County Connection Issue 12, October 31, 2022

COUNTY CONNECTION

An Inside Perspective of What’s Going On In Washington County, Maryland ISSUE: 12 DATE: October 31, 2022

IN THIS ISSUE...

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Opening

Funds

•

Recognitions

• Washington Goes Purple & United Way Day of Caring

• Ice Cream Trail Winners

Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of the Washington County Public Safety Training Center

On September 20, 2022, hundreds of citizens, local and state-wide dignitaries, public safety personnel and county staff gathered to celebrate the opening of Washington County’s Public Safety Training Center. The Public Safety Training Center is a state-of-the-art facility that provides a space for different disciplines to work and train together in simulated real-life emergency situations.

Tremendous hard work and dedication went into the planning, design and construction of this new addition in our County. The center is approximately 35,000 sq. ft. equipped with classrooms, administration offices, training and multi-purpose rooms and more.

Through fundraising efforts, several sponsorships were donated to the Public Safety Training Center and we sincerely thank you for your generosity. If you would like to consider sponsoring a space at the facility, please visit www.washco-md.net/emergency-services/publicsafety-training-center/. Photos from the event can be viewed on our Facebook page.

Washington County is proud to house this facility and to be able to inspire success in public safety through education.

Continue reading on page 4

Business News

Washington County Business Appreciation Week

Every year, the state of Maryland celebrates Economic Development Week, which gives economic development professionals a platform to showcase their local businesses and highlight the contributions made to the economy throughout the year.

This year, the Washington County Department of Business Development, in collaboration with the City of Hagerstown Department of Community and Economic Development, celebrated the local business community during their annual “Business Appreciation Week” held October 24-28, 2022. Teams from both the County and City stopped at over 50 local businesses to thank them for doing business in Washington County. Teams also had the opportunity to learn more about the business, identify concerns or issues, and share business resources.

Please join us as we celebrate the strong, diverse, and growing Washington County, MD business community!

Washington County, MD Board of County Commissioners

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Regional” Assistance for Firefighter Grant

The Washington County Division of Emergency Services, in collaboration with Potomac Valley Volunteer Fire Company, was awarded a 1.9 million dollar “Regional” Assistance for Firefighters Grant (AFG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on September 23, 2022. The funds will be used by various volunteer fire and EMS departments, the Division of Emergency Services, and the Washington County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association to purchase portable radios.

The regional grant of 1.9 million dollars brings direct capital purchase dollars to 19 volunteer fire and EMS departments as well as Hagerstown Fire Department, Washington County Division of Emergency Services, and Washington County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. To read more, please visit https://conta. cc/3C0yPyh.

“The portable radios used by our fire and EMS responders have exceeded their manufacturers stated service life and parts for repair are becoming more difficult to find. The new radios will be designed to withstand the rigors of structural firefighting. The radios will also provide improved technologies, such as; dual band frequencies, GPS, Over The Air Programming (OTAP) capabilities, WIFI, and expanded frequency encryption capability,”

Remembrance in the Park

On September 13, 2022, the Washington County Office of Emergency Management, in collaboration with the Washington County Board of County Commissioners and the City of Hagerstown, held the annual “Remembrance in the Park” memorial ceremony in the Washington County Emergency Services Tribute Gardens at Hagerstown City Park. Hundreds of citizens, local and state-wide dignitaries, and public safety personnel gathered in honor of those who currently serve, or have served, in the military, law enforcement, and emergency services as well as citizens who volunteer to keep the community a safer and more prepared place to live. The memorial ceremony also included the ringing of the bell, which was rung by Washington County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association President G. Dale Fishack Jr., to honor fallen heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The 37 dedication bricks were also revealed at the Emergency Services Memorial Walk of Honor.

- Washington County Division of Emergency Services Director, R. David Hays

Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of the Washington County Public Safety Training Center

On September 20, 2022, Washington County Government, Washington County Division of Emergency Services, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Washington County Fire and Rescue Association hosted an open house and ribbon cutting for the Washington County Public Safety Training Center (PSTC). Representatives from each agency spoke regarding the positive impact the new Public Safety Training Center will have on the future generations of public safety in Washington County, Maryland.

On behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, President Jeffrey A. Cline stated, “This facility will go a long way in training emergency responders in protecting you and perhaps, most importantly, training them to protect their lives while risking theirs for yours.”

Division of Emergency Services Director R. David Hays shared how “there is no other facility in Washington County that is positioned to provide a comprehensive and collaborative law enforcement, fire and EMS training platform from a single campus-style environment.” He then stated that once it is “fully built out and completed, students will be able to complete academic or classroom instruction in the morning, walking directly out the classrooms to the practical training structures that will put their academic education to work.”

After reflecting on the recent tragedy in Smithsburg, Sheriff Douglas W. Mullendore expressed the importance of the training center and its future by stating, “it is only because of the training we do with EMS and fire that we are able to successfully mitigate those types of circumstances. And, that’s why this facility and the continued buildout is so important to us. It allows us to protect you, the public, and that’s what is paramount.”

Kevin L. Lewis, Deputy Director of Administrative Services,

emphasized the training center brings unification amongst our public safety staff. He shared, “We’re here to open new opportunities and work collectively to build out both a facility and a location where we can deliver unified public safety training and create a more unified public safety response force. That determines how successful we are.”

Lastly, G. Dale Fishack Jr., President of the Washington County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association, shared that with a centralized public safety training center, “the citizens of Washington County, visitors to our county, and those traveling through our country will be assured there is a dedication to retain and develop fully trained, certified, and well-prepared personnel for any and all emergencies that may arise in Washington County.”

Following the ceremony, representatives from all five agencies as well as sponsors of the rooms proceeded outside for the ribbon cutting. Once commenced, the evening concluded with tours of the training facility.

Professional Boulevard Bridge Project

The Professional Boulevard Bridge project is complete, and Phase 2 construction will soon begin to connect the new bridge to Eastern Boulevard and Yale Drive. The extension of Professional Boulevard will reduce congestion and emergency response times and enhance transportation networks within the County. The City of Hagerstown is contributing funding to this project for improvements within City limits. Additionally, the project is utilizing Federal Appalachian Regional Commission funding and State Aid funding. Completion of the project is anticipated in late 2023.

Winter Recreational Programs Will Begin Soon!

Exciting programs coming soon!

The Washington County Recreation Department will be offering winter programming for the entire family. The Rec Guide will be available soon.

Special events, toddler programs, youth sports, adult exercising programs and much more! Visit our website for more info at www.washcorecfit.com

NEW ROOF OVER MARTY SNOOK PARK EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

If you have not yet seen it, the Marty Snook Park Exercise Equipment area has been equipped with a new awning roof structure. Great news for those who use this area to work out since it will provide protection from weather elements and keep equipment cooler in the hotter months!

The structure will be taken down during the winter months to help protect it from snowstorms.

Help Needed!

It is up to park patrons with pets to help us keep the parks clean and enjoyable for all! Please remember to clean up after your pet(s) and dispose of pet waste in appropriate receptacles. Dogs MUST also be leashed in all areas of our parks unless visiting the dog park.

All Washington County Parks & Recreation policies can be found at https://www.washco-md.net/publicworks/parks-and-recreation/policies/

Did You Hear?

Marty’s Mythical Woods at Marty Snook Park was awarded the County of Engineers Association of Maryland (CEAM) Small Project of the Year Award for 2022 at the CEAM Fall Conference.

Andrew Eshleman, Director of Public Works, and Zane Rowe, Deputy Director of Public Works, were both in attendance for the presentation of the award.

Local Management Board Received Grant Award

On August 31, 2022, the Washington County Local Management Board (LMB) announced its award of $866,202 in state grant funds awarded by the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services, on behalf of the Children’s Cabinet. The grant award will fund six initiatives aimed at strengthening and improving the lives of youth and families residing in Washington County. The grant will be managed by the Washington County Office of Grant Management. There is an intentional focus on three elements: Racial & Ethnic Disparities (R/EDs), Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and Trauma-Informed Practices (TIPs). Programs and strategies are also aligned with the Children’s Cabinet priorities:

• Reducing the impact of parental incarceration on children, youth, families, and communities;

• Improving outcomes for disconnected/ opportunity youth;

• Reducing childhood hunger;

• Reducing youth homelessness;

• Increasing opportunities for communitybased programs and services for youth; and,

• Preventing out-of-State placements.

To read more about the initiatives/programs receiving funding, please visit https://bit.ly/ wclmb-aug-2022

Gaming Commission Awards

On August 9, 2022, the Washington County Gaming Commission announced its gaming fund distribution to the Washington County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association, as well as 60 local charitable organizations.

The Gaming Fund total of $2,591,012.93 for fiscal year 2022, which ended June 30, represents an increase of $129,336.68 when compared to fiscal year 2021 revenues.

State law requires funds be divided equally between the Washington County Fire and Rescue Association and local charities, and in January the Washington County Fire and Rescue Association received $565,192.92. As of today, an additional $730,313.55 will be distributed, bringing the yearly total for Fire and Rescue to $1,295,506.47.

In May, the Washington County Gaming Commission received 84 separate applications from 75 charitable organizations requesting a total of $2,062,148.54. After a gaming hearing in June, and one-day workshop in July, the Commission was able to either partially or fully fund 66 of the 84 requests. Of the 84 applications received, 44 received full funding, 22 received partial funding, and 18 were denied funding. A total of $1,295,506.46 of 2022 gaming funds were allocated to 60 of the 75 charitable organizations applying.

The Community Free Clinic received the largest award of $175,000 followed by R.E.A.C.H of Washington County receiving $100,000 and Senior Living Alternatives, Inc. / Holly Place receiving $90,000.

To read more about the 2022 gaming fund awards, please visit https://bit.ly/wcgc-aug-2022

Business Ribbon Cuttings and Ground Breakings

Thank you for doing business in Washington County!

Right at Home of Washington County (September 30, 2022)

Mimi’s pupuseria y Taqueria (September 28, 2022)

HomeGoods (September 22, 2022)

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park Headquarters (September 21, 2022)

F&M Trust (September 20, 2022)

Leatherman Healthcare (September 16, 2022)

Smithsburg Tractor Society (September 15, 2022)

Ausblick Development/Workspace Property Group (Groundbreaking August 31, 2022)

La Lune Metaphysical (August 30, 2022)

Thick N Thin Brewing Co. (August 25, 2022)

National Pike Logistics Center ( Groundbreaking August 24, 2022)

Heavy Metal Playground (August 5, 2022)

The Overwatch – Thrift Shop (August 2, 2022)

Lil’ Steamers by Beacon House, Inc. (July 29, 2022)

Hager x Games (July 22, 2022)

Beacon House, Inc. (July 21, 2022)

Horizon Goodwill Industries (July 14, 2022)

City Center Studio (July 11, 2022)

Emily’s Chic Boutique & Building Confident Women Ministry (July 6, 2022)

Employee Recognitions

Sheriff’s Office

Congratulations to Deputy First Class Phillip Rowe for being recognized as the 2021 Deputy of the Year and Sergeant Vance Almy for being recognized as the 2021 Supervisor of the Year! Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and commitment to the citizens of Washington County.

Jaime Dick - Walking to Wellness

Jaime Dick, Deputy Director of Public Works and Parks and Recreation, presented ways to stay healthy and active in Washington County at the largest Walking to Wellness crowd. Thank you for always motivating a healthier Washington County, Jaime!

2022 CEAM Awards

It comes as no surprise that Andrew Eshleman was presented the 2022 County Engineers Association of Maryland (CEAM) Service Award at the CEAM Fall Conference. This was awarded due to his hard work and dedication to Washington County.

Congratulations Andrew!

Flag Installation and Ceremony

A flag raising ceremony took place at the Washington County Board of Elections building on September 27, 2022. The guests of honor included employees of the Public Works Division that were involved in the installation of the flag poles at this facility as well as Commissioner President Jeff Cline and Commissioner Randall Wagner and County Administrator John Martirano.

Thanks for your hard work and dedication to the citizens of Washington County!

Day of Caring

On September 15, 2022, 5 teams of volunteers from Washington County worked hard to serve 6 sites for Day of Caring. We thank all of staff who volunteered for accomplishing the needs of CASA, Inc., Washington County Historical Society, the Washington County Commission on Aging, Inc. Senior Center, Hagerstown Community College, and Boonsboro Historical Society. Thank you to the United Way of Washington County for organizing this event and giving us the opportunity to make a difference in our community.

Washington Goes Purple

During the month of September, Washington County staff stood in support of Washington Goes Purple and participated in #PurpleFridays. Thank you to all citizens and staff who took action by participating in National Recovery Month. Moving forward, we encourage all citizens and staff to continue taking a stand in preventing addiction and eliminating stigma in our community. To learn more on how you can take action, please visit https://www. washingtongoespurple.com/.

County Commissioner Recognitions

During the Board of County Commissioners meeting on August 18, 2022, a proclamation was presented to the Hagerstown Aviation Museum proclaiming August 19 as National Aviation Day. This has been celebrated since 1939 on Orville Wright’s birthday. This day celebrates aviation history and contributions.

During the Board of County Commissioners meeting on August 30, 2022, a proclamation was presented to the Disabled American Veterans Organization proclaiming September, October, and November 2022 as “Forget-Me-Not” Months. The Commissioners encourage all citizens to join in and support those who have given so freely to protect and defend the rights and freedom of us all.

During the Day of Caring breakfast kick-off on September 15, 2022, a proclamation was presented to the United Way of Washington County, Maryland proclaiming the third Thursday of September as Washington County’s Official Day of Caring.

On July 12, 2022, the Board of County Commissioners presented a Certificate of Recognition to Potomac Excavating. Through the annual conservation awards, Potomac Excavating was awarded as the 2021 Outstanding Contractor.

On September 27, 2022, the Board of County Commissioners presented a proclamation to Carolyn Brooks, Director of Character Counts! of Washington County, to recognize October as Character Counts! Month.

On July 12, 2022, the Board of County Commissioners presented a Certificate of Recognition to Dwayne Coulter (Hidden Valley Farm). Through the annual conservation awards, Mr. Coulter was awarded as the 2021 Outstanding Cooperator.

ICE CREAM TRAIL HAS ENDED FOR 2022

Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Washington County Ice Cream Trail and supported our 14 locally-owned ice cream shops and our local dairy farmers. We received a total of 310 completed maps. Participants were mailed t-shirts and 17 participants were selected for a prize. Prizes included gift certificates to The Big Dipper, Deliteful Dairy, Meadows Frozen Custard, Misty Meadows Farm Creamery, Mountain Top Ice Cream, Sweetsies’ as well as t-shirts from Deliteful Dairy. The grand prize winner received a $50 gift certificate to this year’s Ice Cream Trail Favorite, Misty Meadows Farm Creamery.

ICE CREAM TRAIL FAVORITE WINNER

During the Board of County Commissioners meeting on October 11, 2022, the Board of County Commissioners presented Misty Meadows Farm Creamery with an award. The award recognized Misty Meadows Farm Creamery as this year’s Washington County Ice Cream Trail favorite. Misty Meadows Farm Creamery was highly voted due to not only its ice cream, but the overall experience it provides its customers.

MACo 2022

From August 17 to August 20, 2022, many Washington County Government staff members represented Washington County at The Maryland Association of Counties Summer Conference (MACoCon). The team had the opportunity to showcase the County and its many offerings. The setup included displays from Bowman Group, Hitachi, PIA, and Volvo as well as a little taste of apple butter from our Farm of the Year, Ivy Hill.

At the Taste of Maryland Reception, Washington County shared charcuterie cups filled with some of the best local products. The cups were made up of cheeses from Deliteful Dairy, meat sticks from Waltz Family Farm, pickled green beans and asparagus from Ivy Hill Farm, tomatoes and crackers. We also served wines from Big Cork Vineyards, beer from Cushwa Brewing Company and macaroons from Deliteful Dairy.

The MACo giveaway included a 2 night at Elmwood Farm Bed and Breakfast, Golf and cart for 2 at Black Rock Golf Course, wine tasting at Big Cork Vineyards and a luggage set. The winner was Courtney ThomasWinterberg, whom we hope gets to visit Washington County soon!

HAGERSTOWN REGIONAL AIRPORT (HGR)

Website Redesign

Booking your flights with us just got easier! With our new website design, you will be able to quickly find arrival & departure times, ticket counter hours, a calendar of events, answers to frequently asked questions, and more!

Check out the new website design at flyhagerstown.com.

Flight Schedule

Do you need a vacation? We’ve got you covered! Hagerstown Regional Airport (HGR) extended their flight schedule to May 14, 2023. Book a flight to Orlando/Sanford, Florida or St. Petersburg/Clearwater, Florida.

Hagerstown Regional Airport has free parking and a newly renovated terminal that will make getting to your destination stress-free. HGR’s friendly and knowledgeable staff are ready to make your flying experience enjoyable, so please visit our website for more information on Hagerstown Regional Airport. We hope to see you soon!

Thank you...

From John M. Martirano, Esq. County Administrator

As we near the end of 2022, it is time to reflect on the many successes our County has experienced this year. The County celebrated ground breakings, grand openings and ribbon cuttings for many new local businesses and the County awarded numerous grants to our local nonprofits and small businesses that helped to revitalize our community. Our public safety efforts were enhanced with the completion and opening of phase one of the Public Safety Training Center and the awarding of the “Regional” Assistance for Firefighters Grant (AFG).

With the new year just around the corner, I urge you to stay engaged with our community and enjoy the many wonderful things our County has to offer.

Finally, I invite you to join us on December 6, 2022, as we welcome our new Board of County Commissioners at the official swearing-in ceremony.

Stay safe and see you in the new year.