Board of County Commissioners

MEETING RECAP


March 17, 2026


This communication provides a summary of the key actions and highlights from the most recent public meeting of the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC).

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Proclamation Recognizes National Surveyors’ Week


The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) presented a proclamation recognizing National Surveyors’ Week in Washington County, honoring the vital role surveyors play in land development, infrastructure planning, and property boundary identification. The proclamation highlights the profession’s continued importance in supporting accurate land records and guiding responsible growth throughout the County.

FY2027 General Fund Budget Presented


The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) received a presentation on the proposed FY2027 General Fund Budget. The presentation provided a comprehensive overview of projected revenues and expenditures, including updates to tax revenue estimates, operating costs, and departmental funding requests. The proposed budget reflects initial adjustments made to align requests with anticipated revenues while maintaining core County services. This presentation marks an early stage in the budget development process, allowing the Board to review priorities, evaluate funding needs, and begin discussions that will guide the development of a balanced and sustainable final budget.

Board Approves Transit Grants to Support Public Transportation Services


The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved the acceptance of both capital and operational transit grant funding through the Federal Transit Administration and Maryland Transit Administration. These funds support fixed-route transit, ADA paratransit services, and specialized transportation programs, ensuring continued access to reliable and affordable transportation options for Washington County residents.

Grant Application Approved for Treatment Court Programs


The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved the submission of a discretionary grant application to support the Office of Problem-Solving Courts. These programs provide participants with access to substance use treatment, case management, mental health services, and peer recovery support. By addressing underlying behavioral health challenges and promoting accountability, the program aims to reduce recidivism, improve individual outcomes, and strengthen community safety.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN BY THE BOARD

  • The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved multiple purchase awards and contract renewals across various County departments.
  • The Board approved $9.2 million in CIP funding for continued build out of the Public Safety Training Center. This Training Center is a state-of-the-art facility that provides space for all disciplines of public safety (Fire, Emergency Medical Services, Law Enforcement, Emergency Management, etc) to train safely in a controlled environment that simulates re-life emergency situations.
  • The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved an easement agreement supporting a stream restoration project in the Clear Spring area, contributing to environmental stewardship and resource protection efforts.
  • Additional action items were addressed during the meeting and can be viewed by watching the full meeting on YouTube.

UPCOMING BOCC MEETINGS

  • March 24, 2026 I Regular Meeting
  • March 31, 2026 I Regular Meeting
  • April 14, 2026 I Regular Meeting
  • April 28, 2026 | Regular Meeting and Evening Meeting with Town of Smithsburg

Click here to watch the meeting on YouTube

Disclaimer: These are preliminary notes and not the official minutes of the meeting. Official minutes will be approved at a future Board of County Commissioners meeting and can then be accessed at: https://www.washco-md.net/county-commissioners/bocc-agendas-and-minutes/

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