town hall reports

by Michele Cuseo

Thurmont Snow Removal Ordinance Reminder    As winter approaches, here is a summary review of the Thurmont Snow Removal Ordinance:  All sidewalks are to be cleared of ice and snow within twelve hours after snow has ceased falling. When removing snow, it should not be pushed into the traveled portion of any public street.  Property owners can be fined for ignoring the snow removal ordinance. Town officials are also requesting that people park cars in their driveways when snow is in the forecast to ensure easy access for the snow plows. Food Bank and Clothes Closet Donations for the food bank can be dropped off at the town office and other designated locations around town. There is a need for additional food for the holidays and winter months. Also, warm coats, hats, scarves, and mittens are needed for those in need to make it through this winter. Please drop off items at the Clothes Closet, located at the Thurmont United Methodist Church on 13880 Long Road in Thurmont.      Sidewalk Construction Update The State Highway Administration (SHA) construction team is progressing on the sidewalk redesign, which is incorporating  handicap accessibility on all main street walkways. The work will continue on to North Church Street this month. Mayor John Kinnaird requested that the construction team avoid the downtown square area until after the holidays, so Thurmont citizens can enjoy the planned festivities. View the Town of Thurmont’s website at www.thurmont.com or call the town office at 301-271-7313 for more information. Emmitsburg Bridge Replacement Planned The bridge across the Flat Run area near Jubilee Foods is slated to be replaced in the fall of 2015.  The State of Maryland Highway Administration will replace the bridge that was built in 1912.  The bridge is in need of replacement due to age and issues with flooding. The new bridge will be sturdier and wider and will include a sidewalk on both sides for pedestrians. Originally, the state planned to put in only one sidewalk on one side.  The town asked that the sidewalk be placed on both sides and the state has agreed to the request.  One side of the bridge will be constructed at a time so that traffic can still pass over the bridge, sharing a single lane in both directions. Town Staff Salary Review The payroll for town staff was reviewed by the town’s human resource consultant, HR Solutions.  It was determined that some of the town staff is underpaid by as much as fifteen percent, according to current market comparisons. HR Solutions made the report to the town hall commissioners at the meeting on November 17.  Commissioners agreed to take the information under consideration, but took no further action at the November meeting.  The next town hall is scheduled for December 3, 2014. Free Holiday Parking Park free in Emmitsburg from December 17-24. As in previous years, the town has offered free parking to the public during the holiday season, and encourage the citizens to shop locally to support our community. View the Town of Emmitsburg’s website at www.emmitsburgmd.gov or call the town office at 301-600-6300 for more information.