SMITHSBURG, Md. – Concerns about aging water infrastructure and how to fund future improvements took center stage at Tuesday night’s Smithsburg’s Mayor and Town Council meeting, as officials weighed funding options, potential rate pressures and long-term planning priorities.
The March 17 meeting also included approval of a police vehicle contract, funding for 250th anniversary events and support for a grant application aimed at creating a new community gathering space.
Water funding tied to rates, long-term decisions
Council members and consultants from RK&K discussed ongoing efforts to secure state funding for water system upgrades, including replacing aging pipes, addressing water loss and improving system reliability.
A major factor in securing that funding is the town’s water rates.
Officials said grant and loan programs typically require municipalities to demonstrate they are paying their share, meaning rates must be “sufficient” before outside funding is awarded. Council members noted a city rate increase of at least 14% is expected this year, which could influence Smithsburg’s approach moving forward.
Applications have already been submitted through the Maryland Department of the Environment, including placement on its priority funding list. The town is also waiting on updated information from the Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project to help refine its plans.
An RK&K rep emphasized that Smithsburg is not under any state enforcement action and is not currently in violation of water regulations. Still, she said the town must decide how proactively it wants to address aging infrastructure before problems escalate, and also noted that projects focused strictly on improving fire flow are not eligible for certain funding programs, but replacing old or failing pipes can qualify – with improved fire flow considered a secondary benefit.
Possible metering issue raises questions about water loss
During the discussion, town officials highlighted a possible issue involving a residential water meter and a Flume monitoring device.
According to officials, the device appeared to detect a small amount of water flow that was not being recorded by the meter. While the volume was minor, council members said the discrepancy could point to faulty equipment or measurement issues.
Consultants said the situation warrants further investigation and suggested that either the meter or the device is producing inaccurate data. The finding raised the possibility that some water loss in the system may not be fully accounted for.
Development and system improvements under review
Council members also discussed whether future development, including the proposed Garden Hour Estates area, could be used to improve the town’s water system through additional “looping” connections.
RK&K said the town’s existing water model can be used to test those ideas and evaluate how new connections would affect flow and pressure, particularly in areas that currently experience weaker service.
Officials said no major construction decisions were made Tuesday night, but several items will be incorporated into the town’s broader capital improvement planning.
Pond future draws interest, likely public input
The council also discussed the future of a town pond and the potential cost of repairs or changes tied to dam-related work.
Council members noted the pond has long been part of the community and expressed interest in preserving it if possible, though they acknowledged the cost difference between preservation and removal could be significant.
Several members said residents should have input before any final decision is made, especially given limited recreational options in town, including places to fish.
The matter is expected to be reviewed by the Parks Commission before returning to the council.
Police vehicle contract approved
In other business, the council unanimously approved a $38,262 contract to outfit two new 2026 police vehicles.
Police officials said Executive Emergency Lighting agreed to match Maryland state contract pricing, saving the town about $3,014. The company has also outfitted Smithsburg’s vehicles in recent years and is familiar with the department’s setup.
The purchase will be funded through speed camera revenue.
250th anniversary committee funded
The council approved a $2,500 request from the Smithsburg 250th Anniversary Ad Hoc Committee to support local events and promotions.
Committee members said the funding will go toward display materials, banners, updated promotional cards and event participation costs. Plans include distributing commemorative coins through local businesses to encourage downtown traffic and promoting the town at several events throughout the year.
Events include Smithsburg Days, Steaming Craft, National Night Out and the countywide July 4 celebration at the Washington County Agricultural Education Center.
The committee also said Hadley Farms plans to donate 200 cinnamon rolls for the July 4 event.
Backing for grant effort to improve community spaces
Council members also approved support for a T-Mobile Hometown Grant application that could bring up to $50,000 to Smithsburg.
The proposal would fund the next phase of improvements to a community space, building on earlier tree plantings and focusing on a central gathering area with seating. The project also includes stormwater and accessibility improvements.
Officials said letters of support will strengthen the application, and suggested reaching out to local groups including the Lions Club, Planning Commission, Scouts and the library. The application deadline is March 31.
Council opposes state legislation
The council unanimously agreed to oppose Senate Bill 36 and House Bill 239, citing concerns that the legislation could reduce local control over zoning decisions.
Planning Commission representative Mary Revilla said the bills could impose uniform standards that do not fit small communities like Smithsburg. Council members agreed and directed that a letter be sent to state lawmakers reflecting their opposition.
