LEONARDTOWN, Md. — The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County announced the schedule for four public forums in 2026, providing residents with opportunities to address elected officials directly on community matters.
The forums are set for January 13, May 5, July 28, and November 17, 2026. Each begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Commissioners Meeting Room on the first floor of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. This central location in the county seat serves as the primary venue for these gatherings, accessible to residents from areas such as Lexington Park, California, and Ridge.
Public forums serve as a quarterly platform for open dialogue, distinct from regular business meetings or hearings on specific topics. Residents can speak on any subject of their choice, offering appreciation, questions, or suggestions in a format that emphasizes mutual respect. Speakers receive up to three minutes to address the commissioners. The structure allows for direct interaction with the five-member board, which includes President James R. Guy and district commissioners Eric Colvin, Michael L. Hewitt, Mike Alderson Jr., and Scott R. Ostrow.
For those unable to attend in person, feedback remains available year-round through email to CSMC@stmaryscountymd.gov or mail to Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, PO Box 653, Leonardtown, MD 20650. This accommodates residents across the county’s 369 square miles, including those in more rural southern sections or near the Patuxent River Naval Air Station.
The commissioners prioritize equal access. Individuals needing accommodations for disabilities, special needs, or language interpretation services should contact the Public Information Office at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1340 at least three days in advance to arrange support.
All forums broadcast live on St. Mary’s County Government TV Channel 95 (available via cable providers) and stream online at YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov. This extends reach to viewers at home or remotely, aligning with ongoing efforts to promote transparency in county governance.
In addition to the quarterly forums, the annual Budget Public Hearing occurs April 21, 2026, at Chopticon High School in Morganza. This dedicated session focuses on the county’s fiscal year budget, allowing input on spending priorities, revenue sources, and services such as public safety, education support, and infrastructure. Residents can review the budget timeline, watch past meeting videos, and access related materials at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/Budget.
These public engagement opportunities reflect the commissioners’ structure as the legislative and executive body for St. Mary’s County, where the five elected officials handle policy, budgeting, and administration. Forums complement other participation channels, such as regular meetings viewable on the same platforms or through BoardDocs for agendas and minutes.
For more details on the commissioners and their work, visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/csmc.
