by Geoff Fox
County Commissioners approved a request from Interfaith Service Coalition for a one-time use of Commissioner Contingency funding in an amount not to exceed $44,000.
The approval came during their August 26 meeting in Hagerstown. 
The initial request was for funding not to exceed $39,000 to cover the foundation repairs at Martha’s House.
The funding approval ensures Martha’s House remains operational as the county’s designated warming and cooling station.
The funds being distributed to ISC are on a reimbursement basis upon submission of proof of completed work from the contractor all required permits and documentation have been provided.
Speaking to commissioners on behalf of ISC, board member Jerry Spessard said they’ve had to close Martha’s House all summer due to the structural issues.
“While we appreciate your assistance on this, it’s been a problem for us,” he said to officials.
Spessard added the project has been taking longer than expected and was supposed to be completed “two weeks ago.”
In talking to the contractor, Spessard said the project should be done in the next three weeks.
“I certainly hope so,” he said.
Spessard told officials how Martha’s House is an asset to the Hancock community and how it caters to those in need. He added ISC has made sure to make sure Martha’s House is a good shelter in case of an emergency, not relying on electricity but on solar energy should the need arise.
The reason the cost jumped from the initial $39,000 to $44,000 was due to a crack in the basement was not part of the contract, which will now need to have another contractor to come in and repair the crack.
Commissioner Jeff Cline was the one who asked officials for the extra money on ISC’s request because Martha’s House is the county’s shelter in the western part of the county.
“That’s important to the residents up there,” Cline said.
Cline made the motion to take the request up to $44,000 and it passed unanimously.
