# 11/9/2026 Planning Commission for St. Mary's County

The November 9, 2026, St. Mary’s County Planning Commission meeting included an update on the Stewart’s Grant planned unit development. The developer’s representative reported a target of mid-2027 to begin site grading, with phase one comprising about 179 single-family homes. MetCom is expected to approve the site plan, but building permits depend on approval of the pump station’s final design and construction by MDE; a water tower sized 75% above the project’s needs is also planned. Traffic mitigations—including a second exit lane at Bay Ridge and extended turn bays at Maryland Route 5 and Route 246—are expected in later phases, while the state is advancing a traffic circle near the high school. No contract awards, bids, vendor selections, or spending approvals were identified.

The Commission received an introductory briefing on a proposed zoning text amendment that would make fuel sales, small discount stores, and vape stores conditional uses in districts where they are currently permitted by right, with public-need and development-pattern criteria considered by the Board of Appeals. Commissioners requested time and additional information before proceeding; they agreed to continue discussion at a work session tentatively planned for December 7, with a public hearing to follow when ready. The chair also proposed future work sessions on tiny and attainable housing, including accessory dwelling units. The Commission voted to approve the October 26 minutes and later voted to adjourn; no procurement action was taken.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** November 09, 2026

### Sources
- [11/9/2026 Planning Commission for St. Mary's County](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEQkGdhbup0) - St. Mary's County Government