Last week, the Allegany County Commissioners decided against increasing property taxes for next year, instead using money from the general fund for budgeting.  County Administrator Jason Bennett cautioned them of the gamble they are taking, saying that while the County is okay this year because of the increased disparity grant from the state, changes may need to be made for FY 2027…   “We can fill that hole for one year, and I know you guys are filling it with the intent of receiving $5.7 million extra in disparity next year—that means that will sort of back-fill that and put…

A new report finds millions of Americans drink water with high levels of cancer-causing chemicals, frequently from runoff at livestock factory farms. The city of Baltimore recently tested above the EPA limit of a water disinfectant chemical 255 times in a 4-year period. Anne Sheckinger with the Environmental Working Group says such pollutants affect the entire state…     "You can live miles and miles from ag, but still have ag pollutants in your drinking water. So you might see this report and think, ‘Well I live in a city. I’m not anywhere near ag.’ That doesn’t mean that livestock…

Frostburg State University has joined a statewide program to boost success for students transferring from community colleges. FSU will work alongside 24 other Maryland institutions to improve data tracking related to transfer student success and develop new strategies and programs in that effort. Transferring from a local community college to Frostburg State offers students an affordable pathway to a four-year degree.

West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey had campaigned on voter integrity in the Mountain State and one of the bills dealing with elections is now law. House Bill 3016 requires voters to present a photo ID in order to vote in elections. Morrisey signed the bill in Charleston, saying it is a common sense law… “And with this bill, West Virginians can be even more secure that they should have confidence in our elections. We can’t afford to sacrifice our elections to mistrust or questionable practices. I don’t think this should be controversial and I’m very excited to help make this…

Drivers in the White Oaks area of Cumberland should be alert for street work that will be happening throughout the week. Beechwood Drive will be undergoing sewer line work beginning Monday through Friday. There could be disruptions to sewer service through the week. Residents will receive 48-hour notice prior to work potentially affecting their location. There will also be door hangers with information about the contractor’s work in the area.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore continues to say that he is not considering a run for President in 2028, but already two candidates have emerged that would like to take his position in Annapolis.  One is Ed Hale, a Democrat who owns the Baltimore Blast indoor soccer team. Hales says the interest in Moore as a presidential candidate makes it difficult for voters to believe he will remain Governor.  The other is Republican John Myrick, a former Harford County deputy Sheriff and civilian intelligence officer who has tapped former delegate Brenda Thiam as running mate.

Beginning Monday, May 5, 2025, from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, S. George Street from Baltimore Street to Union Street will be closed to traffic for a water main replacement.  The project will continue through the end of May.  The road closure will be updated as the project progresses. There will be no interruption of water service.

The Roof Replacement Program is funded by the State of Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development and is designed for the replacement of deteriorating roofs of single-family homes within the Sustainable Communities Designated Area within the City of Cumberland. This program applies for residential, owner occupied, properties assessed for under $100,000 within the City limits of Cumberland. Applicants must meet an income requirement of 50% (or lower) Area Median Income. Proof of annual income required. Priority for this funding will be given to the disabled, elderly and veterans. Not everyone who applies will be accepted. If selected, the City…

On May 3rd, 2025 at approximately 7:53 p.m., an officer from the Cumberland Police Department observed a female, identified as Sarah Elizabeth Harmon, crossing property belonging to CSX in the area of Queen City Drive. The officer made contact with Harmon and placed her under arrest. Harmon was cited at the scene and subsequently released pending trial at District Court. NAME: Sarah Elizabeth Harmon  AGE: 39 Cumberland, MD CHARGE: Trespassing on Posted Property

A large crowd gathered in downtown Cumberland Saturday afternoon to pay tribute to Roger Lantz owner of M&M Bake Shop now retiring. Cumberland Mayor, Ray Morris read aloud a proclamation from the city and one from Governor Moore for the state of Maryland. Becky McClarran, president of the Downtown Cumberland Business Association hosted the event on Baltimore Street and had this to say about Roger….   "He's just special you know, he was always giving to our community and it's nice that we're able to give back to him a little bit today. That he's loved in our community and share…