(2/17) At its February 8th meeting, the annexation request for Thurmont United Methodist Church to be brought into town entered its next phase following the Town Council’s approval of the request.
Located at 13880 Long Road, just east of town, the Church is looking to expand with the ever-growing needs of the community. The church has been working on a new strategic plan for the last several years to grow the church, including increasing the population of the congregation and making the church more relevant to the town by providing a daycare center and before and after school care.
Head Trustee and Finance Chair of Thurmont United Methodist Church, Steven Vaughn presented an overview of the church’s intentions with the annexation.
In order to incorporate a daycare center, the church facility built in 1988 needs infrastructure updates including a sprinkler system. The church currently utilizes a well water supply and a septic system, which raises issues for necessities such as sprinkler systems. If annexed into the town, the church will have access to town water, which will provide both sufficient water pressure and flow necessary for the fire sprinkle system.
The church would also require construction of exit signs and plumbing upgrades to bring it up to standards.
Vaughn presented a map of the facility and the surrounding land to the council. The Church envisions utilizing the facility’s existing ten classrooms and social hall for childcare.
"I commend your church for reaching out to the community to better serve the community and children, whether parishioners of your church or not. That’s awesome," Commissioner Bill Beuher said.
The church committee is currently working through the process to have all renovations completed as soon as possible and are hoping to have them underway this calendar year.
The town and the church have discussed plans together the last few months and have an excellent partnership, Chief Administrative Officer Jim Humerick said.
The request will next move to the Planning and Zoning Commission for review.
