Andrew Lewis

The meeting included a special session that approved an ordinance amendment to the land management code regarding forest conservation in compliance with state legislation. The work session included a confirmation of an existing payment in lieu of taxes agreement for the housing authority regarding a redevelopment project at Nolan Village. A request to apply for a community parks and playgrounds grant for a shade structure at Wheaten Park was discussed and authorized. The Council also addressed the development of an RFP for a battery energy storage system and decided to continue working with the current consultant to maintain project timelines. A plan for establishing a charter review committee was outlined, involving an open application process for residents. Finally, an executive session was held to consult on legal advice regarding contracts and business proposals.

The Mayor and City Council discussed options for the utilization of state opioid restitution funds. The primary focus was on meeting a state-mandated deadline for submitting a plan for the funds allocated to the city for the 2022-2026 period. The Council deliberated on potential approaches, including the development of an application process for community partners or entering into a memorandum of understanding with the Washington County Health Department to manage the funds and required reporting, emphasizing the importance of keeping initiatives city-focused.

The council held a special session to approve the CDBG and Home Annual Action Plan for 2026 and authorize the Mayor to apply for financial assistance from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Additionally, a proclamation for Pride Month was presented. The work session included a presentation from the Hagerstown Hitters Youth Football Organization requesting permission to use Fairgrounds Park for the Hub City Classic tournament, including discussions on field maintenance, fairness in sports facility access, and potential economic impacts.

The council discussed the addition of a new assistant zoning administrator position in the planning office to address increased workload. Appointments were made for the Hagerstown Youth Council Partner Group. An ordinance was introduced to prohibit lodging out of doors in public places. The council approved a lease agreement for office space with the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, an MOU with the Board of Education for school resource officers, and the city's community legacy fund application for middle neighborhood emergency home repairs, strategic property projects, and home daycare startup assistance. Additionally, approvals were granted for subrecipient agreements for the Main Street startup grant program and an MOU with the Maryland Department of the Environment to fund a water and wastewater infrastructure needs study.

The meeting included several proclamations for National Kids to Parks Day, Lupus Awareness Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, National Cancer Research Month, and Haitian Heritage Month. Following the proclamations, the council reviewed the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget, focusing on enterprise funds including parking, electricity, water, and wastewater. The review highlighted revenue and expense projections, the impact of debt service payments, and utilization trends for the new hub parking deck.