WMCA Minutes 5-16-2009 (cont.)
the north end of the down town part of the city. We need to focus on the area between the third and seventh streets of the city for more quality development.
Randy McClement’s Response: This is one of the hottest topics in Frederick City. The original committee couldn’t make a decision on this matter. This is more than just enforcing a code. Homeowner associations have the power to create rules more stringent than the city. The city has to make code for the entire city. Homeowner associations only have to deal with their respective areas. I have been in charge of many homeowner associations, and I know how this works. As mayor, I would start with the committee’s original work and create a new balanced committee to tackle this problem. It can not be avoided and must be solved as soon as possible.
4. Historic Commission Question: There has been much controversy lately regarding the Historic Commission and its power – to the extent that meetings are being held with the community in order to decide whether or not to establish a new set of guidelines or to maintain the old. What is your response to this concern?
Randy McClement’s Response: I have been the President of the Tourism Commission in Frederick City, and I have managed several homeowner associations. People in Frederick love the character and architecture of the city. Actually the Historic Commission in Frederick City operates like a homeowner association with their guidelines. The Historic Commission of Frederick City needs clear rules that are understandable by the owners of properties. We need simple direct guidelines. We need the Historic Commission to operate with a common- sense set of guidelines to be enforced equally among all property owners.
Jason Judd’s Response: The mayor has three powers pertaining to the Historic Commission: They are as follows:
1. Name appointees to the Historic Commission
2. Direct Frederick City staff More