Public Meetings - Charles County, Maryland

The Charles County Planning Commission convened on May 4, 2026, to address a comprehensive plan amendment for the Maryland Airport area, a zoning text amendment on large-scale retail, a traffic mitigation plan for a new Royal Farms, an update on the Swan Point development, and a briefing on revised data center regulations. The meeting opened with a moment of remembrance for former county commissioner and state delegate Danny Mayer, who had recently passed away. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 6B (Airport Comp Plan Amendment): Bonnie Dick expressed opposition to the amendment, arguing it facilitates future airport expansion and questioned the county's undisclosed financial obligations for airport infrastructure. Nancy Schertler requested a longer public comment period to allow for a meaningful review of technical comments from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources regarding the Mattawoman Creek watershed. - Item 6A (ZTA 26-190 Large Retail): Nancy Schertler argued the text/table conflict in the zoning code is a clerical error and strongly opposed adding the AUC zone, stating big box retail is incompatible with its intended walkable urban character. She characterized the amendment as an "end run" around the comprehensive plan. Deontha R. Sweat strongly opposed the amendment, arguing it contradicts the Comprehensive Plan, promotes suburban sprawl, undermines the Blue Zones strategy, and hinders the Waldorf Urban Development goals. Discussion Items - Item 6B – Comprehensive Plan Amendment/Map Changes (Maryland Airport): Staff (Joel Binkley, Devin Parker) presented a proposal to revert 351 acres of land use designation from Employment/Industrial Park to Watershed Conservation District to correct a mismatch created by the 2024 BOCC partial rezoning. Staff emphasized the amendment does not expand the airport and is a reduction in planned business use. Commission discussion clarified the acreage history (565 acres in 2021, 214 acres rezoned, 351 acres being corrected). - Item 6A – ZTA 26-190 (Retail Sales Over 100k sq ft): Tony Phelps presented the amendment to resolve a code inconsistency, add the AUC zone, remove a two-story building requirement, and reduce parking ratios by 20%. Commissioner Bosser questioned whether the amendment undermined planned walkable community goals and if it was premature. Commissioner Hackett voiced concern over multiple planning processes (Comp Plan, Code Rewrite, this ZTA) running out of sync. Staff noted the request originated from the BOCC and reflected a desire for economic flexibility. - Item 7A – Royal Farms Waldorf APF/Traffic Mitigation: The commission reviewed the Adequate Public Facilities findings for a proposed convenience store. Staff and traffic expert Jackie Plott confirmed all intersections met required levels of service. The main mitigation involved extending a northbound left-turn bay from 160 feet to 350 feet at the Pinefield Road junction, based on a State Highway Administration simulation. - Item 9A – Villages of Swan Point Update: Kelsey Zablowski provided a detailed progress report on development milestones, including monthly meetings with county staff, site visits to infrastructure facilities, and coordination on forest conservation changes. The project is tracking toward its extension deadline of August 5, 2028. - Item 10A – Data Center ZTA (25-187) Briefing: Planning Director Charles Rice presented a revised zoning text amendment based on the Planning Commission’s prior recommendations. Revisions include limiting the use to industrial zones, increasing the residential setback to 500 feet, requiring non-potable water, and adding developer-paid public infrastructure. A new public hearing was scheduled. Key Outcomes - Item 6B: The public hearing record was kept open for 30 days (until June 4, 2026) to allow review of state agency comments. - Item 6A: The public hearing was closed, and the record was kept open for 30 days (until June 4, 2026). - Item 7A: The APF findings and traffic mitigation proposal for Royal Farms Waldorf were approved unanimously. - Item 9A: The progress update on the Villages of Swan Point was accepted; the applicant will continue providing updates every six months. - Item 10A: A public hearing for the revised Data Center zoning text amendment was scheduled for June 1, 2026.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners held an in-person and virtual public hearing on the proposed fiscal year 2027 operating budget, the FY 2027–2031 capital improvement program, and proposed fees, rates, and charges. No agenda or minutes were provided with the source material; this summary is based on the public hearing transcript. Acting County Administrator Deborah Hall, Director of Fiscal and Administrative Services Jake Dyer, and Chief of Budget Samantha Chiriaco presented the budget. The vast majority of public testimony focused on fully funding the Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) budget request. Budget Presentation & Discussion Items - The proposed general fund budget is $641,826,500. Presenters emphasized that balancing the budget required no property tax or income tax rate increases, and they noted this was the 13th consecutive year of recommending current rates. Revenue growth was presented as about 7.4% for operating revenues and about 7.9% overall. - The county is absorbing $6.1 million in state cost shifts, a nearly $2 million increase over the prior year and a 48% increase. This includes $3.9 million for pension costs, $655,000 for private pre-K, and 90% of the $1.5 million State Department of Assessments and Taxation cost in Charles County. - For CCPS, the proposed budget provides a $12,138,500 increase over the FY 2026 adopted budget and $14.7 million above maintenance of effort, funding 99.4% of the overall budget request. Presenters noted that since FY 2018, county funding for the Board of Education has increased by $79.3 million, a 45% increase, while enrollment has increased by 2.3%. - The proposed Sheriff’s Office budget includes a $6.3 million increase, funding five new positions, a license plate reader system, a first responder drone, two grant-supported officers, a youth engagement program, and an armored vehicle. - The county government budget includes a $10.5 million increase, with more than 50% dedicated to the Department of Emergency Services. Funded items include six new EMT positions, one financial manager, an additional deputy, one new ambulance, radio equipment, lift-assist services, and overtime funding. The budget also funds the new Waldorf animal care center and seven related positions. - Employee compensation recommendations from the November 2024 class and compensation study were included, such as expanding the pay scale from 62% to 75% and providing a 5.5% salary adjustment phased as 1.5% in July, 2% in January, and 2% in April. - The Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF), supported by adult-use cannabis tax revenue, has a proposed budget of $776,700 for community-based initiatives benefiting Waldorf-area residents, including nonprofit grants, senior meals, summer youth employment, lift-assist services, rec assist programs, mental health workshops, and climate resilience projects. - Enterprise fund proposals include a 9.4% water and sewer rate increase for the average quarterly bill, from $246 to $269, or a $23 increase per quarter. The proposed landfill tipping fee increases from $108 to $118 per ton. - The proposed capital improvement program includes $1.1 billion in project support from $1.5 billion in all-fund requests. Major projects include the La Plata High School modernization plan at a total cost of $171 million, a new middle school, ADA-compliant playground upgrades, the new DES station at Hawthorne Drive, the new La Plata Library, a Van Gogh maintenance facility, and a $14.5 million sidewalk investment. - New proposed fees and charges include water/sewer cross-connection and pre-treatment fees, landfill tire disposal fees, recreation and athletic fees, park season passes, and concert tickets ranging from $50 to $300. Public Comments & Testimony - Nicole Kramer, Chairperson of the CCPS Board of Education, expressed support for the $557 million FY 2027 CCPS budget request, emphasizing the need to retain a workforce of nearly 4,000 employees serving about 27,000 students. - Samichi Thomas, Vice Chair of the CCPS Board of Education, urged the commissioners to fully fund the CCPS request. She noted the request is an additional $15 million, about 6% over the current budget, that nearly 93% of the request supports people, and that it includes $16 million for employee recruitment and retention and $3.5 million to replace retiring buses. - Bridget Patterson, District 4 BOE member, expressed support for the $557 million request and stressed that teacher recruitment and retention are essential to student success and Blueprint implementation. - Jamila Smith, District 2 BOE member, supported the request, noting $16 million is allocated for collective bargaining agreements and that CCPS received a $2 million “grow your own” educator grant. - David Hancock, District 1 BOE member, supported the request, said 64 cents of every CCPS dollar goes to curriculum and people, and warned that the school system’s fund balance has dropped from about $30 million to about $6 million, which he called unsustainable. - Superintendent Maria Navarro highlighted the return on CCPS investment, including the county having the second-highest number of students enrolled in pre-K3 programs in the state, expanded full-day pre-K to about 1,200 students, growth on state assessments, and increases in advanced coursework participation. - Linda McLaughlin, a world language teacher, urged 100% funding of the superintendent’s budget, saying the 1.35% funding gap equals 7,096 minutes, almost five full days, and becomes a classroom reality. - Peter Ullman, a 19-year educator, said the county’s share of the budget going to CCPS has declined from above 50% years ago to 39.7%, and he urged the county to increase, not nearly meet, school system needs. - Will Lewis, an educator, said the proposed budget funds about 98.5% of the superintendent’s request, leaving about $3.5 million in cuts, and that only once in Dr. Navarro’s tenure has her budget been fully funded. He described consequences including larger class sizes, fewer classroom materials, and educators paying out of pocket. - Nicholas Ullman, an educator, said he works four jobs to afford a modest home, and he called funding for armored vehicles and drones in Waldorf “insulting,” describing his work with students as crime prevention. - Yolanda Davis, a special education teacher, urged full funding and said steps and COLAs are necessary tools that allow educators to afford to live in the county and remain in the profession. - Hugh Rist, a 30-year educator serving 11 years at Thomas Stone High School, said he was maxed out on the salary scale, has received only one COLA, and takes extra duties to make ends meet. He urged commissioners to honor promises and fully fund schools. - Sean Heil, President of EACC, expressed concern that the percentage of the county budget allocated to education continues to decline and has dropped below 40%. He said the blueprint cannot be supported without real investment and asked the board to reverse course and fully fund schools. - Jonah Golden, a first-grade student, said simply, “Fund our schools.” - Veronica Golden, EACC Vice President and an art teacher, said the FY 2027 budget funds about 98.63% of the superintendent’s request, and that the remaining 1.37% gap affects class sizes, staffing, materials, and program stability. - Roxanne Barlach, a speech-language pathologist, framed communication support as an economic investment, citing employment statistics for individuals with communication disabilities and urging full funding of school services. - Sean Starcher, a La Plata High School teacher, called the budget a moral document and said the school funding allocation has decreased by about 6% since 2020 and is now below 40% of the county budget. He urged a stronger commitment to public schools. - Carrie Bowen, a third-grade teacher, described unsafe and escalating student behavior, an impossible workload, and the need for a livable wage, saying educators are “not okay.” - Alexis Howell, a first-grade teacher with 33 years in education, urged full funding so students can have smaller classes and additional support services. - Desmond Rosier, an educator, urged the commissioners to become stronger partners with the school community and said passing responsibility to the Board of Education is not leadership. - Rachel Clark, a nationally board certified teacher, said she finds discussions about not fully funding the superintendent’s budget insulting and described teachers in the county who have applied for food stamps. She urged full funding. - Alexander Corbin, a third-year teacher, said his largest class has 29 students, retiring teachers at La Plata High School will not be replaced, and students deserve more individual attention, not larger classes. - Kristen Long, a second-grade teacher, said the teacher shortage is really a shortage of conditions that allow educators to remain in the profession and that underfunding directly harms students. - Emily Grusholt, a self-contained special education teacher, said competitive pay for instructional assistants and one-to-one providers is necessary to implement IEPs and remain in legal compliance. - Maureen Dinan, a teacher with 32 years in education, said she has 30 students, classrooms are being rationed paper, and she can no longer afford to buy snacks for testing days. She asked for 100% funding. - Bernard Barnes, a member of Ask Me Local 2981, said some support staff do not crack $20,000 after 12 years and urged full funding so support staff can sustain themselves. - Kevin Gibson, a teacher and parent, described deteriorating school facilities, old computers, rationed printers, and broken furniture. He encouraged full funding and also said drones and an armored vehicle are excellent uses of funds and asked where the proposed Chapel Point Park fee would go. - Stephen Fellino, an Ask Me member and technology employee, said the technology department has no money for new laptops, laptop parts, or printers, and said full-time work deserves full-time pay. He asked for 100% funding. - Jacqueline Beale, a parent and teacher, said arts, music, theater, and extracurricular programs are essential, not extras, and urged full funding. - Madeline Beale, an eighth-grade student, said CCPS has received a smaller percentage of the county budget for six consecutive years, that average class sizes are about five students greater than the state average, and that leaders must show through actions that they value students. - Chelsea Short, a third-grade teacher, described classrooms with many students below grade level and intense IEP needs, and invited commissioners to spend a full day in her classroom to see the workload. - Melissa Carpenter, a fifth-grade teacher, said her classroom is expected to start next year with 31 students because fifth-grade staffing was cut, and she called anything less than full funding neglectful to students. - Jessica Wall, a teacher, shared her personal story of staying in teaching despite hardship, said retention costs less than recruitment, and argued that teacher workload is unsustainable. - Jacqueline Moore, a retired teacher, raised health concerns about potential data center development, citing 2,453 pediatric asthma cases, 13,730 adult asthma cases, 7,179 adult COPD cases, and 81 lung cancer cases in Charles County. She also criticized proposed ChatGPT funding and supported full funding for teachers. - Samara Briggs, a fifth-grade teacher, said a 1% raise increased her salary by only $2,700 and, after insurance increases, amounts to barely $92 per pay period before taxes. She said she tutors after school to make ends meet and asked commissioners to fully fund education. Key Outcomes - The commissioners voted to keep the public hearing record open until May 8, 2026. - The commissioners voted to end the public hearing. - The commissioners voted to set the tax rate on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, between 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. during the Board of County Commissioners hybrid meeting. - The commissioners voted to adjourn the evening session. - All motions were approved by voice vote with the ayes having it. No final budget adoption occurred during this hearing; the proposed FY 2027 budget remains under consideration.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on April 28, 2026 with Commissioners Bowling, Coates, Stewart, and Collins present (Patterson absent). The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. Commissioners approved minutes from previous meetings and heard briefings on an accessory dwelling unit zoning amendment, fiscal year‑2026 third‑quarter results, an ARPA fund reallocation, and an extensive FY2027 budget work session. The board took action on the ADU amendment and the ARPA reallocation, and later moved to closed session for confidential discussions. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved minutes from the April 14, April 21, and April 22, 2026 board meetings. Announcements - Next scheduled sessions are April 29 (evening), and May 5 and 6. - Public hearing dates changed: Bill 2026‑03 (Inspector General) moved from May 5 to May 19; Bill 2026‑04 (Collective Bargaining) moved from May 12 to June 9. - The FY2027 budget public hearing will be held April 29 at 6:00 p.m. in hybrid format. Discussion Items 1. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Zoning Text Amendment (Bill 2026‑06) Devin Parker and Joel Binkley of Planning and Growth Management presented proposed amendments to allow more flexible ADUs in line with state House Bill 1466. Current regulations require equivalent storage; the amendment removes that requirement, increases allowable size to 75% of the principal dwelling, eliminates off‑street parking (pending a countywide study), and adds local limits: one ADU per lot, maximum two bedrooms, 24‑foot height limit, no mobile homes, and compliance with accessory‑building setbacks. Discussion covered septic system connections, HOA override, and the lack of a neighbor‑notification process (state law makes ADUs by‑right). Commissioners voted to introduce the bill and schedule a public hearing for July 7, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. 2. FY2026 Third‑Quarter General Fund Review Jake Dyer (Fiscal Services) and Sam Chiriaco (Budget) reported year‑end projections: adopted budget $604.4M, estimated revenues $606.5M, expenditures $603.6M, yielding a projected surplus of about $2.9M. Income tax receipts were higher than budgeted, though an over‑distribution of $6.3M from the state will be reconciled in FY2027. Property taxes remain 80% residential, 20% commercial. Fund balance policy was reviewed; unassigned fund balance stands at roughly $4M. No action required. 3. American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Update and Reallocation Jake Dyer and Kelly Shear updated ARPA spending: of $31.7M received, $25M has been spent; $7.7M must be obligated by December 31, 2026. They proposed reallocating $1.5M in savings from stormwater projects to: $508,000 for nonprofit grants (Charitable Trust), $200,000 for food security (community refrigerators/pantries), $512,000 for surface transportation road overlay, $130,000 for health department community health outreach workers, and $150,000 for Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) expansion. The board unanimously approved the reallocation. 4. FY2027 Budget Work Session Staff recapped the proposed general fund budget ($641.8M, balanced) and five‑year CIP ($533.8M, with $2M in affordability for additions). Enterprise fund summaries were presented: - Water and Sewer: 9.4% user‑fee increase (avg. quarterly bill $246 → $269), $67.3M budget, 11.2 FTEs. - Solid Waste: per‑ton fee $108 → $118; includes vertical‑expansion permitting. - Environmental Services: annual fee $193 → $206. - Inspection Review: $12.7M, two new positions. - Recreation: $3.0M, including a concert and expanded programs. - Watershed Protection: fee $162 → $168. Proposed new fees (water/sewer cross‑connection, recreation rentals, tire disposal, etc.) were reviewed. Special revenue funds total $62.6M, including fire/rescue tax and cable INET. School construction excise tax was proposed at 3.64% increase. The Crossroads of Opportunity Fund (CROF) details were provided: $707,600 for Waldorf‑area initiatives. A total of 53 new FTEs are included across all funds. Vehicle and equipment requests total $9.6M from the general fund. No votes were taken; commissioners will submit add/delete proposals after the public hearing. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved – April 14, 21, and 22 meetings (unanimous). - ADU Amendment Introduced – Bill 2026‑06 introduced and public hearing set for July 7, 2026 (unanimous). - ARPA Reallocation Approved – $1.5M moved from stormwater to the listed projects (unanimous). - Closed Session – Authorized to discuss lease, litigation settlement, land transfer, and building location (unanimous).

The Charles County Board of Appeals held a public hearing on April 28, 2026, to consider two variance applications for a property at 1408 Riverside Drive (Lot 9, Riverside Shores): Docket 1483 for a building restriction line reduction and Docket 1484 for a critical area buffer variance. The meeting also included approval of previous minutes, consent items, and findings for other dockets. Consent Calendar - The agenda for the evening was approved unanimously. - Meeting minutes from April 14, 2026, were approved via roll call. - Findings and decisions for Docket 1479 (Barrie Road Mini Storage Facility) and Docket 1478 (Wawa) were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Lukinick: Submitted documents arguing that the septic easement line was incorrectly drawn and that the proposed variance does not meet standards. He expressed concern that approval would transform the area and disrupt residents' lives, noting approximately 104 vacant lots in the subdivision. - Dorothy Lukinick: Expressed support for existing zoning to maintain adequate water and sewer. She reported unauthorized clearing, tree removal, grading, stop work order violations, and RV placement by lot owners in anticipation of variance approval. - Sidney Johnson (speaking on Docket 1484): Submitted photographs (accepted over objection) showing erosion of the critical area hillside and proximity of the proposed house to a neighboring residence. He argued the critical area is retreating and that planting would not stabilize it. - Howard Dent (Newburgh resident): Presented four objections cited from the Critical Area Commission variance guidance: (1) no design alternatives were submitted; (2) the house and deck are not the minimum necessary (a 26x8 ft deck entirely in the buffer); (3) the circumstances of the structure are self-imposed; (4) approval would create a precedent for other lots, potentially devastating the subdivision. He urged denial. - Vincent Watson (next-door neighbor): Argued that the variances are premature and out of order because the critical area buffer variance should be considered first. He stated that the setback variance would place part of the house in the critical area, changing the use from non-buildable to buildable. He also noted the proposed house and septic would be very close to his property, causing hardships. Discussion Items - Applicant's Summation (Attorney Mark Mudd): Argued that the property (8,249 sq ft, 55.91 ft wide, created in 1947) is exceptionally narrow and shallow, and the strict application of BRL and buffer regulations would deprive the owner of the right to build. He cited case law (Bellboard Farms and Chesapeake Bay Foundation v. DCW) to argue that the hardship is not self-created and that denial would constitute a denial of reasonable and significant use. He noted staff recommended approval and that the house design is the minimum necessary. - Council Brown (Board Counsel): Raised legal issues: (1) The definition of standing used by the applicant was incorrect; all speaker property owners had standing. (2) The property was not shown to be exceptionally narrow relative to other lots in the neighborhood, which is required for a variance. (3) The critical area buffer variance may not be within the board's authority under §297-131, as it prohibits land uses in the buffer except for specific exceptions, and granting a variance could amount to a use variance. He urged the board to consider these issues. - Chair Humbert: Intervened to stop debate between counsels, stating the board would vote and let the courts decide any legal challenges. He abstained from voting as he was not present at the prior hearing. - Board Discussion on Docket 1483 (BRL Variance): - Member Trainer: Moved to grant, arguing the lot is unusually small and narrow compared to typical Charles County lots. - Member Grindel: Supported granting, noting the variance is only for side setbacks and is no different from other houses in the area; it's impossible to build without it. - Member Trasada: Opposed, arguing the lot is not unique in the neighborhood and the variance is too large (50% reduction). He noted the neighbor's concern about closeness and that the property was purchased in 2024 after regulations were in place. - Member Walker: Opposed, expressing concern about the character of the neighborhood and lack of uniqueness. - Motion to grant failed 2-3. Motion to deny then passed 3-2. - Board Discussion on Docket 1484 (Critical Area Variance): - Member Grindel: Moved to deny. - Member Trainer: Supported denial, noting the house could be configured differently and the buffer zone runs into neighboring houses, raising questions about why the applicant's house must be entirely in the buffer. - Motion to deny passed unanimously (5-0, Humbert abstaining). Key Outcomes - Docket 1483 (Building Restriction Line Variance): Denied. The motion to grant failed (2 votes in favor: Watkins, Trainer; 3 opposed: Walker, Trasada, Grindel; 1 abstention: Humbert). The motion to deny passed (3 votes in favor of denial: Watkins, Walker, Trasada; 2 opposed: Trainer, Grindel; 1 abstention: Humbert). - Docket 1484 (Critical Area Buffer Variance): Denied unanimously (5-0, Humbert abstaining). The motion to deny passed with all present members voting in favor. - Other Business: The board approved findings and decisions for Docket 1479 (Berry Road Mini Storage) and Docket 1478 (Wawa) unanimously. - Future Meeting: An administrative session was scheduled for May 12, 2026, to discuss board matters. It will be advertised and open to the public. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners convened on April 28, 2026, for an afternoon session featuring briefings on environmental initiatives, equity and access, animal matters, and agricultural land preservation, followed by an evening public comment session. Commissioners present included Bowling, Coates, Stewart, Patterson, and Collins (Bowling absent for the evening session). Keep Charles County Beautiful Initiative Meg Romero, Assistant Chief of Environmental Resources, and Michelle Smith, Litter Control Manager, provided an update. They reported that over 11 tons of trash and tires were collected from forests and properly disposed of. The spring litter blitz (March 30–April 3) coordinated with state road cleaning. The 38th annual Potomac River watershed cleanup on April 11 involved six sites, with an estimated seven tons of trash collected so far in April. The upcoming Charles County community cleanup is scheduled for May 16. In 2025, 28 sites participated, removing 5.39 tons of litter. The adopt‑a‑road program now includes 87 adopted roads, and adopt‑a‑spot has grown from 3 spots in 2023 to 16 registered spots. A new mascot, Lazy Larry the Litterbug, was introduced. Partnerships include the Blue Crabs stadium and the Board of Education. Commissioners encouraged increasing HOA participation. Equity and Access Quarterly Update Renisha Miles, Chief Equity and Access Officer, and Elaine Pollard, Equity and Access Coordinator, presented. Workforce equity efforts include equity‑focused training (Dialogue & Donuts, microaggressions workshops, etc.) that have engaged all county departments. Budget equity uses a tool with four questions to assess impact across service areas; the tool was integrated into the budget request form for FY27. Community equity: the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF), derived from cannabis tax revenue, is targeted to zip codes 20601, 20602, 20603. The office has a work group and has received 196 survey responses. A public meeting is scheduled for July 9 at Elite Gymnastics and Recreation Center (6–8:30 PM). The office also participates in regional collaboratives. Commissioner Coates noted the small staff (two people) and asked about balance. Commissioner Collins asked about the CRRF allocation for senior meals ($261,625 proposed for FY27) and requested countywide Meals on Wheels data. Jake Dyer, Fiscal Director, explained that the CRRF funds support 53 seniors in Waldorf who were previously on a waitlist, and the program would lose funding without the CRRF allocation. Commissioner Collins also asked about measuring progress over time and the validity of the 2021 DEI resolution. Chief Miles affirmed the resolution remains valid and suggested the office might be better placed under County Administration to reflect its county‑wide role. Commissioner Patterson recommended the office review the definition of affordable housing through an equity lens. Discussion also touched on a proposed CRRF‑funded transportation program (Uber/Lyft), which requires a policy before implementation. Animal Matters Hearing Board Annual Update Linda Price, County Attorney’s Office and clerk to the board, reported that in 2025 the board held 21 meetings, heard 125 citations (animal control officer driven, e.g., loose dogs, bites) and 20 civil complaints (neighbor vs. neighbor, e.g., barking, chickens). For 2026, 24 meetings are scheduled. Commissioners asked about types of complaints. Agricultural Land Preservation Board and Agricultural Reconciliation Committee Annual Update Cal Carpenter, Land Preservation Planner, presented. Charles County’s goal is to preserve 50% of its land area (about 147,000 acres). As of 2025, 107,125 acres are protected (73% of goal). Over the last decade, roughly 1,000 acres have been preserved each year. Major programs: MALPF (15,000 acres, 116 easements), Rural Legacy (7,000 acres, 56 easements), TDR (6,000 acres, 78 easements). In 2025, six farms were preserved through MALPF (751 acres) and two Rural Legacy easements (102 acres). Monitoring inspections (7 MALPF baseline, 14 MALPF monitoring, 8 Rural Legacy monitoring) were completed ahead of schedule. The Agricultural Reconciliation Committee had no disputes this year. Outreach included webinars, videos, and events. Commissioners asked about remaining farmland and expansion of Rural Legacy areas; Planning Director Charles Rice noted no current expansion plans and that existing areas are among the largest in the state. Commissioner New Business Commissioner Coates requested an agenda item for a briefing on sewage overflow from the Town of La Plata’s wastewater system flowing into county lands and waterways. He expressed concern about enforcement and responsibility, noting possible lawsuits and MDE involvement. Commissioner Stewart supported the request, emphasizing the need for health warnings and signage. The board agreed to schedule a briefing. Public Comments & Testimony Five residents spoke during the evening public comment session: - Patrice Thompson (La Plata) expressed support for a public arts and cultural master plan, citing community challenges and the benefits of art for joy, connection, and resilience. She is an art teacher and citizen academy participant. - Derek Terry (Waldorf, District 3) asked about legal impediments to Mark Belton returning to work, questioned how to grow the economy without residential development and tax increases, and noted the Capitol Clubhouse has a 25‑year lease starting in 2021, questioning prior feasibility studies. - David Heidelbach (Charlotte Hall) argued that water demand will exceed supply by 2030, challenged the county’s interpretation of the 80% rule, and questioned closed‑session negotiations. He also noted only seven public comment sessions and one town hall scheduled for the rest of the year, calling it insufficient. - Shelly Posey (La Plata) opposed ZTA 25‑187 for data centers, stating that setbacks of 200 feet from property lines are inadequate, that low‑frequency noise from cooling systems can travel up to three miles, and that health and environmental impacts are not sufficiently addressed. She urged formation of a task force of independent experts. - Yonelle Moore (Immediate past chair, Charles County Board of Education) thanked commissioners for supporting public education, outlined the FY27 budget request, and emphasized the need for competitive salaries, implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, and expanded CTE partnerships. Commissioners responded individually: - Commissioner Stewart thanked Ms. Thompson and Ms. Moore, agreed on tighter data center regulations, and supported larger commercial development. - Commissioner Patterson agreed on arts importance, suggested an art district in the comprehensive plan, and noted the need for a data center task force (referencing Commissioner Bollan’s idea). She expressed concern about La Plata’s water and waste planning. - Commissioner Collins highlighted the cultural arts master plan, the Industrial Development Authority as an economic tool, and emphasized that data centers must include community benefit agreements. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on policy items during the briefing or public comment sessions. - The board acknowledged the briefings and thanked presenters. - Directive: Staff will place an agenda item for a briefing on the La Plata sewage overflow issue. - Directive: Jake Dyer will provide Commissioner Collins with countywide Meals on Wheels funding data. - Suggestion: Commissioner Patterson suggested the Equity and Access office review the affordable housing definition. - Suggestion: Commissioner Collins asked for comparative data on budget equity rankings for FY24–FY26. - Next steps: The Equity and Access office will continue developing a transportation policy for CRRF funds before implementation. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by motion following the public comment session.

According to meeting metadata, this meeting was held on April 27, 2026; the transcript opening instead states "April 29th, 2026." The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call of Commissioners Bowling, Coates, Stewart, Patterson, and Collins. The Board considered two main items: reintroducing Bill 2026-05 as emergency legislation, and completing FY 2027 tax differential meet-and-confer sessions with the towns of La Plata and Indian Head. No agenda or minutes were available for this summary. Approval Item: Reintroduction of Bill 2026-05 - Danielle Mitchell, Acting Deputy County Administrator, and Jake Dyer, Director of Fiscal Administrative Services, requested reintroduction of Bill 2026-05, Property Tax Credit for Volunteer Emergency Responders, as emergency legislation. - The bill would increase the volunteer tax credit from $500 to $2,500. The emergency designation would bypass the usual 45-day effective-date waiting period so the increase can apply to the July 1, 2026 tax bill. - A motion to reintroduce the bill as emergency legislation and affirm the May 19, 2026 public hearing was made, seconded, and passed on a voice vote; the chair stated the ayes have it, and no opposing count was recorded. The hearing remains set for May 19, 2026 at 6 p.m., virtual and in person. - Commissioner Bowling expressed support for removing the state income cap on the volunteer tax credit, saying volunteers' services far exceed the credit cost and that state delegates will need to act at the state level. Another commissioner cautioned that adding this to the legislative agenda could jeopardize something the Board could otherwise move forward on. Staff noted the proposal could be included in the fall delegation meeting package and that a fiscal note may be requested. Meet and Confer: FY 2027 Tax Differential - Town of La Plata - Town Manager Chuck Stevens thanked county staff, agreed with the formula and calculations, and said the town had no issues with the proposed differential. - Dyer reported this year's rate of 0.118 cents per 100 assessed value, down from last year's 0.126. The presiding commissioner thanked Stevens for his collaborative approach and praised the town/county working relationship. - Dyer stated the La Plata cumulative credit is about $2.5 million, with an average credit of about $540 on a La Plata bill. Meet and Confer: FY 2027 Tax Differential - Town of Indian Head - Indian Head Town Manager Ryan Hicks, participating virtually, thanked the Board and encouraged the County to continue adhering to the tax differential formula as it has historically. - Dyer reported this year's rate of 0.29 per 100 assessed value, up from last year's 0.24. He clarified the differential is a credit on property tax bills, not revenue paid to the towns. - Dyer provided figures: Indian Head residents receive about $140,000 in cumulative credits, with an average credit of about $96 on an Indian Head bill. The formula compensates for duplicated services such as planning/permitting, parks, and roads; La Plata also has duplicate police services. Key Outcomes - Bill 2026-05 was reintroduced as emergency legislation; the public hearing remains scheduled for May 19, 2026. - The Board completed meet-and-confer requirements with both towns and agreed with the calculated FY 2027 tax differential rates for La Plata and Indian Head. - Staff will include the approved rates in motions for the budget adoption scheduled for May 12, 2026. - The meeting recessed to the budget public hearing scheduled for 6 p.m. in the auditorium. Note on Date Discrepancy - The meeting date in the supplied metadata is 2026-04-27, while the transcript's opening line says April 29, 2026. This summary uses the metadata date in the title and notes the transcript discrepancy.

The Charles County Police Accountability Review Board met on April 23, 2026, at 4:06 p.m. The meeting opened with roll call of law enforcement agencies and proceeded through agenda approval, an annual report on internal investigations, and a discussion of body-worn and vehicle camera compliance. No votes were taken on substantive matters; the board accepted the agenda and received reports from agency representatives.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners convened on April 22, 2026, at 4:00 PM for a regular meeting. Commissioners Bowling, Stewart, and Collins were present; Commissioner Coates was absent, and Commissioner Paterson was initially online but later marked absent. The meeting included an economic development department update followed by a detailed work session on the proposed FY 2027 budget, covering county agency and departmental requests. Economic Development Update - Jim Chandler, Director of Economic Development, presented the department’s goals and objectives for FY 2026. Key highlights included: - Announcement of the Western Charles County Technology Corridor wayfinding signage dedication in May 2026, and an energetics job fair at the Velocity Center on April 22, 2026, featuring 100 pre-screened applicants. - Progress on the Maryland Airport Master Plan (24–36 month process) and a Navy capital project briefing scheduled for May 5, 2026. - The Business Growth Advantage Program (BGAP) will sunset with a final graduation on May 22, 2026; results included 151 graduates, $1.4 million in grants, 130 minority/women-owned businesses supported, 73% of participants reporting increased revenue, and 66% gaining new business opportunities. - Launch of a Launch Pad pilot program for startups and a new International Trade Cohort Program, both starting in May 2026. - A new economic development website launching May 18, 2026, and implementation of a customer relationship management (CRM) platform. - Commissioners expressed strong support for the department’s work, noting the shift in focus to the western corridor and the importance of forward-looking planning. Budget Work Session – Proposed FY 2027 General Fund Budget Jake Dyer, Director of Fiscal Administrative Services, presented the proposed budget totaling $641,826,500, balanced without property or income tax increases. The budget funds partner agencies (82%) and county departments (18%). The following items were discussed: Outside Agencies - Department of Social Services: Proposed $324,500 (same as FY 2026). - Health Department: Proposed $4,521,200, a $211,900 increase, funded with OIPO settlement funds ($307,000) and ARPA ($130,000) for community health outreach. - Charles County Charitable Trust: Proposed $1,037,285 from general fund, plus $507,700 from ARPA and $183,000 from CRF to fully fund its $1.5 million nonprofit grant program. A request to convert a part-time position to full-time was not included. - Board of Elections: Funding includes state-mandated costs for poll books and a new voting system. - Circuit Court: Proposed $3 million (approx.), including a new court social worker. Three requested positions were not funded. Judge James H. West addressed the board, highlighting a 56% increase in civil cases and the need for a Spanish-language interpreter (to be provided by state courts). - State’s Attorney: Proposed budget includes body-worn camera funding; two requested positions not included. - Sheriff’s Office: Proposed $145.2 million (4.5% increase), funding five new positions, license plate readers, a drone first-responder system, and a youth engagement program. Chief of Staff Brian Ely presented, emphasizing technology as a force multiplier and the need for responsible spending. County Departments - Emergency Services: Proposed $37.4 million (16.1% increase), includes seven new positions for an animal care center, six additional EMTs, and a new ambulance (bank financed). - Public Works: Funds for a future sports and wellness center and snow removal contract changes. - Recreation, Parks & Tourism: Proposed $16 million, includes a new outreach specialist, expanded pool hours, and a concert event. - Fiscal & Administrative Services: Proposed $14.5 million (9.9% increase), supporting IT initiatives, AI website assistant, and software for other departments. - Planning & Growth Management: Proposed $13.6 million, funds seven new positions for the rental registry program and continued VanGO transit support. - Community Services: Proposed $4.05 million, includes an aging services administrator and continued summer youth employment program (serving 40 youth). - Economic Development: Proposed $2.54 million (1.1% increase), for marketing and website support. - County Commissioners: Proposed $818,000, maintaining expense policies and funding Tri-County Council and COG dues. - County Attorney: Proposed $2.4 million (31% increase), due to a transferred property acquisition division. - Human Resources: Funds for employee training and internship programs. Other Budgets - Debt Service: $35.8 million (8.3% increase), covering existing debt and new bond issuance. - Fringe Benefits: $6.2 million for retiree health insurance. - Central Services: $6.2 million, includes three new building security officers and an X-ray machine for the county building. - Contingency: $1.22 million (increase of $500,000) to cover potential grant loss (e.g., mobile crisis team) and emergency cost shifts. - Office of Inspector General: $800,000 placeholder pending a May 2026 public hearing. - OPEB Contribution: $9.5 million, up $500,000. - Pay-Go Capital: $16.9 million, primarily for public safety radios. - Fund Balance Use: $26.1 million, mostly for capital projects. Requests Not Funded - Circuit court: court statistics analyst, human resource specialist, judicial administrative assistant. - State’s attorney: specialty court attorney and two support staff. - Sheriff’s office: $8.5 million in additional sworn/civilian positions. - College of Southern Maryland Foundation: $400,000 for Commissioner CARES scholarship. - University of Maryland Incentive Awards: new cohort request of $237,600 over four years. - Charles County Commission on Individuals with Disabilities: $13,500. Key Outcomes - The budget work session will continue on April 28, 2026, with a public hearing on April 29, 2026, ad-deletes discussion on May 5, 2026, and final adoption on May 12, 2026. - Commissioners requested a comprehensive report on all county funding to nonprofit organizations, including grants and allocations from all county agencies; staff will research and present at a future meeting. - The sheriff’s office budget presentation video will be posted on the county website.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners met on April 21, 2026, in a legislative session. Commissioners Bowling, Coates, and Collins were present; Commissioners Stewart and Patterson were absent. The meeting covered approval items, including a budget transfer and a memorandum of understanding, a discussion on road closure, briefings on the volunteer fire tax credit, the FY 2025 audit, the FY 2027 budget work session, and a legislative wrap-up. The Board introduced a bill to increase the volunteer fire tax credit from $500 to $2,500 and scheduled a public hearing. Consent Calendar - Budget Amendment Transfer 158 (FY 2026 BTR 158): Approved unanimously a transfer of $158,160 from the sewer maintenance project account to cover generator rental during transformer repairs at building 18 of the Meadow Woman wastewater treatment plant. - Memorandum of Understanding with Maryland Stadium Authority: Approved (with one opposed) an MOU for the Maryland Stadium Authority to conduct a feasibility and economic development assessment for the Sports and Wellness Project. The county incurs no direct cost from the agreement. Discussion Items - Brentland Road Partial Road Closure: Commissioner Bowling proposed closing the last segment of Brentland Road with Jersey walls to prevent illegal dumping. Staff presented a plan to install 36 feet of Jersey wall at a cost of approximately $84,400. Commissioner Coates raised concerns about setting a precedent and questioned the location, but after clarification that the wall would completely block vehicular access past the last served residence, the motion was approved unanimously. - FY 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Single Audit: External auditor Remy Omassor (CLA) presented a clean, unmodified audit opinion. No material weaknesses or significant deficiencies were identified. The single audit tested 33% of federal dollars with no findings. GASB 101 and 102 standards were discussed; the county had no material impact from these new standards. - Proposed Bill 2026-05 – Volunteer Emergency Responders Property Tax Credit Amendment: Danielle Mitchell and Jake Dyer presented a draft bill to increase the tax credit from $500 to $2,500. The income threshold ($150,000 AGI) is set by state law and was not changed. The fiscal impact is estimated at approximately $185,000 based on current participation. The Board voted to introduce the bill and schedule a public hearing for May 19, 2026, at 6 p.m., to be held hybrid in-person and virtually. - FY 2027 Budget Work Session (First Review): The Board began its review of the proposed FY 2027 General Fund operating budget. Key highlights: proposed budget of $641,826,500 (a $46.7 million increase over FY 2026), with no property or income tax increases. Revenue growth is driven by property assessments ($17 million increase) and income tax trends ($25.5 million increase). The budget includes a $12.1 million (5%) increase for the Board of Education, a $6.3 million increase for the Sheriff’s Office, and fully funds requests from the College of Southern Maryland ($655,200 increase) and the Library ($266,700 increase). The Board also reviewed the FY 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Program, which proposes $533.8 million in funded projects out of $940.9 million requested, within debt affordability constraints. Major projects include LaPlata High School modernization, school enclosure projects, and road improvements. - Legislative Wrap-Up – 2026 Maryland General Assembly Session: County lobbyists from GS Proctor and Associates reported on the session, noting a balanced state budget without tax increases but with cost shifts to counties (e.g., teacher retirement and pre-K costs totaling $4.6 million). Several county-sponsored bills were discussed, including the Sports and Wellness Center bill (still in study phase) and others that did not pass. The presentation covered major state legislation affecting utilities, development rights, affordable housing, and public safety. Key Outcomes - Approved the introduction of Bill 2026-05 (Volunteer Emergency Responders Property Tax Credit) and scheduled a public hearing for May 19, 2026, at 6 p.m. in a hybrid format. - Approved the Brentland Road partial closure with a Jersey wall, with the wall placed after the last served property access. - Approved Budget Amendment Transfer 158 and the MOU with the Maryland Stadium Authority. - The Board deferred approval of the April 14, 2026, meeting minutes until the afternoon session because Commissioner Collins, who was absent at that meeting, could not second the motion. - The Board will continue the FY 2027 budget work session on April 22, 2026, focusing on internal county departments and remaining agencies. - The Board moved into closed session at the conclusion of the open session to discuss potential litigation settlements, a land transfer, and legal advice. Note: No public comments or testimony were presented during this meeting.