Smithsburg residents upset with road change

April 07, 2005|by BRIAN SHAPPELL

SMITHSBURG - Amid the chatter of children and repeated interruptions from residents in attendance, the Smithsburg Town Council discussed the impact of changes along Maple Avenue at its meeting Tuesday.

Several residents attended the meeting to object to the changes, which went into effect early this year. They said residents were unhappy with the parking deficiency the changes created and with continued speeding in the area.

Resident Jonathan Reed said he never anticipated that the changes would cause problems and that there are now seven parking spots for six houses.

"Anyone who can do the math knows it's not going to work," he said.

The changes included banning parking on one side of the street and placing a four-way stop sign in the area. The changes were recommended by a committee that included members of the council and two Maple Avenue residents, among others.

Mayor Mildred "Mickey" Myers said the process took more than a year to review and was well-publicized through The Trumpet and fliers sent to the homes. She said the issue will not be reviewed at the council's next work session.

Maple Avenue resident Jenniffer Ringquist, who angrily shouted insults at Councilman Jerome Martin during the meeting, said the parking "is essential." She said Wednesday that residents who served on the committee "misrepresented" the issue to officials.

Her mother, Ruby Ringquist, was hospitalized after becoming short of breath during the meeting, she said. Jenniffer Ringquist said her mother remained hospitalized Wednesday for observation.

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