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County Commissioners Announce Public Meeting Agenda

PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Agenda Session Times are Approximate

Meeting will also be Live Streamed at https://www.facebook.com/garrettcountygovernment/

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   

  • Board Appointments: Adult Public Guardianship Review Board – Three (3) Year Terms
  • Declaration of Surplus County Property

              2008 Dodge Nitro SXT
              1993 John Deere 644G Loader 
              1997 Roscoe Broom  
              2002 John Deere 6220 Tractor 
              2000 John Deere 310 SE Backhoe 
              2005 John Deere 6220 Tractor 
              2000 John Deere 310 SE Backhoe

  • Backbone Housing, Inc. – Request for Fiscal Year 2025 County Property Tax Abatement
  • 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       Recognition:  The Alley – 10th Anniversary

4:10       Garrett County Community Action Committee, Inc. – Garrett Transit

  • Maryland Annual Transportation Plan Fiscal Year 2025 Grant Application 

4:15        Public Commentary

ADJOURNMENT

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, April 1, 2024 at the Garrett County Courthouse beginning at 4:00 PM.

Charles and Garrett Counties Added to Maryland’s Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine

The fight against the invasive spotted lanternfly continues in Maryland, with the recent addition of Charles and Garrett counties to the state’s quarantine list. This decision, made by the Maryland Department of Agriculture, underscores the seriousness of the threat posed by this destructive insect and highlights the ongoing efforts to contain its spread.

The inclusion of Charles and Garrett counties in Maryland’s spotted lanternfly quarantine means that businesses, municipalities, and government agencies within these areas must adhere to strict regulations regarding the movement of certain items. These regulations are put in place to prevent the inadvertent spread of spotted lanternfly populations to unaffected areas.

Entities operating within the quarantine zone must obtain specialized permits to move regulated items. This includes materials such as landscaping waste, packing materials like wooden crates, plants and plant parts, vehicles, and various outdoor items. To obtain these permits, individuals are required to undergo a free online training course and pass an exam administered by Penn State Extension.

Managers, supervisors, and employees of businesses or organizations within the quarantine zone must undergo training to ensure they understand the pest and quarantine requirements thoroughly. Additionally, regular inspections of vehicles and products, as well as the removal of spotted lanternfly life stages, are mandated to maintain compliance with the quarantine regulations.

The primary goal of the quarantine is to restrict the movement of articles that may harbor spotted lanternfly egg masses, nymphs, or adults. By implementing these measures, Maryland aims to mitigate the spread of this invasive species and protect its agriculture, ecosystems, and economy from the damaging effects of the spotted lanternfly.

Maryland’s efforts to combat the spread of spotted lanternfly align with similar initiatives in neighboring states. New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and parts of Connecticut, Ohio, and Virginia have also implemented quarantine measures to control the spread of this invasive pest. Permits issued in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware are transferable and valid throughout the region, facilitating coordinated management efforts.

The addition of Charles and Garrett counties to Maryland’s spotted lanternfly quarantine emphasizes the collaborative and proactive approach taken by state agencies and stakeholders to address the threat posed by this invasive insect. By adhering to quarantine regulations, businesses and individuals play a crucial role in protecting Maryland’s environment and industries from the detrimental impacts of the spotted lanternfly.

As the battle against this invasive species continues, it is essential for communities to remain vigilant and committed to implementing measures that can help mitigate its spread and minimize its impact on the ecosystem and economy.

Exploring Garrett County’s Prehistoric Times

Garrett County, Maryland, is renowned for its modern attractions, notably Deep Creek Lake, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Yet, nestled not far from this hub of contemporary leisure lies a realm of ancient wonders dating back centuries and millennia. Journey with us as we step back into Garrett County’s prehistory, exploring its virgin forests, cascading waterfalls, and mysterious swamps that have stood the test of time.

A Glimpse into the Past In the heart of Garrett County lies Swallow Falls State Park, home to the last known virgin forest in Maryland. Amidst the roaring waterfalls and cool waters that draw visitors’ attention, this forest stands quietly, largely unnoticed. Stretching across 40 acres, this patch of white pine and hemlock boasts trees over 300 years old, some with trunks reaching 40 inches in thickness. Tales from early travelers speak of towering pines, their lowest branches a staggering 100 feet from the ground.

A Testament to Stewardship Despite the encroachment of development and the lure of commercial lumbering, these ancient sentinels were spared from the axe. Henry Krug, the land’s owner, recognized their significance and resisted the offers of developers. His dedication to preservation ensured that, in 1940, the property was deeded to the Masonic Grand Lodges of Pennsylvania and West Virginia, ultimately passing into the hands of the State of Maryland. Today, this forest stands as a testament to the power of stewardship, preserved for future generations to marvel at.

Nature’s Majestic Display Adjacent to the virgin forest lies Muddy Creek Falls, Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall. Its source, the Cranesville Pine Swamp, adds to the area’s mystique. Formed over ten thousand years ago by glacial action, this boreal bog has remained remarkably unchanged. Despite millennia passing, its moist conditions and unique geography have preserved a prehistoric landscape, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

A Window to the Past Within the Cranesville Pine Swamp, scientists have unearthed relics of ancient flora and fauna, dating back to 7,500 B.C. This rare ecosystem hosts a diverse array of plant and animal life, including sphagnum moss, black bears, and snowshoe hares. Artists and naturalists alike have been captivated by its mist-shrouded beauty, evoking a sense of stepping into a primordial world.

Conservation Efforts and National Recognition Recognizing the importance of preserving this unique habitat, The Nature Conservancy began purchasing swamp property in 1960, eventually totaling 1,600 acres. In 1964, Cranesville Swamp was designated one of the first national natural landmarks in the United States, a testament to its ecological significance. Today, Maryland boasts six such landmarks, each a beacon of conservation and natural beauty.

Neighborhood BusinessWorks Business Boost Grant Program Opens March 13th

The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) through the Neighborhood BusinessWorks (NBW) program, is offering up to $2,000,000 of Business Boost microgrants ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 to support small businesses who need capital for growth and/or expansion opportunities. 

Business applicants must be located within a Sustainable Communities area.

Applications will be accepted online starting March 13th​​, 2024, at 12 PM EST​. The application round is projected to close when funds are exhausted.

For additional information, please visit DHCD’s website or contact Christopher Cho at christopher.cho@maryland.gov or Eddie Montalvo at eduardo.montalvo@maryland.gov  

DNR Announces Fishing Report

Since December, trout anglers have been enjoying the generous preseason stockings around the state. The put-and-take areas are providing plenty of fun fishing opportunities for anglers, young and old. Closure 1 put and take areas will close on March 10 and closure 2 on March 24. All will reopen at 6:30 a.m. on the traditional opening day of the 2024 spring trout season on March 30 at all Closure 1 and Closure 2 trout management areas

New this year, DNR is offering a special youth trout fishing day on Saturday, March 23 for anglers who are under the age of 16. This is a great opportunity for our young anglers to essentially have the popular put-and-take trout management waters all to themselves.

Parents, relatives, and friends should start thinking about setting the stage for those young anglers who need some instruction and equipment. For those under the age of 4, a trip to one of the many community ponds that are stocked can be a great choice for some simple bobber and bait fishing with a push-button closed-face spinning outfit. Get the kiddos out on an open lawn and have them practice casting to a target with a rubber sinker just to make it fun. Those a little older and knowledgeable may be ready for a trip to a stocked creek or river. In all cases, familiarize them with casting because if you cast for them, you need to have a fishing license and trout stamp to be legal.

Trout are not the only game in town this time of the year. Fishing for smallmouth bass and walleye is excellent in the upper Potomac River and to a slightly lesser extent in the lower Susquehanna River. A variety of soft plastic swim jigs, grubs, soft craw jigs, and crankbaits are all good choices to cast near current breaks and submerged ledges. 

The colder months of early spring are a great time to fish for chain pickerel in the upper tidal waters and freshwater ponds and lakes. The heavy growth of grass beds has yet to begin, so there is a lot of open water and chain pickerel are looking for any kind of structure to hold near to ambush baitfish. Sunken wood is usually the most available structure. Casting a variety of lures that are rigged with single inline hooks work well for this mostly catch-and-release fishery. 

Deep Creek Lake and reservoirs across the western and central regions are coming to life and offer a variety of fishing opportunities for yellow perch, crappie, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. Most will respond to smaller lures that are fished deep and slow this time of the year. Check the DNR website to explore locations you may not have fished before

It is still a little too cold for northern snakehead activity but as March moves on, fishing large minnows under a bobber or popping cork near shoreline brush can offer up a few fish. The sunny afternoon shores of a body of water will often attract northern snakeheads to warmer waters.

Oakland in 1914

This 1914 postcard depicts the Garrett National Bank building. The bank was originally organized in 1888 by a group of Oakland businessmen under the name the Garrett County Bank of Oakland. This was the first bank established in Garrett County. In 1903. a charter converting this institution to the Garrett National Bank of Oakland was issued. The original bank building was constructed on Second Street and opened for business on November 14, 1888. The building was remodeled several times and is now the home of the Garrett County Historical Society and museum.

credit:Facebook

Celebrating Garrett County’s Newest Park Rangers

Garrett County, Maryland, welcomed two new protectors of its natural treasures as part of the latest cohort of Maryland Park Rangers. Among the 21 graduates honored at Elk Neck State Park and NorthBay Adventure Camp, Richard Caputo and Kaitlyn Mitchell now stand ready to serve at Wolf Den Run State Park in Kitzmiller and Deep Creek Lake State Park, respectively. Their dedication and training mark another milestone in the ongoing commitment to safeguarding Maryland’s diverse landscapes and historical legacies.

The ceremony, attended by distinguished guests including Park Service Director Angela Crenshaw and Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz, underscored the significance of the occasion. Secretary Kurtz praised the preparedness and dedication exhibited by Maryland State Park Rangers, emphasizing the vital role they play in preserving the state’s natural heritage for future generations.

The establishment of the Maryland Park Service’s modern Ranger School program in 2009 marked a significant step in enhancing the capabilities of park rangers. The recent graduation represents the 14th class to emerge from this rigorous training regimen. Director Angela Crenshaw expressed pride in the dedication and passion displayed by each graduate, highlighting their role as guardians entrusted with the preservation and enjoyment of Maryland’s parks.

Celebrate Wellness and Fun at the 2024 Garrett County Family Fun Festival and Health Fair

The Garrett County Steps to Better Health Committee is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated return of the Family Fun Festival and Health Fair, scheduled for Saturday, April 6, 2024. Held at the Community Aquatic & Recreation Complex (CARC) at Garrett College in McHenry, this event promises a morning filled with excitement, education, and engagement for the whole family.

Marking the occasion in conjunction with the nationwide “Week of the Young Child” from April 6 to April 12, the Family Fun Festival underscores the importance of early childhood development. Recognizing the pivotal role of these formative years in shaping future success, the festival aims to provide positive learning experiences while promoting overall health awareness for attendees of all ages.

From 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., families can immerse themselves in a diverse array of activities and attractions, all offered free of charge. Children can enjoy an assortment of games, a delightful photo booth experience, and the chance to win one of eight bikes with helmets in an exciting drawing. Meanwhile, adults can explore informational booths hosted by community providers, offering valuable resources and insights on health and wellness topics.

“The Fun Fest and Health Fair is an opportunity for our community to come together in celebration of health and happiness,” remarks Amy Ritchie, Steps Committee member and dietitian at the Garrett County Health Department. “It’s a chance to learn, play, and connect with one another in a positive and supportive environment.”

Stay updated on event details and announcements by following the Garrett County Health Fair on Facebook or visiting garretthealth.org/health-fair. For additional information, reach out to The Garrett County Judy Center at 240-321-1834 or the Garrett County Health Department Early Care Programs at 301-334-7720.

Don’t miss out on this enriching and enjoyable community event! Gather your family and friends and head to the CARC at Garrett College on April 6 for a morning of laughter, learning, and lasting memories. Together, let’s celebrate wellness and fun at the Garrett County Family Fun Festival and Health Fair.