Hagerstown · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hagerstown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Smithsburg water system consolidation talks
Hagerstown may take over ownership and operation of the Town of Smithsburg's water system — mains, tanks, pump station, billing, and customer service. The city's water service population would rise from about 92,200 to 94,700, with added sampling locations but no change in monitoring frequency.
Sanitary sewer improvements with Kernwood DH LLC
A cost-offset deal for sewer construction, contingent on the city receiving recorded easements first.
Tap and benefit fee adequacy
The city spends $888,000 a year absorbing credit card fees. The proposal would charge card users 2.79% while keeping e-checks free — which also makes budgeting more predictable since card fees fluctuate.
FY 2027 water fund deficit and rate structure change
The proposal shifts wastewater billing to four tiers matching the new water structure. Typical households save about $20 a quarter; large commercial users see 24-26% increases, raising fairness and business-competitiveness questions.
Elizabeth Hager Center storm drain
A $1 million federal earmark is available to fix an old storm drain running under the building — options include lining it, rerouting it, or replacing it, which could mean demolishing the building. Council will need to weigh in once a consultant evaluates the options.
Aging storm drainage inspection
For the first time, the city is video-inspecting its 100-plus miles of storm pipes to find problem spots before they fail. Expect temporary parking removals and big trucks in neighborhoods starting late September.
Battery energy storage system
Staff explored ways the city-owned utility could generate or store its own power — battery storage at substations to cut peak charges, rooftop solar on city buildings, and community solar. Council directed staff to develop an RFP for battery providers.
Edgemont Reservoir dam rehabilitation
The city's high-hazard dam and emergency spillway are being brought up to current state standards after voids were found under the spillway concrete. Construction is expected to start mid-2027, and the water system will be able to draw up to 2.75 million gallons a day once done.
Wastewater nutrient removal compliance
The city will chase state Bay Restoration Fund grants to fund enhanced nutrient removal projects, keeping it compliant with nitrogen and phosphorus limits in its wastewater permit.
County Water and Sewer Study Dispute
Councilman Aleshire blasted Washington County's plan to hire a consultant to study water and sewer needs, arguing the city's system already serves the area, a state-funded study is already underway, and the idle Edgemont reservoir is the county's real alternative-supply answer. He suspects the effort is about gaining control of the city system.