Lexington Park residents urge county commissioners to reject controversial zoning amendments

Concerns over proposed amendments to the comprehensive zoning ordinance took center stage at the St. Mary's County public hearing on January 25, 2025. Local stakeholders urged county commissioners to reconsider changes to the Residential Low Density Transitional District (RLT), arguing that the revisions could lead to detrimental effects on the Lexington Park Development District.

Critics of the proposed amendments highlighted that the changes would downzone buildable property, reducing density from up to five units per acre to just one unit per two acres in critical areas. This shift, they argued, would not only encourage urban sprawl but also increase the cost of living for residents near the waterfront, impacting local trades and suppliers. "This proposal would affect hundreds of properties within the development district," one speaker stated, emphasizing the potential job losses tied to reduced housing development.

The meeting also revealed a disconnect between the proposed RLT changes and the county's comprehensive and master plans. Stakeholders noted that similar transitional zoning was not applied in other growth areas, raising questions about the consistency and intent behind the amendments.

In response to the concerns, county officials indicated a willingness to engage with stakeholders during upcoming work sessions, with promises to review submitted comments thoroughly. The discussion underscored the importance of balancing development needs with community preservation, as the county navigates its growth strategy amid economic challenges.