Public Meetings - Charles County, Maryland

The Charles County Board of Commissioners convened on September 29, 2026, for a morning session that included approval of consent items, adoption of a cannabis moratorium, and an extensive work session on the 2027 state legislative package. Commissioners voted on dozens of proposed bills, setting the county’s advocacy priorities, and later moved into closed session to discuss a potential property acquisition. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the September 22, 2026 meeting. - Approved budget transfer requests BTR 1419 ($750,000 state grant) and BTR 1420 ($250,000 local match) for the Mattawoman Middle School Controls Upgrade Project, totalling $1 million. - Renewed the mutual aid agreement between the Charles County Sheriff’s Office and the St. Mary’s and Calvert County Sheriff’s Offices. The Sheriff’s Office noted it is reviewing all MOUs for currency. - Adopted Resolution 2026-13 establishing a one-year temporary moratorium on large-scale cannabis growing in all zones except general industrial and heavy industrial, consistent with the Maryland Cannabis Act (personal use exemptions remain). An amendment corrected a double‑negative drafting error. Work Session: 2027 State Legislative Proposals Commissioners reviewed 30 proposals and took the following actions: - Proposal 1 (Stormwater easement documentation): Directed staff to explore local implementation. - Proposal 2 (Federal tax incentives for common‑ownership communities): Supported; to be forwarded to the federal delegation. - Proposal 3 (Commercial growth dividend program): Not included in the package; instead, the board directed staff to send a letter to the state’s data‑center task force requesting authority for counties to tax data centers differently. - Proposal 4 (Smart Growth & Fiscal Accountability Study): To be handled locally. - Proposal 5 (Inspector General authority over school systems): Supported as Charles County‑specific legislation. - Proposal 6 (Orphans court judge law‑degree requirement): More information requested; no vote taken. - Proposal 7 (Loitering ordinance): Supported for commercial public spaces and a curfew component; staff to draft based on Prince George’s County model. - Proposal 11 (Bi‑county transportation priority zone): Supported. - Proposal 12 (Homeowner resilience improvements): Not supported; existing programs deemed sufficient. - Proposal 13 (Commuter ferry): Not supported; a feasibility study is already planned at the Council of Governments. - Proposal 14 (Aging‑in‑place program): Not supported legislatively, but staff will evaluate internal program needs. - Proposal 15 (Law‑enforcement CDL exemption for Sheriff’s Office): Approved 3–2 (Commissioners Bowling and Patterson opposed; Coates, Stewart, Collins in favor). - Proposal 16 (Sheriff’s Office other legislation): Supported. - Proposal 17 (Add Resilience Authority to Tort Claims Act): Supported; the Industrial Development Authority was also added at staff’s suggestion. - Proposal 18 (HOA Dispute Resolution Board for condominiums): Supported. - Proposal 19 (Common‑ownership community registry and fee): Supported. - Proposal 20 (Recreation amenity fee enabling legislation): Approved 3–2 (Commissioners Bowling and Patterson opposed; Coates, Stewart, Collins in favor). - Proposal 21 (Native biodiversity threshold for commercial properties): Staff to study and report back on feasibility, appropriate percentage, and timeline. - Proposals 22-26 (Data‑center bans and moratoria): None supported; the board will instead rely on current zoning that prohibits data centers and will participate in a local task force, incorporating a request from Mr. Dixon to study infrasound effects. - Proposal 27 (Term limits for county commissioners – codify locally): Approved 3–2 (Commissioners Bowling and Stewart opposed; Coates, Patterson, Collins in favor). - Proposal 28 (Shared wastewater systems for accessory dwelling units): Supported. - Proposal 29 (Remove income restriction for volunteer emergency responders tax credit): Approved 4–1 (Commissioner Coates opposed). - Proposal 30 (Term limits for Maryland General Assembly members): Motion failed for lack of a second. Key Outcomes - The board finalized its legislative package for submission to the Charles County delegation, including the specific proposals noted above as approved. - Commissioners authorized the County Administrator to send a letter to the data‑center task force regarding local taxing authority. - Staff will bring back additional research on orphans court eligibility, native biodiversity thresholds, and a draft loitering ordinance for commercial spaces. - Following the work session, the board voted unanimously to enter closed session under General Provisions Article §3‑305(b)(7) to discuss a potential property acquisition, with the intent to reconvene in open session at 3:00 PM.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners convened on September 22, 2026, at 9:00 AM. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation by Pastor Abdullah from South Potomac Church. Roll call was taken with all five commissioners present. The board approved the legislative day and engaged in a series of discussions and votes on historic preservation, pretrial services, stormwater management, zoning enforcement, electrical grid challenges, and community development projects. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the September 15, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously. Commissioner Comments - Spirit Day: Commissioner Collins thanked colleagues for participating in Spirit Day to show unity and support for Charles County Public Schools, noting that all current commissioners are graduates of the county's high schools. - Blue Crabs Recognition: A commissioner congratulated the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs for reaching the Atlantic League World Series after a game-clinching win on September 20. Approval Items - Historic Preservation Commission Comment Letter on Section 106: Franklin A. Robinson Jr., Chair of the Charles County Historic Preservation Commission, requested support for a letter opposing proposed federal changes to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act that would make community consultation optional. All commissioners expressed full support, and the motion to approve the letter with all commissioner signatures (including a request to include U.S. congressmen) passed unanimously. - Funding for Historic Preservation Commission Awards: Cal Carpenter, Preservation Planner, requested $1,500 from the community support fund for the 2026 Historic Preservation Commission Award Ceremony (public event permit and Preservation Matters magazine design). The motion passed unanimously. - Draft Legislation Establishing Pretrial Services: Commissioner Collins moved to direct staff to draft a bill establishing pretrial services within Charles County government, including a fiscal note and staffing recommendations. Commissioner Bowling opposed, arguing the discussion should occur first with stakeholders (CJCC, courts, sheriff) and cautioning about costs for the next board. Commissioner Collins agreed to invite stakeholders for the October 20 briefing. The motion passed 4-1, with Commissioner Bowling voting no. Briefings and Public Hearing Requests - FY2027 MS4 Financial Assurance Plan: Karen Wigan and Connor Kech from Planning and Growth Management briefed on the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program. The county has a 1,083-acre impervious surface restoration requirement, with 57% (621 acres) achieved to date. The FY27 stormwater remediation fee is $168 per improved property. The plan projects sufficient funding through FY28. Commissioners asked about oyster restoration credits, shoreline restoration tax credits, and grant opportunities. The board approved scheduling a public hearing for October 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM. - Zoning Text Amendment 25-188 (Encroachments on County-Owned Land): Sarah Guy and Mark Potter presented a zoning text amendment to allow enforcement against private encroachments on county land through fines and court action, after revisions following Planning Commission recommendations (capping fines, prioritizing health/safety, encouraging resolution). Only one member of the public spoke (requesting continued use of right-of-ways on Cobb Island). The board voted to introduce the bill and schedule a public hearing for October 20, 2026. Informational Presentations - Indoor Plumbing Projects Update: Barbara Farmer and Joe Hodges reported on the Maryland Affordable Housing Trust grant of $300,000. To date, $221,000 has been spent to install artesian wells for six families (year one) and four approved (year two, with three nearly complete). Challenges include title issues, structural home conditions, and cost overruns. Staff is applying for additional funding to cover septic systems and drain fields. A client testimony highlighted a cancer patient who regained running water after two years. - Electrical Grid Overview: - PJM Interconnection (Jason Stanick): Stanick explained PJM's role as grid operator for 67 million residents across 13 states and D.C., noting a grid emergency on September 18 and that Maryland is a net energy importer on all but one day per year. He projected demand rising to 250 gigawatts by 2046, driven largely by data centers. He urged preserving existing resources, expediting permitting, and addressing supply-demand balance to prevent cost increases. Commissioner Bowling emphasized that any reactivation of the Morgantown plant must provide direct benefits to Charles County residents, such as reduced bills or tax revenue, and criticized state and federal policy decisions. Commissioner Stewart asked for SMECO's involvement and land-use considerations. - Office of People’s Counsel (Bill Fields): Fields presented on utility bill components, noting that data centers are driving PJM's demand growth and that transmission costs already approved (≈$22 billion in three years) will hit customer bills. OPC is advocating for data centers to bear their own costs and filed a federal complaint to protect Maryland customers from out-of-state data center cost shifts. He clarified that SMECO distribution rates are set by the Public Service Commission and are separate from generation/transmission costs. - Robelin Contracting Presentation: Scott Rux, Tracy Contrino, and Pam Frank introduced Robelin, a general contractor and disabled veteran business enterprise with annual revenue of $400 million and 400 employees. They have a footprint at Naval Support Facility Indian Head, working on base projects. They expressed interest in supporting county infrastructure and utility upgrades. Commissioners welcomed them as a local employer. Key Outcomes - Approved the historic preservation comment letter against Section 106 changes (unanimous). - Approved $1,500 for the Historic Preservation Commission Awards (unanimous). - Directed staff to draft pretrial services legislation (4-1). - Scheduled public hearings for October 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM on the MS4 Financial Assurance Plan and Zoning Text Amendment 25-188. - Received updates on indoor plumbing projects and electrical grid challenges; no formal votes taken. - The board moved into closed session at 12:00 PM to discuss a potential contract and lease, with a return to open session scheduled for 2:00 PM.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners held a regular session on September 22, 2026. Commissioners present were Bowling, Coates, Patterson, and Collins; Commissioner Stewart was absent during roll call but later joined to announce the evening town hall. The meeting covered traffic safety at the intersection of St. Charles Parkway and St. David Drive, direction on the Affordable Housing Pilot Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for FY2027, and a work session on Proposed Bill 2026-08 establishing a rental licensing program. Traffic Safety Update and School Zone Designation Staff from the Department of Planning and Growth Management and the Traffic Safety Committee presented an update on the intersection near Thornton Elementary School. The traffic signal is expected to be installed and operational in early October 2026. Interim measures included digital signage, a speed trailer, and communication efforts recommending right turns out of a neighborhood. Staff proposed designating a school zone on St. Charles Parkway with a speed reduction from 50 mph to 40 mph during school hours. Commissioner Coates expressed concern that the speed reduction should be constant rather than time-limited, citing after-school activities, and recommended adding a 'school turn' sign. The board voted unanimously to approve the school zone designation as presented. Affordable Housing Pilot NOFA Direction Staff requested direction on whether to pursue another pilot round of funding, what housing types to target, and the length of the pilot term. Staff recommended not narrowing the scope but using a scoring tool to prioritize projects. Commissioner Coates expressed support for another round, targeting multifamily housing, and a 20-year term. Discussion focused on the 'missing middle' income gap, with Commissioner Coates emphasizing the need to ensure teachers, police, and firefighters can qualify under the program’s Area Median Income (AMI) thresholds. Staff noted that coordinating with the state Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LITEC) program is essential and that projects typically include a range of affordability. The board reached consensus to move forward with another NOFA round, keep eligibility broad, and set a 20-year term. Next steps include finalizing the NOFA and issuing a press release. Proposed Bill 2026-08 – Rental Licensing Work Session Staff presented revisions to the proposed legislation based on prior board feedback. Key changes include: exempting incorporated municipalities (La Plata and Indian Head), including two inspections per unit in the license fee, honoring prior code modifications, adopting state air conditioning language, removing ambient radon testing, and striking the requirement to publish license numbers in rental listings. Commissioner Coates raised concerns about unintended consequences, such as conflicts with community services outreach and potential displacement of tenants in substandard units. Commissioner Bowling expressed major concerns about the public disclosure of rental registry data under the Maryland Public Information Act, calling it a potential 'fishing expedition.' The board voted 4-1 (Commissioner Bowling opposed) to introduce the bill as presented. A subsequent motion to schedule a public hearing for October 20, 2026, at 6 p.m. in hybrid format passed 4-1, with Commissioner Bowling again opposed. Commissioners’ New Business Commissioner Stewart announced that the quarterly town hall meeting would be held that evening (September 22, 2026) at 6 p.m. at Waldorf West Library, in-person only. Key Outcomes - Traffic Safety: Unanimous approval of school zone designation on St. Charles Parkway with speed reduction to 40 mph during school hours. The traffic signal is expected to be operational in early October 2026. - Affordable Housing Pilot: Direction given to proceed with another NOFA round for FY2027 (funding in FY2028), without narrowing eligibility, and a 20-year pilot term. Staff will finalize and issue the NOFA. - Rental Licensing Bill: Introduced (4-1) and public hearing scheduled for October 20, 2026 (4-1). Commissioner Bowling voted against both motions.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners held a joint District 3 town hall on September 22, 2026, at the Waldorf West Library. The meeting focused on resident concerns including mold from rain, stormwater flooding in Windsor Manor, the Aqualand displacement crisis, and a wide-ranging discussion on data centers and energy policy. Commissioners heard from six public speakers and provided updates on task forces, pending state legislation, and staff follow-up actions. Public Comments & Testimony - Sharice Tony – Raised concerns about mold in her townhome due to heavy rain; her HOA president had submitted complaints without response. Commissioner Stewart directed her to staff member Julie Losh for follow-up. - William Howe (Windsor Manor resident) – Reported that partial community turnover improved school bus access but backyards still flood because drainage work was incomplete. He requested the board push developer WF Wood to finish improvements before spring rains. Director Jason Groff (Planning & Growth Management) responded that the county is holding the developer’s bond as leverage and will continue pressing for completion. - Jacqueline Moore – Asked for a plan to assist residents being forced out of Aqualand (needs: housing, food, repairs, towing). Also requested answers to prior unanswered questions from Commissioners Bowling and Patterson, and inquired whether a new data center zoning text amendment (ZTA) was being prepared before the November 3 election. Commissioner Bowling described his personal delivery of food to Aqualand and noted county and state resources offered; he said residents must take advantage of services. Staff clarified the ZTA did not pass; the board directed a study and awaits a state report and possible governor’s moratorium. - Trudy Bidow (Charles County Coalition Against Data Centers) – Expressed frustration with the pace of action, stating residential energy bills rose 44% from 2020–2025 and Maryland paid $108 million in data-center transmission costs in 2024. She urged a ban on data centers, not just a moratorium, and called for a public hearing before any task force. - Alana Davis (Charles County Against Data Centers Coalition) – Thanked Commissioner Bowling for committing to introduce county legislation banning data centers, similar to Harford and Calvert counties. She asked all commissioners whether they support a ban, when Bowling would introduce it, and requested that the task force include community advocates and not be co-opted by industry. - David Heidelbach – Raised that a 432-acre site in the Docket 90 area is being marketed as a data center site, and questioned Commissioner Patterson’s visit to the developer NEI Michael in a “personal capacity.” Patterson explained state ethics rules require him to clarify when acting personally. Heidelbach also noted a planning commission meeting where Docket 90 control was discussed. Discussion Items - Data Centers and Energy Policy – The majority of commissioner responses focused on data centers. Commissioners Collins, Bowling, Coates, and Stewart summarized a presentation from PJM (the regional grid operator) earlier that day, which indicated that residential consumers have not driven energy cost increases—data centers have. Commissioner Bowling expressed anger that the Morgantown power plant might be restarted for data centers without direct benefit to Charles County residents. Commissioner Coates stressed continued learning, including bringing in SMECO and other experts. Commissioner Stewart emphasized that energy costs are regional (13 states) and that a ban must be carefully defined to avoid unintended restrictions on small-scale data centers already in the county. - Task Force Composition – All commissioners stated the task force on data centers must include diverse voices, including opponents and community advocates. Commissioner Patterson and Stewart noted that legislation cannot move forward until the state direction is clear (governor’s possible moratorium). - Stormwater and Developer Accountability – Director Groff updated on Windsor Manor: the county holds a bond and will keep pressuring the developer. Also, cleanup of Blue Crab Lane property is scheduled to start in 1–2 weeks. - Aqualand – Commissioner Bowling reiterated that the county’s role is limited on private property but that staff from Community Services, Lifestyles, and Animal Services have offered resources. He encouraged residents to volunteer personal time and money. Key Outcomes - Data Centers: The ZTA was withdrawn; the board directed a study with a consultant. Commissioner Bowling committed to propose a local resolution banning data centers at the next state legislative proposal discussion (within a few weeks). A task force will be formed with community representation, including members from groups like the Charles County Against Data Centers Coalition. - State Direction: Commissioners noted that the Maryland Department of the Environment/Energy Administration report due September 1 has not been released, and the governor has signaled support for a statewide moratorium. Any county action will be aligned with state direction. - Resident Follow-Up: All questions requiring staff research, plus written comments, will be referred to the Citizens’ Response Office for follow-up. Individual resident cases (mold, Windsor Manor flooding, Aqualand) will be tracked by staff. - Docket 90: Commissioner Stewart confirmed the county has control over Docket 90 and has amended it in the past; staff will continue to address concerns.

The Charles County Planning Commission convened on September 21, 2026, with Kevin Wedding, Jeffrey Bossert, Samaya Hackett, Ryan Sekretarski, and Britt Toku present; Denard Earl was absent. The commission adopted the agenda, approved the August 17, 2026 minutes, deferred the August 3, 2026 minutes after a quorum issue was identified, heard a resident's questions about the Falcon Ridge appeal, received a Potomac Chase project update, and held a public hearing and work session on the draft Forest Conservation Ordinance update. The meeting adjourned at 7:01 p.m. Administrative Approvals - The agenda was adopted as written by voice vote. - The August 17, 2026 minutes were approved, with an attached summary of August 3, 2026 planning commission decisions. Britt Toku recused from this vote because she was not in attendance on August 17. - The August 3, 2026 minutes were initially approved, but were later deferred after the commission determined there was not a quorum of members who had attended that meeting; Samaya Hackett and Ryan Sekretarski noted they were absent for the August 3 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Nancy Shirtler, 14725 Bank City Road, Newburgh made her third personal appearance about the Falcon Ridge appeal. She said the de novo appeal (docket 1489) of the commission's denial of a further extension had been postponed at the appellant's request from July to September 22, 2026, and then to January 12, 2027 — three weeks shy of the plan's 28th birthday. She reported that the appellant asked staff to keep processing applications while the appeal is pending and that Mr. Rice confirmed staff would do so. She cited approvals after the plan's April 17, 2026 expiration: final forest conservation plan FC 25007 for phase four was approved June 29, 2026, with two conditions, and forest stand delineation plan FC 26002 passed review September 1, 2026. She asked the commission to direct staff and the County Attorney's Office to answer in writing whether the developer can record 25% of the lots and complete substantial improvements during the appeal, whether that would moot the appeal, whether an appeal creates a vesting path not provided in regulations, and whether approvals issued during the appeal will be conditioned on its outcome. - Rob Swam, Rogers Consulting and member of MBIA's environmental committee, thanked staff, but recommended the county keep state-consistent one-to-one replacement for forest clearing rather than the draft's two-to-one replacement below the afforestation threshold, given that no planted banks currently exist in Charles County. He asked for one-to-one credit for planted banking, two-to-one for off-site qualified conservation, a clear or codified fee-in-lieu process, and explicit full one-to-one mitigation credit for planted green infrastructure. - Steve Allison, chair of MBIA's Environmental Committee and Rogers Consulting, said the update is needed after 20 years, but urged the commission to avoid an unintended, overly restrictive or unpredictable process, particularly in the county's growth areas. He questioned the proposed two-to-one replacement below the afforestation threshold on top of the 15–20% afforestation percentage, noted there are no planted banks, and argued the 50% cap on qualified conservation may push projects to fee-in-lieu. He recommended reviewing DNR's biannual forest conservation metrics before going beyond state requirements. Discussion Items Potomac Chase Preliminary Subdivision Plan (PLREV2500007) Update - The agenda was reordered at the applicant's request for this briefing. Steve Scott of Scott Law Group and Matt Hurston of Potomac Chase Property Owner said they had no request and no extension ask. The commission had granted an extension from August 2026 to August 2027 and requested this update. - Hurston stated that to vest the site plan, the project must record a plat for the first 25% of lots (46 lots), install water and sewer pipe, and commence construction. He said the prior obstacles — contractor bankruptcy, a federal shutdown delaying wetlands review, and Prince George's County ownership of the Indian Head Highway right-of-way — were resolved. The vesting work was being rebid after a March permit was issued, and the plat was expected to be signed off by the end of the year. He reaffirmed they would not request another extension. There were no questions. Draft Forest Conservation Ordinance Update - Lynn Nags, Kyle Redden, and Caitlin Clue of planning staff presented the draft update, driven by state law changes from House Bill 723 and Senate Bill 526 effective July 1, 2026, as well as the county ordinance not having been updated since 2004. Staff described prior outreach, including a workshop, meetings with the Maryland Building Industry Association, and an environmental stakeholders event. - Key staff presentation points included: solar photovoltaic facilities are exempt from afforestation requirements but still subject to conservation; qualified conservation is limited to no more than 50% of required mitigation, potentially 60% after state approval; 100% of mitigation can be met through off-site planting; the county has no planted mitigation banks; priority forests now include forest interior dwelling species, tier two and tier three watersheds, urban forests, and other features; buffers must be fully planted unless exempt; and clearing priority forests requires adjacent property owner notification and public comment through the planning commission. The conservation threshold is replaced by a default one-to-one acre replacement, with afforestation thresholds and partial or full exemptions still applying. - Staff also presented changes to fee-in-lieu administration, county comment procedures, and off-site ratios. Fee-in-lieu would move to the annual fees and charges list because the current fee — roughly 30 and 34 cents per square foot inside or outside the priority funding area — has not been updated in more than 20 years. Charles County would allow verbal and written comments for all priority forest clearing, using the planning commission as the forum, while state code requires such comments only for projects with net tract area greater than five acres when 75% of priority forest is to be cleared. Off-site qualified conservation outside the development district or priority funding area would require a four-to-one mitigation ratio, and two-to-one generally. - In response to commissioner questions, staff said the no-net-loss clock began July 1, 2026, but the baseline acreage was still being calculated by Maryland DNR. Staff confirmed private planted bank or single-project planting agreements are possible and said they would review the ordinance's mitigation bank language. Staff also clarified watershed definitions use eight-digit sub-watersheds. The DNR clarified that the federal facility exemption for facilities with at least 2,500 employees was intended for the FBI building in Prince George's County. New Business and Director's Report - Commissioner Jeffrey Bossert requested a future briefing on the Falcon Ridge project's decision points and pending appeals, following Ms. Shirtler's comments. - A request was made to bring forward the FY28 capital budget or CIP summary, with staff noting the county considered CIP proposals in early November last year. - Director Rice reported that Zoning Text Amendment 26190, concerning retail sales over 1,000 square feet and parking, was approved by the county commissioners on September 1, 2026, after a public hearing, even though the planning commission had recommended denial and wanted it considered with the comprehensive plan update. - Staff previewed the next meeting: an affordable housing update from Mr. Binkley and a site development plan for a Parklands parcel; the following meeting's work sessions are scheduled for October 19, 2026. Key Outcomes - Agenda adopted; August 17, 2026 minutes approved; August 3, 2026 minutes deferred to the next meeting. - The public hearing on the draft Forest Conservation Ordinance was closed, and the commission moved into a work session. The record was kept open for 30 days, through Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 4:30 p.m., to allow consideration of written comments and any proposed changes. - No vote was taken on the Forest Conservation Ordinance itself; it remains in draft form for future action. - Potomac Chase was received as an information briefing; no motion or extension was requested. - The commission directed staff to schedule a Falcon Ridge process briefing and to identify the appropriate time for FY28 CIP or budget consideration. - The commission adjourned at 7:01 p.m.

The Board of Fire Rescue Commissioners met on September 17, 2026, to approve minutes, receive financial reports, review project updates, and hear presentations on the FY2027 budget distribution for fire and EMS services. Several volunteer department projects were reported, and the budget proposals were tabled for approval at the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from August 20, 2026, were approved with a correction on page 2, line 19 (changing "ready" to "read"). Motion passed unanimously. - LOSAP Investment Report: For August 2026, total funds were $25,678,183.88, with a net change of +$391,321.10 from July. Wilmington Trust had $330,774.20 and paid out $99,556.89 in benefits and distributions. The LOSAP board will meet on September 25, 2026. - Monthly Expenditures & Escrow Account: The letter of information from Fire/EMS Coordinator William Smith detailed August 2026 expenses, including quarters account ($4,390.89), Verizon MDT reimbursement (-$402.08), selective insurance premium ($14,005), cadet program equipment, public education supplies, special ops equipment, and a request for the coordinator to attend the IAFC symposium in Clearwater, Florida (costs up to $2,800). These were presented for information. - Brines Road VFD – Truck 11 Replacement: Cab fabrication starts May 2028, completion expected August 2028. - Brines Road VFD – Solar Panel Project: Installation completed, interconnection with SMECO scheduled for September 2, permission to turn on scheduled for September 15. - Charles Kenny Dive Rescue – Facility Projects: Letter of intent to install a 15×25 ft concrete pad and extend the shed, and to investigate roof repairs due to storm/sun damage. Further bids will be collected. - Hughesville VFD – Lightning Strike: A likely lightning strike caused damage to IT systems, fire pump controller (est. $20,720), phone system, sign marquee, and GFIs. Insurance claims underway. - Potomac Heights VFD – Roof & Hose Tower: Roof replacement was deemed unnecessary after contractor review; small repairs scheduled for late September. Hose tower repairs completed at $23,949.49 (5.04% over approved budget). Project considered closed. - 10th District VFD – Vehicle 8 Replacement: Approved to purchase a 2027 Ford F-150 crew cab at total cost $82,217.34, funded by EMS 508 ($13,110), Fire 508 ($22,048), and non-tax funds ($47,059.34). Current vehicle 8 will become utility 8 Bravo; 2001 Ford F-250 will be sold. Motion passed unanimously. - Quarterly Project Updates: Engine 32 (Waldorf) final inspection underway, expected in service mid-November. Ambulance 127 replacement (Westlake) on schedule for second quarter 2027 delivery. Station 12 remodel (Westlake) nearly complete; men's locker room and public restroom done; women's restroom 90% complete; dayroom awaiting contractor staffing. Volunteer Coordinator Report - Bill reported the passing of Bill Ekman (La Plata VFD) and Tom Flint (Waldorf VFD). Condolences were shared. - The association's physical mailbox is operational, enabling grant applications. Electronic vendor payments are being finalized to avoid lost checks. - Property tax incentive ($2,500 reduction) bills were sent to eligible volunteers. Delegate Davis requested documentation on the number of volunteers affected if the incentive is reduced or eliminated. - The EMS trailer (donated ATV from Company 8) is at the vendor for graphics. - Cadet program: 12 cadets starting EMT class on September 23; 10 first-year cadets starting PEEF then Firefighter 1. Total 22 cadets. The cadets also participated in the county fair recruitment booth with a new Sparky mascot, and will assist at the county truck rodeo on October 7. Discussion Items: FY2027 Budget Distribution Presentations - EMS Budget Distribution (presented by Vice Chairman Bill Deere): Total $5,746,937 for EMS operations plus $1,149,387 for LOSAP. Key changes: Health & Safety escrow increased from $0 to $15,000; MDT funding $200,000; new $30,000 for County Medical Director; building square footage cost increased to $260/sq ft (from $150); apparatus increase of 6%; basic heavy-duty ambulance service life extended to 13 years/150,000 miles; light-duty ambulances to 13 years/225,000 miles. The distribution will be 89.43% of county receipts. Company 58 (Cobraland) volunteered to receive no funding this year. - Fire Budget Distribution (presented by Chairman Lynn Gilroy): Apparatus values increased: new pumper $1,250,000, ladder/tiller $2,450,000, squad $1,695,000, brush $800,000. Building allowance raised to $260/sq ft (actual construction costs exceed $500/sq ft). Building operations per sq ft increased to $3.75. Distribution at 86% of county receipts. Other categories (admin, training, public education, insurance, cadet program at $30,000, MDTs at $400,000, etc.) were maintained or adjusted. The fire distribution mirrors many EMS changes. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent calendar items including 10th District vehicle replacement. - Tabled both the EMS and Fire FY2027 budget distribution proposals for a vote at the October meeting. Board members were encouraged to review the uploaded documents on iLegislate. - Reminded departments that annual financial reports for the previous year are due by October 15. Deficient departments will be contacted. - Capital project reports are due at the next meeting, including replacement of ambulance 518 (Charles County VRS), fire rescue boat 6 (Cobraland), ambulance 68 (Cobraland), roof replacement (Waldorf), and EMS utility 12 replacements (Westlake). - Meeting adjourned.

The Animal Matter Hearing Board convened on September 16, 2026, at 4:00 PM to hear eight cases involving citations for animal control violations, including dog attacks, running at large, failure to license, and rabies violations. The board heard testimony from animal control officers, victims, and dog owners, and issued fines, abatements, and in one case, approved the euthanasia of a dog after the owner surrendered it. The meeting was audio and video recorded. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made outside of the specific cases. Discussion Items Citation 7585 – Charles County Animal Control vs. Ninja Burgess (Charlie) - Officer Schrader testified that on August 20, 2026, Charlie, a poodle-type canine, escaped a fenced yard and attacked another dog, Titan. The owner, Ms. Burgess, admitted the escape. Citations were issued for failure to license, running at large, lack of rabies proof, and potentially dangerous animal. Ms. Burgess testified she tried to license the dog but was redirected by the Humane Society. The board found her in violation of license ($50 fine), not in violation of animal at large, violation of rabies (zero fine), and violation of dangerous/vicious/potentially dangerous (potentially dangerous, $200 fine held in abeyance for six months). Abatements E1, E3, E4, E8, and G were imposed. Citation 7586 – Charles County Animal Control vs. Watan D. Austin (Dice) - Officers responded to a child attacked at a bus stop by two pit bulls on September 3, 2026. The child, Ethan, suffered multiple bites. Owner Mr. Austin testified that one dog (Iso) was not his and he would not reclaim Dice if it participated. He signed Dice over to the shelter. Chief Thomas reported Dice would be euthanized after quarantine. The board dismissed the citation. Citation 7639 – Charles County Animal Control vs. Ricky Boswell (Duke) - On August 31, 2026, Duke was found running at large across a highway. Officer testified that Mr. Boswell was educated but failed to provide license or rabies proof. The board found him in violation of license ($50) and rabies ($150), total $200. Citation 7646 – Charles County Animal Control vs. Andre L. Brown (Kobe) - Kobe, a pit bull, was impounded for the third time within 12 months for running at large. Owner Mr. Brown admitted he had no fence and used a shock collar. The board found violations of animal at large and third subsequent impoundment (230-12.6C), fine $150. Citation 7671 – Charles County Animal Control vs. Destiny Haig (Zendea) - On September 4, 2026, Zendea attacked a leashed dog (Sherlock) and bit the owner’s hands. Good Samaritan restrained Zendea. Owner Ms. Haig said she was not home and the dog escaped through a faulty screen door. The board found violations: license ($0), animal at large ($50), dangerous/vicious ($200), plus $210 impound fees. Abatements E1–E8 and G applied. Citations 7647–7652 – Charles County Animal Control vs. James E. Cheney (Rascal, Buster, Cocoa) - Three pit bulls (9-month-old siblings) escaped on September 1, 2026, attacked a neighbor’s dog, and then two escaped again during quarantine. Three citations for dangerous/vicious, two for animal at large/improper quarantine, one for third impound. Board found each dog potentially dangerous with $200 fine held in abeyance, and $200 in fines for quarantine violations (plus $690 impound fees). Abatements E1–E8 and G for each dog. File 26-18 – Michaela Jones vs. Timothy Perez (Astro) - On July 10, 2026, Astro, an Australian Shepherd, ran from its owner (Mr. Perez’s mother-in-law), bit Ms. Jones’ dog and then bit Ms. Jones on the finger. Ms. Jones is a Secret Service officer who required medical treatment. Mr. Perez requested a continuance to have his mother-in-law testify, which was denied. Board found violations of 12-5A1 (human bite) and 12-5A2 (domestic animal injury), $400 total, $300 held in abeyance. File 26-19 – Robin Smith vs. Brian Tolliver and Vestan Nelson (two dogs) - Ms. Smith complained that neighbors’ dogs repeatedly entered her yard, defecated, and the gray dog barked aggressively. Owner Mr. Tolliver stated the issue started after a fence was removed and that he put up a temporary fence after August 21. Board found violation of animal at large ($50) and defecation on private property ($50), not potentially dangerous. Procedural and Policy Discussion - Board members discussed the complexity of the citizen complaint form, which conflates “dangerous/vicious” and “potentially dangerous.” Chief Thomas and Deputy Director Mark Kaufman noted that if an animal injures a human, the board must find dangerous/vicious (no discretion), and the “potentially dangerous” designation is superseded. The county attorney’s office was asked to revise the form for clarity. Key Outcomes - Citation 7585: Ms. Burgess fined $50 for license; $200 dangerous fine held in abeyance; abatements imposed. - Citation 7586: Dismissed after owner surrendered dog; dog euthanized. - Citation 7639: Mr. Boswell fined $200 total. - Citation 7646: Mr. Brown fined $150. - Citation 7671: Ms. Haig fined $50 + $200 dangerous; $210 impound fees due; abatements imposed. - Citations 7647–7652: Mr. Cheney owes $200 in fines plus $690 impound fees; $600 in fines held in abeyance; abatements for three dogs. - File 26-18: Mr. Perez fined $400 (with $300 held in abeyance). - File 26-19: Mr. Tolliver fined $100. - All decisions are final and may be appealed to the circuit court within 30 days.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on September 15, 2026, to consider administrative approvals, policy discussions, and briefings. Commissioners present were Bowling, Stewart, and Collins; Commissioners Coates and Patterson were absent, making a quorum. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and approval of the September 1, 2026 minutes, followed by a series of approval items and briefings. The meeting adjourned into closed session at approximately 1:00 PM. Approval Items (Consent Calendar) - FY2026 Budget Transfer 1316: Approved $57,190 from contingency inflation to cover the shortfall in state funding for field lights at Bensville Park. (Unanimous) - FY2027 Budget Transfer 180: Approved $38,365 from the Drug Forfeiture Fund for specialized Sheriff's Office training. (Unanimous) - Maryland Solar 2 LLC Funds: Approved acceptance of $56,000 for forest preservation, as directed by MDE. (Unanimous) - Van Gogh Bus Replacement Grant: Approved a grant application for $1.9 million in federal funds (80% federal, 20% county match of $395,000 in FY28) for 11 replacement and 3 repower buses. (Unanimous) - Sponsorship for Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen's Association Convention: Approved a sponsorship in compliance with the county's standing SOP, funded from each commissioner's community support account. (Unanimous) - Calendar Change for January 2027 Sessions: Approved shifting January 5-6 to January 12-13 as a legislative day to accommodate the MACo conference. (Unanimous) Discussion and Deliberation Items - Board of Education FY2027 Intercategory Budget Transfer ($930,299): CFO Yuri O Drite explained the net-zero realignment of budget categories to reflect organizational changes. Commissioner Collins expressed concerns about the timing and transparency, noting that such transfers can obscure savings when the county faces fiscal constraints, but the board approved the transfer unanimously. - Longme Neighborhood Roads Resurfacing: Commissioner Bowling introduced resident concerns about the aesthetics of crack-sealing versus full resurfacing. Staff reported that full resurfacing for Longme would cost $225,275 and that the annual overlay budget of $5.2 million is fully committed. Discussion centered on policy trade-offs; the board took no action but committed to revisit the issue during the next budget cycle. A member of the public briefly attempted to speak but was directed to the official public comment period. - Proposed Charles County Employee Health Center: Alexis Blackwell and consultants presented a plan for an on-site health center funded partly by a $900,000 state grant. The center would provide primary care, urgent care, occupational health, and lab services at no cost to employees. Projected net savings over five years are $5.3 million. The board gave consensus to move forward, with formal approval items expected later. - Employee Workplace Giving Program: Staff recommended transitioning to a county-focused model where employees can donate via payroll to designated Charles County programs (senior meals, animal care, mobile health, recreation). The change follows a survey of 148 employees. After discussion about portfolio diversity, the board unanimously approved the new model. - Zoning Text Amendment 26-191 – Mixed Residential Community Use in RM and RH Zones: Kirby Bloss and Joel Binkley presented an applicant-driven proposal to allow a mix of housing types with density bonuses for affordable housing. Staff recommended increasing the density bonus for 100% affordable housing in the RH zone to match the transferable development rights bonus. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval. Commissioner Bowling opposed, citing fiscal concerns, but the board voted 3-1 to introduce the bill and schedule a public hearing for October 27, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Briefings (No Formal Action) - Meals on Wheels (Home Delivered Meals) Program: Dina Barclay and Lisa Furlow provided an overview of the 40-year-old program, which served 57,128 meals in FY26 and maintains a waitlist of 85–90 seniors. Funding sources include federal/state grants, client donations, and county general fund. Commissioners requested geographic distribution data and discussed potential uses for staff donations to assist non-eligible individuals. - Food Truck Regulations and Concessions in County Parks: Staff presented the current concession operations (Gilbert Run and White Plains) and the food truck reservation process. Approximately 20 vendors are active, with fees of $25/weekday and $50/weekend. The program requires health permits, insurance, and business licenses. Staff noted growing interest and upcoming events like Food Truck Week. Key Outcomes - Approved all consent calendar items, the BOE budget transfer, and the workplace giving program. - Consensus given to proceed with the employee health center. - Scheduled a public hearing for zoning text amendment 26-191 on October 27, 2026. - No formal action on Longme roads but committed to future policy discussion. - Briefings only for Meals on Wheels and food trucks; no votes taken. - Moved to closed session at approximately 1:00 PM to discuss property acquisition and legal advice. Note: Commissioner Bowling voted against the zoning text amendment introduction and public hearing scheduling. All other votes were unanimous except where noted.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on September 15, 2026, to receive public input on proposed state legislative items for the 2027 Maryland General Assembly session. Acting Deputy County Administrator Daniel Mitchell reported that 51 proposals were received, comprising 30 unique submissions. The hearing was presided over by Commissioner Collins, with Commissioners Bowling, Coates, Stewart, Patterson, and Collins present. State Delegates Deborah Davis (chair of the Charles County delegation), Patterson, Odom, and Wilson also attended. No final decisions were made; the Board will determine which proposals to include in the county's legislative package at a work session scheduled for September 29, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Stormwater Management Infrastructure (Teresa Denman): Called for legislation to strengthen accountability and transparency for stormwater systems, citing gaps in recorded easements and maintenance agreements. Delegates questioned whether enabling legislation is needed; staff indicated it can be done locally. - Community Infrastructure and Climate Resilience Tax Incentives (Eileen Britt): Proposed a Charles County pilot program within the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development and a federal joint resolution for tax incentives for common ownership communities. Delegates noted the tax incentive would require state or federal action, but a study could be done locally. - Commercial Growth Dividend Program and Value Per Acre Study (Roderick Lewis): Requested authority for Charles County to establish a subclass of commercial property for a special tax rate, and an objective value-per-acre study to inform development decisions. Delegates noted the tax authority would require enabling legislation; the study can be done locally. - Inspector General Oversight of School Systems (Greg Waring through Ayanna Moore): Advocated for statewide enabling legislation to allow county IGs to investigate school systems, or a local alternative (Proposal 10). Discussion centered on existing authorities and the need for charter protection. - Loitering Ordinance (Ayanna Moore): Proposed a conduct-based civil loitering ordinance with warnings and a $100 fine, targeting obstruction and harassment while protecting civil rights. Delegates questioned the necessity given existing trespass laws and suggested further analysis with the Sheriff's Office. - Orphans Court Judge Eligibility (Beverly Denniston): Sought a requirement that orphans court judges hold law degrees, citing errors in estate administration. Discussion included salary (approx. $14,850) and the possibility of a county-specific bill. - Youth Sports and Student Athlete Task Force (Denise Joseph): Proposed a task force to coordinate and expand youth athletic opportunities. Delegates noted existing programs and suggested it may be a local initiative. - Charles County Inspector General Accountability Act (Derek Terry): Proposed state legislation to protect the county's IG from easy repeal, given code home rule's vulnerability. Discussion compared charter counties' protections. - Bi-County Transportation Priority Zone (Latina Wilson): Called for a dedicated corridor relief strategy for US 301/MD 5, with joint reviews and impact fees. Delegates acknowledged congestion and noted an upcoming meeting with MDOT. - Homeowner Resilience Improvements (Latina Wilson): Proposed a state pilot program to help households with flooding, septic, well, and access issues. - Commuter Ferry (Latina Wilson): Proposed a state-led commuter ferry from Indian Head to National Harbor/Alexandria. Delegates discussed prior studies and challenges. - Aging in Place Mobility and Caregiver Support (Latina Wilson): Recommended a five-year state-supported pilot for older adults, building on existing county services. - CDL Exemption for Law Enforcement Response Vehicles (Charles County Sheriff's Office via Melissa Diga and Lt. Barrows): Requested exemption from CDL requirements for certain sheriff's vehicles (e.g., armored skid steer). Discussion included liability and other states' practices. - Remove Exclusions from Speed and Red Light Camera Program for Rental/Leasing Companies (Sheriff's Office via Jerome Spencer): Asked to allow citations for rental and lease vehicles, closing a loophole. Previous statewide bill failed; speakers noted a new peer-to-peer exemption worsens the issue. - Amend Local Government Tort Claims Act to Include Resilience Authority (Terra Do): Sought to cap liability for the Charles County Resilience Authority, which is currently exposed to unlimited claims. - HOA Dispute Review Board Expansion (Reed Fosson): Two proposals: expand jurisdiction to condominiums and cooperatives, and establish a registry with fees to implement training requirements from Senate Bill 573. - Recreation Amenity Fee (Acting County Administrator Deborah Hall, Kelly Beavers, Sam Drury): Proposed enabling legislation to create a fee to fund recreational facilities, including a Sports and Wellness Center. Delegates and commissioners expressed divided views; some opposed new taxes/fees given economic conditions, others supported the need for dedicated funding. Discussion included the capital clubhouse and relationships with schools and College of Southern Maryland. - Native Biodiversity Threshold for Commercial Properties (Makaiah Lloyd): Proposed requiring native plants on commercial landscapes over 10 years to restore ecosystems. Speaker acknowledged need for realistic timeline. - Ban on Large-Scale Data Centers (Makaiah Lloyd, Jake Burdett, Sandra Gwynn, Amanda Doane Johnson, Lana, and others): Multiple speakers advocated for statewide and regional bans or moratoriums on data centers, citing environmental, health, and economic concerns. Delegate Wilson announced he would introduce a two-year statewide moratorium. Commissioner Bowling supported a ban and committed to introducing a county-level ban. - Term Limits for County Commissioners (Commissioner Patterson): Proposed state law to codify two-term limits for code home rule counties in Southern Maryland. - Shared Wastewater Systems for Accessory Dwelling Units (Commissioner Coates): Sought state law change to allow detached ADUs to share a septic system with the main dwelling, if capacity exists. - Remove Income Restrictions for Volunteer Emergency Responders Tax Credit (Commissioner Collins): Proposed eliminating income eligibility limits to expand the property tax credit for volunteers. Data on usage will be provided. - Term Limits for Maryland General Assembly Members (discussed): A proposal for legislative term limits was presented; delegates expressed caution, noting potential loss of institutional knowledge. Key Outcomes - The public record was kept open until September 25, 2026, for additional written comments. - The public hearing was adjourned. - The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session on September 29, 2026, to select proposals for the final legislative package, which will be submitted to the Charles County delegation.