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County Commissioners Announce August 28, 2023 Public Meeting Agenda

PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA
Monday, August 28, 2023
Agenda Session Times are Approximate
 

Meeting will also be Live Streamed at https://www.facebook.com/garrettcountygovernment/
Agenda Session Times are Approximate

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.

*To comment on agenda items – please send to comments@garrettcounty.org

 3:00        Administrative Session

  •  Declaration of Surplus County Property

60” Restaurant Electric Range
Bally Walk–in Freezer
1982 Galion Roller
1987 Mack Truck 

  • Mr. Null will review a number of administrative and managerial matters under his authority and jurisdiction with the Board of County Commissioners

4:00       Call to Order of Public Session, Invocation, and Pledge of Allegiance

               County Administrator – Additions/Deletions to Public Meeting Agenda

               Approval of Public, Administrative, and Executive Meeting Minutes
 4:05       Appointments: 

Garrett County Commission for Women

        Appointment                   Reappointments
        Heather Hanline              Melita Friend
                                               Amanda Mattingly
                                               Erin-Ruth Natividad
                                               Juliet Sanders
                                               Pam Trickett

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.

for more information County Commissioners Announce August 28, 2023 Public Meeting Agenda – Board of Commissioners – Garrett County Government

DNR decision on bridge project for protected river


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.

Fork Run Recreation Area Temporarily Closed August 17 – 25

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.

for more information visit Fork Run Recreation Area Temporarily Closed August 17 – 25 – Communications Office – Garrett County Government

Glendale Road expected to reopen by September 1st

 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.

State Highway Administration repaves I-68

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

Big Funky Blues Festival

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

11:00-11:45 Tommy Lepson and the Bad Dawgs

12:00-12:45 Don’t Tell Suzie

1:00-1:45- Dave Chappell Band

2:00-2:45-Daryl Davis and Friends

3:00-4:00- Mary Shaver Band

4:15-5:15- Patty Reese Band

5:30-6:30- Eric Scott Band

6:45-7:45- WPG Trio featuring Bryan Fox

8:00-9:00- Nighthawks

for more information go to Big Funky Blues Fest – Garrett County, MD. August 12, 2023.

9 Airbnbs for a Last-Minute Labor Day Getaway-Washintonian

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.

Last-Minute Labor Day Getaways

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. 

For more information about this home, click here.

Last-minute Labor Day Getaway

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.

For more information about this rental, click here.

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Last-Minute Labor Day Getaways

A Four-Bedroom Waterfront Home in Annapolis

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. 

For more information about this home, click here.

Last-Minute Labor Day Getaways

“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. 

For more information about this home, click here.

Last-Minute Labor Day Getaways

A Three-Bedroom Home on Deep Creek Lake

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.

For more information about this home, click here.

Last-minute Labor Day getaways

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.  

For more information about this home, click here.

Last-minute Labor Day getaways

A Victorian Home in Cambridge, Maryland

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.

For more information about this home, click here.

Last-minute Labor Day getaways

An Oceanview Condo in Dewey

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.

For more information about this home, click here.

last-minute Labor Day rental

A Historic Five-Bedroom Home in Cambridge 

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. 

For more information about this home, click here.

for full article 9 Airbnbs for a Last-Minute Labor Day Getaway – Washingtonian

The First Garrett County Fair

*Page 5 of 2021 Premium book for GC

The very first Garrett County Fair was held in 1917 in the Naylor Building on Third Street in Oakland, and the lot between that building and Center Street. Later, sheds were constructed near Center Street on the Sweeney lot to house part of the exhibits, and successful fairs were held at this location until the early twenties.

As interest in the Fair increased, it became necessary to have more space, so the Bradley property west of Oakland was purchased. Some of the exhibits were housed in the Bradley house. A shed was erected for the livestock and poultry entries. The last of the fairs held at the Bradley farm location was in 1931. Most of the earlier Garrett County fairs were held in late September, because more farm products were available for showing at that time of the year. However, many people who had experience with these fairs said that attendance and general support were in direct relation to the weather, and the weather here in late September is often less than ideal for going to the fair.

Several years of bad weather during fair week resulted in financial losses and the Fifteenth Annual Garrett County Fair, September 15, 16, 17 and 18, 1932, was the last until 1957.

Meetings were held early in 1954 to again organize a Garrett County Fair.

H.G. Gortner, Allen S. Paugh, Sr. Walter DeBerry, Baity Ridder, and then County Extension Agent, John Carter, were among those instrumental in working out details for the first Garrett County Agriculture Fair, Inc. held August 13-17, 1957, on the property of Charles H. Bowman, near Deep Creek, McHenry, Maryland, where the present Fair is held. Officers elected were H.G. Gortner, President; John J. Brenneman, Vice President; Charles A. Wilt, Secretary; Allen S. Paugh, Sr., Treasurer; and Claude W. Wagner, Sr., Manager. The Board of Directors was composed of sixteen men and four women to serve for four-year terms.

The property had one Quonset hut for the first fair. Other tents and temporary buildings were used to house the exhibits and animals. Many improvements have been made to the fairgrounds through the years. Today Garrett County Fair stands as one of the true remaining agriculturally based fairs in the state.