On Wednesday, Dec. 24 at in the Chesapeake Building in Leonardtown, the Board of County Commissioners for St. Mary’s County approved the purchase of a 172-acre site in the Leonardtown area as the location for a new elementary school and other public facilities. The purchase consisted of three tracts of land with an aggregate purchase price of $5,259,500.
The meeting took place with few onlookers and a bit of confusion. For the most part the confusion was caused, in part, by media reports which stated that the action meeting was a public hearing. Some in attendance displayed their displeasure at the timing of the meeting.
After it was explained that the meeting was not a public hearing and a few of the commissioners addressed those in attendance, it was decided that those that were there would be allowed to speak.
The parcel of land in question is a 172 acre property known currently as the Hayden Farm. It is located on State Route 245 in the Leonardtown Development District. “The county identified the need for additional school sites several years ago,” explained Jack Russell, President, Board of County Commissioners. “This land meets an immediate need and will also give us more flexibility in planning for future facilities including a new Leonardtown Library, parks and additional schools.”
County Government began setting aside funds for the acquisition of land for public facilities in 2005. “Sites suitable for public facilities are in short supply in St. Mary’s County,” said Commissioner Thomas Mattingly, Second Election District. “By setting aside capital funds, we are now in a position to acquire this property.” This major investment in land is comparable to the investment made in the 1970’s for the land occupied by the current Governmental Center. “That land purchase served St. Mary’s County well for the past 30 years; this major investment will meet many needs for the future,” he added.
Acknowledging the current tough economic times, Commissioner Russell went on to state that prudent investments still need to be made for the county’s growth. “Were we to pass on this opportunity and wait for kinder economic times, we would risk paying a higher price on the real estate or finding no suitable parcels,” he concluded.
When allowed to speak, the economy and timing were at issue for more than a couple of those attending. Joan Ritchie said, “We sent you here to be good stewards of our money. Spending this kind of money on this property in a depressed market is not being good stewards of our money.”
Doug Merrick stated that he was dismayed by the perception that the commissioners were trying to hide the purchase with a poorly timed hearing. “The perception is that you’re out of control, that you’re hiding something.”
Commissioner president Russell replied, “We’re just trying to do as good a job as we can for the people of St. Mary’s County.”
For those who preferred to go Christmas shopping and to be with friends, the meeting was televised live on Channel 95 and will be rebroadcast. Check the schedule at www.stmarysmd.com or call the Public Information Office at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1340.