St. Mary's County, MD Commissioners of St. Mary's County, 5 Oct 2021

Previous Meeting Next Meeting

⏯

youtube image

►

From YouTube: 10/05/21 Commissioners of St. Mary's County

Description

No description was provided for this meeting.
If this is YOUR meeting, an easy way to fix this is to add a description to your video, wherever mtngs.io found it (probably YouTube).

A

Please come to order good morning welcome to the commission of st mary's county meeting this date.

A

Tuesday october 5th 2021., I am randy guy president of commissioner of saint mary's county I'd, like.

A

To introduce the other commissioners sitting to my right representative. First commissioner district, which includes ridge, piney, point saint george, derek colvin good morning, representative.

A

Second, mr district, which includes leonard town in hollywood, mr mike hewitt good morning,.

A

Same to my left, representing the third commissioner district, which includes charlotte hall, I'm jessica, golden beach, mechanics film, mr john o'connor good morning, representing.

A

The fourth commissioner district, which includes lexington park central california, great mills,.

A

And some of hollywood, mr todd morgan, dr rebecca bridget, our county administrator, is sitting at.

A

The table to my left good morning, elisa casas, our communications director is sitting at the.

A

Table to my right good morning, amy carter, our video media producer, is behind the glass.

A

Please till your cell phones off or on vibrate when you come to the presenter's table, please.

A

Approach by coming down the center aisle and remember this meeting is being televised.

A

If you need to speak clearly and directly into the microphone for recording purposes,.

A

Announcements, we have two minutes. Two meetings scheduled this evening in the.

A

Meeting room, 5, 30 p.m. We have a public hearing on the comprehensive water and sewer plan. Amendment.

A

For property by on tap llc 6 pm, we have our joint meeting with the saint mary's county delegation.

A

To discuss 2022 legislative proposals, we hope you will join us either.

A

In person or by phone at this time, please stand for our invocation and pledge.

A

Dear heavenly father, we thank you for this fine day. We have in front of us.

A

Please bless our citizens and bless the board of commissioners that we make the right decisions.

A

To help the citizens of saint mary's county live a good life in southern maryland, amen, amen,.

A

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the united states of america and to the republic for which.

B

It stands one day, jesus under god, indivisible with the pursuit of justice for all. Please be seated.

A

I need to approve a consent agenda. I move to approve the consent agenda, which includes the.

C

Minutes of september 28 2021 as presented second first and second, all in favor aye, any opposed.

A

Eyes have it, we have numerous proclamations, the first one will be uh national 4-h week.

A

And I would like some of the following people to come forward if you're hearing this.

A

Wathen, uh mr kershaw, this is kershaw and miss allred.

A

All right and some some young 4-h, okay, but bow ties too all right. Okay, there you go.

A

Whereas the week of october 3rd, through the 9th 2021 marks the 79th annual 4-h week, celebration.

A

And provides an opportunity for all of us to join together and raise public awareness of this.

A

Century-Old institution serving the young people of our nation and our county and.

A

Whereas 4-h is america's largest youth development organization, having supported almost 6 million.

A

Youth across the country thus far 4-h helps approximately 450 years in saint mary's county.

A

To become confident, independent, resilient and compassionate leaders by providing experiences.

A

Where young people learn through hands-on projects and programs in health, science.

A

Agriculture and citizenship and whereas national 4-h week showcases the incredible experiences.

A

That 4-h offers young people and highlights of remarkable 4-h youth in saint mary's county also.

A

Work each day to make a positive impact on those around them. Now, therefore, with the commissioners.

A

Of saint mary's county to hereby proclaim the week of october 3rd through the 9th 2020.

A

National 4-h week and this year's theme find your spark to encourage all citizens to recognize 4-h.

A

For the significant impact they have made and continue to make by empowering youth and the.

A

Skills they need to lead life for a lifetime signed by the commissioner, saint mary's county.

A

Michael for anybody, if there was to speak, thank you for having us today, I'd like to introduce miss.

D

Hannah wathen, would you like to say uh your your um how many years you've been in 4-h in your club.

D

um I've been in 4-h for 10 years, and I am in tudor hall in chicago very, very good.

A

It's great and we also have miss kathy kershaw who's, a 4-h alum from.

D

Saint mary's county, as well as her sons and I'll. Let them introduce themselves.

A

You can go ahead and say something: his name is leroy kershaw, and this is ernest kershawn. I'm.

E

Kathy kershaw, all from tudor hall, 4-h club. Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you. They represent.

D

Our oldest and our youngest youngest and kathy is also one of our organizational leaders for.

D

Her for her club so um much deserved recognition to her for her many years of service. Are there.

A

Other numerous clubs in saint mary's county or just the one we have nine clubs, nine clubs.

A

Yep nine community clubs um and you probably saw many of their um projects and livestock this past.

A

Weekend at the fair yeah- yes very much before last year- very much so! Thank you very much. Thank you.

A

Hey, we need to be there, everybody just stay in there turn around. We get up, get a photo up here.

A

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

A

Okay: next, we have the national domestic violence awareness month.

A

uh Commissioner, o'connor will be reading that.

F

Get the norman miss norma, pipkin, taylor, spencer, davis and corporal o'connor come forward. Thank you.

G

We know, I think I know I think I know that o'connor I don't know mask, is hot doing everything.

F

Whereas anyone can be a victim of domestic violence, regardless of age, sex.

F

Ability, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status or religion.

F

And whereas children who are up in violent homes are believed to be abused and neglected,.

F

At a higher rate than the national average, and whereas the crime of domestic violence violates an.

F

Individual's privacy, dignity, security and humanity due to systemic use of physical, emotional, sexual.

F

Psychological and economic control and or abuse, including abuse to spouses, children.

F

And the elderly, and whereas a confidential, coordinated community response via the saint.

F

Mary's, county family violence, coordinating council, inclusive of such organizations such as southern.

F

Maryland family advocacy center, st mary's medstar hospital, st mary's county department of social.

F

Services: three oaks center, the commission for women and the commissioner for women.

F

Is available to victims of domestic violence dating violence and sexual assault? Now, therefore,.

F

In recognition of the vital work being done by the saint mary's county commission for women and the.

F

Saint mary's county, family violence, coordinating council, we, the commissioners of saint mary's,.

F

County maryland do hereby proclaim the month of october as domestic violence awareness month and.

F

Pledge to foster supportive communities that help survivors seek justice and enjoy full and healthy.

F

Lives while raising public awareness about how to prevent, recognize and stop domestic violence.

E

Good morning, commissioners and thank you for having us here this morning,.

E

um As you stated, the october is domestic violence awareness month.

E

So today is the day that the commission for women must come and talk about the ugly truce.

E

The ugly truth is that one in four women are victims of domestic violence, the ugly truth.

E

Is that it happens in all neighborhoods and across all social economic levels,.

E

The ugly truth is that it happens in many ways. It may start with frequent put downs withholding.

E

Financial information or resources constantly checking on the whereabouts of the person.

E

Or separation of family and friends, the ugly truth is, it may be a threat, a push or a slap.

E

The ugly truth is that physical abuse is followed by an apology. Ugly truth is, it will happen again.

E

The ugly truth is that women are abused many times before they make the decision to leave.

E

The ugly truth is that children that observe domestic violence suffer alongside their mother.

E

And suffer long-term consequences. The ugly truth is the most dangerous time for a woman.

E

Is when she makes the final decision to leave the situation? The commission for women is.

E

Committed to talking about the ugly truths in hopes that our community will have a better.

E

Understanding and develop more resources and we'll have fewer ugly truths. Thank you.

H

um I just wanted to add corporal o'connor with the sheriff's office.

H

Domestic violence doesn't just affect women. It's across the board. Men and women. Both are victims.

H

Of domestic violence and the sheriff's office is working with the family advocacy center to.

H

Help out those victims put them in an emergency shelter, get them protective orders.

H

Legal representation and we're doing our part to try to get education out there.

I

Hi, taylor, spencer davis. uh This is really weird to speak with my back to you guys, so I.

I

Apologize for that, I'm, the deputy director of the southern maryland center for family advocacy.

I

And uh liz and or corporal o'connor and norma, both pointed out some of the ugly.

I

Truths but I'm gonna end with some of the silver linings in our community and I would like to say.

I

That in saint mary's county we've built up an amazing task force against domestic violence.

I

With the sheriff's department and corporal o'connor and with the commission for women.

I

With norma with the hospital with the department of social services, I cannot stress uh how thankful.

I

I am for that partnership and how much help we get and how our communication always flows freely.

I

And how each of us, individually, as an organization, is dedicated to making sure we help in whatever.

I

Way we can. I would also like to remind anybody out there listening, who might be thinking they're in.

I

A toxic relationship or a situation that maybe isn't going so well. I would just like to remind.

I

Them that all these services are still out here pandemic or not, we never never stopped helping.

I

We never stop providing services, and so I want everybody out in the community to know if you.

I

Need those services we're here we're here, 24, 7., um and so with that being said, uh in order to.

I

Support domestic violence awareness month we are having a survivor showcase, so a virtual.

I

It's all on social media, we're looking for art that is made by survivors of domestic violence.

I

And we want to showcase that and show it to the community and then also be on the lookout for.

I

In february uh our dating violence awareness event, but I just want to thank everybody for.

I

Coming today and thank all my colleagues because they are truly a team of superstars thanks guys.

A

Miss spencer davis, do you all have some kind of a hotline that people can call in on at any time.

I

Yes, so um general calls come into, 301 uh 373-4141 sorry drew a blank, and then our hotline.

I

Usually filters through dss or the sheriff's department, but that's a 24 7 line specifically.

I

For people in imminent danger of domestic violence and sexual assault, that number is.

F

uh 240-925-0084 one two things that were not mentioned in this and one I wanna thank you.

F

I've worked with you before and it is relentless on and can be tiring on everything that you deal.

F

With and the after after hours calls, I you know, unfortunately, I I get to see the other side of the.

F

Work that goes through so um we'll make sure that the the sheriff's office gets added into the the.

F

Proclamation um because of the partnership that you have, and also what you do with the schools.

F

Because that that isn't mentioned, the schools are huge with getting in early about the dating.

F

Violence that comes with it and I know miss pipkin you're, very involved with that. So thank you very.

F

Much for that- and I would like to thank the county commissioners too- I forgot that part. I I truly.

I

Did plan it, um but the the county commissioners in this county are so supportive of our efforts uh to.

I

Both prevent domestic violence and to help victims after the fact, so. Thank you all so much for that.

A

Well, we'll add your hotlines if we don't have it on our website, do we have anything like that on.

A

Our website do you know what we can make sure it's added, sir okay, thank you make sure it's.

A

On here, so people have to get to our website, don't know where to go. Thank you. Thank you.

A

Please stand turn around. Please stand right there and turn around and get uh get a picture here.

J

A

Next, we have uh case management recognition week.

A

Commissioner morgan, thank you. I see miss kessler here.

K

And mrs harris, thank you.

L

K

Morning, good morning and our proclamation this morning reads whereas case management.

K

Is a collaborative process of assessment planning facilitation care coordination, evaluation, advocacy.

K

For options and services to meet individuals and families, comprehensive health needs.

K

Through communication and available resources to promote safety, quality of care and cost-effective.

K

Outcomes and whereas case management recognition week is an opportunity to spotlight case managers.

K

And caseworkers in saint mary's county and the value of their service to the community.

K

And whereas case managers and caseworkers in saint mary's county work tirelessly to ensure.

K

Populations in need in the community and in long-term care stings have advocates to access.

K

That and access to services now, therefore, with the commissioners of saint mary's county to hereby.

K

Proclaim the week of october 11th to 17th is case management recognition week. Thank you very much.

B

uh Good morning, commissioners, and thank you for the recognition we just wanted, people to.

B

Be aware that there's a lot of work that goes into supporting people in need by way of case.

B

Managers case workers, um so there's uh you know an enormous compassion that is required for the type.

B

Of work that these individuals do rebecca kessler is the division manager for home and community.

B

Based services and leads a team of case managers who support people in their home to remain in the.

B

Community as long as possible, I want to give her an opportunity to say something: she'd like.

G

Thank you for allowing us this opportunity today, and I apologize that was my phone.

G

Ringing in the back, because I am also a case manager and there's case managers sitting in.

G

This room right behind us, so not just in our department but in many operations in.

G

Saint mary's, there are caseworkers and case managers, our hospital department of social.

G

Services center for life enrichment center for independent living, the arc of southern maryland.

G

I just can't say that this is an incredible network and then, over the last year and a half I.

G

You know deeply am thankful for this network of people pulling things together. So today's a day.

G

And this week recognize caseworkers everywhere you see them. That includes social workers,.

G

Even nursing staff, so thank you to all of them. We appreciate all you. Do it's just good. It's a.

A

Great thing to do how we thank you, we don't have people out there in need we're trying to keep the.

A

Older interop in the home when they can- and things like that, so thank you very much. Thank you. So much.

A

A

Next, we have national disability employment awareness month and commissioner colvin yep.

C

So I believe lydia are you coming forward for this as chair of the commission for people with.

C

Disabilities, that's great, miss pratzen is joining all right. This proclamation reads: whereas in 1945.

C

Congress designated the first week in october as national employ the physically handicapped.

C

Week in 1988 congress expanded the week to a month and changed its name to national.

C

Disability, employment awareness month and whereas october is national disability.

C

Employment awareness month and all members of saint mary's county are encouraged to participate.

C

And to celebrate the many and varied contributions of american workers with disabilities and whereas.

C

The u.s department of labor's theme for this year's national observance, which celebrates.

C

76 years of disability, employment awareness is america's recovery powered by inclusion.

C

Reflecting the importance of ensuring that people with disabilities have full access to employment.

C

And community involvement during the national recovery from the covet 19 pandemic.

C

And whereas workplaces welcoming the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, are.

C

Cr are a critical part of efforts to build an inclusive community and strong economy and all.

C

Individuals should be given the opportunity to participate entirely and equally in the social.

C

And economic life of the state and in the and in the opportunity to engage in gainful employment.

C

Now, therefore, we, the commissioners of saint mary's county, do hereby proclaim.

C

October 2021 as national disability employment awareness month and urge all citizens of saint.

C

Mary's county to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities that.

C

Reaffirm our dedication to create equal employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

M

Just briefly wanted to thank the commissioners for recognizing this month and also for your support.

M

Of the commission with people are on people with disabilities, lydia has done a wonderful job and.

M

We're so excited to present our award ceremonies. So, thank you all. Thank you so much. It is so.

N

Important to include our folks with disabilities in the community into the workforce, they have.

N

So much to give and so many talents, so thank you so much for recognizing that very good. Thank you.

A

A

Okay: next, we have a presentation and it's the commission on people with disabilities.

A

Awards ceremony and uh will be led by linda and catherine preston, also you'll, be part of thank.

M

That you commission, has supported a sign language interpreter who is going to offer services.

M

um For those watching on this television, very good, very good. Thank you so much again for hosting this.

N

Year's annual award ceremony for the commission on people with disabilities. The awards program is.

N

Intended to promote awareness and to recognize the outstanding efforts of individuals and.

N

Organizations that improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in saint mary's county.

N

Typically, the awards are issued annually and any person, business or organization.

N

Within saint mary's, county is eligible and nominations may be submitted by any party.

N

This year, the award categories include volunteer, notable employer care partner.

N

Award innovative program and the vicki brown award for outstanding person with a disability.

N

So without a further ado, I would like to start with the volunteer award. A candidate should.

N

Demonstrate exceptional efforts on behalf of the disabled community through volunteering time and.

N

Energy, and this year's winner is mr joel sinclair nominated by marianne charning joe sinclair, is.

N

A 72 year old businessman born and raised in st mary's county over the past 40 years, joe has owned.

N

And operated a number of different businesses and dealt with people from all walks of life in.

N

1999 he bought an operated swing and swat a family entertainment center. In hollywood maryland, he was.

N

Generous enough to open the gulf driving range for special olympics practices on evenings, so the kids.

N

Had a place to practice, bocce ball in addition to running his own business joey is a father of four.

N

His only son jw was born with cerebral palsy for jw's 16th birthday. He invited the community-based.

N

Special education class from chopticon high school to celebrate with pizza cake and even had a dj.

N

So they could dance the night away. Everyone talked about what a wonderful night it was. It.

N

Eventually helped spark the group we refer to as our special friends. It has evolved over the years.

N

Into a group of both young and older people with developmental and physical disabilities, who get.

N

Their monthly to party and dance together once joe sold swing and swat. He moved the special friends.

N

Parties to his farm in avenue and started involving some of his equine friends.

N

Thank you so much, mr joe sinclair. If you could come up and receive your award.

N

Relax but I would like to shake your hand and take a picture we'll get the plaque to you.

N

As soon as we get it engraved, and thank you so much for coming, I hope y'all stand guys.

N

Our next award is the notable employer award. A candidate should demonstrate exceptional.

N

Effort in advancing employment and or volunteer opportunities to persons with disabilities in.

N

Saint mary's county and this year the winner is texas, roadhouse nominated by jackie loy.

N

From the arc of southern maryland, I would like to nominate texas roadhouse for being a great.

N

Employer in st mary's county texas, roadhouse hired one of the individuals supported by.

N

The arc of southern maryland over five years ago, the arc of southern maryland, strives to find and.

N

Work with employers who do not see the disability in a person.

N

Just the ability and support community inclusion- texas, roadhouse, exemplifies this every day, the.

N

Individual looks forward to going to work every day enjoys their co-workers and the environment.

N

A huge thank you for allowing everyone to be a part of your team. If there's a representative from.

N

Texas roadhouse or from the ark they can come up and shake hands and take a picture with me.

N

They were gonna, try to make it, but I'm sure they're busy, with lunch or prepping.

N

Make sure they get their plaque next. Is the care partner award.

N

Candidate must be a direct care provider either paid or volunteer. That advocates for.

N

And empowers persons with disabilities allowing for increased self-esteem and community inclusion.

N

And this year the winner is deborah bowles, she's nominated by tamika carter. Samika says deborah has.

N

Been with bay css over 20 for over 20 years, her dedication shows in her loyalty to her clients.

N

In her many years with bay css, she always goes above and beyond the call of duty.

N

During the pandemic, she was very helpful with filling available shifts due to staffing shortages.

N

We're so very grateful for ms debra's um contribution for the all these years. I.

N

Am not sure if she's here in the room today, but if she is, if she can come up and take a picture.

N

All right so we'll.

N

Next, we have the innovative program award. Candidates should exhibit an innovative plan.

N

And its execution for inclusion of persons with disabilities in an area of community life.

N

The winner this year is crystal hayslip with the arc of southern maryland. She is nominated by.

N

Mindy cornish shifflet. I would like to nominate crystal for the innovative award program she.

N

Is the recreation therapist at the arc southern maryland when the maryland state shutdown started.

N

Crystal was asked to take on the task of creating and implementing a virtual program to all of the.

N

Participants at the arc crystal began to turn all of her in-person talents to the zoom world.

N

She began working with individuals behind the screen, creating implementing daily programs that.

N

Everyone would enjoy and dubbed her team, the zoom masters bristol has been creating programs for.

N

Individuals for over 18 months giving participants a minimum of five programs per day to choose from.

N

She had yet to duplicate a program crystal has kept many people busy, active and in touch.

N

With friends and the community, it's amazing work thanks crystal.

N

Next, we have the vicki brown award. Candidates must be a person with a disability that enjoys all.

N

Aspects of life is a role model and inspiration for others and participates in the advancement.

N

Of barrier-free access for all, we usually award two vicky brown awards every year and this year.

N

One of our winners is a past humus award. We are so very sad that mary randall is no longer with us.

N

But this year she is receiving the award, the vicki brown award and she is nominated by.

N

Sherry sinclair- and this is what miss sherry said about mary. This is some of the snapshots from our.

N

Dear mary's, wonderful life, mary randall was a dear friend of mine, whose life was cut short by cancer.

N

Mary had cerebral palsy since birth and was confined to a wheelchair all of her life.

N

But that never confined her spirit. Mary was an active member of the special friends, a group of.

N

Physically and mentally challenged adults that gathered once a month for parties, picnics and.

N

Singing and dancing, and just having a great time with friends, mary usually had a microphone in her.

N

Hand and a smile on her face she traveled a great deal and was always open to new opportunities, as.

N

Well as challenges she participated every year in the commission for persons with disabilities.

N

Annual christmas party and despite her fear of our snowman, she participated by leading us in.

N

Song to her favorite christmas carol, mary bravely faced her cancer treatments, despite the fact that.

N

They never got her disease under control. She was an avid fan of horses and grow regularly at grand.

N

Greenwill state park: this is the first time the commission has presented an award.

N

Posthumously, but I feel it's greatly deserved by my friend, mary randle.

L

L

L

N

And our second vicki brown award goes to johan lee nominated by vernicia coleman.

N

Mr lee is an exceptional individual. He does not let his disability be utilized as a barrier for.

N

Him not to participate in any activity. He assists his peers as well as volunteers in his community.

N

He is noticeably most happy when he sees that he has made others happy.

N

Johan is genuinely a kind-hearted, warm and humble person he inspires and is such a.

N

Great role model for others by saying I can instead of I can't thank you, jahan.

N

Thank you all for coming. We really appreciate it and we're very grateful to be able to award.

N

This uh to have this program every year. Thank you, commissioners, again for your.

N

Support, thank you got it. Thank you. Okay. Next, uh we move right into county administrator time.

O

Thank you, commissioner. President guy uh commissioners, we start with your.

O

Draft meeting agendas: just a note: you have no meetings scheduled next week on october 12th.

O

So your first draft meeting agenda is october 19th, you have four proclamations scheduled white cane.

O

Day red ribbon week for the young, marines and red ribbon week for the health department and economic.

O

Development week you also have your regularly scheduled meeting for the saint mary's county.

O

Board of health office of the county attorney with the decision to repeal the solar moratorium.

O

Ordinance and the department of land use and growth management with the decision for the.

O

Comprehensive water and sewer plan amendment for property on tap llc. You also have a request for.

O

Public hearing from the department of land use and growth management for electrical code amendments.

O

You have a closed session that day for litigation personnel. You adjourn your morning. Business.

O

Meeting then that evening is a public forum at 6 30 p.m. Here, in this room, the next week is october.

O

26Th, it is your regularly scheduled meeting with the county commissioners and the commanding.

O

Officer in aspects river, the draft meeting agenda was scheduled to be at knox. The knox building.

O

However, that's likely to be virtual, so we'll see how that changes over the next couple of weeks.

O

uh And then from department of land use and growth management, you have a request for public hearing.

O

For the alcohol beverage production also a closed session schedule for litigation.

O

You adjourn your morning meeting or that runs in a little bit into the afternoon.

O

To reconvene at 2pm with the maryland department of transportation for their.

O

2021 consolidated transportation tour and they are planning on joining you via zoom.

O

For this morning's business meeting.

L

You begin with item b from human resources and the sheriff's office for the request for the station.

O

Clerk career ladder, miss pratzen and captain american presenting this morning good morning, good.

O

Morning morning, major america good morning, commissioners, how are you today we're doing just.

A

Fine great glad to see your smiling face again yeah. I think we can all smile around this group.

P

Or laugh good morning again, commissioners we're here today to um request consideration.

M

For developing a career ladder for the station clerk, physician.

M

um The uh in the sheriff's office budget there are 10 station clerk positions, budgeted and we've had.

M

A very difficult time keeping them filled and what the sheriff's office has developed is a.

M

Proposal that, after a year of service, a station clerk won, assuming that they have a successful.

M

Performance evaluation and meet a certain training criteria would be promoted to a station clerk too.

M

And then, similarly, after two years of successful service and two years of a training program,.

M

And completion of that would be promoted to a station clerk 3.. It would provide growth for.

M

The individuals in the job we imagine that it would assist with retention of people as.

M

All as well as helping to continue the quality of service that the customers and the public require.

M

It's estimated the program will cost about eighteen thousand dollars as current year, because.

M

Of the people that are in the positions, there are five filled positions um in years to come.

M

That cost will likely be less and and the cost is already contained in the sheriff's office budget.

K

I'm confused, mr american. You actually come back with a cost that will be less next year.

K

Yes, I'm going just in this project.

K

The first time I've seen you come fast for less. I know your hand, isn't.

F

Expectations. That's all um we have a great opportunity here, commissioners, um our attrition.

P

Rate in the station clerk position has been very difficult, to say the least. As you know,.

P

Commissioner, morgan, um two years ago we got five more positions for the d4 station, so that gives.

P

It gave us 10., but we haven't able to fill them or keep them filled just to let you know not just.

P

Because of cove, but I look back to 2017 to present we've hired 21 station clerks and we only have.

P

Five, three of them have stayed with us of that 21 into another position within the sheriff's office.

P

So it is a huge huge void, we have and it's a very important position and the the duty officer.

P

Just cannot maintain you know. The sheriff's office is really the only government building.

P

That is open to the public 24 7 every day. So you need somebody, that's the face of the sheriff to be.

P

Not only at headquarters, but at these district stations that we've all agreed and migrated.

P

To um district-based, policing and getting the cops in our communities and these station houses opened.

P

To provide the services, the public want that you've embraced with us.

P

And, like I say it's, it's it's a really an easy button for us this time, like you're,.

P

Suggesting todd- and I really think it's a great opportunity. Our strategy helps us because.

P

You hire any civilians and, unlike county government, again they're they're 24 7 people. They.

P

Have to do shift work, they have to come in when it snows when everybody else gets to stay home. They.

P

Have to be there christmas and thanksgiving, so this get also rewards those folks for staying with.

P

Us and coming to work every day. So, okay, it's up to you guys for us to decide. I'm quite sure, maybe.

P

I'll get an unanimous vote and maybe I'll take you all to lunch afterwards. What are you? Oh, you are.

A

Bribing the commission's all ready major american tell me when you say shift work, so uh these people.

J

Are on 24 7.? Yes, they are yeah yeah. So that's a great point now. Do you have differential pay for.

J

Ones who have to work the latest shifts. Yes, that's a good point too. I'm going to support.

J

This, of course, now have you ever looked at what you want. You get a free lunch house with friends.

J

That's what it is: yeah yeah, yeah, major american. I get no free lunches. Well, you could take me to lunch, then how's that.

P

I I I get no free lunch, let's be real. It's 19, it's under 20. we're good all right, perfect.

J

Don't worry, I take no free lunches. My point to you is: uh when doing this type of work are.

J

People like at a desk all the time or are they up and around they're at a desk. The phone rings.

P

Non-Stop, as you can imagine, in those places they have to do teletype work when you know.

P

For domestic violence violations wanted hit confirmation, stolen property, confirmations.

P

I mean there's a lot of intricacies in this job that most normal office positions, don't.

P

Have to maintain certifications on as well, so it is very important.

P

Not to mention the amount of intelligence that comes across that desk to us. Okay, I'm sure mrs.

J

Pratzen we're seeing a lot of uh people who are looking for ladders. Looking for some kind of.

J

What's the term commitment to your opportunity long enough that someone new doesn't come in.

J

And jump ahead of them somehow and it seems to be something: that's that's common throughout.

J

County government, I appreciate, if you take look at that when you uh quote unquote, get some free time.

M

Sure and we developed a career ladder position in the corrections facility and it's been very.

M

Successful and I'd like to copy that model farther because we're hearing a lot of this yeah.

M

Yes, thank you, mr president, moved to approve developing a crew letter for the station.

K

Quick position within the sheriff's office for existing station cork employees and new hires.

K

Second, I have a first and second, all in favor aye any opposed eyes. Have it when's lunch give.

A

Y'all have a great day you too now. Thank you, goodbye major thank you, commissioners and the.

K

Items is from the department of finance with the board of education request, approval of.

O

The fy 2022 categorical budget adjustment, jeanette cudmore cfo, will introduce the item. Ms cudmore, yes,.

Q

Good morning, commissioners, we have here this morning.

Q

Mr boyle, from the board of education to discuss a categorical transfer that is requested for.

Q

Purchasing a new haas tl series tool, room, lath machine, mister.

R

Okay, so what we have here, uh the categorical change we're asking for is: if you can go to.

R

The next one um is for a machine that we found out late last spring. Once we got back into school, was.

R

uh No longer working uh took some time to get the company to get someone in so we didn't get.

R

An estimate until july 11., so at that point we were already solidified in where we had.

R

um To be able to move money around, we weren't able to move money around there. Basically, this machine.

R

Is a 2006 machine that we bought back then um it's just that it's a production grade, 3 axle mill.

R

Our estimated repairs are over 21 000 to repair it and when we looked into what new technology was.

R

um Which was far greater, we were talking just over 40 thousand dollars next slide. Please.

R

This just gives you an idea of what it is. I think the thing that I point out here is.

R

uh One of the reasons we like these cnc machines are is first of all. Haas is what is used on the.

R

Base and in the contractors, so our our kids are versed in that when they come out of here.

R

It does say here because they're, a very simple learn to operate and the perfect startup well.

R

That's relative: it's easy for them, because they're trained in it, uh maybe not necessarily, I can go in.

R

There so there's still quite a bit that goes into uh before you can pop onto one of these machines.

R

The next slide um shows you what it is like. I purposely didn't, show the old one because well.

R

Probably I should have showed the old one, because it's scary, it's big and there's no safety. This is.

R

Sleek and and very safety, uh probably the only way you could get hurt on this machine is, if you were.

R

Closing that door and maybe shut your fingers in it, because none of the machine operates until it's.

R

Been coded and shut, that's not the case with our 2006. with our 2006. We go to the next slide with.

R

Our 2006, basically the repairs, are so expensive because it's it's like any other technology. Now.

R

The 2006 machine is big and and ugly and and looks scary, um and it's just no longer operates within.

R

The software it has um generated out so it's no longer being supported even by the company, so.

R

What we were going to have to do is just not only a current software and all that, but the.

R

Internals had to be changed as well, and that's why it was 21 000 now that twenty one thousand dollars.

R

Is probably to us, I can't even imagine what it would be if it wasn't a school-based product.

R

And we could get no guarantees on that. We couldn't get a guarantee that in three years.

R

It wouldn't have to happen again, so that's when we came to the decision that it's probably best.

R

To buy the new technology, which should last us 10 to 15 years easily,.

R

And not put in the money towards that, so where we want to do is we want to move our categorical? We.

R

Have a lot of very expensive stuff at the tech center and when we are going to go something.

R

Over a 5 000 machine, we budget it that way. Well, we didn't know about this machine breaking down until.

R

After the budget, so we're going to move it from a category that says anything under five thousand.

R

Dollars to anything over five thousand dollars, which is this case, mr boy, what does this lathe do?.

R

It machines parts, so the kids can um design a part on their sims and their cads put it in there and.

R

Whether it's a gear or whatever, it takes a solid piece of mass, a piece of metal and turns it into.

R

Whatever it is that you've programmed into it, would this be for a metallurgy class, or it's.

R

Production, engineering, okay, so it's exactly what that is. We currently have another haas machine.

R

That we bought several years ago a little bit bigger and different than this one. I think it.

R

Was around 65 000, um but that was brought through perkins grant money and it's it does a little bit.

R

Different than this, but these two machines prepare them to walk right. In I mean they.

R

These these kids are they're they're begged for on on our on our base. Yeah, mr boyle, I think that's.

C

That's the key thing: these are skills that are critical to our workforce, not somewhere else.

C

In the country, this is needed right here in our community and it's um this is absolutely that's. It.

A

I think it's definitely a good choice to have this. No doubt my money yeah, it's a preparing people for.

A

The workforce in local area, tremendous, it's a huge skill, especially manufacturers, like triton metals,.

F

You know what they're doing down there with the the cnc machines.

F

There's other types of manufacturers that we are rolling out these parts, some parts just can't be.

F

Found especially right here at our airport, with the aviation industry.

F

You have to remanufacture them and make them these. Cnc machines are right there. So.

F

um It's uh it's a great thing to have, so I'm glad you're, updating it too, because.

F

uh Tri metals is one of them that we work with. We support kids into a lot of the programs here in.

R

Apprenticeships yeah. I think we currently have about um 25 of them throughout our what we call.

R

Tech jobs rule it's kind of it's a certain level with kids, with a certain um skill base that work.

R

Out in our community right, thank you careful need a motion. Well, I'm moved to approve the board of.

C

Education's request of an fy 2022, categorical budget adjustment for the purchase of new.

C

Equipment, second, I have a first and second, all in favor, aye, aye nays all right. Thank you. Thank you.

A

Thank you very much, sir. Thank you, commissioners. Thank you, mr boyle. Thank you, commissioners and.

O

Item d is also from the department of finance with the saint mary's county metropolitan.

O

Commission with a resolution issuing dhcd bonds, ms cudmore will introduce the guests. Yes and I.

Q

Believe, mr erickson is here and commissioners, this is for the approval of your resolution for.

Q

The full faith and credit to support the loan from metcom um their board actually approved on.

Q

The resolution for metcom back on september 23rd and then here's your resolution and the closing.

Q

Is actually scheduled for december 21st and mr erickson is here to talk more about the loan.

C

And we did approve this application and you did you did the application was here on august 31st.

Q

Yes, you approved correct, you approved the application and thank you for the.

S

Supplemental motion, which also amended our cib or we would have had to come back the fourth time.

S

That approval triggered several other events. Number one was our resolution that we, of course,.

S

Had to pass the public hearing, which was a supplemental appropriation, I know janet's.

S

Familiar with those to accept the 2.6 million dollars, and then we go back to our board on the.

S

28Th of october, to get our board to approve the supplemental appropriation and the acceptance.

S

Of the 2.6 and the revised capital budget, so for this this particular project totals 12.5 million.

S

And I know there's a question out there just because I know the total project, the total.

S

Project is a complicated funding formula, so we have metcom reserves of 2.5 million.

S

We have some skin in the game. If you will the arpa grant funding, which is 2.6 million.

S

Dhcd loan, which is included in this package and I'll round it up to 2.2. I think it's 2.19.

S

Or somewhere in that area, but 2.4 2.2 2.174.174, so we'll call it 2.2 because it makes my math.

S

Easier: okay bay, restoration funds, 3.5 million and an mde loan of 1.6 million, which totals 12.5.

S

Since may of this year, we advise the board. I think commissioner morgan asks the question and maybe.

S

Mr colvin, you did as well about cash flow, and we explained all the way back in may that.

S

It's not for cash flow that the arpa funding was necessary. It was for the application.

S

And we have to demonstrate that we have the full authority, a budgetary authority in our budget, to.

S

Do that and of course not until the metcon board approves their capital budget, since you have.

S

To approve it first on october 28th, but we have that full authority. Our intent is to submit the.

S

Application for funding in january or december or january, but we won't hear back till may.

S

So that's doing two things for both of our boards. It's holding up 2.5 million in reserves that we.

S

Hope we didn't have to use and it's holding up 2.6 million dollars in arpa. That really doesn't.

S

Need to be needed, yet it's needed there for the application authority. So we didn't wait. We didn't.

S

Want to wait for the application we've already met with mde we've looked at their funding formula.

S

Their funding eligibility- and I don't know if you recall, but back when the saint clement shores.

S

Phase b process was going through the all the revisions that were necessary. We only got.

S

Priority funding area exemption for the 140 existing lots, not for the full expansion to.

S

320., so that changes the funding formula a little bit, so we met with mde and we're talking to them.

S

About eligibility of funds to see if there's any way we can restructure, if you will, the timing of.

S

It and one of the suggestions has been to phase this project to take care of the 140 existing.

S

Lots which we all agree right off the bat we have to do and a proportion of the 320 total at the.

S

Initial phase, because if you all know about how sewers or anything else works, you need the flow.

S

If you build the plant for the full build out, and none of the infrastructure is there to bring that.

S

Sanitary sewer to the treatment plant you won't have that amount of flow to treat in the facility.

S

So one of the things we're looking at is phasing and we're going to try to ferret.

S

That out, prior to the application phase, good idea, but for right now 12.5 is the number.

S

And hopefully, by the joint meeting, if not soon, thereafter, we'll have an answer from the state.

S

And if we can reduce anyone's funding, of course, I would selfishly want to reduce our reserves, but.

S

Based on the demands on arpa, likewise, you would like to pull back on some of the arpa, which you.

S

Can do now that it's approved, you can increase your budgets, I mean you can decrease your budgets.

S

Without a lot of fanfare, but you can't increase them and we've had two public hearings and have.

S

Come back to you three or four times so our intent is to ferret that out before the application.

S

So that neither one of our boards have to wait till may to get the answer and a letter's being.

S

Drafted this week I looked at a draft this morning and made some edits to it, so our plan of action is.

S

If we can phase the project into- let's say instead of 12.5 a 10 and a 2 to get the full intent of.

S

That project number number one arpa would be the first target to basically pull that back. We would.

S

Tell dr bridget: we wouldn't need that money. That would be the first and then the second would be.

S

Our metropolitan commission reserves- those would be the first two things we would target if we can.

S

Bring in a phasing project at a little lower cost, so it keeps the purpose and intent of the 320 edus.

S

It addresses flow and the community's ability to put all that infrastructure in, and it also.

S

Is being sensitive to arpa and metcom reserve monies that are that are part of the project.

S

So very good, it's pretty complicated, but we're not sitting idle. I can assure you that I move.

F

To approve the county's resolution authorizing full faith and credit metropolitan commissions.

F

Issuance of infrastructure bonds in the amount not to exceed 10 million seven hundred thousand.

F

Dollars in accordance with section 113-2 point c of the code of saint mary's county and authorized.

F

Commissioner president signed any related documents. Second discussion, mr erickson, I've.

J

Gone into this in detail, sir, and thank you for what you're doing doing a good job.

J

Now I am going to recommend today that we remove some of the 2.6 million we gave in the air.

J

The american rescue money and give it to the fire departments because they need it too. Now.

J

What I'll say, though, is that the 348 edus that is going to be over multiple years right and you're.

J

When I met with uh again, I had to meet alone, because another commissioner would didn't show up.

J

With the maryland department of the secretary uh grumbles, maryland department of interior secretary.

J

He indicated that there may be a grant available for a infrastructure line to go into.

J

That area that you're talking about with the 144 or so edu's, so I'm not sure where that lies.

J

But I think there's plenty of time and given the fact that congress is now talking about.

J

October 31st date for this infrastructure bill. That's bipartisan, going through congress that.

J

May come in and help you quite a bit or help us help you quite a bit. So I support saint clements.

J

Shores wastewater treatment, plant expansion- I've been on that for probably six years now. I.

J

Appreciate everything your department has done, but I do believe that the 2.6 million is allocated to.

J

You right now at american rescue can be better used by the fire departments for protective gear.

J

Breathing apparatus, decon contamination, tents, rescue boats, other items, so I won't want to pull.

J

Any punches on you as they say, look you're a good guy you're doing a great job. But I do want to say.

J

You have dh or dchd money available to you. You have 40 of our borrowing capacity available to.

J

You you have water resource money available to you, you have a lot of outlets and these other people.

J

Don't so again, I just want to let you know, I'm a vote to approve this. I hope we can line everything.

J

Up and get it done in time, but I do believe it's multiple years to get you where you need to go.

J

And I think there's a better use for the funds, sir, so just want to be upfront with you.

K

Mr x, I'd like to know from your point of view with with what commissioner hewitt.

K

Has just proposed, which is news to me and how that affects saint clement's shores and.

K

The wastewater treatment plant well, we need the bottom line is the project. Cost is 12.5.

S

When you submit an application so that they can ferret out all the different funding, you need.

S

To have the authority in place and the approval that was obtained from the county commissioners.

S

Earlier has triggered a series of events where our capital budget has been approved at 12.5.

S

So the reduction in 2.6 at this time would basically remove your approval of the cib.

S

We would have to rescind the public hearing that we just held to accept the arpa money and then.

S

We have to reschedule our october 28th meeting and then we wouldn't have the full authority.

S

Soon thereafter, I, what I'm proffering is that, hopefully, by november december.

S

We will have the answer and can return whatever portion of the arpa money is not necessary.

S

If we can phase this project in or there's other funding sources, so basically a three-ring circus.

F

Sounds like a three-ring circus is what it would cause is a lot of.

F

Motions and movements and financial strains on our finance department that would make a right.

S

Decision that term, I would say, I'm using that term. We would have to rescind some things that we put.

S

In motion, but if we can wait another month or a month and a half, I think we can have your answer.

S

And I would hope to be able to come back and say: here's the we're proffering up the two point.

S

Six million dollars right for the 2.6 billion dollars. Why are we going through this exercise?.

S

We don't know what the application. That's right, you don't know ability is going to turn out to be.

S

So it turns out that we can phase the project, but you will know this in a couple of months: correct.

S

But we don't want to wait till may so we're having these preliminary discussions now with the state.

S

And we're sending them a position paper this week that says here's what we would like to do.

S

We don't necessarily want to spend 12.5, because we think it's going to be.

S

Money spent over the next 20 years. I agree: can we phase the project differently.

S

Address the 140 another 50 60 70 beyond that and build that now and do the rest later and that's.

S

What our proposal is, but I also want to discuss this with the board so that their inconcurrence as.

S

Phase one return: arpa, not phase one supplant arpa with our reserves. Well, I think that's one of the.

F

Expectations- and I think that's where commissioner morgan's going with it- is there.

F

Don't want to have the expectation out there that 2.6 million dollars is being returned from metcom.

F

And going to the fire departments, because that's just not the reality, that's facing us right now.

F

Because it could actually be something different based on whatever that final number is whatever.

F

Finance comes up with and and whatever that middle ground may be. Of course, I appreciate you saying.

F

You know arpa money, but it could be a combination thereof. It could be less, we don't. We don't know.

F

At this point, so it's not 2.6 million. That expectation is not the reality right now and we.

F

Need to find a few months to actually figure out where this is all going to lay and shake itself.

F

Out, I just recall 40 million dollars in I'm, not tracking the arpa money. I recalled over 40 million.

S

Dollars of requests and only 20 million available correct this year. So if we can return the 2.6.

S

To be able to be better utilized by the county in some other area, that would be.

S

Our first course of action. Thank you. That's that's my position to my board, but I would like to.

S

Our board to concur with that, and our next meeting is october 28th and that's where we'll discuss. I.

S

Concur with that yeah I returned about a couple minutes: 700 000 requests for uh this dhcd money.

J

I think that's good, hopefully you don't borrow it before you need it, because 180 days later,.

J

You'll start paying principal and interest. So let's be careful of that, but I would say to my.

J

Other colleagues on this board is that this is a multi-year long-term process to commit the 2.6.

J

Now so they can have the idea of the approval that can come elsewhere, we've given them 40 percent.

J

Of our borrowing authority, the 3.15 percent- that's a lot. They can replace this 2.6.

J

These fire department people cannot they've lost that money if anybody's been in fact impacted by.

J

Covet it's not about just only about carnivals, it's about running facilities, it's about having.

J

Dinners and having different fundraising events breakfast is down to second district. These fire.

J

Department people have been impacted and for what they're asking for protective gear breathing.

J

Apparatus decontamination tents exhaust to allow their ex their engines to start up without.

J

Smoking up the whole building during when it's cold and a rescue boat is reasonable and and.

J

Mr erickson you're doing a great job I think reallocating your your recent funding and saving.

J

Three million dollars in interest by taking debt from four percent down to one and a half one, seven.

J

That's great work, sir. That's great work. I just think we can get both. We can do both.

S

Don't don't disagree at all commissioners, we came to you with with the list of eligible projects.

S

For you to prioritize, I gave you the justification this this would I I don't want to reuse, commission.

S

O'connor's words: I forgot what they were already, but this would change the motion in the direction.

S

That we were given uh less than a week ago, and this could possibly delay your. I said three ring.

F

Circus, that's what it would delay. It would delay the loan process because all of the documents.

Q

After this um your, hopefully we get your approval today for the resolution. All the documents are.

Q

Due to the state um for their loan processing, for hopefully by the 19th of october, for the closing.

Q

In december, so it would update this and again we have time, I think, with the american rescue.

Q

Because we have it's a two-year, we have two years of 11 million dollars each.

Q

And yes, I do believe there is more money coming down from the federal government and we'll have.

Q

To address it at this point, we don't know what we're going to receive or when we're going to.

Q

Receive it so and as you've, given us the full faith and credit, I promise you my my full faith.

S

uh That we will, prior to the loan application, get this ferreted out by the state and that the.

S

First, priority for metcom with respect to arpa and the funding of this project would be return.

S

All or as much as we can of that as our first choice, I think that's fair, that's fair yeah! My.

K

Concern is we've: we've spent so many years trying to get same clement shores up and getting that.

K

Treatment, planting everything up and operating. I don't want to pull the rug out from where I.

A

Can delay that anywhere? We'll still have the 320 edu's we'll just address that, but.

J

Commissioner, we're not going to pull the rug out, I mean there's other sources available.

J

This isn't pulling the rug. Well, there's plenty of sources of money available for everything we.

K

Let's be honest, there's just too much damn money out there is this: that's the problem. It's about.

F

Priorities we'll have a 20 million fund balance in december, so there's plenty of money. There too.

F

I mean either way, there's plenty of money, so there's no emergency on some of these things.

F

I mean the fire departments have come forward. You know there was plenty of emergencies with.

F

Ems, which we did not allocate money to right away so they're perfectly fine. They have a.

F

Process they're following it, they know what they need and they don't need and.

F

To they'll be perfectly fine following the process, that's there and commissioners. If.

S

There was a single source. We would find it right now we're funding this project with five sources.

S

So there may be more, we've already got five, and if we can supplant one of them with another one.

S

Whether it's a lower interest rate or a return of the arpa, we'll certainly do that as well.

S

Right now we're just trying to get an application in with authority from both boards and a capital.

S

Budget that supports that, but we don't want to wait till may, especially with this arpa.

S

Allocation, okay got it um and just to be clear, the way this discussion has just kind of evolved. It's.

C

It sounds like it's almost turned into a metcon versus fire department, and it's not that it. It.

C

Doesn't need to be framed that way, it shouldn't be that way, and it it's not that way. So thank.

A

You I agree, we got a first and second I'd like to move on. Please got a first and second, all in favor.

A

Aye aye aye any disapprovals eyes happen and we'll be back commissioners. We trust you as.

A

Erickson we're ready. Thank you, sir. Thank you. Thank you, george. Thank you. Thank you, commissioners, and.

O

Item e is from the department of finance, with the review of the american rescue plan act. Ms cudmore.

O

Yes, thank you I'm dr bridget. This is a follow-up to the september 14th agenda. We have a change.

Q

In the request, the request for the american rescue is currently at 41.3 million dollars.

Q

The update for the request represents department of emergency services to request for emergency.

Q

um Services, house, funding and emergency services: supplemental staffing for the fire.

Q

Departments, change in hollywood, volunteer fire department requesting a replacement watercraft.

Q

And then for the sheriff's office request for an installation of a license plate reader.

Q

And also, I have an update on the reporting for the american rescue act.

Q

I was getting ready to start my reconciliation of my expenses through september.

Q

So that I could submit those to the u.s treasury at the end of october and they have just changed.

Q

The dates for the reporting now they're going to request my reporting be done at the end of january.

Q

For expenses through december, I guess when they saw the 702 dollars that I submitted for.

Q

The last report they said, let's give them a little bit more time, so we can get some more numbers so.

Q

um That was a good update to me. That's one less thing I have to work on right now.

Q

um But again we have um the three changes you have in front of you, um the updated.

Q

Spreadsheet and the items that are highlighted, you'll see um in the total request, column.

Q

So you can see that the uh ems house is about two hundred thousand dollars.

Q

The supplemental um staffing for emergency services is about 1.7 million dollars and.

Q

Right now, the request has updated for hollywood, volunteer fire department for a watercraft.

Q

Of sixty five thousand dollars, I do have representatives here from the fire departments and.

Q

Fire board, um if you'd like to hear more from them, I would definitely yeah. um I wanna make sure we're.

K

All on the same sheet of music between the fire departments and esp across the board. Yes, gentlemen,.

T

Good morning, commissioners, morning morning, so the uh the request from hollywood is a.

T

Change so the original request was a 200 000 uh request for the bunk room and that.

T

Is a change due to the emergency expense they have with their their current raft uh being.

T

Complete place completely out of service, so that is a change from the 200 down to 65 000.

F

I mean I, I have no problem with the change as long as a membership is good. With that I mean.

F

I know it's out of the process. I know it's a change from the 200 thousand, so they're.

F

Not going to get the two hundred thousand six, they submitted the letter to you all submitted.

T

Through the fire board association, I submitted uh the requests, I believe back back to you all.

T

Or at least that it was acknowledged and there was no issues with it. Okay, so let me ask this:.

K

Question I agree with the whole process: you've gone through. So far, hollywood came to you. You.

K

Said yes, 65 for 200 etc, and you placed the 65 back in the where the bunk room was correct. I believe.

K

Also, along the way, you guys have prioritized this list from one to whatever the bottom number is.

K

So it appears on the sheet of paper right now that the watercraft remains in the same priority order.

K

So, based on what is being asked today are is: are you guys, okay with us, putting the 65 000.

K

And bumping up over the other priorities that you had previously indicated so, commissioner, those.

T

Were just the top 11 things? I don't think you know it's hard to rank uh that that we need uh gear for.

T

Our firefighters that are going to a fire over one thing or the other I mean that those top 11 things.

T

Are the top 11 things if the order you want to change? There's? No! No! Okay, that's good, because what.

K

What we have got our piece of paper priority order right, yeah and we're we're just trying to follow.

K

The motion so that the priorities that we perceive have been given by you guys we're following.

K

Now, if you want to bump the priority order and say everything's a one or a six or seven, I don't care.

K

I, like I say, everything's at one, but I you know I know that's why I I don't want to start like. I.

K

Said I don't want to start a contest if he said she said, and I get the money here and you don't.

K

That ain't, my job, no those things when we went through them, were there top 11 things that we felt.

T

Would benefit everyone were the most beneficial. I mean we're, so you know everything that we use.

T

Has a service life based off the standards that we follow that, then you know that the nfpa standards.

T

That we use as a guide, so you know a gear, it could be. You know, has a 10 to 15 year replacement life.

T

Based on the service life, so you know those things you know we can't set a priority on how.

T

You know one thing could be over another: we just know that we need them and we budget based off of.

T

Of when we're going to need those items, so the question I would have then is: would it be easier.

F

To remove the priority lines at the commissioner level and say there is a a blanket.

F

Amount and the emergency services board, based on the need for each department, makes the direction.

F

For that allocation, and once we we approve that, basically we approve a set amount and then.

F

You work through it, removing the politics of what department gets. What who, how, when scbas ppes.

F

New engines, new boats whatever, and allow you to go ahead and make those priorities based on your.

F

Expert opinion in the emergency services field, I mean we have an esb for a reason.

T

We would have no objection to that at all, and I think that would be a much easier process.

T

We were just following the guidance that we were given to submit the request.

C

While we're throwing out ideas, what I would ask the other commissioners to consider is what, if we.

C

Just gave a flat rate to every department and remove the earmarks for whatever programs you.

C

All decide how you need to use the money. You all manage your fire departments better than we will.

C

And just take it from there, no objection to that at all that would that would, if you have two.

K

Choices give the whole thing the esp to figure out. You want to make an allocation divided by whatever.

K

The number is, I think, maybe we give it to the esb and let them figure out if they're going to do an.

F

Allocation to each department, they can get with the chiefs, they can get with the you know, or they.

F

Can say this is our priority list, and this is how we're going to do it and uh go from there. I mean.

F

You have the chiefs association or fireboard. Sorry, and uh you know you have ems. I think you.

F

Got the mechanism to make it happen fairly, and on top of that, you all work together all the time so.

T

And, to be quite frank, I mean we had 50 other items that didn't make. This cut, that you know.

T

Some departments could say that may be a higher priority that just didn't make the cut for this.

T

List and y'all can call a special meeting and and handle all this versus waiting to come back here.

F

And have us do it so I mean but the proposal the proposal is to make one suggested amount.

A

Of money and let the fire board decide yep the prioritization yep, that's right more. How much of.

C

Our two-year 22 million. How do we have unallocated at this point unallocated? um Well, if you look at.

Q

The spreadsheet I didn't because there's some things in here um negative on the allocation now.

J

What fifty three thousand that's only on twenty two and that's in twenty two um right now we're.

Q

um In balance, I think actually um based on the recommendations um from the county administrator.

Q

For 23. so and then we will look at it and there might be some things that could be re-prioritized.

Q

Because included in the list for 22 are things that really have not been approved yet.

Q

um But they're part of the recommendation and have not been removed. So um what? What is the.

F

Total that's out was was allocated looking at this chart. It looks like it's over 12 million.

F

That's what I'm that's it's china there's been 12.3 million approved and that's for the over.

Q

The two years, exactly I'm just trying to see for the requirements, we need to pull back money from.

C

Metcom in order to fund their needs, you would not need to exactly so depending on what you, if.

Q

You wanted to give like a dollar amount like a 500 000 for each year or a million we could realign. I.

Q

Mean right now the 2023. Yes, it shows that it's balanced, but not all of the items have been.

Q

Completely approved they're just in the column as a recommendation, so we would have to come back.

Q

To you, on, whatever you decided to approve with another rebalancing, so we come up with this.

A

A total dollar amount that the fire board make decision, how the department split up yes and then.

Q

They would work with me because I would need to know what their you'd be allocating the money out.

Q

So that I can report it properly to the us treasury, we would have to work closely together.

Q

On that, well, this commissioner likes that idea, give it to the fire board. Yes, I mean based on.

F

These numbers here I mean- I don't know where the other commissioners sit, but if I'm looking at this.

F

Allocation can can we do it in in incremental phases versus saying we're going to allocate.

F

Two million dollars all at once I mean there. It looks like there's two point.

F

I can't see the dollar well in that column. If you look at the 22 county administrator column,.

Q

You can see right now with the fire department. We've got the eighty three thousand.

Q

Eighty thousand sixty six thousand and right below that is the five hundred and forty three thousand.

L

The five hundred and forty three thousand has not been an item that's been approved, but yet it's in.

Q

The total column that adds up to the 11 million okay. So if you wanted to do a 500 or in that area,.

Q

You could I, like the number that's sitting right there. That's already been vetted by the county.

F

Administrator right now it's 500 543 right. Can you guys start with that? Yes, well, let me ask you, mr.

J

Nelson, yes, sir, thank you. uh What we're talking about here is coved money. That impacts, because.

J

Of covet, so I would say to you uh sorry, I it's been said by commissioners on this board that you.

J

Guys have five million dollars in the bank. Now I did. We did request a an a budget analysis and.

J

All the departments have something like that in the bank it looks like, but I know you have costs.

J

To replace gear infrastructure gear, and that is well over a million dollars from what I've seen.

J

But what we're talking about here is coved money impacts related to covet. Now.

J

I know you were impacted by again loss of rental rental opportunities for the firehouses, the.

J

Loss of breakfasts and dinners and other events like that loss of carnivals, even those only two. I.

J

Know there was a lot of losses now the thing that, over here with this protective gear, this breathing.

J

Apparatus is exhaust uh ventilation, this boat, this um and again, if I don't have support on this.

J

I'm still going to fight for you, sir, because what I've seen is you have things that wear.

J

Out whether it be hoses, whether they be just the coats and the gear that firefighters need to use,.

J

And, thank god, you're volunteers, because if you were paid, my brother-in-law was on the paid force.

J

Down in atlanta he would come up and visit us he'd go to hollywood, firehouse and drool over.

J

That equipment because they can't get it because they have such a high cost for their labor. So my.

J

Point to you, sir, is what kind of losses do you think you've lost as a result of that 18 months.

J

Or 16 months I worked at hollywood carnival and it was a real eye-opener for me. The number of.

J

People wanting to get out of the house wanting to get back to normal, it was. It was amazing.

J

And I know you're for all the fire departments, I'm for all the fire departments. It's not just about.

J

Hollywood, it's about all of them, but what were the impacts and and what are the kind of things that.

J

You need to replace, say on a monthly, quarterly, bi-yearly basis, hoses, correct and so so and a lot.

T

Of that stuff, uh what was on on the list as well, but I think every department, as you stated, was.

T

Affected in some way, I mean whether whether it was the breakfasts whether it was just the simple.

T

Fundraisers there, you know, I think departments are trying to get a facebook to try to fundraise.

T

And that's clearly not the answer to to try to raise money. You know they're they're doing these.

T

Auctions and then little things, but but you know the the difference was was nowhere near what we.

T

Would have made in a regular year now you know I don't have that exact number in front of you.

T

In front of me, but I think we could probably come up with you know something close.

T

But uh you know the the the stuff we're using that money for is that every those everyday items.

T

That you know that that that we need on the fire apparatus that we need to protect our people and.

T

And you're absolutely right. Well, I I have done a look at the numbers, sir, and I guess what I.

J

Hear us talking about is allocating a certain amount. Hey I'm fine with that and giving you.

J

The ability to spend it on where you need I'm fine with that, because you know your needs best, sir, and.

J

My number it's two million three hundred eighty nine thousand three hundred and sixty dollars.

J

And it's it takes time to go through each of these items. Now that's over two years, sir it'd.

J

Be a million 238 785 in the first year, a million one, fifty five, seventy five in the second year so.

C

You're saying you calculated 2.3 million dollars of losses that the fire department has had as.

J

What they of requests that they've made on their priorities? Oh you added up the original request.

T

For everything was like: 3.5 million narrowed it down to that, but you know, but chief as as we we.

F

Talked we saw the opportunities, of course, with any grant funding. Everybody sees opportunities.

F

They work outside of their budget and they try to figure out outside in a good way.

F

To figure that funding, what I like about this methodology is that people that have never.

F

Stepped foot in the burning building aren't making the decisions about the equipment.

F

That for people that do and that's that's the methodology I like and if it's you need.

F

More and it is up to 2.6, then so, be it, but guess what you work through this funding.

F

You get it out there, you re-prioritize, and you come back and say: hey what guess, what we need.

F

Some more, it could be monthly quarterly, whatever it may be, but it can come through the proper.

F

Channels and we can all get up to whatever amount it would be, and if there's losses from fundraisers.

F

Put it out there get the audit say, this is what we lost on fundraising and we could use that.

F

And then present that number through the esb and then come back and make the request specific for.

F

The fundraising I mean this is that's an easy process to follow and I don't think there's.

F

Anybody up here, that's not going to support it. If we get to 2.6, we get to 2.6. If we don't, we don't.

F

But I'm sure you'll bring the needs that need to be met. So, mr president, I.

F

Make a motion to approve the 65 000 for the hollywood volunteer fire department.

F

Rescue craft- and I also in the same same motion- approve the 543 120 dollars.

F

For to be allocated for the fire rescue administered by the emergency services board,.

F

And the commissioner president to sign any related documents as required. Is that clean.

F

Enough for you miss cut more good and how much was that total now we're talking about so it's hundred.

F

543 twenty dollars and then sixty five thousand six hundred and eight thousand yeah. That's it.

J

Enough, well, we need a second to discuss. Well, this I'll. Second, it for discussion purposes.

K

It's bad when you got free money, because you can't do a budget whenever you expect.

K

Free money coming down the road. So when I look at this picture, I see your concerns and needs.

K

Which we are vaping and we understand- I look at the needs of emergency services.

K

Because we still don't know where our emergency billing is and our fire tax and our rescue tax are.

K

And from my point of view, I would prefer, I would add, to not prefer, I would add, to the amount of.

K

Money for the emergency service come out of this pot of money now or sometime in the future, and.

K

The same time, dr brewster has a series of requirements. I think that requires the health.

K

Department to begin their planning phases um not only for the the hub for some other stuff.

K

You know for the coven money, so I'm looking at this is a big, bigger, much bigger umbrella. Then.

K

Right now, we're just picking and choosing parties and sides and the bigger umbrellas what's best for.

K

All the overall needs of saint mary's county. That's what I'm worried about right now is.

K

We're starting we're starting to have turf force and turf wars is the last thing I want to see.

K

Sitting at this table when needs of many different pieces within the community need to be addressed.

K

So with commissioner o'connor's message sheriff americans sitting back there, we didn't talk about.

K

The license plate reader- it was supposed to be on the list today and then we have to worry about.

K

I think I'm worried about dr brewster being able to plan her future with the health department for.

K

The million dollars we had discussed for um next year for those personnel. So where does all that.

K

Fit into the table here while we're we're we're sort of playing. You know, castle versus castle.

J

Well, miss kenmore. Tell me: uh we've been under pressure to allocate this 22 million dollars.

J

When I say we've been under pressure, we know that the president united states.

J

Talked about the money that was supposed to go to the you know, people with the eviction.

J

We've heard about senator hora, I mean congressman hoyer talking a different.

J

Pot of money, no, no, I agree, but it's all about spending stimulus money. Commissioner, colvin.

J

Right and it's about priorities, sir, and if you don't support fire department, that's fine.

U

I never said I don't support fire.

J

Either you're with these guys or you're, not.

F

You call the vote symbolize this thing now, please no more a priority. Let's discuss right now, we're.

A

Talking about funding here and how much was we're allocating right now right, you're, allocating right.

Q

Now the 65 000 and the 543, which is about 608. 608., that would be okay to do that in the 22.

Q

American rescue- we should have enough to to fund that um any other funding would happen. That's just.

A

A start: that's not! That is a start right. Okay, can I just say, mr president, mr president, we certainly.

T

Appreciate any funding that you will give us, no, no you're going to get it you're going to.

A

Get it it's just a it's a battle between us about how we give it out here, not so many problems, guys.

A

So it's uh we're not trying to do anything uh but trying to see like, like, like commissioner morgan.

A

Then we got the whole county, completely spread it around and uh you have needs and to cover.

A

This we're definitely gonna you're gonna get your shirts here, no doubt in my mind, so right now we're.

A

Looking at the uh motion is for six hundred and eight thousand now. Is that correct? Yes,.

Q

For the two items, yes, I have a first, a second on that.

A

I think I did you, do you do all those in favor uh any opposed? I just have it. Thank you. Thank.

A

You, gentlemen, for being here today, thank you. Are those power stroke engines in the.

F

In the fire trucks and the fire trucks yeah or the cummings.

F

Oh okay, I was just wondering thanks I'll, be in touch.

Q

So um we also have two other requests that are here. um We have requests also from the department.

Q

Of emergency services and from the sheriff's office, would you like to have them come up.

Q

Their items, or um are you complete the only concern I have with the sheriff's.

F

Department one is, I requested, that an executive session, because it's under safety and security.

F

Yes, and so what was that the sheriff's department request? I requested that the specifics of that.

F

Be discussed under executive session under safety and security. Why is that? uh It goes to law.

F

Enforcement operations locations- it's not about the money. The money can be discussed openly, but I.

F

Because there's documents up here right that are not public in in public view, right: okay,.

F

Well, I just want to make sure that the locations are not uh discussed. I need to reveal none of that.

F

Yeah, that's what I want to make sure that's that, and that was my only reason. So I was on my only.

F

Concern you're, fine, okay, as long as we're all on the same page, it's overall discussion of it, but.

Q

Not just we're just we're just discussing monies yeah, okay, good, nothing else. Yes, that's it all!.

A

Right, good, let's keep it today. Thank you station for these two items would definitely need to be.

Q

In the fy23, I would also ask that we consider uh sixty thousand dollars for a ada, accessible.

C

Boat for saint clements island to match the grant that the uh senator bailey is looking to put in.

C

In 23 and 23. yeah I mean it based on discussions with the county administrator can fall into.

F

Multiple categories yeah pending is that a part of the request now or this annuity? I think that's.

A

Pending right, these yeah, this is for the we're waiting for uh support from the senator first.

A

Right, yes, yes, we don't have anything in writing. We need a 200 000 requests from him. I think that.

Q

Application is on the emergency services board agenda. I think: okay, okay, good all right, yeah.

C

Yeah, if that's the same one, maybe we've been working that already we're starting and then.

Q

That would flow through the county right right. I think so either one we'll let it work through its.

F

Process, I think commissioner colvin just wanted to get it on the sounds the mind the mind of everyone.

Q

Okay, would you like to have the department of emergency services come to the.

Q

Table and the sheriff and the sheriff to discuss their request right right. All righty.

A

They're both both having two chairs, both of them come up yeah. Thank you.

Q

Why don't we talk about the emergency services, one first, mr walker. Thank you for coming.

V

Sure go for it. So, on the on the discussion on the house, I think that we should just.

V

Delay that discussion, uh the estimates that have come in are quite a bit higher than was.

V

Anticipated so I just think you push that off to another meeting or you just dispose.

V

Of it one or the other, it's quite a bit more than we had anticipated so.

V

I'm not prepared sounds good yeah. I'm not prepared to discuss that until.

V

We get a little bit further along okay, so the ems house is off. Are we taking it off at this time.

A

We're taking the house completely off the list here. It's not recommended at this.

O

Time, commissioner, guy we'll bring that back at a reconciliation if it's a more appropriate time so.

O

If you see what the total requests are for um for mr walker, the county administrator's request is.

O

The 1.7 million in 2023 for the supplemental staff funding and that's not appropriated so for fy 22.

O

You based on the prior motion, you have 256 242 available for allocation and fy 22.

O

Fy 23 have, of course, more, I think, we're covering for this fiscal year. Aren't we we're close, and I.

K

Mean I mean I would not want to be out cutting money today, because we still have a number of.

K

Months left in the year I mean we're only in october, right and I'll be coming back.

Q

With another update of the american rescue, I think it's november, 6th and they'll also.

K

Be able to get a better allocation on emergency billing calls, etc. I mean just to throw money at.

K

Something without having data to support, exactly more information, won't be known at that time.

F

So did you um well the only question I do have on that beyond the money is.

F

I'm getting a lot of I've seen a lot of the emails for do not respond or failures.

F

Across the county, we've gotten significantly better. However, the north end of the county.

F

I I know it's: we have some issues elsewhere as well, but due to call volume, I am constantly seeing.

F

Failures in the north end of the county, whether that's the system, however, it is, I want to make.

F

Sure that we're covering that I've mentioned it several times, but somebody in gold, we are.

V

Covering it, but the way we're covering it is why we've always done this. Is that and really.

V

What's happening is those failures are not just in the north end, they are all over the county, but.

V

Predominantly you see them in lexington park and you see them in the north end. The reason the north.

V

End is you're getting. That alert is because you have them coming in from charles county to assist.

V

In the south end, it is getting the assist from the other rescue squads. That's why that alert's not.

V

Coming out, because if it stays within the county that doesn't come out into the text message, that's.

V

Why? But we are getting quite a bit more than we are in the north end in the lexington park area.

V

There simply is not the cover to do it. There are many many times when it's just uncovered.

V

The volunteers are trying they just can't do it, they just don't have enough staff to do it.

V

We're we're only allowed to put in the staff where they allow us to so. We've approached. We said.

V

We think you need more and they're trying they're they're darndest to to get the staff.

V

To do it, they just haven't been able to do it, so it is still occurring um it is. We are again.

V

Approaching, where we were last year, where we just are having a very increasingly difficult.

V

Time we just we just don't, have the people to do it, we're doing our best. We're scrambling we're.

V

We're getting there, but it's is very, very challenging right now to try to maintain.

V

Coverage in the county for very very difficult: well, we need an alternative solution because.

F

Regardless of what they're doing this is and we're building the budget for next year to to.

V

Try to cover this, I mean you know this. This house, I mean I can't throw an expense for a house, but I.

V

Know there's a lot of expenses that I'm going to be coming to you for for next budget year, because.

V

If we're going to make this system work, you know you know, I I've gotten to the point where.

V

I describe when you consider the volunteers right, you know they change. I've been told.

V

Sure they they ebb and flow they're staffing, they go up, they go down, they go up and they go down and.

V

When they're up, they do great, but right now they can't get to that point and what we need to build.

V

Is this level of stability now right now we're not quite there or better, but we need to build.

V

This level of stability, that is it regardless of what they do and does that mean control? You ask me.

V

All the time absolutely not, but it needs to be something that was discussed a while back some.

V

Type of a parallel system that we will support our community and our residents that needs to support.

V

When the volunteers are going through their episode flows, and it is what it is.

V

I hope they get back there. I have my doubts just based on the last year's history, but I hope they.

V

Do but and they're trying, but it just we're just doing do we need to look at more hires. We do. We do.

V

uh We're trying to make it through to the budget right, you know, and we are building that right now.

V

We absolutely do we absolutely are going to be letting these departments know that we can't stand.

A

For this much longer they're going to have to accept the highers, I mean you, you know they don't.

A

Want their ambulance, I mean why can't why? What is stopping you from staffing another ambulance now.

F

And fixing the dispatch protocols that go stay within county because if hollywood's there.

F

We're going we go from, and so people understand we go from mechanicsville straight outside of.

F

The county I mean we do not dispatch in the county. So if hollywood's available we're not.

F

Dispatching them so for most cases, I'm speaking very blankly, but the we need to fix that and then.

F

You know if they're they're saying we don't want it and they're not meeting the coverage they as in.

F

The system, okay speaking holistically here, we need to go ahead and fix that portion of the system.

V

So to to to do that to take and do exactly what you're requesting is, I need a place for our.

V

Providers to be that means a bunk house for them to stay when they're working and I need vehicles.

V

And the vehicles, our ambulance, is used far more than we ever expected for backfill coverage right.

V

We we use it for the vaccination sites, we simply don't have it, they control the ambulances. They.

V

Are theirs they control the buildings they are theirs. So without that, where do we put our people.

V

That was part of the intent of this house was to give us that independent ability to place people.

V

There that location would have been great. We can service two different areas. The expense is too.

V

Great, so we just can't look at that. If you're going to do that, build a building and that's.

V

Going to take what three years five years yeah so it is, we are, we need more staff, absolutely more.

V

Can we afford it not at this time you know billing, it is very slow. The final thing that's holding us.

V

Is medicare there's a whole process goes through we're still probably two three weeks away to get.

V

That and there are other insurance companies that we can't put into the system until that.

V

Has been done, I wish I could explain it better, but I can't, but that is the way the system is.

V

Dr bridget was on the line with us. The other day talking through this medicare is closer they've.

V

Come out and done a site visit for us, so we're getting there, but it's slow. You know how much.

V

We probably collected ten thousand. How much did we build probably seven hundred thousand okay, let.

F

Me talk about something that's available right now and I have not discussed with you, but.

F

The veterans home all right, charles whole veterans, home. I knew no some of the calls.

F

Are going there, however, there is 200 000 that is available at the state to purchase an ambulance.

F

The state is having a hard time administering that, so their senator bailey is more than happy.

F

To coordinate us locally, administering the process to get that ambulance to fill it, and then it will.

F

Not only just be a part of the veterans home, but it'll also help the further process so.

F

If you could please reach out to whoever your counterpart is up at the veterans home to figure.

F

Out how to get that funding? How do we do the procurement process? How do we facilitate this.

F

Down in the county, and this way we have 200 thousand dollars towards an ambulance that.

F

We can work with the veterans home and facilitate uh an assistance in a first do so it's a.

F

Sounds easier than or more complicated than I put it, but either way it's an option. Okay,.

A

Anything else, commissioners, on emergency services.

A

Next, we go to the sheriff's department, my bees, your commissioners. I promise you.

K

Eighteen thousand dollars.

P

um We currently have a license plate reader program in the sheriff's office. I mean it's.

P

Not as robust as we would like it to be each year budget work sessions, as we come here and speak to.

P

You guys we have to make cuts and unfortunately, that continues to get cut. When we look at grants.

P

We also find that there isn't enough money in some of the grants that come down the pike to us.

P

To fulfill this obligation that we're here before you today, this will enhance our program. I think.

P

Most of you know, and by all means, if you don't come, see me later for security purposes, but.

P

What a license plate reader program does for us and it is very beneficial to the community and.

P

Sheriff's office commissioners to support a program like this, which identifies criminal.

P

Activity for us and helps us connect the dots a lot better. Major american tell me if you could.

J

30 seconds or less or a minute or less, what are the safety I mean when you, I don't know enough.

J

About it, so this is totally I'm asking for your help when you have a license plate reader program.

J

Are you reading every license plate that comes into this? Yes, let's say well, um let's use the.

P

Car, for example, the license plate readers. We have in our current program and um you see a.

P

Deputy that has a car- you don't know whether or not that deputy has a license plate reader.

P

um But it will see like commissioner hewitt coming down the road it'll tell us whether it's you know.

P

The the who's who the owner of the vehicle is whether the vehicles wanted or better yet how.

P

We connect the dots with criminal activity, maybe like stolen cars or cars, are involved.

J

In some kind of an incident that's been reported, yes, that type of thing. Okay, all right! Thank you.

K

I understand um the concept behind the license plate reader.

K

So for 11 years I've sat here and talked about traffic enforcement.

K

And what we're going to do about it and um we haven't gotten very far as you're, probably well.

K

Aware and there's some memos been sitting over on the sheriff's desk for a couple years. Maybe three.

K

So um I'm assuming all right- I guess this has nothing to do with my traffic safety.

K

Issues at all does it it does not. Thank you gotta go. I got one more year to try so.

K

I know I'm not gonna get far, but I'm gonna keep trying. People's safety is important to me as much.

K

As your license plate readers and rows also important to you to track criminal activity.

K

Thank you, you're welcome anything else. Commissioners.

F

All right- and they said this would be a 23. Yes, 23 has funding.

F

I I think that you've been after this for several years. um This is a prime opportunity.

F

Thanks for getting it over captain, thank you. Okay, anything else for uh major murakam before.

A

He leaves anybody. Thank you, sir, for your service and your time. Thank you. Fellas take care now.

A

Anything else, uh no, I think I'm done unless you have any other for all your questions or emotions.

Q

Any more questions, or anything here, that's been a jovial session. Thank you very much have a nice day.

O

Thank you, commissioners and last county administrator item is from uh the department.

O

Of economic development, with the resolution for the administration of the accommodation.

O

Tax kelly, hinkle deputy director department of economic development is presenting this morning.

A

Thank you good morning, commissioners, kelly hinkle department of economic development.

W

Joining me at the table this morning is barbara sapota with visit st mary's. Yes, how are you doing.

A

The resolution before you this morning is to require third-party platforms uh hosting.

W

Platforms like airbnb and vrbo to collect and remit accommodation taxes to st mary's county.

W

And to annually excuse me submit a report that has point of contact information for host properties.

W

Operating in the county, the department of economic development, in conjunction with the department of.

W

Finance and the county attorney's office over the last year has been communicating with the largest.

W

Two short-term rental platforms operating in the county, airbnb has been amenable and has provided.

W

Information to hosts operating in the county that they are required to collect and remit the taxes.

W

Vrbo was less amenable, they informed us when they imple improved their platform requirements. uh They.

W

Would start communicating with hosts? They have now done that um and the way that they have improved.

W

Their platform is to plug in a third party that hosts can elect to pay to collect and remit taxes.

W

To the county in fiscal year 20 when we started communicating and tracking short-term rental.

W

Occupancy tax remittance, we had six short-term rentals that were remitting taxes to the county.

W

In fy 21 we have 13 that are admitting to the county, so that is, that is an improvement, but.

Q

But the estimate is that there are 150 properties operating in the county and renting property, so.

W

It's slow going when we are not able to directly communicate with the host properties.

W

There has been a precedent set in maryland by other jurisdictions that a change in local.

W

Ordinance or by resolution they are requiring those platforms to collect and remit. On behalf.

W

Of the host properties- and this is what specifically airbnb- has said- what they would.

W

Require in order to collect and remit on behalf of the host property, so the resolution before you.

W

Today is to start requiring those platforms to collect and remit on the host's behalf.

K

Happy to answer any questions I think, there's a long time coming, ooh yeah, I mean we've listened.

K

To this go on for years here, I'll say years, um it's time we even the playing field that.

K

The hotels there b b's the vrbos pay their fair share to help visit saint mary's and everything.

K

Else that goes on the county so I'll make the motion to approve the resolution to establish.

K

Regulations to provide for the administration of the accommodation, tax and authorize the.

K

Commissioner, president, to sign any related documents. Second discussion, mrs henkel tell me.

J

So when somebody wants to rent their home as the airbnb v uh rbo the rbo okay, so they list it with.

J

This group, so they know that it's available so they'll know when it's going to be rented.

X

Correct the the the hosts in the county are using the the platforms to list their.

W

Properties, so that platform does have a responsibility to the municipality to say.

J

This place has been rented on our platform. Is that true? Well, they do not. Right now have have.

W

The legal responsibility to let us know really or to collect and remit the taxes, the responsibility.

J

I get you this is this responsibility lands with the owner of the host property, okay,.

J

Currently, well again, I guess my point gets to be is how do we know they'll pay? How do we know that.

J

If someone says I get this, you know airbnb reserve what about repeat people once they identify the.

J

Property and they want to just say, hey, look I'm coming back next year at the same time. Does that.

J

Have to go through a b and b airbnb. It doesn't have to some of the host properties. Have their.

W

Own platform, on their own website, um there are bed and breakfasts in the county that are using.

W

The rbo and airbn airbnb, but also have a rental system within their own. Well, this with this.

J

Legislation or this idea here uh this resolution require them to yes, it would require, and it.

W

Would require the platform just a minute just a minute: we've got our lawyers coming up there now.

A

Good morning, commissioners, good morning good morning, county attorney.

Y

uh My understanding of chapter 267 of the public local law, we've always exempted.

Y

Bed and breakfast is and there's another word.

Y

But we they're they're currently exempt from the taxation that would be.

Y

If you know, because why wouldn't we want to include them in the accommodation tax.

Y

Prior board did not want to it's com. The state law gives the county commissioners the ability to.

Y

Apply the accommodations text to bed and breakfast or not. If, but I mean, is that fair to hotels that.

J

Have to collect it versus bed and breakfasts, which provide the same thing. Accommodations for.

J

Overnight, stay not to collect it, it's something my office can look into and and give you guys.

Y

A memo on, if you're interested in the fair to everybody involved, I think all those who ran out.

A

Should pay yes, I agree. I'm really! Breathing okay, we'll we'll look into it and get back together.

A

Thank you. Thank you. Hey one thing more on the vrbo, I I have a rental property in north carolina that.

A

I've had under vrbo and homeaway and right away as soon as I listed it, they told me. I had to pay.

A

Taxes in north carolina and in municipality and everything at that time, which I collected.

A

Easily no problem and they handled everything I haven't touched it. They distribute it and.

A

They just give me a document at the end of the year. How much was distributed.

A

To the state county and the municipality, so I I'm thinking they could do the same thing here. I don't.

A

Understand why you're getting hesitation from them on that because they do it everywhere else.

A

I don't know why I would make the assumption that either the state or the locality, where you're.

W

Located has this either resolution or legislation yeah, so I think his resolution would take to solve.

A

Most that problem and we need to send it to all these rental people home away free rbo, the airbnb.

A

To make sure they're here, okay right, some of the commissioners made a implication in the past. That.

C

It was the property owners that were trying to avoid this tax, but I think it really comes down.

C

To it's the platform and this larger company, vrbo or airbnb, and so once we do this, this takes care.

C

Of the problem, I don't think any of our property owners in the county are really opposed to this.

C

Because it doesn't impact, but I think the the hurdle is communicating that they're responsible.

W

Yeah, you know we, we don't have direct con contact with them. This will give us correct direct contact.

W

There this is requiring them to give us a point of contact and their permanent mailing address.

W

Visit st mary's can then communicate directly for collaboration, marketing promotion right.

L

We can't do that now. I think it's a win-win for everyone yeah. I I agree with that. Mrs.

J

Uncle and ms zappato, I would say, reach out to groups, say as a chamber of commerce say rotary.

J

Groups, any groups that are involved somewhat in business relation and and inform them of this.

J

I was at a recent rotary meeting as virtual, where uh someone said hey. I wanted to come to saint.

J

Mary's county and I didn't know what to do don't and then someone said well, commissioner: hewitt.

J

Don't you guys used to have something where people could look and find out what's to do in the county.

J

I said I think we got visit st mary's now. Yes, so again, I guess it's about. You know.

J

Awareness yeah so with this airbnbs or bros and whatever yeah that's exactly right and that's been.

X

The strategy since I got here is that we want to become that information hub again for the entire.

X

County, we think we can provide a lot of services to these private accommodation renters. These hosts.

X

And most of the hosts that I talk to are very much in favor of this, because it evens the playing.

X

Field for them, if you're, comparing other locations, everybody's got an accommodation tax. But if you.

X

Look at two houses next to each other. One looks like it's five percent higher because they're.

X

The good actor right now who have figured out how to do this with no support from these platforms.

X

So this move is, is going to be transformational, because now the platforms will be required to.

X

Create that even playing field for all, I will say, also there's no problem collecting this. I.

A

Have not had one renter in seven years complaining about the tax, but you know the other thing, though,.

J

Is we have to make sure we continue to hear from this one constituent out in uh leonard town who.

J

Complains about a airbnb or whatever is going on next door to her. It has a failing septic system.

J

Something doesn't make sense that you have that type of an activity with a failing septic system.

J

So I guess the you know these groups that, whether it be rotary or chamber comps.

J

They're always looking for speakers, and I think it would be an ideal way for us to or for you.

J

Or through us to get the message out so maybe might have some people look you up as they say.

X

Yes, please do you've met me already. I'm always ready to talk so and you've done a great job.

A

So far, thank you for taking the job on. Thank you any other discussion, commissioners. I have a first.

A

And second, all in favor aye aye any oppose. I just have it. Thank you very much for being.

A

Here today, thank you. Thank you, commissioners, and this completes county administrator time.

A

Oh my gosh: well, we did very well did very well. Okay, we'll go right into commissioner's time.

A

And we'll uh start with commissioner hewitt, oh goodness, well. Thank you, commissioner. President guy.

J

Well, first thing I want to say is that I want to apologize if I've offended anybody.

J

By saying they don't support fire departments. The thing is: all these commissioners do.

J

Honestly, I want to say I'm passionate about it. So sometimes when I see things like protective.

J

Gear or breathing apparatus, or things like that, not funded, it makes me want to say well, I need.

J

To fight for that, but there's a way to do it and I didn't do it appropriately. So I apologize.

J

Now what we talked about recently was public forums tonight, there's one for a.

J

Public hearing for this amendment, we want to do for tap, there's also the delegation, one joint.

J

Meeting tonight I'll be missing those I'll be out of town, as I will be for the october 19th. So I.

J

Apologize for not being able to make that, but what I would like to say is at the state of the county.

J

um Luncheon, a few weeks back, one of the questions was: why does it take three years.

J

To get a building permit and what I thought sitting at my end of the table, there was.

J

If it takes three years to get a building permit, you need to call your county commissioner,.

J

I've had the distinct pleasure of working with the dachshunds down in tall timbers on getting.

J

Their household, elevated and working with fema, it was a process, it took three years and but it.

J

Was a process and it involved fema and involved critical areas, a lot of a lot of moving parts.

J

But as a commissioner, I always believe it's my job roll, my sleeves up and get out there and.

J

Figure out those moving parts and get them to work together. Also, I remember people in uh out.

J

There in saint clement shores, chadwicks steve and melanie chadwick when I got elected six years ago,.

J

Seven, how many years ago it was they talked about how they couldn't get hook up to water and sewer.

J

And that they had three children and that they didn't need to hook up to water, they needed sewer.

J

Point was: is that again they had been waiting several years for that to happen. But again we.

J

Worked with the appropriate agencies, maryland department and environment and we've made a lot of.

J

Headway in saint clemens island: it's it's a good way to improve the quality of life for people who.

J

Just take flushing their toilets, taking a shower for granted versus those who have to risk. You know.

J

What my toilet might back up, or has it rained in the last couple days it's something that honestly.

J

If you're, having trouble with government agencies, no matter who it is, but we continually talk about.

J

Permits you reach out to your commissioner and say and don't just say, hey look: everybody's.

J

Unreasonable it doesn't work, be specific because there's there's engineers involved, there's.

J

Surveyors involved there's a lot of moving parts, but when you're not getting service from county.

J

Government reach out to your commissioner, attended the osprey gala was very nice affair. Last friday.

J

Night blessing in the fleet, another great event did that on sunday parade it was a great time.

J

Overall, we've had beautiful weather in southern maryland and I hope you're enjoying it. Thank you.

C

Eric all right, what an exciting meeting today, so I'm gonna well we'll start off by thanking.

C

Commissioner hewitt for his apology, I was offended when he implied that I don't support.

C

Fire departments, my grandfather was a life member at valley, league fire department and rescue squad.

C

I know a little bit about what our volunteers go through and I have always supported and will.

C

Continue to support so I did not appreciate the implication. I'm glad he was a big enough man to.

C

Apologize for that, because that's the right thing to do. We all this whole board supports.

C

Fire departments and our rescue squads- and we do want what's best for our citizens in this county.

C

It was a beautiful weekend. The blessing of the fleet is always a great time. It was wonderful.

C

To be at the parade they put in a lot of work to for that blessing of the fleet every year, so.

C

Thank you to all the people. Who've been involved with that, and also I got a chance to go out to.

C

The southern maryland boat club's vintage race, boat regatta- if you haven't- had a chance to go.

C

Watch them next year, when they put on another one. You need to go because it is.

C

Fun, it is incredible watching those boats and it's just a really great event with.

C

That I'm gonna end for the day have a great week, everyone, john, so apparently I was at the regatta.

F

Because of you being there, because I still had my beard and they thought I was you. Oh.

F

Yeah, I have no clue. I got multiple calls to include one of our department heads.

F

That was told that I was there. Oh my so uh it used to be commissioner jarbo that everybody.

F

Thought I was there, so I had to shave my beard that was it. um This way we're not getting confused.

F

So the only thing I want to talk about is the wonderful uh letters that we received. It's like.

F

A cycle of feral cats, um so animal control just to clarify some things. In addition, all right.

F

I I know that this is always a passionate issue with everyone very, very passionate.

F

Sometimes more than human lives when it comes to animals- and I and I respect that.

F

Even as an animal lover myself, however, what I will say is our animal control is.

F

Not trapping these animals to put a needle in them to kill them as being stated by many people, there.

F

Are solutions? We've worked with the animal control board, we've worked with all of these organizations.

F

That want to pen letters that are passionately and written with a very, very nice flair of drama.

F

And I thank you for acknowledging that drama in one of your posts. However, we have plenty of things.

F

To consider when it comes to safety and one it's human safety along the paths in the parks, children.

F

Biggest thing, aside from that, is the buzzards, the vultures that we've been working for.

F

Years to keep out of the flight path of our multi-million dollar aircraft at pax river, with.

F

The human being that's sitting in the aircraft, that's taking off at you, know, 350 400 knots.

F

Flying over great mills, which we don't want a bird strike, so it crashes so with that being said,.

F

There is a balance that has to happen. The vultures are eating the cat food that you're throwing out.

F

It is a not complex, complex issue, but it can be easily solved. So what I ask is, rather than.

F

Running around telling people we're killing cats is to contact our department of emergency services.

F

And find out the solutions we can have just like we had the solutions of trapping the alligator and.

F

Relocating it to florida, if we there's solutions, but this isn't the the way to get a solution.

F

So please reach them, reach out to them: um they're not trying to euthanize the animals they're trying.

F

To find solutions that works for everybody and that's what that team over there is about and our.

F

Parks and rec is about so I appreciate that and I look forward to working through that problem, so.

F

Blessing the fleet was amazing and the gala was amazing, and I thank the optimist.

F

For putting that on, I thank the hundred and, let me tell you, the island looked amazing. Elizabeth went.

F

Over there, for the first time ever and she's worked in the county been in the county for.

F

Forever and brought out to bring my son, so it was pretty cool. He couldn't ring the bell because of.

F

The way they got it set up, but he did go to the top of the lighthouse and he enjoyed that.

F

So, thank you very much, mr morgan. Thank you, mr president. So, following on commissioner o'connor.

K

um Yeah we're getting a lot of phone calls and emails about the feral cats, um the vultures, the.

K

Turkey vultures are an endangered species. I've been working closely with the base on this because.

K

We used to have a usda inspector over there who work with the neighbors in the community relative.

K

To the um turkey vultures, the base has been out to visit millison square because not only are the.

K

Turkey, vultures sitting in the trees but they're starting to rip up all the roofs again and there's.

K

Obviously, the owners of the plasa and the other business owners are starting to get leaks and.

K

Concerns are are very concerned. What's going to go happening so turkey vultures, we, the base, has.

K

Been out there saturday, the base is not there. Yes, I've been in contact with them every day.

K

And it is not a problem of the restaurants and fast food stores, leaving their dumpsters open.

K

They're closed, it's the food that's being fed to the feral cats, that is attracting the vultures.

K

Now this may be a migratory pack of vultures, or it could be something coming that we haven't seen in.

K

A while because we had this under control so, as commissioner o'connor said, we're working closely.

K

To solve this problem, but as other people say, there is a liability and the liability is, we have.

K

To protect our citizens at the same time, watching out for the feral cats, and you know, like I said.

K

As commissioner o'connor says, we'll work with um emergency services go to work with the base to.

K

You know do what we can to protect all interests of everybody at the end of the day. So um I just.

K

Wanted to chime in there on where that was coming from uh the blessing of the fleet great event.

K

Osprey go great event. I think everybody had a good time um saturday. The boy scouts had a dutch oven.

K

Cooking contest, which commissioner colvin went and judged because I couldn't make it that day.

K

Phenomenal, if you haven't seen we, it was really interesting. I've been doing boy scouts. I think, as.

K

Most people know for probably 50 years and dutch ovens had an exclusive arts to cook.

K

And they had five troops, maybe six groups there they had contests. They had three judges.

K

um It was a really cool event. I'm sorry more people didn't show up for it, but if you've.

K

Never cooked in a dutch oven before it's an art to itself much like cooking with a green egg.

K

So with that to the boy scouts who are there and doing that, um congratulations.

K

On a job well done, and with that, I just want everybody to have a nice safe time out. There.

K

And, let's all keep our cool. Thank you. Thank you, commissioners. Very much yeah. I see.

A

I gotta admit that the uh letters I've gotten about the feral cats- I I'm sorry.

A

To hear everybody thinks we're getting rid of them, but we're really not we're just trying to.

A

Get the distribution properly, so we can stop all this uh vulture control, we're building our new.

A

At this called animal adoption center right now on fdr boulevard, it's moving along great.

A

We have established it to a right now. We call it a low kill, slash, no kill, we don't want to kill.

A

Anything and hopefully after we establish this, we'll be able to distribute animals wherever they.

A

Needed or adoption within our own county since we'll be closed in now, rather than going away.

A

To hughesville, so this will make a big difference once we get this open of how we, how we take care.

A

Of our domesticated animals, especially and with that said, uh please understand why we're trying to.

A

We're not trying to kill anything believe me, we're not no way we're just trying to make sure we keep.

A

Our flyway open, okay, sunday, uh I went to the blessing to flee for the parade very nice and my.

A

Wife and I went over to the island for the three o'clock catholic mass in front of the big cross.

A

It was well attended and uh I prayed for all the commissioners.

A

And our county administrator, thank you andy and our communication director to everybody.

A

I mean it was a great event. uh It was really a blessing to be out there in that on that island.

A

For a catholic mass that was well done so that said, I need to get a motion to.

A

Enter into closed session, I move to enter into closed session to discuss personnel.

C

And real property second, first, second, all in favor aye aye they eyes have it.

A