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HomeMy WebLinkAbout03.05.2013 MinutesBOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WASHINGTON COUNTY Hagerstown, Maryland March 5, 2013 The Commissioners attended the State of the City forum at 7:15 a.m. sponsored by the Hagerstown -Washington County Chamber of Commerce at the Hager Hall Event and Conference Center, 901 Dual Highway, Hagerstown. President Terry L. Baker called the regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland to order at 9:45 a.m. at 100 West Washington Street, Room 227, with the following members present: Vice President John F. Barr and Commissioners Ruth Anne Callaham, Jeffrey A. Cline, and William B. McKinley. BUDGET DISCUSSION — CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM DRAFT 1 Debra Murray, Finance Director, discussed the revenue side of the County's ten-year Capital Improvement Project (CIP) budget. She indicated that tax supported bonds of $12 Million are listed in the FYI budget, along with $1.8 Million of expected general fund revenue, which is a slight increase in general fund revenue from what was listed in last year's budget. The Commissioners discussed the $12 Million bond debt amount contained in the current draft budget. Commissioner Callaham stated that $14 Million is the County's actual debt affordability level, with $12 Million being on the low side and $16 Million the highest. She reported hearing from various constituents that the County does not leverage its debt well and should use a $14 Million borrowing amount as a ceiling that could be adjusted. Ms. Murray led a discussion of the following projects contained in the ten-year CIP budget: West City Elementary_ School Proiect — The Washington County Board of Education has requested to increase the unit cost per square foot which would then impact total local contributions from the County's General Fund. Commissioner Callaham questioned contract specifications concerning local contractors. Joe Kroboth, III, Public Works Director, advised that County specifications are written so that local businesses can submit proposals and be competitive. County Administrator Greg Murray stated that the question is whether the Commissioners are willing to match the State's calculation and allow the budget to be automatically increased when the State increases its cost per square foot for school construction. Discussion continued with the Commissioners reaching a consensus that funding should remain at the current level. Public Safety Training Center — Proposed by Hagerstown Community College (HCC) to be moved up in the ten-year plan while delaying other planned HCC projects. The Commissioners discussed their preference that a Fire Services Master Plan must first be in place to accommodate the associated operational costs. These costs, along with a dedicated revenue source, should be identified in the Plan. If approval to move the project is granted, an additional $1.9 Million in local money will be necessary for the capital construction. Match 5, 2013 Page 2 Hancock Library — Greg Murray stated that he would be meeting next week with the Washington County Free Library Board to discuss the Hancock Library project that has been requested to be moved up to 2014 in the CIP due to funds being allocated by the State for library capital costs. Mr. Murray discussed the local share and an approximate $695,000.00 contribution that would come from the Town of Hancock, if there was an expectation to use the funding formula in place for other municipal projects. If moved back in the ten-year plan, additional money would be required from the County in the capital plan or other projects moved, and operational costs would need to be funded when constructed. Commissioner Callaham stated that she would be abstaining from a formal consensus on this issue due to her husband's position on the Washington County Free Library's Board of Directors. The four remaining Commissioners reached a consensus that they were not prepared at this time to move the Hancock Library project earlier in the CIP plan. Home Detention/Day Rmortina Center — This project will be discussed during upcoming operating budget talks regarding sources of revenue that would allow the project to move forward. Long-term financial impact needs to be discussed, including a dedicated revenue source for public safety. Greg Murray commented that if legislation passed concerning the County's disparity grant, the conversation could include this as a partial funding source for the capital requirement. Commissioner Callaham requested a decision on HCC's Public Safety Training Center proposal. The Commissioners directed Mr. Murray to discuss with Dr. Altieri clarification of what would be necessary if the project were moved; knowing that additional capital money from the County would not be available. TREE FORESTATION AGREEMENT WITH SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRICT, Joe Kroboth, 111, Public Works Director, and Elmer Weibley, District Manager, Washington County Soil Conservation District (WCSCD), requested approval of a Tree Forestation Agreement with the WCSCD. Mr. Kroboth stated that the Environmental Protection Agency and Maryland Department of the Environment have imposed certain rules, regulations, programs, and permits upon the County intended to protect and enhance water quality in the State. The new permit requirements are closely tied to the Watershed Implementation Plan. He indicated that the Agreement concerns the administrative and technical requirements for obtaining approvals necessary to perform tree plantings at strategic locations to meet the overall goal of improved water quality. Funding of $20,000.00 for this program has been contained in the County's CIP budget every other year. Mr. Weibley described the program's work that has been performed for over fifteen years and also answered questions from the Commissioners. Commissioner Barr, seconded by McKinley, moved to approve and authorize execution of the Tree Forestation Memorandum of Agreement between the Board of County Commissioners and the Washington County Soil Conservation District as presented. The motion passed unanimously. I- March 5, 2013 Page 3 MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH GEMA PROPERTIES, INC. Joe Kroboth, III, Public Works Director, requested approval of a Memorandum of Agreement between the County Commissioners and Gema Properties, Inc., the developer of a proposed Dunkin Donuts store on Maugans Avenue. Mr. Kroboth provided details of the agreement that relates to the Shawley Drive and Maugans Avenue Improvement Project and stipulates the sequence of events that will allow land to be transferred to facilitate the development and relocation of Shawley Drive. Commissioner McKinley, seconded by Barr, moved to approve and authorize execution of the Memorandum of Agreement between the Board of County Commissioners and Gema Properties, Inc. as presented. The motion passed unanimously. REVENUE DISCUSSION — EXCISE TAX County Administrator Greg Murray introduced a discussion of the County's current excise tax. The Commissioners discussed various adjustments to the excise tax that could potentially create jobs and enhance long-term revenue to the County. Commissioner Cline favored extending the Excise Tax Residential Stimulus Program one last time and increasing the number of allowable building permits per builder by an additional ten permits. Commissioner McKinley commented that the excise tax should reflect the condition of the current economy. Commissioner Cline, seconded by McKinley, moved to extend the Excise Tax Residential Stimulus Program through September 30, 2013 and to increase the allowable building permits per builder under the Stimulus Program by ten, for a total of forty. The motion passed unanimously. The Commissioners discussed the possible reduction of the excise tax charged on various types of construction. Any such change would entail an amendment to the Excise Tax Ordinance and would require a public hearing The Commissioners reached a consensus to take to public hearing a proposal to amend the Excise Tax Ordinance by reducing the excise tax for residential construction from $3.00 per square foot to $1.00 per square foot and to reduce the excise tax for nonresidential retail construction from $3.00 per square foot to $1.00 per square foot for the first 15,000 square feet; with all square footage over 15,000 square feet remaining at $3.00 per square foot. The proposed amendments will be taken to public hearing on March 26, after which they may be considered and voted on by the Commissioners. OTHER BUSINESS Health and Human Services — Introduction of New Countv Emnlovees Stephanie Stone, Health and Human Services Director, introduced new County employees Taylor Dilley, Emergency Services Call Taker, and Stacy Dudley, Senior Office Associate, Sheriff s Department. Sarah Sprecher, Assistant County Administrator, introduced new employees in the Public Relations and Community Affairs Department: James Jenkins, Public Relations and Community Affairs Manager, Emily Ahalt, Communications March 5, 2013 Page 4 Coordinator, and Tabitha Porterfield, Marketing Specialist. She invited the public to check the County's Facebook site and visit the new office located at 120 West Washington Street. The Commissioners welcomed the employees and wished them well in their new positions. CONVENE IN CLOSED SESSION Commissioner Callaham, seconded by Barr, moved to convene in closed session at 11:26 a.m. to discuss the appointment, employment, assignment, and/or performance evaluation of appointees, employees, or officials over whom this public body had jurisdiction; and to discuss other personnel matters that affect one or more specific individuals; in accordance with Section 10-508 (1) of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. The motion passed unanimously. In closed session, the Commissioners discussed the potential appointment of several individuals to various bodies over which the Commissioners have appointment authority; discussed with staff the potential hiring of an individual for a County employee position and related compensation issues, and discussed specific personnel issues relating to a County appointed commission. During closed session, the Commissioners instructed staff to bring forth the potential appointments during the open session agenda for further consideration and discussion and provided direction to staff relating to the potential hiring of an individual (and related compensation issues) for a County employee position. 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; Sarah Sprecher, Assistant County Administrator; Vicki Lumm, County Clerk; John M. Martirano, County Attorney; and at various times, David Pool, Chair, and Gladys Rojas, Vice Chair, Board of Social Services. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION Commissioner Barr, seconded by McKinley, moved to reconvene in open session at 12:12 p.m. The motion passed unanimously. RECESS The Commissioners recessed at 12:12 p.m. EVENING MEETING — TOWN OF BOONSBORO The evening session of the regular meeting of Board of County Commissioners of Washington County was held at the Eugene C. Smith Community Center, 37 Park Drive, Boonsboro. INVOCATION Commissioner Barr gave the Invocation. March 5, 2013 Page 5 President Terry L. Baker called the evening session of the regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland, to order at 7:01 p.m. with the following members present: Vice President John F. Barr and Commissioners Ruth Anne Callaham, Jeffrey A. Cline, and William B. McKinley. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Commissioner Baker led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by the full assemblage. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — FEBRUARY 26, 2013 Commissioner McKinley, seconded by Barr, moved to approve the minutes of February 26, 2013. The motion passed unanimously. COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS AND COMMENTS Commissioner Barr thanked Town officials for hosting the evening meeting of the County Commissioners. He reported on a recent trip to Arizona with Hagerstown Regional Airport Director Phil Ridenour and staff member Pam Deal to discuss operations with Allegiant Air representatives. Commissioner McKinley reported on a Hagerstown Regional Airport Advisory Commission meeting and advised that Allegiant flights to and from Hagerstown are approximately 89-95% filled. County Administrator Greg Murray described the concept of enplanements, i.e., the number of passengers on all flights leaving or arriving at the Airport, counted toward federal dollars for Airport projects. Mr. McKinley gave an update on progress of the new Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics' facility at the Airport. He complimented the City of Hagerstown on this morning's State of the City presentation attended by the Commissioners and several County staff members. Commissioner McKinley attended a Planning Commission meeting. He congratulated two business owners, who were in attendance, for receiving awards during last week's Chamber of Commerce Business Awards - Rentals Unlimited, Inc. and HBP, Inc. Commissioner Callaham attended the Agricultural Education Center spaghetti dinner fundraiser to benefit Ag Expo. She confirmed that the Town of Boonsboro's GreenFest would be held on May 1. Ms. Callaham attended the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Ben J. Robinson. She discussed an Economic Development Commission (EDC) Executive Committee meeting attended this week. Ms. Callaham recognized members of Boonsboro's economic development committee and stated that the Commissioners look forward to working together with municipalities to achieve success regarding the Strategic Economic Development Plan. Commissioner Callaham participated in an EDC small business visit to Hagerstown Paint and Glass and attended the State of the City presentation. Commissioner Cline congratulated nominees and winners of the Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. He attended the business outreach visit to Hagerstown Paint and Glass. Mr. Cline also attended the Ben J. Robinson Eagle Scout ceremony and the Agricultural March 5, 2013 Page 6 Education Center spaghetti dinner. Commissioner Cline congratulated candidates and winners in this week's Town of Williamsport election. He attended the State of the City presentation. Commissioner Baker reported attending the State of the City forum and the Agricultural Education Center spaghetti dinner. He participated in the Hagerstown Paint and Glass business outreach visit and attended a Community Action Council (CAC) board meeting. He expressed appreciation and well wishes to departing CAC Deputy Director Sherry Neil, who will be moving from the area. Commissioner Baker congratulated recipients of awards at the Chamber of Commerce's Business Awards ceremony. Greg Murray advised that an event to recognize small businesses was being planned by the EDC. CITIZENS' PARTICIPATION Stu Mullendore, Boonsboro resident and EDC Executive Committee Board Member, mentioned that the Town of Boonsboro had not yet provided EDC with its list of top five items of importance in the Strategic Economic Development Plan. Mayor Kauffman stated that he would be doing so. MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS Boonsboro Mayor Charles F. "Skip" Kauffman welcomed the Commissioners. He stated that Town representatives attended the Chamber of Commerce Business Awards where local residents/business owners Olde Homestead at Cronise Market Place and Brook Lane Health Services were recognized. Mayor Kauffman requested transit service to the Town. He also referred to a recent letter from Public Works Director Joe Kroboth, III listing four possibilities to address ongoing stormwater runoff problems in the Lakin Avenue area. Council member Barbara Wetzel asked about the County's future plans for recycling and referred to Senate Bill 799 proposing that counties reach a zero waste level by 2021. County Administrator Greg Murray provided the County's recycling figures which showed a 44% recycling rate, which is above State average. Council member Jeannine Solberg, Boonsboro's economic development liaison, provided information on the group's progress and bi-monthly networking meetings. She invited County representatives to attend those meetings, with the next one to be held on April 24 at 9:00 a.m. in the Town's former library. Ms. Solberg stated that the Town's stormwater issue is its most pressing concern. Greg Murray provided a history of the problem and direction of former County Commissioner boards. The problem involves a private lane, paving issues, cleaning out of existing piping, and other contributing factors. He discussed several measures that could be considered but would require perpetual maintenance by the Town. Ron Shumaker, Boonsboro, described the water runoff problem that impacts his property. March 5, 2013 Page 7 Commissioner Callaham expressed her desire to begin a plan to remedy the situation. The Commissioners, Mayor Kauffman, and Council members in attendance discussed the four options available to address the problem. Mr. Murray stated that he would direct County staff to visit the area to check conditions to further develop a solution. He stated that the Commissioners would have to discuss where to find funding for the project. Mayor Kauffman stated that he would discuss the matter of ongoing maintenance with Town Council members during their next Town Council meeting. It was agreed by the parties that the problem should be alleviated in some way within ninety days. CITIZENS' PARTICIPATION (cont.) Oley Griffith, Chief of the Boonsboro Volunteer Fire Company, requested the establishment of an official emergency shelter in the South County area so that Boonsboro residents need not travel to Hagerstown in the event of an emergency. Greg Murray suggested that the local high school might be an ideal site and stated that he would discuss the request with appropriate County staff. Corey Linthicum, President of the Washington County Home Builders Association, thanked the Commissioners for increasing the allowable building permits per builder under the Excise Tax Residential Stimulus Program. Commissioner Callaham suggested that the topic of lowering the excise tax and how it would affect the municipalities should be discussed during the next Maryland Municipal League meeting on March 25. Council member Cindy Kauffman questioned the status of the Fairplay Volunteer Fire Company and expressed concerns on the burden placed on Boonsboro's Fire Company. Chief Oley Griffith advised that the amount of calls covered by Boonsboro had been small and that he had no concerns at this time. OTHER BUSINESS Countv Clerk — Annointments to Boards and Commissions Tri Countv Council for Western Maryland Commissioner Barr, seconded by McKinley, moved to appoint John Miller as a private citizen representative to the Tri -County Council for Western Maryland, to serve an unfulfilled term through December 2, 2014. The motion passed unanimously. Washington Countv Board of Social Services Commissioner McKinley, seconded by Callaham, moved to appoint Norma Sappington to serve an unfulfilled term on the Washington County Board of Social Services through June 30, 2015. The motion passed unanimously. County Administrator County Administrator Greg Murray thanked the Town for hosting the meeting and expressed the desire to work together to assist with issues of importance to Boonsboro. He March 5, 2013 Page 8 referred to the County's new marketing team, who were in attendance, and discussed the development of ideas to draw people into the community and municipalities. REPORTS FROM COUNTY STAFF Public Relations and Community Affairs Sarah Sprecher, Assistant County Administrator, introduced herself and members of her staff - James Jenkins, Emily Ahalt, and Tabitha Porterfield. Ms. Sprecher invited attendees to use the County's Facebook page for the latest information and to contact her office to partner with events planned by the Town. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner McKinley, seconded by Barr moved to adjourn at 8:22 p.m. The motion passed unanimously. Gregory B. rray, Cou ty Administrator �'. k fvll,�i John M. Martirano, Coun orney Vicki C. Lumm, County Clerk r,