County Commissioners acquire Bevin property amid park land shortfall concerns

The St. Mary's County Planning Commission meeting held on February 7, 2025, focused on critical issues regarding park land acquisition and water resource management in the county. Key discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges in meeting the recreational needs of the growing population and the progress on the comprehensive plan update mandated by state law.

During the meeting, officials addressed concerns about the county's ability to keep pace with the increasing demand for park space. A representative confirmed that while the county has executed a contract to purchase the Bevin property, which will add 76 acres to the park inventory, the county is still significantly behind its land preservation goals. The 2005 plan projected a need for an additional 1,000 acres over the next decade to adequately serve the community's recreational needs. However, financial constraints at both the state and county levels may hinder progress in acquiring the necessary land.

The discussion also touched on the limitations of state parks, which, while beneficial for activities like hiking and picnicking, do not fulfill the specific requirements for athletic fields and active recreation as outlined in the county's plans.

In addition to park land issues, the meeting included an update on the comprehensive plan's water resources element, which is required by state legislation. The county is working to project plans for water supply, wastewater, and stormwater management, with a deadline set for October 1, 2025. Officials reported that they are on track to meet this deadline, relying on existing studies and data to inform their projections. The planning team is also addressing new wastewater management criteria related to nitrogen levels, which pose compliance challenges.

The meeting concluded with an announcement about an upcoming planning seminar organized by the Maryland chapter of the American Planning Association, aimed at informing state legislators about local planning needs.

Overall, the discussions underscored the pressing need for strategic planning in both park development and water resource management to accommodate St. Mary's County's growth and ensure sustainable community development.