Hagerstown City Council Discusses Historic Locomotive Preservation, Approves Housing Plan and Incentives for Local Business

Hagerstown, MD – The Hagerstown Mayor and City Council convened for a special session on August 12th, 2025, addressing key community initiatives including the approval of the city’s five-year consolidated plan and annual action plan for federal housing assistance, a financial incentive for a local business, and extensive discussions on the preservation of a historic locomotive, the future of the Washington County Historical Society, and updates on city ordinances. Residents can anticipate continued investment in housing programs and potential economic development through the approved measures.

During the session, the council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the city to file an application for financial assistance with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This application seeks $791,400.36 for the city’s FY2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Program. The approval also authorizes staff to make necessary administrative edits to the program budget, ensuring alignment with final funding allocations. This initiative aims to support the city’s housing and community development efforts, potentially impacting the availability and quality of housing for residents.

In a separate economic development measure, the Mayor and City Council approved a financial incentive agreement with Motherland Kitchen LLC. This agreement provides a grant of up to $34,329, funded from the economic incentives line item within the economic redevelopment fund. The agreement supersedes a previous grant and sets a project completion deadline of October 15, 2025. This move signifies the city’s commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth within Hagerstown.

A significant portion of the work session meeting was dedicated to the discussion surrounding Locomotive 202, a historic train car currently situated in Hagerstown. Representatives from the “Save Locomotive 202” initiative presented their case for the city’s commitment to preserving the locomotive in Hagerstown. They highlighted the potential for cosmetic restoration costing approximately $275,000 and outlined a plan that includes community involvement, fundraising, and educational outreach. The group emphasized the locomotive’s historical significance and the desire to keep it as a community asset. The council engaged in a lengthy discussion, weighing the options of retaining the locomotive in Hagerstown versus transferring it to another entity, such as the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. This decision is critical for the preservation of local heritage and has involved significant public interest.

The council also heard a presentation from the Washington County Historical Society, which outlined its mission to preserve and promote the history of Washington County, Maryland. The society highlighted its role in preserving significant local landmarks and its ongoing efforts to operate the Miller House Museum and the Kinship Family Heritage Research Center. Discussions touched upon the society’s financial needs and potential future projects, including the development of a new curatorial facility. The council’s decisions regarding support for the Historical Society will impact the preservation and accessibility of local historical resources for residents.

Further discussions covered updates and proposed changes to city ordinances. The council reviewed Chapter 142, the loitering ordinance, identifying sections that are no longer enforced or deemed unconstitutional and requiring amendment. Additionally, the nuisance abatement ordinance, Chapter 185, was discussed, focusing on definitions, enforcement procedures, and timelines. This review of ordinances aims to modernize city code and ensure its relevance and effectiveness. The council also acknowledged a $50,000 grant from the Chesapeake Bay Trust for tree planting initiatives, reinforcing the city’s commitment to environmental improvement.

The meeting also included a discussion on a wastewater deduct meter for South Hagerstown High School, aimed at accurately billing for irrigation water usage. The council heard from city staff regarding the potential impact on water resource management and rate structures, indicating that further analysis will be presented on this matter.

In an operational update, the Hagerstown Police Department provided details on a recent incident involving a stolen ATV and handgun, highlighting the effective use of technology, including drones and surveillance cameras, in apprehending suspects. This showcased the department’s advancements in law enforcement technology and its commitment to public safety.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the City of Hagerstown meeting.

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