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Planning Commission recommends cutting 100-ft buffer to 35 ft at Marley Run to allow parking and stormwater work
Summary
The commission voted to recommend the Board of County Commissioners amend the cited buffer resolution to remove a 100-foot buffer while maintaining a 35-foot setback at Marley Run Recreation Area so Parks & Recreation can pave the gravel parking lot, address erosion and stormwater issues, and pursue ADA improvements; staff reported ~$1,000,000 currently available and a request for $2.5 million more in FY27.
Calvert County Parks & Recreation asked the Planning Commission on Feb. 18 to recommend a change to a county buffer requirement at Marley Run Recreation Area so staff can proceed with schematic design for parking, stormwater and field-stabilization work.
Amanda Stilwagen, Parks & Safety Division Chief, described the site as constrained by steep topography and noted existing gravel parking, maintenance sheds encroaching a 100-foot buffer, and significant erosion that threatens the lower ball field. Parks & Rec proposed paving the gravel lot, adding curb and gutter, improving ADA access to restrooms and pathways, and regrading the berm to improve maintenance and safety. The department estimated the proposed enhancements would require encroaching about 10,000 square feet into the existing 100-foot buffer and requested guidance on whether this amendment should proceed by recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners.
Staff said schematic design and construction documentation are at a standstill until the buffer question is resolved. Parks & Rec noted there is existing funding of a little over $1,000,000 in the account and requested an additional $2.5 million in FY27 to complete construction. Commissioners discussed process options; one moved that the Planning Commission recommend amending the cited resolution section to eliminate the 100-foot buffer while maintaining the 35-foot setback and forward that recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners. The motion passed by voice vote.
Next steps: Staff will forward the Planning Commission recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners and proceed with design work once the resolution amendment is processed and any required BOCC public hearing occurs.
