Although this post was prompted by an article here in the Frederick News Post it actually represents a trend that, while always with us, seems to be increasing exponentially.
At issue here in Frederick County Maryland is an ordinance passed by the Frederick County Commissioners that would interfere with the municipalities right to determine their own growth policies. The emphasis from the commissioners is that growth policies within the municipalities can have an adverse effect on residents of the county. The primary concern expressed was overcrowding of schools. School overcrowding is a hot issue here but many would argue it has to do with how the schools are planned in the first place.
The point is, although I have no doubt that the commissioners, particularly quoted in the article are Commissioners Jan Gardner and John Thompson, are acting in what they believe to be the best interests of the county, they are imposing their beliefs on the municipalities that, by state law have the right to determine their own policies. Herein lies the rub!
Throughout our history when power or the ability to seize power is placed before someone, they generally take that opportunity to increase their own influence. In one sense this is called leadership. On the other hand, when do we step back and allow some degree of self determination. I believe this idea of self determination is what our great country is founded on. Of course there have to be laws but there should also be a system of checks and balances to keep an individual or a group of individuals from gaining too much power.
I think it is obvious to anyone who has eyes and ears open that this situation here in Frederick County is only a reflection of what is happening on a national and even global scale. Those in power become drunk with power. The worst part is that, once a certain level of power is achieved those in power shield themselves from accountability. I think this is clearly demonstrated on the national level when those who caused this financial mess in the housing industry are beating their chests and calling for the heads of others rather than admit their error.
Recently I had the opportunity to attend a legislative breakfast with members of our state delegation. Delegate Rick Weldon got up and made a case for changing our county government from a board of county commissioners to one with a county executive thereby increasing accountability. I appreciate Delegate Weldon's courage for taking such a stand. The idea of the buck stopping with one person rather than a group pointing fingers at each other has great appeal. I'll finish with what Delegate Weldon listed as his favorite quote. "Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." Abraham Lincoln.
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