HAGERSTOWN, Md. – The Washington County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday received an update on a federal immigration processing facility in Williamsport, supported a state utility relief bill with proposed changes and approved a rezoning request for a growing local business.
In her usual report, County Administrator Michelle Gordon told commissioners the county’s role remains limited and that legal constraints prevent officials from taking action on the project.
“Any action taken by Washington County would require a legal opinion and interpretation of the potential liability of all parties involved,” Gordon said, adding that questions remain about how authority is divided across levels of government.
“A legal opinion and interpretation will be needed regarding the hierarchy and interactions between local, state and federal government authority and jurisdiction, all of which we’re not able to comment on at this time.”
Gordon said the county’s first meeting with Department of Homeland Security officials earlier this month was focused on sharing information and opening communication.
“This meeting marked a significant step toward enhancing knowledge sharing and opened the lines of communication regarding the facility,” Gordon said, noting that county officials raised concerns about local impacts. “During the meeting, Washington County officials addressed a variety of topics including aspects regarding community concerns and the potential impact on local resources.”
She also confirmed that the federal government has agreed in principle to offset lost county tax revenue, though details remain under negotiation.
“The federal government agreed to make the county’s tax revenue whole,” Gordon said, explaining that discussions are ongoing between the county attorney and DHS. “No further information is available while contract negotiations take place.”
Gordon said contractor KVG LLC will handle engineering and infrastructure coordination if upgrades are required.
“If additional capacity is needed for facility operations, the federal government will pay any required infrastructure improvements,” she said, adding that local agencies would be involved as needed. “KVG will be responsible for coordinating with local authorities once those needs are identified.”
She again directed residents to federal officials for further input.
“Those with comments or concerns should reach out to their congressional representatives,” Gordon said, emphasizing that the county does not control the project. “That would include Congresswoman April McClain Delaney and Maryland’s U.S. senators.”
The board took no action on the update.
Support for state utility bill with proposed amendments
Commissioners reached consensus to send a letter supporting House Bill 1532, the Utility Relief Act, with recommended amendments.
“[The bill] also disregards firefighter and resident safety,” Gordon said, explaining the county’s concern about removing in-person inspection requirements. “We are recommending a letter of support with amendments to clarify that recommendations on a state-level zoning or permitting structure be developed in consultation with county planning and permit officials.”
The bill would require counties to allow remote inspection of installed solar panels if inspection times exceed five days on average over a 12-month period.
Approval of rezoning to expand business
The board unanimously approved a zoning map amendment for 20511 Leitersburg Pike to expand a rural business floating zone by three acres behind an existing trailer dealership.
“This rezoning will be an expansion of an established rural business which sits in front of the proposed rezoning,” Comprehensive Planner Kyla Shingleton said, explaining how the additional acreage would be used. “The proposed rezoning will be used as a display and storage lot for the already existing trailer sales on the abutting property.”
Attorney William C. Wantz, representing applicants David and Jessica Testa, said the request reflects continued business growth.
“We’re now looking to expand that,” Wantz said, describing the existing operation and surrounding properties. “This allows the business to continue to grow in place rather than relocating elsewhere.”
Testa said the business has expanded quickly since opening.
“It’s been phenomenal,” he said, crediting the local community and customer base for the growth. “I appreciate the area and everything that it’s given us, and this will help us continue to serve those customers.”
Testa said the business regularly serves agricultural and landscaping customers.
“Absolutely,” Testa said when asked about that customer base, adding that the expansion will help meet demand. “That’s a big part of what we do.”
During the public hearing, two speakers initially voiced support but were removed after straying off topic and continuing to argue with commissioners.
The board approved the rezoning 4-0.
Red Cross and agriculture recognized
The commissioners proclaimed March American Red Cross Month, and presented a proclamation to official of the regional Shenandoah Valley chapter.
“Our chapter continues to provide great service here in the area,” said Al Martin, vice chair of the chapter, as he thanked commissioners for the recognition. “We’re fortunate to have volunteers who respond not only locally but across the region when disasters occur.”
Executive Director Deborah Fleming said volunteers handled dozens of incidents last year.
“In Washington County alone, our volunteers have responded to 32 fires and 68 disaster operations,” Fleming said, outlining the scope of local efforts. “We provided more than 2,600 blood collections and supported military members and their families through more than 100 service connections.”
In another proclamation ceremony, the commissioners recognized March 24, 2026 as National Agriculture Day to support local farming operations.
Jonathan Horowitz, director of the county’s Department of Business and Economic Development, emphasized agriculture’s role in the county.
“Agriculture remains one of Washington County’s most historic, diverse and economically significant industries,” Horowitz said, noting its economic and cultural impact. “Our farms are businesses too, and they play a vital role in supporting our local economy and food security.”
Budgets and other business
Commissioners reviewed proposed 2027 budgets, including a $15.1 million highway budget.
“Since 2009 that has no longer been the case,” Highways Department Deputy Director Zane Rowe said, referring to declining state highway user revenue. “It’s predominantly been funded by the county general fund.”
Airport officials reported continued growth tied to Sierra Nevada Corp. and requested additional staffing.
“One of our largest customers, Sierra Nevada, has just signed multiple contracts worth over $1 billion,” Human Resources Director Chip Rose said, explaining the operational impact. “Hagerstown Regional Airport will play a major role in supporting those contracts.”
Commissioners approved a series of routine items, including contracts for emergency medical supplies, software services, radio subscriptions, transit repairs and several grant applications.
They also approved merging the Historic District Commission and Historical Advisory Committee into a single body effective July 1.
