BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR SOMERSET COUNTY 11916 Somerset Avenue Room 111/Meeting Room ( o V Princess Anne, MD 21853 March 11, 2025 2:00 p.m. Appointments: 2:00 p.m. Public Hearing/Critical Area Ordinance Text Amendments - Mr. Jesse Drewer, P & Z 2:10 p.m. - Mr. Jesse Drewer, Director FY25 Budget Reallocation Request to replace vehicle Board of Zoning Appeals- Reappointments 2:15 p.m. - Mr. Charles Cavanaugh, Director Bid Opening/Detention Center Ventilation improvements 2:30 p.m. - Mr. Joel Dixon, Emergency Medical Services Coordinator Introduction 2:35 p.m. - Ms. Yvette Cross, Emergency Services Director * 911 Fees 2:45 p.m. - Mr. Woody Barnes, Public Works Director Transfer Station and Tipping Fees FY26 2:55 p.m. - Mr. Woody Barnes, Public Works Director, Mr. John Redden, County Engineer * Airport Hangar Bid Award Correspondence Sent: Senator Alsobrooks and Senator Van Hollen: Letter of Support for Congressionally Directed Spending FY26/City of Crisfield Senator Alsobrooks and Senator Van Hollen: Letter of Support for Congressionally Directed Spending FY26/UMES Congressman Harris: Letter of Support for Community Project Funding FY26/ UMES Secretary Scruggs: Letter of Thanks Ms. Cindy Stone: Additional Funding Request for Ewell Recreation & Community Center (CDBG Grant) Discussion 1. Requests for Proclamations: Child Abuse Prevention Month, SHORE UP 60th Anniversary, and Deal Island Chance Volunteer Fire Co. 70th Anniversary 2. Formal Approval for letter to Cindy Stone re: Additional Funding/CDBG MD-24-CD-056- Ewell Rec & Community Ctr 3. Formal Approval - Letter to Senator Van Hollen re: Smith Island Bridges 4. Request: Waiver ofTipping Fees for Chicken House Fire 5. Pauper Burial Request-Chad Wayne Ward Public Comments: Members of the audience who have signed up to address the Board will be permitted to do SO at this time and allotted 5 minutes. 3:00 p.m. Closed Session- Mr. Ralph D. Taylor, Mr. Ernest Leatherbury, Ms. Jamie Manaia, Mr. Woody Barnes, Mr. John Redden, Mr. Joel Dixon, Warden Keith Muir Authority of the General Provisions Article ofthe Annotated Code ofl Maryland $ 3-305 (b) (1) the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, or performance evaluation of an appointee, employee, or official over whom it has jurisdiction; and (3) to consider the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto. * Denotes Action Item BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR SOMERSET COUNTY March 11, 2025 At 2:00 p.m., President Charles Laird called the Board of County Commissioners for Somerset County to open in Regular Session. Also present for today's s meeting were Vice President Randy Laird, Commissioner Eldon Willing, and Commissioner Darryl Webster. Commissioner Craig N. Mathies Sr., was absent from today's meeting. County Administrator Ralph D. Taylor, Deputy Administrator Ernest J. Leatherbury Jr., and Executive Aide Lory E. Ebron were also present. Closed Session Summary Report On Tuesday, March 11, 2025 following a short recess, at 2:49 p.m., until 4:04 p.m., President Charles Laird, upon a motion made by Vice President Randy Laird, and seconded by Commissioner Webster, opened in Closed Session by Authority of the General Provisions Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland $3-305 (b)(1) the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, or performance evaluation of an appointee, employee, or official over whom it has jurisdiction; and (3) consider the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto. All those present voted aye by show of hands, therefore, the motion carried 4-0. Commissioner Craig N. Mathies, Sr., was absent from today's meeting. Mr. Ernest. J. Leatherbury, Jr., Deputy Administrator, Ms. Lory Ebron, Executive Aide, HR Director Jamie Manaia, DPW Director Woody Barnes, County Engineer John Redden (by phone), EMS Coordinator Joel Dixon, Emergency Services Director Yvette Cross. Topics discussed: (1) Consideration of acquisition of real property (2) Mitigation (3) Highway Worker I/MEO hire (4) Employee promotion (5) Probation extension (6) Probation to Permanent status (7) Proclamation request (8) Approval to hire personnel. Approved: (1) Approval to move forward with mitigation (2) Approval to hire Highway Worker I (3) Approval to promote employee (4) Approval to extend probationary period (5) Approval for proclamation (6) Approval to move forward with hiring personnel. President Charles Laird asked Commissioner Willing to lead those present in Devotion and the Pledge of Allegiance. 1 Board of Commnissioners Mceting 3-11-25 Mr. Taylor presented meeting minutes for approval regarding the February 25, 2025 Commissioner and Closed Session meetings. Vice President Randy Laird made a motion to approve the minutes as presented. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. All those present voted aye, therefore by show of hands the motion carried 4-0. At 2:03 p.m., President Charles Laird called the Public Hearing open on proposed draft amendments to the Somerset County Critical Area Ordinance. Mr. Drewer and any staff were asked to come forward. Mr. Leatherbury read the notice of public hearing into record as follows: NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR SOMERSET COUNTY TEXT AMENDMENT TO' THE SOMERSET COUNTY CRITICAL AREA ORDINANCE Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 2 PM County Commissioners' Meeting Room, Room 111 11916 Somerset Avenue Princess Anne, Maryland 21853 In accordance with the Critical Area Ordinance (#1071) of Somerset County Maryland, Chapter I-117( (a,d,e,f), Somerset County is considering the addition of Special Events to Chapter 1-108(e) Resource Conservation Areas (RCA) to allow for special events in the Resource Conservation Area on a temporary basis. Members of the public are invited to attend the Public Hearing and comment on the draft amendments to the ordinance. The County Commissioners will consider all public comment prior to making a decision on the draft Ordinance. Fair Summary Somerset County is required by State Law to regulate land use activities within the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area, defined as those lands within 1,000 feet of the tidal waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. The County has regulated these lands since September 10, 1988, through its Zoning Ordinance, and since 2014 through Ordinance #1071 the Critical Area Ordinance. Somerset County understands the desire to allow special temporary events on properties located in the Resource Conservation Area (RCA) and through this amendment will establish standards for such events. For further information please contact the Somerset County Department of Technical and Community Services at 410-651-1424 or by email at sketer@somerseimdus: Board of County Commissioners for Somerset County Ralph D. Taylor, County Administrator Advertising Dates: 02/19/2025 & 02/26/2025 Mr. Drewer explained that there was a request from property owners in the Resource Conservation Area (RCA) area to legally hold special events on properties that abut either a RCA 2 Board ofCommissioners Meeting 3-11-25 or Critical Area whereby currently special events are not permitted. The department has been made aware that they have been occurring. Noting that the Critical Area Ordinance is updated every 10 years, it was decided that language was needed to properly control and regulate special events. Therefore, after conversation with staff and the Critical Area Commission the ordinance was drafted as provided. President Charles Laird asked if there were any proponents present wishing to speak. Mr. Gerald Philpott came forward. Mr. Philpott stated he concurred and is pleased with the ordinance. He has been in the industry for 30 years, having a valued impression of how events are done. He requested consideration to change the 48-hour event duration to 72 hours. President Charles Laird asked ifthere were any opponents present wishing to speak. There were: none. Public comment will be taken for 10 days, or until Friday, March 21, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. The public hearing was declared closed at 2:08 p.m. Next, Mr. Drewer requested the Boards consideration to allow the addition of a leased vehicle for his department to replace the former 2006 Ford F150 which has been transferred to the Roads Department. Mr. Drewer felt that the truck was not cost effective to his department due to needed repairs and high mileage, adding that his department needs 4 vehicles, and' being down one they have been relying on using the commissioner's office vehicle when necessary. The Board tabled the request to discuss it further during budget session, therefore no action was taken. Last, Mr. Drewer advised that two reappointments are needed regarding the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). The three-year terms for members Andrew Baines and Paul Emely expire March 31, 2025. Both have expressed their interest to continue serving on the BZA. Vice President Randy Laird made a motion to reappoint Paul Emely to the BZA for a three- year term. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. By show of hands the motion carried 4-0. Vice President Randy Laird made a motion to reappoint Andrew Baines to the BZA for a three-year term. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. By show ofhands the motion carried 4-0. Mr. Taylor advise that there were no bids received regarding the Detention Center Ventilation Repair project. Mr. Joel Dixon came forward to be introduced as the Somerset County EMS Coordinator. Mr. Leatherbury stated he has been on board for three weeks, having 20-years' experience with 3 Board ofCommissioners Meeting 3-11-25 Anne. Arundel County; noting 25 years including volunteer time and service in Wicomico County. Mr. Dixon has been busy in the field, noting that now he is lining things up on the back end, preparing the budget, preparation to bring people on board and going live with operations. Matters will be discussed in further detail during the closed session meeting, with the Commissioners noting their support, and their desire to get things done. At this time, Mr. Cavanaugh and Mr. Barnes were asked to come forward to further discuss the Detention Center Ventilation Repair project. It was noted that this is Phase 1 of the project, to repair duct work issues regarding the cell blocks, and airl handler issues. Three contractors attended the non-mandatory pre-bid meeting; however, it is felt that it is not advantages to re-bid the project as is for repairs to old duct work as the contractors were not interested as the project is not large enough. They are working with a consultant to have a more attractive project combining Phases I and II; but in the meantime, with summer quickly approaching, local vendors will be used to make air flow improvements and perform maintenance to get through the summer. Projecting the whole package for Phase I and II will be a $2 million project and will be incorporated into FY26/27 budgets. Warden Muir, also in attendance in the audience, was appreciative of the hard work Mr. Barnes and Mr. Cavanaugh were doing. Mr. Barnes and Mr. Cavanaugh left the meeting at this time. Ms. Yvette Cross, Emergency Services Director and Mr. Gary Powell, Assistant Director, came forward at this time to present a proposed increase to the 911 Fee. The current fee is set at $.75 per phone line (landline and cellphone) and has not been raised in twenty-one years. Per State legislation passed in 2021, counties may increase the county 911 fee up to $1.50 when revenues do not exceed projected operating expenses. An increase to $1.50 will put the county more in line with our neighboring counties, and it was noted that Somerset County has a shortfall currently of $1,231,533.00. Raising the fee as proposed will double the revenue received, to reduce the shortfall. To move forward, a public hearing will be advertised and held to allow for public comment, with the increase being approved by resolution and must be completed before April 30, 2025. Commissioner Webster made a motion to move forward with the proposed increase to $1.50: fori the 911 Fee as presented. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. Byshow ofhands, the motion carried 4-0. 4 Board ofCommissioners Meeting 3-11-25 Mr. Barnes came forward at this time to present the Landfill and Transfer Station Fees. The current transfer station permit fee of $64.00 was last increased this year; with it noted that the second permit fee charge also set at $64.00. The Landfill Tipping Fee is set at $75.00 per ton for all customers, the Town of Princess Anne, Sanitary District and the City of Crisfield and was last increased in 2024. Comparison to Wicomico ($78) and Worcester ($80) Counties was made. It was noted that because Somerset County's fee is lower that neighboring counties, contractors are using our landfill versus other county landfills. It was questioned if this issue can be addressed. Following discussion, Commissioner Webster made a motion to have the Transfer Station Permit Fee of $64.00 remain the same. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. By show of hands, the motion carried 4-0. Commissioner Webster made a motion to have the Landfill Tipping Fee remain the same at $74.00 per ton. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. By show of hands, the motion carried 4-0. Mr. Barnes came forward, and Mr. Redden (by phone) to discuss the Airport Hangar bids, received during the December 17, 2024 meeting. It was noted that the City of Crisfield has been contacted, and they are not able to make contributions to the project. However, they were willing to forgo any revenue collected until their share has been paid (with it noted by Commissioner Willing that it could take 40 years). It was suggested that the agreement be put in writing, with revenues being distributed equally afterward. It was explained that the two contracts have been drafted; Site Work to be completed by Reynolds Excavating in the amount of $2,423,135.00 and to Harper and Sons Inc. for building construction for $1,585,040.24. Grant funding received for the project was also reviewed with it noted that this funding (approximately $1.5 million) will be lost ifthe project does not move forward at this time. Vice President Randy Laird made a motion to proceed with the Airport Hangar Project. Commissioner Webster seconded the motion. By show ofhands, the motion carried 4-0. Mr. Taylor continued with correspondence and discussion items. Letters were sent to Senator Alsobrooks and Senator Van Hollen in support of Congressionally Directed Spending for FY26/City of Crisfield improvements to their wastewater treatment plant. Additionally, letters were sent to Senator Alsobrooks and Van Hollen in support of Congressionally Directed Spending for FY26/UMES for programs and services. Also, a letter 5 Board of Commissioners Meeting 3-11-25 of support was sent to Congressman Harris regarding UMES FY26 Community Project Funding to support programs and services. A letter of appreciation was sent to Secretary Scruggs regarding her attendance to a recent meeting held on February 25, 2025. Last, a letter was sent to Ms. Cindy Stone, CDBG in regards to the Ewell Recreation and Community Center Grant requesting additional funding. Proclamation requests were received for Child Abuse Prevention Month, SHORE UP 60th Anniversary and the Deal Island/Chance Volunteer Fire Company 70th Anniversary. Commissioner Willing made a motion to approve the proclamation requests as presented. Commissioner Webster seconded the motion. By show ofhands, the motion carried 4-0. Formal approval was requested regarding the letter sent to Cindy Stone in regards to the Ewell Recreation and Community Center Grant that was approved by phone poll on March 4, 2025. Upon a motion made by Commissioner Webster and seconded by Commissioner Willing, the letter to Cindy Stone was formally approved as presented. The motion carried 4-0 by show of hands. Formal approval was requested regarding the letter sent to Senator Van Hollen regarding repairs to two bridges on Smith Island, approved by consensus on February 25, 2025. Commissioner Webster made a motion to formally approve the letter sent to Senator Van Hollen. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. By show ofl hands, the motion carried 4-0. A tipping fee waiver request was received from Luan Nguyen regarding burned manure disposal that occurred after a chicken house fire that occurred on February 28, 2025 causing financial hardship. It was noted that Mr. Barnes and Mr. Cavanaugh agree to waive the tipping fee as requested. Commissioner Webster made a motion to approve the tipping fee waiver as requested by Mr. Nguyen. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. By show of hands, the motion carried 4-0. A pauper burial request was received from the family of Chad Ward, who passed away without having any life insurance. Ai motion was made by Commissioner Willing and seconded by Commissioner Webster to approve the $250.00 pauper burial assistance request as requested. The motion carried 4-01 by show of hands. 6 Board of Commissioners Mecting3-11-25 At this time, President Charles Laird asked Mr. Robert J. McIntyre, 28101 Mt. Vernon Road to come forward to address the board. Mr. McIntyre discussed conditions at the Detention Center, noting he was there working on the public address system 20 years ago; advising it was stifling hot calling it in-human noting ai man was laying on the concrete floor to cool off. He suggested using EASI Electric feeling they can figure out the problem and save the county money. He was please with the decision regarding the transfer station permit fee staying the same, noting the amount of trash, furniture, tires and wood in the ditches that aren' 't being taken to the dump. He touched on the airport hangar project, noting there is a lot going on and we don't need another golf course. On a personal note: regarding the airport, he advised he is ai member of an insured model airplane club asking ift they can use the airport to fly their model planes. With no further business, at 2:40 p.m., the Board was advised of the need for a Closed Session. Therefore, President Charles Laird, upon a motion made by Vice President Randy Laird and seconded by Commissioner Webster, opened in Closed Session by Authority of the General Provisions Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland $3-305 (b) (1) the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, or performance evaluation of an appointee, employee, or official over whom it has jurisdiction; and (3) consider the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto. All those present voted aye by show of hands, therefore the motion carried 4-0. Commissioner Craig N. Mathies, Sr., was absent from today's meeting. Commissioner and Closed Session meetings held today concluded at 4:13 p.m. Approved by: Respectfully Submitted: Beuye Board of County Commissioners Lory E. Ebron For Somerset County Executive Aide 7