Memorandum of Understanding with the Town of Keedysville for Historic Property Tax Credits

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) considered a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Town of Keedysville to allow the town to participate in the County Historic Structures Tax Credit Program as a qualifying municipality.

Under the County’s Historic Properties Tax Credit Ordinance, updated in 2024, qualifying municipalities must have exterior design review standards equivalent to those of the County’s Historic District Commission (HDC) or may delegate permit review authority to the County through a recorded MOU. HDC permit review ensures that proposed activities comply with the County’s Design Guidelines for Historic Structures and the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation.

Permit review is voluntary and only applies to structures pursuing tax credits. It is not anticipated to add additional time to the permitting process. The HDC held a workshop to introduce the updated program and gather feedback from municipalities, with additional support provided to towns unable to attend.

The Town of Keedysville has chosen to execute the MOU, enabling its residents to voluntarily participate in the Historic Property Tax Credit Program.

County Approves Key Airport Infrastructure Projects to Enhance Safety and Competitiveness

The Board of County Commissioners approved contract awards with Airport Design Consultants, Inc. for design and bidding services on three key Airport Capital Improvement Projects: the rehabilitation of Taxiway A, Taxiway H, and the T-Hangar taxi lanes. These infrastructure projects are part of the County’s long-term plan to maintain safe, efficient operations at Hagerstown Regional Airport.

Advancing these projects through the design and bid phase enables the Airport to remain competitive for federal and state grant funding opportunities. Once bids are complete, the County can apply for reimbursement through future Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA) grants, ensuring local investments are leveraged for maximum return.

The projects have been identified by the FAA as priorities for potential funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This proactive approach positions Hagerstown Regional Airport to continue supporting regional economic development and providing high-quality aviation services for years to come.

Faces of Farming

The Department of Business and Economic Development presented the latest “Faces of Farming” videos, highlighting a few of Washington County’s nearly 900 family farms. October features Maryland Horse Month and National Pork Month, showcasing horses’ roles in both work and agritourism, and the care of over 3,400 hogs and pigs that support the local food system. The series also highlights the next generation of farm families learning skills and responsibility, preserving the traditions and values that keep Washington County agriculture strong.

• The Board approved multiple purchase awards and contract renewals across various County departments.
• The Board discussed potential legislative priorities for the 2026 Maryland General Assembly session, focusing on key infrastructure and public safety initiatives. Priorities include the continued widening of I-81, securing funding for the Hagerstown Regional Airport air traffic control tower, advancing the Public Safety Training Center project, and supporting other high-priority County projects that enhance transportation, safety, and economic development across Washington County.
• Additional action items were addressed during the meeting and can be viewed by watching the full meeting on YouTube.

The Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland presented a proclamation recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month to Renee Caldera, Director of Community Services, and Karon Moore, Transitional Housing Coordinator with CASA, Inc.

Domestic violence affects individuals and families across all communities.

The Board emphasized the importance of raising awareness, supporting survivors, and promoting healthy, respectful relationships throughout the community.

The Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland presented a proclamation to Dr. Maulik Joshi, President and CEO of Meritus Health, Inc., recognizing the organization’s 120th anniversary.

Founded in 1904 with just 10 beds, Meritus Health has grown into a leading regional healthcare system, operating a 327-bed Level III trauma center, specialty practices, and multiple care locations across the County. The Board commended Meritus Health for its longstanding commitment to improving community health and providing expert care close to home.

The Board of County Commissioners of Washington County, Maryland recognized the Hagerstown Community College Dental Hygiene Program for its outstanding contributions to community health and education.

Through its on-campus dental hygiene clinic, HCC provides affordable preventive dental care to residents, offering significant cost savings while giving students valuable hands-on experience. The Board commended HCC’s faculty, staff, and students for their dedication to promoting oral health and encouraged residents to take advantage of the clinic’s accessible, high-quality services.

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) recognized “Manufacturing Month” in Washington County by presenting two short videos highlighting the strength and innovation of the local manufacturing industry. The videos showcase modern facilities, advanced technologies, and the wide range of career opportunities available within the sector. Manufacturing accounts for approximately 10% of all industry in Washington County and contributes an estimated $1.1 billion to the local gross domestic product, a clear reflection of its vital role in the County’s economy. These presentations aim to educate the community, celebrate the industry’s impact, and inspire the next generation of skilled workers.

• November 4, 2025 I Regular Meeting
• November 18, 2025 I Regular Meeting
• November 25, 2025 I Regular Meeting
• December 9, 2025 I Regular Meeting