Taneytown council approves slate of routine items, debates appointments process and hears infrastructure updates

The Taneytown mayor and city council on Monday introduced three ordinances, approved routine financial items and a construction bid, granted a water-credit request and confirmed a slate of appointments to city boards and commissions after an extended discussion about the nomination process.

The council introduced Ordinance 18-2025 to add a sixth member to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and adjust chair and secretary positions, Ordinance 19-2025 (FY2025 budget amendment No. 3) and Ordinance 20-2025 (FY2026 budget amendment No. 1). Motions to introduce each ordinance were moved and seconded and the council signified approval by voice vote.

Why it matters: The ordinance introductions set up later formal consideration and, in the case of the parks board change, alter the membership structure of a standing advisory body. The council also handled several items that affect city finances and services, including accounts payable, the monthly financial report and a competitive construction contract award.

City manager report and infrastructure updates

City Manager Jim said the Westview Drive project is progressing and that, following a police review of traffic controls, the city will convert the Church and Westview intersection from a two-way to a four-way stop. "Police were out there taking a look at things and recommended that we make the intersection of Church and Westview Drive a 4 way stop," Jim said.

Jim also reported that test pitting on the Memorial Drive water-line replacement — for which the council previously approved design work by CDM Smith — found ductile iron rather than the cast…