I am running for Commissioner because I believe it’s time to reinvest in St. Michaels’ future. You only need to walk down Talbot Street to realize the Town’s historic character is in danger. This is a serious concern because tourists come for the historic charm and tourism drives our local economy. So many empty storefronts on Talbot Street are a sign we may be losing our economic vitality and, with it, our small-town quality of life.
My background is in accounting, and since 2009, I’ve spent many hours attending Commissioners’ meetings, reviewing policies, and going over Town finances. I found plenty of places to trim the fat without impacting services. I am proud that, based on my research, the Town cut its property tax rate by 12% last year! But we still pay the highest taxes of any town in Talbot County, so there is more work to be done.
St. Michaels needs Commissioners who will work as a team and maintain a professional and respectful atmosphere. We also need:
- Policies and procedures that ensure the Town resources are managed and used effectively.
- Thriving businesses and job opportunities that also protect our fragile environment and residents’ quality of life.
- Ordinances that are clear, effective, and enforceable.
- An open and welcoming local government where residents are well-informed and encouraged to get involved.
I am asking for your vote because as a Commissioner, I will pursue these goals, and together, we can pursue a bright future for St. Michaels.
The Candleberry Shoppe says
Sure wish I could vote because I would vote for Ann. Not only is she one of the kindest, outgoing residents in our community, she is pro-business and understands the need to have thriving businesses on Talbot Street. I pay the taxes on the shop that I rent, but unfortunately can not vote because I don’t live in the town, but I am praying that Ann is one of our next Commissioners. Ann knows St. Michaels and her knowledge of finance is a great match for the team!
Sharon Murray says
On another note, while I support all citizens to speak out and carry on a productive dialog with their commissioners, has anyone noticed that perpetual candidate Virginia Adams no longer lives within the Town of St. Michaels limits. She lives with her son and daughter-in-law at 24338 Oakwood Park Road, just outside of St. Michaels. Perhaps we can save some resources by asking this candidate to withdraw her candidacy.
Mike says
Ms. Borders claims that “we still pay the highest taxes of any town in Talbot County” which is not really true. As of today We pary 52 cents per hundred on Real property as does Easton. On Businesses we pay 52 cents per hundred while Trappe pays 54 cents per hundred and Easton pays $ 1.30 per hunder. We used to pay more taxes then anyone in the county but that is history. As for participation in the annual budget process, there are a lot of names that could be just as proud or even more proud of the towns ability to cut our taxes. Past town commissioners like Mr. Gillman, Mr. Dinkle, Mr. Doyle and others still continue to play a roll in the budget. Our department leaders like the chief of police and the head of our public works along with the town manager play the major roll each and every year. The fact that we are paying down our debt rather then incurring new debt is one of the major reasons behind our accomplishment. This is much bigger then just one person, it is in fact everyone working towards a common goal of a secure future for the whole town, not just part of it.