbers from 2005 which affected the current audit numbers. I’m sure Joe will have the full details as he is so capable requisitioning by some means. John did say he would immediately look at the discrepancy Gail pointed out and report back.
Councilwoman Prettyman raised two key points which I believe were thrown around in a previous post. 1. Why was there a increase from $26,000 to $46,000 in advertising expenditures when the WLCB has a monopoly on liquor sales? And why was there over $50,000 plus in renovation expenditures to store #2 for services rendered by the Allessi Co? Makes your head wonder. The response was not there for the advertising question and the response for the renovations was that services from Allessi was the best bang for the buck. Plausible but thanks to Councilwoman Prettyman for pointing out some suspect stuff.
The original reason I attended the meeting was for the open work session concerning the gang activity in schools and the alternative program. I work in the trenches for the Board of Ed as a fulltime substitute and it is important to be informed about your working conditions as well as the procedures they go upon. The Board of Ed. Members first discussed the Choices and Ombudsman alternative learning programs which the County offers. The Ombudsman program was introduced and implemented at the beginning of the 07/08 school year to help provide support for the alternative program and to learn from the Ombudsman program ways and methods. Both programs have been working simultaneously. WBOE presented that the Ombudsman program was a good program it just was not cost effective. To date 33 kids have been a part of the program and around 23 students are currently enrolled. The number of enrolled students change based on the number of students who qualify to be let out of the program and the influx based on the number who qualify.
The WBOE entered a 3 year contract, with an no buy out opt out, at $360,000 total or at $6,000 per student which allows for 60 slots that are available. This price tag is over $3,000 less than the standard cost per student. The problem which was presented is that the $360,000 does not cover food or transportation. The Board has to transport these alternative students from their door, to school, and back to the door because they cause problems on the busses with the regular students. Both the Service and Ombudsman programs are two separate locations which requires more resources and money to be used to keep the regular students safe.
WBOE estimated that the program would be full, but it is not. The other costs and the fact that the program is not getting filled is not cost effective and thus will be opting out of the contract without penalty to the County. The Board is exhibiting some practical wisdom here. First of all they took a very big step in introducing this program to improve and save some kids from ultimate disaster in their lives. They are to be applauded. They assessed that it is not the best thing at the right time. They however have learned a lot from the Ombudsman program which they have implemented in the Service program which they have said has improved it immensely. They feel the Service program is the best course right now. The Board committed to continually finding solutions and a course of action to improve these troubled students lives.
For your information to get admitted into the alternative program a student must have either committed an egregious act, have been suspended for 11 days, all typical means of discipline exhausted, or be referred to a reviewing board on a case to case basis.
I'm sure Joe will have his take on some of this....
WBI
There have been a few comments on various posts relating to the Sheriff's Office getting recognition for much of what was done relating to the Ray Lewis case. Everyone should know that the investigation was conducted by the WBI, or Wicomico Bureau of Investigation. WBI is comprised of Deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office and Maryland State Troopers from "E" Barrack (Salisbury). This multi-jurisdictional venture began in 2000 or 2001 (if memory serves me) as an effort to consolidate the crime solving skills of two separate law enforcement agencies and to eliminate barriers, such as lack of information sharing, which often hinder law enforcement efforts to solve crimes. This resulted in a collection of men and women who can dedicate their time and focus their efforts on solving crimes in Wicomico County that the Road Patrol Divisions would not be able to solve due to time constraints. The WBI work as a team. They don't look at one another as Deputies or Troopers but rather as Co-workers and Team mates. This type of collective effort should be the rule rather than the exception. If every aspect of law enforcement worked together this well to address the quality of life issues of the communities in Wicomico County, I believe we would all enjoy lower crime rates and safer neighborhoods. To the WBI - Great Job! Most of us are good, law abiding citizens and you have made us proud today.
UPDATE
I am in a rush to get out of here again so I must apologize to everyone waiting for further details on the Ray Lewis Case.
After visiting the Press Conference at the Sheriff's Department, some VERY interesting things have come about. RAY LEWIS IS OUT! As a matter of fact, everyone charged was released on their own recognizance! Talk about a boat load of sh!t!
As you know I'll be back later with lots to say about this, imagine someone going into a Bank and robbing them for $500,000.00. Do THEY get out on their own? This is simply unbelievable!
I'll be back after the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Department Meeting. Don't miss it, if you can make it. It's tonight at 6:00 PM as well as the Wicomico County CIP Meeting at 6:00 PM.
After visiting the Press Conference at the Sheriff's Department, some VERY interesting things have come about. RAY LEWIS IS OUT! As a matter of fact, everyone charged was released on their own recognizance! Talk about a boat load of sh!t!
As you know I'll be back later with lots to say about this, imagine someone going into a Bank and robbing them for $500,000.00. Do THEY get out on their own? This is simply unbelievable!
I'll be back after the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Department Meeting. Don't miss it, if you can make it. It's tonight at 6:00 PM as well as the Wicomico County CIP Meeting at 6:00 PM.
The Daily Times Proves They're Now # 2
Speaking of #2, A.S.A.P. sewage and Ray Lewis Construction is in deep sh!t and we all know that by now. However, The Daily Times refused to cover this major event. No pictures, no reporters, nothing! They have simply made a few phone calls and got a very weak story posted, but I can assure you they'll be at the 3:00 Press Conference.
The Lewis Family Arrives
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Ray Lewis' Parents showed up just moments after their Son was taken away in handcuffs. Could you imagine doing this to your Family?
Many have suggested I revisit the story I produced last summer referencing alleged dumping of raw sewage into fields in Parsonsburg. Some confronted me today talking about how they've been trying to get Ray Lewis for some 8 years now for alleged illegal dumping.
It looks like the Sheriff's Department and WBI have their work cut out for them.
Recycle This!
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The Wicomico County Sheriff's Department had the Wicomico County Recycling Center in a sort of lock down mode this morning. While I traveled from one location to the other, clearly people inside this area were concerned, yet quiet about what was going on. Once the cameras started snapping pictures everyone started moving around and the next thing I knew they were pulling out of there in rollbacks and heading over to the Crime Scene to load all the stolen merchandise. Why they had this particular area closed off this morning can only be that some of the material and items recovered came from this lot. Perhaps we'll know more at 3:00 today?
Illegal Diesel Fuel Tanks
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These were the tanks "I COULD SEE" from standing behind a barricade. Makes you wonder just how many others there could be on the Lewis Construction Site?
One of the things I learned while I was out there was that you must have a 3 foot concrete wall around each and every tank for safety. Not one of them was legal. Nor was the fuel stored inside.
A gentleman came by while I was standing out front and he said, does this have anything to do with diesel fuel? When I asked him why he was asking he replied, we've been missing a ton of diesel fuel, that's all. Hmmmmmmm?
It's A Convoy!
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Wicomico County stopped everything they were doing with their rollbacks and dispatched them to Lewis Construction with an entire Staff to load them. Ladies & Gentlemen, there's a lot of stuff at this location and this could go on for days. There were three trucks that came while I was there and they wasted no time at all taking back what was theirs. It simply makes you wonder just how many people knew about this and or were involved. The next Post will show the illegal Diesel storage tanks all over the place too.
EXCLUSIVE! Ray Lewis Goes Out In Handcuffs
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While the Sheriff's Department escorted Ray Lewis out the back door in handcuffs, I was the only one who caught it on camera. There are several other scenes in which I had the heads up on, no one else got. More to come.......
Rolling In The Sh!t!
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As the photos above clearly show tires being removed, if you click on the first photo you'll also see boxes upon boxes of Anti Freeze and Motor Oil also stored in this shed. The tires were rolling out like an assembly line and they haven't even started on the two warehouse buildings.
In another Post I'll show you the rollback trucks that were coming in one after the other to retrieve the County's assets. Between all the WBI Agents and County Employees, they were simply everywhere and everyone was absolutely amazed!
I'm told each tire is valued anywhere between $250.00 to $400.00 each!
If Fidel Castro Can Resign, So Can Russ Blake; or Must Pocomoke Citizens Wait another 17 Years?
Today Cuba has been freed by the yoke of slavery cast upon it by Dictator in Chief Fidel Castro since 1958. Fidel Castro announced today that he is resigning from the office of Supreme Diktator of Kuba and President for Life after clinging to power for 49-years.
Dictator Russell Blake, un-elected ruler of Pocomoke City, Maryland for 32-years can take a lesson from Fidel Castro (who like Russ has run his fiefdom with an iron fist) and simply resign, retain some dignity and fade away into the sunset.
X-Councilman Honiss Cane whom has had a seat at the table for 22-years without the formality of a second election could learn from Field Castros example.
The actions of X-Councilman Honiss Cane in illegally and immorally clinging to power combined with Dictator and Pocomoke President for Life, Russell Blakes, refusal to close the city’s open air drug market have caused the City government to lose credibility with the people and other government agencies.
Your corruption and evil ways have been exposed removing the small thread of credibility which people claimed for King Blake, that he could fill out a form to obtain free government money… The people have accepted dis-enfranchisement in exchange for crumbs off the government teat.
CITIZENS take a look at the waste land that is called downtown Pocomoke, watch the tumbleweeds blow and look at the EMPTY LOTS, King Blake tore down most of the buildings… Then cruise up Fourth Street to score some refreshing crack cocaine for the family to enjoy… This is the legacy that X-Councilman Cane & City manager for Life Russell Blake have left behind for the citizens.
The time of the iron fist dinosaur is over.
Thank you Mr. Castro for setting a fine example to the leaders of Pocomoke City to follow.
More Information on the Theft of Goods from Wicomico County
The following are more details relating to the theft of various goods from the Taxpayers of Wicomico County which were relayed to me by Joe Albero. Joe is currently out at A.S.A.P. Septic Service on Forest Grove Rd.
Pursuant to a 12 month investigation by the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office and the Wicomico County Bureau of Investigation, Sheriff Mike Lewis conducted a traffic stop at approximately 9:00 p.m. on 2/18/08 on a box truck which was travelling west on Rt. 50, west of Shorebirds Stadium in Parsonsburg, MD. The truck was subsequently searched and found to contain approx. 500 gals. of diesel fuel, tires, and misc. stolen truck parts.
A short time later, two search warrants were executed. One at the business address of Ray Lewis Construction and A.S.A.P. Septic Service on Forest Grove Rd. in Parsonsburg, MD, and the other at the office of Wicomico County Public Works in Salisbury.
The search of the Forest Grove Rd. premises revealed two large warehouse sized buildings filled from floor to ceiling with large containers of diesel fuel, tires, and truck parts which apparently belong to Wicomico County. It is believed that these items were intended for distribution in and around Maryland and Delaware.
Ray Lewis has been arrested. Three employees of Wicomico County are being questioned and it has been said that they are cooperating fully with police. Future arrests may involve some employees of the businesses owned by Ray Lewis.
Wicomico County is currently working on assembling a fleet of dump trucks to retrieve and transport the stolen items so that they can be stored on County property.
There will be a press conference at 3:00 p.m. today which, I understand, will clearly show the magnitude of the crime involved here.
More information to come as the case unfolds.
Pursuant to a 12 month investigation by the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office and the Wicomico County Bureau of Investigation, Sheriff Mike Lewis conducted a traffic stop at approximately 9:00 p.m. on 2/18/08 on a box truck which was travelling west on Rt. 50, west of Shorebirds Stadium in Parsonsburg, MD. The truck was subsequently searched and found to contain approx. 500 gals. of diesel fuel, tires, and misc. stolen truck parts.
A short time later, two search warrants were executed. One at the business address of Ray Lewis Construction and A.S.A.P. Septic Service on Forest Grove Rd. in Parsonsburg, MD, and the other at the office of Wicomico County Public Works in Salisbury.
The search of the Forest Grove Rd. premises revealed two large warehouse sized buildings filled from floor to ceiling with large containers of diesel fuel, tires, and truck parts which apparently belong to Wicomico County. It is believed that these items were intended for distribution in and around Maryland and Delaware.
Ray Lewis has been arrested. Three employees of Wicomico County are being questioned and it has been said that they are cooperating fully with police. Future arrests may involve some employees of the businesses owned by Ray Lewis.
Wicomico County is currently working on assembling a fleet of dump trucks to retrieve and transport the stolen items so that they can be stored on County property.
There will be a press conference at 3:00 p.m. today which, I understand, will clearly show the magnitude of the crime involved here.
More information to come as the case unfolds.
MASSIVE BREAKING NEWS
The Wicomico County Sheriff's Department has exposed a local businessman who allegedly conspired to steal more than $500,000.00 worth of diesel fuel, tires and parts. I will have more details after I return from the scene.
Ray Lewis of ASAP and Lewis Construction is one of the people arrested and allegedly involved along with THREE County Employees. Search Warrants have been served to Mr. Sharma's office, (he is NOT involved) and the County Landfill is shut down while under investigation.
This is huge Folks, stay tuned.
Ray Lewis of ASAP and Lewis Construction is one of the people arrested and allegedly involved along with THREE County Employees. Search Warrants have been served to Mr. Sharma's office, (he is NOT involved) and the County Landfill is shut down while under investigation.
This is huge Folks, stay tuned.
A New Blog Has Arrived, "On Your Side"
GO HERE to see the new Blog.
A Newsletter for Citizens from Salisbury City Council Members Deborah S. Campbell and Terry E. Cohen
February 15, 2008
About
Debbie Campbell
Debbie Campbell's fiscal management and research experience has resulted in millions of dollars for affordable housing programs throughout the country, including the City of Salisbury. She serves as the director of Special Projects for NHSA-CDFI, a national affordable housing lender.
Debbie's passion for service to local citizens led to her role today as a council member, built on a foundation of work with programs such as Weed and Seed
and continued through her efforts with the Wicomico Neighborhood Congress.
This record of service, including 15 years in affordable housing, resulted in Debbie's selection as one of Maryland's Top 100 Women for 2007.
About
Terry Cohen
Throughout most of her adult life, Terry Cohen has been an advocate for citizens and a leader in her community, championing issues instead of ideologies and putting the public interest above political gamesmanship.
In 1984 at age 26, she was appointed by the governor to a state commission to guide policy affecting the economic, legal and societal well-being of Maryland
citizens and their families. She was reappointed by the next governor in 1988.
Today, Terry brings her experience in legislative affairs and an extensive background in business (from small companies to Fortune 500 corporations),
education, technology and government to serve citizens from all walks of life.
Good News About Bad News
from the Audit Report:
Driving Positive Change
After years of late city audits and limited discussion about them, Debbie Campbell's dedication to the importance of an audit and sound management of taxpayer money has paid off, aided by Terry Cohen's added voice of fiscal responsibility and
accountability on the council. Here, Campbell and Cohen discuss their specific efforts to bring about positive change.
On February 14, our hard work on behalf of the citizens and taxpayers of Salisbury paid off. Council had a productive work session and arrived at consensus on a number of important next steps to rectify the growing problem of financial mismanagement in our city. This problem has escalated in recent years, according to our audit reports.
1. We responded to the administration's request for staffing in the Internal Services Department without unsoundly throwing bodies or money at a problem before we've determined its root cause. In the short term, the current auditor will provide personnel to bring up to date delinquent reconciliations as far back as
August 2007.
2. We successfully advocated for bidding the services of a regional auditor to examine the city's financial status, as well as the long-term staffing needs for
efficient and reliable operation of our city's financial department. This will result in recommendations to remedy the financial mismanagement that has plagued the city for years.
3. We ensured that the 5-year competitive bid process provided for in the charter was honored with a decision to bid out the annual audit.
The city still has funds illegally deposited in an uninsured/uncollateralized account. Unfortunately, the council president adjourned the meeting early,
before we could address charter changes needed to increase accountability and restore checks and balances. We will continue to pursue these important
components to ensure the health, efficiency and soundness of our financial and governmental operations.
A Special Note for Homeowners About the Homeowners Tax Credit
A change in state law to reduce tax fraud now requires homeowners to apply for their Homeowners Tax Credit, instead of receiving it automatically. You'll find the application form in your Maryland property tax assessment notice this month. To be eligible, you must answer five (5) questions on the application attesting to your home's use as your primary residence. This is a ONE-TIME application, but it
must be filed by April 1, 2008. To file electronically, go to:
http://www.dat.state.md.us/.
Look on left side of this site under property owners for additional information.
Homestead Tax Credit Questions: www.dat.state.md.us/sdatweb/Homestead_app.htm I seem to be having trouble with this link. I'm told if you copy it and paste it, it should work.
Homestead Eligibility Application:
https://sdathtc.resiusa.org/homestead
Also remember on your Maryland tax return to note thatyou live within the incorporated limits of Salisbury.
"The City did not prepare timely, accurate, and complete reconciliations of all cash and investment accounts....The lack of timely reconciliations and reviews...has impaired the City's ability to report reliable financial data." -- Trice Geary & Myers LLC Certified Public Accountants/Business Consultants
To read more, contact Campbell or Cohen for copies of the audit communications or internal control letter.
Moving Annexation Policy Forward with Affordable Housing
Councilwomen Campbell and Cohen have continued their efforts to improve annexation policy in Salisbury. They requested a special council meeting, held on
December 12, with the city's annexation consultant, Chris Jakubiak. During this meeting, language advocated by both councilwomen was tightened for the protection of the city and its citizens. A change in contract process recommended by Cohen was added.
Out of this meeting came a request for Campbell to provide a list of resources for affordable housing. Campbell explained that, in the process of obtaining the most current information regarding state resources, an opportunity evolved to bring the state's experts to Salisbury for a forum with developers interested in providing affordable and workforce housing for the citizens of Salisbury. Additionally,
Campbell shared a vision of how to significantly leverage developer contributions from the annexation process.
The model would provide a continuous financing mechanism in perpetuity for affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization in the city, without the
duplication of, or competition with, already successful and available non-profit services and resources in the city that would be encountered with the formation of a city-owned/managed community development corporation (CDC). The model also
maximizes the developer contributions for their intended purposes and could attract additional outside resources. Campbell credits a diverse group of volunteers with thinking through the mechanism needed to make the model a reality for the city. She is also convening an affordable housing forum for local developers on March 6.
Tenants, Homeowners Can Benefit from Rental Registration Information Now Online
Councilwomen Campbell and Cohen both urged the posting of current rental unit registration and landlord licensing information online. Tenants and homeowners
alike are excited about the easy access to information that should assist in assuring safe, code-complaint rental units in the city. Go to:
http://www.ci.salisbury.md.us/Departments/NeighborhoodServicesandCodeCompliance/tabid/536/Default.aspx
A Newsletter for Citizens from Salisbury City Council Members Deborah S. Campbell and Terry E. Cohen
February 15, 2008
About
Debbie Campbell
Debbie Campbell's fiscal management and research experience has resulted in millions of dollars for affordable housing programs throughout the country, including the City of Salisbury. She serves as the director of Special Projects for NHSA-CDFI, a national affordable housing lender.
Debbie's passion for service to local citizens led to her role today as a council member, built on a foundation of work with programs such as Weed and Seed
and continued through her efforts with the Wicomico Neighborhood Congress.
This record of service, including 15 years in affordable housing, resulted in Debbie's selection as one of Maryland's Top 100 Women for 2007.
About
Terry Cohen
Throughout most of her adult life, Terry Cohen has been an advocate for citizens and a leader in her community, championing issues instead of ideologies and putting the public interest above political gamesmanship.
In 1984 at age 26, she was appointed by the governor to a state commission to guide policy affecting the economic, legal and societal well-being of Maryland
citizens and their families. She was reappointed by the next governor in 1988.
Today, Terry brings her experience in legislative affairs and an extensive background in business (from small companies to Fortune 500 corporations),
education, technology and government to serve citizens from all walks of life.
Good News About Bad News
from the Audit Report:
Driving Positive Change
After years of late city audits and limited discussion about them, Debbie Campbell's dedication to the importance of an audit and sound management of taxpayer money has paid off, aided by Terry Cohen's added voice of fiscal responsibility and
accountability on the council. Here, Campbell and Cohen discuss their specific efforts to bring about positive change.
On February 14, our hard work on behalf of the citizens and taxpayers of Salisbury paid off. Council had a productive work session and arrived at consensus on a number of important next steps to rectify the growing problem of financial mismanagement in our city. This problem has escalated in recent years, according to our audit reports.
1. We responded to the administration's request for staffing in the Internal Services Department without unsoundly throwing bodies or money at a problem before we've determined its root cause. In the short term, the current auditor will provide personnel to bring up to date delinquent reconciliations as far back as
August 2007.
2. We successfully advocated for bidding the services of a regional auditor to examine the city's financial status, as well as the long-term staffing needs for
efficient and reliable operation of our city's financial department. This will result in recommendations to remedy the financial mismanagement that has plagued the city for years.
3. We ensured that the 5-year competitive bid process provided for in the charter was honored with a decision to bid out the annual audit.
The city still has funds illegally deposited in an uninsured/uncollateralized account. Unfortunately, the council president adjourned the meeting early,
before we could address charter changes needed to increase accountability and restore checks and balances. We will continue to pursue these important
components to ensure the health, efficiency and soundness of our financial and governmental operations.
A Special Note for Homeowners About the Homeowners Tax Credit
A change in state law to reduce tax fraud now requires homeowners to apply for their Homeowners Tax Credit, instead of receiving it automatically. You'll find the application form in your Maryland property tax assessment notice this month. To be eligible, you must answer five (5) questions on the application attesting to your home's use as your primary residence. This is a ONE-TIME application, but it
must be filed by April 1, 2008. To file electronically, go to:
http://www.dat.state.md.us/.
Look on left side of this site under property owners for additional information.
Homestead Tax Credit Questions: www.dat.state.md.us/sdatweb/Homestead_app.htm I seem to be having trouble with this link. I'm told if you copy it and paste it, it should work.
Homestead Eligibility Application:
https://sdathtc.resiusa.org/homestead
Also remember on your Maryland tax return to note thatyou live within the incorporated limits of Salisbury.
"The City did not prepare timely, accurate, and complete reconciliations of all cash and investment accounts....The lack of timely reconciliations and reviews...has impaired the City's ability to report reliable financial data." -- Trice Geary & Myers LLC Certified Public Accountants/Business Consultants
To read more, contact Campbell or Cohen for copies of the audit communications or internal control letter.
Moving Annexation Policy Forward with Affordable Housing
Councilwomen Campbell and Cohen have continued their efforts to improve annexation policy in Salisbury. They requested a special council meeting, held on
December 12, with the city's annexation consultant, Chris Jakubiak. During this meeting, language advocated by both councilwomen was tightened for the protection of the city and its citizens. A change in contract process recommended by Cohen was added.
Out of this meeting came a request for Campbell to provide a list of resources for affordable housing. Campbell explained that, in the process of obtaining the most current information regarding state resources, an opportunity evolved to bring the state's experts to Salisbury for a forum with developers interested in providing affordable and workforce housing for the citizens of Salisbury. Additionally,
Campbell shared a vision of how to significantly leverage developer contributions from the annexation process.
The model would provide a continuous financing mechanism in perpetuity for affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization in the city, without the
duplication of, or competition with, already successful and available non-profit services and resources in the city that would be encountered with the formation of a city-owned/managed community development corporation (CDC). The model also
maximizes the developer contributions for their intended purposes and could attract additional outside resources. Campbell credits a diverse group of volunteers with thinking through the mechanism needed to make the model a reality for the city. She is also convening an affordable housing forum for local developers on March 6.
Tenants, Homeowners Can Benefit from Rental Registration Information Now Online
Councilwomen Campbell and Cohen both urged the posting of current rental unit registration and landlord licensing information online. Tenants and homeowners
alike are excited about the easy access to information that should assist in assuring safe, code-complaint rental units in the city. Go to:
http://www.ci.salisbury.md.us/Departments/NeighborhoodServicesandCodeCompliance/tabid/536/Default.aspx
Councilwomen Campbell And Cohen To Hold Open Government Public Input Meeting
In response to ongoing constituent feedback regarding open government, Councilwomen Debbie Campbell and Terry Cohen invite citizens to share their ideas and concerns about increasing transparency in Salisbury city government during a public input meeting Thurs., Feb. 21, from 7-9 p.m. at Las Palmas Restaurant in the Goliath Shopping Center, next to Giant Food.
The scope of the topic runs the gamut from how meetings are conducted to gaining access to various types of information. Attendees are encouraged to bring a friend. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
The two council members have also launched a newsletter currently in distribution.
An online version can be viewed at: HERE
For more information, contact Councilwoman Campbell at 410-860-0893 or Councilwoman Cohen at 410-845-0296.
The scope of the topic runs the gamut from how meetings are conducted to gaining access to various types of information. Attendees are encouraged to bring a friend. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
The two council members have also launched a newsletter currently in distribution.
An online version can be viewed at: HERE
For more information, contact Councilwoman Campbell at 410-860-0893 or Councilwoman Cohen at 410-845-0296.
Councilwoman Terry Cohen On Bill Reddish
Councilwoman Terry Cohen will be on the Bill Reddish Show at 7:40 AM. That's WICO, 1320 AM.
Richard Hazel Has Passed Away
Mr. Dick Hazel passed away at his home this past Saturday at the age of 78. The former owner of Pepsi Bottling Company in Salisbury was well known for his giving nature throughout the Salisbury community and will be deeply missed. Mr. Hazel passed away from complications of Alzheimer's.
The viewing for Mr. Hazel will be at the Holloway Funeral Home Thursday, from 6 to 9 PM. The funeral will be held Friday at 2 PM at Oak Ridge Baptist Church. May God Bless Your Soul and Thank You for all you have given.
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