Partnership Agreement: Paramedic Program

The BOCC unanimously approved a Partnership Agreement between the Division of Emergency Services (DES) and Hagerstown Community College (HCC) to collaboratively administer the Paramedic Program. The agreement aligns responsibilities between DES and HCC, ensures compliance with accreditation standards, and implements a 70/30 tuition revenue split. Commissioners commended the program as a vital pipeline for training and retaining skilled paramedics to serve Washington County.

Adoption of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan

The BOCC unanimously adopted the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, completing a process that began in 2019. The plan was developed through extensive data collection, stakeholder engagement, and Planning Commission workshops, followed by public hearings in January and June 2025. The document provides long-term guidance for growth, development, and preservation across 15 key areas, including housing, transportation, economic development, infrastructure, and environmental resources. Commissioners commended staff and the Planning Commission for their persistence in completing this comprehensive update, which strengthens the County’s eligibility for state and federal funding opportunities.

Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway EMS Staffing Transition

The Board approved the EMS staffing transition for the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway, authorizing the hiring of three lieutenants as part of the previously approved 12 positions from the June 3, 2025, BOCC session. This action includes transitioning the current part-time EMS employees to full-time county employment under the terms of the Staffing MOU to maintain staffing levels during the transition. The three lieutenants will provide on-site daily supervision at the Halfway station, addressing the lack of a nearby DES supervisor under the regional staffing model. All staffing changes are accommodated within previously approved funding, requiring no additional fiscal impact, and an application and scenario-based evaluation process will determine the selection of the lieutenants. Facility conditions at the Halfway station were deemed acceptable, with potential improvements to be discussed with the County Administrator.

Sheriff’s Office: Town of Funkstown Community Deputy Agreement and WCPS School Resource Officer MOU

The Board of County Commissioners approved two key agreements.

• Community Deputy Agreement: This agreement governs the provision of law enforcement services by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office to the Town of Funkstown. One deputy will be assigned to Funkstown for a minimum of 16 hours per week. The agreement is for a one-year term with automatic annual renewals. Similar agreements are in place with Williamsport, Clear Spring, Keedysville, and Sharpsburg. The Town will contribute $50,662.00 toward the cost of employing and equipping the deputy. The agreement has already been executed by both the Sheriff and the Town.
• School Resource Officer MOU: This MOU outlines the assignment of full-time School Resource Officers (SROs) to public schools within the Sheriff’s jurisdiction, including Boonsboro, Clear Spring, Smithsburg, and Williamsport school complexes. The Board of Education will make quarterly payments equal to 25% of each SRO’s annual salary and benefits. The total FY26 budget for the SRO program, covering four school complexes and one supervisor, is $873,710.01. The MOU has already been signed by both the Board of Education and the Sheriff.

• Approved a request from the Interfaith Service Coalition for one-time use of Commissioner Contingency funding in an amount not to exceed $44,000 (amended from $39,000) to cover foundation repairs at Martha’s House in Hancock, MD, ensuring the facility remains operational as the County’s designated warming and cooling station; funds will be disbursed on a reimbursement basis upon submission of proof of completed work from the contractor, and all required permits and documentation have been provided.
• Approved USTA grant funding up to $625,000, with a 50% county match, to rehabilitate and resurface tennis courts at multiple Washington County Public Schools, enhancing safety, functionality, and recreational use.
• Additional action items were addressed during the meeting and can be viewed by watching the full meeting on YouTube.

The Board of County Commissioners held two public hearings. The first considered requests from 12 organizations to be added to the County’s 1-108 nonprofit eligibility list, confirming their eligibility to apply for County funding, although awards are determined through the annual budget process. The second focused on a proposed zoning text amendment to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), addressing size, location, parking, and rental restrictions, with public comments expressing both support and concerns. Both items were tabled for future discussion, and no decisions were made at the meeting.

The BOCC presented a proclamation to the Disabled American Veterans Organization, declaring September, October, and November 2025 as “Forget-Me-Not” Months.

The proclamation encourages all citizens to join in supporting those who have given so freely to protect and defend the rights and freedom of us all.

The BOCC recognized Carin Bakner of the Purchasing Department for achieving her Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) certification. This nationally recognized credential reflects her advanced knowledge, professionalism, and commitment to excellence in public procurement. Carin was presented with a Certificate of Recognition during the meeting in appreciation of her dedication and service to Washington County.

• September 9, 2025 I Regular Meeting
• September 23, 2025 I Regular Meeting & Sharpsburg Evening Meeting
• October 14, 2025 I Regular Meeting
• October 21, 2025 I Regular Meeting & Clear Spring Evening Meeting