Statement of

Andrea McCutcheon

For the office Mayor

I am a candidate for the office of Mayor for the Town of Forest Heights. I have served as Councilwoman Ward II since my appointment May 31, 2006.

I moved to Maryland and became a resident of Forest Heights in the summer of 2003. I was employed as a Police Communications Dispatcher for 18 years in California prior to my disability retirement in 2002.

My career as a dispatcher taught me to be an active listener, critical and analytical thinker, to pay attention to detail, organize and strategically plan priorities and multitask. I effectively and efficiently performed my duties under high stress situations. I received training in domestic violence, hostage negotiations, child abuse, weapons of mass destruction, urban violence, gang violence, community oriented policing, and other law enforcement required training.

My background also includes asphalt paving and cosmetology, being raised by business owners who required me to participate during my youth. My skills include operating heavy machinery (10-ton roller/compactor, bobcat, 10-wheel dump truck, hough pay loader), possession of a Class B drivers license 25yrs (until I transferred to MD), accounts payable and receivable, employee payroll, and local/federal/state business tax preparation.

During previous town meetings, workshops and discussions I actively listened to the concerns of the townspeople, issues brought before the former Mayor and Council, and the position of my colleagues. I noticed practices inconsistent with our Town Charter, Ordinances, Maryland Code and ineffective management practices which was brought to their attention.

I believe it is the responsibility of the Mayor and Council to be accountable for their actions and follow the rules of the Town Charter, Ordinances, Maryland Code and other laws governing municipalities.

The newly seated council members have already began to get a handle on what the state of the Town is and are working together for the good of the Town. We have met with the Maryland Municipal League seeking their guidance and support. They were very helpful to us supplying a wealth of information and resources.

If elected to the position of Mayor I will:

●    Prepare a fiscal 2008 budget for council approval. 

●    Ensure that budgeted appropriations are proper and not exceeded. 

●    Work with the Council to review the Town Charter and Ordinances for obsolete and/or ambiguous rules. 

●    Ensure the Town Charter and Ordinances are faithfully executed. 

●    Operate the Town in a proactive efficient manner to ensure the service of police protection, health and sanitation, and infrastructure in response to the needs of the town. 

●    Work with the Council to promote programs and activities for out youth, elderly and citizens. 

●    Seek grants to facilitate community programs make repairs/renovate the town hall, offset infrastructure
repairs and other Town operating expenditures, and promote continued beautification of our Town. 

Andrea McCutcheon

VOTE McCUTCHEON for MAYOR

TOWN OF FOREST HEIGHTS