Hagerstown · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hagerstown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Land Management Code Amendments (ZT-2026-02)
The city's annual package of zoning code updates was tabled on October 27 over questions — mostly about new accessory dwelling unit rules that state law now requires. Adoption is slated for the November 10 meeting.
Tenant protections after utility disconnection
Councilmember Aleshire asked legislators to expand the list of conditions allowing tenant remedies in rental court and to let tenants access their escrowed deposits when a unit becomes uninhabitable.
2025–2026 Annual Zoning Text Amendments
Two of the most visible proposed zoning changes: a ban on townhouses with single-width front driveways (cars end up on sidewalks and lawns), and dropping apartment parking requirements from 2 spaces per unit to 1.75. Existing projects in the pipeline get a pass.
Renaming Woodrow Wilson Boulevard
A North High staff member asked the city to rename Wilson Boulevard over Woodrow Wilson's segregation of the federal government and KKK ties, suggesting honoring Jacob Francis Wheaton or Walter Harmon. Two councilmembers thanked him and said they'd want to know how roughly 100 affected residents feel first.
Accessory dwelling units (Proposal 26)
State law now requires the city to allow ADUs — small second dwellings — on single-family detached lots, with no extra parking required. A homeowner testified about her 1899 trolley carriage house she hopes to convert.
Quit-claim policy for undeveloped paper alleys
The city built and maintained two alleys near Fairgrounds Park for 20 years without ever formally accepting them. Accepting them settles who's responsible for snow removal and upkeep.