(1/2025) In a few days, the Maryland General Assembly (MGA) will convene for this year’s legislative session. Last month, the Frederick County State Delegation held a public forum at Winchester Hall to hear from other elected officials and residents about their legislative priorities. I appreciated the delegation having this meeting and I was happy to attend, along with County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, and other Council Members. For a Saturday morning during close to the holiday season, it was well attended by many community members.
In November, the County Council voted to approve the legislative package put forth by the County Executive. Additionally, the Council approved legislation proposed by Council Member Mason Carter (District 5) to allow local non-profit organizations to accept credit cards for gambling activities like bingo and tip jars. This is the second year Council Member Carter has brought forth this legislation on behalf of local volunteer fire companies to help them with their fundraising, and the second year the Council has approved it for consideration by the MGA. Given the way most of us use credit/debit cards more often, and cash less, this is a reasonable accommodation. Frederick County has benefited from the tireless fundraising efforts of our volunteer fire company activities which have saved the County millions of dollars. Like many other things, the costs to replace aging apparatus have risen a lot. With the number of commercials on TV for online sports betting, it’s difficult to
understand why local fire companies should be prohibited from accepting credit cards for things like bingo and raffles.
The State Delegation members recognized the crucial role fundraising by local fire companies plays in the county and state budgets, and public safety. They were also hopeful that this bill might make more progress this session. I hope the bill passes this year, and I appreciate Council Member Carter proposing it again this year.
If the New Year has you looking for a way to serve your community, joining one of Frederick County’s Boards or Commissions is a great way to get involved. Two commissions on which I serve as the County Council liaison currently have openings.
The Commission on Disabilities meets the second Monday every month at 6pm. Their work includes things like inspecting buildings and infrastructure in the county to ensure they meet the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act, finding programs in the county that will provide food to people with disabilities, and staying informed about transportation issues related to county residents with disabilities.
The Sustainability Commission meets the third Wednesday each month at 3pm. The Commission is made up of community members who are dedicated to issues related to sustainability. They also guide the development of a Frederick County Sustainability Plan. If you are experienced or passionate about things like agriculture and food security, sustainable land use and transportation, open space and land preservation, green building practices, or recycling and waste reduction, then this may be a fulfilling opportunity for you.
Members of boards and commissions must be County residents. Appointments are made by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council. If you are interested in learning more or applying, you can visit the Boards & Commissions page on the Frederick County Government website.
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. My email address is rknapp@frederickcountymd.gov.
Wishing you a very happy 2025!
