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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02.25.201 MinutesBOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF =� WASHINGTON COUNTY Hagerstown, Maryland February 25, 2014 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. CALL TO ORDER President Terry L. Baker called the regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland to order at 9:37 a.m. in the County Administration Building located at 100 West Washington Street, Room 227, Hagerstown, with the following members present: Vice President John F. Barr and Commissioners Ruth Anne Callaham, Jeffrey A. Cline, and William B. McKinley. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — FEBRUARY 11, 2014 Commissioner Barr, seconded by McKinley, moved to approve the minutes of February 11, 2014. The motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Baker announced that Commissioner Barr would not be present during the discussion of the next item due to his unrelated business interests with the owner of Emerald Pointe, Inc. REVISION TO EMERALD POINTE PUD FINAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Stephen Goodrich, Director, Planning and Zoning, reviewed the request by Applicant Fox & Associates, Inc. to modify the Emerald Pointe Planned Unit Development (PUD) Final Development Plan (RZ-13-005) for property located on the east side of the Marsh Pike and the south side of Longmeadow Road. During their February 11, 2014 meeting, the Commissioners discussed, the testimony and evidence received at the public hearings and the recommendations of the Planning Commission. The Commissioners further discussed the proposal, acknowledging that if the application were approved, the plan amendment would be subject to further reviews during the site plan approval process, including the commission of a traffic study and reviews by the Maryland State Highway Administration and State environmental officials. These reviews may result in changes to specifics of the proposal due to traffic concerns or floodplain issues. Commissioner Callaham indicated that in supporting the development plan, she is being consistent with findings of prior boards and studies of the property. Commissioner McKinley reiterated that the proposed changes are permitted under the requirements for PVDs in the County, which allow for ten percent or less of the total land area devoted to commercial development. Commissioner McKinley, seconded by Cline, moved to approve the application to amend the concept and Final Development Plan of the Emerald Pointe PUD to allow for mixed office and retail use and an expanded community center as described in the application. February 25, 2014 Page 2 The motion passed with Commissioners McKinley, Cline, and Callaham voting "AYE" and Commissioner Baker "NO". (3-1, Commissioner Barr was absent.) Deputy County Attorney Kirk C. Downey stated that the findings of fact would be developed for adoption and implementation of the Commissioners' decision. (Commissioner Barr returned to the meeting at 9:52 a.m.) COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS AND COMMENTS Commissioner Cline reported attending the Washington County Delegation meeting last week in Annapolis and a business outreach meeting to Parker Plastics with his fellow Commissioners. He attended the Longmeadow Volunteer Fire Company banquet, Agricultural Education Center board meeting, and the Run For Your Luck 5K press conference. Mr. Cline attended the budget presentation by the Hagerstown Community College Board of Trustees. He described the open house held by Kaplan University to introduce its new Learning Lab. He enjoyed the Chamber of Commerce mixer at the Hagerstown Regional Airport for Sun Air and the Future Farmers of America (FFA) Charter Initiation at Hancock High School. Mr. Cline reported on the County -sponsored Superhero event at Hagerstown Community College's Athletic, Recreation, and Community Center (ARCO). He attended the Eagle Scout ceremony for Chris Lunsford. Commissioner Cline enjoyed the Maugansville Ruritan Club pancake breakfast, Antietam Exchange Club Italian Festa, and the Hagerstown Rotary Club Bull and Oyster Roast. He attended the 2014 kickoff for the March of Dimes March for Babies Walk and presented the Commissioners a plaque recognizing Washington County Government as the fourth place team in donations for the Western Maryland region. Commissioner Callaham participated in the Commissioners' business visit to Parker Plastics. She attended a meeting of the Washington County Commission for Women and described its planned Circle of Sisters event. She attended the Hancock FFA installation ceremony and the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Chris Lunsford. Ms. Callaham attended a Commission on Aging Board meeting which included a report by the Senior Center Standing Committee. She attended the Chamber mixer for Sun Air and the Superhero event at the ARCC. Commissioner Callaham discussed citizen Tom Grosh's idea for a primitive campground area to be developed along the C&O Canal and noted that he had been put into contact with appropriate individuals to discuss the idea. Commissioner Barr reported on meetings he attended in Annapolis during the current legislative session including one with the Urban Coalition. Mr. Barr congratulated the Hancock FFA participants. He attended the YMCA car raffle fundraiser, Hagerstown Rotary Club Bull and Oyster Roast, and the Antietam Exchange Club Italian Festa. Commissioner Barr praised the Maryland Symphony Orchestra (MSO) on its recent performance that featured local soloist Alexandra Hemphill. He commented on the progress being made by the County to acquire the Agricultural Education Center facility. February 25, 2014 =� Page 3 Commissioner McKinley indicated that he attended many of the same events as his fellow Commissioners including the Longmeadow Volunteer Fire Company awards banquet, Maugansville Ruritan Club pancake breakfast, Hagerstown Rotary Club Bull and Oyster Roast, and the Antietam Exchange Club Italian Festa. He enjoyed attending the MSO performance and the Eagle Scout ceremony for Chris Lunsford. Mr. McKinley discussed the February 12 trip to Annapolis by the Commissioners to meet with various elected representatives. Commissioner Baker attended the memorial service for Jone Bowman. He was present at the Longmeadow Volunteer Fire Company awards banquet and the HCC budget presentation. Mr. Baker attended the press conference at Hagerstown City Hall for the upcoming Run for Your Luck 5K event. He attended the Hancock FFA Chapter ceremony and the Superhero party sponsored by the Recreation and Parks Department at the ARCO. Commissioner Baker reported receiving a thank you note from Delegate Neal Parrott to the County Commissioners for supporting the county choice minimum wage bill. OTHER BUSINESS Countv Attornev Resolution in Support of MEDAF Loan to Mack Trucks, Inc. Assistant County Attorney Kendall Desaulniers requested adoption of a Resolution necessary to support the $4 million loan from the Maryland Economic Development Assistance Fund (MEDAF) from the State of Maryland that will pass through Washington County Government to Mack Trucks, Inc. (the "Company") as an economic development incentive for the jobs to be retained and created by the Company during its planned expansion. The Resolution also authorizes the submission of an application by the Company and includes the $200,000 conditional loan from the County to the Company. The Commissioners previously voted to approve the pass-through loan and the $200,000 conditional loan during their October 22, 2013 meeting. The Commissioners discussed the $200,000 conditional loan and the jobs to be maintained and added by the Company. Greg Murray commented that the $4 million Department of Business and Economic Development loan is one of the largest amounts ever given to a county and shows the positive result of the County's economic development efforts. Commissioner Barr, seconded by Callaham, moved to adopt a Resolution in support of the $4 million loan from the MEDAF that will pass through Washington County Government to Mack Trucks, Inc., and to authorize the $200,000 conditional loan from the County as presented. The motion passed unanimously. (Resolution RS -2014-03 is located in the County Commissioners' Office.) Legislative Items — HB 1385 and HB 1399 Deputy County Attorney Kirk C. Downey requested whether the Commissioners would like to send letters of support regarding two bills sponsored by the local Delegation to the General Assembly: HB 1385 amends regulations concerning the Gaming Commission that will be removed from the statute and added to its bylaws; HB 1399 completes the February 25, 2014 Page 4 recommendations of the Salary Study Commission process to endorse a $100,000 Sheriff s salary that would be effective after the next general election, and that the County Commissioners shall set their own salaries in the future pursuant to the established Salary Study Commission process. Commissioner Barr, seconded by McKinley, moved to support the two legislative bills as presented and discussed. The motion passed unanimously. Countv Administrator County Administrator Gregory Murray updated the Commissioners regarding two current bills: HB 349 concerns Boards of Education that are using leaseback buildings (such as Washington County's Barbara Ingram School for the Arts), and counties' maintenance of effort requirement. He advised that the local Board of Education is not supporting the bill as written. In Washington County's case, the concern may be that it becomes another regulation that may limit the County's funding flexibility. Mr. Murray will keep the Commissioners apprised of the issue. REPORTS FROM COUNTY STAFF Department of Water Oualitv Dan DiVito, Deputy Director, Department of Water Quality, discussed the Maryland Building Officials Association and his service as president the past two years. He commended Greg Murray and Washington County government for supporting the chapter and its local representatives. Mr. DiVito presented a plaque on behalf of the Association to Greg Murray for his strong support of the program. Health and Human Services Stephanie Stone, Director, Health and Human Services, requested approval to advertise internally and externally and hire a budgeted full-time, Grade 11, Engineering Technician III in the Division of Engineering and Construction Management due to a promotion. Commissioner Barr, seconded by Callaham, moved to advertise and fill the position as presented. The motion passed unanimously. CITIZENS' PARTICIPATION Jim Devine, P.O. Box 2217, Hagerstown, commented on recent legislation regarding raising the minimum wage. CONVENE IN CLOSED SESSION Commissioner Barr, seconded by McKinley, moved to convene in closed session at 10:47 a.m. to discuss the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, 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(a) (1) of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. The motion passed unanimously. February 25, 2014 `l Page 5 In closed session, the Commissioners discussed the appointment of an individual to County commission over which the Commissioners have appointment authority. During closed session, the Commissioners provided direction to staff about their recommendation. 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; Kirk C. Downey, Deputy County Attorney; and Jim Hovis, Director, Office of Community Grant Management. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION Commissioner Cline, seconded by McKinley, moved to reconvene in open session at 11:00 a.m. The motion passed unanimously. RECESS The Commissioners recessed at 11:00 a.m. AFTERNOON SESSION President Terry L. Baker called the afternoon session to order at 1:16 p.m. with the following members present: Commissioners John F. Barr, Ruth Anne Callaham, Jeffrey A. Cline, and William B. McKinley. FISCAL YEAR 2015 BUDGET DISCUSSION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM DRAFT 1, PUBLIC SAFETY -LAW ENFORCEMENT, AND HUMAN RESOURCES RECOMMENDATIONS Debra Murray, Finance Director, and Sara Greaves, Accountant, of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Committee, initiated a discussion of several categories in Draft 1 of the County's FY 2015 CIP Plan (Plan) and the Public Safety -Law Enforcement and Human Resources recommendations. Ms. Greaves reviewed the following figures: Hagerstown Regional Airport — 10 -year Plan proposed at $18.5 million, FY 2015 request of $2.5 million Bridges — 10 -year Plan proposed at $23.5 million, FY 2015 request of $798,000 Drainage - 10 -year Plan proposed at $15.2 million, FY 2015 request of $5 million General Government - 10 -year Plan proposed at $17.1 million, FY 2015 request of $2.8 million Parks and Recreation — 10 -year Plan proposed at $2.4 million, FY 2015 request of $407,000, includes one major change that moves the planned North Central County Park further into the future due to the lack of available funding for the $7 million project Public Safety -Law Enforcement - 10 -year Plan proposed at $15.3 million, FY 2015 request of $893,000 Transit - 10 -year Plan proposed at $9.1 million, FY 2015 request of $326,000 February 25, 2014 Page 6 Solid Waste (Enterprise Fund) — FY 2015 Plan proposed at $6.5 million, a $4-5 million decrease from last year's Plan due to the renewable energy project that results in the removal of plans for the construction of Cell #5 Water Oualitv (Enterprise Fund) — FY 2015 Plan proposed at $36.3 million currently, will be some minor changes, working on a rate model with utility funds due to State changes Sheriff Douglas Mullendore reviewed the Sheriff's Department CIP Plan that requests increases in Judicial, Operations, Patrol, Central Booking, the Detention Center, and the Narcotics Task Force. The various increases mainly relate to recommended employee wage step increases, computer/software purchases, and other equipment/vehicle purchases. Sheriff Mullendore advocated for a proposed Home Detention Day Reporting Center (Center) and discussed the increase in heroin overdose deaths in the County. In an effort to establish the Center, the startup number of clients to be served by the program was reduced to 35, which reduces the FY 2015 budget request to $1.1 million, one-half of which represents one-time start-up costs. The Commissioners discussed the costs of a Center and the lack of a funding mechanism to support it. Stephanie Stone, Director, Health and Human Services, reviewed the human resource requests for FY 2015 that included the Election Board, State's Attorney's Office, Sheriff's Department (Judicial and Detention Center), 9-1-1 Emergency Center, Emergency Services Fire and Rescue, Fire and Rescue Operations, Emergency Services Special Operations, and the Highway Department. CONTRACT AWARD — INVESTMENT SERVICES FOR DEFINED BENEFITS RETIREMENT PLAN FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY EMPLOYEES AND LENGTH OF SERVICE AWARDS PROGRAM FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES VOLUNTEERS Karen Luther, Purchasing Director, and Matthew Felten of CBIZ Benefits and Insurance Services, the County's contracted provider for Record-Keeping/Actuarial Services and Committee Facilitator, presented the recommendation to award the "Defined Benefits Retirement Plan for the Employees of Washington County" for the "Length of Service Awards Program" for the Washington County emergency services volunteers, and for the Other Post -Employee Benefits Plan contract to the responsive, responsible proposer, PNC Bank, National Association of Baltimore, Maryland, with the lowest fee schedule as indicated in its proposal dated November 25, 2013. The recommendation is based on twenty basis points on assets of $75 million for the annual lump sum contract price of $150,000, totaling $750,000 over five years. Ms. Luther indicated that the City of Hagerstown and Western Maryland Consortium began piggybacking this service contract in 2003 and are interested in continuing to contract with the selected investment services provider for investing the pension funds of their entities. The contract is for a one-year period, with an option by the County to renew for up to four additional consecutive one- year periods. PNC Bank is the incumbent provider of the services. February 25, 2014 Page 7 Commissioner Barr, seconded by Callaham, moved to award the contract for Investment Services as presented and discussed, to the responsive, responsible proposer, PNC Bank, National Association of Baltimore, Maryland, with the lowest fee schedule as indicated in its proposal dated November 25, 2013 based on twenty basis points on assets of $75 million for the annual lump sum contract price of $150,000, totaling $750,000 over five years. The motion passed unanimously. DEPARTMENT OF WATER QUALITY SOLE SOURCE CONTRACT AWARD NEPTUNE WATER METERS Karen Luther, Purchasing Director, and Kim Bowers, Superintendent of Operations, Department of Water Quality (DWQ), presented the recommendation to award a sole source contract for the procurement of four hundred thirty-six (436) Neptune Water Meters at various costs totaling $101,980.00 from HD Supply Waterworks, LTD of Martinsburg, West Virginia, as outlined in the Agenda Report Form. Mr. Bowers indicated that the company is the proprietary distributor in Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia. The Neptune Model 9300 meters have been used exclusively in the County since 2000 and would replace those currently used in the Highfield system. Ms. Luther discussed the sole source procurement procedure with the Commissioners. Commissioner Barr, seconded by Callaham, moved to approve the request to award a sole source contract for the procurement of 410 Neptune Water Meters at various costs totaling $100,845.00 from HD Supply Waterworks as presented. The motion passed unanimously. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Barr, seconded by McKinley, moved to adjourn at 2:46 p.m. The motion passed unanimously. Gregory B. r xray, C'oui ty Administrator 1 ?�. �A. r _fin M. Martirano, County Atto ey Vicki C. Lumm, County Clerk