2009 was a year in flux for many with the economy still is disarray, a new president taking office and the base welcoming a new fighter jet for testing. Local government officials found themselves scrambling to continue programs and to find funds for needed projects.
All in all, 2009 was a productive year in St. Mary’s County. What follows is a brief recap of some significant events and actions during the year just past.
St. Mary’s County Comprehensive Plan Update Process Nearly Done
The county reviews its Comprehensive Plan every six years. The current Comprehensive Plan was adopted in 2002. The updated Comprehensive Plan adds a water resources element and priority preservation areas element required by state law among other changes.
“We expect the plan to be adopted soon,” said Francis Jack Russell, President, Board of County Commissioners. “We have heard from our citizens on this important document. It is subtitled, ‘Quality of Life in St. Mary’s County-A Strategy for the 21st Century.’ We want our citizens to understand and participate in the comprehensive planning process. Each of us is an important stakeholder who helps shape the landscape of our county.”
St. Mary’s County “Celebrate 375” Campaign Earns Awards
The Maryland Tourism Council awarded two prestigious industry awards to St. Mary’s County’s Division of Tourism for its “Celebrate 375” campaign. The first award, the Cooperative Promotion Award for an Integrated Campaign or Continuing Program, honors promotions which incorporate a variety of marketing activities over a sustained period of time. The second award was for the best visitor’s guide. The winners were selected from nominations throughout Maryland.
The 2009 visitor and relocation guide, “Discover St. Mary’s County” was produced by the Division in conjunction with Maryland Life Magazine and Historic St. Mary’s City. 75,000 copies of the guide have been distributed locally, regionally and throughout the world. An electronic version of the guide as well as the 375 celebration activities may be viewed at the campaign’s dedicated website: www.maryland375.com.
St. Mary’s County Government Employees of the Year Named in April 2009
Claudia Unkle from the Treasurer’s Office received the “People’s Choice Award”. This employee was nominated by a co-worker for going above and beyond to support the mission of St. Mary’s County Government and for providing outstanding support to their customers, peers and citizens.
Karen Gates, Arthur Shepherd, and Robert Oliver also received Employee of the Year awards. Karen Gates from the Department of Human Resources was honored as the Employee of the Year in the Administrative Category; Robert Oliver from the Wicomico Shores Golf Course Division with the Department of Recreation and Parks received the award in the Non-Administrative Category and Arthur Shepherd from the Department of Recreation and Parks earned the nod in the Manager Category. These employees were nominated by supervisors.
State Highway Administration and Revitalization Projects
Great Mills Road Streetscape Project Underway
“There is dust in the air in Lexington Park and it’s a good thing,” said County Commissioner President for St. Mary’s County Jack Russell as he announced the ground breaking for the Great Mills Road Streetscape Project.
The project will include the construction of brick-edged sidewalks, a median strip from Coral Drive to FDR Boulevard, the replacement of all sewer and water lines, landscaping and numerous other improvements to make Great Mills Road safer and more attractive for
