Thomas Baird sworn in as new Westminster council member; says city must 'mind the big five'

Thomas Baird was sworn in as a member of the Westminster Mayor and Common Council during the April 13 meeting, and used his first remarks to outline what he called the "big five" priorities for local government.

Baird, who recounted decades of experience in municipal planning and 37 years in the National Guard, said the fundamentals of city government should guide council work: "The big 5 are police, solid waste and recycling collection and disposal, water, sewer, road making, and snow removal." He told the council those services are what residents notice daily and said they require sustained investment.

Baird described a long career that included planning roles and service on local and state boards. He thanked the council and Carroll County Clerk Heather Luis for the swearing-in and said he aims to bring his planning and public-works experience to the council table.

"You have to maintain fiscal discipline that respects the taxpayers and ratepayers of Westminster," he added, urging competitive pay for city staff to retain talent and funding for infrastructure projects already underway, including a water-plant project.

The administration and council held a short recognition of local visitors and community leaders before returning to business. Baird's remarks followed a ceremonial oath administered at the start of the meeting; the council then proceeded with the regular agenda.

The council did not take a formal vote on any policy tied to Baird's remarks during the meeting. Next procedural steps will follow at upcoming committee meetings and work sessions.