(2/2023) County To Receive $1.8 Million In Federal Funds For Key Projects
Frederick County will receive more than $1.8 million in Community Project Funding as part of the federal omnibus bill recently signed by President Joe Biden. The legislation sets aside funding for three major projects: an Emergency Operations Center, a Crisis Stabilization Center, and a trail to connect The City of Frederick to the Town of Walkersville.
"These projects will help to keep our community safer and healthier," County Executive Jessica Fitzwater said. "I am incredibly grateful for the support of Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen, and Congressmen David Trone and Jamie Raskin to help us secure this much-needed funding."
Frederick County’s $1,848,051 in Community Project Funding will support emergency management, services for those experiencing a behavioral health crisis, and safe transportation options. The county will utilize the funds for:
Emergency Operations Center - $869,968 - Federal funding will be used to equip Frederick County’s Emergency Operations Center with technology and equipment in a centralized location. The existing EOC functions are carried out in an adapted classroom, which is not large enough to accommodate all the personnel needed to manage large-scale events.
Crisis Stabilization Center –$699,000 - Federal funds will be used for medical and other equipment needed to set up Frederick County’s Crisis Stabilization Center. When it opens, the center will provide a 24-hour program to divert people who are in crisis or under the influence of a substance away from emergency departments and into supervised care and sustainable, community-based behavioral health care.
Frederick & Pennsylvania Railroad Trail - $280,000 - Funds will be used for engineering and design of a portion of the Frederick and Pennsylvania Railroad Trail, from the Fountain Rock Nature Center to Heritage Farm Park. When the entire trail is complete, it will connect the City of Frederick’s planned trails to the Town of Walkersville, providing a safe way for walkers and bicyclists to travel between the municipalities.
Chief Administrative Officer Announces Retirement
After serving in leadership positions with Frederick County Government for seven years, Rick Harcum announced his retirement as the County’s Chief Administrative Officer. The Chief Administrative Officer oversees daily operations of all 23 offices and divisions under the direction of the County Executive.
"Rick led the day-to-day operations of County government through one of the most challenging times in modern history, and we are on sound financial and operational footing thanks to his stewardship," County Executive Jessica Fitzwater said. "It has been a privilege and honor to work with Rick, and I am incredibly grateful for his guidance and support during my transition into this office. His leadership will continue to leave its mark on Frederick County Government for years to come. He will be missed."
Mr. Harcum was named Acting CAO in February 2019 and confirmed as CAO the following month. He began his tenure at Frederick County Government as budget director in February 2016. Previously, he served as director of performance management, budget director and in other budget-related roles at the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority for over 25 years. He also worked at the Maryland Department of Transportation as a financial planner and as a financial analyst for a telecommunications corporation. Mr. Harcum earned his master’s degree in finance and his bachelor of science in business administration, both from the University of Maryland.
A national search will be conducted to find Mr. Harcum’s successor. Until the search is complete, Chief Financial Officer Lori Depies will take on the role of Acting CAO. From 2012-2014, Ms. Depies served as County Manager, the comparable role under the former County Commission form of government.
"Lori has been actively involved in the day-to-day management of the County for many years, and she will provide steady leadership as we search for a new CAO. She is a fierce advocate for good government and service to the people of Frederick County," County Executive Fitzwater said.
In addition, Leslie Barnes-Keating will assume the role of Acting Deputy CAO. Ms. Barnes-Keating currently serves as Deputy Director of the Division of Citizens Services, where she oversees child and family programs and emergency sheltering response during crisis events. She has held several key positions in the division since 1995.
"Leslie believes in the power of our community to make Frederick County the best place it can be for all of our residents," said the County Executive.
County Executive Unveils Plan to Create More Inclusive Work Environment
Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater announced a series of actions designed to make Frederick County Government a welcoming place where all employees feel valued and have the opportunity to reach their full potential. The actions are in response to a 2022 survey, which gauged employees’ experiences related to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Survey results identified a need for training and for updated policies and procedures.
"My top priority is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential," Executive Fitzwater said. "We take seriously the concerns expressed by our employees, and we must be fully transparent as we look for ways to make Frederick County Government the best place to work and thrive."
Executive Fitzwater and Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer Michael Hughes reviewed results of the employee survey at a press conference on Wednesday. Among the findings was an overall Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) score of 32, meaning Frederick County scored higher than 32% of other workplaces that have targeted the same goals for their organizations. The survey was conducted by consultant K.L. Scott & Associates.
"The results show that we excel in valuing the idea of diversity and the talents and contributions of our teams," Hughes said. "However they also clearly demonstrate our need to take a more diverse and inclusive approach. Our goal is to fix any issues that demotivate, diminish, or marginalize people, and to recognize skilled leaders in our workforce who engage our employees in effective ways."
Based on feedback gathered from the survey and employee focus groups, Executive Fitzwater announced the following steps:
