Saint Mary's County Residents Favor Mixed Use Development in Lexington Park and Leonardtown

The St. Mary's County Planning Commission meeting on July 28, 2025, focused on community preferences for development across various locations in the county. The discussions revealed significant insights into residents' support for different types of housing and mixed-use developments.

Participants expressed a clear preference for mixed-use and intensive development primarily in Lexington Park, Leonardtown, and California. These areas garnered the most interest, indicating a desire for more vibrant community spaces. However, approximately one-third of respondents indicated they do not support such development in any location, with less enthusiasm noted for areas like Charlotte Hall, Hollywood, Mechanicsville, and Callaway.

The meeting also addressed preferences for smaller starter homes and townhouses. Responses showed a shift in support, with Lexington Park, Hollywood, and California again leading the way, each receiving around 40% approval. Mechanicsville, Charlotte Hall, and Callaway followed closely behind, while Leonardtown and its surrounding areas also received some backing. Notably, resistance to this type of development was lower, suggesting a growing acceptance of smaller housing options within the county.

Overall, the meeting highlighted a clear trend towards favoring mixed-use developments and starter homes in specific areas, reflecting the community's evolving needs and preferences for housing and development in St. Mary's County. The Planning Commission plans to further explore these preferences in future discussions.