Mayor Margo Bailey made a surprise announcement last week at the Town Council meeting that she would not seek re-election to an office she has held since 1994.
Anyone who knows Margo Bailey, and her love of Chestertown, realizes how difficult this decision must have been, and particularly when her town is facing financial challenges not seen since the Great Depression.
With storefronts closings on High Street, needless blight at North Chestertown’s shopping centers, real estate stagnation, and a certain, if not quantifiable, loss of confidence felt in the community, one would have predicted the Mayor’s response would be nothing less than stay and fight for the town she adores.
But to her enormous credit, the Mayor has taken the long view for Chestertown and come to the conclusion that “new faces,” with the not so subtle use of the plural, were needed with the energy are required, to usher the town back to vitality. The town of Chestertown owes Mayor Bailey it’s gratitude for the selflessness and courage it took to retire at this challenging moment in the town’s history.
Now the question remains, who will step forward to take her place, and more importantly, who has the skills to lead a town into a new era of confidence and stability under less than ideal circumstances–and without the tools and capital many municipalities have to facilitate growth, cooperation, and long-term strategic planning?
This is no small point. The mayor of Chestertown is a part-time position with an annual salary of $5,000 a year. There is marginal economic development capacity at the town level, and an overworked and very small town staff. It is difficult to assume that the resources required to seriously change Chestertown’s direction will be adequate anytime in the near future.
Those skills of leadership must also be used to repair the functionality and purpose of the town council. While the current ward representatives have consistently demonstrated their dedication to Chestertown, the deliverables in terms of economic growth strategies and revitalization has been modest. At the same time, the level of civility, collaboration, and strategic thinking coming from town council seems to be at an all time low. Why?
The truth is that no small town could have been prepared for the economic devastation of the Great Recession. Nor has it been easy for these tiny municipalities to determine the real extent of the damage, or the financial consequences, until very recently. Now with the evidence more clear, it is understandable that town governments, and Chestertown in particular, are suffering from the shock and stress of this new reality. To rest blame on one person or personality under these circumstances is toxic folly.
Nonetheless, now that the community is feeling the full extend of the recession, it is hoped that a special leader or leaders can emerge from a competitive town election this November with the skills and luck to guide the town back to prosperity with high expectations for the future.
In the meantime, Chestertown should take some comfort that it has a long history of finding the right mayor at the right time. Margo Bailey will be joining a special club of leaders, including the likes of Elmer Horsey and Phillip Wilmer, capable of extraordinary leadership for their times.
It is reasonable to think the town’s luck in this regard will continue.
Fletcher R. Hall says
Well stated.
I hope the Spy receives more comments on this editorial.
The participation of citizens is a critical factor in the life blood of a town.
It would be of interest if the Spy editorial had addressed the town – Washington College relationship and need for collaboration as the college grows and expands in the future, including the waterfront.
Fletcher R.Hall
Chestertown
Kevin Shertz says
I applaud this editorial as well as its acknowledgment of Mayor Bailey’s service to the town over these many years. Her accolades are, on the whole, well-earned.
If I could strike any “sour note” into the discussion, though, it would be that the current crop of public figures and town officials have done a pretty poor job of grooming/motivating/cultivating a next generation — an “under 50” generation of leadership — of people interested in running and serving in public office for Chestertown.
We will now see what ramifications that has in the future. We may see very large pendulum swings in the coming years (re. policy/implementation) as a result.
Keith Thompson says
“If I could strike any “sour note” into the discussion, though, it would be that the current crop of public figures and town officials have done a pretty poor job of grooming/motivating/cultivating a next generation — an “under 50″ generation of leadership — of people interested in running and serving in public office for Chestertown.”
I may have some insight on this…before WCTR took on the talk format in 2011, I was warned by more than one formerly politically connected person that I have to watch what I say on the air or I would be subject to the same sort of vandalism that drove them out of the political arena. I’m happy to say that any fears I may have had have proved to be unfounded, but I wonder if others have been told the same as me and therefore were scared to enter into the arena.
“We will now see what ramifications that has in the future. We may see very large pendulum swings in the coming years (re. policy/implementation) as a result.”
And a large pendulum swing may be what is necessary to allow the town to adapt to changing times, especially if the current leadership is too insular in its regional view. I think it’s safe to say that Margo Bailey’s main legacy will be her efforts to lead the town’s successful challenge to the proposed Wal-Mart in the county. At the time, the move likely helped preserve the town’s heritage and culture as well as helping preserve the town’s economic viability. However over the last decade or so, Middletown has emerged as this region’s commercial center and has been very effective in drawing significant business away from Chestertown and Kent County severely weakening Chestertown’s economic strengths; and I believe Middletown has done this largely by accident. Imagine the economic damage that Middletown could inflict if it really started marketing itself here as a regional commercial center. The next Chestertown mayor needs to understand how Chestertown fits into the 21st Century regional economy and how to market itself for the changing times.
D LaMotte says
I do not think that the educated professionals that everyone keeps hoping will move here are ever going to be motivated by the type of stores in Middletown. Sure, there will be those who will but on the whole, it is a cultural as well as educated demographic difference. Anyway, people who do drive to Middletown for the sole purpose of shopping are the same ones who had, or still do, make Dover their destination. The answer is not more stores selling China imports. Business models giving entrepreneurs help and latitude, I think, will perhaps bring regional vitality. We will see…
Keith Thompson says
I don’t disagee with you in that I don’t see a Target coming to Chestertown nor should that be the goal. What I’m getting at is that Chestertown needs to recognize that what worked in 1993 is probably not working in 2013 and the cause is as much as attibutable to what is going on in the region as it is what is going on in town. Chestertown is a special place but what made it special twenty years ago may not be what is making is special today. Only by stepping outside of the town limits and having a better understanding of how Chestertown fits into the greater region around it, can the town know what really makes it special.
Kevin Shertz says
If the mindset is one of a zero-sum game, whereby in order for Chestertown to win, Middletown has to lose, then Chestertown is going to lose every time.
Keith, I agree with your 1993/2013 analogy completely. I have commented here before that unfortunately too many people’s heads are in the place where all Chestertown needs to do is wait for 2005/2006 to return (especially in the real estate market.) Not gonna happen.
Kevin Shertz says
Keith, At a local level, I don’t think party affiliation/political manifesto really matters (this may be yet another “Under 50” attribute talking.)
It’s much more the struggle between “this is how we’ve always handled this” versus living in the present and future. It’s also a question of who runs for office that has an axe to grind – perceived and real – with the current regime so as to settle old scores.
And, it’s also a matter encouraging people involved in the process to feel its worth there while to remain involved in the process, and even a matter of giving them a reason to not leave here and de-camp to Annapolis, Baltimore, Philly, or other environs where they’re not trapped in the “bubble” as though they’re an extra in the movie “Back To The Future.”
A lot more of local politics, especially in this area, seems to have to do with who treated you poorly at that Sadie Hawkins dance in the 1950’s and the emotional baggage acquired since then. Evolve or Die. Which will happen first? Death, or evolution?
The jury for me personally is still out, even though I grew up a mere 30 miles from here.
Frances Reed says
I don’t think there will ever be enough people in Kent County to shop mostly in Chestertown and keep the town going.
As I have stated before – we have to walk the fine line between Chestertown staying the charming place it is and re-energising the town.
Being Mayor is a tough job. It’s impossible to keep everyone happy. A lot of intestinal fortitude will be required!
Keith Thompson says
Which means that if you want the town to remain a charming place, then it has to understand what being a charming place means. If the charm comes from being a retirement community, there really shouldn’t be a whole lot of hand-wringing over the lack of amenties like a pediatic equipped local hospital, a top flight public school system, or a bustling downtown. It all about understanding what you are, marketing it, and not sweating the things you can’t or you’re not willing to change.
Stephan Sonn says
Margo did what she could with hand she was dealt.
If the town were as rich in substance as it is steeped
in tradition, the tone of her tenure would ring clarion and
she would be heralded for a hard job well and honestly performed
As for new leadership he or she will have to sort
through a lot of illusions to set the tone and pace
of exactly what the potential is… good luck.
Nice job with the editorial David.
Keith Thompson says
Stephan, good observation. Perhaps the town isn’t really what a lot of people think it is.
Stephan Sonn says
You are quite the realist for a dreamer Mr Reed
The town has a borderline token economy,
propped up (or not) by the local gentry
Default is the plan and the condition.
Keith Thompson says
Kevin Shertz writes…
“If the mindset is one of a zero-sum game, whereby in order for Chestertown to win, Middletown has to lose, then Chestertown is going to lose every time.”
As long as Chestertown has the mindset that what happens in Middletown, or Dover, or Easton, etc. doesn’t affect it, then it is participating in a losing zero sum game. I’m suggesting that Chestertown needs to be aware of where it fits in the greater community and act accordingly rather than acting in isolation.
Stephan Sonn says
I don’t do windows and I don’t write primers
And since when was it important to be relevant?
Certainly not here where I said economy in jest.
Maybe you can build an outsider dynasty.
Margo had her dreams to as an Miami outsider
with a range of vision to uplift and widen the view.
The style did work and a bit more than that
She formed the most unlikely political pact.
Stephan Sonn says
Spotty charm and mostly empty
hosting a developers speed trap
A non profit, caretakers ward.
weighed not byye modern notion
Kevin Shertz says
Stephan, this is very poetic sounding, but what the heck does it mean?
Stephan Sonn says
Your edited and revised question
is a bit on the Goldilox order.
Gren Whitman says
“Goldilox”? Pricey breakfast treat that goes with a bagel?
Stephan Sonn says
Translation:
What ever I serve up to to Kevin will always be
too hot or too cold, but never just right.
It is a matter of perception
but I am not about to change.
By the way, I write in phrase columns
not intend to be poetry, simply a tool.
Kevin Shertz says
Stephan, I largely agree
with many of the points
you make when you post
but at times their formatting/style
does not lend clarity
to your intent/point of
your message.
Stephan Sonn says
Point taken Kevin
but was it too hot or too cold {:~)
Ron Moore says
The Mayor led us down a path of naïveté, self indulgence, and narcisism. Her little club of friends has made it impossible for anything progressive and forward thinking to get done in this town, and has somehow muzzled any voice of disidence in the community. We’re no closer to having a collaborative relationship with the College than we were before, unless you call collaborative a real estate arrangement. Kids still don’t shop locally, outside of some groceries at acme, or some advil from Walgreen’s. It’s so bad, Mitchell Reiss built a coffee shop and a pub ON CAMPUS. They still don’t pay for civil services, like most larger colleges do. They get a pass from our co-opted elected officials. Really, what are they going to do, move to Church Hill? Respect them providing jobs, thank them for providing a good education, and then hand them their bill, and negotiate like you mean it.
We called ourselves a tourist town, and did little to retain the tourists once they’d walked through it once or twice. What would make them come back? Why would they? We bought a Marina? Why? It’s absolutely ridiculous. We couldn’t figure out a way to make Dixon Valve expand here? Seriously?
Personally, I wish her nothing but good health and a long life, but politically, she’s been a disaster these past few years.
joe diamond says
Ron?
I thought it was just me.
I once mentioned college kids do not shop locally because it can be dangerous after dark ……….and was told “don’t go there”….(code for yes but shut up!)
There was a time when college students lived in town & rented rooms. The locals objected. The college built rooms on campus. Now the locals object to the lack of business from college students.
There are a few other issues.
Best wishes to Margo.
Joe
matthew weir says
Ron,
I want to respond to your comment that the town is no closer to having ‘collaborative relationship’ with Washington College. I think you are incorrect in stating this. Washington College, in my 13 years as a Board Member, has never been more interested in the health and vitality of the surrounding community. Never has the college invested as much financially. Washington College has made significant investments in purchasing property and has even made donations to the town. For example, in addition to the purchase price of the Armory, Washington College donated $200,000 to the town. That is no small amount of money! Further, the college invests in many small ways that most would never hear of. As an example, Washington College spent close to $2,000 to market the ‘Shop Local’ cards offered by the community to its students. I am not aware of any other entity that has spent money to try to encourage students (or any other person, for that matter) to spend their money in Chestertown. Finally, numerous trustees, faculty, staff and students volunteer their time for the benefit of the local community. As example, John Moag is chairing the Waterfront Committee, pro bono. John is a highly respected individual and would normally be compensated at a high level for what he is doing for Chestertown. Washington College is deeply invested in the community and will continue to be.
The Goose Nest (the on campus pub) was not built to compete with area merchants, at all. It was built, however, to provide a place for students to go and unwind. Joe Diamond is correct when he states that students were chased from downtown. I remember (during the Tipson administration) the college being told by the community to get their students back on campus! Why would students want to come to town?
Finally, you are guilty of repeating an often thrown out falsehood that Washington College does not contribute financially to the community. The facts are available if you simply look for them, but Washington College is only able to pay tax on property used for instructional purposes. Thus, there are significant real estate taxes paid. But, I am curious, would you demand that the Garfield Center, the Sultana, Shared Opportunity Services or Kent Youth pay taxes? On another note, when I was a student at Washington College, 4 fellow students and I volunteered in the Fire company. Another two in the Rescue Squad. I should think that the 15 or so hours a week we gave (individually!) to the cause does a good bit contribute to the civil services you speak about.
I think that the next few years hold great promise for Chestertown, if we are able to do what Margo has encouraged us to do, bring in new blood. I take her suggestion to mean not just the office of Mayor, but also the Town Council and the County Council. We need to make sure we keep the beauty and charm that Chestertown and Kent County possess but attract investment to improve the livelihoods of everyone who chooses to make the area their home.
My reply is not an attempt to attack you and I apologize if it comes off that way. Instead, I think it is very important that we all keep addressing the issues and, rather than attack what has (or has not) happened, let’s focus on solutions.
Kevin Shertz says
Matt wrote,
“Finally, you are guilty of repeating an often thrown out falsehood that Washington College does not contribute financially to the community. The facts are available if you simply look for them, but Washington College is only able to pay tax on property used for instructional purposes.”
That of course assumes P.I.L.O.T. (payment in lieu of taxes) is a forbidden topic by both the Town and the College. A safe assumption, given the status quo.
Also, Matt wrote,
“I remember (during the Tipson administration) the college being told by the community to get their students back on campus! Why would students want to come to town?”
Having lived here during the Tipson administration, I can tell you that the primary complaint of “us residents” was the number of off-campus de-facto Fraternity and Sorority houses that contributed excessive noise and litter both weekday and weekend for those of us who are just trying to eke out a 9-5 living.
Personally, your students seem much more attuned to their effect on their neighbors and their overall surroundings than they were just a few years ago. But, I think that has more to do with generational differences in recent years than anything WC or the Town is actively doing (or not doing.)
matthew weir says
Kevin, the speed with which you are able to tear apart my posts always amazes me! You are the only one who seems interested in PILOT. As you know, there are seats on the Town Council up for election and the office of Mayor is available. Perhaps you should run?
What do you think of asking Garfield, Sultana, Kent Youth and SOS to pay taxes? Should they?
You write, ‘Personally, your students seem much more attuned to their effect on their neighbors and their overall surroundings than they were just a few years ago. But, I think that has more to do with generational differences in recent years than anything WC or the Town is actively doing (or not doing.)’ While you are kind to say so, ‘they’ are not my students. I think that your statement demonstrates, though, the prevailing attitude the students feel. That is one where every move they make is watched and judged. Thus, a desire to not come to town may be the result.
Kevin Shertz says
Defensive much, Matt?
You are a member of the Washington College Board of Directors, hence, my “your” assignment.
For the record, I have ZERO interest in public office. Zero. Zilch. Nada.
matthew weir says
Kevin, Not defensive at all…how about my question: should Garfield, SOS, Kent Youth and Sultana pay taxes or PILOT?
Kevin Shertz says
The notion that any of the organizations that you mention have either the physical footprint or institutional impact that Washington College has on Chestertown is absurd, Matt.
Ron Moore says
Interesting anecdote, however –
Let’s take a look at Boston. More college campus per square mile than anywhere else in the world. Universities regularly contribute approximately 75-80% of their private tax burden to the city because they recognize the value that the city provides the University. Now I realize that despite what you say publicly, Chestertown is probably of questionable value to your institution as you seem to get pretty much anything you want anyway. Bill Ingersoll for the president’s award? I’m sure even Bill wasn’t expecting it, and I’ve got to say, that’s a pretty obvious public fish for favoritism. I maintain that Mitchell Reiss is a really smart guy, and I’m sure, left alone, he’d own the town entirely in several decades.
Who knows, it might be an improvement?
Ben Ford says
I would like to add one thing to Matts comment if I could.
Simply put, saying that the College contributes little to the local economy and culture is ridiculous. So many young, professional, highly educated people come to Chestertown and then choose to stay. Ask a neighbor, I bet there is one within a few houses of you. I know this because many of them are my friends (and colleagues, for full disclosure). We care about this town and we want to make it our home.
I would hope that people within the town and the county (and within the College) as a whole could be more apt to recognize that both the Town and College are not discrete or separate entities but are instead linked intrinsically.
Last weekend a partial list of things that went on on campus: eight varsity teams home, a couple of club teams home, a HUGE open house, Parents Council meeting and bull roast, alumni board meeting, BAVA youth volleyball tournament, community dance day, and a showing of King Lear (for $5, or less if a student). I’m sure I’m missing something. What I didn’t miss was the press of people downtown. Conversely, if nothing draws WAC students and their parents downtown (don’t worry, they do go), than WAC will not be able to be as selective about it’s student body and attract the type of students that come to love this special place, decide to stay, start a family or business.
Please don’t discount us, we are Chestertown too.
Ron Moore says
Washington College holds events on weekends Please, explain to us how this pays for your share of the public services that the institution, staff, and students use. Also, please explain the relevance of one’s Alma Mater to the argument. College Educated people are college educated people. If Kent County (or Chestertown) can attract and keep them, great. It doesn’t mean that the College should get a pass on it’s social and moral duty to financially support the community in which it resides.
Ben Ford says
Washington College holds events every day of the week. War on the Shore is on Wednesday of next week and will probably draw well over 2,000 people. I am not an Alumni of WAC. Are you under the impression that the College gets free utilities? Ron, are there other things in Chestertown that draw as many young people into town residency as the College? Do you think these people don’t pay taxes, or volunteer, or have children and send them to local schools? What exactly do you think happens at the College? The College is PART of Chestertown, as are the people who work there.
matthew weir says
Well said, Ben. To add to your comment, I pay more than $50,000 in property taxes in Chestertown. I would not pay those if I had not come to Chestertown and found the lovely community, Chestertown. The relationship between WC and the town (and county!) is an important one and one that serves both parties.
While I have asked some posters why they do not hold all non-profits by the same standards, they seem unwilling to answer. Shame…
Ron Moore, I do not know you but would like to ask whether you pay more than your obligated amount of income tax, residential tax or whether you offer to pay 30% extra for bread at the super market? Laws are made and are to be respected. To suggest that WC has a ‘social and moral duty’ to pay more than it is obligated to is absurd.
Kevin Shertz says
Funny, Matt, the only person I know of you asked is me, and I gave you my answer on April 2nd (see above)
“The notion that any of the organizations that you mention have either the physical footprint or institutional impact that Washington College has on Chestertown is absurd, Matt.”
You’re welcome to disagree, Matt, but don’t live in your own reality that people are unwilling to answer your question.
The interests of Chestertown and Washington College are mutual but not identical.
If there’s a problem with any of your private properties in Chestertown for which you pay property taxes on require police or other municipal services, yes, you receive service for said taxes, just as any other private citizen does, Matt. Please don’t conflate your own personal, private, circumstances with those of the institution with which you are a member of the Board.
And, to Ben’s point regarding how WAC invites the community to attend numerous events on campus, yes, that’s absolutely true. And, the next time you’re at one of them, take a look around at all the community members that are there, and then visualize what a meager audience it would be if they didn’t attend, and how embarrassing that could possibly be for the College if relying solely on the student body and faculty to fill the room. Pervez Musharraf would have been speaking to a half-full house at best. I’m sure he would have liked that. The community is invited for a reason… enlightened self-interest.
Ben Ford says
Kevin, with all due respect (don’t you hate that phrase) your response was an evasion, not an answer. I think Matt asked whether anyone thinks that the College should be MORE responsible for the town’s well being than any other non profit (or for profit for that matter). And please, no one forces people to attend lectures or events anywhere. They come because they want to and because it’s a neat event. It’s a great thing that these events happen, be it at the Garfield, first Friday, or Litrenta.
It would be great if we could all recognize that both the Town and the College have so much more to offer each other than we are currently putting out there.
Kevin Shertz says
Ben, you mistake any criticism I offer as the notion that the the College can do no good (it is, unfortunately, one that many seem to make.) Wrong. But, it’s also rubbish to believe that the College can do no wrong.
Again, the College’s interests with those of the greater community are mutual, but not identical.
So, let me expand on my comments, since I seem to have been too obtuse in my original meaning…
Physical footprint:
* As the College acquires new properties, it removes possible opportunities to private families and companies to invest here, creating other opportunities for growth, diversity, and stability within neighborhoods.
* As properties are converted to “Institutional” use instead of residential/commercial ones, the overall property tax rolls decrease.
Institutional Impact:
* As the College increases its enrollment, the increased strain on its infrastructure (water, sewer, etc.) creates less ability for Chestertown to accommodate growth within its private sector growth unless increases in its systems are made at some point.
* An increase in students puts non-student residents in direct competition for housing opportunities (exhibit A: Kent Crossing)
* An increase in police/911 requests for services — whether it be an off-campus party, or a student getting the snot beat out of them (on or off-campus,) or the further investigation of theft, etc., is increased as a result of larger enrollment numbers and all of the variables that come into play when more people are introduced into situations.
Am I suggesting that somehow a larger student body doesn’t somehow help the greater downtown with more people that may possibly go to Sam’s, attend a show at The Prince, or possibly shop in one of the strip malls? Of course not.
But, what I am suggesting is that so long as people want to do nothing but blindly wish that nothing but the upside of such a symbiotic relationship exists — without being willing to acknowledge that there’s a downside that also exists, and one that could possibly be quantified — it’s difficult to me to take the terms of engagement on these issues very seriously.
Pete Bestmom says
Ron- Tried to give you a heads-Up and High 5 for concurring with every word you wrote. Bravo.
Unfortunately, since I added one rather significant thing you left out –
Spy declined to publish my reply to you.
Nancy Mcguire says
This is NOT a reply to any particular message above and I do not seek responses, however, I ask, do some contributors – those who go on and on endlessly – have nothing else to do? I was told as a child, to spend one’s life productively.
For someone who, along with so many, many others, spends every available minute contributing to the welfare of downtown Chestertown (which equates to thousands of hours, 365 days a year), I wonder what insight might be offered if these contributors really knew what is happening or what Chestertown is really about. . Do they attend Town Council or Planning Commission meetings regularly, do they volunteer, do they spend endless volunteer hours on Boards or do they initiate and complete community projects?
For the record, Pride and Joy and Complete Bookstore after decades opening their doors to us deserved retirement. Dave Ferguson Oriental Rugs sadly passed away. The Deli and Rare Books have or will close. However, new shops and galleries have or are opening – The Collections Gallery, Art Gallery on Cannon Street, My Best Friend Cake Shop on Cannon, Southern Cecilac Restaurant on High, , Houck Men’s Shop, Owl Gallery on High , Physical Fitch, Heggland Glass and Music Shop; on High Street. Evergrain has doubled its size. Many shops have or are redecorating. DCA’s “Curb Appeal Projects” are constantly working towards street improvements. With little or nt money but hundreds of volunteer hours.
It bothers me when the word “change” is used so often. The No. 1 economic value we have is that we are not like anywhere else. “Improve and build upon what we have” seems more appropriate. Why would anyone want to compare Chestertown and Kent County with Middletown, Delaware. It has its strengths, it is just not the same as Chestertown. It makes me wonder if those doubters really “get-it”. We are blessed with a Town that has been PRESERVED over many generations. Imagine the challenge we would all – businesses, non-profits, services and residents, alike, have without our strong unique foundation. I hope that we can bind together to support our local businesses and non-profits and leadership. Even if one disagrees with leadership, we would all be better served by contributing. Margo Bailey has persevered for two decades. We have not always seen eye to eye but it has been a difficult job in difficult times. Can’t we please just say, “Thank you!” Can we stop complaining and let the leadership know we care. One might be surprised at what might happen.
Kevin and Keith, I will not be responding so please do not bother.
Kevin Shertz says
Nancy, for the past 8 years I have lived in Chestertown, I have conceived from day one my architectural practice as a regional/state-wide one. You are welcome to find fault with that as you wish; I know it’s not one everyone would choose to adopt. If the money’s right, would I do a project in Washington County? Hell, yes.
Since then, I have performed projects in Cecil, Kent, Queen Annes, Talbot, Anne Arundel, Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties. I have also volunteered in the past for activities in Dorchester County (as well as our own Kent) even though I haven’t performed for-pay architectural services in Dorchester. Oh, and I also work some weekends in a brewery in Delaware too.
May I simply suggest that I choose to occupy a larger territory than Kent County itself with my activities?
Perhaps my world of “getting it” is simply a different one than your own.
Keith Thompson says
Nancy, since I was singled out here it’s essential for me to respond. You’re certainly free to respond back because I’m interested in engaging in dialogue rather than limiting it.
I work here and since I work here, my ability to earn a paycheck is based on the sound economic health of this community. Since I’ve been sitting behind the microphone here since 2007, the local economy has gotten progressively worse. The radio station I work for is in the process of expanding our broadcasting reach because there is simply not enough business in Chestertown to sustain us. Despite this, we promote most all of the activities that go on in town and we offer FREE time to many town businesses, especially new ones, because we WANT to see business succeed here because it helps our bottom line.
Yes I don’t live here but I’m a lot more involved in this community than I am in Middletown where I live. Why? Because this area offers many things that I don’t get at home. First of all, as a musician I’ve never played in Middletown while I’ve played extensively in Chestertown, Rock Hall and Millington and that’s because the music scene here is far superior to where I live. That’s one reason why the town’s decision to deny musicians rights to collect tips at the Farmer’s Market infuriated me as it completely flied in the face of the town’s reputation as an arts friendly town. It was highly insulting (and not just to me, I’m just the one who complained). Also, I’ve become quite active at the Garfield Center largely because the talent drew my interest and then THEY made the effort to welcome me into their creative community. I’ve attended shows at the Everett in Middletown, but I haven’t gotten pulled into the theatre there like the Garfield pulled me in.
As for the Middletown comparisons…I don’t think that at anytime I have ever suggested that Chestertown emulate Middletown. In fact, I state that its impossible for Chestertown to emulate Middletown because the two communities are polar opposites. I harp on Middletown so much because it pulls so much money out of the residents of Chestertown and Kent County. That certainly helps my wife’s job security, but it endangers mine. Yes Chestertown is a wonderful town and isn’t like any other town, but its stagnant. The town has to grow and it has to adapt to the region around it. By growth, I don’t mean that the town should welcome a Wal-Mart or a Target, but the town has to be open to retail options that will keep residents here rather than going elsewhere, and new attractions that will allow non-residents to make return trips. Art is great (I’m an “artist” myself) but art doesn’t drive commerce; however commerce can greatly benefit the arts. These are not just my opinions, but are opinions that are expressed by the various business owners, residents, non-profits, organizations, etc. that either live or work here.
Again Nancy, I’m not interested in character assassanation against you or anyone else in this town, but this is simply an honest approach at creating dialogue in an attempt to improve and build on what Chestertown has as you suggest. You can either choose to engage in the dialogue, or you can cover your ears and shut it out.
Ron Moore says
Ben,
So what you’re saying is that because I run a business, and my customers pay sales tax, I shouldn’t have to pay property tax, gas tax, payroll tax, or anything else because my customers and employees all pay taxes and stimulate the economy? Saying that because things that Washington does have some economic impact on the town, they should be absolved of paying for basic services like Police coverage is absolutely ludicrous.
Ben Ford says
Well, I pay for those things and I am an employee of the college. Taxes come out of my payroll as well as out of all of the other 500 (plus or minus) employees of the college (many of whom live in Kent Co.). I guess you have never received a tax benefit or break for being a small business owner? News flash Ron, all institutions of higher learning get tax benefits. WAC is not somehow “getting one over on ya”. That said, I understand where your frustration comes from, though it is a common misconception that the college does not pay property taxes and payroll tax (it does).
Here is a fun exercise I just discovered this evening; just look through the Spys events, happenings and other interesting tidbits and see how many are sponsored by or somehow affiliated with the college. I can’t for the life of me understand how one could not see that this benefits the college and the town. The college doesn’t charge for lectures (though putting them on costs a considerable sum).
Oxford, MD is a lovely, picturesque little riverfront town near where I grew up. They, however do not have a university or college anywhere near them. How many Oxford residents do you think have an opportunity to see as many lectures, plays, live music, fireworks, and community events comparable to those that a Chestertownian has? Do you not think that people come from outside of Chestertown to see these events (and then get DINNER, or buy a COFFEE, or a BOOK). They probably even pay sales tax on those items.
Arguing that WAC “isn’t paying its due” to me smacks of obfuscation. WAC already DOES it’s share to help the community, because WAC is PART of the community. Just because the college owns some property does not mean that it owes a small business owner anything! Do you Ron OWE the New York Deli money to keep them open?
The College needs the town and its support as much as the town needs the same from the College. My point is that we are in the same river here and a rising tide will lift all ships.
MB Troup says
Lots of talk about growth, development, who do we emulate, what is growth, etc…
…The next mayor needs an economic growth platform, but one that is realistic. The most electable candidate will be the one who can convey how they will maximize our wealth per capita using our current assets. It can be done without building a Target or an Olive Garden. But we need to get rolling on it soon, before that becomes the last remaining option.
Stephan Sonn says
Please excuse the comments above which are from two weeks ago and a different mood of conduct.
The tone in the last two weeks is so elevated and pragmatic that I am a bit shy to comment now. One thing for sure it is this kind of conversation that could redeem Chestertown as a viable entity but i wonder if the mold is preset and has always been, by leading generations and guiding concepts that are deliberately out of tune with modern society, by an overwhelming traditional mantra. My feeling is that Chestertown will always be adjunct to dominant dynamics presented by The college, the local gentry or mainland geriatric housing of the future. We could be a comfort hub, but not by local choice or financing. Whatever happens there will always be a whiff of the old colony. Particularly the upstairs downstairs part.
Rev. Ellsworth L. Tolliver says
When we the citizens of Chestertown consider the future leadership of this great town we must take into account the changing landscape of its residents. We must consider that those who vote will come from backgrounds where progressive assertive leadership is the norm. We must ask ourselves how much do we really want economic growth at the cost of upsetting the bucolic lifestyle we all enjoy. We must ask ourselves how willing are we to be lead by the onset of diversity that helps keep us centered and grounded. Are we really ready to work for progressive change or are we satisfied with the status quo?
Nice people do not necessarily make great leaders. I urge my fellow voters to consider the person who they think will best lead us into the 21st century with a vision that encompasses the needs of all it citizens.