Get Real With SOMD Politics: Joshua Kyte Outlines Vision For Planning, Housing And Public Engagement

ST. MARY’S COUNTY, Md. — St. Mary’s County District 3 commissioner candidate Joshua Kyte shared his motivations and policy concerns in a recent appearance on “Get Real with Southern Maryland Politics,” hosted by Chris Hill, where he discussed development patterns, housing affordability and the need for greater public engagement in local government.

Kyte said his decision to run for office was sparked by concerns over how commercial development is being placed throughout the county, particularly what he views as a lack of thoughtful planning in approving new businesses. “The big reason I’m running is I got a little taken aback about some of the decisions about businesses and where they’re being placed, what type of businesses,” he said, adding that he felt compelled to step forward after reflecting on both his personal circumstances and a broader push to encourage more candidates to run.

At 43 years old, married with three children and working in IT for nearly 22 years, Kyte said he believes his generation is underrepresented in local leadership and brings a perspective shaped by experiencing both pre-internet and modern life.

A recurring theme in the interview was land use and what Kyte described as inconsistent or short-sighted development decisions. He pointed to the density of certain commercial establishments as an example of what he believes should be more carefully evaluated planning.

“I was told it’s 25 gas stations from Gate 2 in Lexington Park all the way to Charlotte Hall,” he said, arguing that while businesses will naturally cluster where demand exists, the county should be more intentional about considering alternative uses for available land. He emphasized that development should be guided by “common sense” and a stronger understanding of community needs rather than simply accommodating every proposal that comes forward.

Housing affordability also emerged as a central concern. Kyte said that while new developments in areas like Leonardtown are often large and high-end, they do not reflect the types of homes many residents actually need or can afford. He questioned the decline of more modest housing options, saying, “What happened to the three-bedroom rambler on a half acre of property?” and noted that such homes are increasingly rare and tend to sell quickly when they do become available.

He acknowledged that St. Mary’s County remains comparatively affordable relative to other parts of Maryland, but said rising prices and limited inventory are making it difficult for younger families to stay in the area long term.

Throughout the conversation, Kyte and host Chris Hill also discussed the challenge of public participation in county decision-making. Both noted that while officials frequently encourage community input, turnout at meetings is often low. Kyte suggested that engagement efforts need to extend beyond formal government settings and election cycles, arguing that officials should meet residents in more accessible, informal environments.

“Why does that stop when the election’s over?” he said, suggesting that outreach events in places like parks or community spaces in Leonardtown could help bridge the gap between residents and decision-makers. He added that feedback often comes too late in the process, saying it should be shared early and consistently rather than after decisions are already made.

Kyte also stressed that local governance should remain focused on county-level needs rather than broader partisan divides. “My politics outside of the county, they don’t come into play,” he said, emphasizing that local leadership should prioritize improving the community for residents regardless of political affiliation.

He described his approach as balancing experience with an understanding of modern challenges, saying he hopes to help guide the county through growth in a way that preserves its character while ensuring long-term livability for future generations.

As the interview concluded, Kyte urged residents to stay involved and participate in the electoral process, framing voter engagement as essential to shaping the county’s future.

Watch the full interview below:

About Get Real With Southern Maryland Politics

The interview is part of The BayNet’s new candidate video podcast series, “Get Real With Southern Maryland Politics,” which features conversations with Southern Maryland candidates running for county commissioner, state delegate and state senator.

Upcoming election coverage can be found at https://thebaynet.com/elections.

---