Chad Fike

The commission reviewed a zoning variance request for an addition to a residential property. Discussion also included two subdivision waiver requests: the Zepp waiver was approved with stipulations regarding future development, and the Fazenbaker waiver was tabled due to insufficient information about the right of way. Additionally, the commission approved the 2025 Annual Report for submission to the local legislative body and the state planning department.

The board conducted several administrative appointments for various county councils and zoning boards. A primary focus of the meeting was the presentation of the Fiscal Year 2027 Operating and Capital Budget, which included discussions on reducing the property tax rate and lowering the homestead tax credit cap. The session also addressed public concerns regarding the Swallow Falls Bridge relocation project and noted the impact of state-mandated education funding on long-term fiscal projections. Additionally, the commissioners highlighted the ongoing budget development process and pending final budget adoption.

The Board approved the appointment of a new member to the Agricultural Advisory Board and a real property tax exemption for Backbone Housing Inc. for Fiscal Year 2027. Several proclamations regarding mental health were issued. The Board awarded contracts for the G-58 Sang Run Road bridge project to US Bridge and an elevator control upgrade to Keystone Elevator Group. Additionally, an RFP for an Advance Metering Infrastructure System was awarded to Fortline Inc. A Road Name Resolution was adopted for new and existing roads, and the Board authorized a funding application for sidewalk improvements in Crellin. Finally, the Board approved a reduction of the Fiscal Year 2027 Garrett County Property Tax Rate from $1.02 to $1.00.

The board discussed reports from the Emergency Management department regarding EOC activations due to blizzard warnings, the completion of the backup 911 center, tornado recovery efforts in the Bear Creek area, updates to weather alert boundaries, and various grant-funded projects including mass notification enhancements and a new drone program. The Emergency Services report covered rising call volumes, EMS response time performance, staffing updates, requests for additional clinicians, and the procurement of new and remounted ambulances. MIEMSS representatives provided updates on regional training conferences, report submission protocols, and upcoming requirements for new medications and equipment. The meeting also addressed old business regarding response times for Northern Rescue and new business regarding the importance of data collection to support budgetary requests to the County Commissioners.

The board discussed operational reports from EMS, Northern Rescue Squad, Southern Rescue Squad, the Chief's Committee, and MIEMSS. Key topics included manpower and ambulance procurement, response time issues at the Friendsville station, the development of a five-year plan for fire department operations, and the implementation of new Maryland EMS protocols. Additionally, the board addressed the upcoming transition of the 911 center to the Department of Emergency Management, potential implementation of a community paramedicine program, and a recent spike in overdose incidents.