HomeMy WebLinkAbout240514 - Open Minutes/1:J!/i. Washington County VAWii◄M·+~-·-
Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland
Open Session Minutes
May 14, 2024
MOMENT OF SILENCE AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
A moment of silence was observed, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by the full
assemblage.
CALL TO ORDER
President John F. Bal1' called the regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Washington
County, Maryland, to order at 9:01 a.m. with the following members present: Vice-President Jeffrey
A. Cline, Commissioner Derek Harvey, Commissioner Randall E. Wagner and Commissioner Wayne
K. Keefer.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Conunissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to approve the minutes of April 23,
2024. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Commissioner Cline recognized Motorcycle Safety Week and the late Gary "Pappy" Bowers for his
pat1icipation in ABATE. He recognized National Police Week. Commissioner Cline attended Eagle
Scout ceremony for Dhara Patel. He attended the Washington County Police Cadet Academy
Graduation. Commissioner Cline attended the meeting with Governor Moore at the Public Safety
Training Center. He attended the Horizon Good Will Power of Work Awards. Commissioner Cline
attended the picnic at the Washington County Detention Center for National Correction Officers Week.
He attended the 10th Anniversa1y of the Boonsboro Farmers Market. Commissioner Cline attended the
Clara Barton Memorial Service.
Commissioner Wagner recognized Mother's Day. He reminded eve1yone to vote today during the
primary election. He attended the Police Cadet graduation ceremony at the Public Safety Training
Center. Commissioner Wagner attended the Horizon Goodwill Power of Work Awards. He attended
the tour with Governor Moore at the Airport Aviation Center and the meeting at the Public Safety
Training Center. Commissioner Wagner attended the picnic luncheon for the National Correctional
Officer Week.
Conunissioner Harvey recognized Police Safety Week. He reminded everyone to vote during the
prima1y election. Commissioner Harvey commented that National Militaiy Appreciation Month
continues. He commented on celebrating family between Mother's Day and Father's Day.
Commissioner Harvey attended the Commission on Aging meeting and conunented their annual plan
review will be this Friday. He shared information on the Elder Group led by Charles and Teresa Peak.
Commissioner Harvey attended the visit with Governor Moore. He shared today is the 76111 birthday of
Israel.
Conunissioner Keefer commented on the primary election and reminded the polls will be open until
8:00 p.m. He commented on being a previous poll worker. Commissioner Keefer thanked the Board
of Elections, the poll workers, candidates and their supporters.
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OPEN Session, May 14, 2024
Commissioner Barr attended the Clara Barton Memorial service. He commented on Governor Moore's
visit. He attended the soft opening at Meritus Park and shared this Friday will be the grand opening.
Commissioner Ban· attended the grand opening of the Uptograft Building for retail services and
apartments. He shared upcoming events to include the annual Budget Hearing, Wednesday, May 15,
2024, at 6:00 p.m. at the Public Safety Training Center. Commissioner Barr will be leaving the meeting
early today to attend the Motorcycle Safety Week ceremony at the Motor Vehicle Administration.
STAFF COMMENTS
Chip Rose, Director of Human Resources presented personnel requests as follows:
To approve the hire of Anthony Napoli as the Director of Transit at a Grade 17, Step 1 O;
$98,946.00/annually.
Commissioner Wager, seconded by Commissioner Harvey moved to approve the hire of Anthony
Napoli as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
To approve the hire of Kelsey Keadle as the Business Specialist, Depat1ment of Business and Economic
Development at a Grade 14, Step 1; $62,920.00/annually.
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Keefer moved to approve the hire of Kelsey Keadle
as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
Kelcee Mace, Chief Financial Officer shared that staff and financial advisor Davenport met with rating
agencies and rep011ed all three rating agencies have assigned our 2024 bond issue of AA+ and AA!
ratings and affirmed the overall bond rating of AA+ AAl, citing strong financial management and
policy practices, stable financial performance and low debt services cost among the many factors
considered.
Michelle Gordon, County Administrator attended the dedication and unveiling of the Clara Barton
statue at the new Clara Barton Memorial Park in Hagerstown, she recognized sculptor of the statue
Toby Mendez. Ms. Gordon attended the picnic luncheon for the correctional officers at the Washington
County Detention Center. She recognized the highways department for the debris removal at the
Broadfording Bridge. Ms. Gordon attended the meeting with Governor Moore and shared top priority
topics discussed with the Governor to include I-81 widening, highway user revenue replacement, water
and sewer infrastructure improvements and a governance study, comthouse replacement bond bill
funding and funding for the Kirwan initiatives. She commented on upcoming events. Ms. Gordon
thanked the public safety officers and recognized National Police Safety Week.
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
-Laurie Chrzanowski, Washington County Commission for Women
-Dave Williams, Smithsburg
FY25 AIRPORT BUDGET -REVISED
Neil Doran, Director, Hagerstown Regional Airport; Kelcee Mace, Chief Financial Officer presented
for informational purposes, on May 7, 2024, the Board of County Commissioners held a public hearing
regarding the proposed increase in current charges, rentals, and fees at the Hagerstown Regional
Airport. Being presented today is a modified schedule of rates and charges based on feedback received
during the public hearing and associated budget changes. The schedule of fees is included in the Agenda
packet. The total budget remains unchanged at three (3) million dollars.
YOUTH MERITORIOUS AW ARDS PRESENTATIONS (3)
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OPEN Session, May 14, 2024
Richard Lesh, Grant Manager, Grant Management presented throughout the school year the Board of
County Commissioners present "Youth Meritorious Awards" to students attending both public and
private schools or those being home schooled in Washington County. The following individuals have
been selected based on their scholastic achievement, leadership qualities, community service performed
or other positive contributions to their school and community. These exceptional youths have
consistently worked and distinguished themselves as model students and members of our County. It is
my pleasure to present the following youth for recognition today:
Evan Mollo-Springfield Middle School, Parent(s) -Katie & Nick Mollo, Nominated by April
Crohare. Commissioner Cline presented a certificate to Evan Mollo.
Christian Trader-Smithsburg Middle School, Parent(s)-Mmy Jo Trader, Nominated by Joseph
Ralls. Commissioner Harvey presented a ce1iificate to Joseph Ralls.
Torin Malott-Barbara Ingram School for the A1is, Parent(s) -Erica Vansant, Nominated by
Kristen Green, Rachel Paul, Rob Hovermale, Rob Men-ill, Jamie Dick, Tressa Nicewarner,
Tiara Burnett, Pam Francis. Commissioner Wagner presented a ce1iificate to Torin Malott.
Commissioner Barr left the meeting at 9:46 a.m.
POST LEGISLATIVE REVIEW SESSION
Bruce Bereano, Lobbyist, Washington County presented an update on the post legislative session. He
thanked the Commissioners for the opportunity to be the lobbyist for Washington County. The
legislative session adjourned April 8, 2024. He works very closely with the Washington County
Senators and Delegates. This Thursday will be the last bill signing day. He shared the Constitutional
amendment bill presented by Carroll County did not move forward. This bill may come back in the
future. The controversial legislation to revamp MDSA T assessment process to create regional offices
was defeated it is not likely this bill will be brought back in the future. Washington County Board of
Education residency requirements did pass. The abandoned cemetery acquisition disposition legislation
did not pass. He shared next session will be stressful with a proposed increase to taxes and funding.
The commissioners discussed funding for I-81, the need for I-70 to be on the list, request to be notified
of any bills regarding second amendment rights, police rights and police protections, making criminals
more accountable, illegal immigrants without proper documentation and insurance, the Mmyland
Board of Public works status of operation and the state's budget forecast.
Mr. Bereano shared there was a great deal of discussion regarding criminals, police rights and
correctional officer rights this past session, however the balance has not changed. There was not
enough discussion between the majority party to raise the issues to a greater level of impo1iance and
action. There was no discussion regarding the illegal immigration. He attends eve1y meeting with the
Board of Public Works, and they work ve1y well together, and it is ve1y open and accessible. He
suggested meeting with the Commissioners during the MACo Summer Conference.
PUBLIC HEARING -2024 AG RI CULTURAL LAND PRESERVATION DISTRICT
APPLICATIONS
Vice-President Cline convened a Public Hearing at 10:06 a.m. to obtain public comment for the 2024
Agricultural Land Preservation District Applications.
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OPEN Session, May 14, 2024
Chris Boggs, Rural Preservation Administrator, Planning and Zoning presented the request to approve
the I 0-year Agricultural Land Preservation Districts for the following twenty-four (24) property
owners: Hays, Black, Talton, Kefauver, B1yce, Rowe, Worthington, Horst, Divel, Martin, Gruber,
Berry, Dealer, Edgemont Orchards Partnership, Shank, Sheffler, Bragunier Farms, Inc., Bragunier,
Davis, Divelbiss, and Blanks.
In exchange for the landowners' commitment to use their property for agricultural purposes only, they
will receive County property tax credits on their agricultural land and buildings and a credit of up to
$696.00 on their dwelling. The District/Credit program was adopted at the County level in 1991 and
was updated in 2018 by ORD-2018-20 and ORD-2018-21. The purpose of the public hearing is to take
public comment from interested parties.
The cost of tax credits for these properties for the full ten-year period is approximately $12/acre/year
for a total of about $33,864.00 per year. This will be in the form of property taxes not collected. A total
of2,822 acres will be included in the twenty-four (24) Districts.
The Agricultural Land Preservation Adviso1y Board approved all of the Districts because they meet
program criteria for size, soils, and assessment. The Planning Commission/Planning Staff have
determined the prope1ties are consistent with Comprehensive Plan requirements due to their locations
outside of County-designated growth areas and planned water and sewer service areas.
The Public Hearing was opened for public comment: There was no public comment.
Commissioner Keefer commented he would abstain as he may have a family member who may benefit
from the plan.
The Public Hearing was closed at I 0: 10 a.m.
The Public Hearing was opened for Commissioner comments: There were no Commissioner
comments.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Harvey moved to approve the ten-year plan as
presented. The motion passed (3-0). Commissioner Keefer abstained; Commissioner Barr was absent.
2024 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PERFORMANCE GRANT -APPROVAL TO SUBMIT
GRANT APPLICATION AND ACCEPT AWARDED FUNDING
Cody Swope, Emergency Management Specialist, Emergency Management; Richard Lesh, Grant
Manager, Grant Management presented the request to approve submission of the FY24 Emergency
Management Performance Grant to the Maiyland Department of Emergency Management in the
amount of$92,439.96 and accept funding as awarded. The Office of Grant Management has reviewed
the grant guidelines. The performance period for this federal grant is October I, 2024, through August
31, 2027. There is a 100% match required for this grant, which will be accomplished by using the
Director of Emergency Management salaiy as in-kind services.
Michelle Gordon, County Administrator shared this is an annual grant.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Keefer moved to approve to submit the FY 24
Emergency Management Performance Grant as presented. The motion passed ( 4-0). Commissioner
Barr was absent.
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OPEN Session, May 14, 2024
Commissioner Harvey requested information from staff regarding all grants applied for, the amounts
requested, and amounts received.
ST ATE HOMELAND SECURITY GRANT PROGRAM APPROVAL TO SUBMIT GRANT
APPLICATION AND ACCEPT AW ARD ED FUNDING
Cody Swope, Emergency Management Specialist, Emergency Management; Richard Lesh, Grant
Manager, Grant Management presented the request to approve submission of the FY24 State Homeland
Security Grant to the Ma1yland Depatiment of Emergency Management in the amount of$187,320.06
and accept funding as awarded. There is no matching fund requirement. The Office of Grant
Management has reviewed the grant guidelines. The performance period for this federal grant is
September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2027. There is no matching fund requirement associated with
this grant; however, at least 35% of the grant funds must be spent on law enforcement-related tasks or
equipment.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Keefer moved to approve to submit the FY24 State
Homeland Grant as presented. The motion passed unanimously ( 4-0). Commissioner Barr was absent.
CVS PROGRAMS TO ASSIST WASHINGTON COUNTY EMPLOYEES
Chip Rose, Director, Human Resources; Jason Miller, Benefits Coordinator, Human Resources
presented for Awareness & Suppo1t of the prograins. Drug manufacturers are marketing brand named
drugs so well, employees are requesting prescriptions for designer drugs, unaware of the alternatives.
In some instances (Humira) there are significantly more affordable prescriptions available and in other
cases (Ozempic) patients are seeking prescriptions to treat conditions other than what it was approved
for by the FDA.
Program 1: CVS Pro-logic initiative. Ozempic was approved by the FDA to treat diabetes. It works by
binding receptors and stimulating insulin release from the pancreas. As a side effect, many patients lose
weight while on the medication. So much so, tens of thousands of prescriptions have been issued to
patients without diabetes, presumably for weight loss. The FDA has warned the medical risks for non-
diabetic patients are significant. The pro-logic initiative will deny new prescriptions for employees
without a histmy of diabetes and require a physician's approval (PA) to confirm the diagnosis of
diabetes. We cmTently do not approve any weight loss drugs through our formulaiy.
Program 2: CVS Biosimilar program. Humira was approved by the FDA to treat a broad spectrum of
inflammatmy diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and other serious illnesses like Crohn's disease.
AbbVie announced Humira was the country's top selling drug in 2023 year ($20B) and their raising
prices 8% in 2024. There are nine (9) BIOSIMILAR drugs (nearly identical active ingredients) that
cost 15-20% of Humira, but they lack the marketing engine of AbbVie. CVS will recommend
biosimilar drugs to any new Humira prescription. Again, CVS will require a PA to either confirm the
Humira Rx or one of the biosimilars.
QUOTATION AWARD {0-24-779) POLICE VEHICLE EQUIPMENT FOR THE
WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
Rick Cuny, Director, Purchasing; Alan Matheny, Logistics and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement,
Washington County Sheriffs Office presented the request to award the Quotation for the Police Vehicle
Equipment to the responsible, responsive bidder, Global Public Safety, of Hanover, MD who submitted
the responsive Total Lump Sum of $61,859.00 for Items 1 through 22 as shown on the bid tabulation
sheets.
Page 6 of 1
OPEN Session, May 14, 2024
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Harvey moved to award the Quotation for the
Police Vehicle Equipment to Global Public Safety as presented. The motion passed unanimously ( 4-
0). Commissioner Barr was absent.
Michelle Gordon, County Administrator reminded the BOCC effective October I, 2024, the legislature
approved the procurement amount of$ I 00,000.00 for vehicle purchases prior to bringing the request
before the Commissioners.
CONTRACT AWARD (PUR-1677\ ORACLE FUSION CONSULTANT SERVICES
REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT-BUDGET & FINANCE DEPARTMENT
Rick Curry, Director, Purchasing; Darryl Brown, Accounting Supervisor, Budget and Finance; Angie
Poffenberger, Deputy Director, Budget and Finance Software Support and Training presented the
request to award a "primary" requirement(s) contract for Oracle Fusion Consultant Services for use by
the Budget & Finance, Human Resources, and Information Systems to Metaformers, Inc. of Reston,
VA for the responsive, responsible proposal with the lowest price proposal amount of $38,000.00 at
the specified unit cost and estimated hours (No minimum or maximum guaranteed); and, as permitted
in the Request for Proposal (RFP), to award a "stand-by list" of consultants contract to Cherry Road
Technologies, Inc of Mo!1'is Plains, NJ at their specified unit costs and estimated hours (No minimum
or maximum guaranteed).
Michelle Gordon, County Administrator asked for clarification on the cost as the proposal request is
$38,000.00 and the bid tab indicates $39,800.00.
Mr. Cuny clarified the correct amount is $39,800.00.
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Wagner moved to award a "primary"
requirement(s) contract for Oracle Fusion Consultant Services in the amount of $39,800.00 as
presented. The motion passed unanimously ( 4-0). Commissioner Barr was absent.
RECESS
WASHINGTON COUNTY CAREER EXPO RECAP AND RECOGNITION OF THE
HAGERSTOWN COMMUNITY COLLEGE TEAM
Jonathan Horowitz, Director, Business and Economic Development; Linda Spence, Business
Specialist, Business and Economic Development presented The Washington County Department of
Business and Economic Development, in collaboration with Hagerstown Community College (HCC),
organized two Washington County Career Expos funded by the Board of County Commissioners of
Washington County, MD through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Grant Program. These events
aimed to connect job seekers with employment opportunities and foster economic growth in the region.
In total the two events had paiiicipants of almost 2,000 people. He recognized HCC staff; Dr. Klauber,
Dr. Ohl-Gigliotti, Laura Scafide, Maureen Kolb, Jonelle Deavers, Jackie Spong, Teresa Shank, and
Jack Drooger. He recognized Business and Economic Development staff, Linda Spence, Carmen
Harbaugh, Machelle Dwyer, and Tonia Davis. Michelle Gordon, County Administrator recognized
Toni Parks from the Department of Human Resources who manned the booth.
Dr. Klauber thanked the Commissioners and commended the staff at HCC and thanked Jonathan
Horowitz and the Department of Economic Development for their partnership. He commented the
events also help the students at HCC.
j
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OPEN Session, May 14, 2024
Commissioner Cline recognized Paul Frey who also was in attendance.
Commissioner Wagner commented on the amazing event, the outstanding job of staff and the vendors,
and the oppo11unity for students and others for a pathway to a career.
CLOSED SESSION
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Harvey, moved to convene in closed at 11:01 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 the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto;
and To consult with counsel to obtain legal advice on a legal matter. The motion passed unanimously
( 4-0).
In closed session, the Commissioners discussed boards and commissions, personnel matters, real
property matters, and legal matters.
Present during closed session at various time were Commissioners John F. Ban, Jeffrey A. Cline, Derek
Harvey, Wayne Keefer and Randall E Wagner; Dawn Marcus, County Clerk; Zachmy J. Kieffer,
County Attorney; Michelle Gordon, County Administrator; Rosalinda Pascual, Assistant County
Attorney; Aaron Weiss, Assistant County Attorney; Greg Cartrette, Director/Code Official, Permits
and Inspections; Andrew Eshleman, Director of Public Works; Todd Moser, Real Prope1fy Administrator,
Engineering; Jill Baker, Director, Planning and Zoning; Erin Overdorff, Parks Supervisor, Recreation
and Parks; Kelcee Mace, Chief Financial Officer; Chip Rose, Director Human Resources; Sheriff Brian
Albert, Washington County Sheriffs Office; Jonathan Horowitz, Director, Business and Economic
Development; Linda Spence, Business Specialist, Business and Economic Development and Ronald
Maggiore.
RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Keefer, moved to reconvene in open session at 1 :07
p.m. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Wagner, moved to adjourn at 1 :07 p.m. The motion
passed unanimously (5-0).
0J~ CV ~k-,
Dawn L. Marcus, County Clerk