The St. Mary’s Board of County Commissioners continued to comb through the budget proposal with work sessions each Monday since the April 17 public hearing. Another work session, May 17, will be the last prior to the May 25 adoption date.
In the May 10 work session, current Commissioner and candidate for re-election Larry Jarboe suggested, “a reorganization of county government.” Jarboe’s proposals have included reducing, by half, the number of department heads and eliminating or dramatically restructuring the county’s selective support of non-county agencies. The other commissioners have not supported his suggestions, with Commissioner Mattingly saying he doesn’t think now is the time to “walk away” from these agencies that help segments of the population in need.
Major capital projects continue to be a topic of interest during these budget talks, with the new detention center drawing a lot of attention for its future operating costs and requested new positions. County Chief Financial Officer Elaine Kramer came before the board on Tuesday, May 11 to close out grants that were budgeted but not received, returning roughly $65,000 in unused county match funding.
The board approved the lease agreement with El Shaddai transferring the medical adult day program to the private sector. They also gladly approved budget increases for the Department of Aging, thanks to grants funding senior meals, transition and volunteer programs.
The BOCC received a presentation from the Metropolitan Commission, which will hold a public hearing May 25, providing an overview of rate increases, current and future projects.
The commissioners were briefed about the new grant assistance programs available only at the Lexington Park Library. The databases and training programs will assist both non-profit groups and individuals find and apply for grants. Commissioner Raley called the library a “mini-community center” and complimented the variety of services, beyond just books they’ve made available to St. Mary’s County residents. Lexington Park Branch Manager Terri Tresp stated, “We’re just responding to what citizens want.”
The BOCC will hold public hearings to discuss the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance May 18, 19 and 20.
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