Public Safety Committee Work Session - June 3, 2026

The Allegany County Public Safety Committee held a work session on June 3, 2026, focusing primarily on two grant opportunities presented by the Sheriff. The first grant discussed was for establishing a dedicated narcotics enforcement unit aimed at addressing the county's significant drug problem, including hiring two full-time deputies and several part-time deputies, purchasing equipment and vehicles, and partnering with probation for rehabilitation efforts. Committee members debated the sustainability of funding post-grant, potential union issues, and the effectiveness of narcotics enforcement versus rehabilitation. The second grant proposal involved creating a dedicated traffic safety officer position to reduce crashes and drug-impaired driving, including acquiring vehicles, license plate readers, speed trailers, and in-car camera systems. This grant would also support traffic enforcement at community events and school zones. Both grants are three-year terms with no immediate cost to the county, but concerns were raised about long-term funding. Additionally, the committee discussed potential impacts of state budget changes on federal ICE inmate housing contracts, which could result in significant revenue loss for the county. The meeting concluded with plans to add these grant discussions to the public safety agenda for further consideration.