Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime. – Adlai E. Stevenson.
Written By Lisa Breslin, Photos by: Phil Grout
On his mayor’s desk in Taneytown, not far from Jim McCarron’s fingertips, are the inspirational words of Adlai Stevenson: words that remind McCarron that patriotism requires the steady dedication of a lifetime. McCarron is that kind of a leader and manager. As he eases into the final two years of his second term, he recognizes that his more than 30 years as district manager for Southern States Co-operative and his role as a father to four and grandfather to 10 testify to his dependability.
McCarron was born in Washington, D.C. He has lived in Maryland since 1956. Taneytown, where he lives with his wife, Myra, has been home since 1983. A University of Maryland, College of Agriculture graduate, McCarron is currently a reverse mortgage banker for Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group in Taneytown. Elected to the Town Council in 1985, he envisions a retirement filled with deep-sea fishing trips and grandchildren.
Your colleagues consistently identify you as “fair” and “balanced.” What contributes to those qualities?
My experience with Southern States was all over the spectrum – and that experience really helps me today. Retail management, regional staff supervisor, credit manager, district manager for 14 stores that spanned from Hampstead to West Virginia – all these experiences contributed to who I am and how I lead today.
During your tenures with Southern States and as mayor, what have been the most rewarding experiences?
Working with the farmers and the citizens I now represent. I have always loved getting to know people. I loved reviewing operations of the local co-op and explaining where revenues were going and how to fine-tune things. And now, whether I’m helping someone with a water or sewer issue, a pot hole or a barking dog, I love spending time with every person I meet.
What challenges defined your role as mayor?
The Taneytown Streetscape Project was a real challenge at first, but now that three years-plus of revitalization and construction are complete, the challenges were worth it. The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has nominated Taneytown for a Best Revitalization Project award and the Maryland State Highway administration has nominated the city for a state economic development award.
Although the country remains in an economic slump, Taneytown has seen some real economic improvements. What are some of them?
Housing construction, including Creek Side Development and, soon, Village at Meade’s Crossing, and businesses are really booming. New businesses include Peebles, the Tobacco Zone, Affordable Pet Supply and Backyard Bar B Q. In 2013, we should see a new Dollar General Store, Sheetz, and a new coffee shop. Flow Serve will be expanding, which represents 40 new jobs.
According to the State of the City Report (2012), development procedures have improved. What are some of the specific improvements?
A new system allows us to do a better job of tracking zoning certificates, violations and reports. We have also partnered with the Code Enforcement Department to enforce (collect) fines. The city sent 138 formal code violation notices and follow up letters. We were able to resolve 94 of those violations.
What is your favorite way to relax?
I love to spend time with my family and in the yard. I’m also a huge fan of the Ravens and the Redskins, the Nationals and the Orioles. So nirvana during the summer is flipping between two games. My oldest granddaughter, Barbara, is a cheerleader for the Redskins. When she gets me tickets for a game: that’s nirvana, too.
What are your favorite books?
History and historical fiction. I’m fascinated by the War between the States, specifically Maryland’s involvement. The atrocities are overwhelming.
What is your Achilles’ heel?
Donuts – Krispy Kreme donuts. I can’t resist them.
Do you have advice for aspiring politicians?
I actually get to give this advice to some family members. My youngest daughter, Caitrin, is a politico of sorts. She works to establish democracies in Third World countries and she has worked on Capitol Hill. I have a granddaughter who has also been on the Hill. I tell these family members and anyone else who is curious about politics, “Be yourself.” “If you are authentic, you are worthy “as is.” With me, it has always been, “What you see is what you get.”
