10/21/26 Economic Development Commission

The St. Mary’s County Economic Development Commission met on October 21, 2026. No new contract awards, bid approvals, or spending commitments were approved. Members received a tourism update: Visit St. Mary’s is funded primarily through a share of the county’s 6% accommodation tax, with approximately 38% allocated to the organization. It plans to competitively engage a consultant in the coming year to refresh its tourism and hospitality master plan. The commission also reviewed a regional workforce study prepared by Towson University, hired in collaboration with Charles and Calvert counties and the Navy; no study cost was stated, and no new funding was requested. Discussion focused on workforce gaps, housing affordability, and possible economic diversification. The commission voted to form a subcommittee to develop housing-related recommendations and an outreach strategy.

In sector updates, a member reported that the Navy selected Boeing as prime contractor for the F/A-XX engineering and manufacturing development effort, described as a $20 billion source selection. The commission also heard that the SBA had proposed changes to small-business size standards and extended the public comment period to November 10; members were encouraged to review the proposal and submit comments because it could affect small businesses competing for government work. The county’s comprehensive land-use plan was adopted earlier in the week, with a comprehensive zoning ordinance update expected to take about two years. The commission approved its proposed meeting dates for 2027; no other procurement-related motions or spending votes were identified.