Dorchester County Council met Aug. 7.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
The County Council of Dorchester County met in regular session on August 7, 2018 with the following members present: Ricky C. Travers, President; Tom C. Bradshaw, Vice President; William V. Nichols, Rick M. Price and Don B. Satterfield. Also present were Jeremy Goldman, County Manager, and Donna Lane, Executive Administrative Specialist.
REGULAR SESSION
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilman Bradshaw led the invocation and the pledge of allegiance.
CALL FOR ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO AGENDA
Jeremy Goldman, County Manager, advised that there is one addition, FY18 Budget Transfer Requests. The Council approved the amended agenda.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES- JULY 17, 2018
The Council approved the minutes of July 17, 2018.
APPROVAL OF DISBURSEMENTS
The Council approved the vouchers as presented with Councilman Travers abstaining for payments made to Simmons Center Market and Councilman Price abstaining from payments made to DGH.
FINANCIAL REPORT: CASH AND INVESTMENTS
Councilman Travers reported total cash and investments as $3,704.078.
CLOSED SESSION SUMMARY
The Council convened into Regular Session on August 7, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. in Room 110, County Office Building, 501 Court Lane, Cambridge, Maryland 21613 and motioned to adjourn into Closed Session pursuant to Title 3 of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Annotated Code, pursuant to $3-305(b)(1) to discuss the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, or performance evaluation of appointees, employees, or officials over whom it has jurisdiction. Present were: Ricky C. Travers, President; Tom C. Bradshaw, Vice President; William V. Nichols, Rick M. Price and Don B. Satterfield. Also present were Jeremy Goldman, County Manager, and Donna Lane, Executive Administrative Specialist. Voting in favor of the Closed Session were all of the present Council Members.
The Council convened in a Closed Session on August 7, 2018 at 5:31 p.m. to discuss the following items: 1) approved the request of the Planning and Zoning Director to hire an individual to fill a vacant Planning and Zoning Technician position by a 5 to 0 vote; 2) approved the request of the Soil Conservation Manager to hire an individual to fill a vacant Grant Planner position and an individual to fill a vacant Grant Technician Position by a 5 to 0 vote; 3) approved the request of the Finance Director to hire an individual for the Assistant Finance Director position and an individual for the Treasury Manager position by a 5 to 0 vote; 4) approved the request of the Director of the Department of Corrections to hire an individual to fill a Maintenance position at the Detention Center by a 5 to 0 vote; and, 5) approved the request of the Director of the Department of Corrections to hire two individuals to fill vacant Probationary Correctional Officer positions by a 5 to 0 vote. Present were: Ricky C. Travers, President; Tom C. Bradshaw, Vice President; William V. Nichols, Rick M, Price and Don B. Satterfield. Also present were Jeremy Goldman, County Manager; and Donna Lane, Executive Administrative Specialist. The purpose of the Closed Session is also set forth in the Written Statement of Closing a Meeting Under the Open Meetings Act, which will be provided upon request. Voting in favor of the Closed Session were all of the present Council members.
REGULAR SESSION
COMMENDATION-TRI-CITY LITTLE LEAGUE GIRLS SOFTBALL TEAM
The Council presented a Commendation to the District 6 Tri-City Little League Girls Softball team for earning the Maryland State Championship and the coaches, parents and community for leadership, direction and support. Councilman Nichols recognized Joe Warfield for his 10 plus years at Cambridge International, noting he is leaving to pursue another job opportunity. He wished him well.
INTRODUCTION-DR. CLIFF COOPERSMITH, PRESIDENT, CHESAPEAKE COLLEGE
Dr. Cliff Coopersmith, the new President of Chesapeake College, stated that he is joined by Victoria Jackson-Stanley, Mayor, City of Cambridge, and a Board of Trustees Member; Lucy Hughes, Vice President, Institutional Advancement, and Tim Jones,
Finance and Facilities Operations. He thanked the Council and Dorchester County for its support of the College, particularly this last budget year. He said he is looking forward to working with them. He noted that he has been visiting with Mid Shore leaders, Superintendents of Schools, County Managers, business and industrial leaders with the goal of focusing on workforce investment. He expressed his appreciation to the Council for its support of the College.
DORCHESTER GOES PURPLE OVERVIEW
Mike Starling, Manager, WHCP, said Bill Christopher, Executive Director, Dorchester Chamber of Commerce, is present. He stated that the Chamber and Sheriff James Phillips are sponsoring the Dorchester Goes Purple Campaign, which is an awareness campaign that focuses, in particular, on the surge of opioid abuse but also encompasses all of types of substance abuse. He said he has personally been impacted, noting his mother is in recovery from prescription medication overuse after a serious a car accident, Mr. Starling said he is the Chair of the Committee for this initiative and the following are members: William Jones, State's Attorney; Anna Sierra, Emergency Services Director; Nancy Shockley, Local Management Board Director, Angela Mercier, Health Department; Arcelius Brickhouse, Director of Student Services, Dorchester County Public School System; Sandy Hale of Merrill Lynch; Lori Nagel of the Whitten Group, LLC and Gerry Boyle, Ironman Maryland. He said the Chamber staff provides assistance to the Committee.
Mr. Starling said : 1) Ms. Hughes spearheaded this campaign beginning with Talbot County which now includes Caroline, Queen Anne, Kent, Somerset and Sussex County, Delaware; 2) those counties will also go purple in September; 3) Wicomico County will go purple next year; 4) the kick off will be held on Friday, August 31, 2018 based on a query from Councilman Travers; 5) purple lighting will highlight multiple landmarks in the County, including the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina, the Sail at the Visitor's Center and the water tower in Cambridge; 6) businesses are also participating in the purple lighting of signs and/or displaying placards; 7) wrist bands will be distributed; 8) information pamphlets will be available; 9) a website is live thanks to Mr. Christopher; 10) a survey will be developed to gauge the effectiveness of the awareness campaign; 11) throughout the month WHCP will interview those who have been affected by the crisis; 12) at the end of the month approximately 2,000 volunteers for Ironman Maryland will wear purple shirts; 13) the Sunday of the Ironman Maryland event the Dorchester Faith Alliance may hold a purple pulpit message across the congregations; 14) Dorchester Goes Purple will be a recurring focus throughout the year; and 15) several activities are being planned including prescription buy back days and the disposal of unused prescriptions at law enforcement facilities. Councilman Travers referenced the possible lighting of the County Office building purple. Mr. Goldman said plans are underway to do so; however, a filter may have to be used since the lights are LEDs. Councilman Travers thanked Mr. Starling and Mr. Christopher. Mr. Starling said they welcome any ideas and suggestions. Councilman
Travers noted that purple polo shirts with the "Water Moves Us" logo have been purchased for the Council. Mr. Christopher advised that purple t-shirts will be available for purchase on the Dorchester. He said they will be visit the following regarding the Dorchester Goes Purple initiative: Town Council of Hurlock and Secretary, and the City of Cambridge Council. Mr. Christopher noted that they spoke to the volunteer fire departments last night and received their support. He said they will assist in outreaching to the outer areas of the County.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT REQUEST-CHIEF'S COMMITTEE DORCHESTER COUNTY VOLUNTEER FIREMAN'S ASSOCIATION
Jason Trego, Chairman, on behalf of the, Dorchester County Volunteer Fireman's Association Chief's Committee, asked Council to consider allocating funds for personal protective equipment for the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) responders. He said more providers in the County are providing first aid at higher levels, including at accident scenes. He cited their concern about the safety of County employees. In response to a question from Councilman Satterfield, Ms. Sierra said the cost to provide PPE equipment with the lowest level of protection for full time and part time personnel is about $1,500 a set for a total of $144,000. Jeremy Goldman, County Manager, said other prices can be sought. Pursuant to Councilman Satterfield query, Ms. Sierra explained that the PPE she priced is known as EMS gear which will protect the wearer in the event of a hazard material, bumps and scraps from vehicles and will provide initial protection if a car sparks or in case of a fire. She said it is the level of protection recommended for rescue efforts. Councilman Travers thanked Mr. Trego and the Committee members for their concern about EMS responders. He said the Council will take their request under advisement, noting staff will obtain additional pricing and information on funding availability. Councilman Price expressed his appreciation for the Committee members brining this to the Council's attention. He noted that the Council recently adopted the FY19 budget. Mr. Trego stressed that the decision on purchasing EMS gear lies with the Council. He asked them to consider budgeting funds for this purpose as soon as fiscally possible. Councilman Travers concurred with Councilman Price that there may be grant funding available for the EMS gear.
MANAGERS COMMENTS
INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT- DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE SERVICES-COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP-LMB
The Council approved the request of Nancy Shockley, Local Management Board Director, on behalf of the Community Partnership, to accept the FY 2019 Intergovernmental Agreement with the Department of Juvenile Services for the renewal of the Adventure Diversion Program in the amount of $92,744. The Council acknowledged that: 1) the YMCA of Chesapeake is the subcontractor for this program and employs all staff required for implementation; and, 2) funds have been allocated to offset the expenses of the LMB in the amount of $8,000 to cover grant management requirements.
REQUEST TO PURCHASE VEHICLE-PLANNING AND ZONING
The Council approved the request submitted by Gene Harper, Zoning Inspector, on behalf of Steve Dodd, Planning and Zoning Director, to purchase a 2018 Ford Escape from Preston Ford, at the cost of $19,800 utilizing FY19 Capital Budget funding. The Council acknowledged that this company submitted the lowest quote. In response to a question from Councilman Satterfield, Jeremy Goldman, County Manager, said the vehicle will replace an older truck and will be used for inspections.
SECTION 3 AND MINORITY BUSINESS PLANS-GRANTS ADMINISTRATOR
Based on the request of Cindy Smith, Grant Administrator, the Council agreed to execute Section 3 and Minority Business Plans to remain complaint with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and Community Development Block Grant regulations.
NATIONAL ENDOWMENT OF THE ARTS OUR TOWN GRANT APPLICATION REQUEST-FINANCE
Mr. Goldman presented the request submitted by Ms. Smith on behalf of the Tourism Department, Cambridge Main Street and the Dorchester Center for the Arts to apply for a National Endowment of the Art's Our Town grant for $50,000 with a cash match of $20,000 and an in kind match of $25,000. He advised that they are also seeking a letter of support. He explained that: 1) the monies are for a project consisting of three water themed sculptures that will be permanent installations in three areas of the County; 2) the cash match will consist of funds from the Dorchester Art Center-Public Arts Grant, $10,000 and PNC, $10,000; and, 3) the in-kind will be provided by Cambridge Main Street, $15,000 and from a Maryland Heritage Area Authority Water/Ways Grant awarded to the County in FY18, $10,000.
Councilman Travers questioned whether the sculptures will based on the "Water Moves Us” theme. Mr. Goldman said generally, as with the murals, a Committee will submit a recommendation to the Council. In response to an inquiry from Councilman Price, Mr. Goldman stated that the Committee will also provide proposed locations.
LETTER OF SUPPORT REQUEST-NATIONAL WILDLIFE FOUNDATION FINANCE
Mr. Goldman advised that Ms. Smith, on behalf of Karl Schrass, Climate Adaption and Resilience Manager, National Wildlife Foundation, has submitted a request for a letter of support for the Foundation's grant request for funds to develop innovative solutions for shoreline protections specifically using oysters. He said: 1) there is no County cash match for the grant; 2) County staff will be involved in the project design, location selections and assisting with outreach to the community; and, 3) the letter includes that due to funding constraints the County cannot financially participate in this endeavor. A discussion ensued regarding the proposed drawing of a structure that may be close to the water line and may create a hazard. A second drawing showed a different perspective.
Dorchester County Council Regular Meeting Minutes of August 7, 2018 Page No. 6
Councilman Bradshaw noted that although oysters will attach to concrete, they will not live as long as if anchored to real shell. The Council approved the request for a letter of support.
REQUEST TO PURCHASE MOWERS-RECREATION AND PARKS-AIRPORT
The Council approved Mr. Goldman's request to purchase two Hustler mowers from Bell Creek Equipment, one at the cost of $23,373 for Recreation and Parks and mower with a beacon is for the Airport at cost of $23,415.50. The Council acknowledged that: 1) quotes were sought from multiple vendors; however, only two submitted prices; and, 2) FY19 Capital funds from each Department will be utilized.
LOGO AND WEBSITE APPROVAL/ADOPTION-AIRPORT
Amber Hulsey, Airport Director, stated that last fall a process to develop a logo for the Airport commenced. She advised that she consulted with Mr. Goldman and Amanda Fenstermaker, Tourism Director, on the logo. She said based on that discussion the need to keep the Dorchester “Water Moves Us" in the logo in some fashion was recognized. She noted that Department Heads provided feedback on the proposed design prior to finalization. She explained that the new website was modeled like the Economic Development and Tourism websites and green was chosen since they used blue and yellow. The Council approved the new logo and website.
BID AWARD-WINDSOCK INSTALLATION-AIRPORT
The Council approved the request of Ms. Hulsey to award the bid to Chuck's Electric Service for a windsock to be installed at the end of Runway 16 according to the current Airport Layout Plan for $7,900 utilizing funds from the ground operations budget.
REQUEST TO ADVERTISE FOR PROPOSALS-SECURITY SYSTEM-AIRPORT
The Council approved the request of Ms. Hulsey to advertise for proposals for a security system project at the Airport, which includes security cameras, flood lighting, security fencing and generators, using FY19 Capital Budget funds. Ms. Hulsey said she will also prepare a grant application to the Maryland Aviation Administration for funds for this project for Council's review and consideration.
SURPLUS PROPERTY DECLARATION REQUESTS-PUBLIC WORKS-AIRPORT
Ryan White, Public Works Director, presented his request to surplus Unit 122, a 1997 Ford Truck from the Landfill Division, VIN# 1 FTCR10U5VTA54735 and Unit 117, a 1998 Chevrolet Truck from the Highway Division, VIN# 1GCCS1443 W8206028. Mr. White said less than $1,000 was received for the last several vehicles disposed of via auction. The Council approved his request. Mr. White suggested salvaging the vehicles to garner additional monies until prices improve at the auction. The Council concurred.
The Council also approved the request of Ms. Hulsey to surplus a bucket truck which was originally donated to the Airport and is too costly to repair.
REQUEST TO CONTINUE ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING-LANDFILL PUBLIC WORKS
The Council approved the request of Mr. White to renew the existing contract with Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, LLC for monitoring services at the following landfill facilities from July 2018 to June 2020: 1) Golden Hill: 2) Secretary: and, 3) both Beulah Landfills. Based on a query from Councilman Price, Mr. White confirmed that there was a slight increase and sufficient funding is in the current budget.
REQUEST TO PURCHASE-SNOW PLOWS-PUBLIC WORKS
Mr. White asked the Council for authorization to purchase five snow plows from Godwin at $8,795 each for a total of $43,525 for the new roll off and dump truck. He advised that four of the plows are for vehicles already owned by the County. The Council approved Mr. White's request. The Council acknowledged that a poll will be conducted on the purchase of another roll off truck for which the fifth plow will be used.
FUEL BID EXTENSION-PUBLIC WORKS
The Council approved the request of Mr. White to extend the current fuel oil bid with Cato Gas & Oil Inc. for one more year from October 1, 2018 to September 30, 2019.
REQUEST TO PURCHASE-LANDFILL EXCAVATOR-PUBLIC WORKS
Mr. White presented his request to purchase a 2018 Excavator from Alban Cat, which provided the lowest quote, for $260,880.37 for the Landfill Division. Mr. Goldman confirmed that the Council was provided information about a recent incident regarding the Excavator that was to be a trade-in. Councilman Price made a motion to approve Mr. White's request which Councilman Bradshaw seconded. Mr. White said prior to the incident there was a proposed trade-in of $42,000. He advised Council that if the roll case is damaged the company will not accept it as a trade-in. He said it can be sold at auction for approximately $15,000. Mr. White said the trade-in value is less than the vehicle's retail value. Mr. Goldman said an incident report has been sent to the County's insurer, Local Government Insurance Trust, so no action can be taken at this time. He noted that there is sufficient funding available despite the possible lack of a trade-in.
The Council approved Mr. White's request with Councilman Travers opposing the purchase from this particular vendor due to past experiences.
REQUEST TO PURCHASE-GRADALL BUCKET
The Council approved the request of Mr. White to purchase a 60" wide ditch clean bucket for the Gradall at the Highway Division for $4,705 from JESCO, which provided the lowest quote. Mr. White noted that the price will rise approximately $1,500 after Friday due to tariffs.
EASTERN SHORE INNOVATION CENTER LICENSE AGREEMENT-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Council approved the request of Jeff Trice, Economic Development Director, to enter into a License Agreement with Peninsula Consulting, doing business as Peninsula Holistics, for Suite 8 of the Eastern Shore Innovation Center, consisting of 228 square feet, at the base rent of $285. Mr. Trice said Peninsula Holistics will work with Sunx, another tenant, on packaging and then the use of industrial hemp for medical purposes. He noted that this company owns a dispensary for medical marijuana in Salisbury.
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT-2018 BYRNE JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM AWARD-SHERIFF'S OFFICE
The Council agreed to accept a FY 2018 Interlocal Agreement-Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Program Award of which the County will receive $5,787.50.
GYPSY MOTH SPRAYING COST ESTIMATES-LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE PARTICIPATION-MD DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
The Council approved the written request of Craig Kuhn, Program Manager, Forest Pest Management, to participate in the Maryland Department of Agriculture's Forest Pest Management (FPM) Program for the identification and control of gypsy moth
populations for Dorchester County and its citizens. The Council acknowledged that: 1) based on information relating to gypsy moth populations and trends in Dorchester County, up to 80 surveys will be conducted at an estimated County cost of $1,200, which represents a 50% cost share on local costs to perform these surveys on non-State land; and 2) this amount does not include additional funds that may be needed for aerial spraying.
REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE-SANITARY COMMISSION
Mr. Goldman presented the request of Kim Newcomb, Chair, on behalf of the Dorchester County Sanitary Commission, for assistance with repairs and maintenance of two residential sanitary facilities known as "bermed infiltration ponds" at the McKeil Point subdivision on Brooks Road in Woolford and Ruxton Landing on Heather Lane in Hudson. He advised that: 1) the McKeil Point subdivision has three ponds but the Commission members are only seeking assistance with pond #1; 2) there is only one pond at Ruxton landing. He explained that they are asking for the County to act as an agent of the Commission in removing the debris, making minor repairs to the berm and replacing the safety fencing system around the septic ponds. Councilman Satterfield made a motion to approve Ms. Newcomb's request which Councilman Nichols seconded for discussion. In response to inquiries from Councilman Price, Mr. Goldman şaid: 1) the Sanitary District is are only obligated to conduct inspections when requested; 2) the property owners paid maintenance fees which were exhausted by the Sanitary District and will be paying additional monies out of their pocket; 3) the sanitation system is failing. He cited the failure of that system as well as the potential erosion of the tax base as reasons to provide assistance. Mr. Goldman said this matter can resolved with the County providing a small amount of funds and a reasonable amount of resources. He noted that the Sanitary Commission will provide its assurance that they will not pursue such a project again without conferring and working with the County to ensure that they have the resources to appropriately complete a project. Councilman Satterfield expressed concern about the poor condition of the area. In response to a question from Councilman Price, Mr. Goldman said the proposed work will be performed primarily by contractors which includes removing debris and the fencing. He stated that they do not have the manpower or the expertise to oversee the project. He explained that Mr. White will oversee the project and the County will provide some ground rehabilitation, soil, grading and reseeding. He noted that Mr. White was able to obtain pricing whereas the Sanitary Commission was unable to do so. Councilman Travers said due to several issues that ently, Mr. Goldman will attend the Sanitary Commission meetings. He noted that the Sanitary Commission is an autonomous board.
Councilman Price questioned the timeline for the proposed project. Mr. White said the removal of trees alone will take approximately a week. Councilman Travers explained that a contractor cut the trees and piled them on the backside of the berm in lieu of removal. Councilman Satterfield cited his concern that the pile is now a fire hazard, particularly since it is on the back side of a forest. Mr. Goldman reiterated that if the Council moves forward with this agreement, the Sanitary Commission will consult with the County prior to future projects. He stated that during the Commission's Monday meeting he was able to provide the members with information and a link to resources within the County, He explained that he advised them that the County's reverse 911 system can be used when water service has been disconnected.
In response to an inquiry from Councilman Price, Mr. Goldman confirmed that the majority of the work will be performed by contractors. Mr. White said initial bids ranged from $38,000 to $44,000. He explained that they worked with a contractor to pare down the project to $15,000, noting the County does not have the required equipment to perform the work. Mr. Goldman stressed that the primary goal is to provide assistance, oversight and expertise, to ensure the contractor performs the requested work. Mr. Goldman noted that the Sanitary Commission is seeking $5,000 from the County. He said there is contractual services funding that can be utilized for this purpose.
Councilman Nichols said he would like to view the contract between the Sanitary District and the original contractor. He cited his belief the contractor should be liable for any damages and/or incorrect work. Mr. Goldman said it is his understanding that the company performed the work outlined in the contract. Councilman Nichols said he is unable to vote on this request prior to viewing the contract. He noted that he spoke to a landowner in one of the areas in question who shared their thoughts and concerns about this matter and expressed a desire to sue the contractor. Councilman Price advised that he would also like a copy of the contract. Mr. Goldman said he will obtain a copy. Councilman Satterfield expressed his understanding that the initial conversation between the Sanitary Commission and the contractor was not shared with the property owners. Councilman Nichols noted that the Sanitary District is separate from the County. Councilman Satterfield said he does not disagree with Councilman Nichols. He questioned the County's liability to protect property owners from a potential fire hazard which may result in the loss of their homes. He also expressed concern fighting such a fire, particularly in a forested area. Mr. Goldman referenced the potential loss of tax revenue. Councilman Nichols stressed the need to ensure consistency when making decisions that will only impact a portion of the County regardless of its location or assessed value. Councilman Travers cited the need for corrective action. Councilman Nichols opined that the Sanitary District is the responsible party and has sufficient funding to pursue this project. He reiterated that this entity is autonomous from the County and as such has funding available to take corrective action. The Council approved the request of Ms. Newcomb on behalf of the Sanitary Commission with Councilmen Price and Nichols opposing.
BOARD APPOINTMENT
Mr. Goldman noted that Mary Handley has expressed an interest in being appointed to the Council for Senior Citizens. He said she lives in District 1 for which there is a vacancy. The Council appointed Ms. Handley to the Council for Senior Citizens.
POLL CONFIRMATIONS
The Council, confirmed its decisions, in the interim between meetings, via a poll, to:
• send letters of support for the Heart of the Chesapeake Country Heritage Area mini-grant applications of the following entities by a 4 to 1 vote with 1 no answer: 1) the Dorchester Skipjack Committee for funds to update its website; and, 2) the Nause Waiwash Band of Indians for monies to offset costs for the 26th Annual Native American Festival; and purchase a new ambulance from Redstorm Fire & Rescue Apparatus Inc. for $215,287 utilizing FY19 Capital Budget funds based the request of the Emergency Services Director to by a 4 to 1 vote with 1 no answer.
FY 18 BUDGET TRANSFER REQUESTS
The Council approved FY18 Budget Transfer requests for the Airport and the Department of Corrections.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There was no public comment.
COUNCIL'S COMMENTS/ADJOURNMENT
Councilman Satterfield said as a member of the Local Government Insurance Trust Board of Trustees he recuses himself from any discussions regarding the damaged excavator.
Councilman Price commended the Sheriff's Office and Public Works staff who responded and provided assistance when three roads collapsed in the northern end of the County. He noted that there has been an increase in mosquitos due to the rain. On behalf of several residents, he questioned whether spraying ditches that have not been cleared is effective. Mr. Goldman noted that due to the amount of rain in a short period of time it is unlikely that deeper ditches would have resulted in the absorption of excess water. In response to another query from Councilman Price, Mr. Goldman said additional outlet ditches are needed; however, due to critical area regulations, it is very difficult to obtain State approval. He explained that these ditches are sprayed by the State, through the Mosquito Control Division. He noted that until recently there has not been an active public information campaign on mosquito spraying. Mr. Goldman said he will provide Councilman Price additional information tomorrow. Councilman Satterfield noted that residents have also expressed concern about keeping water off the road in his district. He noted that ditches are for keeping moisture, water and ice off the road. Councilman Travers said tidal flood waters also result in flooded roads in District 1. Councilman Price thanked and congratulated the organizers and participants of the Caroline Dorchester County 4H Fair. He encouraged residents to visit and tour the John W. Brown Liberty Ship, docked in Cambridge, which is one of two World War II cargo ships left in the country. He noted that a lot of communities in the County are celebrating National Night Out tonight.
Councilman Bradshaw expressed appreciation for all of the thoughts, kind words and prayers for his family's loss. He noted that over the course of the 2018 Maryland General Assembly Legislative Session waterman expressed concern throughout the State regarding aquaculture, especially the water column lease program. He said he has been appointed to a workgroup to study the program and make recommendation on improvements to certain processes to include the lease application and enforcement. He stated that due to St. Mary's County waterfront property owners' request, their County Council is scheduled to vote on legislation to ban water column leases in St. Mary's River. He expressed dismay about the loss of key protections in the program which were removed by the legislature in 2009 to include: other avenues of commercial
fisheries, landowner's rights, oyster shell committees and seeding areas. He advised that the workgroup's will be meet approximately five times, the first being on Monday and will then present recommendations to the Department of Natural Resources, hopefully through a regulatory process. He said Virginia is proof that aquaculture and commercial fisheries can co-exist, noting in that State it is predicted that there will be a $1 million harvest in the commercial fisheries industry next year.
Councilman Bradshaw said he is a write-in candidate for County Council for District 5. He said at today's Executive Council of the Bay Committee Governor Lawrence "Larry' Hogan was again voted Chairman. He advised that the Governor expressed concern about the flow of trash and debris from the Conowingo Dam. He said instead of the Eastern Shore, Annapolis and the Western Shore were affected due to east and southeast winds during the latest release. He said the Committee acknowledged that a Watershed Implementation Plan will be developed for the Conowingo Dam. He expressed his understanding that aquaculture is still a major topic and there will be additional regulations forthcoming on agriculture, which is already heavily regulated. He noted that he attended the meeting with: Ronald Fithian, Kent County Board of Commissioners and Alan McCarthy, Cecil County Executive, both of which are also members of the Clean Chesapeake Coalition as well as Charles "Chip" MacLeod, Esquire, and Rob Newberry, Chairman, Delmarva Fisheries Association. He noted that he sits on both boards. He expressed dismay that key issues are not being addressed, particularly the removal and disposal of sediment behind the dam and debris that flows from New York and Pennsylvania into other bodies of water.
Councilman Travers said the Cambridge Seafood Feast-I-Val is being held on Saturday, August 11, 2018 at Sailwinds Park. He noted that Don Bradley's term as Dorchester County's representative on the Chesapeake College Board of Trustees will expire soon. He reminded Council that a replacement will need to be selected. In response to a question from Councilman Price, Councilman Travers said Victoria Jackson-Stanley, City of Cambridge Mayor, will inquire about any recommendations the Board may have Councilman Travers announced that: 1) Members of the Dorchester County Council will attend the Annual Maryland Association of Counties Summer Conference on August 15 to August 18, 2018 at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland; and, 2) the next Council meeting will be held on August 21, 2018 at 6 p.m.
With no further business to discuss, the Council adjourned.
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