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Emmitsburg accepts county sheriff contract despite commissioner objections over added costs
Summary
After debate about whether the town is duplicating county costs, the board voted 4-1 to accept the annual Frederick County sheriff contract that will provide deputy coverage for Emmitsburg. One commissioner opposed, arguing the town is paying benefits and vehicle costs that should be in the sheriff’s county budget.
The Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners voted 4-1 on April 13 to accept the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office contract for fiscal year 2027, approving continued deputy coverage provided under the county arrangement.
A commissioner opposing the contract criticized what he described as duplicate charging of county costs to the town. “We’re paying for their workers’ comp, health insurance, retirement. They’re already county employees,” the commissioner said, arguing those costs should be borne by the sheriff’s office budget rather than the town. He also questioned vehicle costs and said, “I would rather have us pay mileage than paying $45,000 for cars... So now we’re being the people in this town are being doubly taxed by another $402,000.”
Supporters of accepting the contract noted that the town routinely reviews the annual agreement and moved to approve it as presented. After discussion, the motion to accept the contract carried, 4 to 1.
The board did not amend the contract during the meeting; staff will proceed with the contract as approved.
