The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County held their regular business meeting Feb. 3, 2026, in Leonardtown, addressing recognitions, transit improvements, budget adjustments, and legislative positions before concluding in closed session.
The session opened with an invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by approval of the consent agenda. Commissioners issued proclamations designating February as Black History Month, National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, Transit Equity Day (Feb. 4), and National Library Lovers Month.
Human Resources Director Catherine Pratson received a commendation for her retirement, with thanks extended for her years of service to the county.
A recognition ceremony honored volunteer members serving on local boards, committees, and commissions. Residents interested in similar opportunities can explore openings at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/boards.
Under County Administrator Time, commissioners reviewed upcoming meeting agendas and approved several transit-related items. They reallocated $195,995 in FY26 Statewide Special Transportation Assistance Program (SSTAP) funding to purchase two accessible transit vans for paratransit services. This supports expanded access for residents with disabilities.
Commissioners received a presentation on St. Mary’s Transit System (STS) operations, noting ridership increases and future goals. They approved updates to STS ADA Policies, the Appeals Policy and Procedures, and the Disciplinary Policy with Code of Conduct to enhance accessibility and accountability.
The FY26 STS operating grant received approval, totaling $4,622,257, with $2,717,954 from federal and state sources and $1,904,303 from county funds.
Commissioners consolidated two existing capital projects related to the Adult Detention and Rehabilitation Center (ADRC, or jail) into a single ADRC Safety and Security Modernization Project, fully federally funded at $625,940. They authorized submission of this project as the county’s FY27 Congressionally Directed Spending (earmark) request to congressional representatives.
The Office of the County Attorney provided a legislative update. Commissioners approved letters of support for two bills: HB 613/SB 368 (Calvert and St. Mary’s Counties – Living Shorelines and Nonstructural Shoreline Stabilization Measures) and HB 610/SB 357 (St. Mary’s County – Gaming by Qualified Organization – License Required). They approved a letter of opposition to HB 565 (County Boards of Education – Elections – District Voting).
During Commissioner Time, Commissioner Eric Colvin highlighted STS growth, potential impacts of federal government shutdowns, state-level gerrymandering concerns, upcoming budget work sessions, and Board of Education funding requests. He noted the observance of National Carrot Cake Day.
The meeting concluded in closed session for legal advice.
The next Commissioners meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room on the first floor of the Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street, Leonardtown. A budget work session follows at 1:30 p.m. that day. Decisions and documents are available via BoardDocs on the county website. Meetings are open to the public and streamed live on TV Channel 95 or www.youtube.com/@StMarysCoGov.
These actions reflect ongoing priorities in transportation accessibility, public safety infrastructure, and alignment with state legislative matters affecting Southern Maryland communities.