Public Meetings - Charles County, Maryland

The Charles County Liquor Board convened on February 12, 2026, to consider a retail delivery update, a premises expansion, a new restaurant liquor license, administrative violations, rule changes, renewal procedures, and the 2025 annual report. The board approved all major agenda items, including adoption of updated rules and the annual report with recommendations to expand the board and establish an industry advisory committee. Consent Calendar - Show Cause Matters: Two licensees (Caribbean Fire Restaurant and Bryant Town Store) had each paid a $100 fine and signed a letter in lieu for violating alcohol awareness certification requirements during routine inspections in November and December 2025. The board accepted the payments. - Minutes Approval: The January 8, 2026 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - January 2026 Inspection Report: The report from Mary Jane Couples was acknowledged with no questions. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing regarding rule changes. Discussion Items - Retail Delivery Update (Liquor Outlet Waldorf LLC – Mr. Patel): Mr. Patel reported 53 deliveries in November (0 unsuccessful), 65 in December (1 unsuccessful due to a vertical ID), and 14 in January (while he was abroad). He expressed willingness to share his procedures with other licensees. The board discussed using third‑party platforms (e.g., DoorDash) for order placement while ensuring deliveries are made only by the licensee’s employees. Mr. Patel indicated he could contract with such platforms to disable automatic driver assignment. The board requested he test one platform and return for reporting at the April (April 9) and May (May 14) meetings. - Expansion of Milk and Honey, Charles County LLC: The board approved expansion of the licensed premises from 3257 Plaza Way to include adjacent 3249 Plaza Way, increasing seating from 64 to 128 seats. No change in operations or alcohol sales (approximately 15% of sales) was expected. The motion passed unanimously. - New Class B/R License for Calvin Reyes (Takiria Y Resta Syria): Applicant Calvin Reyes, with 5 years of management experience in his family’s restaurant, plans to open an authentic Mexican restaurant at 2140 Old Washington Road. The license was approved contingent on obtaining a Use & Occupancy permit and health permit, with a 120‑day extension to pick up the license. The motion passed unanimously. - Public Hearing on Rule Changes: The board adopted minor stylistic changes to its rules and regulations, including language that state‑issued ID may substitute for a driver’s license. An amendment to make the changes effective immediately was also adopted. - 2026 Renewal Letter and Application: The board approved the renewal letter (highlighting newly adopted rules) and application form, which now requires complete entries and attachment of a driver’s license or state ID. Submission must be by mail with prepaid fees. - 2025 Annual Report Discussion: The board discussed including a recommendation to expand the board by adding one at‑large alternate member (for a total of six or seven members) and to create an industry committee (with volunteers from licensees, distributors, and enforcement) to provide input on legislative and operational matters. The report was approved with these proposed changes. Key Outcomes - Milk and Honey Expansion: Approved (unanimous). - New License (Calvin Reyes): Approved contingent on permits and 120‑day extension (unanimous). - Rule Changes: Adopted with immediate effect (unanimous). - Renewal Letter/Application: Approved with amendments (unanimous). - 2025 Annual Report: Approved with proposed talking points on board expansion and industry advisory committee (unanimous). - Retail Delivery Follow‑up: Mr. Patel directed to return in April and May to report on the test of a third‑party ordering platform.

The Charles County Board of Appeals held a quasi-judicial hearing on February 10, 2026, to address two administrative appeals. The board approved the agenda and minutes from January 27, 2025, then took up Docket 1474 (Duke 925 LLC appeal of a zoning officer determination regarding non-conforming use) and Docket 1459 (River's Edge appeal, continued from January 13). After hearing testimony and deliberating, the board voted to continue both matters to future dates. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the agenda for the February 10, 2026 meeting. - The board unanimously approved the minutes from the January 27, 2025 meeting (which covered the Sheets Hearing and the River's Edge Appeal). Discussion Items - Docket 1474 – Duke 925 LLC Administrative Appeal: The appeal challenged the zoning officer’s February 14, 2025 determination that the properties at 2985 and 2995 Old Washington Road did not meet the criteria for a legal non-conforming use in the Waldorf Central (WC) zone. County attorney Mark Potter presented three prongs for upholding the determination: (1) the application lacked required components under Charles County Section 297-462(A)(1)-(5), including no affidavit or certified records; (2) aerial photos alone cannot prove a legally existing non-conforming use; (3) provided aerial photos showed gaps exceeding 12 months, including a 71-month gap between the most recent photo (April 2018) and the preceding one, indicating abandonment. Applicant’s counsel Steve Scott called witnesses: Joe Wessner (commercial realtor and leasing agent) testified that he requested use-and-occupancy permits from the county but received no response, and that the property has been continuously occupied by trucking and landscaping businesses since the Messick family vacated in 2014-2015, with only a brief 30-45 day gap. Raymond Messick testified that his family operated trucking and limo businesses from the property from the early 1990s until 2014. County staff cross-examined, noting no use-and-occupancy permits were ever obtained after 2015 and that the applicant’s evidence did not demonstrate a pre-existing legal use. The board discussed holding the record open to allow the applicant to submit formal documentation from SDAT and other sources. - Docket 1459 – River’s Edge Administrative Appeal (Old Business): The board resumed deliberations on whether to certify a non-conforming use for a fire-damaged restaurant property in Benedict. The record had been closed on January 13, 2026. Board members expressed frustration with the applicant’s eight-year delay in rebuilding and failure to clean up debris. Some members noted that while residents want a restaurant, the applicant had not met county requirements (e.g., detailed budget). Others argued that denying the non-conforming use would leave a blighted property, whereas certifying it could allow rebuilding under old setback rules and potentially lead to demolition of the unsafe structure. It was noted that a demolition permit had already been issued. The board discussed options to continue the decision to allow time for demolition to occur, potentially using a motion for reconsideration. Key Outcomes - Docket 1474: The board voted unanimously to continue the hearing to March 24, 2026, with the record remaining open. The applicant is to provide formal documentation (e.g., SDAT records, business licenses, use-and-occupancy permits) at least two weeks prior to that meeting. The board may also hear additional testimony if needed. - Docket 1459: The board voted unanimously to continue deliberations until March 10, 2026, via a virtual meeting (Teams) to allow additional time for the applicant to demonstrate progress on demolishing the structure. The board noted that if a decision is not reached by the statutory 60-day deadline (March 13, 2026), options such as denial followed by a motion for reconsideration could extend the timeline.

The Animal Matter Hearing Board convened on February 3, 2026, to hear two cases (citations 7499 and 7500) involving Kevin Reader's two cane corso dogs, Rocco and River. The dogs were cited for running at large and dangerous/vicious behavior after killing a neighborhood cat on January 12, 2026. The owner failed to appear. The board voted to declare both dogs dangerous and vicious, impose fines with partial abeyance, and refer the cases to the State's Attorney for failure to appear. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from the January 20, 2026, hearing without corrections (motion by William Johnson, seconded by Christine Montgomery; all in favor). Discussion Items - Case 7497 (Withdrawn): Citation 7497 against Kevin Reader was withdrawn and not heard. - Testimony for Cases 7499 and 7500: - Officer Amanda Brown (Charles County Animal Control) testified that on January 12, 2026, at approximately 15:15 hours, she responded to 1032 Koch High's Court, Waldorf, for loose cane corso dogs. A witness reported one dog killed a neighbor's cat. Officer Brown could not locate the dogs initially; a resident, Mr. Liggins, provided photos of the dogs in his yard (Exhibit 1) and showed the deceased cat with wounds on its abdomen and hind foot (Exhibit 3). The dogs later returned and were compliant when told to leave. Officer Brown then contacted Mr. Reader, who was unaware the dogs had escaped. The dogs were identified as Rocco (previously deemed potentially dangerous and vicious) and River, both one-and-a-half-year-old male neutered Brindle cane corsos. A gate on the property had an opening large enough for the dogs to push through (Exhibit 2). Officer Brown noted a prior compliance check on December 29, 2025, found Mr. Reader had met most requirements (rabies, license, neuter, microchip) but lacked a required dangerous dog sign; he was given time to correct that. - Lieutenant Katie Rochet testified she observed the gate and saw debris (pallets, stones) piled against an opening that did not latch correctly, suggesting the dogs pushed through. - The board questioned whether the owner had substantially complied with prior dangerous dog orders. Officer Brown confirmed the dogs were inside during the compliance check and she advised Mr. Reader to keep Rocco from free access to the yard. - The cat's owner was never identified. - Mr. Reader did not appear at the hearing and had not paid a previous $50 fine or the $300 fine held in abeyance from a November 4, 2025 hearing. - Board Action on Case 7499 (Rocco): - Motion by William Johnson (seconded): Find Kevin Reader in violation of §230-12 (animal at large) – $50 fine; in violation of §230-12.5 (dangerous and vicious) – $250 fine; upgrade Rocco from potentially dangerous/vicious to dangerous and vicious; impose $150 of the $300 fine held in abeyance from the November 4, 2025 hearing; hold the remaining $150 of that abeyance in abeyance for 12 months from today; total $450 due (if present); refer to State's Attorney for failure to appear. - Discussion: Vice Chair Montgomery questioned holding any amount in abeyance given the owner's non-compliance. The motion was amended to impose $150 of the previous abeyance. - Vote: All in favor, none opposed, no abstentions. Motion passed. - Board Action on Case 7500 (River): - Motion by William Johnson (seconded): Find Kevin Reader in violation of §230-12 – $50 fine; in violation of §230-12.5 – $250 fine; declare River dangerous and vicious; hold $125 of the $300 fine in abeyance for 12 months; order all abatements except F; refer to State's Attorney for failure to appear. - Vote: All in favor, none opposed, no abstentions. Motion passed. Key Outcomes - Rocco (Case 7499): Declared dangerous and vicious (upgraded from potentially dangerous). Total fine of $450, with $150 held in abeyance for 12 months (due if conditions violated). Referred to State's Attorney for failure to appear. - River (Case 7500): Declared dangerous and vicious. Total fine of $300, with $125 held in abeyance for 12 months (due if conditions violated). Referred to State's Attorney for failure to appear. - Abatements: For both dogs, all standard abatements were ordered except requirement F (likely sign posting, based on prior compliance issue). - Next Steps: The owner faces potential prosecution by the Charles County State's Attorney for failure to appear and non-payment. The board adjourned after all business.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on February 3, 2026, for an afternoon work session and evening public comment session. Commissioner Patterson was absent from the first roll call but was present for the evening roll call. The board approved routine personnel and land-use items, received a detailed Department of Public Works capital projects briefing, discussed the draft Inspector General ordinance and the data center zoning text amendment, and heard public testimony. Consent Calendar / Approval Items - Reappointed William Johnson and James Sherman to the Animal Matters Hearing Board. - Reappointed Michelle Jones to the Board of Landscape Architects. - Appointed Shrey Brown, a Charles County Sheriff's Office employee, to the Sheriff's Office Retirement Plan Committee. - Approved a facade alteration to Blue Crab Stadium, operated by the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, to add signage and change the exterior color, following legal advice. - Directed staff to begin a comprehensive plan amendment that would align the county land use map with the October 2024 rezoning of properties around Maryland Airport and the corresponding land use district table 3-3. A commissioner recused herself from this item. Department of Public Works Capital Projects Briefing DPW presented an update on approved capital projects managed by the newly consolidated Capital Projects Management division. DPW Director Martin Harris was in Annapolis testifying on the Highway User Revenue bill and later joined virtually. The Department of Community Services highlights were moved to next month, and goals and objectives were scheduled for February 24. - Roads: Nine active CIP road projects have a combined budget of about $49.7 million. Western Parkway Phase 3A3 ($3.6 million; notice to proceed January 15, 2026; completion January 2027) is the second-to-last phase. Western Parkway Phase 3B ($8.4 million; expected advertising summer 2026; construction winter 2026 through summer 2028) will connect to US 301. Mill Hill Road improvements ($5.3 million; completion winter 2026-27) upgrade 2,350 linear feet to a two-lane roadway. - Bridges: Eight active bridge projects have a $12.2 million budget. Hancock Run Bridge and Celestial Lane Bridge ($383,000) were completed; Davis Road Bridge deck replacement is projected to finish fall 2027 ($1.5 million); Poplar Hill Road Bridge replacement is about $6 million and 80% federally funded. - Sidewalks: Eight active sidewalk CIP projects have a $9.1 million budget, including a 1,720-linear-foot federally funded sidewalk near schools ($2 million), a Bryans Road-area sidewalk of more than a mile, nearly a mile along Hamilton Road ($1.3 million), and Southampton Phase One (about $400,000). - Stormwater/NPDES: Under the fourth-generation MS4 permit, the county must treat 33% of untreated impervious surfaces, about 2,150 acres, by December 2027. Staff said the county is on track and has completed or is working on more than 80 projects. - Buildings: Active vertical construction has a budget of over $80 million, including the Animal Control Center (over $18 million), the Pinefield EMS station—the first county-owned EMS facility—(over $11.7 million), the La Plata Library project, and courthouse cupola repair. - Mattawoman wastewater plant: 23 active CIP projects have a budget just over $207 million. An 11-million-gallon flow equalization basin was placed into service in November 2025. Effluent filter upgrades, electrical and automation upgrades, and lime system and truck bay improvements have completion dates ranging from March 2026 to November 2028. - Water and sewer rehabilitation: 48 active projects have a budget over $100 million. The Route 925B pump station was completed; Clifton wastewater treatment plant improvements are nearing completion; and the Cobb Island STEP station project replaced 85 of 94 units, with nine remaining. - New water capacity: 15 active projects have a $66.7 million budget, including Brown's Road Well No. 7 ($5 million), White Plains failing-septic connections ($4.6 million), and a two-million-gallon Glen Eagles water tower. Questions about the tower prompted discussion of Docket 90-era development agreements, ratepayer and connection-fee funding, about 8,000 homes served, and La Plata's expected full cost responsibility for its own water system. Inspector General Work Session County Attorney Wes Adams said three edits were pending to the draft ordinance: a shortened health and safety response time in Section 194-6, the civic organizations composition of the citizens advisory board, and adding the media department to advertising resources. On Commissioner Patterson's request to extend the inspector general's jurisdiction to the school system, Adams said Maryland legislative drafting staff advised waiting until next year because the office is not yet established, and Baltimore County's legislation is tailored to its own government. An MOU with the school system's inspector general could be an alternative after the office is operating. The board discussed how to keep the citizens advisory board nonpolitical and representative. Adams offered to list specific civic organizations in good standing, with amendments if an organization becomes inactive. Introduction of the bill was deferred to the March 3 meeting, with a revised draft to be distributed to commissioners in advance. Data Center ZTA Discussion Commissioner Bowling requested an agenda item to vote on withdrawing ZTA 25-187, known as the data center bill, and to create a community task force in response to the Terra Wolf/Morgantown announcement and resident concerns. Commissioner Stewart said the process needs to become a two-way dialogue with experts and the public. Commissioner Collins noted that state-level data center legislation is likely in Annapolis and that the board had made no commitments. Some commissioners cautioned against preempting the Planning Commission, whose next meeting was March 2. The board agreed to take up the withdrawal and task-force proposal on March 3; no withdrawal vote occurred on February 3. Public Comments & Testimony - K. Stone Street (Cobb Island Citizens Association) urged restoration of the fire hydrant at Breeze Farm Recycling Center, out of service since February 2022, and reinstatement of full-time ALS staffing. She said 360+ people signed a petition and that response reliability fell from 100% to 75% after the ALS crew was removed. - David Heidelbach raised concerns about transparency on La Plata/WSSC water, Docket 90-era water tower costs, water demand projections, and data-center water use. - Greg Warren (identifying himself as Greg Waring) praised the draft IG bill, discussed Baltimore County and Montgomery County IG models, and recommended budgeting for the office now and scaling it up over time. - Frederick Mitchell, a retired Army Corps of Engineers veteran from Bannister Circle, asked the county to consider hauling snow away and described unsafe walking conditions near schools. - Derek Terry (virtual, from Global Maryland) argued that data center opposition is misplaced and that residents are the major sources of pollution and energy/water use. He also alleged developer campaign contributions to Commissioner Bowling and Commissioner Stewart and asked again about outside employment. - Tina Wilson (virtual, Port Tobacco) said a Terra Wolf press release announced a 1.5 gigawatt expansion at the Morgantown plant and demanded details on utility rates, water impacts, sound and light, and any private meetings or NDAs. She called for a halt to approvals until a public process is established. - Douglas Ball (virtual) praised the IG draft but criticized past commissioner transparency, including handling of the Sergeant reports, and asked whether the IG could investigate pre-IG conduct and retaliation. Commissioner Responses - Commissioner Bowling said he would include Cobb Island fire hydrant/EMS staffing in his budget request, has no NDA with Terra Wolf, first learned of the Terra Wolf project four days earlier, and supports a retroactive IG investigation of his own record. - Commissioner Collins said the IG should be able to investigate commissioners, would welcome IG review of the Sergeant matter, had no NDA with Terra Wolf, and asked staff to schedule a La Plata water update. - Commissioner Stewart welcomed Mitchell and suggested a county snow-removal process briefing; she said no board contracts or NDAs exist on data centers and anticipated state-level data center legislation. - Commissioner Coates supported Cobb Island EMS staffing, agreed the IG should start small and scale up, and said he has no Terra Wolf contributions or NDAs and supports an IG scope covering all county spending. Key Outcomes - All approval items passed by voice vote with no recorded opposition. - Staff was directed to begin the Maryland Airport land-use map comprehensive plan amendment. - DPW goals and objectives were set for February 24; Community Services highlights were postponed to a later date. - The Inspector General ordinance will be revised and introduced at the March 3 meeting. - The board will discuss and potentially vote on withdrawing ZTA 25-187 and forming a data center task force on March 3. - Commissioner Bowling will pursue Cobb Island emergency services funding in the budget; a La Plata water update and a snow-removal process briefing were requested.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners held its regular meeting on February 3, 2026, at 9:00 AM. The meeting included proclamations for National Wear Red Day, Black History Month, and National Engineers Week, employee length-of-service and top-performer recognitions, approval of minutes and two budget transfers, a legislative update on state housing bills, briefings from the Resilience Authority and the Equity Department, and discussions on proposed zoning code amendments and a project labor agreement policy. The meeting concluded with a closed session for legal advice and appointments. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the January 28, 2026, meeting minutes (motion carried). - Budget Transfer 270: Approved to close the White Plains water enhancement project. - Budget Transfer 719: Approved $1,876,000 from cable franchise reserves (PEG and broadband expansion) for modifications and technology upgrades to the government building auditorium, enabling live and hybrid meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - National Wear Red Day Proclamation: Pamela Cousins, representing the Southern Maryland Chain Chapter of the Links Incorporated, accepted the proclamation and highlighted three upcoming heart-health events: a Red Dress weekend (Feb 6-8), a Black Family Wellness Expo (March 21), and chronic kidney disease education. - Black History Month Proclamation: A representative from the Charles County Juneteenth Foundation spoke, noting that the foundation has awarded over $80,000 in scholarships and invited the community to a Juneteenth event on June 20th. Discussion Items - Legislative Update – State Housing Bills: Daniel Mitchell presented four bills: SB325 (Housing Certainty Act), HB239 (Starter and Silver Homes Act), SB389 (Maryland Transit and Housing Opportunity Act), and SB267 (BAMBI bill). Planning Director Jason Groth and staff explained that the bills would preempt local zoning authority, shift vesting to early vesting, reduce parking requirements, and potentially create unfunded mandates. Commissioners expressed strong concerns about loss of local control, infrastructure costs, and impacts on adequate public facilities. The board reached consensus to draft a letter of opposition and to provide oral testimony. - Resilience Authority Briefing: Executive Director Stacey Scheffler presented the annual report, noting that the authority has secured over $5.76 million in grants since 2023 without using county taxpayer dollars. Projects highlighted include the Elite Gymnastics pocket park (stormwater management), Waldorf Senior Accessible Pocket Park (ADA-accessible), Bensville County Park nature trail, tree planting at nine school sites, and a living shoreline at Pope’s Creek. The authority also operates a youth corps and launched a green infrastructure training program. - Equity Department Quarterly Update: Chief Equity and Access Officer Ranisha Miles and Coordinator Elaine Pollard presented the office’s rebranding, definitions of key terms, and initiatives such as language access services (150 languages), “Dialogue and Donuts” employee engagement, an equity-focused leadership series, and the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (cannabis tax revenue). They also discussed the collaborative community improvement project at Brian’s Road and the comprehensive plan update. Commissioner Collins praised the county’s continued commitment to equity work amid national challenges. An update on the disparity study is scheduled for February 24, 2026. - Zoning Code Amendments: Commissioner Stewart proposed amendments to allow retail sales over 100,000 square feet (big-box stores) in the AUC, MX, and TOD zones as “permitted with conditions,” correcting a discrepancy between the use table and code text. She also proposed reducing parking requirements by 20% for such uses. Staff noted existing conditions (two-story requirement, urban design) and clarified that the narrative text currently controls. Commissioners discussed targeted growth in the Waldorf work area. Consensus was reached to direct staff to draft the amendments, including economic impact analysis, and bring them back for a public hearing at the March 3, 2026 meeting. - Project Labor Agreement (PLA) Policy: Commissioner Stewart proposed a policy requiring PLAs for large projects (threshold suggested at $20 million) to promote skilled labor and union participation. Discussion covered differences from prevailing wage, applicability to county projects versus all private projects, and potential cost impacts. Staff noted that adjacent jurisdictions (Anne Arundel County) had recently rejected a similar proposal due to cost and staff burden. The board directed staff to research PLA options, develop a preliminary framework, conduct stakeholder engagement (including a public workshop), and return with recommendations. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Minutes and both budget transfers were approved. - Legislative Action: Consensus to draft a letter (signed by all commissioners) opposing or raising concerns on housing bills SB325, HB239, SB389, and SB267; staff authorized to provide oral testimony. - Zoning Amendments: Staff directed to draft code changes (retail over 100,000 sq ft as PC, 20% parking reduction) for public hearing on March 3, 2026. - PLA Policy: Staff directed to research, draft a framework, and engage stakeholders; report back to the board. - Informational Briefings: Presentations from the Resilience Authority and Equity Department were received for information. - Closed Session: The board moved into closed session at 3:00 PM to receive legal advice and discuss appointments.

The Charles County Planning Commission met on February 2, 2026, to discuss zoning text amendments for data centers, approve an alternative design code for a self-storage facility, review the capital improvement program, and hold officer elections. The meeting included a work session on ZTA 25-187, which was continued to March, and approval of the Barry Road Self-Storage Park design code and CIP consistency ratings. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as written (unanimous). - Approved the December 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous). - Deferred approval of the January 12, 2026 minutes to the next meeting due to lack of a quorum of members present at that meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No live public testimony was heard during this meeting. However, staff summarized approximately 150 written public comments received during the public hearing period for ZTA 25-187 (data centers). The comments expressed a mix of concerns about potential negative impacts (potable water use, electric grid strain, air and noise pollution) and acknowledgments of economic benefits (tax revenues, construction jobs). Recurring requests included more restrictive water language, inclusion of specific zones, infrastructure contributions, community benefit agreements, and business plan requirements. Discussion Items - Work Session: ZTA 25-187 (Data Centers) – Planning Director Charles Rice presented highlights of the public comments and the process. Commissioners expressed concerns about water usage (especially potable water for cooling), impacts on electricity rates, and the need for more definitive zoning. Discussion included the state of Maryland's ongoing study (HB 0270) due September 2026 and a proposed federal review. Several commissioners favored waiting for state guidance. After debate, the commission voted 3-1 to continue the work session to the March 2, 2026 meeting, with the expectation that commissioners would provide specific recommendations on revisions to the text amendment. - Barry Road Self-Storage Park Alternative Design and Development Code – Planner Tatiana Anderson presented the proposal for a mini storage facility on a 2.69-acre BP-zoned parcel near schools. The applicant (Sage Ventures) sought a floor area ratio of 1.0, deviating from standard code. Staff recommended approval with one condition regarding amendments. Applicant Sue Greer highlighted the benign use and community support, noting that the Board of Education had no objection. The commission approved the alternative design code unanimously. - Capital Improvement Program (CIP) FY2027-2031 – Joel Binkley presented staff’s consistency ratings for 188 projects. He explained why some projects dropped from the list (funding, deferral, rebranding). Commissioner Jeffrey Bossert raised concerns about traffic congestion on US 301 in White Plains and requested enhanced language in the county’s priority letter to SHA for a study. The commission approved the consistency ratings and forwarded them to the Board of County Commissioners. - Officer Elections – The commission elected Jeffrey Bossert as Vice Chair (nomination, second, ayes). Dawood Abdur Ramon was re-elected Secretary (nomination, second, ayes). - Director's Report – Charles Rice updated the commission on comprehensive plan public meetings: six sessions scheduled from February 12 to April 22, 2026, with an additional Waldorf date added. Key Outcomes - ZTA 25-187 (data centers) work session continued to the March 2, 2026 meeting; motion passed 3-1 (Bossert, Earl, Abdur Ramon in favor; Secretarski opposed). - Barry Road Self-Storage Park Alternative Design Code approved unanimously with staff’s condition. - CIP FY2027-2031 consistency ratings approved unanimously and forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners. - Jeffrey Bossert elected Vice Chair; Dawood Abdur Ramon re-elected Secretary. - The January 12, 2026 minutes were deferred. - Comprehensive plan public meeting schedule updated with new dates.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners held a virtual meeting on January 28, 2026, chaired by Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II. The meeting addressed multiple budget transfers, capital project approvals, a memorandum of understanding, a condemnation resolution, a legislative update, and a public request to name a courthouse. All items were approved except a letter of support for naming the District 4 courthouse, which was deferred pending feedback from the judiciary. Public Comments & Testimony - Joshua Marks (citizen advocate) requested the Board issue a letter of support for naming the District 4 courthouse in La Plata after former Delegate George W. Owens III. He cited Owens' work on veterans treatment courts and stated he had approached Senator Will Smith about a potential bill. Marks provided letters of support from seven organizations, including Gold Star Mothers and Marine Corps League. Discussion Items - Budget Transfer 102 (FY26): Water repair costs in the utilities fund. Sam Chiriaco (Budget Chief) requested $85,000 from savings on equipment not purchased due to unfavorable results of a new lead/copper technology. Approved unanimously. - Budget Transfer 118 (FY26): Mandated local share for private pre‑K. Jake Dyer (Fiscal Administrative Services) noted a $141,853 transfer from contingency to cover an unfunded state mandate. He reported that MSDE declined to share its legal opinion and would not advise on billing CCPS. Commissioner Stewart questioned the state’s shifting of costs; Dyer confirmed FY2027 costs are projected at $650,000. Approved unanimously. - Budget Transfer 359 (FY26): Emergency HVAC replacement for Lackey High School pool. The request utilized $1.64 million from the county’s contingent inflation account (total $2.5 million available). Approved unanimously. - CCPS Intercategory Budget Transfer (FY26): The Superintendent requested a $4.2 million reallocation to address rising costs for contracted special education services (speech therapists, occupational therapists, etc.). Reductions applied to administration, instructional salaries/supplies, and capital outlay. Approved unanimously. - Letter to CCPS Regarding Swimming Pools: An updated letter requesting CCPS to pause construction of a second indoor pool facility at La Plata High School and ensure the outdoor pool remains accessible during renovations. Commissioner Collins noted the letter incorporated feedback from December. Approved unanimously. - Letter of Support for Naming District 4 Courthouse: Joshua Marks presented the request. Commissioner Stewart supported but wanted input from district court judges and the Charles County Bar Association. Commissioner Collins opposed, citing Owens’ voting record on social issues and questioning the precedent of naming courthouses after non‑judges. Commissioner Patterson asked about process. The Board decided to seek feedback from the judiciary before further action. - Change Order 12 – Mattoman WWTP: Stephen Bellingsley (project manager) requested $244,147.25 for extended construction engineering services (19 months). Approved unanimously. - Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Town of La Plata: Radio Station Road Side Path Extension. The MOU covers a 0.4‑mile county segment of a 2.25‑mile shared‑use path. The Town will design and construct; the county will reimburse pre‑construction costs and take ownership of the county portion. If bids exceed the engineer’s estimate by more than 10%, the county may withdraw. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2026‑01 – Boundary Line Adjustment/Condemnation: Property at 8040 Marshall Corner Road encroaches on county project‑open‑space land. Sarah Guy (Property Acquisition) and County Attorney Wes Adams explained that DNR required removal of encroachments. The county offered multiple resolutions including monetary compensation and a land‑swap, but the owner did not accept. The resolution authorizes condemnation with just compensation. Commissioner Bowling asked for public clarification of the process. Approved unanimously. - Legislative Update (2026 General Assembly): Lobbyists Joe Green and Jeanette Tejeda de Gomez (GS Proctor) reported on the session. Key points: new House Speaker Adrienne Jones, a $1.5 billion state deficit, potential cost shifts to counties, and numerous housing bills that could preempt local zoning. Commissioner Bowling expressed concern about state‑set housing targets overriding local adequate public facilities ordinances. The Board discussed a request from the delegation to create a redevelopment authority to consolidate funding requests; County Administrator Deborah Hall and Commissioner Collins recommended deferring this for further study. The Board reached consensus to support Senate Bill 288 (highway user revenue capital grants) and authorized written and oral testimony. A detailed briefing on housing bills was scheduled for February 3. Key Outcomes - Approved: Budget transfers 102, 118, and 359; CCPS intercategory transfer; letter to CCPS on swimming pools; change order 12; MOU with La Plata; resolution 2026‑01 for condemnation. - Deferred: Letter of support for naming District 4 courthouse – referred to judiciary for feedback. - Legislative: Consensus to support SB 288 with written/oral testimony; development authority proposal postponed for further study; next legislative briefing set for February 3, 2026. - Closed session: Motion approved to discuss potential new business, acquisition, and personnel matter.

The Charles County Animal Matters Hearing Board met on the evening of January 20, 2026, to hear four animal control citations involving dog attacks, an impounded stray, and dangerous/vicious determinations. The board approved the prior meeting's minutes by voice vote, took sworn testimony, and issued orders with fines, abatements, reimbursement obligations, and in one case rejected a proposed euthanasia order. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the previous Animal Matters Hearing Board meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote with no corrections. Citation 7559 – Animal Control Services v. Gina Avendorf (Taz) - Animal control officer (badge 536) testified that on January 3, 2026, at about 7:35 p.m., deputies requested a response to an aggressive canine that had broken free from a tether and attacked a person at 4025 Hanson Road in the Indian Head/White Plains area. - Jennifer Gilliatt testified that Taz, a black-and-white male Pit Bull owned by Avendorf, broke free, grabbed her leg, dragged her down, tried to lunge at her face, and bit her arm. Photos showed a bite to her left calf treated with approximately 11 stitches; Jordan Gilliatt testified he commanded the dog to release and it ran home. - Avendorf testified the victim knew the dog and the dog was normally friendly with her, but on the day of the attack the victim's large jacket prevented recognition; she called it a freak accident. She said Taz is an indoor dog and she has since replaced the inadequate chain with a thicker chain. - The board found Avendorf in violation of Section 230-10A (individual license, $50 fine) and Section 230-12.5 (dangerous/vicious, $700 fine), declared Taz dangerous and vicious, suspended the $700 fine for 12 months provided Taz does not return before the board, ordered all abatements except F, and directed animal control to verify compliance. The motion passed by voice vote. Citation 7563 – Animal Control Services v. Pablo Rojas (Rocky) - Officer Myra Tamin (badge 533) testified she was called on December 31, 2025, by Waldorf Emergency Care about a seriously injured dog. Tanya Miles-Carvana and Angel Carvana testified their Yorkie, Biscuit, was in their fenced backyard when neighbor's chocolate Labrador Rocky broke through the fence and attacked him. - Biscuit suffered a severe degloving wound across his back and flank, a torn urethra, and other internal injuries. The owners chose euthanasia after being told initial treatment would cost $4,000-$8,000 and eventual surgery could cost $25,000-$35,000; the neighbor paid for cremation and the initial veterinary visit. - Pablo Rojas testified he was home at the time, did not know how Rocky escaped, has since reinforced the fence, and now keeps Rocky on a leash or supervised. The officer noted Rocky's license was expired at the time of the attack but had been renewed by the hearing date. - The board found Rojas in violation of the individual license requirement, animal at large ($50), and dangerous/vicious ($500), with $250 of the $500 held in abeyance for six months. The clerk stated $300 was due within 30 days, Rocky was declared dangerous/vicious, and all abatements except F were ordered. The motion passed. Citation 7572 – Animal Control Services v. Jose Aguilar (Roski) - Animal control responded on January 11, 2026, to a stray in the Millstead Court area and identified the dog as Roski, a brown-and-white Chihuahua/Dachshund mix owned by Jose Aguilar. This was Roski's third impoundment within about three months; prior impoundments occurred October 14, 2025, and November 23, 2025. - Aguilar's son testified with his father's consent and after being sworn as translator that Roski is normally kept inside but slips out when the door is opened; the family usually catches him but did not on the three impounded occasions. - The board found Aguilar in violation of animal at large ($50) and the third-impoundment provision under Section 230-12.6C, imposed no additional fine for the third impoundment, and ordered the $320 reclaim/boarding fee paid to the Charles County Animal Care Center by noon the next day. The board chair warned that continued escapes could result in Roski being taken and not returned. The motion passed. Citation 7546 – Animal Control Services v. Francois Fuentes (Diesel) - Officer Hannah Neal (badge 539) testified that on December 25, 2025, at about 7:15 p.m., she was called to 1709 Temmie Drive in Waldorf after Diesel, an 8-year-old Staffordshire Terrier-type dog, got loose from a friend's home, entered a neighbor's house uninvited, then entered Robert Betha's garage and attacked Betha's 5-year-old husky-type dog, Nargo. Nargo suffered multiple puncture wounds; Betha was bitten on the hand while trying to separate the dogs. Blood was found in the driveway and on the car. - Diesel was impounded the same day. Fuentes, who lives in Rockville, was cited for animal at large and dangerous/vicious. The officer detailed his prior Montgomery County history: three impoundments, two field returns, multiple citations, a 2019 neuter order upheld by a district court judge, failure to follow that order, and lack of a Frederick County license after he said he rehomed Diesel. Veterinary and shelter bills totaled $806.25 and $435, respectively. - Fuentes testified he was out of town, apologized, took responsibility, said Diesel had not previously attacked another dog, described him as family-friendly, and asked for the dog back; he offered to have Diesel neutered if required. - A motion to declare Diesel dangerous/vicious and to require humane euthanasia failed: 3 voted in favor, 4 opposed, 2 abstained. - A substitute motion passed: Diesel was declared dangerous/vicious; Fuentes was found in violation of animal at large ($50) and dangerous/vicious ($350), totaling $400 in fines; all abatements except F were ordered; Fuentes was ordered to reimburse $806.25 to the emergency veterinary clinic and pay $435 to the animal care center; and animal control was directed to notify Montgomery County/Rockville animal control of the abatements. One board member abstained from the substitute motion. Key Outcomes - Previous meeting minutes approved. - Taz and Rocky were declared dangerous/vicious with abatements; Rocky's $250 fine was suspended for six months and Taz's $700 fine was suspended for 12 months. - Roski was not declared dangerous/vicious; owner fined $50 and ordered to pay $320 reclaim/boarding fee. - Diesel was declared dangerous/vicious; euthanasia was rejected; owner must pay $400 in fines plus $1,241.25 in veterinary/shelter costs and comply with abatements, with notification to Montgomery County/Rockville. - All board decisions are final, subject to appeal to the circuit court within 30 days under Maryland rules.

Mr. Chairman Lynn Gilroy presided over the meeting, which included board members Natasha Sugar Perry, Robert Ansel, and County Commissioner Amanda Stewart. The agenda covered appointments, elections, financial reports, and multiple capital requests for vehicle and equipment replacements. Several items were approved or tabled for further clarification. Appointments and Elections - The Charles County Volunteer Fire Association reappointed Lynn Gilroy as its representative to the Executive Committee through December 2026. - The Charles County EMS Association reappointed Bill Deere as its representative to the Executive Committee through December 2026. - Lynn Gilroy was unanimously elected Chairman of the Board of Fire Rescue Commissioners. - Bill Deere was unanimously elected Vice Chairman of the Board of Fire Rescue Commissioners. Consent Agenda - The minutes from the December 18, 2025 meeting were approved by voice vote. Discussion Items - LOSAP Board Report (December 2025): The report had not been received from county government; Chairman noted that payments and investments were ongoing. - Benedict Volunteer Fire Department – Replacement of Ambulance 58: The department requested approval to purchase a demo unit for $471,959. Discussion revealed that $40,000 for the stretcher and stair chair would need to come from O&M funds (not apparatus allowance). The request was tabled to allow revision of the funding breakdown. It will return next month. - Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department – Replacement of EMS Command Vehicle: Approved to replace a 2008 Ford F-250 with a 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe ($84,331.87) and waived the 30-day layover. Funds from non-tax account. - Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department – Replacement f Car 3: Approved a 50-50 fire/EMS split for a 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe ($84,331.87 total) and waived the 30-day layover. Funds from O&M accounts. - Westlake Volunteer Fire Department – Replacement of EMS Utility 12: Approved to replace a 2016 Ford F-150 with a 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe ($81,165.80) and waived the 30-day layover. Funded from apparatus escrow. - Westlake Volunteer Fire Department – Replacement of Utility 12: Approved to replace a 2016 Ford F-150 with a 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe ($88,375.83) and waived the 30-day layover. Funded from O&M funds. - Bryan's Road Volunteer Fire Department – Acceptance of Donated UTV from Hughesville: The department requested acceptance of a 2005 Polaris Ranger UTV and purchase of a trailer ($3,500). Due to unspecified funding source for the trailer in the letter, the request was tabled until next meeting for clarification. - Hughesville Volunteer Fire Department – Construction of Pole Barn Storage Building: Requested $65,000 (split fire/EMS) from building allowance funds for a 30x40 pole barn and interior renovation of existing garage. The request was tabled until the next meeting (no immediate action). - Dentsville Volunteer Fire & EMS Department – Temporary Metal Storage Structure: The department informed the board of a $20,000 temporary building (paid from non-tax funds) to house Engine Tanker 15. Discussion ensued about whether this required a capital acquisition plan; the board accepted it as a letter of information, noting it is temporary and not a permanent modification. Key Outcomes - Approved and waived 30-day layover: Waldorf EMS Command Vehicle (unanimous), Waldorf Car 3 (unanimous), Westlake EMS Utility 12 (unanimous), Westlake Utility 12 (unanimous). - Tabled: Benedict ambulance 58 (for funding revision), Bryan's Road UTV donation (for trailer funding clarification), Hughesville pole barn (no second motion needed; deferred). - Information accepted: Dentsville temporary structure (as letter of information). - Attendance report: Chairman will forward attendance report for 2025 to County Commissioners per policy. - Volunteer coordinator report: Noted passing of former Chief George Hayden, installation of officers, grants awarded to five departments for wildland firefighting, and cadet program progress.