LEONARDTOWN — The St. Mary’s County Planning Commission has scheduled two public hearings to collect resident and stakeholder feedback on the draft St. Mary’s 2050 Comprehensive Plan and related land use proposals.
The St. Mary’s 2050 plan will serve as the county’s guiding document for land use and development decisions through 2050. It aims to balance growth with preservation of rural character, natural resources and quality of life. The planning process has included opportunities for residents, businesses and other stakeholders to submit ideas about the county’s future.
The first hearing, focused on the draft comprehensive plan, is set for Monday, June 29, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Commissioners Meeting Room at 41770 Baldridge St. in Leonardtown. A copy of the draft plan is posted at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/stmarys2050.
The second hearing, addressing applicant-driven requests for land use category changes tied to the planning process, is scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the same time and location. Details on the change requests are also available on the project website.
The Department of Land Use & Growth Management can provide additional information or assistance. Residents may call (301) 475-4200, ext. 1500, or email St.Marys2050@stmaryscountymd.gov. In-person visits to the department office are also welcome.
Comprehensive plans in Maryland counties establish policies for zoning, development patterns, infrastructure and resource protection. Updates allow local governments to adjust to changing conditions such as population shifts, economic trends and environmental considerations. The St. Mary’s 2050 effort responds to community input collected through multiple channels and incorporates findings from recent state-mandated reviews.
Land use category change requests are applicant-initiated proposals that, if approved, could alter designated uses for specific parcels. The July hearing provides a formal opportunity for public review of these requests before any recommendations advance.
The hearings are open to the public. Written comments may be submitted through the project website or directly to the Department of Land Use & Growth Management. Participation allows residents to influence policies that will shape housing, commercial development, agriculture and open space in St. Mary’s County for decades.
