MUNICIPAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS: GREENBELT & MOUNT RAINIER
MAY/JUNE 2014
HAVRE DE GRACE IN TOP 20 LEGISLATIVE SESSION REVIEW ORIENTATION FOR PGCMA MEMBERS
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LGIT • 7225 Parkway Drive • Hanover MD 21076 443.561.1700 www.lgit.org CONTENTS MAY/JUNE 2014
ON THE COVER…Tourist attractions abound in the City of Havre de Grace, which was named #12 in the Smithsonian Magazine’s April feature listing America’s 20 Best Small Towns to visit in 2014. Situated at the confluence of the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay, the Concord Point Lighthouse, built in 1827, is one of the oldest lighthouses in continuous operation on the East Coast. Visitors can climb the lighthouse and explore the grounds, which include the keeper’s house. Congratulations to Havre de Grace on receiving this national recognition! Turn to page 8 to read about this picturesque Maryland city. (Photo by Adam Rybczynski) 4 Mount Rainier’s Green Team Achieves Green Results 4 Community Engagement Nets Greenbelt Over $100,000 6 8 Havre de Grace Named #12 on Top 20 Small Towns List 8 Maryland Municipal League Annual Convention Deadlines 10
Maryland Municipal League Annual Convention Schedule (UPDATED) 10
2014 Legislative Review 12
2014 Distinguished Legislator Award 18
2014 “Outstanding Friend of Municipal Government” Award Recipients 19
MML Orientation for Prince George's Officials 20
Great Idea 21
Upcoming Events and Meetings 22
Vol. 44 | No. 9 | May/June 2014 Municipal Maryland THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION of MARYLAND MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
Scott A. Hancock Publisher Karen A. Bohlen Editor-in-Chief Paula Chase Hyman Contributing Editor Thomas C. Reynolds Contributing Editor Sharon P. Easton Circulation Municipal Maryland (USPS 331-980), a publication for and about Maryland's cities and towns, is published nine times a year (monthly November through April and combined May/June, July/August and September/October issues) by the Maryland Municipal League, 1212 West Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. The Maryland Municipal League is a non-profit, non-partisan association of Maryland's cities and towns. Information in Municipal Maryland does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Maryland Municipal League. Postmaster: Send address changes to Municipal Maryland, 1212 West Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401 Second-class postage paid at Annapolis, Maryland 21401 For advertising rates contact: Whitfield Whylie, Allegra Print & Imaging, 103 Gibralter Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401 Telephone: 410-267-1200, Fax: 410-267-1992, [email protected] Subscription rate: $40/year
Telephone: 410-268-5514 Toll-Free: 800-492-7121 Fax: 410-268-7004 Web: www.mdmunicipal.org Email: [email protected]
Municipal Maryland | May / June 2014 | 3 MML Achievement Award: CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT GETS IT DONE Medium City Winner 3,000 – 10,000 Population: MOUNT RAINIER
MOUNT RAINIER’S GREEN TEAM By Jeannelle Branson Wallace ACHIEVES GREEN RESULTS City Manager, Mount Rainier
he Mount Rainier Green Team the Anacostia River by controlling was created to expand upon runoff and reducing pollutants. The the City’s efforts to promote Mayor and Council adopted the Mount a healthier and more envi- Rainier Urban Green Infrastructure ronmentallyT friendly home for Mount Master Plan (MR UGIMP) in February Rainier residents. Program goals includ- 2014. The purpose of the UGIMP is to ed cleaner water by reducing pollut- develop a comprehensive vision for ants into the Northwest Tributary of the implementing environmentally and Anacostia River, and ultimately into the financially sustainable stormwater Chesapeake Bay, and reducing fossil fuel management practices within the City. emissions. The Team took on the re- Because the City is 70% residential, sponsibility of creating several programs it was important for the MR UGIMP that support these efforts, to ensure that to analyze Low Impact Development Mount Rainier’s Sustainability Plan was (LID) controls that are applicable for more than a written but un-read shelf stormwater improvement. This was document that collected dust. accomplished in the MR UGIMP with a component called the Stormwater Design Toolbox which showcases specific green HOW IS THE PROGRAM SET UP? The stormwater management and green infrastructure techniques available within a Community Garden requires a $30 development or redevelopment process. annual membership fee from residents for a small plot to plant and grow one’s The Mount Rainier Bicycle Master Plan was also adopted by resolution to encourage vegetables. A Community Rain Garden more bicycling and less vehicular traffic through the development of an attractive was installed near the Maryland-National network of on-street bike lanes, connection to other modes of transportation Capital Park and Planning Commission (e.g., Metro Bus and Metro Rail), and a bike system that connects to surrounding (M-NCPPC) Nature Center to protect municipalities. One hundred bike racks were installed with a $25,000 grant award.
4 | May / June 2014 | Municipal Maryland WHAT DOES THE PROGRAM COST? There is no cost to the City for the Community Garden. Members who want to join pay a $30 annual fee for the purchase of seed, supplies and maintenance as they manage the program. The Rain Garden was installed on property owned and operated by M-NCPPC at no cost to the City. The Mount Rainier Urban Green Infrastructure Master Plan was developed by volunteers appointed to the Green Team at no cost to the City. The Bicycle Master Plan was created by the Green Team in consultation with the City’s Tree Commission and Mixed Use Town Center Committee, all of whom are volunteers. Participation in the rain barrel program requires residents to build or purchase rain barrels. The Composting Program cost the City $240 for the purchase of 60 compost bins. Since this was a trial period and all of the bins are now in use, an additional 60 bins are being purchased. The savings (see additional information below) outweigh costs. WHO BENEFITS? This is a win-win situation for everyone because (1) the Community Rain Garden helps reduce the amount of pollutants into the surrounding tributaries and the Anacostia River; (2) The Bicycle Master Plan encourages residents to exercise through increased bicycle use, thereby reducing pollutants and emissions from vehicles; (3) the composting program reduces the County’s Landfill waste volume, further saving the environment; and (4) the Green Infrastructure Master Plan identifies a combination of vegetation (e.g., trees, shrubs, grasses) planted in specialized soil beds to slow down, collect and filter stormwater runoff. IS THE PROGRAM INNOVATIVE? The Mount Rainer Urban Green Infrastructure This is a win-win situation Master Plan highlights bio-retention systems, and the City has been awarded $155,000 in grants to date to create a green street toward this effort. Examples of for everyone...helps reduce the bio-retention systems include rain gardens and green roofs (also referred to as living roofs or eco roofs) that use soil and plants in place of traditional roofing materials. amount of pollutants...further Such systems provide greater fire protection, remove airborne particulate matter, create wildlife habitat and space for food production while creating usable green saving the environment... space in urban environments. The City currently has one apartment building for artists that has a green roof. CAN YOU DEMONSTRATE TANGIBLE RESULTS? It is estimated that the composting program will save the City $95,000 in landfill tipping fees for food scraps and soiled paper over a 20-year useful life of the compost bins. This equals a savings of $4,750 per year. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that food scraps represent 14.1% of the waste stream – second only to paper that could be The City’s Composting Program composted – and are a larger portion of waste than plastic (estimated at 12.3%) and encourages residents to compost food yard waste (at 13.7%). Reducing the impact on the County’s landfill, preserving our scraps and soiled paper, as opposed planet, and savings to the City’s budget – priceless! to comingling with other non- contaminated household trash, thus CAN OTHER MUNICIPALITIES IMPLEMENT A SIMILAR PROGRAM? Any of these reducing both the City’s tipping fees and programs can be implemented with the help of citizen volunteers willing to put in the City’s impact on the Prince George’s the time and effort for an improved quality of life. A healthier living environment County Landfill. Earth Machine Compost is something that all residents should strive for. These programs provide an Bins are purchased and distributed to opportunity for individuals to take responsibility for creating environmentally friendly v citizens upon request at a reduced rate communities without an additional cost burden to city government. for residents. City residents voluntarily collect rain water by building and/or installing rain barrels on their property, For more information, contact Jeannelle Branson Wallace which saves them money and helps at 301/985-6585 or [email protected]. protect the Chesapeake Bay.
Municipal Maryland | May / June 2014 | 5 MML Achievement Award: CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT GETS IT DONE Large City Winner 10,000+ Population: GREENBELT
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT By Beverly Paulau NETS GREENBELT OVER $100,000 Public Information & Communications Coordinator, Greenbelt
everal years ago it became evident to the questionnaires about what they would like to see on their city’s website. City of Greenbelt that the way people Greenbelt used Facebook, Twitter, its website and the local newspaper to get their information was changing encourage citizens to fill out the questionnaire. The contest was based on S rapidly and mobile communication was how many people responded, and interviews on how a city would use the becoming more prevalent. To test the social site to engage the community. Through its efforts, Greenbelt won a complete media waters, the City created a Facebook Page website redesign and the services of CivicPlus for two years. The prize was in May 2009 to engage its citizens and provide valued at over $38,000. Greenbelt was pleased to now have another avenue opportunity for feedback. The Facebook page through which to engage its residents. grew rapidly, with almost 2,000 followers. On it, In 2013, the City of Greenbelt applied to the National Trust for Historic the City shared information about events, weather Preservation (NTHP) to have its Greenbelt Theatre preservation project emergencies, meetings, and posted pictures from considered for a Partners in Preservation (PIP) grant. Through a partnership numerous annual events. With the success of the with American Express, the NTHP works to increase the public’s awareness of Facebook page, Greenbelt soon followed that the importance of historic preservation in the United States and to preserve effort with a Twitter page, as yet another method America’s historic and cultural places. From over 100 contest applications, to engage its residents. They became important the Greenbelt Theatre was selected as a finalist to compete for a PIP grant tools of communication for the City and are used along with 23 other historical sites in the Washington, D.C. area. regularly, in addition to other traditional methods. Similar to the CivicPlus contest, the PIP contest was one where the public In 2012, wanting to add to its community helped decide which sites would receive grants. The top grant was $100,000, engagement toolbox, Greenbelt entered the with additional grants awarded based on how well the site did in the contest. CivicPlus “Extreme Website Makeover” contest. The contest was an exercise in community engagement, using social media CivicPlus specializes in providing award-winning outlets to generate votes for each project. Projects earned points daily by community websites that engage the community having people vote via e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Foursquare. by using a number of interactive modules. Having been successful in the past, Greenbelt was excited about the The contest involved getting citizens to fill out opportunity to compete in this type of contest.
6 | May / June 2014 | Municipal Maryland Greenbelt’s two recent Community Engagement campaigns, using traditional methods of communication along with many new millennium methods, have cost the City less than $1,000 and netted it more than $105,000 in funding.
The kickoff event, which was covered by the Theatre!” banner. Those pictures were posted on Facebook, Twitter, media, was held in Washington, D.C. and the Instagram and the City website. Two community listserves, Greenbelters. competing projects were introduced. For this com and the Greenbelt Community Group, became involved and helped event, the City sent representatives dressed in remind the community to vote daily. City employees received daily e-mail costumes from the 1930’s with posters, magnets reminders to vote. An open house was held at Roosevelt Center, where the and information on the Greenbelt Theatre. The theatre is located, and voting information was distributed. The Greenbelt challenge to engage the community and to get Theatre changed its marquee for the voting period to encourage people to citizens to vote for the theater was on! vote. In addition to the City’s Facebook Page, other Facebook Pages such as the Animal Shelter, the Recreation Department, the Arts Page, and Old Greenbelt embarked on a multi-pronged Greenbelt Days encouraged their fans to vote. community engagement process in support of its theatre project. Large banners and yard signs The community engagement and involvement for the Greenbelt Theatre reminding people to vote for the Greenbelt was overwhelming! Of the 24 sites, including very large and well known sites Theatre were placed throughout the City, as well such as the National Cathedral and Mount Vernon, the Greenbelt Theatre as ads in the local newspaper, teasers on the City’s volleyed between fourth and fifth place throughout the entire contest. With website, and daily announcements and updates over 1,000,000 votes, the Greenbelt Theatre received a $75,000 grant! on Facebook and Twitter. Local businesses and Greenbelt’s two recent Community Engagement campaigns, using traditional City facilities held registration stations at locations methods of communication along with many new millennium methods, have throughout Greenbelt to assist residents by using cost the City less than $1,000 and netted it more than $105,000 in funding. v laptops to register them for the contest and enable them to vote daily. A different Greenbelt organization was For more information, contact Beverly Palau at 240/542-2026 photographed daily holding a “Vote for Greenbelt or [email protected].
Municipal Maryland | May / June 2014 | 7 HavreNamed de #12 on Grace Top 20 Small Towns List
Havre de Grace has a history that pre-dates the Revolutionary War. When Gen- eral Marquis de Lafayette visited the seaport in the 1700s, he remarked that the town reminded him of the French town Le Havre. In 1785, inspired by the General’s comments, the town was incorporated as Havre de Grace. “This is a great honor and reflects the efforts of the entire community. Our city is culturally diverse and enjoys many layers of history,” stated Mayor Wayne Dougherty. In 2013 Havre de Grace kicked off the Commemoration of the War of 1812 in partnership with National Park Service and the Star Spangled 200 Chesapeake Campaign, re-enacting the events of the Attack on Havre de Grace in 1813. Havre de Grace also bolstered commerce with the Susque- n the three years since Smithsonian Magazine hanna Tidewater Canal System completed in 1840 and interconnected nearly began featuring the Best Small Towns to Visit, 4,000 miles of canals throughout the Midwest and Eastern United States. Havre de Grace is the first Maryland munici- pality to receive such recognition. The April Havre de Grace received a designation of the Main Street District in 2005 I and an Arts and Entertainment District in 2007. The City continues to show issue of Smithsonian Magazine features Havre de Grace at number twelve in the USA of places you support of the revitalization of the downtown and its architectural history should visit in 2014. Gathering data from the geo- through a vibrant Historic Commission, which created the Lafayette trail link- graphical information system ESRI, the editors re- ing all the historic properties with a blue line and number medallions that a searched towns with populations of 15,000 or less. visitor can follow on a self-guided tour. Havre de Grace, Maryland, a small town with big “Being featured by the Smithsonian Magazine has brought positive focus to charm, is rich with history, arts and natural beauty. Maryland and all our municipalities” commented Brigitte Peters, Manager of Located at the head of the Chesapeake Bay between Marketing and Tourism. Visit Havre de Grace's website www.hdgtourism. Wilmington, Delaware and Baltimore, Maryland, com to learn more. v
8 | May / June 2014 | Municipal Maryland OPPOSITE PAGE: SCENIC VIEWS ALONG THE PROMENADE LEADING TO THE CONCORD POINT LIGHTHOUSE. PHOTO BY ADAM RYBCZNSKI ABOVE: DOWNTOWN HAVRE DE GRACE. PHOTO BY WILLIAM WATSON TOP RIGHT: ANNUAL RE-ENACTMENT OF THE ATTACK ON HAVRE DE GRACE DURING THE WAR OF 1812. PHOTO BY MIKE PORTER RIGHT: VANDIVER MANSION BUILT IN 1835 BY MURRAY VANDIVER, STATE SECRETARY AND TREASURER OF MARYLAND, NOW IN OPERATION AS A BED AND BREAKFAST. PHOTO BY LEO HEPPNER BOTTOM: HAVRE DE GRACE’S VIBRANT MAIN STREET DISTRICT. PHOTO BY ADAM RYBCZNSKI
Municipal Maryland | May / June 2014 | 9 Maryland Municipal League Annual Convention
Convention Center • Ocean City June 8 – June 11, 2014
Deadlines: Hotel Reservations – May 8 Pre-Registration – May 16 Registration Changes/Cancellations (for refunds) – May 23 Register on-line at mdmunicipal.org
TRAINING & EDUCATION FOR MARYLAND’S MUNICIPAL OFFICIALS
10 | May / June 2014 | Municipal Maryland UPDATED MML 2014 CONVENTION PRELIMINARY PROGRAM
SUNDAY, JUNE 8, 2014 8:30 - 9:30 Business Meeting 7:30 - 1:00 Golf Tournament • Banner City/Town Award Recognition 1:00 - 5:30 Registration • HEAL Cities Recognition 1:00 - 4:00 Planning Commission Training 9:00 - 9:30 Snap Session: Police Interoperability 1:30 - 2:30 First Time Attendees & Newly Elected Officials Orientation 9:00 - 10:00 Public Works Department Meeting 2:45 - 3:45 Chapter Officers Briefing 9:30 - 2:30 Exhibits Open Workshop: Preventing Workplace Violence (E) Commerce Day in Exhibit Areas 3:00 - 3:30 Snap Session: Gold Level Engagement in MML 9:30 - 10:30 Coffee Break in Exhibit Areas 3:00 - 5:00 Workshop: Open Meetings Act (C) 10:00 - 11:30 Gubernatorial Candidates Forum 3:00 - 5:30 Revitalizing Communities with Smart Growth 11:30 - 12:00 Snap Session: Engagement Through Member Clicks 4:00 - 5:30 Workshop: Active Shooter Response 11:30 - 2:30 Lunch in Exhibit Areas 4:00 - 5:30 Board of Directors Meeting 11:45 - 12:15 New Officials Meet & Greet 4:30 - 5:00 Snap Session: It’s Tweet, Not Twit! 12:00 - 1:30 MML Past Presidents Luncheon 5:30 - 6:30 Welcome Reception 12:00 - 1:30 Municipal Clerks Association Luncheon 1:00 - 2:00 Dinner Table Reservations MONDAY, JUNE 9, 2014 1:30 - 3:00 Cabinet Secretaries Roundtable 7:00 - 7:30 HEAL Cities Walk & Mobile Learning Session: How to 2:30 - 4:00 Discussion Forums Conduct Walking Meetings • Small Towns 8:00 - 4:30 Registration • Large Cities 8:00 - 9:45 Workshop: Structure of Government (C) 2:30 - 4:30 Workshop: Municipal Budgeting (C) 8:30 - 9:30 Rehearsal for Parade of Flags 3:00 - 4:00 Workshop: Limits of Code Enforcement 8:45 - 9:45 Workshop: Digital Public Engagement 3:45 - 5:15 Smart Growth Subcabinet Meeting 9:00 - 9:30 Snap Session: Robert’s Rules of Order 6:00 - 9:30 Children’s Party 10:00 - 11:30 Opening General Session 6:00 - 7:00 Cash Bar • Parade of Municipal Flags 7:00 - 9:00 Inaugural Dinner • Achievement Awards • Distinguished Legislator Award • Keynote Address: Cal Ripken, Jr. • Municipal Officials Hall of Fame Inductions 11:30 - 4:00 Exhibits Open • Remarks by Governor Martin O’Malley (invited) 11:30 - 2:00 Lunch in Exhibit Areas • Induction of 2014-15 Board of Directors 12:00 - 1:30 Mayors Forum & Lunch • Background Music: On the Edge City & Town Administrators Lunch Meeting Municipal Attorneys Association Lunch Meeting WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11, 2014 1:30 - 2:30 Workshop: Keeping Up with an Aging Population 8:30 - 12:00 Registration 1:30 - 2:45 Workshop: Maryland’s Economic Outlook (E) 9:00 - 10:15 Workshop: Walkable, Bikeable Communities 2:00 - 3:30 Workshop: Improving Police Recruitment, Retention, and 9:00 - 10:30 Ignite! Session: Welcome to Municipal Government Future Leadership of Your Police Force 9:00 - 11:00 Workshop: Employment Issues (C) 2:00 - 4:00 Workshop: Public Information Act (C) 9:30 - 10:00 Snap Session: 55 Different Property Tax Credits 2:30 - 3:30 Refreshment Break 10:30 - 12:00 Workshop: Emergency Management Success Requires 3:00 - 4:15 Workshop: Talking with the New Media (E) Leadership (E) 3:00 - 4:15 Workshop: Hot Button Legal Issues (E) 11:00 - 12:30 Workshops: 4:00 - 5:00 Women in Government Service (WINGS) Meeting • The New ADA (E) 5:00 - 6:00 Prince George’s Elected Women Meeting • Bringing Civility to Public Discourse (E) 6:00 - 9:00 Eastern Shore Association of Municipalities Dinner 11:15 - 12:30 Convention Planning Committee Meeting Montgomery Chapter Dinner 12:45 - 2:15 New Board Member Orientation & Lunch 1:00 - 3:00 Eastern Shore BBQ & Picnic TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2014 2:30 - 3:30 Board of Directors Meeting 7:15 - 8:15 Prince George’s County Municipal Association Breakfast 8:00 - 4:30 Registration 8:00 - 9:00 Municipal Police Executives Breakfast Academy for Excellence in Local Governance Sessions 8:00 - 9:30 State Programs & Information to Assist Municipalities C = Academy core 8:00 - 8:30 Credentials Desk Open E = Academy Elective 8:30 - 9:45 Workshop: Municipal Election Issues (E)
Municipal Maryland | May / June 2014 | 11 2014 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW During the 2014 General Assembly legislative session, MML’s 32-member Legislative Committee met a total of six times to discuss and take positions on a total of 52 bills, of which 37 were support or support with amendment and 15 were oppose positions. Listed below are some of the more high profile bills that saw action this session. A complete listing of all the bills tracked by MML can be found by visiting the MML website at www.mdmunicipal.org and clicking on “Legislative Advocacy.”
LEGISLATION EFFECTIVE IN JUNE AND JULY, 2014 Legislation introduced by the Maryland Department of Planning (HB 510) to reauthorize the Sustainable Communities Tax Credit Program and to expand the program to include small commercial projects passed the General Assembly on the final day of the legislative session. An eligible project involves rehabilitation of a structure primarily used for commercial, income-producing purposes if qualified rehabilitation expenditures do not exceed $500,000 and the structure is located in a sustainable community. The legislation reauthorizes the Sustainable Communities Tax Credit Program through fiscal year 2017 and takes effect on June 1, 2014. Under HB 11, monies from the Bay Restoration Fund may now be used by a local government to connect properties served by on-site sewage disposal systems (septic systems) located outside municipal boundaries to existing municipal wastewater treatment facilities. Prior to lending support to the bill, the League confirmed with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) that this legislation would in no way allow MDE to force a municipality to extend sewer lines beyond municipal boundaries without the approval of the municipal government. The legislation takes effect on June 1, 2014. Legislation that as introduced would have required a municipality to submit copies of its campaign finance reports to the State Board of Elections was amended to instead require that a candidate running in a municipal election where a municipality requires campaign finance reports be filed with a city or town, the candidate must also provide a copy of his/her report to the State Elections Board within 10 days after the filing deadline. HB 827, introduced by Delegate Michael Summers (D-Prince George’s County) passed the General Assembly and takes effect on June 1, 2014.
12 | May / June 2014 | Municipal Maryland MML Makes Progress on Longtime Budget Priority
In an attempt to prevent lost property tax or the fifth year in a row, the MML a specific reporting structure or process. revenues when a tax-exempt religious, membership chose last fall to make The legislation, sponsored by Delegate charitable or educational property is sold and F transportation funding restoration Galen Clagett (D-Frederick), passed both is no longer eligible for tax-exempt status, the a League priority during the 2014 General houses and, should the Governor sign it into General Assembly passed legislation (HB 950) to Assembly legislative session. The drastic cuts law, goes into effect July 1, 2014. in highway user revenue (HUR) distributions make property taxes due on the date of transfer Several bills were introduced this year that to local governments since the onset of of a property rather than on the first day of the would have the effect of increasing, in some the national recession resulted in delayed next fiscal year. The legislation was introduced fashion, local monies for transportation road maintenance, elimination of long-term by Delegate Patrick Hogan (R-Frederick County) infrastructure. The League supported a transportation infrastructure projects, and and takes effect on June 30, 2014. number of these measures in accordance general budgetary belt-tightening in all of with our legislative priority. As originally introduced by Senator George Maryland’s 157 municipalities. Edwards (R-Allegany and Garrett Counties), SB 765 and HB 1331, sponsored by During the summer and fall of 2013, the Senator Richard Colburn (R-Eastern Shore) SB 605 would have authorized a municipal Local and Regional Transportation Funding and Delegate Neil Parrott (R-Washington corporation to provide a property tax credit to Task Force met several times to discuss County) would have restored HURs to pre- allow for rehabilitation of the upper stories of a funding options for local transportation recession levels. Under the pre-2009 commercial structure. The bill was amended in infrastructure. Members discussed various formula, local governments would receive the Senate to expand the tax credit to include local funding options and the potential 30% of the statewide monies generated rehabilitation of an entire existing commercial development of regional transportation from all or parts of the gas tax, title and structure. The legislation takes effect on June and transit bodies to administer the registration fees, rental car taxes and 30, 2014. raising of funds for large-scale projects. corporate income taxes, while the State Many suggested local funding options, Delegate Donald Elliott (R-Carroll County) was Department of Transportation would receive such as a vehicle registration surcharge, successful this year in passing legislation (HB the remaining 70%. Of the 30% share, would be insufficient for municipalities, municipalities would receive 2.6%, as 937) to require the Maryland Department of which have small populations and opposed to the current .4%. While MML the Environment ensure that monies from the limited revenue-raising abilities. Further, supported these bills, neither garnered a Water Quality Fund, the Bay Restoration Fund, despite the inclusion of local government favorable committee report and ultimately the Biological Nutrient Removal Program, and representatives on the Task Force, talk failed to advance. the Supplemental Assistance Program be fairly of highway user revenue restoration was and equitably distributed among wastewater resisted by the Task Force leadership. As SB 66 and HB 1067, sponsored by treatment facilities with a design capacity of less a result, the recommendations of the task Senator George Edwards (R-Western than 500,000 gallons per day. This legislation force largely put off the restoration decision Maryland) and Delegate Wendell Beitzel takes effect on July 1, 2014. to the General Assembly, while focusing (R-Western Maryland) were similar in nature. instead on regional transit projects. These bills, however, would have increased local receipts from the HUR formula to 20% LEGISLATION EFFECTIVE ON Nevertheless, the Governor included an over three years, with municipalities taking additional $16 million in his FY 2015 budget OCTOBER 1, 2014 in only 1.7% of the total funds. These for municipal transportation infrastructure The Maryland State Ethics Commission bills were not voted on in committee and needs. League staff closely monitored the therefore did not advance. introduced legislation this session (SB 91) budget process in the General Assembly to provide the Commission with the ability and engaged with House Appropriations Senator Richard Madaleno (D-Montgomery to issue a public notice if the Commission and Senate Budget & Taxation committee County) took a page out of the Local and determines that a local jurisdiction has not members and staff to ensure that the whole Regional Transportation Funding Task Force made good-faith efforts to comply with the allocation remained intact. Ultimately, the recommendation book when he introduced requirements of the State ethics law. Prior to budget passed with the $16 million in place, SB 629. This legislation would have given passage of this legislation, the Commission had and if the State Highway Administration counties and municipalities the authority to no other recourse to encourage a jurisdiction adheres to last year’s distribution schedule, raise revenues for transportation through a to come into compliance other than taking the municipalities should see these funds in vehicle registration surcharge, with matching jurisdiction to court. September of this year. funds from the Transportation Trust Fund. The surcharge gave counties the primary Reacting to situations where land purchased by authority to place a $20 maximum county a local government using Program Open Space Other Transportation Bills charge on vehicle registrations. Municipalities (POS) funding is not accessible to the public, Put forth in an effort to help local within the county would then be permitted to Delegate Pam Beidle (D-Anne Arundel County) governments justify the need for increased place a surcharge in any amount up to that introduced legislation (HB 1312) to require that transportation funding, HB 1059 would $20. The legislation never came to a vote and local governments ensure such land is made require recipients of HURs to report on the ultimately failed to pass. v accessible to the general public. Responding use of the monies to the State Highway Administration, Governor’s office and — Tom Curtin, Associate General Assembly. The bill does not delineate Governmental Relations & Research
Municipal Maryland | May / June 2014 | 13 RISE Bill Amended to Require Local Government Input
B 600/HB 742 were introduced in the Senate. After the Budget & Taxation to safety and liability concerns expressed by this legislative session as one of Committee voted favorably on the bill with MML and the Maryland Association of Counties, S three bills included in an economic a few minor amendments, the legislation the sponsor agreed to amendments to allow development package supported by the moved to the Senate floor where an local governments to consider the feasibility leadership of the House and Senate. These amendment was adopted to allow for a of providing public access to POS projects, bills provide for the creation of economic qualified institution to apply jointly with local rather than mandating that the land be made development zones around anchor government bodies and local economic completely open to public use. institutions such as universities and federal development corporations. While MML and agencies located in Maryland. Under the its local government partners were pleased After two contentious hearings, several Regional Institution Strategic Enterprise with the floor amendment, it did not go amendments, and a last-minute conference (RISE) Zone program, an institution would nearly far enough to ensure that local committee negotiation, the General Assembly apply to the Department of Business and governments had a say in the designation passed SB 401 – “Jonathan’s Law” – which Economic Development (DBED), and once of the zones or the allocation of tax credits requires inspections of wooden balconies qualified, could ask the Department to to local business entities. in some multifamily designate an economic development area dwellings every five Once the bill moved to the House, League around the institution. Business entities staff worked with members of the Ways years. The law as passed in the RISE Zone would then be eligible and Means Revenues Subcommittee states that a political for a variety of incentives, including local to craft amendments addressing our subdivision may conduct property tax credits. concerns. After a number of meetings, inspections, authorize a When League staff learned that local amendments were adopted to ensure that third party to conduct property tax credits envisioned in the no RISE Zone designation or local property inspections on its behalf, bill would be mandatory, span at least tax credit could be implemented without or certify inspections ten years, and local governments would the approval of a municipal government or completed by a professional inspector hired by not have a meaningful voice in the zone county, where applicable. Ultimately, the the owner of the building. Political subdivisions designation process, MML joined with the House passed heavily amended versions must also notify building owners of the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) of SB 600 and HB 742, and the Senate requirement to have their balconies inspected and Baltimore City in a coordinated effort to concurred with the House amendments. and allow adequate time to have the inspection heavily amend the legislation. Both bills will be presented to the Governor completed. for his signature. v Efforts to involve local governments in the RISE Zone designation and economic — Tom Curtin, Associate BILLS REFERRED TO STUDY incentive process were met with resistance Governmental Relations & Research HB 658, introduced by Delegate Jill Carter (D-Baltimore City), would have established a State Public Information Act Compliance Board similar in nature to the existing Open Meetings Compliance Board. This legislation was amended to refer the establishment of such a board, along with other Public Information Act related issues, to the Joint Committee on Transparency and Open Government for further study. The Joint Committee will report its findings to the General Assembly by January 1, 2015.
BILLS THAT DID NOT PASS A bill (HB 25) introduced by Delegate Ron George (R-Anne Arundel County) would have required that all municipalities that currently require an individual requesting an absentee ballot to provide a reason that the individual is unable to vote on election day to move to “no excuse” absentee voting. The bill passed the House, but was not voted out of Committee in the Senate in time for passage.
14 | May / June 2014 | Municipal Maryland Speed Camera Reform Act of 2014
Senator Alan Kittleman fter a failed attempt during the (R-Howard County) 2013 General Assembly session, and Delegate Susan the Maryland General Assembly Krebs (R-Carroll County) A successfully passed speed camera introduced legislation (SB 847/HB 157) that reform legislation (HB 929/SB 350) would have added on the final day of the 2014 legislative an agenda to the list session. The legislation had the support of documents to be of MML, the Maryland Association of released prior to a meeting covered by the Counties (MACo), and AAA Mid-Atlantic. Maryland Open Meetings Act. MML submitted The key components of the legislation amendments to provide flexibility as to the are as follows: timing and content of the agenda and the bill was further amended to instead study the issue. Prohibits a local jurisdiction from making Although neither bill passed, it is possible that a vendor’s fee contingent on a per-ticket the Joint Committee on Transparency and basis on the number of citations issued Requires all speed camera signage Open Government may still decide to look at the or paid (the so-called “bounty system”) to comply with State Highway agenda issue as it relates to the Maryland Open – existing contracts may continue for no Administration standards. Meetings Act. more than three years with no automatic As part of a continuing effort to better focus State renewals during the three year period. Requires each local jurisdiction with a financial disclosure requirements for municipal speed camera program to designate officials, SB 913 and HB 1369, introduced by Requires each local jurisdiction with a a program administrator to oversee Senator Jamie Raskin (D-Montgomery County) speed camera program to create an the program and participate in a best and Delegates Jim Gilchrist (D-Montgomery “ombudsman” to respond to citizen practices training course at least once County) and Jeannie Haddaway-Ricio questions and concerns and void every two years. (R-Caroline, Dorchester, Talbot & Wicomico erroneous violations so that a citizen Counties) would have provided better security does not have to go to court to fight an Requires a local jurisdiction’s contract over the distribution of personal information and erroneous citation. with a speed camera vendor to contain restricted real estate disclosures to only those certain penalty and cancellation properties located within the county. Neither Requires the Maryland Police clauses if the vendor submits a certain the Senate Education, Health and Environmental Training Commission to compile and percentage of erroneous violations for Affairs nor the House Environmental Matters make publicly available an annual review or violates the law. Committees moved the bills out of committee. performance report on or before December 31 for each local speed Requires that the annual calibration of For the second year in a row, legislation (HB camera program to include a variety of a speed camera be conducted by an 492) that would restrict a municipality’s ability different components of a local speed independent calibration laboratory that to establish a different property tax for a specific camera program (enumerated in the is selected by the local jurisdiction and classification of property was introduced legislation). is unaffiliated with the manufacturer of by Delegate William Frick (D-Montgomery the speed camera system. County). This year’s legislation would have Defines “school zone” in State law to again restricted the establishment of specific mean an area within one-half mile of a Clarifies that a duly authorized law property tax subclasses to those subclasses K-12 school where students are walking enforcement officer must review every currently enumerated in law and would have or bicycling to school, or being picked up issued citation. also required an ordinance separate from a or dropped off and can only be installed budget ordinance be used to establish such on a road with a minimum speed limit of The bill takes effect on June 1, 2014 and classifications of property. Based on input 20 m.p.h. and a maximum speed limit it is likely that a speed camera training from members of the House Ways and Means of 35 m.p.h. program will be offered within the next Revenues Subcommittee, MML was encouraged several months for program administrators to compromise by agreeing to an amended Prohibits a local jurisdiction from issuing and ombudsmen. v version of the bill that would have only required citations when moving a camera to a new location until at least 15 calendar a separate ordinance be passed when creating — Candace L. Donoho, Director such classes. The bill as amended passed the days after required standard signage is installed. Governmental Relations
Municipal Maryland | May / June 2014 | 15 First Year in the Books!
hile this was my third legislative House but did not move out of the Senate Budget session in Annapolis, I am and Taxation Committee prior to midnight on W celebrating my first with the the final day of session. Maryland Municipal League. I worked briefly with the League on an issue during SB 56/HB 240 was introduced ostensibly to my first session, and when presented with establish a task force to study recycling and the opportunity to come to work for MML, landfill disposal rates. However, the legislation I was promised that “you won’t meet more as introduced was very prescriptive and people, more quickly, in Maryland than by anticipated the findings of the task force before taking a job with the Maryland Municipal the group was formed. The House passed HB League.” I didn’t know how right that was! 240, but ultimately both the House and Senate bills received an unfavorable report in the Senate The chapter legislative dinners in the fall and Education, Health and Environmental Affairs winter provided a forum to not only get to know our members, but also to meet many Committee. Senators and Delegates with whom I had Legislation to allow previously been unfamiliar. The congenial We advocate on behalf of our members, counties to enact a settings were a precursor to the legislative but at the end of the day, we are local plastic bag fee was session, where I mixed testimony during government partners with our state introduced again this hearings and official meetings by day with representatives in the General Assembly and legislative session, but more pleasant conversation and friendly the administration. MML has a well-earned never moved out of follow-up during evening receptions. reputation for honesty and integrity in a either House or Senate As we moved into the long days of session town where they film House of Cards. As the committee. SB 707/ when committee hearings run well past 2014 legislative session comes to a close, HB 718 would have dinner time and the stack of bills on my I remain confident that our status as good authorized specified retail establishments to desk neared a dangerous tipping point, I and honest partners continues to carry the charge a fee on disposable carryout bags. The saw clearly just how many issues impact our day for municipal government in Maryland bill required that a portion of the monies be members. I also saw how effective MML’s and I look forward to spending many more remitted to a county to be used specifically for well-oiled legislative team is and when sessions advocating on behalf of our hard- community greening, stormwater control, trash issues became politically complicated, I saw working and dedicated membership. v or litter cleanup, recycling programs and projects over and over again why MML is known as — Tom Curtin, Associate and other projects related to water quality an organization that “plays it straight.” This Governmental Relations & Research improvement or solid waste source reduction. credo strikes at the core of the League’s highly-regarded and credible representation Bottle deposit legislation was also introduced in Annapolis. again this session and met the same fate as in past years. SB 394, introduced by Senator Brian Frosh (D-Montgomery County), would The Maryland Municipal League have required that a beverage sold in Maryland needs your input... include a five-cent deposit, with the monies divided between distributors, retailers and local governments. The bills failed in both the Senate Is there a Maryland statute that needs to be changed to enable you, as a municipal official, to do your job better? Finance and the Senate Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committees. Have you received citizen complaints that you could not address because you needed legislative authority? A constitutional amendment authorizing the General Assembly to allow municipalities to Are there outdated provisions in Maryland law that need to purchase streetlights failed in both the House be modernized or streamlined? and Senate. Introduced by Delegate Alfred Carr Each spring, MML solicits input from our membership to enable us to establish our legislative (D-Montgomery County) and Senator Jamie priority issues. Now is the time to submit ideas that could be improved with a legislative “fix” Raskin (D-Montgomery County) (HB 729/ for the 2015 legislative session. SB 979), the bills addressed a situation where Suggested legislative priorities may be submitted by a member municipality, chapter or department by completing a Legislative Action Request (LAR) and sending it to MML no later than Friday, July 11, 2014. Please note that all LARs must be approved by the governing body of the municipality, department or chapter prior to submission. To download the LAR form, visit www.mdmunicipal.org, click “Legislative Advocacy” and select “2015 Legislative Action Request.”
16 | May / June 2014 | Municipal Maryland 2014 BILLS Bill Number Bill Title Pass?
HUR BILLS HB 1059 Transportation - Highway User Revenues - Local ✔ a local government attempts to purchase Government Reporting streetlights from a utility but the value placed on SB 765 / HB 1331 Transportation - Motor Fuel Tax and Highway User ✘ the equipment by a utility is not considered fair Revenue - Increased Local Share market value. SB 66 / HB 1067 Transportation - Motor Fuel Tax and Highway User ✘ Revenue - Increased Local Share Under the Local Government Tort Claims Act SB 629 Counties and Municipalities - Vehicle Registration Fee ✘ (LGTCA), an action may not be brought against Surcharge a local government or its employees unless ECONOMY AND TAXES notice of the claim is received within 180 days SB 600 / HB 742 Regional Institution Strategic Enterprise Zone Program ✔ of the alleged injury giving rise to the claim. HB 950 Property Tax - Charitable, Educational, or Religious ✔ SB 689, introduced by Senator Bobby Zirkin Properties - Tax on Formerly Exempt Property (D-Baltimore County) sought to eliminate the SB 605 Property Tax Credit - Commercial Structures - ✔ notice requirement altogether. The League Rehabilitation opposed SB 689 insisting the “good cause” HB 492 Municipal Property Taxes - Annual Budget Ordinance and ✘ provision in existing law strikes an appropriate Special Rates balance in protecting the interests of both local MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS governments and potential plaintiffs. HB 827 Municipal Elections - Campaign Finance Reports - ✔ Submission of Copies to the State Board of Elections SB 987/HB 1271 would have eliminated the HB 25 Local Government - Municipal Elections - No-Excuse ✘ LGTCA notice requirements in cases where an Absentee Voting injury was a result of exposure to lead-based ENVIRONMENTAL BILLS paint and HB 809 would have eliminated LGTCA HB 510 Sustainable Communities Tax Credit Program - Extension ✔ protections in cases where an injury arose from and Alteration an incident on an artificial turf athletic field. The HB 11 Environment - Bay Restoration Fund - Authorized Uses ✔ House Judiciary Committee voted unfavorably HB 937 Wastewater Treatment Facilities - Distribution of Financial ✔ on this legislation in March. SB 689, SB 987 Assistance and HB 1271, and HB 809 all failed to receive HB 1312 Program Open Space Sites - Public Access ✔ a favorable vote in their respective committees. SB 56 / HB 240 Environment - Solid Waste Management Practices - ✘ Maryland Recycling and Landfill Diversion Task Force Senator Ron Young (D-Frederick), along with SB 707 / HB 718 Community Cleanup and Greening Act of 2014 ✘ Delegate William Frank (R-Baltimore), led efforts ✘ again this year to pass legislation allowing local SB 394 Statewide Container Recycling Refund Program governments to post legal notices online rather ETHICS than in print newspapers. The legislation (SB SB 91 State Ethics Commission - Local Governments and School ✔ 397/HB 1261) was a League priority in 2012. The Boards - Compliance Enforcement bills were ultimately voted unfavorably in both SB 913 / HB 1369 Ethics Law - Financial Disclosure Statement by Elected ✘ Local Official of Municipal Corporation - Confidential the House and Senate committees. v Information — Candace L. Donoho, Director SPEED CAMERAS Governmental Relations HB 929 / SB 350 Speed Monitoring Systems Reform Act of 2014 ✔
OTHER SB 401 Public Safety - Building Codes - Balcony Railing ✔ Inspections (Jonathan’s Law) HB 658 Jnt Comte on Transparency & Open Govt - Study on ✔ Appeals Under the Maryland Public Information Act For more information on any of the legislation listed SB 847 / HB 157 Jnt Comte on Transparency & Open Govt - Study on ✘ Public Bodies Providing Agendas Under the Open above or any legislation listed on the MML website, Meetings Act ✘ please contact a member of MML’s legislative team. HB 729 / SB 979 County and Municipal Street Lighting Investment Act To view bills and supporting documentation online, LEGAL AND LIABILITY BILLS please visit www.mgaleg.maryland.gov. SB 689 Local Government Tort Claims Act and Maryland Tort ✘ Claims Act - Repeal of Certain Notice Requirements SB 987 / HB 1271 Local Government Tort Claims Act - Injury From Lead- ✘ Based Paint - Application of Notice Requirement HB 809 Local Government Tort Claims Act - Damages Sustained ✘ on Artificial or Synthetic Turf Playing Fields SB 397 / HB 1261 Political Subdivisions - Legal Notice Requirements - ✘ Posting on Web Sites
Municipal Maryland | May / June 2014 | 17 2014 DISTINGUISHED LEGISLATOR AWARD Senate President Thomas V. “Mike” Miller, Jr.
he past five years have been Senate leadership. Under the Regional among the most difficultInstitution Strategic Enterprise (RISE) economically for Maryland’s Zone program, business entities were cities and towns as elected and eligible for a variety of incentives, T including county and municipal appointed officials have struggled to provide necessary municipal services property tax credits. However, the with fewer and fewer state shared legislation upon introduction allowed resources. For this reason, the League virtually no local government oversight has adopted a legislative initiative for or approval authority. Working with the past five years seeking to restore local government stakeholders, MML municipal Highway User Revenues, and proposed amendments to ensure that with the help our 2014 Distinguished no RISE Zones were created without Legislator, Senate President Thomas the approval of local governments, and V. “Mike” Miller, Jr., 2014 was the President Miller was instrumental in League’s most successful year to date ensuring that these amendments were in recovering a significant portion in adopted when the bill moved in the lost transportation monies. Senate. Those in attendance at the 2013 MML When Highway User Revenues were fall conference may recall that when first reduced by 96% in fiscal year 2010, President Miller offered his keynote municipal transportation funds dropped remarks, he expressed his strong support to their lowest level in history. Since President Miller worked to for the Governor including another then, municipalities have only received allocation of transportation grant a total of 25% of what they would have funding specifically for municipalities received in pre-recession times. As the assure that an additional $16 in the FY 2015 budget. This was similar economy in Maryland continues to to what was provided for municipalities improve, it is apparent that a long-term million for Maryland's city and in the previous fiscal year because, solution to local transportation project “Municipalities have few options when it funding must be found. Municipalities town transportation projects comes to raising revenue for local road cannot continue to develop budgets maintenance needs.” From that day based on an unpredictable, year-to-year remained in the budget. forward, Senator Miller has not wavered allocation with no sustainable revenue in his support. When the Governor stream in place to address increasingly included an additional $16 million in critical transportation infrastructure the FY 2015 budget specifically for needs across the State. Thanks to leaders Maryland’s city and town transportation like President Mike Miller, the recovery projects, President Miller made it clear of a significant portion of these monies that the money was to stay in the during the past two budget years has budget. been a much-needed lifeline and we know that Senator Miller will work with As with any legislative session, the us as we explore options together to budget, although extremely important reinstate a transportation partnership to municipalities, was not the only issue between the State of Maryland and its of interest. Legislation to provide for cities and towns. v the creation of economic development zones around universities and federal agencies was introduced by House and
18 | May / June 2014 | Municipal Maryland 2014 “OUTSTANDING FRIEND OF MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT” AWARD RECIPIENTS
n “Outstanding Friend of Municipal Government” is a legislator who strongly and consistently supports his/her municipalities and works closely with MML on legislation impacting cities and towns throughout the General Assembly session. Award recipients often speak on the House A or Senate floor in support of municipal government, and consult frequently with MML staff and membership to discuss the impact of legislation on Maryland’s cities and towns. They are in frequent contact with League representatives and their doors are always open to discuss an issue that may positively or negatively impact Maryland’s cities and towns. During the 2014 General Assembly session, the individuals listed below went “over and above” on behalf of municipal government in Maryland by introducing legislation that specifically benefitted their municipalities or municipalities in general. Many of these individuals also advocated for amendments to bills or monitored the State budget process to ensure that municipalities were treated fairly and equitably. We congratulate them and thank them for their strong and consistent support of the Maryland Municipal League and our elected and appointed municipal officials throughout the State.
SENATORS DELEGATES David R. Brinkley Speaker of the House Michael E. Busch James E. Malone, Jr. Richard F. Colburn Kumar P. Barve Herb McMillan George C. Edwards Pamela G. Beidle Neil C. Parrott Edward J. Kasemeyer Wendell R. Beitzel David D. Rudolph Richard S. Madaleno, Jr. Alfred C. Carr Kelly Schulz James N. Mathias, Jr Donald B. Elliott Michael G. Summers Jamie Raskin Norman H. Conway Geraldine Valentino-Smith James C. Rosapepe Tawanna P. Gaines Jay Walker Ronald N. Young Sheila E. Hixson Alonzo T. Washington
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS FOR MML COMMITTEES
re you interested in serving on one of MML’s committees in FY 2015? If so, please complete A the Committee Volunteer Form that is on MML’s website. Visit www.mdmunicipal.org and click on the Volunteer Opportunities bar in the center of the home page and indicate which of the following committee(s) interest you:
Communications Committee
Convention Planning Committee
Legislative Committee
Hometown Emergency Preparedness Committee (HEPAC)
VOLUNTEER FORMS WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE AT MML’S CONVENTION. FORMS MUST BE RETURNED TO MML BY JUNE 18.
Municipal Maryland | May / June 2014 | 19 MML ORIENTATION FOR PRINCE GEORGE'S OFFICIALS
he Prince George’s County Municipal Association (PGCMA) hosted MML’s inaugural chapter-sponsored Orientation for Municipal Officials (OMO) on March 20. Nearly 50 officials from 18 municipalities T gathered in the City of Greenbelt’s council chambers to hear from Academy for Excellence in Local Governance presenters and a previous PGCMA President about topics ranging from open meetings to risk management.
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3 4 5
[1] Greenbelt Mayor Emmett Jordan and Edmonston Vice [4] Officials eagerly participated as they were polled by one Mayor Tracy Farrish Gant are all smiles after a successful of the evening’s presenters. OMO. [5] Within small groups, the participants discussed which [2] Elected and appointed officials learn side-by-side. form of government they believe their municipality has. [3] Laurel Council President Fred Smalls, a Past President of PGCMA , shared examples of types of gatherings covered under the Open Meetings Act.
20 | May / June 2014 | Municipal Maryland SOLAR POWER = SAVINGS in Denton
A recently completed 1,760 solar panel system in Denton is expected to produce 740 megawatt hours of electricity in its first year of operation. All of the power generated from the solar installation will be used by Denton’s wastewater treat- ment facilities to offset a portion of their utility electricity con-
sumption. Urban Grid developed and arranged financing for Pictured are Denton Town Council Members Robert the project through a long-term Power Purchase Agreement Clendaniel, Abby McNinch, Lester Branson, Mayor with the Town. Denton will purchase all of the electricity gener- Dennis Porter, and Urban Grid’s Frank DePew and Marta Tomic, and Chris Ichter from Clark EcoEnergy ated from the solar array at a discount compared to its cur- at the ribbon cutting for the solar panel system. rent cost of electricity, providing the Town with significant pro- jected savings over the 25-year term. According to Denton Mayor Dennis Porter “the Town’s goal was to reduce energy costs, especially at its Public Works facilities. Our new Enriched Nutrient Re- covery plant alone increased Denton’s monthly energy usage by 40%. This project will allow us to keep the tax rate and our water and sewer rates down, especially over the long term of the contract. It allows us to invest in renewable energy at no cost to the Town, and at the end of the contract we can purchase the system for minimal cost.” For more information contact Denton Town Administrator Donald Mulrine, [email protected], or 410/479-2050. GREAT IDEA GREAT
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Municipal Maryland | May / June 2014 | 21 events & UPCOMING meetings
MARYLAND MUNICIPAL LEAGUE • 410-268-5514 MAY 2014 ANNUAL CONVENTION 8 Municipal Attorneys Department, Grasonville June 8-11, 2014 Ocean City Convention Center 14 Southern Maryland Chapter, La Plata June 28-July 1, 2015 Ocean City Convention Center 14 Allegany/Garrett Chapter, Cumberland FALL CONFERENCE
events 15 Prince George’s Chapter, Seat Pleasant September 11-13, 2014 Annapolis October 25-28, 2015 Cambridge 15 Montgomery Chapter, Washington Grove meetings 16 Communications Committee, Annapolis NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES • 202-626-3105 19 Washington Chapter ANNUAL CONGRESS OF CITIES & EXPOSITION November 18-22, 2014 Austin, Texas 22 Code Enforcement and Zoning Officials Association, November 4-7, 2015 Nashville, Tennessee Rockville CONGRESSIONAL CITIES CONFERENCE 28 Executive Committee, Annapolis March 7-11, 2015 Washington, DC JUNE 2014 March 5-9, 2016 Washington, DC 8 Board of Directors, Ocean City INTERNATIONAL CITY/COUNTY MANAGEMENT 9 Montgomery Chapter, Ocean City ASSOCIATION • 202-962-3540 9 City & Town Administrators Department, Ocean City ANNUAL CONVENTION 9 Municipal Attorneys Department, Ocean City September 14-17, 2014 Charlotte, North Carolina September 27-30, 2015 Seattle, Washington 9 Eastern Shore Chapter, Ocean City 10 Municipal Clerks Department, Ocean City 10 Municipal Police Executives Association, Ocean City Proven Value 10 Municipal Public Works Department, Ocean City Through Best-in-Class Codification Services 10 Prince George’s Chapter, Ocean City 11 Board of Directors, Ocean City 11 Convention Planning Committee, Ocean City JULY 2014 17 Cecil-Harford Chapter
Rise Municipal Ad_Final.pdf 1 4/29/14 5:02 PM 28 Washington Chapter, Williamsport Toll Free: 855.GEN.CODE www.generalcode.com
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