(2/1) Deputy Honored

At its January 11 meeting, the Emmitsburg Town Council honored the bittersweet departure of a Sheriff’s Deputy as he enters a new chapter to train as a detective.

Just in time for National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, a certificate of appreciation was presented to Frederick County Sheriff's Office Deputy First Class Ben Whitehouse in recognition of his six years of dedicated service to the Town of Emmitsburg.

A beloved member of the community, the council praised Whitehouse for his perseverance, outstanding service, tireless efforts, and constant support to the entire community.

Deputy Jason Ahalt thanked Whitehouse for being an outstanding partner and a "tremendous asset to this community."

"You’re a real favorite," Mayor Don Briggs said.

"Thank you for all that you have done, consistently above and beyond," Council President Tim O’Donnell.

"It’s been an honor, thank you," Whitehouse said.

Liquor Store And Lodging Approved

The Planning Commission granted conditional approval for a subdivision plat for Village Liquors and Plaza Inn, according to Commissioner Joe Ritz.

The owner and developer of the plat found east of the current Dunkin Donuts, requested it be subdivided into two lots.

The intent is to construct two buildings. The first phase includes a liquor store on the ground level and two lodging floors above that. Future phase two would involve a similar first floor retail building with extended stay lodging above.

"It is technically a hotel, but it will be extended stay. So, they’re going to be required to have fully furnished hotel rooms, linens, and all that," Town Planner Zachary Gulden said.

Since the owner is subdividing the property, tax plans have to be brought to the Planning Commission for re-approval, "Because it’s a new parcel," Gulden said.

Construction is anticipated to begin soon for the first phase of the project and there is no current timeline for the second phase of the project.

No Change To Ballfield Fees For Now

At its January meeting, the Town council approved continuation of the town’s no-fee ballfield policy for another year. Ballfield reservations will continue free of charge for training, games, and tournaments usage throughout 2022.

The ballfield fee policy was initially set to expire in January 2021, but was extended due to COVID-19, Willet said.

Commissioner Frank Davis was in favor of doing what needs to be done to continue leagues participating in town.

"To see activity at those ballfields every night of the week, I just think it’s part of the good feature of this small-town atmosphere that we want to have," Davis said.

Town Manager Cathy Willets presented discussion of an option implemented by other municipalities that offer leagues free field use in exchange for general maintenance.

In Fiscal Year 2021 the town spent about $18,500 on repairs, maintenance, and capital outlay, and over $10,000 in Fiscal Year 2022, Willet said.

The consensus among several other municipalities, including Taneytown, Boonsboro, Brunswick, and Walkersville, is to incorporate free field usage in exchange for field maintenance including the ballfield mix, Willets said.