[0:09] Okay, we're gonna bring the meeting back to order.

[0:12] Backing up. I'm taking 'em home tonight.

[0:16] Okay. Welcome to the Queen

[0:17] Anne County Commissioners meeting.

[0:18] This is a public meeting

[0:19] that is being aired live on our local cable television

[0:21] station, QAC TV seven.

[0:24] These media broadcasts provide county citizens an

[0:26] opportunity to watch and review our

[0:28] scheduled public meetings.

[0:29] In addition to our live audience this evening,

[0:31] we are providing re remote options for citizens to watch

[0:33] and participate in the county commissioner meetings.

[0:36] Citizens may watch our meeting live on our website at

[0:39] qac.org/live,

[0:41] or on our public access television channel

[0:45] provided by Breeze Line Cable Services.

[0:48] Citizens may also participate

[0:49] by joining the live Zoom meeting by going

[0:50] to qac.org/public comments.

[0:55] Citizens may also email comments to public comment@qac.org

[0:59] and all comments will be summarized

[1:01] during the pressing public comment period.

[1:02] On tonight's agenda, we acknowledge everyone's participation

[1:06] and by attending you acknowledge

[1:08] that this session is both recorded and aired pressing.

[1:11] Public comment will be taken

[1:13] and is limited to three minutes per person.

[1:15] If you do care to speak,

[1:16] please sign up at the information table

[1:17] and our lobby comments.

[1:19] Longer than three minutes can be submitted in writing

[1:21] for the commissioner's review.

[1:23] We will now stand and be led in the

[1:24] Pledge of Allegiance by commission.

[1:25] President Jim Moran

[1:29] I pledge of allegiance

[1:30] To the flag of the United States of America

[1:34] and to the republic for which it stands,

[1:36] one the nation under God, indivisible,

[1:39] with liberty Justice for all. If

[1:42] You can remain standing for a moment of silence

[1:44] for Paul Gunther passed away.

[1:57] Thank you.

[2:07] All right. Good evening everybody.

[2:09] So that brings us to the approval

[2:11] for the agenda for tonight's meeting.

[2:13] So our agenda for today's meeting June 9th, along

[2:17] with the regular session minutes,

[2:18] the closed session minutes from May 26th.

[2:21] They've all been circulated for review.

[2:23] Any additions or corrections

[2:26] Make a motion to add two additional

[2:29] desk items to the agenda.

[2:31] Second, no motion to second. Any discussion?

[2:34] All those in favor? Aye. Aye. Aye. Opposed? So moved.

[2:37] Five oh. Motion to accept the agenda as amended

[2:41] and the minutes as submitted.

[2:43] Second. Motion to second. Any discussion? Seeing none.

[2:47] All in favor signify saying aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Very well.

[2:52] Five moved.

[2:54] All right. Thank you commissioners.

[2:56] So we just held a closed session under the general

[2:59] provisions article, section 3, 3 0 5 B one for boards

[3:02] and commissions and personnel,

[3:04] and I think we have a couple

[3:05] board appointments to make. Next

[3:07] I move to reappoint Scotty McLain

[3:09] to fill the vacancy on the Agricultural

[3:11] Preservation Advisory Board.

[3:12] This term will expire on June 30th, 2030. One second.

[3:17] We have a motion to sec second. Any discussion? See none.

[3:21] All those in favor signify by saying Aye. Aye.

[3:23] Opposed? Five Oh,

[3:26] I move to appoint Devin Jones

[3:28] and reappoint, Giselle Gare, Michelle Johnson

[3:33] and Gail Lundberg to our local management board

[3:37] and their terms will go till June 30th, 2029. Second,

[3:42] We have a motion to second Any discussion on this item?

[3:45] Seeing none. All those in favor signify saying Aye. Aye.

[3:47] Aye. Aye. Aye. Five. Aye.

[3:54] Alright. Thank you Commissioner.

[3:55] That brings us to press and public comment.

[4:00] So we appreciate all citizens for taking time

[4:02] to express views to the county commissioners.

[4:06] Comments are limited to three minutes per person

[4:08] Comments longer than three minutes

[4:09] can be submitted in writing.

[4:10] This commission respects your desire

[4:12] and right to convey your message freely.

[4:14] When you come forward, please speak clearly at the standing

[4:17] mic, microphone, state your name, your address,

[4:19] and your topic of interest.

[4:20] And in keeping with the dignity of our office, we ask

[4:23] that all views be expressed in a

[4:24] respectful and civil manner.

[4:27] Let's see. The first person signed up was Eric Levier.

[4:31] Yes sir. My name is Eric Lavos.

[4:35] I'm the community President for the Harvey

[4:36] View Community on Ken Island.

[4:39] And it's a concern of ours

[4:40] of these unidentified delivery vehicles.

[4:44] I'm here as representative of the Harvey View community,

[4:46] located in Chester on Kent Island.

[4:48] Like many of the communities in Queen Anne County, the issue

[4:51] of unidentified delivery vehicles in our community,

[4:54] these delivery vehicles are mostly Amazon delivery trucks

[4:57] or vehicles, but can also be related

[4:59] to companies like DoorDash.

[5:01] The vehicle speed through our neighborhood parked officially

[5:04] in the roadway and aggressively enter people's driveways.

[5:07] I have personally witnessed one

[5:08] of these vehicles aggressively enter my driveway

[5:11] with no identifying markings and have li tin windows.

[5:14] The operator of the vehicle sat in there in his vehicle

[5:16] for a short period of time and then got out.

[5:19] It wasn't until they exited the vehicle that I noticed

[5:21] that they had an Amazon vest on

[5:23] and then made the delivery and departed.

[5:29] This is not an isolated incident.

[5:30] It is occurring weekly in Harborview,

[5:32] and I'm sure it's occurring weekly

[5:34] in other communities as well.

[5:35] I'm concerned that this practice

[5:37] of these delivery services may lead

[5:39] to an unfortunate incident.

[5:42] There may be citizens in Queen Anns County

[5:44] that have protective orders

[5:45] or other concerns for their safety

[5:46] and may be concerned when a vehicle feeds into their

[5:49] driveway or it's officially parked in front of their house.

[5:52] They have no idea why

[5:57] A confrontation may ensue

[6:00] and an unfortunate accident may happen

[6:02] because they do not know who these people are.

[6:05] And then there is an argument

[6:06] and we don't want that to happen.

[6:08] Especially not in Harborview Amazon Flexes delivery service.

[6:13] If you go on their website,

[6:14] the only thing needed is a cell phone, a driver's license,

[6:17] and a four door sedan.

[6:19] Once they hire you, they will give you a vest.

[6:21] There is nothing that identifies who this vehicle is

[6:24] or who these people are.

[6:26] There are far too many issues to speak of here today.

[6:29] During my time, I fully understand

[6:31] that these drivers are working to make a little extra money.

[6:33] They are working the hours that work best for them.

[6:36] However, the safety of our community comes first.

[6:39] We're requesting that Queen Anne County Commissioners take a

[6:41] look into these delivery practices.

[6:43] Any of the Paso County ordinance will work

[6:44] with our state officials to pass legislation

[6:47] that we require these vehicles to be identified.

[6:50] The Amazon trucks are identified,

[6:51] these Amazon vehicles should be identified

[6:53] as well the company's profit by not paying for vehicles.

[6:58] And they pay these people at lower wages.

[7:00] They don't have to pay 'em healthcare or anything like that.

[7:01] They have horse bed for Amazon.

[7:03] Everybody should be treated the same.

[7:05] And the homeowner should know whoever comes into their

[7:07] property in their driveway feels safe

[7:09] that this is a legitimate delivery

[7:11] and not just somebody that's speeding into their driveway

[7:13] and coming up into their property.

[7:17] I re respect your attendance

[7:19] to this matter and your support.

[7:20] Thank you very much. Thank you You Jay Fsad.

[7:28] Good evening commissioners.

[7:29] Jay Fsad, queen Ann Conservation Association.

[7:32] I just wanted to get in a last comment on 26 9

[7:36] and 26 10 before you all vote on it later tonight.

[7:41] I just wanna emphasize

[7:42] that both the non-contiguous development

[7:44] and TDR programs were established to protect

[7:48] and preserve agricultural land

[7:51] within our code are a bunch of things

[7:54] that have nothing at all to do with agriculture.

[7:56] And if you look at the recreation section of the code,

[7:59] you can have things on on preserved open space such

[8:02] as golf courses, tennis courts,

[8:05] and other things that have nothing to do with agriculture.

[8:09] I'm not disputing the need for landowners to adjust.

[8:13] Lot lines and staff will properly tell you that the things

[8:17] that I'm mentioning are already allowed on

[8:19] agricultural land now.

[8:20] And that is a true statement.

[8:22] All I'm suggesting is that

[8:24] by allowing these lot line adjustments as text amendment

[8:28] 26 9 and 26 10 do, you're increasing the probability

[8:33] that these non-agricultural uses will ultimately be allowed.

[8:37] And at the end of the day, I hope you'll find a way

[8:40] to at least amend it.

[8:42] The this ordinance so that these

[8:45] non-farm uses are taken out.

[8:48] Absent that, if you wanna revisit the issue

[8:51] entirely, that's okay too.

[8:53] But at the end of the day, these programs were meant

[8:56] to protect ag land.

[8:58] What does a golf course have to do with agriculture?

[9:01] Nothing. What does a tennis court

[9:02] have to do with agriculture?

[9:04] And those things really ought

[9:05] to just be taken out altogether.

[9:07] And that's really all I'm asking for that are all

[9:10] that I'm hoping that you'll consider it's

[9:12] a reasonable request.

[9:14] I hope we can find a way to do it.

[9:16] I'm not opposed to anything that the applicants want to do.

[9:19] I understand the need to adjust lot lines

[9:21] for geologic reasons or for a driveway

[9:23] or access that's all perfectly reasonable.

[9:26] But allowing golf courses and tennis courts

[9:29] and all this other stuff on agricultural land flies in the

[9:32] face of everything that this county has done

[9:34] with its great record of land preservation.

[9:37] And I just hope we can find a way to continue

[9:39] that. Thank you. Thank

[9:40] You.

[9:42] Nobody else has signed up. Would anyone else like to speak?

[9:45] Yes ma'am.

[9:49] Alright. My name is Ann Goodman and I'm,

[9:55] I had sponsored, my husband

[9:57] and I, James had sponsored an amendment

[10:02] that then we worked with Jeff Thompson

[10:05] and planning

[10:07] and zoning to merge three

[10:12] amendments into what you see as 26 9 and 26 10.

[10:17] I thought that the comment period was over the last time we

[10:20] met on this, so I just

[10:22] don't understand why we're still standing here

[10:24] and letting people comment on it.

[10:29] The hearing was open for two weeks to the next meeting so

[10:32] that it was basically when the, when

[10:33] It raised hearing, I thought that it was open

[10:36] for written comment. Well,

[10:37] We leave the record open so if the record's open,

[10:39] it can be written or it can be verbal.

[10:41] Right. And this you, you're in pressing public comment time.

[10:44] Okay. Say Comments on everything. Yeah.

[10:49] Then I do want to reiterate that the proposal

[10:54] doesn't change anything with respect

[10:59] to the agreements that were already made between the county

[11:01] and the landowners on the open space

[11:05] involved. Thank you. You're

[11:07] Welcome.

[11:08] Thank you. Thank you. Anybody else like to speak? Yes, sir.

[11:14] Commers Jeffrey Thompson.

[11:15] I'm representing the applicant's in this case.

[11:18] The only thing I'd like to point out Mr.

[11:20] Jones' report of, of today's date that she's submitted

[11:22] to you is that the only really permitted use

[11:26] is public recreation.

[11:28] Those are recreation facilities that you approve.

[11:31] The others are all conditional uses.

[11:33] And by way of example, tenant courts, golf, all

[11:36] of those are conditional uses

[11:37] requiring board of appeals approval.

[11:40] And recently someone proposed a,

[11:43] a pickleball court in the Ag Zone

[11:46] and it was rejected by the Board of Appeals.

[11:48] So there's, there's a showing there that again,

[11:51] only you have control over without Board of appeals approval

[11:54] to do any of those activities. Thank you.

[11:57] Thank you. Anyone else?

[12:00] Yes, you do have a letter for the

[12:02] comprehensive water and sew plan.

[12:04] You want me to read that now or wait,

[12:06] It's the first one up on the agenda.

[12:08] Let's read it now. Okay. Yeah.

[12:11] This letter comes from Annie Richards,

[12:12] our Chester River Keeper at the Shore Rivers

[12:15] to the Queens County Commissioners.

[12:16] Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on behalf

[12:18] of Shore Rivers, a water quality organization working

[12:20] to protect Eastern shore waterways,

[12:22] including the Chester Miles y in Eastern Bay

[12:25] and other tributaries within the Queens County.

[12:27] I'm writing to express our strong support

[12:28] for the proposed amendment 1127 To the Queens County water

[12:32] and sewer plan, septic pollution represents a significant

[12:35] and growing threat to water quality in Chester

[12:37] River and across the county.

[12:39] Aging and failing septic systems contribute excess

[12:42] nutrients, bacteria, and other pollutants to our waterways.

[12:44] Degrading aqua aquatic sy ecosystems harming fisheries

[12:48] and putting public health and drinking

[12:50] water supplies at risk.

[12:51] These challenges are only expected to intensify

[12:54] as rising ground water levels, salt water intrusion

[12:57] and increased development pressure further compromised

[12:59] septic system performance.

[13:01] For these reasons, shore River strongly supports the

[13:03] county's proactive approach to assigning sewer allocation

[13:06] for the purpose of connecting impaired septic systems

[13:09] to advance wastewater treatment infrastructure.

[13:12] Prioritizing septic to sewer conversions is one

[13:15] of the most effective strategies available

[13:16] to reduce nutrient pollution at its source

[13:19] and improve long water quality outcome.

[13:22] This amendment reflects a thoughtful

[13:23] and forward-looking commitment

[13:24] to protecting the Chester River

[13:26] safeguarding local drinking water

[13:28] and supporting resilience sustainable communities.

[13:30] By directing limited wastewater capacity towards addressing

[13:34] existing environmental and public health challenges,

[13:36] the county has taken an important step towards

[13:38] responsible growth management.

[13:39] We rec, we commend the county for advancing this amendment

[13:43] and encourage its adoption.

[13:44] Sincerely, any Richards

[13:46] Right?

[13:49] Alright, we're done with press, public comment,

[13:52] moving on. Alright.

[13:54] Alright. Commissioners,

[13:55] we can go into the legislation portion of the agenda

[13:58] and as you know, we have a number of bills

[14:01] that we've had hearings on.

[14:02] It can be voted on this evening.

[14:04] So tab number seven,

[14:07] item one on page one.

[14:09] The first one we have is the comprehensive water

[14:11] and sewer plan, public hearing decision for the Marlin Farms

[14:15] and Dominion sewer sewer service area map.

[14:18] And this is the service area map that would provide for

[14:22] public sewer extension to the Marlin Farms

[14:24] and Dominion areas.

[14:26] This map would then allow this project to be

[14:30] pursue a public health exemption from the Smart Grid

[14:33] Coordinating Committee so that

[14:34] that action could be taken at some point in the future

[14:37] to provide public sewer to these two areas

[14:40] that have public health concerns.

[14:41] This is kind of the step one

[14:44] I move to approve the amendment,

[14:45] to place the Marlin Farm slash Dominion Sewer Service map

[14:48] into the 2011 comprehensive

[14:50] Water sewage plan.

[14:51] Second, we have a motion and a second.

[14:54] Any discussion on this? Long

[14:57] overdue and looking forward to it.

[14:59] Let's march on. Yep.

[15:00] Seeing no other comments,

[15:02] all those in favor signify by saying Aye.

[15:03] Aye. Aye. Opposed? Five. Oh. Alright.

[15:07] Thank you commissioners. Item number two on pages two

[15:12] and three is county ordinance 26 0 4 uses allowed

[15:16] to occupy in excess of 65,000 square feet

[15:19] of gross floor area and the airport protection

[15:22] and Kent Island Gateway District.

[15:24] And the intent of this amendment is to add boat sales

[15:28] and repair and marinas to the list of individual uses

[15:31] or tenant space that can occupy more than 65,000 square feet

[15:35] of gross floor area within the airport protection.

[15:37] And Kent Island Gateway District.

[15:43] And this can be veteran as well.

[15:44] Planning Commission did send a favorable report

[15:46] to the commissioners for this proposed

[15:49] Ordinance.

[15:50] Do you have the motion? Yes. So am I

[15:53] 26 0 4

[15:56] I I move to adopt county ordinance 26 0 4.

[16:00] Second We have a motion and a second.

[16:02] Any discussion on this item? Seeing none.

[16:05] All those in favor signify the saying Aye. Aye. Opposed?

[16:08] Aye. Five. Oh.

[16:11] Alright. Thank you commissioners.

[16:13] Item number three on pages four and five, excuse me.

[16:17] As County Ordinance 26 0 7 non-residential floor area in the

[16:22] Waterfront Village Center zoning district.

[16:25] And the intent of this ordinance is

[16:27] to increase the buy right maximum non-residential floor area

[16:30] from 30 to 40% within the Waterfront

[16:34] Village Center district by

[16:35] and remove the bonus standard that allows

[16:37] for a floor area ratio of 40%.

[16:40] Also recommended favorably by the Planning Commission

[16:46] Motion to adopt Ordinance 26 0 7.

[16:49] Second We have a motion to second. Any discussion?

[16:53] Seeing none. All this in favor signify by saying aye a. Aye.

[16:57] Opposed? Abstain. I vote.

[17:02] Commissioners. Next up, item four on pages six

[17:05] and seven, county ordinance 26 0 8 commercial apartments in

[17:09] the Waterfront Village Center zoning district.

[17:13] The intent of this ordinance is to add additional provisions

[17:16] to allow commercial apartments within the Waterfront Village

[17:19] Center district to locate the commercial apartment dwelling

[17:22] unit on any same floor, including the first floor.

[17:25] Also recommended favorably by the planning commissioners

[17:32] Motion to adopt Ordinance 26 0 8.

[17:35] Second. We have a motion

[17:36] to second Any discussion on this, Amy?

[17:39] This also allows commercial to be on the top floor, right?

[17:42] Yeah. Which I think it's a great idea.

[17:44] So better review Any other discussion? Seeing none.

[17:49] All those in favor signify the saying. Aye. Aye. Aye.

[17:52] Opposed? So moved.

[17:56] Alright, commissioners. Moving on.

[17:57] Item number five on pages eight through 14,

[18:01] county ordinance 26 0 9.

[18:03] This a amend, this is an amendment to the transfer

[18:06] development rights standards TDRs.

[18:09] And this would amend the transferable development rights

[18:13] standards to allow for a transfer

[18:15] or parcel, which is designated

[18:16] as open space following the conveyance of development rights

[18:19] to be subdivided through the administrative subdivision

[18:21] process to accommodate lot line adjustments,

[18:24] but not to be reconfigured to create a new lot

[18:29] planning commission also recommended

[18:30] favorably on this amendment.

[18:43] Any mey, miny mo I mean,

[18:48] I'll bring the motion up to get it to discussion,

[18:50] but I have discussion, so I'll, I will make a motion for,

[18:53] to push 26 0 9 or to adopt 26 0 9.

[18:58] I'll second it. We have a motion to second any discussion?

[19:00] Yeah, I mean, I, I'm got these papers.

[19:03] I'm going through a lot of these use,

[19:04] I I guess I, I get the point.

[19:06] I'm all good with the whole lot line moving.

[19:08] I have no problem with any of that,

[19:09] but I, I really don't see why it's very simplistic

[19:12] to just strike the non agricultural uses

[19:16] and get rid of it as, as an amendment to it.

[19:18] If you move your lot lines, then you can't do any

[19:20] of these things whether conditional or permanent.

[19:22] That's all my thing. I just don't understand why it's a big

[19:24] deal to get rid of that if you move the lot lines.

[19:26] I I don't know that it is a big deal.

[19:28] So, so you you want to amend the, I would like to amend it

[19:32] to have that struck if you were

[19:34] to move your lot lines, that's all.

[19:36] So does it have to be rewritten?

[19:38] We'd have to amend the bill to do that. Yeah. It

[19:41] Have to go back to the planning commission.

[19:43] So basically what we do is send it

[19:44] back to planning and zoning.

[19:47] I'd have to check with the attorney.

[19:49] I don't know that that would be a substantive change.

[19:51] It could be. That's you're you're talking about changing the

[19:53] use applicable for the, I mean the zoning district's.

[19:57] Amy, do you have an opinion on that?

[19:59] I, I think we would need to get a legal determination as

[20:02] to whether or not this change meets the substantial

[20:06] threshold, but likely it would, so likely this would need

[20:10] to go back to the planning commission

[20:13] for a recommendation on the proposal as amended

[20:18] An adjust your, adjust your motion

[20:20] to just amend it and send it back.

[20:23] Well you gotta do the, we have

[20:24] to vote on the amendment first and then vote on we So you're

[20:28] gonna table, you're gonna table the,

[20:30] we're gonna table the 26 0 9

[20:31] until it's amended basically. Correct.

[20:33] Have to table it and have senate

[20:34] it to planning commission.

[20:35] So I, so I'm gonna make the, the motion for the amendment

[20:39] to strike the non-agricultural uses from

[20:45] uses permitted when you move the lot line for 26 0 9.

[20:50] So, okay. Second.

[20:54] You got a motion to second on A is,

[20:57] I don't even know if we should, we need to do that.

[21:01] Well we gotta pass the amendment

[21:02] to send it back to planning commission.

[21:03] It's gotta be official that we're sending it back. Well

[21:06] You should, you should make a motion to take, send

[21:07] An un unloaded amendment back

[21:08] To the plaintiff.

[21:09] There was a motion in, there was a motion on the floor to

[21:13] Approve this.

[21:14] So we have to, to approve this as is.

[21:15] Yeah, so, so I'm gonna withdraw my 26 0 9 motion. Correct.

[21:19] Okay. And then I, my amendment motion will stand.

[21:22] Yep. Yes. Amy,

[21:26] Can I ask for a point of clarification on the amendment?

[21:29] And that is, are you proposing

[21:32] to strike non-agricultural uses upon

[21:37] re upon re subdivision upon lot line adjustment

[21:40] or entirely from Entirely?

[21:43] No, just during, only during a lot line adjustment,

[21:45] which is what this is actually trying to do

[21:47] and accomplish is being able to adjust the lot lines.

[21:49] So, okay. Yeah, that'll keep 'em all in AG uses.

[21:54] And then we had a motion in a second on that

[21:56] to send this back as as amended.

[21:59] So all those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. A Aye aye.

[22:04] Aye. Five. Oh, you good? Okay. So

[22:08] Back to the planning commission on 26 0 9.

[22:13] Right. Okay.

[22:14] So county ordinance 26 10 amendments to the

[22:18] non-contiguous development standards.

[22:21] Similar intent here

[22:23] Then word again,

[22:25] This would amend the NCD standards to allow non-contiguous

[22:30] and developed parcels which are designated as open space

[22:32] to be subdivided through the open

[22:34] through the administrative subdivision process.

[22:36] Again to accommodate lot line adjustments,

[22:38] but not to be reconfigured to

[22:41] add an additional lot or create a new lot.

[22:43] So similar to the 26 0 9, but for NCD.

[22:49] So I'll introduce an amendment to get rid of the

[22:53] same non-agricultural uses

[22:56] from 26 second, which is a second.

[23:00] We have a motion and a second. Any discussion?

[23:04] Basically just same thing as 26 0 9. Okay.

[23:10] All those in favor? Aye. Aye. Aye. Bye. Oh, thanks Amy.

[23:15] Alright, thanks Amy. Okay,

[23:20] Commissioners, moving on.

[23:21] Item number seven on pages 22 through 26,

[23:25] this is county ordinance 26 12 amendment number one

[23:30] to the Queen Annes County Forest Conservation Act,

[23:32] chapter 18 of the code of Public local law.

[23:35] This can be introduced and voted on.

[23:37] And this was a request by the commissioners

[23:40] for this amendment to be drafted to address the application

[23:43] of solar energy generating stations in relation

[23:45] to the specifics of the proposed code.

[23:48] And they are currently exempt from a forestation

[23:51] but not reforestation.

[23:52] And the intent of this amendment is

[23:54] to protect existing forest set areas from being cleared

[23:57] for solar energy generating stations

[23:59] or any other proposed use

[24:00] by requiring a higher reforestation rate

[24:03] for those properties that are larger than 25 acres

[24:06] or more than 50% forested.

[24:09] I'll introduce 26 12. Okay.

[24:16] Okay, for the amendment, I'll introduce the amendment.

[24:17] I'm sorry. Yep. And then I'll make a motion

[24:19] to adopt the amendment.

[24:22] Yep.

[24:25] Alright, so that's been introduced the amendment

[24:27] one. Okay.

[24:29] And now we should be able to adopt it.

[24:31] Yeah, we can, yeah, we can adopt 26 12.

[24:33] I'm making a motion to adopt. Yeah.

[24:35] Amendment one to 26, 12. Right.

[24:37] Second, we have a motion to second any discussion?

[24:42] All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Aye. Opposed?

[24:47] Five oh. And now a motion to adopt 26 12 as amended.

[24:52] Yep. That's item eight in your book on pages 27

[24:54] through 62 26 12.

[24:56] Yeah. Yep. Second,

[24:59] We have a motion and a second on this.

[25:01] All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Aye. Opposed?

[25:05] Aye. So moved by vote

[25:08] and then I move

[25:11] to adopt the updated Queen Annes County Forest

[25:13] Conservation technical manual.

[25:16] Second.

[25:19] Yeah, the Forest Conservation Technical manual is a

[25:22] reference in the 26 12.

[25:23] That's just a Right.

[25:25] An additional piece of that to, to amend that as well

[25:27] as part of that Bill.

[25:32] Second, should you have a motion? Got motion to second.

[25:35] I understand the discussion.

[25:37] I'm just the conversation fee in lieu rate of a dollar 50.

[25:42] Oh, that's, that's, that's the next one.

[25:43] That's the next one. That's the next one. Number four.

[25:44] I'm one ahead of you. Yeah, it's the bottom

[25:46] of the other one manual.

[25:47] Okay. Thank you. Okay.

[25:50] Alright, well then on this first one,

[25:53] all those in favor signify by saying aye.

[25:55] Aye. Aye. Opposed? So moved.

[26:01] Okay, one more.

[26:05] I move to adopt the updated forest conservation fee in

[26:08] lures at as $1 and 50 cents per square foot

[26:11] and the violation of penalty rate at $2

[26:13] and 50 cents per square foot.

[26:14] Second, we have a motion to second on this. Any discussion?

[26:19] Seeing none. All those in favor signify by saying Aye. Aye.

[26:22] Aye. Opposed? So moved.

[26:24] And now we're done with forest

[26:25] conservation for a little while.

[26:26] Right? Okay. Thank you very much.

[26:29] Yes. Many many. Alright,

[26:32] Thank you Commissioner.

[26:33] That's all of our legislative items for this evening except

[26:34] for the desk item, but we'll get to that later.

[26:38] We can move into the presentations portion

[26:39] of the agenda now.

[26:41] So if you wanna turn to tab number six, item one.

[26:44] We have the Upper Shore Workforce Investment Board update.

[26:48] Ms. Ellen Fra, executive director is here, so come on up.

[26:51] Ellen and Beverly is with her today, director

[26:55] of Human Resources.

[26:57] Welcome. Okay. We have it on the screen or just in the book?

[27:01] It's in the book. Okay. Alright, so tab six item

[27:07] one, pages one through 20 is the, the update. So

[27:12] Good evening and I am not here in my capacity

[27:15] as the Human resource director.

[27:16] I am here in the capacity

[27:18] as the Queen Annes County representative

[27:21] on the Upper Shore Workforce Investment Board.

[27:23] And so I'm introduce to you Ellen Fra,

[27:26] who is our executive director.

[27:28] And good news, she's not asking for any money

[27:31] and so she's going to have some things that we need

[27:35] to take care of as far as business

[27:38] for meeting our legislative requirements.

[27:40] And so I'll let her take it away.

[27:42] Thank you. Thank you Beverly.

[27:45] I wanna thank you for your time today.

[27:47] The Upper Shore Workforce Investment Board sincerely values

[27:50] the continued support the Queen Anne County Commissioners

[27:54] and I appreciate the opportunity to speak with you today.

[27:57] I would also like to thank you

[27:59] for appointing Beverly Churchill

[28:00] of Queen Anne County government, who already spoke

[28:03] to us today as

[28:04] and as well as Adam Tulley

[28:07] of Queen Anne County Public Schools.

[28:09] They have been invaluable assets

[28:11] and we greatly appreciate their service to the board.

[28:14] Our mission is to provide high quality career

[28:16] and training services to the residents

[28:18] of Queen Annes County, with a goal of connecting individuals

[28:22] to meaningful employment opportunities within our region.

[28:26] This work is essential not only

[28:28] to the individual job seekers,

[28:30] but also to the overall economic health

[28:32] and stability of our communities.

[28:35] As mandated by the Governor's Workforce Development Board

[28:37] policy, the memorandum of understanding is a required

[28:41] and foundational document for our workforce system.

[28:45] It establishes how our key workforce partners collaborate

[28:48] to deliver coordinated high quality services

[28:51] to individuals and businesses.

[28:53] These partners include the Maryland Department of Labor,

[28:56] the Division of Rehabilitation Services, the Department

[29:00] of Social Services, including the Queen Anne County

[29:02] Department of Social Services and Chesapeake College.

[29:06] Through this mandated framework, residents

[29:08] of Queen Anne County benefit from access

[29:10] to workforce training funds,

[29:13] industry recognized certifications

[29:16] and comprehensive employment services

[29:18] that support their path to sustainable employment.

[29:22] At the same time, businesses in Queen Anne County benefit

[29:24] from a skilled and prepared workforce

[29:27] that is better positioned to meet their current

[29:30] and future workforce needs.

[29:33] Embedded within the memorandum

[29:34] of understanding is the resource sharing agreement,

[29:37] which is also required under the Governor's Workforce

[29:39] Development Board policy.

[29:42] This agreement outlines the individual financial

[29:45] and in-kind contributions made by each participating agency.

[29:49] Funding provided through the Workforce Innovation

[29:52] Opportunity Act, along with other funding sources,

[29:55] is detailed within this agreement.

[29:57] Together these share contributions support our collective

[30:00] mission and provide a clear

[30:02] and transparent framework for coordinating resources,

[30:05] maximizing efficiency,

[30:06] and stretching funds so that we can serve

[30:09] as many individuals as possible.

[30:11] Our partner agencies have provided invaluable,

[30:15] provided valuable input throughout this process

[30:17] and have indicated their concurrence

[30:19] with these documents today.

[30:21] I respectfully request your concurrence as well

[30:25] in fulfillment of these policy requirements

[30:27] and a continued support of our collaborative efforts

[30:30] to strengthen the workforce

[30:32] and economic vitality of Queen Ance County.

[30:35] I wanna thank you for your time and consideration.

[30:38] Alright. I move to execute the memorandum of Understanding

[30:42] with the Upper Shore Workforce Investment Board

[30:43] for the resource sharing agreement.

[30:45] Second, we have a motion to second. Any discussion?

[30:50] Impressive program. Yes. Alright.

[30:52] It is very impressive program.

[30:54] All those in favor signify the saying. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye.

[30:58] Aye. There we go. Five. Oh, thank you very much. Thank you.

[31:00] Thank you. Thank you. A lot of fun with this.

[31:06] Alright. Thank you. Good to see you. Alright.

[31:10] Alright, commissioners also on tab six,

[31:12] our second present presentation tonight.

[31:15] Item two on page 21, we have the Veteran

[31:18] and Military Support Alliance update.

[31:20] So we have a group here, so come on up folks. Lee Ellings.

[31:24] Lee Ellington, deputy Director vsa, Kathy Deto,

[31:27] board Chair vsa Wal Petri, founding member with vsa.

[31:31] Beth Ann Doman, president and CEO for all seasons.

[31:35] Alright, welcome everybody.

[31:37] Nick, come on up. No, Ryan.

[31:39] No, he, Brian, come, come on up. Brian.

[31:42] I don't want Nick's Just driving this.

[31:45] Nick's just driving.

[31:51] Hi. Hi there. Thank you so much for making,

[31:53] making time for us.

[31:55] My name is Kathy DTIs.

[31:56] I am the current board chair for VMs a the Veteran

[31:59] and Military Support Alliance.

[32:02] I'm here to let you know

[32:04] that I'm here on behalf of our board.

[32:05] I have wet Petri here who's one

[32:06] of the founding members of our board.

[32:08] Others that are not here are Jean Fair Lee Young

[32:13] Joe Candela, and I can't help

[32:15] but mention the late Wes Guck, also a founding board member.

[32:20] Five years ago, these gentlemen, all veterans got together

[32:23] to form a group that would, would go out

[32:25] and help them with issues they themselves had grappled with

[32:28] or are were aware of in the veteran and military community.

[32:32] Early this year, in January, we decided as a board

[32:35] that the best way

[32:36] and the best path forward for VMs a to continue our mission

[32:41] and services to area veterans was to pair up

[32:44] with four L seasons.

[32:47] We really feel like the continuance

[32:49] and the sustainability of our mission

[32:52] and the services that we've been able

[32:53] to provide in this community will not only be well handled

[32:57] by four all seasons,

[32:59] but they will be able to broaden the depth

[33:01] and breadth of the services they have offices in each

[33:05] of the five counties on the Eastern shore.

[33:07] They will maintain a presence here in Queen Annes County

[33:11] right near where VSA is at this point in time.

[33:15] And so we are, we are happy to announce to you that,

[33:18] that this is, this is the path we're looking forward.

[33:20] We're actively pursuing this.

[33:22] We are very happy

[33:23] and very confident that we'll be melding into a,

[33:26] an organization as, as excellent

[33:30] and as well run as for all seasons.

[33:31] And I just wanna ensure any veterans

[33:34] and any families out there

[33:35] that have received services from VMs.

[33:37] A the, the, the transition will be seamless.

[33:40] We promise services are currently being offered and,

[33:44] and will continue until that difference is made.

[33:47] And I wanna introduce Ryan Snow is with r and r Solutions.

[33:50] And Ryan and Jeannie Hadaway have walked alongside VMs a

[33:55] helping us advocate

[33:57] to people on all different levels in the government, in the,

[34:00] in the community.

[34:01] And helped us secure a great deal of financing to,

[34:04] to continue the services that we were.

[34:06] So I wanted to thank Ryan

[34:07] and Ryan will be walking alongside for all seasons as well.

[34:11] So I'm gonna pass this on. Well, do you wanna,

[34:14] So yes.

[34:15] Hi. Hi.

[34:16] So five years ago, Jim, Jim Moran was at the first meeting,

[34:20] I think, where we were talking about

[34:22] how do we help the veterans in the community.

[34:24] And we, we started off going in the direction

[34:28] of building tiny homes

[34:30] and we spent a few months working on that

[34:33] and decided that was, that was the wrong approach

[34:36] through his research, he came in one day

[34:38] and said, you know, there's only two

[34:40] homeless veterans in Old County.

[34:42] You guys are spending all this time on this.

[34:45] And it sort sort of morphed into what it is today.

[34:49] And, and Vana has done a wonderful job.

[34:53] We have been through lots of problems

[34:56] and trials and tribulations.

[34:57] We've helped a lot of veterans.

[34:59] We're getting straight A's from all of the various agencies,

[35:04] American Legion, VFW, and we're the go-to group.

[35:08] We have come that far, but we've, we reached a plateau and

[35:14] after a certain time we were working with,

[35:17] with the Four Seasons team, it became apparent

[35:20] that they were, they had many more resources than we did.

[35:24] And they were doing many, doing a lot of the counseling

[35:28] that we couldn't do and had the people to do.

[35:32] So this has sort of evolved into a wonderful solution for

[35:36] what was a, a struggling za trying to get to where it needed

[35:41] to be sort of underfunded and so on,

[35:45] and couldn't be happier with the alliance we,

[35:49] we formed with 'em.

[35:50] And I, you know, I just couldn't,

[35:53] couldn't be happier about it.

[35:54] I just wanted to express that to you.

[35:57] I, I'd be remiss in, in not thanking all of you, all

[36:01] of you, commissioner McLaughlin, commissioner Moran,

[36:03] and all of you for your support, both in spirit and,

[36:08] and in in funding.

[36:10] You know, V SSA's mission just really is,

[36:13] really is indicative of your care for, for veterans and,

[36:16] and other vulnerable members of the community here.

[36:19] So we really Thank you very much.

[36:21] So, so, so just outta curiosity, how did this partnership,

[36:25] this pairing, actually get to where we are today?

[36:29] I mean, did you approach them, they approached you?

[36:33] It was, we were, when, when I took, we,

[36:37] we joined VMs a little less than a year ago.

[36:39] Beth Ann was, four Seasons was already an integral part

[36:43] of VMs a in the support groups PTSD

[36:46] and then referrals for mental health counseling.

[36:49] And so Beth Ann was leading sort of a strategic planning

[36:52] session for the board and the staff

[36:55] and where are we gonna be five years from now.

[36:58] And it really caused the board and,

[37:00] and all of us to, to think really deeply about

[37:03] where are we going in the next five years.

[37:05] Gotcha. And, and some really careful self-examination

[37:09] and what's the best path forward.

[37:11] So I would have to say Beth Ann's leadership in, in

[37:14] that strategic plan, strategic planning session really got

[37:17] our wheels in motion as to what was the best course forward

[37:20] for how we could best help veteran

[37:23] and military families. So,

[37:24] So you guys are just ramping it up Yeah.

[37:26] The relationship that already existed.

[37:29] Absolutely, yes. Taking it to the next level.

[37:30] Yes. We've been a part of VSA for over three years now,

[37:33] as Kathy said, providing the mental health

[37:36] and the community connection.

[37:37] We've also worked with other veteran organizations, all

[37:41] of the fws that American legions, we've worked

[37:44] with the folks both on our side of the bridge

[37:47] and across the bridge throughout the state of Maryland.

[37:49] And so the sort of walk along has been a natural occurrence.

[37:54] And this just gives us the ability to

[37:57] hire additional team members, keep some of the VSA staff

[38:00] that will continue to walk through that seamless transition,

[38:04] but also then look larger.

[38:06] So we will be launching the Center for Veterans

[38:08] and Military Families through our Center for Learning

[38:11] and the mental health services that we provide

[38:14] and you know, the support that you all have provided.

[38:17] What we can guarantee you is we are going to be able

[38:20] to take something and continue to, to grow it,

[38:23] to make it bigger and also have an impact across all

[38:26] five counties of the shore.

[38:27] So that it's not simply a home based in Queen Anne County,

[38:32] but this is the model.

[38:33] And then we can say to the rest of the counties, Hey,

[38:36] come along and get on board.

[38:37] Awesome. If I might add, they, each one

[38:41] of their offices are manned from nine to five

[38:44] or eight, eight to five, eight to five, eight to five.

[38:47] You know, we've struggled with that

[38:48] as somebody when we're trying to keep opening.

[38:51] And the nice part about this is they have five different

[38:54] locations, or actually six

[38:56] and they're gonna be staying at the marina,

[39:00] but maybe a little different space

[39:02] that we're working on right now.

[39:04] But the nice part, it's staffed

[39:06] and they have the people, they have the resources.

[39:08] If we have a problem, instead of us trying

[39:10] to call somebody in, how do we fix this

[39:13] and how do we help this gentleman or this lady?

[39:17] They, they just have it all and they have how many?

[39:20] 6,000 employees? I don't know. So

[39:22] Many.

[39:23] We have just under a hundred employees.

[39:24] They have a lot of people and a lot

[39:25] of very qualified people to help the veterans

[39:29] that we were struggling trying to figure out how to do.

[39:32] Well, I know one of the problems

[39:33] that's always existed is the paperwork.

[39:36] Say Again? The paperwork Yeah.

[39:38] With the VA and everything else.

[39:39] I mean, I thought at one time you had someone there

[39:41] that was a guru at that, that could help anybody

[39:44] that walked in the door, you know, navigate through that.

[39:46] Yes. And that will continue and that will be

[39:48] It.

[39:49] So then somebody's on staff right now for doing

[39:50] that? Yes. Awesome. Yep.

[39:52] So as you know, my story is I didn't really want to,

[39:55] I was fortunate when I got back, I didn't have PTSD

[39:58] or any major issues.

[40:00] And I went to a, a reunion, a 50 year reunion,

[40:05] and everybody looked at me like,

[40:06] instead of you joined the va.

[40:07] And I said, no, I, they said, what are you crazy?

[40:09] You should join. That's good. That's great for your family.

[40:12] So I tried to join and I said, the hell with this,

[40:15] after about a month, I said, this is ridiculous.

[40:19] I was being around, I couldn't get anybody.

[40:21] And so that's why this organization

[40:25] and Dan's, I was so helpful

[40:27] because I'm getting, the feedback I'm getting is, oh my God,

[40:30] I've been trying to get to this point for a year

[40:33] and you guys did it in a half an hour.

[40:34] Right. You know, that's what, it's just the per, they're

[40:38] so big, the, the state

[40:39] and federal, they, their meaning, their meaning is, well,

[40:43] they just don't know how to get people from A to B.

[40:47] And we figured out a way to get 'em from A to B and,

[40:51] and Beth Ann here has been a, just a breath of fresh air.

[40:55] Just fantastic. So anyway, I'll shut up.

[40:59] Awesome. So that the, the, the gentleman

[41:03] that Jim's alluding to, it was the AI guy

[41:06] Oh, the vet AI program? Yeah.

[41:07] Yeah. He, he talked about that he spent his, you know,

[41:11] last 10 years figuring out AI to, to allow you

[41:15] to get benefits quicker.

[41:17] So he's still with you or

[41:18] That that is, he created the tool, right.

[41:21] Which is utilized by VSA and Will

[41:24] Will be utilized by, is it effective?

[41:27] Yeah. Yes. I mean they're, they're

[41:28] finding it extremely effective.

[41:29] And so we are, one of the commitments

[41:31] that I can say we are making to all of you is

[41:34] that the things that are working, we are going to continue

[41:36] to have them work and we're going to enhance them.

[41:39] The things that aren't working,

[41:40] we're just gonna take a look at

[41:42] and say, how might we retool?

[41:44] How might we find better solutions so

[41:46] that we are able to do more?

[41:47] And you know, Ryan being a part

[41:49] of vsa Ryan also is our lobbyist alongside with Jeanie

[41:54] for, for all seasons.

[41:55] So there's also a capacity for us to really go

[41:58] after some incredible funding

[42:00] when we are relying on partners

[42:03] and really strengthening some of these partnerships.

[42:05] And so Ryan's gonna be continuing on

[42:06] with us as well. And Ryan

[42:08] Can be persuasive.

[42:09] He absolutely can be. Yeah. Yes.

[42:12] Yeah. I mean, you know, we're all very blessed

[42:14] to live here and reside on the eastern shore, right.

[42:16] And in rural communities, when, when you look

[42:18] around the room for all seasons provide such

[42:21] phenomenal services, right?

[42:23] They meet you where you are 24

[42:25] hours a day, seven days a week.

[42:26] And then now adding in the a perspective

[42:29] and strengthening that relationship, you know, the conduit

[42:32] to all of our veterans organizations, folks

[42:34] who have served our country,

[42:35] it just couldn't be a better opportunity

[42:37] to better serve the Eastern shore and beyond.

[42:42] So. So Beth Ann, you're, you're taking on a lot.

[42:45] So you're doing this work

[42:48] and you're also doing the first responders, right?

[42:50] Yeah. Yeah. How's that going?

[42:52] And then you're going into our schools? Yes.

[42:55] So, so you're, you're busy.

[42:56] We are busy. The first responder program is going great.

[43:00] I am really excited.

[43:01] I shared with Beverly before the meeting to let you all know

[43:03] that we're, Caroline County is the next county.

[43:06] We've talked with some folks in Dorchester

[43:08] County and in Kent.

[43:09] And so the goal was that we would create a pilot program

[43:13] and all five county first responder peer support teams would

[43:16] be up and operational by 2028.

[43:18] That was our goal. So we're on our way

[43:21] and folks are really excited.

[43:23] One of the things that we're really grateful for,

[43:26] especially within Queen Anne County, is everybody's able

[43:29] to sort of shape the program the way that we want.

[43:31] We're giving them the foundation.

[43:33] We're coming alongside

[43:34] and embedding ourselves in

[43:36] the school system has reached out.

[43:38] We've started to do some suicide prevention education

[43:42] and learning and videos.

[43:44] And we just had a conversation today with Matt Evans

[43:47] and Bryce about getting some of the school students

[43:51] involved in some of these videos over the summer.

[43:53] And so that will take shape. And so yes, we are busy.

[43:56] We're also adding staff to make sure

[43:58] that we have the capacity to

[44:00] not over promise and under deliver.

[44:02] Right? We are a slow

[44:03] and steady wins the race kind of an organization.

[44:05] And so when we make these decisions to take on these things,

[44:09] I mean, this has been a conversation for the last eight,

[44:13] nine months and we are really have a good plan of

[44:18] bringing folks in and hiring a new veterans

[44:21] community connector.

[44:22] So we've got an application out right now in the community.

[44:26] So if there are any veterans that are listening,

[44:28] we are hiring a veteran connection com community connector

[44:32] because we know that what's most important is

[44:35] that there's a veteran who's leading the charge.

[44:38] And so this isn't something that we can do without someone

[44:42] by our side who can say, Hey, here's what it looks like.

[44:45] We do have Gene Davis

[44:46] who does the employment piece, he'll continue with us.

[44:49] He is a veteran as well.

[44:51] But the more that we can enhance the staff, the more

[44:53] that we can reach the veterans

[44:54] Community.

[44:55] So are, are the first responders gonna get an app if,

[44:58] if they want to talk to somebody.

[45:00] So that's something that we've

[45:01] talked about with Jess and Kelly.

[45:02] I don't know what every county decides differently,

[45:06] but I know that Jess and Kelly have talked about that.

[45:09] I know that TBA County is looking at the Lighthouse app.

[45:12] I'm not sure where the group landed,

[45:15] but I will certainly go back

[45:16] and revisit with them if there's anything

[45:18] that we can do to be helpful that could be

[45:21] Extended to veterans as well. Students. Yeah.

[45:25] Yep. Well,

[45:27] hopefully we can get Centerville and Vans out.

[45:31] You know, the veterans that are located up here, they have a

[45:34] a, a good size contingency up here.

[45:36] Yeah. I'd love to see them work together

[45:40] And we've met with them.

[45:41] Yeah. So we had a great lunch

[45:42] and really talked through, help us understand

[45:45] what would be beneficial.

[45:47] And we recognize that part of why BSA

[45:51] was established in addition to the claims

[45:53] and in addition to the mental health services,

[45:55] it was also about reducing suicide.

[45:57] And we know that we can't walk into a VFW

[46:01] or an American Legion and say, Hey,

[46:02] let's talk about reducing suicide

[46:04] because no one wants to hear that.

[46:06] So our presence is that of a quiet consistency going in

[46:10] and making sure that folks understand the services

[46:12] that are there, talking about self-care, talking about

[46:15] how we get connected, whether it be, you know, food pantry

[46:18] or housing stability,

[46:19] or simply just saying, Hey,

[46:21] are you checking in on your people?

[46:23] And so that's the approach that we really use

[46:25] to create those connections

[46:26] and we're really looking forward to digging in deeper.

[46:29] What about the Fred McNeil's group?

[46:31] That that's what I'm talking about? Yeah. Yeah.

[46:33] I had an opportunity as Jim did, to go and, and

[46:36] and speak one morning at that group and,

[46:38] and it was packed just

[46:41] because of the popularity of, of this organization and,

[46:45] and the feeling that they get

[46:47] that there is a community behind them.

[46:48] Right. So I I'm excited for them because of you guys. Thank

[46:52] You.

[46:53] We're excited as well. And Lee's been an integral part of

[46:56] all of the transition being as seamless as it is.

[46:59] And she was unable to be here tonight,

[47:00] but she really has been just a champion

[47:03] and she's coming on board as, as well as Jean.

[47:06] And we're making sure that those connections

[47:08] and the trust that's been built is maintained

[47:11] because of those relationships.

[47:12] And Lee is a regular attendee at the Monday meetings.

[47:15] She's, she's very involved with the group Yep.

[47:17] Are the de the present deputy director at za.

[47:20] So yeah. And then I

[47:23] This some great stuff. Paul

[47:24] Pleased to, to we, Walt and I are honored

[47:28] and to have been asked to be on the Fourth Seasons board

[47:31] and we have accepted that honor.

[47:33] So we will, we will be on the Four Seasons for all what

[47:36] for all seasons board.

[47:39] And I'm, I'm really, I'm looking forward to that

[47:41] and we'll be able to

[47:42] Very good.

[47:43] Yeah. So for the folks that are listening,

[47:47] if they have a benefits problem, Mr.

[47:49] Walt, who are they calling?

[47:53] They come to the marina and the Van Van's office is there

[47:56] and open and is o operating just as it was before.

[47:59] Can you, can you give out the number?

[48:00] Those be seamless? Well

[48:02] before all seasons after the end of June.

[48:04] Yes. Yes. So we, we would probably, if you don't mind,

[48:07] we'd get the proper information to once that's all

[48:10] Squared, get that aligned first. Bruce,

[48:12] That office is not gonna be going anywhere

[48:14] in terms of its location.

[48:15] So if people are saying, I know that's where it is,

[48:18] we are gonna remain in the marina in the exact location that

[48:22] that Basa is in four All seasons has an office in

[48:25] Stevensville, long, long canoe circle.

[48:28] Those two offices are going to remain the same

[48:31] through the end of this calendar year.

[48:33] And then we will merge into one building

[48:36] after the first of the year.

[48:39] Very good. Awesome. Thank you. Thank you very

[48:42] Much, so Much.

[48:44] And by the way, the model is open

[48:46] and bring, bring your wives may call me

[48:49] and I'll be happy to show you around. Cellular

[48:50] Condo.

[48:51] Cellular condo. Thank you. Wait,

[48:53] Ryan, I'll meet,

[48:54] I'll meet you down at Legal Assets in Easton.

[48:56] Yeah. Thank you guys.

[48:58] Great job everybody. Great job.

[49:00] Thank you. Great job. Thank you.

[49:03] What an amazing partnership. Yeah, that's great. That's

[49:06] A good partnership.

[49:07] Amazing. That's all Vans. Anita was just that little push.

[49:13] Alright commissioners, that is all the

[49:14] presentations we had this evening.

[49:16] We can move into the action items for tonight's meeting.

[49:19] First we have the Department of Public works.

[49:21] We have two, two items for the Rhodes board.

[49:26] So first I guess convene as the Roads board make

[49:28] A motion that we adjourn as the Rhodes Board.

[49:32] Second. Second. All those in favor? Aye.

[49:37] Alright, commissioners Item one on

[49:40] pages one through seven.

[49:41] Where were you on that one? This is a public hearing request

[49:44] for the Ganzer Drive

[49:48] Road upgrade proposal.

[49:51] This is North County up near

[49:53] Duck Neck Campground on Double Creek Point Road.

[49:57] Item one, pages one through seven. Tab two. Tab two.

[50:01] There you go. Tab two, item one. Yep. Page one. Yep.

[50:05] So cost

[50:07] of this upgrade is $150,000 34 property owners.

[50:11] The 20 year annual payment is estimated at $311 each.

[50:17] It looks like about 16 people weighed in

[50:20] with their opinions and it was close.

[50:23] 10 were in favor and six were posing the project.

[50:26] So this one's a close, close.

[50:28] 9, 4 6 Opposed, huh?

[50:30] Yeah. So anyway, Shane was up there

[50:32] for the public information meeting this past month.

[50:36] Any other points you wanna make about the group up there?

[50:40] It was a lively meeting. Dying to six I guess so.

[50:45] The residents have some very good

[50:46] questions, very insightful.

[50:48] Ganza Drive is one of the more unique

[50:50] projects we've looked at.

[50:52] This is the second time we've looked at

[50:53] it for a upgrade project.

[50:56] This Roady was originally constructed in late sixties,

[50:58] early seventies and the original developer

[51:02] dedicated it to the county but the county did not accept it.

[51:06] There was a lawsuit involved with the residents

[51:09] and the developer and at that time there was a decree

[51:14] that I think Judge Turner

[51:15] that the road was to remain private.

[51:17] The developer did not do all the things he needed to do to

[51:22] properly give that to the county.

[51:23] So it's been private for all these years.

[51:25] However, there's definitely a lack of maintenance

[51:27] and the residents are feeling that the push

[51:30] to actually upgrade it.

[51:31] So there's definitely some for

[51:33] and there's definitely some against.

[51:34] So it'll, a public hearing will

[51:36] certainly be very lively as well.

[51:40] I move to schedule the proposed MCG ganzer drive

[51:42] project public hearing.

[51:45] Second, we have a motion and a second. Any discussion?

[51:49] Seeing none. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye.

[51:52] Aye. Opposed? All good. Five O. Okay.

[51:57] Okay, Commissioners. And just just point

[51:58] of clarification, we were proposing to have

[52:00] that at the Crumpton Volunteer Fire Company,

[52:03] that public hearing on October 27th.

[52:06] Okay. That okay? Yeah. Change venue. Okay.

[52:09] I'd send that out now. Send that invite out now.

[52:13] Yeah. Oh good. Yeah, at the Crumpton v ft.

[52:15] You haven't got up there lately

[52:17] for a commissioner meeting at least.

[52:19] Alright, item number two, pages eight through 15.

[52:22] Another public road upgrade public hearing request.

[52:25] This one's Cecil Cecil Road in the community

[52:28] of Kent Island Estates.

[52:30] And we've been doing these pretty routinely

[52:32] over the past several years.

[52:36] 965 feet, 21 properties.

[52:40] $115,000 estimated cost.

[52:43] A 20 year annual payment of $385 per resident.

[52:48] Looks like overall nine were in favor

[52:51] and two were opposing on this one and two undecided.

[52:54] So 9, 2 2.

[52:57] I move to schedule. Proposed Cecil road

[53:02] improvement project, public hearing.

[53:05] Second. Motion to second on this item. Any discussion?

[53:09] Seeing none. All those in favor signify the saying. Aye.

[53:12] Aye. Aye. Opposed? So moved.

[53:15] Alright commissioners. And we were hoping to

[53:18] schedule this public meeting,

[53:20] public hearing on September 21st.

[53:22] That's the Monday before our normal September 22nd meeting.

[53:26] And that would be, we have a

[53:28] scheduling problem on September.

[53:29] Yeah. So we were hoping to have that on a Monday evening.

[53:32] Yeah. Is that okay? Yeah.

[53:34] So we're gonna actually have this September 21st meeting.

[53:37] Yeah, we'll Have our to address this

[53:39] The as well as, yeah.

[53:41] Ganzer is October. This one would be September 21st on a

[53:44] Monday here at the Liberty building. Here.

[53:46] At the Liberty building. Yes sir. Oh, okay. Alright.

[53:47] So does that mean we're having a commissioner meeting

[53:49] here on the 21st? On the Monday, on the

[53:51] Monday 21st. We'll get a calendar invite

[53:53] If that's Yep. Good.

[53:54] Okay. Alright. Put it

[53:56] On your Calendar.

[53:57] Thank you commissioners. Thanks you. Thank you Shane.

[54:01] Hey Shane, thanks for your help with the

[54:08] Route eight breeding farm.

[54:10] Oh yeah. That was fabulous.

[54:12] Yeah, we, the, the guy had been trying to get a 10

[54:16] or he's got, he had a 20 foot culprit pipe

[54:21] and the trucks were crushing it and Shane

[54:24] and Alan got on it with a fender and made it 40 feet.

[54:29] Yeah, I think they went to 40 feet. Feet.

[54:31] The local 40 feet Centerville made. It's beautiful.

[54:33] It's a work of art. It's really good.

[54:35] If a co pike could be a work of art, it would be. It

[54:38] Is.

[54:39] And it's like, if, if, if only other things could get done

[54:42] that fast by the state.

[54:44] So Thank you sir. Alright, thank you.

[54:47] Alright, thank you Shane.

[54:49] Alright commissioners action items are next.

[54:52] So that's under tab number three.

[54:56] So tab three item one on pages one through 28.

[54:59] This is the FY 2027 county budget resolution

[55:04] number 26 0 6.

[55:06] This resolution is for the adoption

[55:08] of the FY 27 county budget.

[55:11] We did make one change, this included in this resolution

[55:15] after the public informational meetings we held last month

[55:19] and that was to add $700,000 match

[55:23] and then, which was required

[55:24] to receive the state grant funding

[55:25] for the Queen Anne County Detention Center project.

[55:30] So other than that, the total budget proposed operating

[55:33] budget is $230,000,950 880 total

[55:38] proposed capital is 66,793,607

[55:44] and the operating budget has been balanced

[55:46] without the use of any fund.

[55:47] Balance. Tax rates for fiscal 27 are established

[55:52] as follows, real property tax rate countywide

[55:56] 80 cents real property tax, Centerville 67 cents,

[56:00] real property tax rate, Millington 71

[56:03] and a half cents Public utility, personal property tax rate,

[56:07] $2, Kent Narrows commercial management

[56:10] and Waterfront Improvement district, special taxing area

[56:13] oh 6 cents.

[56:15] And the income tax rate remains the same at 3.2%.

[56:20] And I wanna thank our director of budget

[56:22] and finance for all his hard work, him

[56:24] and his team put into this year's budget process.

[56:28] Thank you all as well. Alright, I move

[56:31] to adopt resolution 26 dash oh six a res a resolution

[56:36] to establish a fiscal year 2027 annual budget

[56:39] and appropriations with real property tax rate

[56:42] of 80 cents per 100 of assessed value.

[56:46] A tax differential rate of 6.67 cents per 100

[56:51] of assessed value for the town of Centerville.

[56:53] And 0.715 per hundred of assessed value

[56:56] for the town of Millington.

[56:58] A public utility, personal property tax rate of $2 per $100

[57:02] of assessed value and a Kent Narrows commercial management

[57:06] and waterfront improvement district,

[57:08] special taxing area rate of 0.06 per 100 of assessed value.

[57:14] Second, We have a motion

[57:16] to second Any discussion on this?

[57:19] Seeing none. All those in favor signify

[57:21] by saying aye. Aye. Aye.

[57:22] Aye. Opposed?

[57:24] Abstained five Oh when do you start On

[57:29] 2028 tomorrow.

[57:35] And I've got, I've got a, another motion that

[57:40] we'll be able to talk about, but I'm gonna make a motion

[57:42] for the finance office to draft a budget amendment

[57:45] to the fiscal year 2027 operating budget to be presented

[57:49] for a vote at our July 14th

[57:51] commission commissioner's meeting.

[57:53] Which grant, which will grant an additional $500,000

[57:57] to the Board of Education to be used to fund two

[58:00] district-wide rotating behaviorists

[58:02] and four middle school mental health support staff.

[58:12] Second. Alright, we have a motion

[58:14] and a second discussion.

[58:15] It's six. None. Okay. Yeah. Total of six. Yeah.

[58:18] So two, we had three budget hearings

[58:23] and in each budget hearing we heard about

[58:25] mental health and issues.

[58:28] The one at the Can Island library went on for a good deal

[58:32] and it was a number one complaint

[58:35] or issue that I think we faced this year

[58:37] during the budget cycle.

[58:39] So we had the board of ed in here today

[58:42] for a liaison meeting and,

[58:45] and we discussed this with them,

[58:47] they had some save savings in their insurance portion

[58:51] or health insurance portion, which they're gonna pick up

[58:54] 13 positions teaching positions, you know,

[58:59] from the savings on the health insurance.

[59:01] And at that time we presented them with the possibility

[59:05] of doing $500,000 to deal

[59:08] with the mental health issues in our schools.

[59:12] And I want to just thank everybody here for, you know,

[59:17] listening to this and, and hopefully you'll vote for it.

[59:20] So any other discussion? Seeing none.

[59:24] All those in favor signify by saying aye.

[59:26] Aye. Aye. Opposed? Aye. Aye. Opposed? So moved.

[59:30] Vote you got something else to do, Jeff.

[59:33] There you go. Get right

[59:34] On.

[59:35] Thank you all but extremely

[59:36] Important. He wasn't tomorrow extremely

[59:37] Important.

[59:38] I mean the message that resonated,

[59:41] I know we took our vote, but I just Yeah, no, no.

[59:43] The message resonated on that Monday night that,

[59:46] that our behavioral and issues that we have in our schools

[59:52] and the importance of extending this funding to the Board

[59:56] of Eds so they can bring these specialists in to work

[59:58] with our high school students and our middle school students

[1:00:02] and address some of these issues that perhaps

[1:00:06] they wouldn't have been able to without this extra funding.

[1:00:08] So hat's off to this set of commissioners.

[1:00:13] Alrighty, moving on.

[1:00:17] Alright, thanks Jeffrey. Thank

[1:00:19] You.

[1:00:20] Okay, moving on. Commissioners item number two on pages

[1:00:23] 29 through 43.

[1:00:25] This is the Rural Health Transformation Program Agreement

[1:00:28] with the Maryland Institute

[1:00:29] for Emergency Medical Services Systems.

[1:00:33] I'm have Director Haas up here with us today

[1:00:35] and this is a, actually a grant agreement, 155,000

[1:00:41] for the Department of Emergency Services

[1:00:42] to enter into a rural health transformation program

[1:00:45] agreement with emergency medical services systems

[1:00:48] to support the county's whole blood program.

[1:00:51] So this would be an additional position and an individual

[1:00:53] and materials

[1:00:54] to provide this whole blood on our ambulance unit.

[1:00:59] So I'll let, I'll let these gentlemen take it away

[1:01:02] with some details on, on this program,

[1:01:04] but it is a grant that would provide

[1:01:06] for an additional individual

[1:01:08] for our DES personnel team. Scott,

[1:01:12] Do we need a motion or anything or can we just go

[1:01:14] ahead and Yeah, go ahead.

[1:01:15] Okay. So Zach, as usual, has been working very hard

[1:01:20] to get this rural grant.

[1:01:22] It originates from CMS

[1:01:25] and it goes through the Maryland Department of Health

[1:01:27] and is then passed on to our licensing agency,

[1:01:32] which, which is the Maryland Institute

[1:01:34] for Emergency Medical Services Systems.

[1:01:37] We applied for the grant.

[1:01:38] There were 13 receiving jurisdictions across the state

[1:01:42] that received this grant.

[1:01:43] Eight of them are shore jurisdictions.

[1:01:45] We're one of the eight to start whole

[1:01:48] blood programs in the field.

[1:01:50] So this adds a tool in our toolbox,

[1:01:53] which is probably the most valuable tool we've had in over a

[1:01:56] decade and will make a huge difference in saving a life in

[1:01:59] the field by carrying this valuable resource with us.

[1:02:03] Oh yeah.

[1:02:05] Whole blood's something that we've been

[1:02:06] exploring since 2019.

[1:02:08] We've been looking at feasibility for it

[1:02:09] and it's always been a cost prohibitive thing for us.

[1:02:13] So getting the opportunity

[1:02:14] for this grant coming down from CMS through the state to us,

[1:02:18] has really unlocked the potential for us

[1:02:20] to get us this on our units.

[1:02:22] It's one that we won't use frequently.

[1:02:24] We anticipate probably six to eight administrations a year,

[1:02:27] but this is something that will absolutely save a life.

[1:02:31] We had one instance this past year where we were able

[1:02:33] to rendezvous with MSP and Route two Shock Trauma

[1:02:37] 'cause aviation was down.

[1:02:38] But they met us by ground and they carry whole blood.

[1:02:41] We gave whole blood and I firmly believe

[1:02:44] that if we were not able to rendezvous

[1:02:45] and administer that there

[1:02:46] would've been a family that would've been

[1:02:47] buried. The kid who,

[1:02:48] Who had the whole blood Maryland,

[1:02:50] the state police, the helicopters carry.

[1:02:52] Right. But if the helicopters are down, they'll come out

[1:02:54] by ground to rendezvous with us.

[1:02:56] So basically just a road trooper brings the blood

[1:02:59] to us on the side of the road.

[1:03:00] Wow. But this will give us the ability to have

[1:03:02] that in our own pocket and administered early

[1:03:05] and not have to worry about trying to rendezvous.

[1:03:08] So it, it will be,

[1:03:10] how will you know when you're gonna use it?

[1:03:12] They'll, they'll just be on the units.

[1:03:14] So it's gonna be assigned to a supervisor unit. Okay.

[1:03:17] We're gonna start with you. One,

[1:03:18] one supervisor unit is gonna carry it.

[1:03:20] We're gonna have two units Okay. Available

[1:03:23] To us.

[1:03:24] I just was curious how, how we were gonna be using it

[1:03:27] or distributing it or, or, or

[1:03:29] It'll be centrally located.

[1:03:30] So that'll be the initial rollout.

[1:03:32] And then hopefully with proof of concept, we can expand

[1:03:34] to the northern and southern battalion so

[1:03:36] that it's readily available throughout the

[1:03:37] County.

[1:03:38] So this is a five year grant.

[1:03:39] We have to reapply every five years,

[1:03:41] but we've been told if you trust federal grants right now,

[1:03:45] that it'll be available for the next five years.

[1:03:47] Yeah. Believe when you have to reapply each year.

[1:03:51] We're, and the blood bank is in Easton,

[1:03:54] So the blood bank, we have not actually done a contract

[1:03:58] until we seal the deal on this.

[1:04:00] So we still have to do that component of it.

[1:04:02] I believe they're looking at Delaware for our blood bank

[1:04:05] that we're gonna utilize the deal with the blood banks are,

[1:04:09] they issue us the whole blood.

[1:04:11] We have 'em for X amount of time,

[1:04:13] but we have to return it in time for the, for them

[1:04:16] to be able to administer it to a patient. Yeah.

[1:04:18] Before it's ex. So we're constantly

[1:04:21] gonna have to be rotating.

[1:04:22] Yeah. It's whole blood is good

[1:04:24] for four weeks from the time that you donate

[1:04:26] to the time that it expires.

[1:04:27] So we're looking at taking possession of blood on day seven

[1:04:31] and then returning to the blood bank on day 21.

[1:04:33] And then at that point they've got a week

[1:04:35] that they'll let on administering it somewhere else.

[1:04:37] So just to switch, you'll go and return it

[1:04:39] and they'll give you new Yes.

[1:04:41] Yep. We just basically go and swap out. Okay.

[1:04:43] And we're only paying for the blood if we utilize it.

[1:04:45] Oh, okay. And

[1:04:46] Of course the, this has

[1:04:48] to have the refrigeration part of it.

[1:04:50] Yes. So that's, yeah, the, the price of the grant

[1:04:55] enables us to purchase all the equipment that we need

[1:04:57] to keep it at the perfect temperature

[1:04:59] and all the, all the requirements we need

[1:05:02] Both on the ambulance in the police car and then,

[1:05:06] Well, it's strictly on a

[1:05:07] supervisor unit, our supervisor unit.

[1:05:08] So we only need the unit,

[1:05:10] we only need the equipment on the supervisor unit. It'll

[1:05:12] Be, is this a self-contained

[1:05:13] cooler that the blood's kept in?

[1:05:14] And then there'll be another bag

[1:05:15] that's got the administration sets and, and all that.

[1:05:17] So basically we can take that truck rendez

[1:05:19] with any ambulance on scene and get this rocking and

[1:05:22] Rolling.

[1:05:23] So here comes the softball question. Okay.

[1:05:24] Who else does it over here on the shore?

[1:05:27] So currently, I think Caroline is the only

[1:05:30] one approved to use it. Is that correct?

[1:05:33] Caroline started the program mid, mid-May

[1:05:37] and they actually had within eight hours the

[1:05:39] opportunity to give blood.

[1:05:40] But MSV got there before their supervisor did.

[1:05:45] But they have done an administration since then.

[1:05:47] Cecil County also is live with blood,

[1:05:49] so there's two on the shore right

[1:05:50] Now.

[1:05:51] And we've got the ability to use aviation.

[1:05:52] The problem is, and we're hitting our, our busy time

[1:05:55] of the year, the most common time you're gonna see an auto

[1:05:59] accident is during bad weather, rain, thunderstorms.

[1:06:03] And unfortunately for us,

[1:06:04] aviation's down, not available to us.

[1:06:06] Sure. And we're doing what we call ground

[1:06:08] and pound to a trauma center to get somebody there quick.

[1:06:11] And the interesting thing is, Centerville is kind

[1:06:14] of our center point to the two trauma centers

[1:06:16] that we, that we utilize.

[1:06:18] Christiana and Shock Trauma are two level ones

[1:06:20] and they're both approximately an hour away drive time.

[1:06:24] But you calculate summer traffic into it,

[1:06:27] it could take us much longer than an hour and is blood.

[1:06:30] That's why the blood is so valuable

[1:06:32] for us to have it at hand.

[1:06:33] And all the, all the ground-based blood programs

[1:06:36] that have got in everyone starts with blood thinking trauma,

[1:06:39] but you have a large subset of GI bleeds

[1:06:42] and actually OB patients that qualify for these transfusions

[1:06:46] for postpartum hemorrhage and GI bleed.

[1:06:50] So they, they can determine onsite

[1:06:53] what their type blood is.

[1:06:55] It's, we don't have, it's just a plasma

[1:06:58] Low.

[1:06:59] We do low TI or O positive is what we carry.

[1:07:01] And if they're not that type

[1:07:02] And then if that, if they are in the small subset

[1:07:04] that has the titer for a reaction, we discontinue

[1:07:08] and then we treat the reaction.

[1:07:09] But since it's gone live in the state,

[1:07:11] I don't even think I've heard of one

[1:07:14] transfusion reaction and it's been three

[1:07:16] Years That MSP's been doing this.

[1:07:20] Very good. It took you so long to bring this to us.

[1:07:24] Come on. I'm trying to find money.

[1:07:26] Good deal. Well the problem is it requires a lot of labor

[1:07:29] and that's why there's an employee attached to this.

[1:07:31] Yeah. And we just could not in our own mind,

[1:07:36] in a budget process come to you

[1:07:37] and ask for the staffing level.

[1:07:39] So once this grant became available, we're like this,

[1:07:42] this is our end to be able to start a blood program.

[1:07:46] So, but there's no cost for the employee

[1:07:49] and there's no cost for the supplies

[1:07:51] and basically no cost for the blood for us

[1:07:53] to utilize through the grant.

[1:07:56] How many leaders will you have?

[1:07:58] Two units. Units. Alright,

[1:08:03] Very good.

[1:08:04] I move to authorize the director of Department

[1:08:05] of Emergency Services

[1:08:06] to enter into a rural health transformation program

[1:08:09] agreement with the Maryland Institute of Emergency Medical

[1:08:13] Services Systems to support a Queen Ann County whole blood

[1:08:15] program totaling $155,500.

[1:08:19] Second. No motion in a second. Any further discussion?

[1:08:23] See none. All those in favor signify by saying aye.

[1:08:26] Aye. Aye.

[1:08:27] You guys just keep setting that bar. Yep.

[1:08:29] We try. We try. We try.

[1:08:32] We appreciate you guys' support

[1:08:33] and actually you're the ones that allow us to set that bar.

[1:08:36] So thank you for the support. We really appreciate it.

[1:08:39] Ronald, good job. Phil just wants to be first.

[1:08:43] He's a little disappointed.

[1:08:45] Oh, no, no, no, No. Caroline get us.

[1:08:47] That's what Phil's thinking. I,

[1:08:48] I've taken my last ride in those A

[1:08:51] no hard feelings. Yeah.

[1:08:52] The boss always tells me we could be on

[1:08:53] the cutting edge, not the

[1:08:54] Bleeding edge.

[1:08:55] You go

[1:09:00] Todd.

[1:09:01] You're welcome. Thank you gentlemen. Good to see you both.

[1:09:02] Good evening

[1:09:06] All commissioners.

[1:09:07] Item number three, pages 44 and 45.

[1:09:10] This is for the Queen Annes County Library.

[1:09:12] It's an FY 2027 capital grant certification letter.

[1:09:17] They need a executed letter from the board of commissioners

[1:09:20] that indicates

[1:09:21] that we have guaranteed matching funds in the amount

[1:09:23] of $65,000 for the procurement of architectural

[1:09:27] and engineering services for the North County branch

[1:09:29] for next fiscal year.

[1:09:31] The grant fund funding has been awarded

[1:09:33] and we have the, the matching funds in the proposed

[1:09:36] FY 27 budget.

[1:09:44] I move to execute the Queen Anne County fiscal year 2027

[1:09:47] capital grant certification letter for the procurement

[1:09:51] of architectural and engineering services

[1:09:53] for their North County branch project in the amount

[1:09:55] of $65,000.

[1:10:01] Second. Second. I'll be a library.

[1:10:03] We have a motion and a second. Any discussion?

[1:10:05] Chaos there now. Seeing none.

[1:10:08] All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Aye. Aye.

[1:10:11] Aye. Opposed? Abstained. Five O.

[1:10:15] Alright, thank you commissioners.

[1:10:17] Okay, we have two desk items for your consideration. Desk.

[1:10:20] Item one is county ordinance 26 13

[1:10:24] prohibition of political signs.

[1:10:26] This is for introduction

[1:10:28] and conveyance to the planning commission for their review

[1:10:30] and a recommendation.

[1:10:32] But essentially this ordinance bans the placement

[1:10:34] of political signs on all property owned

[1:10:36] by the county commissioners,

[1:10:37] including Rhodes doing this county roads

[1:10:39] and county rights of ways.

[1:10:42] I moved to keep the impact fees flatted 0% increase in

[1:10:45] accordance with 18 3 6 C. No, no,

[1:10:48] What he's doing that he's doing's

[1:10:50] The other one.

[1:10:51] I'm sorry. Introduce, I'm sorry. Excuse me.

[1:10:52] Yeah, we're gonna introduce desk item one

[1:10:54] County orange 26 13.

[1:10:56] The political signs on county property roadways.

[1:10:58] Okay. Oh, I thought

[1:10:59] we were on Just needs to be introduced.

[1:11:01] Just needs to be introduced. Yeah, I'll introduce it.

[1:11:04] I'll introduce it And we'll send that

[1:11:05] to the planning commission for their review

[1:11:07] and it'll come back to the commissioners.

[1:11:09] Just, just pick one Steph? Yep. Yeah. Is there

[1:11:13] Todd, is there an exception on that for

[1:11:16] election day and early voting days?

[1:11:18] Yeah, we're gonna have to. Oh yeah, there

[1:11:19] Is not.

[1:11:20] There is not currently. It was just

[1:11:22] Make sure that when it gets sent to them that they include

[1:11:24] that because obviously early voting have been sent building

[1:11:27] you can put signs up then but isn't on

[1:11:29] any non-election days.

[1:11:31] Maybe it's as simple as that.

[1:11:32] And then you got the schools. Yeah.

[1:11:35] Okay. Good point. Yep.

[1:11:38] Although I'd be happy not seeing them too, 'cause

[1:11:41] I'm with you on that.

[1:11:42] It's a lot of litter and it takes a lot

[1:11:44] of work to put 'em up and take it down.

[1:11:45] It sure does. Sure does. Okay.

[1:11:49] So we will, we'll send that to the planning commission

[1:11:52] for their review and recommendations back to the board

[1:11:54] and we'll go from there.

[1:11:56] Alright. Desk item two.

[1:11:58] And this is for the FY 2027 impact fee schedule.

[1:12:02] As you know, we collect impact fees.

[1:12:03] So that was desk item two.

[1:12:04] Yeah, that desk item one is the, we already did that one.

[1:12:07] Yeah. One was the signs, did I get

[1:12:09] 'em back backwards?

[1:12:10] The one was actually the impact, impact fees according

[1:12:12] to the weather labeled. Oh,

[1:12:14] I apologize, that was my mistake.

[1:12:15] It's all good. So item two is the FY 2027 impact fee

[1:12:20] schedule July 1st each year you,

[1:12:23] the impact fee schedule values are adjusted by the

[1:12:28] engineering news record construction cost

[1:12:30] index for the 10 cities.

[1:12:32] This year's increase is proposed at 2.8%.

[1:12:35] I move to keep the impact fees flat at 0% increase in

[1:12:38] accordance with 18 three dash six C of the county code.

[1:12:41] Second, we have a motion and a second. Any discussion?

[1:12:46] Yeah, so I, I'm looking at it.

[1:12:47] We've got a building moratorium on right now.

[1:12:49] Raising impact fees just kind of goes counterintuitive

[1:12:52] to the fact that you're not even letting builders build

[1:12:54] and then you wanna raise the rates

[1:12:55] on 'em when they come back to build up.

[1:12:56] Right. I'm just not a big fan of that and,

[1:12:58] and I just did the calculation 17 cents per square foot,

[1:13:01] which on the 2000 square foot homes an additional $340

[1:13:04] people would've to pay.

[1:13:06] So you know what times are tough,

[1:13:08] we just lowered property taxes.

[1:13:10] We can suck it up when you impact fees for a year.

[1:13:12] And let's see what next year brings in my mind.

[1:13:14] So very well we have a motion in a second.

[1:13:17] All those in favor signify the saying. Aye. Aye. Aye.

[1:13:19] Opposed? So move five.

[1:13:22] Oh, there you go. That's

[1:13:26] It.

[1:13:27] Okay. That's all we have. Commissioners.

[1:13:27] Anybody'd like to speak, press some public comment. No.

[1:13:31] Alright. Round table Patrick,

[1:13:33] since you're all the way over there to the right. Ah,

[1:13:36] It was wonderful to have the bas of folks come in here

[1:13:39] and share what, share with us what's going on.

[1:13:43] We had a wonderful time at the

[1:13:47] Churchill parade.

[1:13:50] Yeah, and I'm good.

[1:13:54] Okay. Jack got anything?

[1:13:56] Yeah, just had to, well obviously the parade,

[1:13:59] that was later in the day, but went up to the ville s skit

[1:14:03] and watched our, both our high schools compete.

[1:14:08] Queen Anne's County did coming

[1:14:10] second well ahead of Kent Island.

[1:14:12] I might add not to rub that in my fellow commissioner Phil

[1:14:16] There, not to rub

[1:14:19] It in, but not to rub it in. How did East

[1:14:20] Chris, we, Chris, we don't have to stand for this.

[1:14:23] Our, our, well Cole Copi,

[1:14:25] our from Queen Anne County

[1:14:26] High School won it again this year.

[1:14:28] He's also our sitting national champion as well.

[1:14:30] So his, but his last time,

[1:14:32] I believe Cole's senior this year.

[1:14:33] So we won't have but incredible program.

[1:14:35] I mean, so they had the picture from two years ago

[1:14:38] with 10 kids from each school.

[1:14:40] This year they got 40 kids, 20 from each school

[1:14:43] and they're up to six schools this year

[1:14:45] and they're looking to bring on four more next year.

[1:14:47] So it's, it's grown at a rapid pace. What

[1:14:50] Wasn't it 40 this 40 last year, 80 this year?

[1:14:53] No, no, no, no. That was with all the schools. Oh.

[1:14:55] But just Queen Anne's County.

[1:14:57] We had 40, but up from 20. So, so

[1:15:00] I mean as a, as a school, high school team.

[1:15:02] Sport four. Yeah. It's, it's really,

[1:15:04] they're they're talking about adding what,

[1:15:05] six more schools next year?

[1:15:07] Yeah, that's what they were saying. Six.

[1:15:09] And then, but it's, you know, it's, it's funny

[1:15:11] because these kids are the real deal talking to the,

[1:15:13] the coaches and all that just to, it it's,

[1:15:15] it just brings kids outta their shell.

[1:15:17] Some kids that are introverts. Yeah.

[1:15:18] You know, they really get into it and they shoot

[1:15:20] and I'm telling you, I wouldn't wanna make any of 'em mad

[1:15:23] 'cause I'm pretty sure they can knock you down.

[1:15:25] I we saw 2 25 outta 20 fives in a matter of two shooters.

[1:15:29] So Yeah. One actually was Gene Legg's grandson.

[1:15:33] His, he had his first 25.

[1:15:35] So, but yeah, it was a great time and,

[1:15:38] and I'm gonna be bringing something back

[1:15:39] around here in the next month

[1:15:40] or so to try to enhance the facility up there.

[1:15:44] Yep. Because it's be, you know, it is gonna be our home base

[1:15:47] for both high schools and just, you know, clean it up

[1:15:50] and get them a new, some new bathrooms

[1:15:52] and, you know, we've done all that in a lot

[1:15:54] of the other parks that we're using.

[1:15:55] So I think it's a good idea to,

[1:15:56] and they've raised 155,000 already.

[1:15:59] So total 'em, we may be talking about we can match that.

[1:16:03] Get 'em over to the finish line. So,

[1:16:05] And possibly the sheriff's indoor range.

[1:16:08] Well we haven't had that conversation yet,

[1:16:09] so I won't bring that one up yet.

[1:16:10] Sheriff. Don't know about that one just yet. But

[1:16:12] Yeah, I did see the Lady Bucks picture though from

[1:16:14] the, from the Yeah.

[1:16:16] On Facebook today. Looking good. Yep. Did a really good job.

[1:16:20] So yeah, that was very enjoyable.

[1:16:23] So next time they have a meeting,

[1:16:25] I would suggest getting out there.

[1:16:26] And Chris, you got anything you wanna say?

[1:16:31] Yeah, I just want to an addendum almost to the,

[1:16:34] the vote we did earlier for the additional funding

[1:16:36] for the school and for the mental health professionals.

[1:16:40] And I, I just want to commend the father

[1:16:42] who lost his son tragically to suicide,

[1:16:44] who came out to the meeting to speak.

[1:16:46] I think that was a very brave thing that he did

[1:16:50] and the folks that were there to support

[1:16:51] him and it made a difference.

[1:16:53] 'cause as you see, there's additional,

[1:16:55] additional funding that goes in.

[1:16:57] And so I just want to make sure that people know

[1:16:59] that if there are things that you want

[1:17:01] to see in the community

[1:17:03] and things that you wanna see from the commissioner's

[1:17:06] budget, come and talk to us.

[1:17:08] 'cause you'll be surprised at how quickly

[1:17:10] we can put things into action.

[1:17:13] It reminds me of, of when we had those kids come

[1:17:17] to the parks and board and they wanted to have a skate park

[1:17:20] and they put on an amazing presentation

[1:17:22] and within 18 months it was open, like amazing.

[1:17:25] Right. And because if you come forward

[1:17:28] and you talk to the commissioners, you'd be surprised at

[1:17:31] how, you know, how much we can get done.

[1:17:34] But when you're sitting at home

[1:17:36] and just not speaking to us, we can't reach your minds.

[1:17:40] So, you know, come out, talk to commissioners,

[1:17:42] you'll find we're all very approachable.

[1:17:46] I'd be shocked if you reached out to any commissioner if,

[1:17:49] if you didn't get a response back within 24

[1:17:51] or 48 hours, setting up a time to meet with you.

[1:17:54] And that is something I'm proud of, that we, that we all,

[1:17:57] all do to make sure that we are accessible.

[1:18:00] Whether it's at night, during the day, on the weekends,

[1:18:03] we're always out there meeting with the constituents and,

[1:18:06] and trying our best to do the right thing for everybody.

[1:18:10] Awesome. So I got to

[1:18:15] participate last Saturday.

[1:18:16] I got to hang out with Jack at the,

[1:18:18] at the Southern Royal Ski Trap Club.

[1:18:20] Got some great pictures of the Bucks team

[1:18:23] and a few of the Queen Ants team.

[1:18:26] But it was great to see the kids get to come together.

[1:18:29] We actually got our picture taken, Jack

[1:18:32] and I, with both teams.

[1:18:34] That was pretty cool. And then Saturday we

[1:18:36] did, Saturday was a busy day.

[1:18:39] Saturday afternoon, we, we joined the folks up in Churchill

[1:18:42] and celebrated their hundred 50th birthday

[1:18:47] and walked in their parade

[1:18:49] and just what a great turnout for the north part

[1:18:51] of the county for the fireworks and all the festivities

[1:18:54] and things that were going on.

[1:18:56] So, Jim,

[1:18:59] Very good.

[1:19:00] Well, Saturday was a busy day.

[1:19:02] We went out with our $50,000 matching funds, check down the

[1:19:07] Y River via a boat.

[1:19:10] And it was, I got to watch a seating of a, of a historic

[1:19:16] bed, which was very interesting

[1:19:18] and a lot of interesting facts about oysters

[1:19:21] in the Y River and what's going on.

[1:19:23] So, and I told 'em I wanted, I want it all itemized.

[1:19:26] I want, I want all the information.

[1:19:27] 'cause the numbers are just unbelievable.

[1:19:30] So it's going very well for them.

[1:19:31] And then, like you said, we went up to Churchill,

[1:19:34] ran outta candy, not gonna live that one down.

[1:19:37] That was a lot of kids up there.

[1:19:39] Boy, that was a, a hell of a crowd.

[1:19:41] So, but on a more serious note, the passing

[1:19:44] of Paul Gunther, he will be missed.

[1:19:47] I mean, what, what a great individual from commissioner

[1:19:51] to businessman to a farmer, just so easy to talk

[1:19:54] to no matter what he was doing behind a hot grill, he would,

[1:19:58] you know, wealth, the knowledge.

[1:19:59] That's it. Yeah. So I just, he's a pillar of the community

[1:20:03] and, and he will truly be missed.

[1:20:05] So God bless.

[1:20:06] And, and you know, I, that's all I can really say about it.

[1:20:12] Anything else for the good of the group?

[1:20:14] The pickleball courts in Churchill opened the day before.

[1:20:20] So if you want to play pickleball,

[1:20:22] brand new beautiful courts up in Churchill.

[1:20:27] Very good. Make a motion to adjourn. Second.

[1:20:31] All those in favor? A Aye. Aye.

County Commissioners Meeting || 06/09/2026

Transcript