Debra G. Sharpe

The Planning Commission addressed several agenda items. Key discussions included the approval of the annual report regarding new construction permits for the State of Maryland. The commission recommended approval for a special exception for a home-based bakery business at 812 Rustic Ct, subject to operational conditions such as specific pickup hours and limited employee access. Additionally, the commission approved the final subdivision site plan for a 61-unit project at 50 Mill Creek Road, conditioned on various requirements including stormwater management plans, forest conservation approvals, and fee-in-lieu payments for public open space. Brief updates were also provided regarding local business openings in the town.

The Planning Commission discussed the revised site plan for Great Wolf Lodge regarding the installation of parking lot controls. The discussion addressed concerns from local emergency services regarding site access, which were resolved through an agreement on gate access systems. The Commission recommended approval of the amended Final Site Plan to the Mayor and Commissioners, incorporating specified access conditions and proposing the establishment of a Local First Responders Fund supported by a percentage of parking fees to address local emergency response impacts.

The Planning Commission discussed the Comprehensive Plan update, covering themes such as the future of the Perry Point VA campus, transit-oriented development near the MARC station, potential sewer corridor expansion, and strategies for the redevelopment of the former Perryville outlets. The Commission expressed a clear preference against including warehousing developments within the town limits and reviewed growth maps for potential inclusion of properties. Additionally, the meeting included reports on local town successes, such as the opening of a new restaurant and the success of the Christmas parade.

The Planning Commission conducted elections for the positions of Chairman and Co-chair. A primary item of business was the review and conditional approval of the Preliminary Site Plan for the Wawa Perryville project. The discussion included the current status of the traffic impact study, stormwater management requirements, site access reviews by state and county authorities, and utility services. Additional updates were provided regarding upcoming town events.

The 2026-2028 Strategic Plan for the Town of Perryville outlines a roadmap focused on eight primary goals. These goals include continued investment in public infrastructure, support for local businesses, increased residential development, creation of public interest and enhanced community amenities, establishment of a strong financial foundation, investment in human resources, development of the tourism economy, and enhancement of information technology and security. The plan also emphasizes ongoing commitments to public safety, excellent public and customer services, environmental stewardship, and increased citizen involvement.