On October 25, 2023, the Queen Anne’s County Planning Commission and Chair were recognized for the exemplary results of their hard work and
leadership.
Queen Anne’s County Planning Commission Chair Sharon Dobson provided opening remarks at the 40th Annual Maryland Planning Commissioners Association (MPCA) Conference dinner for the citizen planner recognition dinner. Ms. Dobson delivered a keynote address at the award ceremony, little knowing that she and her fellow Planning Commission members were about to be recognized for the exemplary results of their hard work and leadership. The Planning Commission members were recognized for their time and dedication to the 2022 Comprehensive Plan, as the Commission was responsible for drafting this Plan that included a year and a half devoted to monthly meetings reviewing draft chapters, providing concise recommendations, and most importantly listening to and incorporating public comments. This Plan update presented a unique challenge as the County grappled with a wastewater treatment plant serving its Growth Areas which reached its pollutant load limit.
Along with the recognition of the Planning Commission members, Chairwoman Dobson was recognized for her successful leadership during the Plan update. Additionally, she was recognized for her instrumental collaboration with staff to streamline minor site plan approvals, update of project extension policy, and the expedition of public service waivers. She spearheaded the streamlining of procedures which assist staff and the Planning Commission to better serve Queen Anne’s County citizens.
Planning Commission members include Sharon Dobson, Chair; Tom Leigh, Vice Chair; Kathy Deoudes, Secretary; Teddy Baker, member; Jeffrey Reiss, member; Bill Sylvester, member; Ben Tilghman, member.
Other representation of Queen Anne’s County at the conference included Commissioner Chris Corchiarino who provided opening remarks that kicked off the conference that morning. He gave an insightful historical perspective of planning and land use in Queen Anne’s County and shared an update on planning activities, long range efforts, and development projects in the County. Planning staff partnered with the Economic Development Director Heather Tinelli and area developers to host a tour of the County stopping at the Kent Narrows Boatel, Slippery Hill Mixed Use Development, Bluegrass Solar, and Cascia Vineyards. Planning and Zoning and Economic and Tourism Development provided coordination with Maryland Department of Planning and the MPCA while leading up to the conference and QAC TV provided their recording services during the conference.
