I read Mike Estrella’s letter regarding the re-election of St. Michaels’ commissioners (Brady, Clark, and Hunt) with great interest. What he says is essentially true, but he doesn’t give you the behind-the-scenes negotiating which resulted in these “accomplishments” and credits the wrong commissioners with bringing about the change.
The town has had a full time police department for years. The commissioners have supported it to the tune of $870,000 for FY12 and are budgeting $856,000 for FY13. The only “part time” issue is that the police chief is not even a resident of Talbot County, he lives in Baltimore County and rents Mr. Estrella’s house when he is in town and on duty.
Mike states that they “brought the Miles Point Era to an end”. In fact, they voted more often than not to give the developer whatever they wanted. All three voted to deny over 200 citizens the right for a referendum on the approval of the TND, as clearly permitted by the town charter.
Only when commissioner duPont, supported by Vlahovich, secured a buyer for the property (introduced by a concerned citizen) did they yield to the wishes of most of the citizens.
After vigorous arguments presented by concerned citizens and the other two commissioners, Brady, Clark, and Hunt did vote to approve curbside recycling.
When persuaded by the other commissioners and a number of citizens who showed that the town had an inflated budget, they realized that the tax rate for the town could be reduced and did so. This was helped by the resignation of the Town Clerk/Manager who was replaced with an administrator who was already on the payroll.
Mr. Estrella does not feel change is necessary, but the facts show that these three incumbents have only made progressive moves for the town after duPont, Vlahovich and many concerned citizens convinced them that it is necessary.
Gary Nylander
St. Michaels
Barney Kastel says
I have ben at most meetings for the last 10 years Gary is correct on all points. It seems to me although our commisioners are well intended they struggle to agree on anything there seems to be a negative attitude which causes delays at every meeting. In my opinion we need to change commisioners after a 4 year term it is sometimes a hard thankless job. I respect the people who take on the job and want to thank them, however it would be more efficient to elect Ann Borders and Marie Martin as they have contributed much to the comunity and would work well with the remaining commisioners
Mike Estrella says
How does “behind-the-scenes negotiating” fit into the Maryland Open Meetings code?