LA PLATA, Md. – During their meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 10, the Charles County Commissioners approved several key measures, including salary increases for county employees and funding for critical infrastructure improvements. Acting Director of the Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services Jacob Dyer presented a request to approve a 3.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for eligible full-time employees and a 2.5% increase for part-time staff, effective January 2025. The adjustments were proposed to address inflation and achieve greater equity between county employees and partner agencies.
Additionally, the Commissioners approved the creation of a $5.5 million reserve fund for replacing emergency radios for the Department of Emergency Services, ensuring enhanced communication capabilities for public safety personnel.
Key Briefings Highlight County Initiatives
The meeting featured several briefings on current and future initiatives:
- Spark! Places of Innovation Partnership:
Representatives from Maryland Humanities, the Life Journeys Writers Guild, and the CSM Velocity Center briefed the Commissioners on a proposed collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution. The Spark! Places of Innovation program aims to create museum spaces in small towns across the state. Charles County will host the Spark! Maryland Tour from May 17 to June 29, 2025, with displays showcased at the CSM Velocity Center and other county locations. Commissioners approved moving forward with the partnership. - Fiscal Year 2025 General Fund Review:
Acting Director Jacob Dyer and Assistant Chief of Budget TaTanya Bowman presented a review of the county’s general fund for the first quarter. - Use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds:
Commissioners approved reallocating $558,097 from broadband programs to surface transportation projects, with an additional $100,000 designated to address food insecurity. The adjustment ensures all funds are obligated by the Dec. 31, 2024, deadline. - Blighted Property Enforcement:
The Department of Codes, Permits, and Inspection Services provided an update on a recent campaign to enforce signage regulations, resulting in 202 inspections and 96 cases resolved. The department also reported on 50 blighted property cases logged this year, with 37 resolved and the remainder in progress. - Public Comment Session Adjustments:
Following discussions on Dec. 3, Commissioners voted to streamline public comment sessions. Sessions will not be held during months with quarterly joint town halls. Each Commissioner will also have six minutes to respond to citizen concerns following public comments.
Legislative Action
The Commissioners passed Proposed Bill 2024-06: Zoning Text Amendment 22-174 Mixed Use Zone, which allows the substitution of commercial development with residential development and incorporates “housing for specific populations” within Mixed-Use Zones.
Board and Commission Updates
The Commissioners received annual updates from several county boards and commissions, including the Business Loan Development Fund for Women, Minorities, and Veterans.
Actions on Boards and Commissions:
The Commissioners made multiple appointments, including:
- Area Council on Aging: Commissioner Thomasina Coates (District 2).
- Board of Fire and Rescue: Commissioner Vice President Ralph E. Patterson II (District 4).
- Charles County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors: Commissioner Vice President Ralph E. Patterson II and Economic Development staff.
- Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Commission: Commissioner Ralph E. Patterson II (District 4).
- Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Board of Directors: Commissioners Reuben B. Collins II, Thomasina Coates, and Amanda Stewart.
Additional appointments included representatives to the Naval Support Activity South Potomac Civilian-Military Community Relations Council, the Patuxent River Commission, and the Tri-County Council of Southern Maryland.
Approval Items Address Key Projects
The Commissioners approved several budget amendments and resolutions, including:
- $13.4 Million Change Order: Funding for the county’s portable radio replacement program and upgrades to the Radio Communication Systems.
- Feasibility Studies: $50,000 for a Sports and Wellness Complex and $124,420 for the La Plata Armory’s potential use by the Department of Emergency Services.
- Education Projects: $87,450 for additional technology and furniture at the new Thornton Elementary School and $370,000 for the William B. Wade Elementary School Kindergarten expansion.
- Infrastructure Improvements: A letter of support for La Plata High School renovations, including the addition of a Natatorium.
The Commissioners also adopted Resolution 2024-17: Fall Water and Sewer Category Amendment Cycle and expressed support for state legislation targeting organized retail theft.
Community Impact and Transparency
The meeting underscored the Commissioners’ commitment to public safety, education, and economic growth while addressing pressing issues such as food insecurity and infrastructure development. Citizens with special needs can access services through the Maryland Relay Service at 7-1-1.
