County Council of Dorchester County Regular Meeting Minutes October 1, 2024  REGULAR SESSION  The County Council ofI Dorchester County convened into Regular Session on October 1, 2024 at 5:03 p.m., in Room 110 ofthe County Office Building, 501 Court Lane, Cambridge, Maryland 21613. A roll call of the members was conducted. Present in Room 110 were: Mike Detmer, Vice President; Rob Kramer, Jr.; William V. Nichols; and, Ricky C. Travers. Also present in Room 110 were: Jerry Jones, County Manager; and, Irene Barnes, Executive Administrative Specialist. George L. Pfeffer, Jr., President, joined by phone. Charles MacLeod, County The Council motioned to adjourn into a Closed Session pursuant to the following sections of Title 3 oft the General Provisions Article oft the Maryland Annotated Code: $3-305(b)(I)to discuss the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, or performance evaluation of appointees, employees, or officials over whom it has jurisdiction; and, $3-305(b)(7) to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice. The Written Statement for Closing a Meeting under the Open Meetings Act is available  Attorney,joined the meeting late.  upon request.  The Council adjourned into Closed Session.  CLOSED SESSION  The County Council of] Dorchester County convened into Closed Session on October 1, 2024 at 5:04 p.m., in Room 1100 of the County Office Building, 501 Court Lane, Cambridge, Maryland 21613. Present in Room 110 were: Mike Detmer, Vice President; Rob Kramer, Jr.; William V. Nichols; and, Ricky C. Travers. Also present in Room 110 were: Jerry Jones, County Manager; and, Irene Barnes, Executive Administrative Specialist. George L. Pfeffer, Jr., President, joined  by phone. Charles MacLeod, County Attorney,joined the meeting late.  The Council adjourned into Regular session  REGULAR SESSION  The County Council ofl Dorchester County convened into Regular Session on October 1,2 2024 at 6:04 p.m., in Room 110ofthe County Office Building, 501 Court Lane, Cambridge, Maryland 21613. A roll call of the members was conducted. Present in Room 110 were: Mike Detmer, Vice President; Rob Kramer, Jr.; William V. Nichols; and, Ricky C. Travers. Also present in Room 110 were: Jerry Jones, County Manager; Charles MacLeod, County Attorney; and, Irene Barnes, Executive Administrative Specialist. George L. Pfeffer, Jr., President, joined by phone.    Dorchester County Council Regular Session Minutes of October 1,2024 Page No. 2  INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE  Councilman Detmer led the invocation and the pledge of allegiance. CALL FOR ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO AGENDA  After publication of the agenda, the following items were added: 1) Maryland Broadband Cooperative, Inc. Easement Agreement - Communications Division; and, 2) Request to Proceed Tax Abatements - Finance. The Council approved the amended agenda.  FINANCIAL REPORT: CASH AND INVESTMENTS  Councilman Detmer reported total cash and investments as $34,700,722.47.  CLOSED SESSION SUMMARY  The Council convened into a Closed Session at 5:03 p.m. on October 1, 2024 to discuss the following items pursuant to Title 3 of the General Provisions Article oft the Maryland Annotated  Code $3-305(b)(1) and $3-305(b)(7):  1. Notifications of recent personnel changes within the County were provided. 2. Received legal advice from the County Attorney regarding:  a. As specific County owned property; b. Specific tax exemptions; and,  - Requirements of administering a specific board.  CONSENT AGENDA APPROVAL OF MINUTES  The Council approved the minutes of September 17,2024.  APPROVAL OF DISBURSEMENTS The Counçil approved the vouchers as presented.  GOCPP GRANT AWARD - FY25 STATE. AIDI FOR POLICE PROTECTION- SHERIFF'S Based on the request of James W. Phillips, Sheriff, the Council accepted a $164,894.00 FY25 State Aid for Police Protection Fund grant award through the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy to provide adequate police protection in the subdivisions and qualifying municipalities ofl Maryland, with a performance period ofJuly 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 and no  OFFICE  match requirement.    Dorchester County Council Regular Session Minutes ofOctober 1,2024 Page No. 3  EASTERN SHORE INNOVATION CENTER LICENSE AGREEMENT- - ECONOMIC Based on the recommendation of Susan Banks, Economic Development Director, the Council agreed to enter into an Eastern Shore Innovation Center License Agreement with Ma8kr for the lease of Suite 038 effective October 1,2 2024 through September 30, 2026 at $113 per month,  DEVELOPMENT  with an option for a one-year extension.  PROCLAMATION 4-H WEEK - BEYOND READY  The Council presented a Proclamation declaring October 6-12, 2024 as 4-H week.  PRESENTATIONS  LOCAL MANAGEMENT BOARDUPDATE - MOVING DORCHESTER FORWARD Nancy Shockley, Local Management Board Coordinator, Moving Dorchester Forward, presented information regarding the FY24-26 Community Plan for Children, Youth and Families in Dorchester County. Dr. Jymil Thompson, Superintendent, Dorchester County Public Schools (DCPS), and Shay Lewis-Sisco, Career Coach, DCPS, also provided information pertaining to MARYLAND YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM - DORCHESTER COUNTY PUBLIC Ms. Lewis-Sisco presented information relating to the Maryland Youth Apprenticeship Program. Inr response to Councilman Detmer'si inquiry, Ms. Lewis-Sisco said employers should reach out The Council approved the request of Ms. Lewis-Sisco to collaborate with Dorchester County Public Schools and the Maryland Youth Apprenticeship Program to engage students in additional  the community plan. SCHOOLS  to her to connect with students on these programs.  learning opportunities.  FINANCIAL UPDATES -1 FINANCE  Karen Tolley, Finance Director, presented information relating to American Rescue Plan Act  (ARPA) funds, the County audits and the Uniform Financial Report.  The Council adjourned into Legislative Session.    Dorchester County Council Regular Session Minutes of October 1,2024 Page No. 4 LEGISLATIVE SESSION  INTRODUCTION -I FY2024-2025 BUDGET AMENDMENT APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE OF DORCHESTER COUNTY  AN ORDINANCE CONCERNING: AMENDING THE 2024-2025 ANNUAL BUDGET AND Ms. Barnes said for introduction is legislation for the purpose ofamending the FY25 Budget to incorporate the Department of Water and Wastewater Services, increasing the Operating Revenues and Expenditures by $988,023.00; and, the Capital Budget Expenditures and Capital Budget Source of Funds by $350,000.00, which will be funded by the Water & Wastewater  Enterprise Fund balance.  The Council agreed to proceed with the publication of a public hearing.  The Council adjourned into Regular Session.  REGULARSESSION  ANNUALI TRANSPORTATION MEETING DISCUSSION  No new items.  FY25 MARYLAND GENERAL ASSEMBLYI LEGISLATIVE SESSION DISCUSSION  No new items. ACTION ITEMS  BID AWARD - ON-CALL ENGINEERING SERVICES - PUBLIC WORKS  Based on the recommendation of David Dierks, Facilities & Risk Manager, Public Works, the Council awarded a bid for On-Call Engineering Services to the following firms, in no order and on an as-needed basis: 1) George, Miles & Buhr; 2) Lane Engineering; and, 3) Davis, Bowen &  Friedel for at three year term, with an option for two one-year extensions. BID AWARD -PAVILION - VIENNA PARK - RECREATION & PARKS  The Council approved the request of] Duc Trieu, Recreation & Parks Director, to award the bid for the Vienna Park pavilion to the lowest bidder, Green Site LLC, for a 12'x20' gable roof hardtop pavilion with a four inch cement pad at $27,223.00 which will be funded by FY24  Program Open Space funds.    Dorchester County Council Regular Session Minutes of October 1,2024 Page No. 5  FY2026 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN -] BOARD OF EDUCATION  Based on the request of Dr. Thompson, the Council conceptually approved the Dorchester County Board of Education's FY26 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for planning purposes only, Dr. Mike Collins, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services; and, Pat Murphy, Facilities Manager presented an overview ofthel Dorchester County Public Schools FY26 CIP which includes the status of previously approved projects and future requests. Mr. Murphy said: 1).100% ofnew construction will be funded by the State of Maryland until FY26, but may be extended to FY28; and, 2) the State requested a feasibility study to be completed by all Open Space schools to determine which is more efficient, building new: schools or remodeling existing  contingent on future budget approvals.  facilities.  OBSERVATION OF HALLOWEEN  The Council agreed to the observance of Halloween by County residents for children ages 12 and under on Thursday, October 31, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., which will not supersede prescheduled municipality events, however, this does apply to areas outside oft town limits.  DEPARIMENTAL RESTRUCTURING DISCUSSION  Based on the recommendation of Mr. Jones, on behalfo of Kristin Budd, Human Resources Director, the Council agreed to proceed with restructuring the following departments: Communications Division; Emergency Medical Services; Corrections; and, Director Positions. Mr. Jones said the FY24 Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) salary study was taken into account to adjust positions and salaries for directors and staff within the Communications Division, Emergency Medical Services, and Corrections to increase competitiveness, safety, opportunities and retention. He said this is the first step, and that the retirement system is also  being reviewed. BOARD APPOINTMENTS The Council appointed the following:  Recreation & Parks Advisory Board Antoine Patton Brooks Parker Planning Commission Valerie Brown Board of Zoning Appeals Lin Spicer Scott Wiehold    Dorchester County Council Regular Session Minutes of October 1,2024 Page No.6 POLL CONFIRMATION  The Council confirmed its decision in the interim of meetings, via poll, to:  Approve an Interlocal Agreement between the City of Cambridge and Dorchester County fora$12,495.00 Byrne. Justice Assistance Grant, which is split between the Cambridge  Police Department and the Sheriff's Office, by a 4 to 0 vote.  MARYLAND BROADBAND COOPERATIVE, INC. EASEMENT AGREEMENT-  COMMUNICATIONS DIVISION  Based on the request of Sheriff Phillips, the Council agreed to enter into an agreement with the Maryland Broadband Company, Inc. to allow access to and maintenance ofits telecommunications facilities installed at Fieldcrest Drive for a term of 99 years, with an option  for a 50-year extension.  REQUEST TO PROCEED - TAX ABABTEMENTS -I FINANCE  The Council approved the request of Karen Tolley, Finance Director, to proceed with tax  abatements for the following:  Cambridge Common's, LLLP Cambridge Skeet & Gun Club, Inc. Glenburn Associates Women's Auxiliary of] DGH Cedar Meadows Rod & Gun Club, Inc. Homes for Hurlock Limited Partnership  Cambridge Waterfront Development, Inc. (CWDI) /CWDI Holdings, LLC  COUNCIL'S COMMENTS  Councilman Nichols applauded the departmental restructuring efforts and said it should continue Councilman Pfeffer thanked Mr. Jones and the Human Resources Department for their great work on the departmental restructuring. He said Saturday, October 5, 2024 is the Hurlock Fall Councilman Travers noted the effects ofHurricane Helene, and commended the community for Councilman Detmer: 1) welcomed Bernard Dryden, Orphans' Court Judge; 2) said he will be attending the Hurlock Fall Festival; 3) highlighted the Nanticoke River Jamboree on October 12, 2024; 4) congratulated Hailey Leonard for being a 2024 Navy Bootcamp graduate; 5) provided his condolences to the Tinley family for the passing of Charles Tinley; 6) echoed Councilman  with the increase of lower tier salaries.  Festival, and apologized for his absence at the meeting.  coming together to assist those in need.  Travers regarding Hurricane Helene.    Dorchester County Council Regular Session Minutes ofOctober 1,2024 Page No. 7  PUBLIC COMMENTS  Don Satterfield, Corrections Director, applauded the efforts and continued support of the County Council, Mr. Jones and Human Resources, and noted that there is still work to be done. Ms. Lewis-Sisco provided additional information regarding the Maryland Youth Apprenticeship  Program. ADJOURNMENT  With no further business to discuss, the Council adjourned.  ATTEST:  THE COUNTY COUNCIW E  Plluder Mike Detmer, Vicel President Rob Kramer,J Jr. Absat William V. Nichols Ra Rigkyf.1 Travers  B  -  Approved the 15 day of Oct,2024.    PRESIDING OFFICER'S WRITTEN STATEMENT FOR CLOSING A MEETING ("CLOSING STATEMENT") UNDER THE OPEN MEETINGS ACT (General  Provisions Article S 3-305)  This form has two sides. Complete items 1-4 before closing the meeting.  1. Recorded vote to close the meeting: Date: 1ol24 Time: 5:03 p.m.; Location: Room 110, County Office Building, 501 Court Lane, Cambridge, Maryland; Motion to close meeting made by:  KYAmex Seconded by. TVavers Kamtr.fwcmals,Tais Opposed:  Members in favor: Pfcffin, chtr  Abstaining: R  Absent:  Pfeffer  2. Statutory authority to close session (check all provisions that apply).  This meeting  will be closed under General  Provisions Art. $3-305(b) only:  (1)x "To discuss the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, or performance evaluation of appointees, employees, or officials over whom this public body has jurisdiction; any other personnel matter that affects one or more specific individuals"; (2)_ - "To protect the privacy or reputation of individuals concerning a matter not related to public business"; (3). "To consider the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto"; (4) - "To consider a matter that concerns the proposal for a business or industrial organization to locate, expand, or remain in the State"; (5) "To consider the investment of public funds"; (6). "To consider the marketing of public securities"; (7)x "To consult with counsel to obtain legal advice"; (8). "To consult with staff, consultants, or other individuals about pending or potential litigation"; (9) "To conduct collective bargaining negotiations or consider matters that relate to the negotiations"; (10). "To discuss public security, if the public body determines that public discussion would constitute a risk to the public or to public security, including: (i) the deployment of fire and police services and staff; and (ii) the development and implementation of emergency plans"; (11) "To prepare, administer, or grade a scholastic, licensing, or qualifying examination"; (12)_ - "To conduct or discuss an investigative proceeding on actual or possible criminal conduct"; (13)_x "To comply with a specific constitutional, statutory, or judicially imposed requirement that prevents public disclosures about a particular proceeding or matter"; (14) "Before a contract is awarded or bids are opened, to discuss a matter directly related to a negotiating strategy or the contents of a bid or proposal, if public discussion or disclosure would adversely impact the ability of the public body to participate in the competitive bidding or proposal process." (15). "To discuss cybersecurity, ift the public body determines that public discussion would constitute a risk to: (i) security assessments or deployments relating to information resources technology; (ii) network security information : or (ii) deployments or implementation of security  personnel, critical infrastructure, or security devices."  Continued e    3.  For each provision checked above, disclosure of the topic to be discussed and the public  body's reason for discussing that topic in closed session.  Citation (insert # from above)  Topic  Reason for closed-session discussion Public Discussion of applicant's names from applying for County. jobs Public Information Act, GP Section 4- 310 and 311 requires us to shield recommendation letters and job  of topic  $3-305(b)(1) Notifications of recent 53-305(b)(13) Same topic as above  personnel changes within the and job info could discourage people  County.  applications  $3-305(b)(7) Toreceive legal advice from Council does not want to waive the  the County Attorney regarding attorney-client privilege. See page  aspecific County owned property.  101, August 17, 2021, OMCB ruling (15  OMCB 99)  $3-305(b) I (7) Tor receive legal advice from Council does not want to waive the  the County Attorney regarding attorney-client privilege. See page  specific tax exemptions.  101, August 17, 2021, OMCB ruling (15  OMCB 99)  $3-305(b)(7) Tor receive legal advice from Council does not want to waive the  the County Attorney regarding attorney-client privilege. See page requirements of administering 101, August 17, 2021, OMCB ruling (15  aspecific board.  OMCB 99)    4.  This statement is made by.  Presiding Officer.  WORKSHEET FOR OPTIONAL USE IN CLOSED SESSION: INFORMATION FOR SUMMARY TO BE DISCLOSED IN THE MINUTES OF THE NEXT OPEN MEETING. (See also template for summary.)  For a meeting closed under the statutory authority cited above:  Time of closed session: Place: Purpose(s):  Members who voted to meet in closed session: Persons attending closed session: Authority under $ 3-305 for the closed session: Topics actually discussed: Actions taken: Each recorded vote: > Place: Persons present: Subjects discussed:  For a meeting recessed to perform an administrative function (5 3-104): Time:  (Form Rev. 10/1/2018)