HomeMy WebLinkAbout181023 - Open MinutesBOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MARYLAND
Open Session Minutes
October 23, 2018
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner John F. Barr 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 9:03 a.m. at 100 West Washington Street, Room 1113,
Hagerstown, Maryland, with the following members present: Vice President Jeffrey A. Cline and
Commissioners John F. Barr, Wayne K. Keefer and LeRoy E. Myers, Jr.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES — September 25, 2018
Commissioner Barr, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to approve the minutes of
September 25, 2018. The motion passed 4-0, Commissioner Myers abstained.
CONVENE IN CLOSED SESSION
Commissioner Myers, seconded by Commissioner Keefer, moved to convene in closed session at
9:05 a.m. to discuss the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion,
compensation, removal, resignation or performance evaluation of appointees, employees or
officials over whom this public body has jurisdiction; or any other personnel matter that affects
one or more specific individuals; to consider a matter that concerns the proposal for a business or
industrial organization to locate, expand, or remain in the State in accordance with Section 3-
305(b)(1) and (4) of the General Provisions Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. The
motion passed unanimously.
In closed session, the Commissioners discussed the employment of specific individuals to certain
vacant personnel positions. They also received updates concerning the potential location or
expansion of certain business organizations in the County. Finally, the Commissioners discussed
the potential creation a review panel and potential appointments thereto relating to an economic
development initiative in the County.
Present during closed session were Commissioners Ten -y L. Baker, Jeffrey A. Cline, John F. Barr,
Wayne K. Keefer, and LeRoy E. Myers Jr. Also present were Robert J. Slocum, County
Administrator; Krista L. Hart, County Clerk; John M. Martirano, County Attorney, and at various
times Kirk C. Downey, Deputy County Attorney; Jim Hovis, Chief Operations Officer; Deb
Peyton, Director, Health and Human Services; Ed Plank, Director, Highway Department; Jaime
Dick, Director, Recreation Department; Susan Small, Business Leader, Business Development;
Jeffrey Hamberger Attorney, Law Offices of Jeffrey Hamberger; Wonro Lee, JG Business Link
International (JGBLI); Joe Lee, JGBLI, and Greg Murray, Washington Realty Management.
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OPEN Session, October 23, 2018
RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION
Commissioner Myers, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to reconvene in open session at
10:31 a.m. The motion passed unanimously.
The Commissioners recessed at 10:31 a.m. and returned at 10:45 a.m.
COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Commissioner Cline shared his condolences for the family of Dean Miller, who passed away this
past Saturday. Mr. Miller served as interim pastor at First Christian Church, Hagerstown,
Maryland, and in 2008, he served as pastor of the Boonsboro First Christian Church, Boonsboro,
Maryland.
Commissioner Bair offered an explanation as to why he was unable to attend the meet and greet
held at Cascade Community Center for the candidate elects on October 18th. On that day,
Commissioner Barr stated he attended the Salvation Army Kettle kick-off event. He added that if
anyone wishes to attend a behind -the -scenes tour with the Salvation Army, he has information he
can share regarding scheduling. Commissioner Barr attended a major fundraising event for the
Maryland Theatre and an annual dinner at the Washington County Agricultural Center, all on the
same evening. Commissioner Barr also congratulated the owners of Pura Vida Coffee for their
grand opening at the Hagerstown Regional Airport.
PROCLAMATION — Character Counts!
The Commissioners presented a proclamation to Carolyn Brooks, founder/chairperson of
Character Counts! of Washington County, to recognize Character Counts! month in October. Ms.
Brooks described the program, noting that four (4) student scholarships are awarded each year.
In addition, Ms. Brooks requested that the County Commissioners support the efforts of Character
Counts! by approving a request in the amount of $3,000. Ms. Brooks stated that by approving the
funding request, the members of Character Counts! would be able to provide an end of the year
celebration, as was held in the previous year.
Commissioner Barr, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to approve the request for $3,000
to Character Counts! as presented. The motion passed unanimously.
REPORTS FROM COUNTY STAFF
Hagerstown Regional Airport
Phil Ridenour, Director, requested permission to execute a lease between Plane Care, LLC (tenant)
and Washington County. Mr. Ridenour stated that in 2015, the County acquired property on Oak
Springs Road, Hagerstown, Maryland, consisting of two (2) hangars. The property was purchased
at bankruptcy from the Hagerstown Aircraft Services; since that time, the County has been
negotiating with Plane Care, LLC to take over the buildings, which need substantial repairs and
improvements. Mr. Ridenour discussed terms of the lease, which includes an obligation for the
tenant to invest approximately $1 million into remodeling and renovations to the facility. Mr.
Ridenour stated that in consideration of the amount of financial obligations the tenant will invest
on an annual basis, the County has provided a reduced rent schedule beginning in the amount of
$372 each month, with annual escalators included. Mr. Ridenour also added that there will be a
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OPEN Session, October 23, 2018
structure in place to provide for checks and balances which will ensure that the tenant is making
the necessary repairs to the facility throughout the term of the lease.
Commissioner Barr, seconded by Commissioner Myers, moved to approve the execution of the
lease between Plane Care, LLC. and Washington County for the two (2) hangars on Oak Springs
Road, Hagerstown, Maryland, as presented. The motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Ridenour thanked Kirk Downey, Deputy County Attorney, for his efforts in the project.
County Administrator
Rob Slocum referenced a letter received from Crusaders Supply and Service, Inc. which
commended Ms. Sandy Schulte, Office Manager, Permitting and Plan Review, for her outstanding
efforts in assisting a new business throughout the permitting process.
In addition, Mr. Slocum referenced an article in the October 21, 2018 edition of The Herald -Mail
in which David Neuman, Principal, Trammell Crow Company, was quoted as follows: "We're
thrilled to be making this investment in Washington County, which is the culmination of more
than a year of searching for the project site to capitalize on Hagerstown's favorable labor, strategic
location, abundance of amenities and overall characteristics that users are looking for today." Mr.
Slocum shared his appreciation for all staff involved in bringing Trammell Crow to Washington
County and to the Commissioners for their support.
CITIZENS' PARTICIPATION
Raj Patel, 13726 Oliver Drive, Hagerstown, Maryland, purchased a property known as Garden
Plaza Hotel, 901 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, Maryland. Mr. Patel stated that he desires to improve
the reputation of the property and revamp the property. Mr. Patel stated that he would like to
change the use of the five (5) story tower in the rear of the property, which was formerly a hotel;
he asked that the Commissioners provide any ideas or suggestions regarding potential use of that
building.
PROCLAMATION — Economic Development Week (October 21 —October 27, 2018)
The Commissioners recognized Economic Development Week, observed October 21-27, by
presenting a proclamation to Susan Small, Director, on behalf of staff with the Department of
Business Development. Economic development efforts improve the economic well-being and
quality of life for citizens by helping to create and retain jobs that facilitate business growth and
provide a stable tax base, among other positives.
GENERAL FUND CONTINGENCY GRANT REQUEST, SMITHSBURG MEMORIAL
GARDEN
Susan Buchanan, Director, Grant Management, Mr. Fishack (representing local veterans), and
Tara Keplinger, Chair, Smithsburg Park Commission, recommended approval of a request for
General Fund Contingency funding for a new memorial in the Memorial Garden in Smithsburg's
Veterans Park in the amount of $2,500, as requested by the Smithsburg Park Commission.
Ms. Buchanan stated that the memorial garden currently has memorials for veterans from World
War 1, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. The Commission wishes to add an additional memorial
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OPEN Session, October 23, 2®18
to represent Afghanistan and future conflicts. Ms. Buchanan added that in 2011, Lance Corporal
Maung P. Htaik, a 2008 Smithsburg High School graduate, was killed in action in Afghanistan;
however, his service is not recognized in the garden. The cost for a granite stone, bronze plaque,
and installation, would be approximately $2,500; the plaque would be designed to allow for the
addition of future names.
The Office of Grant Management has reviewed this request and found it to be consistent with
General Fund Contingency grant funding requirements.
Commissioner Cline, seconded by Commissioner Keefer, moved to approve the funding request
in the amount of $2,500 as presented. The motion passed unanimously.
YALE DRIVE — PROJECT CLOSEOUT CHANGE ORDER
Scott Hobbs, Director, Engineering, recommended approval of a closeout change order in the
amount of $114,088.67, and a budget transfer of $36,000 from account RDI056, Professional
Boulevard, Phase II to RDI054, Yale Drive, as part of the final project closeout.
Mr. Hobbs explained that the change order is part of the final closeout for the Yale Drive Extended
project and a portion of Professional Boulevard constructed with Yale Drive. The contract value
for C. William Hetzer, Inc. would be increased accordingly, and this budget transfer with a final
closeout change order will close out the project. The County has received Appalachian Regional
Commission federal funding on this project and the change order and budget transfer will cover
final adjustment and reconciliation of contract quantities.
Mr. Hobbs stated that there is available funding in the Capital Improvement Plan for Professional
Boulevard, as a portion of the road was constructed as part of the Yale Drive Extended project.
Commissioner Myers, seconded by Commissioner Barr, moved to approve the closeout change
order in the amount of $114,088.67, and a budget transfer of $36,000 from account RI056 to
RDI054 as presented. The motion passed unanimously.
PUBLIC SAFETY TRAINING CENTER — WATER ALLOCATION
Scott Hobbs, Director, Engineering, requested approval to submit a letter on behalf of the
Commissioners to the City of Hagerstown asking that the Mayor and City Council approve a water
request for the Public Safety Training Center project by amendment to the City of Hagerstown
Water and Wastewater Policy. Mr. Hobbs explained that the project is at 50% design, and plans
are available at 80 West Baltimore Street, Hagerstown, Maryland for viewing.
Mr. Hobbs stated that the Public Safety Training Center site at 9238 Sharpsburg Pike, Hagerstown,
Maryland, is located on a forty-nine (49) acre parcel of land just south of the community at
Westfields. The facility will be used by emergency services, police, and fire personnel from the
County and City. Staff from the City of Hagerstown has provided an initial review of the project
and has deteirnined that the training building would use more equivalent dwelling units than
currently allocated to the property, making the property ineligible for exception number 4 of the
City of Hagerstown's Waste and Wastewater Policy for water requests outside the Hagerstown
Medium Range Growth Area.
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OPEN Session, October 23, 2018
Commissioner Barr, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to approve a letter of request to
the City of Hagerstown Mayor and Council as presented. The motion passed unanimously.
CONTRACT AWARD (PUR-1396) FOR GASOLINE AND DIESEL FUEL DELIVERIES
Brandi Naugle, Buyer, Purchasing, presented the recommendation to award the Gasoline and
Diesel Fuel Deliveries contract (PUR-1396) to the responsive, responsible bidder, AC & T, Inc.
of Hagerstown, Maryland, at the unit price submitted for Option 2 in its bid dated September 26,
2018, for the total lump sum bid of $1,986,894.41.
Ms. Naugle stated that eighteen (18) persons/companies registered/downloaded the bid document
on-line and five (5) bids were received, one (1) of which was deemed non -responsive. The
contracts will be for a one (1) year term with no option to renew; contract period to tentatively
start on December 1, 2018 and end November 30, 2019. Ms. Naugle stated this will be a
requirements contract and the County guarantees neither a maximum nor a minimum quantity.
Commissioner Myers, seconded by Commissioner Barr, moved to approve Option 2 for the
Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Deliveries Contract (PUR-1396) to the responsive, responsible bidder,
AC & T, Inc., Hagerstown, Maryland, for the total lump sum bid of $1,986,894.41, as presented.
The motion passed unanimously.
BID AWARD (PUR-1398) SWIMMING POOL AND WATER/WASTEWATER
TREATMENT CHEMICALS
Brandi Naugle, Buyer, Purchasing, and Kevin McClanathan, Chief Plant Operator, Environmental
Management, recommended award of the bids for Swimming Pool and Water/Wastewater
Treatment Chemicals (PUR-1398) to the responsive, responsible bidders with the lowest bids. The
following bid awards were recommended as specified: Item #12 — Sodium Hypochlorite (110
drums) to Univar USA, Inc. at the unit price of $2.42/gal. (55 gal. drum); Item #14 — Caustic Soda
(Sodium Hydroxide) (11,935 lbs.) to Univar USA, Inc. at the unit price of $3.03/gal. (55 gal.
drum); Item #15 - Ferrous Chloride Solution (14,000 bulk gals.) NO BID; Item #16A --
Hydrofluosilic Acid (H2SiF6) (75 gals.) to Univar USA, Inc. at the unit price of $16.015/gal. (15
gal. pail); Item #16B — Hydrofluosilic Acid (H2SiF6) (165 gals.) to Univar USA, Inc. at the unit
price of $6.53/gal. (55 gal. drum); Item #17 - DelPAC 2000 (144,000 lbs.) to USALCO, Baltimore
Plant, at the unit price of $0.I286/1b. (Bulk Pounds); Item #19 - Sodium Hypochlorite (47 drums)
to Chem2o, LLC at the unit price of $2.40/gal. (55 gal. drum); Item # 20 - Cyanuric Acid (100-
200 lbs.) to Amato Industries, Inc. at the unit price of $1.68/lb. (Pound); Item #21 - Calcium
Chloride (500-600 lbs.) to Amato Industries, Inc. at the unit price of $0.65/lb. (Pound); Item #22
Muriatic Acid (20-40 lbs.) NO BID; Item #24 — DelPAC 2020 (18 drums) to Univar USA, Inc.
at the unit price of $4.10/1b. (55 -gallon drums); Item #29 — Bacterial Enzymatic Powder (1,500
lbs.) to Maryland Chemical Company, Inc. at the unit price of $9.33/lb. (Pound); Item #32 —
DelPAC 2000 (4-55 gal. drums) to Univar USA, Inc. at the unit price of $5.44/gal. (55 -gal. drum);
Item # 33 — Liquid Aluminum Sulfate (8,000 gals.) to Univar USA, Inc. at the unit price of
$1.65/gal. (Gallon Bulk); and Item #34 - Micro C 2000 to George S. Coyne at the unit price of
$3.8618/gal. (240 gal. tote).
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OPEN Session, October 23, 201
Ms. Naugle stated that thirteen (13) bids were received. The contract term is for one (1) year period
with no option for renewals, tentatively beginning December 1, 2018. The recommendations are
for the County's requirements only; the City of Hagerstown shall make its awards independently
from the County.
Commissioner Barr, seconded by Commissioner Myers, moved to award the bids for Swimming
Pool and Water/Wastewater Treatment Chemicals to the responsive, responsible bidders with the
lowest bids specified above. The motion passed unanimously.
NATIONAL REGISTER NOMINATION OF COOL HOLLOW HOUSE
Stephen Goodrich, Director, Planning and Zoning, recommended concurrence with the Historic
District Commission recommendation of listing Cool Hollow House in the National Register of
Historic Places and to forward same to the Maryland Historical Trust.
Mr. Goodrich stated that the Cool Hollow House, located at 9302 Old National Pike, Hagerstown,
Maryland, has been proposed for listing in the National Register of Historic Places by the owner,
Thomas Freeman. It is proposed for listing in the National Register of Historic Places by
addressing three (3) of the four (4) qualifying criteria. Cool Hollow House has associations "with
events that have made a significant contribution to the broad pattern of our history" (Criteria A)
such as its witness to Civil War skirmishes during the July 1863 Retreat from Gettysburg and the
Battle of Boonsboro, its presence during westward expansion along the National Road, and its
participation in the development and operation of the locally significant milling industry in
Washington County. The property is also proposed for listing under Criteria C for its highly intact
representation of a vernacular adaptation of a late Federal/Greek Revival style brick farmhouse
with a high degree of integrity. Finally, listing is proposed due to the property's potential "to yield
information important in prehistory or history" such as the potential of the unexplored Cool
Hollow Well cave and the unexplored abandoned mill site on the west bank of the Antietam Creek
(Criteria D).
Commissioner Barr, seconded by Commissioner Keefer, moved to approve the recommendation
to list Cool Hollow House in the National Register of Historic Places and to forward same to the
Maryland Historical Trust, as presented. The motion passed unanimously.
REAL ESTATE AGENT SERVICES
Todd Moser, Real Property Administrator, Engineering; Scott Hobbs, Director, Engineering; and
Susan Small, Director, Business Development, requested approval to issue a request for proposal
(RFP) for a licensed/residential real estate agent to assist with various County properties.
Mr. Moser stated that several properties, to include 330 West Main Street, Sharpsburg, Maryland;
11804 Partridge Trail, Hagerstown, Maryland; 13529 Spriggs Road, Hagerstown, Maryland; and
other properties would benefit from the services of a licensed real estate agent.
Commissioner Baker asked Mr. Hobbs to verify the procedure for securing an agent under the
RFP. Mr. Hobbs responded by stating that the RFP would follow the standard procedures of the
Purchasing Department, providing the opportunity for any qualified agent to respond to the RFP.
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OPEN Session, October 23, 2018
Mr. Moser added that under the current process, an agent would need to be secured individually
for each property; this RFP would provide the opportunity to streamline the process.
Commissioner Cline asked if this proposed RFP would include the property located at the former
Fort Ritchie property, currently included in a Master Developer Agreement with JG Business Link
International. Rob Slocum, County Administrator, stated that the referenced property will not be
acted upon in the proposed contract.
Commissioner Myers asked if the RFP would include the right to refuse any offer. Mr. Hobbs
stated yes, the option is included.
Commissioner Myers, seconded by Commissioner Cline (excluding the Cascade property), moved
to approve the issuance of an RFP for a licensed/residential real estate agent as presented. The
motion passed unanimously.
RECESS
The Commissioners recessed at 11:31 a.m.
EVENING MEETING — TOWN OF MAUGANSVILLE
An evening meeting of Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland, was
held at Maugansville Ruritan Club, 18007 Maugans Avenue, Hagerstown, Maryland.
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mr. Bob Walton 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 meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. with the following members
present: Vice President Jeffrey A. Cline and Commissioners Wayne K. Keefer and LeRoy E.
Myers. (Commissioner John F. Barr was absent.)
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
Marty Lumm, Secretary, Maugansville Ruritan Club, thanked everyone in attendance. Mr.
Lumm stated that, although Maugansville is not a municipality, he appreciates having the
Commissioners present for an evening meeting. Additionally, Mr. Lumm congratulated the
current Board for all that they have accomplished as a group. Also, Mr. Lumm shared several
notices, events, and comments, and thanked the Commissioners for the donation of playground
equipment to be installed in the park at the Maugansville Ruritan. He noted that there are plans to
install a new roof on the fifty (50) year old building and to replace fluorescent lighting with
LED's. Mr. Lumm shared a few upcoming events to include a pancake breakfast on Saturday,
October 27, 2018 from 6:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., and the annual Christmas tree lot will be at the
Long Meadow Shopping Center between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Mr. Lumm introduced Honorary Mayor of Maugansville, Bob Walton; Barb Jacob, Immediate
Past President; Duane Arch, Current President; and next year's President, Chuck Cunningham,
Jr.
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OPEN Session, October 23, 2018
COMMISSIONERS REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Commissioner Cline, Commissioner Myers, and Commissioner Keefer thanked the Maugansville
Ruritan for hosting the evening meeting.
Commissioner Cline shared his condolences for the family of Dean Miller who passed away
Saturday. Mr. Miller served as interim pastor at First Christian Church, Hagerstown Maryland,
and in 2008, he served as pastor of the Boonsboro First Christian Church, Boonsboro, Maryland.
Commissioner Baker shared his appreciation for the Maugansville community and the
involvement of the residents. Commissioner Baker recommended everyone attend the pancake
breakfast. Additionally, Commissioner Baker stated that he is aware of past water issues and
invited residents to discuss their concerns with county staff following the meeting.
Commissioner Keefer thanked county staff who attended the meeting to address any concerns or
questions presented by the community.
Commissioner Myers also thanked the Ruritan members for providing drinks and food for the
evening meeting.
REPORTS FROM COUNTY STAFF
Engineering
Scott Hobbs, Director, shared with the community that different staff members will be available
throughout the meeting to address any concerns or questions they may have regarding drainage or
any county project. Mr. Hobbs provided an update on the Capital Improvement Project, Crayton
Boulevard, by adding that phase 1 is currently underway, with an anticipated completion of
summer 2019. Additionally, Mr. Hobbs discussed the Shawley Drive project and how that project
will proceed with future development and future partnership.
Mr. Hobbs stated that his office has been assisting with drainage issues at the Maugansville Little
League and found that the pipe was filled with silt, and the fall of the pipe is not what it should be
for the location; all is currently under review for options to improve the situation.
Construction
Rich Eichelberger, Director, appreciates the patience of the community while his staff works
diligently to resolve the drainage issues. Mr. Eichelberger shared that from January 1, 2017
through October 2017, his staff had received forty-three (43) drainage complaints; during the same
timeframe, in 2018, they received 192. Mr. Eichelberger added that some drainage issues can be
complicated and take additional staff / departments to assist with alleviating those issues.
Mr. Eichelberger stated that his staff has completed all inspections for the new Meritus facility on
the existing portion of Crayton Boulevard and the occupancy permit will be issued within the next
few days.
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OPEN Session, October 23, 2018
Plan Review and Permitting
Tim Lung, Director, provided an update regarding a future project in Vista Business Park (south
of Showalter Road). Mr. Lung stated that Trammell Crow Company has announced that it will be
constructing a 1.2 million square foot warehouse distribution center; however, no tenant
occupancy has been announced at this point. Mr. Lung added that the Planning Commission
approved the site plan for the warehouse distribution center during the August 2018 meeting, and
a grading plan has been approved by the Plan Review and Permitting staff, including the issuance
of a grading permit.
County Administrator's Office
Jim Hovis, Chief Operations Officer, recognized Jay Stouffer, and thanked him for attending.
Mr. Stouffer was instrumental in the founding of the Maugansville Little League and the
Challenger League, which was established for disabled children.
Rob Slocum, County Administrator, recognized Vicki Lumm, former County Clerk.
Additionally, he thanked the county staff in attendance and for offering their assistance to the
residents.
Citizens Participation
Linda Irvin -Craig, 17813 Alpine Drive, Maugansville, Maryland discussed an article written by
The Herald -Mail, October 11, 2018 regarding violations in Jefferson County, West Virginia, by
the Rockwool Group. Ms. Irvin -Craig shared details of the article and the violations against
Rockwool Group, as it relates to the natural gas pipeline project under the Potomac River near
Hancock, Maryland. Ms. Irvin -Craig requested that the Commissioners push for the Federal
Energy Regulatory Agency to object to the TransCanada plan.
Jeff Magnum, 13716 Dry Run Road, Clear Spring, Maryland, addressed the tar and chip process
on Dry Run Road and Mercersburg Road and shared photos of the location. Mr. Magnum stated
that he is dissatisfied with the timeline of the project, as well as the culvert in the front of his
home at the intersection of Dry Run Road and Mercersburg Road. Mr. Magnum stated that the
culvert becomes filled with debris, then overflows and freezes on the roadway, creating an
unsafe intersection. Mr. Magnum stated that he will have to remove the chip that has been swept
into the culvert prior to the winter weather. Mr. Scott Hobbs stated that he will have a member of
his staff inspect the location.
Wendy Mumma, 13858 Dry Run Road, Clear Spring, Maryland, distributed a petition for Dry
Run Road area from over eighty (80) residents in opposition of the tar and chip process on the
roads. Ms. Mumma discussed the reasons behind the opposition.
Michaela Farrell, 13837 McIntosh Circle, Clear Spring, Maryland, discussed the tar and chip on
Dry Run Road and shared her opposition to the process.
Kelly Gossard, 13841 Macintosh Circle, Clear Spring, Maryland, shared her opposition to the
process.
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OPEN Session, October 23, 2018
Dave Mellott, Garden View Road, Hagerstown, Maryland, shared his concern regarding the use
of tax dollars in Washington County.
Christa Stallings, 908 Kenly Avenue, Hagerstown, Maryland, asked who has jurisdiction and
authority over the Washington County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association (VFRA). Ms.
Stallings is a volunteer with the VFRA and stated concerns regarding a County facility and a
harassment complaint she filed in accordance with the Washington County harassment policy in
April 2018.
Rob Slocum, County Administrator, stated that Dave Hays, Director, Division of Emergency
Services, is, and has been, working on several of the issues mentioned. Mr. Slocum added that
the Division of Health & Human Services Director and the County Attorney's office has fully
documented and investigated the matter Ms. Stallings brought forth today, in accordance with
the applicable policies and procedures.
Arthur Abrams, 13835 McIntosh Circle, Clear Spring, Maryland, thanked the Commissioners for
their service to the residents of Washington County. Mr. Abrams shared his opposition to the tar
and chip process on Dry Run Road, Clear Spring. In addition, Mr. Abrams stated that he has
observed the application process used by the contractor and it is his belief that it was applied
incorrectly.
Steve Chamos, 13608 Royal Road, Hagerstown, Maryland, shared his concern regarding tractor
trailer traffic on Showalter Road because of the Trammell Crow, Inc. facility.
Rob Slocum, County Administrator, stated that the review process for the Trammell Crow
facility included a traffic study and a site study, and was a combined effort with State of
Maryland and Washington County.
Commissioner LeRoy Myers, Jr. shared his concern with the former Fort Ritchie property
(Cascade) regarding the Master Developers Agreement (MDA) with JG Business Link
International (JGBLI). Commissioner Myers stated that JGBLI has presented numerous potential
projects to include but not limited to raisin trees, a winery, acupuncture facility, hotels and medical
facilities. Commissioner Myers discussed the terms of the former purchase agreement with Issac
Holdings, Inc.(Issac), stating that the Commissioners had been presented with an offer from Issac
Holdings for $6 million in July 2018, adding that time was of the essence. During the time frame
of the contract with Issac, it had been relayed to the media that the Commissioners were at fault
for delaying the process and causing Issac to withdraw its offer. Commissioner Myers stated that
it is the responsibility of the Commissioners to do what is in the best interest of the citizens and
residents of the Cascade area. Commissioner Myers added that the Cascade Partnership, discussed
previously, is a form in which the Commissioners and staff can ensure that the property is properly
being marketed and that all offers are presented to the Commissioners in a timely manner.
Commissioner Myers stated that a decision needs to be made regarding the status of the MDA with
JGBLI and he asked that the item be presented at the next Commissioners meeting.
OPEN Session,
Page 11 of 11
ctober 23, 2018
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Cline, seconded by Commissioner Myers, moved to adjourn at 8:04 p.m. The
motion passed unanimously. (4-0, Commissioner Barr was absent.)
Robert J. Slocurn, County Administrator
Kria L. Hart, County Clerk
w Li