Hagerstown Council to Discuss Rent Stabilization, Parking Permits and Charter Review at Work Session on March 3rd

The Mayor and City Council of Hagerstown will convene for a work session on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, offering residents an opportunity to engage with city governance. The session is scheduled to begin at 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, located on the second floor of City Hall at 1 East Franklin Street. This meeting will be televised and recorded, with agendas and packets available for public review online at http://www.hagerstownmd.org/government/agenda.

Earlier in the day, Mayor and city officials will address the community at the State of the City address, which will take place at the Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac Street, beginning at 7:00 a.m.

The work session’s agenda includes several key items for discussion and potential action. The meeting will commence with a proclamation recognizing Red Cross Month. Following this, Kristian Broche will be sworn in as the new Assistant Zoning Administrator. A significant portion of the session will be dedicated to a Rent Stabilization Town Hall Discussion, featuring input from Mayor and Council members along with Stacey McGee. This item, scheduled to begin at 4:10 p.m., will likely address concerns and proposals related to rent control within the city.

Later in the session, at 4:40 p.m., Jim Bender, the City Engineer, is slated to present a proposed Parking Permit System for the Historic Heights Neighborhood. This discussion may outline new regulations or strategies for managing parking in the area, which could impact residents and visitors. The council will then move on to a Charter Review at 4:50 p.m., led by City Administrator Scott Nicewarner. This review will likely cover potential amendments or updates to the city’s foundational governing document. The work session is expected to conclude with comments from the City Administrator and Mayor & Council at approximately 5:00 p.m., before adjourning at 5:15 p.m.

This work session provides a platform for the city to discuss its vision of inspiring an inclusive, business-friendly, and sustainable community with clean, safe, and vibrant neighborhoods. Their mission statement emphasizes a dedication to creating a thriving community where diversity is celebrated, economic development flourishes, and the quality of life is enhanced through collaborative and consistent representation.

Residents interested in the proposed parking permit system for the Historic Heights neighborhood should attend or watch the televised session to understand how it might affect parking availability and regulations in that area. Those concerned with housing affordability may find the Rent Stabilization Town Hall Discussion particularly relevant, as it addresses policies that could impact rental costs. The Charter Review also presents an opportunity for citizens to understand the fundamental legal framework of their city government and any proposed changes.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the City of Hagerstown Mayor and City Council

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