Camera and St. Mary's Commissioners

McKay Says He is Willing

By Ahmar Khan

ST. MARY’S TODAY

LEONARDTOWN --- A second day of debate on what monies are going to be spent where in St. Mary’s County took place at Room No. 14 of the Governmental Center, with the public being kept blissfully ignorant of the goings-on.
The draft budget sessions have never been televised in history, according to the county’s public information office (PIO).

There was no clear-cut explanation why in an open society people should be denied a chance to see the most honest discussions on the part of the commissioners and the public officials on what kinds of sums should be apportioned where, though the Commissioner President responded to some queries over the issue.

Commissioner Tommy McKay  (R. Hollywood) told  ST. MARY’S TODAY budget sessions had a long history of never being televised.

“One thing is that there would be additional staff required,” McKay said, and wondered if it was worthwhile to spend taxpayers monies on it. But he said more importantly, if the majority of commissioners wanted to have it televised, he would have no problem with it.

McKay pointed out that even at the state level there were so many committees at Annapolis that were not televised.

“The commissioners mostly want to discuss the issues in a relaxed environment. This forum is meant for gathering information and sharing ideas,” he said. Still, McKay said the public and press were welcome to attend.

George Erichsen, who left Northern Virginia to make St. Mary’s County for more than 14 years now, was again in the hot seat facing a volley of questions, left, right and center.

Erichsen later explained to ST. MARY’S TODAY, though he was questioned for four long hours there was no malicious intent.

Two critical county roads were the focus of attention of the commissioners. The roads were Pegg Road and FDR Boulevard.

Larry Jarboe (R. Golden Beach) said the commissioners identified critical issues in the draft budget session Monday.

Jarboe said certain key sections of the FDR Boulevard and Pegg Road would offer diversion from Route 235 to reach shopping etc.