The Allegany County Commissioners will approve a final budget for FY 2023 at the county’s May 26th meeting- and it could include a slight rate increase for water and sewer customers. Public Works Director Adam Patterson presented the recommendation from the Sanitary Commission which calls for  a rate hike that will cost the average county resident an additional $16.70 per year- or a 1.3% increase. Although some residents will see higher increases pending on the district in which they reside- the majority will see very little changes in their monthly bill. Despite the relatively modest increase that has been proposed,…

The 25th annual United Way Day of Caring and Sharing was held Friday, continuing a tradition that began in 1997. The Day of Caring and Sharing is an annual community cleanup partnership between United Way of Allegany County, Let’s Beautify Cumberland! and the city of Cumberland. This year there were 49 projects and almost 450 volunteers. Michele Walker, executive director of County United Way, told WCBC News the event is “both a symbolic and practical program” that brings beauty and pride to the city…

Democrats from across Maryland returned to Rocky Gap Casino Resort this weekend for 18th annual Western Maryland Democratic Summit and Straw Poll. Attendees on Saturday heard from nine Democratic candidates vying for the party’s nomination in the race for governor, two for attorney general and two for comptroller. Keynote speakers included U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressman David Trone…

If you've ever traveled the outer beltway around Washington DC an iconic part of your commute is the Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ. The breathtaking onion topped towers above the tree line has been closed since 2018 undergoing much needed renovations. The 160,000 ft structure was originally built in 1974. Now the newly refurbished Temple has reopened for free public tours.  Jason Call, State President Chambersburg Pennsylvania Stake for the Church of Jesus Christ spoke with WCBC news about the event… The free public open house runs till June 11th from 7:30am-9pm Monday through Saturday and to reserve…

U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen says he has suffered a minor stroke and is being treated at George Washington University Hospital. The Maryland Democrat says he has been told there are no long-term effects or damage. In a statement Sunday night, Van Hollen said he has been advised by doctors to remain under observation at the hospital for a few days out of an abundance of caution. Van Hollen, 63, was elected to the Senate in 2016 after serving seven terms in the U.S. House. The senator said he experienced lightheadedness and acute neck pain while delivering a speech in…

Richard Paulman served as the director of Allegany County Department of Social Service untill July of 2017. Since 1980 his leadership in the department grew to a highly performing human service organization recognized for excelling, efficiency and compassionately improving the lives of vulnerable children and adults in Allegany County. Paulman has been recognized for his dedication to service, compassion and professionalism during his distinguished career.  

Type of Incident: Motor Vehicle Collision Date and Time: 5/15/22 @ 0942 hrs Location: MD Rt 42 @ Malachi Way, Friendsville, Garrett County, MD Vehicle(s): 2009 Harley Davidson motorcycle Driver/passengers(s)/pedestrian: Driver:  John Wilson of Georgetown, PA (No passengers) Victim(s)/Injuries: Unknown injuries Accused: N/A Charges: None Disposition: John Wilson was transported to Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, WV for his injuries Narrative: On the above date/time Troopers responded to a single vehicle collision involving a motorcycle. The preliminary investigation revealed that the motorcycle was traveling N/B on MD Rt. 42 when the driver lost control of the motorcycle for unknown reasons…

On Saturday, May 14, 2022 at approximately 10:15 PM, officers of the Cumberland Police Department responded to the 300 block of Greene Street for a noise disturbance.  Upon their arrival, they contacted the caller who advised that her neighbor was playing loud music.  Police contacted the neighbor and had him turn the music down.  At this time, the neighbor would not provide any of his information to the officer.  After further investigation, the officer was able to identify the neighbor as Ronnie Swancey.  It was discovered that Swancey had an active felony arrest warrant. The warrant was issued in connection…

On Saturday, May 14, 2022 the Cumberland Police Department served a bench warrant on Andrew Jacob Getz.  The warrant was issued as a result of Getz failing to appear for his court case.  He was originally charged with Failure to Obey a Reasonable & Lawful Order. He was arrested and transported to Central Booking.  Getz was later seen by a District Court Commissioner and released on his personal recognizance. ARRESTED:  Andrew Jacob Getz           AGE:  42            Cumberland, MD On Saturday, May 14, 2022 the Cumberland Police Department served a bench warrant on Dakota McKenzie Getz.  The warrant was issued as a…

If you've ever traveled the outer beltway around Washington DC an iconic part of your commute is the Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ. The breathtaking onion topped towers above the tree line has been closed since 2018 undergoing much needed renovations. The 160,000 ft structure was originally built in 1974. Now the newly refurbished Temple has reopened for free Public tours.  Jason Call State President Chambersburg Pennsylvania Stake for the Church of Jesus Christ spoke with WCBC news about the event… The free public open house runs till June 11th from 7:30am-9pm Monday through Saturday and to reserve…