LEONARDTOWN, Md. — The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County are seeking applications from residents interested in serving on various local boards, commissions and committees, with submissions due by May 15, 2026.
The call for volunteers highlights opportunities to contribute to community development while meeting new people. Residents can review board descriptions and submit applications online at the county website along with a resume. For assistance, contact Diane Gleissner at 301-475-4200, extension 1707.
Current vacancies include the Agriculture Seafood & Forestry Board, which meets at noon; Airport Advisory Board; Animal Control Advisory Board; Commission for People with Disabilities; Commission for Women; Commission on the Environment; Human Relations Commission; Local Management Board; Police Accountability Board; and Social Services Board.
Several positions carry special requirements. The Building Code Board of Appeals requires experience in the building field. The Historic Preservation Commission seeks individuals with backgrounds in architecture, architectural history, history or archaeology. The Metropolitan Commission requires residency in the 1st district. The Plumbing Fuel Gas Board requires a licensed plumber.
Separately, the county is recruiting specialized medical professionals for the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board. This board reviews and makes recommendations to the court on the continuation, modification or termination of public guardianship for adults with disabilities.
Lori Jennings-Harris, director of the Department of Aging & Human Services, said, “Serving on the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of some of our most vulnerable community members. We are seeking compassionate, qualified medical professionals who can lend their expertise to help ensure these individuals receive the care and dignity they deserve.”
Board members meet in person semi-annually, typically in January and July. Applicants must be qualified medical professionals with experience in prescribing or overseeing mental health medications, such as psychiatrists or psychiatric nurse practitioners.
Applications for the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board are accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Submissions, including a resume, go through the same online portal or by contacting Gleissner.
These volunteer roles support key functions in Southern Maryland governance. The Agriculture Seafood & Forestry Board addresses local farming, fishing and timber interests central to St. Mary’s County’s economy. The Commission on the Environment tackles conservation and sustainability issues. The Commission for People with Disabilities and Commission for Women focus on equity and accessibility. The Police Accountability Board promotes transparency in law enforcement practices.
The Historic Preservation Commission helps protect the county’s rich historical sites, including those tied to Maryland’s early colonial history as the “Mother County.” The Airport Advisory Board supports operations at the St. Mary’s County Regional Airport in California, which serves general aviation and economic development needs.
Serving on these bodies allows residents to shape policies affecting daily life in St. Mary’s County, from environmental protection and social services to infrastructure and public safety. Terms vary by board, and appointments are made by the commissioners following application review.
St. Mary’s County, home to more than 120,000 residents, relies on citizen volunteers to supplement professional staff in advisory and oversight roles. Participation strengthens local decision-making and fosters civic engagement in communities such as Leonardtown, Lexington Park, Great Mills and Charlotte Hall.
Interested individuals should act promptly for the May 15 deadline on general vacancies. Medical professionals for the guardianship board can apply anytime. All positions require St. Mary’s County residency unless otherwise noted.
This recruitment effort continues the county’s tradition of inclusive governance, inviting diverse voices to address Southern Maryland-specific challenges and opportunities.
