7/28/26 Commissioners of St. Mary's County

The St. Mary's County Commissioners held a meeting on July 28, 2026, addressing several procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement actions included approval of a cable franchise agreement with Verizon Maryland LLC to expand Fios cable infrastructure countywide, and authorization to procure a second appraisal for the Bushwood Wharf property acquisition. The commissioners approved a $1,653,327 loan to the Second District Volunteer Fire Department for a heavy-duty rescue squad vehicle, funded through the county's revolving fire and rescue loan program. Budget amendments were approved for the Southern Maryland Workforce Development Study and the Lexington Park Development District Implementation Plan, including contract modifications with Clarion Associates. The board also accepted multiple grant awards totaling over $800,000 for court programs and law enforcement initiatives, including a $100,000 Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for automated license plate reader technology. Additionally, the commissioners discussed zoning ordinance text amendments related to fuel sales, small box discount stores, and vape shops, ultimately referring the matter back to the planning commission for further review. The meeting included policy discussions on community reinvestment and repair fund ordinance, with a decision to proceed without establishing a citizen commission immediately to expedite fund distribution. Several motions related to procurement, contract approvals, and budget allocations were passed by majority vote during the session.