Smithsburg Town Council Honors Residents and Discusses Cloverly Development Plans

The Smithsburg Town Council convened for its regular meeting on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, beginning with special recognitions for dedicated community members and proceeding to address significant town matters, including infrastructure development and a proposed special taxing district for the Cloverly development.

The evening commenced with the acknowledgment of Norman Potter for his extensive volunteer work and past service as a dedicated town employee. His contributions, particularly his well-known food truck ventures that engage with the community, were celebrated. Following this, Nancy Steele, the assistant clerk, was presented with a certificate of appreciation for her first year of service and commitment to providing outstanding service to Smithsburg citizens. The council emphasized the vital role of volunteers like Potter and the town’s staff, including the police department, public works, and office personnel, in the effective functioning of the local government and the community.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reports on town management and ongoing projects. Town Manager Brian Brandt, along with delegate representatives, met with the State Highway Administration and RK&K to discuss improvements to the Water Street project and the intersection of Water and Main Streets. The ongoing challenge of securing funding for infrastructure, particularly road repairs, was noted. Discussions also touched upon the State Highway Administration’s current policy of not accepting roads back, which could impact future discussions. Furthermore, the town is exploring a sidewalk project enhancing connectivity to the elementary school. The potential for a crosswalk leading into Veterans Park from West Water Street was also discussed.

In collaboration with the town attorney, a meeting was held with the Washington County Historical District regarding a potential tax credit program. This program would require the town to opt into a system that would allow property owners with historical properties to seek tax credits. More information regarding this initiative is expected.

Additionally, council members participated in discussions with Washington County staff concerning the pond area at Lions Community Park. Options and recommendations for the future of this area are forthcoming. The town is also exploring municipal bonding for long-term infrastructure improvements and is working with RK&K on a capital improvement plan and rate study, which are crucial for such projects.

A visit to Tabitha’s Table provided insight into the organization’s significant impact, serving approximately 170 families weekly. The council also reflected on the 16th annual National Night Out event, commending the police chief, volunteers, vendors, and various law enforcement agencies for its success. The event also served as a successful food drive for the local pantry, with a substantial amount of food collected.

The meeting addressed a citizen concern regarding a water leak that resulted in a significantly high water and sewer bill for a local resident. The council discussed precedents for prorating sewer charges when leaks do not enter the sewer system and agreed to have town staff review past cases to ensure consistency in handling such situations.

A substantial portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation and discussion regarding the creation of a special taxing district for the Cloverly development. Daniel Cross, the developer, explained the mechanism of special taxing districts in Maryland. These districts are designed to finance public infrastructure improvements within a defined geographic area. The special tax would be levied on properties within the district to finance projects such as water, sewer, stormwater management, roads, and lighting. The presenters clarified that the special tax would be a lien on the property and would be recorded in land records. It would only be charged once bonds are issued, and the amount would be tied to the debt service on those bonds. The intention is for the special taxes to be borne by those who benefit from the improvements within the district.

The council engaged in an extensive question-and-answer session regarding the implications of the special taxing district. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on property values, the town’s tax base, and the responsibility for the special taxes. The developers explained that the goal is to maintain competitive housing prices by adjusting the initial sale price of homes to offset the additional cost of the special tax for consumers. They also clarified that the town itself would not incur liability for the bonds, as the repayment is secured by the special tax revenues. The process for establishing such a district involves several steps, including a public hearing, and the council expressed a need for further review and discussion before making any decisions.

The council concluded by accepting a grant and acknowledging upcoming community events, including the “Third in the Bird” event and the Cinnamon Bun Fun Run. They also reminded residents to be mindful of school starting and to drive safely. The next regular council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 2nd, with a special session on Tuesday, September 16th.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Smithsburg Town Council

---