Public Meetings - Charles County, Maryland

On November 18, 2025, the Charles County Board of Commissioners held an evening public hearing on proposed Bill 2025-07, which would impose term limits on county commissioners. The county attorney outlined the bill's provisions and constitutional analysis, members of the public testified in person and virtually, and the board closed the record and voted 3–2 to adopt the bill. Proposed Bill 2025-07: Commissioner Term Limits - County Attorney Wes Adams explained that the bill adds Section C creating term limits beginning December 6, 2022, with no more than two terms, consecutive or non-consecutive, served by any commissioner in any capacity, either as a district commissioner or commissioner president. - The bill addresses how to count a term if a vacancy is filled through the governor's vacancy process under Article 9-402 of the Local Government Article, and states that a commissioner suspended or removed after being found guilty of a felony or misdemeanor would have that term counted automatically. - Adams said the bill reflected consensus from a prior work session. He distinguished the people's power under Article 1 from legislative authority, cited Article 7 of the Maryland Declaration of Rights (right to participate in the legislature) and Article 17 (no retroactive restrictions), and explained why, in the county attorney's opinion, a 2018 start date would be unconstitutional but a December 6, 2022 start date is permissible because each four-year body may adjust the office it occupies. Public Comments & Testimony - Jamie Larson spoke in opposition, arguing that district-based voting starting in the next election gives voters direct accountability and that term limits would weaken voters' ability to keep effective, experienced commissioners in office. - Timothy Trainer said he favors term limits enacted by voters at the ballot box, but opposes the board imposing them by law; he argued experience matters and noted that recent elections in Charles County show incumbents can be defeated. - Desmond Rosier, District 1, spoke in support, citing federal gridlock and arguing local governments need new energy and leaders; he said two-term limits create a healthy cycle of renewal. - David Heidelbach of Charlotte Hall opposed the bill, saying elections are existing term limits. He questioned the level of public demand, referenced Commissioner Patterson's earlier claim about hundreds of emails, argued the commissioner salary of roughly $50,000–$60,000 is not a career, worried term limits could create career politicians using the role as a springboard, and believed no code home rule counties have term limits. - Ayanna Moore spoke in support, saying term limits keep elected office accessible, prevent entrenchment, encourage long-term planning, and align Charles County with other jurisdictions. She expressed disappointment that the bill does not count all prior terms served collectively. - Joseph Menck (also stated as Joseph Mank), District 4, spoke in support, citing a 2023 Pew Research study finding that 87% of Americans support term limits for Congress. He argued incumbency advantages stack the deck against challengers and said he hoped the commissioners who supported charter would move the bill forward. - Greg Waring of Waldorf supported the bill and suggested two edits: removing the December 6, 2022 start clause so the limit applies to current and past officeholders, and changing it to a consecutive-term limit to address constitutional concerns. He also suggested counting resignations as terms. He noted St. Mary's and Carroll counties have term limits, Calvert County does not, and Harford County recently adopted term limits for its county council. He also said Commissioner Bowling had earlier misspoken in saying Calvert County has term limits. - Duron Frost (listed in the call as Daron Tross), District 3, supported term limits, noting his commissioner had served three consecutive terms and had not responded to his constituent letter; he said his community still lacks sidewalks and lighting. Commissioner Discussion - A commissioner noted the record had been open for over 120 days, since the bill was introduced on July 22, 2025, and appreciated the civil public engagement. - Another commissioner said there are valid points on both sides, acknowledged that both experience and new voices have value, and cited a CNN report about bipartisan congressional interest in term limits involving former U.S. Rep. David Trone and Florida's governor. Key Outcomes - Motion to close the public record: passed unanimously. - Motion to end the public hearing: passed unanimously. - Motion to adopt Bill 2025-07 (Commissioner Term Limits): passed 3–2 by roll call. Commissioner Bowling voted no, Commissioner Coates voted yes, Commissioner Stewart voted no, Commissioner Patterson voted yes, and Commissioner Collins voted yes. - After a procedural interruption about whether the meeting had been closed before the vote, the board completed the roll call and then voted to adjourn.

The Animal Matters Hearing Board met on November 18, 2025, to adjudicate two animal citation cases and two civil compliance files. The board heard testimony from animal control officers, victims, dog owners, and neighbors. Decisions included fines, dangerous dog designations, and dismissals.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on November 18, 2025, at 9:00 AM. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation by Bishop Dominic Curry. Roll call was taken with all five commissioners present: Bowling, Coates, Stewart, Patterson, and Collins. The session included commissioner comments, morning briefings on tax credits and affordable housing strategies, several approval items, and a closed session. Commissioner Comments - Commissioner Bowling recognized veterans, thanked staff for lighting the county building on Veterans Day, and discussed the Military Alliance Council meeting, a community support event in District 4, and civility at the Planning Commission meeting. He also wished his delegate mother a happy birthday. - Commissioner Collins invited everyone to a ribbon cutting for a new pocket park at the Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center on November 19 at 9:30 AM. - Commissioner Patterson praised the economic development roundtable event. Morning Briefing: Tax Credits Overview - Eric Jackson (Chief of Treasury) and Sam Chiriaco (Chief of Budget) presented a detailed overview of tax credits offered by Charles County and the state. - The homestead tax credit is currently set at 7% (down from 10% about 15–20 years ago). Commissioners discussed the possibility of adjusting it or creating tiered credits for seniors; staff noted state law may limit local tiering. - County-offered tax credits in the FY26 adopted budget include: LaPlata tax differential ($2.3 million), Indian Head tax differential ($110,000), senior tax credit ($270,000; income limit $60,000, with 74 participants for volunteer emergency responders), surviving spouse credit ($150,000), conservation easement ($8,000), and credits for habitat for humanity and historic rehab ($0 each). - State credits include the homeowners tax credit ($800,000) and the 100% disabled veterans exemption. There are 3,239 participants in the disabled veterans exemption, with an assessed property value of $1.7 billion, resulting in nearly $20 million in forgone revenue annually. Total county tax credits amount to $8.8 million, and including the disabled veterans exemption, total foregone revenue is about $28.5 million. - Commissioners noted the significant revenue impact and discussed balancing support for veterans and seniors with fiscal sustainability. Morning Briefing: Affordable Housing Work Group Strategy - Joel Binkley (Planning Supervisor), Dawood Abdur Rahman (Planning Commissioner), and Mark Thompson (Economic Development Chief) presented the two-year study by the Affordable Housing Work Group. - The group identified a need for housing affordable to households earning 30–80% of area median income (AMI), which represents 36–40% of the county. Since 2020, housing prices have risen 47% nationally, and the median home in Charles County requires an annual income of $135,000. Only 15% of homes are priced below $400,000. - Rental units are also unaffordable for many: fair market rents exceed 30% of income for households at 60–80% AMI. - Economic development is hindered by lack of workforce housing; teachers, public safety personnel, and county employees are among those affected. - Recommended strategies cover supply (accessory dwelling units, inclusionary zoning, tiny homes, missing middle housing, reduced parking, starter homes), subsidy (pilot tax abatement, housing trust fund, rental assistance), and support (rental licensing, right of first refusal, limits on corporate ownership, creation of an affordable housing board). - Current deficit is about 1,280 affordable units; implementing policies could generate 200+ units per year and close the gap in 10 years. - Public feedback showed majority support but concerns about taxes, infrastructure, and quality. Commissioners discussed fiscal impacts, the need to target workforce housing (e.g., teachers), and the importance of tailoring policies to Charles County. - A motion to support the policy recommendations and implementation plans passed unanimously (all ayes). Morning Briefing: Affordable Housing Pilot NOFA - Dina Barclay (Community Services Director) and Kathy Thompson (PGM Deputy Director) presented the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for a pilot tax abatement program, aligned with the SOP approved in August. - The proposed NOFA for 2026 targets multifamily housing: 80% of units must be affordable to households at or below 60% AMI, with a 20-year term. Projects must be in the priority funding area with water/sewer access. - Optional criteria allow targeting specific groups (seniors, veterans, workforce, etc.). - Commissioner Bowling argued the 60% AMI threshold is too low to assist starting teachers (dual income $120,000, about 75% AMI) and proposed amending to 75% AMI (option two). That motion failed on a roll call vote: Bowling and Stewart in favor, Coates, Patterson, and Collins opposed (2–3). - A subsequent motion to approve the original NOFA (option one) passed 3–2: Coates, Patterson, and Collins in favor; Bowling and Stewart opposed. Approval Items (All Passed Unanimously) - Budget Amendment: FY26 budget amendment number 343 for the Mattawoman wastewater treatment plant flow equalization project, funded by the vendor (no county funds). - Change Order: Change order CY25-2 for the Mattawoman inflow and infiltration contract with JMT, adding $196,226 in engineering support costs, paid from the operating account. - Letter to Delegation: Approval of a draft letter to the Charles County delegation confirming that mobile crisis unit grant funds will be used in spring FY26, ensuring the county does not lose the funding. - Cancel CDBG Grant: Formal cancellation of a $800,000 Community Development Block Grant awarded to the Osprey Property Company for a project in La Plata, due to unresolved water allocation issues. The funds will be returned to the state for reallocation to shovel-ready projects; Osprey may reapply in the future. Closed Session - The board voted unanimously to enter closed session at 11:30 AM to discuss commissioner committee assignments, appointments to boards and commissions, legal advice on two matters, and an update on a potential land acquisition. The open session was scheduled to resume at 3:00 PM. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the affordable housing strategy report and its implementation plan. - Approval of the affordable housing pilot NOFA (original option) by a 3–2 vote. - Unanimous approval of all four consent items (budget amendment, change order, letter to delegation, CDBG cancellation). - Failed motion to amend the NOFA to 75% AMI (2–3).

On November 17, 2025, the Charles County Planning Commission convened with one primary agenda item: a public hearing on Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 25-187, the data center zoning text amendment. Chairperson Kevin Wedding noted the large public turnout and announced that ZTA 25-188 (regulatory enforcement of encroachment) was removed from the agenda and would be rescheduled. The commission also indicated that if the public hearing could not be completed by 7:30 PM, it would continue at the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Roll call was taken with six members present; William Murray was absent. Members present: Kevin Wedding, Jeffrey Bossart, Denard Earl, Dawood Abdur Rahman, Samaya Hackett, and Ryan Sekretarski. - Agenda approved unanimously as written. - November 3rd, 2025 minutes approved unanimously. - Chairperson had no additional comments. - ZTA 25-188 (regulatory enforcement of encroachment) was removed from the agenda and rescheduled for another time. - No personal appearances were heard because no items off the agenda were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - The meeting included an

The Charles County Board of License Commissioners (Liquor Board) met on November 13, 2025, to review retail delivery operations, consider three new alcoholic beverage license applications, act on a temporary outdoor service request, and discuss a tobacco/alcohol moratorium issue involving Pasha Lounge. All three license applications were approved unanimously, and the board scheduled follow-up actions including a letter to Pasha Lounge and a January 2026 return appearance by Liquor Outlet Waldorf LLC. Retail Delivery Update — Liquor Outlet Waldorf LLC - Mr. Patel reported delivery sales of 50 deliveries with 5 unsuccessful in August, 45 with 3 unsuccessful in September, and 42 with zero failed deliveries in October. One unsuccessful delivery occurred in November when the customer was not available at the delivery address. - Unsuccessful deliveries were mostly due to identification issues; the store delivers only to the person who placed the order and requires a valid ID. - Mr. Patel is in early talks with DoorDash and Uber to use their platforms as a referral/advertising service directing customers to his website, with deliveries still made by his own drivers. Board members noted third-party delivery is not permitted in Charles County — delivery must be made by an employee or the license holder — and the advertising aspect requires verification. - The board scheduled Mr. Patel's next retail delivery update for the January 2026 meeting. New License Application — Farmhouse Waldorf LLC (Class B BLX with Entertainment) - Stephen Shue and Celeste Cunningham, trading as Farmhouse Waldorf LLC, applied for a new Class B BLX luxury restaurant license (beer, wine, and liquor on sale with entertainment) at 11120 St. Albans Place, Suite 101, Waldorf, MD 20602, represented by David Martinez of Jenkins Law Firm. - Mr. Shue testified he has 15 years of restaurant experience and operates two other Farmhouse restaurants in Maryland. He described the concept as an upscale farm-to-table new American restaurant with menus changed four times a year, stated he believes nothing quite like it exists in the market area, and estimated approximately 75 employees will be hired. The restaurant is expected to open in fall 2026. - Policies described: ID checks for all alcohol purchases, refusal of Maryland vertical underage licenses, 100% alcohol awareness training for staff, and purchases from licensed wholesalers/distributors. - Proposed hours: Monday–Thursday 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–12 a.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Entertainment would be live background dinner music (typically one or two guitar players) in the bar area, usually Friday and Saturday, sometimes Thursday evenings. - The location has outdoor patio seating; the applicants will return in spring 2026 to request outdoor licensing. - Ms. Cunningham, the resident licensee, stated her tip certification is current and she will visit about twice a month. - The board approved the license unanimously, contingent on receipt of the use and occupancy (UNO) and health permits, with approval extended to June 2026. New License Application — Waldorf Eatery LLC trading as Expectation Waldorf (Class B RB) - Mr. Desai and Ethan Martinez, trading as Waldorf Eatery LLC, applied for a new Class B RB restaurant bar license (beer, wine, and liquor on sale) at 4574 Fairway Village Place, Waldorf, MD 20602, in the same shopping center as Farmhouse Waldorf. - Mr. Desai testified he operates four Expectation restaurants in Maryland, has been in the restaurant business since 2018, and involved with alcohol since 2008. He described Expectation as a Canadian franchise offering all-day breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner in a casual yet upscale bar-and-grill setting. - Approximately 40–45 employees will be hired initially. All managers, servers, and bar staff will be alcohol awareness certified before serving, and daily shift meetings will address ID checks. Desai plans to be at the location at least four days per week initially. - Proposed hours: Monday–Sunday, 7 a.m.–9 p.m. The live entertainment request was withdrawn. - The restaurant has outdoor seating; the applicants will return in spring for outdoor licensing. Opening is expected around April 2026, with the general manager training at another location for 3–4 months and staff receiving 3 weeks of training. - Ms. Simmons confirmed the applicants reported no alcohol-related issues at their four other establishments. - The board approved the license unanimously, contingent on receipt of the UNO and health permits, with approval extended to May 2026. New License Application — Coast and Sole Connection LLC (Class D) - Walter Dyson III, trading as Coast and Sole Connection LLC, applied for a new Class D beer/wine on-and-off sale and liquor off-sale license at 3330 Livingston Road, Indian Head, MD 20640, the former Walton's location that has operated for about 90 years. - Mr. Dyson testified he has at least 25 years in the food and beverage industry and described the concept as continuing Walton's legacy with a new generation spin, keeping eat-in/take-away food and alcohol service for the Bryan's Road/Pomonkey community. - Dyson will be on site every day and plans to hire about two employees, with alcohol awareness certification required for anyone handling alcohol. Hours: closed Monday–Tuesday; Wednesday–Saturday 10 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.–8 p.m. - He estimated roughly 90 days to obtain permits, while his attorney noted some new county requirements (e.g., parking) may apply. Dyson confirmed his permanent address is in La Plata after a board member noted three addresses in the application. - The board approved the license unanimously, contingent on receipt of the UNO and health permits, extended to March 2026. - Following the vote, the board declared the prior license held in abatement by IMO International Inc. (the previous Walton's license holder) terminated, after the board attorney confirmed the license expired following the October Liquor Board hearing. Temporary Outdoor Service — Jones Seafood LLC trading as Bubbles Place - Jason Jones requested a temporary defined outside area for oyster scalds one or two weekends per month from November 15, 2025 through April 30, 2026, at 15486 Rock Point Road, Newburg, MD. A notification of changed hours listed Sunday 7 a.m.–2 p.m., Monday–Tuesday 5:30 a.m.–2 p.m., and Wednesday–Saturday 5:30 a.m.–6 p.m.; Jones clarified by email that the business is closed on Sundays during winter hours. - Board member Ms. Jones endorsed the oyster scalds as well-run and popular, noting the area is fully fenced, parking is separate, and the site is cleaned up afterward. Only oysters (and sometimes crab cakes or shrimp) are served outside; food from inside must be carried out by customers. - The board approved the request by amended motion, waiving the exception prohibiting beer service outside so beer may be consumed within the fenced area. The initial motion said November through January but was corrected to run through April 30, 2026. Conditions: fencing must remain up, everyone must stay inside the fencing, and no alcohol may be consumed outside the fenced area. Notifications and Discussion — Sichuan Gardens and Pasha Lounge - Sichuan Gardens (11149 Mall Circle, Waldorf) notified the board of its reopening effective October 28, 2025. The board confirmed the establishment is free and clear with no additional county stipulations. - Pasha Lounge (Taskin and Joyce Curtis, Pasha Groups Inc., 3242 Old Washington Road, Waldorf) notified the board of new hours: Monday closed; Tuesday–Wednesday 10 a.m.–10 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m.–12 a.m.; Friday–Saturday 10 a.m.–2 a.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.–10 p.m. - The board discussed at length whether Pasha Lounge, which received its county liquor license in March 2025 and obtained a state tobacconist license in October 2025, violates the moratorium prohibiting liquor licenses for tobacconists (establishments deriving 70% or more of revenue from tobacco products and allowing indoor smoking). The moratorium runs through June 30, 2026. - The board attorney stated he had personally asked whether Pasha Lounge was a tobacconist before the license was issued and was told no. Master Corporal Bourgeois explained the state's position that the tobacco license was lawfully obtained and will not be revoked by the state; the county's concern is that a licensee cannot hold both licenses simultaneously. Bourgeois is also preparing an incident report, noting a fire at the establishment is under fire marshal investigation. - Board members debated a letter versus a show cause order. One board member expressed concern that "where there's smoke there's fire," while others argued a letter would establish intent on the record. The consensus was to send a letter requiring Pasha Lounge to appear before the board to clarify its status and next steps, with a timeframe to act; a show cause order would follow if the licensee fails to comply. - The board also discussed the lack of state–county checks on tobacco licensing. Bourgeois noted there are approximately 162 tobacco licenses in the county, state fees are rising from $25 to $300 and eventually $1,500, and he offered to check courthouse records and include tobacco license status in future board presentations. Seasonal Closing, Minutes, Inspections, and 2026 Meeting Dates - Captain Billy's Crab House Inc. (11495 Pope's Creek Road, Newburg, MD) notified the board of a seasonal closing from November 1, 2025 to April 3, 2026. - The board approved the minutes from the October 9, 2025 meeting. - Inspector Ms. Couples reported no issues in the October 2025 inspections but noted many alcohol awareness certifications will expire in 2026, and contact information has been provided to affected establishments. - The board approved the 2026 meeting dates. The January 8, 2026 regular date is unavailable, so the January meeting will be held January 15, 2026 in the Blue Room if available; one board member noted a travel conflict but confirmed a quorum exists. A separate discussion about providing laptops to board members was deferred. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): Farmhouse Waldorf LLC Class B BLX license with entertainment, contingent on UNO and health permits, extended to June 2026. - Approved (unanimous): Waldorf Eatery LLC (Expectation Waldorf) Class B RB license without entertainment, contingent on UNO and health permits, extended to May 2026. - Approved (unanimous): Coast and Sole Connection LLC Class D license, contingent on UNO and health permits, extended to March 2026. - Declared terminated (unanimous): IMO International Inc. liquor license previously held in abatement for the Walton's property. - Approved (unanimous, amended): Bubbles Place temporary outdoor service for oyster scalds through April 30, 2026, with a waiver allowing beer consumption within the fenced outdoor area. - Consensus: Send a letter to Pasha Lounge to appear before the board to resolve the tobacconist/alcohol license conflict, with a show cause order as a follow-up if needed. - Approved: October 9, 2025 meeting minutes; October 2025 inspection report; 2026 meeting dates (January 2026 meeting moved to January 15). - Scheduled: Liquor Outlet Waldorf LLC to return for its retail delivery update at the January 2026 meeting; Farmhouse Waldorf and Expectation Waldorf to return in spring 2026 for outdoor licensing requests.

The Charles County Pension Board met on November 13, 2025, at a time not specified in the transcript. The meeting was chaired by Devon (first name not given) and included board members Jay Dyer, Alexis Blackwell (by proxy), Wes Adams, Bill Jackson, Harry Matthew, Captain Dodge, and Krista (minute taker). Investment consultant Alton Pryor of Bolton, joined by Joe Stevens, presented the quarterly investment review as of September 30, 2025. The board also discussed the implementation phases of the previously approved asset allocation changes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve the minutes from the previous meeting was made, seconded, and passed unanimously without questions. Discussion Items - Quarterly Investment Review (Alton Pryor): - Economic backdrop: GDP growth continued; inflation at 3.1% (above Fed's 2% target); unemployment ticked to 4.3%; Bureau of Labor Statistics revised jobs data downward by over 900,000. Expectation of one more Fed rate cut in December 2025, with potential further cuts into 2026. - Capital markets: Third quarter 2025 was positive overall; international stocks (developed and emerging) led year‑to‑date; small caps rallied, partly driven by AI‑related companies; the “magnificent seven” large‑cap tech stocks (excluding Meta, Amazon, Microsoft) posted double‑digit returns. - Plan performance: Fund value reached $503 million (up from $466 million prior quarter). Quarterly return 4.3% (trailed policy benchmark); 12‑month return 9.84% (trailed 10.2% benchmark); 10‑year annualized return 8.62%, above the 7.25% discount rate. Contributions: $22 million from county, $6.7 million in benefits distributed, $65,000 in expenses. Funded ratio (GASB, as of July 1, 2024 data) was 79.99%, nearing 80%. - Manager commentary: - AB Large Cap Growth: Underperformed due to concentration in large‑cap growth stocks; no ownership of Apple or Tesla. Manager conviction maintained; context provided that the index has outperformed 95% of active managers. - American Funds EuroPacific Growth (international): Underperformed over the last three years; long‑term track record strong. Bolton has regular contact with Capital Group and is monitoring the fund. - T. Rowe Price Large Cap Value: Underperformed by 144 basis points for the quarter and 560 basis points for the trailing year (ending September 30, 2025). Manager trimming holdings and making new investments. Bolton recommended placing this fund on a watch list; the board agreed to monitor and expect an update at the next quarterly meeting. - Asset Allocation Implementation Phases: - Phase 1 transactions (previously approved and executed) aligned public market allocations and raised cash for private assets. - Phase 2 transactions (private equity/real estate) are awaiting legal documents for review by board member Wes Adams. The documents were expected within a week of the meeting. The board discussed whether a formal vote was needed; minutes from the prior meeting did not reflect a vote on phase 2. The committee decided to proceed by sending a detailed memo to board members explaining the recommended transactions. If questions arise, a special meeting (possibly virtual) will be called; otherwise, a vote may be conducted by written consent or at the next quarterly meeting in February 2026. The cash available for these commitments is $90 million. Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes of the previous meeting. - Placed the T. Rowe Price Large Cap Value fund on a watch list; Bolton will perform enhanced due diligence and report back at the next quarterly meeting. - Established a process for approving Phase 2 asset allocation transactions: Bolton will provide a memo describing the transactions; board members will review; if no objections, the items will be advanced; if significant questions arise, a special meeting will be called. - No new business was introduced. - Motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and carried unanimously.

The Charles County Pension Plan Committee met on November 6, 2025 to discuss the quarterly investment review and consider two proposed amendments to the pension plan. The committee approved previous meeting minutes, reviewed a positive portfolio performance, and voted to study an early retirement enhancement for non-public safety participants. A second proposal for service credit purchase was also advanced to a subcommittee for parameter development. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Quarterly Investment Review - Lazaro Buseman, from the investment advisor, presented a market overview noting significant volatility in early 2025 due to tariffs, a quick recovery, and year-to-date S&P 500 returns of approximately 18% prior to early November. The Federal Reserve cut rates in September and October. - Total portfolio ended the quarter at approximately $375 million, up 4.2% net of fees for the quarter. One-year return was 10%, three-year 13.8%, five-year 8.5%, and ten-year 8.2%, all exceeding the long-term target of 7.05%. - Current asset allocation is 55% equity, 5% real estate, 40% fixed income, no rebalancing needed. - Discussed manager performance: Ivy fund on formal watch list due to underperformance from not owning certain high-flying stocks like Palantir. Small-cap managers lagged in the quarter. International manager performed strongly. - Wes Adams asked about the process for replacing underperforming managers. The advisor explained they typically watch for 6–12 months and have a short list ready. Plan Amendment Discussions Proposal 1: Early Retirement Without Penalty for 31+ Years - Trisha Tufle, an employee with over 32 years of service, requested that employees with 31 or more years of service be allowed to retire without the early retirement penalty (currently 3% per year before age 60). She noted that such employees no longer contribute to the plan. - The committee discussed options including a "rule of85" (age + service years ≥85) or "rule of 90". David Papilardo, plan actuary, estimated a rule of 85 would affect roughly 30 individuals. - The committee directed Papillardo to study the cost of rule of 85, 87, and 90, and the impact of requiring continued 4% contributions past 31 years. Study cost estimated at $10,000–$20,000. - Vote: Motion to authorize the study for non-public safety participants passed unanimously. Proposal 2: Purchase Up to 3 Years of Public Service Credit - Wes Adams proposed allowing vested employees to purchase up to 3 years of previous public service credit at cost-neutral terms (employee pays both shares). This would help workers unable to port pensions from prior employers. - Parameters discussed: only for non-public safety, must be prior public service, must already be vested. Purchase would use benefit multiplier at time of purchase. Employee may use funds from a 457 plan. - The committee decided to form a subcommittee (Dan, Jake, Kathy) to develop specific parameters, then circulate for email vote (open meeting). Wes Adams will be recused from that vote. - Action: Motion to authorize subcommittee to develop parameters passed (Adams recused). Other Business - Joyice Smith raised the possibility of a COLA enhancement for retirees similar to one being considered for the Sherif’s Office plan. Jake Dyer argued against enhancing benefits for former employees. No action taken. Key Outcomes - Approved previous meeting minutes. - Authorized study of early retirement enhancement (rule of85, etc.) for non-public safety employees. - Authorized subcommittee to develop parameters for service purchase provision. - No action on retiree COLA.

The Charles County Animal Matters Hearing Board convened on November 4, 2025, to hear nine cases involving alleged animal control violations, including unlicensed breeding, dangerous/vicious animal determinations, and a barking dog complaint. The board reviewed evidence, heard sworn testimony from animal control officers and witnesses, and issued fines and orders. The meeting was recorded; all board decisions are final subject to Circuit Court review. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Case Hearings Citation 7485 – Animal Control v. Lionel Walter Dade Jr. - Officer Amanda Brown testified that on September 23, 2025, during a search warrant execution at 9935 Bunker Hill Road, she observed seven adult canines and three puppies. Owner Lionel Dade stated that his adult female Pit bull-type dog, Dior, had whelped a litter about seven weeks earlier. Dade had been previously advised in February 2025 of breeder license requirements. Brown provided license applications and free rabies clinic information; Dade had not applied for a breeder license. - The board found Dade in violation of §230-10A (individual license, $50), §230-10C (commercial animal establishment breeding license, $250), and §230-9A (rabies, $150), for a total of $450. The case was referred to the State's Attorney for failure to appear. Citation 7490 – Animal Control v. James C. Boykin - Officer testimony described multiple complaints from the Charles County Animal Care Center about the Boykins repeatedly dropping off and reclaiming puppies, suggesting unlicensed breeding. On July 28, 2025, Erica Boykin refused access to the dogs; James Boykin later admitted owning three male and five female adult Pit bull-type canines in a breeding program. He was given 30 days to obtain a license but had not applied, stating he planned to continue breeding. - The Boykins denied breeding and presented a rabies certificate for one dog, Smoky. Animal control noted hearing puppies and documented shelter records of puppies cycling through the shelter. - The board found James Boykin not in violation of §230-10C (breeding license) but in violation of §230-9A for failing to provide proof of rabies vaccination, with a $250 fine. The vote was 3-1, with one dissenting board member. Citations 7488 & 7489 – Animal Control v. Jericho Sage Shorba - Officer Amanda Brown testified that on October 6, 2025, she investigated the October 4 killing of a cat owned by Robin Dressler at 7048 Oakland Drive. The cat's owner testified that two canines, later identified as Sage (husky-type female) and Turbo (shepherd-type male), chased her 16-year-old cat into the woods; the cat was found dead the next morning. - Shorba admitted her dogs had escaped through fence gaps, said she had since patched the fence and used a temporary fence, and provided proof of current county licenses for both dogs. - The board declared both Sage and Turbo potentially dangerous. For each, it imposed $50 for animal at large (§230-12) and $250 for potentially dangerous (§230-12.5), with a $0 fine on individual license (§230-10A). Of the $300 total per dog, $200 was held in abeyance for six months, making the immediate fine $100 per dog. All abatements except euthanasia (F) were ordered. Discussion noted concern that the fine was low for killing a cat. Citation 7510 – Animal Control v. Kevin L. Reader - Officer Myra Taman testified that on October 15, 2025, she responded to 303 Harvard Court, Waldorf, where a Cane Corso-type dog, Rocco, had jumped a fence and chased Susan Travers and her small dog. Video evidence showed the dog entering the yard on October 8 and 15. - Travers testified that this was the third breach; she was recovering from an accident and feared for her service dog. - Reader stated he did not know the dog had escaped, showed a new county license issued November 3, 2025, and said he was installing permanent fencing. He produced rabies certificates but they did not specify the animal. - The board found Reader not in violation of §230-10A (license) and §230-9A (rabies) with $0 fines, but in violation of §230-12 (animal at large) with a $50 fine and §230-12.5 with a $300 fine, the entire $300 held in abeyance for one year. Rocco was declared potentially dangerous, with all abatements except F. Citations 7532, 7533, 7534 – Animal Control v. David Anthony Downing - Officer Cheyenne Bureau testified that on October 22, 2025, three unleashed Pit bull-type dogs killed a 13-pound Shih Tzu, LJ, owned by Mural Good, near her home at 3039 October Place, Waldorf. One dog, Quay, was still at large on arrival and was captured with a net. The three dogs, Quay, Money, and King, were impounded. Each citation alleged individual license, running at large, rabies vaccination, and dangerous/vicious. - Mural Good, the victim's owner, gave emotional testimony describing the attack and the death of her 10-year-old companion. She said the owner told her he could only control one dog at a time. - Downing admitted the dogs were unleashed, apologized, and acknowledged negligence. He stated he intended to surrender all three dogs for euthanasia. The board held a closed session for legal advice. Upon return, Downing signed owner surrender paperwork for all three dogs (profile numbers 35501, 35502, 35503). - The board then voted unanimously to dismiss all three citations because the dogs had been surrendered. The dogs were to be euthanized. Citations 7535 & 7537 – Animal Control v. Sontria Lamira Burns - Officer Maggie Hayes testified that on October 21, 2025, she found about 15 dead chickens at 7066 Strawberry Drive, Bryansford, with two Pit bull-type dogs, Star (adult female) and Switch (juvenile), nearby. Both were impounded. Burns later claimed ownership and was issued citations for both dogs: individual license, running at large, rabies, and dangerous/vicious. - Burns testified she was not home when the dog opened the door; she has since added an automatic lock and reinforced the fence. She said Star was not dangerous and had rabies but no license. She chose to surrender Switch for humane euthanasia and reclaim Star. - For Star, the board found violations of §230-10A ($50), §230-12 ($50), §230-9A ($0), and §230-12.5 ($150), total $250, all held in abeyance for three months. Star was declared potentially dangerous, all abatements except F ordered, and Burns must pay the $290 reclaim fee by noon the next day. - For Switch, the board dismissed citation 7537 because the dog had been surrendered. Citations 7539 & 7540 – Animal Control v. James Thomas Green - Officer testimony and witness Stacy Selinski described an October 29, 2025, incident where two dogs, Brutus (Cane Corso-type) and Rabbit (terrier mix), attacked her poultry, injuring a goose and killing two chickens. Selinski climbed onto her car for safety until animal control arrived. - Green stated his daughter took the dogs out and they ran off. He had a license for Brutus but not Rabbit; he said Brutus had rabies vaccinations but he could not find the paperwork. - The board found both dogs potentially dangerous. For each dog, it imposed $50 (license), $50 (animal at large), $150 (rabies), and $150 (dangerous/vicious), totaling $400, with $300 held in abeyance for four months. Each citation required a $170 reclaim fee. All abatements except F were ordered. Citation 7551 – Animal Control v. Ruth Gaiman Hepler - Officer testimony concerned an October 22, 2025, attack in which Misty, a female Labrador cross owned by Ruth Gaiman Hepler, crossed the street and bit neighbor Don Murphy Marshall's dog, Emma, on Emma's own property. Emma was injured and treated by a vet. - Murphy Marshall testified she saw the neighbor dog exiting her yard; her dog required emergency care. - Gaiman Hepler and her husband testified that Misty had never done this before, and they obtained an electronic fence and a county license after the incident. - The board found not in violation on the license charge (§230-10A, $0), but in violation of animal at large (§230-12, $50) and potentially dangerous (§230-12.5, $50), total $100, no abeyance. Misty was declared potentially dangerous, with all abatements except F. File 25-17 – Lockerman v. Hunt & Maurer - Complainant Michael Lockerman testified that his neighbors' dog, Willow, had barked excessively for over three years, disturbing his use of his yard and his wife's sleep, despite anti-bark collars. He said the situation had improved since the hearing was filed. - Respondent Marsha Maurer said Willow came to them in June 2022 as a 7½-year-old barking dog. She described using bark collars (beep/vibrate only, never shock) but removing them due to neck sores. She said the dogs are now more closely managed and signs around the house remind them to remove collars. - The board found respondent Hunt in violation of §12.4.8.6 (barking/noise nuisance) and imposed a $50 fine. Key Outcomes - The board issued fines ranging from $50 to $450, with several fines fully or partially held in abeyance pending compliance. - Citations 7532, 7533, 7534, and 7537 were dismissed after the dogs were surrendered to the Charles County Animal Care Center. - Citation 7490's breeding license charge was dismissed; only the rabies violation fine remained. - Dogs declared potentially dangerous (Shorba's two dogs, Reader's Rocco, Burns' Star, Green's Brutus and Rabbit, and Hepler's Misty) must comply with all abatement requirements except euthanasia, and are subject to Animal Control inspections. - The board held a closed session with legal counsel during the Downing case. - The meeting adjourned after all cases were heard.

The Charles County Board of County Commissioners met November 4, 2025, for a session that included proclamations, recognitions, approval items, retirement-plan briefings, and public comment. No agenda or minutes were provided, so this summary relies on the transcript. A quorum was present. Among the highlights, the county announced its AAA bond rating from all three major agencies. Proclamations and Recognitions - Six November proclamations were issued: National Native American Heritage Month; National Hospice, Palliative and Home Care Month; National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week (Nov 2-8); Military Family Appreciation Month and Veterans Day (Nov 11); Adoption Awareness Month; Shop Small Business Saturday (Nov 29); and National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week (Nov 16-22). - For Native American Heritage Month, a tribal representative thanked the board and conveyed regrets from Tribal Chair Francis Gray, noting the Piscataway Indians' continued presence in Southern Maryland. - Hospice of the Chesapeake said it was caring for more than 100 Charles County residents and that its inpatient center was full with 7 patients; the proclamation noted that more than 5 million Americans receive hospice/palliative/home care annually and that over 1,000 county professionals provide such care. - The Animal Care Center asked residents to volunteer, saying the shelter needs help placing animals. - Adoption Awareness Month speakers asked residents to consider becoming resource parents; county statistics cited included two successful transfers of custody/guardianship, two interstate compact transfers, and three ICPC adoptions. - Shop Small Business Saturday speakers encouraged residents to shop local; the county has more than 2,400 small businesses employing more than 34,000 people with annual payrolls over $1.28 billion. - Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week speakers noted 350 people were on the shelter waiting list in Southern Maryland and asked residents to support food pantries. - The board recognized Dr. Brahami's donation of Waldorf land for an emergency services tower and recognized employee length-of-service and quarterly top performers. The second-quarter team's in-house St. Francis Well automation upgrade saved approximately $100,000; third-quarter top performer Kimberly Wagner was recognized for a low-income water distribution station and the Nanjemoy Law Day event. - The County Administrator announced that all three rating agencies - Fitch, Moody's, and Standard & Poor's - had awarded the county a AAA rating; officials credited conservative budgeting, debt paydown, and multi-year fiscal policy. Board Announcements - Commissioner Collins read a statement on the federal shutdown, saying the county and partners were mobilizing resources and noting that Governor Moore signed an executive order releasing $62 million from the state's Fiscal Responsibility Fund to ensure full November SNAP benefits for Marylanders. - The next regular board sessions were scheduled for November 18-19, 2025. Consent Calendar - Approved the October 28, 2025 board meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote. Approval Items - Approved Charles County Public Schools' FY 2026 intercategory budget transfer of $1.5 million. CFO Karen Acton explained the transfer included about $300,000 in administration, including reinstatement of $254,000 and a $46,000 replacement vehicle, plus $54,000 for St. Charles High School relocatable furniture, offset by reductions in instructional supplies, student health services, community services, and other categories. - Approved Phoenix International School of the Arts' FY 2026 intercategory budget transfer of $1.2 million as a realignment caused by budget-submission timing; officials said there was no change in the school's total budget plan. - Approved Change Order No. 7 for St. Charles Well No. 16 (ITB 18-41), including a credit memo of $480,576.50 and a $240,000 adder for electrical/instrumentation improvements and demolition of an old shed/chemical tank, resulting in a final contract amount of $1,329,960. Briefings - SORP investment review: The Sheriff's Office Retirement Plan was valued at just over $466 million on June 30, 2025, and topped $500 million by September 30. The plan returned 6.14% in the second quarter and 9.76% over the trailing year, slightly trailing policy benchmarks; the 12-month return exceeded the 7.2% discount rate. Quarterly contributions were about $1.1 million and distributions $4.6 million. - SORP actuarial review: The FY 2026 actuarially determined contribution was $21.4 million (40% of payroll), up from $20.5 million (40.2%) in the prior valuation. Active membership stood at 465 versus 472; average pay increases and total payroll growth exceeded assumptions. GASB 68 funded status was 79.99%, just below 80%. - OPEB review: The Other Post-Employment Benefits trust was valued at $56.7 million on June 30, 2025 and $60.3 million on September 30. It returned about 9% in the second quarter and 13.4% for the trailing year, trailing its benchmark over 12 months. The trust remains 75% equities/25% fixed income, reflecting a longer-term investment horizon. - Charles County Pension Plan: The FY 2026 actuarially determined contribution was just under $9.1 million, about $1.5 million higher than the prior year. Drivers included about 150 new hires, salary increases of 8% versus a 4% assumption, retiree COLA of 3.1% versus a 2.5% assumption, smoothed investment returns of about 6.4% versus a 7.05% assumption, and benefit-improvement costs of $92,000 for health/safety and animal control officers. The presenter described the plan as healthy, with a funded ratio around 95% and a low-default-risk funded status of about 85% using a 5.36% discount rate, showing a roughly $57 million shortfall. Public Comments & Testimony - David Heidelbach of Charlotte Hall expressed concern about the county's water supply timeline and costs. He said the MDE 80% groundwater rule was being treated as arbitrary, cited an MDE report to the General Assembly, and compared presentations from October 2024 and October 2025: Waldorf was projected to exceed capacity by 2030, design and construction dates for water infrastructure slipped by about a year, and the WSSC interconnection cost rose from $59.1 million to $90.4 million. He urged commissioners to ask questions about the schedule and price increases. - Joseph Menck of District 4 praised the AAA rating and county parks, expressed support for term limits, said he was undecided on data centers, and asked the board to examine Loudoun County's experience with data centers and consider environmental and energy-rate impacts. He also called for more equitable affordable housing and discussed state delegate attendance pay. - Angela Parker, speaking virtually as a District 2 resident, said the Supreme Court of Maryland declined to take up Ms. Coates's writ of certiorari, leaving in place a permanent injunction against Ms. Coates voting on the county administrator's employment contract. Parker alleged a hostile work environment and illegal actions toward the county administrator and about 17 other employees, said the second investigation report has not been released, and requested a public accounting of taxpayer funds spent on legal fees and any recovery plans. She also raised flooding at new homes in Bryans Road-area developments, a court challenge to a spot-zoning approval for Master's Child Church in Indian Head, and requested research on data-center impacts in neighboring counties. - Commissioners responded by thanking speakers, committing to ask staff follow-up water questions, noting a tour of flooded areas in Bryans Road, and saying data-center research would be shared. One commissioner said the November 18 agenda would include a presentation on legal fees accumulated to date. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved the October 28 minutes, the two school board intercategory transfers, and Change Order No. 7. - The county announced it had achieved AAA ratings from Fitch, Moody's, and Standard & Poor's. - The board reached consensus to include Operation Greenlight as an annual recognition and to light county government buildings green from November 4-11 to honor veterans; the county administrator was directed to implement it. - The scheduled closed session was rescheduled, and the meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.