Planning commission approves two‑lot family conveyance for J.C. Dyson Estates

The St. Mary's County Planning Commission approved a family conveyance subdivision plan that will add two lots to the J.C. Dyson Estates minor subdivision, bringing the private‑road development to nine total lots.

Janine Harrington of the Department of Land Use and Growth Management presented staff findings, saying the property (12.77 acres; zoned RPD) met the requirements of Section 30.11.4 of the subdivision ordinance for family conveyance. The proposed conveyances are limited to family members defined in the ordinance (father, mother, son, daughter, grandfather, grandmother, grandson, granddaughter); the applicant intends to convey the lots to two daughters of the property owner. Staff said the private road, known as Walk This Way, lies within an existing 25‑foot right‑of‑way and has a paved entrance with adequate sight distance.

Harrington summarized recordation requirements: the granter must enter into a recorded family‑conveyance agreement noting the grantee cannot transfer the lot to a third party for five years except for hardship as determined by the director of Land Use and Growth Management; the agreement and appropriate plat notes must be recorded prior to plat recordation. Staff recommended approval subject to recording agreements ensuring access, use and maintenance of the private road prior to final plat recordation.

Agent Robert Trautman and staff confirmed an updated road‑maintenance agreement would be required; the applicant and neighbors are in agreement and the road is paved. The commission approved the family conveyance; motion by Mister Evans, second by Mister Thompson. The chair called the question: “All in favor?” Commissioners responded “Aye.” The motion passed; the plan will not be recorded until the required agreements are placed in the land records.