Sheriff's office reports increased patrols; residents raise complaints about noise and refuse

The Port Deposit Town Council heard public-safety and maintenance updates Aug. 5 as residents raised quality-of-life concerns and staff outlined upcoming maintenance work.

Corporal Tyler Price of the county Sheriff’s Office told the council the department provided updates for June and July and that deputies "are patrolling N. Main Street and Granite Avenue to enforce the speed limit." Councilman Berlin asked deputies to increase enforcement on Race Street and Granite Avenue because vehicles are reportedly speeding and running stop signs.

In public comment, Wayne Tome Sr. praised the Lafayette reenactment but urged action on unregistered motorcycles and cars with loud exhaust that travel through town at night. He also said that after the refuse company switched to trucks with mounted arms the town has seen loose trash and he described it as creating "a health hazard," asking the town to notify residents to place bins and bags correctly so the truck will pick them up.

PW & Code Administrator Jamison presented estimates for tree maintenance, including removal of dead or hazardous trees near sidewalks and trees posing risks to property; council concurred with the proposed tree-removal work and directed Jamison to proceed.

Treasurer Gray reported the town earned $2,685.98 in interest from an APGFCU certificate through the end of June and recommended continuing the investment. Council members also discussed local amenities: Councilman Berlin reported the free library is stocked and raised interest in repairing the center-of-town fountain and pursuing traffic-calming measures at the Granite Avenue intersection.

Jane Bellmyer asked about the location of the free library and which trees will be removed; staff said they will notify residents and property owners with project details.