Public Meetings - Charles County, Maryland

The board convened on September 10, 2026, to hear requests for temporary one-day Class C liquor licenses, a license transfer, a temporary expansion of licensed premises, an extension for a new license, and a retail alcohol delivery permit. All items on the agenda were handled by voice vote, with no announced opposition. The August inspection report was postponed, and the August 13, 2026 minutes were approved. Temporary License Applications - Butler's Enhancement – Southern Maryland Annual Crab Feast: Approved for September 19, 2026, 12 p.m.–6 p.m., at 3835 Gardner Road, Waldorf, Maryland, with approximately 300 attendees expected. Gerald Butler, vice president, testified the event is 21 and over; Charles County Sheriff's Office personnel check IDs and wristband attendees. The transcript's initial reading said 'Wild Earth, Maryland,' but the motion used 'Waldorf, Maryland.' - Butler's Enhancement – R&B on the Lawn: Approved for September 27, 2026, 12 p.m.–8 p.m., same address, approximately 300 attendees. Mr. Butler said the 21-and-over event will use sheriff's office ID checks and a fenced drinking area; entertainment will be DJs rather than a live band. The motion was contingent on Mr. Butler providing updated security details to the board's clerk. - Farming for Hunger Inc. – Farewell to Summer Barbecue: Approved for September 26, 2026, 5:30 p.m.–8 p.m., at 6980 Serenity Farm Road, Hughesville, Maryland, approximately 125 attendees. David Robinson and Ernie Fowler represented the applicant. They described three ID checkers, wristbands for those 21 and older, one-drink-at-a-time service, and a fenced area; tickets were advance sale only. - Veterans Bloom Zakaya Ridge Farm Inc. – Dining at Sakaya Ridge Farm Fundraiser: Approved for October 10, 2026, 4 p.m.–10 p.m., at 11770 Charles Street, La Plata, Maryland, approximately 200 attendees. Cynthia Bliss testified the event is 21 and over, with TAM-certified staff, wristbands, and alcohol restricted to the barn and adjacent tent. The fundraiser supports veterans mental health and includes a silent auction. - La Plata Volunteer Fire Department – Hunters Extravaganza Fundraiser: Approved for October 3, 2026, 12 p.m.–6 p.m., at Charles County Fairgrounds, 8440 Fairgrounds Road, La Plata, Maryland, approximately 500 attendees. Stephen Hingley stated there would be 100% ID checks at entry, different colored wristbands for over/under 21, ID checks at the beer truck, and a TAM-certified server. Firearm raffle winners must obtain firearms through the licensed vendor. - Cheney Foundation LTD DBA Cheney Cares – 2026 Cheney's Annual Bull Roast Fundraiser: Approved for October 24, 2026, 12 p.m.–5 p.m., at 12165 Acton Lane, Waldorf, Maryland, approximately 300–600 attendees. Brandon Coombs said this is the 47th annual event, uses 21-and-older wristbands, one beverage at a time, about 100 volunteer employees, and three to four off-duty Charles County sheriffs. Last year raised about $100,000 for organizations including Boys and Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity, and Farming for Hunger. - Waldorf Lions Foundation – Gun Bash: Approved for November 11, 2026, 12 p.m.–6 p.m., at Charles County Fairgrounds, 8440 Fairgrounds Road, La Plata, Maryland, approximately 200–250 attendees. Claude Humbert testified the event has run more than 20 years with trained servers, wristbands for those 21 and older, and firearms that must be picked up from the authorized dealer. - Lake Acabellum Farm Ltd – Camp SOD Music Festival and Fundraising Event: Approved for September 26 and 27, 2026, 2 p.m.–11 p.m., with rain dates of November 19 and 20, 2026, at Regency Furniture Stadium, 11765 St. Linus Drive, Waldorf, Maryland, approximately 5,000 attendees. Representatives described a 21-and-over event, four ID checkpoints, a fenced food-court area outside the west entrance with two 10 by 30 bars, 227 security personnel, and 12 additional Charles County sheriff's officers. Alcohol purchased outside could not be carried into the stadium bowl. Proceeds are intended for music scholarships and instrument endowments for Charles County students. - American Legion Post 238: An application for a temporary license for October 9, 2026, 8 a.m.–2 p.m. was read, but no representative was present, and the board moved on without action. License Transfer, Expansion, and Administrative Requests - CP 443 Inc. trading as World Liquors and Fine Wines – License Transfer: Approved transfer of the Class A off-sale beer, wine, and liquor license from 3244 Crain Highway to 3276 Crain Highway, Waldorf, Maryland, contingent on submission of the health permit and UNO and completion by January 14, 2027 (a 120-day extension). David Martinez and Ms. Patel testified; hours remain 9 a.m.–midnight, but the new location will have no drive-through. - Martinis Restaurant and Lounge – Temporary Expansion of Licensed Premises: Approved for September 19, 2026, 12 p.m.–7 p.m., for a fundraiser with live music for the Ta Labana Lambda chapter of the Omega Sci-Fi fraternity, contingent on submission of a parking plan. Pete Hamelman said approximately 200 people were expected, no temporary bars would be set up, servers would take alcohol from the restaurant to the fenced area, and sheriff's deputies would provide security. Several board members raised parking and congestion concerns. - Corner Liquors LLC – Ownership Notification: The board noted that Laura Yates transferred her interest to Hardik Patel, now the sole member and licensee of Corner Liquors, 3120 Old Washington Road, Waldorf, Maryland. - Waldorf Eatery LLC trading as Eggs in Waldorf – License Extension: Approved an extension to October 7, 2026, to obtain the health permit and UNO for the new license at 4575 Fairway Village Place, Waldorf, Maryland. David Martinez said the remaining items were health-approved casters for kitchen equipment, corporate wall coverings, and signage. - Big Mouth Liquors – Retail Delivery Permit: Approved an application for retail delivery of alcoholic beverages from Big Mouth Liquors, 2175 Crain Highway, Waldorf, Maryland, subject to monthly board check-ins for the first 90 days after delivery service begins. David Martinez and Ms. Patel described orders by telephone, website, or third-party application (no email), age-21 requirement, ID and payment matching at delivery, no deliveries outside Charles County, initial hours 11 a.m.–9 p.m., and the manager handling early deliveries. The board amended the motion to start the 90-day check-in clock from the date deliveries actually begin. Other Administrative Items - The August inspection report was moved to the October meeting because the inspector, Ms. Couples, was unavailable. - The board approved the August 13, 2026 meeting minutes as written. - Caribbean Fire closure review: Board member Mitchell reported that Caribbean Fire at 13 Shining Willow Way, La Plata, appeared to have been closed for more than 10 days based on inspections on August 5 and August 14, 2026. The board directed alcohol enforcement to conduct a 10-day consecutive closure check and follow up, because a license may expire by operation of law after 10 consecutive days of closure. Key Outcomes - All temporary license applications were approved by voice vote with no announced opposition, except the American Legion Post 238 application, which was not acted on because no representative appeared. - The World Liquors transfer was approved with conditions: health permit, UNO, and completion by January 14, 2027. - The Martinis expansion was approved with a required parking plan. - The Eggs in Waldorf extension was approved until October 7, 2026. - Big Mouth Liquors must report to the board monthly for the first 90 days of delivery operations. - The board directed a 10-day closure check for Caribbean Fire and deferred August inspection reports to October.

The Charles County Resilience Authority Board of Directors held a regular meeting on Thursday, September 3, 2026, to approve prior meeting minutes, receive the treasurer's quarterly report, hear updates on grants and programs, adopt a comprehensive fundraising plan, and discuss the youth corps and climate resilience initiatives. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes: The board unanimously approved the open session meeting minutes from June 11, 2026. The closed session minutes from the same date were also approved. Discussion Items Treasurer's Quarterly Report - Jake Dyer presented preliminary FY2026 financials, showing revenues of $463,888, expenses fully covered, and a net gain of approximately $4,000. - The FY2027 operating budget remains at $629,200, with about $654,000 unspent. Active grants total $1.4 million as of July 31, 2026, with $610,000 expended. Closed grants sum to about $650,000, bringing total grant receipts to just under $2 million. - Two new grants were added: $123,000 from the Urban State Savannah Sustainability Directors Network and $199,295 from the Mid-Atlantic Community Forestry Fund, both supporting tree equity and the youth corps. - A $3.65 million grant through Ecotone for the Town of Indian Head is tracked separately and operates as a public-private, pay-for-performance contract. Executive Director's Report - Stacy Paul reported on workforce development: the Resilience Authority Youth Corps entered its fourth year, providing year-round green jobs. - Ongoing partnerships include permanent forest conservation easements (to go to the Board of County Commissioners early 2027), green infrastructure training, and a Chesapeake Bay landscape professional certification program. - Friendship Farm County Park will host a living shoreline and marsh restoration to generate MS4 credits, with soil conservation district work on the land side. - Cannabis community reinvestment funds were allocated to complete the Elite Gymnastics stormwater pocket park and add trees at Thomas Stone High School. - At Indian Head, a community garden project is seeking funds for an ADA trail, amphitheater, labyrinth, and bridge; applications were submitted to DNR Green Space Equity and MD DHCD Sustainable Communities programs. - The Bensville Nodes of Nature park is nearing permit issuance, with groundbreaking expected imminently. - Pope's Creek Living Shoreline is still in permitting; design modifications are being addressed per agency feedback. - The RA website is being redesigned to include project photos and updates. Comprehensive Fundraising Plan - Amanda Mock presented the draft plan developed with a subcommittee (Karen Price, Jake Dyer, Martin Harris). The plan outlines four strategies: - Public sector grants: $500,000 annual target, continuing the RA's successful approach. - Private foundation grants: $25,000 annual target, requiring relationship-building. - County partnerships: Leveraging MS4 credits, stormwater projects, and pocket parks for county funding. - Private sector donations: $25,000–$40,000 annual target, through events and sponsor recognition. - The board discussed and commended the plan. A motion to adopt was made by Dan Donahue, seconded, and passed unanimously. Youth Corps Report - Mary Owens reported on the summer 2026 program: two crews operated—a young adult crew (2 members) and a full-time summer crew (6 members: a crew leader, assistant, and four high school students, including two returners). - The crews worked at 16 sites, maintaining over 700 trees, and participated in enrichment activities (e.g., visits to a nursery, the Sustainable Learning Center, and the Southern Maryland Food Bank, where they harvested 68 pounds of vegetables). - New resources this year: a water tank, 100 watering bags, and dedicated storage at the future La Plata Farm Park. - The program concluded with a kayaking tour at Malice Bay, joined by Dan Donahue and Amanda Mock. - Upcoming fall youth corps will include three young adults, continuing tree watering, planting, and pocket forest work at Thomas Stone High School. Climate Resilience and Sustainability Officer Report - Beth Gross provided an update on the Climate Action Plan, which is near completion but waiting on resolution of greenhouse gas targets. Work is ongoing with the contractor and Council of Governments. - The Local Government Energy Modernization grant will initiate a solar power purchase agreement for county facilities; an internal work group is being formed. Peer learning with Arlington County is underway to inform the process. Other Announcements - Dan Donahue thanked Mary Owens and Amanda Mock for the Malice Bay event, promoted a September 15 Bloom Soil Operation webinar, noted the Charles County Fair (September 17–20), and mentioned Natural Resources Careers Camps in Prince George's County. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved: June 11, 2026 open and closed session minutes. - Fundraising plan adopted: Unanimous approval of the comprehensive fundraising plan. - Next meeting: Scheduled for Thursday, December 3, 2026.

Charles County Animal Matter Hearing Board Meeting — September 2, 2026 The Charles County Animal Matter Hearing Board convened on September 2, 2026, to review testimony related to animal nuisance complaints, beginning with approval of prior meeting minutes and proceeding to a contested case regarding a neighbor's dog. Consent Calendar - August 4th Minutes: Approved unanimously by voice vote (all in favor, no opposition or abstentions noted). - August 18th Minutes: Approved unanimously by voice vote (all in favor, no opposition or abstentions noted). Public Comments & Testimony - Hassan Gondal (Complainant, case 26-15): Testified under oath regarding a neighbor dispute involving Esmeralda and Jose Gonzalez's dog. He stated that the dog has attacked and killed his rabbits multiple times, including an incident approximately two years prior that was apologized for by Ms. Gonzalez. He testified that this year, animal control was called multiple times, they suggested he file a formal complaint, and that he has called them several times. He described the dog damaging a rabbit cage, roaming his property, and described a specific late-night incident in April when he returned home around 10-11 PM and found the dog near the rabbit cage. He also stated his seven-year-old child is afraid to go outside because the dog barks, and his wife fears customers cannot approach her small business stand. He said he has no problem with the dog, only wants them to contain it. He also stated other neighbors have called animal control on them several times, and that animal control has left a cage at their property in the past to catch the dog. Under questioning, he testified the dog urinated on the driveway, that it barks at all times of day and night, and that a photo of the dog at the rabbit hutch was from April 17th to 19th of this year (no date on photo).

On September 1, 2026, the Charles County Board of Commissioners convened with Commissioner Bowling absent. The board held two public hearings: one on the proposed $100 million 2026 bond issue and one on proposed Bill 2026-07 / Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 26-190, which concerns retail sales establishments over 100,000 square feet and retail parking requirements. Both items were approved. Public Comments & Testimony 2026 bond issue public hearing - No members of the public signed up or spoke. The board closed the record, ended the hearing, and approved Resolution 2026-12. ZTA 26-190 public hearing - An unnamed public speaker said the ZTA was "not a bad amendment" but questioned whether commissioners knew it originated from Bill 2017-01, which he described as anti-business and as signaling the county was "closed for business" at the time. He urged that any passage be in the best interest of businesses. - Nancy Shurtler, a former Planning Commission member, opposed the ZTA as written. She argued that removing the two-story requirement without replacing it with a meaningful condition creates an inverted result, and that adding big-box retail to the AUC zone is incompatible with that zone's transit-oriented purposes. She requested denial or amendment and a 30-day open record. - Roderick Lewis, who identified himself as Roger Lewis, a Waldorf homeowner, opposed the ZTA, saying it would be a step backward from the Downtown Waldorf Vision Plan and the community's walkable, transit-oriented goals. - Greg Waring opposed the ZTA, associated himself with the Charles County Conservancy and Smart Growth Alliance, and criticized the process for proceeding despite the Planning Commission's unanimous denial. He said the public deserves more transparency and identified an unnamed "shadow applicant" he alleged is involved. Discussion Items - Jake Dyer, Director of Fiscal and Management Services, outlined the bond issuance timeline: rating agency meetings on September 30, bond sale on October 27, and closing on November 10. He presented allocations of $47.8 million for water and sewer infrastructure, $16 million for Board of Education maintenance and facilities, $8.9 million for new school construction, $17 million for government facilities and parks, $3.3 million for environmental projects, and $7 million for road projects. The bond is structured with $67.5 million in 15-year bonds, $9.5 million in 10-year bonds related to school excise tax projects, and $23 million in 30-year bonds. - Tony Phelps, Assistant Chief of Planning, explained that ZTA 26-190 resolves an inconsistency in the MX and TOD zones, would allow retail sales establishments over 100,000 square feet in the AUC zone, would remove the two-story building condition, and would reduce minimum parking requirements by 20% for all retail uses across all zoning categories. He noted the Planning Commission recommended denial on June 1 after its public hearing on May 4. - Commissioner Collins asked how the proposal fits with the Waldorf Urban Redevelopment Quarter goals and public parking options. Planning Director Charles Race acknowledged the amendment is not 100% in keeping with the original transit-oriented development vision, but framed the decision as whether to keep rigid regulations or allow some flexibility while transition continues. - Jason Groth, Director of Planning and Growth Management, said the ZTA offers flexibility after roughly 17 years of slow movement in the Waldorf area, called the two-story requirement a deterrent for businesses, and noted that building and site design standards would still apply. Several commissioners expressed support for flexibility and discussed possible incentives such as solar parking canopies, while one commissioner emphasized consistency with how the county handles residential zoning changes and the need for more commercial revenue. - One commissioner said the comprehensive plan would not be ready until after the next board takes office, observed that residents testified in opposition, and favored keeping the record open for about 15 days. Staff responded that adding a solar requirement or incentive would require sending a revised text amendment back to the Planning Commission, but that the idea could be studied as part of the comprehensive plan update. Key Outcomes - Approved Resolution 2026-12, the Charles County Government 2026 bond issue. The motion carried with no recorded opposition; Commissioner Bowling was absent. - Closed the ZTA 26-190 public record and hearing, then adopted Bill 2026-07 / ZTA 26-190 by voice vote with no recorded opposition, despite the Planning Commission's recommendation of denial. - Next steps for the bond issue: rating agency meetings on September 30, bond sale on October 27, and closing on November 10. - Staff indicated that adding any new incentive or requirement to the ZTA, such as solar panels or solar parking canopies, would require another Planning Commission review; the feedback was noted for the comprehensive plan process.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on September 1, 2026, for a full-day session that included numerous recognitions, proclamations, approval of budget transfers and other items, and briefings on the enhanced speed camera program and a proposed rental licensing ordinance. The meeting began with recognition of employees for length of service and top performers, followed by proclamations for African Heritage Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month, National Recovery Month, Save a Life Day, National Suicide Prevention Week, Direct Support Professionals Week, Constitution Week, Alopecia Awareness Month, National Preparedness Month, Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Day, and Patriot Day. Commissioners also made brief comments about community events. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes from the July 21, 2026 meeting. - FY 2026 Budget Transfer Request (BTR) 353 – $335,410 for inspection and review enterprise fund contract services (approved). - FY 2026 BTR 1214 – $122,370 for recreation parks and tourism department overages at the Waldorf property (approved). - FY 2027 BTR 652 – $469,500 to cover higher insurance premiums through LGIT (approved). - Request from Charles County Board of Education for FY 2026 Intercategory Budget Transfer – $405,000 from maintenance of plants (utilities savings) to capital outlay for chiller replacement at Diggs Elementary. After discussion about budget implications and field trip funding, the motion passed (approved). - Revision to Site Plan for College of Southern Maryland Center for Transportation Training – Approval to relocate a modular building to avoid wetlands (approved). - Amendment to La Plata Library Ground Lease – Addressing title issues (approved, with commissioner frustration about project delays). - Sheriff's Office Retirement Plan Amendment 2026 – Increasing COLA and allowing purchase of prior service (approved). - Letter of Support for Waterway Improvement Fund Grant for Gilbert Run Park – $500,000 grant for boat ramp and dock renovations (approved). - Resolution 2026-11 Codifying County Land Use Plan Map Amendment – For aviation business park and general industrial zones around Maryland Airport (passed 3-1, with one recusal). - Approval of National POW MIA Recognition Day Missing Man Table Setup – For September 18, 2026 (approved). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were heard during this session. Discussion Items - Renewal of Mutual Aid Agreement with St. Mary's and Calvert County Sheriff's Offices: The agreement, last updated in 2012, was presented for renewal. Commissioners raised concerns about the lack of updates, potential conflicts with county policies, and the inclusion of data sharing and reporting provisions. Sheriff Barry assured that the agreement only covers operational mutual aid and that Charles County officers follow their own policies. Commissioner Patterson questioned whether the agreement could be used for immigration enforcement; Sheriff Barry confirmed it would not. After debate, Commissioner Bowling moved to table the motion to allow legal review. The motion to table was approved. - Enhanced Speed Camera Program Briefing: State Highway Administration (SHA) and Sheriff's Office presented on current automated enforcement programs and new authority under the Vulnerable Road User Protection Act (effective October 1, 2026). SHA identified six safety corridors in Charles County, four on US 301 and two on local roads (Smallwood Drive and Western Parkway). SHA plans to deploy cameras on US 301 in Waldorf. Commissioners discussed revenue allocation, data privacy concerns, and coordination with the county. No vote was taken; the board requested additional data and coordination before moving forward. - Briefing on Proposed Amendment to Waldorf Station Development Agreement: Staff requested scheduling a public hearing for September 29, 2026, to consider amending the development agreement to allow earlier construction of 70 stacked townhouse units (without increasing overall density). The amendment aims to add affordable housing options. The motion to schedule the public hearing passed. - Briefing on Proposed Bill 2026-08 – Charles County Rental Licensing: Staff presented a proposed ordinance requiring registration and periodic inspections of all rental units. The program would be phased in, with fees estimated at $107 per unit per year for standard rentals and $107 per year for short-term rentals. Commissioners expressed concerns about unintended consequences for small landlords, potential displacement of tenants, privacy of registry data, exemptions for historic properties and the Amish community, and the cost of required radon and lead testing. After extensive discussion, the board decided not to schedule a public hearing at this time. Instead, staff will revise the bill and bring it back for a work session before introduction. Key Outcomes - Approved: All consent calendar items except the mutual aid agreement (tabled) and the rental licensing bill (held for revisions). - Tabled: Renewal of mutual aid agreement with St. Mary's and Calvert counties – motion to table approved; legal review requested. - Scheduled Public Hearing: For Waldorf Station Development Agreement amendment on September 29, 2026. - Deferred: Rental licensing bill – to be revised and brought back for work session before introduction. - Briefings Received: Enhanced speed camera program – no action taken; further data and coordination requested. - Closed Session: The board moved into closed session at the end of the meeting to discuss appointments to commissioner-appointed boards and commissions. Next Scheduled Session: September 15–16, 2026 (announced during the meeting).

On September 1, 2026, the Board of County Commissioners convened to approve multiple board appointments and review the preliminary FY 2026 General Fund fourth-quarter results. The meeting featured a briefing by fiscal staff on projected revenue gains and fund balance recommendations, followed by unanimous votes on appointments and reserve fund reservations. Consent Calendar - All appointments and reappointments were approved unanimously by roll-call vote (Commissioners Bowling, Coates, Stewart, Patterson, and Collins all present). Items included: Emmanuel Tajuba as financial expert to the Internal Audit Oversight Committee; Lorenzo Childress III to the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board; Carmelita White, Marcala Cano, and Christie Hall to the Board of Social Services; Catherine Burnham to the Commission for Veterans Affairs; and Sabrina Kelly and Latise Cooper to the Commission for Women. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment period was included in the available transcript. Discussion Items - FY 2026 Q4 General Fund Review & Fund Balance Reserves: Jake Dyer, Director of Fiscal Ministry of Services, and Sam Chiriaco, Chief of Budget, presented the preliminary fourth-quarter general fund results for fiscal year 2026. The county is projecting a $34.5 million gain, subject to external audit adjustments. Revenue outperformance was driven by stronger-than-expected income and property tax receipts. Property tax collections finished at $380.7 million versus a $305.2 million budget, and income taxes finished at $226.4 million versus an adjusted budget of $184.5 million. Income tax revenue was bolstered by a one-time $6.5 million overdistribution from the state that will be recouped in FY 2027 via reduced quarterly distributions. Federal layoffs were not yet a material factor in income tax receipts, though withholding growth is decelerating (16% Nov, 17% Feb, 7% May over prior year). - Commissioner? raised a concern about whether federal layoffs and their potential impact on personal income tax revenue had been factored; Director Jake Dyer responded that the trends do not appear to show such an impact yet, noting that income tax distributions were up 16% (November), 17% (February), and 7% (May) over prior-year periods, but withholding growth has started to decline. The board also discussed that the projected $34.5 million general fund surplus is unaudited and subject to external auditor review and adjusting journal entries. The preliminary results: revenue gains were driven by property taxes finishing at $380.7 million versus a $305.2 million budget (a $75.5 million favorable variance) and income taxes finishing at $226.4 million versus the $184.5 million adjusted budget (a $41.9 million favorable variance). The county anticipates a one-time state recoupment of $6.5 million in FY2027 income tax distributions due to the state's overdistribution to most counties (with a few under-distributed), which has not been pulled back from the presented numbers. The presenters also noted that income tax growth has been seen across all of Maryland's largest counties; Montgomery and Baltimore counties had variances larger than Charles County's entire income tax budget. County staff noted that federal layoffs did not appear to materially reduce income tax receipts; the November distribution was 16% above prior year, February 17%, and May 7% above prior year (via withholdings through March 31). The county is scheduling its bond rating presentation sooner than usual (end of September) and therefore brought this fourth quarter report to the Board on September 1. External auditors will review the numbers; journal entries and transactions may adjust the final fund balance. Staff requested approval of fund balance reservations as part of this item. The item was approved unanimously. [This section contains no content about the consent calendar.]

The Charles County Board of Appeals met virtually on August 25, 2026, to consider a motion for reconsideration of the board's prior decision in the River's Edge case, which had reversed a zoning officer determination that a nonconforming use was abandoned due to cessation for over one year. After hearing arguments from the county attorney and the applicant's attorney, along with legal advice from board counsel, the board voted 4-1 to deny the motion for reconsideration, upholding its original decision. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion by Timothy Trainer, seconded by Jennifer Walker, to accept the agenda as presented. Approved unanimously via voice vote. - Approval of Meeting Minutes: Motion by a board member, seconded by Jennifer Walker, to approve the minutes of the August 11, 2026 meeting. Approved unanimously via voice vote. Discussion Items - River's Edge Reconsideration Request (Docket 1459): - The board considered a request by the County Attorney's Office to reconsider the board's July 14, 2026 decision that reversed the zoning officer's determination that the nonconforming use at River's Edge had been abandoned due to cessation for over one year. - County Attorney Mr. Potter argued that the board made a mistake of law by finding the use abandoned but then effectively extending the use from the date of the order, which he claimed exceeded the board's authority because the zoning officer could not breathe new life into the use. - Mr. Schaller, representing River's Edge, countered that the board acted within its broad authority under state and county law to make decisions "that ought to be made," and that the original decision was supported by equitable tolling and detrimental reliance on the county attorney's written advice that the use was not abandoned. He asked the board to affirm its original order. - Board Counsel Attorney Brown provided legal analysis: he noted that despite procedural defects (failure to mail notice to all parties and file an affidavit), the motion was timely and based on a mistake of law. However, he recommended denying reconsideration on the merits due to three independent grounds supporting the original order: equitable tolling, detrimental reliance, and the inapplicability of the Mark Lounge case. He advised the board to make a motion to deny the request. - Board members discussed the motion. Mr. Chasada expressed initial inclination to agree that the county had standing but was persuaded by the equitable arguments and case law interpretation. Ms. Walker supported denial to allow the applicant to restart his restaurant. Mr. Trainer strongly opposed, stating the board had made a mistake by ignoring the statutory mandate on abandonment and that the applicant's eight-year delay was due to his own noncompliance, not county or state delay. Mr. Watkins expressed surprise that the county's mistake-of-law argument was not raised during the public hearing and said he did not accept that argument. Chair Humbert acknowledged a prior prejudicial policy remark made at a work session and noted it was inappropriate. Key Outcomes - Vote on Motion to Deny Reconsideration: Motion by Mr. Chasada, seconded by Jennifer Walker, to deny the county's motion for reconsideration. The roll call vote resulted in 4 in favor (Vice Chair Watkins, Ms. Walker, Mr. Chasada, Chair Humbert) and 1 opposed (Mr. Trainer). The motion carried, thereby denying the reconsideration request and affirming the board's original decision. - Next Steps: Board Counsel will prepare an order memorializing the basis for the denial. The next board meeting is scheduled for October 13, 2026, to hear the Falcon Ridge case, to be held in person in the blue room to accommodate community attendance. No meeting is scheduled for September 2026.

No agenda or minutes were provided; this summary is based on the meeting transcript. Chairman Lynn Gilroy presided, joined by board members, county commissioner appointees Quincy Colby and Robert Ansel, and staff. The board reviewed financial reports, project updates, and capital requests, and approved several funding items. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes of the July 16, 2026 meeting (motion by Bill Deer, seconded by Robert Ansel). - The July 2026 Low SAP report was reviewed: total funds at the end of July were $25,386,419.67, down $145,877 from June's $25,532,297; 334 recipients received disbursements. Wilmington Trust benefits totaled $9,304.36, the account earned $1,497, and total monthly deposits were $1,775.60; Wilmington Trust's value change was a negative $96,934.33. Principal Financial paid $3,123.61 in fees. A board member noted disbursements will remain negative until tax funds are transferred into the account in November or December. - The July 2026 escrow account expenditure letter was accepted as submitted. Listed expenses included the coordinator account ($10,247), FirstNet mobile data terminals ($6,664.96), cadet uniforms ($6,231.92), MDT coordinator salary ($15,255.32), and other fuel, telephone, administrative, scholarship, and maintenance invoices. Letters of Information and Project Updates - Bel Alton Volunteer Fire Department submitted a letter of intent to replace Command 10, a 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe with 110,690 miles; sale proceeds will go to the fire apparatus escrow account. - Benedict Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad provided quarterly updates: Ambulance 5.8 was delivered to FESCO (the local Horton dealer) in late July after a July inspection trip, and equipment mounting and radio installation were beginning. The donated chassis designated Fire Utility 5 has completed body work and graphics, and is awaiting communications redesignation and the standards process. - Bryans Road Volunteer Fire Department reported that Truck 11 returned to service after a new crate motor and radiator repair costing $63,534.26, paid from the OM account; the letter of information was required because the expense exceeded $50,000. - Dentsville Volunteer Fire and EMS reported full permit approval for its new pole barn; bonding, permit documents, and construction bid documents are in progress. - Hughesville Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad reported its EMS storage pole building is fully erected with concrete flooring poured, a final inspection expected in early August, and museum interior refinishing about half complete with completion expected by end of August. Hughesville also submitted letters of intent to replace three aging EMS bay doors and to add an HVAC unit to the second-floor EMS bunk room. - Newburgh Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department requested cancellation of its Ambulance 1483 chassis project because FESCO/Horton delivery delays left the unit sitting outside; the committee will re-evaluate and return with a future request. - Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Department provided a quarterly update on its ambulance replacement: the DPC Emergency Equipment contract was signed March 3, 2026, and delivery remains on track for fall 2028. Potomac Heights also reported final completion of hose tower repairs at a total cost of $23,949.49, which was 5.04% over the approved budget and within the 10% margin. - 10th District Volunteer Fire Department reported the final Engine 82 replacement outcome: standards inspection passed on August 5, 2026, with no exceptions; final cost was $839,966 versus the approved $819,128, under the 10% overage limit; the unit is now in service. - Westlake Volunteer Fire and EMS advised that it is forming a committee to investigate replacement of Engine 121; any future replacement would follow the capital acquisition process. Action Requests and Votes - The Charles County Volunteer Fire Association requested acceptance of a donated 2009 Chevrolet Suburban from Westlake Volunteer Fire Department Rescue Squad. The vehicle has roughly 156,000 miles, will support the association's Safety Officer program, needs minor repairs not to exceed $3,000, and has an estimated total in-service cost of $6,100 funded from the association's vehicle escrow account. The County Fire Chiefs endorsed the request with a vote of 12 yes, 1 no, and 2 companies absent. The board approved the donation (motion by Bill Deer, seconded by Robert Ansel). - The association's Special Operations Chief, Ryan Serkotowski, requested $8,533.91 for Milwaukee M18 battery-powered tools for the structural collapse team. The special operations account balance is $110,000, leaving $101,466.09 after the purchase, above the $40,000 required reserve. The board approved the purchase; items had already been ordered. - La Plata Volunteer Fire Department requested $221,420 in architectural and engineering funding for renovation and addition work at its 25-year-old fire station. The request was removed from the table (motion by Bill Deer, seconded by Robert Ansel). Bids were received from CMI ($199,631 total), Garner Construction ($221,700 total), and WM Davis ($221,420 total); La Plata selected WM Davis. Funding will come from the capital building escrow account with no debt. During discussion, La Plata representatives clarified the work will proceed in two phases, the addition will use existing south parking, and the original site plan includes phase two rear gravel parking. A board member suggested that if the county-provided collapse trailer leaks, the county should replace it. The board approved the request unanimously. - 10th District Volunteer Fire Department submitted a request to purchase a 2027 Ford F-150 crew cab 4x4 for $82,217.34, using $13,110 in EMS 508 funds, $22,048 in Fire 508 funds, and $47,059 in non-tax funds, with no debt. The proposal was read into the record and tabled to the next meeting (motion by Bill Deer, seconded by Robert Ansel) after executive committee review. Volunteer Coordinator Report - Chief Wayne Higgins is home and recovering after a brief hospital stay. - The EMS trailer is being wrapped and then will pick up a UTV from Company 8. - Twenty-four cadets are starting Monday; half will attend the 911 dispatch class and half common passenger rescue training, and there are vacancies available to county volunteers. - A Clear Channel contract was signed for two new recruiting signs on Route 301 in the White Plains area. - The recruiter, Chris, was reported to be cancer-free and back to normal activity. Key Outcomes - Approved the July minutes, Low SAP report, and July escrow expenditure letter. - Approved the donated Suburban for the Safety Officer program. - Approved the $8,533.91 special operations equipment purchase. - Approved the $221,420 La Plata architectural/engineering request. - Tabled the 10th District Vehicle 8 purchase until the next meeting. - Removed completed projects from tracking, including Potomac Heights hose tower and 10th District Engine 82, and removed the cancelled Newburgh ambulance chassis project from the quarterly report list. - The next meeting is scheduled for September 17, 2026; Capital Project Quarterly Reports are due at that meeting for Bryans Road Truck 11 replacement, Bryans Road Solar Energy Project, Engine Head Brush Truck Engine 94, Potomac Heights roof replacement, Waldorf Engine 32, Waldorf Ambulances 39 and 399, Westlake Ambulance 127, and Westlake Station 12 remodel.

The Charles County Animal Matter Hearing Board convened on August 18, 2026, to hear seven animal-related citations and complaints, address administrative rules revision, and set the next meeting date. The board reviewed cases involving dangerous dog designations, license violations, barking complaints, and property disputes, issuing fines and abatement orders accordingly. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes from the July 21, 2026 meeting by motion, second, and voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony Citation 7595 – Haskell Campbell (Canine Kane): Officer Murphy testified that multiple compliance checks found Kane not in a double enclosure, lacking proper fencing and warning signs. Mr. Campbell acknowledged most facts but stated he had purchased a new enclosure, posted signs, and was seeking a neuter waiver due to the dog’s age. He admitted the enclosure was not yet up to code. Citations 7583 & 7584 – Alicia Yoda (Dogs Bishop and Bella): Victim David Escato testified that two pit bulls chased him while he was working; Bishop bit his left hand, forcing him to jump onto a car. Officer Murphy confirmed the incident and citations. Ms. Yoda expressed regret, stating the dogs escaped through an open gate; she obtained licenses, rabies vaccines, increased security, and reimbursed Mr. Escato’s medical costs. Citation 7619 – Yvette Denin Lane (Dog Crash): Victim Christina Almonte testified that Crash grabbed her poodle Corey in its mouth, causing severe internal injuries requiring $12,000 in surgery. Officer Hayes confirmed the attack and citations. Ms. Lane stated landscapers left a gate open, contested the severity of injuries, and noted the dog is registered to her son. Citation 7491 – Deontay T. Washington (Dog Pinky): Officer Ingram testified that Pinky attacked and killed a poodle named Chloe; Pinky remains at large. Owner Delante Washington (accepting the citation) said Pinky was a stray he kept for three months, was not vaccinated or licensed, and he does not know her current location. Citation 7607 – Myra E. Himenez (Dog Jericho): Officers Brewer, Hayes, and Neil testified that Jericho, a husky, had been impounded three times for aggression toward officers and the public. Jericho’s 15-year-old daughter Edna represented the owner. After a recess, the owner surrendered Jericho to animal control for euthanasia and the citation was dismissed. File 26-11 – Arkeba Sandage vs. Clinton Brown (Dog Zelda): Ms. Sandage testified that the German Shepherd repeatedly escaped and approached her and her dogs, causing fear. Mr. Brown acknowledged the issue and stated he had installed an electric fence and locks, but provided no evidence. File 26-12 – Tracy Aaron vs. Jasmine McCall (Dog, Staffie): Ms. Aaron testified that on two consecutive days the dog was off-leash and defecated in her yard. Ms. McCall said the dog escaped while she was moving, she retrieved it, cleaned up immediately, and the dog now lives with her brother. File 26-09 – Jaclyn Smith vs. Mary Price (Two Chihuahuas): Ms. Smith and her daughter Erica Coward testified that the dogs barked excessively at night, disrupting sleep. Ms. Price acknowledged occasional late-night barking but said she is willing to adjust schedules. Discussion Items - Case Deliberations: The board weighed evidence and testimony for each case. Notable discussions included: for Yoda, no abatements on Bella; for Washington, abatements contingent upon locating Pinky; for Brown, disagreement on whether the dog’s behavior constituted “potentially dangerous” (motion passed 2-1); for Price, a compromise holding part of the fine in abeyance to encourage compliance. - Administrative Rules Revision: Attorney Clyde Kirby reported proposed rules revisions from May are being drafted by the county attorney’s office. He invited board members to consider additional changes, such as limits on the age of admissible evidence. Key Outcomes Citation 7595 – Haskell Campbell: - Found in violation of failing to comply with dangerous animal regulations. - Previous $350 fine (from October 2021 hearing): $100 due now (30 days to pay); remaining $250 still held in abeyance. - New $500 fine held in abeyance for 6 months. Citations 7583 & 7584 – Alicia Yoda: - Bishop (7583): Violation of individual license ($0 fine); potentially dangerous designation with $200 fine held in abeyance for 6 months; abatements E1–E8 and G required. - Bella (7584): Violation of individual license ($0 fine); potentially dangerous designation with $200 fine held in abeyance for 6 months; no abatements. Citation 7619 – Yvette Denin Lane: - Found in violation of: individual license ($0), animal at large ($50), failure to provide rabies proof ($0), and dangerous/vicious designation ($300). - $100 of $300 held in abeyance for 6 months; $250 due in 45 days. - Dog Crash designated dangerous and vicious; abatements E1–E5 and G required. - If the dog moves out of county, owner must notify the receiving jurisdiction. Citation 7491 – Deontay T. Washington: - Found in violation of: individual license ($50), proof of rabies ($150), and dangerous/vicious designation ($200). Total $400. - $350 held in abeyance for 6 months. - Dog Pinky designated dangerous and vicious; abatements E1–E8 and G to apply if Pinky is located and returned. Citation 7607 – Myra E. Himenez: - Citation dismissed after owner surrendered Jericho to animal control for euthanasia. File 26-11 – Clinton Brown: - Found in violation of 12-5C (potentially dangerous animal) with a $50 fine; no abatements. Motion passed 2-1. File 26-12 – Jasmine McCall: - Not found in violation of at large or intimidating. - Found in violation of defecation on private property (two counts) with a $100 fine; no abeyance; due in 45 days. File 26-09 – Mary Price: - Found in violation of excessive barking (two dogs) with a $100 total fine; $50 held in abeyance for 6 months; $50 due in 30 days. Next Meeting: The board will next meet on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, in the same room due to ongoing construction.