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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05.01.2012 MinutesBOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WASHINGTON COUNTY Hagerstown, Maryland May 1, 2012 JOINT MEETING WITH WASHINGTON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION The Board of County Commissioners met with the Board of Education in Room 255 of the County Administration Building located at 100 West Washington Street, Maryland. County Commissioner President Terry L. Baker called the meeting to order at 8:37 a.m. In attendance were Vice President John F. Barr and Commissioners Ruth Anne Callaham, Jeffrey A. Cline, and William B. McKinley. Board of Education members present were Wayne Ridenour, Paul Bailey, Karen Harshman, Justin Hartings, Donna Brightman, and Jacqueline Fischer. Student Enrollment Proiections for 2012-2021 Chad Criswell, Senior Project Manager and Planning Supervisor for the Washington County Board of Education (BOE), discussed student enrollment projections for 2012- 2021 for Washington County Public Schools (WCPS.) Mr. Criswell advised that the figures were reviewed and approved by the Maryland Department of Planning for use in the 2012 Educational Facilities Master Plan. The Full -Time Equivalent Enrollment projections for 2012 as of September 30, 2011 were Elementary (including full-time equivalent Pre -K students) —10,315, Middle — 5,024, and High School — 6,601. Those same category predictions for 2021 are Elementary —11,363, Middle — 5,489, and High School — 7,366. The Boards reviewed the information presented, and discussed innovative methods being pursued to deliver education effectively and efficiently. LAW DAY OBSERVANCE Commissioner Callaham recognized County Attorney John M. Martirano and Assistant County Attorneys Kirk C. Downey and Andrew F. Wilkinson for their service, noting that "Law Day" is being observed today in the United States. CONVENE IN CLOSED SESSION Commissioner Barr, seconded by Cline, moved to convene in closed session at 8:46 a.m. 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. The motion passed unanimously. In closed session, the Commissioners discussed potential property acquisition and instructed staff to continue the process to acquire the property. Present during closed session were Commissioners Terry L. Baker, John F. Barr, Ruth Anne Callaham, Jeffrey A. Cline, and William B. McKinley. Also present were Gregory Murray, County Administrator; Vicki Lumm, County Clerk; John Martirano, County Attorney; Joe Kroboth, III, Public Works Director; and Joe Kuhna, Real Property Administrator. Elected Board of Education members present were Wayne Ridenour, Paul Bailey, Karen Harshman, Justin Hartings, Donna Brightman, and Jacqueline Fischer; as were Board of Education staff Dr. Clayton M. Wilcox, Superintendent; Chris South, Boyd Michael, Chad Criswell, Donna Harlin, and Rob Rollins. May 1, 2012 Page 2 CALL TO ORDER President Terry L. Baker called the regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland to order at 9:32 a.m. in Room 227, 100 West Washington Street, with the following members present: Vice President John F. Barr and Commissioners Ruth Anne Callaham, Jeffrey A. Cline, and William B. McKinley. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Pastor Mark Sandell of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church offered the Invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by the full assemblage. A moment of silence was observed for the recent passing of former Funkstown Mayor Robert Kline. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — APRIL 24, 2012 Commissioner McKinley, seconded by Barr, moved to approve the minutes of April 24, 2012. The motion passed unanimously. PROPOSED DOWNTOWN MULTI -USE STADIUM DISCUSSION, Commissioner Barr stated that he had no interest that would bar his participation in the discussion relating to downtown revitalization and the proposed multi -use facility under the Ethics Ordinance. County Administrator Greg Murray stated that the Stadium Project Committee (Committee) has been meeting weekly to review the Ripken Study and develop funding methods for the project. He provided an overview of the Stadium proposal and advised that the Committee used the lowest projected attendance figures presented by the Ripken Study and a quarter mile radius to arrive at the debt service required if the project would become a reality. Mr. Murray indicated that over a ten-year period, $9.8 million in debt service would be required between funding partners and supporters of the concept. A yearly figure of approximately $988,000.00 over a ten-year period would be required, with the City and County each funding $400,000.00, leaving $188,000.00 to a private/public option. Mr. Murray stressed that private investment is a key component. He noted the support received from the Hagerstown -Washington County Chamber of Commerce, the Maryland Theatre, and a $60,000.00 yearly commitment from the Hagerstown -Washington Convention and Visitors Bureau from its share of Hotel Rental Tax funds. Mr. Murray stated that conservative figures show a 2.5% per year return on the County's investment over the first ten years, in the form of increased assessment and property tax revenue. Mr. Murray stated that several methods were considered for funding the County's $400,000.00 contribution. He recommended an indirect contribution whereby the County would eliminate the City's $400,000.00 per year contribution toward operation of the consolidated 9-1-1 Emergency Center and the City could use that amount toward support of the downtown core and future development. The full $400,000.00 would not be absorbed into the operating budget until Fiscal Year 2016, four years from current. The Stadium would be the City's project and the County would not have any debt tied to the City project. May 1, 2012 Page 3 Commissioner Baker suggested holding public hearings on the Stadium issue before proceeding further. He presented an outline of ideas for obtaining his support for such a plan. His proposals included 1) the County purchase the Mt. Aetna Farms property from CHIEF; 2) scale back Yale Drive to a single lane in each direction and eliminate most roundabouts; 3) use the original Varsity Drive plans and eliminate Yale Drive; 4) complete the Senior Center; 5) limit borrowing to $10.5 million per year through the end of his term; 6) reduce this year's borrowing amount to $12 million; 7) give County employees a cost of living raise and eliminate the planned one-time $600 benefit; and 8) further assist County retirees. The Commissioners discussed the funding mechanism and issues concerning the Stadium project. Commissioner Cline expressed his support of Commissioner Baker's plan and his desire to hold public hearings. Commissioner McKinley commented that he would also prefer to eliminate the borrowing amount but there is still a need for these projects. Commissioner Callaham discussed projects in municipalities that were supported or funded by the County, and expressed her desire to support the City and reinvest in the downtown's future. Commissioner Barr supported the funding mechanism presented and the fact that the project would be the City's venture. He also supported reducing future borrowing amounts if possible as discussions occur. Mr. Murray advised that public meetings would have to occur and contingencies met along the way concerning the Stadium project, but these measures were the responsibility of the City. He reiterated that the funding method would support downtown revitalization without making a direct contribution to the City. He indicated that the County would absorb all future operating costs of the 9-1-1 Emergency Center, once the plan was implemented. Commissioner Barr, seconded by McKinley, moved to provide up to $400,000.00 per year in support of downtown redevelopment through the mechanism presented. Commissioners Cline and Baker stated that they would only support the contribution after obtaining citizen input through public meetings and the discussion of Commissioner Baker's stated proposals. The motion passed with Commissioner Barr, McKinley, and Callaham voting "AYE" and Commissioners Cline and Baker "NO." CITIZENS PARTICIPATION Kristin Aleshire, 1217 Virginia Avenue, commented on the proposed multi -use stadium regarding site issues, ownership, and associated costs. Jim Laird, 19903 Maplewood Drive, Hagerstown, commented on the proposed location of the stadium and the County Government office building located in that area. Barbara Hovermill, 16286 Spielman Road, Williamsport, commented on the stadium project and asked that the Commissioners not commit any public money before a public meeting. May 1, 2012 Page 4 Dan Spedden, 41 Mealey Parkway, Hagerstown, stated his support of the stadium project. Hagerstown Mayor Robert E. Bruchey, II, 905 Woodland Way, Hagerstown, commented on aspects of the Stadium project and thanked the Commissioners for their support. Greg Murray commented that by approving the $400,000.00 funding mechanism, the County has only said that if the City moves forward, the County would support the City, not the other aspects of land evaluation, testing, etc. to be performed by the City. He added that regardless of what happens the County's commitment is stable and of a known quantity. RECESS The Commissioners recessed at 11:14 a.m, to attend a groundbreaking ceremony for Project Fountainhead One at 13200 Fountainhead Road, Hagerstown. AFTERNOON SESSION President Terry L. Baker called the afternoon session to order at 1:10 p.m. with the following members present: Vice President John F. Barr and Commissioners Ruth Anne Callaham, Jeffrey A. Cline, and William B. McKinley. BUILDING SAFETY MONTH Sarah Lankford Sprecher, Director of Public Relations, provided an overview of activities planned for "Building Safety Month: An International Celebration of Safe and Sensible Structures" being observed in May 2012. She introduced Rich Eichelberger, Inspector, and Angela Smith, Deputy Director, Division of Plan Review and Permitting; Kevin Lewis, Emergency Services Director; and Joe Kroboth, III, Public Works Director, who were presented a Proclamation from the Commissioners to observe the occasion. Ms. Sprecher stated that the event helps to raise awareness of the importance of building safety, green and sustainable building; pool and hot tub safety; and new technologies in the construction industry. She described weekly events to be held during the month to commemorate the celebration. 2012 GOVERNOR'S SERVICE AWARDSIVOLUNTEER WASHINGTON. COUNTY Bernadette Wagner, Co -Director of Volunteer Washington County, informed the Commissioners of its First National Volunteer Week, celebrated this year during the week of April 15-22. Ms. Wagner recognized the following businesses for assisting the organization and thereby helping to improve the community: American Red Cross, Washington County Public Schools, Washington County Arts Council, High Rock Studios, Freedom Electronics, Penske, Goodwill, Washington County Government, The Herald - Mail, Lowe's, Potomac Valley Building Restoration, and the United States Postal Service. Ms. Wagner also presented the 2012 Governor's Service Awards to local volunteers as follows: Phyllis Landry and Jim Mobley - Are of Washington County; April Voos — School Counselor, North Hagerstown High School; Crystal Knodle — Student Service May 1, 2012 Page 5 Learning Coordinator, Washington County Public Schools; Naomi Rohrer — Community Life Institute; Bernadette Wagner, Director, Volunteer Washington County; Lisa Lynn — Employee Liaison, Volunteer Association for Potomac Center; and Peggy Martin — Community Disabilities Advocate. Bill McLean was recognized as one of the original parent founders of Arc. The Commissioners praised Ms. Wagner and all award recipients for their work in the community. CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION - SARA COHICK In observance last week of Crime Victim's Rights Week, Vice President Barr presented Department of Social Services employee Sara Cohick a certificate of merit for her work performed on behalf of crime victims in Washington County. Ms. Cohick was commended for her exceptional work to assist a child abuse victim that helped to convict the offender. PROCLAMATION — OLDER AMERICANS MONTH Susan MacDonald, Director of the Washington County Commission on Aging, accepted a Proclamation from the Commissioners recognizing May 2012 as Older Americans Month. Ms. MacDonald described the services offered through the Commission on Aging that enrich the lives of Washington County's more than 30,000 citizens ages 60 and older and help them maintain their independence. VIDEO PROJECT WITH WASHINGTON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS "OF THE STUDENT, BY THE STUDENT, FOR THE STUDENT" Robin Myers of the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership and Tom Riford, President and CEO of the Hagerstown -Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau, presented information on a video project by students attending E. Russell Hicks and Springfield Middle Schools entitled "Of the Student, By the Student, For the Student." Ms. Myers described the student -produced video projects called "vodcasts" that were made in conjunction with the Sesquicentennial of the Civil War, to be observed on September 17, 2012. She stated that the final product would become part of the National Park Service's Official interpretive materials for the Antietam Battlefield and C&O Canal National Historical Park. The Commissioners presented proclamations to faculty present from both schools who participated in the project. NINTH ANNUAL WASHINGTON COUNTY MUSEUM RAMBLE William Knode, President of the Washington County Association of Museums and Historical Sites, and Tom Riford provided details on the Ninth Annual Washington County Museum Ramble to be held this year on Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6. Mr. Riford informed the Commissioners that the Washington County Association of Museums and Historical Sites, and the CVB, sponsor the Museum Ramble. Museum Passports" to the event are available at the CVB office. Mr. Knode advised that Washington County has over thirty museums, of which twenty-three would be open for this self -guided tour. Commissioner Cline presented a proclamation to the individuals in recognition of Washington County History Week and the Ninth Annual Museum Ramble. May 1, 2012 Page 6 Commissioner Baty recused himself from the discussion of the next agenda item due to his business, Ellsworth Electric, being named as a subcontractor on a number of the submitted general contractors' bids. He left the meeting room at 2:13 p.m. WASHINGTON COUNTY SENIOR ACTIVITIES CENTER DISCUSSION Joe Kroboth, III, Public Works Director, and Brent Feight, Principal, Bushey, Feight, Morin Architects, provided information on the Washington County Senior Center Activities Center (Center) planned to be located at Hagerstown Community College and bids received for its construction. Mr. Kroboth stated that the two primary goals of the Center's construction were to create a Center and co -locate the Commission on Aging offices. He reviewed the bids received that ranged from $6,945,060.00 to $8,280,000.00, all above estimated amounts; though he believed they were representative of the true cost of the project. He advised that Warner Construction, Inc. submitted the lowest responsible, responsive bid of $7,037,077.00. Mr. Kroboth described several available options for consideration by the Commissioners: 1) award the bid to the lowest, responsible, responsive bidder, Warner Construction, Inc. of Frederick, Maryland for $7,037,777.00, or 2) direct staff to proceed with other options including increasing the project budget; modifying the existing building design by reducing square footage; constructing an expansion onto the existing Athletic Recreation Community Center; selecting a new site and designing a new facility; or eliminating the project. The Commissioners discussed the options and the ability to retain funding previously committed to the Center by the State of Maryland. A majority of the Commissioners preferred to pursue Option No. 2 by redesigning the Center without a second floor to reduce costs, and keeping the Commission on Aging Office at its present location until a future relocation plan can be developed. Commissioner Callaham, seconded by Cline, moved to approve Option No. 2 as discussed. The Commissioners discussed the differences between option costs. The motion passed with Commissioners Callaham, Cline, McKinley, and Baker voting "AYE" and Commissioner Baty "ABSTAIN." Commissioner Cline, seconded by Callaham, moved to reject all bids received on March 21, 2012 for the Washington County Senior Center for the reason that the project exceeds the available budget, and to have the building redesigned and rebid as stated. The motion passed with Commissioners Cline Callaham, McKinley, and Baker voting "AYE" and Commissioner Barr "ABSTAIN." RECESS The Commissioners recessed at 2:45 p.m. to attend a joint meeting with the Hagerstown Mayor and Council at City Hall, One East Franklin Street, Hagerstown. RECONVENE - HAGERSTOWN CITY HALL The Commissioners reconvened at 3:11 p.m. at Hagerstown City Hall for a joint meeting with the Mayor and Council, with the following members present: Terry L. Baker, John F. May 1, 2012 Page 7 Barr, Ruth Anne Callaham, Jeffrey A. Cline, and William B. McKinley. Mayor Robert E. Bruchey, II was present as were Council Members William M. Breichner, Martin E. Brubaker, Forrest Easton, Ashley C. Haywood, and Lewis C. Metzner. DOWNTOWN MULTI -USE STADIUM DISCUSSION Hagerstown Mayor Robert E. Bruchey, II thanked the County Commissioners for voting during their meeting this morning to support downtown revitalization by eliminating the City's yearly contribution of approximately $400,000.00 toward the operation of the 9-1-1 Emergency Center by Fiscal Year 2016. City Administrator Bruce Zimmerman stated that City staff is recommending that the City Council match the County's contribution by incorporating into the City budget the money saved through the elimination of 9-1-1 Emergency Center support and the additional match. City Economic Development Manager Jill Estavillo provided information on the downtown multi -use stadium project (Stadium) that would provide the greatest opportunity to retain business (the Hagerstown Suns) and revitalize the downtown core. She discussed progress made by the Stadium Project Committee that has been meeting weekly to review the Ripken Study and develop funding methods that could be used to achieve the desired goals. Mi•. Zimmerman indicated that the next step is to negotiate a long-term lease with the Hagerstown Suns to obtain a commitment for Major League Baseball to remain in Hagerstown. City and County officials were given the opportunity to pose questions and state their concerns regarding the Stadium project. Both bodies stressed the need for private and public support. It was the consensus of all five City Council members to commit to a $400,000.00 match per year for twenty years toward a downtown redevelopment program. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner McKinley, seconded by Barr, moved to adjourn at 4:03 p.m. The motion passed unanimously. Grd or(y) B. Mu ay, County dmini: __ 1 X /tv John M. Martiran , C7o(y Attorney Vicki C. Lumm, County Clerk