Board of County Commissioners Open Session July 30 , 2026

The Carroll County Board of County Commissioners held an open session on July 30, 2026, covering a wide range of community and development topics. Key procurement-related discussions included an update from BGE on the Finksburg to Westminster transmission line replacement project, with the board unanimously approving a motion to support the underground installation option and to send a letter of support to the Public Service Commission. The board also approved a $189,009.77 change order to JMT for additional engineering services related to the Hampstead Wastewater Treatment Plant improvements. Additionally, the board conducted public hearings and adopted amendments to the county's forest conservation ordinance to align with state law, and adopted the 2024 Water Resources Element as a long-term planning tool for water and wastewater management. The commissioners discussed proposed zoning code amendments related to age-restricted communities and homes, cluster subdivisions, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), with motions to schedule public hearings on these topics. The ADU amendments were crafted to comply with Maryland state legislation (HB 1466) and included provisions on size limits, parking, and occupancy requirements. The board also addressed community concerns regarding a local church's use of property for events, emphasizing the need for traffic and safety studies. The meeting concluded with a review of upcoming events and agenda items, including grant approvals, contract renewals, and capital projects. Overall, the session involved multiple procurement decisions, contract approvals, and policy updates affecting infrastructure, land use, and housing development in Carroll County.