2004 City News

PROJECT BLUE LIGHT

This holiday season, the Harford County Municipal Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 128 will be supporting a nationwide effort to remember law enforcement officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty as announced by the lodge President Joseph K. Bray. Along with the Maryland State FOP Lodge and Concerns of Police Survivors, Inc. (COPS), the Harford County Municipal FOP is asking concerned citizens of Harford County to put blue lights in holiday decorations and windows. Blue ribbons on vehicle antennas is also a show of support and remembrance not only for the fallen officers and theirfamilies, but to show support for those who continue to work the streets 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

COPS began promoting Project Blue Light in 1988 after Mrs. Dolly Craig, the surviving mother-in-law of Officer Daniel Gleason, a Philadelphia (Pa) Police Officer who was killed in the line of duty just before the holidays, decided to place a blue light in the window of her home in remembrance. Mrs. Craig sent her message to the COPS national office. Mrs. Craig wrote, "This holiday, I'm putting two blue lights in my living room window. One for Dan and the other is for my daughter Pam, the surviving widow of Officer Gleason, who believed so much in the COPS organization."

Mrs. Craig is now deceased, but her idea for Project Blue Light burns bright in the hearts of the law enforcement family.

The Harford County Municipal Fraternal Order of Police strongly encourages all citizens of Harford County to show their support and remember those Officers who so graciously and unselfishly gave their lives for those they swore to protect.

BAY RESTORATION FEE

CITY NEWS - January 11, 2005
Dear Aberdeen Resident,
Beginning with your next water and sewer bill, you will see a new charge for the State of Maryland required "Bay Restoration Fee"
For residential customers, the fee is $7.50 per quarter. This is in addition to your regular usage charge. For commercial customers, the fee is based on water usage using a residential equivalent defined by the State of Maryland.

The Bay Restoration fee will be used to clean up the Chesapeake Bay. The fee will help finance a billion dollars in state-of-the art nutrient removal technology at major wastewater treatment plants in Maryland.

If you have any questions you may call the City at 410-272-1600, or Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) at 410-537-3567. You can also find additional information regarding the purpose of the fee by logging onto the Maryland Department of the Environment's website.
Sincerely,
Douglas S. Wilson, Mayor

CHRISTMAS PARADE AND CRAFT FAIR

The City of Aberdeen's Fire Department will sponsor a Holiday Craft Fair in conjunction with the City's Christmas Street celebration (sponsored by the Appearance & Preservation Committee) on Saturday, December 4th. Listed below is a schedule of events:

  • Craft Fair @ AFD: 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
  • Christmas Street Parade: West Bel Air Avenue 3:00 p.m.
  • Aberdeen Room & Archives will hold an Open House throughout the day.
  • Christmas Street Lighting: Festival Park, immediately following the parade.

ABERDEEN IS GRANTED WATER APPROPRIATION PERMIT

On October 29, 2004 the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) issued a Water Appropriation Permit to the City of Aberdeen. The permit allows the use of Deer Creek as a municipal water supply for the needs of the City and the Aberdeen Proving Grounds. Deer Creek is designated as a Class IV public water supply source by the State of Maryland. MDE authorized the City to withdrawal 3.27 mgd as a daily average and 4.9 mgd as a daily maximum. The City had requested a daily average withdrawal of 3.5 mgd and a daily maximum withdrawal of 6.05.

Mayor Douglas Wilson commented "the permit provides the City with a vital water source that can be used conjunctively with the City's well field to provide safe and reliable water to both APG and the citizens of Aberdeen" He also commented "Deer Creek has served as a very reliable water source for Aberdeen Proving Ground since 1945 and the City is committed to the responsible stewardship of Deer Creek."

In order to ensure a continuous flow of water downstream, MDE maintained its "Flow-By" requirements and set the standard at 46 cubic feet of water per second (cfs) during the months July through February and 69 cfs from March through June. When the flow is less than the "flow-by" for that period, withdrawals from Deer Creek are not permitted and the City will utilize existing back-up sources to meet its needs.

The next step in the City's approval process is to obtain approval from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, a federal regulatory body that also has jurisdiction over Deer Creek withdrawals. The City anticipates that its permit application will be on the Commission's agenda at its next meeting scheduled for December 15, 2004.

ABERDEENS AROUND THE WORLD BOOK

The City is taking orders for the newly published book by author Mr. Frederick Bull of Aberdeen, Scotland entitled, "Aberdeens around the World" Mr. Bull visited Aberdeen, Maryland in 2001 as part of his global journey to visit each Aberdeen around the world. The book captures the rich history and character of Aberdeens around the world. If you are interested in purchasing the book, please fill out an order form. The forms are also available at City Hall. The price of the book is $14.99 plus $1.00 for shipping and handling.

2004 MARYLAND CHIEFS' CHALLENGE

(Aberdeen, Md) On Monday September 27, 2004 five members of the Aberdeen Police Department attended the 2004 Maryland Chief's Challenge Awards Luncheon at the Baltimore (waterfront) Marriott Hotel to receive recognition along with 139 other police agencies in the State for their agency's work during the two month Maryland Chief's Challenge Campaign conducted April 6 thru June 6, 2004. The Maryland Chief's Challenge is a Statewide Campaign to increase Maryland' seatbelt/ child safety seat usage and compliance rate through innovative Awareness and Education programs and concentrated Enforcement efforts within their community.

The Aberdeen Police Department was selected for the 1st place award for the second year in a row competing with Municipal Police Agencies, County Police Agencies and Sheriff's Departments with 26 to 40 personnel who submitted a final report containing pertinent documentation and attachments of the agency's activities during the two- month campaign for review by a distinguished Board of Judges. Sergeant Albert Severn who has served as the campaign coordinator the past three years received the award for Aberdeen Police Department.

BASEBALL, COPS AND KIDS ARTICLE (By Detective Sergeant Stephen A. Smith, Aberdeen PD)

It has been observed that genius is the intersection of inspiration and hard work. "This little nugget was gleaned from the 1997 proposal of the City of Aberdeen that, utilizing the ingredients mentioned, became Ripken Stadium. Design proposals, funding, ground breaking, construction" Opening Day! By 2002 the Stadium was a reality and Cal Ripken Jr's Iron Birds opened to a packed house. Virtually every game has been sold out since the Oriole Single A minor league affiliate came to town. The Cal Ripken Jr. World Series of Babe Ruth Baseball was played at the Stadium in 2003, with young players from around the world coming to participate. The inspiration and hard work continue. The Ripken family also envisioned a baseball academy where the fundamentals of the game could be taught "The Ripken Way" Youth scale fields have been constructed adjacent to the Stadium and dormitories and related buildings have been designed and construction is slated to begin in the near future. Training camps have begun.

As the "Field of Dreams" was evolving along I-95 other inspiration and hard work was occurring in another part of the City. As the ninety's came to a close and the new millennium loomed the City fathers recognized that the community that they served was also evolving and that there was a need for a more responsive, pro-active type of policing, a "community oriented policing" They envisioned a police department that was responsive not only to the "handcuffs" of policing, but one that could affect a broader range of issues.

Chief Randy M. Rudy was hired by the City in February 2000 and was tasked with putting into place a community-policing program. Chief Rudy began by implementing a practical and philosophical change in the approach of the Departments officers. He encouraged problem solving, community engagement and positive contacts with the citizens the officers served. It was recognized that all too frequently the only contact a citizen had with the police could be when they were the victims of a crime or on the receiving end of a traffic ticket. Individual officers were assigned particular neighborhoods for which they were responsible to the citizens for responding to their problems. Several city-wide programs were implemented that are geared toward those positive contacts including bicycle registration, Watch Your Car, and Adopt-a-School.

Adopt-a-School was a program in which officers picked individual schools in the City to visit on a regular basis; this was in addition to the School Resource Officer who was committed full time. During the visits the officers would interact with the children, engage in mentoring, participate in reading programs and allow the children to see the positive side of a police officer. The officers were also urged to become a presence at the local Boys and Girls Club for the same reasons.

A spin off of the youth contact was a program developed by Cpl. Henry Gordon in which he and other officers took groups of children to Iron Bird games. The tickets were obtained from a block provided to the City by Ripken Baseball for charitable distribution. Refreshments and souvenirs were provided the participants through funds obtained from the Department or the officers themselves. If the game was played the children went, even on at least one occasion in the rain. A good time was always had by all.

The "inspiration and hard work" of the Department was recognized in October, 2003 at the annual conference of the International Association of Chief's of Police. The Aberdeen Police Department was among ten finalists selected from over one hundred agencies nominated worldwide to receive the 2003 Community Policing Award sponsored by the IACP and ITT Industries.

Ripken Stadium and its environs and the Aberdeen Police Department; one brand new and growing the other established but re-invented, both continuing to evolve through "inspiration and hard work"

APPEARANCE & PRESERVATION AMENDMENT, NOTICE OF ADOPTION

On September 27, 2004, the Mayor and Council adopted Ordinance No. 658-04, "Amendment to Appearance & Preservation Committee" to be added to the code of the City of Aberdeen.

This ordinance amends the membership terms, deletes Daffodil Day and redefines a Quorum. The Ordinance will become effective October 17, 2004. You may review the ordinance in its entirety at City Hall located at the City Office, 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen or the City's website www.aberdeen-md.org.

WALKING TOWN MEETING - Rain or Shine

Neighbors, here is your chance to speak directly with the City of Aberdeen's Mayor, Council members and senior staff about your neighborhood. You are invited to a "Neighborhood Town Meeting." Join Us on September 25, 2004 @ 10 AM to noon at the Swan Meadows Community. The following are the designated stops during the walk:

  • Stop #1: Swan Street & Defense Drive
  • Stop #2: Swan Street & Defense Drive
  • Stop #3: Swan Street & Victory Street
  • Stop #4: Victory Street & Liberty Street
  • Last Stop: Liberty Street & Aberdeen Avenue

Contact Phyllis Grover pgrover@aberdeen-md.org for additional information.

PUBLIC INFORMATIONAL MEETING; PRESS RELEASE. SEPT. 10. 04

DATE: September 15, 2004

TIME:7:30 p.m.

PLACE: City Hall, 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen, MD 21001

SUBJECT: MTBE in Aberdeen

MEETING: An informational and educational meeting.

ATTENDEES: City of Aberdeen: Mayor Douglas S. Wilson, Council President Gina Bantum, Council members Jerry Hansen, Michael Hiob and Ronald Kupferman. Peter Dacey, City Manager, Randy Robertson, Director of Public Works, Ken Benner, Superintendent, Aberdeen Water System, Harford County Council: Mr. Richard Slutsky, District D, Maryland Department of Environment: Mr. John Grace, Mr. Herb Meade, Mr. Phil Head, Harford County Health Department, and Seven-Eleven Incorporated.

AGENDA

  • Welcome and introductions Mayor Douglas S. Wilson

  • What is MTBE‌ Dr. Phil Heard
    Toxicologist, MDE
  • MDE's Oil Control Program Mr. Herb Meade
    Program Manager, MDE
    Mr. John Grace
    Water Quality Division, MDE
  • Aberdeen's Wellhead Protection Plan Mr. Randy Robertson
    Director of Public Works
City of Aberdeen
  • Identification of MTBE in Aberdeen. Officials from MDE and 7-11 Inc.

  • Action Plans:
    • Seven Eleven Inc.
    • MDE
    • City of Aberdeen

  • Status of Aberdeen's water supply and drinking water. Mr. Ken Benner

Water Superintendent
City of Aberdeen
  • Questions and Discussions

  • Close

MTBE DETECTED ON 7-11 PROPERTY IN CITY

The Maryland Department of Environment (MDE) has notified the City of Aberdeen that the compound Methyl-tertiary-butyl-ether (MTBE) has been detected in a monitoring pipe located at the 7-11 Store, 602 South Philadelphia Boulevard, Aberdeen. No private wells exist in this area as the area is served by the City's public water system.

An underground fuel tank-monitoring pipe located on the 7-11 property detected a contaminant level of 240,000 ppb of MTBE. The Southland Corporation, owner of the 7-11 store, has received approval from MDE to implement an Investigation Work Plan that includes the installation of additional monitoring wells on site. Permits to install the monitoring wells have been issued by the Harford County Health Department and installation has begun. MDE is requiring all sampling, testing, and data to be submitted to them by October 4, 2004. Once the data has been reviewed, MDE will determine the scope of contamination; its effect on the City's well field and mandate an appropriate corrective action plan to abate all contaminate sources found on the property.

While MTBE has been detected in the City's drinking water in the past and reported in the Annual Water Quality Reports, the levels have always been well below the EPA recommended level of 20 parts per billion (ppb). A June 30, 2004, test of the finished water revealed a detection level of 8.0 ppb that is consistent with the 2003 average detected level of 8.4 ppb.

The City's recently enacted Wellhead Protection program's flow model was used to identify the 7-11 site as a potential contaminant source. Although sporadic, low concentrations of MTBE have occurred in several of the City's wells, Well No. 2 is of concern as levels of MTBE ranged between 31-68 for the month of June 2004. If MDE determines that the Southland Corporation has impacted the City's wells, Southland Corporation will be responsible for any and all clean-up and/or treatment methods and related expenses.

The City's Public Works Department is performing biweekly testing of its drinking water and assures the citizens of Aberdeen that its water is safe and meets all state and federal requirements for quality drinking water.

Further information may be obtained by visiting the EPA web page at www.epa.gov/mtbe/ or MDE web page at www.mde.state.md.us/Programs/LandPrograms/Oil_Control/mtbe_update/index.asp The City's Annual Water Quality Report http://www.aberdeen-md.org/waterrep.htm and Wellhead Protection Plan http://www.aberdeen-md.org/ordinance is posted on the City's web page.

The City will hold a Public Informational meeting to discuss MTBE on September 15, 2004, at 7:30 PM at City Hall (60 North Parke Street) in the Council Chambers. An agenda for the meeting will be posted on the City's web page as soon as practical. You may contact the City's Director of Public Works, Mr. Randy Robertson rrobertson@aberdeen-md.org or City Manager, Mr. Peter Dacey pdacey@aberdeen-md.org for additional information.

2004/2005 HERITAGE TRUST LECTURE SERIES SCHEDULE

September 30, 2004

Harford County Baseball

Speaker: Fred Liedlich

October 21, 2004

Peach Bottom Slate

Speaker: Don Robinson

November 18, 2004

Origins of Computers at Aberdeen Proving Ground

Speaker: Harry Reed

December 16, 2004

The Origins of the People of Harford County

Speaker: John Harlan Livezey

January 20, 2005

Colorful Labels and Harford Currency of the Canning Industry

Speaker: Bernie Bodt

February 17, 2005

Professional Architecture's Work in Aberdeen

Speaker: James T. Wollon, Jr.

March 17, 2005

Lapidum, The Crossing and Village

Speaker: Richard Sherrill

April 21, 2005

Past and Present Flora and Fauna of Upper Chesapeake

Speaker: Bob Chance

May 19, 2005

The Mills of Harford County

Speaker: Roland Beckman

FALSE ALARM

On August 9, 2004, the Mayor and Council adopted Ordinance No. 655-04, "False Alarm" to be added to the code of the City of Aberdeen.

This ordinance establishes standards and regulates the various types of intrusion, hold-up and other emergency signals from alarm users that require police response or investigation. A violation of this ordinance shall be deemed a municipal infraction and shall be subject to a civil penalty.

This Ordinance will become effective August 29, 2004. You may review the ordinance in its entirety at City Hall located at the City Office, 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen or the City's website www.aberdeen-md.org.

WELLHEAD PROTECTION - NOTICE OF ADOPTION

On August 9, 2004, the Mayor and Council adopted Ordinance No. 656-04, "Wellhead Protection" to be added to the code of the City of Aberdeen.

The purpose of this ordinance is to protect the public health, safety, and welfare through the preservation of ground water resources of community public water supplies to ensure a future supply of safe and healthful drinking water. The designation of the wellhead protection districts, and careful regulation of activities within these districts, will help reduce the potential for ground water contamination. These districts have been designated as the Wellhead Protection Overlay District. Permitted and prohibited uses within the district are outlined in the Ordinance.

This Ordinance will become effective August 29, 2004. You may view the ordinance and the Wellhead Protection Overlay District map in its entirety at City Hall located at the City Office, 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen or the City's website www.aberdeen-md.org.

STATE OF MD OPENS OFFICE TO ASSIST FLOOD VICTIMS

The U.S. Small Business Administration has opened a field office in North East, Maryland, to assist residents and business owners in Cecil and Harford counties affected by the severe floods of July 12 and 13. The office opened for business at noon on July 26th and will remain open until 6 PM then will be open Tuesday through Friday (July 27-30 from 9 AM to 6 PM.

ABERDEEN TO HOST A FLOOD DAMAGE ASSISTANCE WORKSHOP

Due to the recent heavy rains and flooding, Senator's Barbara Mikulski and Paul Sarbanes, and Congressman Ruppersberger will hold a workshop for residents to seek flood damage assistance. Representatives of the National Flood Insurance Program and Small Business Administration will be available to meet with you individually to discuss your storm-related housing and/or business problems and insurance issues. Resident's seeking assistance are encouraged to bring to the meeting with them their paperwork. For more information, please call Senator Mikulski's Baltimore office at 410-962-4510. The workshop will be held this Wednesday, July 21st from noon - 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at Aberdeen City Hall, 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, RESOLUTION NO. 654-04

The City of Aberdeen, Maryland, will hold a Public Hearing to consider a Resolution authorizing that $700,000.00 of public debt be issued under the State of Maryland's Local Government Infrastructure Program, pursuant to the authority of Section 2-204(16)(IV) of Article 83B of the Annotated Code of Maryland, as amended. The purpose of this debt is to fund a portion of the cost of the Public Works Maintenance Shop and to pay costs of the issuance of bonds.
PLACE OF MEETING: City Council Chambers, 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen.
TIME: 7:30 PM
DATE: August 9, 2004

Written public comments may be submitted to Aberdeen, Maryland at 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen, Maryland 21001. The public is encouraged to attend.

BASKET BINGO

The Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce will hold a Basket Bingo on Friday, October 22nd at the Aberdeen Fire Hall. Doors open at 6:00, bingo begins at 7:00. Tickets are $10, refreshment will be served. Email inquires to mailto:accbasketbingo@aol.com or call the Aberdeen Chamber 410-272-2580.

CHARITY

The Aberdeen Police and Fire Departments will hold a charity golf tournament to benefit Sergeant Fred Budnick (APD Officer) and family. Fred has had a series of medical conditions. Fred and his family have a long rehabilitation and medical costs accruing. This tournament will help him offset medical expenses. The tournament will be held on August 9th at 8:30 a.m. (shotgun start) at Wetlands Golf Club. If you are interested in golfing or would like to sponsor a hole ($100 per hole) please contact Detective Don Waltemeyer dwaltemeyer@aberdeen-md.org of the Aberdeen Police Department.

WORLD SERIES

The Cal Ripken World Series will be held at Ripken Stadium in August. Check out the schedule of events, game time and ticket price at http://ripkenbaseball.com/crws/

RESIDENT SURVEY

The City of Aberdeen is conducting a customer service survey, targeting taxicab customers. If you are a taxicab customer, please take a moment to answer our survey. Click Here: Survey

WELLHEAD PROTECTION PROGRAM -PUBLIC NOTICE

Dear Property/Business Owner:
The City of Aberdeen has developed a Wellhead Protection Program. Wellhead protection is a strategy designed to protect public drinking water supplies by managing the land surface around a water source where activities might affect the quality of the water. There are three components to the City's wellhead protection program:

  1. Wellhead Protection Plan
  2. Wellhead Protection Ordinance
  3. Public Education

The City has undertaken the development of a Wellhead Protection Plan for a variety of reasons, including the lack of attractive alternatives to the well field and the vulnerability of the relatively shallow supply wells to potential contamination.

The goal of the Wellhead Protection Plan is to maintain viable water supplies by protecting the raw water source - in this case the aquifer supplying the City's groundwater wells. The purpose of the plan is to:

  • Delineate the area contributing water to the source.
  • Provide an overview of the susceptibility of the source to contaminants.
  • Identify actual and potential sources of contamination within the contributing area.
  • Provide a management plan to address activities and properties that threaten the source.
  • Provide monitoring practices that will provide early warning of impending problems.
  • Provide a contingency plan to address threats and maintain the water supply quality.
  • Educate the public on the need to protect the source.

On June 14, 2004, the City Council introduced the Wellhead Protection Ordinance #656-04 to establish a Wellhead Protection District and regulate activities and land uses within the district. Your business and/or property is in the Wellhead Protection District.
Public Hearings will be conducted this summer with adoption slated for September 2004. The first Public Hearing is scheduled for July 12, 2004 at 7:30 p.m. in the Aberdeen City Council Chambers, 60 N. Parke Street. All interested parties are urged to attend.
You can learn more about the Wellhead Protection Plan and Ordinance by visiting the City's website at: www.aberdeen-md.org.

WORLD SERIES - HOST FAMILIES NEEDED!

The Cal Ripken, Sr., Foundation and the (CRWSC) Cal Ripken World Series committee is currently gearing up for the 5th annual Cal Ripken World Series. Las Year's event was held at Ripken Stadium and starting next year, the event will permanently be held at Cal Sr's Yard, a youth-sized replica of Camden Yards currently under construction in the Ripken Youth Baseball Academy.

The World Series event will take place August 10th - 22nd and the CRWSC's first objective is to acquire host families who will house approximately 210 players. The 15 teams attending the World Series are comprised of 11 and 12 year olds from all over the world.

Currently, 70 families from Harford County area are signed up to host and 30 more are needed. Please consider being a host family -- you will help make some young boys dream come true. You may refer questions about becoming a host family to lindsay@ripkenfoundation.org

PUBLIC HEARING, ORDINANCE #655-04, FALSE ALARM ORDINANCE

The Aberdeen City Council will hold a public hearing at City Hall in the Aberdeen Council Chambers, 60 North Parke Street on Monday, July 12, 2004, at 7:30 PM to receive public input on the False Alarm Ordinance. You may view the "draft" ordinance on the City's website http://www.aberdeen-md.org/ordinance The public is encouraged to attend.

PUBLIC HEARING; ORDINANCE #656-04, WELLHEAD PROTECTION PLAN & ORDINANCE

The Aberdeen City Council will hold a public hearing at City Hall in the Aberdeen Council Chambers, 60 North Parke Street on Monday, July 12, 2004, at 7:30 PM to receive public input on the Wellhead Protection Plan & Ordinance. You may view the "draft" ordinance and plan on the City's website http://www.aberdeen-md.org/ordinance The public is encouraged to attend.

BUDGET FISCAL YEAR 2004/2005

On June 24, 2004, the Mayor and Council adopted Ordinance No. 653-04, BUDGET Fiscal Year 2004/2005. The following is a brief summation of the ordinance.

The City's budget for Fiscal Year 2004/2005 is based on an annual real property tax rate of $.55 per $100 of assessed value and an annual personal property tax rate of $1.40 per $100 of assessed value; and which consists of a General Operating Fund of $8,230,900 and Capital Budget of $1,269,000; Water Fund Operating & Capital Budgets of $1,793,600; Sewer Fund Operating & Capital Budgets of $1,693,800; and Stadium fund of $4,527,200.

The new budget will become effective on July 1, 2004.

WALKING TOWN MEETING SCHEDULED

Neighbors! Here's your chance to speak directly with the City of Aberdeen's Mayor, Council members and senior staff about your neighborhood. You're invited to a "Neighborhood Town Meeting" Come and join us on June 19th from 10:00 - noon at the City Shop Building located at Market and Pine Streets. Rain or shine! For more information, please contact Phyllis Grover pgrover@aberdeen

ABERDEEN IS SUCCESSFUL IN 1ST ROUND OF LEGAL CHALLENGE

The City of Aberdeen issues the following statement regarding the status of a suit filed by Carsins Run Crossings, LLC and Mr. Chris Michel. The primary focus of the lawsuit was to invalidate the awarding of a contract to Nottingham Properties for the purpose of developing city owned land into a family retail entertainment center adjacent to Ripken Stadium.

"The City of Aberdeen was successful in Federal Court as plaintiffs Carsins Run Crossings, LLC and Mr. Chris Michel amended the suit and abandoned their federal and state constitutional claims, the breach of contract claim and the slander claim. As well, monetary damages were dropped. The abandonment of these claims amounts to an admission that there was no factual or legal basis for any of those claims. Mayor Douglas Wilson was pleased with this action and expressed his desire to see the suit completely dismissed so the City can proceed with its sale of Lots 1 and 4 to Nottingham Properties. Nottingham Properties, the developer of The Avenue at White Marsh, is planning to construct a similar community in Aberdeen adjacent to Ripken Stadium.

Plaintiffs' amended complaint seeks injunctive and declaratory relief under state law and claims a violation of the Maryland Open Meetings Act. The City has filed a motion to dismiss the complaint and a hearing on the matter will be held on May 26th, 2004 by the Honorable Judge William Carr in Harford County Circuit Court."

"ABERDEEN IS ON THE MAP IN GERMANY"

Aberdeen sign in Hof, Germany

Klaus and Erika Beer of Hof, Germany have turned their love of travel and photography into a lucrative avocation. Known throughout Germany for his many books, travelogs and cultural films, Klaus came upon the idea of creating a signpost forest, which has become a major tourist attraction in his hometown. Mr. Beer contacted Mr. Cregar and asked if he could procure a sign from the city of Aberdeen. Mr. Cregor went to Aberdeen's City Hall in January of this year and spoke with Executive Assistant Darlene Ostroski, who assisted in coordinating this effort. The City's elected officials gave the approval to have the sign fabricated, in which the City's Maintenance Shop coordinated. The sign was made in Eldersburg, Maryland and was sent to Germany in March of this year. Now this beautiful sign representing Aberdeen is on display for the many visitors from allover the world to Germany's new tourist attraction, the Sign Post Forest of Germany, called the "Hofer Fernweh-Park."

The idea for the park began a few years ago while Klaus and his wife Erika were touring Canada and making his new film "Alaska-Yukon-Canada." During this trip, Klaus and Erika visited the small town of Watson Lake. There the Beers discovered a display of over 50,000 signs, donated by visitors from allover the world, which has brought fame to the little town. Klaus was so fascinated with the idea that he decided to import the idea by placing signs on posts in his home town of Hof, located in northern Bavaria near the former boarder with East Germany.

The "Fernweh-Park" opened on November 9, 1999, with many journalists and TV crews from allover the country attending the opening ceremony. Since then, a wide variety of VIP personalities representing politics, sports, and entertainment have visited the park and contributed a wide variety of signs. Some contributors to the signs of fame are country singer Willie Nelson, actor Maximillian Schell, tennis star Boris Becker, singer Robin Gibb, and Las Vegas entertainers Siegfried and Roy. Each week new signs arrive and their images appear around the world in newspapers, magazines, and on TV, making for great publicity for their respective cities.

Mr. Beer sees the "Hofer Fernweh-Park" as multicultural and a symbol of peace. Under these signs from around the world, people from all nations can gather and shake hands in friendship. Aberdeen's sign will be a part of this demonstration of global unity and international peace. Anyone can visit the "Hofer Fernweh-Park" homepage on the Internet at www.fernweh- park.de, which has pictures of the signs and a live webcam view which changes every 30 seconds.
The accompanying photo shows Klaus Beer, "Hofer Fernweh-Park" founder, holding Aberdeen's contribution to the signpost forest in front of some of the many signs on display.
Mr. Beer wishes to thank the City of Aberdeen for making a presence in Hof, Germany.
Address:
Klaus Beer
Ernst-Reuter-Str. 54 95032 Hof
GERMANY
For the newspaper-editors:
TERRA FILM Erika u. Klaus Beer:
Homepage www.fernweh-park.de Homepage www.terra-film.de
e-mail: info@fernweh-oark.de. e-mail: k.beer@terra-film.de Phone: 0049/9281/94427
Fax: 0049/9281/93904

ABERDEEN RESPONDS TO SUIT

The City of Aberdeen issues the following statement regarding the filing of a suit by Mr. Michael E. Leaf, on behalf of CBCY, LLC, regarding recently enacted City zoning legislation.

"The City of Aberdeen acted in a manner consistent with its responsibilities and is confident in its decisions that enacted Ordinance #647-04 and Ordinance #648-04. The legislation is grounded in municipal planning and zoning principles and conforms to the City's vision for that area of the city as adopted in the City's 2001 Comprehensive Plan. The city consulted without side legal counsel for peer review; and developed the legislation in collaboration with the Maryland Department of Planning. Additionally, the City consulted with the National Center for Smart Growth at the University of Maryland. The city conducted multiple public workshops and public hearings allowing all interests full participation in the development of the legislation. The City responded to many of the issues raised at the public hearings and incorporated amendments. The city will resolutely defend its legislative actions."

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

The Concerts listed below will be held at Festival Park beginning at 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

June 15

The Swingin' Swamis

June 22

Upper Chesapeake Chorus "Sweet Adelines Inernational"

June 29

Chuck Baker Orchestra

July 6

Don Shappelle

July 13

The Gentlemen of Jazz

July 20

Middle of the Road

July 27

Harford Choral Society

August 3

The Crawdaddies

August 10

Bay County Gentlemen

August 17

APG Army Band

NOTICE OF ADOPTION, ORDINANCE #652-04 - "SCHEDULE OF RATES AND CHARGES"

On May 10, 2004, the Mayor and Council adopted Ordinance No. 652-04, "SCHEDULE OF RATES AND CHARGES" to be added to the code of the City of Aberdeen.
The following is a list of increases to water & sewer connection charges:

WATER

  • Per residential dwelling unit: $4,200.
  • Hotels and motels: $1,400 per room (rental unit).
  • Commercial, business and industrial: $4,600 per unit, provided the unit is less than 4,000 square feet of the gross floor area.
  • Institutional Retirement Use: $1,400

SANITARY SEWER

  • Per residential dwelling unit: $3,000
  • Hotels and motels: $1,000 per room (rental unit).
  • Commercial, business and industrial: $3,000 per unit, provided the unit is less than 4,000 square feet of the gross floor area.
  • Institutional Retirement Use: $1,000 per unit

This ordinance will be effective May 30, 2004. Ordinance No. 652-04 is available for your review at City Hall located at 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen or on the City's website www.aberdeen-md.org

BOARD OF APPEALS HEARING

Please be advised that the Aberdeen Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, 60 N. Parke Street, to review the following case:

CASE #470 Alson and Annie White, 779 Everist Drive is applying for a variance in order to construct a 12'x14'sunroom over an existing deck on the rear of their dwelling.

CASE #471 John Rasmussen, 303 South Law Street is applying for a variance in order to install an above ground swimming pool in the rear yard.

CASE #472 Dontella Dickerson, 101 Baker Street is applying for a Special Exception in order to operate a Personal Care Home at her residence.

CASE #473 Robert Lewis, 77 Dixon Avenue is applying for a variance in order to construct a 7'x 16'9"unenclosed front porch on the dwelling.

CASE #474 Michelle Manning, 421 S. Law Street is applying for a variance in order to construct a 20'x12'unenclosed deck and a two car detached garage which exceeds the allowable square footage for an accessory structure.

CASE #475 John Knight, Jr., 110 Baltimore Street is applying for a variance to construct a 24'x24' detached garage which exceeds the allowable square footage for an accessory structure.

All interested parties are urged to attend.

ABERDEEN WINS MARYLAND MUNICIPAL LEAGUE AWARD

City to recognize students, teachers at April 26 meeting

ABERDEEN, Md. The City of Aberdeen won the Maryland Municipal League's Award for Excellence for two projects that help citizens communicate through technology.

The projects, the electronic "E-Citizen News" newsletter, and the "Aberdeen Kids of the Future" page on the City's Web site, were honored for providing low-cost, innovative methods to communicate with residents and get youth involved in the community.

"These projects have enhanced our communication with the community, and we're excited to have these efforts recognized by the Maryland Municipal League," said Peter Dacey, Aberdeen City Manager. "It shows that we're on the right path in using technology to reach out to the community."

The award will be presented at the MML annual convention in Ocean City, Md., on June 28.

The City will unveil the new "Aberdeen Kids of the Future" Web site during the Aberdeen City Council meeting on Monday, April 26, 7:30 p.m.

Created through a partnership with the Maryland 21st Century Community Learning Center at Aberdeen Middle School, the site "brings the students into the process," said Darlene Ostroski, the city's administrative coordinator.

The Maryland 21st Century Community Learning Center, which provides positive enhancement of critical skills, was a natural fit for the project, and by Summer 2002 the partnership to create a student-designed web page was born. That fall, a team of 20 middle school students and their teacher began visiting City Hall twice a month over a six-month period to work with City staff, including the Director of Parks & Recreation, the Chief of Police and the Mayor. Students conducted interviews with them and wrote related articles, then received hands-on experience in designing and downloading the page.

"We had a group of students who previously had no reason to go to the City Web site, and now they're designing an entire section focused on their interests," Ostroski said, noting that as an added bonus, students learned about government and its functions while creating the page. "We could not have done this without the support of Aberdeen Middle School and the Maryland 21st Century Community Learning Center."

The other project honored by the MML was Aberdeen's free "E-Citizen News" electronic newsletter, created in April 2002 to communicate with the public through the Internet. "E-Citizen News," transmitted twice a month following City Council meetings to 1,200 subscribers, includes items related to the meeting's agenda, and upcoming activities and events. Added benefits are e-mail and web links that provide residents with a two-way communication to government, and provide on-line access to forms and applications to streamline municipal services.

Today, the City can easily and quickly provide accurate, current information and the public is responsive. Each day, the public communicates with City officials via e-mail, and receives quick answers about current projects.

CITY PROVIDES SOLID WASTE SERVICE

Effective April 1, 2004, the City of Aberdeen is providing solid waste services to the residents of Aberdeen. Hickory Sanitation is no longer the City's contractor for this service. Residents will experience no change in trash, recycled, yard waste and bulk pick up services. Your trash zones and pick up days will remain the same.

You will notice driving through the streets of Aberdeen, the City's new yellow and blue sanitation trucks.

Please direct all questions to the City's Environmental Manager, Mr. Jim Litke jlitke@aberdeen-md.org (272-1600). Mr. Litke is overseeing the program.

TRIBUTE TO EXCELLENCE BANQUET

The public is invited to attend an awards dinner in honor of the Aberdeen High School State Champion Eagles Varsity Football team on March 24th at 6:00 PM at the Aberdeen American Legion. Tickets are $20.00 per person and are sold at Aberdeen High School or by contacting Councilman Ron Kupferman ronkup@comcast.net

ABERDEEN FINANCE DEPARTMENT RECEIVES GFOA AWARD

The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) is pleased to announce that City of Aberdeen, Maryland has received the GFOA's Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its budget.

The award represents a significant achievement by the entity. It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. In order to receive the budget award, the entity had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget. presentation. These guidelines are designed assess how well an entity's budget serves as:

  • a policy document
  • a financial plan
  • an operations guide
  • a communications device

Budget documents must be rated "proficient" in all four categories to receive the award.

When a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award is granted to an entity, a Certificate Recognition for Budget Presentation is also presented to the individual or department designated as being primarily responsible for its having achieved the award.

Since the inception of the GFOA's Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards Program in 1984, approximately 900 entities have received the Award. Award recipients have pioneered efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and provide an excellent exam for other governments throughout North America.

The Government Finance Officers Association is a nonprofit professional association serving 14,000 government finance professionals throughout North America. The GFOA's Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards Program is the only national awards program in governmental budgeting.

ANNEXATION RESOLUTION NO.#651-04; CHARTER AMENDMENT #75

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 9, 2004. The Annexation 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 a proposed IBD Integrated Business District 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 and also adjoins Aldino Stepney Road on Harford County Tax Map 51, and identified as Land of Carsins Run, LLC, Parcel 96 - 116.08 acres, Land of Stepney, LLC, Parcel 97 - 59.04 acres and Land of Dennis and Linda Krantz, et al, Parcel 532 - 30.04 acres. The total proposed area for annexation is 205.16 acres.

A Public Hearing will be held on April 12, 2004 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.

PERCHLORATE UPDATE

As you are well aware the City has been faced with the presence of perchlorate in its well system since the contaminant was originally detected in May of 2002. By limiting the production of the wells, the Water department has been successful in maintaining the perchlorate level in the finished water at or below the Maryland Department of the Environment advisory limit of 1.0 part per billion (ppb). Having to manage the wells to ensure the perchlorate does not exceed the advisory level has left us unable to utilize the full production of the well field during periods of high demand.

Since it appears obvious that neither the Department of the Army nor the Environmental Protection Agency can bring themselves to fund any corrective action because of the lack of a promulgated standard for the perchlorate, it is the recommendation of the Public Works Department that the City embark on a pilot program to initiate full scale treatment on several of the wells. The program would be conducted in several phases beginning with a filtration system being installed on well 9 (86 gpm) to determine the effectiveness (from both a removal efficiency and cost standpoint) of selective resin ion exchange filter media. Well 9 has been chosen because of its consistently high level of perchlorate (1.5 - 2.5 ppb range) and its capacity is low enough to allow an economically scaled test unit to be installed and studied. Upon a final determination of an appropriate filter media, the second phase would be to install units on Wells 3 (152 gpm) and 8 (239 gpm). Each of these wells currently is experiencing perchlorate levels in the 0.7 - 2.0 ppb range and wells 3 and 8 are two of our largest producers. If the filtration units are successful in reducing the perchlorate level in these wells to levels below 1.0 ppb then the entire well field can then return to a full production mode and the perchlorate contributed by the unfiltered wells will be diluted to the point that the 1.0 ppb limit will not be exceeded.

The estimated cost to purchase and install the pilot filter on well 9 is as follows:

  • (2) steel fabricated filter tanks 36" dia. x 84" high $6,000.00
  • Flow meter $1,500.00
  • Misc. piping and fittings $2,000.00
  • 60 cubic feet of media (@ $400/cu ft*) $24,000.00
* This cost is for a proprietary selective resin, ion exchange media and represents the top end of expected cost to purchase media for the program.

Filter installation on wells 3 and 8 could be expected to be twice the cost of well 9 because the increased capacity would require larger filter units and twice the amount of media. In all, the project may likely cost the City in the neighborhood of $160K as outlined above. Media replacement is estimated at $30K per year for all three wells.

We have been in contact with Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) a research science and engineering company with offices located throughout the country, one here in Aberdeen. They have done extensive R&D effort in perchlorate treatment and destruction technologies in conjunction with the Department of Defense since 1989. The Department of Public Works recommends entering into a professional services agreement with ARA in order to take advantage of their expertise in evaluating the available filter media, providing oversight in the design of the filtration system and in developing a testing and evaluation program to monitor the effectiveness of the media and system. The service contract would be on a time and material basis with an upset limit of $10,000.
It is our intention, upon approval from the Mayor & Council, to immediately execute the agreement with ARA and to purchase the filter tanks, meters and piping and, to begin the installation as soon as the equipment arrives. The filter system will be able to be installed in the existing well 9 wellhead building. Upon receiving a recommendation from ARA as to the preferred filter media, the media can be purchased. It is our hope to be able to have the filter system operational in 30 - 45 days and to begin treating the water and collecting data. This timeframe could be extended depending on the length of time required for MDE review and approval. Assuming we realize favorable results from the well 9 pilot, efforts to install systems and treat the water from wells 3 and 8 could occur before the end of the year.

Overall, we are very hopeful that we could complete this project within a year's timeframe and be able to install and operate the system using our in-house staff. An obvious downside is the cost of the filter media is very expensive. The good news here is that through discussions with both ARA and at least one media manufacturer it may be possible that we can get as much as 24 months of service from the media before it must be replaced. These are all questions we will be investigating so that the City makes the best choices in determining a path forward.

PUBLIC HEARING: ORDINANCE #647-04, COMPREHENSIVE ZONING, SECTIONAL MAP AMENDMENT

Notice is hereby given that a PUBLIC HEARING will be held for Ordinance No. 647-04; Comprehensive Zoning, Sectional Map Amendment. This ordinance was introduced at the Aberdeen Council meeting on January 12, 2004 and a public hearing was held on February 9, 2004.
A second public hearing will be held at the Aberdeen City Council meeting on Monday, February 23, 2004, at 7:30
PM, in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 60 North Parke Street. The public is encouraged to attend.

PUBLIC HEARING, ORDINANCE #648-04, PLANNED COMMUNITY BUSINESS DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that a PUBLIC HEARING will be held for Ordinance No. 648-04, Planned Community Business District. This ordinance was introduced at the Aberdeen Council meeting on January 12, 2004, and a public hearing was held on February 9, 2004.
A second public hearing will be held at the Aberdeen City Council meeting on Monday, February 23, 2004, at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 60 North Parke Street. The public is encouraged to attend.

PUBLIC HEARING: ORDINANCE #650-04, ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES

Notice is hereby given that a PUBLIC HEARING will be held for Ordinance No. 650-04, Adequate Public Facilities. This ordinance was introduced at the Aberdeen Council meeting on February 9, 2004.
The public hearing will be held at the Aberdeen City Council meeting on Monday, February 23, 2004, at 7:30 P.M. in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 60 North Parke Street. The public is encouraged to attend.

PUBLIC NOTICE: ANNEXATION RESOLUTION NO. 651-04; CHARTER AMENDMENT NO. 75

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 9, 2004. The Annexation 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 a proposed IBD Integrated Business District 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 and also adjoins Aldino Stepney Road on Harford County Tax Map 51, and identified as Land of Carsins Run, LLC, Parcel 96 - 116.08 acres, Land of Stepney, LLC, Parcel 97 - 59.04 acres and Land of Dennis and Linda Krantz, et al, Parcel 532 - 30.04 acres. The total proposed area for annexation is 205.16 acres.
A Public Hearing will be held on March 8, 2004, 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.

NOTICE OF ADOPTION; ORDINANCE #646-03 - I-95 OVERLAY DISTRICT 90-DAY STAY

On February 9, 2004, the Mayor and Council adopted Ordinance No. 646-03, " I-95 OVERLAY DISTRICT 90-DAY STAY" to be added to the code of the City of Aberdeen. The following is a summation of the ordinance.
A stay of ninety (90) days from the effective date (February 29, 2004) of this ordinance or until the enactment of Ordinance No. 648-04, Zoning District Amendment, whichever shall first occur, is hereby imposed on all parcels or lots of land within the City limits north of I-95 to include site plan review, subdivision review, and the issuance of grading, building or use and occupancy permits for the purpose of introduction and consideration of zoning districts for the affected area and uses within the district. When Ordinance No. 648-04, Zoning District Amendment becomes effective, this ordinance will become null and void.
Ordinance No. 646-03 is available for your review at City Hall located at 60 North Parke Street, Aberdeen or on the City's website www.aberdeen-md.org

PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED: ANNEXATION RESOLUTION NO.#651-04, CHARTER AMENDMENT #75

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 9, 2004. The Annexation 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 a proposed IBD Integrated Business District 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 and also adjoins Aldino Stepney Road on Harford County Tax Map 51, and identified as Land of Carsins Run, LLC, Parcel 96 - 116.08 acres, Land of Stepney, LLC, Parcel 97 - 59.04 acres and Land of Dennis and Linda Krantz, et al, Parcel 532 - 30.04 acres. The total proposed area for annexation is 205.16 acres.

A Public Hearing will be held on March 8, 2004 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.

RESIDENTIAL SOLID WASTE COLLECTION

City to consider performing trash and recyclig collection "in-house."
INVESTIGATION
An investigation was done to see if the City could conduct its own solid waste collection service at an improved service level and with costs less than the current contracted price. Benefits to other City departments and to the City's citizens were also considered.
HISTORY
The current solid waste contract (with Hickory Sanitation) expires 6/30/04. Due to the bid process & company "buy-outs", the City has had seven different waste hauling companies in the last ten years. Through careful contract management for this same time period, the City has observed the "ins and outs" of what it takes to run solid waste collection services in Aberdeen.
Hickory's contract price was $81,000 lower than the nearest competitor's price when bid in July, 2001. The number of companies competing for the City's contract, and waste hauling in general, has dwindled. The City's 4/01 bid process drew only two bidders, one in excess of $100,000 of the current contract price and the other in excess of $300,000 (more than double !) the current price. The contract was subsequently re-bid in 7/01.
Aberdeen's trash and recycling collection program is unique. The "Pay as You Throw" (PAYT) system requires residents to place a prepaid trash sticker (40 cents or 80 cents cost) on each trash container for curbside collection. The cost of the sticker pays for the container's tipping fee only. The actual collection costs (getting the truck to the curb) is paid for in the City budget. The PAYT program is employed in lieu of a flat rate charge placed on the residents' water bill that is the procedure that other municipalities usually apply. In Aberdeen, there is no sticker requirement for recyclables that are collected curbside. The benefit of PAYT programs is that they offer residents a fair and equitable way to pay for trash costs associated with the Harford County imposed tipping fee. Harford County charges $42.00 for each ton of trash delivered to the incinerator or landfill. PAYT programs are promoted and endorsed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a reliable way to increase recycling rates. Aberdeen's annual recycling tonnage rate has increase over 90% since the PAYT program inception in 1993.
RESEARCH
The Town of Bel Air Department of Public Works was visited to evaluate their existing solid waste operation. Bel Air provided valuable insight into their operation. The City of Frederick also provided data and information about their collection program.
50% of the municipality officials who responded to a query about solid waste collections, indicated that they currently do solid waste collections "in-house". Most all agreed that a better service level is achieved with in-house collections.
Meetings with solid waste collection truck manufacturers' representatives have provided the necessary details in determining equipment selection specifications. In addition, the Cities of New Carrollton and Bowie were consulted and both provided technical information with regard to their truck fleet operations.

The City consulted with the operations personnel of a local solid waste hauler with regard to equipment and employees. In addition, the City currently handles all customer service calls and the scheduling of bulk and other special pick-up calls for the contracted hauler.
Market research of solid waste haulers has indicated anticipated increased collection costs as high as 30% to 40% or over $100,000 when compared to the City's current contract price.


COMPANY
Total Annually
Adjusted to current population
Add 9% for 3 year cost of business increase

BFI (4/01 bid)
$394,968
$406,082
$442,629

WM (4/01 bid)
$599,211
$616,072
$671,519

BFI (7/01 bid)
$373,630
$384,144
$418,716

WM (7/01 bid)
$497,286
$511,279
$557,294

HSS (7/01 bid)
$359,575
$369,693
$402,965

Hickory (7/01 bid)
$278,000
$285,822
$311,547

Population base
3909
4019

RECOMMENDATION
The City performs all solid waste collection services. The following is a list of advantages for this option:
  1. Improved services to the citizen.
  2. Consistent reliable service.
  3. City controlled operation: No middleman.
  4. Cost of the in-house program less than contracted service cost.
    1. Ability to control & project future costs of service, both short & long term.
    2. Not subject to private company increases in a market that has very few players.
  5. Integration to support other City services.
  6. Opportunity to generate extra revenue.
  7. Operating the City's own collection trucks could also allow future promotions and announcements.
  8. Overall, with all variables considered, in-house service would be a better value for the citizen.

If the City takes over the solid waste collection process the City would have direct supervision of the operation and there would be opportunities to provide integrated support of other City services such as DPW:
  1. Chipping of trees and collection of brush.
  2. Additional personnel on hand in winter months to help handle snow when yard trim is not collected.
  3. Extra personnel could be on hand in times of emergency (hurricanes, etc.)
  4. There would be two to three CDL drivers in the solid waste dept. as an additional driver resource.
  5. The City could handle its own waste hauling during special events.

There could also be innovation and promotions that stem from the City's operation of its own solid waste collection trucks:
  1. Billboard space could be rented on the truck sides.
  2. During regular bulk items collections the "usable" bulk items could be collected, staged at the recycling trailer at the W.W.T.P. and provided in times of need to residents that could use the items.
  3. Special collections could be arranged for E-waste, clothing drive, etc.
  4. During collections, route personnel could be used to disseminate information/flyers pertaining to the program at no additional expense.
  5. Paper could be marketed directly when prices are good, thereby generating some extra revenue.

City of Aberdeen (Solid Waste Collection Process) In-house cost proposal
OPERATING COSTS
(Proposed annual operating budget ) TOTAL = $254,800

TRUCK
SIZE

COST- New

5-year payoff annual payment @ 3% interest

#1 packer
25 yard

$110,000

$23,718

#2 packer
25 yard

$110,000

$23,718

#3 packer
25 yard

*(used)$65,000 *(new) $110,000

Annual Capital Expenditure TOTAL

$47,436

Solid Waste Collection Operating Cost Comparison

Annual Cost

City Service Cost
$254,800 operating budget
+$47,436 annual truck payments
$302,236

Current Contracted Service Cost
(The current hauler operates only two trucks)
$285,822
+$14,800 (contract management cost)
$300,622

The costs in the above table represent the anticipated cost of City Collection services vs. the current cost of the collection contract that expires 6/30/04 and is subject to increase thereafter.
* #3 Packer cost would be met by the "unreserved fund balance".

PUBLIC NOTICE; BOARD OF APPEALS HEARING

Please be advised that the Aberdeen Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing on January 22, 2004 at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, 60 N. Parke Street, to review the following cases:

Case #462 Jim Quillen, Q. C. Enterprises, Applicant for a Special Exception to develop a portion of the property known as the Mews at Marketplace for Housing for the Elderly. The property is located off of West Bel Air Avenue at Bouzarth Lane and is zoned B-3 Highway Commercial District. The development consists of 14 buildings with 12 units per building for a total of 168 dwelling units. A 1,000 sq. ft. community center will be provided as part of the development project.

Case #463 Timothy and Elizabeth Goodwin, 611 Southgate Road, Applicants for a Variance in order to construct a porch on the front of their dwelling which extends into the front yard setback requirement in a R-1 Single Family Residential District.

Case #464 Don Mullis, 383 Stratford Avenue, Applicant for a Variance in order to construct a 14'x20' storage shed in the rear yard of his property. The property is located on a zero lot line parcel.

All interested parties are urged to attend.

MAYOR'S MEDAL

The Mayor and City Council will recognize residents/employees with the Mayor's Medal at the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on February 26, 2004. The Mayor's Medal is the highest recognition that a person can receive from the City. Please find attached a copy of the Mayor's Medal Program and Nomination Form.
If you know of a fellow employee or resident that has performed a heroic act and you would like to nominate them to receive this prestigious recognition, please submit the attached form to Darlene Ostroski by close of business on February 13th.
Should you have any questions or if your not sure if someone would qualify, please contact Darlene Ostroski at the City Office.
MAYORS MEDAL PROGRAM
The Mayor's Medal Program was initiated by the Mayor and Council of the City of Aberdeen in February 1997. The purpose of the medal is to recognize those individuals who have voluntarily exhibited great courage, and demonstrated both unusual heroism and extraordinary skill or resourcefulness in:

  1. saving or attempting to save a life or;
  2. exhibited a heroic deed performed on behalf of the health, welfare, or safety of the Aberdeen community or;
  3. demonstrated extreme self-sacrificing courage or competence in an emergency situation.

The Mayor's Medal is the most prestigious award and highest honor a citizen can receive from the City.
All names must be submitted, in writing, to the Mayor for consideration of receiving the medal.

MAYOR'S MEDAL - NOMINATION FORM
YOUR NAME:
(If you are an employee, you need not fill out address and phone number)
ADDRESS:
PHONE NUMBER:
DEPARTMENT (IF EMPLOYEE):
PERSON YOU ARE NOMINATING:
ADDRESS OF NOMINEE:
PHONE NUMBER OF NOMINEE:

WHAT HAS THIS PERSON DONE TO MERIT A NOMINATION:
(Attach additional sheet if necessary)

Aberdeen Proving Ground Concert Information

  • Montgomery Gentry and Special Guest at Aberdeen Proving Ground this July 17th.
  • Collective Soul will be at Aberdeen Proving Ground on March 12th.
  • February 7th Aberdeen Proving Ground is hosting a Comedy Show.

For event information and to purchase tickets for the above events go to www.apgmwr.com.

Technology Business Center and Aeropark at Aberdeen Proving Grounds

Public Notice: Aberdeen City Council Meeting of January 12, 2004, Presentation on Technology Business Center and Aeropark at Aberdeen Proving Grounds

A presentation will be made regarding the study of a proposed lease and joint use of land at Phillips Army Airfield, Aberdeen Proving Grounds. The City is considering entering into a Memorandum of Agreement with the U.S. Army for purposes of a study process designed to address the safety, environmental, community, business and operational components involved in creating a Technology Business Center and Aeropark on land located at Aberdeen Proving Ground. The City Council meets at City Hall, 60 North Parke Street and the meeting begins at 7:30 p.m.