Washington County Commissioners Recognize Chief Financial Officer and Secure Funding for Youth Programs

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) for Washington County recently convened to honor their Chief Financial Officer, Kelcee Mace, for achieving a nationally recognized finance credential, and to approve significant funding for programs dedicated to children, youth, and families. The meeting also included discussions and approvals related to municipal permit fee collection and departmental budget planning, as summarized in a recent announcement from Washington County Government.

During the session, Commissioners presented Chief Financial Officer Kelcee Mace with a Certificate of Recognition for obtaining the Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) credential. This designation is awarded by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) to professionals who demonstrate advanced knowledge and leadership in government financial management through rigorous examinations covering areas such as accounting, budgeting, debt management, procurement, and risk assessment. The CPFO credential signifies a high level of expertise, with fewer than 500 active holders nationwide, underscoring the significance of Mace’s achievement for Washington County’s financial leadership and commitment to sound fiscal management.

The Board also formally accepted an FY27 Community Partnership Agreement award from the Governor’s Office for Children. This funding is designated to support seven critical programs operating within Washington County that serve children, youth, and families. These programs encompass a range of services, including Family Centered Support Services, School-Based Mental Health Services, a Disconnected Youth Program, a Youth Shelter, the Local Care Team Coordinator role, an Out of School Time Program, and Youth Mentoring initiatives. The award also includes administrative costs for the Office of Grant Management, ensuring the continued provision of essential local services aimed at promoting the well-being of the county’s younger population and their families.

In an effort to streamline local government processes, the BOCC received a presentation on proposed Memoranda of Understanding (MOU’s) with the Towns of Boonsboro and Clear Spring. These agreements would transfer the collection of all building and trade permit fees, including excise taxes, for projects within these municipalities to Washington County. Currently, the towns manage their own fee collection. The proposed change is anticipated to have no fiscal impact and aims to standardize the permitting and inspection process across participating towns, potentially leading to greater efficiency for residents and businesses involved in construction projects within these areas.

The meeting also involved several other administrative actions. The Commissioners approved various purchase awards and contract renewals for different county departments. Furthermore, the Board engaged in FY27 budget presentations concerning Water Quality and Solid Waste management. A draft of the 2027–2036 Capital Budget, including detailed adjustments, was also presented for review. Additionally, the Commissioners approved a 10-year lease agreement for office space located at 500 Western Maryland Parkway, which will be utilized by the District Court of Maryland and the Commissioners’ Office. Further details on additional action items addressed during the meeting can be accessed by viewing the full meeting recording on YouTube.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Washington County Government.

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