HAGERSTOWN, Md. – The Washington County Board of County Commissioners will consider $2.6 million in renovations for the county detention center, a $1.3 million level funding plan for community organizations and proposed changes to pedestrian and bicycle facilities along U.S. 40 when it meets Tuesday, Nov. 10.
The commissioners will also hold a public hearing on changes to the county’s forest conservation ordinance, review school budget adjustments and consider purchases of new vehicles for the Sheriff’s Office.
Detention center renovations
The county is seeking approval to award a $2.3 million construction contract to Keller Brothers Inc. of Mount Airy for the first phase of renovations at the Washington County Detention Center.
The project would renovate about 8,000 square feet, adding separate juvenile housing areas for males and females, new interview rooms, an accessible restroom and an enlarged, more secure control booth.
Work would also include new heating and cooling equipment and improvements to the kitchen and multipurpose room. The total project cost, including furniture, equipment and inspections, is estimated at $2.6 million.
The renovations are intended to prepare the facility for future improvements to the women’s housing unit when funding becomes available.
Funding for community groups
Commissioners will consider making $1.3 million available to nonprofit organizations for 2028, maintaining the same funding level as the previous year.
Under the proposed allocations, organizations serving families and children would receive the largest share, $535,600, followed by domestic violence programs at $418,600.
Other proposed funding includes $148,200 for senior services, $146,900 for arts and culture, $36,400 for recreation and $14,300 for other programs.
The county typically supports about 35 nonprofit organizations annually through the program. Commissioners will determine the funding priorities, while a committee reviews and scores applications.
Pedestrian safety on Dual Highway
Commissioners will consider sending a letter to the Maryland State Highway Administration supporting further study of a pedestrian safety proposal along U.S. 40, from Garland Groh Boulevard to All Star Court.
State transportation officials have presented five alternatives, including dedicated bicycle lanes in different configurations, shared-lane bicycle markings and an option to leave the roadway unchanged.
County staff members recommend further evaluation of the shared-lane markings option, which is also preferred by the City of Hagerstown.
The county’s proposed letter raises concerns about the loss of parking near the courthouse and county office building, potential effects on bus service and questions about who would maintain new sidewalks and other pedestrian improvements.
The letter also calls for improvements to missing crosswalks, sidewalks and pedestrian refuge areas.
Forest conservation hearing
A public hearing at 9:30 a.m. will address proposed revisions to Washington County’s forest conservation ordinance, which regulates tree preservation and replacement during development.
The changes are intended to bring county regulations into compliance with state law and modernize an ordinance that has not undergone a comprehensive revision since its adoption in 1993.
The county Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval in July. Commissioners are scheduled to receive public comments but are not being asked to vote on the amendments Tuesday.
School budget revisions
Washington County Public Schools will request approval of year-end adjustments to its 2026 budget, reflecting higher-than-expected revenue and savings in several spending categories.
The changes include approximately $6.6 million in savings and additional revenue, offset by about $1.2 million in higher expenses, producing a net improvement of approximately $5.4 million in the school system’s fund balance.
Savings included lower spending on instructional salaries, textbooks, administrative costs and special education. The adjustments do not require additional county funding.
Sheriff’s office vehicles
Commissioners will consider spending approximately $572,000 to purchase 10 new Chevrolet Tahoe vehicles for the Sheriff’s Office.
The vehicles would replace older units that have exceeded county replacement guidelines. The county plans to use a purchasing agreement negotiated by Howard County to obtain discounted prices.
Vehicles being retired from service could be sold at auction or transferred to other local agencies, depending on their condition.
Other business
- Commissioners will also consider a budget adjustment for the Hagerstown Regional Airport’s Taxiway H project, bringing the project budget to approximately $1.23 million. Federal and state grants will cover most of the cost.
- Other proposed contracts include approximately $58,500 for stormwater maintenance services and $74,600 for consulting assistance to the county’s Local Management Board.
- The commissioners will receive an update from the Veterans Advisory Committee and issue a Veterans Day proclamation.
The regular meeting begins at 9 a.m. at 100 W. Washington St. in Hagerstown. Commissioners are also scheduled to meet with Smithsburg town leaders at 6 p.m. at the same location. To see the full agenda, readers may click here.
