This came despite strong opposition expressed at a public hearing.
An ordinance making English the official language of Frederick County was approved Tuesday night by the Commissioners. The vote was 4-1 with Board Member David Gray in opposition.
The measure takes affect on Wednesday, Feb. 22nd, and replaces a resolution adopted by the previous Board of County Commissioners in 2008.
This decision came despite strong opposition expressed by a majority of citizens during a public hearing on Tuesday, including one who called it a "dumb idea."
Commissioners' President Blaine Young has argued that the measure would discourage illegal immigrants from coming into the County, and described it as part of the Board's plan to crack down on people who are in the country illegally. But Nick Carrera took issue with that. "If it does, it will do so only by keeping all immigrants out of Frederick County," he said. "I don't even think it will do that." Carrera said it would label the county as "unfriendly and xenophobic."
Other citizens also said it would make Frederick County an unwelcome place. "This new law, in my opinion, is ambiguous at best, more likely unnecessary or unenforcible, and will be harmful to Frederick County's economic development and harmonious social environment," says Steve Brantz.
Meredith Kelly pointed out that the early settlers in Frederick County were German, and that language remained the language for communication into the first half of 19th Century. "What the hell is the point of this legislation? What does it benefit?," she asked. "It looks like pure anti-immigrant posturing."
But there were two people who urged the Commissioners to support the law. Susanne Vivian is with Pro-English. "Official English doesn't mean English only," she said. "Establishing English as the official language of Frederick {County} means for the county to act in its legal authority, it must communicate in English." Vivian also said it will save taxpayers money because they will not have to pay for translating official county documents into another language.
Jim Haller with US English said this ordinance will encourage all immigrants to learn English. "To those who would say that passing 'Official English' in Frederick, Maryland would be an unwelcome sign for immigrants, I argue that this will bring this community together," he said.
Despite the testimony, Commissioners' Vice President Paul Smith said it would only make minor changes, and that the Congress and the Maryland General Assembly conducts its business in English. He asked what other language should we use.
Commissioner David Gray agreed with many of the citizens who testified that it would make Frederick County a less welcoming place. He said there's no need for this legislation.
The ordinance does contain exceptions, such as complying with federal law, protecting the public health and safety, protecting rights in criminal matters, and collecting money owed to the county. It would not prevent anyone from learning a second language.
