HomeMy WebLinkAbout951006October 26, 1995
Hagerstown, Maryland
A Special Meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Washington County was
called to order at 9:00 a.m. by the President, Gregory I. Snook, with the
following members present: Vice President John S. Shank, and Commissioners Ronald
L. Bowers, R. Lee Downey, and James R. Wade.
MEETING WITH GREATER HAGERSTOWN COMMITTEE
The Commissioners met with Greater Hagerstown Committee (GHC) members Wayne Alter,
Chairman, Richard Phoebus, Terry Randall, Richard Hopkins, and Mack Davis. Also
present was Herb Meininger, Executive Director for Greater Hagerstown.
Hopewell Road/Hunters Green Update
Robert Arch, Planning Director, reviewed the Hopewell Road area and presented a
map showing various projects and the properties involved. He indicated that a
critical issue is extension of a sewer line to extend necessary laterals for all
projects. He stated that a preliminary plan has been started which will be
finalized after approval from the County Commissioners. Mr. Arch also outlined
how Economic Development Administration (EDA) funds and Appalachian Regional
Commission (ARC) funds will be used on various projects. Mr. Arch stated that the
County's project is fourth on ARC's ranking list based on preliminary projects.
The Commissioners discussed the possible extension of Halfway Boulevard and the I-
81 interchange at Halfway Boulevard. The Commissioners had several questions
regarding development of this corridor and the funding involved and how to utilize
government funding to assist the private sector for development of the area.
Commissioner Wade suggested that a meeting be arranged between State officials,
representatives of Hunters Green, the County government, and investors.
1996 Legislative Issues
The Commissioners discussed the issue of casino gambling in Maryland and informed
GHC members that they have sent a letter to Governor Glendening advising him that
they are in opposition to legalization of casino gambling in the State. Mr. Alter
stated that the GHC has not taken a position on the issue.
Commissioner Snook informed the GHC that the County is going to continue its
position on reforestation and ask for an exemption for planned industrial parks.
Mr. Alter indicated that he had discussed this issue with Secretary Brady.
The Commissioners also discussed the proposed income tax reductions by the State.
Rodney Shoop, County Administrator, stated that he believes that the State will
reduce its income tax allocations, and the County staff is looking at ways to
determine core County services. A discussion of economic development in
Washington County followed.
The Commissioners reviewed the current funding requirements for education and
indicated that legislation is submitted this year to provide more authority to
county government officials on how funding for education is spent.
Ft. Ritchie Closing
The Commissioners discussed the base reuse for Ft. Ritchie. Commissioner Snook
noted that the applications for Executive Director for Base Reuse are in and are
being reviewed by the Executive Committee.
Commissioner Shank suggested that the Chamber of Commerce Legislative Committee be
included at the next meeting when legislative issues are on the agenda.
Mr. Phoebus expressed concerns regarding the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance
APFO) and how it will apply for new businesses coming in to Washington County.
The Commissioners indicated that they will be reviewing this issue again to refine
its application.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion made by Commissioner Wade, seconded by Downey, to adjourn at 11:07 a.m.
Unanimously approved.
County Administrator
County Attorney