LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) wrapped up their final business meeting of 2024 with a mix of festive and practical activities, including a special visit from Santa Claus and the approval of key projects and agreements.
The meeting began with an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the approval of the consent agenda, setting the stage for an efficient and productive session.
Audit Report Highlights
The primary agenda item was the presentation of the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Audit Report. The independent auditing firm SB & Company LLC conducted the review and issued an Unmodified Opinion, signaling a clean audit with no instances of fraud, material weaknesses, or required audit journal entries. The auditors praised the full cooperation of the Department of Finance and county government staff. Commissioner Eric Colvin noted, “In short, it was a good audit.”
Key Actions During County Administrator Time
During County Administrator Time, the Commissioners addressed several significant items, including:
- Future Meeting Agendas: Reviewed plans for upcoming meetings on January 7 and January 14, 2025.
- FY26 State Aid for Police Protection Program: Approved a grant application to secure funding for the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. While the final amount is pending, last year’s allocation was $1,315,601, requiring no county match.
- 911 Console Replacement Project: Approved funding for the replacement of 911 dispatch consoles. The $659,560 project includes $451,771 in grant funds from the Maryland 911 Board and $207,789 from Capital Reserve funds for construction.
- U.S. Geological Survey Joint Funding Agreement: Approved an agreement for water level monitoring equipment on St. George’s Island, totaling $25,595. The funding includes $10,000 from the U.S. Geological Survey and $15,595 from county resources.
Commissioner Updates and Final Remarks
During Commissioner Time, members reflected on community events and initiatives. Commissioner Eric Colvin highlighted the Ridge Volunteer Rescue Squad’s 75th Anniversary and Installation of Officers, as well as the Hope in Harmony concert held over the weekend. He also shared insights gained from the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Conference.
The Commissioners concluded the public session and entered a closed session to discuss real property, legal advice, and personnel matters.
Looking Ahead
The next business meeting of the CSMC will take place on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 9 a.m. in the Chesapeake Building (41770 Baldridge Street, Leonardtown). That evening, the Commissioners will hold their first Public Forum of the year at 6:30 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to attend meetings in person or watch live on SMCG TV Channel 95 or via the county’s YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov. Agendas and meeting documents are available on the St. Mary’s County Government website through BoardDocs.
