Elkton commission weighs acquisition funding, grant steps for rail parcel and Drill Hall remediation

At its May 28 meeting the Town of Elkton Historic District Commission discussed several property and grant matters, including potential acquisition of Holly Hall, purchase of a Rail Station parcel now that environmental and NEPA work are complete, and a draft request for proposals for lead-paint remediation at the Drill Hall.

Jeanne D. Minner, the Town’s Director of Planning, said she can request funding for Holly Hall acquisition in time for the settlement date but warned the Town is concerned about covering taxes up front and waiting for reimbursement. She said the timing and cash-flow risk are unresolved and that staff will explore grant options.

On the Rail Station parcel, Minner told the Commission that the environmental study and NEPA process are complete and that the Maryland Transit Administration indicated the Town may purchase the land; she said the Town currently lacks the funds and will apply for an acquisition grant to avoid the hospital or another party selling the parcel to a different buyer. Commissioners discussed the potential downtown benefits of connecting the Rail Station to Elkton Music Hall and broader downtown revitalization.

Minner also reported she had sent a draft RFP for lead-paint remediation at the Drill Hall to the Town Administrator and to the Town engineers; she added the engineers must complete an existing “doughboy” project before they can proceed with the remediation procurement.

Paula Newton noted a private buyer renovating 237 E. Main Street who is committed to preserving historic elements, and Christine A. Brimm Hurschman described ideas through the Elk Landing Foundation to attract more tourism to the site. No formal funding approvals or purchases were made at the meeting; next steps include staff pursuing grant opportunities and returning to the Commission with any formal acquisition proposals or procurement updates.