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MARYLAND
Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland
Open Session Minutes
August 26, 2025
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Invocation presented by Pastor Les McIntosh, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by the
full assemblage.
CALL TO ORDER
President John F. Barr called the regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Washington
County, Maiyland, to order at 9:02 a.m. with the following members present: Vice-President Jeffrey
A. Cline, Commissioner Derek Harvey, Commissioner Randal A. Leatherman and Commissioner
Randall E. Wagner.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to approve the minutes of July 15,
2025. The motion passed unanimously (4-0-1). Commissioner Leatherman abstained.
COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Commissioner Wagner thanked staff for setting up the booths at MACo and their hard work and
preparation for the conference. He thanked the Washington County Soil Conservation for hosting an
open house for their 85th anniversaiy. Commissioner Wagner attended the Pittsburgh Institute of
Aeronautics (PIA) graduation. He commented on the success of the PIA program.
Commissioner Leathe1man encouraged the public to be aware with students returning back to school.
He commented on school bus stop safety. Commissioner Leatherman shared that Washington County
Public Schools have relaunched their new website which can be found at WCPSMD.com.
Commissioner Harvey attended Augustoberfest at the Washington County Agricultural Center. He
attended the C&O Canal Days. Commissioner Harvey commented on the success of National Night
out in the various municipalities. He shared the Washington County Volunteer Fire Association held
their monthly meeting. Commissioner Harvey shared his wishes for Washington County Public
Schools success on the new school year. He provided information on the Williamsport School issues.
Commissioner Harvey discussed the Freedom of Information Act requests and costs associated with
the requests.
Commissioner Cline thanked staff who represented Washington County at MACo. He attended the
Washington County Soil Conservation anniversaiy celebration and recognized Dee Price.
Commissioner Cline attended the PIA graduation. He attended Augustoberfest. Commissioner Cline
attended National Night Out in Boonsboro. He attended Krumpe's Donut Alley Rally SK.
Commissioner Cline attended the Leitersburg Peach Festival. He attended the C&O Canal Days in
Williamsport. Commissioner Cline attended multiple fire company events in the County.
Commissioner Barr thanked Pastor McIntosh for the Invocation. He attended the MACo Summer
Conference and shared information discussed during the conference. Commissioner Barr thanked staff
who represented the County at the booth at MACo. He attended the Washington County Soil
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OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
Conversation anniversary celebration and recognized Dee Price. Commissioner Barr attended the
Leitersburg Peach Festival. He shared information received from the MDOT meeting at MACo.
STAFF COMMENTS
Brandi Kentner, Director, Purchasing, recognized Carin Bakner for her completion of the Procurement
Certified Buyers Cet1ificate. The Board of County Commissioners presented a Cet1ificate of
Recognition to Ms. Bakner.
Michelle Gordon, County Administrator, attended the Maryland Theater Board meeting. She shared
that the County recently received a 2.8 million dollar grant passing through the State for design of our
Transit Facility and we hosted a tour of the facility with representatives from the Maryland Department
of Transportation (MDOT). Ms. Gordon attended the funeral and celebration of life services for
employees Derek Bish and Darrius Hutzle. She offered her condolences to their families. Ms. Gordon
attended the MACo Summer Conference, and she thanked staff from Business and Economic
Development and Public Relations for the County booth and for their presentation of information
regarding the County. She attended the County Administrator's meeting, the MDOT transp011ation
meeting and met with Senator April Delainey at MACo. Ms. Gordon shared an update on information
received from the MDOT transpot1ation meeting. She also shared the many topics and funding
priorities that were discussed at the MACo conference.
Michelle Gordon, County Administrator, recited two decisions from the Open Meetings Act
Compliance Board.
1. PUBLIC HEARING -REQUESTS BY ORGANIZATIONS TO BE ADDED TO THE LIST
OF NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS TO WHICH THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS MAY CONTRIBUTE FUNDS, PURSUANT TO SECTION 1-108 OF THE
CODE OF THE PUBLIC LOCAL LAWS OF WASHINGTON COUNTY, MARYLAND (THE
"1-108 LIST)
President Bal1' convened a Public Hearing at 9:30 a.m. to obtain public comment for requests for
organizations to be added to thel-108 list of nonprofit organizations to which the Board of County
Commissioner may contribute funds.
Commissioner Wagner left the meeting at 9:30 a.m. and returned at 9:31 a.m.
Zachary J. Kieffer, County Attorney, presented the Board may approve inclusion of one or more
organizations to the 1-108 list or may take the matter under advisement for action at a later date. The
following non-profit organizations have submitted letters of request to be added to the 1-108 List:
Shield for All Seasons, Inc.; Senior Services Network, Inc.; Mt. Aetna Volunteer Fire Department;
Mediation First, Inc.; Legal Aid Bureau, Inc. dba Maryland Legal Aid; Good News Hagerstown, Inc.;
Global Vision Christian School Broadfording; First Hose Fire Company of Boonsboro; Fierce Cheer
Sponsors, Inc.; Congregation B'nai Abraham; Cibus Mission; and Boonsboro Town Alliance.
The Public Hearing was opened for public comment:
Cm1is Reigh
Recess
Shaun P011er
Michael Armel
Ron Humbel
Denise Cintron
Sandrine Mabaya
Shawn Boward
Cassandra Clements
The Public Hearing was opened for Commissioner questions.
The Public Hearing was closed at 10:14 a.m.
The Public Hearing was opened for Commissioner comments.
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OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
The Commissioners requested additional information to review. This item will be brought back at a
future meeting.
2. PUBLIC HEARING: APPLICATION FOR ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT RZ-25-005,
ACCESSORY DWELLINGS UNITS
President Barr convened a Public Hearing at 10:20 a.m. to obtain public comment for the application
for Zoning Text Amendment RZ-25-005, Accessory Dwelling Units.
The County Clerk administered the Oath of Testimony.
Travis Allen, Senior Planner, Planning and Zoning, and Jill Baker, Director, Planning and Zoning,
presented for the purpose to take public comment on the rezoning application. Application has been
made to amend several sections of the Zoning Ordinance to pe1mit the creation of a new housing type
in the County, Accesso1y Dwelling Units (ADU).
The Public Hearing was opened for public comment:
Shaun Porter
Nancy Allen
The Public Hearing was opened for Commissioner questions.
The Public Hearing was closed at 10:37 a.m.
The Public Hearing was opened for Commissioner comments.
The Commissioners will take the information received under advisement.
3. FORGET-ME-NOT MONTHS {SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER, NOVEMBER 2025)
PROCLAMATION
The Board of County Commissioners presented a proclamation to the Disabled American Veterans
Organization for Forget-Me-Not months.
CONVENE AS THE WASHINGTON COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Conunissioner Leatherman, moved to convene as the Board of
Health at 10:49 a.m. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
4. SOR IV {STATE OPIOID RESPONSE) ADOLESCENT CLUBHOUSE
Earl Stoner, Health Officer, Washington County Health Depmtment, presented that the Health
Department is recommending that the Board of Health award the contract to Horizon Goodwill
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OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
Industries of Washington County in the Amount of$252,900.00, for the contract period of July 1, 2025,
through June 30, 2026, for the SOR IV (State Opioid Response) Clubhouse.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to approve the Board of Health
award the contract to Horizon Goodwill, as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
RECONVENE AS BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, WAHSINGTON COUNTY
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to reconvene as the Board of County
Commissioners, Washington County, Maryland at 10:50 a.m. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
5. ADOPTION OF THE 2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY
Jill Baker, Director, Planning and Zoning, presented the request to approve the adoption of the 2040
Comprehensive Plan. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on January 13, 2025, to present
the final draft of the Plan and received public comment. After consideration of the comments received,
the Planning Commission made some adjustments and recommended the final draft as presented to the
Board of County Commissioners for adoption. The Board held a public hearing on June 13, 2025, on
the Planning Commission recommended document. The Board has now considered all the inf01mation
received during the public comment period which ended at the close of the public hearing.
Commissioner Cline, seconded by Commissioner Harvey, moved to approve the 2040 Comprehensive
Plan; with the suggested amendments as included in the packet; with an effective date of October 1,
2025, as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
6. AMENDMENTS TO THE ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES ORDINANCE fAPFO) AND
THE BUILDING EXCISE TAX ORDINANCE (BETO) CONTINUED FROM JUNE 3, 2025
Jill Baker, Director, Planning and Zoning, presented the request to approve the proposed Amendments
to the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance. A public hearing was held for these proposed amendments
on May 6, 2025. There was a subsequent meeting held on June 3, 2025, to discuss the comments and
testimony provided at the public hearing. Staff recommended not going below the I. 75 per square foot
for residential. Staff suggested increasing the routine building permits to 50 per year and the apartment
and condo building permits to 50 per year. Staff recommended an effective date July 1, 2026. Staff
proposed a review of the APFO every two years.
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Wagner, moved to approve the Adequate Public
Facilities Ordinance as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
7. ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES ORDINANCE fAPFO) MITIGATION PROPOSAL -
ELMWOOD FARM SECTION SD
Jill Baker, Director, Planning and Zoning; and William C. Wantz, Attorney, representing developers
of Elmwood Farm Section 5D, Jim Fitzgerald, Developer, and John Dalavalle, Developer, presented
the request to approve an APFO school mitigation plan for Section 5D of the Elmwood Farms
subdivision. The developer is now submitting a mitigation plan to provide a monetary contribution of
$5,000.00 per lot (for a total of $95,000.00 for the 19 lots). The request to increase the AMC
contribution to $5,000 per lot will assist the Board in accumulating revenue that will help pay for the
construction of new schools.
Commissioner Cline, seconded by Commissioner Wagner, moved to approve the Adequate Public
Facilities Ordinance mitigation proposal-Elmwood Farm Section D as presented. The motion passed
unanimously (5-0).
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OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
8. SOLE SOURCE A WARD (PUR-1767} VESTA 9-1-1 HARDWARE REFRESH UPGRADE
FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
Brandi Kentner, Director, Purchasing; and Alan Matheny, Director, Emergency Management and
Communications, presented the request to award a contract for the purchase and installation of Vesta
9-1-1 Hardware Refresh Upgrade, all related hardware and software to Carousel Industries of Newport
News, VA, for the total proposal value of $2,306,963.76, which includes annual maintenance and
support for five years at $70,760.00 per year. The award is contingent upon the County Attorney's
approval of the final Service Agreement between the County and the recommended vendor.
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Wagner, moved to award the contract for the
purchase and installation of Vesta 9-1-1 Hardware Refresh Upgrade to Carousel Industries as presented.
The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
9. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATIVE PURCHASE (INTG-25-0202) AUTOMATED
SPEED ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM -WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
Brandi Kentner, Director, Purchasing; and Colonel Pete Lazich, Washington County Sheriffs Office
presented the request to authorize by Resolution, the approval for the Washington County Sheriff's
Office to enter into a contract to lease Automated Speed Enforcement System, at a cost of $3,499.00
per month (per unit), speed enforcement system cameras from Altumint, of Lanham, MD and to utilize
another jurisdiction's contract (RFP No. Purch 2024-049) that was awarded by Calve1t County
Depa1iment of Finance & Budget Purchasing Office. The award is contingent upon approval of the
final contract agreement by the County Attorney's Office.
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to authorize by Resolution, the
approval to enter into a contract to lease Automated Speed Enforcement System from Altumint as
presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
10. CONTRACT AWARD (PUR-1640} EIGHT (8) PORTABLE LAW ENFORCEMENT
RADIOS AND ACCESSORIES FOR THE WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S
DEPARTMENT
Brandi Kentner, Director, Purchasing; Major Todd Kerns, Patrol Commander, Washington County
Sheriff's Office; and Tom Weber, Deputy Director, Wireless Communications, presented the request
to authorize the Washington County Sheriff Department to utilize the Communications Systems and
Service Sole Source contract PUR-1640 with Motorola for the purchase of eight (8) portable law
enforcement radios and accessories from Motorola Solutions, Inc. of Linthicum, MD for a total sum
amount of$86,994.88.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to authorize the purchase of
eight (8) portable law enforcement radios and accessories from Motorola Solutions, Inc. as presented.
The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
11. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATIVE PURCHASE (INTG-25-0203} -PURCHASE
OF FOUR (4} NEW 2025 TRAIL KING TRAILERS FOR THE WASHINGTON COUNTY
HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT
Brandi Kentner, Director, Purchasing; and Zane Rowe, Deputy Director, Highways Depaiiment,
presented the request to authorize, by Resolution, for the Washington County Highway Depaitment to
purchase four (4) New 2025 Trail King 40-ton Trailers TK40RB from Cleveland Brothers of
Bridgeport, WV, for the amount of$277,202.00 and to utilize another jurisdiction's contract (092922-
TKI) that was awarded by Sourcewell to Trail King.
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OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to authorize, by Resolution,
the purchase of four (4) New 2025 Trail King 40-ton Trailers TK40RB from Cleveland Brothers as
presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
12. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATIVE PURCHASE (INTG-25-0204) LINE
STRIPING OF COUNTY ROADS
Brandi Kentner, Director, Purchasing; Doug Levine, Traffic Supervisor, Highways Department; and
Andrew Eshelman, Director, Public Works, presented the request to authorize by Resolution, for the
Highway Depa1iment to utilize the Howard County, Maiyland line striping contract 4400004812 / PA-
096-2023 with Alpha Space Control, LLC. of Chambersburg, PA for line striping of 1,635,514 !inear
feet at $.107 a linear foot on various roads within the County in the amount of$175,000.00.
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to authorize by Resolution to utilize
the Howard County, Ma1yland line striping contract (4400004812 / PA-096-2023) with Alpha Space
Control, LLC, for line striping and to double the amount for a total of $350,000.00. (The additional
$175,000.00 funding will be derived from reserves.) The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
13. CONTRACT AWARD (PUR-1751) EAST SIDE TERMINAL
EXPANSION/REHABILITATION AT THE HAGERSTOWN REGIONAL AIRPORT
Andrew Eshleman, Director, Public Works; and Neil Doran, Director, Hagerstown Regional Airport,
presented the request to award the contract for East Side Terminal Building Expansion/Rehabilitation
Base Bid and Add Alternate # I to Callas Contractors, LLC of Hagerstown, MD, for the total price of
$3,287,000.00 and to execute Contract Change Order #1 in the amount of $102,930.00 removing the
value of furnishings from the base bid project cost so they may be rebid under a separate contract; and
to empower the BOCC President to execute a proposal from ADCI, Inc. to provide construction phase
services in the amount of$652,207.00.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to approve to award the contract for
East Side Terminal Building Expansion/Rehabilitation Base Bid and Add Alternate # I to Callas
Contractors, LLC and to execute Contract Change Order # I as presented. The motion passed
unanimously ( 4-0-1 ). Commissioner BatT abstained from the vote.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to approve to empower the Board of
County Commissioners President to execute a proposal from ADCI, Inc. to provide construction phase
services as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
14. POTOMAC EDISON EASEMENT REQUEST
Todd Moser, Real Property Administrator, Engineering; and Andrew Eshleman, Director, Public
Works, presented the request to approve the Potomac Edison easement and to authorize the execution
of the necessary documentation to finalize the easement. Potomac Edison has requested an easement
for an underground circuit along road frontage of Black Rock Golf Course. The easement would be
ten ( I 0) feet in width.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to approve the Potomac
Edison easement request along Black Rock Golf Course as presented. The motion passed unanimously
(5-0).
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OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
15. FY26 SENIOR CITIZEN ACTIVITIES CENTER OPERATING FUND GRANT -
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT A WARDED FUNDING
Richard Lesh, Grant Manager, Grant Management; and Sandy Wood, COO, Washington County
Commission on Aging, presented the request to approve the acceptance of funding awarded under the
Senior Citizens Activities Center Operating Fund Grant program from the Maryland Depmiment of
Aging in the amount of $28,601.00, which will be utilized to offset the cost of salaries for the Senior
Center staff. The grant performance period is from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. There is no
matching fund requirement for this grant.
Commissioner Cline, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to approve the acceptance of funding
awarded under the Senior Citizens Activities Center Operating Fund Grant program as presented. The
motion passed unanimously (5-0).
16. 2025 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PERFORMANCE GRANT -APPROVAL TO
RATIFY THE SUBMISSION OF THE GRANT APPLICATION AND ACCEPT AWARDED
FUNDING
Cody Swope, Emergency Management Specialist, Emergency Management; and Richard Lesh, Grant
Manager, Grant Management, requested ratification of the submission of the application for the
Emergency Management Performance Grant Program to the Mmyland Depatiment of Emergency
Management (MDEM) agency and approval to accept the funding as awarded by the agency. Due to
the delayed release of the Notice of Funding Opportunity from the State Emergency Management
Agency and the constricted application submission deadline, they proceeded to sign and submit the
grant application on the deadline (August 6, 2025). The expected amount of the grant is $93,022.39.
The performance period for the grant is from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2027. There is
a 100% fund match requirement for this grant which will be accomplished by using the Director of
Emergency Management salary as in-kind services.
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Wagner, moved to approve the ratification of the
application for the Emergency Management Perfo1mance Grant and to accept funding as awarded as
presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
17. STATE HOMELAND SECURITY GRANT PROGRAM-APPROVAL TO RATIFY THE
SUBMISSION OF THE GRANT APPLICATION AND ACCEPT A WARDED FUNDING
Cody Swope, Emergency Management Specialist, Emergency Management; and Richard Lesh, Grant
Manager, Grant Management, requested ratification of the submission of the application for the State
Homeland Security Grant to the Ma1yland Emergency Management Agency and approval to accept the
funding as awarded by the agency. Due to the delayed release of the Notice of Funding Opportunity
from the State Emergency Management Agency and the constricted application submission deadline,
they proceeded to sign and submit the grant application on the deadline (August 6, 2025). The expected
amount of the grant is $153,703.91. The performance period of the grant is October 1, 2025, through
August 31, 2028. There is no matching fund requirement for this grant.
Commissioner Leatherman, seconded by Commissioner Wagner, moved to approve the ratification of
the application for the State Homeland Security Grant and to accept funding as presented. The motion
passed unanimously (5-0).
18. USTA GRANT FUNDING TO RESURFACE WCPS TENNIS COURTS
Timothy Alexander, Assistant Parks Supervisor, Public Works, Parks and Facilities; and Maria Kramer,
Director, Grant Management, presented the request to approve the grant application for and acceptance
Page 8 of 12
OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
of capital funding from the USTA (United States Tennis Association) for tennis court rehabilitation
and resurfacing up to $625,000.00. The grant requires a 50% funding match; funds are available in the
parks CIP budget Hard Court Resurfacing account.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Harvey, moved to approve the grant application
from the United States Tennis Association and accept funding as presented. The motion passed
unanimously (5-0).
19. MOU BETWEEN THE TOWN OF SMITHSBURG AND THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS OF WASHINGTON COUNTY
Greg Caiirette, Director/Code Official, Permits and Inspections; and Rosalinda Pascual, Deputy County
Attorney, presented the request to approve and accept the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
between the Town of Smithsburg and the Board of County Commissioners. The Town of Smithsburg
has requested that Washington County Division of Permits & Inspections take over the building
permits, collection of fees and building inspections inside the town limits of Smithsburg, with an
effective date of September I, 2025. The County will receive 75% of the revenue of building permits
received inside of the Town of Smithsburg.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Leathe1man, moved to approve and accept the
Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of Smithsburg and the Board of County
Commissioners as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
21. EMS STAFFING TRANSITION DISCUSSION, VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY OF
HALFWAY
Chip Rose, Director, Human Resources; and R. David Hays, Director, Emergency Services, presented
the request to approve to hire three (3) of the twelve (12) approved positions as lieutenants for the EMS
employee transition of the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway (VFCH), and, to include transitioning
the cutTent part time EMS employees into county employment under the terms and conditions of the
Staffing MOU. The three (3) lieutenants would be included as a part of the 12 positions that were
authorized to hire in the June 3, 2025, Open Session presentation to the BOCC.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to approve to hire three (3)
lieutenants for the EMS employee transition at the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway as presented.
The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
22. AMENDMENT TO COUNTY REAL TAX CREDIT ORDINANCE FOR FALLEN
HEROES
Aaron Weiss, Assistant County Attorney, presented the request to adopt the amended Washington
County Property Tax Credit Ordinance for Fallen Heroes. Effective June I, 2025, Senate Bill 502 of
the 2025 Maryland General Assembly's Regular Session, the scope of Section 9-210 of the Property
Tax Article has been expanded. Notably, the new statute allows a local government to expand the scope
of eligibility for property tax credits to include correctional and judicial officers.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to adopt the amended
Washington County Property Tax Credit Ordinance for Fallen Heroes as presented. The motion passed
unanimously (5-0).
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OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
23. SHERIFF'S OFFICE: TOWN OF FUNKSTOWN COMMUNITY DEPUTY AGREEMENT
AND WCPS SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER MOU
Zachaiy Kieffer, County Attorney presented to request (I) to approve the Community Deputy
Agreement between the Town of Funkstown, Washington County Sheriffs Office and Board of County
Commissioners. (1) Community Deputy Agreement governs te1ms and conditions under which the
Sheriffs Office provides a Community Deputy to the Town of Funkstown.; and (2) to approve the
School Resource Officer Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Board of Education,
Sheriffs Office and Board of County Commissioners. (2) School Resource Officer MOU governs the
terms and conditions under which the Sheriffs Office renders special law enforcement services for
public schools within the jurisdiction of the Sheriff's Office.
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to approve (1) the Community
Deputy Agreement between the Town of Funkstown, the Washington County Sheriffs Office and the
Board of County Commissioners as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Harvey, moved to approve (2) the School Resource
Officer Memorandum of Understanding as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
20. PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT: PARAMEDIC PROGRAM
R. David Hays, Director, Emergency Services; Kevin Lewis, Deputy Director, Emergency Services;
and Dr. James Klauber, President, Hagerstown Community College, presented the request to approve
to enter a Partnership Agreement with Hagerstown Community College for the Paramedic Program,
collaboratively administered between the Division of Emergency Services (DES) and Hagerstown
Community College (HCC). The purpose of this agreement is to establish the terms, obligations, and
responsibilities of and between HCC and Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to provide
collective oversight and training for the Paramedic Program. The Partnership Agreement's content and
program structure remain consistent with the previous Memorandum of Understanding.
Michelle Gordon, County Administrator, shared that there is a 70/30 split of tuition. The County retains
70% of the tuition and HCC retains 30% of the tuition to recognize the cost sharing a1Tangement.
Commissioner Cline, seconded by Commissioner Wagner, moved to approve to enter into a Partnership
Agreement with Hagerstown Community College for the Paramedic Program as presented. The motion
passed unanimously (5-0).
24. INTERFAITH SERVICE COALITION, MARTHA'S HOUSE, COMMISSIONER
CONTINGENCY FUNDING REQUEST
Michelle Gordon, County Administrator; and JeITy Spencer, Interfaith Service Coalition, presented the
request to approve, for one-time use of Commissioner Contingency funding for the Interfaith Service
Coalition (ISC), in an amount not to exceed $39,000.00 for one-time expenses associated with the
foundation repairs to Martha's House in Hancock, MD. ISC has provided staff with all requested
documents, and a building and zoning permit (HK2025-0013) was issued to their selected contractor
on June 9, 2025. Staff recommended that funds be disbursed on a reimbursement basis and will require
ISC to submit proof of work completed from the contractor prior to payment.
Commissioner Cline, seconded by Commissioner Wagner, moved to amend the amount to a one-time
funding for the Interfaith Service Coalition for Martha's House in the amount ofup to $44,000.00. The
motion passed unanimously (5-0).
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OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
25. HAGERSTOWN REGIONAL AIRPORT ADVISORY COMMISSION APPOINTMENT
Dawn Marcus, County Clerk, presented the request to appoint Aaron Vittini to serve a pmiial term
through October 31, 2026, on the Airport Advisory Commission.
Commissioner Wagner, seconded by Commissioner Harvey, moved to approve the appointment of
Aaron Vittini as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
26. WASHINGTON COUNTY BOARD OF SOCIAL SERVICES -APPOINTMENT
Dawn Marcus, County Clerk, presented the request to appoint Canie Johnson to serve a partial term
through June 30, 2027, on the Board of Social Services; and to appoint Lt. Andrew Lewis, to serve a
pmiial term through June 30, 2026, on the Board of Social Services. Ms. Marcus noted a correction to
the ARF date for Carrie Johnson.
Commissioner Cline, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to approve the appointments of
Carrie Johnson and Lt. Andrew Lewis as presented. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
CLOSED SESSION
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to convene in closed session
at 12:16 p.m. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
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. (1 ).
Personnel matters are confidential, precluding discussion in open session.
• Discussion related to reclassification of position in Sheriff's Office.
• Hiring Recommendation for open County position.
• Hiring Recommendation for open County position.
• Discussion of discipline of County employee.
• Discussion of discipline of County employee.
• Discussion ofreclassification or repurpose of County position.
To consider the acquisition of real property for a public purpose (3).
• Open session discussion would disadvantage and weaken County bargaining
position.
To consider a matter that concerns the proposal for a business or industrial organization to locate,
expand, or remain in the State. Open session discussion would deter business from active engagement
in discussion ( 4 ).
• Discussion ofretention of national chain.
To consult with counsel to obtain legal advice on a legal matter (7). Open session discussion would
breach attorney/client privilege.
• Status update and legal advice from County Attorney on County-involved legal
matter.
• Legal advice from outside council pertaining to settlement of litigation.
To consult with staff about pending litigation (8). Open session discussion would divulge confidential
litigation strategies and case theories and settlement discussions.
• Discussion of upcoming arbitration hearing.
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OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
To discuss public security. Public Body has determined open session discussion would constitute risk
to public safety. (10)
• Discussion of security of County facilities.
In closed session, the Commissioners discussed and reached a consensus to:
• Legal advice regarding settlement litigation;
• Reclassification of a Deputy position to Sergeant, Sheriff's Office;
• Hiring of Pretreatment Coordinator position in Water Quality;
• Hiring of Assistant Maintenance Supervisor, Environmental Management;
• Discipline and/or removal of County employees;
• Reclassification of Permit Systems Specialist to Permit Operations Manager,
Permits and Inspections;
• Arbitration hearing;
• Security of County facilities;
• Consideration of property acquisition;
• Retention of business of a national chain; and
• Received legal advice and updates on pending litigation matters for which the
County is a party.
Present during closed session at various times were Commissioners John F. Barr, Jeffrey A. Cline,
Derek Harvey, Randal A. Leatherman and Randall E. Wagner: Dawn L. Marcus, County Clerk and
Zachary J. Kieffer, County Attorney; Michelle Gordon, County Administrator; Rosalinda Pascual,
Deputy County Attorney; Aaron Weiss, Assistant County Attorney; Victor Scarpelli, Assistant County
Attorney; Bruce Poole, Counsel; Brian Albert, Sheriff, Washington County Sheriff's Office; Chip
Rose, Director Human Resources; Davina Yutzy, Deputy Director, Water Quality; Mark Bradshaw,
Director, Environmental Management; Alan Matheny, Director, Emergency Management and
Communications; Greg Cartrette, Director/Code Official, Pe1mits and Inspections; Andrew Eshleman,
Director, Public Works; Scott Hobbs, Director Engineering; Jonathan Horowitz, Director, Business and
Economic Development; and Linda Spence, Financial Programs Administrator, Business and
Economic Development.
RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Leatherman, moved to reconvene in open session
at 4: 15 p.m. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
RECESS
EVENING MEETING WITH THE TOWN OF KEEDYSVILLE
Location: 100 West Washington Stre.et, Hagerstown, Maryland 21740
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Invocation presented by President John Ban·, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by the
full assemblage.
CALL TO ORDER
President John F. Barr called the evening meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of
Washington County, Maryland, to order at 6:01 p.m. with the following members present: Vice-
President Jeffrey A. Cline, Commissioner Derek Harvey, Commissioner Randal A. Leatherman, and
Commissioner Randall E. Wagner.
Page 12 of 12
OPEN Session, August 26, 2025
TOWN OF KEEDYSVILLE LEADERS' REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Mayor Ken Lord thanked the County Commissioners for hosting the meeting. He introduced the
Town's topics of discussion. Mayor Lord shared the benefits of having residential deputy, Dakota
Watkins. He shared information on the Town's meetings.
Town Administrator, Lisa Riner discussed golf cai1 regulations; and planning for the 250111 anniversary
celebration.
Council Member, Judy Kerns discussed the housing developments and education funding; strategies
for addressing homelessness; cardiac rehabilitation appointment issues at Hagerstown Heart; and storm
response times.
Council Member, Sarah Baker discussed annual property tax credits for first responders; planning for
the 250th anniversary celebration; and fees paid for the residential deputy program.
COMMISSIONERS' AND COUNTY ADMINSTRATORS' REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Commissioner Wagner thanked the town for attending the meeting. He welcomed the Town to join in
on the 250th anniversary celebration.
Commissioner Leatherman shared a memory of a sign slogan on the outskii1s of the Town. He
discussed the stocking of fish in Antietam Creek.
Commissioner Harvey thanked the Town for attending the meeting. He discussed the storm response
times. Commissioner Harvey asked the Town to remind of their events that they have in the fall. He
discussed the resident deputy program.
Commissioner Cline shared information on emergency response during the April storm.
Commissioner Ban· welcomed the Town's members. He shared information regarding the Town Hall
and his fondness for the area. Commissioner Ban looks fo1ward to working together with Keedysville
for the 250th anniversary. He shared the importance of small town America.
Michelle Gordon, County Administrator, shared information regarding golf cai1 regulations; she
discussed the County Highway Facility at Route 34; education funding needs due to new housing
developments; County benefits available for first responders and career staff; the cost for prope11y tax
credits; information on agencies who assist with homelessness; information on the 250111 anniversaiy
celebration; Opioid settlement funding; expansion of public transpo11ation; appointment issues with
Hagerstown Hea11; storm response times and the opening of em~rgency centers for the citizens and
extra services the County provided to the citizens with storm damage.
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Harvey, seconded by Commissioner Cline, moved to adjourn at 6:33 p.m. The motion
passed unanimously (5-0).
G &viJ,y ~{ l<4
I I \
Dawn L. Marcus, County Clerk