“Residents of Kent Island Estates and Romancoke, please join us and help plan for public health safeguards in your community,” said Queen Anne’s County Commission President James Moran. “The county is partnered with the Kent Island Estates and Romancoke on the Bay’s homeowners associations, to host a total of five Southern Kent Island Sanitary Project Workshops. We have seen a good turn out during the first three meetings; however, we’d like our more of our citizens to stop in one of these two meetings so that they can fully grasp the plan and benefits of bringing sewer to their neighborhood.”
“Many residents are asking questions related to things they have read online or heard in passing,” said Dave MacGlashan, chief of property management. “Once we talk and they get the actual facts, they are quite relieved and comfortable with the project.”
Finance Director Jonathan Seeman is also available at the meetings. He said, “There was a steady stream of residents who were interested in how the project is being financed and what it would mean to them as a homeowner. When I showed them how the financing is aided by both a grant and loan from the state, and that they would not have to pay more than $100 per month, most seemed relieved, and thought it was fair. A number of citizens asked me if the project could be expedited.”
Planning Director Steve Cohoon has been working one-on-one with property owners during the workshops. “A vital part of this process is being available to answer specific questions, regarding specific lots or homes, and explaining to a property owner how the project impacts them personally.”
During the workshop, residents have a chance to find out about their individual State Grant of $7,750, determine their eligibility for other financial assistance, review their specific lot consolidation adjustment, provide right-of-entry for design options, and get answers to other questions about the project.
Chief Sanitary Engineer Alan Quimby said these workshops are a two way exchange of information. “I was impressed by most of the attendees’ willingness to learn about the situation,” said Quimby. “This interaction was also valuable for me as they raised design we may want to consider.” Todd Mohn, director of public works, echoed those sentiments and said he hopes the next two workshops are equally as productive.
Shari Hershberger is with the public works department and is also a notary. She said, “Residents that attended thanked us for having the workshops. They were very appreciative for the convenience of having the ability to execute and notarize the Easement Documents as well as the Right of Entry on site.”
Commissioner Mark Anderson, who attended several of the workshops, said he values the interaction with the public. “Having an informed public is of the utmost importance to this board of commissioners,” he said.
Dick Sells, of the Kent Island Homeowners Association, said the two neighborhood associations are encouraging all homeowners to attend one of the meetings.
“Your participation is requested to accomplish this project,” said Moran. “Please pass the word and tell your neighbors.”