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Council signs letter of commitment to support Geyser Way stormwater-to-tree project, grant applications to follow
Summary
Maryland Forest Service and the Catoctin Land Trust presented a plan to convert a stormwater basin on Geyser Way/Main Street to a native-tree and meadow habitat; council approved a town letter of commitment and landowner agreement contingent on final design and easements.
Smithsburg — The council voted Feb. 3 to sign a letter of commitment allowing a tree‑planting and stormwater retrofit project on the western lot at Geyser Way and Main Street to proceed with grant applications.
Anna (Maryland Forest Service) and Bob Schwartz (watershed forester) presented a design that would replace turf with native trees and meadows to improve stormwater infiltration, provide habitat and shade for the school walking path, and reduce long‑term maintenance costs. Proposed funding sources include a Chesapeake Bay Trust G3 (CBT G3) grant and matching support from the Catoctin Land Trust (AWAP). The Catoctin Land Trust would be the CBT grantee if funding is awarded.
Anna clarified that the template provided is a letter of commitment — not a legally locked construction contract — and that the town’s signature confirms permission for project proponents to work on town property and affirms long‑term maintenance expectations. She said the CBT and local partners typically allow reasonable design changes after award. Council moved and approved signing the letter so applicants could advance the grant application before the March deadline.
Why it matters: If funded, the project would pay for plants, contractors and up to five years of external maintenance; after that the town would assume maintenance responsibility. The project is tied to the town’s MS4 stormwater permitting credits and is intended to reduce runoff, increase infiltration and provide public‑realm benefits.
Next steps: Project proponents will submit a CBT G3 application (target week of Feb. 23 for early submission), finalize designs in coordination with RK&K and town staff, and return to council for any required easements or further approvals.
