The St. Mary’s County Board of Commissioners adopted the Comprehensive Plan Tuesday, March 23. Passed with a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Larry Jarboe arguing the plan, “doesn’t address citizen’s concerns,” the ordinance becomes effective April 6, 2010.
Land Use and Growth Management Director Derick Berlage said the current Plan is a continuation of existing land use philosophies and policies. He added it continues to preserve St. Mary’s rural character and protect its maritime heritage, while it allows for growth in zoned development areas.
The board got closer to the adoption of the FY11 Budget draft during a Monday, March 22 work session. The proposed new Leonardtown Library capital project remains a debatable item with Jarboe suggesting moving it out several years and Commissioner Tommy Mattingly stating low bidding for the project now could save money. The County’s trash issue was also tagged as an area of concern.
Commissioner Raley’s proposal for merit payment to county employees will be considered along with the budget. “I feel very strongly about this,” he said. The draft budget proposal will be approved by the board March 30 and presented for public hearing on Apr. 27.
The board held a public hearing to consider an exemption for ag-tourism activities in the county. Bob Schaller said the DECD, “fully supports this exemption” and called it “an important tool in the growth of this industry.”
The current Admissions and Amusement Tax is 2 percent. CFO Elaine Kramer cautioned the board about a permanent exemption, suggesting that could mean, “foregoing future revenues.”
Owners of Forrest Hall Farm Joseph and Mary Wood spoke in favor of the exemption. Mrs. Wood said they thought outside of the box and began offering a corn maze and their farm as an ag-tourism destination, after tobacco production stopped. She said, “We’re trying to figure out what to do to keep our farms alive and our families on the farms.”
During the Tuesday meeting, the board took time to recognize several county employees with 10 to 30 years of service and one with 35 years, Cynthia Pilkerton at Public Works and Transportation. They also approved Length of Service Awards for all eligible volunteer Fire, Rescue, and Advanced Life support personnel. Raley pointed out the expenditure for these awards is minimal compared to supporting full-time emergency services.
County
–>
