Anthony D. Jones

The Board of Ethics discussed several administrative and compliance matters, including the status of financial disclosure statements, lobbyist registration updates, and ethics training for senior County officials. The Executive Director provided an update on proposed County Code legislation and the Fiscal Year 2027 budget planning process. Additionally, the Board reviewed case status reports regarding potential ethics violations, conflict of interest allegations, and investigations into the use of County resources.

The meeting focused on subcommittee updates including community outreach activities at National Harbor and discussions regarding the mid-year report data integration into the upcoming annual report. The Board discussed upcoming community events, specifically National Night Out and the Men Who Cook in Pink breast cancer awareness event, and established initial plans for participation. Additionally, the Board initiated a discussion on tracking and analyzing monthly complaint data, including the potential development of a dashboard to improve data visibility and analysis.

The Board meeting included updates from the Executive Director regarding the Voluntary Compliance Agreement, HUD meetings, and repositioning efforts. Reports were presented on Housing Assistance Division waiting lists, voucher utilization rates, and resident fulfillment. Staff provided property management updates, including occupancy and recertification statistics, and a financial report which noted that delinquent account receivables would be addressed in a future committee meeting. New business included the discussion of resolutions to submit an application for the HUD Rental Assistance Demonstration Program, which were tabled, and the approval of a resolution authorizing agreements with qualified developers. Additionally, several new staff hires were introduced to the Board.

The meeting focused on procedures for date stamping ballot envelopes with the Largo Branch Postmaster, preparations for the Gubernatorial Primary Election including polling place site assessments and early voting coverage, and updates on voter registration systems. Discussion also covered personnel updates, relevant 2026 Maryland Legislative session bills, a demonstration of new voting equipment anticipated for future cycles, and the process for filling a vacancy on the Board.

The Board reviewed several licensing matters, including the removal of a licensee from Laurel Lakes Liquors, a trade name change request for Colony South Hotel and Conference Center, and an application for a Wine Corkage Permit. They also denied an extension of hours for El Amate II Restaurant, approved a temporary closure for Half Note Restaurant and Lounge, noted extension requests for the 2020-2021 renewal period, and scheduled a show cause hearing for Chuck's Liquors. Additionally, the Board reviewed the monthly reconciliation for January and noted future meeting dates.