LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) held their regular business meeting today, starting with the invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by the approval of the Consent Agenda. The Consent Agenda included a series of appointments to various Boards, Committees, and Commissions, recognizing and thanking the volunteers who serve the community.
The CSMC also presented several proclamations, highlighting key observances within the county. Among them were proclamations for White Cane Awareness Day, National 4-H Week, National Faith and Blue Weekend, and National Community Planning Month. These proclamations aim to bring attention to vital causes and celebrate their respective contributions to the county. Additionally, a commendation was presented to Terry Kerns in honor of her retirement from St. Mary’s County Government, acknowledging her dedicated years of service.
Comprehensive Plan Update Kicks Off
The main agenda began with a presentation on the Comprehensive Plan update from the consultant team at Clarion Associates, LLC. This marks the initiation of the St. Mary’s County 2050: Charting Our Tomorrow plan, a process that will extend over 18 months. The goal is to involve the community extensively throughout the planning process, with a focus on communication and public engagement. To ensure transparency, the plan will include a dedicated website and email platform, offering multiple opportunities for public input.
According to officials, the comprehensive plan will serve as a guide for future growth and development in the county.
Public Ethics Ordinance Discussion
Next, the Commissioners discussed proposed revisions to the Public Ethics Ordinance, which included a controversial update requiring political candidates to file a financial disclosure at least 30 days before the candidacy filing deadline. While the Ethics Board supported the change to enhance transparency and accountability, some Commissioners expressed concerns over the complexity it might introduce into the election process.
Commissioner Eric Colvin voiced opposition, stating, “I believe it adds too much complexity and uncertainty to the process, but I also acknowledge the serious concerns raised by the Ethics Board.” No motion was made to approve the update, but the Commissioners requested a letter be drafted to the State Delegation, outlining concerns related to the election process and the potential effects of the proposed change.
County Administrator Time: School Renovations and Budget Approvals
During County Administrator Time, the Commissioners reviewed several important items:
- Future Meeting Agendas: The Commissioners reviewed the upcoming agendas for future meetings, including the next CSMC business meeting scheduled for October 22, 2024, which will include a Joint Meeting with the Board of Education.
- Great Mills High School Chiller Replacement: The Commissioners approved a budget amendment reallocating $709,158 from eight closed-out projects to fund the emergency replacement of the chiller at Great Mills High School. The total project cost is estimated at $1.7 million.
- Green Holly Elementary School Renovation: The Commissioners also approved budget authority for the State Healthy Schools Facilities Fund allocation, amounting to $9,170,469, for the roof and HVAC systemic renovation at Green Holly Elementary School. The project, totaling $16,704,469, will receive additional funding from Transfer Taxes and County Bond Funding.
Commissioner Time and Tribute to Judge Stamm
During Commissioner Time, several topics were discussed, including the recent passing of Judge Stamm and his significant impact on the local community. Commissioners also discussed the Comprehensive Plan update process and the importance of the county’s “Sustainable Communities” designation, a program aimed at revitalizing older areas and encouraging economic development.
The meeting concluded with a Closed Session to discuss personnel matters. The CSMC will reconvene later today at 2:30 p.m. for an annual update from the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo).
The next CSMC business meeting is set for October 22, 2024, starting at 9 a.m. with a Joint Meeting with the Board of Education, followed by the regular business meeting at 11 a.m. All meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or online at www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov.
