by Staff Writer
On the morning of May 29th, 2025, the Carroll County Commissioners convened for their open session, beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence. The meeting, led by President Ken Kiler, unfolded with a blend of celebration, reflection, and community-focused updates.
Commissioner Tom Gordon opened with congratulations to graduating seniors, noting the excitement of the upcoming ceremonies. Commissioner Joe Vigliotti echoed the sentiment, sharing his experience at the Carroll Community College commencement and highlighting the stories of first-generation graduates. Commissioner Kenny Kiler added his reflections from the Gateway School graduation, where students honored a beloved art teacher who had passed away just days earlier. The teacher’s pre-recorded tributes were played during the ceremony, adding a deeply emotional tone.
Commissioner Michael Guerin shared his excitement about his youngest daughter graduating from South Carroll High School and invited the public to an upcoming author event at Exploration Commons featuring Brian Hester, a fly fisherman and artist from North Carolina.
The commissioners also reflected on Memorial Day events. Vigliotti spoke at the ceremony in Taneytown and joined the parade alongside Councilman Chris Tilman. Gordon rode in a 1928 Model A during the Westminster parade and praised the community turnout. Guerin and Kiler attended the Carroll Community College graduation, where emeritus honors were awarded to Dave Ballinger and Timothy Lee for their decades of service.
The meeting took a more somber turn as the commissioners discussed the 10th annual Drug Overdose and Prevention Vigil. Gordon described it as emotional but uplifting, noting a decrease in overdose deaths over the past decade. Kiler, who arrived late due to attending a Career and Tech certification ceremony, emphasized the importance of recognizing the achievements of students pursuing trades.
Commissioner Rothstein delivered a heartfelt tribute to Dick Story, a Vietnam veteran and former Carroll County economic developer who had passed away. He praised Story’s legacy and influence, calling him a mentor and friend. Gordon added that he had known Story through scouting and echoed the sentiment that his impact was indelible.
Environmental concerns were also addressed. Kiler raised alarm over Senate Bill 931, which mandates that up to 5% of agricultural land be made available for solar development, overriding local zoning laws. He emphasized that Carroll County supports solar energy but opposes the loss of local control and the use of fertile farmland for large-scale solar installations. A petition drive, led by Sally Taylor and supported by the Farmers Alliance for Rural Maryland, was promoted during the public comment period.
The commissioners approved several practical measures. The Sheriff’s Office requested the purchase of two Max Secure wall-mounted bunk beds for high-risk areas in the detention center. Sheriff Jim DeWees and staff explained the safety features of the beds, designed to prevent self-harm and contraband concealment. The board unanimously approved the $29,938.86 purchase. The Department of Fire and EMS received approval to renew its contract with Johns Hopkins School of Medicine for medical director services, increasing the annual amount to $149,100. They also secured funding for medical supplies and accessories totaling $36,565.70.
Public Works received approval for emergency generator rentals and water valve replacements in the Freedom District. The generator rental, which had already occurred due to urgent need, cost $29,455. Additional work on valve bolts required a $23,390 change order due to unexpected underground conditions.
The Bureau of Facilities was granted $612,900 for energy management services with Johnson Controls, continuing a long-standing contract. They also received approval for a $31,500 manual transfer switch to ensure backup power at the County Office Building and $276,985.99 for a new uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system in the computer room.
The health department presented a comprehensive report on Carroll County’s health metrics. Epidemiologist Amy Baker and Public Information Officer Maggie Kunz highlighted strengths in education, low unemployment, and high school completion rates. However, they raised concerns about long commutes, limited access to primary care, and rising mental health challenges, especially among youth.
Commissioners engaged deeply with the data. Rothstein and Gordon expressed concern over the low participation in youth mental health surveys, emphasizing the need for better outreach and destigmatization. Vigliotti suggested exploring why students opt out of the surveys to better address the barriers.
The session concluded with administrative updates and a review of upcoming events, including high school graduations, community celebrations, and legislative meetings. The commissioners reaffirmed their commitment to serving the people of Carroll County with transparency, compassion, and fiscal responsibility.
