Raymond Morriss

Infrastructure / Transportation As Mayor I will work to request the funding necessary for the complete replacement of the Cumberland Street, Fayette Street, and Washington Street bridges. The critical condition of the bridges has created a public safety hazard in our community. A meaningful dialogue with CSX will be facilitated and all options will be considered. Taxes / Budget In 2017 a 9.75% property tax increase was levied. In order to show fiscal restraint and ensure the cities budget is balanced , a review of each department will be done. This will ensure that the department is being run as efficiently and economically as possible. Although inflation and rising costs for all goods and services is an ongoing issue, these costs can be foreseen and should not require tax increases. Carefully assessing our spending and planning for the future we can ensure that increases are kept at an acceptable level. Criminal Justice / Public Safety The City of Cumberland strives to give our officers and first responders the best available resources to properly perform their duties. In order to continue to provide the best safety for the citizens of Cumberland, a unilateral focus must occur with city and county first responders. This will help improve efficiency of operation and ultimately save money. Economy As mayor I would continue with the blight removal program, as it is a key to neighborhood revitalization. I also support the Rolling Mill project - much of the work has been completed and is in the process of being developed to improve our city and add much needed growth to our tax base. Environment / Energy I will work with the city engineer to develop a renewable energy strategy that will benefit the community. We will be able to reduce our carbon footprint and protect our beautiful local natural resources. Economy Economic development is the one of the many challenges that face our region. It is important to work with the Allegany County Commissioners to create a Joint Economic Development Commission. Working together will give us the ability to make our city an area in where businesses will want to locate, and where people want to live and raise their families.