Public Meetings - Charles County, Maryland

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on March 3, 2026, at 9:00 AM. The meeting included proclamations for March observances, unanimous approval of several routine items, briefings on accessory dwelling units and affordable housing pilot projects, and an extended discussion on a state bill concerning school bus contractor displacement. The board voted to introduce two new bills and schedule public hearings, and later moved into closed session to discuss contracts and legal matters. Consent Calendar - FY 2026 Budget Transfer Request 406 (SDAT billing errors): Approved unanimously, transferring $361,140 to correct an under-billing by the State Department of Assessment and Taxation for FY 2024. - Standard Operating Procedure for Change Orders (CPS 05.02): Approved unanimously. Establishes thresholds: directors up to $50,000, county administrator $50,000–$250,000, commissioner present $250,000–$500,000, board approval above $500,000. Includes quarterly reporting to prevent artificial division of change orders. - Letter of Support for University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center: Approved unanimously for a congressional directed spending request to upgrade nuclear medicine equipment. - FY2027 Annual Transportation Priority Letter to MDOT: Approved unanimously. Top priority remains the Southern Maryland Rapid Transit (SMRT) project. Other priorities include pedestrian safety on US 301, intersection improvements, MTA service enhancements, and restoration of the W-19 commuter bus route. Proclamations & Recognitions - National Women’s History Month (March 2026): Presented to the Charles County Commission for Women; Chair Caprice James spoke on the commission’s advocacy work. - Social Work Month: Proclamation accepted by social workers; speaker emphasized the “hard work” of the profession. - National Nutrition Month: Kyra Smith, Senior Nutrition Program Specialist, accepted and thanked commissioners. - Good Sportsmanship Month: Trevor Royal, sports coordinator, accepted on behalf of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism. - National Vietnam War Veterans Day (March 29, 2026): Sonia Harris and Dr. Rhonda Bellow accepted for the Commission for Veterans Affairs. - National Agricultural Day (March 24, 2026): Charles Rice, Planning Director, and Molly Meehan accepted. Rice noted 382 working farms and 46,000 farmland acres; land preservation efforts preserved over 7,000 acres in five years. Discussion Items Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) – Zoning Text Amendment - Staff proposed changes to allow detached ADUs, complying with state House Bill 1466 (due October 1, 2026). Key features: no additional parking required, maximum size 1,000 sq ft or 75% of primary dwelling, 24-ft height, two bedrooms max, not allowed on wheels. ADUs permitted in any zone with single-family housing. Commissioners discussed septic and well challenges, HOA restrictions, and potential for tiny homes. Motion passed to hold a public hearing with the Planning Commission on March 16, 2026. Affordable Housing Pilot – NOFA Project Summaries - Staff reviewed four multi-family proposals (all in Waldorf, total 439 affordable units). Top three by score: - Eagle Point Phase One (82 points, 60 units, 50%–30% AMI, includes units for homeless, in Waldorf Urban Redevelopment Corridor, 9% LIHTC awarded). - Lendville Crossing (55 points, 144 units, 60% AMI). - Pineway Village (45 points, 85 age-restricted units, 60% AMI). - Total annual abatement request for all four: $518,434. Commissioners expressed concerns about affordability for middle-income workers (80–120% AMI) and fiscal impacts. Motion passed to hold a public hearing on April 21, 2026, to consider the top three projects only. Legislative Update: SB574 – School Bus Contractor Displacement - Extended debate between Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) and the Bus Contractors Association. Contractors sought six-year notice and removal of a buyback provision, arguing protection for small businesses and employees. CCPS opposed, citing loss of flexibility and precedent concerns. Commissioners discussed amending language to allow CCPS to bring services in-house without going to another private contractor (changing “and” to “or”), and removing the buyback provision. Board agreed to send a letter to the delegation with comments (no formal position): expressing support for contractor notice but stating the current bill’s language unduly restricts CCPS options and includes an unwanted buyback. Other Briefings - Proposed Bill 2026-02 (Animal Matters Board compensation): Introduced; public hearing set for April 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM. - Proposed Bill 2026-03 (Inspector General office): Introduced; public hearing set for May 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM. - Legislative Update: Provided on SB573 (HOA training), SB575 (MD Stadium Authority), rent stabilization for seniors, and withdrawal of economic development redevelopment corridor authority. Key Outcomes - Approved all consent items and introduced two bills with scheduled public hearings. - Advanced ADU zoning text amendment to Planning Commission public hearing on March 16, 2026. - Scheduled public hearing on affordable housing pilot top three projects for April 21, 2026. - Decided to send informational letter to state delegation on SB574, not taking a formal position but noting concerns about current language. - Moved into closed session at approximately 12:30 PM to discuss potential contracts, property acquisitions, and legal advice; returned to open session around 2:30 PM.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on March 3, 2026, to consider several items including approval of a deferred compensation plan, a zoning text amendment for data centers, annual updates from county boards and commissions, and a proposed zoning code amendment for large retail establishments. The meeting included roll call, presentations, and votes on multiple motions. Consent Calendar - Approved the award recommendation for the deferred compensation program for employees (Nationwide as provider). The motion passed unanimously. Discussion Items Data Center Zoning Text Amendment Commissioner Collins made a motion to approve the data center zoning text amendment. Commissioner Stewart seconded, emphasizing the need for a transparent process and public engagement. Planning Director Charles Rice reported that the Planning Commission held two work sessions and a public hearing with over 150 comments, and recommended denial of the ZTA as written but with several changes: narrowing to heavy industrial zones only, requiring non-potable water for cooling, developer bears cost of infrastructure upgrades, and requiring self-power generation. Staff will prepare a formal report, and substantial changes would necessitate returning to the Planning Commission. After discussion, the motion failed on a roll call vote: Commissioners Bowling and Stewart voted yes; Commissioners Coates, Patterson, and Collins voted no (3-2). Annual Updates from Boards and Commissions Planning Commission (presented by Amy Brackett, Chair Kevin Wettding, Vice Chair Jeff Bossart) - Reviewed duties and 2025 statistics: 1 preliminary subdivision approval, 4 revisions, 2 time extensions, 1 conceptual plan, 3 modifications (2 approved, 1 denied), 4 site development plan approvals, 2 adequate public facilities findings, and 4 public hearings (all for zoning text amendments). Goals for 2026 include revising rules of procedure and participating in comprehensive plan update. Commissioner Coates asked about tracking growth; staff noted the annual report includes such statistics. Board of Appeals (presented by Lisa Curridge, Chair Bud Humbert) - 2025 statistics: 6 special exceptions, 3 variances, 0 non-conforming uses, 2 administrative appeals, 1 reconsideration. Special exceptions remain the highest case type. Chair Humbert requested more training for board members to ensure questions align with board duties. Board of Licensed Commissioners (Liquor Board) (presented by Mr. Darden) - 2025 statistics: 174 licenses renewed (total 183), revenue $207,787 (increase $11,561.50), 351 inspections. Legislation submitted to allow denial of renewal for unpaid taxes. Recommendations: county laptops for board members, establishing an industry advisory council, and expanding the board (currently 5 members; would need state law change). Discussion about stipends and volunteerism; Commissioner Bowling noted a recent adjustment to stipends. Property Tax Assessment Appeal Board (presented by chair) - 2025 statistics: 226 cases (183 prior year), including commercial, residential, veterans, and homestead exemptions. Process described. Chair noted the board is state-paid and stipend has not increased. Discussion about agricultural assessment and buildings. Proposed Zoning Code Amendments for Retail Over 100,000 Sq Ft Director Jason Groth, Charles Rice, and Tony Feltz presented proposed changes: allow retail over 100,000 sq ft in MX, TOD, and AUC zones as permitted with conditions (correcting a discrepancy), remove a two-story requirement, and reduce parking by 20% (with rounding). Commissioner Stewart requested inclusion of landscaping/screening in building design requirements; staff will explore. Commissioner Coates asked about broader parking assessment; staff noted ongoing comprehensive zoning code rewrite. Motion to send to Planning Commission for public process passed unanimously. Commissioners' New Business - Commissioner Stewart acknowledged submitting another agenda request. - Commissioner Patterson expressed interest in a data center task force and will submit an agenda request. Commissioner Bowling suggested using reconsideration process for the failed data center ZTA motion to expedite. Key Outcomes - Approved deferred compensation plan (unanimous). - Motion to approve data center ZTA failed (3-2). - Sent retail zoning code amendment to Planning Commission (unanimous). - Various board annual reports received; staff directed to follow up on specific requests.

The Charles County Animal Matter Hearing Board met on March 3, 2026, in the evening to hear four contested animal matters. The board approved the minutes of its February 17, 2026 meeting, heard sworn testimony from animal control officers, complainants, respondents, and witnesses, and issued findings that included fines, abatements, declarations, and euthanasia orders. All testimony was limited to three minutes; decisions are appealable to the circuit court within 30 days under Maryland rules. Consent Calendar - The board approved the February 17, 2026 meeting minutes by voice vote with no corrections. Discussion Items Citation 7560: Animal Control vs. Brittany L. Dorsey Rollins - Officer Emmanuel Ingram testified that on February 23, 2026 he investigated a February 21, 2026 incident at approximately 6:45 p.m. in which Tisha Jones reported a loose black pit bull-type dog circling and lunging at her and her leashed dog Bronx. He issued citation 7560 for no individual license and dangerous/vicious/potentially dangerous animal. - Tisha Jones testified that the dog ran toward her, jumped on her, and she struck it with her leash handle. She saw no puncture wounds, but Bronx’s neck fur was wet afterward. - Brittany Dorsey Rollins said she was not present, had not heard the dog growl before, and had not yet obtained a Charles County license; she said she tried to license Biscuit that day but was told to return at 9 a.m. - The board found Ms. Dorsey Rollins in violation of 230-10A (individual license, $50 fine) and 230-12.5 (potentially dangerous, $300 fine). The $300 was held in abeyance for one year, and the dog must be humanely muzzled when outside (abatement E5C). The motion passed by voice vote. Citations 7566 and 7567: Animal Control vs. Jamal Lionel Rosier - One board member recused from these cases. - Officer Maggie Hayes testified that on March 2, 2026 she responded to a February 28, 2026 dog attack on Brown's Place in Indian Head. Mr. Starks testified his chained dog Jojo was mauled by two loose pit bulls, taken to an emergency vet, and euthanized due to injuries; the cost was $1,127. - Video evidence showed Queenie and Bolo attacking Jojo for more than 30 minutes, from approximately 4:05 p.m. to 4:37 p.m. Vet records showed multiple bite wounds, puncture wounds, lacerations, blood loss, respiratory distress, and a ruptured bladder. - Officer Hayes impounded both dogs. Mr. Rosier said he had been unable to feed the dogs for two days and they broke out; he argued the dogs were not aggressive but hungry. He had no current rabies certificates or county licenses. - For Queenie (citation 7566), the board found violations of 230-10A ($50), 230-12 at large ($50), 230-9A rabies proof ($150), and 230-12.5 dangerous/vicious ($400); declared Queenie dangerous and vicious; ordered reimbursement of $95 impound fee; and ordered humane euthanasia under abatement F. Total $650. - For Bolo (citation 7567), the board found violations of 230-10A ($50), 230-12 at large ($50), and 230-12.5 dangerous/vicious ($400); declared Bolo dangerous and vicious; ordered reimbursement of $95 impound fee; and ordered humane euthanasia under abatement F. Total $500. - Both motions passed by voice vote. Mr. Rosier was advised of his 30-day appeal right; if appealed, the dogs would remain at the shelter. Fines and fees remain due regardless of appeal. A discussion about waiving fines in exchange for signing over the dogs did not result in a waiver. Citation 7547: Animal Control vs. Matthew Scott Keyes - Officer Hannah Neal testified that on February 17, 2026 at approximately 2:00 p.m., she investigated an attack on a dog named Duchess by a female pocket bully named Bella. Bella had escaped from Matthew Keyes, who was dog-sitting; ownership was disputed, and a rabies certificate was expired and listed another person. Bella was impounded pending the hearing. - Matthew Keyes testified he had Bella for about three weeks, described her as old and non-aggressive, and said he would take responsibility for her. He was staying temporarily in a motel and planned to move to a residence in Waldorf; a witness provided the future address as 7A70 Marshall Corner Road, Pomfret, MD 20675, with a fenced yard. - The board found violations of 230-12 at large ($50), 230-9A failure to provide proof of rabies vaccination ($150), and 230-12.5 (potentially dangerous, $200); declared Bella potentially dangerous; ordered reimbursement of $290 impound fee; and ordered all abatements except F, including compliance with specified conditions and not moving the dog out of the county without animal control approval. - On a seconded amendment, the board held $300 of the $400 total fines in abeyance for six months, leaving $100 due. The motion passed by voice vote. Complaint 26-01: Richard Payne vs. Alan and Gina Smith - Richard Payne testified that his neighbors’ dog Rudy repeatedly roamed loose and defecated/urinated on his property near his mailbox over a period of years. He said he had asked the owners to address it and had medical stress concerns related to AFib. He submitted photos. - Gina Smith testified that after receiving the complaint letter, she began taking the dogs out every time and using e-collars that buzz rather than shock, and apologized. - The board found Alan and Gina Smith in violation of 230-12.4A1 (at large, $50) and 230-12.4A8 (defecation on private property, $50), for a $100 total; $50 was held in abeyance for six months. The motion passed by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Approved the February 17, 2026 meeting minutes. - Citation 7560: $50 due; $300 abated for one year; Biscuit must be muzzled when outside. - Citations 7566/7567: Queenie and Bolo declared dangerous and vicious; euthanasia ordered; fines total $650 and $500 respectively, plus $95 impound fee per dog. - Citation 7547: Bella declared potentially dangerous; $100 due now, $300 abated for six months; $290 impound reimbursement required; abatements apply. - Complaint 26-01: $50 due now, $50 abated for six months. - All decisions remain subject to appeal to the circuit court within 30 days.

The Charles County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on March 2, 2026. Commissioners approved routine items, held a work session on a data center zoning text amendment, received a briefing on accessory dwelling units, and heard staff updates. No public personal appearances were scheduled. Consent Calendar - The meeting agenda was approved as written by unanimous voice vote. - The January 12, 2026 meeting minutes were approved; Chair Kevin Wettding and Commissioner Dave Wood recused themselves because they were absent from that meeting. - The February 2, 2026 meeting minutes were approved by unanimous voice vote. - New clerk Ashley Staten was introduced to the commission. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up for personal appearances outside agenda items. Discussion Items Work Session: ZTA 25-187 - Data Centers - Staff reminded the commission that its role is to make a recommendation to the county commissioners; it can recommend approval, denial, or changes to the zoning text amendment. Substantive changes recommended by the commission would likely require a revised ZTA to return for a new public hearing if adopted by the county commissioners. - Mark Thompson from Economic Development said the county has not received additional details about TerraWolf's plans beyond its press release and public FAQ. The disclosed plan for the Morgantown site, subject to FERC approval of the sale, is environmental remediation, then power generation with battery storage, and then a data center. - Commission members expressed support for allowing data centers only in appropriate industrial zones, with several members urging heavy industrial only and excluding business parks. If data centers were placed near residential areas, one member said they should require a special exception to provide another layer of public discussion. - Concerns included potable water use, the need for self-generation of power, infrastructure costs being borne by the data center owner, and aligning the ZTA with the Maryland Next Generation Energy Act of 2025 and a state data center study expected to be completed in September 2026. - Commissioner Samaya Hackett raised concern about cumulative quality-of-life impacts if data centers are added without limits, while noting that each future site development plan would return to the commission for review. - Jason Groth, Director of Planning and Growth Management, cautioned that heavy industrial zones are not always remote and that the ZTA includes setbacks, buffering, water use, and noise requirements independent of zone choice. - A motion to deny ZTA 25-187 as written, with recommended changes, was made and seconded. The recommendation includes requiring self-generation of power, eliminating potable water use for data center operations, assigning infrastructure detail and cost solely to the data center owner, limiting the use to heavy industrial zones, and referencing the Maryland Next Generation Energy Act of 2025 and the state's September 2026 report. The motion carried by voice vote. Briefing: ZTA 25-189 - Accessory Dwelling Units - Tony Feltz, Assistant Chief of Planning, presented. State legislation (HB 1466) requires counties to allow ADUs with limited restrictions by October 1, 2026. Charles County's 2025 policy feedback survey found 64% of respondents supported ADU policies. - Staff estimated that 1-2% of annual building permits, or about 9-18 units per year, would be for ADUs. Anne Arundel County has seen a modest rise in ADU permits, with only about half of applications ultimately issued and about one-third on private well and septic systems. - The proposed ZTA would allow attached and detached ADUs, reduce size limits to align with state law, eliminate additional off-street parking and storage requirements, and allow internal ADUs in townhomes under certain conditions. ADUs would be capped at 1,000 square feet or 75% of the primary dwelling floor area on lots under three acres, and 75% of the primary floor area on larger lots; they may have up to two bedrooms and a maximum height of 24 feet. Mobile homes would not be allowed. - Internal townhome ADUs would require planning at the plat stage, a separate entrance, a maximum size of 33% of the townhome, and occupancy of only one floor. Detached ADUs for townhomes would not be allowed. - The county is not proposing affordability incentives or rent regulation; landlord-tenant laws would still apply. - In response to questions, staff said existing legal ADUs that exceed new limits would become legal nonconforming and could continue unless abandoned for a year. Staff will request the Board of County Commissioners set a planning commission public hearing for March 16, 2026. Director's Comments & Next Steps - Staff noted the next meeting on March 16, 2026 will have a packed agenda, including the ADU public hearing, ZTA 25-188 on encroachments, MedStar site plan approval, Shepherd's Creek Manor preliminary subdivision revision, Horizon Neighborhood Center site plan, Falcon Ridge time extension, and Park Lens farm stand site plan. - The county has conducted two comprehensive plan outreach meetings with roughly 30 attendees each; the next is March 12, 2026 at Mount Hope Nanjemoy Elementary. Members were reminded that no more than three commission members may attend an outreach meeting to avoid an Open Meetings Act quorum. Key Outcomes - Agenda and minutes for January 12 and February 2, 2026 approved. - ZTA 25-187: commission voted to recommend denial of the current draft and to forward recommended changes to the county commissioners. - ZTA 25-189: briefing received; public hearing requested for March 16, 2026. - Next regular meeting set for March 16, 2026.

The Charles County Board of Appeals met on February 24, 2026, to consider one special exception application for a self-storage facility and a pair of variance requests for a cemetery. The meeting began with routine approvals and included public testimony. The Board voted 4-1 to approve the storage facility and deferred a decision on the cemetery variances to its March 10, 2026 meeting. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved for the February 24, 2026 meeting. - Meeting minutes from February 10, 2026, were approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Docket 1479 (Barrie Road Self Storage): No members of the public signed up to speak. - Dockets 1480/1481 (Heritage Memorial Cemetery): Kimberly Bowling, a 47-year neighbor of the cemetery, testified in strong support of the applicant, Eric Lundy. She praised the transformation of the property from a dilapidated state into a well-maintained community asset and described the positive relationship between the cemetery staff and the surrounding community. Discussion Items Docket 1479: Barrie Road Self Storage (Special Exception) - Proposal: Sage Ventures petitioned for a special exception to develop a three-story, climate-controlled mini-warehouse facility (114,912 sq ft total) with 600 sq ft of office space and outdoor RV/boat storage. The 2.69-acre site at 10191 Barrie Road is zoned Business Park (BP). - Staff Recommendation: Approval. Staff found the application met the criteria for a mini-warehouse use, noting the property is in a highway corridor overlay zone requiring design review by the Planning Commission. Conditions included a requirement for a Planning Commission site plan. - Board Questions and Concerns: - Board Member Grindle expressed concerns about the ingress/egress for RVs and boats, particularly using the shared access with the adjacent gas station and McDaniel Road. The applicant stated the site plan had been reviewed by the State Highway Administration and turning radii were adequate for fire trucks and trailers. - Board Member Brown questioned the failure to identify the legal owner of the property (Dyson Family Living Trust) in the application, the lack of a formal definition for the "general neighborhood," and the missing market feasibility study referenced by the applicant. He strongly recommended the staff's proposed conditions be revised to use “shall” instead of “will be” to make them legally binding. - Staff confirmed environmental review for the endangered Northern Long-Eared Bat would occur during the subsequent site development plan process. - Vote: The special exception was approved (4-1). The motion included the staff conditions with the “shall” wording correction. Vice Chair Watkins, Mr. Trainer, Mr. Grindle, and Chair Humbert voted in favor. Mr. Trasada opposed. Dockets 1480 & 1481: Heritage Memorial Cemetery (Building Restriction Line & RPZ Variance) - Proposal: Eric Lundy of Heritage Memorial Cemetery LLC requested a variance to allow accessory storage structures (C containers, equipment sheds) to encroach from 30 feet to 10 feet from the side property line and within the Resource Protection Zone (RPZ). The structures were built without permits on the 79-acre rural conservation (RC) property. - Staff Recommendation: Approval. Staff cited the peculiar and unusual hardship caused by the site's history as a gravel mine, its current extensive interment areas (over 8,700 burials), and its environmental constraints. Staff noted 2 of the offending structures would be removed. - Applicant's Position: Attorney Sue Greer and Mr. Lundy argued that the storage yard was located in a logical, pre-impacted area of the property. Mr. Lundy testified that when he took over the derelict cemetery in 2008, the area was already a gravel access road. He brought in storage containers to secure equipment after thefts and vandalism. He stated the cemetery is a heavily regulated (OS of O) affordable burial ground serving the community. He accepted the staff's recommended conditions. - Board Questions and Concerns: - Board members grappled with the legal concept of “self-imposed hardship,” as the structures were placed by the current owner. The applicant's attorney argued the plat showed no building restriction lines and the property was used for mining. - A significant procedural issue arose regarding the completeness of the record. The original 1976 Special Exception (Docket 264) for the cemetery, which defines the legal parameters of the use, was initially missing from the board's files but was provided during the meeting. - Board Member Brown noted that the concrete block wall on the property might itself be a structure requiring a variance if it exceeded the height threshold for fences. - Outcome: The Board voted to close the public record but deferred the decision and vote to the March 10, 2026, regular meeting to allow sufficient time to review the complete documentation, including the newly provided original 1976 Special Exception order. Key Outcomes - Approved (Docket 1479): Barrie Road Self Storage special exception granted (4-1). Conditions must use mandatory language (“shall”). The applicant must supplement the record with the owner's consent. - Deferred (Dockets 1480/1481): Heritage Memorial Cemetery variances. The Board will review the complete record and vote on the application at the March 10, 2026 meeting.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on February 24, 2026, for the afternoon session, which included roll call, approval of appointments, briefings on the Business Enterprise Program and Institutional Governance goals, and a public comment session. Commissioner Collins was absent. The meeting began at approximately 2:00 PM and transitioned to a public comment session after a short break at 5:00 PM. Consent Calendar - Appointment to Board of Electrical Examiners: A motion to appoint James Slatery was approved unanimously. - Appointments to Tourique Preservation Commission: A motion to reappoint Ruby Thomas and appoint London Teal, Angela Barnes, and Kenya Spencer was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Lundstrom (library worker, Charles County Public Library): Expressed frustration with library administration, citing budget cuts, a $250,000 contract with a union-busting law firm, hostile bargaining, and high staff turnover (25-30% of bargaining staff). Urged commissioners to fill vacant library board seats quickly and invited them to the March 5 library board meeting. - Kevin Yates (Charles County employee, 39 years): Announced that county employees are organizing with AFSCME Maryland Council 3 and called on commissioners to respect their right to organize and extend collective bargaining rights without delay. - Michael Sweetney (county employee, 4 years): Supported unionization, noting that employees leave for better pay and policies, and asked for a fair process for union elections. - Derek Terry (District 3, Waldorf): Questioned the lack of a feasibility study for the Capital Clubhouse before proposing a new Sports & Wellness Complex; criticized the process around data center zoning (ZTA) and a proposed task force; and questioned inconsistency in the board's treatment of the county administrator. - Joseph Mank (District 4): Supported organized labor and library workers' unionization; endorsed the Sports & Wellness Complex but urged efficient project management; called for a pause on data centers and more research. - David Heidelbach (Charlotte Hall): Supported collective bargaining and criticized the cancellation of a town hall; demanded a project plan from PGM on water supply issues, noting a Hazen and Sawyer report that water demand in Waldorf will exceed supply by 2030; called data center discussions meaningless without addressing water. - Brandon Diggs (Waldorf, property owner in Port Tobacco): Thanked commissioners and staff (Kimberly Stevens) for advancing a road widening project in Avalon West; requested a traffic safety study to evaluate alternative egress for the Avalon West neighborhood. - Greg Warren (Waldorf): Requested public disclosure of the list of data center companies that have met with the county, the TerraWolf presentation from a closed session, and records of meetings with TerraWolf over the past 18 months. Discussion Items - Business Enterprise Program Briefing: Director of Economic Development Jim Chandler and Small Business Specialist Chastie Durham Miller presented an update on the Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) and Minority Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) programs. The vendor diversity compliance portal was launched in November 2025. There are currently 900 certified vendors (295 SLBE, 605 MWBE), with 31 newly certified as of the meeting date. Certification requirements include being a for-profit, independently owned business, registered with the state, and having a headquarters or 25% of sales/employees in Charles County. Commissioner Bowlin questioned the 25% threshold. The county aims to fully digitize applications by April 1, 2026. Staff emphasized ongoing outreach and one-on-one assistance for businesses. - Institutional Governance Goals & Objectives Briefing: Acting Deputy County Administrator Danielle Mitchell and multiple department staff presented progress on four focus areas: workforce, fiscal responsibility, policies/procedures, and transparency. Highlights included: - Recruitment: Expansion of career fairs, engagement with 4,000+ job seekers, and social media outreach. - Retention: Wellness program recognized by Healthiest Maryland Businesses (9 years, last 3 at Exemplar level). - Training: 19% increase in FY25 training participation; equity-focused leadership series launched; 911 training program praised by state inspectors; EMS training logged 13,000+ hours in FY26. - Space Needs: Renovation of Centennial Street moved Recreation, Parks, and Tourism, freeing space at Port Tobacco. - Fiscal: Ninth consecutive AAA bond rating; FY26 budget approved without tax increases; cyber security initiatives including SCADA protection and a second countywide summit. - Policies/Procedures: Internal audit reviewing purchase cards; personnel policy manual near completion; zoning code rewrite and comprehensive plan updates underway. - Transparency: New citizen academy models (Children & Family Resource Academy, Student Citizens Academy); Charles County Unpacked webinar series; C Click Report system launched in April 2025 with 1,280 submissions and 95% closure rate. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved the two sets of appointments (James Slatery to the Electrical Board; Ruby Thomas, London Teal, Angela Barnes, and Kenya Spencer to the Tourique Preservation Commission). - Commissioners expressed support for county employees’ efforts to unionize, with Commissioner Bowlin noting his own union membership and Commissioner Stewart welcoming them to restart the organizing process. Commissioner Patterson noted that a bill on collective bargaining will be heard in two weeks (March 10). - Commissioner Stewart confirmed that a feasibility study for the Sports & Wellness Complex is being conducted by the Maryland Stadium Authority with $125,000 from the delegation, with results expected in the fall. She promised to follow up on any existing feasibility study for the Capital Clubhouse. - Commissioner Bowlin and others committed to follow up on Brandon Diggs’ request for a traffic study in Avalon West. - Commissioners acknowledged requests for transparency regarding data center meetings and TerraWolf, with Commissioner Patterson stating they are still learning and will investigate further. - The schedule for town halls will be adjusted to occur before the primary election, as requested by David Heidelbach.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on February 24, 2026, with Commissioners Bowling, Coates, Stewart, and Patterson present and Commissioner Collins absent. The meeting included announcements, approval items, morning briefings, a Maryland General Assembly legislative update, and a closed session. The board's next scheduled session is March 3-4, 2026. Announcements and Commissioner Comments - Commissioner comments opened with a moment of silence for Battalion Chief Keith T. Long of DC Fire and EMS, who died in the line of duty on February 4, 2026, after 38 years of public service and previous part-time service with Charles County Department of Emergency Services. - Commissioners acknowledged the Bell Alton Alumni Association Black History Month program, Margaret Thornton Elementary School's inaugural Black History Month program, Charles County Public Schools Teacher of the Year Emily Leedy of J.C. Parks Elementary School, the Charles County Chamber of Commerce 70th anniversary gala, and the second annual HBCU Fest at Westlake High School. - Commissioner Stewart highlighted the WISE flagship store grand opening in Fairway Village and urged residents to visit. Commissioner Coates noted the Thomas Stone High School band performed and playfully acknowledged the McDonough/Stone rivalry. Approval Items - Minutes: Approved the minutes of the February 3, 2026 meeting by voice vote. - Budget Transfer Request 100: Approved a $71,800 budget transfer to recognize tourism event revenue from the 2025 Mixtape concert series held July through September. Staff said conversations with the Blue Crabs about the upcoming series are ongoing and any budget requests likely would come after July 1. - Budget Transfer Request 195: Approved a general fund transfer of $219,000 (listed as '219' in the transcript) to cover Mixtape concert expenses not covered by revenues. - Landfill Cell 4B Change Order No. 9: Approved a change order decreasing the contract by $2,263,314.22, from $8,419,588.82 to $6,156,274.60, a decrease of roughly 27%. The change addresses redeployment of the liner system, a leachate system design modification, and removal of two bid items. Savings will remain in the landfill capital improvement project budget. - U.S. Bomb Technician Association Letter: Approved a letter of support for congressional directed spending for a multi-jurisdictional EOD/Hazmat training exercise focused on critical infrastructure, with Indian Head, Maryland as a focal point. - USDA Wildlife Services Deer Cooperator Permit: Approved a deer management operation at Piscataway Park on Bryan Point Road in Accokeek before April 15. USDA State Director Kevin Sullivan said harvested deer are processed and donated to the Maryland Food Bank, with National Park Service coordinating with the Piscataway people for pelts, antlers, and meat. Suppressed firearms and public outreach are part of the process. - Courthouse Lights: Approved lighting the courthouse blue on April 2 for Autism Awareness Day and green for the month of May for Mental Health Awareness Month, requested by the Epsilon Alpha Five Zeta chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority. - Interfaith Iftar Funds: Approved $200 from commissioner community support funds for the Interfaith Commission's Iftar event on March 4, 2026, for Ramadan. - Sewage Spill Letter: Approved sending a letter of concern about recent sewage spills in the Potomac and Port Tobacco rivers to MDE and COG. The board also requested water testing from the county line to Cobb Island, invited MDE to speak to county residents, and included the Tri-County Council as a regional partner. Morning Briefings - FY2027 VanGO Annual Transportation Plan: Approved the plan and authorizing resolution 2026-02. The plan requests approximately $13 million in net operating costs, with $5.5 million in federal/state share and $7.3 million county share; no new service is proposed. The capital request is approximately $2 million, including 12 bus replacements, 3 bus repowers, and bus stop improvements, with about $1.1 million county share. State match is projected at 2.5%, and the application deadline is March 27. - FY2026 General Fund Second Quarter Review: The county projects a year-end net loss of $10.7 million; a $30.5 million loss would be expected at this point under the adopted budget assumptions because fund balance is treated as prior revenue. Property tax revenue is estimated at just under $35 million; income tax is estimated at $205.7 million versus $184.5 million adjusted budget, up $3.1 million from September. Statewide tax year 2024 income tax growth was 9.2%, while Charles County's growth was 7.6%. Total estimated year-end fund balance is just under $201 million, with $4.3 million unassigned. Adjustments include about $3 million for the January ice storm, $2.1 million in one-time employee bonuses, and about $1.1 million in leave sellback. - American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Update: Of the county's $31.7 million ARPA allocation, $23.3 million, about 73%, had been spent through December 31, 2025, leaving $8.4 million. Funds must be spent by December 31, 2026, and by September 30, 2026, for transportation-related projects. Categories include business/economic development, public safety, infrastructure, broadband, housing, and public health. Staff said they are monitoring balances and may propose reallocations at the next update. Legislative Update - HB913/SB573 (Common Ownership Community Member Training): Has a hearing this week; the county will provide a letter of support. - Senate Bill 574 (Bus Contractor Notice): Commissioners discussed a proposal requiring at least 10 years' notice before terminating bus contracts. Commissioner Stewart reported that contractors seek notice, but the current payback language should be revised to pay the remaining balance owed and allow the Board of Education to take the bus if the contractor chooses to relinquish it. The board agreed to propose amendments, including a six-year notice period, and to invite the Board of Education attorney and bus contractors to the March 3 meeting before finalizing. - SB575 (Maryland Stadium Authority - Sports and Wellness Center): Hearing scheduled for February 25; county staff will attend, and written testimony supports the bill. - SB952 (Redevelopment Authority): Requested withdrawal for this session. - SB953/HB1497 (Rent Stabilization for Seniors): The board requested amendments to make the bill enabling, to change 'senior occupant' to a tenant who is a party to the lease, and to consider an income maximum at the local level. - HB916 (Regional Transportation Authorities): The board voted 3-1 to send a letter of opposition as written. The vote was: Bowling yes, Coates no, Stewart yes, Patterson yes. Concerns included an added tax layer, reduced local control, and duplication of Tri-County Council functions. - Senate Bill 26 (Power Generation Regulation): Commissioner Bowling raised concerns that off-grid power generators may avoid certain regulatory oversight; no formal action was taken. Key Outcomes - All approval items passed by voice vote, including budget transfers, the landfill change order, support letters, courthouse lighting, Iftar funding, and the sewage spill concern letter. - The board voted 3-1 to oppose HB916 as written. - Staff were directed to prepare amendment requests for SB574 and SB953/HB1497 and to invite the Board of Education attorney and bus contractors to the March 3 meeting with a redline version. - The board moved into closed session at 12:30 p.m., with open session scheduled to resume at 3:00 p.m., under Maryland General Provisions Article 3-305(b)(17) to discuss appointments to county boards and commissions and consult with counsel.

On February 24, 2026, the Charles County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on proposed Bill 2026-01, which would amend Charles County Code Section 27-2C to adjust commissioner compensation based on the 2025 Compensation Commission’s recommendations for the term beginning in 2027. Commissioners Bowling, Colt, Stewart, and Patterson were present; Commissioner Collins was absent. Associate County Attorney Tara Dews presented the bill and its legal background. Public Comments & Testimony - John, a speaker from District 4, expressed support for the bill and the cost-of-living (COLA) increase, stating the commissioners deserve it. He refined earlier comments about commissioner pay, acknowledging the amount of work done outside the dais and in the community. - He also offered future suggestions for the next compensation cycle, including a per-diem pay model and consideration of making the commissioner role full-time with full-time pay as the county grows. Discussion Items - Tara Dews explained that the change arises from the 2025 Compensation Commission’s recommendations, presented to the board on December 9, 2025, by Compensation Commission Chair Vitolia Smith, and accepted by the board that day. - Under Maryland Local Government Article Section 10-302(d), any compensation change must be enacted by ordinance before the next county legislative election and takes effect only for the next succeeding board. The bill therefore sets salaries for the term starting in 2027. - Attorney Dews also noted that Ms. Telia Farrows Savannah, representing District 2, was present at the hearing. - The board heard no other speakers; consistent with the public hearing format, the commissioners did not debate the issue. Key Outcomes - The board voted by voice vote to close the public record. - The board voted by voice vote to end the public hearing. - The board voted by voice vote to adopt Bill 2026-01, compensation for county commissioners, with no opposed votes noted. - The board then voted to conclude the hearing after adoption.

The Charles County Board of Fire and Rescue Commissioners held its February meeting on February 20, 2026, chaired by Lynn Gilroy. Board members attended both in person and online. The meeting covered routine approvals, financial reports, multiple apparatus replacement and construction requests, a new response dashboard presentation, and quarterly project updates. Consent Calendar - Approval of January 15, 2026 Meeting Minutes: Motion by Bill Deere, seconded by Robert Ansel. Approved unanimously. LOSAP Reports - December 2025 LOSAP: Beginning principal balance $23,671,347.00; total funds $24,808,729.34; change in value before expenses $188,907.86; net change after expenses -$128,441.60. - January 2026 LOSAP: Beginning principal balance $24,098,890.15; total funds $25,135,550.17; change in value $326,820.83; net change after expenses -$100,721.44. The LOSAP board is scheduled to meet March 13, 2026. Monthly Escrow Expenditures (January 2026) - Pre‑approved expenses totaling $86,541.32 were presented by Fire/EMS Coordinator William Smith as a letter of information, including: Coordinator’s account ($9,270.17), MDT account ($1,781.60), Board Secretary ($542.30), administrative accounts, vehicle escrow accounts, Fire Prevention Public Education ($1,368.78), training/safety equipment ($687.98), and records management ($72,159.20). No questions raised. Discussion Items - Newburg Volunteer Rescue Squad – EMS Utility 14 Update: Letter from President Andrew Spaulding (Feb. 3, 2026) stating the new utility is at Nelson Emergency Vehicle Lighting for lighting, lettering, and striping; expected in service in coming weeks. - Newburg Volunteer Rescue Squad – Amos 148 Remount: Update letter; remounting by FESCO to begin summer 2026 with final inspection scheduled September 28, 2026. - Dentsville VFD – New Pole Building Project: Quarterly update from President Lee Hayes Jr. (Feb. 3, 2026): Building plan review completed with minor comments; site plan approved; stormwater management plan step 3 nearing submission; third‑party cost estimate completed. - Potomac Heights VFD – Ambulance Replacement Request: Letter from President Molly Ballantine (Feb. 3, 2026) requesting purchase of one new ambulance (PL Custom on Ford F‑550, 2027 chassis) to replace a unit exceeding 10‑year life expectancy. Total cost $528,963.30 (unit $487,923, power load system $33,312, portable equipment $41,040.30). Funds available in EMS Apparatus Replacement Escrow; approved by membership and board. Motion by Bill Deere to approve and waive the 30‑day layover period (due to vendor quote expiration). Seconded by Robert Ansel. Approved unanimously. - Benedict VFD – Ambulance 5.8 Replacement Request: Letter from President Calvin Thompson Sr. (Dec. 27, 2025) requesting replacement of 2008 PL Custom ambulance with a 2026 Ford F‑550 Horton custom ambulance demo unit. Total cost $471,959.20 (unit $393,391, power load system $78,560.82). Funding from EMS Apparatus Capital ($426,814.70) and EMS O&M ($45,145.12). No debt; unit will be sold and proceeds returned to escrow. Motion to bring off the table (from prior meeting) by Bill Deere, seconded by Robert Ansel. Approved. Then motion to approve purchase by Bill Deere, seconded by Derek Jones. Approved unanimously. - Indian Head VFD – Command Unit 9 Update: Quarterly letter from President Rick Bowie: 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe SSV delivered Nov. 20, 2025; now at Nelson Emergency Lighting; final completion letter to follow. - Indian Head VFD – Engine 9‑4 Update: Quarterly letter: 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 delivered Oct. 21, 2025; outfitted and returned Jan. 30, 2026; lettering/striping pending; final completion within a month. - 10th District VFD – Engine 82 Update: Quarterly letter from President Wally Damson; unit at Atlantic for construction; expected completion last week of March 2026. - Bryan Road VFD – Acceptance of Donated UTV: Letter from President Joseph Gonar (Jan. 3, 2026) requesting acceptance of a 2005 Polaris Ranger UTV donated by Hughesville VFD. Costs <$5,000 ($3,500 for trailer from B&L Trailers). Funded from Fire O&M. Motion to untable by Bill Deere, seconded by Derek Jones. Approved. Motion to approve acceptance by Bill Deere, seconded by Derek Jones. Approved unanimously after discussion clarifying trailer cost included in total. - Hughesville VFD – Pole Barn Construction Request: Letter from President (Feb. 3, 2026) requesting $65,000 (50% Fire, 50% EMS building allowance) to construct 30×40 pole barn and finish detached garage. Bids: Riceville Construction $26,800 (selected), Shirk Pole Building $44,532, Blue Chip Structures $30,995. Existing shed will be sold. Motion to untable by Bill Deere, seconded by Derek Jones. Approved. Then motion to approve by Bill Deere, seconded by Derek Jones. Approved unanimously. - Response Dashboard Presentation: County Fire Chief Mark Kaufman demonstrated a new online dashboard showing 2025 EMS response statistics: total EMS responses 26,348; career 79.35%, volunteer 20.65%. Station‑by‑station breakdown, mutual aid data, and response credits explained. Dashboard includes tabs for station stats, mutual aid, and credits per station. Departments may dispute credits within 30 days of receiving monthly stats. Chief Kaufman offered to present quarterly reports if the board desires. Board members expressed interest in quarterly updates beginning after March 2026 stats are finalized (likely April). - Coordinator’s Report (William Smith, read by Chairman): General Assembly session began; meeting with Lombardo Ayers & Comp on March 2; State Cancer Grant may be withdrawn due to FEMA fund freeze; recruitment billboard to be installed on Route 301 north of Billingsley Road; cadet class updates (21 cadets, Firefighter I one unsuccessful, Hazmat Ops started, EMT course ongoing); Skills USA results were not as expected; Charles County will host next year. - Capital Projects Quarterly Report Notification: Reminder that the following projects must submit quarterly reports by the next meeting (March 19, 2026): Bryan Road VFD truck 11 replacement and solar project, Charles Kenny M ICU ambulance 608 replacement, Charles Kenny VFA mobile display terminal, Hughesville VFD UTV 2 replacement, Waldorf VFD engine 32 replacement, Westlake ambulance 127, ambulance 39/399 replacement, station 12 remodel, station 12 bay door replacement. Key Outcomes - Approved: January 2026 minutes (unanimous).- Approved: Potomac Heights ambulance purchase with layover waiver (unanimous). - Approved: Benedict VFD ambulance 5.8 purchase (unanimous, after being tabled). - Approved: Bryan Road VFD acceptance of donated UTV (unanimous). - Approved: Hughesville VFD pole barn project (unanimous, after being tabled). - No action needed: LOSAP reports, escrow expenditures, quarterly updates (letters of information) were received without objections. - Future action: Chief Kaufman will present quarterly response dashboard reports starting after Q1 2026; capital project reports due March 19, 2026. - Meeting adjourned: Motion by Bill Deere, seconded by Commissioner Stewart. Adjourned.