As a final note in this category, Carol reported on the last Neighborhood Advisory Council meeting.  She reported that a Gas Station would be built next to the Giant food store and gas reductions could be attained in a similar manner as the gas reductions at Giant Eagle.  

Carol Goldstein introduced Mayor Jeff Holtzinger and Joe Adkins, Deputy Director of Planning for Frederick City, to the membership.  Both presenters made comments on the following topics:

Budget
Mayor Holtzinger indicated that the next budget would be a challenge even though Frederick City is in better financial shape than most municipalities.  He stated that he had asked the various directors to submit a flat budget before the final revenue estimates come in at the end of February (2009).  The mayor stated that he would try not to cut services but would not be able to expand on the services to the city.  Water and sewer had to be maintained to prevent catastrophic failures from occurring.  The upgrading of the police vehicle fleet and big truck fleet must be continued.  The water bill rate may go up because we have an old system in Frederick City and it must be maintained.  The sewer bill will be governed by the County administration.  The major related that we are already on the lower side of rates for water in Maryland compared to other municipalities.  The water system should be designed for maximum day demand and we are functioning on an average day supply.  We are currently in the process of transitioning to a maximum day formula and it will cost more to achieve this status.  

Communication
The mayor stated that information releases have been expanded on the internet for public information.  He has instructed the Public Information Office to release facts and not spin for the Mayor.