RESULTS & RECORD

  • Strategic recruitment and retention of industry remain top priorities.

    This term, we have helped secure and support major employers including:

    We also established the Invest Allegany grant program, providing funding support for existing businesses to grow and expand.

    Strong employment opportunities strengthen our tax base and create long-term economic stability.

  • Revitalizing downtown Cumberland required thoughtful public-private partnerships over a 10 year period.

    Many redevelopment projects were not financially feasible without strategic public assistance. Each initiative was carefully reviewed to ensure fiscal responsibility and long-term viability.

    The result is renewed energy, increased housing availability, and stronger investor confidence.

  • Housing growth is essential to population growth.

    We supported upper story residential redevelopment, advanced affordable housing projects, and worked with private developers to increase housing supply.

    More housing strengthens schools, supports local businesses, and attracts new families.

  • Effective government requires accountability and transparency.

    During this term, we addressed our own operational issues and also the Library system, implemented structural changes at the Animal Shelter to ensure financial stability and responsible oversight.

    These decisions were not always popular, but they were necessary to protect public trust and ensure long-term sustainability.

CURRENT CHALLENGES

  • The Bel Air water system operates independently from county government.

    While many residents are understandably frustrated by high rates, the county does not control this system. It would be misleading to suggest otherwise.

    I will continue advocating for transparency and accountability wherever the county has authority.

  • State-level budget decisions directly affect Allegany County.

    Responsible fiscal planning, disciplined budgeting, and strategic prioritization are essential to protect services and maintain financial stability.

  • The most sustainable solution to long-term challenges is strong economic growth.

    We will continue prioritizing industry recruitment, workforce development, housing expansion, and tourism investment.

Upcoming Projects

  • This transformational project for our area, creating public access points for our residents and tourists to access the Potomac river for recreation. It will also connect several miles of bike trails in the city bringing more people together and increasing quality of life.

  • Our area is working towards developing relationships with companies that would benefit from our outdoor assets and getting instant feedback on their products.

  • To attract supply chain industries that will support our local aerospace companies.

  • Our housing expansion needs to extend into the 220 corridor to offer a place for the increase in jobs with aerospace industry.. Along with a commercial section, it will create a community that is appealing to those looking to settle in the county.

  • We are creating additional pad sites that will be available for industrial development.

  • This is a rare piece of flat industrial land in Allegany County that be developed into a strong economic driver.
    Example: Outdoor Recreation manufacturing