Pamela S. Diaz

Allegany County is undertaking an update to its Comprehensive Plan, a policy document designed to guide future growth, development, and quality of life. The plan will establish a vision and recommendations across various topics including economic development, land use, housing, transportation, community facilities, infrastructure, and environmental resources. This update incorporates best practices and statutory requirements to align with state objectives and local priorities, serving as a framework for county initiatives for the next decade, with significant emphasis on community input.

The meeting included a public hearing for the Maryland Recovery Housing Program grant for Archway Station, a recovery housing project. The Maryland Recovery Housing Program is designed to assist County governments with the provision of stable temporary housing for individuals in recovery from a substance use disorder. Archway Station seeks funds to purchase a property to be used as a recovery house for women and children. The meeting also included a discussion on the budget, property taxes, income taxes, and disparity grant.

The meeting included a public hearing for the preliminary budget presentation. Discussions covered the Maryland Recovery Housing Program Funding for the Archway Station Recovery Housing Project. The board addressed a MOU with LaVale Sanitary Commission, and the announcement and publication of an RFP for the development of market-rate housing for the Old Allegany High School Site. Other topics included the Code Enforcement Fine Schedule, a grant application for Archway Station Recovery Housing Project, and revisions to the Rules & Regulations Governing Employees of Allegany County. Agreements were discussed for Columbia Gas Right of Way on Moss Avenue, field use for the Old Allegany High School with the Braddock Warriors, and the renewal of an Operation and Maintenance Agreement with LaVale Athletic Association for Holly Avenue and Lion's Field.

The meeting included presentations recognizing Rocky Gap's 10th anniversary and announcing Geo Cycle's new location in Allegany County. Discussions and decisions were made regarding the budget, tax levy, and utility rates. The board also addressed the scattered sites housing program and the Maryland mortgage program, as well as the Allegheny County Police accountability board.

The meeting included the introduction of the new Deputy Director. Members were reminded to complete their financial disclosures. The FY24 Budget approved by the County Commissioners was reviewed. The Memorandum of Understanding for Early Voting was approved. Requirements of HB410, which pertains to maintaining a contact list for notifications about local board meetings and polling place changes, and HB1200, which mandates minimum pay for election judges, were discussed. The board also approved the new election judge salaries. The vacancy for a Registrar position was addressed, and the request to fill a warehouse clerk position was sent to HR. Updated bylaws were reviewed and approved.