Vickie Grinder

The board received a presentation regarding Mental Health Awareness and the upcoming NAMI walk. The meeting resulted in the contract award for two wastewater treatment plant air compressors. The board conducted a detailed review of the quarterly financial report and the draft Fiscal Year 2027 budget, which included discussions on the General Fund, Public Safety, and Electric Fund budgets. Commissioners shared community updates and announcements, and noted current vacancies on the Board of Appeals and the Parks and Recreation Commission.

The board conducted a town meeting covering several administrative and financial items. The agenda included swearing in appointees to the Ethics Commission and Board of Appeals, a presentation and proclamation regarding Child Abuse Awareness Month, and the approval to fill a vacancy in the Streets and Parks department. A resolution was adopted supporting the Local Revenue Task Force. Additionally, the meeting featured a budget workshop for the Fiscal Year 2027 Water and Wastewater Departments and a discussion on Fiscal Year 2027 Program Open Space.

The board conducted swearing-in ceremonies for police personnel and members of the Charter Review Commission. Appointments were made to the Police Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission. The board adopted Ordinance 2026-01 concerning the amendment of water and sewer connection and impact fees. A two-year contract for the mowing of parks and grounds was awarded to Mountain View Lawn Services. Furthermore, the board deliberated on the Emmitsburg Road Flood Mitigation Project, ultimately deciding to table the initiative for the current year. Updates were also provided regarding electric rate public hearings, the planning for the town's 275th anniversary, and various municipal infrastructure and staffing developments.

The commission reviewed the Zoning Inspector's Report and received an update on the Major Subdivision Concept Plan for 'The Meadows,' which was postponed. The meeting included the formal adoption of the 2025 Annual Report and Five-Year Report. There were no public comments during the session.

The board discussed and acted upon a proposal to implement a 2% convenience fee for credit and debit card payments, with an agreed review period in the next budget cycle. The meeting included budget workshops for the Department of Economic Development, the Planning and Zoning Department, and Public Safety for Fiscal Year 2027. Commissioners provided updates on various community events and operational matters, including the Addiction Commission, upcoming business expos, and sidewalk infrastructure projects. A resident provided public comments requesting clarification on the Open Meetings Act and the Maryland Public Information Act, as well as policy recommendations regarding town business communication.