Public Meetings - Charles County, Maryland

The Charles County Liquor Board convened on August 13, 2026, to review and vote on several applications including temporary one-day licenses, new liquor licenses, license transfers, temporary expansions, and a seasonal closure. All motions were approved unanimously, many with contingencies pending further permits or documentation. Temporary Licenses - Rotary Club of Charles County – Approved for a one-day Class C beer, wine, and liquor license for its annual lobster festival on September 27, 2026, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Charles County Fairgrounds. Expected attendance: 900. Applicants detailed wristbands for over-21 attendees, a roped-off alcohol area, and one-drink-per-person limits. All proceeds support scholarships (over $30,000 in 2025). Security: 3 police officers. - Charlotte's Webb Enrichment Center Inc. – Approved for a one-day Class C license for a fundraiser on September 6, 2026, from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Charles County Fairgrounds. Expected attendance: 2,500 (up from 1,500–2,000 last year). Security: 10 Charles County Sheriff’s officers and 50 private security from Zero Tolerance. Proceeds support the nonprofit and St. Jude’s. Pre-sale only. - Iron Share Foundation Corporation – Approved for a one-day Class C license for a fundraiser on August 15, 2026 (rain date August 21), from 5 p.m. to midnight at 13490 Trotter Road, Bryantown. Expected attendance: 80. First event for the foundation; funds support employee scholarships. Security: 3 officers. Music ends by 10 p.m. Contingent on a temporary use permit from the Department of Planning & Growth Management (PGM). New Licenses - Bollywood Masala (Raji Mahutra, Mahutra Sons LLC) – Approved for a new Class BRB (restaurant bar) license at 3804 Crain Highway, Waldorf. The applicant has 10 years of restaurant experience in La Plata. A prior commitment-in-lieu agreement (Feb 2024) for not having a supervisor on premises was noted; additional TIPS training implemented. Operating hours: Mon–Thu 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 11:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Sun 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Approved contingent on providing a corrected Maryland sales and use tax license. - Tropical Lounge (Guadalupe Perez and Paloma Mendoza, Fund Plans LLC) – Approved for a new Class N (nightclub) license with entertainment at 3242 Old Washington Road, Waldorf. Applicant has 15+ years alcohol experience but never held a license. Venue capacity 270. Security will be hired; all staff TIPS certified. Hours: Mon–Thu 4 p.m.–10 p.m., Fri 4 p.m.–1 a.m., Sat 11 a.m.–1 a.m., Sun 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Contingent on health and UNO permits, an updated diagram converting the VIP room to storage, and a 90-day extension (until November 12, 2026) to obtain permits. - Ocean Buffet (Yanjon Zhang, Zodiac Group LLC) – Approved for a new Class BRB license (without entertainment) at 3331 Plaza Way, Waldorf. Buffet restaurant serving Japanese, Chinese, and American food. Alcohol served by table service and at a standalone bar. Applicant has 10 years restaurant experience. Hours: Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m. Contingent on health and UNO permits obtained within 90 days. License Transfers - Crabs on Deck (Byron Sackett and Ryan Mudd) – Approved for transfer of Class B (baseball stadium) license from Christina Himmel to Crabs on Deck LLC at 11765 St. Linus Drive, Waldorf. Internal company change; no operational changes. Applicant Sackett brings extensive food/beverage experience including managing large venues. Hours remain 9 a.m.–11 p.m. on game days, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. non-game days. Contingent on release from Comptroller’s hold. - Swan Point Yacht and Country Club (Joan C. Curley, Peter Gardner, Alexis Devers) – Approved for transfer of Class RC (resort complex) license by replacing William Mayer with Alexis Devers as an authorized person. General manager Devers has 16 years experience. No operational changes. License includes entertainment and outside service area. Temporary Expansion - Creek Sports Bar – Approved for a temporary expansion of its licensed premises to include an outside area for an NFL kickoff event on Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Note: transcript states September 11 but board approved September 13; discrepancy exists.) The event will feature live music (until 7 p.m.), a portable bar, and a beer truck inside a fenced area. Security: Charles County Sheriff’s officers. Cover charge: $5. The board waived prohibitions on outside service area bars and live music. Contingent on an event permit from PGM and submission of an updated diagram. Seasonal Closure - AMO Ship Store (Aqualand Marina) – Approved for seasonal closure from November 1, 2026, to May 1, 2027. The campground closes October 19, 2026. Other Business - Minutes – Approved minutes from the July 9, 2026 meeting (open and closed sessions). - Inspection Report – Inspector Jane Couples reported no concerns. Key Outcomes - All motions carried unanimously with no dissenting votes. - Contingencies were placed on several approvals, including required permits (PGM, health, UNO), corrected documents (sales tax license, diagram), and comptroller release. - Extensions were granted for Tropical Lounge and Ocean Buffet (90 days each) to obtain necessary permits. - Board reminders included verifying permits with PGM and submitting updated diagrams for approval.

The Charles County Board of Appeals convened on August 11, 2026. The board addressed a special exception for a boarding house (Docket 1488) and a motion to reconsider the River's Edge case (Docket 1450). The meeting also covered scheduling updates, discussions on procedural rules, and an advisory opinion on the Open Meetings Act. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously accepted the meeting agenda. - Minutes from the July 14, 2026 hearing regarding the boarding house were approved via a roll call vote. Discussion Items Docket 1488: Boarding House Special Exception (Applicant: John Pedro) - Vice Chair Watkins moved to deny the application, expressing concern about the use’s compatibility with the neighborhood and the precedent of approving it. - Member Trainer seconded the motion. While he stated boarding houses can be a solution for affordable housing, he argued the applicant failed to meet the H3 criteria because of concerns over shared facilities (driveway and kitchen) and a lack of demonstrated experience handling the conflicts inherent in a rooming house. - Member Grendel dissented from the reasoning, stating the board should not micromanage a proposal that met the planning commission’s recommendations and that the board’s concerns about parking and the driveway were outside its scope of review. - Outcome: The motion to deny carried. Vice Chair Watkins and Members Walker, Tesada, Trainer, and Chairperson Humbert voted in favor. Docket 1450: River’s Edge Reconsideration - The County Attorney, on behalf of the Zoning Officer, filed a motion requesting the board reconsider its April 14, 2026 approval of a nonconforming use for River’s Edge. - Attorney Brown advised the board to wait until the 15-day opposition period ends on August 18, 2026 before deciding whether to hear the motion. - Outcome: The board deferred its decision and scheduled a special meeting for August 25, 2026 to decide if it will grant a hearing on the reconsideration motion. Falcon Ridge Hearing - The Falcon Ridge hearing was originally scheduled for August 22, 2026, but the courtroom will not be available that date. - The board expressed concern about the high public interest and the need for an in-person venue so the public can attend and be heard. - Outcome: The hearing was rescheduled from August 22 to October 13, 2026. Rules of Procedure and Open Meetings Act - Member Trainer asked Attorney Brown for clarification about the Maryland Open Meetings Act and discussions among board members about procedural rules. - Brown clarified that any discussion among a quorum (three or more members) must be open to the public, and that sequential private conversations among individual members to circumvent the act are prohibited. - Staff noted a revised draft of the Rules of Procedure is being prepared for discussion. - Outcome: The board agreed to begin the discussion on the Rules of Procedure on August 25, 2026, with a continuation planned for September 8, 2026. Proposed Zoning Ordinance Changes - Staff confirmed that proposed changes to the zoning ordinance had been submitted to the county commissioners and zoning supervisors for consideration during the ongoing rewrite. - Attorney Brown noted the board does not have discretion over the ordinance itself but can make recommendations. Key Outcomes - Boarding House Denied: Docket 1488 was denied. The board concluded the applicant did not demonstrate the special exception would be adequately managed to ensure the peaceful enjoyment of the neighborhood. - River’s Edge Reconsideration Deferred: A decision on whether to reconsider the River’s Edge approval was deferred to a special meeting on August 25, 2026, pending any opposition filings by the August 18 deadline. - Falcon Ridge Rescheduled: The public hearing for Falcon Ridge was moved from August 22, 2026 to October 13, 2026 to allow for in-person attendance.

The Charles County Animal Matters Hearing Board convened on the evening of August 4, 2026, to hear seven enforcement matters brought by Animal Control Services involving dangerous/vicious animal designations, animal-at-large incidents, dog licensing, and rabies vaccination compliance. Board members present were Christine Gonzalez, Acting Chair James Sherman, Dr. Michelle Quigley (veterinarian), Karen Williams, and Marlene Greenleaf, with staff attorneys Mark Potter and Clay Herbie and Clerk Ashley Pickerel. Testimony was limited to three minutes per speaker; the proceedings were audio and video recorded; and decisions are final and may be appealed to circuit court within 30 days under Maryland rules. Consent Calendar - Citations 7596 and 7628 (Animal Control vs. Laura Contreras) were resolved and dismissed because Ms. Contreras paid the citations by phone on the morning of the hearing. Case 7603 – Animal Control vs. Jericho Sage Chorba (Turbo) - Animal control testified that Turbo, a German Shepherd-type dog at 6997 Oakland Drive, Hughesville, had been deemed potentially dangerous and vicious on November 4, 2025, and that Ms. Chorba was fully compliant with abatements by December 8, 2025. In the new incident, Turbo jumped the fence and bit a garbage truck worker on the right hip. - Ms. Chorba testified the escape lasted under a minute, the worker declined her offers of help and said the dog had nipped him after he grabbed its collar; she said she called the trash company twice, offered vet records, and was not contacted until a rabies follow-up call. She described prevention measures: a double fence, GPS wireless collar, correction collar, and no unsupervised outdoor time. - Unanimous board vote: violation of 230-12.5 (dangerous and/or vicious) with a $400 fine, $300 held in abeyance for 12 months; and violation of 230-12.5 (failure to comply with Charles County animal regulations on keeping a dangerous animal) with a $400 fine, $300 held in abeyance for 12 months. Total due: $200 within 45 days. Cases 7620 & 7621 – Animal Control vs. Carlos Gutierrez (Gucci and Gina) - Animal control testified that on May 28, 2026, two female pit bull-type dogs, Gucci and Gina, broke through a shared fence at 2007 Wakefield Circle and attacked Silk, a 14-year-old Yorkie. Silk required two veterinary visits, surgical drainage, and drains placed. - Neighbors Olivia Gillis and Sheila Boyd testified this was the second time the dogs had breached the fence to reach Silk and asked that the dogs be removed or secured if the owner could not be responsible. They confirmed Mr. Gutierrez took responsibility and paid all of Silk's vet bills. - Mr. Gutierrez testified the dogs are indoor dogs, got out because he accidentally left a door open, crawled under a rotted wire fence rather than chewing through it, and have never bitten anyone. He said he repaired and reinforced the fence and paid all medical bills. He acknowledged the dogs lacked county licenses at the time; rabies vaccinations were given August 2, 2026, after the incident. - Unanimous votes on both citations: violation of 230-10.A (individual license) $50; 230-12 (animal at large) $50; 230-9A (proof of current rabies vaccination) $0; 230-12.5 (dangerous) $500; all $600 per citation held in abeyance for 12 months; all abatements except F. The board explained the dangerous designation was based on the attack and serious injury to Silk, not on breed. Case 7622 – Animal Control vs. Alfred A. Harley (Lexi) - On June 15, 2026, at approximately 5:30 p.m., Lexi, a husky-type dog, ran at large and attacked Serenity, a leashed Shih Tzu being walked by Owen Moore on Tottenham Drive in White Plains. Serenity was humanely euthanized on June 18, 2026, due to her injuries. - Mr. Moore testified the owners were present and searching for Lexi but did not grab the dog during the attack; he said he pulled Serenity away and later sent the vet bill by certified mail with no payment response. - Mr. and Ms. Harley testified Lexi slipped past the door, they immediately pursued and warned Mr. Moore to pick up his dog, telling him Lexi was “not good with small animals.” They said they offered to pay the vet bill but never received it, and they obtained a rabies vaccination, county license, and microchip on June 25, 2026. - Unanimous amended vote: NOT in violation of the animal-at-large charge because the owners were actively in pursuit; violation of 230-10.A ($0), 230-9A ($0), and 230-12.5 dangerous ($500), with the full $500 held in abeyance for 12 months and abatements E1–E8, G, H. The board encouraged the parties to resolve the vet bill privately, noting it could not order restitution. Case 7624 – Animal Control vs. Alison D. Gonzalez (Corey) - On July 9, 2026, Corey, a chow-type dog, slipped his collar and bit Rocky, a leash-walked white poodle mix, at 310 Carolyn Drive in La Plata; Rocky suffered a puncture to his withers. The victim, Denine Graves, was subpoenaed but did not appear due to a stated medical condition. - Ms. Gonzalez testified Corey had slipped his collar before but had never attacked another dog; she obtained a Charles County license on August 4, 2026, and said she would use a harness going forward. - Unanimous vote: violation of 230-10.A (license) $0; violation of 230-12.5 (potentially dangerous) $250, all held in abeyance for 6 months; abatements E3 (secure collar/harness, attended by the owner) and E5C (muzzle when walked). Cases 7625 & 7626 – Animal Control vs. Janine Marie Tredick (Sully and Skippy) - On June 25, 2026, Sully, a bloodhound-type dog, and Skippy, a black terrier-type dog, escaped a dilapidated fence at 9 Jenkins Drive in Indian Head. Skippy attacked Goose, a cat owned by Dylan Craven (described in the contact report as an adult male domestic shorthair; Mr. Craven referred to him as a small kitten); Goose died of his injuries. - Mr. Craven, a former dog trainer and behavior specialist, testified the dogs jumped a four-foot chain-link fence leaning at a 45-degree angle, the fence was not repaired until the day before the hearing, and one of his other cats was also chased. - Ms. Tredick testified she was not present at the time, apologized, and had since licensed both dogs (licenses issued July 23, 2026) and taken steps to prevent further escapes. - Citation 7625 (Sully): violation of 230-10.A ($0) and 230-12 animal at large ($50); $50 due within 30 days. - Citation 7626 (Skippy): violation of 230-10.A ($0), 230-12 ($50), and 230-12.5 ($250) for a total of $300; $150 held in abeyance for 6 months and $150 due within 30 days; all abatements except F. The board confirmed at the close of the case that Skippy's designation was “dangerous.” Cases 7632, 7633, 7634 – Animal Control vs. Jamal W. Farmer (three dogs) - On May 28, 2026, three pit bull-type dogs from 220 Gardner Avenue jumped the fence into the yard of 219 Compton Road and attacked Jackal, an Airedale Terrier, in his own yard. Jackal suffered multiple punctures and lacerations requiring over 30 staples, sutures, and a penrose drain (WeCare medical report entered as evidence). - Mr. Farmer did not appear; the board proceeded in his absence. He had told animal control he was moving the dogs out of the county, and their current whereabouts were unknown. - For each citation (7632 for Princess, 7633 for Brown Sugar, 7634 for the third dog): violation of 230-9A (failure to provide proof of rabies) $150 and violation of 230-12.5 (dangerous) $250, totaling $400 per citation, payable within 30 days; all abatements except F; each citation referred to the State's Attorney's Office for failure to appear. The board noted the dangerous designation may carry over to the dogs' new jurisdiction, but enforcement would depend on identifying their location. Key Outcomes - Six cases were decided on the merits by unanimous votes, and one case (Contreras) was resolved by payment. - Fines due now: Chorba $200 (45 days); Tredick $50 (Sully) and $150 (Skippy) (30 days); Farmer $1,200 total for three citations (30 days). - Fines held in abeyance: Chorba $600 (12 months); Gutierrez $1,200 total (12 months); Harley $500 (12 months); Gonzalez $250 (6 months); Tredick $150 for Skippy (6 months). - Dangerous designations issued for Gucci, Gina, Lexi, Skippy, and Farmer's three dogs; potentially dangerous designation for Corey. - Abatement packages include microchipping, spay/neuter, secure enclosures, signage, muzzling, and compliance checks by Animal Control. - The next board meeting was scheduled for August 18, 2026, and the meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

The Planning Commission met on August 3, 2026, at 4:00 PM. The meeting included roll call, approval of minutes, public hearings on a subdivision regulation amendment and a delegation of PDRB authority, and updates on the 2025 annual report and forest conservation ordinance. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously. - Minutes from April 20, 2026; May 18, 2026; June 1, 2026; and July 13, 2026 were approved with a summary of decisions attached. Public Comments & Testimony - David Heidelbach (Charlotte Hall) raised concerns about groundwater depletion in Charles County, citing a 2016–2021 Hazen and Sawyer study and urged the commission to consider water resources when approving development. He also questioned authority over data center siting in the Piney Reach PDRB area. - Nancy Schertler (Newburgh) corrected a prior statement about Planning Division staff reviewing applications for the expired Falcon Ridge plan. She noted that PGM staff indicated review is strictly conditional and at the applicant's risk, but expressed disappointment that taxpayer resources are spent on a plan that has expired twice. - David Heidelbach (public hearing, SRA 26-01) opposed the amendment, agreeing with PGM staff that milestones are needed and that the current extension process works. - Nancy Schertler (public hearing, SRA 26-01) urged denial, saying the proposed change from “and” to “or” would weaken vesting requirements and could create “zombie developments.” She submitted a 2013 planning commission report for context. - Howard Dent (Newburgh) urged denial, comparing development deadlines to teaching benchmarks. - Kevin Norris (Maryland Society of Surveyors) supported the amendment, arguing it would increase lot inventory and reduce housing costs. - Tim Lesnar (Lorenzi Dodds and Gannell) supported the amendment, noting that school capacity waiting lists have dropped from 2,952 to fewer than 414 lots, and citing historic difficulties meeting the 25% threshold for large projects. - Ayana Moore (White Plains) supported the amendment, stating it would unlock the housing pipeline and improve affordability. - Claudia Coleman (Waldorf) spoke on the PDRB delegation item, advocating for further streamlining and noting prior difficulty with PDRB use code determinations. - David Heidelbach (PDRB delegation) raised concerns about data center siting in St. Charles industrial areas and questioned whether the proposed changes would limit public oversight. - Jake Burdett (Charles County Against Data Centers Coalition) argued that data centers are not an allowable use under village master plans and that any change would require a public zoning amendment process before the planning commission. - Ayana Moore (PDRB delegation) supported the changes but urged greater transparency, including timely meeting minutes and clear board selection processes. Discussion Items Subdivision Regulations Amendment (SRA 26-01) - Proposal: Change the vesting requirement for preliminary subdivision plans from meeting both 25% lot recordation and 25% infrastructure completion to meeting either criterion. - Applicant (K. Hovnanian Homes): Represented by Steve Scott (attorney), Nick Grossclose (land development manager), and Ed Carroll (engineer). They argued that the complexity and cost of development have increased (e.g., stormwater management, forest conservation), that the 12-year timeline can be insufficient due to school allocations or market crashes, and that the change would provide predictability and encourage housing supply. They noted that lenders require certainty and that the amendment is a “halfway” measure. - PGM Staff (Heather Kelly): Recommended denial, stating the current two-prong standard ensures meaningful progress and there is no compelling policy basis for weakening it. - Public Testimony: Mix of support (Kevin Norris, Tim Lesnar, Ayana Moore) and opposition (David Heidelbach, Nancy Schertler, Howard Dent). - Outcome: The public hearing was closed; the record will remain open until September 3, 2026 at 4:30 PM. The commission intends to facilitate further discussion between the applicant and staff. Docket 90 – Delegation of PDRB Authority - Proposal: Revise the authority of the Plan Development Review Boards (PDRBs) in the St. Charles PUD to streamline approvals for minor residential and commercial changes, reducing layers of review. - Supporting Parties: County planning staff (Jason Groth, Kathy Rasinger), the developer (St. Charles Community LLC/Lennar, represented by Steve Scott and Mark Anderson), and engineer Rick Barnes (remote). - Key Changes: - Residential: After initial occupancy, homeowners would no longer need PDRB approval for fences, decks, additions, etc.; only HOA and county permits would be required. - Commercial: PDRB retains approval of new development, exterior modifications, signs, and use changes. The county would handle changes in ownership or tenant (no use change) and temporary sign permits. - Home occupation permits would be handled by the county. - Discussion: Commissioner Bossert questioned the planning commission’s role in commercial site plan review, noting that use approval currently lies with the PDRB without commission input. Staff clarified that master plan amendments come before the commission, but uses within a designated category (e.g., industrial) are approved by the PDRB. - Public Testimony: Comments raised concerns about data centers in St. Charles and urged clarity on master plan amendment processes. - Outcome: The record was kept open until September 3, 2026 at 4:30 PM for further public input. 2025 Planning Commission Annual Report - Presenter: Joel Bingley. He presented amendments based on prior feedback, including clarification of La Plata and Indian Head statistics, confirmation that the 1.21% growth rate is correct, and that the affordable housing shortage figure will be updated annually. - Discussion: Commissioner Bossert asked about accounting for lost lots from expired plans; staff noted this metric is not currently tracked but could be added. He also questioned future housing supply after St. Charles build-out; staff referenced the ongoing comprehensive plan update. - Outcome: The report was approved unanimously and will be forwarded to the county commissioners. Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA 26-191) Update - Staff presented an amendment to align the density bonus for 100% affordable housing in the High Density Residential (RH) zone with the maximum TDR density bonus. The applicant was agreeable as long as it does not delay the proposal. No vote was needed; this was an informational update. Forest Conservation Ordinance Briefing - Presenters: Langs (planning supervisor), Caitlin Clow, Kyle Redden. The briefing covered the draft update to comply with state House Bill 723/Senate Bill 526 (effective July 1, 2024 and July 1, 2026). Key points: - “No net loss” of forest cover (one acre planted for one acre removed). - New definition of priority forest and qualified conservation. - Up to 50% of mitigation may be met off-site through qualified conservation; can be increased to 60% with planning commission approval after a public hearing. - Federal facilities with 2,500+ employees have reduced afforestation thresholds; Commissioner Bossert questioned applicability to Indian Head Naval Surface Warfare Center, noting existing agreements under the Forest Conservation Act. - Next Step: Public hearing scheduled for the September 21, 2026 planning commission meeting. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: April 20, May 18, June 1, and July 13, 2026. - SRA 26-01: Public hearing closed; record open until September 3, 2026; staff to engage applicant. - PDRB Delegation: Record open until September 3, 2026; further public comment accepted. - 2025 Annual Report: Adopted and forwarded to county commissioners. - Forest Conservation Ordinance: Public hearing set for September 21, 2026.

The Police Accountability Board (PAB) of Charles County, Maryland, held its regular meeting on July 23, 2026, beginning at approximately 4:00 PM. The meeting featured reports from law enforcement partners, a detailed discussion on trial board appeal limitations, an update on body‑worn camera policy enforcement, and internal PAB business including election of a vice chair. Law Enforcement Reports - La Plata Police Department (Capt. Robert Bagley): Reported 3 complaints so far in 2016. Two complaints originated from the same incident involving separate officers; one officer was exonerated by the Administrative Charging Committee (ACC) the day before the meeting, and the second complaint remains pending at the ACC. A third complaint resulted in full exoneration. One additional complaint is being finalized and will be sent to the ACC shortly. - Charles County Sheriff’s Office (Lt. Goddard): Currently 25 open cases awaiting ACC review; 3 are already before the ACC. The office noted that several cases were recently returned by the ACC, reducing the backlog. Discussion Items Trial Board Finality and Agency Limitations Jerome Spencer, legal counsel for the Sheriff’s Office, updated the board on a pending appeal before the Maryland Appellate Court concerning the police accountability act’s provision that a trial board’s decision is final unless appealed by the officer. The agency (sheriff or chief) cannot appeal a trial board decision they disagree with. Sheriff Barry expressed frustration that in two of four termination cases over the past four years, trial boards sustained misconduct findings but did not order termination, leaving the sheriff with an officer he cannot trust (e.g., following a sustained truthfulness violation, which creates Brady material). The sheriff and Mr. Spencer argued that this structure undermines accountability and that agencies should be allowed to increase penalties, as was possible under the former Law Enforcement Officer’s Bill of Rights. Several board members (including Mr. Fletcher and Ms. Smith) acknowledged the need for legislative remedies. The board discussed the matrix used by trial boards and the importance of clearly articulating the impact of Brady violations in future cases. No vote was taken on this discussion item. Body‑Worn Camera Compliance (Unfinished Business) Chief (from Sheriff’s Office) reported that the agency has developed a progressive disciplinary matrix for violations of body‑worn camera activation policy. After a first violation, subsequent infractions will result in loss of take‑home car privileges. Supervisors are required to conduct monthly camera reviews, so violations can be detected without a complaint. All sworn officers (including detectives and the sheriff) are issued body‑worn cameras. The policy includes exceptions for emergency circumstances. Board members asked clarifying questions and confirmed the matrix applies to all camera‑equipped personnel. PAB Vice Chair Election Board member Mr. Hill nominated Quantrill Fletcher for vice chair. With no other nominations, Mr. Fletcher was unanimously elected by voice vote. Approval of Minutes - Open meeting minutes: Motion to approve passed unanimously. (One member abstained due to absence at the prior meeting.) - Closed session minutes: Motion to approve passed unanimously. (Same abstention noted.) PAB Pamphlet (Unfinished Business) The board reviewed a draft public information pamphlet. A motion was made and seconded to add a brief synopsis of the trial board process and then forward the pamphlet to media for compilation. The motion passed unanimously. Statewide Collaboration Chair reported on a recent virtual meeting with Baltimore stakeholders. Further opportunities for statewide collaboration and committee assignments are expected. A joint meeting with the ACC is planned for October (date to be coordinated). Key Outcomes - Vice Chair elected: Quantrill Fletcher (voice vote, unanimous). - Minutes approved: Open meeting minutes and closed session minutes (both approved; one abstention each). - Pamphlet direction: Motion to include a trial board synopsis and forward to media (passed unanimously). - Body‑worn camera policy update: Noted the new disciplinary matrix; no vote required. - Legislative discussion: Board expressed support for pursuing changes to allow agency heads to appeal trial board decisions; no formal motion was made. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 4:47 PM.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on July 21, 2026, to consider two main items: a land use plan map amendment near Maryland Airport and proposed Bill 2026-04 on collective bargaining for county employees. Commissioners heard public testimony, received staff presentations, and took procedural votes. No final decision was reached on the collective bargaining bill. Public Comments & Testimony - Land Use Amendment: Two speakers testified. Jacqueline Moore of Cobb Island urged the board not to allow expansion of Maryland Airport, citing environmental risks and health concerns from lead exposure for nearby schools and wetlands. Cyrus Howell of La Plata spoke against data center expansion, arguing it would harm health, water, and electricity. Both opposed the amendment, believing it would enable growth. - Collective Bargaining Bill: Five speakers testified. David Maher, attorney for AFSCME Council 3, argued that the management rights clause in the revised bill would make key subjects like scheduling illegal to bargain, undermining collective bargaining. He urged adoption of Commissioner Collins’ amendments. Charles Marshall (DPW) requested two separate bargaining units for blue‑collar and white‑collar workers. Chris McDonald (DPW) opposed provisions allowing employer challenges to card‑check certification and election procedures requiring a majority of all eligible voters; he supported the Collins amendments. Samuel White (DPW recycler attendant) called for binding arbitration, stating that without it the union cannot negotiate effectively. Denise Gilmore, AFSCME Maryland legislative and political director, urged the board to reject the revised bill and instead pass the Collins amendments, describing the current bill as regressive. Discussion Items - Land Use Plan Map Amendment: Planning Director Charles Rice and Planner Devin Parker explained that the amendment would realign the comprehensive plan with existing zoning. In 2021, 565 acres near Maryland Airport were redesignated from Watershed Conservation District (WCD) to Employment Industrial Park to support development. In 2024, only about 200 acres were rezoned, leaving 351 acres still zoned WCD but shown as Employment Industrial Park on the land use map. The amendment would revert those 351 acres back to the WCD land use designation, removing the inconsistency. The Planning Commission recommended approval after a public hearing and work session. Commissioners clarified that the amendment does not expand the airport or allow additional development; it merely corrects the map to match the zoning already in place. Commissioner Collins noted she had opposed the original 2021 expansion. - Collective Bargaining Bill (Bill 2026-04): County Attorney West Adams and outside labor counsel Eric Paul Tell presented the bill as the product of months of compromise among staff, the board, and AFSCME. Key features include: a single bargaining unit with two classifications, inclusion of part‑time employees, advisory (non‑binding) arbitration, a participation threshold of at least 50% of eligible voters for union elections, and modified management rights preserving county control over scheduling, work rules, and emergencies. Commissioner Collins stated she originally sponsored the bill on behalf of AFSCME, but the final version reflects board work sessions. Commissioner Stewart praised the collaborative work session process. Procedural debate followed: options were to pass, deny, or amend the bill. County Attorney Adams advised that amendments would require republication and a new public hearing. A motion to close the public record failed on a roll‑call vote (2‑3), and a motion to close the public hearing passed unanimously. A subsequent motion to keep the public record open for 60 days passed 3‑2. Key Outcomes - Land Use Amendment: The board unanimously voted to approve the comprehensive plan amendment (motion to amend the land use map and Table 3‑3). The amendment reduces the Employment Industrial Park land use designation from 565 acres to approximately 200 acres, reverting 351 acres back to WCD, aligning the plan with existing zoning. No further public hearing was needed. - Collective Bargaining Bill: No final vote was taken on the bill itself. The public hearing was closed, but the public record was kept open for 60 days (motion passed 3‑2). This allows time for additional work sessions or amendments. The board may revisit the bill in the fall; any amendments would require a new public hearing.

The Charles County Animal Matter Hearing Board convened on July 21, 2026, at 4:00 PM (UTC) to hear three citation cases involving dangerous animals, administer oaths to new board members, and elect officers. The board found two dog owners in violation of county ordinances, imposing fines and abatement conditions. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting (June 16, 2026) with no corrections via unanimous vote. Discussion Items Case 7636: Animal Control v. Shanika Walston (Rocky) - Officer Hannah Neal testified that on July 5, 2026, Rocky, a canine owned by Shanika Walston, attacked and bit a juvenile on the right shoulder at 2443 Richmond Way. The incident was captured on video (Exhibit 1). The juvenile's uncle, Joanna Parada, and father, Richard Parada, described the child's recovery. Officer Neal noted that Rocky had been avoidant at the shelter and that Ms. Walston accepted citation 7636 and waived her right to 14 days. A boarding bill of $290 was presented. - Ms. Walston testified that Rocky is normally friendly, but she acknowledged the incident and took full accountability. She stated she was in the process of moving to Prince Frederick, Maryland, and planned to have Rocky neutered. She expressed that Rocky is not vicious and should not be euthanized. - After deliberation, board member Adam (name unclear) moved to find Ms. Walston in violation of Section 230-125 (dangerous and/or vicious or potentially dangerous) with a $300 fine, $200 suspended for six months, and all relevant abatements. The motion passed unanimously. Cases 7637 & 7638: Animal Control v. Cindy Watts (Shadow and Bella) - Trainee Officer April Schrader testified that on June 23, 2026, two pitbull-type canines (Shadow and Bella) owned by Cindy Watts attacked and killed a cat at 11830 Millbrun Road. Witness Joseph Lawman provided camera footage and identified the dogs' residence. On July 9, 2026, officers contacted Ms. Watts, who confirmed ownership. Citations were issued for running at large, failure to provide proof of rabies, and dangerous/vicious/potentially dangerous. No quarantine was possible due to time lag. - Ms. Watts testified that her dogs are not vicious, have been raised with cats, and that she lacks funds for fencing, rabies shots, and spay/neuter. She claimed the dogs escaped due to a toddler opening the door and that she is trying to keep them contained. - For each dog, the board (motion by board member) found violations of Sections 230-10A (license), 230-12 (animal at large), 230-9A (rabies), and 230-12.5 (dangerous) with a total fine of $450 per dog, $250 suspended for six months, and full abatements. The motions passed unanimously (no opposition recorded). Election and Administrative Matters - Two new board members were sworn in, reciting the oath to support the U.S. and Maryland constitutions and adhere to the Charles County Code of Civility. - The board held elections for chair and vice chair. The chair was elected by written ballot (name not specified). The vice chair position was filled by a subsequent vote; Christy was elected as vice chair. - Board member Sergeant Cooney and others acknowledged the contributions of departing members and thanked the county attorney's office for facilitating the hearing. Key Outcomes - Case 7636: Shanika Walston found in violation; fined $100 (with $200 suspended for six months); Rocky designated dangerous/potentially dangerous; must comply with abatements including microchipping, neutering, muzzling, leashing, and notifying authorities upon relocation. Board bill of $290 due by 12 noon the next day. - Cases 7637 & 7638: Cindy Watts found in violation for each dog; total fines $400 due immediately ($200 per dog, with $250 per dog suspended for six months); both dogs designated dangerous/potentially dangerous; must comply with full abatements; 45 days to pay fines; animal control will conduct compliance checks. - The board will next meet on August 4, 2026, in the blue room.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on July 21, 2026, for a regular session. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call with Commissioners Bowling, Coates, Stewart, Patterson, and Collins present. The board approved multiple budget transfers, a pension amendment, the 2027 session calendar, and an additional onboarding date for the new board. Briefings covered the affordable housing pilot NOFA, the 2026 bond issue, zoning text amendments for retail and data centers, updates from the Office of Equity and Access, and the Mixtape Concert Series. The board also moved into closed session. Consent Calendar - Budget Transfer Requests: Approved unanimously: - BTR 378 (FY2026): $279,300 for water and sewer electricity overrun. - BTR 139 (FY2026): $81,360 for infrastructure management pending invoices. - BTR 667 (FY2026): $588,010 for Matterwoman wastewater treatment plant belt filter press replacement. - BTR 365 (FY2027): $68,240 for IT scatter cluster migration. - BTR 342 (FY2027): $135,550 for a mobile crisis team program vehicle. - BTR 260 (FY2027): $170,850 for the Charles County Courthouse cupola replacement project. - Letter of Support: Approved a letter supporting Jude House's ADA accessibility grant application to the Rural Maryland Council. - Pension Plan Amendment: Approved revision to Amendment 2026-1 clarifying language for the employee buyback program. - Session Calendar: Approved the 2027 calendar and added December 2, 2026, for new commissioner orientation. The motion passed 4-0-1 (Commissioner Bowling abstained on the additional date). Discussion Items Affordable Housing Pilot NOFA (FY2027) Dina Barclay presented options for a new NOFA cycle. The board discussed timing, funding availability, and housing type. Commissioners agreed to move forward with planning and directed staff to return in the fall with detailed recommendations, including input from developers and builders. Questions about term length (10 vs 20 years) and housing type (multifamily, senior, mixed-use) were deferred pending further analysis. 2026 Bond Issue Briefing William Deatley and Sam Chiriaco proposed a $100 million bond sale (up from $75 million in 2026) for water/sewer projects, schools, government facilities, and parks. The board voted unanimously to schedule a public hearing for September 1, 2026, at 6 p.m. Zoning Text Amendment 26-190 (Retail Sales Over 100,000 sq ft) Charles Race reported that the Planning Commission recommended denial, citing concerns about eliminating the two-story requirement and the need to coordinate with the comprehensive plan update. The board voted unanimously to introduce the bill and schedule a public hearing for September 1, 2026. Office of Equity and Access Quarterly Update Renee Sha Miles and Elaine Pollard summarized FY2026 activities, including community engagement events, work groups, and future plans for FY2027 (expanding staff, developing training). Commissioners praised the recent community meeting. Mixtape Concert Series Update Kelly Beavers, Ashley Chenault, and Alicia Steager presented on the series. Planned two concerts: country in October 2026 and R&B in June 2027, partnered with Deggy 360. Challenges include infrastructure, funding, and marketing. Commissioners discussed venue options, sponsorships, and the need for sustainable funding. Zoning Text Amendment 25-187 (Data Centers) Charles Rice and Mark Thompson reported on the second version, which the Planning Commission again recommended denial. State legislation (SB 116 study and Utility Relief Act) is ongoing. The board reached consensus to terminate this ZTA and pursue a hybrid approach: forming a task force and hiring a consultant, pending fall proposal. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items approved unanimously (except calendar with one abstention). - Public hearings set for September 1, 2026: 2026 bond issue and retail ZTA 26-190. - Affordable housing NOFA process to continue with staff returning in fall. - Data center ZTA terminated; hybrid task force/consultant approach to be proposed in fall. - Mixtape series to proceed with two concerts; budget requests for infrastructure to be submitted. - Board moved into closed session at 12:30 p.m. for legal and personnel matters.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on July 21, 2026, for the afternoon session. The meeting included unanimous approvals of several board appointments and three payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreements for affordable housing projects. Commissioners received updates on the Collaborative Community Improvement pilot program, emergency preparedness and response, and hunting opportunities on county lands. A new business item regarding a special events task force was introduced, and the public comment session featured extensive testimony primarily focused on data center development concerns. Consent Calendar - Unanimous approval of Shirley Hayden as a citizen member to the Nuisance Abatement Hearing Board. - Unanimous approval of Janicleese Woods as a citizen member to the Area Council on Aging. - Unanimous approval of Dale Hughes as a citizen member to the Ethics Commission. - Unanimous approval of Crystal Daniel (risk management expert), Deria Carr (legal compliance), and Catherine Smarillo and Corey Beckett (citizen members) to the Internal Audit Oversight Committee. - Unanimous approval of PILOT agreements for Eagle Point Phase One, Landville Crossing, and Pine Way Village, providing a total of 290 affordable housing units (200 multifamily, 85 restricted to seniors). Public Comments & Testimony - John Anderson (Newburgh): Supported the board’s earlier vote to halt the data center ZTA; urged learning from Alexandria’s redevelopment of the Potomac River Generating Station; expressed distrust of TerraWolf’s transparency and asked Governor Moore to repudiate a letter from the State Environmental Secretary supporting a data center at Morgantown. - Jacqueline Moore (Cobb Island): Requested written answers to her submitted questions from commissioners; cautioned that subject-matter experts on a data center task force must cover multiple scientific disciplines and model impacts parametrically before any zoning changes. - Jordan Harris (La Plata): Thanked commissioners for not advancing ZTA 25187; urged that residents understand developers’ legal responsibilities versus taxpayer costs, and that enforcement must be robust to avoid problems seen elsewhere. - Annie Landcraft (Port Tobacco): Raised concerns about data centers’ water use (potable vs. non-potable), citing TerraWolf’s history; noted increased electricity costs and grid strain in Northern Virginia; argued that half of Charles County renters have no control over power sources. - Atrium Arbyalmy: Thanked board for terminating the ZTA; stressed that the proposed task force’s value depends on public selection of independent experts and residents without conflicts of interest. - Trudy Bidot (Dentsville): Accused TerraWolf CEO Paul Prager of a pattern of deceptive practices; urged commissioners to reject data centers entirely, citing environmental and financial risks. - Derek Terry (Waldorf): Criticized the process of drafting the ZTA and then discarding it; asked whether residents opposed to hyperscale data centers are willing to forgo streaming, cloud storage, and other digital services; questioned commissioners’ support for unionization. - Alana Davis (District 3): Thanked board for listening; recommended a 3–5 year task force composed of independent experts with no county officials, and public meetings; argued Charles County has the highest asthma rate in Maryland due to existing industrial pollution and called for a straight ban on data centers. - Mikaiah Lloyd (20603): Urged outright ban on data centers; questioned Commissioner Patterson about “co-location” and requested meetings with district commissioners to discuss state legislative proposals. - David Heidelbach (Charlotte Hall): Asked about NAI Michael’s marketing of a Billingsley Road property for data centers and whether Commissioner Patterson met with them individually; expressed concern that development could proceed despite the ZTA halt. - Sandy Ollie (Billingsley Road): Feared eminent domain for data center development; opposed any data centers in Waldorf. - Thorn Petnik (Newburgh): Called for an indefinite ban on all data centers in Charles County, arguing that new AI data centers primarily benefit developers and surveillance companies. - Shelley Posey (Waldorf) [virtual]: Urged the county to formally intervene in FERC proceedings against TerraWolf’s Morgantown project, citing ratepayer exploitation, environmental injustice, and TerraWolf’s financial instability. - Eileen Britt (Waldorf) [virtual]: As president of the Fieldside Neighborhood Association, requested updates on nuisance abatement at 5351 Blue Crant Lane, which has been unresolved for 10 years despite a commitment from the Nuisance Abatement Board on June 10. - Lauren Gygax (Takoma Park, representing Chesapeake Climate Action Network) [virtual]: Encouraged transparent task force with diverse experts; recommended following Howard County’s example. - James Makel [virtual]: Argued the pause on data centers is a wait-and-see tactic to gauge public opinion; urged residents to vote and hold officials accountable. Discussion Items Collaborative Community Improvement Pilot Program Update - Doria Fleischer (Community Engagement Manager) presented an update on the Bryans Road/Indian Head pilot, which allocated $500,000 in capital and $150,000 in operational funding. Two community surveys (122–1,828 respondents) and working groups identified three project clusters: Ruth B. Swan complex improvements (digital sign, VanGo lily pads, pedestrian access), Village Green park enhancements (via Better Block nonprofit), and non-capital items (neighbor academy, sign improvements, programming). - Staff requested approval to expand project boundaries to include the Village Green pocket park, which had been excluded by the COG equity emphasis area. Commissioner Coates noted the park’s small size and potential for illicit activity; Commissioner Collins supported the expansion but cautioned against abandoning the equity emphasis model entirely. - Outcome: Commissioners approved a motion to extend the project boundaries to include Village Green. Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Safety Update - Acting Director Tony Rose and Data Analyst Sarah Hammonds presented dashboards on recruitment, training, and response metrics. Key data: 912 total planning meetings in FY26; 66.6 weeks average processing time to hire an EMT/paramedic; 25 high school students completed a 911 dispatch class; 30,427 calls answered in FY26 with 99.7% answered within 20 seconds; animal care center had 2,032 intakes, 589 adoptions, and a 68.6% release rate. The first county-owned EMS station broke ground on May 12, 2026. - No formal action was taken; the briefing was informational. Hunting Opportunities on Public Lands - Kelly Beavers (Director, Recreation Parks & Tourism) and staff reviewed current policies (no hunting in county parks) and noted that Charles County has nearly 17,000 acres of state-managed public hunting land, ranking first in Maryland. A task force identified four county-owned properties eligible for hunting: Gardner Station, Hamacheck property, Marshall Hall Road, and Marshall Corner Road, totaling approximately 10–20 acres each. Staff recommended partnering with Maryland DNR for a cooperative wildlife management agreement. - Commissioner Collins expressed concerns about safety, monitoring, and the adequacy of existing state land; Commissioner Bowling and Stewart supported beginning with bow-only hunting to increase access and manage deer populations. Commissioner Patterson called for community engagement before proceeding. - Outcome: Commissioners reached consensus to direct staff to work with DNR to develop a presentation on managing the four properties for bow-only hunting, with DNR to address monitoring and enforcement, and to involve the community in further discussions. Charles County Boards and Commissions Annual Update - The disability review boards and sheriff’s office disability review board had no cases in 2025; no action needed. New Business - Commissioner Collins proposed establishing a formal Cross-Departmental Special Events Task Force to coordinate large-scale festivals, sporting events, and cultural celebrations. Commissioners supported the idea and directed staff to prepare a future agenda item and work session on the feasibility and structure of such a task force. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved four sets of board/commission appointments. - Unanimously approved three PILOT agreements (Eagle Point Phase One, Landville Crossing, Pine Way Village) for 290 affordable housing units. - Approved (by motion) expanding the Collaborative Community Improvement pilot boundaries to include the Village Green park in Bryans Road. - Reached consensus to pursue further exploration of bow-only hunting on four county properties in partnership with Maryland DNR, with a future presentation to the board. - Directed staff to prepare a work session on a special events task force. - The board acknowledged public comments and committed to transparency in any future data center task force process.