Kent County public meetings in 2023

County Commissioners

The Kent County Commissioners are considering the third reading and adoption of Code Home Rule Bill 5-2023. This legislation would create a new land use category for 'Outdoor Retreats' in Rural Character, Rural Residential, and Community Residential districts.

• Adoption of Bill 5-2023 to permit Outdoor Retreats as a special exception
• Extension of Bayside Landing Marina Renovation Waterway Improvement Grant Agreement
• Introduction of Code Home Rule Bill No. 6-2023
• Appointment of Jeremy J. Rothwell and Jennifer Moore to the Historic Preservation Commission
• Review of State Aid For Police Protection (SAPP) Fund for FY 2025

County Commissioners

The Kent County Commissioners will hold a special work session regarding retiree health insurance. Human Resources Director Jim Miller is scheduled to present on this topic.

• Work session regarding Retiree Health Insurance

County Commissioners

The Board will consider several departmental appointments and updates to human resources policies. The agenda also includes reviews of state and federal grant programs for emergency management and broadband.

• Proposed amendments to the Kent County Employee Handbook regarding a teleworking policy
• Review of the Office of Statewide Broadband Home Stretch Grant opportunity
• Review of 2023 State Homeland Security Grant Program funding
• Review of 2023 Emergency Management Performance Grant funding
• Updates on retiree health insurance and compensatory leave buy-back

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding a growth allocation application for The Wharf at Handy's Point. The proposal seeks to allow the marina to use upland portions of its property for boat storage and install modern septic systems.

• Public Hearing: Growth Allocation application for The Wharf at Handy's Point
• Special Class C License: Rock Hall Volunteer Fire Company (expires Dec 31, 2023)
• Worton Water and Sewer Extension Design update
• Worton Sludge Press Replacement Design update using ARPA funds
• Request to increase fees from the Department of Economic and Tourism Development

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding CHR Bill 5-2023, which proposes adding 'Outdoor Retreat' as a permitted land use in RC, RR, and CR districts. The meeting also includes discussions on the Maryland Connected Devices Program contract and various departmental appointments.

• Public hearing for CHR Bill 5-2023 regarding Outdoor Retreats in RC, RR, and CR districts
• FY2023 Maryland Connected Devices Program Round Two Contract for 300 devices
• Appointment of Joshua Thompson as Restoration Specialist for Turner Creek Stream Restoration
• Appointments of Herbert Dennis as Warden and Steve Wallace as Captain at Kent County Detention Center
• Scheduling a public hearing for The Wharf at Handy's Point

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners will discuss state legislative proposals and legislative bond initiative requests, including updates on the Millington Senior Village project.

• Legislative Bond Initiative Requests for various capital projects
• Millington Senior Village project update with a $150,000 LBI request

County Commissioners

The Board is reviewing multiple budget amendments for Kent County Public Schools' FY2023 and FY2024 unrestricted funds. The agenda also includes presenting the FY2023 audited financial statements and discussing various departmental appointments and infrastructure needs.

• Approval of KCPS FY2023 Unrestricted Funds Budget Amendment #2
• Approval of KCPS FY2023 Unrestricted Funds Budget Amendment #3
• Presentation of FY2023 Kent County Public Schools Audited Financial Statements
• Review of Maryland Community Development Block Grant CV-1-7 fund recapture
• Discussion of Clark Road culvert replacement contract award

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners will meet to discuss the implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland's Future in Kent County Public Schools. The agenda also includes a visit from the Maryland Department of Transportation regarding the Consolidated Transportation Programs tour.

• MDOT Consolidated Transportation Programs Tour with state transportation officials
• Update on Blueprint for Maryland's Future implementation by Kent County Public Schools
• Legislative bond initiative requests for Millington Senior Village and Chestertown Heritage Trail
• Special Class C liquor licenses for Sultana Downrigging Festival and Tolchester Community Association
• Review of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds Spend Plan

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are reviewing Code Home Rule Bill 5-2023, which would allow outdoor retreats as a special exception in Rural Character, Rural Residential, and Community Residential districts. The proposal defines these retreats as transient lodgings with up to 15 guest units on at least 10 acres.

• Public hearing notice for Legislative Bond Initiatives Requests
• Proposed zoning changes for Outdoor Retreats in RC, RR, and CR districts
• FY2024 Roadway Line Striping Contract approval
• Approval of Wood Waste Processing Contract
• Appointment of Dr. Karen Couch as Superintendent and Kreigh Kirby as Accountant for Kent County Public Schools

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is reviewing a proposal to allow 'Outdoor Retreats' as a special exception in Rural Character, Rural Residential, and Community Residential districts. The body is also reviewing requests for courthouse security enhancements and updating retiree health insurance.

• Code Home Rule Bill 5-2023: Proposed zoning for Outdoor Retreats (max 15 guest units on parcels of at least 10 acres)
• Request for security enhancements at the Circuit Court, including cameras, magnetic locks, and a panic button
• Adoption notices for property tax credits regarding Arts and Entertainment Districts and residential sprinklers
• Review of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds spend plan
• Special Class C liquor license request for Sgt. Preston Ashley American Legion Auxiliary

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are reviewing an amendment to the Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan to allow public sewer service for new restrooms at Toal Park. The meeting also includes financial updates and various liquor license applications.

• Resolution 2023-17: Amendment to Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan for Toal Park restrooms
• Financial update reporting a projected surplus of $2.2 - $2.4 million
• Proposed future capital projects: Public Safety Complex ($17,516,000) and Middle School ($32,242,000)
• Tobacco Enforcement Program grant payment of $17,000
• Special Class C liquor licenses for Main Street Chestertown and Dogwood Festival of Galena

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider the third reading and adoption of two home rule bills regarding property tax credits. The meeting also includes reviews of ARPA fund spending and a proposed building project at the Queen Anne's Technical Center.

• Code Home Rule Bill No. 3-2023: Property tax credit for businesses in an Arts and Entertainment District
• Code Home Rule Bill No. 4-2023: Extension of the Residential Sprinkler Property Tax Credit to December 31, 2027
• Millington Wastewater Treatment Plant Design Contract approval
• Axon Enterprise in-car video solution contract for the Kent County Sheriff's Office
• Proposed building project for the Queen Anne's Technical Center

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are discussing a proposed $79,091,771 building project for the Queen Anne's Technical Center at Chesapeake College. The body is also reviewing departmental updates on short-term rentals and public works contracts.

• Proposed $79,091,771 Queen Anne's Technical Center building project with a Kent County local share of $2,194,796.65
• Public hearing notice for September 26, 2023, regarding a Water and Sewerage Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Toal Park (MAP 7- PARCEL 357)
• Blacktop paving contract award for Tolchester Beach Road
• Review of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds spend plan
• Proclamation of September 2023 as Kent County Preparedness Month

The Board of County Commissioners approved the 2023 Kent County Emergency Preparedness Plan and accepted a $68,000 grant for youth programming. They also authorized the use of Bayside Marina for a bike event and updated coworking fee schedules. No action was taken on a proposed $80 million technical center at Chesapeake College.

• Approved 2023 Kent County Emergency Preparedness Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted $68,000 FY2024 Safe Summer Grant for Teen Spaces Activity Awards (unanimous)
• Approved use of Bayside Marina and Bulkhead for Bikefest on Oct 15, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Chestertown hotDesks fee schedule with one grandfathered rental at $250/month (unanimous)
• Approved August 29, 2023 Regular Session and Liquor Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Raffle Only Permits for Main Street Rock Hall and Democratic Club of Kent County (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on $2,194,797 local share for Chesapeake College technical center

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is reviewing alcoholic beverage license applications and holding a public hearing for The White Swan Tavern. The meeting also includes reports on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) spending and county financial updates.

• Public hearing for White Swan Investors, LLC (The White Swan Tavern) for a Class B Country Inn liquor license
• Contract renewals for water treatment chemical suppliers Intercoastal Trading, Inc. and George S. Coyne Chemical Co., Inc.
• Review of ARPA funds spend plan with $3,421,377 committed and $345,400 remaining
• Grant award for the Kent County Sheriff's Office Equipment Program (PACT-2024-0034)
• Contingency fund expenditures totaling $97,987, including $53,522 for Government Center building repairs

The Board of County Commissioners approved a grant for body-worn and vehicle cameras and authorized several administrative and public works contracts. The Board of License Commissioners also issued three temporary liquor licenses for local events.

• Approved $202,735 PACT-2024-0034 grant for body-worn and vehicle cameras
• Approved letter of support for Rebuilding Together Kent County grant application
• Approved Intergovernmental Agreement for September 30 scrap tire drop-off event
• Approved FY2024 water treatment chemical contracts for Intercoastal Trading, Inc. and George S. Coyne Chemical Co., Inc.
• Approved recruitment of HR Administrative Specialist and retitling of HR Coordinator to HR Business Partner
• Approved Special Class C liquor license for Kent County Bar Association
• Approved Special Class C liquor license for Kent Cultural Alliance
• Approved Special Class C liquor license for Kent County Chamber of Commerce

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved a three-year enterprise GIS agreement with Esri and three maintenance contracts with Motorola Solutions for 911 services. They also authorized funding for a sewer extension in Edesville and approved several new employee hires.

• Approved $10,200 contingency funding for sewer service line on Lovers Lane (unanimous)
• Accepted three-year GIS Small Government Enterprise Agreement with Esri for $35,030 in year one (unanimous)
• Approved FY2024 Safe Summers grant application for $68,000 (unanimous)
• Approved three Motorola Solutions 911 maintenance agreements totaling $120,654.41 (unanimous)
• Approved conditional employment offers for three Part-Time EMT-Bs and one Administrative Specialist I (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-15 to rename and revise the 'Alcohol & Drug Abuse' employee policy (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-16 to amend the employee handbook regarding nursing mothers (unanimous)
• Approved public hearing notice to add Toal Park to the Town of Galena sewer service area (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is discussing a feasibility study for modernizing Kent County Middle School to meet 21st century educational standards. The body is also holding a public hearing on a property tax credit for arts and entertainment districts.

• Public hearing for Code Home Rule Bill No. 3-2023 (Arts and Entertainment District Property Tax Credit)
• Proposed Code Home Rule Bill No. 4-2023 to extend the residential sprinkler property tax credit to December 31, 2027
• KCMS Feasibility Study with construction cost options ranging from $49.8M to $62.3M
• FY2024 Critical Area Grant Contract Agreement
• Renewal of pharmacy services contract with Correct Rx

The Board of County Commissioners approved the FY2024 local-state library aid certification and a contract closeout for sludge removal at Worton Lagoon. They also authorized an easement letter for a historical preservation grant and renewed a pharmacy services contract for the detention center.

• Approved FY2024 Certification for Cooperative Local-State Library Aid Programs ($756,152.00 county contribution)
• Approved easement letter for Maryland Historical Trust grant for Hearse House renovation at 207 Calvert Street
• Approved Change Order No. 2 for Worton Lagoon Sludge Removal to reduce contract by $486,783.65
• Approved renewal of Correct Rx Pharmacy Services contract for the Kent County Detention Center
• Approved FY2024 State of Maryland Critical Area Commission Grant Agreement No. K00P4600160
• Approved Chestertown High School Alumni raffle for August 13, 2023
• Approved Regular, Liquor, and Closed Session Minutes from August 1, 2023

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting to discuss zoning updates and tax credit extensions. Key items include a proposal to regulate industrial structure heights in the Route 301 Corridor and a tax credit extension for residential sprinkler systems.

• Code Home Rule Bill No. 2-2023: Proposed height limits for industrial structures in the 301 Corridor (60 feet)
• Code Home Rule No. 4-2023: Proposed extension of the Residential Sprinkler Property Tax Credit expiration to December 31, 2027
• Alcoholic Beverage Hearing for White Swan Investors, LLC (The White Swan Tavern)
• Proposed revisions to Chapter 222, Zoning, of the County Code as part of comprehensive rezoning
• Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation FY2024 Easement Rankings

The Board introduced legislation to extend the Residential Sprinkler Property Tax Credit to December 31, 2027. They also approved a restructuring of Finance Department positions and forwarded a Land Use Ordinance proposal for review.

• Introduced Code Home Rule Bill No. 4-2023 to extend Residential Sprinkler Property Tax Credit (Unanimous)
• Eliminated Finance Associate I position and re-titled Finance Associate II and III roles (Unanimous)
• Approved conditional employment offer for Finance Associate candidate (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-14 to forward Land Use Ordinance Proposal to advisory commissions (Unanimous)
• Approved ranked list of applications for FY2024 MALPF Easement Acquisition Program (Majority vote)
• Approved American Diabetes Association raffle for August 13, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved July 25, 2023 Regular Session and Liquor minutes (Unanimous)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are reviewing a proposed bill to grant 100% real property tax credits for up to 10 years to qualifying businesses in an Arts and Entertainment District. The body is also discussing behavioral health contracts for the detention center and various public works infrastructure projects.

• Code Home Rule Bill No. 3-2023: Arts and Entertainment District Property Tax Credit
• FY2024 Mid Shore Behavioral Health renewal and extension for the detention center
• Millington Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion and Worton Water and Sewer Extension MOUs
• Preliminary Engineering Study for Betterton Public Landing Improvements via DNR Grant
• Construction Management Contract for Nicholson Landfill Groundwater Treatment Facility Project

The Board of County Commissioners approved two major economic development grants for wastewater and sewer expansions. They also authorized a mental health services contract for the detention center and an IT equipment purchase.

• Approved $1.081M grant MOU for Millington wastewater treatment plant design (unanimous)
• Approved $1.532M grant MOU for Worton Industrial Service area water and sewer extension (unanimous)
• Approved $51,625 contract with Mid Shore Behavioral Health for detention center mental health services (unanimous)
• Approved $35,165 purchase of IT switches from Alliance Technology Group (unanimous)
• Approved $20,000 DNR grant for Betterton Public Landing engineering study (unanimous)
• Approved FY2024 Annual Senior Care Program Plan for Upper Shore Aging, Inc. (unanimous)
• Agreed to correct a 2000 drafting error regarding zoning for The Wharf at Handy’s Point (unanimous)
• Approved hiring a candidate for the Local Management Board Administrative Specialist I vacancy (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is considering the adoption of Code Home Rule Bill 2-2023 regarding industrial building heights. The body is also introducing a new bill to create property tax credits for an Arts and Entertainment District.

• Code Home Rule Bill 2-2023: Proposed increase of industrial structure height from 45 to 60 feet in the Route 301 Corridor
• Code Home Rule Bill 3-2023: Proposed property tax credit for business entities in an Arts and Entertainment District
• SHI International Contract for Microsoft Licensing Renewal
• FY2024 Kent County Law Enforcement Accountability Initiative Grant
• Upper-Shore Regional Council Memorandum of Understanding for Chestertown Business Campus

The Board of County Commissioners adopted a bill updating permitted heights for industrial structures in the Route 301 Corridor. They also approved a Microsoft licensing contract and a law enforcement accountability grant. A new property tax credit for arts and entertainment districts was introduced for further legislative process.

• Adopted Code Home Rule Bill 2-2023 regarding Industrial Structures in 301 Corridor (2-1)
• Approved introduction of Code Home Rule Bill 3-2023 for Arts and Entertainment District Property Tax Credit (unanimous)
• Approved $181,593.54 three-year Microsoft licensing contract with SHI International Corp. (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $94,036.00 FY2024 Law Enforcement Accountability grant (unanimous)
• Approved July 11, 2023 Regular, Liquor, and Closed Session minutes (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are reviewing a revised FY2024 budget proposal from Chesapeake College that includes a 3% salary increase for faculty and staff. The college is also requesting $50,000 from its fund balance for interior door lock replacements to improve campus safety.

• Chesapeake College FY2024 revised budget proposal with no additional support requested from counties
• Request for $50,000 fund balance for interior door lock replacements at Wye Mills and Cambridge campuses
• Town of Galena operations agreement renewal and Town of Rock Hall wastewater treatment agreement extension
• Liquor licenses for Rock Hall Lions Club and Operation Enduring Warrior Kent County
• Comprehensive Recidivism Reduction Project Grant Award

The Board of County Commissioners approved a revised operating budget for Chesapeake College and accepted a $200,828 grant for a recidivism reduction project. They also renewed several public works contracts and approved a sewer allocation for a commercial property in Worton.

• Approved revised Chesapeake College operating budget of $27,823,091 and $50,000 fund balance request
• Approved $200,828 Performance Incentive Grant for Kent County Comprehensive Recidivism Reduction Project
• Approved $206,112 janitorial services contract renewal with Sentral Services, LLC
• Approved 1 and 1/5 sewer allocation for commercial property at Tax Map 20, Parcel 52 in Worton
• Approved renewal of Town of Galena Water and Wastewater Facilities Operations Agreement for FY2024
• Approved one-year extension of Rock Hall Wastewater Treatment Agreement for FY2024
• Approved reduction of accrued interest on lots 533 & 534 in Chesapeake Landing and inclusion in May 2024 Tax Sale
• Approved 10-year extension of Maryland Environmental Service contract for Recycling Management Services

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are meeting to discuss the FY2024 annual budget for public schools and proposed updates to the Middle Department Inspection Agency fee schedule. The body will also consider several liquor license applications and contract renewals for public works.

• Proposed revised fee schedule for Middle Department Inspection Agency, including a new commercial fee of $0.25 per square foot
• FY2024 Annual Budget for Kent County Public Schools
• Beer and wine only liquor license applications for Main Street Chestertown and Downtown Chestertown Association
• FY2024 Diesel, Propane, Heating Oil & Gasoline Delivery Contract approval
• FY2023 Surface Treatment Contract change order for the Roads Division

The Board of County Commissioners approved a virtualization hardware solution for Information Technology and adopted a resolution to formalize zoning for medical and non-medical cannabis. They also authorized legislation for a 100% property tax credit for the Arts and Entertainment District.

• Approved $168,080 contract with Alliance Technology Group for virtualization hardware (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2023-12 to formalize zoning for cannabis uses (unanimous)
• Approved drafting a Code Home Rule Bill for 100% A&E District property tax credits (unanimous)
• Approved $21,995 increase to American Paving Fabrics, Inc. contract for road surface treatment (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of landfill monitoring contracts with Earth Data, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of IT Memorandums of Understanding for Galena, Millington, and other entities (unanimous)
• Approved Upper Shore Workforce Area Local Plan 2022-2024 (unanimous)
• Decided to maintain current salary ranges for FY2024 and revisit in January 2024 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will decide on the FY2024 budget, tax levy, income tax rate, and water and sewer rates. The meeting includes a public hearing on a proposal to increase the permitted height of industrial structures in the Route 301 Corridor from 45 to 60 feet.

• Adoption of the FY2024 Budget and Resolution 2023-08 establishing the Kent County Tax Levy
• Public hearing for Code Home Rule Bill 2-2023 to increase industrial structure height to 60 feet in the Route 301 Corridor
• Resolution 2023-10 establishing water and sewer rates
• Contract renewal for inmate meals with Trinity Services Group
• Intergovernmental Lease for 103 North Cross Street

The Board unanimously adopted the Fiscal Year 2024 budget, including the real property tax levy and income tax rate. They also approved a 4% increase in water and sewer service rates. Additional decisions included new service contracts for the detention center and IT infrastructure.

• Approved Resolution 2023-08 establishing real property tax at $1.022 per $100 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-09 setting income tax rate at 3.20 percent (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-10 increasing water and sewer rates by 4% (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-11 adopting the FY2024 Budget (unanimous)
• Approved $741,669.84 medical/mental health contract with PrimeCare Medical, Inc. for FY2024 (unanimous)
• Approved inmate meal contract with Trinity Services Group, Inc. through June 31, 2026, while eliminating staff meals (unanimous)
• Approved $71,815.00 contract with Alliance Technology Group for firewalls and support (unanimous)
• Approved $139,936.22 for the fourth year of the Central Square Contract (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are conducting a public hearing on the proposed FY2024 budget, which includes a property tax rate restoration to $1.022 per $100 of assessable base. The body is also discussing grant programs, capital projects, and ARPA fund spending.

• Proposed FY2024 Budget with a property tax rate of $1.022 per $100
• Proposed $1,242,000 in capital expenditures for road infrastructure and a dump truck
• Proposed $1,533,000 for capital projects including bridge repairs and Route 213 infrastructure
• Byrne - Justice Assistance Grant Program for Sheriff's Office laptops
• Millington Senior Village Project letter of support request

The Board of County Commissioners held a public hearing on the proposed FY2024 budget and unanimously voted to keep $125,000 in the budget for Kent County Public Schools. The board also approved several consent items and reviewed a request for a housing project in Millington.

• Approved amendment to Proposed FY2024 Budget to retain $125,000 for KCPS (unanimous)
• Approved Regular Session Minutes from May 23, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Liquor Minutes from May 23, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Animal Care Shelter for Kent County raffle for November 30, 2023 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is discussing a proposed real property tax rate of $1.022 per $100 of assessment for fiscal year 2024. The body is also reviewing zoning changes for industrial structures in the 301 Corridor and managing ARPA fund spend plans.

• Proposed real property tax rate of $1.022 per $100 of assessment
• Code Home Rule Bill No. 2-2023 to increase industrial structure height to 60 feet in the 301 Corridor
• Proposed weight restriction for MD 299 Bridge Over Jacobs Creek
• FY2023 Roadway Line Striping Contract
• 2023 Annual Housing Bond Allocation from Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

The Board of County Commissioners approved a $50,000 contract for roadway line striping and released two construction bonds for a residential project at 4846 Huntingfield Road. They also made several board appointments and announced upcoming public hearings for the FY2024 budget and property tax increases.

• Approved $50,000 roadway line striping contract with Alpha Space Control Company, Inc. (unanimous)
• Released Bond #10730618 for Erosion and Sediment Control at 4846 Huntingfield Road (unanimous)
• Released Bond #10730619 for Stormwater Management at 4846 Huntingfield Road contingent on project requirements (unanimous)
• Appointed David Bowman to a three-year term on the Economic and Tourism Development Commission (unanimous)
• Reappointed Faye Little and Greg Welch to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for four-year terms (unanimous)
• Approved Regular Session, Liquor, and Public Hearing Minutes from May 16, 2023 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are meeting for a budget work session. The discussion focuses on the General Fund overview, personnel, and operating allocations.

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are conducting a budget work session. The meeting includes discussions on the General Fund, operating costs, and the 5 Year Capital Plan.

• 5 Year Capital Plan
• General Fund Overview
• Operating budget
• Closed session regarding personnel and public safety

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are conducting a public hearing regarding the establishment of 10 agricultural land preservation districts. The body is also considering a home rule bill to update industrial structure height limits in the Route 301 Corridor.

• Public hearing for 10 Agricultural Land Preservation District applications
• First reading of Code Home Rule Bill 2-2023 regarding industrial structure heights in Route 301 Corridor
• Special Class C liquor licenses for Betterton Still Pond Lions Club, Singles on Sailboats, and Sgt. Preston Ashley American Legion Auxiliary Unit 228
• Review of SFY 2024 Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (BJAG)
• Review of Summer Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

The Board introduced Code Home Rule Bill 2-2023 to regulate industrial structure heights and approved a grant application for a State's Attorney case management system. They also supported the FY2024 Summer SNAP program and halted a paving project to save funds. A request to allow HR to approve low-grade hires without Board approval was denied.

• Introduced Code Home Rule Bill 2-2023 regarding industrial structure heights (Unanimous)
• Approved submission of Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Grant (BJAG) for case management system (Unanimous)
• Supported FY2024 Summer Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and committed $6,220.00 (Unanimous)
• Denied request for HR Director to approve staff hiring at or below grade six (Unanimous)
• Placed Worton Grounds Maintenance Facility Paving Project on hold, saving $93,387.00 (Unanimous)
• Approved May 9, 2023 Regular Session and Liquor Minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved Betterton Still Pond Club Combined Raffle for June 10, 2023 (Unanimous)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are conducting a work session to review budget requests and general fund allocations. The meeting includes presentations from outside agencies and discussions on personnel and capital planning.

• Budget requests from Delmarva Community Services, Inc.
• Budget requests from University of Maryland Extension
• Review of Board of Education 5 Year Capital Plan
• Discussion of new positions and vacancies
• Review of Operating - 7% and General Fund Overview

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding agricultural preservation and process the adoption notice for Code Home Rule Bill No. 1-2023. The meeting includes several contract awards for facility repairs and equipment purchases.

• Public hearing for Agricultural Preservation Advisory
• Adoption notice for Code Home Rule Bill No. 1-2023 regarding erosion, sediment control, and land subdivision
• Contract award for 400 High St. fascia and cornice repairs
• Contract award for Grounds Maintenance Facility paving
• Purchase of rugged laptops for the Kent County Sheriff's Office

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing budget requests for outside agencies and county departments for fiscal year 2024. The session includes a review of the budget calendar, general fund overview, and the 5-year capital plan.

• Animal Care Shelter for Kent County request for $342,000 in financial support
• Proposed KCHS roof replacement cost of $450,000
• Proposed KCMS design cost of $3,315,000
• Budget requests from Town of Galena, Kent Cultural Alliance, and Upper Shore Aging, Inc.
• FY2024 budget revenue request for public schools including a $1,550,727.16 salary enhancement placeholder

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is considering the establishment of 10 agricultural preservation districts based on Planning Commission recommendations. The meeting also includes reviews of ARPA fund spending and a memorandum of understanding with Delmarva Community Services.

• Proposed agricultural preservation districts for 10 properties, including farms on Lambs Meadow Road, Comegys Road, and Kennedyville Road
• ARPA Funds Spend Plan report showing $3,568,161 in approved funds
• Memorandum of Understanding second addendum with Delmarva Community Services, Inc.
• Special Class C liquor license application for Dogwood Festival of Galena (May 13, 2023)
• Appointment of Carla Gerber as Deputy Director of Planning

The Board of County Commissioners approved a conditional employment offer for the Director of Emergency Services at a reduced salary. They also extended the simplified seasonal hiring process for 3.5 years and scheduled a public hearing for agricultural preservation districts. The Board of License Commissioners approved a per diem liquor license for the Dogwood Festival of Galena.

• Approved conditional employment offer for Director of Emergency Services at $20,000 less than proposed salary (unanimous)
• Approved extension of simplified seasonal employment hiring process for 3.5 years (unanimous)
• Agreed to hold a public hearing for ten agricultural land preservation district applications (unanimous)
• Approved Special Class C per diem liquor license for Dogwood Festival of Galena (unanimous)
• Approved Regular, Liquor, Public Hearing, and Closed Session Minutes from April 25, 2023 (unanimous)
• Denied funding for a tax differential study requested by Town of Chestertown

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing FY2024 budget requests from outside agencies and the General Fund. The session includes a detailed review of the Kent County Public Schools budget and a 5-year capital plan.

• FY2024 budget requests from Kent County Public Library, Health Department, and Soil and Water Conservation District
• Kent County Public Schools FY2024 budget forecast with a total revenue estimate of $29,891,356
• Proposed school budget reductions of $900,000 including cuts to 5.5 teachers and 5.0 instructional assistants
• School capital requests for KCHS roof replacement ($450,000) and KCMS design ($3,315,000)
• 5-Year Capital Plan including $12,440,848 for Public Safety complex design and construction in FY24

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are considering Resolution 2023-06 to increase the 9-1-1 fee to $1.50 per telephone number effective July 1, 2023. The body is also reviewing liquor license applications and various public works contracts.

• Resolution 2023-06: Proposed increase of 9-1-1 fee to $1.50 per telephone number
• Public hearing for Waterman's Hospitality, LLC (Waterman's Crab House) Class B liquor license
• Contract award for Tolchester Wastewater Treatment Plant influent screen using ARPA funds
• Contract award for Worton Park playground equipment
• Request to install monitoring wells at County Parks

The Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved increasing the 9-1-1 telephone fee to $1.50. They also decided to pause renovations for the Kent County Detention Center while pursuing a new Public Safety Building and exploring a regional detention center project.

• Adopted Resolution 2023-06 to increase 9-1-1 fee from $0.75 to $1.50 per month (Unanimous)
• Approved installation of monitoring wells at Toal, Worton, and Edesville Parks (Unanimous)
• Accepted $56,810.00 FY2023 BJAG Grant for Sheriff's Office patrol vehicle laptops (Unanimous)
• Approved $12,772.06 budget transfer for EMS office upgrades at Rock Hall Volunteer Fire Company (Unanimous)
• Approved grant application for ADA-accessible Overlook Trail at Turner's Creek (Unanimous)
• Approved HR office suite renovation not to exceed $40,000.00 (Unanimous)
• Paused Kent County Detention Center renovations and approved moving forward with Public Safety Building (Unanimous)
• Approved engagement of McKennon, Shelton & Henn LLP as Bond Counsel for Public Safety Project for up to $45,000.00 (Unanimous)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are reviewing the General Fund and a 5-year capital plan. The session includes discussions on projected capital expenditures and leased vehicle costs across various county departments.

• Proposed $28.8 million for Public Safety complex design and construction
• Proposed $32.2 million for Kent County Middle School
• Proposed $4.2 million for Kent County High School roof
• Proposed $1 million for Lambson Forest Rd Bridge K0015 replacement
• Proposed $430,267 for road surface treatment

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting to decide on the adoption of a bill to clean up the Public Local Laws by marking outdated chapters as reserved. The body is also discussing 911 fee increases and FY2024 funding requests for the Kent County Chief's Association.

• Third and Final Reading of Code Home Rule Bill 1-2023 to delete and reserve Chapters 178, 182, 185, and 215
• Consideration of County 911 fee increases
• FY2024 funding request from Kent County Chief's Association
• Renewal of Verizon Wireless GSA Contract
• Resolution 2023-05 for revised Kent County Commission on Aging bylaws

The Board adopted Code Home Rule Bill No. 1-2023 to unify development ordinances. They also approved proceeding with a public hearing to potentially increase 9-1-1 fees and appointed two members to the Police Accountability Board.

• Adopted Code Home Rule 1-2023 regarding Erosion and Sediment Control, Flood Plain Management, Forest Conservation, and Subdivision of Land (Unanimous)
• Approved public hearing notice for proposed 9-1-1 fee increase from $0.75 to $1.50 (Unanimous)
• Appointed Leon Frison and LaMonte Cooke to the Police Accountability Board for four-year terms (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-05 to amend Commission on Aging bylaws (Unanimous)
• Denied resident request for utility bill late fee waiver (Unanimous)
• Approved Verizon GSA Multiple Award Schedule Purchase Order 47QTCA20D00B5 (Unanimous)
• Approved Regular, Liquor, Public Hearing, and Closed Session minutes from April 4, 2023 (Unanimous)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are conducting a budget work session featuring presentations from various department directors. The body is reviewing funding requests and financial projections for county services and infrastructure.

• Proposed 4% rate increase for water and sewer fees
• Proposed 6% pay increase for Water and Wastewater Services salaries
• Water and Wastewater major repairs including $370,000 for Worton solids press and $350,000 for Kennedyville Pump Station #2
• Worton Water & Sewer Service Extension budget of $1,694,000
• Millington Wastewater Treatment Facility design budget of $1,265,000

County Commissioners

The Kent County Commissioners are meeting to discuss several public hearings and funding requests. Key items include a request for festival infrastructure and the consideration of county 911 fees.

• Request for $10,000 from Chestertown Tea Party Festival for event rental Wi-Fi
• Public hearing for Ford's Seafood, Inc. regarding a Class B Beer License
• Public hearing and resolution for Worton/Betterton Kent County Enterprise Zone Application
• Consideration of County 911 fees
• Resolution 2023-04 to authorize Sultana Education Foundation to use Turner's Creek for overnight camping

The Board approved a resolution to apply for an Enterprise Zone designation for the Worton/Betterton area to provide tax credits for job creation. Other key actions included funding for a local festival and a wastewater project, and agreeing to national opioid settlements.

• Approved Resolution 2023-03 to apply for Worton/Betterton Enterprise Zone Designation (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 from contingency funds for Chestertown Tea Party Festival Wi-Fi (unanimous)
• Approved $50,000 allocation for Millington Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion Project (unanimous)
• Approved participation in national opioid settlements with Teva, Allergan, Walgreens, and Walmart (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-04 for overnight camping at Turner's Creek for Sultana Education Foundation and Harford Day School (unanimous)
• Approved Class B Beer License for Ford’s Seafood, Inc. (unanimous)
• Tabled request to raise 911 fee until FY2023 budget review
• Approved removal of water meter requirement for property owner Craig Austin (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is holding a public hearing on Code Home Rule Bill 1-2023 to delete outdated chapters on erosion, floodplains, forest conservation, and land subdivision. The board is also reviewing various grant applications, liquor license requests, and equipment purchases for county agencies.

• Public hearing for Code Home Rule Bill 1-2023 to mark Chapters 178, 182, 185, and 215 as Reserved
• Purchase of a Virtual Reality Training Simulator for the Sheriff's Office
• Worton/Betterton Kent County Enterprise Zone Designation Application
• Special Class C liquor licenses for United Way of Kent County and Sultana Education Foundation
• Motorola invoices for software upgrades and system monitoring services

The Commissioners approved multiple PACT and PIGF grant applications for law enforcement and recidivism reduction. They also authorized contracts for the Millington Recreational Facility, Rigbie Slope stabilization, and a financial advisor for a $29 million Public Safety Complex.

• Approved $37,694.59 for a VR training simulator (unanimous)
• Reallocated $24,385.00 from Capital funds to Prisoner Food budget (unanimous)
• Approved $30,270.60 for Motorola portable radios (unanimous)
• Approved $40,268.00 for Motorola CAD software upgrades (unanimous)
• Approved $158,103.34 contract with Unity Landscaping for Rigbie Slope (unanimous)
• Approved $148,170.00 contract with Asphalt Maintenance, LLC for Millington tennis courts (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Davenport & Company LLC as financial advisor for Public Safety Complex (unanimous)
• Cancelled Cropland Lease Agreement for 20 acres at Toal Park (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will discuss updating industrial structure heights in the 301 Corridor and review a bill to reorganize the county code. The meeting includes a public hearing notice for Code Home Rule Bill No. 1-2023 regarding erosion, sediment control, and land subdivision.

• Public hearing notice for Code Home Rule Bill No. 1-2023 regarding Erosion and Sediment Control, Flood Plain Management, Forest Conservation, and Subdivision of Land
• Proposed resolution to update permitted height of industrial structures in the 301 Corridor
• Special Class C liquor license request for Chestertown Tea Party Festival (May 26-28, 2023)
• RFP # PR 23-04 for repairing, re-plastering, and balancing recreational outdoor pools
• Alcoholic Beverage License Hearing for Ford's Seafood, Inc.

The Board approved a $103,640.40 contract for pool restorations and a resolution to increase industrial structure height limits in the Route 301 Corridor. They also accepted a grant for 500 laptops for low-income families and appointed a new member to the Police Accountability Board.

• Approved $103,640.40 contract to CW Services, LLC for pool restorations (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-02 to update industrial structure height to 60 feet in Route 301 Corridor (unanimous)
• Approved $99,375.00 grant for 500 laptops for low-income families (unanimous)
• Appointed Kay Pinder Pritzlaff to the Police Accountability Board (unanimous)
• Approved overnight camping at Turner’s Creek for Sultana Education Foundation on Sept 18-19, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved $87,619.00 from fund balance for new HR Coordinator salary and benefits (unanimous)
• Approved up to $4,500.00 for fencing and warning signs at the Turner’s Creek granary building (unanimous)
• Approved Special Class C Liquor License for Chestertown Tea Party Festival, May 26-28, 2023 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are conducting a budget work session to discuss municipal tax set-offs for FY24. The meeting includes discussions with representatives from the towns of Betterton, Chestertown, Galena, Millington, and Rock Hall.

• Municipal Tax Set-Off Discussion for FY24
• Tax differential presentation by Chestertown Mayor David Foster
• Review of tax differential public comment from Ken Hepburn Noble

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is considering Code Home Rule Bill No. 1-2023 to delete outdated chapters on erosion, floodplains, forest conservation, and land subdivision. These items were previously moved to the unified zoning ordinance in 2002. The board is also reviewing ARPA fund spending and public safety facility updates.

• First reading of Code Home Rule Bill No. 1-2023 regarding zoning and land use chapters
• Award of Greensand Filter Media Replacement Contract to Sherwood Logan and Associates, Inc.
• ARPA funds spend plan including a $1,400,500 Worton WWTP Lagoon Sludge Removal Contract
• Lease rate quotes for a 2023 Ford Explorer and 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe for the Sheriff's Department
• Review of $155,291 in expenditures from the beginning contingency budget

The Board introduced Code Home Rule Bill No. 1-2023 to remove outdated chapters from the Public Local Laws. They also approved several contracts for public works and law enforcement equipment.

• Introduced Code Home Rule Bill No. 1-2023 to remove chapters 178, 182, 185 and 215 (Unanimous)
• Approved lease for 2023 Chevy Tahoe and 2023 Ford Explorer (Unanimous)
• Approved PACT grant for law enforcement virtual training (Unanimous)
• Approved hiring a full-time Facility Monitor for Parks and Recreation (Unanimous)
• Approved $43,735.60 in ARPA funds for Worton Cell 1 Sludge Removal construction management (Unanimous)
• Approved $51,850.00 contract with Sherwood Logan & Associates, Inc. for Fairlee water plant filter media (Unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Washington College's Lelia Hynson Pavilion renovation grant (Unanimous)
• Approved changing a County intern position to a part-time position and hiring the recommended candidate (Unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will discuss the six-month financial statements for Fiscal Year 2023 and the spending plan for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The meeting includes reviews of departmental vacancies and a discussion on legislative support for education funding bills.

• Legal services budget of $44,400 for the Department of Social Services
• Verizon Wireless GSA contract renewal
• ARPA funds report showing $3,766,777 approved and $843,266 remaining
• Discussion of support for House Bill 0799 and Senate Bill 0912 regarding education funding
• Liquor licenses for Chestertown Garden Club, Kent Conservation and Preservation Alliance, and Kent County Chamber of Commerce

The Board approved an inter-governmental agreement for child welfare legal services and a contract for lobbying services in Annapolis. They also authorized several personnel hires, contingency fund expenditures for software, and a fiber connection for the Chamber of Commerce.

• Approved KCDSS/Legal 24-001 agreement for child welfare legal services not to exceed $44,400 (unanimous)
• Approved $14,000 in contingency funds for Greenwill Consulting Group lobbying services (unanimous)
• Approved $3,465 from contingency funds for Central Square/Paymentus software and devices (unanimous)
• Approved renewing Verizon Wireless GSA contract for up to 45 lines with a $30,000 limit (unanimous)
• Approved MOU allowing Kent County Chamber of Commerce to connect to fiber (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Kent Attainable Housing, Inc. congressional fund application (unanimous)
• Approved filling Administrative Specialist I and Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation vacancies (unanimous)
• Approved two Special Class C Beer and Wine licenses for Kent Conservation and Preservation Alliance and Chamber of Commerce (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is reviewing a commitment to the USDOT Thriving Communities Program to gain technical assistance for affordable housing and transit. The body is also discussing legislative positions on hunting and education, and reviewing ARPA fund spending.

• Thriving Communities Program Letter of Commitment for USDOT technical assistance
• Opposition to Senate Bill 327 regarding hunting and wildlife conservation funding
• Support for House Bill 402/Senate Bill 402 regarding the Board of Education student member
• Review of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds Spend Plan
• Request to change bylaws for the Commission On Aging

The Board of County Commissioners approved a commitment letter for the US DOT Thriving Communities Program and authorized the addition of one new county government position. They also modified their stance on Senate Bill 0327 to oppose Sunday hunting specifically while supporting other amendments. Other actions included approving public works infrastructure dedications and updating Commission on Aging bylaws.

• Approved commitment letter for US DOT Thriving Communities Program (unanimous)
• Approved Deed of Dedication and release of $134,711.00 Letter of Credit for Animal Care Shelter water/sewer improvements (unanimous)
• Approved lease quote for Public Works weed control vehicle replacement (unanimous)
• Approved changes to Commission on Aging Bylaws regarding officer term limits (unanimous)
• Rescinded total opposition to Senate Bill 0327 to specifically oppose Sunday hunting (unanimous)
• Approved adding one position to the County Government (unanimous)
• Approved Regular, Liquor, and Closed Session Minutes from February 7, 2023 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is reviewing a request for a support letter regarding House Bill 402, which would add a nonvoting student member to the Kent County Board of Education. The meeting also includes discussions on stormwater management contracts and ARPA fund spending.

• House Bill 402: Proposal to add a nonvoting student member to the Board of Education
• Maryland Environmental Service: Amendment to agreement for Stormwater Management reviews
• Worton WWTP: Lagoon Sludge Removal Contract for $1,400,500
• Timothy Kern Memorial Fund: Special Class C Beer Only license request for March 25, 2023
• Senate Bill 0327: Discussion on hunting, wildlife conservation, and outdoor recreation funding

The Board of County Commissioners approved a $30,000 contract for a lobbying firm to be funded via contingency. They also approved a sewer service line connection for a property on Lover's Lane and issued a letter of opposition to Senate Bill 0327 regarding waterfowl hunting.

• Approved hiring highest-ranked lobbying firm at an annual cost of $30,000 (unanimous)
• Approved sewer service line connection for Lover's Lane not to exceed $18,650 (unanimous)
• Approved letter of opposition to Senate Bill 0327 regarding waterfowl hunting (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for House Bill 402 regarding Board of Education student members (unanimous)
• Approved release of Irrevocable Letter of Credit No. 163 for $61,191.00 (unanimous)
• Approved Amendment to Intergovernmental Agreement with Maryland Environmental Service (unanimous)
• Approved conditional employment offers for two personnel vacancies (unanimous)
• Approved Beer only Special Class C license for Timothy Kern Memorial Fund (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are meeting to discuss several administrative items, including a budget amendment for public schools and a surface treatment contract for roads. The body will also review ARPA funds spending and sewer allocation requests for the Tolchester Service Area.

• FY2023 Surface Treatment Contract for the Roads Division
• Sewer Allocation Requests for the Tolchester Service Area
• Budget Amendment #1 for Kent County Public Schools Unrestricted Funds
• American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds Spend Plan
• Community Partnership Agreement Grant Award for the Local Management Board

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners are meeting to discuss infrastructure updates, including a feasibility study for the Millington Wastewater Treatment Plant. The agenda also includes updates on regional health care investments and agricultural land preservation funding.

• Millington Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade Feasibility Study discussion
• Worton Lagoon Sludge Removal Contract
• Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation matching funds for FY 2023
• Rock Hall Volunteer Fire Company gaming device raffle (Feb 1 - Dec 18, 2023)
• American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds spend plan

The Commissioners unanimously approved committing $22,023.82 for agricultural land preservation easements and signed four vehicle lease agreements for Public Works and EMS. The board also approved an amended $69,098 agreement for substance abuse telehealth services and filled multiple staff vacancies.

• Approved $22,023.82 for agricultural land preservation easements (unanimous)
• Approved amended $69,098 agreement for substance abuse telehealth services (unanimous)
• Approved 4 vehicle leases for Public Works and EMS (unanimous)
• Approved multiple personnel hires and promotions across Public Works, Emergency Services, and Parks and Recreation (unanimous)
• Appointed one member to the Social Services Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Approved updated Worton Lagoon Sludge Removal Contract (unanimous)
• Approved reappointment recommendations for board/committee members (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-01 to update Alcoholic Beverages Manual of Rules and Regulations (unanimous)