Smithsburg briefs

June 04, 2008|By HEATHER KEELS

Mayor's husband not reappointed to board

SMITHSBURG - The Smithsburg Town Council on Tuesday refused to approve the reappointment of the mayor's husband to the town's Zoning Appeals Board, arguing his membership would pose a conflict of interest.

Homer Myers, husband of Smithsburg Mayor Mildred "Mickey" Myers, has served on the board since its creation, the mayor said. His current term expires in July, and he volunteered for another three-year term, she said.

Councilman Tom Chiarizia made a motion to confirm Myers' appointment, but no other councilmember present would second the motion.

Councilmembers Donnie Souders Jr., Dennis "Jack" Wenthe and Jerome Martin said they thought it would present a conflict of interest for the mayor's husband and a major property owner to serve on the appeals board.

Councilmember Shirley Aurand left the meeting early.

Martin said he thought Homer Myers could serve on another board, but not the appeals board.

Town Clerk/Treasurer Betsy Martin told the council she thought the decision was "a mistake" and said appeals board members recuse themselves in situations that might present a conflict of interest.

The mayor said the decision could have implications for other board members.

"I think if we're going to look at conflict of interest, then we need to look at a lot of things that go on in this town," she said.

In Smithsburg, members of boards and commissions are appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the council, Mayor Myers said.

Police commission seeks community input

SMITHSBURG - The Smithsburg Citizens Police Advisory Commission is seeking more community participation and input, member Tom Chiarizia said Tuesday. The commission's next meeting will be 7 p.m. Thursday in Town Hall.

Comprehensive plan to be discussed

SMITHSBURG - A public hearing to discuss a draft of the Smithsburg Comprehensive Plan is scheduled for 7 p.m. July 1 in the Town Hall, Mayor Mildred "Mickey" Myers said. Copies of the draft may be obtained from town hall and the town is accepting written comments before the meeting, she said.

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