Washington County Commissioners Recognize Local Youth, Approve Firefighter Grant Application and Labor Agreement

A recent meeting of the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) in Washington County, Maryland, saw the recognition of a standout local student, the official signing of a labor agreement, and the approval to seek federal funding for additional firefighters. The commissioners also acknowledged National Dairy Month and promoted a local ice cream trail.

The May Youth Meritorious Award was presented to Grant Semler, a recent graduate of North Hagerstown High School. Semler was honored for his achievements in academics, leadership, and community service. He demonstrated excellence as a student-athlete, tutored students at Fountain Dale Elementary School, and developed skills in digital media production. Semler is set to continue his academic and athletic pursuits at Concord University in West Virginia.

In significant labor news, the BOCC officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Maryland Public Employees Council 3, AFSCME, AFL-CIO, and Local 2677, AFL-CIO. This agreement extends the current collective bargaining agreement for an additional five years. Following amendments, the MOU was formally approved by the Board on May 21, 2026, and its execution at this meeting marks the completion of the approval process, underscoring the county’s commitment to its employees and labor partners.

Furthermore, the Board approved a request from the Division of Emergency Services to apply for a FEMA SAFER Grant. This grant, if awarded, would provide federal funding to hire twenty-four additional firefighters. The funds are intended to bolster staffing levels across Washington County fire stations, addressing areas experiencing shortages. The grant funding would gradually transition to full county responsibility over several years. It was noted that these positions would only be filled contingent upon the grant’s approval, and staffing would be allocated based on operational needs and response data.

The commissioners also took time to recognize National Dairy Month. The importance of dairy farming to the county’s economy, heritage, and agricultural community was highlighted, with ninety-two dairy farms currently operating in Washington County. In conjunction with this recognition, the Washington County 250th Anniversary Ice Cream Trail, launched on June 2, 2026, and running through September 22, 2026, was promoted. This trail features sixteen participating locations across the county, encouraging support for local businesses and offering an opportunity to explore the county while celebrating its dairy heritage during its 250th anniversary year.

During the meeting, the Board also received the 2025 Annual Report from the Tri County Council for Western Maryland, detailing the agency’s regional initiatives and efforts in economic and community development. Several infrastructure projects received approval, including property acquisitions and easements for road improvements and culvert replacements, as well as donated easements for a water line project. Additionally, the FY 2027 Program Open Space project list was approved, allocating funds for parks and recreation development across the county. An amendment to the MOU for School Resource Officers was also approved, updating cost details for their continued placement in county schools. Various purchase awards and contract renewals for different county departments were also finalized.

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

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