LEONARDTOWN, Md. — In its meeting on June 9, 2025, the Leonardtown Town Council addressed several important issues concerning the future of the town, including zoning ordinances, a public art master plan and a community legacy grant application.
Zoning Ordinance Update
The council voted to approve Ordinance Number 230, which revises zoning regulations to better align with the 2025 Leonardtown Comprehensive Plan. A key change introduces a distinct classification for townhomes as “single-family dwelling attached” rather than multifamily units. This new category allows townhomes as a permitted use in both residential single-family and commercial highway zoning districts.
All of this is generally looking to comply with Maryland’s efforts to create more affordable housing units. Because townhomes are generally more affordable than other housing options by virtue of being cheaper to build, expanding the areas in which they can be constructed encourages developers to build more affordable housing. That is made possible by classifying townhomes as “single-family dwelling attached” housing, which allows construction of townhomes in residential single-family and commercial highway zoning districts. Currently, Maryland is short about 96,000 housing units, and towns across the state are also adjusting zoning ordinances to promote more affordable housing.
Council members noted the ordinance “clears things up” by simplifying zoning classifications and setting the stage for a more comprehensive future review of the zoning code. The ordinance was first introduced at the May 12 meeting and was advertised in the County Times and posted on the town website before final approval.
Public Art Master Plan
Leonardtown issued a request for proposals (RFP) for the development of a public art master plan, receiving three bids with budgets near the allocated $25,000. Funding includes an $18,000 grant from the Main Street program and a $7,000 matching contribution from the town.
The Arts & Entertainment District committee, composed of local artists, business owners and staff, will review the proposals and select a consultant within the established budget. The project must be completed by early 2026 per grant requirements, with the selection expected by the end of June.
The council gave consensus approval for the committee to proceed with the consultant selection process. The committee has prior experience with local public art projects, such as the murals in L’Town Alley, and will bring the final plan back to the council for adoption.
Community Legacy Grant Application
Following an earlier unsuccessful grant application for parks and playground improvements, Leonardtown plans to reapply through the Community Legacy grant program. The grant would support public infrastructure upgrades, including parking lot renovations, ADA accommodations and stormwater management as outlined in the town’s downtown strategic plan.
Council members gave consensus approval to proceed with the grant application, underscoring the importance of improving public infrastructure.
Community Events and Updates
Leonardtown recently hosted the Maryland chapter of the American Planning Association ADA conference at Port of Leonardtown Winery. The event focused on “Providing Small Towns Building Resilient Communities for the Future” and included presentations on Leonardtown’s revival over the past 20 years, along with trolley and walking tours of the town. The event was well attended and received positive feedback from statewide participants.
The Leonardtown Historical Society was awarded a $75,000 capital preservation grant from the Historic Trust, supported by a letter of endorsement from the town, helping to advance local historic preservation efforts.
The BOB project, involving a Bay Observation Box used for environmental monitoring, has been refurbished with upgraded technology for enhanced accuracy and battery life. The observation box is slated to be redeployed for the upcoming summer monitoring season.
Additionally, a new high-definition camera system was installed at the Leonardtown Wharf, enabling remote monitoring of faces and license plates. Two additional cameras will soon be added to improve security coverage in the town square.
Lastly, the Leonardtown Local Business Association reported that the recent Hometown Heroes event was highly successful. The square was packed with attendees and first responders from across the county, marking a memorable community celebration.
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Why is there nothing recreational for children and families in this county.we have to go to Charles or calvert.st.srys co is losing revenue