428 ADDRESSES AND STATE PAPERS

county commissioners. The office of Governor has not been reappor-
tioned and retains a special sense of responsibility to those subdivisions
with lesser legislative representation. State and local executive com-
munication and cooperation can compensate for lesser representation.
This trip was the first step in this direction. This trip was symbolic of
my faith in Frederick, my confidence in county government, my com-
mitment to have the State serve rather than subordinate county in-
terests.

Frederick is a beautiful and - bountiful county. The State stands
ready to conserve your fertile farmlands, to preserve your historical
landmarks, to promote your commercial potential but only as you
desire. You have given this county its character and you have earned
the right to direct its destiny. We seek only to enhance and to fulfill
those opportunities you define, those objectives you designate, those
priorities you determine. We appreciate your unique character and
are committed to press for progress so that Frederick's future will not
be postponed. Frederick's prosperity need not depend or wait upon
her neighbors. Frederick's potential can be fulfilled by the present
generation and Frederick's promise can be enjoyed today!

NEWS CONFERENCE

September 28, 1967
OPENING STATEMENTS BY THE GOVERNOR

Yesterday, I sent a letter to Senator John McClellan opposing certain
amendments to the law enforcement act which were proposed by the
Justice Department. These amendments would have the effect of
routing aid for police protection and public safety directly from the
Federal government to the cities.

I point out in my letter that Maryland, through monies made avail-
able from the recent tax reform, was able to send about $15. 8 million
to the subdivisions last year, mainly to Baltimore City. And in ad-
dition to that, nearly $2 million was taken from certain road funds
for a particular police equipment purchase.

I think this proves that in the State of Maryland we, the State, are
meeting our obligation to the City in this respect, and that it would
disrupt our planning to have the Federal government deciding in
which of our municipalities money should be sent without consulting
us to see what we had done at the State level.