December 7th, 2011 by WCBC Radio
What was once a simple plan to have the five western most counties in Maryland pool their resources to retain the services of a lobbyist to represent the region’s interest in Annapolis has become somewhat convoluted in the past few months. The concept of a regional lobbyist was initially embraced by the commissioners of Allegany, Garrett, Washington, Frederick and Carroll counties – however the scope has changed somewhat. Garrett county officials, upon further review, opted not to participate; and now there are two lobbyists that may be hired as a result of philosophical differences. The potential hire of Bruce Bereano, a powerful lobbyist for many years who lost his license to practice law after a mid-1990s conviction for mail fraud, has the Allegany County Commissioners seeking a second hire. Allegany County Commissioner Bill Valentine says due to the ethical concerns surrounding Bereano, the county would prefer to go with William Miles. Miles’ resume is an impressive one, including a stint as the legislative assistant to former House Speaker Casper Taylor from 1993-95. It’s now possible both men will be hired, although Valentine says it should be clear that Bereano will have no role with Allegany County…
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