In recent budget work sessions, Charles County officials, led by Jacob Dyer, Acting Director of the Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services, and Assistant Chief of Budget, Ms. TaTanya Bowman, presented a comprehensive review of the fiscal 2025 budget. The discussions, which commenced on April 16, aim to establish the county’s financial directives, impacting various county-administered services and entities such as the Sheriff’s Office and the Board of Education.
During the session held on Tuesday, County Commissioners delved into the specifics of the general fund budget for 2025, which is integral to the operation of key county services. Presentations by departments, including the Sheriff’s Office, the College of Southern Maryland, and the Charles County Public Library, highlighted their budget requests. The budget work also covered the proposals for the Charles County Department of Social Services and the Charitable Trust among others.
Further, the Commissioners explored the proposed budgets for the fiscal 2025 to 2029 Capital Improvement Program, underscoring their commitment to long-term infrastructure and service improvements within the county. These deliberations set the stage for weekly updates leading to a crucial public hearing scheduled for April 24, with the budget’s final adoption slated for May 14.
In addition to budgetary discussions, county officials addressed legislative developments. Notably, a briefing on Proposed Bill 2024-10 which seeks to amend the Charles County Building Code was conducted. This amendment aligns local codes with state mandates and introduces new requirements such as mandatory electric vehicle charging stations and the presence of a master electrician during inspections of energized equipment.
Furthermore, the Commissioners unanimously voted to introduce this bill, scheduling a public hearing for May 14, 2024, at 6 p.m. Other briefings focused on the Summer Youth Employment and Connected Devices programs, alongside an update on forming a sister city partnership with Matola, Mozambique.
During the session, several approvals were also secured including a significant budget transfer to the Capital Projects fund and a change order for the Cliffton Wastewater Treatment Plant, which addresses necessary adjustments due to price escalations and project scope changes.
Appointments to various boards and commissions were made, with several reappointments and new appointments to the Commission for Veterans Affairs reflecting the ongoing commitment to community governance.
The next Commissioners Session is scheduled for April 23-24, providing another opportunity for public engagement and oversight. Residents interested in participating or viewing the session can access it online here.
