Washington County Commissioners to Consider Water/Sewer Plan, Zoning Changes, and Equipment Purchases

The Washington County Board of County Commissioners is scheduled to convene on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, for a session that will address a range of critical local matters. The agenda includes public hearings on proposed water and sewer plan amendments, zoning map amendments, and decisions on several equipment purchases for county departments. Additionally, the commissioners will review grant applications, historical preservation initiatives, and various appointments to county boards.

The meeting will commence with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by approval of previous minutes and reports from commissioners and staff. A key item on the agenda is the presentation of a Youth Meritorious Award, recognizing an outstanding student from Clear Spring Middle School.

Significant public hearings are slated to begin at 9:30 AM with a proposed amendment to the Washington County Water and Sewer Plan (WS-25-004). This amendment, concerning property at 17939 Mason Dixon Road, aims to reclassify water and sewer service priority and recognize Antrim Township Municipal Authority in Pennsylvania as the service provider for planned warehouse/distribution facilities. This change is significant as it could facilitate the development of large commercial operations by potentially utilizing services from across the state line.

Following this, at 9:45 AM and 10:00 AM, the board will hold public hearings on two separate zoning map amendment applications (RZ-26-002 and RZ-26-003). The first application involves amending the Special Economic District of the Washington County Zoning Ordinance, with proposed changes to permitted uses, residential lot sizes, and design criteria to attract specific industries and foster a town-like environment. The second rezoning request seeks to change two properties on Maugans Avenue from Residential Multifamily to Highway Interchange zoning, citing changes in neighborhood character and increased traffic. These decisions will shape future development and land use within the county.

Later in the morning, at 10:30 AM, the commissioners will consider an application for a non-capital grant from the Maryland Historical Trust to update existing surveys of historic resources. This initiative aligns with the County’s Comprehensive Plan 2040, aiming to enhance the county’s history and cultural heritage. Concurrently, at 10:35 AM, Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) between the towns of Funkstown and Smithsburg and the Board of County Commissioners will be reviewed. These MOUs are intended to allow these towns to participate in the County Historic Property Tax Credit program by delegating permit review authority to the County Historic District Commission.

The agenda also features several significant procurement items for the Washington County Highway Department and other departments. These include the purchase of a Caterpillar compact track loader and AMI rotary sweepers, Bengal boom mowers, and Pavijet mini paver attachments. Additionally, the board will consider acquiring a Chevrolet Silverado work truck for the Department of Water Quality. The County will benefit from cost savings and administrative efficiencies by utilizing competitively bid cooperative contracts for these purchases. There will also be a review of a sole source procurement award for Peer Recovery Specialist services at the Day Reporting Center, funded by a grant, and for Mental Health Case Management services for adults and older adults. The County Office Building and Circuit Courthouse elevator replacement project is also up for a contract award.

Further items on the agenda include a presentation on the “Faces of Farming” video marketing campaign, designed to showcase local farms and educate residents about the agricultural economy. Appointments to the Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council, the Historic District Commission, and the Local Management Board will also be made, filling crucial advisory roles within the county government. The meeting will conclude with a closed session to discuss personnel matters, business development strategies, and legal advice before adjourning.

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

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