A Letter To The Editor: Government Grinches

It has come to my attention that Wicomico county employees may not raise funds for any charitable organization (actively or a simple flyer) other than United Way, which is forced on employees to participate in, they don’t get to choose where the money goes, they get to choose a focus area, and it has one of the highest overheads on the books.

This dilemma came to my attention when a friend of mine that works at the county jail stopped by to chat and was telling me that for the last couple of years or so the jail has been collecting and giving to organizations like Hallo, and several other local groups including ringing bells for The Salvation Army. Someone came up with the idea to try and add Bless Our Children to the list, mostly because they are a local group and are way behind their goal. The employees have now been told basically that they are done, no more solicitation at all unless approved by the Administrative Director. I know the county has rules on this but I would say that someone may want to revisit these rules. As an ethics teacher I have real issues with this situation and I’m sure that the courts will too if so perused. Not only is there a conflict of interest but it almost sounds like there may be ,,,, I’ll leave that alone. It is my understanding that the officers and staff have been doing this for may years and now it's illegal to do without the red tape.

Yes I know that all they have to do is get the authorization from the Admin. Director but from what I understand a lot of what they do is on the fly as with local groups (like Bless Our Children) when help is needed their EIC committee discusses it and how it will be done. Not only does it appear that the “red tape” would hinder any effort, but this type political behavior is in my opinion morally and ethically devoid of humanity.

Glad I’m retired, Wicomico, you have issues
Sandra D.