BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR SOMERSET COUNTY N 11916 Somerset Avenue Room 111/Meeting Room 0 Princess Anne, MD 21853 April 8, 2025 2:00 p.m. Appointments: 2:00 p.m. - Public Hearing CARES Act Funding Mr. Jesse Drewer, DTCS Director * 2:10 p.m. - Mr. Jesse Drewer, DTCS Phase 2 A/B Multiuse Trail- Critical Area Tree Planting Mitigation Agreement Bid Award Ewell Recreation Project * 2:15 p.m. - Bid Opening Scrap Metal Bid Opening/Mr. Woody Barnes, Public Works Director Bid Recommendation- Roads Department Roof Replacement Letter of Support- NOAA Crisfield Living Breakwater and Nature Based Solutions Project 2:20 p.m. Public Hearing Adopt and Establish Additional Charge/911 Accessible Services Ms. Yvette Cross, Emergency Services Director, Mr. Gary Powell, Asst. Director * 2:30 p.m. --Mr. Clint Sterling, Recreation and Parks/Tourism Director Approval to Install Flagpole and Brick Surround dedicated to Judge Simpkins at Mt. Vernon Park Proclamation Approval/Celebrate Trails Day 2:40 p.m. Judge Daniel W. Powell, Somerset County Circuit Court 2:50 p.m. - Princess Anne Volunteer Fire Company/Iransition of Services Correspondence Sent: Mr. Willis Dryden, Tax Supervisor re: PDA Tax Levy Rates 2025-2026 Mr. Leslie Pruitt, Supervisor of. Assessments re: PDA Tax Levy Rates 2025-2026 Mr. Edward Kasemeyer, Chairman ICSC re: Letter of Support- CHS CIP Project Discussion 1. Internet Service Provider Letter of Support Requests- Maryland BEAD Grant Program 2. County Emergency Medical Services Purchases 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. 3:10 p.m. Closed Session- Mr. Ernest Leatherbury, Ms. Jamie Manaia, Mr. Woody Barnes, Mr. Danny Thompson, Ms. Faith Redmond 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. * Denotes Action Item BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR SOMERSET COUNTY April 8, 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 meeting were Vice President Randy Laird, Commissioner Craig N. Mathies Sr., Commissioner Eldon Willing, and Commissioner Darryl Webster. Deputy Administrator Ernest J. Leatherbury Jr., and Executive Aide Lory E. Ebron were also present. Closed Session Summary Report On Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 3:42 p.m., until 5:41p.m., President Charles Laird, upon a motion made by Commissioner Darryl Webster, and seconded by Vice President Randy Laird 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 (14) discuss, before a contract is awarded or bids are opened, 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. All Commissioners were present, therefore, by show of hands the motion carried 5-0. Deputy Administrator Ernest J. Leatherbury Jr., and Executive Aide Lory E. Ebron, HR Director Jamie Manaia, EMS Coordinator Joel Dixon, Internal Auditor Sharon Muir, Budget/Grants Administrator Cynthia Sapp, Finance Director Faith Redmond, Public Works Director Woody Barnes, and EDC Director Danny Thompson also attended the meeting. Topics discussed: (1) EMS Ambulance funding and staffing (2) Probationary to Permanent Employee Status (3) Termination (4) Hiring for Solid Waste/Off Drainage Superintendent. Approved: (1) Approval to move probationary employees to permanent employee status (2) Approval to terminate (3) Approval to hire Solid Waste/Off Drainage Superintendent. President Charles Laird asked Commissioner Willing to lead those present in Devotion and the Pledge of Allegiance. 1 Board of Commissioners Meeting 4-8-25 Mr. Leatherbury presented meeting minutes for approval regarding the March 25, 2025 Commissioner and Closed Session meetings and the Commissioner Special Session and Closed Session meeting minutes dated March 18, 2025 for approval. Vice President Randy Laird made a motion to approve the minutes as presented. Commissioner Webster seconded the motion. All those present voted aye, therefore by show of hands the motion carried 5-0. At 2:03, President Charles Laird called a Public Hearing open to obtain the views of citizens on activities to be submitted to the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program for funds awarded through the federal CARES Act. Mr. Jesse Drewer and 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 On Tuesday, April gth 2025, Somerset County will conduct a Public Hearing to obtain the views of citizens on activities to be submitted to the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program for funds awarded through the federal CARES Act. The County was a recipient of previous funds and has the opportunity to apply for additional funds to be used for homeless and food programs and facilities. The hearing will be held in the Board of County Commissioners Meeting Room (Room 111) located at the Somerset County Office Complex 11916 Somerset. Avenue, Princess Anne Maryland 21853 at 2:00pm. Efforts will be made to accommodate the disabled and non-English speaking residents with 5 days advance notice to Jesse Drewer, DTCS Director at 410-651-1424 or drewer@somersetmdus Board of County Commissioners for Somerset County Ralph D. Taylor, County Administrator Ad to run: 3/16 & 3/26 Mr. Drewer advised that in late February notice was given by the Maryland Community Development Block Grant Program of $2 million dollars in unexpended COVID Relief funds available to be re-disbursed that can be used for food services and the homeless. Two potential subgrantees have been identified; Somerset County Commission on Aging and Catholic Charities (Seton Center and Bethany House). Being there were no questions, President Charles Laird asked if there were any proponents present wishing to speak. There were none. He then asked if there were any opponents present wishing to speak. There were none. Mr. Leatherbury advised that written comment will be taken for 10 days, or until Friday, April 18, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. The Public Hearing was declared closed at 2:05 p.m. 2 Board ofCommissioners Meeting 4-8-25 Mr. Drewer next presented his report regarding of the Phase 2 A/B Multiuse Trail- Critical Area Tree Planning Mitigation Agreement. He explained that progress continues on the bike trail, however portions of this phase will disturb land in the critical area totaling 3.3 acres for which Somerset County will need to planted to account for the disturbance. Upon looking at the suggested area at Mt. Vernon Recreation Park, Commissioner Webster stated he was opposed to the area being suggested as it is the ball field. Mr. Drewer advised that the area had been changed sO that ity wont impact the ball field. The matter was tabled sO that Commissioner Webster and Mr. Drewer can go on site to look at the area being proposed. Next, Mr. Drewer advised that he has received an amendment to the Grant Agreement between Somerset County and the State regarding MD-24-CD-5 Ewell Community Center Renovations. The amendment provides an additional $16,795 to address the shortage due to high bid prices. The low bid was received from Rob Mrohs HVAC LLC in the amount of $32,100. Approval is needed for both the bid award and the grant amendment. Vice President Randy Laird made a motion to approve the grant amendment for the Ewell Community Center Renovation Project in the amount of $16,795. Commissioner Webster seconded the motion. By show of hands, the motion carried 5-0. Vice President Randy Laird made a motion to approve thel bid award to Rob Mrohs AVAC LLC in the amount of $32,100. Commissioner Mathies seconded the motion. By show of hands, the motion carried 5-0. Next, Mr. Woody Barnes, Public Works Director, came forward to accept sealed bids received for the Scrap Metal bid opening. Two bids were received as follows: Contractor: Bid Amount: Fitzgerald's. Auto $70.00 per net ton Salisbury Scrap Metal $75.00 per net ton Mr. Barnes advised that he will review the bids submitted and return with a recommendation. The bid submissions are down slightly from last year, noted to be $80.00 per net ton. Next, Mr. Barnes presented the sealed bids received regarding the Roads Department Metal Roof replacement. Two bids were received on March 25, 2025; EP Roofing in the amount of $122,900.00 and Beauchamp Construction for $179,800.00. Mr. Barnes advised that both bids are consistent and addressed the scope of work as outlined. References obtained for EP Roofing were good. It was noted that EP Roofing, the low bidder would be able to begin immediately, whereas 3 Board ofCommissioners Mecting 4-8-25 Beauchamp Construction would not be able to start until September 1 due to other obligations. Mr. Barnes also advised that there is a shortfall of$76,900.00 for this project, however there are funds in the Capital Fund Budget to address the shortfall. Commissioner Webster made a motion to approve the bid received from EP Roofing in the amount of $122,900.00. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. By show of hands, the motion carried 5-0. Mr. Barnes next presented a letter of support request received from the City of Crisfield regarding the Feasibility Analysis and Living Breakwater Restoration project. The application seeks $5.7 million in critical funding for a comprehensive feasibility analysis and phased implementation of 4,420 linear feet of living breakwater restoration. The objective is to protect County residents on the lower shore from coastal erosion, flooding, and sea-level rise. Vice President Randy Laird made a motion to approve the letter of support as requested from the City of Crisfield. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. By show of hands the motion carried 5-0. President Charles Laird called a Public Hearing open at 2:18 p.m., to received public comment regarding the adoption and establishment of additional charges to all telephone bills. Ms. Cross, Emergency Services Director, and Mr. Gary Powell, Assistant Director came forward. Ms. Cross explained that per legislation passed in 202lcounty's have the authority to increase the fee up to $1.50 when revenues do not exceed projected operating expenses. An increase to $1.50 will also bring Somerset County more in line with other local counties. Emergency Services is proposing to adopt and establish an additional charge to be added to all telephone bills, increasing the charge from $.75 per phone to $1.50 per phone. Mr. Leatherbury next read the notice of public hearing into record as follows: NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING The Board of County Commissioners for Somerset County, pursuant to Public Safety Article, Section 1-311, will hold a public hearing on: Tuesday, April 8, 2025 At 2:20 P.M. Room 111 Somerset County Office Complex 11916 Somerset Avenue Princess Anne, Maryland 21853 4 Board of Commissioners Meeting 4-8-25 Fair Summary The Board of County Commissioners propose to adopt and establish an additional charge to be added to all telephone bills rendered for switched local exchange access service or other 911 accessible services in the County, increasing the local fee from the current 75 cents to $1.50 per month. The local fee is imposed in addition to the state 911 fee of .50 cents per month. Funds received from such charges shall be deposited to the Maryland 911 Trust Fund and dispersed to the County by the Comptroller of Maryland on a quarterly basis to be used for the operation and maintenance ofthe County's 911 System. The current fee of.75 cents has remained at the same level since February 2004. Testimony will be taken at the public hearing and written comments will be accepted at the Board of County Commissioners Office, 11916 Somerset Avenue, Room 111, Princess Anne, Maryland 21853, until Friday, April 18, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. A final decision shall be made on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR SOMERSET COUNTY Ralph D. Taylor County Administrator County Times Published on March 19 & 26, 2025 President Charles Laird asked ifthere were any proponents present wishing to speak. There were: none. He then asked if there were any opponents present wishing to speak. There were none. Mr. Leatherbury advised that public comment will be taken for 10 days, or until Friday April 18, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. The public hearing was declared closed at 2:20 p.m. Mr. Clint Sterling, Recreation and Parks/Tourism Director came forward at this time. First, Mr. Sterling requested the Boards consideration to approve a request received from the Princess Anne Lions Club to install a flagpole and brick surround in dedication to Judge Lloyd Simpkins, previously installed at the entrance to the former Peaky's restaurant, to be placed at Mt. Vernon Recreation Park. Solar lights will be placed to light the flag and a representative from the Lions Club will maintain the memorial. The Department is in favor oft the request. There is no cost to the county for the request with Commissioner Webster requesting the community have a say in the location. Commissioner Webster made a motion to approve the moving the memorial for Judge Simpkins from Peaky's to Mt. Vernon Park as presented. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. By show ofhands, the motion carried 5-0. 5 Board ofCommissioners Meeting 4-8-25 Next, Mr. Sterling requested approval for a proclamation acknowledging Celebrate Trails Day, which occurs on April 26, 2025. This is in recognition of the Eastern Shore Trail Network, and the importance of public spaces. Somerset County is viewed as a leader in the trail network, and it was noted that all eight counties involved with the trail project are doing a proclamation. Commissioner Mathies made ai motion to approve thej proclamation presented for Celebrate Trails Day. Commissioner Webster seconded the motion. By show of hands, the motion carried 5-0. Mr. Sterling was also asked to look into trash pick-up needed on the trail. As the meeting was running ahead of schedule, Mr. Leatherbury continued with correspondence and discussion items. Letters were sent to Mr. Willis Dryden, Tax Supervisor and Mr. Leslie Pruitt, Supervisor of Assessments to advise them of the approved 2025-2026 Tax Levy rates, as requested by the Public Drainage Association Managers. Also, the letter of support sent to Mr. Edward Kasemeyer regarding the Crisfield High School CIP Project for increased allocation was reviewed. Letters of Support requested during a previous meeting received for the four internet service providers (ISP)(Choptank, Comcast, Charter and Simple Fiber) BEAD Grant Applications were presented for approval. A correction to the letters were needed to the letters regarding President Charles Laird's title. Commissioner Mathies made a motion to approve the letters of support with the correction. Commissioner Willing seconded the motion. By show of hands, the motion carried 5-0. Commissioner Webster requested an update from Mr. Redden regarding the current number of unserved areas in the county. At 2:30 p.m., upon a motion made by Commissioner Webster and seconded by Commissioner Willing, the meeting went into recess. By show ofh hands, the motion carried 5-0. At 2:39 p.m., President Charles Laird called the meeting to resume. It was noted that Commissioner Mathies intended to abstain from the vote regarding letters of support for the four ISP providers as presented. Therefore, Commissioner Mathies made a motion to rescind his motion approving the letters for the four internet service providers (ISP) (Choptank, Comcast, Charter and Simple Fiber) BEAD Grant Applications as presented. Commissioner Willing rescinded his motion to second. By show of hand, the motion to rescind carried 5-0. Commissioner Willing made a motion to approve the letters ofsupport as requested for the four internet service providers (ISP) (Choptank, Comcast, Charter and Simple Fiber) BEAD Grant 6 Board of Commissioners! Meeting 4-8-25 Applications as presented. Commissioner Webster seconded the motion. Commissioner Mathies abstained; therefore, the motion carried 4-0-1. Next, Judge Daniel Powell, Sheriff Ronnie Howard and Clerk of Court Charles Horner came: forward to discuss conditions at the Somerset County Circuit Court. Judge Powell expressed his concern regarding condition at the historic courthouse, noting issues experienced last week during a murder trial held on Tuesday. He stated that fortunately the defendant had a fair trial that day, but he noted that the day before the temperature in the courtroom was eighty degrees, advising the air unit is on its last legs. On Tuesday morning, a sewer pipe burst in the main courthouse, and adjustments had to be made for the jury to use the Orphans Court to use the bathroom. Judge Powell stated he is not placing blame on either Mr. Barnes or Mr. Cavanaugh, advising that Mr. Barnes and the Maintenance Crew worked overnight to have the sewer problem fixed. He expressed concern over the age ofthe 102-year old building, and other issues that exist such as the lack of parking, and lack of security and windows that don't open. This especially becomes an issue during large cases. Inmates are transported in the same elevator as citizens because there is only one elevator and one holding cell with the need for additional holding cells noted. Judge Powell also noted he has made a request for his own security officer at the courthouse due to his security concerns. He advised that he as been asking for incumbered funds from the State for the last few years to make improvements. This request is not for him personally as he would like to see efforts started, before his retirement nine years from now. Judge Powell requests the County Commissioners consider building a modern facility that would house the Courthouse, Annex, Emergency Services and County Complex, which he noted is also out of room in this current building. He noted the property (ballfields) behind the complex not being used, feeling it would be a very suitable location, with access to Route 13. He stated he appreciates the history of the county, noting his involvement with the County's 350th Anniversary, but said we also have to look at our modern day and age and the justice system going forward. He discussed the increase in criminal cases, and Somerset County's numbers compared to Worcester County, advising that Somerset is also out growing the current building. He agrees that we should continue to make repairs to keep the old courthouse going until a new facility can be started. He also suggested that there is funding being made that should take a back seat to public safety, noting the importance of EMS and VFD's as well. He fears that in time, the current courthouse building is going to fail us. The Judge feels that a larger multi-purpose building would make more sense and possibly be a cost saving venture, mentioning other counties who have a multi-purpose building. 7 Board ofC Commissioners Meeting 4-8-25 Commissioner Mathies questioned the comment made regarding multiple inadequate facilities to combine into one, and discussed the current status of both federal and state grant funding; both currently being in limbo right now; and if funding avenues are not discontinued he can envision what the Judge is requesting. Judge Powell advised that the first step would be to consider doing an overall study. He noted the long history and his personal love of the building however case-loads are increasing, parking and security issues are increasing. He explained that the case load on the. Judges currently require 1.6. Judges, noting he is currently using retired Judges for the overload; however, the trend is increasing, and legislation may enforce the addition of a second Judge. With there being only one courtroom there will be no where to put a second Judge if mandated. He feels we should all be unified and a plan needs to be put in place. President Charles Laird acknowledged that the County has been putting Band-Aids on the buildings, feeling time has run out. The historical aspect oft the courthouse could be maintained by keeping it as a museum or entity that can use the building for some purpose. Critical areas may limit location prospects. Regarding the Courthouse, a new HVAC unit was approved to be ordered to address heating and air-conditioning, and it was suggested all pipes should be inspected. Mr. Horner also advised that contaminated files have been cleaned. Judge Powell, Sherriff Howard and Clerk of Court Homer were thanked for attending the meeting and left at this time. Next, representatives serving on the Board of the Princess Anne Volunteer Fire Company Board of Directors came forward; Mr. Robert Murphey, Mr. Todd Widdowson, Mr. Ronnie Haymaker, Mr. Lemuel White and Mr. Marion Mister. Mr. Joel Dixon, Somerset County Emergency Services Coordinator also present in the audience was asked to come forward as well. Mr. Widdowson advised that the proposal from thel Princess Anne Volunteer Fire Company totaled $750,000 for four ambulances ($650,000) including all equipment and supplies ($100,000). The suggestion was made that the county buy two ambulances now, and the other two when the county takes over. Commissioner Webster questioned the amount proposed, advising that the cost of the ambulances based on information the County obtained valued the ambulances from Atlantic (on the high end) the PA VFD currently has as follows: 2013 (last four) VIN #8924 at $15,000 with 171,225 miles 2017 (last four) VIN # 0191 at $20,000 with 156,663 miles 2017 (last four) VIN #0190 at $20,000 with 178,952 miles 8 Board of Commissioners Meeting 4-8-25 2021 (last four) VIN #9686 at $100,000 with 52,083 miles Mr. Widdowson stated he received appraisals on the ambulances, advising that $245,000 is the low end for a used ambulance, and there is a two-year wait if ordering a new ambulance, noting demo units are available sooner, but a premium will have to be paid. Mr. Dixon explained there are a few different options, explaining the cost. Mr. Dixon asked the PAVFD Board if they are willing to negotiate their price. Mr. Mister stated that the VFD was set on their proposal of $750,000, feeling they are giving the county a good price. Trade In value and Market value, and the difference between the two were noted. Commissioner Mathies stated his previous experience in auto sales, admitting that he did not sell ambulances, but there is a wholesale and retail price, and physical condition including needed repairs, reliability and condition and if they are in good running condition play ai factor regarding their price. He suggested a mechanical inspection be performed first. Mr. Widdowson stated all four ambulances are currently in service and maintenance has been kept up on all. They are not aware of any mechanical issues on any of the ambulances with all being maintained, serviced and up to date. They currently have all in service. A service contract to maintain the ambulances cost $70,000 per year. Mr. Leatherbury advised that there is a second proposal also being presented to purchase new ambulances as well, planned to be discussed later on the agenda. President Laird reminded those present of the need to have a place to keep the ambulances and staff once the county takes over, noting the agreement with PA VFD would include use of their facility. Commissioner Mathies questioned if the price ofthe proposal as presented is contingent with including use ofthe facility as well. The Board of Directors said yes; that if the county did not agree to pay the stated price, the offer would become null and void. Commissioner Webster questioned the conversation he had with the VFD, hearing different proposals and comments made then versus what is being said now. Mr. Widdowson said that was a discussion held at that time, but matters changed. President Charles Laird stated there will be a price to do anything in the County. He confirmed that nothing will change to the agreement as is if the county agrees. The fire company said it will agree to lease the facility to the county for $2,500 per month until December 31, 2025. Commissioner Mathies requested to discuss the proposal in private, but stated you can't put a price on someone's life, but at the same time the Commissioners have a responsibility to the county on how taxpayer money is spent. They are looking for the best interests for our citizens but 9 Board of Commissioners Meeting 4-8-25 also a fiscal responsibility as well. The VFD was asked if the proposal was etched in stone as presented. The Board was told is was. The VFD stated they have been trying for three years to have a conversation with the county about EMS. It was questioned if the county must be out December 31, 2025. Mr. Murphey stated the deal was July 1, 2025 but they agreed to extend until December 31, 2025. Vice President Randy Laird asked will there be an extension ifthe County is not ready by December 31. Mr. Murphey said sure, that can be discussed December 31. It was questioned iflanguage can be added to extend the lease of the firehouse ifthe county is not ready by December 31, 2025. Mr. Widdowson noted that daily duties such as maintenance oft the facility also need to be worked out as well. Staffing was discussed and Mr. Leatherbury advised that the county will be prepared to hire current staff contractually, with no lapse in people hired, with a transition to county employee status. Benefits currently in place were briefly discussed. Commissioner Webster asked if the County takes over all employee paid salary will the VFD help to run the facility. They said yes. Commissioner Webster asked if there are any other matters to discuss, as the county wants tol have a decision today. The Board of Directors for the Princess Anne Volunteer Fire Company left the meeting at this time. Mr. Leatherbury continued with discussion items. He advised there was a figure in mind for the purchase of four new ambulances, that now depends on the Boards decision later today. Ifa an immediate capital purchase is required, it will be recommended that fund balance will be utilized. Funding amounts may now change, depending on the Boards decision. Commissioner Mathies requested to have a discussion with Mr. Dixon and Mr. Leatherbury in closed session to use their expertise and assist with a final decision. Next, Mr. Bob McIntire, Mt. Vernon requested to speak. Mr. McIntyre stated that after hearing the two previous proposals discussed, the Courthouse and VFD matters he will relinquish his request to speak. Mr. Eric Emely, Crisfield Maryland requested to address the Board. Mr. Emely stated the Commissioners have a lot on their plate, having no clue it was going to happen, He understands it's hard, noting the press is all over it. He stated both Boards have good people. He appreciates to work together to save lives which is the key. He feels mechanical needs to be everyone trying looked at. He asked that ambulance calls be looked at; noting ECI call twice a day for something as minor as a nose bleed. Manokin Manor and UMES also utilizes ambulance services. He feels 10 Board ofCommnissioners Meeting 4-8-25 we need to get the prison on board, and not use emergency ambulance service for non-emergency events. Mr. Emely was advised that the Secretary had advised the county that there is a new mediçal contract in effect for April in that minor injuries will be handled on site in the prison. In closing, Mr. Emely stated he appreciated all that is being done, and he is not listening to those saying the County Commissioners don't care about EMS. He said the Commissioners care about saving lives. Ifeveryone works together it will work. With no further business, at 3:42 p.m., the Board was advised of the need for a Closed Session. Therefore, President Charles Laird, upon a motion made by Commissioner Webster and seconded by Commissioner Willing, 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 (14) discuss, before a contract is awarded or bids are opened, 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 ofthe public body to participate in the competitive bidding or proposal process. All those present voted aye by show ofh hands, therefore the motion carried 5-0. Commissioner and Closed Session meetings held today concluded at 5:41 p.m. Approved by: Respectfully Submitted: haups Board of County Commissioners Lory E. Ebron For Somerset County Executive Aide 11