Calvert County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Calvert County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
PFAS and arsenic in drinking water
The draft plan omitted known PFAS contamination near the Naval Research Lab area and relied on arsenic data from 2003. The commission required updated sections on both before recommending adoption.
Critical Area clearing and replanting relief
Maryland has tightened Critical Area variance rules effective immediately. Future applicants must show substantial need beyond convenience or financial advantage, prove their project can't be located outside the habitat protection area, and comparison properties must be truly similar. Board members expect more detailed orders and possibly more denials.
Neeld Estate shoreline protection and first Shore Erosion Control District
A $791,713 living shoreline project (third headland breakwater, sand fill, marsh grass) for 118 Neeld Estate homes, funded by a 20-year 0% DNR loan repaid through a $335.47 annual levy per residence. 83% of residents petitioned for it; decision comes August 4.
Upper Mill Creek restoration
Developed land in the upper Mill Creek watershed hit 38.8% with 14% impervious surface in 2023 — past the 10% threshold where streams show distress. The plan revision aims to limit new pavement and require stormwater controls in the proposed Edge Commercial District.
Tidal water quality monitoring results
Chesapeake Biological Laboratory's annual update shows Solomons water quality roughly average, some improvement possibly tied to septic investments, and Plum Point Creek flagged as needing attention. Researchers recommended preserving tidal wetlands and focusing septic upgrades on Mill, Plum, and Hungerford creeks.
Sunken Vessel in Back Creek
A 40-foot boat sunk near the Lower Oyster House in Solomons has been leaking fuel with no cleanup ever done. The board committed up to $2,500 to get it out of the water.
County energy modernization projects
A $1.07 million state grant will fund a new courthouse cooling tower, a solar feasibility study, and solar-powered light poles at county facilities — cutting energy costs and emissions.
Migratory birds and Lights Out Month
The county proclaimed May as Lights Out Month, asking residents to dim unnecessary lights at night to protect the millions of migratory birds crossing Calvert County — with Commissioner Hart noting his struggle signing it amid the data center debate.