Note: This is a SUMMARY of the Commissioners Meeting for the purposes of a Press Release. These are not the official minutes of the meeting.
COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Commissioner Jim Kercheval reported on last week’s Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) legislative committee meeting and said that the Gaming Bill will be discussed at this week's MACo meeting. Figures show the average property assessment in Washington County rose by 10.8% last year, the fifth lowest in the state, compared to Frederick County’s increase of 19%. The Historic District Commission sent a letter to the Board concerning the Barnes Road Bridge. Public Works Director Gary Rohrer is drafting a response to the letter.
Commissioners' President Greg Snook discussed last week’s MACo legislative committee meeting. The County will not get all of the Highway User Fund monies back, as previously promised by the state. Over the past two years the state has taken much of that fund from counties to cover budget shortfalls. $120,000.00 taken from Washington County will be restored in FY ’06, but hundreds of thousands taken from this year’s budget will be “phased in” over the next several years. That action will not increase highway funds, and leaves the County at a deficit. The impact of the action is no major equipment replacement in the coming fiscal year. Maintenance costs for Highways department snowplows, trucks and paving equipment will be very high next year. The Maryland Department of the Environment has seen the federal Environmental Protection Agency a letter stating that the County’s noncompliance with air quality standards stems largely from pollution created in other jurisdictions blown in by westerly winds. The letter asks EPA to reconsider the non-attainment status for Washington County. A “maintenance of effort” agreement could be drafted to ensure that the amount of excise tax earmarked for Agricultural preservation does not regress if the bill before the legislature is approved. Senator Don Munson had expressed concern over that issue, Snook said. The State of the City address, postponed this morning due to weather conditions, has been rescheduled for March 15 th, Snook reported. A meeting was conducted last week on Security at the County Courthouse when the renovations have been completed. Snook asked for comments from Circuit Court and the Sheriff’s Department on those issues. Snook reported on contacting the County’s members of Congress about the Essential Air Service issue, and reinforced the need for federal approval of EAS status. EAS would provide subsidies for an air carrier at Hagerstown Regional Airport.
REPORTS FROM COUNTY STAFF
Office on Disability Issues Administrator Norman Bassett reported that the Disability Advisory Committee is drafting a letter of support for a long-term solution to the problems the Holly Place assisted-living facilities have faced. The DAC recommends changes to the state’s Medicaid rules affecting the senior assisted living program.
OTHER BUSINESS
County Administrator's Comments: County Administrator Rod Shoop requested approval of two change orders. The Storm Water Management Pond contract on County property near the Citicorp facility was completed at $67,931 below the bid price. That measure was approved by unanimous vote. Hagerstown Community College requested a $44,560 change in one of its capital projects budget to be used for a boiler replacement and parking lot paving. The measure was approved by unanimous vote.
DEDICATION OF RIGHT OF WAY
Real Property Administrator Joe Kuhna brought this recommendation to the Board, to approve acceptance of a dedication of Right of Way at two locations.
Kuhna told the Board that it is common practice for developers to dedicate right of way on property proposed for future widening of public roadways, and that two areas in need of formal acceptance of this dedication include m175 feet along Maugans Avenue, and on Massey Boulevard and Cole Road, 180 feet on Massey side, 40 feet on Cole Road.
The Massey Blvd ROW is dedicated according to the development plat of Crown America for improvements to the roadbed and to facilitate a right turn lane. The Maugans Avenue parcel is dedicated by plat 3725 from Menno Martin. The measures were approved by unanimous vote.
CITIZENS PARTICIPATION
Each week the Board of County Commissioners sets aside time to hear from citizens of Washington County on matters of importance to the community
Attorney Tom Lynch, representing Westfield Developments LLC requested an update on the developers’ request for a grading permit for a third phase of the project. Commissioner Snook said that issue would be part of a discussion in Closed Session in the afternoon. Snook said that issue should be resolved soon.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM BUDGET DISCUSSION: Hagerstown Community College
Budget and Finance Director Debra Bastian and Public Works Director Gary Rohrer, Hagerstown Community College President Guy Altieri, HCC staff and members of the College’s Board of Directors brought the Capital Improvement budget for FY 2006 through 2011 before the Board for discussion. Bastian requested approval of a request for an additional $344,000 in the school’s CIP for roofing projects affected by the rising costs of petroleum products. If included and approved, the bid process and contract awards would be possible by the end of the Spring semester, and work accomplished over the summer. The Heating and Cooling Plant, the Science Building and the Technology Building are affected. Commissioner Wivell questioned the state holding the County to prevailing wage costs but not increasing local budgets for projects under that mandate. The measure was approved by a three-two vote with Commissioners Wivell and Munson voting “no”. Altieri and HCC staff discussed the projects planned through the out-years that include an Academic Complex that would link the existing Classroom Building, Science Building and Kepler Theater into a single structure. That request would be for $3.3 million in the coming year. All other construction and renovation projects, including a new entrance to the College, replacement of bleachers at the Athletic and Recreation Community Center (ARCC), construction of a Campus Operations Building, renovations to athletic fields and air-conditioning at the ARCC building, are included in the current CIP, but would be funded between FY 2007 and FY 2011. Figures disseminated show that HCC would require an additional $5 million over that period, and school staff will make changes to that budget and submit them to Budget and Finance.
Budget and Finance Director Bastian, Public Works Director Gary Rohrer Washington County Public Schools administrative staff and members of the Board of Education brought the BOE $19 million school construction and renovation plan before the Board. Bastian told the Board that funds were received from the state for the 5 th round expansion project at Salem Avenue school in the amount of $1.414 million. Those funds were recommended to be included in the schools’ FY ’06 CIP budget and the measure was approved by unanimous vote. Bastian explained that this year’s CIP reflects total amounts budget, including State funds, a change from previous years. Adjustments to the CIP totals would add the $2.9 million accepted in last week’s Commissioners meeting to the budget for Maugansville Elementary, bringing that budget to 3.4 million. The BOE budget covers 17 projects, including three new or renovated schools in FY ‘06. Bastian said $1 million was moved up to the ’06 budget for Pangborn Elementary’s renovation and addition project for a total of $2.048 million, and $3.6 million was moved into the FY ’06 CIP for the Westfields Elementary School project for a total of $4.4 million. There would be no new school startups in FY 2007. Maugansville Elementary could open its doors in the Fall of 2007. Commissioners’ President Snook suggested that the School Construction Review Committee should address standards for new construction and develop a master plan for use in designing new elementary schools. The “blueprint” would save planning and design costs in the future, Snook said. All budgets will be discussed and revised prior to a public hearing in May and final approval by the Commissioners.
THE BOARD ATTENDED THE ANNUAL LUNCHEON EVENT AT THE WASHINGTON COUNTY MUSEUM THE FINE ARTS AT THE NOON HOUR with Members of the Museum Board of Directors and the Hagerstown Mayor and City Council. An Update on the physical plant, exhibitions, and finances was presented .
CIP DISCUSSION
As part of the discussion of the Capital Improvement project budget discussions for FY 2006, Emergency Services Director Joe Kroboth brought a request, to shift from the project proposed previously in the CIP involving that department. Kroboth suggested moving the 9-1-1 Fire and Rescue Communications center from 33 West Washington Street to the Department of Water Quality Building on Elliott Parkway The original proposal, which would have renovated space at a cost of $970,000. The Water Quality facility cost would include moving all 9-1-1 equipment, wiring and cabling issues as well as office renovations, at a cost of $2.75 million. The State Numbers Board, which oversees emergency dispatch operations, would provide $1.67 million of that total. The move would also give space to the Washington County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association (WCVFRA) for a training center, part of a request the organization made to the County two weeks ago. Discussion included the need for better figures on costs, the ability to expand and security issues. Commissioner Munson asked for assurances that the move not be temporary and be in place longer than 10 years. The Board agreed to the concept, and to a proposal from Public Works Director that an architectural feasibility study be performed. About 8,000 square feet of the Water Quality building has been vacant for a time, after being rented to film crews for the Gods and Generals project.
YOUTH OF THE MONTH AWARDS
Angela Helfrick of the Washington County Community Partnership for Children and Families (WCCP) brought the Youth Meritorious Awards for the months of November and December 2004 and January 2005 before the Board. This award presentation is to honor those High school and Middle School students who exhibit leadership characteristics and show a positive impact on their peers.
The November 2004 Middle School recipient is Korey Atherton. Daughter of Terry and Kendra Atherton, Korey is in the eighth grade at Clear Spring Middle School. Korey has been on the distinguished honor roll many times during her school career, has been active with the Diabetes Awareness program and met with Senator Roscoe Bartlett about Diabetes Awareness. She also lobbied on Capital Hill about Diabetes Awareness and collected over 3,000 signatures for Diabetes Awareness. Korey is described as cooperative, kind to others, someone who really cares about school, a highly motivated student and an outstanding citizen.
High School honoree for November Whitney Schlimgen is a senior at Heritage Academy and the daughter of James and Denise Schlimgen. Whitney has been an honor student with a 3.6 GPA, has been active in volleyball, soccer and basketball. She has also served as editor for the Heritage yearbook. Whitney has organized and run summer the Academy's sports camps, and assisted with the “Toddlers” class at the Evangel Baptist Church. Whitney is known for helping others, volunteering to work with younger team members in strengthening skills and helping other coaches out by doing the “stats” when other statisticians are unavailable. She’s also given up study hall time to volunteer to help the custodian with duties. Whitney is willing to help out whenever and however needed, her teachers say.
Olivia "Libby" Henry is the Middle School Youth of the Month for December. Daughter of Richard Henry and Alyson Severance, Libby is a student at Boonsboro Middle School. Libby has been an honor student and has enrolled in several merit level classes during both her 6 th and 7 th grade academic years. Libby is very involved in the community with Girl Scouts, baseball and soccer. At school she participates in “Twinkle Toes” dance club. She is also on the yearbook staff and participates in All County Chorus. One teacher said, "Libby’s artwork was selected to be displayed at the Maryland State House in March of 2004.
There were only 11 other students in Washington County who were selected. High School winner for December is Curtis Jeremy Nilson, son of Robert and Karen Nilson of Clear Spring. Curtis has been on the Honor Roll, and is one of the older youth in the United Methodist Youth Fellowship. He always steps up to the plate to lead the younger youth in activities or give them guidance to help complete an assigned task. Curtis exudes kindness as well as confidence when working with a group. He takes extra measure to make sure everyone is included when working on a project. Curtis helps his father with odd jobs when needed, assists with Bible School each summer and serves as an acolyte and crucifer for the church.
Zachery O. Repp is the Middle School winner for January 2005. Son of Joel and Krista Repp, Zachery is in the eighth grade at Clear Spring Middle School and has been on the distinguished honor roll his entire school career. Zachery plays basketball, baseball, soccer and participates in Boy Scouts. He has traveled on mission trips, teaches Bible School at his church and enjoys hunting in his spare time.
Leanne Rock is the High School Student award winner for January. Daughter of David and Lisa Rock, Leanne is a senior at North Hagerstown High School and has been on the honor roll from the 10 th grade to the present. Leanne is very active in school and community activities including indoor track, Bible Club, Choir, Student Senate, Executive Board and Youth Leadership at Hagerstown Business College. Leanne has been described as self-confident, and self-motivated, a good “behind the scenes worker”, willing to take on tough projects and quick to volunteer time and energy earning her classmates' respect, not only for her words, but also by her example.
The students receive savings bonds and a Certificate of Merit Award.
THIRD PARTY INSPECTION PROGRAM
Permits and Inspections Director Dan DiVito, and P&I Deputy Director Angela Smith requested that the Board approve the Third Party Inspection Program. A preliminary presentation on February 8, 2005 identified a need for additional comments, changes, and further legal review. A Kaizan continuous improvement event held last year showed a benefit to having third party inspectors for some projects. The proposed program would allow, under certain circumstances, inspections normally performed by the Department of Permits & Inspections to be done by licensed, certified independent professional inspectors. Third party inspectors employed by the owner or developer would be required to meet certain minimum qualifications, file approved forms, and be subject to random monitoring by the Department of Permits & Inspections. The Third Party Inspection Program is designed to benefit commercial developers, P&I, and residential builders. By allowing inspections to be performed by qualified professionals, a significant timesaving and more efficient scheduling may be realized on larger projects. Currently the department must dedicate significant resources to perform inspections on large projects, which could be better utilized on smaller commercial and residential projects. Third party inspections would be mandatory on commercial projects over 100,000 square feet and optional on those under that size. Complicated projects under 100,000 square feet could be made mandatory at the discretion of the Permits and Inspections Director. Discussion by the Board resulted in amendments to the plan, in which an inspector's license could be revoked for failure to perform an inspection prior to certification of the work The measure was approved on a 4-1 vote with Commissioner Kercheval voting "no", with the provision for review of the program in 6 months.
ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES ORDINANCE FEES FOR HIGHWAYS
Public Works Director Gary Rohrer brought this recommendation, to adopt an APFO Fee for PM Peak-Hour Trips for residential and commercial traffic directly impacting the Halfway, Massey, and Wesel Boulevard corridors. Rohrer told the Board thatthere are a number of commercial sites, some pending approval on either side of Halfway Boulevard, particularly in the Wesel and Massey Boulevard corridors. Over the years, the Department of Public Works has negotiated several APFO fee agreements independently for contributions to improving the infrastructure based on information known at the time. Despite the County’s anticipation of the proposed Excise Tax increases to address the transportation element, DPW recommended adopting this fee for a more consistent approach to addressing those projects currently moving through the process. The Engineering Department has completed a preliminary analysis for major transportation system improvements in the vicinity of the intersection at Halfway, Massey, and Wesel Boulevards. The current cost estimates for the capital improvement projects are more definitive and sufficient to derive the requested fee. Several large tracts such as the Valley Mall and Cross Point Shopping Center (Target/Kohls) have already made significant contributions and are not subject to additional contributions. The estimated combined impact of transportation improvements for this area is approximately $6.3 million. The measure, to adopt an APFO fee for Highways at $2,857.00 per peak hour trip, and send a letter to the City of Hagerstown asking for cooperation in assessing fees in the City portion of the Massey/Wesel corridor, was approved by unanimous vote.