County Commissioners Greenlight Advanced Life Support Services, New Snow Plows

Hagerstown, MD – The Washington County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has approved significant initiatives aimed at enhancing emergency medical services, improving winter road maintenance, and bolstering the county’s agricultural heritage, according to information released by the board. Key decisions made at the recent meeting include the establishment of clear protocols for Advanced Life Support (ALS) services, the acquisition of new snow plow trucks, and recognition for a local farm.

The board has authorized an Advanced Life Support (ALS) Service Memorandum of Understanding and Joint Billing Agreement. This agreement is designed to standardize procedures, practices, and pricing for all Emergency Medical Services (EMS) companies and mutual aid partners collaborating with the county’s Division of Emergency Services (DES). A new fee structure will be implemented when an ambulance is initially staffed for basic life support (BLS) and subsequently requires ALS assistance from DES during prehospital care. This standardization aims to ensure consistent, high-quality patient care, improve coordination among local EMS providers, and increase efficiency during emergency situations by clarifying how paramedic intercept services are delivered and billed.

In preparation for winter weather, the BOCC has authorized the Washington County Highway Department to purchase two new 2027 Mack Granite plow trucks. The purchase, totaling $597,609, includes J&J dump beds and plow packages. These new vehicles will replace older trucks that have reached the end of their service life, ensuring the county’s snow removal fleet remains reliable and efficient. The trucks are specifically designed for heavy snow and ice operations, which will help Highway crews clear roads more quickly and safely during winter storms. The county will leverage a cooperative contract awarded by Sourcewell to Baltimore Truck Center, Inc., a move that is expected to provide cost savings and administrative efficiencies. Residents can anticipate continued service levels for snow removal throughout the upcoming winter seasons.

The board also received an update on proposed plans for a new Training Center at the Black Rock Golf Course. The Washington County Public Golf Corporation, also known as the Black Rock Golf Board, is spearheading a capital fundraising campaign for this project, which will be funded entirely through private donations, contributions, and existing funds from the John Howard Trust, without utilizing county funds. The new facility will enhance the existing driving range with covered and open bays, a short-game practice area, and synthetic putting and chipping greens. This will offer year-round practice opportunities for community organizations, student athletes, and golfers of all skill levels. To support the project’s financing, the Golf Board intends to solicit naming rights for the Training Center, with final approval of the name resting with the Board of County Commissioners. The names of the golf course and clubhouse are not slated for any changes. Donations will be managed by the Community Foundation of Washington County, with proceeds directed towards construction, maintenance, and golf education programs. The Training Center is expected to further solidify Black Rock Golf Course’s role as a community hub for school programs, clinics, and tournaments.

In other administrative actions, the BOCC approved the submission of a FY26 Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Cardiac Device Grant application for $29,000, and the acceptance of any awarded funding. This grant requires a 50% match, up to $29,000, from the Washington County Division of Emergency Services (DES). If awarded, the funds will be used to acquire updated LifePak cardiac monitors and defibrillators to replace existing, outdated equipment.

The board also held three public hearings concerning proposed zoning text amendments: RZ-25-002, RZ-25-003, and RZ-25-004. These hearings provided a platform for public input on potential changes to the county’s zoning regulations, though no official actions were taken on these amendments during the meeting.

During the meeting, September 2025 was officially proclaimed as Citizens’ Emergency Preparedness Month. The proclamation was presented to the Office of Emergency Management, underscoring the importance of both individual and community readiness for emergencies and disasters.

Furthermore, the 2025–2026 Washington County Farm of the Year was announced as Crown Stone Farm, located in Clear Spring, MD. Co-owned by John and Pam Schnebly and their family, the nearly 300-acre historic dairy farm has been in continuous operation since 1817. The farm was recognized for its agricultural leadership, sustainable practices, community involvement, and commitment to preserving Washington County’s farming heritage. The Board presented a proclamation honoring the Schnebly family’s contributions.

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

---