Commissioners authorize purchase option for 87 Main Street to expand community services hub

The Board of County Commissioners voted to close the public record and authorize the board president to sign a purchase-and-sale agreement for 87 Main Street in Prince Frederick, the former Trinity Church parsonage, to expand a planned community services hub adjacent to 85 Main Street.

Jennifer Moreland, director of community resources, told commissioners the parcel was identified as strategically important for its central location near the county-owned 85 Main Street property and transit access. Staff said the county’s offer aligns with appraisals; the agreed purchase price is $620,000 and the option deposit is $5,000. Funding is available in CIP-4606, and staff said a pending Community Legacy grant, if awarded in November 2024, could provide up to $337,500 to support the acquisition.

A resident asked whether services could be housed in a separate $45 million building under construction across the street and whether the proposed site would be served by bus routes; Moreland and other staff said the plan centers services and transit at 85/87 Main Street to reduce barriers to appointments and coordinate care for people experiencing homelessness. After brief discussion, Commissioner [motion sponsor recorded in the minutes] moved to authorize closing the record and signing the agreement upon receipt of the grant notice; the motion was seconded and the board approved the action.

The vote authorizes the county to complete closing and settlement documents once the grant notice arrives. Staff said the purchase would be re-platted to expand 85 Main Street and that environmental study steps required by state grant processes would follow. The director said partner agencies would provide on-site services and coordination at the consolidated hub.