10/20/26 State of the County Luncheon

St. Mary’s County’s 2026 State of the County luncheon, held October 20, 2026, reviewed county accomplishments and commissioners’ priorities with the business community. Infrastructure and capital projects featured prominently: the Captain Walter Francis Duke Airport runway extension was completed; FDR Boulevard work was nearing completion; three paratransit vans were added using increased state and federal transit funding; and park, boat-landing, and museum improvements were underway or completed. Commissioners also cited a $755,000 grant for the Inglot Park splash-pad replacement and approximately $38 million for Chaptecan High School renovations. The transcript does not identify any contract awards, bids, or vendor selections.

Commissioners discussed the building excise tax and its effects on infrastructure funding, housing affordability, and commercial development, citing the county rate of about $6,697 and differing views on whether the tax discourages construction. They said the county’s comprehensive plan was approved that day, with zoning work to follow. Other budget and service topics included the county’s $88.2 million reserve, fare-free transit, public safety improvements, and support for local businesses and workforce housing. No procurement-related motions or spending votes are described in the transcript.