Hagerstown · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hagerstown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Energy equity grants for low-income households
The city plans to apply for $575,000 in state grants with no local match to help low- and moderate-income households — including renters — pay for energy efficiency upgrades and appliances.
Non-union employee pay raise
Non-union city employees get a 5% raise starting July 6, part of the FY27 budget.
IBEW Local 307 wage agreement
City electric utility workers get a raise — 3% minimum, up to 8% for linemen who were underpaid versus competing utilities. Costs city wages about 5.98% more.
ARC grant for 2028 comprehensive plan
A $150,000 ARC request plus $150,000 local match would fund a contracted update of the city's comprehensive plan, last done in-house in 2018.
New ERP and IT modernization
The city is replacing its 16-17 year old ERP system and boosting cybersecurity and GIS — the biggest new item in the general fund budget.
AFSCME 1540 contract terms
The tentative union deal gives raises of 3%, 5%, and 4% over three years and gives the city more flexibility on healthcare premiums — going to a vote next week.
Marijuana sales tax revenue owed to the city
A commenter charged that Washington County has not forwarded nearly $1 million in marijuana sales tax revenue to the city and criticized two county commissioners by name.