Public Meetings - Charles County, Maryland

The Charles County Planning Commission convened on October 19, 2026, with all members present. The central agenda item was a work session and vote on Docket 8A, a proposal to delegate certain minor architectural and use approvals from the St. Charles Plan Design Review Board (PDRB) to county planning staff, aimed at reducing delays for homeowners and small businesses. Consent Calendar - Roll call was taken. Present: Kevin Wettding, Denard Earl, Jeffrey Bossert, Samaya Hackett, Ryan Sekretarsky, Britt Toku. - The agenda was approved. - Minutes of September 21, 2026, were approved (Commissioner Earl recused). - Minutes of October 5, 2026, were approved (Commissioner Chow recused due to absence). Public Comments & Testimony - Staff recounted public testimony from the prior hearing on this item. They reported that opposition was primarily based on a conflation of the proposal with data center development. Staff explicitly and repeatedly stated that this delegation has no bearing on data center approvals. - Staff noted that supporters of the request acknowledged it would streamline an inefficient process for basic homeowner items (fences, decks, sheds) and small business openings, who currently face lengthy PDRB delays. Discussion Items - Docket 90 Designation Delegation: Jason Groth (Planning Director), Kathy Reisinger (Deputy Director), and Steve Scott (Attorney for St. Charles) presented the narrowly-scoped request. The delegation applies only to: residential projects after initial certificate of occupancy; commercial changes in ownership or tenant without a change in use; and temporary commercial sign permits. It does not affect new construction, exterior renovations, use changes, or growth rates. A final draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) detailing roles and responsibilities was included in the meeting materials. - Planning Commission Role and Transparency: Commissioner Jeffrey Bossert raised concerns that the Planning Commission could be placed in a difficult position if it only sees major projects at the site development plan stage. He advocated for earlier notification and more frequent reviews of St. Charles master plans. Staff responded that the standard process for all zones is to review site plans, and the significant pre-development costs (e.g., $100,000 to $500,000 for utility studies for a data center) typically ensure developers conduct thorough due diligence and community outreach before reaching that stage. - Staff Capacity: Commissioner Samaya Hackett questioned whether county staff had sufficient resources to handle the new approvals without creating new delays. Staff confirmed the workload would not increase—the same applications would simply bypass the PDRB step, potentially reducing current wait times of up to four months for simple permits like decks and sheds. - Stakeholder Engagement: The Chairperson recommended that St. Charles representatives schedule a formal update briefing for the Planning Commission, a practice that has not occurred recently. Key Outcomes - Motion Approved: The Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the delegation of authority for the defined minor items to the county. - Memorandum of Understanding: The approval is contingent on the execution of a formal MOU, with an indefinite term and termination provisions, to be signed by the President of the County Commissioners and St. Charles Community LLC. - Action Items: Staff committed to exploring ways to provide the Planning Commission with earlier notice of significant commercial or industrial development in the PUD. The St. Charles team agreed to present a community status update to the Commission. The meeting adjourned at 7:00 PM.

The Charles County Board of Fire Rescue Commissioners met on October 15, 2026, with Chairman Lynn Gilroy presiding. Attendees included Vice Chairman Bill Deere, county commissioner representatives Robert Ansel and Quincy Colby (online), and governor's appointee Natasha Super Perry (online). The board approved routine items, heard fiscal and apparatus updates, tabled several Newburgh capital requests, approved the Newburgh Engine 143 replacement, approved 2027 distribution budgets, and authorized an early LOSAP transfer. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - The September 17, 2026 meeting minutes were approved by voice vote. - The LOSAP investment report for September 2026 was received. Total funds were $24,940,534.48 at the end of September, a decrease of $737,649.40 from August. Wilmington Trust expenses totaled $101,660, with $1,475.50 in deposits; the change in value was -$99,785.69. Projections indicate a need to transfer funds into the disbursement account, and a future agenda item will address LOSAP distribution changes. - Monthly expenditures and escrow account activity for September 2026 were accepted as letters of information, including pre-approved quarters, Verizon/MDT, vehicle fuel, uniforms, and special operations equipment expenses approved by the fire and EMS executive committees. - Final closeout reports were received for Westlake Volunteer Fire & EMS Department EMS Utility 12 (final cost $81,131.49, $34.31 under the approved $81,165.80) and Fire Utility 12 (final cost $87,231.49, $1,144.34 under the approved $88,375.83). - Quarterly updates were received for replacement Ambulance 518 (chassis delivered to Horton; possible November delivery), Cobb Island Ambulance 68 (waiting to begin production), Cobb Island Fire Rescue Boat 6 (scheduled for December 2026 delivery, but possible delay due to government contracts), and the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department roof replacement (work began October 5, with rooftop AC units removed and reinstalled by the AC contractor). In addition, Cobb Island advised that it was awarded a DNR grant to replace inflatable boat 6A and will bring a request next month. Reports and Announcements - Westlake Volunteer Fire & EMS Department reported that JAG Construction will not complete the remaining renovation work at Station 12. The department has retained counsel (Rudolph Carico) to document the work status, reconcile payments, preserve records, and determine how to complete the project. No board action was requested. - Fire/EMS Coordinator Bill Smith announced passings of charter member and past chief Bird Raby (Company 7) and Life Member Thomas Mole Killum (Company 1), and thanked departments for Fire Prevention Week participation. He noted the FEMA recruitment/retention grant has $25,000 available for the next quarter and ends December 2027, with plans to reapply. Legislation removing the salary/income cap for the volunteer property tax incentive has been sent to Annapolis. The cadet program has 22 cadets, with 12 enrolled in EMT. The EMS Association UTV/trailer was purchased, and the Safety 17 vehicle was procured from Westlake. Discussion and Action Items - A previously submitted letter of intent for an HVAC project was withdrawn by the Hughesville department; no further action was taken. - Hughesville Volunteer Fire & Rescue Squad's request to replace three EMS bay doors (Garage Doors and More LLC bid $48,300 vs. Overhead Door of Washington, D.C. bid $87,088; over $4,000 spent on maintenance this year) was tabled until next month. Board members asked for a corrected letter clarifying that funding is EMS-only and documenting approval by the department's business meeting. - Newburgh Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department's HVAC replacement request was tabled until next month. Bids ranged from $344,991 to $500,492.92. The board requested an amended letter identifying the funding source and noting the one-year free maintenance included in the contract. - Newburgh's B UTV 14 replacement request was tabled until next month. The selected package totals $50,422.39 (2026 CANAM Defender from Atlantic Cycle and Power for $35,154; Chemtech skid unit for $7,668.39; $4,000 in-house install; $7,600 trailer). - Newburgh's Engine 143 replacement was approved, including a waiver of the 30-day layover period. The 2030 Pierce Enforcer through Atlantic Emergency Solutions is estimated at $1,259,580; the department will make a $500,000 prepayment to take advantage of a vendor savings program and finance the remainder. The layover waiver was needed to lock in pricing before a November 1, 2026 price increase. - The 2027 EMS distribution budget and 2027 fire distribution budget, both previously tabled, were untabled and approved by voice votes. Distribution will begin next month. - The board approved transferring $1,149,387 in budgeted LOSAP funds early to the Wilmington Trust account so benefit payments can continue without reducing the investment portfolio. - The Capital Acquisition Submission Approval Policy amendments were tabled until the executive committee approves them. Proposed changes include a 12-month letter-of-intent validity, removal of the required 30-day tabling period, a simple-majority vote for emergency purchases, and an increase in the large-purchase reporting threshold from $50,000 to $75,000. - The Capital Projects Report was presented for information, with several items still under investigation, including donated vehicles from the Charles County Sheriff's Office, Dentsville EMS Fire Auxiliary building, Hughesville outbuilding, and 10th District Vehicle 8 replacement. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes, LOSAP-related routine reports, and final closeouts. - Tabled Hughesville bay doors, Newburgh HVAC, and Newburgh UTV 14 pending amended letters or further review. - Approved Newburgh Engine 143 replacement and 30-day layover waiver. - Approved 2027 EMS and fire distribution budgets. - Approved early LOSAP transfer of $1,149,387. - Tabled Capital Acquisition Submission Approval Policy amendments. - Noted that Company 10 (Bel Alton) had not yet submitted financials and may not receive its distribution if not completed.

The Charles County Board of Appeals, a quasi-judicial board appointed by the county commissioners, met virtually on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, to handle routine approvals and adopt decisions. Attendees included Chair Albud Bud Humber, Janet Ever Walker, Timothy Trainer, alternate George Grindel, and attorney Brown; Damian Chasada was absent. No public comments were offered. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda for October 13, 2026. - The board unanimously approved the meeting minutes from August 25, 2026, covering the boarding house matter and the reconsideration of River's Edge. Discussion Items - Attorney Brown advised that a formal vote was not necessary to adopt the proposed 2027 business calendar because the listed dates are proposed hearing dates; board members acknowledged the calendar without voting on it. - The clerk announced that the next meeting is scheduled for November 10, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., currently with one case, and is expected to be held in person in the blue room. Board member Watkins indicated he would be out of town and unable to attend. Key Outcomes - The board adopted the decision and order for Docket 1488, the boarding house case. Alternate George Grindel asked whether he could vote because he had not been part of the decision; the chair ruled that he could not, and the motion carried with no opposition from the eligible voting members. - The board adopted the reconsideration of the River's Edge decision and order by voice vote with no opposition. - The board adjourned after completing its business.

The Charles County Liquor Board met on October 8, 2026, to consider license applications, a violation hearing, administrative matters, and seasonal closures. All votes were unanimous. License Applications and Transfers - Butler's Enhancement: Approved a one-day temporary Class C Beer and Liquor license for Saturday, October 31, 2026, from noon to 6 p.m. at 3835 Gardner Road, Waldorf, with fewer than 300 attendees. The application was amended to reflect two prior licenses issued in September 2026. - Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews: Approved the transfer of the Class B BLX license from Red Robin of Charles County Inc. to OP Burgers MD LLC (Opportunity Restaurant Group), represented by Leanne Shreckengoss. Timothy Furr, CEO with 28 years of hospitality experience, will oversee the location. The restaurant has 48 employees (20 involved in alcohol sales), and all policies remain unchanged. The board requested documentation for the 89% license holder and a date-of-birth correction. - Selby's Grab and Go: Approved a new Class B RB restaurant bar license with entertainment for 5005 St. Matthew's Drive, Waldorf. Karen Selby testified that the fast-casual soul food restaurant (open since 2023) will serve alcohol in the dining area only. Entertainment will include karaoke, DJ, and live saxophone. The restaurant has 10 employees, with three TIPS-certified staff. The license is expected to be used starting early November 2026. - Tacaria Rod Tissari L Ray 2 LLC: Granted an extension until February 10, 2027, to obtain health department permits and a U&O for a new restaurant at 2140 Old Washington Road, Waldorf. Architect Ron Lytton estimated four months to complete approvals. - Patels' transfer of Class A license: Rescheduled to the November 2026 hearing. - Greens Wine and Spirit retail delivery application: Rescheduled to the November 2026 meeting. Violation Hearing - Bryant Town Store: Found in violation of ABC Article 18-203 and BOLC Rule 6.119 for selling alcohol before 6 a.m. on May 21, 2026 (receipt timestamped 5:53 a.m.). The store routinely opened at 5:30 a.m., and alcohol was accessible to the public. The licensee admitted the violation, dismissed the employee, and changed opening hours to 6 a.m. The board imposed a $250 fine. License Expiration and Surrender - Caribbean Fire LLC: Acknowledged that the license for Caribbean Fire Restaurant expired by operation of law after being closed for 10 consecutive days (September 11–21, 2026). Alcohol enforcement confirmed the closure; furniture had been removed. - Los Primo Inc. (Sauselitas Grill): Accepted voluntary surrender of the license for 234 Roswick Road, La Plata, due to an unexpected closure caused by a landlord issue. The restaurant will not reopen at that location. Administrative Matters - Seasonal closures: Grinders Seafood at 4665 Indian Head Highway will close effective November 8, 2026, and reopen April 22, 2027. Captain Billy's Crab House at 11495 Popes Creek Road will close November 3, 2026. - L2Ken Mexican Grill: Noted a shareholder transfer from Angelino Diaz to Marie Marichio Diaz, with no change to the license. - Inspection reports: Discussed August and September 2026 inspections; minor clerical errors were identified (e.g., duplicate inspection for Ollie's Barn Grill 2 and Applebee's). - Minutes: Approved the minutes of September 10, 2026, with a correction to include attorney Miss Mitchell. Key Outcomes - All motions passed unanimously. - Bryant Town Store fined $250. - Caribbean Fire and Sauselitas Grill licenses were terminated (expiration and surrender). - Extensions and approvals granted as detailed above.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided. Therefore, no discussion items, public comments, or decisions can be summarized.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners convened on October 6, 2026, at 4:00 AM UTC (local morning) for a meeting that was limited to proclamations only, as a quorum was not present. No regular business or votes were conducted. The meeting concluded with a recess until approximately 3:00 PM that afternoon. Proclamations & Recognitions The following proclamations were read and presented to representatives of various community organizations. Each proclamation was accepted by speakers who expressed support for the respective causes. - National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (Proclamation 2026-73): Recognized October 2026 as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, marking the 35th anniversary of the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. A representative from Sisters at Heart spoke, noting 30 and 15 years of survivorship among those present, and emphasized raising funds to help women and men in the county who lack sufficient funds for care. - World Mental Health Day (Proclamation 2026-83): Recognized October 10, 2026 as World Mental Health Day. Jean Vuana Evans, executive director and co-founder of Psych Fit Behavioral Health, expressed support for spreading awareness, stating mental health impacts every aspect of life. Caprice James, chair of the Charles County Commission for Women, spoke in support of making mental health a priority and destigmatizing seeking support. Jessica Palo from the local behavioral health authority stated that "nobody should have to struggle in silence." - Child Health Month (Proclamation 2026-75): Proclaimed October 2026 as Child Health Month. Dr. Robert Evans III of Psych Fit Behavioral Health expressed support for partnering with the community to support children and families. A representative from the Charles County Department of Health highlighted programs such as Babies Born Healthy, lead screening, and Building Healthy Families. Dr. Gallosa from Make It Possible LSC expressed support for children's mental health, especially for families with children on the autism spectrum. - International Day of the Girl (Proclamation 2026-84): Recognized International Day of the Girl with the theme "End child marriage and invest in girls' rights." Caprice James announced that the Charles County Commission for Women has requested to expand its name to include girls, becoming the Commission for Women and Girls. She also announced that a delegation of eight girls from the community will attend the United Nations Girls Speak Out event in New York on the upcoming Friday. Sineva Lewis, one of the delegates, expressed support for speaking up for young women who may not feel heard. Lisa Ambers, founder of Beyond the Classroom, spoke about mentoring over 200 girls in grades 3–5 across Charles County. - National Bullying Prevention Month (Proclamation 2026-76): Recognized October as National Bullying Prevention Month. Oxa Sadiq from Beyond the Classroom thanked the commissioners and expressed support for spreading kindness and providing resources. - Domestic Violence Awareness Month (Proclamation 2026-71): Recognized Domestic Violence Awareness Month with the theme "With Survivors Always." The proclamation noted that one in four women and one in seven men have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner. - White Cane Awareness Day (Proclamation 2026-78): Proclaimed October 15, 2026 as White Cane Awareness Day. Debbie Brown, president of a local chapter and first vice president of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, expressed appreciation for the recognition and emphasized that blind citizens have work, business, and taxes to pay. - Economic Development Week in Maryland (Proclamation 2026-81): Proclaimed the week of September 28–October 2, 2026 as Economic Development Week. A representative from the Economic Development Department expressed support for the board's prioritization of economic development and promoted the annual fall meeting on November 10 at the College of Southern Maryland. - National Women's Small Business Month (Proclamation): Recognized October 2026 as National Women's Small Business Month. Carol Bush, owner of Shanghali Events, spoke in support of women entrepreneurs. Caprice James introduced several women business owners: Betty Mugara (Caribou Sante), April Simington (Greenlight Driving Academy), Aisha Rosenborough (The Here Center), and Melanie Oates (Melvin Tech), each expressing support for their businesses and community contributions. - National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (Proclamation 2026-72): Recognized October as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month with the theme "Don't Make It Easy for Them." - Fire Prevention Week (Proclamation 2026-77): Proclaimed October 4–10, 2026 as Fire Prevention Week with the theme "Charge into Fire Safety, Safe Charging is a Superpower." The proclamation noted that working smoke alarms reduce the risk of death by half in home fires. - First Responder Appreciation Day (Proclamation 2026-79): Proclaimed October 28, 2026 as First Responder Appreciation Day. A video was shown of a first responder operation (Sage Point evacuation). Commissioner expressed gratitude to first responders. Individual recognitions included: Sergeant Glenn Plater (La Plata Police Department), PFC Becca Cheney (La Plata Police Department), Sergeant Thomas Davis (MSP), Trooper First Class Ashley Sabcock (MSP), Trooper Reginald Wood (MSP), PO2 Bryce During (Charles County Sheriff's Department), Thomas Nash (Charles County Sheriff's Department), Thomas Lester Flint (Charles County Fire and EMS), and Mark Kaufman (Charles County Fire and EMS). The commissioner stated, "I saw this body camera... I want the public to see what you do every day." Key Outcomes - No formal votes, motions, or decisions were made due to lack of a quorum. The meeting consisted solely of the reading and acceptance of proclamations. - The meeting recessed until approximately 3:00 PM the same day.

The Board of Commissioners met on October 6, 2026, starting at 4:00 PM. Commissioner Collins was absent. The meeting included consent approvals, a presentation on police accountability recommendations, planning for the December 1st oath of office ceremony, and a public comment period covering data centers, HOA dispute fees, water supply, and other community concerns. Key votes included approval of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Resilience Authority and a sewer infrastructure agreement. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the September 29, 2026 meeting were approved by voice vote (motion by Commissioner Patterson, second by Commissioner Stewart). - Memorandum of Understanding with the Resilience Authority: Approved unanimously. The MOU establishes a partnership to implement a forest preservation program to earn credits toward the county's MS4 stormwater permit. Charles Rice (Planning Director) and Stacey Schaefer (Resilience Authority Executive Director) presented the program, noting that it complements existing land conservation efforts. - Sewer Infrastructure Improvement Agreement: Approved unanimously. Jason Groth (Director of Planning and Growth Management) explained that the agreement reimburses a developer for building excess sewer capacity in the Waldorf area, with the county recouping costs through system expansion fees. The developer will also preserve easements for a future sewer project. Public Comments & Testimony Public comments were heard from 7 in-person and 2 virtual speakers. Each speaker was limited to three minutes. Commissioners responded collectively after all comments. - Mark Smith (Charlotte Hall): Expressed support for addressing data center concerns but warned against overly broad definitions that could inadvertently restrict modern agriculture and small businesses. Urged the board to carefully define “data center” to avoid unintended consequences. - Deborah Hill (White Plains): Described the high cost ($927 total) of filing a complaint with the HOA Dispute Review Board, calling it a barrier for homeowners. She requested a fee reduction or a waiver process for legitimate claims, especially given delays in the board’s response. - Velma Longest (White Plains): Also spoke on HOA dispute fees, noting she filed a complaint and could afford it, but many homeowners cannot. She asked the commissioners to review the fee structure and consider income-based waivers or shifting costs to HOAs. - Alana Davis (District 3, leader of Charles County Against Data Centers Coalition): Criticized Governor Moore’s executive orders as insufficient and urged the board to introduce county legislation banning data centers. She stated that Commissioner Bowling had committed to introducing such a ban but has not done so, and asked him to follow through regardless of likely failure. - Trudy Bidot (La Plata): Representing the same coalition, she noted that Calvert County’s commissioners who opposed a moratorium were ousted in primaries, and St. Mary’s County commissioners have explicitly opposed data centers. She warned that voters will express their views at the polls on November 3rd. - David Heidelbach (Charlotte Hall): Raised concerns about water supply, arguing that demand will soon exceed supply. He criticized the planned WSSC agreement as insufficient and asked for more detailed reports, including cost projections and contingency plans. He offered to provide a list of questions for the Planning and Growth Management department. - Jacqueline Moore (Cobb Island, virtual): Criticized PJM’s executive director for what she called distorted facts about power generation. She also noted ongoing issues at the Aqualand property (spotty internet, difficulty accessing services) and requested a billboard for Cobb Neck. She urged commissioners to do more homework on energy issues. - Greg Waring (Waldorf, virtual): Requested an update on the Inspector General (IG) process, noting unanimous approval on May 19, 2026, but no visible progress. He also criticized the board’s legislative strategy for the IG, stating that a two-bill approach (statewide enabling plus county-specific) was recommended by the delegation but not pursued. Discussion Items - Commissioner’s New Business – Motion to Reschedule 6:00 PM Item: Commissioner Bowling moved to move the 6:00 PM agenda item to the first meeting of the new board (in December) to allow the incoming commissioners to weigh in, citing budget, policy, and personnel impacts. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Stewart. After discussion, a roll call vote resulted in a 2-2 tie (Bowling and Stewart yes; Coates and Patterson no; Collins absent), so the motion failed. Commissioner Bowling then requested that the item be moved to the next available meeting when all commissioners could attend, possibly October 17th or another date. Staff noted that Commissioner Collins would join virtually at 6:00 PM. - Police Accountability Board (PAB) and Administrative Charging Committee (ACC) Annual Update: Granville Johnson (PAB Chair) and Daniel Mitchell (Acting Deputy County Administrator) presented the annual report dated December 29, 2025. Key recommendations included: (1) advocate for state legislation to allow officers to file misconduct complaints directly with the PAB; (2) expunge exonerated complaints from personnel files; (3) conduct a comprehensive audit of body-worn camera footage abnormalities; (4) advocate for legislative amendments to clarify that minor vehicle collisions are not automatically misconduct; and (5) allow the ACC to establish trial board processes and have independent counsel prosecute cases before trial boards, rather than relying on the law enforcement agency’s attorneys. Johnson noted that in at least two instances, the sheriff’s department’s attorney disagreed with ACC findings and declined to present a case at the trial board, undermining the accountability process. Commissioners Patterson and Coates questioned the transparency and process. Commissioner Patterson asked if the ACC’s recommendations ever conflicted with sheriff’s department policy; Johnson said no. The discussion highlighted that while the sheriff can increase disciplinary charges, he cannot reduce them, and the ACC has no role in the trial board appeal. Mitchell clarified that these recommendations have been presented in prior years but were not adopted. The PAB plans to coordinate with other jurisdictions to build statewide support. No vote was taken; the update was informational. - Oath of Office Ceremony Planning: Staff (Jesse Bonkayo and Julie Losh) presented plans for the December 1, 2026 swearing-in ceremony and reception. Three venues were considered: College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Theater, Thomas Stone High School, and the future Sports and Wellness Center. CSM was the top choice but lacked adequate reception space with seating; the Sports and Wellness Center required too much setup and cost. Thomas Stone High School was selected because it offers a connected auditorium and reception space, ample parking, zero rental fee, and better security flow. The budget is $25,000, the same as four years ago. Catering proposals are being finalized; invitations have been ordered and will be sent after the November 3rd election. The program will include Acting County Administrator Deborah Hall, the Clerk of the Court, and the Thomas Stone JROTC. Commissioner Patterson requested the agenda item to ensure transparency on taxpayer-funded event. Commissioner Stewart expressed disappointment that the presentation removed the “wow” factor and felt the details could have been handled directly with staff. Staff confirmed the auditorium at the county government building was not ready due to construction uncertainties. The venue choice was supported by Commissioner Patterson and others. Key Outcomes - Motion to reschedule 6:00 PM item: Failed on a 2-2 tie vote (Bowling, Stewart yes; Coates, Patterson no; Collins absent). Staff indicated the item might be considered later that evening when Commissioner Collins joined virtually. - Minutes of September 29, 2026: Approved unanimously. - MOU with Resilience Authority: Approved unanimously. - Sewer Infrastructure Improvement Agreement: Approved unanimously. - Police Accountability Board Recommendations: No formal vote; the board received the annual update. Staff noted that prior legislative recommendations were not adopted, and the PAB will continue to seek statewide support. Commissioners suggested the board provide recommendations to the state delegation by June/July for the next legislative cycle. - Oath of Office Ceremony: Thomas Stone High School confirmed as the venue for December 1, 2026, with a $25,000 budget. Next steps include finalizing catering, production needs, and room layouts. The program will be shared with commissioners before printing.

The Charles County Planning Commission met on October 5, 2026, for its regular meeting. Chairperson Kevin Wedding presided. The commission approved a site development plan, held a work session on a subdivision regulation amendment, received an affordable housing and development update, adopted the 2027 meeting schedule, and addressed follow-up questions about Falcon Ridge. The meeting adjourned at 7:07 p.m. Consent Calendar - The October 5, 2026 agenda was approved as written by voice vote. - The August 3, 2026 meeting minutes were approved by four votes; Ryan Sekretarski recused himself, and Samiya Hackett was absent for that prior meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No personal appearances were scheduled, and no members of the public signed up to comment on the site development plan. Discussion Items Site Development Plan SDP 260016 - Village of Wooded Glen, Parklands Neighborhood 4, Phase 12, Parcel R2 - Staff planner Tatiana Anderson presented a request to approve a site development plan for 102 townhouses and six duplexes on 64.45 acres at the corner of Rocky Mountain Lane and North Cascade Place. The property is in the Wooded Glen neighborhood within the St. Charles Plan Unit Development and is zoned PUD, in the Development District and Priority Funding Area. - The plan was presented as consistent with the Villages of Wooded Glen and Piney Reach Master Plan and with the Parklands preliminary subdivision plan PLREV 25002, approved by the Planning Commission on December 1, 2025. The original preliminary subdivision plan PSP 19001 was approved November 4, 2019, and revised November 3, 2025. - Applicant representative Steve Scott described the request as straightforward, noted this is the final section of the Parklands neighborhood, an age-restricted community, and stated the applicant agreed to the two conditions in the staff report. He also indicated state highway approval had been issued for the project's access. - The commission approved the site development plan as presented with the staff conditions. Work Session - SRA 26-01 Subdivision Regulations Amendment - Staff reviewed the amendment to preliminary subdivision plan completion conditions. Staff had earlier recommended denial, but after public testimony the commission asked staff to work with the applicant. - The proposed revised language would keep the current option of completing 25% of physical improvements and recording 25% of lots, and add two independent options: completing at least 50% of physical improvements, or recording at least 50% of lots. - Staff discovered that the applicability section had been inadvertently dropped from earlier drafts and recommended restoring language making the amendment effective for projects with approved preliminary plans as of January 1, 2026. Applicant attorney Steve Scott said the intended beneficiaries were Falcon Ridge and Brookwood. Commissioner Jeffrey Bossert questioned whether the date could leave other projects out; Mr. Scott indicated those were the identified projects and that new projects would also benefit from the new options going forward. - The commission closed the work session and remanded the revised amendment for a second public hearing, scheduled for the November 2, 2026 Planning Commission meeting. Affordable Housing and Planning Growth Update - Joe Binkley presented quarterly development statistics and an annual update on the Affordable Housing Strategy. - For the first three quarters of 2026, there were no preliminary subdivision plans approved; about 475 final plats, minor and major, were approved, a low number if the trend continues; 23 site development plans were approved, accounting for more than 300 residential units, primarily townhouses, and more than 400,000 square feet of commercial development, of which more than 270,000 square feet was part of the third phase of Barrie Point. - Commercial building permits totaled 12 for 105,000 square feet, including a Kia dealership, a medical building in Waldorf, and a Royal Farms gas station in Indian Head. Residential permits for the first three quarters totaled about 339 housing units. - On the Affordable Housing Strategy, Mr. Binkley reported that the accessory dwelling unit zoning text amendment was approved by the county commissioners in July and became effective in late August; fewer than a dozen ADU applications had been submitted, with dozens of additional inquiries. The pilot affordable housing program funded 289 units in the prior round, all affordable to households earning 60% of area median income or less, representing about one-quarter of the county's identified deficit. About $360,000 remained in the program's original budget. The pilot program provides a 20-year tax abatement with inflation accounted for. - Programs in progress include rental licensing, efforts to limit corporate ownership of single-family homes, and zoning code work on voluntary inclusionary zoning, density bonuses, tiny homes, missing middle housing, and starter homes. A mixed residential communities text amendment would lower the minimum single-family dwelling size from 1,250 square feet to 960 square feet and create a cottage dwelling option below 960 square feet, but it has not yet been approved by the Board of County Commissioners. - Mr. Binkley stated the current deficit is about 1,250 units affordable to households earning 30% to 80% of area median income. Without policy changes, the deficit would grow; with the strategies being implemented, he projected the county could enable roughly 200 affordable units per year and eliminate the deficit after 10 years. The development pipeline includes about 1,400 units countywide, including in La Plata, but units are not counted toward the deficit until permitted and under construction. 2027 Planning Commission Schedule - The commission adopted the 2027 meeting schedule, generally meeting on the second and fourth Mondays, with the first meeting on January 11, 2027. Commissioner Jeffrey Bossert proposed moving the final meeting from December 13 to December 6, 2027, and the schedule was approved as modified. New Business and Director's Report - Commissioner Jeffrey Bossert asked about the status of the encroachment zoning text amendment. Mr. Rice said it had not yet gone before the county commissioners, with a public hearing anticipated later in October, possibly October 20. - In the director's report, Mr. Rice answered questions previously raised by Ms. Schertler about Falcon Ridge. He stated that, while the planning commission decision is under appeal, the developer cannot record 25% of the lots or complete substantial physical improvements beyond grading and filling; therefore the related questions about mootness and precedent were not applicable. Fee-based reviews, such as forest conservation plan approval, may continue, but the county cannot issue approvals allowing lot recording or physical improvement permits. Key Outcomes - Approved SDP 260016 for Parklands Phase 12, Parcel R2, including 102 townhouses and six duplexes, with the staff report conditions. - Closed the SRA 26-01 work session and scheduled a second public hearing for November 2, 2026. - Adopted the 2027 Planning Commission meeting schedule, with the final meeting moved to December 6, 2027. - Adjourned at 7:07 p.m.

On September 29, 2026, the Charles County Board of Commissioners convened with Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) Secretary Katie Thompson and agency leaders for the annual Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP) tour. The meeting focused on transportation priorities, the six-year capital budget ($21.9 billion), and project updates for Charles County. Key topics included Southern Maryland Rapid Transit (SMRT), safety improvements, maintenance concerns, and state budget constraints. Public Comments & Testimony - Mayor Janine James of La Plata thanked MDOT for responsiveness and highlighted the partnership on the MD6 safety project. She praised state staff for their customer service. - Town Manager Chuck Stevens reiterated the town's two priorities: the MD6 pedestrian safety project and access management for the Southwest Quadrant along US 301. He noted the La Plata Bikeways Phase II grant ($200,000 from the Kim Lamphier Bikeways program) and anticipated construction starting in spring 2027. - Mr. Hodge (advocate for SMRT) delivered a passionate statement emphasizing the 39‑year history of the SMRT effort. He stressed that the project must remain focused on light rail as mandated by state law (§7‑713) and criticized the ongoing PEL study for what he described as a lack of urgency and excessive spending on consultants. He called on the Secretary to ensure the state match ($15 million) appears in the CTP and to reject any shift toward bus rapid transit. He cited that 24,000–28,000 single‑occupancy trips would be removed daily and that the corridor has one of the most expensive commutes in the United States. Opening Remarks and Commissioner Positions - Commissioner President Reuben Collins opened the meeting, welcoming MDOT and emphasizing SMRT as the county’s top priority. He noted that $15 million in federal earmarks had been secured and that the state is required by §7‑713 to provide matching funds. He requested restoration of the former W19 bus connection and continued MTA commuter bus service. - Commissioner Thomas Coates raised constituent concerns about lane striping and crosswalk visibility, thanked SHA for a new traffic signal at St. David Drive/St. Luke, and asked about commuter bus service on the western (MD 210) side. He also inquired about a possible funding diversion for SMRT and requested clarity that no such diversion was planned. - Commissioner Gilbert Bowling thanked MDOT for reduced congestion on the Nice Middleton Bridge and emphasized the importance of aesthetics (mowing, litter, pavement) on rural roads, particularly US 301, MD 234, and MD 257. He called for collaboration on maintenance contracts. - Commissioner Patterson (online) urged continued opposition to the proposed I‑495 South Side toll lane expansion and asked about ferry transportation. Secretary Thompson responded that no ferry projects are in the CTP but MDOT is open to supporting county-led initiatives. - Commissioner Collins (additional) echoed concerns about litter and mowing, specifically at the US 301/Leonardtown Road stormwater pond and the MD 210 corridor. MDOT Presentations and Discussion - Secretary Katie Thompson outlined the three pillars of the CTP: safety, asset maintenance, and doing more with existing assets. She acknowledged budget constraints but committed to partnership and transparency. - State Highway Administrator Will Pines reported on projects: MD6 safety improvements (construction spring 2027), MD 225 bridge replacement (opened to traffic late 2026), US 301 pedestrian safety study, and Smallwood Drive crosswalks (completing end of 2026). He also announced the La Plata Bikeways grant. - District Engineer Kimberly Tran highlighted the working relationship with county staff and the maintenance shop in La Plata. - MDTA Executive Director Bruce Gardner noted a decrease in crash rates on the new Nice Middleton Bridge and indicated a proposed toll increase in the next 12–14 months to address inflation (first increase in over a decade). - MTA Administrator Tony Bridges reported 67 million passenger trips systemwide and support for Charles County’s local transit with $5.4 million in grants for buses and maintenance. He confirmed a new weekday round trip on the MTA 650 bus from Waldorf. - MVA Deputy Administrator Nikki Charlson announced average wait times under 5 minutes, 3 million MyMVA accounts, 13 road fatalities in Charles County year‑to‑date (down from 22 in 2025), and over $63,000 in highway safety grants for the county. - MAA Acting Director Sean Hammer described the $841 million capital program and support for Maryland Airport, noting that the airport needs to complete its master plan and some projects are ineligible for state funding. County Staff Comments - Jason Groth, Director of Planning and Growth Management reiterated that SMRT remains the county’s top priority. He urged staying the course on the PEL/NEPA process, focusing on fixed‑guideway alternatives as required by law, and including the full $30 million (federal plus state match) in the CTP. He also advocated for continued funding for traffic signals and commuter bus enhancements as low‑cost, high‑impact improvements. - Martin Harris, Director of Public Works thanked MDOT for collaboration on maintenance (mowing, litter, snow removal) and praised the partnership. He noted the county shares the challenge of litter costs and appreciates MDOT’s communication about Operation Clean Sweep. Key Outcomes and Next Steps - No formal votes were taken. The meeting was a presentation and discussion to inform the six‑year CTP. - Secretary Thompson committed to maintaining a collaborative relationship and “finding the path to yes” on Charles County priorities, especially SMRT. - Commissioners secured commitments to: follow up on specific striping and crosswalk locations (Commissioner Coates); explore collaborations on mowing contracts and beautification (Commissioner Bowling); and keep the county informed about the I‑495 toll lane proposal and ferry discussions (Commissioner Patterson). - MDOT officials agreed to provide additional information on crosswalk improvement totals (over 2,500 statewide) and to continue the US 301 pedestrian safety action plan. - The county and MDOT will hold further meetings on the US 301 corridor vision (especially south of MD 6) and on the La Plata Bikeways project. - The SMRT PEL study is expected to be completed by early 2027, leading into the NEPA process. State matching funds remain a critical issue; Commissioner Collins and staff stressed the requirement under §7‑713.