Planning Commission reviews mixed-use commercial development amid community concerns

The St. Mary's County Planning Commission meeting on February 7, 2025, focused on significant changes to a proposed commercial development on a private road, which has raised concerns among local residents and property owners. The discussion centered around the transition from a previously approved residential concept plan for 15 lots to a mixed-use commercial development.

Commission members expressed concerns about the lack of communication regarding the change in the development's scope. One member highlighted that the original plan was for residential use, and the sudden shift to commercial use could impact neighboring properties. The commander of the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post attended the meeting, expressing surprise at the development's new direction, as he believed it would remain residential.

A key point of contention was whether a new public hearing was necessary to address the water and sewer category change associated with the development. Some commission members argued that the significant change in use warranted further notification and an opportunity for public input from adjacent property owners. However, others maintained that the legal framework did not require another hearing, as the water and sewer category change had already been approved and runs with the property.

The commission ultimately discussed the importance of transparency and communication with the community, suggesting that a preliminary meeting with contiguous property owners could help address concerns and clarify the development's implications. The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between development interests and community input, highlighting the need for effective communication in local planning processes.

As the project moves forward, the commission will need to balance the developer's rights with the community's need for awareness and involvement in significant changes that affect their neighborhood.