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GENERALELECTIONVOTERS’ GUIDE 2013

FREDERICK COUNTY LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS

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VOTERS GUIDE PAGE 2 MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

Randy McClement (R)(incumbent)

BIOGRAPHICAL:Mayor 2009-Present. Presi-dent Maryland MayorsAssociation 2013. Presi-dent Frederick ChapterMaryland MunicipalLeague 2011-2012. Gover-nor’s Small Business TaskForce 2011-2012. CharterReview Committee 2008-2009. Ethics Committee2007-2009. Tourism Coun-cil Board member 10years (Past President).Owner/Operator The Mar-ket Bagel & Deli 1999-2011.Vanguard ManagementInc. Director of PropertyManagement 1986-1999.

PRIORITIES: FiscalResponsibility — Contin-ue to maintain tax rateswhile providing essentialCity services. Public Safe-ty — To continue with theamazing character Fred-erick is known for, wemust provide a safe placeto live, work and play. Iwill work to maintain our

way of life by continuing to find ways to strengthen ourpolice force and allocating funds for much-needed roadrepair. Economic Development — We must continue toresolve the issues that are barriers for businesses. Wemust continue to update the “One Stop Permitting Shop.”Completion of Phase II of Carroll Creek and ahotel/meeting center are also important economic fac-tors.

CITY FINANCES: Balancing the cost of essential serv-ices against burdens placed on taxpayers is my proudestaccomplishment. I have balanced the past four budgets

during the most challenging financial years in recent his-tory, and I’ve done that in a way that keeps us safe, grow-ing, and kept our tax rates under control.

GROWTH: One issue facing us is adequacy of infra-structure as construction begins again in the residentialconstruction industry. I will focus on maintaining a goodAPFO to ensure that future growth is sustainable andpays its way. Growth is inevitable, but inadequate infra-structure is not.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Maintain an effective part-nership with County Housing department and the StateDepartment of Housing. The City is already a portal forassisting with mortgage issues. The creative staff atFrederick Community Action Agency leverages our localresources with state and federal programs. I supportdoing more in this area.

TAXES: My most important political accomplishmentwas holding the tax rate steady without drastically cut-ting services. The last four years saw record projecteddeficits, but with my team, we were able to protect Citytaxpayers. I promised careful fiscal stewardship, and therecord proves I kept my promise.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: We are talkingabout politicians, elected on their own merits and ideas.Some level of tension is inevitable, and it’s probablyhealthy for good governance. Cooperation, though, givesmore focus, which in turn reinforces time management,and gets the job done. I have strived for this focusthroughout my Administration.

ELECTION PROCESS: I would really like to see non-partisan City elections. City elections should focus onissues important to the citizens and not to partisan fil-ters. Potholes, playgrounds, finances, public safety andwater lines are not Republican or Democrat issues; theyare technical problems for government to solve.

ENVIRONMENT: Our water and sewer treatmentplants need to be maintained to state/federal mandates,and that cost keeps rising. Our need for newresidential/commercial growth will place burdens onthese systems that must be managed through planningand engineering. These are environmental issues thatwill be with us for decades.

PREPARED BY THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS

The Frederick News-Post, in cooperation withthe League of Women Voters of Frederick Coun-ty, has produced this guide for use in the upcom-ing city of Frederick general election, to be heldTuesday, Nov. 5.

The League of Women Voters is a nonparti-san organiza-tion thatworks to pro-mote politi-cal responsi-bilitythrough theinformedand activeparticipationof citizens intheir govern-ment. Theleague doesnot supportnor opposeany politicalparty or can-didate. Noth-ing in thisVoters’Guide shouldbe interpret-ed as anendorsementby theLeague ofWomen Vot-ers of anyparty or can-didate.

The Vot-ers’ Guidecontainsonly thenames of thecandidateson the offi-

cial ballots as certified by the City of FrederickBoard of Supervisors of Elections. Candidatesfor each office are listed in the order in whichtheir names appear on the ballot.

All candidates for each office were sent anidentical questionnaire. Candidates’ answersappear as submitted. If answers exceeded thespecified word limitation, the excess wordswere cut from the end of the candidate’sanswer and indicated by an ellipsis (…). If acandidate did not respond to the questionnaire,it is noted on the guide as “No responsereceived.”

Although the utmost effort is made toensure accuracy, the League of Women Voterscan assume no liability for errors or omissions.The league thanks all candidates who submit-ted answers to the league’s questionnaire. Thecooperation of the City of Frederick Board ofSupervisors of Elections and The FrederickNews-Post in making this Voters’ Guide possi-ble is also gratefully acknowledged.

2013 CITY OF FREDERICK GENERAL ELECTIONVOTERS’ GUIDE

Polls open: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 5

MAYORALCANDIDATES■ Randy McClement (R)

(incumbent) page 2

■ Karen Lewis Young (D)page 3

■ Jennifer Dougherty (unaffiliated) page 3

ALDERMANICCANDIDATESREPUBLICANS

■ Daniel D. Cowell page 4

■ Philip Dacey page 4

■ Alan Imhoff page 5

■ Katie Nash page 5

■ Dave Schmidt page 6

DEMOCRATS

■ Josh Bokee page 6

■ John Daniels page 7

■ Donna Kuzemchak page 7

■ Michael C. O’Connor(incumbent) page 8

■ Kelly Russell (incumbent)page 8

MAYORAL CANDIDATES

■ BIOGRAPHICAL: Brief biographical sketch, including informa-tion on your qualifications for the office you are seeking.

■ PRIORITIES: What are the three most pressing issues facing thecity of Frederick? What measures would you take to addressthem?

■ CITY FINANCES: What is your position on the city’s finances?

■ GROWTH: What are the major growth issues concerning the cityand how would you address them?

■ AFFORDABLE HOUSING: What measures can the city take toincrease availability of affordable housing?

■ TAXES: Is there any way to lower the property taxes for city resi-dents yet maintain all the services they now enjoy?

■ MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: How can a more cooperativerelationship between the mayor and Board of Aldermen providefor efficient issue management?

■ ELECTION PROCESS: Frederick County no longer manages cityelections. Are there any changes in election law that you wouldrecommend for the city?

■ ENVIRONMENT: What environmental problems does the cityneed to address?

QUESTIONS FOR MAYORAL CANDIDATES

■ Email: [email protected]

■ Website: www.reelectrandy.com

■ Facebook: Mayor RandyMcClement

■ Twitter: @reelectrandy

Randy McClement

MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013 VOTERS GUIDE PAGE 3

JenniferDougherty

(unaffiliated)BIOGRAPHICAL: Mayor of

Frederick (2002-2006); BusinessOwner - Magoo’s Pub (2009-pres-ent), Jennifer’s Restaurant(1987-2008), Dougherty’s IrishShop (1999-2006), Realtor (2006-present); Civic - Chamber ofCommerce (Chair, 1999), RotaryClub of Carroll Creek, HeartlyHouse, LLS Light the Night;Education - Mount St. Mary’sCollege, BA-History, magna cumlaude (1983).

PRIORITIES: 1. Leadership -I will make the necessary choic-es to improve public safety, sta-bilize the pension/retirementfunds, sell the Hargett Farm,restore bulk trash and deliveron needed tax reform. 2. PublicSafety - I will add 10 officers

within 18 months and offer aone-time extension to seniorofficers to keep our ranks ade-quate until the new officers aretrained. 3. Budget Management -I will lower the HomesteadProperty Tax Credit to 3%,lower the Business PersonalProperty Tax by 50% and levelthe City-County tax differential(saving city residents money)

CITY FINANCES: We havethe money to provide neededservices without raising taxes.The annual audit shows theCity has more than twice theamount available in the fundbalance than necessary. I willdirect those funds to necessarypriorities and improve trans-parency by creating an AuditCommittee of City residents.

GROWTH: Water supply isgood, but we have no water stor-age capacity. We have a uniqueoption available - the quarry -and we should start long-termplanning now. Wastewater treat-ment capacity needs aggressiveattention to increase efficiency

and add capacity. We have toimprove our transportation net-work including mass-transit tojobs on the 270 corridor.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING:Housing prices have droppedmore than 25% in some neigh-borhoods, so it is difficult tosuggest techniques beyond whatthe national economy delivered.We can reward density of proj-ects with smart legislation(MPDU) and continue to makeour federal block grant fundsavailable to qualified homebuy-ers.

TAXES: Yes, we can reducethe Homestead Property TaxCredit from 5% to 3% next yearto avoid paying higher taxeswhen the State Assessments goup. I will also use all availablefunds for services except therecommended 12% fund balance- current available fund balanceis over 23% (per the audit).

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERA-

TION: I will start the BrownBag Lunches for elected officialson all levels, NAC members,business people and interestedstudents. This monthly meetingwill help build awareness andincrease friendships that willhelp promote a unified approachtoward solving the City’s prob-lems.

ELECTION PROCESS: I sup-port including all voters in theprimary process by moving to anon-partisan election or at leastopen primaries. I support earlyvoting for City elections andmaking polling places conven-ient throughout the City.

ENVIRONMENT: We need a“Get Off the Grid” plan. I sug-gest a pilot program to convertthe wastewater treatment plantto a renewable energy supplysaving money and being“green”. We need to protect theCity Watershed with a plan thatwill inventory, map and restorethe 7,000+ acres of watershed.

Karen Lewis Young (D)BIOGRAPHICAL:

BA, Franklin & MarshallCollege; MA, MBAColumbia University. 33years executive manage-ment experience, prima-rily financial services;President Pro Tem,Board of Aldermen;Vice-Chair, LegislativeCommittee, Board ofDirectors; MarylandMunicipal League;Chairman, WashingtonCouncil of Govern-ments; Vice-Chair, AirQuality Committee;Extensive communityservice

PRIORITIES: Economic development: Attract anddevelop an educated and skilled workforce; CompleteCarroll Creek Linear Park; Facilitate downtown hoteland conference center; Expedite the planning of EastFrederick Rising; Pursue industry diversity; Improvepermitting processes; Foster Public-Private Partner-ships; Encourage innovation. Traffic congestion: Main-tain our roads and infrastructure; Seek innovative fund-ing sources; Encourage walking and cycling; Pre-dictable transit; Incorporate best practices in urbandesign. Livable Community: Promote education and

culture; Strengthen public safety; Better paying jobs;Affordable housing; Preserve historical heritage;Hold/reduce taxes.

CITY FINANCES: During the past ten years theCity’s budget has increased by 86%. The cost of employ-ee benefits has increased by 111%. In 2004, benefitswere 45% of salaries. In FY 2014 they will be 75%. Thesetrends are not financially sustainable and a course cor-rection is needed quickly.

GROWTH: The population is expected to grow byabout 20,000 (30%) by 2030. However, job growth is notexpected to increase proportionately. We must be proac-tive about addressing that imbalance. Also, we mustcarefully plan where and how we grow. Infill develop-ment, and East Frederick, should be our prioritygrowth areas.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Blighted and vacantproperties can be identified for possible conversion formulti-purpose use with a housing component. Partner-ships with experienced housing agencies, with a provenrecord of utilizing innovative financial tools to achieveoutcomes, could leverage public private partnerships.All new development must allocate affordable housing

or a financial contribution.

TAXES: I believe that the City should engage inbusiness process review in order to achieve greater effi-ciencies. There are 21 departments/functions that areduplicated by the City and County. The County shouldreimburse City residents at a higher rate for this dupli-cation. Also, the commercial tax base should be expand-ed.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: The Mayor andBoard need to work in a very collaborative manner.This will require ongoing, timely proactive communica-tions and responsiveness to questions in order to buildan atmosphere of trust and cooperation. Aldermenshould be regularly briefed on issues that are likely toaffect citizens or require legislative action.

ELECTION PROCESS: I have recommended that theCity election go on the same cycle as either the presi-dential or gubernatorial election. This would result in amuch higher voter turnout as evidenced by othermunicipalities around the country that are on thatcycle. It would also save taxpayers approximately$140,000 per election.

ENVIRONMENT: The City needs to do its part inmitigating climate change including developing andimplementing a comprehensive energy plan, improvingair quality by reducing fossil fuel emissions andredesigning or replacing aging storm water infrastruc-ture and reducing runoff. A more effective balance isneeded between recycling and solid waste management.

MAYORAL CANDIDATES ■ Email: [email protected]

■ Website: www.karenyoung2013.com

■ Facebook: Karen Young for Mayor

■ Twitter: @YoungForMayor

Karen Lewis Young

Jennifer Dougherty


■ Website: www.jenniferformayor.com

■ Facebook: Jennifer for Mayor

■ Twitter: @Jennifer4Mayor

■ The city of Frederick will for the first time be conducting its own electionswithout county assistance. The county will be responsible only for verify-ing voter registration.

THE CITY OF FREDERICK TO MANAGE ELECTION ■ The city will introduce the DS200 scanner to tabulate votes. Each voter will color in an oval by their choice

of candidate(s) on a paper ballot and insert it into the DS200. The scanner will review the ballot andreflect a message that either the ballot has been counted, or if there is an error on it such as an over-voteor under-vote. Voters will be given the opportunity to correct their ballots if they so desire.

THE CITY IS USING A NEW VOTING SYSTEM


Philip DaceyBIOGRAPHICAL: Graduate of TJHS, UMCP and

University of Baltimore Law School where he attend-ed at night while working full time in the MarylandSenate. Attorney for State of MD. Served on Freder-ick Board of Zoning Appeals, Frederick CountyEthics Commission, and was appointed to the Gover-nor’s Criminal Justice Information Advisory Board.

PRIORITIES: 1) Managing growth responsibly tobring jobs, 2) Reducing criminal activity and reduc-ing the perception of crime, and 3) Ensuring qualityof life services continue - fostering the arts and cul-tural amenities that are offered by the City.

CITY FINANCES: The City must prioritize fundingfor three main areas 1) Adequate infrastructure, 2)Public Safety, and 3) Maintaining quality of life. Otherspending such as $300,000 in FY 12 for new golf cartsfor Clustered Spires should be spent more wisely.

GROWTH: Infrastructure is the major issue con-cerning future growth. Frederick has more thandoubled in population since my birth in the 70s butthe roads are largely unchanged. We need to priori-tize infrastructure spending to ensure that we arenot a community paralyzed by needed new growth.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: As Frederick develops, it is important that the Cityensure that a variety of housing is offered in the new construction areas to accommo-date various income levels. The City should priorities high quality jobs so that familiescan live, shop, and work within the community.

TAXES: Frederick should prioritize its spending so that a reduction in property taxesis possible. For example, the golf course is owned by the City and could be sold to non-public entities and placed back on the tax rolls. This revenue could be used to offset Citytaxes.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: Congress is broken as a result of poor cooperation;citizens deserve better and Frederick should not go down this path. As a licensed media-tor, I understand how important communication can be in accomplishing a task. Adultsshould act maturely and respectfully, and listen to each other even when disagreeing.

ELECTION PROCESS: Frederick should transition to non-partisan elections. Parti-san labels are not particularly informative or helpful at the local level-there’s no Repub-lican or Democrat way to build a road. Most voters are interested in who can do the job,not what party a candidate belongs to.

ENVIRONMENT: As a customer for waste management, Frederick needs to urge thecounty to revisit both the concept and location of the proposed incinerator. I am con-cerned about the potential air quality impact of an incinerator project located onlymiles from the border.

Daniel D. Cowell BIOGRAPHICAL: Education: Middletown High

School; Frederick Community College, A.A., BusinessAdministration Towson University, B.S., BusinessAdministration concentrating in Marketing. Profes-sional Experience: Currently a Credit Manager fornational financial institution in the banking industry.Formerly a Credit Analyst and Customer Service Rep-resentative in same industry. Governmental Experi-ences: Western Maryland Young Republicans: Trea-surer

PRIORITIES: Restructure the City pension andhealth plan, reduce City debt, and focus on public safe-ty. Health care expenses and City pension benefits areno longer sustainable in today’s economy and must becurbed. This will immediately reduce debt. Keep opencommunication lines with all neighborhoods regard-ing safety issues.

CITY FINANCES: Frederick’s finances are budget-ed, however unfunded liabilities are a concern. Threecredit entities determining Frederick’s credit ratingindicated unfunded pension/healthcare benefits if notfunded will impact our credit rating. If the City has asubpar credit rating, interest rates on debt becomehigher possibly causing increased taxation to resi-dents.

GROWTH: Increased traffic issues would beresolved with additional traffic signals in neededareas. Containing increased costs caused by growth

would be addressed by regular reviews of expenditures.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: The current affordable housing counsel established in1993 is doing its job. The City should continue to foster housing rehabilitation initia-tives.

TAXES: Yes. Reduce the debt the City owes, which will allow for lower taxation. Wealso need to review and reform healthcare and pension liabilities.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: The mayor is the CEO of the business, and theBoard of Aldermen are the executives working with the CEO. There needs to berespect for a cooperative relationship to ensure Frederick moves forward as the pre-mier municipality in Maryland to live and work.

ELECTION PROCESS: I am not aware of any problems with the current electionprocess.

ENVIRONMENT: Continue to monitor the waste treatment facility for proper dis-charge and maintenance of equipment. Have oversight for the health of the wateralong the Carroll Creek linear park.

ALDERMANIC CANDIDATES

BIOGRAPHICAL: Brief biographical sketch including information on your qualifications for theoffice you are seeking.

PRIORITIES: What are your top three priorities? Why?

CITY FINANCES: What is your position on the city’s finances?

GROWTH: What are the major growth issues concerning the city and how would you addressthem?

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: What measures can the city take to increase availability of affordablehousing?

TAXES: Is there any way to lower the property taxes for city residents yet maintain all the serv-ices they now enjoy?

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: How can a more cooperative relationship between the mayorand the Board of Aldermen provide for efficient issue management?

ELECTION PROCESS: Frederick County no longer manages city elections. Are there anychanges in election law that you would recommend for the city?

ENVIRONMENT: What environmental problems does the city need to address?

QUESTIONS FOR ALDERMANIC CANDIDATES

REPUBLICANS


■ Website: www.votedanielcowellforfrederick.com

■ Facebook: DanielCowellforCityofFrederickAlderman

■ Twitter: @votedancowell

Daniel D. Cowell


■ Website: www.phildacey.com

Philip Dacey

■ Tuesday, Oct. 29: deadline for receiptof absentee ballot application

■ Tuesday, Nov. 5: general election ■ Friday, Nov. 15: voter registration

books reopen

VOTERS’ CALENDAR■ Today: 7:30 a.m., Winchester Hall, Frederick■ Tuesday: 6 to 8 p.m., American Legion, 1450

Taney Ave.■ Wednesday: 7 to 9 p.m., Frederick Communi-

ty College's Jack B. Kussmaul Theater

CANDIDATE FORUMS


Katie Nash BIOGRAPHICAL: Bachelors,

Political Science and MBA(Hood College). Worked in theMaryland legislature, now workas a Business Manager for aFrederick professional servic-es/IT firm. Active in PTA, FortDetrick community, and TechCouncil of Maryland. Partici-pant in the Women to WomenMentoring program. Blessedworking mother of two chil-dren.

PRIORITIES: 1) FinancialReform - the current way wespend money has reduced ourability to invest in our future. 2)Growth - infrastructure beforedevelopment. Work with stake-holders to create a local infra-structure bank to fund growth-related projects. 3) Good govern-ment -everyone deserves a voice.Implement nonpartisan elec-tions and early voting.

CITY FINANCES: We current-ly pay too much for large capitalprojects. We can’t dedicateresources to an all-weather shel-ter yet we prioritize hotels andgolf courses. We cannot realizetax cuts until we reduce expendi-tures - with our City’s resources,this can be done. We also need to

implement long-term financialplanning.

GROWTH: Traffic is cited as aproblem every election cycle. Ourcurrent planning methods do notwork - we need innovation and adesire to learn from other munici-palities. We build houses and playcatch up. To change this, we needfinancing options. Hence the con-cept of a local infrastructurebank.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING:Workforce housing must bethoughtfully planned in collabo-ration with the development com-munity. Rentals and moderately

priced dwelling units are ourassurance that we are providingaffordable housing. We can bor-row lessons learned elsewhereand implement to enable ourpolice officers and teachers theability to work where they reside.

TAXES: Yes! But not withoutchallenges - we need to act tomake businesses externally com-petitive to create a wider assess-able tax base. More businessespaying for services, a better divi-sion of cost, and the ability toultimately lower taxes. Refer tothe above relating to my views onour expenditures.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERA-TION: Debate is healthy for theCity and a variance of ideas is agreat thing. Citizens shoulddemand that these debates beexercised professionally.Thoughtful dialogue will lead toa more open government andgreater participation from citi-zens. Additional participation

ensures that more people areengaged and their voices heard.

ELECTION PROCESS: Freder-ick is one of three existingmunicipalities with partisan elec-tions (Annapolis and Baltimore).National-level partisanship nega-tively impacts our voter turn-outand dialogue. The issues at thecity level are unique to Frederick,and don’t need to reflect theWashington discord. I recom-mend nonpartisan elections andearly voting.

ENVIRONMENT: Recyclingfor businesses and increased fre-quency of pick-up through a part-nership with the County’s recy-cling program. This is not aneasy fix but with some creativitycan be achieved. I would also liketo partner with the private sectorto consider additional transitoptions (such as the East StreetTrolley).

Alan ImhoffBIOGRAPHICAL: Former Alderman; bachelor

degrees: Business Administration, American History, Loy-ola College; MBA, HoodCollege; Fellow, Academyfor Excellence in LocalGovernment, Univ. ofMD.; Retired Project Man-ager, AT&T; Vice-chairPlanning Commission;Vice President,WASHCOG; Vice-chair,Greater Washington 2050;member: Maryland Mili-tary Installation Council,Workforce DevelopmentBoard; Chair, DebtAffordability Committee.

PRIORITIES: 1) Jobs:retention of both existingand new jobs; if the Cityis to maintain it’s pre-eminence in the western

region. 2) Education-prepare for the jobs of today and be

ready for the jobs of tomorrow. 3) Reduce the PropertyTax rate.

CITY FINANCES: Directors of Budget and Finance doan excellent job in preparing background information forfinancial decisions. An annual review with Bond Advisorshelps maintain our various bond ratings and within bond-ing limits. Property tax revenue grows annually an aver-age of 5.4%, so overall the City is in good shape.

GROWTH: How to adequately handle the anticipatedgrowth in jobs and provide for a range of housing choicesfor the 15,000 new residents the State is projecting overthe next 20 years. New zoning to allow for higher build-ings outside the Historic District and increased publictransit are but two ideas.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Using the example of theHope VI process that provided affordable housing in anumber of neighborhoods, perhaps the City can re-estab-lish the 2002 Affordable Housing Steering Committee, onwhich I served, to update potential sites for future devel-opment and take advantage of new financing options.

TAXES: Yes, through a combination of increased com-mercial/industrial zoned acreage and constantly applyingQuality Assurance principals to all the City’s departmen-tal processes for efficiencies. An increase in the amount ofnew revenue when combined with cost reductions canaffect a lower property tax rate.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: In our charter, wehave a “strong” mayoral form of government. A role ofthe aldermen should be as the additional “eyes and ears”for the mayor to provide early identification and informa-tion on issues raised by our businesses and residents.

ELECTION PROCESS: Move the City elections to thePresidential cycle. That would save not only on the cost,but eliminate the confusion of different polling placesused between the various election cycles. The changewould definitely have more residents voting for our localleaders!

ENVIRONMENT: Storm water management has been,is and will be a major problem as all municipalities dealwith State mandated regulations that are often difficult toachieve in an established city, especially in our historicaldowntown area.

Alan Imhoff


ALDERMANIC CANDIDATES REPUBLICANS


■ Website: www.NashforFrederick.com

■ Facebook: katiejonash

■ Twitter: @katienash

Katie Nash

■ To vote in the city election you must be a citizen of the United States, a resident ofthe city of Frederick for at least 30 days prior to the next city election, and at least18 years old on or before Election Day.

■ All city of Frederick registered voters are permitted to vote in the general election.If you have questions about your eligibility to vote, please call the Frederick CountyBoard of Elections at 301-600-VOTE. All other questions regarding the electionshould be directed to the City of Frederick Board of Supervisors of Elections at301-600-2575.

WHO MAY VOTE IN THE FREDERICK GENERAL ELECTION?■ You must apply in writing for an absentee ballot. An application may be obtained by telephone, writ-

ten request or in person at the Frederick County Board of Elections. An application form may beprinted from the city of Frederick Election website at www.cityoffrederick.com/DocumentCenter/View/2971. Until seven days before Election Day, you may applyby mail. However, within seven days before an election or on Election Day, you or your designatedagent may only apply in person for an absentee ballot. When your application is processed and youare determined to be qualified, an absentee ballot will be issued to you or your agent.

HOW TO GET AN ABSENTEE BALLOT



Dave SchmidtBIOGRAPHICAL: Attended Frederick Com-

munity College before serving as a UnitedStates Marine. After years working in the fami-ly business (Frederick Air Inc.), branched outin 2011, starting a company that does businessprocess/efficiency consulting. Served on Trans-portation Services Advisory Committee. Testi-fied on behalf of residents and local businessesat City Hall.

PRIORITIES: 1) Making the city govern-ment run as efficiently as possible. 2) Goingafter our State and Federal delegations. Cityresidents are not seeing a return on taxes sentto Annapolis/DC. We need that money spenthere. 3) Widen our tax-base, by making Freder-ick “The Place” for new businesses and resi-dents.

CITY FINANCES: Unfunded liability isunacceptable; we need reforms that take theCity towards a sustainable financial future. Thecurrent Board/Mayor have gone a long waytowards fixing the OPEB side of our liability, ifthey are unable to complete reform before theelection, I won’t stop until this issue is resolved.

GROWTH: Infrastructure and interconnec-tivity, both within the city, and surroundingareas. We need to break down the political wallpreventing state funding. Also it’s importantwe follow sustainable growth principles. Myexperience in energy efficiency/“green-build-

ing” gives me unique insight into new and inventive technology to modernizeour City and grow intelligently.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: We need to grow the tax base. When we bringmore people and businesses into our city, we can lower the tax rate across theboard. More jobs, and a lower tax burden, are the only way to guarantee our res-idents can afford to continue living here in the city.

TAXES: The only way to accomplish lowering the property tax rate is togrow the tax base. We need our residents to be able to earn and spend moneyhere in the city. If more people are contributing to pay for services, there is lessof a burden on each individual.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: The next Mayor and Board’s relationshiphas to be built on a foundation of understanding. At the end of the day, we allwant the same thing: A safe, beautiful city that every resident can afford to livein. If we work against each other, we will never accomplish anything.

ELECTION PROCESS: I would support nonpartisan Elections. There isn’t asingle issue in the City of Frederick that can be expressed purely in the terms“Republican” or “Democrat” This system of associating our residents with aparticular candidate because of a national or federal ideology is damaging toour local political environment.

ENVIRONMENT: As I stated before, my experience with home energy effi-ciency and sustainable building gives me a unique perspective on how to intelli-gently approach growth. As an Alderman, I would welcome every opportunityto ensure we are protecting our local green-spaces and waterways. We’re notresponsible for just roads and buildings.


■ Website: www.voteschmidt.com

■ Facebook: facebook.com/dave.schmidt.frederick

■ Twitter: twitter.com/_DaveSchmidt

Dave Schmidt

REPUBLICANSJosh Bokee

BIOGRAPHICAL: Twenty years of profes-sional experience, including as a director forGovernment Affairs at a communications compa-ny and a public sector legislative analyst.Skillsets include building budgets, evaluatingcomplex organizations and working collabora-tively to complete projects. B.S. in Business Man-agement, Penn State; Masters of CommunityPlanning, University of Maryland, College Park.

PRIORITIES: 1) Safety: Every neighborhoodshould be safe: Ensuring a fully staffed policeforce, addressing blighted properties and provid-ing traffic relief. 2) Affordability: The ability tobuy a home and also afford to stay in your homethroughout retirement. 3) Economic Opportuni-ty: Spurring private investment that leads togood paying jobs.

CITY FINANCES: Strong fiscal responsibilityand taking a pragmatic approach to the city’sbudget is essential. In their most recent reports,the bond rating agencies were generally positiveabout the city’s financial health and outlook aslong as potential pension liabilities continued tobe addressed and healthy fund reserves weremaintained.

GROWTH: Ensure we first address the needsof existing neighborhoods, including intersec-tion improvements to relieve local traffic congestion and every day quality oflife issues (i.e., sidewalk repairs). We need to work with the state and county ontraffic issues on state roads that pass through the city.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Encourage the market to produce a range of hous-ing types, from single family to condominium units. Target reinvestment zonesfor mixed-use redevelopments, work with non-profits like Habitat for Humanityand be aware of how changes in property tax rates can impact personal budgets,especially for fixed income earners.

TAXES: Work towards eliminating duplicate taxation on residential propertyby identifying remaining services that the city provides, but residents pay thecounty for as well. We should also implement a feasible process that institutesregular reviews and audits of program and service delivery effectiveness.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: We need to ensure that there is both mutu-al respect and an understanding of one another’s roles - the Mayor as both chiefstrategist and day-to-day manager and the aldermen as the final authority onbudget and policy while also serving as representatives of all residents.

ELECTION PROCESS: We should always be reviewing all programs andprocesses for effectiveness. I would require more information before being ableto give an informed opinion on this question; including understanding what theoptions are and how other communities have balanced costs while ensuring fullvoter access and participation.

ENVIRONMENT: We should re-examine new opportunities for energy conser-vation measures (which also saves on operating costs) for public buildings andvehicles; implement a cost effective plan to start weekly recycling and bringback bulk trash curbside pick up to reduce illegal dumping.


■ Website: www.JoshBokee.com

■ Facebook: Friends of JoshBokee

Josh Bokee

DEMOCRATS

If returned in person, the City of Frederick Board of Supervisors of Election must receive an absenteeballot at City Hall, 101 N. Court St. no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Voters are cautioned that if an absentee ballot has been issued to them they will not be permittedto cast their vote at their polling place on Election Day. Also, absentee ballots must be returned by

mail or in person directly to the City of Frederick Board of Supervisors of Elections at City Hall; theycannot be accepted at the polls on Election Day.

Ballots mailed on or before Election Day, bearing a postmark verifying that fact, and received fromthe postal service or private mail carrier within 24 hours of the closing of the polls will be counted.

DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF ABSENTEE BALLOTS

■ 1. *Burck Street Youth Center, 413 Burck St.

■ 2. Frederick Church of the Nazarene, 7899Opossumtown Pike

■ 3. Evangelical Lutheran Church, 35 E.Church St.

■ 4. Cornerstone Fellowship Church, 66 Waver-ley Drive, #630

■ 5. William R. Talley Recreation Center(Armory), 121 N. Bentz St.

■ 6. *Cornerstone Fellowship Church, 66Waverley Drive, #630

■ 7. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,

1811 Latham Drive



■ 10. Frederick Church of the Nazarene, 7899Opossumtown Pike

■ 11. William R. Talley Recreation Center

(Armory), 121 N. Bentz St.

■ 12. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day

Saints, 1811 Latham Drive

*THESE ARE NEW POLLING PLACES FORPRECINCT 1 AND PRECINCT 6


PRECINCT/LOCATIONS

John Daniels BIOGRAPHICAL:

Community college withsufficient credits toobtain AA Liberal Arts;AS Business Administra-tion; AS Culinary Arts.University of Hawaii,studies in EnvironmentalScience; University ofNorth Florida, studies inBusiness Administration.Professional experience:U.S. Navy Master Chief,Naval flight engineer,Norwegian Air Forceavionics engineer, Elec-trical marine surveyor,small business owner.

PRIORITIES: 1) Deal-ing with blighted properties. Blighted, vacant or underuti-lized properties make no economic contribution andencourage other undesirable activities. 2) Carroll CreekPhase II. Completion will create opportunities for develop-ment and redevelopment. 3) Airport. Extending the run-way allows more corporate traffic and potentially attractsfeeder flights to our regional airports.

CITY FINANCES: The city bond ratings indicate ourfinances are sound. S&P AA, Fitches AA, and Moody’sAa2 having a positive outlook all reflect high-grade invest-ment bonds. Maintaining a strong fund balance, decreas-ing our debt burden and reducing our unfunded liabilitieswill result in stronger ratings and improve the city’sfinancial outlook.

GROWTH: Transportation infrastructure is the pieceof growth that most affects the quality of life. A trafficstudy is required for a development to move forward; how-ever, it is a local study and does not address the regionalissues created on the roads not under the control of thecity.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: The first step would be toconduct a needs assessment and resource availabilitystudy. After determining the effectiveness of the currentprograms, additional funding and flexibility could beachieved by establishing a fee in lieu of requiring thatdevelopers provide affordable housing as part of the devel-opment process.

TAXES: Decreasing property tax by one-cent requires

approximately $632,000 in cost savings. Delivering servicesin a more efficient manner with more efficient equipmentcould result in significant savings. Evaluating each serv-ice the city delivers for need, effectiveness and efficien-cies, including equipment requirements, would identifythe potential savings.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: Issue and con-stituency case management, including transfer of infor-mation between the Legislative and Executive Branch, issorely lacking. Hiring a dedicated legislative assistant tothe Board of Aldermen should improve the flow of infor-mation internally, as well as provide timely feedback toconstituents.

ELECTION PROCESS: Providing voting opportunitiessuch as same day voter registration, out of precinct vot-ing and early voting clearly increase voter participationand should be adopted immediately. Online voting can beas secure as is online banking, and is clearly a preferencefor many voters. It should be implemented sooner thanlater.

ENVIRONMENT: Reduce carbon dioxide! Carbon diox-ide is the major contributor to global warming and themajor emitter is coal-fired power plants. This is a globalissue that must be addressed at the local level by reducingenergy consumption through efficiencies and generatingclean energy from sources such as solar power.

DEMOCRATS■ Email: [email protected]

■ Website: www.DanielsForAlderman.com

■ Facebook: www.facebook.com/danielsforalderman

John Daniels


DonnaKuzemchak BIOGRAPHICAL: Bachelor’s

degree in Psychology, Certifica-tion in Management. Highlyinvolved in local and county-widePTA for over 15 years. CurrentlyRealtor with Mackintosh, Inc.and Grant Writer for FrederickCounty Humane Society. Experi-ence in non-profit program man-agement. Served Frederick for 12years as Alderman, PlanningCommission member, EducationCommission Chair.

PRIORITIES: Education - Sup-port public/private partnershipsthat enhance education of youthsand adults. Supply job trainingopportunities for city residents.Increase vibrant city-wide cultur-al awareness. Planning - Developstrategies to enhance quality oflife, travel and livability. Accessi-bility - Expand physical accessi-

bility. Increase citizen communi-cation to help citizens make con-nections with vital resources.

CITY FINANCES: Nationalratings on the City’s finances arestable to positive. If Other Post-Employment Benefits are coveredthrough the program recentlypresented to City elected officials,

finance ratings will continue tobe positive. Government shouldfund General Budget and CapitalImprovement Projects thatenhance our Quality of Life.

GROWTH: Traffic, sustain-ability and parkland arebiggest growth issues. Supportcontinuing involvement inregional transportation plan-ning, as well as planning andbuilding local roads to providemore connections within City.Support requiring sustainablebuilding practices for newdevelopment. Support expand-ing and enhancing City parksystem.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING:Voted to make Moderately PricedDwelling Units part of the Ade-quate Public Facilities Ordi-nance. Do not support fee-in-lieuof this for large developments.For small developments, fee-in-lieu should be set to cover truecost of losing affordable housingand put into fund to expandaffordable housing in the City.

TAXES: With growing seniorpopulation, would like tax breakfor seniors who have lived herefor more than 5 years. State legis-lation should require County toreimburse City proper amountfor services it doesn’t provideCity residents (Planning, Parks,Permits, most Police services,etc.), then City taxes could belowered.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERA-TION: There is a differencebetween cooperation and compro-mise. People can appear to coop-erate fully, yet never get anything

done because they don’t compro-mise. Democracy is founded oncompromise. Although we hadour differences, I worked effec-tively with 3 different City admin-istrations because of my abilityto compromise.

ELECTION PROCESS: Run-ning an election is a monumentaltask. Changes often have unfore-seen consequences. The Cityneeds to make sure the processitself works before consideringmaking changes that could affectits ability to run a fair and un-biased election.

ENVIRONMENT: Sustainableenergy, urban green space, andtransportation pollution must beaddressed to ensure Frederickcontinues to be a vibrant commu-nity. The Hargett property can beused for two of these goals -urban green space and a solarenergy field. Enhancing andexpanding public transportationis a necessity.

Donna Kuzemchak


■ Website: www.vote4donnak.com

■ Facebook: www.facebook.com/DonnaKuzemchakAlderman



Michael C. O’Connor (incumbent)

BIOGRAPHICAL: Elected Alderman, 2009; LifelongFrederick County resident; Business Manager, SaintKatharine Drexel; 20-year local radio & television jour-nalist and moderator; past Workforce DevelopmentBoard chair; Aspire Frederick co-chair; 2006 Commit-tee for Frederick County Civil Citizen Award recipient;Leadership Frederick County, 1997; married; twodaughters in Frederick County Public Schools.

PRIORITIES: Ensure policing, code enforcement,and multimodal infrastructure support, necessary forsafe, clean, and connected neighborhoods, for resi-dents and businesses; seek additional tax fairness andtax base diversity to provide responsible financialstewardship; promote increased citizen engagementfor the City to hear and respond to the concerns of itsresidents.

CITY FINANCES: We elevated the profile of Eco-nomic Development and updated the City’s financialpolicies. Further expand and diversify our tax base;obtain additional tax fairness from the county; exploreoperational efficiencies to stretch tax dollars, balanc-ing limited resources with needs; support 21st centurymanagement of long-term (pension & OPEB) invest-ments.

GROWTH: Infrastructure funding; implementationof the East Frederick Rising and the Golden MileSmall Area Plan visions, through the regulatoryframework (overlays, codes, design standards), ensur-ing appropriate tax base diversity as infill and redevel-opment occurs and properties are annexed; ongoing

review of LMC so it works for residents and businesses.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: We must ensure (through infill, redevelopment, and newconstruction) a diversity of available housing options, while encouraging designs thatkeep homes, and energy and maintenance costs, affordable. We should promote con-struction of moderately priced dwelling units (MPDUs). Supporting workforce housingwill ensure essential Frederick workers can live here.

TAXES: Yes. The combined City/County property tax rate has decreased during ouradministration. Further refinement of the tax differential formula can bring additionaltax fairness, but the County must agree. We should increase economic developmentsupport, focused on nonresidential tax-base expansion. Also, technology can improveservice delivery and efficiency, lowering costs.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: The 60th Administration sought a high standardfor collaboration. However, the lack of a guiding vision impedes efforts to focus on themyriad issues and what’s most important. Following through on the Strategic Plan-ning resolution adopted by this Board will target resources to the issues most impor-tant to our citizens.

ELECTION PROCESS: Appoint a task force, outside the Election Board, to explorevoting by mail and other approaches, and the impact of changing the election cycle. Isupport a nonbinding ballot question for 2014 on holding nonpartisan elections forCounty offices for constitutional offices such as Sheriff, and for municipal elections.

ENVIRONMENT: Air and water quality, and energy costs; solutions begin with theenergy audit we funded, hiring the sustainability manager we authorized, and imple-menting any recommendations. Building multimodal neighborhoods and requiringenergy-efficient design are additional measures. I support expanded recycling, imple-menting organics recovery, and environmental site design to protect local waterways.

Kelly Russell (incumbent)BIOGRAPHICAL: Current Alderman. Twen-

ty two year veteran (Lieutenant) of FrederickPolice Department; AA in Criminal Justice w/Honors; Serve on Planning Commission, Bicy-cle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, GreenTeam, Affordable Housing Council, Child Advo-cacy Center, Human Relations Commission;Vice Chair-Hometown Emergency PreparednessAd hoc Committee; Thirty years of public serv-ice to Frederick.

PRIORITIES: Police/Safety: A fully staffedpolice department with modern technology tocollaboratively problem solve to lower crime.Sustainable City Growth: Mixed developmentmust meet our community vision of neighbor-hoods with green space, interconnectivity, andenvironmental sensitivity. Economic Develop-ment: Continue attracting and retaining busi-nesses to provide local job opportunities for allresidents.

CITY FINANCES: Our budget has a surplusand an additional “Rainy Day” fund equal to12% of total general fund expenditure. Our bondratings are Aa2, AA+, and AA, with positive out-look. Changes to the tax equity structure result-ed in city/county combined taxes dropping $0.04.We held to constant yield for FY14.

GROWTH: We are projected to grow by20,000 in 20 years. We must ensure that develop-ment provides affordable housing, jobs, and recreation opportunities near home.We need to create and implement the Small Area Plans as identified in the Com-prehensive Plan, and build the regulatory framework to implement those plans.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Currently we do not permit Single Room Occupan-cy (SRO), so that is an idea we should explore thoroughly. Through the MDDepartment of Housing and Community Development, we currently operate sev-eral housing programs. We must continue to advocate so we get our share of thatfunding to grow those opportunities.

TAXES: We have lowered the combined city/county taxes by $0.045 in thisadministration by changing the taxing method and holding FY14 to constantyield. Continued refinement of the taxing methodology by examination of dou-ble taxation of duplicated services will have a positive effect on city taxes intothe future.

MAYOR-BOARD COOPERATION: Communication and collaboration yields amore thorough examination of issues, resulting in a more effective and efficientoperation. It is critical that personalities and philosophies not get in the way ofthe work to be done. Each must understand and respect the role of the others inthe governing process.

ELECTION PROCESS: We contracted with Frederick County to assist withthis election. Both City and County received training with the new paper ballotsystem. We have changed our law to allow all voters to use absentee ballots.Early voting and possibly online voting are ideas to be explored for future elec-tions.

ENVIRONMENT: Reduce trash going into the landfill by expanding recyclingand implementing organics recovery. Protect our streams and watershed to pre-vent further erosion. The silt and pollution drain directly into the ChesapeakeBay. We must harness natural energy from the sun to reduce our use of “dirty”energy sources.

DEMOCRATS


■ Website: www.mocforalderman.com

■ Facebook: facebook.com/mocforalderman

■ Twitter: twitter.com/CitizenMOC

Michael C. O’Connor ■ Email: [email protected]

■ Website: www.votekellyrussell.com

■ Facebook: www.facebook.com/AldermanKellyRusselIn2013

■ Twitter: @KellyMRussell

Kelly Russell

Please note that the city polling locations have changed and most differ from county election locations. Check your new voter registration card for your poll location or visit spires2cityoffrederick.com/elections/polling_loc.php, type in your address and your polling place will be displayed.

WHERE TO VOTE IN THE CITY OF FREDERICK ELECTIONS

frederick county league of women voters...

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