COMMISSIONERS' GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

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COMMISSIONERS' GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Calendar Year 2011

Mission Statement

The mission of Charles County Government is to provide our citizens the highest quality service possible in a timely, efficient, and courteous manner. To achieve this goal, our government must be operated in an open and accessible atmosphere, be based on comprehensive long- and short-term planning, and have an appropriate managerial organization tempered by fiscal responsibility.

Vision Statement

Charles County is a place where all people thrive and businesses grow and prosper; where the preservation of our heritage and environment is paramount; where government services to its citizens are provided at the highest level of excellence; and where the quality of life is the best in the nation.

Values (unranked)

Citizen Involvement (outreach)/Customer Focus/Transparency Employee Involvement

Smart Growth/Environment Responsibility/Quality of Life

Continuous Improvement with Innovative and Data-driven Decisions Fiscal Responsibility

Positive Image/Quality of Life Highest Ethical Standards

Commissioners' Commitment

The Charles County Board of Commissioners is committed to the mission statement, vision statement, values, as well as the goals and objectives for the fiscal year, as written in this document. Each Commissioner will respect, respond and endeavor to achieve each item to the best of their ability and judgment. The Commissioners will actively participate in their success which includes monitoring the progress of the goals and objectives on a regular basis.

Goals

#1 - Improve Economic Development & Tourism #2 - Enhance Infrastructure

#3 - Efficiency of Government Operations & Services #4 - Comprehensive Planning

#5 - Support the Achievement of Education Benchmarks #6 - Maintain a High Level of Public Safety

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County Attorney's Office May/June 2011

# Objectives Budget Status

3.11 Begin conversation on charter form of government in light of the County's increasing complexity.

Researched various forms of government. Reviewed files from Code Home Rule Initiative and other related files. Created flow chart for Commissioners' review.

4.2 Establish a Community Revitalization Initiative to improve property values and quality of life to include increasing the accountability of and strengthening the County's Nuisance Ordinance/Nuisance Abatement Board, Homeowner's Association Dispute Resolution process, establishment of oversight by the County Attorney's Office for review of homeowner's association structure, funding, inspection and enforcement of development bonds, development of an inventory of homeowner's associations (voluntary & involuntary) and a rental registration program, and acquiring/reviewing a list of abandoned properties and foreclosed homes to establish standards of oversight.

Held meeting with PGM staff (Codes and Permits Enforcement and Planning) to discuss goals and objectives.

Department of Fiscal Services reviewing covenants and bylaws to determine whether they were written in a way to ensure financial stability/sustainability in the future need to meet with them still.

County Attorney's Office to review bylaws and covenants for legal sufficiency; in the process of collecting samples of ideal bylaws and covenants.

Property standards task force will discuss nuisance ordinance, livability code and abandoned properties. County Attorney's Office has gathered information on other jurisdictions responses to abandoned properties, still need to

synthesize this information.

Recently passed enforcement SOP and bill to give HOADRB more power to enforce orders. HOADRB has developed a hearing procedure to ensure that all cases are treated in a consistent manner. Need to update HOA directory.

County Commissioners May/June 2011

3.5 Promote County employees by developing a voluntary Employee "Hall of Fame" in the hallways of the Charles County Government.

Employee "Hall of Fame" is the Employee of the Month wall in the Charles County Government Administration Building

3.6 Evaluate County operations for potential overlap and/or potential consolidation amongst County agencies (i.e. procurement, information technology).

Pending.

3.7 Assess County Government organizational structure versus current needs (i.e media relations and County department of environment).

Media Relations restructure addressed with revised organization chart approved 4/26/2011 by Commissioners.

3.16 Create more strength as a region through Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland and other existing organizations.

On-going effort. Monthly meetings with Tri-County Council are on-going. 3.17 Establish a policy and/or philosophy that the County will adhere to

timelines adopted by the state or other regulatory agencies.

The County Administrator's Office developed a County Mandate/Deadline chart and presented to the Commissions in session on May 18, 2011.

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4.4 Monitor the Comprehensive Planning Process by staying engaged with the Planning Division of the Department of Planning and Growth Management and the Planning Commission.

The Comp Plan Regional Visioning Work Sessions took place:

The following regional meetings were held to receive community input on the Comp Plan.

May 5 - North Point High School, Waldorf May 12 - Higdon Elementary School, Newburg May 26 - Matthew Henson Middle School, Indian Head June 2 - Mt. Hope-Nanjemoy Elementary School, Nanjemoy 4.5 Conduct a joint meeting with the Board of County Commissioners

and the Planning Commission.

Pending. 5.1 Conduct a strategic planning session with Board of Education prior to

the end of Fiscal Year 2011.

May 4, 2011 meeting was postponed. Pending re-schedule. 5.2 Work with the Board of Education to research/identify innovative

methods of funding public education.

Pending.

5.3 Secure State approval and capital funding for the New High School. Approved with FY12 budget. 6.1 Conduct a strategic planning session with Volunteer/career EMS and

fire services within Fiscal Year 2011.

May 25, 2011 meeting was re-scheduled to a Meet & Greet on July 20, 2011 at 3:00 pm.

6.2 Conduct a strategic planning session with Charles County Sheriff's Office within Fiscal Year 2011.

A meeting between the Commissioners and the CCSO was held on 4/6/2011. 7.2 Lead conservation efforts throughout Charles County. Green Expo was held June 18, 2011; Library 50% complete - LEED certified;

wind turbine grant secured.

County Administrator's Department May/June 2011

2.6 Establish State and Federal funding priorities to meet deadlines for Congressional grants; look at earmarks from this year for guide; complete and submit applications.

FY 11 Appropriation Requests were not accepted. Meeting conducted with Senator Mikulski on April 4, 2011 wherein the Senator requested the County to submit a list of Federal priorities should funding become available. County Administrator will draft letter.

3.15 Re-establish the Vision in Teamwork and Leadership (VITAL) program to include assessment of charitable organizations and quantify the number of work hours of volunteers.

$20,000.00 VITAL kick-off meeting held on May 25, 2011. FY12 budget secured. July 20th follow-up meeting held - 3 sessions in FY 12.

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# Objectives Budget Status 2.3 Continue to improve and expand transportation infrastructure by

creating a comprehensive transportation system for Charles County to include a reliable and efficient commuter bus system, locally

operated transit service, local connector roads, and rail transit linking Waldorf and Washington, D.C. Secure federal planning funds for required studies.

Letter to MTA requesting award of contract to retrofit balance of fixed route fleet with bike racks was mailed May 23rd. Concurrence is expected and once project is complete by September 1st, it will be announced that VanGO is fully bicycle accessible with appropriate PR to follow.

Work with MTA is beginning to enhance park and ride options for commuters by adding improvements to service at the Regency Furniture Stadium. 3.2 Acquire a facility to be used for providing multiple public services

i.e.: family homeless shelter, senior programs, etc; obtain Federal and/or State Grants to fund; obtain an Option to Purchase; conduct a public hearing to seek input.

Catholic Charities plans to relocate and expand homeless shelter with County suport; support could include P.I.L.O.T. Staff toured a facility for possible consideration.

3.3 Provide additional youth oriented community centers and programs; i.e. recreation programs, boys and girls club, etc; Explore a YMCA facility similar to King George County, VA.

Online version of Summer Guide to be published on June 15. Currently taking registration for summer programs including summer camps, swim lessons, variety of youth programs throughout our eight community centers and two recreation centers. Continue working with our partnering agencies as we prepare for upcoming Summer Meals programs and WeCan youth fitness programs.

3.12 Encourage dialogue and input regarding human relation issues throughout the County.

Considering establishment of a committee of the LMB to address this.

3.13 Consolidate information regarding youth services. The Youth Roundtable was previously a function of the Tri-County Council

staff, but they no longer have staff to operate this function. LMB will take on the venture with their first goal being to create a youth policy and determine, "What is Charles County's Policy on Youth?" Online version of Summer Guide to be published on June 15. Gathering contact information of youth organizations to develop a type of central listing of various youth organizations and programs. Also considering establishment of a committee of the LMB. 3.14 Contemplate a comprehensive youth policy, including the exploration

of the "Harlems Children Zone" and comparable programs.

Staff exploring establishment of Local Management Board committee to address this. Staff analyzing "Harlem's Children Zone" information from website. Placement of the previous Youth Roundtable with the Local

Management Board (LMB) is underway to begin this process. Was determined at the last LMB meeting on May 19, 2011.

4.3 Continue work on the Rural Housing Improvement Initiative to reduce number of homes in Charles County without indoor plumbing.

Two Special Loan projects recently completed in sub-standard homes.

Economic Development May/June 2011

1.1 Aggressively pursue attracting defense, research & development, government-related and non-government related agencies and contractors.

Part of $170,000 line item in FY 12 budget.

Work plan presented May 2011. Now talking with firms which might provide extensive lead generation and prospect qualification services.

Media request to be submitted for graphic services for short ED message service, print and web ads. Initial print and web ad placements identified. Web site content in process of being written via contract earlier this month with Balance Logic.

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1.2 Consider expanding tax credit incentives to unincorporated areas for business investment or re-investment by private sector to include "HUB Zones."

NA HUB Zones identified and presented. Existing tax credit legislation applicable and already authorized has been identified and will be examined to possibly expand to the HUB zone and other potential target areas, perhaps the WUDS area in combination with HUB zone, later in the Fall for Commisssioner consideration. What incentives will potentially apply in WUDS area need to be disucussed with Planning and Fiscal and Administrative Services first so as to not conflict with potential TIF or other infrastructure financings.

1.3 Review incentives now in effect, modifying as necessary, to enhance the Countys competitiveness in marketing to businesses.

NA Will be later in FY. Initial inventory compiled.Some available for immediate use for targeted industries. Targeted industry list compiled and under review by EDEB.

1.4 Promote and market all business parks; evaluate sites for future transit- oriented development/light rail or commuter stop.

$200,000 Ongoing by PGM and ED. Possibility of creating an Authority to handle re-development in WUDS area to begin to be addressed in first meeting on June 21 with Planning and CA. RFP for 2d phase consulting related to WUDS infrastruture issued and award pending.Discussions with St.Charles Cos on possible future TOD development to proceed July 25.

1.5 Assess the status of the Indian Head Technology Park for economic and environmental viability (within 30 days); offer support if economically and environmentally viable.

NA Economic Report and status provided to Commissioners during last

presentation.While dependent on build-out, absorption and capital investment by the County, it is economically feasible.

A comprehensive environmental analysis was provided with the approved development plan. The previously approved Planned Employment Park analysis was again recently reviewed for environmental issues in conjunction with the applicant's submittal of a preliminary subdivision plan which is currently under review.

The development will comply will all pertinent environmental regulations including wetland protection, forest conservation, stormwater management and erosion and sediment controls. Resource protection areas include 56% of the site which includes 117 total acres of preservation of which 96 acres will be adjacent to the Glendening Natural Environmental Area. Once rare plant (Baby Blue Eyes) was found on site and will be protected.

Future development of this project continues to be an area of discussion in the Comprehensive Plan update process.

1.6 Promote economic development within the Development District in Bryans Road, Indian Head and the Route 210 corridor.

$15,000 budgeted in FY 12 for preliminary feasibility determinations for Enterprise Zones.

Suggested Enterprise Zone possibility as way to approach this during May 2011 presentation. Focus on Indian head as first possible area potentially meeting State Enterprise Zone criteria. Letter sent to Indian Head Mayor to see if Town wishes to have County proceed with determining feasibility. Awaiting

response. Follow-up email sent 7/18/11. It is recommended that Bryans Road enterprise zone possibility wait until Comprehensive Plan update is complete. 1.7 Identify, examine and support opportunities for the development of

private campground/RV facilities in Charles County.

No $$ budgeted for this in FY 12 This would require a market assessment study and a recommended course of action. There are already two at least in the County.Recommend this be shelved or put off until FY 2013-14 due to more pressing priorities.

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# Objectives Budget Status 1.8 Support NSWC through the Indian Head Defense Alliance and the

provision of necessary resources. Investigate alternative uses of tobacco to assist farmers in transitioning to viable new enterprises to sustain agriculture in the County. Re-visit the three (3) waterfront priorities (Aqualand, Benedict & Port Tobacco) for preservation and protection, public access, and/or development opportunities. Review implementation strategies per Waterfront Task Force Report.

$100,000 for IHDA in FY 12 $100,000 was appropriated for IHDA in FY 12. Contact with IHDA officials occurs with ongoing regularity.

On agriculture, and alternative uses of tobacco, the County contribution to TCC helps support Agriculture alternatives. For FY 12, the County fully funded TCC request. An internal county task force is also looking into sign issues centering around off site signs promoting agri-tourism. ED recently took up two issues involving signage for Agri-tourism with PGM and at least temporarily solved those individual matters. PGM staff recently met with representatives from the Southern Maryland Agricultual Development Commission as a stakeholder interview for the update of the Comprehensive Plan. As part of that interview, discussions were held regarding diversification of crops in southern Maryland. Revisit 3 Waterfront Priority Areas: A briefing was held earlier in 2011 with the Commissioners on the top 3 study areas. As a result of this meeting, the Port Tobacco historic village replaced Marshall Hall in the top 3 priority areas. A draft Benedict Revitalization Master Plan was recently completed and is undergoing legislative review at this time.

1.9 Create a plan for a "tourist destination" in Charles County to attract visitors and a long-range Capital Investment Program for museums, parks and historic sites.

$22,000 RFP issued and proposals received. Now submitting contract approval for preferred vendor to fiscal approving authority. Budget for $22,000 in FY 12. 1.10 Investigate the viability of a Charles County Convention & Visitors

Bureau.

$22,000 Same as objective 1.9. Part of study pending award to consultant. 1.11 Review an inventory of the attractions within the County. $22,000 Same As Above 1.9 and 1.10 and 1 FTE approved

1.12 Enhance, develop and support the Countys Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Program.

NA Comprehensive current and future proposed actions were outlined in the May 2011 presentation. The MBE program is a County procurement-related program and lies with the Purchasing Office for implementation and refinement.

The Purchasing Office continued to coordinate with the publisher of The Minority Business & Consumer Resource Directory (Headquartered in Prince Georges County) & its website, and contracted for a CCG ad in the 2012 edition, which also includes a listing on the MBCRD website. Further coordinated with the publisher to have CCG formal solicitations advertised on the MBCRD website. On June 27, submitted to the County Attorneys Office for review, a proposal to institute preferences for prime contractors who utilize MBE subcontractors. Spoke with Mr. Cornel Posey on two occasions

regarding a local small business/MBE association that he is attempting to form, with a view to using that organization for community outreach and to assist in dissemination and publication of CCG formal solicitations.

1.13 Explore models to incentivize business development within the County, including any/all opportunities to "buy/hire local."

NA ED will work with Purchasing to fashion a buy local small business program. Potential program elements have been reserached. ED and Purchasing to begin meeting July 21 to flesh out workable program.

1.14 In an effort to coordinate and streamline small business resources, the County will assess and inventory resources available for small and minority businesses in the County to gain an understanding of how those resources connect to those in need of resources and to identify what gaps exist.

Part of $170,000 line item in FY 12 budget.

Small business site interview program to commence August 1 to ascertain what would be of most use to local small business. Data base procured to assist businesses in prospecting customers; will roll out its availability formally in October once staff has been trained on its use.

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1.15 Within 45 days, receive feedback from the Economic Development Executive Board regarding recommendations for engaging the appropriate consultant/people to provide recommendation(s) on a development model for the Countys Economic Development component. Implement model by March 31, 2011.

NA Report and recommendation will be presented in Fall 2011 per presentation in June. Information continues to be gathered.

1.16 Pursue the development of a cultural arts presence to promote arts in the County.

CCG grant funds for CCAA $11,000 proposed and funded June and July TAB Meeting recommend a broader scope for a landmark/signature event

Vs Best of/Taste of Event and a Gospel/Childrens Concert at the stadium Enhanced CCG website Cultural Arts/Web page link to CCAA added Arts Vision 2020 PDF--June 2011

Media Request Web Ads Aug 2011. 2.4 Re-assess support for efforts to secure commuter ferry service linking

Charles County with regional defense installations.

$25,000 request for FY 12, not yet appropriated

Briefing provided in June 2011. Additional information provided July 14 via ED memo and funding decision scheduled before Commissioners on July 20.

Emergency Services May/June 2011

6.1 Conduct a strategic planning session with Volunteer/career EMS and fire services within Fiscal Year 2011.

N/A A meet/greet was held on July 20, 2011 instead of a planning session. 6.3 Remain vigilant to community health issues, including those of

epidemic proportions.

N/A The Division of Emergency Management maintains an active relationship with the Charles County Health Dept., Civista Medical Center, the Maryland Dept. of Health and Mental Hygiene, Maryland Emergency Management Agency, as well as other local, state and federal public health partners. Through these relationships DES maintains its on-going situational awareness of emerging regional, national, and international health trends to ensure that Charles County is properly positioned and prepared to respond to evolving community health threats.

Regular activities:

Supported Civista Medical Center through the participation of the May 3, 2011, mass casualty drills focused on community health and welfare.

Support the Charles County Dept. of Health in preparedness for a deployment of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) to address a community or national health threat.

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# Objectives Budget Status 6.4 Encourage input and dialogue regarding public safety related

agencies.

N/A DES acts as the central clearing house and point of coordination/resources management for all agencies conducting preparedness and consequence management activities in planning for, responding to and recovering from the impact of natural or man-made emergencies or disasters.

Regular activities:

Development of mutual aid plans with contiguous jurisdictions.

Administration and management of county communications infrastructure. Monthly Tri-County Homeland Security Committee meeting.

Monthly Homeless/Shelter Committee meeting.

Fiscal and Administrative Services May/June 2011

2.8 Facilitate availability and lobby for equal access to communication services including broadband, FIOS, cell phone, T1, etc. Begin by reviewing franchise agreements and meeting with the Cable Advisory Commission. Explore innovative methods to provide internet service throughout the County.

Communication Committee established which includes the County Administrator and representatives from Emergency Services, Economic Development and Fiscal Services. Committee met in June to discuss compiling all current options and future opportunities to bring affordable broadband coverage to all county residents. Committee is currently working with Verizon, T-Mobile and Sprint to have technical representatives from respective

companies meet with the committee to discuss opportunities.

3.8 Evaluate current departmental technology to improve efficiency. Analyzing results of desktop software survey to determine underutilized or nonutilized desktop software applications, and streamline use of current desktop software. This is in preparation for upgrade of county desktops from XP to Windows 7 in order to provide compatibiity with newer software offerings. Working with County Admin and County Commissioners staff to merge two distinct MailLog applications into one. Planning for upgrades of phone system and enterprise software system to incorporate newer features. 3.9 Adopt budget procedures that are tied to measurable outcomes. N/A Current procedures include reporting and review of report card measurements

as well as other key performance measurements. An e-mail to all department heads was sent on 7/1/2011 reminding them to include measurable outcomes in their budget report.

5.2 Work with the Board of Education to research/identify innovative methods of funding public education.

n/a Spoke with the BOE budget chief regarding a Summer preliminary meeting

regarding options for funding public education. Meeting to be scheduled in July or August subject to schedules. A second meeting will then be scheduled to include the directors of the BOE and CCG.

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3.1 Through better utilization of the recruitment process and tools, attempt to increase diversity at higher management levels.

$15,000 for FY11 During the months of May and June, the Department of Human Resources (DHR)began recruitment for the following exempt positions: Director of Planning & Growth Management, County Attorney, Chief of Treasury, Chief of Recreation, Senior Information & Assistance Coordinator, and Assistant to the Director of Community Services.

Of the 216 total applications received, 49.74% were either from minorities or women. DHR advertised the positions with a variety of sources including "The Washington Post", "The Baltimore Sun", The National Association of Counties and other industry specific publications. The total advertising expended for the months of May and June was $8,108.

3.4 Continue training for County Government employees to develop an in-house management training and staff development program.

In May, the Department of Human Resources presented the first "Supervisor Bootcamp" training to 23 supervisors. The training covered performance management as well as communication techniques.

In June, a consultant presented Media training to 21 Department Heads and senior managers, to help them hone their skills in working with the media. Also during the month of June, 121 employees attended a customer service training which reviewed fundamentals of customer service, exceeding customer service expectations, 'Just Say Yes', and phone and email etiquette.

3.5 Promote County employees by developing a voluntary Employee "Hall of Fame" in the hallways of the Charles County Government.

$2,000 The Department of Human Resources coordinated the purchase and installation of a screen that will highlight "Employees of the Month", retirees and other employee accomplishments throughout the year.

The presentation will begin airing by the end of July 2011. 3.10 Continue to promote an employee-friendly workplace to include

exploring an on-site infant daycare.

In June, members Employee Picnic Committee were asked their interest in being the core HR Employee Committee to analyze various HR initiatives. The majority of the committee agreed to remain as the HR Employee Committe. The Department of Human Resources is currently seeking several additional employees to serve to give a broader employee representation.

In June, the HR Employee Committee was given an outline of impending initiatives that include reviewing the Employee Satisfaction Survey results, the implementation of an on-site daycare, evaluation review, additional personal days and other low/no cost employee incentives.

The HR Employee Committee finalized the date and venue for the employee picnic which will be held on Friday, September 30, 2011 at the Charles County Fairgrounds.

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# Objectives Budget Status 1.5 Assess the status of the Indian Head Technology Park for economic

and environmental viability (within 30 days); offer support if economically and environmentally viable.

PGM continues to coordinate monthly meetings with Facchina/COPT.

2.1 Consider long-term stormwater management maintenance options and, in interim, work with communities for solutions where specific stormwater issues arise.

*The Charles County Commissioners approved funding for the Strawberry Hill Drainage Improvements project with FY2011 funds. Design completion is expected in early July 2011.

*6/30/11 Request for proposal (RFP) for design of the Restoration of the Open Ditches at Carrington Neighborhood is underway. RFP is anticipated to be completed by July 10th.

2.2 Maintain/increase property values through neighborhood revitalization by clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of neighborhood associations and the County government in the County's urban communities. Exploring the feasibility of establishing a special taxing or assessment district in urban communities to provide services such as: trash collection, litter control, hiker/biker paths, sidewalks, stormwater management, street cleaning and street lights.

Staff continuing research,reviewing documented issues, and preparing a Plan of Action to explore providing additional services in urban communities and means to pay for these services.

2.3 Continue to improve and expand transportation infrastructure by creating a comprehensive transportation system for Charles County to include a reliable and efficient commuter bus system, locally

operated transit service, local connector roads, and rail transit linking Waldorf and Washington, D.C. Secure federal planning funds for required studies.

*Stavors Road Improvements - Awarded to NG&O Engineering for design. Design to be completed February 26, 2012.

*Smallwood Dr. West Turnaround @ McDaniel Drive - The design is 100% complete. Construction to begin approximately July 30th.

*Radio Station Road Rehabilitation & Safety Improvements - Received 100% Intersection Improvement Plan from Engineer for County review. Design to be complete approximately October 15th.

*Dogwood Drive Drainage Improvements - Proposals due August 15th. *6/22/11 - Meeting with Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT)Secretary Beverly Swaim-Staley with Commissioners to discuss transit options and funding.

2.5 Develop a strategic plan to identify and evaluate alternative sources of water; promote use of reclaimed water; raise awareness of water value to public; promote water conservation; evaluate how proposed growth, development and aquifer trends will affect water resources.

*Resource Manager position was filled by Mr. Zak Krebeck.

*5/18/11 - County Commissioners held work session and approved the Water Resource Element of the 2006 Comprehensive Plan.

*6/15/11 - Public Hearing conducted on proposed revisions to the Water and Sewer Ordinance. The record was left open for 30 days to receive public comment.

2.7 Evaluate pedestrian needs in Waldorf, including constructing sidewalks along Route 301; signage on Western Parkway, etc.

PGM is working on various pedestrian and bicycle facilities program. 4.1 To get a better understanding of housing needs in the County,

commission an independent study to evaluate the housing stock, densities, minimum size of homes, height etc. Commit to the delivery of affordable and/or workforce housing stock based on the study results.

PGM presented a briefing on February 9, 2011 to the Commissioners on the Housing Supply and Demand Study. Current and new data will be analyzed to identify any trends.

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7.1 Conduct an Environmental Summit/Expo for the public annually. The Environmental Summit was held April 14, 2011 and the Expo was held at North Point High School on June 18, 2011.