The St. Mary’s Board of County Commissioners made some big decisions during its meeting Tuesday morning. Real Property Manager Liz Passarelli and Dept. of Public Works and Transportation Director George Erichson asked the board to approve and authorize the purchase of the Turner Property at 21708 Great Mills Road and to demolish the building currently on it. Erichson explained the acquisition was compatible with the county’s planning and extension of FDR Blvd. Commissioner Daniel H. Raley called the purchase “crucial to developing the transportation grid in Lexington Park” and stated, “for us not to take advantage of this opportunity would be poor judgment on the part of the part of the board.”
The board approved the acquisition with a three-to-one vote with Commissioner Dement abstaining. Commissioner Lawrence D. Jarboe’s nay was accompanied by his compliment for Pasarelli’s efforts to save money, getting the property for $450,000, significantly less than the appraised value. Commissioner Thomas A. Mattingly called attention to the confusion surrounding FDR Blvd. since it exists in several parts of town but doesn’t connect. He suggested a name change for the busy road that gives access to Bay District Volunteer Fire Dept., the Lexington Park Library and Elementary School. President/CEO of the Community Development Corporation, Inc. Robin Finnacom was on hand for the decision and told The BAYNET, “The purchase and demolition of Roses II is a significant step forward in the revitalization of the core area of Lexington Park.”
The BOCC approved the selection of Kimball Architecture and budget realignments necessary to move forward with the construction of a new detention center, pending the state’s authorization. Sheriff Tim Cameron said he supports the plan. The commissioners approved several budget amendments from decreased grant funding for the Office of the Sherriff and a new, fully-funded temporary, part-time position for a Crime Analyst.
Naval Air Station Patuxent River‘s Commanding Officer Capt. Macyko and vital staff presented an Air Installation Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ) update to the board. Macyko said, “St. Mary’s County has been very proactive” through zoning ordinances and cooperative planning. Though the CO said they receive, on average, less than 100 noise complaints each year, the AICUZ efforts ensure minimal noise impact and a high standard of safety for residential and commercial areas near the air station. Commissioner President Russell told Macyko and staff, “Thank you for all your diligence.”
The board approved the Housing Authority’s continued participation in the Md. Housing Rehabilitation Program and its request for grant funding that will provide more affordable and workforce housing with the acquisition of Indian Bridge Apartments. Resource/Service Coordinator Sandra Johnson said, “We’re available to help St. Mary’ County citizens that qualify.”
<!–
–>
