After a decade of service in non-profit business operations, Kelly Mears offers more than just fresh ideas for Frostburg. She supports good ideas with proven methods backed by evidence based research. When the challenge requires agility, collaboration, and embracing change, Kelly finds solutions that work for all involved.

Kelly shows up, isn't afraid to ask hard-hitting questions, and is a fierce advocate and dedicated community leader.

Kelly recognizes that Frostburg's Main Street businesses are the economic backbone of our community, supported by robust city programs including Enterprise Zone Tax Credits, commercial rehabilitation incentives, and historic preservation funding.

Building on the city's impressive track record of securing over $20 million in grants over the past decade, Kelly will strengthen accountability measures to guarantee that every dollar of business investment delivers documented results for Frostburg's entrepreneurs and creates sustainable economic growth that benefits all residents.

Frostburg draws its strength from both the deep roots of its longtime families and the diverse residents from all walks of life who have chosen to make this mountain community their own. Kelly understands that effective governance means serving every neighbor fairly, whether you're raising kids here, part of our LGBTQ community, or among the many who've discovered what makes Frostburg special.

As financial commissioner, Kelly will focus on transparent stewardship of taxpayer dollars while supporting the welcoming spirit that attracts people to build their lives here. When our community works for everyone, we all benefit from the economic vitality that comes from a place where people want to stay and invest.

Kelly believes that every taxpayer dollar should be accounted for with clear, accessible reporting that goes beyond minimum compliance. She plans to build on Frostburg's existing transparency framework through the Maryland Public Information Act to ensure budget decisions, audit findings, and financial data are proactively shared in formats that all residents can understand.

Drawing from her decade of non-profit financial oversight experience, Kelly will also strengthen accountability measures by implementing regular public financial updates, addressing audit deficiencies promptly, and ensuring that citizens have meaningful access to participate in budget discussions that shape Frostburg's future.

We have a chance to do something unprecidented in Frostburg. This June, we are setting the tone for a city government designed to work for each of us. For a Frostburg that fosters a future for us all.

Keep an eye on this space for sign-ups!