St Mary's County plans for Christmas in April amid funding challenges

The St. Mary's County Commissioners meeting on March 4, 2025, highlighted several pressing issues, including concerns about communication with state agencies and the future of local community support initiatives.

One of the main topics discussed was the lack of effective communication between the county and the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT). A commissioner expressed frustration over the delayed response regarding the installation of traffic lights at the intersection of Route 5 and 242 in Morganza. Despite receiving approval for the project in April 2024, the commissioner noted that inquiries made in January 2025 had gone unanswered, indicating ongoing challenges in inter-agency communication.

In a more positive vein, the meeting also addressed the upcoming "Christmas in April" event, which marks its 35th year of providing home repairs for low-income residents in St. Mary's County. The initiative has significantly impacted the community, having worked on over 900 homes and contributing more than $2 million in materials at no cost to homeowners. However, concerns were raised about the future of the program, as it faces challenges that could threaten its continuation. Commissioners urged community support for the event scheduled for April 26, 2025.

Additionally, the meeting touched on local high school theater productions, encouraging residents to attend upcoming shows, including "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" and "Shrek the Musical."

Another significant discussion revolved around the county's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) billing policy. A commissioner highlighted the need for clarity in the policy, especially for seniors who may hesitate to call 911 due to fears of incurring high bills. The commissioner proposed revisiting the EMS billing policy to ensure that residents feel secure in seeking emergency assistance without the worry of financial burden.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of effective communication between state and local agencies, the value of community support initiatives, and the need for clear policies regarding emergency services to ensure the safety and well-being of St. Mary's County residents.