Sheriff’s office seeks $35,000 for school bus enforcement; commissioners authorize application

The St. Mary’s County Board of Commissioners authorized staff Tuesday to submit an application for a $35,000 school bus enforcement grant from the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention.

Sheriff’s office representatives described the grant as funding overtime enforcement and public education to curb motorists who pass stopped school buses with red lights activated. Captain Willingborg, speaking for the sheriff’s office staff, said overtime-funded officers will position in complaint hot spots to monitor and enforce violations and that part of the grant would fund public service announcements. “This year we're asking for an application for $35,000 for overtime funding for officers for enforcement of school bus related violations,” Captain Willingborg said.

Commissioners noted that complaints about motorists passing school buses have increased and that enforcement activities funded under the grant could be conducted anytime school buses are operating, not limited to a single week. Commissioner Todd B. Morgan also urged attention to school drivers’ behaviors, asking staff to remind bus drivers not to run lights to stay on schedule.

Commissioner Morgan moved and Commissioner Daniel L. Morris seconded a motion authorizing electronic submission of the grant application (project MD-1423) and authorization for Commissioner President Jack Russell to sign the hard copy if required. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.

If awarded, the sheriff’s office will use the funds for overtime enforcement in high-complaint areas and for education campaigns tied to planned automated school bus camera enforcement.