On July 17, only two of the commissioners, Commissioner Hodge and Commissioner Mullins, had the courage to attend a forum to explain why they increased the burden on an already squeezed constituency.   Their reason? Hodge explained that even though he “was not happy with this budget”, three commissioners were not committed to maintaining or decreasing taxes, and it was important to him to maintain a “working relationship with other commissioners.” Thus, he betrayed his promise to those he represents.   Likewise Commissioner Mullins said that he brought 4 million dollars in spending cuts to the table, but he did not get any “traction” from the other commissioners, and like Hodge, he voted in support of the budget because he did not want to create “divisiveness”.

Many taxpayers in our county are experiencing layoffs and wage decreases.  The economic future is uncertain.  If there was any time to lighten the tax burden on the citizens of this county, it was now.  We need to hold our politicians, particularly our local ones, accountable for their lies and misrepresentations.  They need to know they were elected to serve the citizens of this county, not their fellow commissioners. 

Call the commissioners to express your feelings on this issue.  Commissioner Hodge stated that it is never too late to revisit the budget.  They need to hear from you!

County Commissioners
County Administrative Building
200 Chesapeake Blvd., Suite 2100
 Elkton, MD 21921
(410)996-5201