Nonpartisan and Education-based News for Cambridge
The Spy’s Dave Wheelan and WHCP Community Radio’s Jim Brady continue their quarterly check-in with the City of Cambridge’s police chief, Justin Todd. In this segment, Chief Todd discusses crime rates in Cambridge and nationally and some of the factors that have helped the City reduce its crime rate over the last year. The Chief also talks about the renewal of the evening curfew for young people going to effect.
This video is approximately 12 minutes in length.
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WHCP: This is Midshore Midday. I’m Jim Brady.
After months long search from a pool of 15 candidates, the Cambridge City Council has selected its new city manager, Glenn Steckman. Today we’re speaking with him from his current post as City Manager of Nome, Alaska. Congratulations, and welcome.
GS: Thank you.
WHCP: I understand Maryland will be sort of a homecoming for you.
GS: Well, actually even Dorchester County will be sort of a homecoming. I was born and raised in Baltimore City. Then my family moved out to Baltimore County, but I went to school in Baltimore City and Baltimore County through graduate school.
WHCP: Well, I imagine you did your homework when considering Cambridge. What kind of things registered with you?
GS: I am familiar with Dorchester County. That’s where I started my career as a circuit riding town manager for some of the smaller communities. So, I’ve watched Dorchester County. I’m aware that there are a lot of great projects going on right now. You can see the redevelopment along Route 50, and the amount of building permits. So definitely Cambridge is a happening place.
WHCP: Did you get a chance to talk with the last city manager, Tom Carroll?
GS: No, but I’ve had extensive conversations with Dave Deutsch, who has been the acting town manager and obviously was part of the search, leading the recruiter for the search. I may speak with Mr. Carroll, but I applaud the amount of information that has been provided to me by Mr. Deutsch.
WHCP: So, what did you see when you were looking that’s appealing for the job in Cambridge?
GS: Well, the number one thing, it brought me back to Maryland. One of the things is I’ve been away; my wife has tolerated me for being away for almost five years now. Working in Alaska was also on my bucket list, but also my bucket list is coming back to Maryland and to work in a community that I have somewhat familiarity with. But I don’t have the in-depth level of familiarity because I haven’t lived there, and I’m really looking to learn and meet with the leadership of all the various organizations in Cambridge when I get there.
WHCP: What are you aware of that are the main challenges so far?
GS: Well, I mean, obviously the issue of economic development. Dorchester County still has challenges from an economic development and growth and employment opportunities. Obviously, the development of the 32-acre parcel of land along the Choptank and how that’s developed can mean that the city of Cambridge frankly has a positive cashflow that this property not only meets the needs of a developer, but meets the needs of the community. And the community can feel that this development will flow back into the town and not be isolated.
WHCP: Yeah. Speaking of the waterfront development, there’s been quite a tussle over issues with that. Do you feel like you’ll be able to step in to take up where management left off before?
GS: Well, obviously this has been a complicated issue, but I have been, in my career, I’ve been involved with development impacting communities up to $1.2 billion. So, I mean, I’ve been in disputes, I’ve mediated disputes with always the intent that it’s in the best interest of the community.
WHCP: How about goals? Do you have any programs or policies you’re looking forward to putting into place?
GS: Well, I want to speak with the leadership, the commissioners. I want to speak with the staff. I’m actually coming back on August the 19th for one day because I want to meet with the staff before I actually start so that they can at least have, not that you get to know a person in a day, but they can at least who they get to know me a little bit and we can hit and get a running start. But the community also helps set the goals. And I want to talk with folks. I mean, I know there’s sidewalk development. I know there’s flooding mitigation, I know there’s wastewater issues. I know there is probably going to be a need for more separation of storm water and wastewater lines, which could overwhelm the wastewater treatment plant. Obviously, the flood mitigation monies that have been awarded to the town. Other projects, the new, I guess it’s the Boys and Girls Club over on Maces Lane. We want to make sure we can get that up and running very quickly, because right now the city really doesn’t have a rec and parks program. And I think that’s very important to give our young people something to do, especially in the long days of summer and even on weekends and other times during the winter.
WHCP: So how would you describe your management style?
GS: My approach is I maintain an open door. I mean, obviously there is hierarchy of how the city government runs, but I do maintain an open-door policy for my employees, for the community, for the community leaders. I will meet with people in the evening. I will meet with people on Saturdays. Actually, right now, I do maintain Saturday hours on Saturdays because certain of our residents can’t meet with me during the week, and they want to come in on a Saturday morning and sit down and talk with me. I’m open to that. The more information I have and can gather, the better I can serve the residents, the businesses of Cambridge and Dorchester.
WHCP: Now you’ve been in municipal government since 1996?
GS: Well, even a little bit longer than that. I started out as a city councilman. I was a city councilman for about 10 years in Ocean City in two different stints, and I’ve been a municipal manager for just about 25 years now.
WHCP: What are some of the cities and towns that you’ve worked for?
GS: Well, I mean, obviously I worked, actually, I did a lot of work in Vienna, Maryland. That’s where when I was a circuit riding manager, that’s where I was pretty much based as I helped some of the smaller communities. But I was in Laurel, Delaware, and in three years we had up and designed and under construction, a brand-new wastewater treatment plant. It was a lot of projects that I had a good time doing in Laurel. I worked in Rhode Island; I worked some in Virginia. I worked for 10 plus years, 10 years or so in Pennsylvania and five years here up in Nome. I was the first city administrator because of a charter change in Pennsylvania. So, I’m used to being part of change, but I’m also a project type guy. I love doing projects, which I’ve always believed have been to the benefit of the community.
WHCP: Let’s see. You were starting in September, so that’s about a month before city elections.
GS: Well, I have more people to meet. The city manager’s position is a nonpolitical position. I’m a member of the ICMA. My job is to work with the council, provide them with the information so they can make informed decisions, and sometimes channel information that I am receiving from the residents and businesses. But I’m a nonpolitical position, so whether there’s election or not, that really should not impact on how I do my job.
WHCP: So, have you begun looking for a home here yet?
GS: Well, actually was back. I’ve been back this month. My wife and I were looking at homes. We were also trying to fully understand the geographic borders of the city, because typically you use Waterlines. But I found out that the city waterlines extend beyond its boundaries. But we’ve looked at property that we know is in town, and obviously we’re using the online tools too. But my wife is actually meeting with a realtor tomorrow to look at putting our house on the market in the near future in Salisbury.
WHCP: Well, good luck in your search. We’ve been talking with Cambridge’s new city manager, Glenn Steckman. Thanks for taking the time and we look forward to more updates with you.
GS: I look forward to meeting you in person. I look forward to beginning my interaction with the residents of the great city of Cambridge. Thank you.
WHCP: This is Midshore midday on WHCP.
Listen here: soundcloud.com/whcp-radio/city_manager
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As part of the Spy Newspapers and WHCP Community Radio (91.7) ongoing news collaboration, the Spy’s Dave Wheelan and WHCP’s Jim Brady have begun regular check-ins with Superintendent of Dorchester Schools Dr. Jymil Thompson.
In our first chat, Dr. Thompson discussed his background and his journey to Dorchester County. He also discussed the impact Maryland’s Blueprint for Excellence has had on his school district, budget issues facing Dorchester, and other concerns, such as the use of cell phones in the classroom.
This video is approximately 23 minutes in length.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
The Spy’s Dave Wheelan and WHCP Community Radio’s Jim Brady continue their monthly check-in with the City of Cambridge’s police chief, Justin Todd. In this segment, Chief Todd talks about the drug overdose challenges in Cambridge, the retention of officers, and how the police use different modes of patrol.
This video is approximately 12 minutes in length.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
In a sudden and unexpected move, Dr. Susan Morgan, the vice president of the Dorchester County Board of Education, announced her resignation following a heated board meeting last week. Dr. Morgan, who has been a board member since 2020 and has previously served as its president, cited recent events as the tipping point for her decision.
Dr. Morgan’s resignation email, sent last Friday, came after a contentious board meeting where two significant issues were addressed: criticism from board member Chris Wheedleton and the termination of a contract with VisionQuest for alternative schooling. Dr. Morgan joined me to discuss these events and her reasons for stepping down.
The Criticism from Chris Wheedleton
“Chris Wheedleton’s statement at the meeting was largely vague, but he blamed the board’s leadership, which includes me and President Mike Diaz, for unspecified problems,” Dr. Morgan explained. “He was particularly upset about a school budget vote that took place in his absence.”
Dr. Morgan clarified the circumstances around the emergency meeting where the budget was approved. “It wasn’t a secret. We informed all members, including Mr. Wheedleton, via email and announcement. He even told Mr. Diaz he couldn’t attend because of a new client commitment. Despite being reminded of the meeting’s importance, he assumed it was just a presentation.”
The board’s vote to approve the budget and a new RFP for middle and elementary alternative programs was a necessity, Dr. Morgan emphasized. “The emergency meeting resulted in a three-to-one vote on the budget and the RFPs. One member was firmly against VisionQuest, leading to the decision to accept a different proposal.”
The VisionQuest Contract Termination
“The vote to discontinue the contract with VisionQuest was a primary factor in my decision to resign,” Dr. Morgan stated. “Some members were determined to end this contract despite its success. Seven students graduated this year who wouldn’t have without VisionQuest. Their parents and the students themselves saw value in the program.”
Dr. Morgan expressed frustration that some board members had never visited VisionQuest’s campus or classrooms, relying instead on hearsay. “This program was more cost-effective than previous in-house programs and other private vendors we’ve used.”
Financial Mismanagement
In a prior, unaired interview, Dr. Morgan and President Diaz discussed efforts to control school spending. “The financial habits we found were disastrous. There were no constraints, and the spending was rampant,” she said. “Some budget categories were overspent by millions.”
Challenges from the County Council
“The county council has been a huge roadblock,” Dr. Morgan noted. “They haven’t provided the 1% needed for capital projects, forcing us to use reserve funds and hurting our budget. The board members’ stipend hasn’t increased in over 20 years, despite state mandates.”
Dr. Morgan’s Reflections and Future Plans
Reflecting on her resignation, Dr. Morgan admitted to mixed feelings. “I was elected to represent my district, and it feels bad to step down early. But with three members consistently outvoting us, I saw no value in staying when the atmosphere had become toxic.”
As for her future, Dr. Morgan looks forward to enjoying her retirement. “I’ve been retired for eight years but always had board responsibilities. Now, I’ll travel and truly enjoy my retirement.”
Final Thoughts
Dr. Susan Morgan’s departure marks a significant change for the Dorchester County Board of Education. Her efforts and dedication to improving the school system are appreciated, and she leaves with the best wishes from the community.
This is Jim Brady, WHCP News Director, signing off for Mid-Shore Midday.
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Richard Zeidman
The ongoing dispute between the City of Cambridge and Cambridge Waterfront Development Incorporated (CWDI) took a significant turn recently. Yesterday, Richard Zeidman, a CWDI board member whom the city had insisted should resign, stepped down from his position.
Equally noteworthy is that both parties have agreed to submit their issues to arbitration. This decision was confirmed after a CWDI meeting, where Cambridge Mayor Stephen Rideout provided WHCP with an update on the situation.
“We are going to be going into mediation to address all of these issues,” Mayor Rideout stated. He emphasized the importance of including the change in the articles of incorporation in the mediation to resolve all matters of controversy simultaneously.
When asked about the sudden move towards mediation, Mayor Rideout mentioned that the lawyers suggested it, and he agreed, recognizing the necessity of mediation to resolve the ongoing issues.
Mayor Rideout, a retired judge, expressed cautious optimism about the mediation process. He believes that resolving these issues is crucial for the betterment of Cambridge, anticipating that the development will benefit the city and its citizens.
The mediator, a retired judge with expertise in real estate, has been identified and is trusted by both CWDI’s and the city’s legal counsel.
As a result of these developments, the city’s plans to modify the charter that established CWD I have been put on hold. Both parties will request the judge overseeing the lawsuits and counter-lawsuits to stay those proceedings as they move into arbitration.
This agreement marks a pivotal step towards resolving the long-standing dispute, with hopes that it will lead to a positive outcome for the future development of Cambridge’s waterfront.
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The Spy’s Dave Wheelan and WHCP Community Radio’s Jim Brady continue their monthly check-in with the City of Cambridge’s police chief, Justin Todd. In this segment, Chief Todd talks about juvenile justice reform, mental health’s role in crime, and the Cambridge Police Department becoming a well-known role model for its unique community engagement programs.
This video is approximately eight minutes in length.
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As tensions over control of the Cambridge Harbor development have intensified in these last two weeks, state officials are pressing Cambridge city leaders and members of Cambridge Waterfront Development Incorporated to resolve their conflicts.
State Representative Tom Hutchinson said he was on a cruise in the Caribbean when his phone heated up with text messages about the simmering dispute when he returned. He organized a meeting last week with Mayor Steve Rideout, Ward 1 Commissioner Laurel Atkiss and CWDI president Angie Hengst and board member Frank Narr.
“I asked if the city and CWDI, respectively, would mind getting together to talk, and both sides thought that would be a good thing,” Hutchison said. “And so we just scheduled an informal meeting and we sat down with the mayor and Laurel and Angie and Frank and myself, and it gave us a great opportunity to open up some dialogue and figure out how we’re going to move forward with this.”
Hutchinson said Jake Day, secretary of Maryland’s Department of Housing and Community Development, was particularly concerned about the growing conflict over Cambridge Harbor, which the state has invested with millions of dollars in grants. Hutchinson said Day was pleased the sides had at least come together.
“This is a big project for the state and I had talked to Secretary Day about all of this as well and he was concerned,” Hutchison said. “So it was a good start and probably within the next 30 days you’ll be hearing more great things coming out about the project.”
Hengst said she left the meeting with a positive feeling. She said details of the talks were confidential, but she did acknowledge that CWDI had agreed to put out a request for proposals to master site developers.
That was a requirement of the 2022 property transfer agreement with the city. That agreement also states that CWDI must publicly post for 30 days summaries of all developers’ proposals and must select a master site developer before any of the city’s donated land can be sold or transferred.
CWDI has yet to comply with those covenants, but is preparing to sell city donated land to yacht maintenance company, and to a still unannounced hotel company.
Atkiss said it remains to be seen if CWDI will address those covenants. One thing the mayor agreed to, she said, was to wait before enacting his corporate amendments to CWDI. He originally allowed 10 days for public comment after his April 16th announcement, but Atkiss said he has agreed to allow CWDI to consider accepting them at their May 22nd meeting before he enacts them in his role as the corporate member of CWDI.
“There’s a real push by the state to make sure we come back into alignment and start working together to really make sure that everyone knows what’s going on,” Atkiss said. “The state and the city included just clear up a lot of the disagreements and lacks of clarity. So I can’t say a whole lot about what to expect next because there’s some kind of things that we both have to do moving forward, but it was a positive meeting.
“A lot of discussion was had about expectations and what’s considered reasonable moving forward, and I think we’ve started a dialogue that’s going to be very healthy and very productive, which is something I know we haven’t really seen before, Atkiss said. “There is a requirement from the state that a true RFP be issued for the second phase of this, where outside of yacht maintenance and the hotel, that’s the first phase that they’re still looking at. So for this second phase coming up there is going to have to be a specific RFP process and they are going to have to share that information going forward. So that’s something that I know everybody’s going to feel good about and we should have a sigh of relief that there’s been some clarification there of what is expected there and it’s very defined and that should give us all some insight that we haven’t had before.”
Participants in the meeting said they’re hopeful – but not certain – the ongoing meetings will prevent a court battle between Cambridge and CWDI. Cambridge has set aside $500,000 for the potential court case.
“I can’t predict anything in the future, but that is my objective that we can work together as partners as we all are,” Hutchison said. “It’s a four-way partnership between CWDI, the city, the county, and the state, and that I believe it’s best that the parties speak to each other and we don’t do it through an expensive legal process.”
In the most recent exchange, lawyers for CWDI threatened to take the city to court even before Mayor Steve Rideout announced on April 16th his proposed changes to CDIs charter. His changes would make CWDI give the city access to its documents, assert the city’s right to remove appointees to the board and make CWDI responsive to city leaders Directions.
Responding to C WDI i’s attorneys the city’s special counsel stated that CWDI is already out of compliance with covenants of the city’s 2022 property transfer agreement when it created a holding company and transferred city property to it.
Attorney Timothy Maloney gave CWDI until Friday to produce proof that it had put out a request for proposals, make their summaries public, and selected a developer.
Rideout said the city will not relent on the conditions of its transfer agreements but declined to comment further. Narr did not respond to requests for interviews.
By Jim Brady
WHCP Radio
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The Spy’s Dave Wheelan and WHCP Community Radio’s Jim Brady continue their monthly check-in with the City of Cambridge’s police chief Justin Todd. In this segment, Chief Todd talks about the ongoing fentanyl crisis and its impact on the community, juvenile crime, officer staffing levels, and preliminary public safety results for the first quarter of 2024.
This video is approximately 12 minutes in length.
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Last week the news of Tom Carroll’s resignation spread throughout Cambridge quickly. The highly respected city manager made it official that he would step down as the city’s chief administrator in May after only serving 22 months in office. Added to this bit of disruptive news was that Carroll made no bones about that he was leaving due to the direct fact that he had lost confidence in the nonprofit Cambrige Waterfront Development Inc. leadership and its plans to develop the Cambridge Harbor project.
This was clearly on the minds of the Spy’s Dave Wheelan and WHCP Community Radio’s Jim Brady as they continued their series have frequent check-ins with Mayor Steve Rideout.
This video is approximately 15 minutes in length.
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