You Work Hard For the Money
I heard this a lot while I was campaigning: “Tax and Spend Democrat. Democrats think they know how to spend your money better than you.” But, the Commissioners have raised property taxes for the last several years. The Commissioners raised Income Tax in the past, held on to large, unspent fund balances, and consistently raised fees. The Commissioners are all Republicans.
What’s For Sale in St. Mary’s County?
These recently built chain store locations are already for sale!
DPWT Lists Priority Road Improvements
Director Jim Gotsch, from the Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPWT) submitted a letter last week outlining the priorities for the County’s transportation infrastructure improvements. Here are the highlights…
Plastic Bag Ban
On March 7th, the County Commissioners met with Commanding Officer Derrick Kingsley of NAS/PAX. Unfortunately, the video recording of this meeting is unavailable because of a technical issue. Although no official memo was released summarizing this meeting, documents presented during the meeting are available online. Several topics were covered during this meeting, including a proposed ban of plastic bags in the county.
Stewart’s Grant Update
After another long Planning Commission meeting, the Stewart’s Grant development in Great Mills moved a small step closer to being fully approved. Much historical information about the development was discussed.
Planning Commission: Stewart’s Grant Hearing
Public hearing information for the Stewart’s Grant development.
The Vault - Leonardtown
Those in Town of Leonardtown may have noticed new signage hanging in the entrance of the old Bank of America building downtown. “Now Leasing” the sign says, and directs a visit to vaultltown.com for more information. This morning I spoke with Katie Folger, owner of the former bank, who has a clear vision for bringing a different type of business to Leonardtown.
St. Mary’s Assisted Living & Memory Care Facility
The Town of Leonardtown’s Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a meeting today, March 20th at 4pm.
Charlotte Hall Veteran’s Home
Disturbing news reported today by Maryland Matters regarding the Charlotte Hall Veteran's Home.
State’s Attorney’s Office Shares Misleading Crime Data
Yesterday, the St. Mary's County State's Attorney's Office shared the post pictured below. The information is somewhat misleading on its face. Here is an explanation of what’s really going on.
Commissioner Ostrow Hosts Town Hall
Scott Ostrow County Commissioner’s town hall yesterday afternoon was well attended and numerous topics were covered. Ostrow and Commissioner Eric Colvin answered questions. Commissioner Mike Alderson Jr. made an early appearance but had to leave due to another commitment. Mike Hewitt for Commissioner listened from the audience. Randy Guy - Commissioner President did not attend.
SMECO PROPOSES RATE INCREASE
SMECO is proposing a rate increase for customers to bring in an additional $15.75 million in revenue. This increase translates to an overall increase of 8% on the bill for the average customer. They have filed documents with the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) to gain approval.
Editorial: HB 447
There has been much consternation over HB447, a bill from Delegate Crosby (D-29B) intending to change how St. Mary’s Countians vote for County Commissioners. The conversation about this idea has included misleading information and outright propaganda.
St. Mary’s County Library Brief
During their meeting on 2/7/23, the Commissioners received a brief from Michael Blackwell, Director of St. Mary's County Library (SMCL). The presentation included facts about library usage.
Image Clear Ultrasound
Today someone saw a mobile RV unit from “Image Clear Ultrasound” parked in St. Mary’s Square on Great Mills Rd. Advertised on the side of the RV was the phrase “Free Pregnancy Tests and Ultrasound.”
Follow Up: Image Clear Ultrasound
A few weeks ago I posted about an Image Clear Ultrasound (ICU) Mobile Unit that was spotted in the St. Mary’s Square parking lot. I did quite a bit of research about this organization, how it is funded, and its mission.
Golden Beach Development
On February 13th, the Planning Commission will review a concept site plan for Golden Beach Development, which proposes a new shopping center where the Farmers Market is currently located.
School Based Health Centers Announced
During the Board of Health meeting on Tuesday, Dr. Brewster of the St. Mary’s County Health Department provided information about a newer healthcare resource in the county–school-based health centers.