On Tuesday, May 21, Barbara Farmer, the Community Development Supervisor, presented a draft resolution for a Proposed Community Development Block Grant aimed at acquiring land for an affordable housing development in La Plata. This development is set to be constructed by Osprey Properties. Initially, a public hearing regarding the proposed grant was held on May 7, 2024, with the record being held open for two weeks to gather additional input from residents. Ultimately, the commissioners voted 3-2 in favor of approving the resolution.
Briefings:
During the session, Meg Romero, Recycling and Litter Control Superintendent, and Frances Sherman, Chief of Environmental Resources, provided updates on the “Keep Charles County Beautiful” initiatives. Notably, the county participated in the Annual Potomac River Watershed Cleanup on April 6, and hosted the Charles County Community Cleanup on May 18. However, the community cleanup faced a setback due to rain on May 18, prompting participating sites to arrange alternative event days. Residents are encouraged to engage in ongoing efforts through the Adopt-a-Road and Adopt-a-Spot programs. Future litter control plans include the establishment of full-time litter control crews to address roadside trash issues.
Jason Groth, Acting Director of the Department of Planning and Growth Management, updated the commissioners on a draft policy and procedures document concerning Developer Bond Releases. Groth mentioned that the department has been in communication with local and regional stakeholders to formulate the policy. A formal recommendation on the guidelines is expected to be presented by the end of July.
Annual Updates:
The commissioners received annual updates on several committees, including the Charles County Pension Plan Committee, the Sheriff’s Office Retirement Plan (SORP) Committee, the Other Post Employment Benefits Committee, and the Historic Preservation Commission. These updates provided insights into the ongoing activities and future plans of these committees.
Approval Items:
Several items were approved by the commissioners during the session:
- Budget Amendment: A budget amendment increase of $198,500 was approved to support renovations for the county’s new rental space on Stonehaven Place. This site is set to provide additional office space for the Department of Emergency Services, Planning & Growth Management, and the Economic Development Department.
- OPEB Plan Change: A change to the Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) Plan was approved to replace an investment fund.
- Support Letter: Commissioners approved a letter of support for the Piscataway Conoy Cultural Museum.
- Pension Plan Funding: A change in the funding method for the Charles County Pension Plan was also approved.
For residents interested in viewing the meeting and the Commissioner Listening Session, they can click here.
The next Commissioners Session is scheduled for June 11-12.
