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HomeMy WebLinkAbout090421 April 21, 2009 Hagerstown, Maryland The regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland was called to order at 8:42 a.m. by President John F. Barr with the following members present: Vice President Terry L. Baker, and Commissioners Kristin B. Aleshire, James F. Kercheval, and William J. Wivell. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Invocation was given by Commissioner Barr, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by the full assemblage. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – MARCH 31, 2009 Motion made by Commissioner Aleshire, seconded by Kercheval, to approve the minutes of March 31, 2009. Unanimously approved. PROCLAMATION – NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATORS WEEK Commissioner Barr presented a proclamation to Kevin Lewis, Roy Lescalleet and Keith Bowen, representing the Division of Emergency Services, designating the week of April 12-18, 2009 as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Washington County in recognition of their compassion, understanding, and professionalism in the protection of public health, safety, and the preservation of law and order. COMMISSIONERS’ REPORTS AND COMMENTS Commissioner Baker reported on the Recreation & Parks Advisory Board meeting. He stated that he attended the Celebration of Business Awards, opening day ceremonies for the Girls Softball League, and the rezoning hearing. Commissioner Kercheval informed the Commissioners that he attended the Celebration of Business awards, the Chamber of Commerce’s Eggs & Issues event, and the Planning Commission workshop. He also reported on the Local Management Board meeting. Commissioner Kercheval stated that the I-81 Corridor Coalition is requesting that each of the counties along the corridor contribute $1,000 towards the program costs. The Commissioner asked that the Board consider employment initiatives as they discuss the FY’10 Budget to address the high unemployment rate in the County. He reported that he met with the Directors of the Chamber of Commerce, Greater Hagerstown, and the Executive Board and staff of the Economic Development Commission to discuss possible ways to provide incentives for job creation and expansion and provided a summary of those discussions for the Board to consider. Motion made by Commissioner Kercheval, seconded by Baker, to support the I-81 Corridor Coalition’s request and to contribute $1,000 from the Commissioners' Contingency Fund toward the program costs. Unanimously approved. Commissioner Aleshire stated that he attended a function for the Bowman project and toured the facility. He also attended the Washington County Public Schools Library Media Center function, Eggs & Issues, the tax day Tea Party, and met with a coalition from the Pleasant Valley area regarding the communications tower. Commissioner Aleshire reported on the Economic Development Commission meeting. He also asked the County Attorney’s Office for clarification on several items brought up at the public hearing for rezoning case RZ-07-007. Commissioner Wivell reported on the Water Quality Advisory Commission meeting. He stated that he attended the Celebration of Business Awards and the Tea Party. Commissioner Wivell informed the Commissioners that he was advised that the Army Reserve Building is vacant and may be available as a site for the senior center. He indicated that a letter of interest would have to be sent to the Federal government if the County is interested. He stated that legislation was approved to allow a cap on property tax for non-owner occupied residential property and indicated that he believes the County should consider utilizing this option. Commissioner Barr thanked the staff for the expressions of sympathy and condolences that were extended to his family and the Myers family after APRIL 21, 2009 PAGE TWO the death of his nephew, Ryan Myers. He stated that he attended the Celebration of Business Awards, the “Art in Bloom” celebration at the Museum of Fine Arts, the grand opening for Carpet Gallery’s new facility, the ribbon- cutting ceremony for the Studio Six Health Club, and the Fort Detrick Alliance. Commissioner Barr also reported on the PenMar Development Corporation meeting. BUDGET PRESENTATION – DIVISION OF EMERGENCY SERVICES Glenn Fishack, President of the Washington County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association, reviewed the Association's FY 2010 budget request of $3,604,420. Mr. Fishack highlighted some of the items being requested including funding for one-half of the cost to replace the Rehab Unit ($100,000) and full funding for Stations 26, 75 (substation), and 8 which provide both fire and ambulance units. He also asked that the Association be allowed to purchase fuel under the County’s bulk rate. Rick Hemphill, LOSAP Committee, reviewed the proposed adjustments to the LOSAP program. He indicated the Association is requesting that the benefit age be reduced from age 62 to 60. BUDGET PRESENTATION - SOLID WASTE FUND Julie Pippel, Director of the Division of Environmental Management, and Cliff Engle, Deputy Director of the Department of Solid Waste, met with the Commissioners to review the proposed model and cost of service analysis for the landfill. Mr. Engle presented the proposed FY 2010 budget total of $8,157,410. He reviewed the budget requests for the following cost centers: General Operations, Forty West Landfill, Composting, Resh Landfill, Rubble Landfill, Old City/County Landfill, Transfer Stations, and Recycling Operations. The meeting was opened for questions from the Commissioners. An overview of the model to calculate the cost of services was provided. Mr. Engle informed the Commissioners that no changes are being recommended to the fee structure. Debra Murray, Director of Finance, stated that the model shows that the fees should have been increased to provide the funding required for the closure and post-closure costs and the development of new cells; however, the funding has been kept level due to the economic conditions. The Commissioners discussed the model’s calculations as well as proposals to increase recycling activities. Ms. Pippel noted that the entire recycling program is under evaluation. CITIZENS’ PARTICIPATION Virginia Bentz, Ronald Spoonire, Vicki Smith, Pauline Wetzel, Carolyn Blitz, Wayne Taylor, Ed Brandthaver, and Connie Pauley all spoke in support of a new senior center being located at the old Richardson’s Restaurant location. Mike Fotta, owner of Governor’s Landing Restaurant, stated that he is also considering the Richardson’s site to expand his restaurant. Jim Grove expressed concern with the roadway and entrance to the new Susquehanna Bank facility. The Commissioners directed staff to look into Mr. Grove’s concerns and report back to him with the findings. GRANT APPLICATION – CRIME CONTROL & PREVENTION Motion made by Commissioner Wivell, seconded by Baker, to authorize submission of a grant application in the amount of $30,950 to the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention to continue the salary of a State’s Attorney’s Office Alternative Sanctions Work Crew Supervisor to oversee individuals who have received community service. The Commissioners agreed to continue providing the benefit package for the position. Unanimously approved. COMMUNITY FREE CLINIC REQUEST Mike Stanford, member of the Board of Directors of the Community Free Clinic, provided statistics on the increase in new patients and the increased demand in services at the Free Clinic and stated that donations are down by 30-50%. Mr. Stanford stated that if additional funding for operations was not secured, the Clinic would be unable to accept any new patients. He indicated that the Clinic needs approximately $180,000 to APRIL 21, 2009 PAGE THREE continue operations. The meeting was opened for questions, and the Commissioners asked Mr. Stanford to provide additional information on its operating budget. Commissioner Aleshire proposed a contribution of $60,000 from the County if matched with $60,000 from City and $60,000 from the Clinic, to be taken from cost savings from changes to the draft budget amounts to non-profits. The Commissioners took the request under consideration at this time. REPORTS FROM COUNTY STAFF Norman Bassett, Public Information Officer, stated that a representative from the Maryland Insurance Commission would be visiting the County Administration Building on April 23 to meet with citizens. LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE – HOME CHEMICAL SAFETY PROCLAMATION & POSTER CONTEST AWARD WINNERS Commissioner Barr and Mayor Robert Bruchey presented proclamations to Kevin Lewis, Director of the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC), designating the week of April 19-25, 2009, as Home Chemical Safety Week in Hagerstown and Washington County and commending this observance to all citizens. Mr. Lewis stated that 500 elementary school students participated in the Home Chemical Safety program. He outlined the program curriculum, which was presented to fourth grade students in the County. Mr. Lewis informed the Commissioners that the County’s Special Operations Team will treat all of the finalists to lunch. The Commissioners expressed appreciation to all of the local businesses that participated in the event. Commissioner Barr presented awards to the winners of the Home Chemical Safety poster contest. The first place winner was Emily Mutchler (Smithsburg Elementary), the second place winner was Isaiah Redman (Pleasant Valley Elementary), and the third place winner was Kyle Curtis (Sharpsburg Elementary). The winners received U.S. Savings Bonds from the Washington County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association, gift certificates, and backpacks containing gifts from local businesses. Ms. Brown thanked the local businesses that helped sponsor the event. GENERAL BUDGET DISCUSSIONS Susan MacDonald, Executive Director of the Commission on Aging, met with the Commissioners regarding the request to fund a senior center. Ms. MacDonald reviewed the options that were considered and stated that the Commission is recommending the Richardson’s site for the center. She provided information on the layout and estimated costs to “fit-out” the facility. The meeting was opened for questions and discussion by the Commissioners. Jason Divelbiss, counsel for the property owner, discussed possible lease arrangements. He indicated that the property owner is not interested in offering a lease- purchase arrangement. Commissioner Wivell stated that he would be willing to set aside funding for the senior center but that he feels the need to check out other possible options. The Commissioners requested additional information and agreed to have further discussion on the matter. Also discussed was the option of utilizing the former Army Reserve Center. It was the consensus of the Commissioners to send a letter to Senator Mikulski expressing interest in the Army Reserve Center to determine if the property is suitable for use as a senior center. RECESS – LUNCHEON & BUDGET PRESENTATIONAT WASHINGTON COUNTY FREE LIBRARY The Commissioners recessed at 12:21 p.m. to attend a luncheon at the Washington County Free Library. Art Callaham and James Pierne, members of the Board of Trustees, presented the fiscal year 2010 budget request for the Library requesting County funding of $2,730,410. AFTERNOON SESSION The afternoon session was called to order at 2:11 p.m. by President John F. Barr, with the following members present: Commissioners Kristin B. Aleshire, James F. Kercheval, and William J. Wivell. APRIL 21, 2009 PAGE FOUR WATER QUALITY FUNDS – BUDGET PRESENTATION Julie Pippel, Director of the Division of Environmental Management, met with the Commissioners to present the proposed FY 2010 budget for the Department. The proposed FY 2010 revenue budgets are: Utility Administration Fund (total) – $3,561,090; Water Fund - $1,792,540 (general fund appropriation of $800,000); Sewer - $11,141,470 (general fund appropriation of $1,970,000); and Pretreatment Fund - $695,600 (general fund appropriation of $350,000). Ms. Pippel reviewed the projected revenues and expenditures for each department and the major changes. She stated that an increase of certain laboratory fees is being requested. (Commissioner Baker arrived at 2:32 p.m.) Ms. Pippel made recommendations for water and sewer service rates for fiscal year 2010. She reviewed each class and stated that the increase in sewer rates to the average residential customer would be $5.80 per quarter (4.0%) based on a 4% revenue increase, and $81.50 per quarter for water (4.1%) based on a 4% revenue increase. The Commissioners discussed the calculation of fees and the date for implementation. Ms. Pippel stated that the rate hearing is scheduled for May 5, 2009. (Commissioner Barr was excused from the meeting at 2:53 p.m. and Commissioner Baker assumed the Chair.) Motion made by Commissioner Kercheval, seconded by Aleshire, to take the proposed rate options for water and sewer fees for FY 2010 as recommended by staff to Public Hearing on May 5, 2009. Unanimously approved. BID AWARD – BACK-UP GENERATOR FOR CATOCTIN SUMMIT ADOLESCENT PROGRAM Motion made by Commissioner Kercheval, seconded by Aleshire, to award the contract for a back-up generator for the Catoctin Summit Adolescent Program to Ellsworth Electric, Inc., which submitted the low responsive, responsible bid of $51,000. Unanimously approved. CONTRACT RENEWAL – ELEVATOR MAINTENANCE SERVICES AT SPECIFIED COUNTY FACILITIES Motion made by Commissioner Kercheval, seconded by Aleshire, to renew the contract for elevator maintenance services with Landmark Elevator, Inc. (LEI) pursuant to the rates included in its letter dated March 18, 2009 at an annual total price of $17,674.80 (3% increase), to include two (2) additional elevators for FY 2010, and hourly service rates for time not covered by the maintenance contract at $100 Regular Hours and $150 Overtime Hours. Unanimously approved. CERTIFICATES OF MERIT – STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION The Commissioners presented Certificates of Merit to the Compliance Team of the State Highway Administration’s Office of Construction. Team members Henry Alfred, Safety Management Consultant, and Compliance Officers Hugh Caines, Elliott Hooper, Mark Oliphant and Lisa Porter were honored for their dedication and commitment to uphold the Maryland State Highway Administration’s high safety standards. CONTRACT AWARD – PEOPLESOFT CONSULANT SERVICES REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT – INFORMATION TECHNOLGIES Motion made by Commissioner Kercheval, seconded by Aleshire, to award a primary requirements contract for PeopleSoft Consultant Services to Peak Performance Technologies, which submitted the low responsive, responsible price proposal amount of $354,595 at the specified unit costs and estimated hours (no minimum or maximum guaranteed) and, as permitted in the Request for Proposals, a “stand-by list” of consultants at specified unit costs and estimated hours as follows: 1) Clarris Group, LLC; 2) Navigator Management Partners LLC; 3) eFusion Consulting, LLC w/CSS International, Inc.; and 4) CherryRoad Technologies, Inc., for a two-year APRIL 21, 2009 PAGE FIVE contract with an option by the County to renew for up to three (3) additional one (1) year periods. Unanimously approved. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE GRANT REQUEST Leslie Hendrickson Hart, Agricultural Marketing Specialist, appeared before the Commissioners to request approval to apply for a grant from the Department of Agriculture. Ms. Hart stated that the grant is to increase domestic consumption of agricultural commodities by expanding direct producer-to-consumer market opportunities. She indicated that she anticipates requesting $40,000 and that no local match is required. Funds would be used for educational workshops for farmers and agricultural vendors, acquiring permanent signage to identify locations and promotional campaigns. The meeting was then opened for questions and discussion. Motion made by Commissioner Kercheval, seconded by Wivell, to authorize submission of a grant application to the Department of Agriculture in the amount of $40,000 as requested by the Agricultural Marketing Specialist for funds to focus on direct producer to consumer marketing initiatives. Unanimously approved. PROPOSAL TO INITIATE LEASE PURCHASE PROGRAM Richard Willson, Director of the Housing Authority of Washington County, along with Tracy Salvagno, Roger Fairbourn, James Brown, Richard Keesecker, and Harry Reynolds, members of the Housing Authority and Housing Subcommittee, asked the Commissioners to consider loaning up to $1,000,000 to the Housing Authority at 3% interest amortized over 30 years for the creation of a Lease Purchase Program to benefit moderate-income families that work in Washington County. He stated that $563,000 was received from the Neighborhood Conservation Initiative and these funds along with the additional funding would allow the purchase of up to 8 additional homes for the program. Mr. Willson stated that a lease/purchase program would allow the Authority to work with families to repair credit, teach home maintenance skills and strengthen the practice of increasing savings. He also indicated that the Authority would work with the families to create a down payment to reduce the amount to be borrowed when it is time to purchase the home. Mr. Willson stated that to make such a program work, the Authority would need a source of money to purchase and repair modest homes. He reviewed the proposed eligibility requirements and program guidelines. The meeting was opened for questions and discussion. Commissioners Aleshire and Wivell expressed concerns about using taxpayers’ money for the program. The Commissioners took this request under consideration. CONVENE IN CLOSED SESSON Motion made by Commissioner Wivell, seconded by Aleshire, to convene in closed session at 4:24 p.m. to discuss the appointment, employment, assignment, discipline, demotion, removal, resignation and/or performance evaluation of appointees, employees, or officials over whom it has jurisdiction; to discuss personnel matters that affect one or more specific individuals; to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice; and to consider the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto, in accordance with Section 10-508 of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. Unanimously approved. (Commissioner Barr returned to the meeting at 4:26 p.m. and assumed the Chair.) RECONVENE IN REGULAR SESSION Motion made by Commissioner Kercheval, seconded by Aleshire, to reconvene in open session at 5:20 p.m. Unanimously approved. In closed session, the Commissioners discussed the appointment, employment, assignment, discipline, demotion, removal, resignation, and/or performance evaluation of appointees, employees, or officials over whom it has jurisdiction; discussed personnel matters that affect one or APRIL 21, 2009 PAGE SIX more specific individuals; consulted with counsel to obtain legal advice; and considered the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto. Present during closed session were Commissioners John F. Barr, Terry L. Baker, Kristin B. Aleshire, James F. Kercheval, and William J. Wivell. Also present at various times were Gregory Murray, County Administrator; John Martirano, County Attorney; Joni Bittner, County Clerk; Jim Sterling, Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities; Kevin Lewis, Director of Emergency Services; Charles Summers, Deputy Director, Emergency Services; William Sonnik, Director of Human Resources; Carolyn Motz, Airport Director; Wayne Alter, Brett Wilson, and Harry Reynolds, Airport Advisory Commission members; and Joe Kuhna, Real Property Administrator. ADJOURNMENT Motion made by Commissioner Wivell, seconded by Aleshire, to adjourn at 5:20 p.m. ____________________________ County Administrator ____________________________ County Attorney ________________________ County Clerk