Stacey Reese Gaegler

The meeting commenced with a public hearing regarding Ordinance 558, which proposes to amend chapter 119 concerning land subdivision and minor subdivisions, introducing a simplified review process similar to the county's for minor residential subdivisions. Following this, the council observed a moment of silence for Sterling Walsh and Rebecca Funk. Key reports covered significant updates on the water system project, including the execution of a contract with Kanoago for the construction of four water treatment plants and progress on five new pipelines, with anticipated groundbreaking in April. Financial updates detailed the receipt of settlement funds from the class action lawsuit against PFAS manufacturers (3M and DuPont), noting the decision to opt for yearly payments over an accelerated lump sum, and the ongoing process for the special needs claim covering engineering costs. Furthermore, discussions addressed the application process for a community solar project proposed by Hall and Bower Solutions on the Patmos property, which is in a zoning district that does not typically permit such use, but is subject to PSC siting authority. Finance staff updates included the distribution of W2s and 1099s, and the ongoing search for a new Financial Administrator. Other reports covered the town representative stepping down from the Carroll County Cable Regulatory Commission, the solicitation of business sponsors for the Hampstead Farmers Market, and police reports detailing traffic safety statistics, crime incidents including a domestic assault resulting in a 20-year sentence, and officer training. Updates were also provided on bulk trash pickup schedules, upcoming holidays, and pending grant applications for the Tree Commission.

The Hampstead Town Council convened in a closed session to consult with the Town Attorney to obtain legal advice on a legal matter, as permitted under the General Provisions of the Annotated Code of Maryland, Section 3-305(b). Following the discussion, the Council moved to adjourn the closed meeting and reopen the open meeting.

The meeting included a recognition ceremony for Michelle Ostrander, the Town Attorney, celebrating her 30 years of legal service with the proclamation of Michelle Ostrander Day. A significant discussion point was the adoption of Ordinance 558, which amends Chapter 119 to streamline the site plan review process, better aligning it with the Carroll County Minor Subdivision Process for subdivisions involving no more than three new lots. The Council also moved to enter a closed session to discuss personnel matters involving the appointment, compensation, or performance evaluation of specific employees.

The Commission received an update on the Water System Modernization and Centralization Project, noting that bid packages were submitted to the MDE and expecting notices-to-proceed in February 2026 for construction and inspection services, with groundbreaking anticipated in April. Updates were also provided on other projects, including Tractor Supply Company awaiting County review, Weis Gas N' Go nearing concept approval, and the Melanie Acres subdivision being renamed Hampstead Crossing. Key actions included the approval of a Sign Application for Rumbaugh Home Group at 1222 N. Main Street. The Commission also approved a Zoning Certificate for Exterior Renovations at 1006 South Main Street involving siding replacement and approved a Zoning Certificate for an Addition at 1306 North Main Street for Resh Family Dentistry. A Carroll County Department of Planning update mentioned a moratorium on certain development approvals in the Freedom District pending code review. Commission members expressed gratitude for the Public Works crew's recent storm clearing efforts.

The meeting agenda included reports from the Town Manager, Oversight Responsibilities, Police Department, and Mayor. New Business centered on the renewal of contracts for Town Mowing services across various facilities, including Water Facilities, Government Buildings, Parks and Common Areas, and Stormwater Ponds. The council planned to address the adoption of Ordinance 558, which concerns an amendment to Chapter 119 regarding the subdivision of land. The meeting structure also included sections for Public Comments and a Closed Session.