Two Towns Share Innovative Grant

Towns of Upper Marlboro and Morningside Awarded Circuit Manager Grant to Improve Essential Services

By Kevin Drummond

The towns of Upper Marlboro and Morningside were awarded a town manager circuit rider program grant, it was announced by both mayors.

The program grant, administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), enables small towns and city governments to join together to sponsor a circuit and hire professional staff who serve two or more towns. The professional helps with administrative services including construction, responding to public inquiries, and water maintenance.  Upper Marlboro and Morningside received a combined $50,000 for the grant.

“We are extremely pleased to receive this award together with Mayor Benn Cann from the town of Morningside,” said Upper Marlboro mayor Linda Pennoyer.  “These funds will enable us to strengthen our management and oversight of the grants we have already received and to be even more proactive in seeking and securing additional grants for the Town.”

The circuit manager position will be split evenly for 20 hours per week between the two towns.  Upper Marlboro is the lead sponsor of the grant and will have the manager on its payroll and healthcare plan.

According to the DHCD, “This program is a huge help to smaller towns who want to improve their local communities but who may lack the necessary resources and funding to enable them to reach their goals.”

Image Credit: Photo 96467115 © Ruletkka | Dreamstime.com