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Council reviews FY27 planning department reorganization, public-works budget and stormwater investments
Summary
Council discussed creating a standalone planning department in FY27 (moving certain codes into the general fund), staffing and copier needs, and public-works budget items including a spike in water loss (25.8%), recent meter/valve repairs, and options to smooth snow-removal costs across years.
Smithsburg staff and council reviewed FY27 planning and public-works budget details on April 7, including a proposal to create a standalone Planning Department under the general fund, changes to GL codes, proposed copier and supply expenses, and salary budget considerations tied to staff experience.
On public works, Brian reported that water-loss rose to 25.8 percent for the period under review and described recent repairs to leaking grommets and three meters that froze and split. He explained a problematic valve in a vault had bypassed metering but that the valve and metering configuration were repaired and a new meter installed: "Everything is up and running now," Brian said, noting staff used estimates to bill for a quarter while repairs were completed.
Council members also discussed stormwater‑management investments made after a prior compliance notice and debated whether to establish a directed or restricted fund for snow‑removal costs to smooth out year‑to‑year budget volatility. One member suggested a directed fund with set contributions; others said keeping resources in the general fund preserves flexibility but agreed staff would research terminology and mechanics.
Next steps: staff said they hope to provide preliminary water and sewer numbers at the next meeting and will consult the treasurer on possible fund-structure options for snow removal and contingencies.
