LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) started their business day with a joint meeting alongside the St. Mary’s County Board of Education, followed by a regular business meeting where key proclamations were presented and funding decisions made.
The day began at the Moakley Street office of the Board of Education, where discussions centered on projected 2025 school enrollment, updates on the Blueprint for Education, the Chopticon High School project within the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), the Elms Environmental Center, and other initiatives such as the Everside Health Clinic and a recent school system audit. An anticipated decline in school enrollment by 150 students was also highlighted. Commissioners approved a $2.6 million budget amendment to fund remediation efforts at Esperanza Middle School and support a laptop computer refresh program for the district.
Once the joint meeting concluded, the CSMC reconvened at their regular meeting room, beginning with an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and approval of the consent agenda. The consent agenda included a letter to Delegate Todd Morgan and the State Delegation requesting revisions to election law aimed at ensuring that candidates submit proper financial disclosures.
Proclamations Presented
The CSMC used the occasion to present four key proclamations, recognizing Economic Development Week, Red Ribbon Week, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and National Disability Employment Awareness Month. These proclamations underscored the county’s commitment to fostering economic growth, promoting health awareness, and recognizing the contributions of individuals with disabilities.
Awards Ceremony Honors Local Leaders
As part of the meeting, the CSMC joined the Commission for People with Disabilities in recognizing two local figures for their outstanding contributions. Latisha Queen was awarded the 2024 Care Partner Award, while Allison Guy received the 2024 Innovative Program Award for her work. Both awards celebrate the significant impact of individuals who work to enhance the lives of people with disabilities within the county.
Funding Approvals and Updates
During County Administrator Time, the Commissioners reviewed upcoming agendas and moved forward with several notable decisions. The CSMC approved a loan request of $485,000 from the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department to assist in purchasing a new pumper/tanker. This funding comes from the Fire & Rescue Revolving Loan Fund, ensuring the local fire department has the resources needed to continue safeguarding the community.
The Commissioners also received an update on St. Mary’s County’s use of American Rescue Plan funding. Of the $22 million allocated to the county, expenditures now total approximately $18.3 million, with $2.5 million in encumbrances. The remaining balance of $1.15 million has been designated for the replacement of first responder portable radios, a crucial investment for the county’s emergency services.
Commissioner Time
During Commissioner Time, Commissioner Eric Colvin highlighted the upcoming early voting period, which runs from Thursday, October 24, through Thursday, October 31. He also addressed an unfortunate incident of voter intimidation, where a car was driven towards individuals waving campaign signs, and shared insights from the National Association of Counties IT Standing Committee meeting, which he attended the previous day.
In addition, Colvin reflected on his experience at the U.S. Oyster Festival, commending the local event for showcasing St. Mary’s County’s vibrant seafood culture.
Next CSMC Meeting
The next business meeting of the CSMC is scheduled for Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room located in the Chesapeake Building on Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. Later that evening, a public forum will be held at 6:30 p.m. Citizens are encouraged to attend these open meetings or view them live on Channel 95 or on-demand via YouTube.
For further details on CSMC meetings and related decisions, visit the St. Mary’s County Government website or BoardDocs.
