2003 City News

2003 News

ABERDEEN POLICE DEPARTMENT RECEIVES RECOGNITION

(Aberdeen, Md.) On October 24, 2003 Chief Randy Rudy led a delegation of police officers and civilian employees to the Loews Hotel in center city Philadelphia to attend a reception hosted by the International Association of Chiefs of Police at their annual conference. The Aberdeen Police Department was among ten finalists selected from almost one hundred departments nominated worldwide to receive the 2003 Community Policing Award sponsored by the IACP and ITT Industries Night Vision. Aberdeen was the only agency selected from Maryland. The five winners were to be recognized at the conference banquet on October 25, 2003. The Police Department competed against other agencies from similar size communities by submitting a written document outlining its community – policing program. Some other departments receiving recognition as finalists in the program were Springville, Utah; Marietta, Georgia; Leesburg, Virginia; Savannah, Georgia; Springfield Missouri and Los Angeles, California. The commemorative medallion received by Chief Rudy at the reception on the 24th was in turn presented to the Mayor and City Council at its meeting on Monday October 27, 2003. In his remarks at that time Chief Rudy indicated how thrilled he was that the Department had received the award and felt that it was recognition of the commitment the City has made and the hard work of the men and women of the Department toward achieving the goals of community policing.

APG BEGINS TO NEGOTIATE JOINT USE OF LAND AT ARMY AIRFIELD

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – Aberdeen Proving Ground leaders have begun preparation of a memorandum of agreement with the City of Aberdeen to study the joint use of land at APG’s Phillips Army Airfield.

The memorandum of agreement will be the kick-off document formally allowing APG to interact with the City of Aberdeen on proposed business uses for the site.

According to Col. Mardi U. Mark, deputy installation commander, this is the first step in the study process which is designed to address the safety, environmental, community and operational concerns that a joint use agreement could raise.

"The entire process will be designed to make certain that all stakeholder concerns are addressed," she said. "We are at the very beginning of that process and I know there will be many individuals and groups, on and off post, with important input. There will be a number of opportunities for everyone to contribute after the city makes an actual proposal. Right now, we’re just setting into place the intent to study the joint use option."

PERRY'S PUPPETS & PASTA

Dinner & Puppet Variety Show (Great Fun for All Ages!).  Saturday - November 15, 2003, 5:30 Doors Open, 6:00 Dinner 7:00 Show.  Grove Presbyterian Church, 50 E Bel Air Avenue, Aberdeen MD 21001.  Puppets by Jack Foreaker Donation: $20. For Tickets – Call: Church Office – 410-272-0896 or Dave Yensan – 410-272-4688 or email: yensan2@comcast.net

DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER

10-21-03: The Harford County (DRC) Disaster Relief Center will close at 5:00 PM on Saturday, October 25. A press release will be prepared announcing the closure. Harford County citizens can still visit one of the remaining open DRCs (closest one is in Baltimore). As previously noted, citizens must register for assistance with FEMA prior to November 18.

To date, 364 Harford Co. residents have registered with FEMA and 327 visited DRC.

10-3-03: Harford County's DRC will open on Thursday, 10/2 at 1 PM at the Aberdeen Volunteer Fire Company's Perryman Station. This facility is located at 1432 Perryman Road. The DRC will be open every day until at least 10/16 (hours are Mon-Fri 9 AM to 7 PM, Sat 9 AM to 5 PM and Sun Noon to 5 PM).

At this point, Social Services and the Health Department have responded with plans to staff the center. Other agencies who should staff the center will be contacted via telephone shortly.  

Each agency represented will have limited space (One folding table or part of a table). Please bring appropriate brochures, forms, displays, etc for limited space. If you have a small tabletop sign with your agency's name, please bring it. We can also supply paper signs to hang on the end of the table.

A press release will be distributed in the near future.

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

Due to loss of electrical power source caused by hurricane Isabel, on September 19, 2003, a significant sewer system overflow occurred at the City of Aberdeen’s Advanced Wastewater treatment plant. An estimated one million gallons of sewage overflowed into the tributary to the Swan creek basin area.

Additionally due to heavy rains experienced on September 23, 2003, significant sewer system overflows occurred in the City of Aberdeen. The overflows were a direct result of storm water entering the sewer system and causing surcharging effecting several sewer locations listed below. Water contact should be avoided in the Swan creek basin area, along with the areas listed below until October 23, 2003.

  • Tributary to Swan creek from the end of Rigdon Rd
  • South end of South drive
  • James Street storm channel.
  • Swan creek basin below Post Road

Warning signs have been posted in effected areas.

For further information contact Harford County Health Department at (443) 643-0301 or City of Aberdeen, department of water and wastewater at (410) 272-2651.

Yard Waste and Tree Limb Removal

Due to the extensive amount of downed trees, limbs and vegetation caused by the recent hurricane, the City will provide the following services to all residents:

Yard Waste pick up by Hickory Sanitation will occur throughout all zones of the City for the next two weeks on Friday and Saturday (September 26 – 27 and October 3 – 4). Items must be set out by Friday morning to ensure pick up. After October 4, the schedule will resume by zone as published in the Recycling & Trash Collection guidelines. The following items can be set out at the curb:

  • Grass clippings
  • Brush trimmings/sticks
  • Leaves

Items must be bagged, bundled or tied and may not exceed 60 pounds or 4 feet in length.

Tree Limbs no larger than 6 inches in diameter may be set out along the street or alley (please do not block the roadway or sidewalk). Limbs should small enough to be handled by a single worker. The City truck and chipper will be moving throughout the entire City each day for the next two weeks. Please be patient – there is a significant amount of limbs and brush. Yours will be picked up! Following the next two weeks, arrangement for limb/brush removal can be coordinated by calling the City Shop at 272-1414. Tree sections over 6 inches in diameter will not be picked up by the City and must be disposed of by the property owner.

2003-2004 HISTORICAL LECTURE SERIES

Sponsored by the Aberdeen Heritage Trust will be Historical Lecture Series in the Aberdeen Council Chambers from 7:00 - 8:00 PM.  Admission is free.  Listed below is the 03/04 schedule:

Sept. 25

"Archaeology at Old Baltimore,"

speaker: Mark Gallihue

Oct. 23

"Philadelphia Campaign - 1777,"

speaker Jeff Smart

Nov. 20

"Harford African American Soldiers in the Civil War,"

speaker: Jim Chrismer

Dec. 11

"Colonial Clothing and Christmas Decorations,"

speaker: Sephanie & George Borneman

Jan. 15

"Early Maryland Law,"

speaker: Dr. Jeffrey Sawyer

Feb. 26

"Conowingo - Lost But Not Forgotten,"

speaker: Richard Sherrill

Mar. 25

"Long Island Equestrian Influx in Harford County,"

speaker: Maryanna Skowronski

Apr. 22

"Edgewood in WWI,"

speaker: Jeff Smart

May 27

"A Journey Through Berkley,"

speaker: Connie Beims and Christine Tolbert

9/11 CEREMONY AND SOFTBALL GAME

THE BATTLE OF "GUNS & HOSES"

JOIN US FOR A SPECIAL

Ceremony to remember those who lost their lives on September 11th

WHERE: Ripken Stadium

COST: Free

(Donations received will benefit the Harford County 9/11 Memorial)

Gates open at 6:00 PM

Schedule

6:30 - 7:00 PM Ceremony:

Master of Ceremonies -Don Morrison, Harford County Board of Education Public Information Officer

  • Post Colors
  • National Anthem
  • Prayer
  • Table of Remembrance
  • God Bless America
  • Retire Colors

A video will be played from last year's 9/11's tribute during the ceremony.

7:00 - 9:00 PM Softball Game: Harford County Police and Fire vs. Aberdeen Proving Ground

Steve Spadafino, IronBirds Public Relations Officer will announce the game

Contact Darlene Ostroski dostroski@aberdeen-md.org for additional information.

FAMILY WELLNESS FAIR

Inner County Outreach and Aberdeen Bible Church will host a Family Wellness Fair at Festival Park on September 13th from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.  Arts, crafts, food, live entertainment, games and health screenings will be available.  Contact Sharon Chapman 410-272-3278 for additional information.

WATER USE RESTRICTION

- ORDINANCE NO. 636-03

WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council considers it necessary to issue water use restrictions in order to minimize the impact of high water demand taxing the system; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council hereby ORDAINS the following restrictions.

1.    The watering of grass in prohibited:

  • Except to establish and maintain newly seeded and sodded grass areas.
  • Except to maintain athletic fields or golf courses provided a water conservation plan ** is in effect.
  • Except wastewater effluent or storm water treatment systems utilizing spray irrigation may apply water in designated areas according to permit conditions.
2.    Use of sprinklers and other automatic watering devices is prohibited for purposes of irrigation, watering of gardens, landscaped areas, trees, shrubs and other outdoor plants. Hand held containers and hoses with automatic shut off may be used for watering such areas.
  • Except for agricultural irrigation for the production of food and fiber, the maintenance of livestock and poultry or the production of nursery stock.
  • Except by means of a drip irrigation system.
  • Except when used by commercial nurseries with a water conservation plan ** in place.
  • Except when used by arboretums and public gardens of National, State, or regional significance at the minimum rate necessary to preserve specimens.
3.    Washing paved surfaces such as streets, roads, sidewalks, driveways, garages, parking areas, tennis courts, and patios is prohibited:
  • Except for pre-washing in preparation of asphalt, street or driveway re-coating and sealing.
  • Except at the minimum rate necessary for the maintenance of tennis courts composed of clay or similar materials by means of a hand-held hose equipped with an automatic shutoff nozzle.
  • Except at the minimum rate necessary for sanitation or public health purposes, such as eating and drinking areas.
  • Except at the minimum rate necessary to maintain effective dust control during the construction of highways and roads.

**Water Conservation Plan - for purposes of these restrictions, an acceptable water conservation plan is one that achieves a reduction of at least 10 percent in water usage when compared to normal usage during a comparable period. A comparable period is a similar month or quarter during which a user operated at a similar level of activity.

4. Each violation of this Ordinance is deemed to be a municipal infraction. Any person violating any provision of this chapter shall be subject to the following civil penalties:

A. First offense: Warning will be issued.

B. Second offense: One Hundred Dollars ($100.00).

C. Third offense: Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00).

D. Fourth offense: Four Hundred Dollars ($400.00)

5.    In addition to a municipal infraction, the City may, after a warning upon written notice to the property owner, suspend water to any property where a violation occurs. Water service will resume upon payment of the applicable fine; and

6.     The City may take such further action as may be required; and

7.     In addition to the Water Use Restrictions, the Director of Public Works shall have authority in case of emergency to impose clearly defined restrictions on the use of water and to impose such limits as may be necessary for the health and safety of all residents and businesses utilizing the City’s water system. Any emergency declaration by the Director shall remain in effect until the next scheduled meeting of the Mayor and City Council which shall dissolve, extend or expand such restrictions. Such violations shall be subject to the same penalties as set forth above.

8.     This ordinance shall remain in effect until the Mayor and City Council determines that conditions no longer to warrant the imposition of these restrictions.

NOW THEREFORE, this Ordinance shall be deemed emergency legislation and shall be effective immediately on this 11th day of August, 2003.

2003-04 HISTORICAL LECTURE SERIES SCHEDULEM

REVISED SCHEDULE

Sponsored by the Aberdeen Heritage Trust

7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Lectures to be held in the Aberdeen City Council Chambers, 60 North Parke Street. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served.

September 25

"Archaeology at Old Baltimore"

Speaker: Mark Gallihue

October 23

"Philadelphia Campaign – 1777"

Speaker: Jeff Smart

November 20

They Fought Most Heroically: "Harford African American Soldiers in the Civil War"

Speaker: Jim Chrismer

December 11

"Colonial Clothing and Christmas Decorations"

Speaker: Stephanie and George Borneman

January 15

"Early Maryland Law"

Speaker: Dr. Jeffrey Sawyer

February 26

"Conowingo – Lost But Not Forgotten"

Speaker: Richard Sherrill

March 25

"Long Island Equestrian Influx in Harford County"

Speaker: Maryanne Skowronski

April 22

"Edgewood In World War I"

Speaker: Jeff Smart

May 27

"A Journey Through Berkley"

Speaker: Connie Beims and Christine Tolbert

FACT SHEET - Sale of Lots 1 & 2, Ripken Baseball Complex by City of Aberdeen

Property Description: Lot 1 consists of 20.6228 acres located in the southern quadrant of the intersection of Gilbert Road and Long Drive including a small portion within non-tidal wetlands. Lot 2 consists of 25.5501 acres located in the eastern quadrant of the same intersection, approximately fifteen acres of which includes wetlands and a stormwater management pond. These lots were purchased by the City from Bosworth Management, Inc. in 2000 and 2001, respectively.

Marketing Effort: The City hired Legg Mason Real Estate Services to market the property. A key objective of this effort was to solicit proposals that offer a high quality of design and are able to link all aspects of the Ripken Complex into a cohesive development. The City selected the proposal from Nottingham Properties, Inc.

Nottingham Properties, Inc.: Nottingham Properties is a Towson-based real estate developer best known for the development and management of White Marsh, the largest master-planned community in Baltimore County. White Marsh, located 19 miles south of Aberdeen along I-95, is a thriving Town Center of business, retail, entertainment and residential development. The Avenue at White Marsh is a 300,000 square retail/entertainment center which serves as a critical element in energizing both The Avenue and the surrounding community. Other Nottingham holdings include commercial properties located in Hunt Valley, Owings Mills, Columbia, and Towson, Maryland and Loudon County, Virginia.

Nottingham’s Proposal: $4,200,000 purchase price for both lots. One hundred twenty (120) days to evaluate site for contemplated uses. Closing within 30 days conditional upon issuance of development permits and approvals. Proposed development would be phased in over 36 months at a cost of approximately $35 million excluding land and financing and consist of approximately 265,000 square feet with a state-of-the-art, stadium-seated theater complex as the regional attraction complemented with neighborhood restaurants and related development, including potentially a hotel and sports-themed, retail attractions.

For more information, please contact Charles E. McMahon, Development Director, Nottingham Properties, Inc. at 410-825-0545.

CAL RIPKEN WORLD SERIES PRESS CONFERENCE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JULY 29,.2003 - updated news release

ABERDEEN ANTICIPATES ARRIVAL OF RIPKEN WORLD SERIES PLAYERS

Excitement is building in Aberdeen as the City awaits the arrival of the youth baseball teams who will participate in the Cal Ripken 2003 World Series to be held for the first time at Ripken Stadium, Aug. 16 through 24.

The Aberdeen Community Projects Committee, which has taken on the task of welcoming, hosting and entertaining the estimated 300, 11-and 12-year-old players, and their coaching staffs, are anticipating their arrival on Tuesday, Aug 12 and Wednesday, Aug 13. Aberdeen Councilman Jerry Hansen heads the all volunteer committee.  Using the Ripken Museum building as headquarters, Jane Robinson, Vice President of the committee, will handle host assignments and orientation on those dates.

"Our host families are getting very excited about the arrival of the young players," Mrs. Robinson advised.  The festivities get started at 10:30 AM on Thursday, August 14, with an icebreaker picnic and swim party at the Aberdeen Swim Club on Old Robinhood Road.  Aberdeen's Moose Family Center will serve the food and drinks provided by the New Ideal Diner and various other sponsors and vendors.  Later on Thursday, at 5:15 PM, a welcoming parade on West Bel Air Avenue (downtown) will give area residents the opportunity to meet and greet all the young champions, their team coaches, batboys, etc.; officials of the Babe Ruth League and Ripken Baseball -- all of whom will appear in the parade.  Everyone is encouraged to come out and greet these proud winners and let them know how great they are.  The parade will form on South Law Street and proceed down West Bel Air Avenue, turn left at Ripken Plaza and on to Festival Park. In Festival Park, the Aberdeen Lions Club will serve the "Banquet of Champions" provided by Outback Steak House. Honored guests and speakers at this dinner will include Gov. Robert Ehrlich and of course, the man himself, Cal Ripken, Jr. Friday, Aug. 15, the kids will spend the day at Ripken Stadium for "skills day" -- base running, hitting, and other fun games and activities. Opening ceremonies, to include the finals of the home run contest, will be held at 6:30 PM at Ripken Stadium. The public is invited to see how good these young players are at this "no ticket" event. 

During the next eight days, five games daily beginning at 11:00 AM will be played at the stadium resulting in the World Series Championship game being played at 4:00 PM, Sunday, Aug. 24, which will be televised nationwide on Fox Sports Net.  Banquet tickets, series tickets and passes, inaugural pins and sponsor banners are all available at the World Series Office in the Ripken Museum at the corner of West Bel Air Avenue and Route 40. Call the office at 410-297-9085 for more information.  

Ruth Frank, 410-272-7354, Parade Chairman

Jerry Hansen, 410-297-9085, Committee Chairman

International event to be played at Ripken Stadium in August

Aberdeen, MD -Ripken Baseball, the organization contracted with Babe Ruth League, Inc. to host the 2003 Cal Ripken World Series, today announced plans for the international event that will take place in Aberdeen, MD, August 14-24,2003. It will be the 4th Cal Ripken World Series and the first hosted by Aberdeen.

All net proceeds from the event will go towards the construction of Cal, Sr.' s Yard, the youth-sized version of Oriole Park at Camden Yards being built adjacent to Ripken Stadium. Cal, Sr.'s Yard is under consideration to be the future home of the Cal Ripken World Series.

In the summer of 1999 Babe Ruth League, Inc. changed the name of its largest division (5-12 year olds) from "Bambino" to "Cal Ripken Baseball", a Division of Babe Ruth League, Inc Today over 600,000 youth ballplayers play Cal Ripken Baseball worldwide. Each year the season culminates with the 12-year-old Cal Ripken World Series.

Fifteen teams will participate in the event, eight teams from regions across the United States, the Maryland state champion, a Harford County representative and five international teams. Each team will consist of 15 players, a manager and two coaches. The five international teams will be Australia, Canada, Dominican Republic, South Korea and Mexico. This will be the first appearance in the World Series for the Dominican Republic and Mexico. South Korea has represented the international bracket in each of the first three Cal Ripken World Series Championship Games; however, each time a team from the United States has won the title.

In 2000, the teal'll from West Palm Beach, FL defeated South Korea in Mattoon, IL. In 200 I South Lexington, KY topped South Korea in Vincennes, IN and last year Visalia, CA bested South Korea in Mattoon, IL.

"I have had a wonderful time visiting the World Series the last three years, but the prospect of hosting the prestigious event in our hometown is very exciting," said Cal Ripken, Jr. "I know that this will be a great event for the City of Aberdeen, Harford County and the State of Maryland. It is truly a community event and I know many members of the community are very excited about helping us make this a celebration of baseball that brings national and international attention to Aberdeen. Weare all working together to make this a super event."

There is still a need for volunteers and host families for the event. Anyone interested in being a volunteer or serving as a host family to the ballplayers should either call (410) 297-9085 or log onto www.RipkenBaseba1l.com and go to the Ripken World Series section to print an application form.

The celebration will begin on Thursday, August 14 with a parade through downtown Aberdeen beginning at 5:15 pm and will be followed by the Banquet of Champions at 6:00 pm The Banquet of Champions will be held outdoors at Festival Park in Aberdeen. Keith Mills of WMAR TV in Baltimore has volunteered to serve as emcee of the banquet.

Outback Steakhouse will donate the food for the banquet and tickets are available to the public for $25 each. Tickets may be purchased at the IronBirds box office at Ripken Stadium or by calling the Cal Ripken World Series Headquarters at (410) 297-9085. Groups purchasing 10 or more tickets to the banquet will receive a discount of $5 off per ticket.

On Friday, August 15 it will be "Cal Ripken Day" at Ripken Stadium with a Home Run Derby, a Quickball tournament for all of the teams and other skills competitions. That evening, the Opening Ceremonies will take place at Ripken Stadium with fireworks to follow.

The games begin on Saturday, August 16 at 11:00 am. From August 16-21 Pool Play competition will take place with five games being played each day. The first game each day will begin at 11:00 am and the final game of the day will start at 8:00 p.m.

On Friday, August 22 there will be four games of single elimination competition and from those games the participants in the International Division Championship Game and United States Championship Game will be determined. On Saturday, August 23 the International Championship Game will be played at 1:00 p.m. with the United States Division Championship Game taking place at 3:30 pm.

The World Series Title Game will be played on Sunday, August 24 at 4:00 pm. The game will be broadcast nationally live on Fox Sports Net. Cal Ripken, Jr., Bill Ripken and Josh Lewin will share the booth and call all of the action.

TICKETS FOR CAL RIPKEN WORLD SERIES GO ON SALE TUESDAY JUNE 10

Aberdeen, MD -Ripken Baseball, the organization that has contracted with Babe Ruth League, Inc. to host the 2003 Cal Ripken World Series in Aberdeen, MD, today announced that tournament passes to the event will go on sale tomorrow, June 10, at 10:00 am.

Tournament passes will be available through TicketMaster by phone at (410) 461-SEAT or in person at all TicketMaster locations and at the Ripken Stadium Box Office. The Box Office is open Monday-Friday 10 am to 5 pm.

Games will be played August 16-24 at Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen, MD. August 16-21 there will be five games each day beginning at 11 am with the final game of the day starting at 8 pm. On August 22 there will be four games with the first one beginning at 12 Noon.

On August 23 the International Division Championship Game will be played at I pm and the United States Division Championship Game will take place at 3:30 pm. On Sunday, August 24 the World Series Title Game will be played at 4:00 pm and will be broadcast nationally live by Fox Sports Net.

Tickets prices are as follows and seating throughout the stadium will be general admission:

Adult Tournament Pass $20
Adult Day Pass $5
Child (10 and under) Tournament Pass $12
Child Day Pass $3

WORLD SERIES SCHEDULE - FIRST DAY

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE SCHEDULE, PLEASE VISIT http://www.ripkenbaseball.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16

11 am OHIO VALLEY VS MIDDLE ATLANTIC
1 PM SOUTH KOREA VS  MEXICO
3 PM NEW ENGLAND VS PACIFIC NW
6 PM AUSTRALIA VS DOMINCAN REPUBLIC
8 PM SOUTHEAST VS HARFORD COUNTY

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED - ABERDEEN MAINTENANCE FACILITY

The public is invited to attend a public meeting to offer input and comments on the potential reuse of the City Maintenance Facility. The meeting will be held on Saturday, June 14th at 9:00 a.m. at the City Maintenance Facility on Market and Pine Streets.

The City is in the process of constructing a new maintenance facility adjacent to the Aberdeen Wastewater Treatment Plant located off Michael's Lane. The new facility will include offices, shop area and storage for maintenance vehicles. The proposed construction will be completed in Spring 2004.

BUDGET FY03/04; NOTICE OF ADOPTION - ORDINANCE No. 632-03

On June 9, 2003, the Mayor and Council adopted Ordinance #632-03, BUDGET FY03/04. The following is a brief summation of the ordinance.

The City's budget for Fiscal Year 2003/2004 is based on an annual property tax rate of $.55 per $100 of full assessed value and an annual personal property tax rate of $1.40 per $100 of assessed value. The budget consists of a General Fund Operating and Capital Budgets of $9,886,000; Water Fund Operating & Capital Budgets of $1,517,400; and Sewer Fund Operating and Capital Budgets of $1,616,300 and Stadium Fund Operating Budget of $1,776,300.

The new budget will become effective on July 1, 2003.

ABERDEEN SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 2003

June 10

Sounding Brass Quintet

June 17

Chuck Baker Orchestra

June 24

Bel Air Community Orchestra

July 1

Native Sun

July8

Harford County Coral Society

July 15

Bay Country Gentlemen

July 22

Jericho Bridge

July 29

Crawdaddies

August 5

Barbara Martin

August 15

APG Army Band

CHAMBER BASKET BINGO

The Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce will hold a Basket Bingo on Friday, September 26th at the Aberdeen Fire Hall. Doors open at 6:00 PM, bingo begins at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $10.00, refreshments will be available. Proceeds from this fundraiser will be earmarked to continue with current chamber projects. For tickets and additional information call the Aberdeen Chamber at 410-272-2580.

BOARD OF APPEALS HEARING

Public Notice - Please be advised that the Aberdeen Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing on May 21,2003 at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, 60 N. Parke Street, to review the following cases:

CASE #452 Donald and Martha Benton, 705 Elizabeth Court for a variance from the side yard requirements in order to construct an attached garage.

CASE #453 Mark DiDomenico and John McKeon, Jr., 468 W. Bel Air Avenue for a Special Exception in order to provide housing for the elderly in the existing dwelling in a R-2 Zoning District.

CASE #454 Jerome and Josephine Drozdoski, 609 Rogers Street for a variance from the Zoning Code requirements for the construction of a garage which exceeds twenty-five (25%) of the square footage of the principal structure.

CASE #455 Barry G. Andrews, Applicant for a Special Exception to develop.

the property known as 612 Aberdeen Venture for Housing for the Elderly. The property I is described on Tax Map 202, Grid 14, Parcel 620 and contains 35.449 acres, is located on the north side of West Bel Air Avenue at Bouzarth Lane, is zoned B-3 Highway Commercial District. The development proposal consists of 10 buildings, each containing 18 dwelling units for a total of 180 dwelling units. An 8,400 square foot, community center and a 5,000 square foot swimming pool will be provided as part of the project.

WALKING TOWN MEETING

YOU'RE INVITED TO A WALKING TOWN MEETING

The City of Aberdeen is hosting a Walking Tour of your Neighborhood. Walk on over and join us.

DATE: MAY 24, 2003 TIME: 10 A.M. TO 12:00 NOON

Starting at the intersection of Edmund Street and Washington Street Stop Two -intersection of Washington Street and Dorsey Street Stop Three -intersection of Dorsey Street and Elmhurst Street Stop Four -intersection of Elmhurst Street and Pinehurst Street Stop Five -intersection of Pinehurst Street and Holly Drive - Ending at the intersection of Dorsey Street and Edmund Street

RAIN OR SHINE FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT PHYLLIS GROVER, AT ABERDEEN CITY HALL 410-272-1600 ext. 220 pgrover@aberdeen-md.org

ZONING CODE AMENDMENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING,ZONING CODE AMENDMENT - ORDINANCE NO. 631-03

The Aberdeen City Council will hold a public hearing in the Council Chambers, 60 North Parke Street, on Monday, May 12, 2003, at 7:30 PM to present and receive input for amending the zoning code - "Accessory Uses and Other Restrictions". The public is encouraged to attend.

SUMMER CONCERT SCHEDULE

Aberdeen Summer Concert Series are held in Festival Park on Tuesdays from 7:00 - 8:00 PM

June 10

Sounding Brass Quintet

June 17

Chuck Baker Orchestra

June 24

Belair Community Orchestra

July 1

Native Sun

July 8

Harford County Coral Society

July 15

Bay County Gentlemen

July 22

Jericho Bridge

July 29

Crawdaddies

August 5

Barbara Martin

August 12

APG Army Band

2003 ARMED FORCES DAY POSTER CONTEST

May 17th, 2003 at Ripken Stadium

The Armed Forces Day Committee offers children of all ages to submit poster designs for the 2003 Armed Forces Day Event. Posters will be judged by the Armed Forces Day Committee and prizes will be awarded for the top three (3) designs from each age group Elementary, Middle and High. All entries will be on display at Ripken Stadium on May 17, 2003 during the Armed Forces Day event. Winners will be publicly announced and recognized during the ceremonies.

CONTEST RULES

  1. Each student may submit as many designs as they wish.

  2. This year's theme is "A Force for Freedom."

  3. Design should be created on an 8-1/2" x 11" piece of plain white paper.

  4. Any medium (crayon, color pencil, chalk, paint, etc.) may be used.

  5. The design should be colorful and reflect the theme "A Force for Freedom."

  6. Computer generated graphics are not desired. Designs should be done by hand.

  7. All posters must be submitted by May 9th. Submit your entry to your school office.

  8. Each design should be labeled with name, age, phone number, grade and school attending.  This information must be placed on the back of the design and not visible from the front.

  9. For more information contact: Darlene Ostroski dostroski@aberdeen-md.org at Aberdeen City Hall 410-297-4212.

Failure to follow the contest guidelines as listed above may result in disqualification of your entry.

SPRING 2003 STREET SWEEPING SCHEDULE

The City of Aberdeen's schedule for spring street sweeping is as follows:

  • Zone 1 April 14 - April 21
  • Zone 2 April 22 - April 28
  • Zone 3 April 29 - May 7
  • Zone 4 May 8 - May 16

The zones indicated above correspond to the trash collection zones currently in effect. To facilitate the cleaning operations, residents are encouraged to park their vehicles in their driveway, along the alley side, or in other non-curbed areas where parking is permitted. Remember do not sweep your leaves into the street. Either bag or compost your leaves. Yard waste pick-ups are Fridays, please refer to your trash collection schedule.

PUBLIC NOTICE; BOARD OF APPEALS HEARING

Please be advised that the Aberdeen Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing on April 16, 2003 at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, 60 N. Parke Street, to review the following cases:

CASE #449 Benjamin and Heather Long, 728 Kingston Road, Middle River, Maryland apply for a variance from the front and rear yard setback requirements in order to construct a single family dwelling at 713 Robinson Avenue, Aberdeen.

CASE #450 Steve Piper for Ida Pierce, 307 Graceford Drive, Aberdeen, Maryland apply for a variance from the side yard setback requirements in order to construct an attached carport over an existing driveway.

CASE #451 Phillip and Linda Farnshlader, 745 Cyrus Court, Aberdeen, Maryland apply for a variance in order to construct an accessory use structure (detached garage) which exceeds 25% of the square footage of the principal use (dwelling).

All interested parties are urged to attend the hearing.

ABERDEEN HERITAGE DAY

Mark you calendar to attend the 5th Annual Aberdeen Heritage Day, which is planned for September 20th in Festival Park.  Mr. Ron Kupferman has agreed to chair the event for this year.  Further information will be available as the date draws closer.

WATER RESTRICTIONS LIFTED

Gov. Robert Ehrlich late Thursday lifted the Level One Water Restrictions for Harford County and other areas served by the City of Baltimore’s water supply. When most of Central Maryland was released last month from water use restrictions, Harford, along with parts of Anne Arundel, Howard and Baltimore counties, remained restriction bound because their water contract agreement with the City of Baltimore and less than acceptable city reservoir water levels. Harford County has issued a press release, please visit the County's website to read the press release in its entirety

http://www.co.ha.md.us/public_information/pressview.cfm?ID=896

  It is important that the public still practice water conservation. A full list of water conservation tips is available on the Maryland Department of the Environment’s web site at

www.mde.state.md.us.

PROTECTING ABERDEEN'S WATER SUPPLY

Are you interested?  A "Town Meeting" will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2003, in the Aberdeen Senior Center. 9:00 am- 12:00 am

You’re invited to join other residents, elected officials, business owners, students and representatives from the EPA and Maryland Department of Environment for a Town Meeting and workshop on protecting Aberdeen’s water supply.

Learn about Aberdeen’s well field, what we’re dealing with and how other communities protect their well fields. The workshop will include demonstrations and displays, educational briefings and public participation to develop input for a well field protection program in the City of Aberdeen.

Questions about the Town Meeting: Peter Dacey pdacey@aberdeen-md.org

Wellhead Overview

Resolution No. 625-02; Resolution to Adopt a Wellhead Protection Plan

What is Wellhead Protection and how do we protect our water supplies?  

ABERDEEN UNDER WATER RESTRICTIONS

Despite the Governor's lifting of mandatory water use restrictions state-wide this past Thursday, the City of Baltimore remains on restrictions due to the continued low levels in their upper reservoirs. Because Harford County (and subsequently the City of Aberdeen) purchase water from City of Baltimore, we are contractually obligated to remain on Level I restrictions as long as it is required of Balitmore.

Citizens who receive a water bill from any other water system in Harford should contact their supplier concerning any water use restrictions in their area.  Citizens on private water systems and wells here are no longer affected by the restrictions. Please visit http://www.co.ha.md.us/public_information/pressview.cfm?ID=859 for additional information.

JOB FAIR

The Aberdeen Proving Ground Directorate of Community and Family Activities sponsoring a job fair on March 7th from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. at the Aberdeen Sheraton Four Points Hotel for positions at all salary and education levels located at Aberdeen Proving Ground.  Full-time, part-time, and Flex positions available. Full-time and part-time positions receive annual and sick leave, paid holidays, medical and life insurance, and 401K.  A partial listing of the jobs we need to fill include: Bartenders, Cooks, Food Service Workers, Gardeners, Gardeners (Tractor Operators), Lifeguards, Lifeguard Training Instructors (Pool Managers), Operations Assistant (Night Manager), Recreation Aids, Small Engine Repairer, Waiter Trainees/Waiters.   No childcare is provided on site.  No photocopying services will be provided, so anyone interested should bring copies of their resume. There is no limit to the number of interviews available. For more information call 410-278-4497/9816.

GUYS AND DOLLS MUSICAL

The St. Paul's Players will present the quintessential American stage production, "Guys and Dolls"--a musical fable of Broadway, on Fridays and Saturdays, March 21, 22, 28, 29 at 8:00 PM and Sundays, March 23, 30 at 3:00 PM. Performances will be held in the Fellowship Hall of St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church, located at 201 Mt. Royal Ave. and Rte. here in Aberdeen. Tickets for general admission seating are available by calling the box office at 410-734-7429 as of Saturday, February 1, 2003. Pricing is $8.00 for adults and seniors and $5.00 for children up through high school.  St. Paul's Players is seeking sponsorship, patronage, or advertisement to be published in the program for "Guys and Dolls" that will be given to each ticket holder.

Those desirous of supporting this community theatre through patron advertisement can contact Mike Bareham, Executive Director of the St. Paul's Players, at 410-272-3111 for an order form--due back no later than Sunday, March 2, 2003. A total of 600 patrons will attend over the two weekends of performances.  The mission of the St. Paul's Players is to provide fellowship and family entertainment as an outreach ministry of St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Aberdeen. The production is supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency funded by the State of Maryland and the National Endowment for the Arts. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the DAMON RUNYON CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION in memory of John Lilbertini and in honor of Kathy Sladek, both members of St. Paul's Players afflicted with colon cancer.  

Based on a story and characters by Damon Runyon, the music and lyrics are by Frank Loesser and the book is by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows.  Stage direction is by Phil Kilby; musical direction is by Mike Bareham, Director of Music and Parish Life at the church; and choreography is by Scott Woltz. This presentation of "Guys and Dolls" is made possible through special arrangement with and all performance materials are supplied by Music Theatre International, 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019.

ABERDEEN MUSEUM REVIEW

The Aberdeen Museum is now distributing a newsletter "Aberdeen Museum Review," which is filled with information that links the past and future.  The February 1, 2003, edition includes articles about the mystery in the history, the Christmas season, reminders of past businesses and much more.  Visit the Aberdeen Museum's website www.aberdeenroom.com and request to be placed on their mailing list.  The City of Aberdeen congratulates the current Museum's officers Charlotte Cronin, Curator, Lilma Huntley, Secretary, and James Lindsey, Tresurer and Board of Director's: Charles Baker, George Baker, Genevieve Brubaker, Paul Ciesla, William Cronin, Trudy DeForest, Ruth Duguid, Anna Duguid, Ann Kelly, Mary Livezey, Robert Manning, Romaine Morris, Mary Plummer and Council Liaison Gina Bantum on a job well done!  The Aberdeen Room Archives & Museum is located at 18 Howard Street in Aberdeen.  

MAYORS MEDAL

The Mayor's medal was initiated in February 1997 to honor people who exhibit great courage and heroism by saving a life.  Tamara Green of Havre de Grace and Merritt Harrison of Aberdeen received the Mayor's Medal at the February 20th Volunteer Appreciation dinner.  Both Green and Harrison performed the Heimlich Maneuver to save a life.

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DINNER

The annual Volunteer Appreciation dinner is an annual event the city holds to honor the volunteers for giving of themselves so freely and for the untold hours they have given for the betterment of the City.  This year, the dinner  was held on February 20th at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in Aberdeen.  

The City would like to thank all of the volunteers that support the following committees:

Room, Architectural Review Board, Tree Committee, Appearance & Preservation, Ripken Museum, Auxiliary Police, Board of Appeals, HotSpot Volunteers, Parks & Recreation, Election Supervisors, Boys & Girls Club, Chamber of Commerce, Citizens Advocates for Aberdeen Proving Ground, Taxicab Bureau, Economic Development, Ethics Committee, Fire Department, Golden Age Club, Habitat for Humanity, Heritage Committee, Ripken Stadium Management Board, Planning Commission, Personnel Advisory Board, Recycling Committee, Swim Club Committee, Special Events, Zoning Appeals Board, and the Army Alliance.

SEWER OVERFLOWS; PUBLIC NOTICE

Due to the accumulated snow and heavy rains experienced on February 22nd & 23rd, significant sewer system overflows occurred in the City of Aberdeen. The overflows were a direct result of storm water entering the sewer system and causing surcharging effecting several locations listed below. Water contact should be avoided in these areas until March 22, 2003:

  • Tributary of Swan Creek from the end of Rigdon Road to Oakington

  • Storm drain channel south of James Street

  • South end of South Drive

  • Storm drain channel adjacent to Pump Station 2916, AA/APG

  • Dipple Creek to Spesutie Narrows, AA/APG

Warning signs have been posted in the effected areas. For further information, contact Harford County Health Department at 443-643-0301 or City of Aberdeen Department of Water/Wastewater at 410-272-2650.

REQUEST FOR BID

Sealed bids will be received at the City of Aberdeen, Department of Public Works, 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen, Maryland, 21001, until 4:00 P.M. local time, on March 7, 2003, for the Deer Creek Pump Station Intake Improvements, APG-WTP 01-32.

Envelopes containing the bid shall be addressed to the City of Aberdeen Department of Public Works and shall be clearly and distinctly marked "Deer Creek Pump Station Intake Improvements Contract No. APG-WTP 01-32.

Bidders may obtain bidding documents at a non-refundable cost of $30.00 per set. Sets will be available: City Hall, 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen, Maryland, 21001, on or after February 7, 2003. Subcontractors and material suppliers may obtain only full sets of bid documents.

Drawings, specifications, and other documents constituting the Contract Documents may be examined without charge at City Hall.

Each bid shall be accompanied by a certified check on a solvent bank or a bid bond in an amount not less Ian five (5) percent of the bid total, payable to the Owner in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders.

Subcontractors and material suppliers may obtain a list of plan holders by contacting the City of Aberdeen Department of Public Works, APG Project Manager's Office, at (410) 272-1449.

Bidders are advised that a mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held at Aberdeen City Hall, 2nd Floor conference Room, at 1:30 P.M. on February 18, 2003. All bidders are required to attend this meeting any and all questions pertaining to the Documents or the proposed work will be entertained, and a site visit will follow the meeting.

After the Pre-Bid Conference, Bidders may visit the project site only by appointment. Contact Mr. Hank Selke at (410) 272-1449 or hselke@aberdeen-md.org to make arrangements.

No proposals may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days after the date set for the opening of bids.

The City of Aberdeen reserves the right to waive informalities, defects, errors or omissions in any and all ids and to reject any or all bids.

This Contract will be subject to liquidated damages.

CITY OF ABERDEEN, MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

ANNEXATION RESOLUTION NO. #629-03; CHARTER AMENDMENT #74

The Mayor and City Council introduced a Resolution to extend the corporate boundaries of the City of Aberdeen at their regular Council Meeting on February 10, 2003. The Resolution provides that the consent of the property owners has been submitted; that the property and their owners would become subject to the City Charter; and the property is presently zoned AG under the Harford County Zoning Regulations; that the property shall be zoned M-1 Light Industrial District under the City’s Zoning Code which is consistent with adjacent City zoning; that the City will provide fire and police protection and other related services.

The proposed property to be annexed by the City is briefly described as follows:

The subject area to be annexed is located off of Gilbert Road on Harford County Tax Map 51, identified as p/o Parcel 102 and adjoining the City’s corporate limits.

A Public Hearing will be held on March 24, 2003 at 7:30 p.m., in the Aberdeen City Council Chambers, 60 N. Parke Street, to discuss the proposed annexation.

All interested citizens are urged to attend.

THINK SPRING, CHILI, AND VOLUNTEERING FOR HOME IMPROVEMENT JOBS!

Saturday, April 26th is shaping up to be a great day in Aberdeen. Rebuilding Together will make improvements to 15 Aberdeen homes with applications coming in daily. The Chili Appreciation Society International http://www.chili.org has selected Aberdeen to be its host for the Eastern Regional Chili Cook Off and has designated Harford County Boys & Girls Club as a community partner.  Sign up for e-citizen news mailto:dostroski@aberdeen-md.org to receive additional information as it becomes available.

MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL TO MEET WITH AEGIS/RECORD EDITORIAL BOARD

p>The public is invited to attend a meeting with the Mayor, City Council and the Aegis/Record Editorial Board on Monday, February 17th @ 7:30 p.m. at the Aegis office in Bel Air.  If you plan to attend the meeting, the Aegis requests that you contact their office to have your name placed on the list of attendees.

QUARTERLY AWARDS CEREMONY

The Aberdeen Police Department’s Quarterly Awards Ceremony held in January recognized officers, communication clerks, and business people who made significant and noteworthy contributions to the safety of our citizens and the department. This ceremony recognized achievement and demonstrated the positive relationships being forged between officers, residents, and the business community. Equally important, it showed how the department has formed itself into a team, supporting one another professionally and personally and delivering services to meet the demands of our community.

DPW EMPLOYEES RECEIVE RECOGNITION

January flew by and much was accomplished by City workers. Work completed by employees at the Department of Public Works (DPW) Maintenance Shop deserves special recognition. DPW employees worked long hours in the snow, sleet, ice and rain, keeping our streets open, buildings operating and repairing water main breaks. There were 12 water line breaks in the City and 14 in Aberdeen Proving Ground  this past month!  Weather conditions made the job much harder and their response shows the fortitude, commitment and pride they have to their job and the City. They go about their work in a modest and humble manner, yet their contribution and achievements are Herculean. They keep the City running day in and day out!

GOVERNMENTS STUDENT NEWSLETTER

The City of Aberdeen is pleased to share with you the January 2003 Government Student Newsletters.  The Aberdeen Grapevine is distributed to approximately 4,100 Aberdeen middle and high school students.  Kids Bizz is distributed to approximately 3,000 Aberdeen elementary students.  

These newsletter are published twice a year.  The Aberdeen Grapevine and Kids Bizz has proven to be a valuable tool in interacting with Aberdeen's youth.  The newsletter is published and distributed to the students twice during the school year.

BED AND BREAKFAST ORDINANCE

The Mayor and Council held a public hearing and adopted the Bed and Breakfast ordinance at the January 13th Council meeting.

Public Hearing: Ordinance 628-02; Bed and Breakfast. A Public Hearing was held to receive public input on Ordinance 628-02. This ordinance was introduced at the Dec. 9th Council meeting and adopted at the January 13th Council meeting. To view the ordinance visit www.aberdeen-md.org/ordinance

CHRISTMAS STREET WINNERS ANNOUNCED

The Appearance & Preservation Committee, Mayor and City Council recognized the winners of the Christmas Street Parade. The winners were:

    Youth Floats

    1st Place: Cub Scout Pack 820

    2nd Place: Aberdeen HS Acappella Choir

    3rd Place: Spirit Singers Youth

    Adult Floats

    1st Place: Century 21 Curry Agency

    2nd Place: Harford Hospice

    Combination Youth/Adult Group Floats

    1st Place: Silver Eagle Cloggers

    2nd Place: First Baptist Church (Aberdeen)

    3rd Place: Mt. Calvary Freewill Baptist Bell Choir

    Youth Walking Group

    1st Place: Troops 1553 & 974 Girl Scouts

    2nd Place: Girl Scout Community 76

    3rd Place: Hoppin' Hawks Jump Rope

    Adult Walking Group

    1st Place: Wal-Mart (Aberdeen)

    2nd Place: Aberdeen Lioness Club

    3rd Place: TOPS - APG

    WINDOW DECORATING CONTEST WINNERS

    YOUTH

    1st Place: Girl Scout Troop 444

    2nd Place: Inner County Outreach

    3rd Place: Girl Scout Troop 1553 & 974

    ADULT

    1st Place: Aberdeen Heritage Trust

    2nd Place: Tops Chapter APG

    3rd Place: Aberdeen Lionness Club

    BUSINESS

    1st Place: Pizzaz Boutique

    2nd Place: Law Office (Boutin & Landbeck)

    3rd Place: Bay Area Dental Assoc. (Dr. Charles Morris)

    CHRISTMAS STREET COMMUNITY APPRECIATION AWARD

    East Bel Air Avenue (Church Green Park Area) Mr. Wilfried Adams

CDBG FUNDING

CDBG Funding: Harford County was eligible to become an "entitlement" jurisdiction and receive federal funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development through the Community Development Block Grant program in 1996. The CDBG program provides a flexible source of funds for various types of community projects. Aberdeen, Bel Air and Havre de Grace were asked to be included in the County's program. Cooperation agreements between each municipality were executed for a three-year period. The following projects were completed using CDBG funds from Harford County/HUD:

    *ARC Demolition

    *Bush Chapel Road

    *Baker Street Stormdrain

    *Skateboard Park

    *Property acquisition at 23 and 25 S. Philadelphia Blvd.

    The City has received three projects to consider funding for this year: Community Legacy - Downtown area; Bush Chapel Road - Phase II; and Swan Meadows Infrastructure. Over the next three-years, the City would receive approximately $125,000 per year to devote to a project.

2002 LEAD & COPPER SAMPLING RESULTS

2002 Lead & Copper sampling results: The City is required to perform tri-annual sampling for lead and copper per MDE and USEPA. The rule requiring this testing was established when health officials realized that the corrosive properties of water could cause these two metals to be dissolved in drinking water and be ingested by the population. Many household plumbing is constructed of copper and the plumbing in many older structures contains lead joints and solder. In order to give some ideas of the possible health effects, the following two paragraphs contain the EPA mandated health effects language required on every water system's Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) that is distributed annually:

    Copper: Copper is an essential nutrient, but some people who drink water containing copper in excess of the action level (1.3 mg/l) over a relatively short amount of time could experience gastrointestinal distress. Some people who drink water containing copper in excess of the action level over many years could suffer liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson's Disease should consult their personal doctor.

    Lead: Infants and children who drink water containing lead in excess of the action level (0.015 mg/l) could experience delays in their physical or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure.

    Every three years, samples are collected inside buildings, both residential and commercial, specifically chosen for the presence of copper piping and lead joints/soldering. Sample sites are located in a representative dispersion throughout the service area. The samples are taken using a prescribed protocol and are collected in the same locations year after year to provide a comparative set of data.

    In order to be in compliance, 90 percent of the samples taken must be below the respective action level. This year the water operation personnel sampled thirty locations in the City and thirty locations on APG.

    As you can see, there was nearly a 50 percent reduction in copper between 1999 and 2002. Lead results were below detection limits for both sampling periods. These results are very good and an indicator of the care we take in ensuring that our treatment processes, in this case our corrosivity buffering, are well managed to provide the highest quality possible.

    If you have any questions or need further information, please contact Mr. Ken Benner, Superintendent kbenner@aberdeen-md.org

    of our Water Water and Water Plants.

MAYOR'S MEDAL PROGRAM

WHAT:

The City of Aberdeen established a Mayor's Medal Program in 1997.

WHY:

So often acts of heroism go unrecognized and the City would like to pay tribute and recognize those whom voluntarily exhibit great courage.

WHO:

Residents of the City of Aberdeen and/or non-residents that perform a heroic act to a member of the Aberdeen community.

WHEN:

The deadline for nominations is February 14, 2003. Medal winners will be recognized at the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. Medals will be presented by the Mayor.

HOW:

Nomination forms are available on the City's website

www.aberdeen-md.org/medal.htm

or at City Hall, 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen, Maryland 21001. Mayor Douglas Wilson will select the winner(s).

QUESTIONS:

You may contact Darlene Ostroski for additional information

dostroski@aberdeen-md.org

or (410) 297-4212.

ABERDEEN HERITAGE TRUST LECTURE SERIES

Public is invited to the Heritage Trust Lecture Series on January 23rd 7:00 - 8:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Topic: "History of Aberdeen" - Speaker: Mrs. Charlotte Cronin. Light refreshments will be served.

PLANNING AND ZONING NEWS

The Planning Commission and staff have been very busy reviewing site plans and subdivisions for residential and commercial development. The Windemere, Section V plans have been reviewed and the Preliminary Plan is ready to be presented to the City Council. The Architectural Review Committee has met to finalize their approvals for the Micahel's Food Rite renovations.

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DINNER

In honor of the City's many volunteers that devote untold hours for the betterment of community, the City will hold this year's Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on February 20th at the Four Points Hotel - Sheraton. Guest speaker will be Mr. Chip Franklin of WBAL radio. The Mayor is receiving nominations for the Mayor's Medal. Nomination forms are available on our site

www.aberdeen-md.org/medal.htm

or at City Hall. Please contact Darlene Ostroski dostroski@aberdeen-md.org for additional information.

ANNUAL RETREAT

The Mayor, Council and Department Heads held their annual retreat on January 11th at the Donaldson Brown Center. This year's theme was, "The Lens of Improvement." Look for a retreat summation in an upcoming E-Citizen News issue.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES (DIVISION OF HOUSING)

Eligibility Requirements for Aberdeen Senior Housing:

Section 8 housing for persons 62 and older

The maximum gross income limits for the above are:

One person - $22,100

Two person - $25,250

Three person - $28,400

Income limits are subject to change annually.

Residents at the above locations pay 30% of their adjusted gross income in rent (Gross income plus income from assets minus ALLOWABLE out of pocket medical expenses. Callers should be referred to the Division of Housing Services for details 410-547-5527.

Aberdeen Senior Housing is a 75-unit affordable apartment building for seniors meeting the above criteria. Catholic Charities was awarded funds to build this project by the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development in October 2002. It is anticipated that construction on the facility will begin in early fall 2003 and the building should be complete by late summer 2004.

At the present time, Catholic Charities is maintaining an interest list for those individuals who may qualify for residency. Once the building is approximately four months from completion, currently projected to be late spring 2004, applications will be mailed out to interested parties. Once an application is received by Catholic Charities, interviews will be scheduled in the order in which the application is received.

For additional information please call 410-547-5527.

IRONBIRDS LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE

We want you to be among the first to know that the IronBirds have launched their new website. It's still at the same address, www.ironbirdsbaseball.com

but there's a whole new look and new information. Check out the 2003 IronBirds schedule www.ironbirdsbaseball.com/schedule(seen for the first time). Plus new information on merchandise, ticketing, extensive team information and much more.