County Announces New Economic Development Advisory Board
Applications now accepted for board members
Charles County announced today the formation of a new Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB), an entity created by the County Commissioners and one of the Economic Development Strategic Plan's key recommendations. Applications are now available for eligible Charles County candidates to serve on the board. Final selection of board members will be announced in October 2016.
"The new Economic Development Advisory Board will serve as a communications platform for our business community and the public sector to inform the county's economic development policy and programs," said Commissioner President Peter F. Murphy. "We look forward to this new exchange of ideas and open dialogue, and continuing our economic progress."
"We are pleased that the County Commissioners created the EDAB based on the recommendations from the county's five-year Economic Development Strategic Plan," said Director for the Economic Development Darrell Brown. "When we unveiled the county's five-year Economic Development Strategic Plan, the end goal was an actionable, strategic guide to help our community achieve economic prosperity and create jobs. The establishment of an Economic Development Advisory Board is a critical step from that plan."
The board will advise the director of Economic Development by sharing ideas, solutions, and creative approaches to business and economic development issues.
Selection criteria to become a board member include having corporate level experience in business, especially companies in the county's target industries. Terms are for three years, with some initial terms of one or two years to create staggered terms. Members will serve as Charles County economic development ambassadors and expected to participate in the Department of Economic Development's events.
To apply for the EDAB, visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov, click on "Board and Commissions" and then click "Application for Appointment." All applicants will be asked to read and be ready to actively support the implementation of the new Charles County Economic Development Strategic Plan, "A Proactive Approach to Shaping the Economic Future of Charles County, Maryland." For more information about the county's economic development efforts, visit www.MeetCharlesCounty.com.
State Highway Administration Public Meeting to be Held on Sept. 26 for MD 6 Bridge Repair
The Maryland Department of Transportation's State Highway Administration (SHA) invites interested persons to attend a public meeting on Monday, Sept. 26, for replacement of the deck of the two-lane MD 6 (Charles Street) bridge over Zekiah Swamp in Charles County.
Charlotte Hall Library
Monday, Sept. 26 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
37600 New Market Road, Charlotte Hall
Originally constructed in 1933 and widened in 1970, the bridge is safe for the traveling public, but the bridge deck surface is nearing the end of its useful service life. Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2017.
The informational meeting will acquaint the public with the project and provide attendees an opportunity to discuss project details. Representatives from MDOT/SHA will be available to answer project related questions. There will be no formal presentation. You may arrive at any time during meeting hours and walk through the display area at your own pace.
To learn more about this project visit apps.roads.maryland.gov/WebProjectLifeCycle/ProjectInformation.aspx?projectno=CH216218 or contact Hilary Gonzales at hgonzales@sha.state.md.us or 410-841-1020.
SKYWARN® Convection Class Offered Oct. 3
The Charles County Emergency Services (EMS) is hosting a SKYWARN® Convection course on Monday, Oct. 3 at the Charles County Government Building (200 Baltimore Street, La Plata) starting at 6:30 p.m. This course provides an in depth training of severe weather hazards and the role of spotters during these events.
The course is intended for all levels of expertise, but it is mandatory to have attended a basic class with any National Weather Service (NWS) Forecast Office. Topics to be covered include:
• Severe weather hazards in the Mid-Atlantic
• Ingredients and forecasting for severe weather
• Severe weather statistics
• Severe weather preparation and safety
• NWS severe weather products
• SKYWARN® spotter's role in severe weather
A NWS meteorologist will teach this free SKYWARN® Convection class. The class is for residents age 14 and older.
Registration is required. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/skywarn-convection-charles-county-tickets-27335566415?aff=es2 to register.
For more information, contact Jennifer Adams at AdamsJen@CharlesCountyMD.gov or 301-609-3430. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.
September Proclaimed "Forget-Me-Not" Month
On Tuesday, Sept. 13, the Charles County Commissioners proclaimed September as "Forget-Me-Not" month to commemorate those fallen in war, while promising the hope of renewal. Charles County is the home of nearly 16,000 veterans, many of whom became disabled as the result of bravely fighting for our country. During September, the Commissioners encourage residents to honor and remember disabled veterans and their sacrifice, and consider supporting the Charles County Disabled American Veterans' annual sale of simulated Forget-Me-Not flowers to honor those who served in our wars.
Commissioners Recognize September as National Preparedness Month
On Tuesday, Sept. 13, the Charles County Commissioners recognized September as National Preparedness Month, which serves as a reminder to prepare, now and throughout the year, for emergencies that could affect us where we live, work, and visit. Last year's theme, "Don't Wait, Communicate. Make Your Emergency Plan Today," is returning due to its success in assisting the youth, older adults, and individuals with disabilities, or access and functional needs to be prepared.
The Department of Emergency Services and the Board of Commissioners encourage Charles County residents and businesses to take the following four preparedness steps:
•Be informed. Know the hazards and risks in your area.
•Make a family emergency plan, so you know how you would communicate with and find your loved ones if a disaster hit.
•Build an emergency supply kit—both at home and in the car—that includes water, food, and first aid supplies to help you survive if you lose power or get stranded in your car. This is especially important for dealing with icy roads and snowstorms this winter.
•Get involved and find out how you can promote preparedness in your community.
Emergencies range from inconvenience to devastation, but you can resolve not to be a victim of an emergency or disaster and take steps to minimize the impact on you, your family, and your businesses. Visit www.Ready.gov for preparedness tips, and checklists and guidelines on being informed, developing a family emergency plan, and building an emergency kit. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.