WASHINGTON –  U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) Thursday reintroduced the End Racial and Religious Profiling Act of 2023 (ERRPA) that would ban discriminatory profiling by federal, state and local law enforcement nationwide. ERRPA (S. 1084) is designed to promote best practices in community-based policing to strengthen enforcement of the right to equal protection under the law, which is one of our most basic constitutional principles.

“Racial and religious profiling is a scourge to law enforcement that breeds distrust within communities, damages the reputation of all officers and far too often, takes lives,” said Senator Cardin. “While some of the more extreme cases of profiling are easier to recognize, we know that people face harsher penalties due to their race, religion, skin color, or country of origin each day. Our country is long overdue for a national policing standard that will protect the public and build trust.”

Joining Senator Cardin as cosponsors of ERRPA for the 118^th Congress are Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jeff Merkley (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Wash.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio).

The legislation is endorsed by the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, ACLU, NAACP and numerous other groups. It was passed by the House of Representatives as a part of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act in the 116th and 117th Congresses.

Senator Cardin led a letter in November of 2022 to the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security asking them adopt stronger guidance against discriminatory profiling.  DOJ and DHS are currently undertaking an ongoing review of their guidance as a result of the President’s May 2022 executive order on “Advancing Effective, Accountable Policing and Criminal Justice Practices to Enhance Public Trust and Public Safety.”

The full text of ERRPA (S. 1084) can be downloaded here. A section-by-section summary is available here.

The End Racial and Religious Profiling Act (ERRPA) is designed to eliminate racial and religious profiling through the following actions:

• Prohibiting racial profiling, clearly defined in a standard definition as targeting on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation. This prohibition covers federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies carrying out criminal, immigration, or customs laws.

• Authorizing both the Department of Justice and individuals harmed by violation of this Act to pursue injunctive or declaratory relief in courts of law.

• Conditioning the receipt of federal law enforcement and other funding to state and local governments on their adoption of effective policies that prohibit profiling.

• Authorizing the Department of Justice to provide grants for the development and implementation of best policing practices such as early warning systems, technology integration, and other management protocols that discourage profiling.

• Mandating training on racial profiling issues as a part of federal law enforcement training as well as the collection and submission to the Department of Justice of data on all routine or spontaneous investigatory activities.

• Requiring the Attorney General to provide periodic reports to assess the nature of any ongoing discriminatory profiling practices.

School Resource Officer Investigating Assault at Westlake High School: On March 30 at 1:15 p.m., a student, who was not permitted on the school grounds at Westlake High School, entered the school and got into an altercation with another student inside a classroom. School staff attempted to separate the student, but the student refused to follow instructions. A school resource officer responded, but the student did not stop. After ignoring all commands, the officer displayed his electronic control device at which time the student complied and was removed from the school. No injuries were reported. The school resource officer contacted the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding criminal charges. The student also faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact PFC Joffe at 301-609-3282 ext. 0608.  

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation announces that both short-term and seasonal camping at Breezy Point Beach & Campground will be closed for the 2023 season for the completion of an extensive shoreline restoration project on the camping beach area. This project will consist of erosion mitigation and beach revitalization.

The public beach at Breezy Point will remain open to the public for day use, seven days per week from May 1 through Oct. 31. Hours are as follows:

·         May

Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Weekends and holidays: 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

·         June-August

Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Weekends and holidays: 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

·         September-October

Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Weekends and holidays: 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Breezy Point Beach & Campground is a favorite bay-front park for swimming, fishing, picnicking and more. Visit www.CalvertCountyMd.Gov/BreezyPoint to learn more.

For updates on Parks & Recreation services, park availability, field closures and more visit Parks & Recreation at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyParks and follow @CalvertCountyParks on Instagram.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

To: All Marylanders

I am here to inform you that the State of Maryland has seen the worst increase in fire deaths in the first three months of 2023 than in any other time in recent decades. 

Close to 40 Marylanders have lost their lives to fire from the eastern shore to the mountains of western Maryland. This deeply saddens and concerns me to my core. We need to slow this trend down immediately. 

I will tell you that fires these days’ burn faster and hotter and produce toxic smoke that can kill you quickly. Fire does not discriminate; it can be present in your home on any given day or night when we see these fires the most. You have the least amount of time to escape a fire in your home than at any other time in history. 

What can you do to reduce your risk from fires? First, know that the leading cause of fires here in Maryland are cooking, electrical, smoking materials, and heating appliances. What are the leading circumstances of Marylanders dying in fires? Failure to recognize the causes of fires and taking those steps to prevent them from happening. 

Fire can and will strike your family at any given moment. You need to be prepared! 

• Have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom. Battery-only alarms must be a ten-year sealed battery alarm. Call the local fire department or the State Fire Marshal’s Office if you need smoke alarms. They are free, and we will even install them for you. 
• At night, make sure all bedroom doors are closed, and be sure to close all doors behind you when you are escaping a fire. This will prevent the spread of smoke and fire throughout your home and give you time to be rescued if trapped by a fire.
• Meet with your family and develop an escape plan, have two ways out of every room. Make sure door locks are openable without using a key, and that bedroom windows are operational from the inside. Have a meeting place outside the home so your family can ensure everyone got out. 
• Get out and Stay Out Always! Once out, NEVER EVER go back inside a burning building! You will not come back out alive. 
• Once out, make that 911 call immediately to the fire department to get them started as soon as possible. 

Please remember that fire is everyone’s fight. We need your help to prevent fires in your homes to keep you, your family, and our firefighters safe. These five steps will help save you and your family in the event of an unwanted fire in your home. 

Thank you,

Brian S. Geraci,

Maryland State Fire Marshal

The Charles County Commissioners seek county residents to fill vacancies on the Charter Board established in March 2023. Members of this board can directly impact the structure of our county government for decades to come. 

The Charter Board is a nine-citizen member board comprising two members from each of Charles County's four Commissioner Districts and one member who shall reside in any Commissioner District. The application deadline is Tuesday, April 18. To apply, visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/government/boards-commissions-1009.

The Charter Board will draft a charter for Charles County to change the present form of government from code home rule to charter government. The proposed charter will define the duties, powers, rules, procedures, and structure of local county government and the rights of our citizens.

The draft charter will be presented to the County Commissioners by June 1, 2024, who will cause it to be published at least twice within thirty days after it is presented. The charter will then be submitted to the voters of the County during the 2024 regular election. If a majority of the votes cast are in favor of its adoption, the form of government for Charles County will change from code home rule to charter on the date specified in the charter. 

The Charter Board will meet at least monthly beginning June 1, 2023.

For more information or questions, contact Christina Elkins at 240-776-6709 or ElkinsC@CharlesCountyMD.gov.

On Wednesday, March 29, Commissioners received a briefing on the Billingsley Road Alternatives study. Staff reviewed the history of past studies and proposals for addressing realignment of Billingsley Road. They presented information on existing roadway conditions, traffic volumes, and environmental resources. A traffic analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of various options on traffic volume, intersection levels of service, and changes in travel times. Concepts for horizontal roadway realignment were presented within the study area. Three alternatives were provided with cost estimates – an option that upgrades the existing alignment, an option that creates a new alignment, and a hybrid option of the first two alternatives. Staff recommended the hybrid option and shared next steps for the planning process.

Legislative Update

Associate County Attorney Danielle Mitchell provided a legislative update on the 2023 General Assembly session. Commissioners discussed and voted 3-2 to approve a request for a letter of support for Senate Bill 491, which would establish a task force to study school bus operator contracts and wages. Mitchell also reminded the public that the county is now accepting legislative proposals for additions or revisions to local laws in the county code. Submissions are being accepted online through Fri, Apr. 21.

FY 2024 Budget Work Session

The Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services staff provided a Fiscal 2024 Budget Work Session on the Enterprise Funds Operating and Capital Improvement Projects.  Overviews of the Landfill Fund, Environmental Service Fund, Watershed Protection and Restoration Fund, Inspection and Review Fund, and proposed fees and charges, were provided.

The budget public hearing is scheduled on Wed, Apr 26. All documents and information related to the budget process is located on the county’s website.

Open Session Briefings

Fiscal and Administrative Services staff provided an status update on Fiscal 2023 current capital projects.

Approval Items

• A budget amendment increase of $65,000 to pay for the increased cost of vet care for adoptable animals, monthly promotions of the animals, barn cat program and clear the shelters event that is supported by animal shelter donations in a special revenue fund.
• An assignment of a new mental health assistant position in the Charles County Sheriff’s Office.
• A letter of support to the United States Department of Energy, for a proposal to fund the Mid-Atlantic Hydrogen Hub project. This project would enhance economic development and support clean energy.
• Updates to the Commissioners’ Community Support Policy.

Public Hearings

Commissioners held a virtual public hearing on Draft Bill 2023-02 Maryland Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and a virtual public hearing on Docket 90 Amendment #22-90(22) Wooded Glen and Piney Reach Master Plan.

Quarterly Town Hall

Commissioners held a quarterly town hall to receive and respond to questions and comments from the public. The town hall can be viewed online in the CCGTV Video on Demand library here.

Proclamations

• Fair Housing Month
• National Child Abuse Prevention Month
• Autism Acceptance Month
• Archaeology Month
• National Public Health Week
• National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week
• National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week
• National Volunteer Week
• National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

Viewing option of meetings: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session April 18, 2023

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258. 

The Calvert County Department of Economic Development announces the opening of a new Tourism Development Incentive Fund to help Calvert County businesses and nonprofits who wish to host a special event in Calvert County. Organizations may apply for up to $25,000 to offset certain fees associated with hosting a special event that is open to the public on county-owned and -operated property, except events held at Calvert County parks.

Assistance will be available to businesses and nonprofit organizations that have a valid and complete Calvert County special event permit application and can demonstrate that the event will create destination awareness, increase overnight stays, increase visitor spending or will have a measurable positive economic impact for Calvert County. To be eligible, businesses and nonprofits must have no outstanding Calvert County violations (i.e., zoning violations), or overdue taxes or assessments and be in good standing as reported by the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.

Awarded funds will cover up to $25,000 towards application fees, permit fees and charges for support services required by the county to host a public event. If awarded, the funds will be transferred from the Department of Economic Development to the appropriate county departments to cover the costs. 

“Special events can attract visitors, boost our local economy, create job opportunities and provide ways for residents to have fun,” said Economic Development Director Julie Oberg. “Hosting a public event can be a financial challenge, so we are pleased to help organizations host special events and create a positive impact for Calvert County and its residents.”

To learn more about the Tourism Development Incentive Fund Grant, terms and conditions and how to apply, visit www.ChooseCalvert.com/TourismFund.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

During the week of March 20 – March 26, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 1,991 calls for service throughout the community.

Damaged Property: 23-20024

On March 22, 2023, Deputy Claggett responded to the 4800 block of Adelina Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of property destruction. The complainant’s security camera recorded a tractor trailer with a sleeper cab and a 53ft long trailer attempt to make a U-turn in the victim’s driveway and in turn backed into the fence. The estimated value of damaged property is $600.00.

Motor Vehicle Theft: 23-20642

On March 24, 2023, M/DFC Aurich responded to the parking lot in the 600 block of Keith Lane in Owings, for the report of a motor vehicle theft. The complainant advised his 2003 blue Honda VTX motorcycle had been stolen. The estimated value of stolen property is $6,000.00.

Theft: 23-19632

On March 20, 2023, Deputy Dawson responded to the 3600 block of Estelle Court in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised her white Apple AirPods were stolen from her belongings during lunch at Huntingtown High School. The estimated value of stolen property is $250.00.

Theft: 23-20982

On March 25, 2023, Deputy Mister responded to the 2900 block of Londonderry Lane in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a STIHL MS170 chainsaw and a can of gasoline were stolen from the victim’s shed. The estimated value of stolen property is $320.00.

ARRESTS

On March 20, 2023, Deputy DeSantis initiated a traffic stop on 27^th Street in Chesapeake Beach, for a traffic violation. Upon making contact with the driver, Kevin Jerome Holland, 45 of Hyattsville, Holland initially provided a false name and refused to provide identifying information. Holland was wanted on multiple open warrants through the state of Maryland. Deputies asked Holland to exit the vehicle to which he refused. He continued to provide a false name and refused to comply with deputies’ commands. Holland was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Resisting Arrest, Fraud- Per Identification Avoid Prosecution, and other traffic related offenses.
 

On March 22, 2023, Deputy Sylver responded to Dunn-Clean Laundry located at 66 Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of trespassing. The complainant advised, Marvin Wayne Thomas, 56 of Prince Frederick, had been previously trespassed from the establishment and shopping center. Citizens from the laundry mat and O’Gannigans Irish Pub came outside to hear Thomas causing a disturbance. Thomas was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property and Disorderly Conduct.

On March 22, 2023, Deputy Claggett responded to Firehouse Subs located at 641 Solomons Island Road N unit 18 in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed an employee, Lauren Nicole Washington-Paige, 33 of Port Republic, had stolen money deposits on multiple occasions from December 2022 to March 2023. Washington-Paige admitted to the theft and was placed under arrest. She was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and was charged with Theft: $1500 to Under $2500 and Theft Scheme: $1500 to Under $25,000.
 

On March 26, 2023, DFC Anderson was on routine patrol and observed a white Corvette travelling at 92 mph in a 55-mph zone. Deputy Anderson attempted to conduct a traffic stop in the area of Solomons Island Road and Pardoe Road in Lusby. The vehicle was observed to accelerate at an extremely high rate of speed in an attempt to elude the deputy. The driver continued at a high rate and negligent manner with no regard for any other driver on the road. The Corvette was no longer in the DFC Anderson’s sight. Deputy Hendrickson was in the area of HG Trueman Road (with none of his emergency equipment activated) and observed the vehicle attempt to make a left-hand turn. The driver failed to reduce his speed and crashed into innocent citizens traveling north on Solomons Island Road. The driver of the Corvette, Cristian Joel Rodriguez, 21 of Upper Marlboro, and a female passenger were detained without incident. Rodriguez was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Fleeing and Eluding and other traffic related charges.

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at (410) 535-2800 and reference the case number provided. Citizens may remain anonymous thru the ‘Submit a Tip’ feature on the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office mobile app. To download, visit https://apps.myocv.com/share/a39520678 . Tipsters may also email ccsotips@calvertcountymd.gov

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will be closed on Friday, April 7, 2023 for the Good Friday holiday. This includes the main office in Leonardtown and all satellite offices. Normal operations will resume on Monday, April 10, 2023. 
 
Learn more about SMCHD programs, services, and hours of operations at www.smchd.org. 

Suspect Identified in Shooting on Falcon Place / Crime Solvers Offering Cash Reward: Charles County Sheriff’s detectives are seeking the public’s help in locating the suspect wanted in connection with a shooting that occurred on March 28.

On March 28 just after 6 a.m., officers responded to the 4100 block of Falcon Place in Waldorf for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located an adult male victim in an apartment who had been shot in the head. He had serious injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment, and as of this writing is in stable condition. Detectives with the Criminal Investigations Division responded to investigate. Investigation revealed the suspect, Raymond Keith Meredith III, 53 of Waldorf, shot the victim in the head during an argument and then fled. Detectives subsequently obtained an arrest warrant for Meredith, who is being charged with attempted murder, assault, and firearms charges.

Anyone with information about Meredith’s whereabouts should contact Detective Bringley at BringleyA@ccso.us or 301-609-6499. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. Charles County Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to Meredith’s arrest. The investigation is ongoing.

Middle School Student in Possession of Replica Handgun, Ammunition, and Drug Paraphernalia: On March 29 at 10:39 a.m., administrators at Matthew Henson Middle School were alerted to the odor of marijuana in a bathroom. They responded and located a 12-year-old student in possession of a replica handgun, several rounds of ammunition, and drug paraphernalia to include a cannabis grinder and a lighter. The School Resource Officer (SRO) was notified and initiated an investigation. The SRO and administrator notified the juvenile’s parents and followed up with a home safety check. In accordance with Maryland law, the student cannot be criminally charged, however, the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) has been made aware of the situation for possible follow-up services as needed. The student faces disciplinary action through the CCPS. Anyone with details about this case is asked to call Officer Quigley at 301-609-3282 ext. 0722.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – March 29, 2023  – The Calvert County Department of Public Works, Solid Waste Division, will host free paper shredding events for county residents and businesses. Shredding documents helps prevent identity theft by destroying confidential and/or sensitive information.

The following shred events will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine:

• Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Northern Middle School located at 2954 Chaneyville Road in Owings
• Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Huntingtown High School located at 4125 Solomons Island Road in Huntingtown
• Saturday, June 24, 2023, at Appeal Landfill located at 401 Sweetwater Road in Lusby

Proof of Calvert County residency or business location is required. Paperclips and staples are acceptable. Binders and binder clips are not acceptable.

Businesses are allowed up to five banker boxes of paper per business (or the equivalent volume of five banker boxes in alternate containers). There is no limit for residents. Certificates of destruction will be provided if requested.

Shredding events are held monthly. For information about other recycling events, contact the Calvert County Department of Public Works, Solid Waste Division at 410-326-0210 or visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Recycle.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

March 29, 2023:

On Friday, March 24, 2023, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division (CID) identified Darryl Carlton Parks Jr., age 29 of Washington, DC, as a suspect in the homicide of the victim, who was previously identified as 18-year-old Isaiah Alexander Woodland, a transgender woman whose first name is Tasiyah and is also known as Siyah. Later the same day, investigators obtained an arrest warrant for Parks in connection to this homicide. On Tuesday, March 28, 2023, investigators with CID, along with the assistance of the Metropolitan Police Department's Homicide Unit, located and apprehended Parks on the arrest warrant. Parks was incarcerated and awaits extradition back to St. Mary’s County. Parks has been charged with the following Criminal Offenses: First-Degree Murder Second-Degree Murder Firearm Use/Felony -Violent Crime Two counts of Reckless Endangerment from Car Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm The Sheriff’s Office thanks the community for its assistance in this investigation and urges anyone with additional information to contact Deputy David Lawrence at 301-475-4200, ext. 78130 or email david.lawrence@stmaryscountymd.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD –The St. Mary’s County Department of Public Work’s (DPW&T) contractor continues construction for the FDR Boulevard Extension.

Beginning on April 3, 2023, travel lanes in each direction of Buck Hewitt Rd, at the FDR Blvd intersection, will be diverted to allow for the construction of a new roundabout intersection.

Motorists are required to reduce speed to 20 mph within the work zone. The existing portion FDR Boulevard and Chickadee Circle will be connected to the temporary lane diversion on Buck Hewitt Rd. Drivers are advised to follow the new lane markings and traffic signs. During this construction, drivers may experience a brief delay and should use caution. Please remain alert for equipment, work crews, and changing traffic patterns. Portable message signboards have been deployed to provide advance notification of the roadwork.

For more information about this project, please visit stmaryscountymd.gov/fdr. Additional questions may be directed to DPW&T at (301) 475-4200, ext. 3525.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Friday, March 24, 2023, Charles County Circuit Court Judge William R. Greer, Jr. sentenced Keyon Micah Jasey, 21, to 15 years in prison for Armed Carjacking and Use of a Firearm during the Commission of a Violent Crime.

Jasey entered a guilty plea to the aforementioned charges on February 10, 2023.

On May 13, 2022, the victim reported to officers that he was carjacked at gunpoint. An investigation revealed that the victim was parked in his white 2017 Corolla at the Pinefield Shopping Center in Waldorf when four suspects approached him. One of the suspects, later determined to be Jasey, pointed a handgun at the victim through his open driver’s door window and threatened that he would kill the victim if he did not step out of the vehicle. After the victim was forced out of his vehicle, the four suspects entered and fled the area.

Officers later located and attempted to stop the vehicle at the intersection of Mattawoman Beantown Road and Leonardtown Road. However, the suspects continued to flee until they came to a rest on Mt. Claire Place in Waldorf. The suspects exited the vehicle and ran from the officers. Three of the four suspects were apprehended on scene, including co-defendant Marquese Dayequan Milburn. Jasey was initially able to escape. An officer patrolling the area of Pinefield neighborhood observed Jasey matching the description of the suspect who escaped; he was later identified as the escaped suspect involved in the carjacking.

On October 21, 2022, co-defendant Marquese Milburn was sentenced to 13 years, with all but 7 years suspended, in prison for Armed Carjacking. Upon release, Milburn will be on supervised probation for a period of five years.

The other two co-defendants involved in the incident are juveniles.

Sentencing

Count 1

• Armed Carjacking
• 15 years in prison

Count 2

• Use of a Firearm during the Commission of a Violent Crime

• 15 years in prison, Concurrent to Count 1

Seeking Public’s Help Locating Assault Suspect / Crime Solvers Offering Cash Reward: Charles County Sheriff’s officers assigned to the Warrant Unit as well as a joint U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force are seeking the whereabouts of Brian Anthony Cave, 28 of Bryans Road. Cave failed to appear in court in November of 2021 for an incident that occurred in 2020 in which he assaulted a female during a domestic dispute and pointed a firearm at the victim. Cave, who was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction, was charged with first and second degree assault, felony firearm use in the commission of a violent crime, and other related firearms charges.

Cave is 5’11” and weighs about 160 lbs., and he has a tattoo above his left eye in the temple area. Officers believe he may be in the Baltimore City area. Anyone with information about Cave’s whereabouts should contact PFC T.J. Rickard at RickardT@ccso.us or 301-752-9258. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. Charles County Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to Cave’s arrest. The investigation is ongoing.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) held their regular business meeting on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, beginning with the invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners met as the Board of Health to hear an update from Dr. Brewster, County Health Officer, and Sheriff Hall on drug use in St. Mary’s County.

The Commissioners then approved the FY2024 Recommended Budget for Public Hearing.

During County Administrator time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Approved the Sheriff’s Office request to apply for the FY2024 Heroin Coordinator grant in the amount of $59,649; their request to purchase signage, furniture, and equipment using federally and locally forfeited funds; their grant application for the FY2024 Police Accountability, Community and Transparency Grant in the amount of $47,117; their request to apply for the FY2024 Sex Offender Compliance and Enforcement in Maryland grant; and their grant application for the FY2024 Police Recruitment and Retention grant.
• Approved the Board of Education’s request to apply for the SB 291 Pass Through Grant for renovations at Oakville Elementary School.
• Approved the Department of Finance’s schedule of nonrecurring and other unique one-time costs to the Maryland State Department of Education for FY2024.
• Approved the Department of Recreation & Parks request to apply for the Cal Ripken Foundation grant in the amount of $6,500.
• Approved the Department of Public Works & Transportation acceptance of $1,937,953 from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for Emergency Coastal Resilience grant funding and approved the department’s FY2024 MDOT Transportation Priority Letter.
• Approved the Office of the County Attorney’s request for an amendment to the Code of St. Mary’s County to add an alternate member to the St. Mary’s County Historic Preservation Commission.

The Commissioners then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The CSMC will host their next regular business meeting on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at 9 a.m. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. CSMC meetings can be viewed live Tuesday mornings on SMCG Channel 95 or as a replay Friday at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are also available for on-demand viewing on the St. Mary's County Government YouTube Channel.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Mid-Atlantic Region has released the Local Lead Action Plan (LLAP) Guide. The LLAP Guide is a free, web-based framework, designed to help local government officials identify lead issues and create a plan to address them.

“Thanks to the ingenuity, innovation and commitment of our regional lead prevention team, this lead action guide is now available to all communities nationwide,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “The guide will help local leaders take the most effective actions to reduce lead exposure in their communities.”

The LLAP Guide reflects EPA’s Lead Strategy, which emphasizes reducing lead exposures and disparities in communities. The Guide also allows local government officials to customize their plan to match their own unique priorities and address lead problems wherever they exist. In addition, under EPA’s lead strategy, the agency is working to identify communities with high lead exposures, and the Guide will be available as a resource for communities to improve their lead-related health outcomes.

The LLAP Guide consists of: 

• Checklists: Three interactive checklists designed to help local government officials identify the presence of lead, as well as current or emerging lead-related issues, and opportunities to address them in their communities.

• Local Lead Action Plan Template: A template designed for local government officials to develop their own lead action plans.

• Implementation Resources: Additional information on resources such as funding, outreach, and coalition building. EPA encourages local officials to work with their communities, as well as partners at the federal, state, and local levels.

• Strategies for Success: Best practices for developing and implementing a local lead action plan, including case studies from local governments that have created successful LLAPs. 

EPA will be hosting virtual training sessions for local government officials to learn more about the LLAP Guide and how to use it:

• • Wednesday, April 26^th: 2 – 3:30 pm EST
  • Wednesday, May 24^th: 2 – 3:30 pm EST

To register and find out more information, visit the LLAP website at:  epa.gov/lead/llap-guide

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will be closed on Thursday, March 30, 2023 from 10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for employee activities. This includes the main office in Leonardtown and all satellite offices. Services will reopen for community members at 2:00 p.m. for the remaining business hours on this date.

Visit smchd.org for more information on SMCHD locations and services.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners announces county offices will be closed on Friday, April 7, 2023, in observance of Good Friday. In addition:

·         The Appeal Solid Waste Facility, which includes the landfill and transfer station, and all county customer convenience centers will be open with normal operating hours Friday, April 7, and Saturday, April 8. The landfill, transfer station and all county convenience centers will be closed Sunday, April 9.

·         The Solomons Septage Receiving Facility will be open Friday, April 7, with normal operating hours.

·         The Water & Sewerage billing and customer service office will be closed
Friday, April 7.

·         Calvert County senior centers will be closed Friday, April 7.

·         Meals on Wheels will not be delivered Friday, April 7. Shelf-stable meals are provided in advance. Meal delivery will resume Monday, April 10.

·         There will be no county bus service Friday, April 7. Regular service will resume Saturday, April 8.

·         The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and Animal Control Division will be closed on Friday, April 7. An animal control officer will be available for emergencies at 410-535-3491.

·         Calvert Library locations and Bookmobile services will be closed Friday, April 7 and will reopen at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 8. Downloadable materials and virtual services are available 24/7 at calvertlibrary.info.

·         The Calvert Marine Museum and Museum Store will be open with normal hours Friday, April 7. Visit www.calvertmarinemuseum.com/calendar  for special programs and events.

• All community centers will be closed Friday, April 7, and Sunday, April 9. Community centers will be open with regular hours Saturday, April 8.

·         All recreation parks including Cove Point, Dunkirk, Hallowing Point and Ward Farm parks will be open all weekend with normal spring hours.

·         Chesapeake Hills Golf Course will be open on Friday, April 7, with normal hours.

• Flag Ponds Nature Park, Battle Creek Cypress Swamp trails and Kings Landing Park will be open with regular hours of operation. The Battle Creek Cypress Swamp nature center is closed until further notice, however trails remain open to the public. For a full nature park schedule, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/1505/Park-Hours.

·         Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center will be open with normal operating hours Friday, April 7 and Saturday, April 8. The aquatic center will be closed Sunday, April 9.

·         Breezy Point Beach & Campground remains closed and will reopen May 1.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Patrol Officers Recover PCP and Replica Firearm during Traffic Stop: On March 26 at 1 a.m., EMS personnel observed a vehicle in the intersection of Route 210 and Lower Wharf Road in Bryans Road, MD. When they stopped to check on the driver’s welfare, the driver moved the vehicle and parked in the middle of Lower Wharf Road. She exited the car and began acting erratically. Patrol officers arrived and detected the odor of PCP on her person. Further investigation led to the recovery of PCP, a digital scale, and an airsoft replica firearm in her car. The driver, Mary Elizabeth Hare, 65, of Indian Head, was arrested and charged with driving while impaired and possession of drugs with the intent to distribute. On March 26, a district court commissioner released Hare from the Charles County Detention Center on a $5,000 unsecured bond. PFC Eshleman is investigating.

Over the last six (6) months, the Town of Chesapeake Beach joined the Cities of Cambridge, MD and Crisfield, MD, to evaluate climate-related risks to critical infrastructure and operation. Using the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Climate Resilience Evaluation and Awareness Tool (CREAT), the Town focused on the Chesapeake Beach Water Reclamation Treatment Plant (CBWRTP). The CBWRTP is uniquely positioned to provide wastewater services to multiple jurisdictions, including Anne Arundel County, Calvert County, and the Town of North Beach, in addition to the residents of the Town of Chesapeake Beach. www.chesapeakebeachmd.gov “The Town Council joins me in thanking our Federal and State partners for aiding the Town as we plan for the improvements necessary to maintain critical infrastructure. We look forward to continuing our work with our Federal, State, and local partners to be certain we are limiting flooding and stormwater damage,” stated Patrick J. “Irish” Mahoney, Mayor of the Town of Chesapeake Beach Recent sea level rise modeling funded through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resiliency Assessment shows that the Town and neighboring jurisdictions are projected to encounter increased levels of flooding in and around the CBWRTP. An immediate risk to the Town and its partnering jurisdictions is the potential for flooded roadways limiting 24/7 operation at the Plant. With support from EPA, the Town used the CREAT decision and planning support tool to assess the effect of constructing and maintaining an additional access road to the CBWRTP. The assessment included the decreased costs and risks this improvement would make for the multiple jurisdictions the facility serves. Estimates of economic consequences from future flooding and sea level rise suggest that the Town could reduce annual impacts by at least $1,400,000 by investing a yearly equivalent of $50,000-$86,000 in improvements to ensure continued access. In addition to assessing the continued access to the CBWRTP, the Town is also reviewing flows received by the Plant, including infiltration and inflow (I&I) due to stormwater and increased tidal level events. The Town expects improvements to continue for the Town and its partnering jurisdictions of Anne Arundel County, Calvert County, and the Town of North Beach to limit the stormwater received at the Plant. 

The County Administrator wishes to remind residents of changes to operating schedules for April: 

Monday, April 3 – Thursday, April 6

• Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point High indoor pools will be open from noon – 5 p.m.

Friday, April 7 (Good Friday)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville are closed.
• The Nanjemoy Community Center, senior centers, and all school-based community centers will be closed.

• Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point High indoor pools will be open from noon – 5 p.m.
• Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center is open for recreational activites.

Saturday, April 8

• Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point High indoor pools will be open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sunday, April 9 (Easter)

• Crain Memorial Welcome Center closed.
• Historic Stagg Hall closed.

• Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center, and the Port Tobacco Recreation Center are closed.
• Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point High indoor pools will be closed.

Monday, April 10

• All school-based community centers will be closed.

Operating status for other County affiliated agencies:

• Charles County Parks and Tourism Facilities: www.CharlesCountyParks.com/about-us/operating-status
• |Charles County Public Library: www.ccplonline.org
• Charles County Public Schools: www.ccboe.com

• Charles County Health Department: www.CharlesCountyHealth.org

For questions about County Government holiday closures, contact the Public Information Office at 301-885-2779 or PressRoom@CharlesCountyMD.gov.  Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government encourages all community members to visit The Barns at New Market, Home Grown Farm Market, and the California Farmers Market this season for locally grown and locally made products ranging from eggs, meats, and cheeses to soap, craft beverages, and baked goods.

Home Grown Farm Market

• Opens for the season on Saturday, April 1^st
• Hours: Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Location: 21078 Three Notch Road, Lexington Park
• Information: facebook.com/homegrownfarmmarket

The Barns at New Market

• Opens for the season on Saturday, April 1^st
• Hours: Saturday through Monday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Value added market opens for the season on April 16^th.
  • Hours: Sundays from noon – 4 p.m.
• Location: 29133 Thompson Corner Road, Mechanicsville
• Information: facebook.com/TheBarnsatNewMarket

California Farmers Market

• Opens for the season on Saturday, April 30^th
• Hours: Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Location: BAE parking lot at the intersection of Rt. 235 and Town Creek Drive, California
• Information: facebook.com/CaliforniaBAEFarmersMarket

Questions may be directed to the Department of Economic Development, via email to lisa.ledman@stmaryscountymd.gov or by calling (240) 309-4022.

The County Administrator wishes to remind residents of changes to operating schedules for April: 

Monday, April 3 – Thursday, April 6

• Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point High indoor pools will be open from noon – 5 p.m.

Friday, April 7 (Good Friday)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville are closed.
• The Nanjemoy Community Center, senior centers, and all school-based community centers will be closed.

• Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point High indoor pools will be open from noon – 5 p.m.
• Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center is open for recreational activites.

Saturday, April 8

• Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point High indoor pools will be open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sunday, April 9 (Easter)

• Crain Memorial Welcome Center closed.
• Historic Stagg Hall closed.

• Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center, and the Port Tobacco Recreation Center are closed.
• Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point High indoor pools will be closed.

Monday, April 10

• The Nanjemoy Community Center, senior centers, and all school-based community centers will be closed.

Operating status for other County affiliated agencies:

• Charles County Parks and Tourism Facilities: www.CharlesCountyParks.com/about-us/operating-status
• |Charles County Public Library: www.ccplonline.org
• Charles County Public Schools: www.ccboe.com

• Charles County Health Department: www.CharlesCountyHealth.org

For questions about County Government holiday closures, contact the Public Information Office at 301-885-2779 or PressRoom@CharlesCountyMD.gov.  Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Friday, April 7, 2023, in observance of the Good Friday holiday. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Monday, April 10, 2023.

The April 7 closure includes:

• All three Senior Activity Centers (Garvey, Loffler, and Northern) and there will be no home-delivered meals
• The St. Mary's Transit System (STS)

The following SMCG operations will be open on April 7:

• The six Convenience Centers and the St. Andrews Landfill (regular hours)
• Department of Recreation & Parks school programs and facilities (regular hours)
• The St. Clements Island Museum, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Old Jail Museum (open for visitors from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• All three St. Mary’s County libraries (regular hours)
• The Wicomico Shores Golf Course (open 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.) and the Riverview Restaurant (open 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Additionally, the following SMCG operations will be CLOSED on Sunday, April 9:

• The six Convenience Centers and the St. Andrews Landfill
• The Lexington Park Library
• The St. Mary’s Transit System (STS)

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Friday, March 24, 2023, a Charles County jury, after a 5-day trial, and 3 hours of deliberation, convicted Keishon Javontae Thompson, 20, of the First-Degree Murder of J’Shaun Wallace, 19, as well as related weapon charges.

On December 6, 2020, officers responded to the 2900 block of Business Park Drive in Waldorf for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located victim J’Shaun Wallace with a gunshot wound to the chest. Unfortunately, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene of the incident.

A review of Wallace’s cell phone, which was found at the scene of the crime, revealed text message exchanges between Thompson and Wallace indicating that the two had previously arranged for Thompson to purchase shoes from Wallace.

On the day of the killing, Wallace and a friend arrived in front of a business located in the 2900 block of Business Park Drive at approximately 8:04 p.m. When Thompson arrived minutes later, he lured Wallace to the back of the building. Surveillance footage captured Wallace handing shoe insoles to Thompson. Shortly thereafter, Thompson is seen on the video producing a handgun from the waistband of his pants. Thompson then shot Wallace once, striking him in the chest. Thompson appeared to make another attempt to shoot Wallace but was unsuccessful.

Wallace’s friend, who remained in his car to wait for Wallace, heard the gunshot, got out of his car, and found Wallace collapsed on the ground. He then called 911. Thompson fled the area before police officers arrived.  

During the investigation, a search and seizure warrant was conducted at Thompson’s residence. Clothing was found that was consistent with what the suspect was wearing on the surveillance video. When arrested for this crime, Thompson made admissions of guilt to detectives investigating the incident.

A sentencing date has been set for May 15, 2023.

Guilty

• First-Degree Murder
• Use of a Firearm during the Commission of a Crime of Violence
• Possession of a Regulated Firearm Being Under 21
• Loaded Handgun on Person
• Wear, Carry, and Transport of a Handgun Upon Their Person

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division continues to actively investigate the murder of an 18-year-old victim killed in Mechanicsville early Friday morning.

The victim’s legal name is Isaiah Alexander Woodland, age 18 of Lexington Park. She was a transgender woman whose first name was Tasiyah, but also went by Siyah.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office has been in regular contact with members of the victim’s family to offer support and investigation updates. The Sheriff’s Office has also been in contact with members of PFLAG Southern Maryland and the LGBTQ+ community to address concerns of personal and public safety. At this time, it does not appear that Woodland was targeted because of her gender identity.

Anyone with cellphone video or images who was present at the scene is urged to visit the Sheriff’s Office’s Citizen Upload Video Upload Portal at https://www.firstsheriff.com/uploadevidence/ Videos can be provided anonymously through the portal.

Original release: St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the parking lot of the Big Dogs in Paradise bar at the 28700 block of Three Notch Road in Mechanicsville at 1:15 am on Friday morning for the report of shots fired. Deputies located one male victim near the scene deceased from gunshot wounds, who was identified as Isaiah Alexander Woodland, age 18.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division is continuing the investigation.

The shooting appears to be an isolated event and there is no threat to the general public at this time.

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to contact Detective David Lawrence at 301-475-4200, ext. 78130 or email david.lawrence@stmarycountymd.gov.

Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment.

Download and Share the St. Mary's Sheriff's Office mobile app: https://apps.myocv.com/share/a48820650

School Resource Officer Investigating Fight at High School: On March 23 at 12:45 p.m., six students were involved in an altercation at Westlake High School. School staff intervened and separated the students; no injuries were reported. The school resource officer has initiated an investigation and consulted the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office; charges are pending. The students also face disciplinary consequences by the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Joffe at 301-609-3282 ext. 0608.

The Calvert County Department of Public Works, Solid Waste Division, will host a free household hazardous waste collection event for county residents Saturday, April 1, 2023. The event will be held at Mt. Hope Convenience Center located at 96 Pushaw Station Road in Sunderland, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine. Acceptable hazardous waste items include auto and floor care products, medications, pesticides, gasoline, fertilizers, ammunition and more.

Hazardous household products are common in many homes and must be disposed of carefully in order to prevent dangerous chemical reactions, ignition, burns, vapors and groundwater contamination that can occur when combined with everyday household waste. A substance is considered hazardous if it is corrosive or toxic, ignites easily, and reacts or explodes when mixed with other substances. To determine if a substance is hazardous, check the product labels for words or symbols that indicate caution, warning, danger, poison or toxic. Latex paints will not be accepted at this event.

There is no limit of material per resident. Proof of Calvert County residency is required. Businesses are prohibited from this event. For a full listing of accepted hazardous waste materials and for more information on household hazardous waste collection events, call the Calvert County Solid Waste Division at 410-326-0210 or visit www.CalvertCountymd.gov/HazardousWaste.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

School Resource Officer Investigating Altercation in which Middle School Student Deployed Pepper Spray: On March 24 at approximately 10 a.m., two students were involved in a fight inside Mattawoman Middle School. During the fight, one of the students involved in the altercation deployed pepper spray. Numerous students who were standing nearby were exposed; no injuries were reported. The school resource officer has initiated an investigation. In accordance with MD law, the students will not face criminal charges due to their ages; however, the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services was contacted for recordation and to provide services as needed. The students also face disciplinary action from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Douglas at 301-609-3282 ext. 0658.  

March 24, 2023:

St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the parking lot of the Big Dogs in Paradise bar in Mechanicsville at 1:15 am on Friday morning for the report of shots fired. Deputies located one male victim near the scene deceased from gunshot wounds, who was identified as Isiaih Alexander Woodland, age 18 of Lexington Park.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division is continuing the investigation.

The shooting appears to be an isolated event and there is no threat to the general public at this time.

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to contact Detective David Lawrence at 301-475-4200, ext. 78130 or email david.lawrence@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment.

St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the parking lot of Big Dogs in Paradise in Mechanicsville at 1:15 am on Friday morning for the report of shots fired. Deputies located one victim near the scene deceased from gunshot wounds. The Criminal Investigations Division is continuing the investigation. Updates to follow. 

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will now offer the new bivalent formulation of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines for use as a single booster dose for certain children six months of age and older in accordance with updated authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
 
The updated booster is a formula that enhances protection against severe infection from the original coronavirus strain and also the newer Omicron variants that account for most current cases. Children ages 6 months through 4 years of age who completed the three-dose primary series with the monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine more than two months ago are now eligible to receive a single booster dose of the Pfizer bivalent vaccine. The Pfizer-Biotech bivalent booster is also authorized for use in persons age 5 years and older at least 2 months after completing either: a primary vaccine series with any authorized COVID vaccine, or any authorized monovalent COVID-19 booster.
 
SMCHD COVID-19 vaccines are available at the SMCHD Health Clinic in Leonardtown on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. by appointment only. To make an appointment, please call 301-475-4330.
 
For more information, please visit: smchd.org/covid-19-vaccine. Please review the allergy guidance and the FAQs for SMCHD COVID-19 Vaccination prior to registering for a vaccine appointment. COVID-19 vaccines are also available through primary care offices and local pharmacies.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Austin Dylan Winbush, 23, of Capitol Heights, Maryland for first degree attempted murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, and wear, carry, and transport of a loaded handgun on person, stemming from a shooting on May 5, 2021, in Lexington Park, Maryland.

“Mr. Winbush was charged with these violent crimes nearly two years ago. With today’s verdict, the victim and our community has finally obtained justice. I want to thank the jury for its thoughtful deliberation and attention to this case and Corporal Christopher Ditoto of the Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division, Southern Region, for the successful investigation.”

Chief of Major Crimes Jeff Maylor prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Winbush will be held without bond pending sentencing.

The Honorable Amy D. Lorenzini presided over the case.

School Resource Officer Investigating Non-Fatal Overdose at High School: A school resource officer is investigating a non-fatal overdose that occurred at St. Charles High School. On March 22 at 10:45 a.m., a student was found semi-conscious on a bathroom floor inside the school. A school nurse responded and the student was subsequently transported by ambulance to an area hospital. Today, it was learned the student consumed an edible in the form of a gummy life saver prior to being found in the bathroom. Initial findings indicate that the edible may have contained Fentanyl. The student was treated and later released from the hospital. The school resource officer was made aware of the case today and has initiated an investigation to determine where the student obtained the edible and whether or not other students may have consumed them. Sheriff Troy Berry is urging parents to talk with their children about the dangers of ingesting foods or liquids that contain dangerous substances, as there is a risk the substance could contain life-threatening poisons such as Fentanyl or other toxic materials, which likely occurred in this case. “I implore everyone to take part in discussions about ingesting edibles that may seem harmless to some, but on the contrary have the potential to be life-threatening. We are watching news stories day-after-day about children who consumed what they thought was an edible laced with marijuana, but instead has Fentanyl or other dangerous components.” Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. James Thompson at 301-609-3282 ext. 0434 or the Charles County Public School’s See Something, Say Something online confidential reporting tool posted at https://www.ccboe.com/community/see-something-say-something. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Commission for Women was pleased to honor the 2023 Woman of the Year and Tomorrow’s Woman during the Women’s History Month Banquet on Saturday, March 18, 2023!

Tomorrow’s Woman for 2023 is Alexandra Williams, a junior at Chopticon High School in her second year in the Teaching Academy of Maryland at the James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center. She is an Honor Society student with a 4.0 GPA. Williams was nominated for her positive attitude and exemplary service work in school and in the community. When Williams was nine years old, she started a non-profit charity called “Sending Smiles” which she runs nights and weekends. “Sending Smiles” sends postcards to sick children in hospitals all over the country, which earned her a Presidential Volunteer Service Award. She also volunteers helping students, including students with special needs, with the Maryland Teaching Academy. Williams plans to attend St. Mary’s College to become a Kindergarten teacher.

The 2023 Woman of the Year, Dolly Griffin, has become the living embodiment of the saying “see a need, fill a need.” In 2011, Griffin accepted an invitation to volunteer for the Wrapping Arms Round Many (WARM) programs registering guests, and now is the President for that very organization. WARM is a local partnership of several organizations, including the Three Oaks Homeless Shelter, local churches, the Department of Aging & Human Services, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, St. Mary’s County Health Department, and the Department of Social Services, all working together to provide service to the homeless community in St. Mary’s County. Griffin has brought her service to the homeless full circle and is now having an impact on changing housing practices overall. As the NAACP Branch #7025 Housing Committee Chairperson, she leads a group of volunteers including local real estate agents, non-profit members, and county employees. Griffin is committed to opening doors for others to thrive and serve in the St. Mary’s County community.

Also honored during the Women’s History Month Banquet were the 2023 Ruth Bader Ginsberg Lifetime Achievement Awardee, Donna Voorhaar, and Hometown Shero, Kristine Millen. This year’s keynote speaker was Jane Hale Sypher, the namesake of the Jane Hale Sypher Scholarship.

The Commission for Women thanks this year’s event sponsors: The College of Southern Maryland WorkForce Center; the Dorsey Law Firm; Trollinger Law; the Law Office of Joann M. Wood, LLC; Dugan McKissick & Longmore, Attorneys at Law; Guy Distributing Co.; Dunkin’ Donuts of Leonardtown, MD; and Williams, McClernan & Stack, Attorneys at Law.

The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County are currently seeking applications from residents who are interested in serving on a local Board, Committee, or Commission, including the Commission for Women. Learn more about the Commission for Women at: stmaryscountymd.gov/cw.

During the week of March 13 – March 19, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 2,027 calls for service throughout the community.

Theft: 23-18170

On March 15, 2023, DFC Aley received report of a theft. The complainant advised a pair of Maryland registration plates were stolen from the victim’s residence in the 9800 block of Golden Russet Drive in Dunkirk. The estimated value of stolen property is $100.00.

Theft: 23-18710

On March 17, 2023, Deputy Smith responded to the Planet Fitness located at 865 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of multiple thefts from members’ lockers. The complainant advised the suspect entered the business, proceeded to the locker rooms and stole 3 locks off lockers and stole $210 in cash. The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 35 years old, 5 feet 11 inches tall, with a tattoo under his left eye and a goatee. He was last seen wearing a white shirt and a skull cap.

Theft: 23-19210

On March 19, 2023, Sgt. McCarroll responded to the Smoke King located at 4955 St. Leonard Road in St. Leonard, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed an unknown suspect entered the business and took items out of the display case then fled the store. The suspect is described as a black male with a medium complexion, between 5’8”-5’10” tall, weighing 180-200 lbs., wearing a white colored hoodie style sweatshirt, a black face covering and dark jeans. The stolen items were two smoking devices described as: clear glass with pink colored accents and the other was described as a small “Banger Kit” in a tin case. The total value of stolen property was $115.00.

ARRESTS

On March 15, 2023, at 1:52 a.m., members of the Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) Stop Team initiated a traffic stop in the area of Armory Road and Main Street in Prince Frederick. Upon approaching the car, deputies detected a strong odor of raw marijuana emitting from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed a significant amount of marijuana (107 grams), a digital scale, and a large amount of U.S. Currency ($960). Both the driver, Marques Ciantae-Jaleel Griffith, 18 of Lusby, and passenger, Adam Joseph Holland, 20 of Prince Frederick, were arrested and charged with CDS: Possession of Cannabis 10 grams +, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute, and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.  

 On March 18, 2023, Deputy Claggett responded to the Calvert County Detention Center located at 325 Stafford Road in Prince Frederick for recovered property. Investigation revealed a routine search of a jail cell was conducted and multiple tabs of Suboxone wrapped inside a paper towel were recovered. Inmate Daniel Matthew Proctor, 55 of Upper Marlboro, was charged with Possession of Contraband in a Place of Confinement, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, and Possession/Receiving CDS While Confined Other Dangerous Drugs.

On March 18, 2023, DFC Savick conducted initiated a traffic stop in the 3700 block of E. Chesapeake Beach Road in Chesapeake Beach after observing a traffic violation. Upon making contact with the occupants, a strong odor of raw marijuana was emitting from the vehicle. The passenger, Khamari Michael Ruffin, 21 of Fort Washington, handed deputies two marijuana cigarettes and fled on foot. Ruffin was located and apprehended a short time later. Investigation revealed Ruffin was wanted on a felony warrant through Fairfax County. A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed 6 Ziplock bags of marijuana (456 grams total), 1 paper sheet containing 36 LSD tabs, 2 marijuana joints, 1 loaded Glock 19 9mm, and an extended magazine with 21 rounds in it. A scale, rolling papers, and multiple Ziplock bags were also recovered. A search of Ruffin’s person revealed $704.00 in US currency and a spring-loaded knife. Further investigation revealed the driver, Diamond Jean Booze, 24 of Washington D.C., was wanted by the Prince George’s County Sheriff’s Office. Both Ruffin and Booze were taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where they were served all subsequent charging documents. Booze was charged with CDS: Possession of Cannabis 10 GM+, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, Loaded Handgun in a Vehicle and Handgun in a Vehicle. Ruffin was charged with CDS: Possession of Cannabis 10 GM+, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm and Illegal Possession of Ammunition, and Handgun in a Vehicle.

The victims of an early Monday morning house fire in Lexington Park have been positively identified as 59-year-old Jerome Garcia Barnes and 61-year-old Mary Jacqueline Queen. According to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, both died due to smoke inhalation. 

Deputy State Fire Marshals have concluded the fire originated within the basement. While the fire remains under investigation, they have not recovered evidence that it was an act of arson and continue to explore all possible accidental causes. 

At around 1:20 a.m. on Monday, an occupant awoke to smoke and discovered a fire within the basement. The person who discovered the fire and two others escaped the two-story home.

Upon the arrival of firefighters, they were told two people were still trapped inside the home. They immediately located Barnes and Queen on the second floor. Investigators learned the home was being rented, and everyone within the home was related.

It took 40 firefighters from the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department and surrounding departments to control the one-alarm blaze.

The Office of the State Fire Marshals continues to work in collaboration with the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office, which is a standard operating procedure whenever a fatal fire occurs.

This double fire fatality comes on the heels of three children tragically losing their lives in a Baltimore City fire last Saturday. The Office of the State Fire Marshal requests all Marylanders to remain vigilant in maintaining smoke alarms in their homes. 

"Within the first three months of the new year, we're seeing an uptick in tragedies associated with home fires across Maryland," said State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci, "We need families to be aware of the fire hazards in their homes and put into practice, some straightforward safety tips. First and foremost, test your smoke alarms; this single device is the most effective tool in preventing injury or death. Make a plan. Please come together as a family and make a home escape plan so you all know what to do in an emergency. Please move to your family's safe spot when the smoke and CO alarms sound. Remember to get out and stay out and dial 911 from a safe location." stated Geraci

Bomb Threat Being Investigated: Investigators with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Homeland Security and Intelligence Section and school resource officers are working with Charles County Public Schools to investigate a bomb threat that was sent to students via an air-dropped message to their cell phones earlier today. The threat indicated a bomb would be detonated at all Charles County schools on March 24. Students reported the message to school administrators. A preliminary investigation shows the sender’s source is unknown; however, investigators learned schools throughout the nation have been receiving similar air-dropped messages about bomb threats. Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Joffe at 301-609-3282 ext. 0608. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app.

Drugs and Firearm Recovered during Traffic Stop: On March 22 at 6:41 a.m., a patrol officer initiated a traffic stop in the 3600 block of Leonardtown Road after observing a registration violation. Upon approaching the driver, the officer detected the strong odor of burnt marijuana. Further investigation revealed the driver was in possession of a Polymer 80 firearm – the gun does not have a serial number – a fully loaded magazine, and suspected marijuana. The driver, Craig Matthew Wilkerson, 30, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with transporting a firearm in a vehicle, possession of a firearm without a serial number, and driving a vehicle without current registration, insurance, and suspended registration. On March 22, a district court commissioner released Wilkerson from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance. Sgt. J. Morales investigated.

Patrol Officers Recover Drugs and Loaded Firearm during Traffic Stop: On March 21 at 1:38 a.m., a patrol officer was in the area of Promenade Place when he observed a van in the middle of the apartment complex parking lot. As the officer began to investigate, the driver suddenly fled. At the same time, the officer received an alert on the vehicle’s license plate that there was a flag issued for insurance lapses. The van was observed by another officer who initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle in the area of Technology Place. When the officer approached the van, he noticed a handgun in plain view. The driver was taken into custody. A computer check revealed the driver was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous conviction. The driver was also in possession of Psilocybin Mushrooms. Conrad Fitzgerald Marshall, Jr., 36, of Baltimore, was charged with illegal possession of a firearm, transporting a firearm in a vehicle, and possession of drugs. On March 21, a district court commissioner released Marshall from the Charles County Detention Center after he paid 10 percent of a $7,500 bond. M/CPL Saunders and Sgt. Arends are investigating.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is suspending wet season perc testing effective Friday, March 24, 2023. The suspension is due to declining groundwater levels, made clear by observing conditions within a network of monitoring wells in the county.
 
All perc test applications that were not scheduled and evaluated will be suspended and rescheduled first when groundwater levels are adequate for the next wet season, expected in 2024. Applicants may also request a refund; however, they must then reapply when the wet season returns and will lose their place/priority for scheduling during the next perc testing season.
 
For more information, please contact the Environmental Health Division at (301) 475-4321 or via email at smchd.env@maryland.gov. For additional information about perc testing, please visit smchd.org/perc-testing.

On Tuesday, March 21, Commissioners received a briefing on the Charter form of government and voted 3-2 to approve a resolution to form a charter board. The nine-member board would be composed of county residents, two from each district and one at-large, who are appointed by Commissioners to manage the process of drafting a charter to change Charles County to a charter form of government. Four public hearings, with one scheduled in each district, will be held to gather input on the draft charter. The charter board will be appointed to begin their work on June 1, 2023, and be required to complete its work by June 1, 2024.

Commissioners directed staff to immediately begin work by advertising the opportunity for community members to apply for appointment to the board. The board will be responsible for engaging the community, holding public hearings, and providing opportunities for public input and feedback in drafting a proposed charter. The charter would be subject to voter approval at the next general election.

Legislative Update

Associate County Attorney Danielle Mitchell provided a legislative update on the 2023 General Assembly session. All the Commissioners’ proposals received hearings by the crossover date of March 20. Senate Bill 521, a legislative proposal regarding the volunteer emergency responders’ tax credit, was amended to a cap of $150,000 in the House and maintained at $250,000 in the Senate.

FY 2024 Budget Work Session

The Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services staff provided a Fiscal 2024 Budget Work Session on the Enterprise Funds Operating and Capital Improvement Projects, as well as fees and charges.  Overviews of the Water and Sewer Fund and Water and Sewer Capital Improvement Program, Recreation Fund, and the Cable Fund were provided.

The proposed water and sewer fund budget was increased to add staff for engineering, maintenance and program management, and one-time costs for wastewater maintenance projects. Capital projects include new water tower construction and maintenance, improvements to aging wastewater infrastructure, and expanded connections and waterlines throughout the county. Anticipated fees and charges would be adjusted to pay for these investments.

The budget public hearing is scheduled on Wed, Apr 26. All documents and information related to the budget process is located on the county’s website.

Open Session Briefings

• Staff briefed Commissioners on the Agritourism bill, which was developed based on input from the Rural Planning and Zoning Task Force to promote new opportunities for existing and proposed agritourism in Charles County. They highlighted the economic development, regulatory, and legal considerations for agricultural business operations. The Commissioners directed staff to pursue modifications in the language to ensure clarity for customers.
• The Charles County Military Alliance Council briefed Commissioners on its role in advocating for the important role of the Naval Support Facility Indian Head. Representatives shared the goals, economic impact, and community support it provides to Charles County.
• Destination Southern Maryland Executive Director Lucille Walker briefed Commissioners on the recent designation of southern Maryland as a National Heritage Area. This federal designation recognizes that this region has “natural, cultural and historic resources combine to form a cohesive, nationally important landscape. A formal celebration is planned on Sat, May 25, at 12 p.m. at Piscataway Park in Accokeek, MD.
• Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services Director Jeni Ellin provided an update on Commissioners’ request to identify a funding source for transferring $200,000 for the Maryland Money Market program. The funds would assist Charles County residents experiencing food insecurity to purchase fresh foods from local farmers markets, farm stands and CSAs. Ms. Elin recommended that Commissioners consider transferring American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to support the initiative.

Approval Items

• A budget amendment increase of $296,400 in the Inspection and Review Enterprise Fund to pay for an increase in the amount of plan reviews completed by contractors.
• A budget transfer request of $96,150 to cover current and anticipated overruns in various salary accounts within the Environmental Service Enterprise Fund.
• A letter of support from Commissioners affirming the commitment to match additional grant funds from the Federal Transit Administration, to pay for increased construction costs for the VanGO operations and maintenance facility.

Actions on Boards, Commissions and Committees

• Commissioners reappointed Kevin Wedding and appointed Denard Earl to the Planning Commission.
• Commissioners appointed Cynthia Ybanez-Cazarez to the Board of Appeals.

Recognition

Commissioners recognized employees who provided support for the Oath of Office Ceremony on December 6.

Viewing option of meetings: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session March 28-29, 2023

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

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NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Commissioners of St. Mary's County will hold a public hearing on April 18, 2023, at 9: 15 a.m. in the Chesapeake Building located at 41 770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown, Maryland to consider public input on a proposed amendment to amend the water and sewer service categories from W-6D and S-6D (service in 6 to 10 years, developer financed) to W-3D and S-3D ( service in 3 to 5 years, developer financed) for 2.00 acres described as Tax Map 34, Gird 02, Parcel 0183 in the 6th Election District, Tax ID 025390. The property is located at 23836 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood, MD 20636. The proposed ordinance can be viewed at http: //www.stmarysmd.com/publichearing.asp. Those wishing to address the Commissioners may also participate via email, written correspondence, or prerecorded video submissions. The public hearing may be viewed on SMCG Channel 95 or the SMCG YouTube Channel. In lieu of appearance, comments may be submitted via: a. Phone: 301-475-4200 x 1234 to speak via telephone during the public hearing b. Email: csmc@stmarysmd.com c. U.S. Mail: PO Box 653, Leonardtown, MD 20650 d. Submit a 3-minute video clip to publicmtgs@stmarysmd.com no later than 5:00 PM on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. All submissions will be considered by the Commissioners at the Public Hearing and/ or the seven (7) days following the Public Hearing. Public Hearing Guidelines are subject to change. Appropriate accommodations for individuals with special needs will be provided upon request. In order to meet these requirements, we respectfully ask for one week's prior notice. Please contract the Commissioners' Office at 301-475-4200 Ext 1340. Proceedings are televised live and/ or recorded for later broadcast on television. All content of these proceedings is subject to disclosure under the Maryland Public Information Act. Photographic and electronic audio and visual broadcasting and recording devices are used during the Commissioners' meetings. These are public meetings and attendance at these meetings automatically grants St. Mary's County Government permission to broadcast your audio and visual image. COMMISSIONERS OF ST. MARY'S COUNTY By: Courtney Jenkins, AICP, Deputy Director, Department of Land Use and Growth Management Please publish as a legal notice in the Southern Maryland News on March 24, 2023 and March 31, 2023. Requested by: Department of Land Use and Growth Management Resolution No. 2023- Subject: Amendment to the St. Mary's County Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan by Designating 2.00 Acres at 23826 Mervell Road, Hollywood. Maryland 20636 as Water Category W-3D and Sewer Category S-3D. Case No. CWSP #22-0307, O'Reilly's Auto Parts Pagel of2 RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE ST. MARY'S COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE WATER AND SEWERAGE PLAN BY DESIGN A TING 2.00 ACRES AT 23926 MERVELL DEAN ROAD HOLLYWOOD, MARYLAND 20636, AS WATER CATEGORY W-3D AND SEWER CATEGORY S-3D WHEREAS, O'Reilly's Auto Parts (the "Applicant") made application to access community water and sewer service for proposed commercial development on 2.00 acres described in a deed recorded among the Land Records of St. Mary's County in Book No. 2373, Page 130 and located at 23826 Mervell Dean Road Hollywood, Maryland 20636 and designated as Tax Map 34, Grid 026, Parcels O 183, Tax ID 025390 in the 6th Election District of St. Mary's County, Maryland (the "Property"); and WHEREAS, this access necessitates amendment to the St. Mary's County Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan (hereinafter the "CWSP"); and WHEREAS, pursuant to §9-506 of the Environment Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, on January 23, 2023, the St. Mary's County Planning Commission recommended adoption of the proposed amendments to the Commissioners of St. Mary's County; and WHEREAS, in accordance with §9-503(d)(2) of the Environment Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, a notice of a public hearing was advertised on March 24, 2023 and March 31, 2023, in The Southern Maryland News, a newspaper of general circulation in St. Mary's County, and a public hearing was held on April 18, 2023, to receive public comment and consider adoption of the amendments of the Plan; and WHEREAS, the Commissioners of St. Mary's County find that it is in the best interest of the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of St. Mary's County to adopt the amendments of the Plan. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Commissioners of St. Mary's County, pursuant to §9-503 of the Environment Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, that: SECTION I. Service Area maps III-50 and IV-50 in the St. Mary's County Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan are amended as follows: 2.00 acres described in a deed recorded among the Land Records of St. Mary's County in Book No. 2373, Page 130 and located at 23836 Mervell Dean Road Hollywood, Maryland 20636, is designated as Water Category W-3D and Sewer Category S-3D. SECTION II. The amendments of the St. Mary's County Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan shall be submitted to the Maryland Department of the Environment. SECTION III. This Resolution shall be effective on the date of approval of the amendments by the Maryland Department of the Environment. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County are seeking applications from residents who are interested in serving on a local Board, Committee, or Commission. Volunteering to serve as member of these groups is an excellent way to meet new people while contributing to the successful operation and development of our community!

Please visit stmaryscountymd.gov/boards for the membership application or detailed descriptions; all applications must include a resume and be submitted no later than May 19, 2023.

Current vacancies:

• Agriculture, Seafood & Forestry Commission
• Airport Advisory Board
• Animal Control Advisory Board
• Board of Trustees Museum Division
• Commission for Women
• Commission on Aging
• Commission on the Environment
• Economic Development Commission
• Housing Authority Board
• Human Relations Commission
• Library Board of Trustees (May 1^st application deadline)
• Local Management Board
• Police Accountability Board
• Social Services Board
• Transportation Advisory Committee

Please note the following vacancies have special requirements:

• Adult Public Guardianship Review Board – Applicants must have a physical disability.
• Historic Preservation Commission – Must have disciplines of architecture, architectural history, history, or archaeology.
• Metropolitan Commission – Applicants must live in the 1^st District.
• Plumbing Fuel Gas Board – Must be a licensed plumber.

Interested residents can download an application online at stmaryscountymd.gov/boards or call Diane Gleissner at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1707 for more information.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) held their regular business meeting on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, beginning with the invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners then presented a proclamation for National Agricultural Day.

During County Administrator time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Approved the Department of Land Use & Growth Management’s request for a public hearing to consider an amendment to the St. Mary’s County Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan for the property located at 23836 Mervell Dean Road.
• Approved the Office of the State’s Attorney’s request to apply for the Gun Violence Reduction grant; Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Program grant; and the Performance Incentive Grant Fund Program.
• Approved the Department of Emergency Services Hazard Mitigation Plan Update and Resolution 2023-04.
• Approved the Department of Aging & Human Services’ acceptance of the FY2024 Community Partnership Agreement for $501,520 in State funds and $1,102 in County funds.
• Approved the Department of Public Works & Transportation’s request to apply for the FY2024 St. Mary’s Transit System Annual Transportation Grant for $3,641,416.
• Approved the Department of Recreation & Parks’ acceptance of the Waterway Improvement Fund Grant Modification in the amount of $74,903 for the repair of Bushwood Wharf.
• Approved the Office of the County Attorney’s quit claim deed transfer to BMC Enterprises, LCC.

The Commissioners then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The CSMC will host their next regular business meeting on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at 9 a.m. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. CSMC meetings can be viewed live Tuesday mornings on SMCG Channel 95 or as a replay Friday at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are also available for on-demand viewing on the St. Mary's County Government YouTube Channel.

Student Falls Ill After Ingesting Edible / Edibles Recovered from High School Student: On March 21 at 10:53 a.m., a student from Lackey High School approached a school counselor and indicated they were hallucinating and felt sick. The student was taken to a school nurse where the student indicated they obtained an edible from another student while attending morning classes at Robert D. Stethem Educational Center. The student was evaluated and sent home with a parent. Through investigation, school resource officers (SROs) determined the student obtained the edible from a North Point High School student who was also at Stethem earlier today. North Point High School administrators located the student and found the student to be in possession of edibles and several vape chargers. School resource officers from Lackey and North Point High Schools and the SRO from Stethem Educational Center are continuing the investigation and the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office is being consulted regarding charges. The students also face disciplinary action by CCPS.

Parents are asked to talk with their children about the dangers of ingesting foods or liquids that contain dangerous substances, as there is a risk the substance could contain life-threatening poisons such as fentanyl or other toxic materials. Anyone with additional details is asked to call Cpl. Ondrish at 301-609-3282 ext. 0636. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app.

The Calvert County Department of Public Safety has issued the following statement regarding the safety hazard of cliff erosion and an exposed septic tank in the area of Driftwood Beach in Lusby.

In October 2020, cliff erosion following a storm exposed a septic tank located on a residential property along the cliffs in the Driftwood Beach area of Lusby. Following the recommendation of the Calvert County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health, the septic tank was pumped and capped. The home was voluntarily vacated by the resident soon after. Due to the instability of the cliff, staff and equipment cannot safely be brought onto the property to remove the septic tank.

Signs are posted warning the public to stay out, however members of the public continue to walk along the beach in the area. The cliff remains unstable and creates a potential hazard to anyone walking on the beach.

This property is one of several high-risk properties that are continually monitored by the county. Since November 2020, the Calvert County Department of Public Safety, Emergency Management Division, has been diligently working with the property owner to secure funding through FEMA to acquire the property. The acquisition of any high-risk, residential property is voluntary and done by request of the owner. Calvert County continues to work with our local, state and federal partners navigate the complex hazard mitigation process.

The cliffs of Calvert County are a remarkable part of our county’s natural heritage; however, many areas of the cliffs may be vulnerable to collapse. The areas at highest risk were identified during a Cliff Stabilization Study conducted in 2010. The study identified residential properties at highest risk, as well as areas where presence of the Puritan tiger beetle, a protected species, would limit cliff stabilization efforts.

Citizens are advised to explore only in areas designated safe for public access and always remain aware of your surroundings. While Calvert County values exploration of our natural world, we urge you to do so safely and responsibly. The well-being of our citizens and environment are vital to the future of our community.

Calvert County Government is upgrading and consolidating its human resources and financial management systems to a single cloud-based software application called Workday. While the new system will officially go live for county employees on March 27, 2023, the transfer of data and user training is taking place now through early April. County government services and operations will continue as usual, though minor interruptions may occur.

The Workday system will integrate tools for employee data, compensation, recruiting, training and finance information. In order to facilitate a seamless transition to the new system, vendors doing business with the county have been notified that any invoices received between now and Friday, April 7, will be held for processing until after Monday, April 10. Vendors may contact the Department of Finance & Budget at FinanceAP@calvertcountymd.gov or 410-535-1600 with any questions.

“This has been a major undertaking with intense collaboration between departments to modernize the tools our employees use every day,” said Board of County Commissioners President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance. “We are bringing together business components that are currently managed through different systems into a single tool. While the direct impact of this change will be on county employees, we are certain the public will reap the benefits of more streamlined procedures and accountable business practices.”

The software launch is the culmination of a 12-month, $2.4 million implementation effort spearheaded by the Technology Services, Finance & Budget, Human Resources and Communications & Media Relations departments to design, develop, test and train users on the integrated system.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (March 21, 2023) - The Rotary Club of Charlotte Hall and Community Bank of the Chesapeake have awarded the St. Mary’s County Health Department with a $10,000 grant to promote the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people age 15-44 in the United States. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline connects anyone in crisis - via call, text or chat - to a trained call specialist who will provide support and connect them to local resources as needed.   

“The Rotary Club of Charlotte Hall’s members recognize that suicide is a fight that can affect anyone, and we are proud to partner with the St. Mary’s County Health Department and Community Bank of the Chesapeake to help with the County’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline initiative,” said Theresa Dorsey, President, Rotary Club of Charlotte Hall. “I have experienced the tragedy of losing coworkers to suicide. Our Club feels that it is important for the citizens of St. Mary’s County to know there are resources to help with suicide crisis intervention, whether they call the Crisis Lifeline, or if they are treated at a nearby medical facility or emergency room.  We are thankful to St. Mary’s County Health Department for caring about its citizens in their time of need.”

“We’re proud to support the St. Mary’s County Health Department’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline initiative. We hope the funds contributed to this cause help build community awareness of suicide prevention and assist those in their time of need. With suicides on the rise, it is vital to have resources and support readily available. Thank you, St. Mary’s Health Department, for leading this initiative,” said Jimmy Burke, President and CEO at Community Bank of the Chesapeake.
 
“The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is important to getting immediate support to people when they are in the vulnerable moments of a crisis related to mental health or substance use,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “We greatly appreciate this grant from the Rotary Club of Charlotte Hall and Community Bank of the Chesapeake. The funding will connect residents to the new 988 resource and other community services that can help get them through their time of crisis.”
 
For more information about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or to find local resources for behavioral health support, please visit smchd.org/crisis. 
 
If you or someone you know is experiencing a behavioral health crisis, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

Forever Maryland announces that 31 grants totaling $92,000 have been awarded to support environmental education, community cleanup, and beautification projects through the Keep Maryland Beautiful program. The annual grants are funded by the Maryland Environmental Trust, Forever Maryland, and Maryland Department of Transportation.  

The grants are administered by Forever Maryland; it is the oldest program of the Maryland Environmental Trust, a unit of the Department of Natural Resources.

“Since its inception, the Keep Maryland Beautiful grants program has awarded grants to engaged citizens and land trusts that are developing innovative solutions to local environmental problems,” said Forever Maryland President Wendy Stringfellow. “I’ve been involved with this rewarding program for the past decade, and have seen its enormous impact. Thank you to the sponsors and the awardees for your contributions to Maryland!”

This program is administered by Forever Maryland and is the oldest program of the Maryland Environmental Trust, a unit of the Department of Natural Resources.

“The Keep Maryland Beautiful Program builds a strong partnership between our communities and state, in our shared goals of cleaner water and access to green space for all Marylanders,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz. “Funding these efforts also increases stewardship in every corner of Maryland.”

“Keep Maryland Beautiful grants demonstrate the power of partnership to create cleaner, greener communities for all Marylanders,” said Maryland Department of  Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “The Maryland Department of Transportation is proud to join with other state agencies, schools, nonprofits and individual citizens to protect and enhance our state’s natural beauty and inspire a passion for environmental stewardship in future generations.”

Keep Maryland Beautiful recipients included schools, nonprofit groups, municipalities and land trusts in 12 counties and Baltimore City. Many of these grants focus on developing and supporting communities, families, youth and students who take personal responsibility for the health of their communities, protecting nature in their backyards and seeking ways to help reduce or resolve environmental challenges. 

Awards this year included:

• One Aileen Hughes award totaling $5,000, awarded to an individual representing a Maryland land trust for outstanding leadership, partnership and innovation in a conservation project. The grant is awarded to the Maryland land trust in recognition of the individual’s efforts and good work. The grant is given annually to honor the late Aileen Hughes, a leader in the conservation movement.
• 21 Citizen Stewardship awards totaling $37,000, given in honor of Bill James, who drafted the legislation that founded Maryland Environmental Trust, and Margaret Rosch Jones, former executive director of the Keep Maryland Beautiful program. The Citizen Stewardship grants are awarded to schools, nonprofits and other community organizations whose missions are centered upon directly engaging community members in environmental education and stewardship. These grants also support organizations that demonstrate active engagement as defenders of the environment by developing innovative solutions to local environmental problems. 
• 9 Janice Hollmann Grant awards totaling $50,000, given to Maryland land trusts to increase capacity, support community programming and innovation and foster stronger, better connected land trusts. All grants require a 100 percent match from the land trust of in-kind services and privately raised funds. The grant is given in memory of Janice Hollmann, who exemplified citizen leadership of local land trusts in Maryland.

2023 recipients of Keep Maryland Beautiful Grants include:

Anne Arundel County

Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park

Scenic Rivers Land Trust Inc.

Baltimore City

Baltimore Green Space – A Land Trust for Community Managed Open Space Inc.

Civic Works, Inc

Environmental Justice Journalism Initiative

Grow & Eat Inc. aka Harlem Park Community Farm

Lafayette Square Community Development Corporation

Living Classrooms Foundation 

Plantation Park Heights Urban Farm

The Sixth Branch

The Urban Oasis

Baltimore County
Gwynn Oak Community Association

NeighborSpace of Baltimore County Inc.

Calvert County

American Chestnut Land Trust Inc.

Charles County

Conservancy for Charles County Inc.

Gale-Bailey Elementary Green Club

Frederick County
Catoctin Land Trust

Garrett County

Crellin Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization Inc.

Harford County
Harford Land Trust Inc.

Lower Susquehanna Heritage Greenway

Howard County

Glenelg Country School

Patapsco Heritage Greenway Inc.

The Howard County Conservancy

Montgomery County
Amula Foundation (Also known as Rise N Shine Foundation Inc.)

Bethesda Green

Charles Koiner Center for Urban Farming Inc.

Montgomery Parks Foundation

St. Mary’s County
Greenwell FoundationJosh 

Talbot County

Eastern Shore Land Conservancy

Washington County
Antietam-Concocheague Watershed Alliance

More information on the grants is available online.

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development today published its Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Report, which provides an overview of the department’s success and operations last fiscal year. The department’s $2.4 billion investment provided an economic impact of approximately $4.9 billion for the state, including $83 million in state and local taxes. Nearly 22,000 full-time equivalent jobs with $1.1 billion in wages and salaries were created.

“The department continues to create jobs and drive economic impact while working to shelter all Marylanders,” said Secretary Jake Day. “DHCD programs provide funding for everything from housing developments, neighborhood revitalization projects and affordable mortgages, to broadband infrastructure and digital equity initiatives.”

The department’s productivity remained at historic highs while continuing to adapt to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. DHCD has served as the lead agency to administer more than $2 billion in state and federal resources toward COVID-19 response and recovery. In Fiscal Year 2022, approximately $1.2 billion has been invested in affordable rental housing development and rental services, including $504 million in federal low-income housing tax credits and state funds. The department’s Neighborhood Revitalization programs invested $232.8 million to support revitalization projects and services to improve communities across the state.

Through the Neighborhood BusinessWorks business lending program, the department provided $9.3 million in capital to 44 new and growing small businesses. Additionally, an investment of $37.9 million went toward energy efficiency and home repairs last fiscal year, which improve the quality of life for Maryland homeowners and renters by making their homes modern and comfortable while reducing utility costs. For the third consecutive year, the Maryland Mortgage Program made an average of more than $1 billion in loan reservations with borrowers receiving an additional $20.2 million in down payment assistance.

Read more about the department’s activities here.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County and the Commission on the Environment are pleased to announce the winners of the 4th annual St Mary’s County Sustainability Awards:

• The Southern Maryland Sierra Club
• The Environmental Division, Department of Public Works, Naval Air Station Patuxent River (NAS Pax River)

The Sustainability Awards recognize outstanding students, restaurants, businesses, non-profits, and farms in St Mary’s County for their environmental stewardship, resource conservation, innovative best practices, and pollution prevention efforts. All nominees for the 2022 calendar year demonstrated impressive commitment to improving local environmental impacts. 

The Southern Maryland Sierra Club has continued their 1,000 Trees initiative that began in 2018.  In 2022, Club volunteers planted 162 native trees in local parks and sports complexes to rebuild the native tree canopy. Additionally, they planted 27 shrubs at Lexington Manor Passive Park in a 7,500 square foot Native Exhibition Garden, showcasing information on native plants and alternatives to invasive species. The Club also demonstrated a commitment to sustainable and healthy foods by completing buildout of 36 gardens at eight locations. These pollinator-friendly gardens provide vegetables to local food pantries and opportunities to teach the benefits of sustainable, local gardening. Get involved at: sierraclub.org/maryland/southern-maryland-group.

The Environmental Division of NAS Pax River’s Public Works Department completed a shoreline restoration project along their Fishing Point shoreline. This project stabilized 960 linear feet of shoreline from further erosion. Rather than merely restoring the shoreline, the Environmental Division worked to create a living shoreline that offers protection and provides habitat for several aquatic organisms using structural materials (rip rap, cobbles, etc.) and vegetative materials (grasses, shrubs, and wetland plugs).  Additionally, low marsh, high density plantings of Spartina alterniflora will accelerate the establishment of the marsh vegetation. High marsh and coastal species were planted for further sediment stabilization, and to encourage establishment and future resilience of shoreline habitat. Living shorelines have several benefits to aquatic organisms, including the Diamondback Terrapin, which have a large presence at NAS Pax River. Living shorelines allow aquatic organisms to adapt to rising sea levels resulting from climate change and shift their habitats inland as sea levels rise. Living shorelines help limit erosion, provide habitat for native species, purify water, buffer floods, store carbon, protect community infrastructure, and they perform better in major storms when compared to hardened shorelines, as they can adapt to changing water levels and intense storms.

Selection of the Sustainability Award winners was based on outstanding demonstrated efforts to improve the environment and for initiatives and projects exceeding business norms and requirements. For more information on the Commission on the Environment, please visit stmaryscountymd.gov/coe. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD (March 20, 2023) - The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) and the St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) announce local results of the 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS). The national survey, conducted biennially by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), provides aggregate-level data representative of 9th through 12th grade students in public and private schools in the United States. Through a partnership with local education systems and health departments, data can be localized to represent youth in specific jurisdictions.

Since the 1990s, the YRBS has assessed health-risk behaviors of the nation’s high school students that contribute to the leading causes of death, disability, and social issues among youth and young adults. Assessed topics include mental health; tobacco, alcohol and other drug use; violence; nutrition and exercise; and presence of obesity, asthma, and other health conditions. With adequate student participation and a vigorous data analysis process, results can statistically represent the larger population of high-school age youth.  

“Data from the local YRBS effort gives us a much better understanding of emerging health trends in our St. Mary’s County youth,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “This then helps our health department and community partners work to improve health for our young people."

The 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey was administered to students in the public high schools in St. Mary’s County. Participating students voluntarily completed an anonymous self-administered questionnaire about their health behaviors. Survey procedures were designed to protect the privacy of participating students and adhered to local parental permission protocols.

For more information on the YRBS, visit www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/yrbs/ or smchd.org/data.

ST. MARY'S COUNTY, MD (March 20, 2023) - A team of investigators from the Office of the State Fire
Marshal, and the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office, are investigating a dwelling fire that claimed two lives in the 21700 block of Cabot Place in Lexington Park.

The first 911 call was received at 1:19 a.m. when an occupant woke up to smoke and discovered a fire within the basement. The person who discovered the fire and two others escaped the two-story home.

Upon the arrival of firefighters, they were told two people were still trapped inside the home. They later subsequently located the two victims on the second floor, identified as a male in his late 50s and a female in her early 60s.

It took 40 firefighters from the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department and surrounding departments to control the one-alarm blaze.

The victims were transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore to determine the exact cause of death and where they will be positively identified.

Deputy State Fire Marshals remain on the scene and have confirmed the fire originated within the basement. St. Mary's Metropolitan Commission, the local water and sanitary department, is assisting with removing several feet of water, so investigators can safely enter the home and begin investigating the cause.

A joint investigation between the police agency having jurisdiction and the Office of the State Fire Marshal is standard operating procedure whenever a fatal fire occurs.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is making it easy to monitor air quality by allowing organizations in the Mid-Atlantic Region to borrow low-cost, portable air monitoring equipment. The Mid-Atlantic Region includes Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Virginia, West Virginia and seven Tribal partners.

“Everyone deserves to know if the air they breathe is clean,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz.  “The Air Sensor Loan Program will help its users learn about air quality in their communities and what actions they can take to protect their health.”

The program will assist community groups, schools, state agencies, local agencies, and tribes with conducting small-scale, localized air monitoring projects, as well as provide information and education on local air quality impacts.

The air quality sensors can be used to gather pertinent air quality informational data, which loanees can use to assess local air quality.

EPA will not be collecting the data from these sensors, nor will the data be used for regulatory decision making.

Additionally, this equipment is not to be used for confined space evaluations or to meet any other health and safety requirement.

More information can be found at EPA’s Air Sensor Loan Program .

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Equipment available for loan:

• PurpleAir PA-II-SD* – stationary sensor that measures fine particulate matter (PM_2.5); for outdoor and indoor use; plug-in powered; data available locally on the microSD card or connected to WiFi for private or public data streaming.
• Cairsens – stationary sensor that measures nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), or non-methane volatile organic compounds (nmVOC); for outdoor and indoor use; plug-in powered.

Eligibility: State agencies, local agencies, tribes, community groups, schools, and other interested organizations in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Training: Links to virtual training from non-EPA sources are available. The EPA Air Sensor Toolbox website for resources can be found at https://www.epa.gov/air-sensor-toolbox.

Information for Shipping of Equipment: Sensors can be shipped to any location within the Mid-Atlantic Region at the loanee’s expense or picked up at the EPA Regional office in Philadelphia. EPA will coordinate with loanees on a situational basis for shipment logistics.

Application Submittal: The Mid-Atlantic Region prefers to receive applications through the website, but applications may also be emailed to the Sensor Loan Contacts found at EPA’s Air Sensor Loan Program.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said Thursday he's aiming for "the most full assault on child poverty" to ever happen in Maryland during his first legislative session, touching on a wide variety of topics in an exclusive interview with The Associated Press.

The governor, a Democrat, spoke about concerns in the banking industry after the second and third largest bank failures in U.S. history, his support for President Joe Biden, his thoughts on reparations for slavery, expanding the use of electric vehicles and police reform during the interview, among other topics.

Two months into his tenure, Moore, who is Maryland's first Black chief executive and the third Black governor ever elected in the nation, noted the historical nature of his landslide November victory. He said his portrait will look "a little bit different" than the ones of white governors on the walls inside Maryland's Capitol.

"I received more individual votes for governor than anyone else on these walls," Moore, a Democrat, said. "But I also know that Marylanders didn't vote for me because they wanted me to make history. They voted for me because they believed in our vision."

His proposal to extend and expand tax credits for low-income residents is moving forward in the Democratic-controlled Legislature. His push for accelerating a minimum wage increase to $15 an hour also is advancing but so far without a provision he proposed to create automatic increases in future years to adjust for inflation.

Here's what the governor had to say some key issues facing the nation and the state he is governing:

BANKING
In the aftermath of the Silicon Valley Bank collapse, Moore, who is a former investment banker, said Maryland has not had any significant impacts. He said a big reason for that partially was the swift movements of the federal government to be able to ensure that the depositors were not hurt and were covered.

"You have to make sure that you have supports for your small regional banks," Moore said. "The second thing, though, is we want to make sure that the depositors are not the ones being hurt by all this."

PRESIDENT BIDEN
Moore said he's excited about the partnership that the state of Maryland has right now with the White House and Biden.

"I want that partnership to continue," Moore said. "And I'm not only supporting President Biden's reelection; I plan on helping however I can."

REPARATIONS FOR SLAVERY
As the city of San Francisco considers how to address the thorny question of how to atone for centuries of slavery and systemic racism, Moore said he understands why people continue to debate the issue "because the consequences that we saw from the transatlantic slave trade still continue to be real in people's lives now."

"I also know that we have to move now to be able to address the issues of housing insecurity and food insecurity, the racial wealth gap, the educational disparities — the things that we know right now we can get done," Moore said. "We have an obligation to move with a sense of urgency, so we don't continue watching how families who have often times historically have been disadvantaged continue to be disadvantaged by policies that we still continue to put in place."

ABORTION

Moore has stood in full support with Democrats in the legislature to enshrine abortion rights in the Maryland Constitution and other measures to protect abortion rights in the state.

"As long as I'm governor, Maryland will be a safe haven for abortion rights," Moore said.

ELECTRIC CARS
The governor announced this week that Maryland will move forward with requiring all new vehicles sold in the state to be electric by 2035, as California has decided.

"Is it going to be hard? Yes. Is it bold? Yes. Will Maryland get it done? Absolutely, we will," Moore said. "And it means we are going to focus on things like the electrification of the grid, so we actually have the infrastructure in place to be able to manage it."

POLICE REFORM
Moore said he supports an expansion of police reform laws approved two years ago in Maryland. Part of those reforms requires the Maryland attorney general to investigate police-involved deaths but leaves local prosecutors with the decision to prosecute. Legislation advancing in Maryland would give the attorney general the authority to independently prosecute officers.

CHILD SEX ABUSE
The governor said he supports legislation advancing in the state Senate to end the statute of limitations on bringing a civil lawsuit against a public or private entity for child sex abuse.

"I support the bill, because I believe that in order for us to actually truly be able to work towards making it right for that individual and for that victim, that we have to make sure that there are laws that are responsive to the fact that that pain still continues to endure," Moore said.

FBI HEADQUARTERS
Moore, who met with the General Services Administration last week on Maryland's intense competition with Virginia to be the location for a new FBI headquarters, said he's confident the administration will listen to concerns raised by him and members of the state's congressional delegation that the evaluation process has been unfair to Maryland. Maryland officials contend the Virginia location is more costly and will take longer than either of two Maryland sites under consideration.

REPRESENTATIVE DEMOCRACY
Moore emphasized that he has already appointed the most diverse Cabinet of secretaries to ever lead state agencies in Maryland.

"I think Maryland is on America's mind right now, because I think what we're able to do inside of the state of Maryland and show that democracy can be not just participatory, but inclusive," Moore said. "And that's what makes it strong."

School Resource Officer Investigating Fight at a High School: On March 14 during school dismissal, three students at St. Charles High School engaged in a fight. The altercation began with a fight between a 15-year-old and a 16-year-old, and then an 18-year-old intervened, assaulting the 15-year-old. School staff along with the school resource officer de-escalated the situation and separated the students. The students had minor injuries sustained during the altercation and were treated by a school nurse.

The school resource officer initiated an investigation and criminal charges are forthcoming for the three involved students. The students also face disciplinary consequences from the CCPS. Anyone with information is asked to call CPL Thompson at 301-609-3282 ext. 0434.

Fourth-Degree Sex Offense: On March 13, administrators from Malcolm Elementary School notified the school resource officer of the report of a fourth-degree sex offense that occurred on March 9 on the playground during recess. A student was reported to have inappropriately touched two other students. The parents of all students involved were notified. In accordance with Maryland law, the student cannot be charged due to their age; however, the student may face consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. In addition, the school resource officer has notified the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services as a matter of recordation and to offer resources as needed. Anyone who has been touched or assaulted in a manner in which they believe is inappropriate is urged to contact a school staff member or the school resource officer. Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact M/Cpl. R. Anderson at 301-609-3282 ext. 0422.

Patrol Officer Recovers Loaded Firearm during Traffic Stop: On March 14 at 9:14 p.m., a patrol officer initiated a traffic stop on St. Charles Parkway and Gallery Place in Waldorf after observing a traffic violation. Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer detected a strong odor of burnt marijuana and raw marijuana. Further investigation revealed the driver was in possession of marijuana and a loaded firearm which was not registered. Jaquan Allyn Wright, 26, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with transporting a loaded firearm in a vehicle. On March 15, a district court commissioner released Wright on personal recognizance. Officer Vanover is investigating.

On Tuesday, March 14, Commissioners received a briefing on the results of a community survey conducted from October through December 2022. The survey measured residents’ overall satisfaction with life in Charles County, satisfaction with county government services, and areas where they wanted to see improvements. Residents ranked schools and affordable housing as top priorities for Charles County Government to focus on in the next three years.

Legislative Update

Associate County Attorney Danielle Mitchell provided a legislative update regarding the 2023 General Assembly session. House Committee hearings are scheduled on March 14 regarding the bill providing motor vehicle registration exceptions for golf carts and low speed vehicles on Cobb Island, and the bill enabling the county to regulate off-the-road motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles.

Additionally, staff provided a presentation on Senate Bill 130, which would authorize the Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA) to issue up to $45 million in bonds to construct a Charles County Sports and Wellness Center. Once built, MSA would transfer ownership of the center to Charles County, and the county would be responsible for generating revenue to pay back bonds and operate the center. Fiscal staff provided information regarding the county’s responsibility for the estimated capital and operating costs related to Senate Bill 130. Staff will return to session on March 15 with a revised letter of support that incorporates the Commissioners' suggested changes.

Open Session Briefings

• Associate County Attorney Danielle Mitchell provided a briefing on Senate Bill 92, the Partition of Property Act. The legislation passed in 2022 and addressed several issues that arise when a property owner dies without a will, and the property is transferred to heirs without title or deed in their names. It provided for notice requirements, property valuation, buy out options, and the option to partition rather than sell, so that heirs of property can better protect and manage the land that they own in Maryland. Commissioners directed staff to discuss options for creating a board to oversee this process locally and return with a formal proposal.
• Associate County Attorney Danielle Mitchell, Director of Public Works Martin Harris, and Director of Fiscal and Administrative Services Jeni Ellin briefed Commissioners on the current county law regarding a prevailing wage. Staff explained where a prevailing wage applies in construction work, how it is determined, existing exclusions, and recordkeeping requirements. Staff provided a summary of recent changes to state law, options on how to expand the local prevailing wage law, and fiscal and administrative considerations regarding possible changes. Commissioners provided consensus for staff to return with a draft legislation to include mechanical systems service contracts in the local prevailing wage law.
• Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services staff and Principal, Clifton, Larsen, Allen LLC representative Remi Omisore provided a briefing on the fiscal 2022 annual comprehensive financial report.
• Economic Development staff provided an update on the Sister-City Partnership with Mozambique, which is intended to spur international exports and investments and foster cultural exchanges. Commissioners provided consensus to approve moving forward with the Mozambique Sister-City Partnership, with a visit from their representatives in 2023 and a possible trade mission visit to Mozambique in 2024. Commissioners also agreed to explore visiting the county’s other Sister City – Waldorf, Germany. Commissioners also approved a letter of invitation for a new Sister-City partnership agreement, to be signed and sent to the Mayor of Matola, the largest suburb of the Mozambique capital, Maputo.
• Staff from the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commissioner and the Department of Social Services provided a briefing to Commissioners on how low-income families can access local foods through federal programs. SNAP customers purchasing SNAP eligible food items from the Maryland Market Money Program (SMADC) registered farmers markets or food stands, can double their buying power at these markets as a result of the State financial support of these markets. SNAP Emergency Allotments enhanced these benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic, but these extra benefits will end this month. They also highlighted the Maryland Market Money program which provides matching funds for purchases that are made at local farmers markets, using federal nutrition benefits.

Public Hearing

County Commissioners held a hybrid public hearing on the 2022 Charles County Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan. Commissioners voted to keep the record open for seven days. 

Viewing option of meetings: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session March 21, 2023

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258. 

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) is launching a new safety initiative that incorporates visual gun detection technology with external school cameras. This system, combined with an emergency alert system, initiates a robust response within seconds of a gun detection being verified.  

The advanced artificial intelligence (AI) software features a three-step verification process that recognizes a gun. The system features constant video monitoring and is designed to alert CCPS officials, police and other responders when a potential gun is detected.  

Alerts are initially sent to a monitoring center for review, and are then shared by phone, email and text message notifications to designated school safety officials for response. The system also provides video, images and location details to first responders. The software does not use facial recognition to protect the privacy of students and staff. Additionally, the live video feeds never leave CCPS buildings.  

Real-time detection, according to Jason Stoddard, CCPS director of school safety and security, will provide school officials with valuable time to react to a possible safety threat. “Through system alerts, we will be able to notify police more quickly of a possible safety concern and place a school or campus in an emergency code faster. The technology provides advance warning before a situation occurs,” Stoddard said. Stoddard also said this additional technology enhances the school system’s comprehensive approach to detect a threat that approaches any CCPS school or facility. 

CCPS is in the process of installing the software for outside building cameras systemwide and plans to have all schools and centers activated by the end of this school year. Cost of the program is $207,000 which was funded by the Maryland Center for School Safety’s School Safety Grant Funding program. The grant covers the first two years of licensing for CCPS, which will then be covered by funding from the Office of School Safety and Security.  

CCPS is in the implementation phase of the project, installing the software at schools selected to pilot the technology. Any testing of the technology will be completed outside of the school day and before and after normal operating hours.  

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – Maryland State Police warn citizens to be aware of a phone scam involving police impersonators that is currently active in Maryland.

Maryland State Police have received reports from citizens advising that callers contact them claiming to be state troopers or police officers. The reports are attempts to gain financial information or money from citizens.  The impersonator states they need to obtain information from the caller due to a police investigation or they are asking for a donation to support law enforcement and their families.

In some instances, the impersonator will use a real name of a law enforcement officer in an attempt to gain trust of the victim. The Maryland State Police does not call individuals and request money from citizens under any circumstances.  Citizens are urged to be cautious of unsolicited phone calls.

• Never provide any personal identifying information over the telephone unless you have verified the source.
• Never provide any payment information over the telephone unless you have verified the source.
• The police will never call you and request money for fines, arrest warrants, fundraisers or any other reason.  
• If you do not trust the source and want to verify, look up the unit/group/barrack they said they are from on the internet and call the listed number directly.
• If you believe you have provided information to a scam, please immediately notify your financial institutions.

Citizens who believe they have been the victim of a scam are encouraged to contact their local police department or the Maryland State Police barrack that serves your area. If you believe you have fallen victim to any type of online crime, file a complaint at ic3.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Clean out your barn, basement, garage, and other home storage areas in preparation for Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day!

The St. Mary’s County Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) will host Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on March 25, 2023 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the St. Andrews Landfill, located at 44837 St. Andrews Church Road in California, Maryland. This event provides the opportunity for residents to safely dispose of potentially toxic or dangerous materials.

Hazardous waste items accepted for collection include acids, ammonia, bleach, cleaners, fuels, gas/oil mixtures, gasoline, household and lawn pesticides, mercury thermometers, photography chemicals, pool chemicals, solvents, wood preservatives, paint thinners and alkyd (oil-based) paint.

Unacceptable items include ammunition, asbestos, explosive materials, latex paint, medical waste, pharmaceuticals, radioactive materials, and picric acid.

For more information, please visit stmaryscountymd.gov/dpw or contact DPW&T at (301) 475-4200, ext. 3517.

 NFIB State Director Mike O'Halloran issued the following statement regarding the Maryland Senate Finance Committee's passage late yesterday of paid leave legislation:

“The legislature is passing up an opportunity to create a program that works for employees and employers. The business community offered reasonable and responsible amendments to do that. Unfortunately, they were not accepted. Instead, Maryland job creators will have to adapt to a costly and confusing paid leave program that creates more red tape and less certainty.”

The Board of Education of Charles County is hosting a Town Hall on Monday, March 27, from 7 to 9 p.m. in the boardroom at the Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building. The Starkey Building is located at 5980 Radio Station Road in La Plata. The Town Hall is open to the public and will also stream live to the Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) website at www.ccboe.com and to the school system YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@ccpsmd.  

Community members are invited to attend and can ask questions/provide comments either in person or virtually. At the start of the Town Hall, CCPS staff will provide a brief presentation on the topic of school safety. The remainder of the Town Hall time will be reserved for questions, answers and comments from attendees. Questions, comments and/or other ideas shared should reference education-related topics. Attendees – in person or virtual – will be asked to limit their time to two minutes to allow for other attendees to ask a question, provide comments, etc. Interpreting assistance will be available in Spanish both in person and on the virtual platform.  

Community members interested in sharing a question, comment, topic or idea in person or virtually must register in advance. The Board also encourages community members to submit questions, comments and/or topics in advance. Below is information about virtual and in-person registration, as well as a link to an electronic form in which community members can use to submit questions in advance.  

Virtual participation – register by 4 p.m., March 24  

Virtual participation will run through Zoom. Click here to register to participate virtually. The virtual format is limited to attendees who would like to provide commentary during the Town Hall or follow along through Zoom (and not the livestream). To allow staff time to prepare for the virtual portion of the Town Hall, registration is required and will close on Friday, March 24, at 4 p.m.  

In-person participation – sign up on site by 7 p.m., March 27  

Community members interested in sharing a question, comment, topic or idea in person can sign up on site at the Starkey Building on March 27 by 7 p.m. A sign-up sheet will be posted outside of the boardroom. Attendees are encouraged to sign up prior to 7 p.m. since all speakers will be asked to limit their time to two minutes to allow as many attendees to ask questions/share comments as possible. In-person attendees who sign up to speak will receive an assigned number and be called to speak by that number. The Board will rotate between in-person commenters, virtual commenters and submissions shared using the electronic form.  

Submit questions, comments, topics in advance – deadline is 4 p.m., Tuesday, March 21  

The Board would like community members to share questions, comments, ideas and/or topics in advance. This will enable staff to research and provide answers during the meeting. An electronic form is below. The Board will address submission content during the Town Hall. The form will close for submissions at 5 p.m., Tuesday, March 21, so staff can collect and research submissions.  

Click here to access the form to share advance question/comments  

Town Hall format  

At the start of the Town Hall, CCPS staff will provide a brief presentation on the topic of school safety. The remainder of the Town Hall time will be reserved for questions, answers and comments from attendees, and responses from Board members and CCPS staff.  

Questions, comments and/or other ideas shared should reference education-related topics. All speakers should identify themselves. Personnel matters, pending or potential appeals, or comments regarding the actions or statements of individual staff members or the private lives of any individual are not appropriate topics for the Town Hall. Proper language and decorum are required at all times.  

During the week of March 6 – March 12, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 2,000 calls for service throughout the community.

Burglary: 23-15343

On March 6, 2023, Det. Jernigan responded to Dunkirk Hardware located at 10754 Town Center Blvd. in Dunkirk, for a commercial burglary investigation. Investigation revealed shortly after
7 p.m. on March 5, an unknown suspect (s) forced entry into the business by breaking out the front window and stole four Stihl chainsaws. The total value of stolen property is $3589.96. The estimated value of damaged property is $1,123.46.

Damaged Property: 23-15346

On March 6, 2023, Deputy T. Bowen responded to the 8900 block of Saint Andrews Drive in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of damaged property. The complainant advised all four tires on his vehicle had been slashed and were completely deflated. The estimated value of damaged property is $800.00.

Property Destruction: 23-15803

On March 7, M/DFC Burgraff responded to the 8600 block of Chesapeake Lighthouse Drive in North Beach, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised sometime between 4 p.m. on March 6 and 11 a.m. on March 7, an unknown suspect (s) caused damaged to the victim’s vehicle. A large deep scratch was observed on the left quarter panel of the vehicle extending across both the driver and rear passenger doors. The estimated value of damaged property is $1000.00.

Property Destruction: 23-15372

The Calvert County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating a destruction of property that occurred at 7110 Industrial Drive in Owings, MD. The incidents occurred during the evening hours of Friday, March 3, 2023 and on Friday, March 10.  The suspect(s) spray painted phrases and graphic images onto shipping containers, a building, and vehicles on the property. Anyone with information about these incidents or anyone with information on the meaning of these tags is asked to contact Deputy Dawson at Michelle.Dawson@calvertcountymd.gov.

ARRESTS

On March 12, 2023, Deputy Daily responded to the area of Prince Frederick Blvd at Stoakley Road in Prince Frederick, for the reported abandoned vehicle in the roadway. Upon arrival, Deputy Daily observed the mentioned vehicle with heavy front-end damage including a blown-out tire.  There was no one in the vehicle or the general area of the vehicle. While looking inside the vehicle, Deputy Daily noticed the car was still in drive and to ensure the surrounding public’s safety, he opened the doors and put it in park. While inside the vehicle, Deputy Daily observed a cut straw with a white powdery residue in plain view. A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed a second straw with a white powdery residue and a plastic baggie with a white powdery residue. The driver, Lakitcha Shawniece Price, 44 of Waldorf, was located nearby and placed under arrest. Price was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, (Driving, Attempting to Drive) Motor Vehicle on Highway without Required License and Authorization.
 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) held their regular business meeting on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, beginning with the invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners then presented a proclamation for Equal Pay Day and a commendation to St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) employee Jenna Guzman.

During County Administrator time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Approved the Circuit Court’s award of the Circuit Court Security Equipment Grant Award from the Maryland Administrative Office of the Courts for $40,726.77.
• Approved the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement with Cedar Lane Senior Living LLC.
• Approved the Department of Economic Development’s grant agreement with the Tri-County Council of Southern Maryland for the FY2023 Rural Maryland Economic Fund grant for $1,090,000.
• Approved the St. Mary’s County Public School’s budget modification for their After School Program and Mentoring Program.
• Approved the Department of Aging & Human Services’ acceptance of the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act Grant in the amount of $6,657, the Senior Medicare Patrol Grant in the amount of $4,024, and the Senior Health Insurance Program grant in the amount of $15,000.

The Commissioners then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The CSMC will host their next regular business meeting on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at 9 a.m. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. CSMC meetings. Meetings can be viewed live Tuesday mornings on SMCG Channel 95 or as a replay Friday at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are also available for on-demand viewing on the St. Mary's County Government YouTube Channel.

The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning announces a new “Spread Your Leaves” program to help residents expand forested areas in Calvert County by planting native trees on their property. Now through Oct. 31, residents can obtain coupons to purchase native trees at a discount from participating nurseries.

The location of the purchased trees will be registered according to the local watersheds. The watershed that plants the most trees will be recognized in December by the Board of County Commissioners.

The tree coupon can be obtained through the Planning and Zoning, Environmental Commission, website at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/TreeCoupon. Residents will find a list of participating nurseries, view an interactive map of trees planted through the program, and find information on selecting tree varieties based on the planting area and environmental benefits.

Residents can take the printed or digital coupon to participating nurseries, where it may be applied for a $35 discount per tree for up to three trees sized two gallons or larger. At checkout, residents will register their name, address and tree species. This coupon may be combined with the “Marylanders Plant Trees” coupon offered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Only Calvert County properties outside the critical area are eligible for this tree program.

Residents are encouraged to submit photos of themselves enjoying the trees to nativetree@calvertcountymd.gov or share on social media using the hashtag #CalvertSpreadYourLeaves, to be featured on the Environmental Commission’s website, www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Environment.

Coupons may not be redeemed for cash. The “Spread Your Leaves” program is funded by revenue from fees paid by developers in lieu of reforesting or afforesting and not buying Forest Conservation Transferable Development Rights.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

March 14, 2023

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the whereabouts of Karen Anne Granville, age 34 of Mechanicsville, for absconding from an authorized residential treatment facility on March 10, 2023. Prior to treatment, Granville was being held in the custody of the St. Mary's County Detention and Rehabilitation Center on a no-bond status for Theft: $100 to under $1,500; Theft Scheme; Theft: $1,500 to under $25,000 and Robbery.

Anyone with information on Stahl’s whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Joseph Bowling at 301-475-4200, ext. 71959 or email joseph.bowling@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment.

Download and Share the St. Mary's Sheriff's Office mobile app: https://apps.myocv.com/share/a48820650

LEONARDTOWN, MD (March 14, 2023) – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling today announced plans to celebrate St. Mary’s County Class of 2023 high school graduates during Project Graduation events.

Project Graduation celebrations were established in 1984 to provide students with safe and fun ways to celebrate their achievements while remaining free from alcohol and drugs. Since the program’s inception, St. Mary’s County has not had an alcohol-related tragedy on graduation night.

In partnership with all the county public and private schools, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the Maryland State Police-Leonardtown Barrack, St. Mary’s County Government, St. Mary’s County Rescue Squads, the Optimist Clubs, and countless volunteers, graduating seniors and guests enjoy a night-long party with food and activities at Naval Air Station Patuxent River.

In a letter to parents and students, State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling said, “I am grateful to work with all the volunteers and community partners to offer this opportunity to celebrate the graduates’ achievements with friends and classmates.”

Project Graduation events take place each night from May 30-June 2; private high schools’ night is May 30, Great Mills High School night is May 31, Chopticon High School night is June 1, and Leonardtown High School night is June 2. Information about the events is available through each school’s senior class sponsor or by an email request to the State’s Attorney’s Office at saopio@stmaryscountymd.gov.

On the morning of March 10, a group of three students at St. Charles High School, ages 14, 15, and 16, attacked a 15-year-old student. During this altercation, a teacher was struck. Another student, age 15, intervened and began fighting the group of three. Additional students heard about the altercations and left their classrooms in an attempt to engage in the fight. The school resource officer and additional officers responded and the situation was de-escalated and the students were separated. The teacher who was struck did not report any injuries; some of the students had minor injuries sustained during the altercation and were treated by a school nurse.

The school resource officer initiated an investigation and criminal charges are forthcoming for the four students who were fighting. The students also face disciplinary consequences from the CCPS. Anyone with information is asked to call CPL Thompson at 301-609-3282 ext. 0434.

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – With St. Patrick’s Day coming up on Friday, Maryland State Police are urging those who plan to celebrate with alcohol to drink responsibly and avoid impaired, distracted and aggressive driving.

With an expected increase of impaired drivers throughout the state this week, troopers at all 23 Maryland State Police barracks will conduct saturation patrols, focusing on impaired, distracted and aggressive driving. A portion of the costs associated with the increased enforcement efforts will be paid through impaired driving saturation funds provided by the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office.  

The initiatives, which will take place on various days, beginning Wednesday, March 15 through Sunday, March 19, include saturation patrols in areas known to have a higher number of DUI crashes or arrests. These efforts, in many cases, will include partnering with allied law enforcement and other state agencies to enforce the law and offer outreach to the community through social media and electronic billboards.  

Among those initiatives:

• Troopers from the Cumberland Barrack will be conducting DUI saturation patrol on Route 40 and I-68 in Allegany County with an emphasis on previously identified high crash and impaired driving areas.
• Troopers from the Bel Air, JFK and North East barracks, will be conducting joint DUI saturation patrols in key areas throughout Cecil, Harford, and Baltimore counties.
• Troopers from the Annapolis Barrack will focus DUI enforcement efforts on Route 50 and I-97 in Anne Arundel County.
• Troopers from the Westminster Barrack will focus DUI enforcement efforts on feeder routes from Baltimore County into Carroll County, including Route 140, Route 26, Route 30, and Route 91.
• The Leonardtown Barrack will be conducting a combined traffic initiative with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, with high visibility enforcement on state routes.
• The Princess Anne Barrack will be working with allied agencies throughout the lower Eastern Shore as part of the area’s “Border to Border” initiative.

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According to the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s Maryland Highway Safety Office, between 2017 and 2021, an average of 169 people died and 2,998 were injured annually as a result of impaired driving crashes in the state. Those deaths and injuries were preventable.

If you are attending a St. Patrick’s Day gathering:

• Designate your sober driver before going out and give that person your car keys
• If you’re planning to drive, avoid drinking
• Consider using public transportation, call a taxi or use a ride-share service IF you don’t have a sober driver
• Do not let a friend drive if you think that they are impaired
• If you see someone who you believe is driving impaired, call police
• Always buckle up
• Do not text, use a cellphone that is not hands-free or drive distracted

If you are hosting a St. Patrick’s Day gathering:

• Remember, you can be held liable if someone you served alcohol to ends up in an impaired-driving crash
• Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages
• Ensure sober drivers or alternative modes of transportation are set up in advance for guests who are planning to drink alcoholic beverages
• Have contact information for local taxi companies readily available
• Take away the keys from anyone who is thinking of driving impaired

Always remember, if you’re going out tonight, so are we. Don’t push your luck this St. Patrick’s Day. Make a plan and be the driver who saves lives. 

March 13, 2023:

On Friday, March 10, 2023, Detectives with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division, with the assistance of deputies from the K-9 Unit and Patrol Division, executed a search and seizure warrant at the residence of Jadon Bernard Somerville, age 22, at Park Pines Drive in Lexington Park.

Detectives located a loaded Glock 22 .40-caliber handgun, four different packages of cocaine (both crack cocaine and powdered cocaine), a digital scale with cocaine residue, and both used and unused packaging materials. Somerville is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a previous conviction for Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine.

While the search and seizure warrant was being executed, Somerville was at the St. Mary’s County Circuit Court for an unrelated case for Possession with the Intent to Distribute. Somerville entered a guilty plea on Friday and will be sentenced at a later date. Upon completion of the hearing, Somerville was taken into custody at which time an additional search and seizure warrant was executed on his person where multiple cellphones and a quantity of US currency was located.

Somerville was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center where he was charged with Possession with the Intent to Distribute; CDS Possession: Cocaine and Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm. Somerville was held without bond.

Download and Share the St. Mary's Sheriff's Office mobile app: https://apps.myocv.com/share/a48820650

March 13, 2023

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office continues seeking the whereabouts of Jermaine Cornelius Dorsey, age 41, who is wanted for Second-Degree Escape. Dorsey failed to maintain a charge on his GPS ankle monitor and left his residence in Waldorf where he was sentenced to home detention. Dorsey was originally charged with Driving/Attempting to Drive a Motor Vehicle without a License.

Anyone with information on Dorsey’s whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Joseph Bowling at 301-475-4200, ext. 71959 or email joseph.bowling@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment.

Download and Share the St. Mary's Sheriff's Office app: https://apps.myocv.com/share/a48820650

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – March 13, 2023 – The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is seeking feedback to the Purchase and Retirement (PAR) Fund program. Established in 1992, the PAR Fund program is part of Calvert County’s longstanding effort to preserve agricultural land.

To assist the BOCC in evaluating the program, current owners of Agricultural Preservation Districts (APDs) are encouraged to complete the survey online at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/QmycVEl.  Survey mailers have also been sent to all APD owners with a requested return date of March 31, 2023. The online survey will also be open until March 31, 2023. For questions about the survey, please contact Jennifer David, Rural Planner, at jennifer.david@calvertcountymd.gov.

Through the program, Transferable Development Rights (TDRs) are purchased, retired and permanently removed from the market to protect farmland from development. In September 2022, the BOCC approved a new purchase price of $5,000 per TDR, which replaced the $4,500 price previously approved in August 2021.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

The Charles County Department of Health, Division of Environmental Health Services will begin to schedule wet season percolation testing on March 13, 2023. Due to below normal water table conditions in the county, an extended treatment zone will be used.   The treatment zone for shallow and deep trench conventional systems will be 6 feet and, for sand mound systems, a 4-foot treatment zone will be implemented.  We will continue to monitor water table levels and, if conditions change, the treatment zone will be adjusted accordingly.  If water tables recede below wet season levels, wet season perc testing will be suspended until further notice. 

Perc test applications presently on file will be scheduled in the order in which they were received.  Testing in these conditions may warrant the need for further evaluation at the expense of the applicant, so property owners should consult with the contractor/consultant performing the perc prior to scheduling to see if delaying the testing for the property is recommended.

A soil evaluation or perc test determines if the soils and groundwater conditions on a property are suitable for the installation of an onsite sewage disposal system.  All properties not served by public water and sewer must have this test before beginning construction of any structure with plumbing.  Residents needing a soil evaluation "perc test" should submit an application to the Division of Environmental Services at the Charles County Department of Health as soon as possible.  The Division of Environmental Health Services may be contacted at 301-609-6751.

 On the morning of March 10, Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) received an anonymous tip that a 12-year-old student at General Smallwood Middle School made verbal statements as well as on a social media platform to shoot multiple students during the school day. The School Resource Officer was notified and initiated an investigation. The SRO and administrator notified the juvenile’s parents and followed up with a home safety check. In accordance with Maryland law, the student cannot be criminally charged, however, the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) has been made aware of the situation for possible follow-up services as needed.  The student faces disciplinary action through the CCPS. Anyone with details about this case is asked to call PFC Barry at 301-609-3282 ext. 0574.

On March 4, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) received numerous complaints of vehicles operating in a reckless manner on Crain Highway between La Plata and the Harry W. Nice Memorial/Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton Bridge. The complaints ranged from vehicles traveling at high rates of speed, passing on the shoulders, and vehicles blocking travel lanes to conduct drag race activities. Officers from Patrol Division formulated an enforcement plan to address the complaints to ensure the roadways remain safe for everyone. During the operation, officers conducted a total of 67 traffic stops. Three drivers were sighted for driving without licenses, two operators were cited for operating unregistered and uninsured motor vehicles, and one driver was arrested for having outstanding arrest warrants. During the enforcement initiative, officers stopped numerous vehicles for speeding with the highest recorded violation of 125 miles per hour (mph) in a 55mph zone.  CCSO officers will continue to conduct enforcement efforts countywide and will focus attention in areas where complaints have been received. Thank you to all of the citizens who called to report this dangerous driving activity. CCSO encourages the community to report a crime by calling 301-932-2222 or in the case of an emergency to dial 911.    

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) today released new student performance data for the Maryland Report Card. The Maryland Report Card features school accountability measures for student performance, and grades schools on academic performance and growth as well as school quality and climate.  

The Report Card includes an overview of student performance across Maryland, as well as performance results for students by county and by school with data compiled from the 2021-2022 school year. Every Maryland public school receives an overall score measuring its performance on the state accountability system. The scores show how a school is doing in comparison to others in Maryland.  

As part of the Report Card, each school also receives a star rating, based on a 1 to 5 scale. MSDE introduced this new reporting tool in 2018, and data released today is the third star rating reporting cycle reported by the state. MSDE paused the Report Card accountability process for school years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  

The data released today for Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) indicates 32 Charles County schools earned three or more stars, with 13 schools receiving four stars and 19 schools receiving three stars. In comparison with 2018-2019 Report Card data, five CCPS schools achieved a higher star rating, while 17 schools achieved the same star rating as the last reporting cycle. No CCPS school earned the lowest rating of 1 star.  

A breakdown of the star rating by school, by county and for the state is posted on the MSDE Report Card website at https://reportcard.msde.maryland.gov/.  

Superintendent of Schools Maria V. Navarro, Ed.D., said school system and school leaders will use the data to drive instructional decisions that continue to support student achievement.  

“The report card data provides an individualized performance report for each of our schools in which areas of improvement are clearly identified. Our administrative teams, as well as the CCPS leadership team, can see both strengths in academic achievement and school climate, as well as areas in need of additional focus to ensure progress is made,” Navarro said. “The report card includes Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program data from last year, which is also a measurement outlined under student learning and achievement of the CCPS strategic plan. We know our work continues to close achievement gaps, whether they exist from the pandemic or other factors that affect a student’s ability to be in school and fully engaged, and our educators remain committed to our overall goal of preparing students for graduation and beyond.”    

Data used to measure student performance on the report card includes a review of academic achievement in English Language Arts (ELA) and math, student growth in ELA and math, student progress in achieving English language proficiency and credit for completion of a well-rounded curriculum. The report card also includes data on chronic absenteeism and climate survey. Data for schools on the report card is based on an accountability system of a total possible 100%.  

For elementary and middle schools, the breakdown of the possible 100% is as follows: 65% for academic achievement, academic progress and English language proficiency; and 35% for school quality/student success. A breakdown of the percentages is below.  

Elementary and middle schools  

• Academic achievement: 20% performance composite for ELA and math (measured by Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) results).  
• Academic progress: 25% for growth in ELA and math; 10% for credit for completion of a well-rounded curriculum.  
• English language proficiency: 10% progress in achieving English language proficiency.  
• Chronic absenteeism: 15%.  
• Climate survey: 10%.  
• Opportunities/access to a well-rounded curriculum: 10%.  

For high schools, the breakdown of the possible 100% is as follows: 65% for academic achievement, graduation rate, English language proficiency and readiness for postsecondary success; and 35% for school quality/student success. A breakdown of the percentages is below.  

High schools  

• Academic achievement: 30% performance composite for ELA and math (measured by MCAP data).  
• Graduation rate: 15% adjusted cohort graduation rate.  
• English language proficiency: 10% progress in achieving English language proficiency.  
• Readiness for postsecondary success: 5% on-track in Grade 9; 5% credit for completion of a well-rounded curriculum.  
• Chronic absenteeism: 15%.  
• Climate survey: 10%.  
• Opportunities/access to a well-rounded curriculum: 10%.  

The Maryland School Report Card includes results of a statewide school survey, which was taken by students in grades 5 through 11 and educators. A composite score provides results based on input about safety, community, environment and relationships. The survey is administered through MSDE annually.  

Individual school reports posted to the state report card website include a breakdown of how the school was rated using the criteria listed above.  

Individual student reports for the Spring 2022 administration of both the math and ELA MCAP program will be sent home by schools with students in the next few weeks. Any student who took an MCAP assessment in ELA (Grades 3-8 and Grade 10) or math (Grades 3-8, Algebra I and Algebra II) with CCPS last spring will receive an individualized report.  

The report includes a student’s results as well as county and state average results for comparison. Information about how parents can understand their child’s score report is posted on the MCAP website at https://support.mdassessments.com/. Resources are available in both English and Spanish.  

On March 8, administrators at St. Charles High School recovered a bag of edibles containing suspected marijuana from a 15-year-old student. The School Resource Officer was notified and began an investigation. The State’s Attorney’s Office is being consulted regarding charges and the student faces disciplinary action by CCPS.

Parents are asked to talk with their children about the dangers of ingesting foods or liquids that contain dangerous substances, as there is a risk the substance could contain life-threatening poisons such as fentanyl or other toxic materials. Anyone with additional details is asked to call Corporal Thompson at 301-609-3282 ext. 0434. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. The investigation is ongoing.

A St. Mary’s County jury found Devonte Arnez Shubrooks, 29, of California, MD, guilty of Felony First-Degree Assault for the strangulation of an 11-year-old child.

Sarah Proctor, Special Victims Unit (SVU) Chief for the Office of the State’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County, prosecuted the case. She said, “Events of trauma to children are never easy for the child to re-tell, especially in a court setting; in this case, the child showed her strength.”

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling said, “I want to extend appreciation to the jury members for their time and attention during the trial, to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office for their diligence and professionalism throughout the investigation of this case, and to SVU Chief Sarah Proctor for never shying away from prosecuting tough cases.”

The conviction carries a maximum penalty of 25 years of incarceration. Shubrooks is being held without bond pending sentencing.

The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the case.

On March 3, a 12-year-old student at Piccowaxen Middle School entered a classroom that he did not belong in, sat next to another student and tried to grab her hand, which she did not allow. When the teacher dismissed the class, the male inappropriately touched the victim, and then followed her towards her locker. While walking behind the victim, the male groped her a second time. The male walked away but returned and touched her again. The school resource officer (SRO) was notified and subsequently conducted an investigation in conjunction with the school administration. In accordance with Maryland law, the student cannot be charged in this case due to his age; however, he may face consequences from Charles County Public Schools. Anyone who has been touched or assaulted in a manner in which they believe is inappropriate is urged to contact a school staff member or the school resource officer. Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact M/Cpl. Caballero at 301-609-3282 ext. 0573.

(WALDORF, MD) – Troopers arrested a Charles County man on Tuesday after a Maryland State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigation developed evidence of possession of and distribution of child pornography.

The suspect is identified as David Allen Payne, 57, of Waldorf, Maryland. Payne is charged with five counts of possession of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. Payne was transported to the Charles County Detention Center before being released after posting $5,000 bond.

Beginning in August 2021, the Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit initiated an investigation into the possession and distribution of child pornography online. According to a preliminary investigation, investigators obtained media files of child pornography that were being distributed online. Further investigations led to the identification of the suspect in Charles County.

On Tuesday, members of the Maryland State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force served a search and seizure warrant at Payne’s residence. A preliminary forensic review of his electronic devices seized at the scene revealed multiple child pornography files. Payne was arrested at the scene.

The Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit coordinates the Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This is a combined law enforcement effort involving police departments across Maryland that is made possible in part due to grant funds provided by the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth and Victim Services and by a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Justice. Task force investigators focus on identifying those involved in child pornography via the Internet and other related crimes that victimize children.

On March 4, Charles County Sheriff’s detectives arrested and charged David Warren Henson, Jr., 53, of Waldorf, with sexual abuse of a minor and child pornography after it was reported that he sexually abused an adolescent female over a period of two years. Henson has been employed as a teacher at Grace Lutheran Church in La Plata since September of 2021; the victim in this case is known to Henson and was not a student at the school where he worked. On March 5, a district court commissioner ordered Henson to be held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information or concerns related to Henson is asked to contact Det. M. Nauman at (301) 609-6581.

The Calvert County Department of Finance & Budget will hold a public hearing Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at 7 p.m. to present and receive comments regarding the fiscal year (FY) 2024 Staff Recommended Operating and Capital Improvement Budget. The public hearing will be held in the Commissioners Hearing Room, located in the Calvert County Circuit Courthouse, Second Floor, at 175 Main St. in Prince Frederick.

The public may dial in by phone (audio only) to participate remotely:

·         Toll-free: 888-475-4499

·         Meeting ID: 899 4188 8251

·         Passcode (if asked): #

·         To provide public comment: *9

The FY 2024 Staff Recommended Budget document will be made available for public viewing at least one week in advance of the hearing at  www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/PublicHearings. Hard copies will be available at the public libraries or by contacting the Department of Finance & Budget at 410-535-1600, ext. 2441, Dawn.Wood@calvertcountymd.gov.

To ensure full public access and transparency, the meeting will be streamed live on the Calvert County Government YouTube page at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov. The meeting will also be broadcast live on Comcast channel 1070 HD.

Reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities or linguistic barriers should be requested by contacting the BOCC office at 410-535-1600, ext. 2202, or TTY 1-800-735-2258.

Individuals interested in providing comment may submit written comments to 175 Main Street, Prince Frederick, MD, Attn: Dawn Wood, Budget Officer, or by email to Dawn.Wood@calvertcountymd.gov. Written comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on March 20 to be made part of the record.

Interested persons are encouraged to learn more about the budget development process at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/FY2024BudgetProcess.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

The County Commissioners will be holding these public meetings “virtually” and limited in-person. The public can watch this meeting on Comcast 95 (SD), Verizon FIOS 10, Roku or Apple TV streaming devices (Charles County Government), and the web at www.CharlesCountyMD.gov. Residents without internet service can listen to the meeting at 301-645-0500.

Wednesday, March 15
Charles County Commissioners’ Meeting

VIRTUAL PUBLIC HEARING SIGN IN BEGINS MARCH 14

Registration closes at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 15. To register to speak virtually at the 2022 Update of the Charles County Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan public hearing, call 240-776-6709. Registrants need to be available between 6 p.m.–9 p.m. to testify. If you are not available, we will move to the next speaker.

OPEN SESSION

5 p.m. – The Open Session of the Commissioners’ Meeting begins virtually and limited in-person at the Charles County Government Building (200 Baltimore Street, La Plata).

• Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance

• Roll Call

CLOSED SESSION

The Closed Session will begin at 5:05 p.m. (virtual and limited in-person). All or a portion of this session may be closed pursuant to Section 3-305(b)(1)of the General Provisions Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

VIRTUAL PUBLIC HEARING
6 p.m. – 2022 Update of the Charles County Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan

Visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/CommissionerMeetings for detailed information on the agenda.

Click Here to watch previously recorded meetings

AGENDAS ARE TENTATIVE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

On the morning of March 8, the nurse at La Plata High School requested the School Resource Officer’s assistance with a student that was hyperventilating and exhibiting abnormal behavior. The officer was able to calm the student down, and the student notified the officer that she had used a vape pen containing what was believed to be marijuana at school shortly before her symptoms began. The student was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment and is currently in stable condition. The student faces possible disciplinary consequences from CCPS. Anyone with information about this case should contact M/Cpl. Burger at 301-609-3282 ext.0475. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may direct the information to Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 866-411-TIPS(8477).

On Tuesday, March 7, Commissioners approved Charles County’s annual transportation priority letter to the Maryland Department of Transportation. Staff provided a presentation on transportation priorities, including support for Southern Maryland Rapid Transit, improvements to the US 301 Waldorf corridor, pedestrian safety enhancements at US 301/Smallwood Drive and MD 228/Western Parkway, projects to improve the Hughesville area, and Governor Harry W. Nice/Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton bridge replacement project. Staff also presented State Highway Administration planning priorities, transit-related projects, and requests for support from the Town of La Plata.

Legislative Update

Associate County Attorney Danielle Mitchell provided a legislative update for the 2023 Maryland General Assembly Session. Senate hearings have been held on all the bills related to the Commissioners’ proposed legislative package. Mitchell shared a letter of opposition from the Maryland Association of Boards of Education for House Bill 294/Senate Bill 926, which shifts burden of proof in administrative due process hearings for parents or caregivers who challenge an IEP designation. The Charles County Board of Education opposes the bill.

Open Session Briefings

• Planning and Growth Management staff presented a briefing and request for a public hearing for the zoning map amendment to the Maryland Garden Property. The applicant is requesting land be rezoned from residential to commercial for an area located at the corner of Billingsley Road, Old Washington Road, and Crain Highway in White Plains. Commissioners scheduled an in-person public hearing on Tue, Apr. 18 and a virtual public hearing on Wed, Apr. 19. Commissioners will hold the public hearings to receive comments on the draft bill related to the applicant’s proposal.

• Commissioners received a briefing on the Hughesville Village Water and Sewer project. The project’s goal is to develop a publicly owned water distribution and sewer system to Hughesville Village. Site selection and procurement are scheduled to occur later this year, with planning and design to follow over the next three years.
• State Senator Arthur Ellis presented a briefing on Senate Bill 130, which requests the Maryland Stadium Authority to review and make recommendations regarding the acquisition, financing and construction of the Charles County Sports and Wellness Center, to be transferred and owned by Charles County Government. The center is proposed by Senator Ellis to be located adjacent to Southern Maryland Blue Crabs Stadium. Senator Ellis agreed to have County Staff work with the State on this proposal.
• Carol DeSoto, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners, provided instructions on how the public can provide feedback on meeting agenda items by using “e-comments” feature that is being tested for Commissioner agenda items on the county’s website.
• The Commissioners approved a six-month trial period of option one for in-person and virtual public comment periods.  Thirty minutes will be added twice a month to Commissioner's meetings to allow speakers to comment on non-agenda items following the code of civility. Commissioners will not provide comments or engage with the speakers. The quarterly town halls will continue. Details to signup will be forthcoming.

Approval Items

• The Board of Education’s request for a commitment from the Commissioners to provide additional funds in the new elementary school project in the FY2024 budget to allow them to award the construction contract and begin work prior to the FY 2024 budget adoption.

• Changes to the standard operating procedures for Commissioners accounts and expense policy. Commissioners amended the procedures to ensure transparency by signing their expense report monthly and providing an annual public audit of their expenditures.

Public Hearing

County Commissioners held a hybrid public hearing on the use of Community Development Block Grant funds for the Westdale Stream Relocation project. The purpose of the stream relocation and restoration project is to treat water runoff and repair eroded areas of a stream that runs through Acton Village.   This project also helps the County toward meeting its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) MS4 Permit requirements. The project seeks to relocate the stream off private properties to reduce ongoing property damages while increasing water quality and improving wildlife habitat. County Commissioners voted to close the record. 

Proclamations

• National Women’s History Month
• National Agriculture Day

Viewing option of meetings: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session March 14-15, 2023

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258. 

The pedestrian has been identified as Juan Alcides Urias-Hernandes (35 yoa) of Waldorf, Maryland. (Waldorf, Maryland) – On Saturday, March 04, 2023, at approximately 2036 hours, Troopers from Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to United States Route 301 (Crain Hwy) in the area of Acton Lane for a report of a serious motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian. Due to the circumstances, the Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to assume the investigation. A preliminary investigation conducted by Troopers from the MSP La Plata Barrack and the MSP CRASH Team indicates a 2015 Porsche Macan S operated by Mark Anthony Conner Sr. (58 yoa) of Waldorf, MD was travelling on southbound United States Route 301 in the area of Acton Lane. At the same time, a pedestrian (35 yoa/male) who is not being identified at this time until next of kin can be located entered the travel lanes of southbound United States Route 301 and entered the travel path of the Porsche. The Porsche subsequently collided with the pedestrian. The pedestrian was not in a crosswalk or implied crosswalk at the time of the incident. Mr. Conner Sr. remained on scene and called 911. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased on the scene. Pedestrian impairment (alcohol) and pedestrian error appear to be factors in this collision. Anyone who may have witnessed this crash is asked to contact Sergeant J. Zimmerman of the MSP CRASH Team at (301) 392-1231. The investigation is continuing. (23-MSP-008138)

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Animal Adoption & Resources Center has announced that all dog adoption fees will be waived through March 31, 2023. Adoption fees will still apply for all other animals, excluding dogs and some specific animals that have been “sponsored” and paid in advance by other residents to encourage adoption. 

Since opening last September, the St. Mary’s Animal Adoption & Resource Center has been protecting, advocating for, and providing compassionate care to animals in need; facilitating over 340 animal adoptions. The Animal Adoption & Resource Center takes in and oversees adoptions for a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, reptiles, small mammals, birds, and more!

The shelter is open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from noon – 6 pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from noon – 4 pm. Walk-ins are welcome; no appointment necessary!

Residents can learn more about the Center and volunteer opportunities, view animals available for adoption, and watch the live kitty cam online at: stmaryscountymd.gov/animalshelter.

On March 6 at 3:43 p.m., a patrol officer observed a vehicle being driven recklessly on Billingsley Road in Bryans Road. A computer check on the vehicle’s registration indicated it had been reported stolen. The officer initiated a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled on Billingsley Road towards White Plains. The vehicle turned onto Crain Highway and travelled south, in the northbound lanes, before crashing at Willets Crossing Road in White Plains. All five occupants, which included two adults and three juveniles, fled on foot from the vehicle and were apprehended by officers. Shayne D'Lontay Watson, 18, of White Plains, was arrested and charged with the theft of the motor vehicle. Jaylon Ahmod Hall, 19, of White Plains, was arrested and charged with the theft of the motor vehicle and trespassing. The three juveniles were charged on juvenile offense reports and in accordance with Maryland law were released to parents. On March 7, a district court commissioner ordered that Watson and Hall could be released from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance. Officer D. Graham investigated.

 State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Kyle Dylan Dishner, 30, of Mechanicsville, MD, entered a guilty plea to a felony charge of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

On June 3, 2022, detectives from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office executed a search and seizure warrant pursuant to an ongoing narcotics investigation on Dishner and the vehicle he was driving. Detectives discovered several plastic bags with hundreds of capsules in the car. Dishner and the passenger were taken into custody, and forensic testing later determined that the capsules contained a mixture, including fentanyl.

State’s Attorney Sterling said, “I’d like to acknowledge the excellence of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Unit. The comprehensive investigation and tremendous police work prevented this supply of the deadly drug, fentanyl, from being available for purchase and consumption in St. Mary’s County.”

The maximum penalty for the charge is 20 years of incarceration. The defendant is being held without bond pending sentencing, which has been postponed to a later date.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Donna Pettersen prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

The Honorable Amy D. Lorenzini presided over the case.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) held a joint meeting with the Commanding Officer of Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, before their regular business meeting.

During the joint meeting, the Commissioners and the Commanding Officer discussed:

• Lowering speed limits on county roads in military family housing developments.
• Adding Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) disclosure statements to rental agreements within certain AICUZ areas.
• Plastic bag ban or reduction within St. Mary’s County and NAS Patuxent River.

Due to a technical malfunction, this meeting was unable to be recorded and therefore will not be posted to the St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) YouTube Channel or SMCG Channel 95.

The CSMC held their regular business meeting following the joint meeting, beginning with the invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The CSMC presented proclamations for Women’s History Month, National Developmental Disability Awareness Month and National Social Work Month. They also presented commendations to SMCG employees Bob Kelly and Jackie Elder.

During County Administrator time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Approved the Sheriff’s Office request to apply for the Maryland Highway Safety Grant for FFY2024 in the amount of $20,100.
• Approved the extension of the Medical, Prescription, Dental and Vision contract with CareFirst Blue Cross and Blue Shield for three years, beginning July 1, 2023.

Finally, the Commissioners received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The CSMC will host their next business meeting on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, at 9 a.m. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. CSMC meetings are open to the public, and can be viewed live Tuesday mornings on SMCG Channel 95 or as a replay Friday at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are also available for on-demand viewing on the St. Mary's County Government YouTube Channel.

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie B. Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) sent a letter urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to update and improve Maryland’s broadband mapping data based on the Office of Statewide Broadband’s comments on the National Broadband Map. As required by the Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability Act (Broadband DATA Act), the FCC is developing the National Broadband Map, which will display specific location-level information about broadband availability. Along with being a crucial tool for better understanding the state of broadband access in the country, this map will be used to determine the additional needs-based funding each state receives from the $42 billion available in the Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, which the lawmakers worked to create in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to increase connectivity and tackle the digital divide. Maryland will receive base funding of $100 million from the program, and accurate mapping by the FCC is critical to ensuring Maryland receives its full share of additional funding.

“Guaranteeing all Americans access to affordable, reliable, high-speed internet is a shared goal, and we appreciate the FCC’s commitment to this endeavor. To that end, we urge your agency to update and improve its broadband mapping data based on the feedback from our state’s broadband office,” the lawmakers wrote.

“The Office of Statewide Broadband (OSB) found approximately 3,800 addresses incorrectly identified as serviceable by internet service providers (ISPs) compared to the state’s information on unserved locations. […] The stakes are high: Inaccurate data will result in unfair funding allocations. As such, we ask the FCC to consider reviewing additional data from states through the end of March,” they continued. 

The lawmakers noted that already federal resources have made great progress in connecting Marylanders but challenges remain, stating, “For many, particularly in urban and suburban areas, the high cost of broadband has prevented them from acquiring the service. Families in rural areas, like in parts of Western Maryland and Maryland’s Eastern Shore, face greater distances to existing broadband infrastructure and fewer potential ISP customers per mile.”

“As the FCC implements the Broadband DATA Act, we look forward to working with you to consider whether current data collection efforts are sufficient to address mapping issues and whether additional legislative action is needed to incorporate other variables into the FCC’s collection efforts,” concluded the lawmakers.

Text of the letter can be found here and below.

Dear Chairwoman Rosenworcel:

We bring your attention to accuracy challenges submitted by the State of Maryland to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)’s National Broadband Map. Guaranteeing all Americans access to affordable, reliable, high-speed internet is a shared goal, and we appreciate the FCC’s commitment to this endeavor. To that end, we urge your agency to update and improve its broadband mapping data based on the feedback from our state’s broadband office.

We in the Senate cosponsored the Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability Act (Broadband DATA Act) that mandated the creation of the National Broadband Map, a crucial tool for understanding the state of broadband access in the country and appropriately directing federal funding to increase connectivity and address the digital divide. However, on the initial draft, Maryland’s broadband map dataset undercounts underserved and unserved households. The Office of Statewide Broadband (OSB) found approximately 3,800 addresses incorrectly identified as serviceable by internet service providers (ISPs) compared to the state’s information on unserved locations. The OSB submitted feedback as part of the challenge process to improve the accuracy of the FCC’s service availability data. This challenge process is a key component in creating a reliable dataset to determine the allocation of billions of dollars in broadband funding from the historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The OSB and other state broadband agencies report that extended challenge time would allow for a more thorough analysis and identification of additional unserved households. The stakes are high: Inaccurate data will result in unfair funding allocations. As such, we ask the FCC to consider reviewing additional data from states through the end of March.

While federal efforts are already making strides to connect every corner of Maryland, challenges remain. Over 183,000 Maryland households have enrolled in the FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which offers high-speed internet plans at low or no cost. In December 2022, the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced that Maryland received its first “Internet for All” grants—close to $6 million—to support the state’s work deploying high-speed internet networks, developing digital skills training programs, connecting with communities without access, and improving digital inclusion. These initiatives are meaningful for Maryland families. For many, particularly in urban and suburban areas, the high cost of broadband has prevented them from acquiring the service. Families in rural areas, like in parts of Western Maryland and Maryland’s Eastern Shore, face greater distances to existing broadband infrastructure and fewer potential ISP customers per mile.

We recognize that the development and maintenance of the Nationwide Broadband Map is an ongoing, iterative process and understand that state feedback is critical to ensure accuracy. As the FCC implements the Broadband DATA Act, we look forward to working with you to consider whether current data collection efforts are sufficient to address mapping issues and whether additional legislative action is needed to incorporate other variables into the FCC’s collection efforts.

Thank you for considering Maryland’s feedback. We look forward to supporting your continued efforts to ensure that all Americans have access to the opportunities and benefits of the digital age.

Sincerely,

Suspects Attempt to Elude Officers / Drugs and Gun Recovered: On March 4 at approximately 12:48 a.m., officers responded to the 4600 block of Prestancia Place in the Sheffield neighborhood of Waldorf for a report of a suspicious vehicle. When officers arrived, the suspect vehicle fled but was located nearby on Muirfield Court. When an officer approached the vehicle to speak to the occupants, the driver accelerated toward the officer and fled again. The officer checked the area and located the vehicle, which had crashed into the woods in the area of Sheffield Circle and St. George’s Drive. The driver fled on foot and a passenger remained with the vehicle. Officers recovered a handgun with an obliterated serial number and over three pounds of marijuana packaged for sale during a subsequent search of the vehicle. Further investigation revealed that the vehicle had been stolen from Washington, D.C.

The driver, Jahziah Milan Christian, 17 of Waldorf, was apprehended by patrol officers and charged as an adult with possession with intent to distribute, use of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime and other related gun charges, theft, attempt to elude a uniformed officer, first degree assault, reckless driving and other traffic charges. On March 6, a judge ordered Christian could be released from the Charles County Detention Center as long as he meets the conditions required for electronic monitoring. The passenger, Gekia Ynez Wright, 18, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute, use of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime and other related gun charges, theft, and first degree assault. On March 6, a judge ordered that Wright could be released on the condition that she pay a $3,000 bond. Officer J. Gordon investigated.

Drug Trafficking with a Firearm: On March 5 at approximately 1:21 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding in the area of Middletown Road and McDaniel Road in Waldorf. Upon making contact with the driver, the officer detected the odor of marijuana. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, the officer located a loaded handgun inside the vehicle as well as over 500 grams of marijuana packaged for distribution and additional paraphernalia. The driver, Percy Alexander Martin, Jr., 27, of Dumfries, was arrested and charged with CDS distribution with a firearm and other related gun charges. On March 6, a judge ordered that Martin could be released on personal recognizance. Officer J. Gordon investigated.

Officers Recover CDS and Gun in Vehicle During Traffic Stop: On March 3 at approximately 4:53 p.m., patrol officers initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the area of Mattawoman Beantown Road at Poplar Hill Road a traffic violation. Upon making contact with the occupants, officers detected the odor of marijuana. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers located a handgun as well as suspected MDMA (also known as ecstasy) with an estimated value of $4,100. All four of the vehicle’s occupants were arrested.

Genesis Trinity Buchanan, 22, of Alexandria, was charged with transporting a gun in a vehicle. On March 4, a commissioner released Buchanan on the condition that she pay 10% of a $5,000 bond. Antonaya Valerie Doyle, 28, of Washington D.C., was charged with a weapon violation. On March 4, a district court commissioner released Doyle on personal recognizance. Paul Anttwon Clark, 32, of Clinton, was charged with a weapon violation. On March 4, a district court commissioner released Clark on personal recognizance. Juwuan Lee Scott, 29, of Greenbelt, who is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction, was charged with handgun violations. On March 6, a judge released Scott on the condition that he does not have contact with the codefendants and that he does not possess firearms. Additional drug charges are pending lab analysis. Officer A. Boyle investigated.

Beginning March 7, 2023, community members may receive assistance with health insurance enrollment at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, located at 21625 Great Mills Road in Lexington Park. A Medicaid Specialist from the St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will be available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. to answer questions about health insurance options and assist with Medicaid enrollment. Appointments are highly recommended to avoid wait times; however, walk-ins will be welcomed as scheduling permits. SMCHD will continue to offer assistance with health insurance enrollment at its main office in Leonardtown, Monday through Friday, during regular business hours.
 
In order to expedite services, residents should bring the following documents to apply:

• Photo Identification 
• Proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card) 
• Social Security Number
• Proof of income (2 biweekly pay stubs or 4 weekly pay stubs) 
• Social Security income 
• Unemployment Benefits Letter

For questions or to make an appointment, please call 301-904-8949 or email smchd.healthhub@maryland.gov.

For more information about available health insurance programs, please visit smchd.org/healthinsurance.

To learn more about services and programs offered at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, visit smchd.org/hub.

The boil advisory has been lifted and the advisory rescinded by DPW.

The previous Boil Advisory issued March 3rd, 2023, has been rescinded by DPW. The water system has been repaired, brought back to service, tested, and shown to meet Safe Drinking Water Standards. The water is now safe to use for cooking, drinking, and eating water use. You may still experience water discoloration when turning the water back on inside your home; however, this is not a heath concern. If you experience water discoloration, when turning the water back on inside your home, please run the water from the lowest faucet in the house until the water becomes clear. Also, it is recommended that you run the washing machine once without a load of clothes, as well as discard the first batch of ice cubes made after the water comes back on, if you have an automatic ice machine in your refrigerator.

For further information or inquires, residents should call the Charles County Department of Public Works 

at 301-609-7400, the Charles County Health Department at 301-609-6751, or the Maryland Department of Environment at 410-537-3706.

Officers Investigating Fatal Crash on St. Charles Parkway: On March 5 at approximately 7:36 p.m., officers responded to the area of St. Charles Parkway near St. Mark’s Drive for the report of a single-vehicle crash. Upon arrival, officers observed a vehicle had gone off the roadway and into several trees. The three occupants of the vehicle – all juveniles – were ejected. Two of the individuals were flown to hospitals for treatment; one of those individuals is in stable condition, and the other remains in critical condition as of this writing. The third occupant of the vehicle was transported to an area hospital by ambulance and later pronounced deceased. The vehicle from the crash was determined to have been stolen. Identification on the individuals involved is pending confirmation. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact PFC D. Walker at 301-932-2222. The investigation is ongoing.

On March 5, 2023, at approximately 4:40 p.m., members of the Calvert County Sheriff's Office Patrol Division and Crash Reconstruction Team responded to the intersection of Bayside Road (MD Route 261) and Harbor Road in Chesapeake Beach, for a serious motor vehicle collision.

Upon arrival, units located a passenger car and a personal mobility scooter that were involved in a crash.   

Preliminary investigation revealed Christopher C. Carryington, 74 of North Beach, was operating his mobility scooter in the crosswalk across Bayside Road when he was struck by a 2001 Honda Accord, operated by Kathy Ann Jones, 67 of Owings, who was turning left onto SB Bayside Road when the collision occurred. As a result of the collision, Carryington was ejected from the scooter and sustained serious injuries. Carrington was transported to MedStar Hospital where he remains in stable condition.

At this time, it appears that driver error was a contributing factor to this collision.

The collision remains under investigation by DFC A. Ostazeski of Crash Reconstruction Team.  Anyone with additional information is asked to contact DFC A. Ostazeski at andrew.ostazeski@calvertcountymd.gov or by calling 410-535-2800. Please reference case
#23-15203.

The Department of Planning and Growth Management is accepting applications from Charles County landowners to participate in Maryland’s Agricultural Land Preservation Program and Rural Legacy Program. Completed applications must be filed with the Department of Planning and Growth Management by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 12, 2023.

The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF) and the Rural Legacy Program are designed to preserve farm and forest lands and other valuable natural resources by purchasing conservation easements from willing landowners. To learn more about these programs, visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/agriculture-and-land-preservation.

One of the Board of County Commissioners’ Goals and Objectives includes protecting the environment. Through the Rural Legacy Program, Maryland’s Agricultural Land Preservation, and the purchase and transfer of development rights in calendar year 2022, more than 1,700 acres of forest and farmland were preserved in Charles County.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Kathleen Seay at 301-645-0684 or e-mail SeayK@CharlesCountyMD.gov to obtain an application and receive assistance with completing the application. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 866-269-90

Michael B. Jordan's Rocky spinoff Creed III is the No. 1 movie in North America, earning $58.7 million in receipts this weekend.

Here’s the rest of the top 10:
2. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania - $12.5 million
3. Cocaine Bear - $11 million
4. Demon Slayer - $10.1 million
5. Jesus Revolution - $8.7 million
6. Avatar: The Way of Water - $3.6 million
7. Operation Fortune - $3.2 million
8. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish - $2.7 million
9. Magic Mike's Last Dance - $1.2 million
10. 80 For Brady - $845,000

Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt and Michael B. Jordan have been announced as presenters at the Oscars ceremony this Sunday. Other celebs scheduled to hand out statuettes are Riz Ahmed, Glenn Close, Jennifer Connelly, Ariana DeBose, Samuel L. Jackson, Troy Kotsur, Jonathan Majors, Melissa McCarthy, Janelle Monáe, Deepika Padukone, Questlove, Zoe Saldaña and Donnie Yen. Jimmy Kimmel has the hosting duties.

Chris Rock's latest stand-up comedy special, Selective Outrage, debuted on Netflix over the weekend, and as expected, he couldn't resist making some jokes about a past incident involving Will Smith. During the show, Rock expressed his admiration for Smith, whom he has always supported, but then went on to make some funny comments about the time when Smith smacked him in the face at the Oscars. Rock jokingly stated that he now watches Smith's recent film Emancipation, which depicts the life of a slave, just to see him get "whupped." He also poked fun at the fact that Smith, who often plays tough action heroes in movies, hit someone smaller that he knew he could beat. Rock then shared how the incident left him with a painful memory and even referenced the song "Summertime" ringing in his ear. He also revealed how people keep asking him why he didn't hit Smith back, and Rock humorously replied that his parents taught him not to fight in front of white people.

A bill in the Maryland Legislature would create a pilot program to study the impact of a four-day workweek. The pilot program would create a tax incentive for qualifying companies to move employees from a 40-hour week to 32 with no reduction in pay or benefits. The current bill would open the program to businesses with a minimum of 30 employees, although some discussion in committee hearings proposed to lower that to five employees. The bill includes a provision for the state Department of Labor to help companies realize productivity gains. Delegate Vaughn Stewart introduced the bill in the House and points to older views of the relationship between workers and their productivity.
"You even had folks like Richard Nixon in the '50s, predicting that we would be very soon moving to a four-day workweek. And really, if you look back at that time, the original American dream, it really was about the idea that American workers would have rising productivity over time, and that therefore we could have rising and increasing leisure time."
The British nonprofit 4 Day Week Global recently published results of a six-month trial of 61 companies involving over 3,000 employees, and 92 percent of firms said they will continue the four-day workweek. When asked to comment on the story, the Maryland Chamber of Commerce replied it's "not taking a position on the four-day work-week legislation."
Stewart says among his colleagues, this bill has garnered more interest from the public than any other. He says the governor has not taken a position on the bill yet, but he is optimistic.
"Gov. [Wes] Moore has made public service such a staple of the early days of his administration. I really think this bill is not only compatible, but a nice fit for that idea. "
If enacted, the four-day workweek pilot would last for a period of five years. The bill is currently in committee with versions of the bill in both the Maryland House and Senate.

WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service issued a consumer alert today to warn taxpayers of new scams that urge people to use wage information on a tax return to claim false credits in hopes of getting a big refund.

One scheme, which is circulating on social media, encourages people to use tax software to manually fill out Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, and include false income information. In this W-2 scheme, scam artists suggest people make up large income and withholding figures as well as the employer it is coming from. Scam artists then instruct people to file the bogus tax return electronically in hopes of getting a substantial refund – sometimes as much as five figures – due to the large amount of withholding.

The IRS along with the Security Summit partners in the tax industry and the states, are actively watching for this scheme and others. In addition, the IRS works with payroll companies and large employers – as well as the Social Security Administration – to verify W-2 information.

With National Consumer Protection Week starting Monday, the IRS and Summit partners warn people not to fall for these scams.

“We are seeing signs this scam is increasing, and we worry that innocent taxpayers could be at risk of being tempted into falling into a trap that puts them at risk of financial and criminal penalties,” said Acting IRS Commissioner Doug O’Donnell. “The IRS and Security Summit partners remind people there is no secret way to get free money or a big refund. People should not make up income and try to submit a fraudulent tax return in hopes of getting a huge refund.”

Two variations of this scheme are also being seen by the IRS; both involve misusing Form W-2 wage information in hopes of generating a larger refund:

• One variation involves people using Form 7202, Credits for Sick Leave and Family Leave for Certain Self-Employed Individuals, to claim a credit based on income earned as an employee and not as a self-employed individual. These credits were available for self-employed individuals for 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic; they are not available for 2022 tax returns.
• A similar variation involves people making up fictional employees employed in their household and using Schedule H, Household Employment Taxes, to try claiming a refund based on false sick and family wages they never paid. The form is designed to report household employment taxes if a taxpayer hired someone to do household work and those wages were subject to Social Security, Medicare or FUTA taxes, or if the employer withheld federal income tax from those wages.

The IRS reminds people who try this that they face a wide range of penalties. This may include a frivolous return penalty of $5,000. Filers also run the risk of criminal prosecution for filing a false tax return.

For anyone who has participated in one of these schemes, there are several options that the IRS recommends. People can amend a previous tax return or consult with a trusted tax professional.

(Waldorf, Maryland) – On Saturday, March 04, 2023, at approximately 2036 hours, Troopers from Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to United States Route 301 (Crain Hwy) in the area of Acton Lane for a report of a serious motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian. Due to the
circumstances, the Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to assume the investigation.
A preliminary investigation conducted by Troopers from the MSP La Plata Barrack and the MSP CRASH Team indicates a 2015 Porsche Macan S operated by Mark Anthony Conner Sr. (58 yoa) of Waldorf, MD was travelling on southbound United States Route 301 in the area of Acton Lane. At the
same time, a pedestrian (35 yoa/male) who is not being identified at this time until next of kin can be located entered the travel lanes of southbound United States Route 301 and entered the travel path of the Porsche. The Porsche subsequently collided with the pedestrian. The pedestrian was not in a crosswalk or implied crosswalk at the time of the incident. Mr. Conner Sr. remained on scene and called 911. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased on the scene. Pedestrian impairment (alcohol) and pedestrian error appear to be factors in this collision.
 Anyone who may have witnessed this crash is asked to contact Sergeant J. Zimmerman of the MSP CRASH Team at (301) 392-1231. The investigation is continuing. (23-MSP-008138)

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) graduation rates for the Class of 2022 indicate that nearly 93% of students graduated on time. Graduation rate data was released this week by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). The 92.6% graduation rate for the CCPS Class of 2022 is more than 5% higher than the statewide average.  

The four-year graduation cohort rate – which tracks student data from their freshman year through their senior year – statewide was 86.3% for 2022. The CCPS four-year cohort graduation rate dropped slightly from 93.6% in 2021 to 92.6% for 2022. All seven high schools graduated students at a rate of at least 88% percent or more. Graduation rates for the Class of 2022 by high school are as follows.  

• Henry E. Lackey High School: 92.62%.  
• La Plata High School: 92.88%.  
• Maurice J. McDonough High School: 92. 47%.  
• North Point High School: 97.81%.  
• St. Charles High School: 92.56%.  
• Thomas Stone High School: 88.24%.  
• Westlake High School: 90.31%.  

The percentage of CCPS students dropping out of school continues to decrease and remains lower than the statewide average. The CCPS four-year cohort dropout rate decreased from 4.49% in 2021 to 3.89% in 2022. The statewide drop-out average for 2022 is 8.5%, which increased from 7.4% last year.  

Specific CCPS student subgroups experienced an increase in graduation rates for 2022. The graduation rate for students with disabilities increased from 79.17% in 2021 to 81.62% in 2022. Additionally, the graduation rate for students identified as English Learners rose from 58.33% in 2021 to 62.12% in 2022.  

Superintendent of Schools Maria Navarro, Ed.D., said the graduation data for CCPS students indicates progress but also outlines important work necessary for students to continue to achieve.  

“Our commitment remains the same to ensure all students – regardless of their background – are college and career ready. The personalized graduation plans we have in place for high school students outline areas in which students may be struggling and are in need of extra help, such as grade or credit recovery, tutoring or other interventions,” Navarro said. “Our data indicates some gains and some losses. But our instructional teams, teachers and administrators regularly analyze student progress, make recommendations for growth and provide students with extra resources to catch up or remain on track to graduate with their peers. I am proud of our students, who remain focused on the goal to graduate.”  

How MSDE and CCPS monitor graduation rates by graduating classes  

The cohort graduation rate follows a student from their freshman year through their senior year. Data released this week by MSDE is the four-year cohort graduation rate for the Class of 2022 and includes Summer School graduates. Calculations follow students from the time they first enter Grade 9 and includes those who graduate after four years. The graduation rate is calculated by using the number of students who graduate in four years with a high school diploma divided by the number of students who form the adjusted cohort for that graduating class.  

How CCPS supports students toward graduation  

CCPS has a tracking system built into its student information system, Synergy, that outlines graduation progress for high school students. Starting with a student’s freshman year, data reports are calculated and uploaded to StudentVue and ParentVue that indicate their progress toward graduation. Once final grades are calculated at the end of the school year, updated reports are posted to StudentVue and ParentVue. CCPS provides these graduation reports for all high school students twice per school year. The tracking system was implemented by CCPS in 2021 as part of the college and career readiness requirement outlined in the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future legislation.  

“Our focus on graduation rates includes a consistent goal of meeting 100%. Much of this work is embedded into the school system strategic plan. CCPS continues to expand programs to support students after graduation and beyond, whether that is early exposure to college, additional technical trade certifications, or expanding our internship network so students graduate with unique skill sets needed to immediately enter the workforce. Our work is not only about ensuring students graduate on time but making sure they are ready for life after high school,” Navarro said.  

CCPS continues to offer alternative learning options for high school students to meet graduation requirements, such as grade and credit recovery programs, dual enrollment and early college programs, Virtual Academy and Summer School program offerings. Staff closely monitor student progress toward graduation requirements and implement action plans for students when needed.  

High school principals, as well as class counselors, monitor student transcripts and implement individualized plans for seniors who have not met graduation requirements. Student transcripts are also evaluated to confirm graduates have completed all requirements. CCPS transitioned to an updated transcript format in 2020 that outlines credits needed for a student to graduate based on their personalized graduation plan.  

Additionally, staff who work in the CCPS Office of Teaching and Learning consistently monitor data to determine which students are not on track to graduate on time due to difficulty with grades, attendance and/or behavior concerns. This allows for schools to update a student’s personalized graduation plan to add interventions in advance so the student has enough time to complete all graduation requirements.    

Where to view additional graduation rate data  

Graduation rate data for each Charles County public high school is posted on the Maryland Report Card website at https://reportcard.msde.maryland.gov/. To view data by school, enter the name of the school in the search box. Users can also select Charles County from the View District Data option.  

LEONARDTOWN, MD –  The St. Mary’s County Public Schools' website, www.smcps.org, will have a new look on Friday, March 3, 2023, as the school system transitions to a new website platform.  School sites will also feature a new design to deliver a cohesive look.  The new website platform will be easier to navigate and has additional accessibility features.  

All are encouraged to visit our site, follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and subscribe to us on YouTube.  Real-time information about our schools, informative videos, and Board of Education meetings will be available on social media and from links on the website.

During the transition to the new websites, some users’ browsers may access the old websites, while others are directed to the new websites.  This is expected during the transition, and everyone should be directed to the new websites within 24 hours of the transition.

If you have any questions or are experiencing any difficulty with the new website, contact the Department of Strategic Initiatives at 301-475-5511, ext. 32133.  

Middle School Student Charged with Disorderly Conduct / Assault / Resisting Arrest: On March 2 at the start of the school day, administrators at Milton Somers Middle School notified school resource officers about a fight that had just occurred. The students were separated; however one student was behaving disorderly and refused to comply with administrators. Officers made efforts to deescalate, but the student made numerous attempts to get away in order to continue the fight. He refused to comply and was placed under arrest, which he actively resisted. The school had been placed in a hold status due to the incident and an officer sustained minor injuries as a result of the student resisting arrest.

The student, a 14-year-old, was charged on a Juvenile Offense Report for affray, disturbing school operations, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and second-degree assault.  In accordance with Maryland law the student was released to a parent. In addition to criminal charges, he also faces disciplinary action from the Charles County Public Schools (CCPS). Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact M/Cpl. K. Burger at 301-609-3282 ext. 0475.

School Resource Officers Investigating Assault by Group of Students: On March 2 at approximately 10:19 a.m., a group of six students were threatening physical harm to another student in the hallway area of Thomas Stone High School. The School Resource Officer responded immediately and gave verbal commands to the students to disperse but they refused. One student approached, and struck the officer who was protecting the victim from the group. While still working to shield the victim the officer was pushed by other student who was trying to engage in a fight. An administrator was also assaulted while trying to prevent the fight. OC spray was deployed by the officer in order to stop the physical attack. The six involved students who initiated the attack were treated for OC exposure and released by Emergency Medical Services. They were then taken into custody and charged on juvenile offense reports with second degree assault and disrupting school activities.  In accordance with Maryland law, they were later released into the custody of their parents. They also face disciplinary sanctions by Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact PFC Payne at 301-609-3282 ext. 0452.

Board of County Commissioners' Town Hall Meeting
Wednesday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m.

In Person: Charles County Government Building (200 Baltimore Street, La Plata)

Submit questions/concerns in advance here: https://bit.ly/3q5xE7r.

Virtually: tune in at www.CharlesCountyMD.gov, Comcast 95, Verizon FIOS 10, or Roku or Apple TV streaming devices.

For more information, contact Carol DeSoto at DeSotoC@CharlesCountyMD.gov or call 301-645-0550.  Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 866-269-9006.

On Tuesday, February 28, the Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services, Department of Planning and Growth Management, and Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism staff provided a presentation to the Board of County Commissioners on fiscal 2024 congressionally directed spending. County Commissioners approved the request for earmarked funding.

Legislative Update

Associate County Attorney Danielle Mitchell provided a legislative update for the 2023 Maryland General Assembly Session. Updates included:

• Charles County Delegation amended Senate Bill 521/ House Bill 947 to include a combined income of less than $150,000 to be eligible for the tax credit. County Commissioners requested to send a letter to delegation requesting the original income eligibility.
• Updates on bond bills.
• Funds from the speed monitoring presented in House Bill 431 would go to the state.
• County Commissioners provided consensus to share testimony in support of Senate Bill 601/ House Bill 814.
• County Commissioners will submit letters to Charles County Delegation and Charles County Board of Education requesting their positions on Senate Bill 294, which pays for legal fees for parents or caregivers who challenge an IEP designation.

Open Session Briefings

• Department of Planning and Growth Management staff provided a presentation on Docket 90 Amendment #22-90(22) Wooded Glen and Piney Reach Master Plan. County Commissioners scheduled a public hearing in-person on Tuesday, March 28 and virtual on Wednesday, March 29. County Commissioners requested the Media Services Division develop a communication strategy for disseminating this information to the public and provide County Commissioners with this plan at a later session.
• College of Southern Maryland (CSM) President Yolanda Wilson and members of the Board of Trustees presented the CSM’s State of the College.
• Capital Services Division staff provided a bi-monthly update on Western Parkway roadway improvements. Phase 3B is expected to be completed in 2025.

Approval Items

• To reschedule Bill 2023-02 Maryland Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy Program public hearing for in-person on Tuesday, March 28 and virtual on Wednesday, March 29.
• A fiscal 2023 budget transfer request of $100,000 for the demolition of the Strawberry Hills standpipe in coordination, in order to construct a communication tower.
• A fiscal 2023 budget transfer request of $81,180 to fund the Waldorf Fire House Water Tower demolition project.
• A fiscal 2023 budget amendment increase of $77,370 to adjust the Charles County Sheriff’s Office sworn overtime budget for the year-to-date costs related to the Board of Education grant to enhance security at the Charles County Public Schools.
• A fiscal 2023 budget amendment increase of $129,830 to pay for damage to the electrical system at the Dorchester Pump Station due to a fire.
• A fiscal 2023 budget transfer request of $146,920 to partner with the Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) on the costs associated with the public-private partnership workgroup’s recommendation for CCPS to conduct a fiscal feasibility analysis.
• A fiscal 2023 budget amendment increase of $350,000 to increase the County Attorney’s Office general fund budget, in order to support revised costs associated with the declaratory judgement lawsuit.
• The Board of Education’s Intercategory Budget Change of $4.4 million to support administration, instruction costs, special education, operation and maintenance costs, and capital outlay costs.
• Changes to the bylaws for Adult Guardianship Review Board.
• A letter of support for State of Maryland’s bid for a FBI Consolidated Headquarters facility in Prince George’s County.
• A letter of support to the Southern Maryland Delegation to replace the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center’s magnetic resonance imaging machine used to serve the community.

Appointments

• Kevin Marek, Peter Kayode and Charles McClam to the Charles County Property Tax Assessment Appeal Board
• Commissioner Bowling as member and Commissioner Stewart as alternate to the MACo Rural Counties coalition
• Commissioner Collins to the Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee
• Commissioner Bowling and Brandon Foster to the Local Govt. Justice Reinvestment Commission

Public Hearing

County Commissioners held a public hearing in-person on Tuesday, Feb. 28 and virtually on Wednesday, March 1 on Bill 2023-01 Collective Bargaining for Covered Employees in the Department of Emergency Services. County Commissioners adopted the bill.

Proclamations

• Social Work Month
• National Deaf History Month
• National Nutrition Month
• Good Sportsmanship Month
• Irish American Heritage Month
• National Vietnam War Veterans Day
• National Cigar Day

Viewing option of meetings: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session March 7, 2023

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258. 

The St. Mary’s County Health Department is partnering with the Maryland Department of Labor to offer employment services at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub beginning March 8, 2023. These services will include career counseling, resume assistance, and professional skills workshops.
 
A Navigator from the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning at the Maryland Department of Labor will be onsite at the Health Hub, located at 21625 Great Mills Road in Lexington Park, every other Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
 
“A Re-Entry Navigator will guide you to employment opportunities, skills, and credentials and other local resources you might need in order to become independent and successful,” said Mr. Henry Franklin, Re-Entry Navigator Southern Maryland, Maryland Department of Labor. “This will be done through the services of local Southern Maryland Jobsource throughout all three counties - St. Mary's, Calvert, and Charles Counties.”
 
“Employment can offer stable income, access to health insurance, and a sense of social connectivity,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. "These are all important in addressing long-term health and mental well-being for adults and the children who depend upon them. We appreciate this partnership with the Maryland Department of Labor to support our community members in finding stable employment.”
 
To make an appointment for employment services at the Health Hub, please call 301-904-8949 or via email at smchd.healthhub@maryland.gov.  Walk-ins will be welcomed.
 
To learn more about services and programs offered at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, visit smchd.org/hub.

Governor Wes Moore today announced $13.4 million to support projects that create or preserve affordable rental housing units, awarded this morning during the Board of Public Works meeting. The board approved requests from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development to provide $10.4 million through the Rental Housing Works Program and $3 million from the Partnership Rental Housing Program to support three projects in Dundalk, Hanover, and Edgewood. 

“These programs are critical and effective state initiatives that create or preserve affordable housing rental units in communities across our state,” said Governor Wes Moore. “We are committed to ensuring that Marylanders in every county across the state have access to affordable housing, and we look forward to working in partnership with our local leadership to promote equitable housing opportunities for all.”

The Department of Housing and Community Development’s Rental Housing Works and Partnership Housing Rental programs provide financing for projects that create or preserve affordable rental housing units. The Rental Housing Works program finances rental housing that will be occupied by individuals with incomes at 60% of area median income. The Partnership Rental Housing Program finances rental housing that will be occupied by individuals with income of 50% below State-wide area median income.

The three projects include:

• $6.5 million in Rental Housing Works and Partnership Rental Housing loan program funds to support the new construction of a 72-unit age-restricted community to be located in Hanover, Anne Arundel County.

• $3.4 million in Rental Housing Works Program funds to support the new construction of a 68-unit age-restricted mid-rise apartment community in Edgewood, Harford County.

• $3.5 million in Rental Housing Works Program funds to support the new construction of an 84-unit age-restricted community to be located in Dundalk, Baltimore County.

“The funding approved today will provide more than 200 units of safe, high-quality affordable housing for Maryland's working families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Acting Secretary Jake Day. “Using the effective tools the department has at its disposal, such as the Rental Housing Works program, we are able to work with public, private, and nonprofit partners to leverage additional resources to support the state's investment.”

The board also approved more than $20 million to support numerous capital grants projects in Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Cecil, Frederick, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties and Baltimore City; $4.6 million request to support the construction of stormwater retrofits, outfalls, and streams restorations in Montgomery County parks; and $5.4 million to support Phase 2 construction of Morgan State University’s Health and Human Services Center.

For more information about today’s Board of Public Works meeting, visit: bpw.maryland.gov.

Officers Recover Loaded Firearm from Juvenile: On February 27 at 2:27 a.m., officers were patrolling the area of Lancaster Circle in Waldorf when they observed a male attempting to gain entry into a Hyundai which was parked in a driveway. As the officers approached, the male fled and got into another Hyundai which was occupied and parked nearby – the rear window of that car was broken out. The officer was concerned the vehicle may have been stolen due to recent auto thefts of Hyundai’s in the area and across the region. The officer attempted to stop the car, but the driver fled to New Forest Court where two passengers jumped out; the driver fled and was last seen in the area of Old Washington Road. Officers canvassed the area and located the two passengers who jumped out of the car. They were apprehended without incident. One of the males, age 16, was in possession of a loaded firearm which had an extended magazine with 15 rounds. He was charged as an adult with rogue and vagabond, 4^th - degree burglary, and weapons violations – he is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his age. A district court commissioner released him from the Charles County Detention Center on a $3,500 unsecured bond. The other male, age 16, was charged as a juvenile on a juvenile offense report with rogue and vagabond and 4^th - degree burglary. In accordance with Maryland law, he was released to a parent. PFC Wagner and Sgt. Harris are investigating.

Patrol Officers Recover Stolen Vehicle, Apprehend Occupants, and Recover Drugs and Replica Firearm: On February 25 at 3:02 a.m., officers were patrolling the area of Holly Tree Lane in Waldorf when they observed a Hyundai Elantra with a broken out window. The officers attempted to stop the vehicle but the driver fled. Officers pursued the car which came to a stop at a construction site near the dead-end of Western Parkway. All four occupants attempted to run from the vehicle but were quickly apprehended. Investigation showed the vehicle was reported stolen from Prince George’s County. Further investigation revealed 68 grams of suspected marijuana and a replica firearm, which turned out to be a BB gun, inside the car. Carlos Prince Jordan, 18, of Temple Hills, was charged with theft, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, destruction or property, and other related charges. The other three suspects included a 15-year-old male, a 16-year-old female, and a 17-year-old female. They were charged as juveniles and, in accordance with Maryland law, were released to their parents. On February 25, a district court commissioner released Jordan from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance. Cpl. Garner is investigating. 

Officers Recover Two Loaded Firearms during Drug Investigation: On February 23 at 10:12 p.m., officers were investigating a report of suspicious activity in the area of Black Bear Court in Waldorf. As officers approached the area, they observed numerous males standing near a car and detected the odor of marijuana. Three of the males ran, but two were immediately apprehended. One of the males, age 15, was in possession of a modified pistol with automatic firing capabilities and a loaded, extended magazine. The second male, age 17, had a loaded pistol with a loaded extended magazine strapped to his leg. The 15-year-old was charged as a juvenile with firearm violations and released to a parent in accordance with Maryland law. The 17-year-old was charged as an adult with illegal possession of a firearm, loaded handgun on person and other related charges. On February 27, a judge released the 17-year-old from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance. Officer Huston is investigating.

Bring some good luck to a shelter dog during the St. Pittie’s Day O’Dopt-A-Thon at the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter in Prince Frederick. In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, adoption fees for all dogs will be $17 from March 14-18, 2023. Regular adoption procedures still apply.

Adoption fees cover services that include age-appropriate vaccinations, spay or neuter procedures, microchipping and heartworm testing.

To qualify for adoption, individuals must be at least 18 years of age with a valid U.S. government-issued photo ID and have no history of animal cruelty. Potential pet adopters must complete a prescreening application, which helps shelter staff understand a potential adopter’s expectations for a pet, their lifestyle and the environment where a new animal would be placed. Renters must have proof of approval to adopt from their landlord or property owner. Potential adopters must also sign an acknowledgment that they are able to provide training, medical treatment and proper care for their new pet.

The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter, located at 5055 Hallowing Point Road, in Prince Frederick, is an open-admission animal shelter managed by the Animal Shelter Division of the Calvert County Department of Public Safety. Shelter hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please call 410-535-7387 to schedule an intake appointment. For more information about adopting from the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter visit www.CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.com.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

During the week of February 20 – February 26, 2023, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to 2,000 calls for service throughout the community.

Mail Tampering: 23-13246

On February 26, 2023, DFC Grierson responded to the 8200 block of Elm Lane in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of mail tampering. The complainant advised sometime overnight the mail was removed from his mailbox, ripped up, and thrown on the ground. This incident remains under investigation.

Theft: 23-11777

On February 21, 2023, Deputy T. Bowen responded to South County Tag and Title located at 167 Thomas Ave. in Owings, for the report of a parking complaint. Deputy Bowen arrived on scene and discovered the vehicle in question, a 2023 Penske International truck had been reported stolen through the Aberdeen Police Department. The tags on the vehicle were also reported stolen through Prince William County. The vehicle was unoccupied. There is no suspect information at this time.

Theft: 23-11510

On February 20, 2023, Deputy Hendrickson responded to the Giant Food Store located at 11740 Rousby Hall Road in Lusby, for the report of a theft. Contact was made with the complainant who advised a black female with dark red and black dreadlock-style hair, wearing a black jacket filled a shopping cart up with various items and fled the store. The suspect was observed loading some of the stolen items into a silver or white Ford Explorer before taking off towards Rt. 4. The store manager was able to retrieve the remaining items still in the shopping cart in the parking lot. The estimated value of stolen items was $458.59.

Theft: 23-11672

On February 21, 2023, Deputy Gadwill responded to the 3900 block of Summer City Blvd. in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between Feb. 17 and Feb. 21, an unknown suspect (s) stole a handicap placard from the victim’s vehicle. The estimated value of stolen property is $20.00.

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at (410) 535-2800 and reference the case number provided. Citizens may remain anonymous thru the ‘Submit a Tip’ feature on the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office mobile app. To download, visit https://apps.myocv.com/share/a39520678 . Tipsters may also email ccsotips@calvertcountymd.gov

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – March 1, 2023 – Calvert County residents and businesses can now apply for building permits from the comfort of their own home or office through the county’s Encompass online portal. This new feature expands the array of digital services already available to customers through the portal, which include the ability to pay for, manage and print permits.

Customers can visit Encompass.CalvertCountyMd.gov to register for an account. The portal enables customers to view all types of permits, including residential and commercial building, electrical, plumbing, gas and grading permits, as well as utility permits.

Credit card and eCheck payments are accepted through the portal for permits issued by Calvert County. A convenience fee of 2.7% for credit card payments and $2.25 for eCheck payments will be added to the permit transaction total.

Permits are required for certain residential and commercial projects to ensure that repairs, additions or alterations are done safely and meet building, construction and zoning codes. Anyone planning a project can visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Permit to be guided through what permits, forms, fees or approvals are required for a specific property or work type before getting started.

For additional information, contact the Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning, Office of Inspections & Permits at 410-535-2155 or by email at inspections.permits@calvertcountymd.gov. For help setting up an Encompass account, contact encompass@calvertcountymd.gov.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

School Resource Officer Investigating Reports of 4^th - Degree Sex Offenses at Westlake High School: On February 27, school administrators at Westlake High School were made aware that a male student had inappropriately touched two female students earlier this year while inside the school. The same male student was reported to have been involved in a similar case early last week, which was reported to school officials and the school resource officer on February 24. In that case, the male groped a female student in a stairwell of the school. Upon being made aware of the assaults, school staff and the school resource officer initiated an investigation. The school resource officer (SRO) has also contacted the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office regarding criminal charges. Anyone who has been touched or assaulted in a manner in which they believe is inappropriate is urged to contact a school staff member or the school resource officer, PFC Joffe, at 301-609-3282 ext. 0608. The investigation is ongoing.

The percentage of Maryland students receiving a high school diploma in four years remains consistently high, according to data released today by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE).

The four-year cohort graduation rate was 86.3% in 2022 which is only a small decrease compared to 87.2% in the prior school year. Students graduating in the 2022 cohort were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic for most of their high school experience. The pandemic impacted graduation rates in 2022 because schools closed in the spring of the students’ 10th grade year, and virtual learning was primarily applied until they returned to the physical classroom in their 12th grade year.

The graduation and dropout rates for student groups also remained largely constant from previous years, although gaps between student groups persist. Black/African American students saw improvement in the four-year graduation rate. Additionally, English Language Learners and students with disabilities both saw an improved four-year graduation rate and a decrease in the dropout rate since last year.

“Our students are resilient and even in the face of a global pandemic, they remained committed to their education and their futures,” said Maryland State Board of Education President Clarence C. Crawford. “We will continue to work to ensure that every Maryland student, regardless of race, income, or background has the support and resources to succeed. I am proud of the work that our districts have put in to ensure our students are career and college ready, especially over the last couple of years; however, it is critical that we continue to improve upon these numbers and give our students every opportunity to thrive.”

“We have much more work to do, especially after several years of learning disruption caused by the pandemic,” said State Superintendent of Schools Mohammed Choudhury. “These numbers affirm the unwavering commitment and active engagement of our teachers and school leaders in leveraging excellent and evidenced-based strategies to help our students realize their full potential. They reflect the resiliency of our students to graduate high school in the face of adversity, but we cannot stop here. We all must continue to focus on equity and excellence, so every student has limitless opportunities and potential for success.”

Also released was the five-year cohort graduation rate which is the percentage of students who graduate in five years. Maryland increased from 88.3% for the 2021 graduates to 89% in 2022.

Maryland cohort graduation rates are in line with federal reporting standards, which follows a set group of students from their first year through their senior year.

The new high school and system data will be available on the Maryland Report Card website. The Maryland School Report Card is available at MDReportcard.org.

Exacto Knife Recovered from Student who made a Threat: On February 28, students at Diggs Elementary School notified school staff that another student, age 9, was in possession of a knife and had made a threat to harm a classmate. The knife was recovered by school administrators. The school resource officer (SRO) initiated an investigation. The student cannot be charged in this case due to his age; however, the SRO has notified the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services as a matter of recordation and to offer services as needed. The Charles County Public Schools are handling the case administratively. Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Miedzinski at 301-609-3282 ext. 0668.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) held their regular business meeting on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, beginning with the invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The CSMC then welcomed Simone Ross, MPA, Executive Director for the Housing Authority of St. Mary's County (HASMC) to provide an informational briefing on the HASMC.

During County Administrator time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Approved the amendment to the lease between the CSMC and RCS Services LLC, the omnibus amendment and agreement between DMTU, LLC, Airtec Inc, and RCS Services.
• Approved the Sheriff's Office request to convert the vacant Investigative Detective position to a Court Security Officer position.
• Approved and certified the individuals qualifying for the 2022 Length of Service Awards - LOSAP service credit.
• Approved the agreement between CSMC and the Associates in Emergency Care for the purpose of providing paramedic students with required clinical experience.
• Approved the option contract between Ralph and Jacqueline Butler and the CSMC for the temporary construction easement area needed to construct the FDR Boulevard project.
• Approved the request letters/applications to the Federal Delegation requesting federal funding for St. Mary’s County CIP projects, to include the YMCA, Tulagi Place Extension & Roundabout, and Health Department Renovations.
• Authorized the Procurement Officer to award the Asphalt Overlay Services Contract for Calendar Year 2023 to Holcim-MAR.
• Approved the budget amendment decreasing salary and fringe accounts and increasing the CSMC Emergency Reserve account in the amount of $123,743 due to salary savings.
• Approved the Resolution 2023-03, supplementing Resolution 2021-18 authorizing the issuance of general obligation bonds of the County by designating additional projects authorized to be financed with the proceeds from the sale of such bonds.

The Commissioners then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

Finally, the Commissioners held a memorial ceremony honoring Debbie Barker.

The CSMC will host their next business meeting on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. This meeting will open at 9 a.m. with the Joint Meeting* of the CSMC and the Commanding Officer of NAS Patuxent River at the Frank Knox Employee Development Center in Lexington Park. The CSMC will adjourn following the joint meeting and resume regular business at 11 a.m. in the Commissioner’s meeting room, located in the Chesapeake Building in Leonardtown.

CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. CSMC meetings are open to the public, and can be viewed live Tuesday mornings on SMCG Channel 95 or as a replay Friday at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are also available for on-demand viewing on the St. Mary's County Government YouTube Channel.

*Please note that the Joint Meeting of the CSMC and Commanding Officer will not be broadcast live, due to the alternate meeting location, but will be available after the meeting on YouTube and as a replay on SMCG Channel 95.

Patrol Officers Recover Loaded Gun / Driver Prohibited from Possessing Firearm: On February 25 at 4:25 p.m., officers initiated a traffic stop in the area of St. Thomas Drive in Waldorf after observing the registration plates on the vehicle were covered. Upon approaching the driver, the officer detected the odor of marijuana. Further investigation led to the recovery of marijuana and a loaded firearm with a 15-round magazine inside the vehicle. A check revealed the driver was prohibited from possessing firearms as a result of an active protective order. Rashad Wallace Crowder, 31, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with illegal possession of a firearm, transporting a loaded firearm in a vehicle, violation of a protective order, and other related charges. On February 26, a district court commissioner ordered Crowder could be released from the Charles County Detention Center after paying 10 percent of a $4,500 bond. Officer Heishman is investigating.