On January 27, 1987 a group of concerned citizens assembled to discuss the creation of an organization whose purpose would be to improve and enhance the quality of life in the Washington County Tri-State area. As a result of this initial Steering Group effort, the Washington County Area Progress Council was established. Their initial efforts included a summary of the region’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
On May 1, 1987, the name of the organization was changed to The Greater Hagerstown Committee, Inc., a 501c(3) non-profit organization. Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws were reviewed and approved and Merle Elliot was selected as the organization’s first Chairman. At the next regular meeting, eight standing subcommittees were appointed to monitor issues involving government, economies, education, health, human services, recreation, culture, transportation, urban renewal, and historic preservation.
On July 1, 1988, The Greater Hagerstown Committee acquired office space at 5 Public Square, Hagerstown Maryland where they reside today. Over the course of 3 decades, The Greater Hagerstown Committee has had four executive directors, and averages about 70 active members and over 20 ex-officio and retired members. The organization continues to attract business and professional leaders devoted to giving back to their community and finding ways to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of the region.
