2010 Primary Election Preview

Baltimore County Special Edition

Dear Towson University Alumni, Friends and Community Members:

We hope you had a relaxing, enjoyable summer. As the excitement of a new academic year sets in, we also look forward to the excitement of an election year in Maryland.  The upcoming special editions of the Towson Advocacy Program (TAP) newsletters are designed to keep you informed of who is running in your district for state and local office.  It is important to note that Towson University does not endorse any candidate, but we hope the information provided will help our alumni, students, faculty/staff and community members be active and engaged Maryland citizens during this election process. If you wish to opt out of these special emails, please click here. 

The emails that will be sent during this special election session will include:

Thank you for your continued interest in Towson University and the great State of Maryland.

Sincerely,

Robert L. Caret
President

Baltimore County Executive Candidates

All candidates for the Office of Baltimore County Executive were given the opportunity to answer the same questions.  At the time of publication, the following candidates responded to the questions.

Joseph Bartenfelder, (Democrat):

Question 1: Baltimore County is home to Towson University and four other institutions of higher learning. With both Towson University and Goucher College located in the County seat, these institutions generate economic development for the county but they also generate town-gown community issues. What is your vision for the town-gown relationship in Towson?
Bartenfelder Answer: As an Alumnus of Towson University, I have long appreciated the many contributions that the University has made both academically and economically to the surrounding communities and the County-at-large. The University continues to be recognized as a leading economic engine benefiting the State of Maryland. By closely collaborating with the community leadership and business association the University can enhance the benefits and quality of life of all Baltimore County citizens as well as provide a quality and affordable college education for our State citizens. Many geographical regions throughout the country have successfully blended the presence of large institutions of higher education with the elements that make for a vibrant quality of life for the surrounding neighborhoods. Towson University can do the same by listening and working closely with all constituencies of interest.

Question 2: Downtown Towson's vacant store fronts along York Road indicate that Baltimore County was not spared from the economic recession. As County Executive what would you suggest to stimulate local economic growth in an era of declining property assessments and reduced support from the state?

Bartenfelder Answer: The resources and assets provided by taxpayers to County Government must be utilized prudently and creatively to leverage the investment of the private sector business community. Clearly, economic development will only occur as the business community gains confidence in the stability of economy. By listening carefully to the needs of businesses and recognizing the challenges of redevelopment often resulting from excessive traffic, inadequate parking, under-utilization of existing business zoned properties and lack of convenient shopping patterns, the County Government can develop appropriate strategies and capital commitments to revitalize the Towson business core. Dynamic leadership from County Government and an appreciation of the numerous governmental and societal parameters confronted by the business community can provide the catalyst to achieve a healthy and vibrant business environment. Baltimore County has long recognized the importance of providing quality services and products conveniently to our citizens. We must continue to be innovative in maintaining that commitment within the existing restrictive resources available due to the economic downturn.

Ron Harvey, (Democrat):

At publication time, Ron Harvey had not submitted responses for this feature. 

Kenneth C. Holt, (Republican):

Question 1: Baltimore County is home to Towson University and four other institutions of higher learning. With both Towson University and Goucher College located in the County seat, these institutions generate economic development for the county but they also generate town-gown community issues. What is your vision for the town-gown relationship in Towson?

Holt Answer: There are few institutions which have contributed as much to the quality of life, reputation and economy as Towson University has contributed to Baltimore County and downtown Towson. The University has created a cultural, educational and economic life force which sustains the neighboring communities and attracts permanent residents as well as part-time visitors. It is not coincidental that Towson is regarded by national measures as one of the best places to live and work in America. The integration of University students and personnel into nearby neighborhoods is generally excellent. Pressures which might arise due to demand for student housing can readily be resolved by the addition of more on-campus housing. I could not be more complimentary of the vision and leadership shown by the University's President, Board of Trustees, Administration and Faculty. I will follow that example by laying out a redevelopment plan for the heart of Towson which will unite us in the common purpose of educational and economic achievement.

Question 2: Downtown Towson's vacant store fronts along York Road indicate that Baltimore County was not spared from the economic recession. As County Executive what would you suggest to stimulate local economic growth in an era of declining property assessments and reduced support from the state?

Holt Answer: A redevelopment plan for the York Road corridor from the Roundabout to Burke Avenue is necessary to improve opportunities for local retail merchants and remake the commercial hub of downtown Towson. Such a plan should entail a bold vision of an outdoor promenade and pedestrian boulevard with shops and entertainment in a beautifully maintained natural setting. This would require redirecting traffic to the bypass. A pedestrian/tourist avenue should be anchored on the North by a permanent farmers' market supported by regional farmers and on the South by a music and entertainment venue supported by the University.

Kevin Kamenetz, (Democrat):

Question 1: Baltimore County is home to Towson University and four other institutions of higher learning. With both Towson University and Goucher College located in the County seat, these institutions generate economic development for the county but they also generate town-gown community issues. What is your vision for the town-gown relationship in Towson?

Kamenetz Answer: The relationship between Towson University has been strained over the past two decades primarily because a few off-campus students have caused disturbances in surrounding neighborhoods. However, the large majority of Towson university students are a strong and constructive part of the Towson community. As County Executive, I will work to develop a strong relationship with Dr. Caret so that we can use the growing resources of the university and its faculty and students to help promote Towson as a college town that coexists in harmony. I would also work closely with Goucher College to develop a similar rapport so that together we can all benefit from the great economic, educational and human resources provided by these institutions.

         One important aspect of a good working relationship between Baltimore County Government, the Towson communities and the institutions of higher learning is to ensure that dialog is positive and proactive; not just reactive. I would establish a standing committee of Towson communities, Towson University and Goucher College and County Government to help us work together to provide a framework to move the Towson redevelopment forward.

Question 2: Downtown Towson's vacant store fronts along York Road indicate that Baltimore County was not spared from the economic recession. As County Executive what would you suggest to stimulate local economic growth in an era of declining property assessments and reduced support from the state?

Kamenetz Answer: The revitalization of Towson is underway but has been temporarily stalled by the economic recession. I believe that economic incentives and good planning practices can make Towson one of the best communities in Baltimore County. I envision new stores, restaurants, office space, residences and destinations that will preserve the heritage of Towson while allowing for redevelopment and removal of the vacant properties. The Towson area has had a number of different plans put together that have been only partially brought to fruition. I will commit to resources that will create a cooperative effort with all stakeholders so Towson will be the best place it can be.

Baltimore County Council Candidates

Please click here for a listing of full contact information for all Baltimore County candidates.  Also, click here to find out which Baltimore County Council District you live in.  The links in the chart below will redirect to campaign websites when applicable.