Note from President
January marked a strong start to 2026 for Pittsville. The Town Council met on January 21st and made important financial decisions that will benefit our community for years to come. Most notably, we secured favorable financing for the Water Treatment Plant Phase IV upgrade project, with 50% of the loan qualifying as forgiveness after ten years – essentially turning half of it into a grant.
As we begin this new year, I’m grateful for the dedicated staff who keep our town running smoothly. From our Public Works team preparing for winter storms to our economic development initiatives reaching out to local businesses, there’s positive momentum across all departments. Here’s what happened this month.
Meeting Highlights
Water Treatment Plant Financing Approved – The Council unanimously adopted Resolution #2026-01, authorizing an MDE loan of $918,616 to complete financing for the Water Treatment Plant Phase IV Upgrade. Half of this amount ($459,308) qualifies as loan forgiveness after ten years, significantly reducing the long-term cost to residents.
Recognition for Town Service – The Council adopted Resolution #2026-02, extending thanks and appreciation to Ivory Smith for his service to the Town of Pittsville serving on the Pittsville Economic Development Commission.
Supporting Local Students – The Council approved a donation to the Pittsville Band Boosters to help defray transportation costs for a school trip to New York City to see “The Lion King.”
Challenges and Updates
Apartment Complex Mold Remediation – The Town has been actively addressing mold issues at a local apartment complex. A follow-up inspection is scheduled for early February to ensure proper remediation. The Maryland Department of the Environment has been notified and is monitoring the situation.
Drainage Projects Moving Forward – Public Works is scheduling work on both the Sandyfield subdivision drainage issue and the Pitts Avenue drainage ditches. These projects will address ongoing water management concerns in affected areas.
Rental Housing Inspections – The Town Clerk is scheduling this year’s rental housing inspections with First State Inspection Agency. The town plans to complete all apartment complexes this year, with remaining residential units inspected next year, completing the three-year inspection cycle by 2027.
Water Update
Great news on the water front – the Water Treatment Plant Phase IV Upgrade project is nearly complete. The only remaining work involves repairs to Filter #3, which were not originally included in the project contract. Chris Gee from Singh Operational Services reported that water usage and bacteria levels remain within normal parameters across all wells.
Additionally, Public Works Director Dale Monroe reported that the UV system installation at the Wastewater Treatment Plant has been completed, enhancing our wastewater treatment capabilities.
Upcoming Events
Strawberry Festival – Saturday, June 6, 2026. Information will be included in upcoming water bills. We’re currently working on securing sponsorships for this beloved community event.
Town News
Economic Development Initiative Launched – Town Manager Joe Mangini has begun weekly business visitation program, starting with East Coast Tile. These visits help the Town better understand local business needs and strengthen relationships with our commercial community.
Street Improvement Project Bidding – Public Works will begin accepting bids for the street improvement project from Railroad to Maple Street, continuing our commitment to infrastructure maintenance.
Park Improvements Grant Received – The Town received a $9,521.37 grant reimbursement from the Department of Natural Resources for the final work completing Phase IV of our Capital Park Improvement Program. We’re awaiting word this spring on our grant application to renovate the basketball court.
Federal Funding Opportunities – Town Manager Mangini participated in the annual Congressionally Directed Spending webinar with Maryland Senators Van Hollen and Alsobrooks to explore federal funding opportunities for future town projects.
Next Town Council Meeting
Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 7:00 pm
Town Hall
Have questions for the Council? Submit them at: [email protected].