Public Meetings - Calvert County, Maryland

The Calvert County Planning Commission convened a brief regular meeting on April 15, 2026, determined a quorum was present, and participated in the Pledge of Allegiance. Because the Commission was running short on time, it voted to adjourn and reconvene the meeting on the following Tuesday, April 21, 2026; no substantive agenda items were discussed. Procedural Actions - The Chair noted a quorum was present and called the meeting to order. - The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. - A motion was made and seconded to reconvene the meeting the following Tuesday, April 21, 2026, rather than continue the evening's agenda. - The initial voice vote on the reconvening motion was interrupted by a point of order because the vote had not been completed; the Chair then took the vote, and the motion passed by voice vote with all in favor. - A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and passed. Key Outcomes - The Planning Commission adjourned and scheduled the remainder of the April 15, 2026 regular meeting to be reconvened on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. - No consent calendar items, public comments, site plan applications, subdivision applications, long-range planning items, discussion items, or reports were considered. - Discrepancy noted: The agenda stated the April 15, 2026 regular meeting had been moved to April 21, 2026 due to the late hour, while the transcript records a brief meeting on April 15 that ended with a vote to reconvene the following Tuesday. No minutes were available for this meeting.

This joint special work session between the Calvert County Planning Commission and Calvert County Environmental Commission was convened at 7:00 PM on April 15, 2026, at the County Administration Building in Prince Frederick, MD. The meeting was directed by the Board of County Commissioners to discuss the Environmental Commission's recommendations regarding data centers, specifically a proposed moratorium and environmental impact study. The Planning Commission will use this input to develop its own recommendation to the BOCC at a later date. No formal votes or official actions were taken during this work session. Public Comments & Testimony - Carl L. Wine (representing neighbors of Camp Kanoi Road): Expressed strong opposition, citing that a 55 dB noise limit is unacceptable given existing ambient levels of 35 dB. He noted that the proposed AWS facility (200,000+ sq. ft. each for eight buildings) would be four times louder and dramatically change the county. He requested ambient noise measurements at all residences. - Patrick Flaherty (Lusby resident, candidate for commissioner): Called for complete removal of data center language from the zoning ordinance and a full reset with independent studies. He questioned why warehouses were not redefined to exclude data centers. - Camille Finch (Lusby resident, relies on well water): Opposed data centers due to strain on water, energy, air quality, noise, light pollution, and grid pressures. She stated, "We should not have to trade our health, environment, and quality of life for limited economic benefit." - Joseph Oliver: Proposed placing a ballot question before voters to decide on data centers. - Vic Faum: Supported independent studies paid for by companies, but emphasized that even if studies find no harm, the impact on adjacent residential property values and quality of life must be considered. He noted Natelli consultants were evasive. - Jeff Dixon (Code Point Road resident): Described the area as a "sacrifice zone" and played a news clip of data center noise compared to a helicopter hovering all day and night. He opposed adding more noise. - Sheila Kufal (Lusby): Supported the Environmental Commission's scientific approach. She noted evaporative cooling can release heavy metals into the atmosphere. - Susan DeZurick (Keep Calvert Country): Stated that AWS did not answer submitted questions at their public presentation. She requested a special meeting with AWS, Natelli, and SMECO before the Planning Commission. - Jason Skaggs (excavating contractor and candidate for at-large commissioner): Criticized lack of transparency and fast-tracking, noting it took him five years to get a permit while this project is being rushed. Requested a temporary hold on permits. - Kim Woodruff Adams: Expressed frustration with lack of replies to emails and requested clarity on commissioners' decision-making and history of revisions. - Leonard Zouza (Solomons): Reinforced that critical information has not been provided. He noted that at the April 7 BOCC meeting, it was stated the federal government has no regulations for data centers and that violations would only result in small fines. - Sylvia Batang (Port Republic): Supported the moratorium and removal of data centers from I-1 and I-2 zoning. She advocated for quarterly transparent reviews of pollutants and requiring the highest EPA generator standards. - Claire Hill (Huntingtown): Raised concerns about secrecy, referencing a comment at CSM event that the data center was "already done." She noted the commission itself was not aware of an MDE submission until someone brought it up. - Dylan Johnson (St. Leonard): Acknowledged economic benefits but called for truly independent studies paid for by the company. He expressed skepticism about MDE studies and the university research cited. - Lady Sheeline (Port Republic): Recalled that the Environmental Commission's comments on LNG were suppressed by the BOCC. She stressed the need for an independent study, as MDE impact assessments have been shallow. She advocated that any restrictions must have enforcement "teeth." - Patty Stuckler (candidate for county commissioner at large): Opposed data centers and asked for a pause to answer questions. She highlighted that a county-owned BGE field is adjacent to the proposed AWS site. - Kimberly Schifflet (Camp Kanoi Road homeowner): Requested a 2,000-foot buffer between residential properties and heavy industrial data center development, citing noise, light, and property value concerns. - Margaret Schillingford (Port Republic): Asked that studies include impact on weather patterns from heat islands. - Dawn McNulis (St. Leonard): Opposed data centers, noting they require constant power and water, and that Loudoun County has over 600 operating data centers. She expressed concern about pollution of St. Leonard Creek affecting crabs. - Bill Kurtz (Drum Point, retired teacher): Questioned what happened to athletic fields and $3 million from LNG deal. He expressed concern about low-frequency noise affecting grandchildren's school. - Parker Coyer (Huntingtown, new resident): Asked for full public fact-finding, noting he moved to Calvert County to raise his children in the country. Stated, "If we're asking this many questions now, why is this still moving forward?" - Cindy Gilmore: Asked that noise regulations be based on actual monitoring of LNG plant, as current regulations are ineffective. - Tom Clark (IBEW Local 26): Supported data centers for good jobs ($150,000/year with pension). He noted 687 active members in Calvert County and called for no moratorium. - Charles Somers (Huntingtown, member of Pipefitters Union 602): Said he was initially supporting for jobs but then encouraged by thorough questioning. He emphasized need to balance living-wage jobs with environmental protection. - Garth Run Sickle (Lusby): Questioned why Lusby is the "sacrificial zone" and asked why rezoning to heavy industry occurred. Suggested other locations be studied. - Shanna Godassart (Prince Frederick): Expressed confusion over mission, noting that tourism relies on oysters and crabs. She asked about aquifer depletion and drought impacts. - Philip Yates (Lows Peak): Noted he was torn but emphasized that new data centers must not use wells for cooling. He argued sound barriers could mitigate noise and that without data centers, massive housing developments would come. - Skip Hoskins (Lusby): Called for stopping the process, stating that sound barriers don't work in Loudoun County and closed-loop cooling still requires water discharge. Discussion Items - Environmental Commission Presentation: Chair Abby Ibar presented the Commission's April 2, 2026, letter recommending an immediate pause and formal moratorium on data center permitting to allow completion of a comprehensive environmental impact statement. They raised concerns about fragile ecosystems, wetlands, noise, infrasound, endangered species, and national security risks due to co-location with a nuclear power plant and LNG facility. - Planning Commission Queries: Commissioners asked about adequacy of existing review processes (MDE, Army Corps, DNR) and whether they would be sufficient. Dr. Andy Rogers noted that 24-hour noise averages can whitewash impacts. Dr. David Campbell stated that even if feds do not regulate data centers, they regulate wetlands. Environmental Planner Colleen Brumman explained that endangered species review is part of forest conservation, but independent double-checking is not typically done. - Proposed Text Amendments: Commissioner Barry suggested draft amendments including: banning groundwater for cooling; establishing a 55 dB C-weighted standard for low-frequency noise (300 Hz and below); requiring decommissioning plans with surety bonds; traffic management plans with bonds for road damage; limiting generator testing to weekdays 10am-4pm; and requiring EPA Tier 4 final emission standards for generators. Dr. Janette Waisaki noted that generator testing still produces air pollution and that e-waste disposal must be addressed. - Legal Clarifications: County Attorney Madley confirmed that text amendments are presumed permanent but can be changed. Director Brinkley warned that removing data center definitions could allow them to be built as warehouses in many more locations. He stated that current data centers have applied to the state but not yet to the county; the county site plan process takes at least six months, often longer. - Call for Formal Proposal: Commissioner Burry asked the Environmental Commission to develop a formal proposal outlining the scope, timeline, cost, and contractor selection for an independent environmental impact study. The Commission agreed to do so. - Discussion of Zoning Removal: Commissioner Gadway asked whether the Environmental Commission would support removing data centers from I-2 (heavy industrial) entirely. The Commission said it needed more background but called it a "great start." Legal concerns about spot zoning were raised but deemed not problematic if done countywide. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or actions were taken. The meeting was a work session only. - The Planning Commission will consider the Environmental Commission's input when developing its own recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners at a later date. - The Environmental Commission agreed to produce a formal proposal for an independent environmental impact study, including scope, timeline, cost estimate, and contractor selection process. - Commissioner Barry committed to drafting text amendments on noise, decommissioning bonds, traffic management, generator testing, and emission standards to be considered in the regular meeting following this work session. - Public testimony overwhelmingly opposed data centers, with many calling for a moratorium or complete removal from zoning. A few speakers (union representatives) supported data centers for job creation. - The meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:30 PM, with a brief recess before the regular Planning Commission meeting.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners held its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. The meeting included a public hearing on a buffer amendment for the Marley Run Recreation Area, approval of a pumpout grant, a consent agenda, an update on the North Beach tax differential rate, a work session on capital planning, public comments, and commissioner reports. The meeting adjourned into executive session at approximately 12:15 p.m. Consent Calendar - The Board unanimously approved all four items on the consent agenda: 1. Maryland 9-1-1 Board Funding Request for FY27 Annual Maintenance (Department of Public Safety). 2. State Health Insurance Assistance Program Grant Application (Department of Community Resources). 3. Right of Recovery Notice for the Calvert Pines Renovation Project (Department of Community Resources). 4. Calvert Pines Senior Center Grant Reimbursement Request Letter (Department of Community Resources). Public Hearing: Marley Run Recreation Area Buffer Amendment - The Board held a public hearing on a resolution to amend condition nine of Resolution 3-92, which originally established a 100-foot no-cut, no-clear buffer along Cox Road. The amendment would remove the 100-foot buffer while maintaining a 35-foot setback from Cox Road to allow for parking lot expansion, regrading, stormwater improvements, and ADA upgrades. - No members of the public spoke in person or online during the hearing. The Board voted to leave the record open for 10 days pursuant to Local Government Article §9-105. New Business: 2026 Pumpout Operations and Maintenance Grant - The Board approved a motion to submit a grant application to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources for up to $5,000 in reimbursement for marina pumpout station expenses during the 2026 boating season (April 15 – November 15, 2026). The county operates one free pumpout station. Old Business: Town of North Beach Tax Differential Rate - The Board approved an adjusted property tax differential rate of 0.362 cents per $100 of assessed value for the Town of North Beach for FY2027. This rate, consistent with the prior model, reflects cost savings to the county for services provided by the town. The fiscal impact is an annual reduction in county revenues of approximately $88,000. Mayor of North Beach thanked the Board for supporting residents to avoid double taxation. Work Session: Capital Planning Considerations - Staff presented analysis on extending bond amortization from 15 to 20 years: it would provide $2.5 million in annual relief over the first 15 years but add $26.2 million in additional interest over the life of the bonds. - Discussion included Moody’s 35% fund balance threshold, OPEB funding, and the impact on the county’s AAA bond rating. Commissioners directed staff to arrange a presentation from financial advisors Davenport to explore flexibility in rating criteria. - Staff proposed moving the commissioner-recommended budget public hearing from May 5 to May 12, 2026, to allow time to prepare the budget book. - A major capital projects discussion covered funding for turf fields at high schools ($10 million in FY28 per BOE), Cove Point Lighthouse additional $27,000, Armory Pavilion ($2.8 million), sheriff’s office crime lab conceptual design, and additional fire apparatus ($3.4 million) from capital contingency funds. - Debate centered on phasing of new fire stations for Company 7 (St. Leonard) and Company 3 (Solomons). Staff recommended keeping Company 7’s design in FY27 and moving construction to FY28-29, with Company 3’s design in FY27 and construction in FY29-30. Commissioner Hart objected to further delays, citing deteriorating conditions. Director Cosgrove noted staffing constraints with only four capital project staff. Commissioner Hance moved to place Company 3 construction in FY29 instead of FY30, which was seconded and passed. Staff will explore hiring a capital project coordinator. Public Comments - Several residents spoke on data center development near Lusby and Cove Point: - Patrick Flarity (Calvert County District 1) criticized the county’s lack of proactive noise monitoring and opposed data center zoning changes, calling for a full reset with transparent hearings and independent studies. - Dottie Stuckler (candidate for Commissioner at Large) presented a map showing 20 private residences and a county park near proposed data centers and asked commissioners to support a 12-month moratorium. - Carl O. (Camp Kanoy resident) accused Constellation of using comprehensive rezoning to avoid notifying neighbors directly, alleging unethical and unneighborly conduct. - Megan Farringer (Lusby resident) expressed frustration over cumulative development impacts and requested presentations on NDAs as previously promised. - Terry Taylor (Huntingtown resident) questioned perking season policies and requested clarity on testing and alternative technologies. Commissioner Reports & Motions - Commissioner Hart moved to place on the next meeting’s agenda a discussion of a one-year moratorium on data center development and an investigation into whether the zoning change followed proper public notice. The motion failed 2-3 (Commissioners Hance, Ireland, Cox opposed). - Commissioner Hance moved to adopt a policy requiring all data center developers to sign an agreement addressing noise, buffers, and other concerns before receiving building permits. Following legal advice that such a policy would require a public hearing and ordinance change, the motion was withdrawn for further process review. - Commissioner Cox announced all county legislative bills passed except the excise tax for caregivers. - Commissioner Grasso reported attending a daycare directors meeting, the health department open house, and the Knights of Columbus Blood Drive (which achieved a record 10,000 units of blood since July 2000). - Commissioner Ireland noted the Solomons Fire Department parade on April 26 and a church dinner. - Commissioner Hance provided an update on capital project phasing for the sheriff’s office and Harriet E. Brown Community Center, noting the difficulty of finding temporary space for the community center. Key Outcomes - Marley Run buffer amendment: Public hearing record left open for 10 days; no decision yet. - Pumpout grant: Application approved. - North Beach tax differential: Approved at 0.362 cents per $100. - Capital planning: Budget hearing moved to May 12; staff to arrange Davenport presentation on bond rating flexibility; Company 3 fire station construction moved to FY29. - Data center moratorium: Motion failed. - Data center agreement policy: Motion withdrawn; further process to be discussed. - Executive session: Board recessed into closed session at 12:15 p.m. under multiple provisions of §3-305 of the Maryland General Provisions Article. The meeting scheduled to adjourn at 2:30 p.m. but the public portion concluded at approximately 12:15 p.m. with the move to executive session.

This special meeting of the Calvert County Board of County Commissioners was scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. on a date that, per the source instruction, is April 14, 2026; however, the agenda provided for this meeting lists the date as Monday, June 9, 2025. The sole purpose of the meeting was to conduct a closed executive session regarding personnel matters, with no public business or votes taken in open session. Opening & Agenda Approval - The Board convened and approved the agenda at the start of the meeting. Executive Session - At 9:05 a.m., the Board entered an executive session pursuant to §3-305(b)(1)(i) of the Maryland General Provisions Article. - The session was held to discuss the appointment, employment, or assignment of employees over whom the Board has jurisdiction. - The meeting remained in closed session until the scheduled adjournment at 2:30 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were heard, as the meeting was entirely closed to the public after the opening. Key Outcomes - No decisions, votes, or directives were reported from open session. - The Board adjourned at 2:30 p.m. following the executive session. Date Discrepancy Note: The official agenda shows this meeting as occurring on June 9, 2025, while the instruction for this summary specifies April 14, 2026. The content above relies on the agenda for details and the instruction for the date.

The Calvert County Board of Appeals held a public administrative hearing on Thursday, April 9, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the Chesapeake Hearing Room, 150 Main Street, Prince Frederick, MD. The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format via in-person and Microsoft Teams. All five board members were present (Chairman Carpenter, Ireland, Briscoe, Clark, Scott), establishing a quorum. Counsel Lisa Smith Sanders and staff were also present. The board heard three cases, conducted an administrative session on proposed text amendments and rules of procedure, and accepted public comment. Case 1: Special Exception for Flex Space (Case 26-4240) - Applicant: Matt Senenman with Atwell, LLC, on behalf of property owner Michael Gardiner and Penwick Village, LLC. - Request: Special exception for flex space use of Buildings A and B at 10380 Town Center Boulevard, Dunkirk (zoned Dunkirk Town Center District). - Summary: The applicant stated the two buildings (each under 20,000 sq ft) would be leased to a mix of retail, office, and service tenants similar to existing buildings in the Dunkirk Gateway development. The property is served by an existing private water/sewer system operating at about half capacity (12,000–13,000 gallons per day out of 25,000 gpd capacity for sewer; water plant at about 30,000 gpd capacity, also half utilized). Traffic generation falls within the overall trip cap for the development. The board had no further questions after the applicant addressed the criteria. - Outcome: The board closed the record and approved the special exception (motion by Ireland, second by Scott, all in favor). Case 2: Variance for Side Setback (BOA2026-0002) - Applicant: Betty Pimm of KP Homescapes on behalf of owners Windel Leon III & Erin Patterson. - Request: Variance to reduce the side setback from 30 feet to 8 feet to construct a 12' x 20' A-frame screened porch at 7875 Hampton Way, Owings (zoned Rural Community District). - Summary: The applicant explained that the house was built in the wrong location 25 years ago, making it legally non-conforming. The proposed porch would replace a sliding glass door that currently leads to an unsafe drop-off. The homeowner discovered the non-conformance only when applying for the building permit. Four letters of support from neighbors were entered into the record. The board queried the applicant about the foundation, drainage, and the existing non-conforming status; counsel confirmed the variance could be granted for the new structure. - Outcome: The board closed the record and approved the variance (motion by Clark, second by Ireland, all in favor). Case 3: Critical Area Variance for Buffer Setback (BOA2026-0003) - Applicant: Jeff Tewell of COA Barrett, LLC on behalf of owners Jan & Robert Turner. - Request: Critical area variance for disturbance to the buffer and a general variance to reduce the buffer setback from 10 feet to 0 feet for construction of deck steps and a stoop in the buffer at 12990 Spring Cove Drive, Lusby (zoned RD/CA/LDA). - Summary: The house is a replacement in kind built on the same footprint as the 1977 original, with about 98% of the dwelling within the 100-foot buffer. The steps and stoop were not previously existing. No increase in impervious surface beyond the legally non-conforming lot coverage of 6,077 sq ft was proposed. The planning department required mitigation via fees in lieu of planting. The applicant argued that denying access would constitute an unwarranted hardship. - Outcome: The board closed the record and approved both the general variance and the critical area variance (motion by Clark, second by Scott, all in favor). Administrative Session Proposed Text Amendments - The board discussed several proposed text amendments, focusing on Text Amendment 26-20, which directly affects the Board of Appeals. The amendment would limit the board’s authority to issue orders requiring administrative discretion not otherwise available to the zoning officer. Board members expressed concern that this amendment undermines their quasi-judicial role and was a direct response to a January 2026 decision they had made on a tolling issue. - Director of Planning and Zoning, Mr. Brinkley, attended and offered to pause the amendment pending the outcome of the related appeal before the Circuit Court. The board voted unanimously (4-0) to request that Text Amendment 26-20 be deferred until that court case is resolved. The board also requested a written explanation of all text amendments affecting its operations. Rules of Procedure - Staff presented the process for amending the board’s bylaws and rules of procedure (currently combined). Board members disagreed with the interpretation that the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) must approve any changes, arguing that the code only requires prior approval to begin the update process, not final approval of the board’s own rules. They noted that the BOCC had recently changed a provision to require the county attorney to represent the board, rather than allowing the board to appoint its own counsel. - The board decided to formally request a meeting with the BOCC to discuss these issues. A motion by Ireland, seconded by Clark, passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Cormir (9201 Sam Owings Place, Owings, MD) spoke as a concerned citizen. He expressed frustration that zoning changes to accommodate data centers were made without proper public notice, alleging “backroom deals” and non-disclosure agreements. He urged the board to thoroughly research data center projects and to work with the community. Key Outcomes - Case 26-4240: Special exception approved (unanimous). - BOA2026-0002: Variance approved (unanimous). - BOA2026-0003: General and critical area variances approved (unanimous). - Text Amendment 26-20: Board voted to request deferral pending court case (unanimous). - Rules of Procedure: Board voted to request a meeting with BOCC to discuss rule-making process and counsel appointment (unanimous). - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 11:30 a.m. No executive session was held. The next Board of Appeals meeting is scheduled for June 4, 2026 (no meeting in May).

The Calvert County Board of Appeals met on April 9, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in the Chesapeake Hearing Room, Prince Frederick, Maryland. The meeting included hearings on three cases, an administrative session, public comment periods, and an executive session. No transcript or minutes are available; therefore, only the scheduled agenda items are summarized. No decisions, votes, or testimony details are recorded. Cases Heard - Case 26-4240: Matt Senenman of Atwell, LLC, applied for a special exception for flex space use of Buildings A and B at 10380 Town Center Boulevard, Dunkirk (zoned Dunkirk Town Center District). - BOA2026-0002: Betty Pimm of KP Homescapes applied for a variance to reduce the side setback from 30’ to 8’ for a screened porch at 7875 Hampton Way, Owings (zoned Rural Community District). - BOA2026-0003: Jeff Tewell of COA Barrett, LLC applied for a Critical Area variance and a general variance for buffer disturbance at 12990 Spring Cove Drive, Lusby (zoned Residential District/Critical Area/Limited Development Area). Administrative Session - Proposed text amendments. - Presentation on rules of procedure. Public Comment - Scheduled following all cases and administrative items. Speakers limited to 2 minutes (individuals) or 5 minutes (organization representatives). No transcript available. Executive Session - Closed session pursuant to § 3-305(b)(7) to consult with legal counsel. No further details. Key Outcomes - No decisions, votes, or official actions are recorded in the available agenda. Outcomes of the three cases, administrative items, and any public testimony are unknown.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners met on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Prince Frederick. The meeting included proclamations, approval of a consent agenda, a public hearing on a strategic demolition fund grant, a presentation on the 2026 Community Health Needs Assessment, work sessions on debt/capital planning and a proposed moratorium on data center projects, and public comment. Key votes included approval of budget adjustments for driving range safety netting, a motion to remove data centers from I-1 zoning districts, and a motion to study fiscal mechanisms for dedicating data center revenue. A motion for a 24-month moratorium on data center projects failed. Proclamations - Autism Awareness Month (April 2026): The board recognized April 2026 as Autism Awareness Month, with remarks from Christine Fenimore (county employee and parent), Ashton Felton (chair of the Special Education Citizen Advisory Committee), and Joy Weir (Therapeutic Recreation). The proclamation highlighted that autism affects 1 in 31 children nationally and emphasized local resources and support. - National Public Health Week (April 6-12, 2026): The board recognized National Public Health Week, with a presentation from Dr. Ninfatineza Mora (Health Officer) and staff of the Calvert County Health Department, who outlined public health services including behavioral health, environmental health, disease surveillance, and maternal/child health. The proclamation noted the theme "Ready, Set, Action." Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the following consent agenda items: 1. Fiscal Year 2027 Grant Application for Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Spay and Neuter Grants Program and Letter of Support. 2. Department of Community Resources: Fiscal Year 2027-2030 Area Plan. 3. Department of Planning & Zoning: Calvert County Environmental Commission Annual Report for 2025. 4. Department of Community Resources: Maryland Access Point Federal Financial Participation Agreement for State Fiscal Years 2025-2030. 5. Office of the County Administrator: Home Stretch Difficult to Serve Agreement First Amendment with Comcast. 6. Office of the County Administrator: Ratification of State Program Open Space Application Acquisition of Property at 215 Lore Road, Solomons, Maryland. 7. Calvert County Sheriff's Office: Fiscal Year 2027 Police Recruitment and Retention Grant Program. 8. Calvert County Sheriff's Office: Fiscal Year 2027 Gun Violence Reduction Grant Program. Public Hearing - Strategic Demolition Fund Grant (BA2026-000779): The board held a public hearing on a budget adjustment allocating $300,000 from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development for site development at the Safe Harbor domestic violence shelter to support transitional housing. No public comments were received. The board voted to leave the record open for 10 days per local government article 9-105. Old Business - Driving Range Safety Netting (BA2026-000730 and BA2026-000732): The board approved budget amendments to install safety netting at Chesapeake Hills Golf Course, with $150,000 from capital project 000446 and $240,000 from the operating budget. The public comment period had ended on March 17, 2026, and two comments were received. The motion to close the record and adopt the amendments passed unanimously. Presentation - Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) 2026: Dr. Ninfatineza Mora (Health Officer) and Dr. Cara Hare (Calvert Health Medical Center) presented the 2026 CHNA cycle building on 2023 findings (top priorities: cancer, diabetes, mental health, nutrition, substance use). Key data collection includes key informant interviews (16 planned), a community survey from April 6-27, and two focus groups on April 16. The survey emphasizes social determinants of health and barriers to care. The platform HealthyCalvert.org will serve as a data hub. Discussion Items - Debt Overview and Capital Planning Considerations: Danielle Russell (Capital Improvement Projects and Grants Manager) presented an overview of the county’s debt policies, including a debt service limit of 9.5% of revenue and a debt-to-assessed-value cap of 1.8%. The county maintains a triple-A credit rating with a fund balance of $145 million (37% of revenue). Additional capital requests include a new St. Leonard fire station, turf fields at high schools, and other projects. Discussion focused on financial capacity, with Commissioner Hart questioning the 35% fund balance threshold set by Moody’s and advocating for a longer amortization schedule. The board voted to consult with a financial advisor before proceeding with capital planning decisions. - Proposed Moratorium on Data Center Projects: Jason Brinkley (Planning & Zoning Director) presented options for a temporary moratorium on data center development. Commissioner Hart moved for an immediate 24-month moratorium pending an independent environmental impact study. After debate, the motion failed 3-2 (Commissioners Hart and Grasso in favor; Commissioners Hance, Cox, Ireland opposed). Commissioner Cox then moved to direct staff to remove data centers as an allowed use in I-1 (light industrial mixed-use) districts via a text amendment, which passed 3-0-2 (Commissioners Hance, Cox, Ireland in favor; Commissioners Hart and Grasso abstained). Commissioner Cox also moved for a feasibility study on dedicating data center tax revenue to property tax relief, fiscal sustainability, educational investment, and community mitigation; that motion passed with one opposed and one abstention. The board agreed to incorporate additional conditions (noise, environment) into the ongoing text amendment process. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple residents spoke against data center projects, citing health risks (low-frequency noise, electromagnetic fields), environmental impacts (water use, heat islands), increased electricity costs, loss of rural character, and lack of transparency. Speakers included representatives from Calvert Citizens United, neighbors of Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant, and community organizations. Several speakers urged a moratorium or putting the issue on a ballot. One speaker expressed support for data centers, arguing they would boost revenue and limit residential growth. A few speakers addressed turf fields for high school athletics, with some advocating for county-funded fields and others cautioning against diverting funds from core educational needs. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Strategic Demolition Fund grant record left open for 10 days. - Driving range safety netting budget amendments approved. - Data center moratorium motion failed (3-2). - Data center I-1 zoning removal motion passed (3-0-2). - Data center revenue study motion passed (3-1-1). - Staff directed to consult with financial advisor on capital planning. - Staff directed to continue text amendment process for data center conditions, including requiring independent environmental studies, addressing noise and environmental impacts. - Board recessed to executive session at approximately 2:00 p.m.

This special meeting was an informational session and open house hosted by Amazon Web Services (AWS) at Calvert Middle School. The Board of County Commissioners attended to hear presentations from Amazon representatives on a proposed data center campus adjacent to Constellation Energy's existing facility. The presentation covered water use, energy, environment, construction, workforce, and community benefits, followed by a Q&A session. Note: The agenda for this meeting lists the date as Thursday, March 26, 2026, but the meeting summary is based on the provided transcript and user instruction to use March 30, 2026. Discussion Items - Water Use: Becky Ford (Amazon AWS) stated that the project would require no new water for cooling. It would reuse water from Constellation's existing process after it has been through their cooling system. 96% of the year, data centers are cooled with outside air; the remaining 4% uses that cooling water. Potable water use is limited to sinks and toilets, similar to any other business. - Energy: Mike Fredette (AWS energy team) described that the campus is adjacent to a nuclear facility and crossed by three high-voltage transmission lines. AWS will build its own step-down infrastructure and make long-term revenue commitments to the transmission operator (BGE), ensuring no negative impact on surrounding ratepayers. AWS measures efficiency via PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness): globally at 1.15, 25% more efficient than the industry average of 1.58. AWS has a 2040 net-zero carbon pledge, is the largest corporate purchaser of renewables, and has invested in over 700 solar and wind projects (over 40 GW). - Environmental Commitment: AWS stated it would meet or exceed all environmental permitting requirements for air, water, and wetlands. Water withdrawal and discharge will be monitored daily under Constellation's existing permit. Public meetings for state permits will be part of the process. - Site Design and Construction: The site plan submitted in September 2025 shows eight buildings, but the design is still evolving. No final renderings are available. The location was chosen for proximity to energy, water reuse, and workforce. AWS will provide workforce training with organizations like College of Southern Maryland. The project is expected to create at least 250 permanent jobs (typically $80k-$100k salary range) and thousands of construction jobs. - Community Benefits: Amazon has engaged with the community to understand priorities (open space, recreation, water). Potential benefits include STEM education, tech upskilling, environmental stewardship, and employee engagement. The project is expected to generate tens of millions of dollars in new tax revenue (real property, business personal property, wage taxes), comparable to top employers like Constellation and the LNG facility. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken; this was an informational session. - Over 300 questions were submitted via the county portal before the meeting, with roughly 100 more on the day of. Answers will be posted on a landing page (via Maryland Tech Council) going live the day after the meeting. - Amazon representatives directed attendees to the open house across the hall for individual conversations with subject matter experts. - The project is still in early stages; no site plans have been submitted to the county. A preliminary site plan will be developed, at which point a public meeting will be scheduled. - Next steps include continued community engagement and release of FAQ online.

The Calvert County Board of Commissioners met on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to approximately 3:00 p.m. (with a public hearing at 7:00 p.m.). The meeting covered a wide range of topics including an ethics commission removal hearing, a proclamation for National Agriculture Day, approval of consent and new business items, a presentation on oyster restoration, work sessions on the FY2027 budget and a proposed data center and regional park, and extensive public comment. Opening & Ethics Commission Removal Hearing - The board approved the amended agenda. One commissioner recused themselves for the initial portion. - Jeremy Todzia, Vice Chair of the Calvert County Ethics Commission, addressed the board regarding his potential removal. He argued that the Calvert County Republican Central Committee (CCRCC) is not a public elected office, citing an ethics advisory opinion and a state election law prohibiting simultaneous candidacy for two public offices. He also read a letter from CCRCC members expressing concern that the removal would set a precedent barring party volunteers from serving on county boards. The board recessed into executive session to discuss the matter. No open-session vote was taken. Proclamation: National Agriculture Day - Commissioner Hance read a proclamation designating March 24, 2026 as National Agriculture Day, recognizing Calvert County’s 285 farms, 24,654 acres of farmland, and a total market value of $15.2 million. The proclamation highlighted the theme “Together We Grow.” Consent Calendar - Approved four items: 1) Prescribed Burn Plan Agreement for Parks & Recreation; 2) Memorandum of Understanding for Health Services at Senior Centers; 3) FY2027 Transportation Grant Applications; 4) Consolidated Transportation Program Letter. All passed unanimously. New Business - Courthouse Square Renovations Budget Adjustment (BA2026-000724): The Department of Public Works requested $147,500 from the 800 MHz installation project (CIP000001) to create a new capital project (CIP000496) for renovating office space at 205 Main Street for Parks & Recreation staff. The board approved the motion unanimously. - Service Charge for Semi-Annual Real Property Tax Billing: Treasurer Amanda Dolina presented a 0.517% service charge, which would generate an estimated $357,993.57 in annual revenue and add about $12.29 to the average second‑installment tax bill. After discussion, Commissioner Grasso moved to waive the fee, citing personal hardship for families. The motion to waive passed unanimously. Presentation: Calvert Soil Conservation Oyster Restoration Program - Jason Leavitt (District Manager) and Ryan St. Laurent (Assistant District Manager) presented an update on oyster restoration and shoreline stabilization. They explained that oysters naturally filter water, reduce erosion, and provide habitat. Current oyster abundance is about 1% of historic levels. Three pilot projects are underway: North Beach (210 linear feet, hybrid breakwater), Dare's Beach (1.25 miles), and Helen Creek. Estimated cost: $375 per linear foot. The board discussed the need for cost-effective methods, shell recycling, and partnerships. No action was taken; the presentation was informational. Work Session: FY2027 Staff Recommended Budget - CFO Malena Brookshire presented the proposed budget: $411.5 million in general fund revenue, $86.2 million in capital programs, $145 million available fund balance (37.2% ratio), and debt service at 4.9% of revenues (policy limit 9.5%). The budget includes $163 million for the Board of Education (40% of general fund) and funds for 44 new positions, primarily in public safety. The board noted that the budget does not yet include a COLA for employees, additional school funding requests, or potential costs from the state. A public hearing was scheduled for 7:00 p.m. that evening. Commissioner Hart advocated for funding turf fields for high schools, suggesting a one-time payment from the general fund. Staff will work with the Board of Education to develop a plan. Work Session: Potential Data Center & Regional Park Proposal - Julie Oberg (Economic Development) introduced Tommy Natelli (Natelli Holdings) and consultants who proposed a data center campus on county-owned land (former Dominion laydown site) in exchange for building a $30 million regional park at an alternative location near Mill Creek Middle School, Patuxent High School, and Dow Elementary School. The project would create an estimated 3,700 direct construction jobs and 110 permanent full-time jobs. The board discussed power (SMECO grid connection), water (reclaimed water from Solomon’s wastewater treatment plant), noise, visual impact, and environmental concerns. Commissioner Hart announced he would move for a two-year moratorium on data centers at the April 7 meeting. The developer expressed willingness to hold public information sessions. No decisions were made. Public Comments & Testimony - Over 20 speakers addressed the board, both in person and by phone. The majority opposed the data center proposal, citing concerns about noise, water usage, increased electricity costs, environmental impact, loss of a promised park, and lack of transparency. Several speakers supported the project, highlighting potential economic benefits and job creation. Some comments also addressed election integrity and ethics complaints. Speakers included residents, candidates for office, labor union representatives, and community organization leaders. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda and new business items (budget adjustment and property tax fee waiver). - Discussed but took no vote on the ethics commission removal; the matter was taken into executive session. - Received information on oyster restoration; no action required. - Reviewed the FY2027 budget; public hearing held that evening; further adjustments will be made. - Received a proposal for a data center and park; no vote taken. Commissioner Hart will introduce a moratorium motion on April 7, 2026. - The board recessed into executive session at the end of the meeting to discuss a business location matter.