Who I Am
My name is Jay Ferguson, and I am a lifelong resident of the Deep Creek Lake area. I am also co-owner of the real estate side of Taylor Made. I have been in the real estate business for 21+ years now and I LOVE what I do! I have to say, my career really took off when I co-founded the real estate side of Taylor Made in 2014. Its been an amazing experience, building a real estate company from the ground up and achieving so much so quickly! In August 2016, we purchased Long & Foster Real Estate Deep Creek, where I had started my career in 2000. In 2018, we on-boarded virtually every agent from Coldwell Banker Deep Creek Realty as they closed up shop and the real estate family grew even more! We now have over 40 sales agents and have expanded to West Virginia and Pennsylvania, as well. Taylor Made is the #1 vacation rental company at Deep Creek with over 475 vacation rental homes, and over one hundred thousand yearly visitors. Its amazing what we have accomplished using the principles of honesty, teamwork and customer service!
Personally, my wife Jessica and I enjoy traveling and especially spending time in the outdoors, hiking and exploring the many diverse areas that Garrett County is naturally blessed with. We have raised two wonderful children here, Kayleah (22) and Noah (13). In the summer, we love spending time on the water with friends & family and enjoying the lake life! We are both active in our church, our community & local school activities, and we fill our schedule with plenty of volunteer efforts. I currently serve on the board of directors for Habitat for Humanity. I am proud to say that I was named Deep Creek Time’s Favorite ‘Community Champion’ in 2019. I was also named Garrett County Realtor of the Year in 2018-19, as well.
I really enjoy promoting my hometown. I am very proud of the resort area that has developed over my lifetime and look forward to growing the area even more! Deep Creek Lake has been described as ‘The Lake Tahoe of the east', and I think that speaks volumes about the potential to own property here! Deep Creek Lake isn't really a town or city by itself; it's comprised of three towns: Oakland, Swanton & McHenry, Maryland. I am very passionate about my hometown and am impressed with how many people know about it as we travel around the country. Deep Creek Lake is an amazing place to visit and even better place to live! During the pandemic in 2020, our market exploded and more and more people left their primary residence in the city to live here permanently. With distance learning in schools and tele-commuting becoming the ‘norm’, many more people were drawn to the area to ‘live where they love to play’.
Why You Want Me Working for You: In addition to being an owner, I am consistently one of the top-producing agents in the entire area and the Associate Broker of record for Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations & Sales. I have 21+ years of experience and I am a problem solver. There aren’t many situations that I have not encountered and I have a strategy for almost every scenario that you may encounter. I
have extensively trained in all areas of real estate & emerging technologies, and also have trained as an appraiser, as well as served as a full-time Broker. I have a strong knowledge of the industry, as well as many trusted local contacts & affiliations that allow me to perform at a very high level and deliver results. I have a great deal of respect for my peers in this industry and have strong working relationships that I would love to put to work for you.
Call me to discuss your situation - I know I can be of great service to you & others you care about!
Honesty. Integrity. Results.
The Garrett County Arts Council has opened a Pop-up Gallery Shop in Grantsville at the Grants Mercantile building, located behind Penn Alps Restaurant.
Within the Grantsville A&E District, this shop is opening to better serve the artists on the northern end of the county.
“Not only can artists bring their art to market at our Grantsville shop, but the location can act as a pass-through to getting their artwork to the Oakland Gallery as well, without driving to Oakland,” said Anthony Wroten, A&E District coordinator.
The shop will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays until Christmas, and possibly after. Classes and other events are also planned.
The Board of County Commissioners may close a portion of this public meeting and move into Executive Session to comply with a specific constitutional, statutory, or judicial requirement that may prevent public disclosure about a particular proceeding or matter.
4:10 Garrett County Department of Financial Services – Purchasing Division
Bid Award – Town of Mountain Lake Park Sanitary Sewer System Improvements Phase 4A
The County participated in this cooperative bid with Mountain Lake Park. The County portion of the project was for a waterline replacement (approximately 1,010 LF including meters, valves, and valve boxes) at the request of Garrett County Department of Public Works – Utilities Division. The Town of Mountain Lake Park will manage the project with the assistance of Highland Engineering & Surveying, Inc. The County will reimburse Mountain Lake Park for the cost of water line alternate included in the project.
4:20 Public Commentary
Adjournment of Public Session
Public Issues or concerns that are to be presented to the Board of Garrett County Commissioners during any Public Meeting should be scheduled with Carol A. Riley–Alexander, Executive Assistant to the Board of County Commissioners/County Administrator.
The Board of Garrett County Commissioners next scheduled Public Meeting will be Monday, September 11, 2023 at the Deer Park Town Hall beginning at 6:00 PM.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has reached a decision regarding an application from Garrett County concerning a protected river. The application, jointly submitted by Garrett County and the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration, pertains to the replacement of the bridge on Swallow Falls Road within the Youghiogheny Scenic and Wild River Corridor.
Given the unique classification of the area, the DNR was required to grant an exception to the protective regulations to allow for the proposed construction. A comprehensive review of the county’s application was conducted by the DNR. The proposed construction entails the replacement of the existing bridge with a new approximately 35-foot wide bridge on an offset alignment in the vicinity of the current bridge.
In a letter addressed to Garrett County’s engineering department, DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz expressed the department’s thoughtful consideration of the river’s scenic and wild attributes. The letter stated that, after this consideration, the DNR is conditionally granting the county’s request for an exception. The DNR determined that this exception aligns with the legislative intent of the Scenic and Wild Rivers Act and will not compromise the river’s scenic and wild character.
While acknowledging that the project will influence the immediate surroundings of the bridge, Secretary Kurtz emphasized that the impacts will be minimized to the necessary extent. The bridge’s design will even permit the removal of the central pier structure from the river’s center. Secretary Kurtz further noted that the broader Scenic and Wild Corridor will remain unaffected by the new bridge’s construction in its offset alignment.
Highlighting the importance of maintaining traffic flow in the area for safety and emergency access, Secretary Kurtz underscored that strict adherence to the regulations would impose undue hardship on the county, community, and the general public utilizing the roadway.
Concerns about the impact on the old growth hemlock forest within Swallow Falls State Park were addressed by Secretary Kurtz. He outlined plans for conservation and mitigation practices to offset these impacts. Among the conditions attached to the exception, the DNR stipulated that the new bridge’s width be limited to 28 feet, consisting of two 10-foot-wide travel lanes and two 4-foot-wide shoulders. The county is also required to minimize tree clearing, restrict equipment to existing cleared areas, engage in reforestation efforts with native species, and establish a 15-year Forest Conservation and Management Plan for the affected area to ensure the long-term well-being of the old growth forest.
Furthermore, the letter detailed the proposal to designate the old growth hemlock forest in Swallow Falls State Park as an Irreplaceable Natural Area, emphasizing that the bridge replacement project would not adversely affect the habitats or natural resources earmarked for this designation.
In a parallel development, the DNR engaged the Youghiogheny River Advisory Board, which had not convened in 17 years, to review the bridge replacement proposal initiated by Garrett County and the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration. The advisory board, composed of eight members, recommended that the new bridge follow the same alignment as the existing structure, not exceed 28 feet in width, and be closed during construction without a temporary structure.
Paul Peditto, the DNR’s acting assistant secretary for land resources, acknowledged the project’s impact on the local ecosystem. He emphasized the agency’s commitment to balancing environmental concerns with the needs of the community. While acknowledging the necessity of disturbing the bridge’s immediate surroundings, Peditto highlighted the objective of creating a safe and reliable bridge to minimize future disruptions. He anticipates the involvement of experts from various fields to ensure ecological impacts are minimized throughout the design and construction phases.
The new bridge is projected to be operational by 2026, with ongoing oversight by the DNR to ensure adherence to environmental considerations.
A trail enhancement and maintenance project will temporarily close the Fork Run Recreation Area from August 17 through August 25, 2023. This brief interruption is necessary to ensure the safety of all visitors during construction and maintenance activities.
A new beginner loop will be created utilizing sections of the Red and Yellow Trails near the parking area and will expand access to a wider range of outdoor enthusiasts. Also, rock armoring and realignment of the Silver Trail will improve drainage and prevent erosion.
During this temporary closure of Fork Run, the Garrett Trails organization invites visitors to explore other fantastic outdoor destinations in the area:
For hiking, the Meshach Browning Trail System located at 1249 Bumble Bee Rd, Accident, MD 21520 is recommended. The suggested trails are the blue, green, and red trails totaling a distance of 2.5 miles.
For hiking and mountain biking, Deep Creek State Park located at 898 State Park Rd, Swanton, MD 21561 is an alternative trail system. Signed interpretive walks are available from the Discovery Center and on the Brant Mine Trail. Plus, longer, rocky loop trails ascend to the top of Meadow Mountain, providing an excellent bike adventure with a view of Deep Creek Lake.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this temporary closure but we look forward to welcoming you back to Fork Run Recreation Area on Saturday, August 26 when the new and updated trails will be ready to explore.
For further updates and information, please contact Siera Wigfield, Senior Planner, at swigfield@garrettcounty.org or 301-334-7477.
Glendale Road is estimated to be reopened to traffic by Sept. 1. This schedule is subject to potential weather and equipment delays and updates at any time.
The realignment project has had the southern end of Glendale Road closed to traffic since June 14. The closure has allowed drainage and resurfacing work on the road from Route 219 and the entrance to Zeddock Miller Road.
To access the south end of Glendale Road, motorists should follow the detour signs: Sand Flat Road, to Paradise Point Road, to Zeddock Miller Road. All restaurants and businesses on Glendale Road are accessible with the detour.
Readers can view the detour here https://bit.ly/3OWRke6
Upon the reopening of Glendale Road, Zeddock Miller Road will be closed for approximately three weeks for an update to the tie-in entrance from Glendale Road.
August 10, 2023 – In an effort to ensure the safety and quality of Maryland’s transportation infrastructure, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will initiate a significant right lane closure on the westbound stretch of I-68, commonly known as the National Freeway. This lane closure, scheduled to commence on Thursday, August 10, will span from Midlothian Road in Allegany County to MD 546, also known as Finzel Road, in Garrett County.
While the MDOT SHA and its appointed contractors strive to adhere to a stringent schedule, completion dates can be influenced by external factors such as weather conditions. As such, the comprehensive resurfacing project is projected to conclude by December of 2023, provided that weather conditions remain favorable.
for more information visit the MHA on maryland.gov
Nine incredible bands are taking the Outdoor stage of the Garrett County fairgrounds this upcoming weekend. Inside the AG Hall will feature tons of crafters and artisans. Back Outdoors within close proximity to the outdoor stage will include Axe Throwing, Glass Blowing, Blacksmithing, a HUGE kids Zone, and much more! A wide array of Food, Beverage, and mouthwatering Desserts of all kinds, including Liberated Libations! Tickets are on sale and available now through MDTix. Tickets can be purchased through the event website below. This event is brought to you by OMG RELAX and in partnership with Camp Caring of Garrett County. This will benefit school aged children of Garrett County that are cognitively and physically challenged. One very special event not to be missed! For tickets, Go to www.BigFunkyBluesFest.com Schedule is as follows 10:50-11:00- Announcements and National Anthem by Kim Sweitzer
If you’re looking for a last-minute Labor Day getaway, we’ve got some suggestions. The following Airbnbs—some with water views and docks, others close to cute towns or beaches or good restaurants—are ideal for a long weekend that’s an easy drive from DC—and they currently have rental availability.
Ready to get away? Check out these 10 Labor Day-ready vacation rentals in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia.
A Four-Bedroom House in Rehoboth
This family-friendly Airbnb in Rehoboth Beach offers four bedrooms and three-and-half bathrooms and is located in a quiet neighborhood on the south end of Rehoboth, making it walking distance to Dewey Beach restaurants and nightlife, and a short Jolly Trolley ride to the Rehoboth Boardwalk. It’s also walking distance to both the ocean and the Rehoboth Bay. The home includes an outdoor shower and a driveway large enough to accommodate four cars.
A Boutique Hotel Room in Oxford’s Historic District
Walk to pubs, shops, and restaurants from a room at the Sandaway Suites & Beach hotel in Oxford. The hotel offers access to a private beach on the shore of the Chesapeake Bay, as well as water views from many of the rooms. It’s an easy drive to St. Michaels, Easton, or Cambridge.
This four-bedroom house overlooking the Chesapeake Bay accommodates 14 guests and offers water views from most rooms. The property includes a grill, covered balconies, and a hot tub, while community amenities include fishing piers, a beach, and picnic areas. It’s a 10- to 15-minute drive to downtown Annapolis and Quiet Waters Park, where you can enjoy a hike or a picnic.
“Honeysuckle Hideout:” A Four-Bedroom Home on Lake Anna
This newly renovated Lake Anna home caters to groups, kids, and pets, with lake and sunset views from the expansive deck, and a bocce-, frisbee- and soccer-equipped lawn. The backyard slopes down to a dock in a secluded cove. Getting away with a larger group? There is a one-bedroom guest house with a kitchenette that can be added to the reservation for an additional fee. Though you might not want to leave, there is a grocery store and two restaurants within five miles.
This three-bedroom (plus a loft) home on Deep Creek Lake offers water views and a boat slip. Fun fact, says the host: The home was featured on HGTV’s Lakefront Bargain Hunt show. Guests can swim and fish right off the dock in the backyard, or enjoy the hot tub. The home is minutes from shopping and restaurants but note, it’s right off the highway which means you can hear the buzz of traffic throughout the day and night.
A Private, Four-Bedroom Waterfront Estate in Onancock, Virginia
This serene, expansive estate offers 550 feet of Chesapeake Bay waterfront on more than nine acres of lawn and woodland on a peninsula—complete with a .8-mile walking path around the property. Ideal for groups, the home has four bedrooms, an exercise room, and an outdoor patio, plus a fire pit and lawn games including croquet, volleyball, and badminton. Guests can also fish or crab from the private dock, or kayak. Nearby historic Onancock is a walkable town with art galleries, restaurants, and shops, plus a movie theater and playhouse.
This historic three-bedroom, one-and-a-half bathroom home is located in the historic West End area of Cambridge near the water on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The quaint property includes a hot tub, a back deck with a grill, a fire pit, and a front porch with rocking chairs, and it’s a short walk from Long Wharf Park, the Choptank River Lighthouse, and the shops and restaurants in downtown Cambridge.
Newer to Airbnb—meaning, as the host says, you’d be among the first to stay (though it does have four five-star reviews at present), this two-bedroom condo in Dewey Beach accommodates up to six guests on the “quieter side” of the resort-like community of the Residences Lighthouse Cove. The home offers ocean and bay views from its private terrace, is walking distance to Dewey restaurants and nightlife, and offers a shared community rooftop deck and pool with fire pits and grills.
This five-bedroom home, built in 1894, is located in the historic district of Cambridge, on the Eastern Shore. With an updated interior that includes three floors of living space, plus a front porch and backyard, the home can accommodate up to 10 guests, who can explore the small town’s shops, bars, and restaurants just two blocks away.
