Charles County Commissioners convened on Oct. 29 at the annual Economic Development Fall Meeting, focusing on local innovation, economic partnerships, and zoning changes impacting the community. The event, organized by the Charles County Department of Economic Development, emphasized collaboration with the Naval Support Facility in Indian Head and included a keynote from Central Maryland Chamber of Commerce’s Dewan Clayborn. Also on the agenda were public health updates, zoning amendments, and budget approvals aimed at county development.
Economic Development Overview
Kelly Robertson Slagle, Director of the Charles County Department of Economic Development, updated attendees on the county’s economic status, detailing ongoing growth initiatives. Central to the discussion was the role of strategic partnerships with the Naval Support Facility Indian Head, supporting local business growth and job creation. Dewan Clayborn, President and CEO of the Central Maryland Chamber of Commerce, provided the keynote address, stressing regional collaboration to further economic resilience and sustainability.
Health Department Briefing
In the afternoon, Dr. Dianna Abney, Health Officer, and Amber Starn, Director of Community Health and Evaluation, presented the Bi-Annual Health Department Report. This briefing addressed recent trends in respiratory virus activity, including updates on COVID-19, and outlined precautionary measures for residents. Additionally, the department highlighted upcoming free clinics and emergency preparedness initiatives aimed at maintaining public health across the county.
Zoning Amendment Decisions
On Oct. 30, Commissioners discussed Zoning Map Amendment 20-01, addressing a longstanding proposal to shift a property along Leonardtown Road from rural conservation to a commercial village designation. Originally discussed in 2021, the amendment returned to the Commissioners following a court appeal, requiring further review. After revisiting the case’s procedural history, Commissioners voted 3-2 in favor of the amendment, paving the way for potential development in the area.
Public Hearings and Financial Decisions
Commissioners held public hearings on multiple topics, including the 2024 Bond Issue. Jacob Dyer, Acting Director, and Anna Horevay from McGuire Woods, LLP, presented the $73 million bond plan set to fund county capital improvements. Divided into 10, 15, and 30-year terms, the bonds are slated for sale in December. The proposal received unanimous approval.
Additionally, Bill 2024-13, related to the Waldorf Activity Centers, was approved. This zoning text amendment allows transitional residential provisions within multifamily buildings along primary streets, fostering flexible housing development in high-demand areas.
Commissioners also approved two bills supporting an Aviation Business Park Zone near the Maryland Airport in Indian Head, aimed at industrial growth. The vote passed 3-1, with District 2 Commissioner Thomasina O. Coates abstaining.
Another key agenda item was Proposed Bill 2024-06, which seeks to adjust mixed-use zoning to permit specific housing types within large residential projects. After an initial hearing, Commissioners voted to keep the public record open until Dec. 3, with a work session scheduled for Dec. 10.
Actions on Local Boards and Budget Allocations
The Commissioners made several appointments to county boards, reinforcing community representation in local governance. Ben Schultz and Franklin Robinson were reappointed to the Historic Preservation Commission, with Stephanie McKissic joining as a new appointee. Additionally, Jerome Johnson was reappointed, and Robert Padgett and Tarshea Smith were newly appointed to the Nuisance Abatement Hearing Board.
Several budget items were approved to enhance county infrastructure, including a $110,000 transfer for technology upgrades at the Centennial St. Conference room and a $3,000 budget amendment to support the long driveway grant program. Other budget approvals included nearly $300,000 for ongoing engineering services and upgrades at the Mattawoman Wastewater Treatment Plant, along with over $338,000 for grout work at the same facility.
Upcoming Sessions and Community Engagement
The Commissioners have scheduled additional work sessions and public hearings in December, ensuring ongoing community input and transparency in zoning and infrastructure decisions. Citizens with special needs were reminded to contact the Maryland Relay Service at 7-1-1 for assistance with access to these events.
