HAGERSTOWN, MD News (9/16/2024) – The Washington County Board of County Commissioners is set to meet on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, to address a range of important topics, including legal consultations, public safety initiatives, a proclamation for Citizens’ Emergency Preparedness Month, and budget adjustments for several county projects. The meeting will also feature discussions on business incentives, infrastructure updates, and a special proposal for a George Washington statue to commemorate the county’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
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Meeting Agenda Overview
The session will commence at 8:00 AM with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by President John F. Barr’s call to order. The board will begin with the approval of minutes from previous meetings held on August 12 and August 27, 2024.
Closed Session for Legal and Litigation Discussions
Shortly after the initial proceedings, the commissioners will enter their first closed session at 8:05 AM. This closed-door discussion will focus on obtaining legal advice regarding ongoing and potential litigation matters. The discussion will be protected by attorney-client privilege and is expected to cover sensitive litigation strategies that could disadvantage the county if discussed publicly.
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Open Session and Citizen Participation
The board will reconvene in open session at 9:00 AM, with reports and comments from the commissioners. The meeting will then open up to public participation at 9:20 AM, allowing citizens to voice their concerns or provide feedback on county matters.
Proclamation for Emergency Preparedness
One of the central items on the agenda is a proclamation declaring Citizens’ Emergency Preparedness Month. This will be presented at 9:30 AM to Alan Matheny, the Director of Emergency Management. The proclamation is aimed at raising awareness and encouraging Washington County residents to stay prepared for emergencies.
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Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance and George Washington Statue Proposal
At 9:40 AM, the board will hear a request regarding the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO) mitigation for Elmwood Farm, Section 5C, presented by attorney William Wantz. Following that, a notable proposal for a George Washington statue to mark the 250th anniversaries of both Washington County and the signing of the Declaration of Independence will be discussed. County Administrator Michelle Gordon and committee member Tom Riford will lead the conversation, with plans set for unveiling the statue in the summer of 2026.
Budget Adjustments and Contract Renewals
Several budget and contract items are also slated for discussion. At 10:05 AM, budget adjustments for the Public Safety Training Center will be presented by Director of Emergency Services, R. David Hays. Additionally, the board will review contract renewals for sheriff’s uniforms, fire hose performance testing, and bulk road salt delivery, among other procurement items.
Water and Sewer Policy Update and Economic Development
The Water and Sewer Policy update will be presented by Mark Bradshaw, Director of Environmental Management, at 10:20 AM. The board will also address a financial incentive agreement with Duvinage, LLC, which may be in default. This discussion, led by Linda Spence, Financial Programs Administrator, and Jonathan Horowitz, Director of Business and Economic Development, could have significant implications for local business development.
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Second Closed Session for Personnel and Cybersecurity Matters
The meeting will enter a second closed session at 10:45 AM. This session will focus on personnel matters, including employee retention and performance evaluations within various county departments. Legal advice will also be sought regarding county meeting rules and potential legislative issues. Additionally, the session will cover sensitive discussions on the county’s cybersecurity efforts, including updates on the Information Technology Department’s work with a consultant.
Conclusion of the Meeting
The meeting will reconvene in open session at approximately 12:45 PM, before adjourning for the day. Citizens interested in attending or participating are encouraged to contact the Office of the County Commissioners for further information or special accommodations.
Story by multiple RFHC contributors
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