The Washington County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) convened for a public meeting on March 3, 2026, approving several key initiatives including the proclamation of March as Procurement Month, the funding of a significant memorial to General George Washington, and the acceptance of grants to bolster critical behavioral health and public safety programs. However, in what appears to be a recurring theme with Washington County meetings, the meeting was met with multiple disruptions by residents in the audience.
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The first disruption occurred approximately 11 minutes into the meeting during the Commissioner Reports. Curtis Reigh, a Republican commissioner candidate, interrupted Commissioner John Barr. Reigh shouted regarding the board refusing to allow public participation. When Commissioner Barr declared him out of order, Reigh challenged the board’s authority, stating he would not leave without a “lawful order.” Upon being ordered to exit, Reigh leveled a series of insults at Barr before using profanity as he was escorted out.
Approximately 6 minutes later, immediately following a staff report by County Administrator Michelle Gordon regarding a controversial federal warehouse purchase in Williamsport, there was another disruption. An unknown resident in the audience interrupted to demand an “interactive session” or public forum. Despite being informed that the public could submit comments via email or phone, the resident continued to shout from the gallery, claiming the commissioners were “scared” to face the public. During this disruption, Commissioner Barr then ordered the removal of Shaun Porter, a local activist frequently removed from county meetings. Upon ordering Porter removed for “disrupting the meeting,” Porter countered that he “hasn’t done anything” and that he was “just talking to his camera.”
As the rest of the meeting continued uninterrupted, in recognition of the vital services provided by its Purchasing Department, the Board of County Commissioners officially declared March as Procurement Month. This proclamation highlights the department’s instrumental role in ensuring the quality, efficiency, and financial prudence of county operations. Their responsibilities encompass contract administration, developing procurement strategies, managing materials, and coordinating with suppliers. The department’s commitment to safeguarding taxpayer funds through cost-effective practices and maintaining high professional standards was particularly emphasized. Residents can expect that the department’s diligent work contributes to responsible use of public funds for essential services.
The Commissioners also gave their approval for funding and in-kind support necessary to move forward with the installation of the General George Washington 250th Anniversary Memorial statue. A project presented by the George Washington Memorial Committee, it will feature a seven-foot bronze statue of General George Washington, crafted by local sculptor Antonio Tobias Mendez. The statue is slated for installation in front of the Washington County Courthouse, creating a new public space for gatherings and educational purposes. This approval allows the project to progress towards its planned September unveiling, which coincides with the county’s 250th anniversary celebrations. The county may potentially be reimbursed for these costs if state bond bill funds are successfully secured.
Furthermore, the Board reviewed recommendations for community organization funding for Fiscal Year 2027. A committee, comprised of members appointed by each Commissioner, evaluated 63 applications from 58 organizations seeking over $3 million in support. After thorough review and deliberation, the committee proposed allocating $1.3 million to various non-profit organizations, aligning with the Board’s established priorities. These recommendations will be considered during the upcoming annual budget approval process, impacting the services provided by local non-profits that residents rely on.
Significant advancements in behavioral health services were also approved through the acceptance of several grants. The Commissioners authorized the submission and acceptance of grants aimed at supporting the Day Reporting Center’s programs, which offer counseling, behavioral health services, monitoring, and participant support. Additionally, funding was approved for the Detention Center’s Jail-Based Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Program. This program provides essential treatment for individuals with opioid use disorder, incorporating medication, counseling, peer recovery services, and reentry assistance. The Board also greenlit an application for and acceptance of the Maryland Opioid Overdose Response (MOOR) grant, which will enable the continuation of MAT services at the Detention Center. This grant is designated to cover the costs of medications, specialized pouches for crushed pills, rapid drug testing devices, and contracted medical staff. These one-year awards are crucial for supplementing operational expenses and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of vital public health and safety services within the county.
In other actions, the Board of County Commissioners approved numerous purchase awards and contract renewals for various county departments. They also received presentations regarding personnel requests for FY2027 and the proposed FY27 General Fund budgets for Law Enforcement and Emergency Services. The acceptance of FY27 grant funding to provide financial retention incentives for full-time sworn officers was also approved, a measure intended to assist the Sheriff’s Office in retaining experienced personnel. Additional details regarding other matters addressed during the meeting can be accessed by viewing the full meeting recording on YouTube. Upcoming BOCC meetings are scheduled for March 17, March 24, March 31, and April 14, 2026.
Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Washington County Board of County Commissioners
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