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HomeMy WebLinkAbout020416 April 16, 2002 Hagerstown, Maryland The regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland, was called to order at 8:30 a.m. by President Gregory I. Snook with the following members present: Vice President Paul L. Swartz and Commissioners Bertrand L. Iseminger, Jr., John L. Schnebly, and William J. Wivell. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Invocation was delivered by Commissioner Snook, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by the full assemblage. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – APRIL 2, 2002 Motion made by Commissioner Iseminger, seconded by Swartz, to approve the minutes of April 2, as amended. Motion carried with Commissioners Iseminger, Swartz, Schnebly, and Snook voting “AYE” and Commissioner Wivell “ABSTAINING.” COMMISSIONERS’ REPORTS AND COMMENTS Commissioner Wivell provided an update on the progress of the Board of Education Management Review Team. He stated that he met with representatives of the Homebuilders Association regarding the County’s new stormwater management plan. Commissioner Wivell indicated that he received a letter regarding Alcott Road in the Lakeside Trailer Park. Gary Rohrer, Director of Public Works, explained that it is a private road and not a County road. Commissioner Wivell reported on the meeting of the Smithsburg Library Board. He stated that he also met with the Wilson Ruritan Club. Commissioner Iseminger reported on the activities planned by the Wellness Committee for the program kick-off. He stated that he attended the roast for Dr. Norman Shea and the opening day game of the Hagerstown Suns. Commissioner Iseminger also reported on the meeting of the Public Golf Corporation. He stated that he attended a meeting regarding the APPLES Program. Commissioner Schnebly stated that he spoke with Lou Close, Town Administrator for Hancock, regarding his complaint about the distribution of the hotel rental tax proceeds. He also reported on the meeting of the Weed Control Committee. Commissioner Swartz stated that he attended the reception for the new director of the Community Action Council, the ribbon- cutting at Pavestone, and the roast for Dr. Norman Shea. He reported on the meetings of the Arts & Entertainment District Committee, the Wellness Committee, Recreation and Parks Board, CASA, and the Disabilities Advisory Committee. Commissioner Swartz stated that he attended the Faith and Tolerance meeting at Hagerstown Community College and presented a proclamation on th the 100 anniversary of J.C. Penney. He informed the Commissioners that he attended the Rural Heritage Museum open house. Commissioner Snook informed the Commissioners that he received correspondence from the Maryland Department of Public Safety that the Detention Center passed inspection and was well managed. He stated that he received a request from The Clique Club asking for permission to place a plaque in memory of Charles Hodges, former principal of North Street School, at the site. The Commissioners approved the request. Commissioner Snook asked about the status of the request made by the Williamsport Ambulance Company that the requirements regarding gaming proceeds for events held at the Agricultural Education Center be waived. Robert Arch, Director of Planning & Community Development, informed the Commissioners that the by-laws of the Board of Directors of the Agricultural Education Center mandate that all gaming proceeds from events held on site are to be donated to the Ag Center. The Commissioners also discussed changing the concession agreement at the Agricultural Education Center. Commissioner Snook stated that he received a letter from the Northwest County Civic Association requesting an appointment to the PenMar APRIL 16, 2002 PAGE TWO Development Corporation Board of Directors. After discussion, the Commissioners agreed that they want to appoint a representative from the community to the Board, but not to require that the individual be a member of a particular organization. Commissioner Snook stated that the Williamsport Volunteer Fire Company and Williamsport Emergency Medical Services have agreed to review the feasibility of consolidating both companies under one roof. The Commissioners also approved a request from the Longmeadow Volunteer Fire Company to waive the permit application fee for construction of a storage shed behind the station. INTRODUCTION OF NEW HAGERSTOWN COMMUNITY COLLEGE PRESIDENT Commissioner Snook introduced Dr. Guy Alteri, the new president of HCC. The Commissioners welcomed Dr. Alteri to Washington County. Dr. Alteri stated that the transition is going well and thanked the Commissioners for the opportunity to meet with them. He reviewed his vision for the college and provided information on his background. REPORTS FROM COUNTY STAFF Gary Rohrer, Director of Public Works, reported on the projects underway in the Highway and Engineering Departments. He stated that the issue regarding the traffic signal at the entrance to the YMCA has been referred to the City Engineer since there is a detailed traffic study being done for a proposed development in that area. Mr. Rohrer informed the Commissioners that he has contacted CSX Railroad regarding the train cars parked in residential areas. Commissioner Snook asked Mr. Rohrer to copy any correspondence to Congressman Bartlett’s local office. Mr. Rohrer reported that the Purchasing Department has moved to the third floor. He also reported that the estimated cost of establishing a central booking facility at the Detention Center is rising. Mr. Rohrer stated that this week is the free bulk trash week at the landfill. He provided the Commissioners with a copy of the proposed signage for Hopewell Valley and stated that it is in conflict with the County’s sign ordinance. After discussion, the Commissioners agreed to proceed using only the seals of Washington County and City of Hagerstown. Joe Kroboth, Emergency Services Director, reminded the Commissioners that they would be holding a full-scale disaster drill at the Airport this Saturday. Robert Arch, Director of Planning & Community Development, reminded the Commissioners that the Metropolitan Planning Organization meeting is tomorrow. He stated that he would be meeting with the contractor for the Civil War Heritage Program. Mr. Arch informed the Commissioners that the Program Open Space allocation for FY 2003 is $365,980, which is a reduction of 60% from this year’s allocation. He stated that he would be meeting with the Recreation & Parks Board for a recommendation on how to proceed in light of the reduction. Debra Bastian, Director of Finance, discussed the estimated May income tax distribution. She stated that she met with State auditors on the new GASB 34 regulations and the road cost estimates. Ms. Bastian indicated that she would be looking at the possible refinancing of several loans. Alan Davis, Director of Human Resources, informed the Board that the vision care bids were received last week and he hopes to make a recommendation in the next two weeks. Mr. Davis then distributed copies of the spring edition of the Safety Committee’s quarterly newsletter. PROCLAMATION – TELECOMMUNICATORS’ WEEK Commissioner Snook presented a proclamations to representatives of the Department of Emergency Services, Sheriff’s Department, and Hagerstown Police Department, designating the week of April 14 – 20, 2002, as Telecommunicators’ Week in recognition of the tireless efforts and dedicated services of the conscientious and committed public safety professionals in the County. APRIL 16, 2002 PAGE THREE PROCLAMATION – NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK Commissioner Schnebly presented a proclamation to Kathleen O’Connell, representing the Washington County Free Library, designating the week of April 14-20, 2002 as National Library Week and encouraging all residents to support our libraries and discover or rediscover the wealth of resources available at the local library. Ms. O’Connell thanked the Commissioners and outlined some of the activities taking place at the Library. PROCLAMATION – NATIONAL AUCTIONEERS DAY Commissioner Wivell presented a proclamation to Duane Flook, representing the National Auctioneers Association, designating April 20, 2002, as National Auctioneers Day in recognition of the contributions they make to our community and their tireless support of the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Maryland. PROCLAMATION - JANE M. BURHANS DAY Commissioner Swartz presented a proclamation to Jane M. Burhans in honor of her 50 years of service to the Zonta Club of Hagerstown. The Commissioners congratulated Mrs. Burhans and Jane M. Burhans Day proclaimed April 16, 2002, as in Washington County. Mrs. Burhans thanked the Commissioners for the proclamation. ADOPTION OF WATER AND SEWER RATES AND ALLOCATION FEES - FY 2003 Motion made by Commissioner Wivell, seconded by Iseminger, to adopt the resolution modifying the water and sewer rates and allocation fees for fiscal year 2003 as presented at the public hearing on April 2, 2002, for a zero percent increase in water rates and a two percent increase in sewer rates. Unanimously approved. (A copy of the approved resolution is attached.) KICKOFF OF THE WASHINGTON COUNTY WELLNESS CHALLENGE The Commissioners recessed at 9:42 a.m. to attend the kickoff of the Washington County Wellness Challenge at the Hagerstown campus of Frostburg State University. Commissioners Iseminger explained that the Wellness Committee, which is made up of representatives from the Health Department, Hospital Association, Board of Education, Recreation Department, Cooperative Extension Service, Maryland Statewide Network, and County Commissioners, is seeking to promote changes in lifestyles and achieve greater wellness through improved eating, exercise and stress management for the citizens of the County. He stated that the structured, goal-oriented program is designed to motivate residents of all ages and outlined the activities that would be taking place throughout the County. CITIZENS PARTICIPATION Lane Heimer, representing the Maryland Department of Agriculture, introduced Herb Baker, new Weed Coordinator for Washington County. Mr. Heimer explained that they are attempting to control noxious weeds and would like to purchase a four-wheel drive unit to haul the sprayer. He stated that the costs would be split between Montgomery, Frederick, and Washington Counties and that the Soil Conservation Service has also agreed to help fund the purchase. Motion made by Commissioner Schnebly, seconded by Swartz, to provide $2,000 to the Weed Control Program as Washington County’s portion of the joint purchase of a 4-wheel drive unit, with funds to be taken from the Commissioners’ contingency fund. Unanimously approved. Rodney Shoop, County Administrator, thanked Washington County Museum Director Jean Woods for her donation of a framed photograph of the County Commissioners who took office in 1899. Ms. Woods stated that the picture had been in her family since Isaac Ankeney, Jr., one of the Board members, was her cousin. GRANT AGREEMENT – MARYLAND TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION Motion made by Commissioner Iseminger, seconded by Swartz, to approve a grant agreement with the State Transit Administration in the amount of APRIL 16, 2002 PAGE FOUR $116,000 with the local share of $58,000 to be paid by the Department of Social Services for the JOBS Program. Unanimously approved. REAPPOINTMENTS – MENTAL HEALTH AUTHORITY Motion made by Commissioner Swartz, seconded by Schnebly, to reappoint Rev. Yvonne Mercer-Staten and Lucy Edmonds to the Mental Health Authority for three-year terms. Unanimously approved. REAPPOINTMENT – BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS Motion made by Commissioner Iseminger, seconded by Schnebly, to reappoint Clinton Wiley to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a three-year term. Unanimously approved. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR’S COMMENTS Rodney Shoop, County Administrator, reminded the Commissioners that the Western Maryland County Commissioners meeting is scheduled for May 24 in Carroll County and asked them to provide him with any items they would like to have on the meeting agenda. He stated that the March Casual Day for the March of Dimes raised $402. The March of Dimes Walk-a-thon is scheduled for April 22. Mr. Shoop stated that he received notification that Verizon has applied to the Federal Communications Commission to be a long-distance service provider. CHANGE ORDER – PHOENIX COLOR CORPORATION STORMWATER MANAGEMENT POND RECONSTRUCTION Motion made by Commissioner Swartz, seconded by Wivell, to approve a change order to decrease the contract sum for the stormwater management pond near the Phoenix Color Corporation by $30,649.64 due to liquidated damages and adjusted quantities. Unanimously approved. CHANGE ORDER – OLD ROXBURY ROAD BRIDGE Motion made by Commissioner Iseminger, seconded by Wivell, to approve a change order increasing to federal portion of the Old Roxbury Road bridge project by $104,000. Unanimously approved. PUBLIC HEARING – REQUEST TO BE ADDED TO THE LIST OF NONPROFIT AGENCIES TO WHICH THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MAY CONTRIBUTE FUNDS The Commissioners convened a public hearing at 11:00 a.m. to hear comments regarding the request of the Washington County Community Housing Resource Board, Inc. (WCCHRB), to be added to the list of nonprofit organizations to which the County Commissioners may contribute funds, pursuant to Section 1- 108(b), Code of the Public Local Laws of Washington County, Maryland. Commissioner Snook then opened the meeting for public comments on the request. Patricia McMillian, Director of WCCHRB, provided information on the program and answered questions from the Commissioners. Also in attendance were WCCHRB Board members Heather Sutton and John Minard. Ms. McMillian stated that the organization has received a determination of its tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service. The hearing was then opened for public comment. There was no one present who wished to comment. The hearing was closed at 11:10 a.m. Motion by Commissioner Swartz, seconded by Schnebly, to approve the placement of the Washington County Community Housing Resource Board, Inc. on the list of nonprofit agencies to which the County Commissioners may contribute funds, pursuant to Section 1-108 of the Code of Public Local Laws. Unanimously approved. (Commissioner Wivell was not present when the vote was taken.) RECESS – LUNCH AND TOUR OF NEW SOLID WASTE FACILITIES The Commissioners recessed at 11:11 a.m. in order to tour the new office facility at the Solid Waste Department. REVIEW OF SOLID WASTE DEPARTMENT FINANCIAL PLAN Robert Davenport, Director of the Solid Waste Department, and Debra Bastian, Director of Finance, reviewed long-range revenue projections originally presented and outlined the current revenues. Ms. Bastian presented long-range forecasts for the period 2003 – 2012 using various APRIL 16, 2002 PAGE FIVE assumptions to emphasize the cash reserve issues facing the Solid Waste Department in the future. Mr. Davenport reviewed various options to increase revenues. Mr. Bastian stated that several operations at the landfill are not self-supporting such as recycling and the transfer stations. She also stated that she would be pursuing Maryland Water Quality financing for capping of the landfill and exploring possible re-financing of existing debt. The Commissioners discussed increasing the rate for high-volume users. Commissioner Snook asked the Solid Waste Advisory Committee to make recommendations on the various options. Mr. Davenport also asked that the Commissioners consider filling both positions he requested in July 2002. The Commissioners took this under consideration. AFTERNOON SESSION The afternoon session was called to order at 1:52 p.m. by President Gregory I. Snook, with the following members present: Vice President Paul L. Swartz and Commissioners Bertrand L. Iseminger, Jr., John L. Schnebly, and William J. Wivell. BUDGET WORKSHOP – FINAL ADJUSTMENTS The Commissioners conducted a budget workshop to review the draft of the Fiscal Year 2003 General Fund budget. Debra Bastian, Director of Finance, then reviewed a summary of changes from Draft #3. She stated that there is still a current budget shortfall of $83,361 in the General Fund. The Commissioners reviewed and discussed the proposed operating budget and the income tax projections. The Commissioners reviewed the funding proposed for the Board of Education. Mr. Shoop stated that the Board is going to ask the Commissioners to defer the replacement of eight buses if they receive authorization from the State to extend the use of those buses for an additional year. The Commissioners also discussed the Thornton legislation that was approved by the General Assembly and the additional $2.2 million that the Board of Education would receive from this legislation. They agreed that after discussing several issues with the Board at the meeting later today, they would finalize the budget next week to take to public hearing. They directed the staff to come back with recommendations next week to balance the budget. CONVENE IN CLOSED SESSION Motion made by Commissioner Schnebly, seconded by Swartz, to convene in closed session at 2:30 p.m. to discuss personnel matters and to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice, in accordance with Section 10-508 of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. Unanimously approved. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION Motion made by Commissioner Wivell, seconded by Swartz, to reconvene in open session at 4:05 p.m. Unanimously approved. In closed session, the Commissioners discussed two (2) personnel matters, consulted with counsel to obtain legal advice on two (2) matters, and discussed the acquisition of real property for a public purpose. Present during closed session were Commissioners Gregory I. Snook, Paul L. Swartz, Bertrand L. Iseminger, Jr., John L. Schnebly, and William J. Wivell. Also present at various times were Rodney Shoop, County Administrator; Richard Douglas, County Attorney; John Martirano, Assistant County Attorney; Joni Bittner, County Clerk; Alan Davis, Director of Human Resources; Jonathan Topazian, legal counsel from Semmes, Bowen & Semmes; Terry McGee, Chief Engineer; and Gary Rohrer, Director of Public Works. EMPLOY ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION INSPECTOR Motion made by Commissioner Iseminger, seconded by Schnebly, to employ Jessica Spring as an Engineering Construction Inspector (Grade 10), to fill an existing vacancy, at a salary of $33,000. Motion carried with Commissioners Iseminger, Schnebly, Swartz, and Snook voting “AYE” and Commissioner Wivell voting “NO.” APRIL 16, 2002 PAGE SIX RECESS The Commissioners recessed at 4:05 p.m. in order to attend a joint meeting with the Board of Education. JOINT MEETING WITH BOARD OF EDUCATION The Commissioners met with the Board of Education at the central office on Commonwealth Avenue at 4:35 p.m. The following members of the Board of Education were present: Dori Nipps, Herbert Hardin, Ed Forrest, Roxanne Ober, and Paul Bailey. Staff members present were Dr. Elizabeth Morgan, Superintendent of Schools; Dennis McGee, Director of Facilities Management; William McKinley, Executive Director of Support Services; and Christian South, Director of Budget & Finance. FY 2003 Budget Presentation Debra Bastian, Director of Finance, made a brief presentation of Draft #4 of the General Fund budget. She reviewed the current revenue projections and expenditure requests for FY 2003. Ms. Bastian stated that there is a shortfall of $83,361 and that it would be balanced at next week’s meeting. Dr. Morgan then provided an update on the funding they anticipate from the Thornton Commission legislation, which is now called the “Bridge to Excellence.” She stated that the funding is guaranteed for the next two years. Mrs. Ober informed the Commissioners that the Board voted to proceed with the consolidation of Conococheague Elementary and Maugansville Elementary schools. The group then discussed how the “Bridge to Excellence” funding would be utilized. Purchase of School Buses Chris Carter, Director of Transportation for the Board of Education, informed the Commissioners that the State requires that school buses be replaced on a twelve-year cycle. He stated that he would be petitioning for an exception to allow eight of the sixteen buses scheduled for replacement to be used an additional year in an attempt to level out the number of buses to be replaced in any one year. This would result in a reduction of $448,000 from the FY 2003 budget for the purchase of buses. Mr. Carter explained that, if the extension were granted, the buses would have to be updated to current standards. He estimated that this would cost $48,000. He also explained the replacement schedule and the timing of invoicing the purchase. Dr. Morgan requested that the County fund the $48,000 to upgrade the buses. The Commissioners took this request under consideration and agreed to discuss it as a part of the budget deliberations next week. Mrs. Ober also requested that the Commissioners take measures to reduce speeding near the Williamsport Elementary School. Commissioner Snook indicated that he had discussed this matter with Sheriff Mades and the Commissioners would consider instituting some type of traffic calming measures at this location. ADJOURNMENT Motion made by Commissioner Iseminger, seconded by Swartz, to adjourn at 5:45 p.m. Unanimously approved. , County Administrator , County Attorney ___________________________, County Clerk