County Commissioners Greenlight Fire Training Facility, EMS Expansion, and Economic Incentives

Hagerstown, MD – The Washington County Board of County Commissioners has taken significant steps to enhance public safety infrastructure and stimulate economic development, approving contracts for a new fire training facility foundation and an expansion of emergency medical services, as well as bolstering its job creation tax credit program. These decisions, made during a recent public meeting, aim to bolster emergency response capabilities and attract new businesses to the county.

A key development from the meeting was the awarding of a contract to Rockwell Construction Co., Inc. of Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, for the concrete foundation of a new fire training burn building. This project, valued at $350,596.30, is a crucial component of the Public Safety Training Center’s tactical village. The foundation will support a steel-frame fire training tower and burn building slated for delivery this fall. Work on the foundation is expected to commence in late September and is allocated 60 consecutive calendar days for completion. Funding for this initiative will be drawn from the County’s Capital Improvement Plan, specifically the Burn Building – PSTC budget.

In a move to improve emergency medical response times, the Board also authorized the establishment of a new sub-station for Community Rescue Service (CRS) in the northern part of Hagerstown. This station will be located at the Antietam Fire Company Station. The decision was informed by an analysis of call volume, which indicated a need for an additional EMS transport unit in the northern area to alleviate pressure on rural resources that are frequently called into the city. The estimated fiscal impact of this expansion is $113,558, which has been incorporated into the Division of Emergency Services’ Fiscal Year 2026 Operating Budget. Total county support for CRS in FY26 is projected to be around $2.1 million, with the City of Hagerstown contributing an additional $45,000. This comprehensive support includes general allocations, EMS subsidies, and funding for services such as EMS supervisor assistance, property, insurance reimbursements, fuel, and maintenance. Notably, approximately 70% of CRS calls, representing an estimated $1.5 million of the projected FY26 support, are for residents within the City of Hagerstown.

Furthermore, the Board awarded contracts totaling $99,720.60 for essential fire service testing and inspection of hoses, pumps, ladders, and aerial devices. This measure ensures the continued operational readiness and safety of the county’s emergency services equipment. The contracts, effective October 1, 2025, include an option for two one-year renewals. The Washington County Division of Emergency Services will oversee the compliance testing for all equipment owned by Washington County, the City of Hagerstown, and all volunteer fire and rescue corporations. This includes annual testing of approximately 200,000 feet of hose, ground ladders for 53 engines and 8 ladder trucks, pumps for 53 engines, and 8 aerial ladders. The funding for these contracts is sourced from the Division’s FY2026 operating budget. This process guarantees that all equipment used by emergency personnel meets National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) compliance standards.

In an effort to foster economic growth, the Board enhanced the Job Creation and Capital Real Property (JCRP) Tax Credit Program. This initiative consolidates previous incentive programs, raising the bar for job creation and investment requirements, simplifying eligibility criteria, and adjusting tax credit schedules. The goal is to attract higher-paying jobs, stimulate economic expansion, and strengthen the county’s tax base. Updates to the JCRP Program are effective July 1, 2025, while other program modifications take effect on September 9, 2025.

During the meeting, a presentation titled “Faces of Farming” was given, highlighting the significant economic and cultural contributions of Washington County’s nearly 900 family farms. This program will feature two local farms each month through video content shared on the County website, social media, and with elementary schools to educate young residents about agriculture, farm operations, livestock care, and County Fair competitions.

The Board also presented a proclamation to Cassandra Hershberger, Chair of Washington Goes Purple, recognizing September 2025 as National Recovery Month. This initiative aims to raise awareness about substance use disorders and encourages community participation in opioid prevention and recovery efforts.

Additional purchasing bids and contracts were also awarded by the Board. Residents can access full details of the meeting by watching the recording on YouTube.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Board of County Commissioners.

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