La Plata Ward 4 Update

 This is David Jenkins, your host for Crosswalks, Smart Growth, Stronger Communities, podcast and videos, now available on YouTube, YouTube Music, and Substack.  This is a good summary of the County's required update to the 2026 Comp Plan, including What is a Comprehensive Plan,  2016 Plan background and the timeline for preparation/approval, and the critical public engagement process. References: 2026 Charles County Comprehensive Plan Update, May 2025Charles County Planning Commission 2023 Annual ReportStay Engaged, Charles County websiteCrosswalks YouTube 

After completing a rewarding four-year term on the La Plata Town Council, I'm excited to rebrand and expand the La Plata Ward 4 Update podcast and YouTube channel.Page 2 - The new platform, Crosswalks: Smart Growth, Stronger Communities, will bring fresh stories, expert conversations, and thoughtful insights on the issues that shape how we grow and live — planning, transportation, housing, economic and community development, and more.Crosswalks focuses on how La Plata, Charles County, and Southern Maryland can become more resilient, sustainable, and people-centered. It aims to connect people, share knowledge, and contribute to building stronger, healthier communities by highlighting key policies, plans, and perspectives.I've also launched a new Substack to support this work — check it out and subscribe at: davidjenkins.substack.com or https://davidjenkins.substack.com/Thanks for continuing the journey with me. I look forward to this transitionStay well! YouTube Video

 Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views of the Town of La Plata. This is the fourth in a series of podcasts about the Town Council's review of the FY 2026 Operating, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), and Enterprise Funds (water, sewer, sanitation, stormwater management) proposed budgets. This episode is about the Town Council's discussion of the proposed Capital Budget The sources for this podcast/video are materials provided to the Town Council for those items on the published Town Council agenda and posted to the public and emailed to the Council, Thursday, April 17, 2025  As of May 2, 2025, the recording of the April 22, 2025, Town Council Meeting had not been posted to the Town of La Plata YouTube site. I would have then provided the time the Capital Budget discussion started. YouTube Video  April 22, 2025 Town Council Meeting Agenda Packet 

 This is a quick video providing clarification and context about campaign finances from questions and comments from recent La Plata Town Council candidate forums.  When filing as a candidate, a Certificate of Nomination,  Financial Disclosure Statement, is required and includes: Schedule A – Real Property Interests Schedule B – Interests in Corporations and Partnerships Schedule C – Interests in Non-Corporate Business Entities Doing Business with the Town Schedule D – Gifts Schedule E – Officers, Directorships, Salaried Employment, and Similar Interests Schedule F – Debts You Owe Schedule G – Family Members Employed by the Town Schedule H – Employment/Business Ownership  Certificate of Nomination/Financial Disclosure Statement YouTube Video

What is Ex Parte Communications?  When decision-making processes (e.g., in local government) give the appearance, real or imagined, of being one-sided or prejudiced, and therefore, full due process is not provided to the public. This is important to ensure impartiality and fairness by the Planning Commission and Board of Appeals as they review projects for consistency with the Town Ordinance, the 2020 Comprehensive Plan, and other requirements.  To ensure our consideration & the commission's discussion is open & multi-sided, rather than one-sided.   The Town Planning Commission (PC ) is a Governing Body that must abide by Maryland State Law.The Town Planning Commission, at their September 5, 2023, reviewed their Rules of Procedure and will include an ex parte policy or clause: “Ex Parter Communication: Ex Parte Communications Prohibited - An ex parte communication includes an oral or written communication not on the public record to which reasonable prior notice is not given to all parties. Such communication between Commission members and interested persons is prohibited if relevant to the merits of a Commission proceeding. Members should not discuss applications with applicants or other interested persons outside the confines of a public meeting ,but should recommend that the person(s) contact Staff with any questions or concerns. b. Disclosure of Ex Parte Communications - If a member does inadvertently engage in an ex parte communication, the member should - at the next meeting in which the relevant application is to be discussed - state the nature of the communication and submit for the record any written communication received, any written response to a communication, state the substance of each oral communication received, and state the substance of any oral response to a communication. Alternatively, the member may recuse himself or herself from voting on that specific application. If a member does not disclose ex parte communications, they may be subject to the provisions of Chapter 20, Ethics of the Town Code.”I hope the incoming Town Council will include this clause in their Rules of Procedure.  Source: Planning Ethics and Ex Parte Communications Planning Commission Training Course YouTube Video

 The 4/5th Democratic Club hosted a La Plata candidate forum at the Green Turtle, La Plata, on Monday, April 14. All candidates attended:Mayor, Jeannine E. James (incumbent), Ralph Wayne Winkler Ward I, Paul C. Guttenberg, David Winkler (incumbent)Ward II, Richard Gilpin, Patrick McCormick Ward III, Tarinna Olley, Gregory Sampson, Jr. Ward IV, Tyjon C "TJ" Johnson – unopposed   Questions were provided to the candidates before the forum. Format:2-minute opening statement 2-minute response to three questions 2-minute closing statement All candidates were requested to provide written or video responses after the form ended.  The forum was recorded. This was an informative event. It provided an opportunity to learn about each candidate, their communication skills, and why they are running.  Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views of the Town of La Plata.My view/takeaways: Candidates provided thoughtful answers.  Some were better prepared than others Some responses were critical of the Town Council: *Approving development without the necessary infrastructure *Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO not done Full disclosure- perhaps I'm biased by criticism of the Town Council, but accept them as a current Council member (until May 12, 2025)While these criticisms are valid, additional facts (good and bad) and perspectives are provided rather than just criticizing the town and processes. YouTube Video Link

Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views of the Town of La Plata. This is the third in a series of podcasts about the Town Council's review of the FY 2026 Operating, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), and Enterprise Funds (water, sewer, sanitation, stormwater management) proposed budgets. This episode is about the Town Council's third review and discussion of the proposed Operating Budget and the proposed FY 2026 Fee Schedule.La Plata YouTube Meeting LinkDiscussion - Fee Schedule: Minute 29:49Discussion of Any Outstanding Budget Items: Minute 42:33 La Plata General Election - Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 7:00 AM-8:00 PM, Town Hall 

 Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views of the Town of La Plata. This is the second podcast series about the Town Council's review of the FY 2026 Operating, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), and Enterprise Funds (water, sewer, sanitation, stormwater management) proposed budgets. This episode is about the Town Council's second review of the proposed Operating Budget, and first review of two proposed draft versions of FY 26 Enterprise Funds (Water, Sewer, Sanitation, Stormwater Management, with the 457 Deferred Compensation, and with Pension, plan, from the March 25, 2025, Town Council meeting.  The draft Enterprise budgets were emailed to the Council at 11:35 AM on Friday, March 21, 2025. I emailed my initial Enterprise draft budget comments and questions to the Finance Director and Town Council on Sunday, March 23, 2025. The sources for this podcast/video are materials provided to the Town Council for those items on the published Town Council agenda and posted to the public and emailed to the Council, Friday, March 21, 2025. The Finance Committee provided additional information to the Town Council at the meeting. Finance Comm materials 25mar25 *Fact Sheet: The State of US Public Pensions in 2024 *Sources for 457 (b) Vs Pension Plan Comparison La Plata YouTube – March 25, 2025, Town Council meeting  *Monthly Finance Report – Finance Director Larsen –  Minute 10:18 *Finance Committee Discussion /FY 2026 Enterprise Budgets Discussion – Minute 28:12 La Plata Ward 4 Update YouTube Video

Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views of the Town of La Plata. This is the first in a series of podcasts about the Town Council's review of the FY 2026 Operating, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and Enterprise Funds (water, sewer, sanitation, stormwater management) proposed budgets. This episode is about the Town Council's first review of two proposed draft versions of the FY 26 Operating Budget, at our March 18, 2025, Town Council meeting.  Operating budget options:*FY 2026 Operating Budget – With 457  *FY 2026 Operating Budget With Pension These were provided to the Council by email at 4:47 PM on Friday, March 14, 2025. This was followed by Council questions and discussion. No vote was taken, and Council discussion will continue at our March 25 Council meeting.   I emailed comments and questions to the Town Council and Finance Director at 7:39 PM on Monday, March 17, 2025.  The source for this podcast/video is the materials provided to the Town Council for those items on published March 18, 2025. Town Council agenda was posted to the public and emailed to the Council, on Friday, March 14, 2025.Council discussion of the two alternative draft operating budgets will continue at the March 25 (Tuesday) Town Council meeting and two alternative (with 457, with pension) Enterprise Fund budgets. Fiance Committee RecommendationsMarch 18, 2025, Town Council Meeting YouTube Finance Committee Recommendations Discussion/Questions - 8:50Town Council Operating Budget Discussion/Questions - 56:27

This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast and video, now available on YouTube, and YouTube Music. This is an excerpt from my last article for the forthcoming Spring 2025 Town Newsletter - my hopes for the incoming Town Council, in place May 10, 2025.  It's been a privilege and honor to serve on the Town Council. I am proud of the progress we have made working together to improve La Plata's quality of life. Also update on:Town Manager Selection process Finance Committee meeting since January 2025.   LinksYouTube Video Town engagement examples:Charles County YouTubeFrederick County, MD Budget PortalChapel Hill, NCStrategic Plan Dashboard example - Castle Pine, ColoradoComplete StreetsVision ZeroMonroe County, NY, Community Safety Team  Thanks for listening to and watching.  Email your questions and comments to djenkins@townoflaplata.org Stay safe. Looking forward to spring!   

An update about:2025 La Plata Town electionsTown Manager Selection processLinks: YouTube Video2025 Election Candidates 

My Facebook Page (David Jenkins, Ward 4 Update) and podcast/video series (La Plata Ward 4 Update) are evolving to become Crosswalks, providing an independent, factual look at planning and development in Southern Maryland. Crosswalks will continue to bring you information, - from land use and zoning to economic development, housing, transportation, and infrastructure. I will break down the policies, projects, critical issues, and decisions that impact and shape our region, communities, and daily lives. I also hope to include expert interviews and discussions.  With limited local news coverage, my hope is Crosswalks will fill the gap—informing, analyzing, and connecting the dots about growth and development affecting Southern Maryland.  Stay tuned as I transition to Crosswalks by May 2025, bringing you even more insightful conversations about the future of our communities. Next are updates and reminders about the upcoming La Plata Town Elections, and the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Budget calendar. Links: Town ElectionTown FY 2026 Budget CalendarPodcast/video - La Plata Fiscal Year (FY) 26 Budget Process, December 16, 2024  - Finally,  an update about the Town Manager selection process.

When David Jenkins, La Plata, Maryland Town Council member, attended the Local-Motive session “Parsing Through Your Local Budget to Find Some Real Answers”—co-presented by Chuck Marohn of Strong Towns and Michel Durand-Wood, author of the Dear Winnipeg blog—he left with a new mission: to take a hard look at his own city's finances. Inspired by the session, David worked directly with Michel, who helped him build spreadsheets, translate Canadian concepts to the American context, and uncover critical insights about La Plata's fiscal health.David, a longtime Strong Towns member and leader of Strong Towns Charles County, has been working to shift the conversation in his community. He's passionate about helping residents and local leaders understand the Growth Ponzi Scheme, the illusion of wealth in suburban expansion, and what truly makes a city financially resilient.In this episode, one local leader took action—armed with spreadsheets, Strong Towns principles, and expert guidance—to challenge the status quo and advocate for a stronger La Plata.YouTube Interview Link 

This is the next episode in a series of podcasts and videos about La Plata's budget, which aims to provide transparency and information as the Town Council prepares the FY 2026 budget.This episode is based on work by Strong Towns's priority campaign – Transparent Local Accounting - “Local government should be the place where residents collectively shape their cities. But to do that, you need clear, accurate, accessible information about your local finances. Local governments must be properly funded, but your money must also be properly stewarded.” YouTube LinkSources:Strong Towns Transparent Local AccountingParsing Through Your Local Budget to Find Some Real AnswersStrong Towns Financial  Action Guide La Plata Calendar for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Budget

This episode is about the need for a La Plata Economic Development function. At the December 10, 2024, Town Council meeting, Town of La Plata Ordinance 24-20, Tourism Zones was introduced as a first reading. This is based on State enabling legislation enacted by the Maryland General Assembly in 2024, House Bill 1281/Senate Bill 0014 (Maryland Code, Local Government § 18-401), which enables municipalities to create tourism zones to encourage the growth and expansion of tourism-related businesses within areas designated by those jurisdictions.      I  was not in favor of moving the proposed tourism ordinance to legislation for this and other reasons, including: *Limited administrative or staff capacity to run this program *No incentives were provided *What are fiscal impacts – costs, revenue generation?  *Can current town functions support tourism or diversity in our tax base?Are there other options – form an Economic Development Commission or function, combining current town activities?YouTube Video Link Downtown La Plata DevelopmentMy Third Year as Town Council MemberLa Plata 2025 ElectionOrdinance 24-20 - Tourism Zones

The first episode in this series about La Plata's budget was posted on December 16, 2024, and talked about the preparation of the FY 2026, including the calendar of Town Council meetings, basic budget definitions, the different funds, revenue sources, and expenditures (how money is spent), and the Captial Improvement Plan (CIP).  This and later episodes provide information and transparency as the Town Council prepares the FY 26 budget. This episode provides additional information and performance indicators about the current and adopted FY 2025 Town Budget. These include budgeted positions (FY 23-FY25, Workload, and Performance Indicators. An important metric is Expenditures per Capita. This can then be compared to other towns/municipalities, seeing how we do.  YouTube Link to this episodeFiscal Year (FY) 2025 Adopted Budget 

This episode and later ones will provide information and transparency as the Town Council prepares the FY 26 budget, which includes the operating budget, enterprise budget (water, sewer, trash/sanitation, stormwater management), and capital improvement plan (CIP). References:Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Town Budget Adopted Town of La Plata Calendar of Events Preparation and adoption on the Town FY 2026 Budget 

This episode provides the results from La Plata's 2024 National Community Survey, presented to the Town Council at our September 20, 2024, meeting. In April 2024, the Town engaged Polco to conduct the National Community Survey (NCS) to ascertain public perceptions of La Plata and its general livability. The NCS consists of standard questions asked of all municipalities and a limited number of custom questions provided by the client which may be tailored to ongoing or anticipated conditions affecting the municipality. The last such survey was conducted for La Plata by Polco's parent company, the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), in 2016. The questions were largely the same in both surveys.Polco randomly identified 3,500 residents for initial survey participation, after which the survey was opened to the general public. Between online surveys and paper surveys, Polco received 426 responses. Results were weighted to reflect La Plata's adult demographic profile (see p. 2 of the 2024 survey analysis). Possible applications for data collected in this survey: • Clearer perspective on community priorities • Review and adjustment of Town FY 26 and future budgets, staffing, and operations to better address community priorities • Guidance for Town Council following the May 2025 Town elections • Revision of 2022 Town Strategic Plan to foster community sustainability YouTube Video LinkLa Plata, MD The National Community Survey Report of Results 2024 

This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast and videos, now available on YouTube, and YouTube Music. This episode is about questions and frustration from many Town and County residents about a new 7-11 gas station starting construction at Rosewick Corner. Future podcasts/videos: Why La Plata should have an economic development/placemaking function Best practices by other towns in Maryland, from my attendance at the Maryland Municipal League's (MML) Fall Leadership Conference, November 6-8th, Cambridge Maryland.  YouTube Link Reference: “The City Should Put a Trader Joe's There” (and Other Muddled Thinking About Development)

This is a follow-up to my August 13, 2024, podcast and video – Speed and Traffic, and the article in the latest Town newsletter. There is a need for traffic calming options and a community/town cooperative program in our residential neighborhoods. This is needed to reduce speeding and prevent a tragedy from happening.Two recent incidents in Clarks Run  - first,  last week, a car did not stop when a school bus deployed its STOP sign as children got on the bus at Scarlet Oak and East Patuxent, and the second Tuesday morning, October 29th, two cars both ran the to stop at STOP sign at Scarlet Oak/East Patuexnt. These recent incidents again highlight the persistent and real speeding and safety concerns by residents in CR and all La Plata neighborhoods.  I've reached out to the Clarks Run Citizen Association (CRCA) with this information and to the Town Council and LP Police Chief, hoping we can initiate a quick, and cost-effective safety program in La Plata's neighborhoods.  Thanks again for listening and watching. YouTube Link Streets and Sidewalks, People and Cars THE CITIZENS' GUIDE TO TRAFFIC CALMING - Tactical Urbanism Short-Term Action | Long-Term Change How to Calm a Street, Starting with Your Own Anger - Smart Growth America - Quick Build Demonstration Projects - South Bend, IN demonstration project: Neighborhood traffic calming - A Safer Intersection in 80 Minutes  

I want to follow up on my  October 8th  podcast/video, La Plata 2025 Election, why I'm not running for re-election, and my greatest regrets comments – the lack of a Town citizen participation/engagement program, and little resident participation with their town government. I want to tell you a different perspective about citizen engagement/participation learned from my recent Facebook post and then a citizen response. YouTube Link Reference: Staying Strong, Chuck Marhon, November 3, 2017

This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast and videos, now available on YouTube, and YouTube Music. The 2025 Town election schedule and new Town Ward Maps are provided in this episode. This also includes my intentions about the 2025 La Plata Town election.YouTube Video Link Reference Links:Candidate Information, Nomination for Candidacy - Town Election 2025Candidate Certificate of Nomination PackageTown of La Plata Council Ward Map 2024So You Want To Be An Elected Official Maryland Municipal League 2025 Election Schedule 

This is an update to my September 23 video and September 25 podcast about The Housing Shortage -   Charles County.  The monthly Charles County Strong Towns Local Conversation on September 26th discussed affordable housing in Charles County, providing additional information about the County's work for affordable housing.  Please note the town has or will shortly post the new Town Ward Map, adopted by the Council at our September 10 meeting. According to the Town Code, the Town's Election Board will recommend ward map changes to the Council every odd year, based on population change and development/growth patterns. Town Council review and approval is required.  The ward maps were approved in advance of the May 2025 Town elections. The election schedule will be posted shortly on the Town website and other social media. I will post a podcast/video about the ward maps and the 2025 election schedule. Links: YouTube VideoCharles County Affordable Housing Work GroupCharles County Affordable Housing Workgroup Housing Survey

The Town needs to improve our citizen outreach and information sharing. This is a critical need, as seen from feedback from our FY 25 budget process. There were many negative comments about the lack of budget information, other than the minimal and required two-week public hearing notices and materials included on Town Council agendas. Let's look at a better way from Strong Towns (Community Engagement That Works). Now here are examples from different communities, including Charles County.Upcoming podcasts/videos: 2025 La Plata Election schedule, MDOT 2025 Transporation Consolidated Transporation Program (CTP), and La Plata Priorities.YouTube Video LinkReferences: Holly Springs, NC - Strategic Plan/Dashboard Chapel Hill, NC - 2024-2025 Budget Development Charles County, MD Stay Engaged Frederick County, MD - Budget Portal 

The first podcast/video in this series (posted August 19, 2024) was about the housing shortage from the Maryland perspective. This podcast/video episode now focuses on Charles County. YouTube Video LinkReferences:Charles County Planning Commission 2022 Annual Report - Pages 3,4Maryland Department of Planning  2022 American Community Survey Pages 5,6,7 Charles County Comprehensive Plan, 2026, Page 8Charles County Housing Initiative Project: Inclusion, Affordability, and Diversity, Final Report May 2018, Pages 9, 10, 11Charles County Housing Authority, Pages   12, 13HAND Housing Indicator Tool, Charles County 

This is the first in a series of episodes about the housing shortage in Maryland, and La Plata/Charles County. This first episode provides Maryland housing information, from Municipal League's (MML) August 1, 2024, Housing Symposium.The second episode will provide Charles County housing data and needs.  YouTube VideoTurning the Key: Unlocking Maryland's PotentialMaryland Municipal Leagues Housing Symposium, August 1, 2024

Hi and welcome again to this latest episode of La Plata Ward 4 Update Podcast.   This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast and videos, now available on YouTube, and YouTube Music.This episode is about speed and traffic, and the continuing deaths on our highways. First, facts from a US perspective, then Maryland, and finally Charles County show the increased death rate and crashes across and country and here locally in Charles County.This is personal, with two brothers surviving bad crashes, and my recent close call almost hit by a car, in my neighborhood, walking my dog. The car ran a stop sign.  I cycle and also walk, so this is a passion.I hope we can perhaps pay more attention when we drive, and have consideration for others. References:Zero Deaths Maryland, Crash DataPedestrian Traffic Fatalities by State: 2023 Preliminary DateDangerous by Design, 2024 Smart Growth AmericaPodcast video

This episode is a further discussion/follow-up from my June 27th podcast – Event Attendance – Lesson Learned about how Westminster Maryland was proactive in obtaining a sustainable water supply.References:YouTube Video linkCounty-Town of La Plata Water Supply Agreement February 2022Securing Sustainable Water for the Future, Westminster, Maryland, June 2024 House Bill 1378 Task Force on Washington County Regional Water and Wastewater GovernanceThis concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

 I recently attended two conferences that have important lessons learned for La Plata – Maryland Municipal League annual summer conference in June, and the 2024 Maryland Smart Growth (SG) Conference (May) References:Maryland Municipal League  - Securing Sustainable Water for the Future, presented by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and the City of Westminster, Maryland (2020 population 19,960).  PUREWater WestminsterMaryland Department of Transporation Model Complete Streets Initiative This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

The recently adopted fiscal year (FY) 2025 budget, (starts July 1, 2024, ends June 30, 2025) was a tumultuous process.  I want to provide my views on this process - specifically the Town's outreach and community engagement/reactions.  My Asks:This is YOUR town, your neighborhood - get engaged, ask questions, attend meetings – in person, online, or watch later on the La Plata YouTube channel. I know you are busy with your family, work, and other daily activities.  I also know this stuff is at times boring, and takes time to understand. But this is YOUR TOWN! Research the facts! There was a lot of misinformation in the community. I was then very disappointed not only by the lack of information but also unintended harm to town staff, framing the tax increase, as us versus them. This will have a demoralizing impact on our workforce. We all need to have skin in the game. Again, this is your community. This lack of engagement is reflected in the dismal turnout at Town Elections! I will confirm, but the 2021 voter turnout (-+ 1,000?) was below 10% of registered voters!  So, participate and vote! The next election is May 2025, with filing of applications due in late March 2025, if needed a primary (if 2 or more candidates file to the same ward), then our general election for Mayor and Council seats (4) in early May 2025. A detailed process is under development and will be released in early 2025.  Outreach examples provided to the Town Council:Morrisville, NC Budget Connection PortalCharles County YouTube Let's Get FiscalDavis, CA Budget BriefCharles County Budget Dollar This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

In this episode, I review the third year of my 4-year term, elected May 10, 2021. My term ends in May 2025. Please know that I am one of five (5) Council members, and differentiate our accomplishments as a Town Council, versus my activities.  References:La Plata Bikeway Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO)Development Capacity AnalysisWhat is Complete Streets and Why?! Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Budget ProcessThis concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

This is an update to my February 6, 2024, podcast – FY 25 Budget ProcessMy Ask:  Review the draft FY 2024 Attend our Council meetings – in person, virtually (Microsoft Teams), or watch on YouTube. Links are in the Notes.  Email me at djenkins@townoflaplata.org with your questions and comments. Thanks again for listening and for your interest and engagement with your Town!  Town Council Meeting Agendas This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

Hi and welcome again to this latest episode of La Plata Ward 4 Update Podcast.  This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast, and my companion La Plata Ward 4 Video Update on YouTube. A pause to update you about recent Council meetings/ activities, and related issues.References: Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Budget Process Polls says Marylanders want more homes, in more places, to fit budgetsGreater Greater Washington Poll Results PresentationThis concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

There are many concerns and comments about growth in La Plata and Charles County, including if recent construction on MD 488 in the town or the county. This is outside the Town boundary, beyond and further east of Kings Grant. This construction is the last St. Charles neighborhoods – Piney Reach and Wooded Glen. The St. Charles Master Plan link is provided. This episode is a comparison of development in La Plata and Charles County.  The source for this episode is the Maryland Department's planning annual reports from La Plata and Charles County planning commissions. The most recent and published reports are from 2022. Links are provided below.References:St. Charles Master Plan Charles County Planning Commission 2022 Annual Report La Plata Planning Commission 2022 Annual ReportThis concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

 This episode is a follow-up to my podcast, La Plata's Infrastructure – Water, posted in July 2023. That provided background and detailed information about the Town's water supply system and current status.  The intent here is to provide facts and context in response to myths and rumors about La Plata's ability to provide water to existing and new developments.  La Plata Ward 4 Video Update - Development Capacity Analysis, April 2023This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

Consistent with the Town's 2020 Comprehensive Plan GOAL #16: Continue to make La Plata a very walkable community (Page 16), The Town of La Plata was awarded two grants for the construction of the La Plata Bikeway running from Walter J. Mitchell Elementary School on Willow Lane, along MD 6 Charles Street, adjacent to the Agricopia subdivision, adjacent to MD 488, to Radio Station Road to Laurel Springs Regional Park. The two grants: $1.44 million from the MDOT Transportation Alternatives Program $385,500 from the MDOT Bikeways Program.  The link to my La Plata Ward 4 Video Update of this project.MY ASK/CALL TO ARMS: There will be a follow-up podcast/episode on the Town's FY B25 budget process following our April 09, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on General Funds, and April 16, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on Enterprise Funds.  I ask for your participation and engagement in the budget process and other important Town issues. Your input is important, from the bottom-up for change.This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

This is the first of a series of podcast episodes following the development of the Town's FY 2025 budget. FY 25 year starts July 1, 2024, and ends June 30, 2025.  The process started with a Town Council Budget Work Session, on Tuesday, January 30, 2024.  The January 30, 2024, session outcomes were Understanding of the Town's current financial standing The long-term budget outlook for the Town Department Directors communicate department priorities Elected officials establish priorities and communicate budget goals  Meeting agenda: Presentation by Town Treasurer:  FY23 Financial Overview FY24 mid-year budget review Presentations by the Department Directors. This January 30th budget work session will be followed by additional Town Council work sessions and public hearings. Calendar of events for the preparation of the Town's Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Budget. FY 25 starts July 1, 2024, ending June 30, 2025. DATE EVENTTuesday, January 30, 2024 -  Budget work sessionWednesday, February 07, 2024 -  Budget worksheet available to Department Directors.Friday, February 23, 2024 -  Deadline for all Department Directors to complete FY 2025 budget worksheet(s) for review by the Town Manager and Treasurer.Monday, March 04, 2024 – Thursday, March 14, 2024, The Town Manager and Treasurer meet with Department Directors to aligntheir budgets with service priorities and available resources.Friday, March 22, 2024 - The Town Manager transmits the Proposed Budget for FY 2025 to the Council.Tuesday, April 09, 2024 -  Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on General Funds.Tuesday, April 16, 2024 -  Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on Enterprise Funds (Water, Sewer, Stormwater Management, Trash/Recycling)Friday, April 12, 2024 - 1. Publication of notice of public hearing on Constant Yield TaxRate scheduled for April 23, 20242. Publication of notice of public hearing on Fee Schedule3. Publication of notice of public hearing on Financial PlanBudgetTuesday, April 23, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting - 1. Public Hearing and Public Comment on Constant Yield Tax.2. Discussion of fee schedule.3. Discussion of any outstanding budget items.4. Introduction of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax Rates.Tuesday, May 14, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting - 1. Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 FeeSchedule.2. Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 FinancialPlan Budget3. Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Fee Schedule.4. Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Financial PlanBudget.5. Adoption of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax RatesTuesday, May 21, 2024 Town Council Regular Meeting - Adoption of Ordinances for FY 2025 Fee Schedule and Financial Plan Budget.This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

 I have talked about fiscal impacts from development in a previous Oct 22, 2023, podcast The Need for Fiscal Analysis, and La Plata Ward 4 Video Update, Fiscal Impact Analysis Examples, February 2023.  I want to talk about this again, given the ongoing development of Pinegrove, which includes two commercial/office development areas, both located on the north side of Roswick Road. One site is 22 acres (Parcel P), while Parcel Q is 82 acres, proposing retail/office space, and residential units.This is an opportunity to diversify our tax base, reducing dependency on residential growth for needed tax revenues. This is a goal from our 2022 Strategic Plan: “Strategically grow the geographic property and economic tax base with a balance of residential, commercial, and industrial growth.” References:  Podcast - The Need for Fiscal AnalysisVideo - Fiscal Impact Analysis ExamplesDATE EVENTTuesday, January 30, 2024 -  Budget work sessionWednesday, February 07, 2024 -  Budget worksheet available to Department Directors.Friday, February 23, 2024 -  Deadline for all Department Directors to complete FY 2025 budget worksheet(s) for review by the Town Manager and Treasurer.Monday, March 04, 2024 – Thursday, March 14, 2024, The Town Manager and Treasurer meet with Department Directors to aligntheir budgets with service priorities and available resources.Friday, March 22, 2024 - The Town Manager transmits the Proposed Budget for FY 2025 to the Council.Tuesday, April 09, 2024 -  Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on General Funds.Tuesday, April 16, 2024 -  Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on Enterprise Funds (Water, Sewer, Stormwater Management, Trash/Recycling)Friday, April 12, 2024 - 1. Publication of notice of public hearing on Constant Yield TaxRate scheduled for April 23, 20242. Publication of notice of public hearing on Fee Schedule3. Publication of notice of public hearing on Financial PlanBudgetTuesday, April 23, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting - 1. Public Hearing and Public Comment on Constant Yield Tax.2. Discussion of fee schedule.3. Discussion of any outstanding budget items.4. Introduction of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax Rates.Tuesday, May 14, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting - 1. Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 FeeSchedule.2. Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 FinancialPlan Budget3. Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Fee Schedule.4. Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Financial PlanBudget.5. Adoption of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax RatesTuesday, May 21, 2024 Town Council Regular Meeting - Adoption of Ordinances for FY 2025 Fee Schedule and Financial Plan Budget.This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

 In this episode, I want to talk about my hopes for what Pinegrove can be. See my previous two videos on La Plata Ward 4 Video Update on YouTube, the first dated March 14, 2022, an overview of the project, followed by Pinegrove Update, December 3, 2023, a summary of construction to date.   The following discussion is based on the developer's approved Master Site Development Plan (MSDP) and attached project narrative. Please note: “This Master Site Development Plan depicts the generalized nature of the development. Future refinements and revisions may occur at the time of preliminary subdivision/ final site plan, subject to review and approval” by the Town of La Plata.” Approval is by the Town Planning Commission.  I highlight specific elements from the MSDP/ narrative and provide my comments. These don't reflect the view of the Town of La Plata. References:La Plata Ward 4 Video Update:Pinegrove Update, December 2023Pinegrove aka Heritage Green Update, March  2022An example: Greenleigh This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast and the companion La Plata Ward 4 Video Update on YouTube. This episode is about recent Town staff and Council actions.  I hope all enjoyed the Christmas season and look forward to 2024!  Welcome to David Winkler, new Ward 1 Council member, who took office on November 28, 2023, to complete the term of the late Council member James Goldsmith.  Jim will be missed.  I thank the Town staff for their continuing and steady effort behind the scenes to keep the town infrastructure running and keeping us safe! DATE EVENTTuesday, January 30, 2024 -  Budget work sessionWednesday, February 07, 2024 -  Budget worksheet available to Department Directors.Friday, February 23, 2024 -  Deadline for all Department Directors to complete FY 2025 budget worksheet(s) for review by the Town Manager and Treasurer.Monday, March 04, 2024 – Thursday, March 14, 2024, Town Manager and Treasurer meet with Department Directors to aligntheir budgets with service priorities and available resources.Friday, March 22, 2024 - The Town Manager transmits Proposed Budget for FY 2025 to the Council.Tuesday, April 09, 2024 -  Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on General Funds.Tuesday, April 16, 2024 -  Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on Enterprise Funds (Water, Sewer, Stormwater Management, Trash/Recycling)Friday, April 12, 2024 - 1. Publication of notice of public hearing on Constant Yield TaxRate scheduled for April 23, 20242. Publication of notice of public hearing on Fee Schedule3. Publication of notice of public hearing on Financial PlanBudgetTuesday, April 23, 2024 Town Council Regular Meeting - 1. Public Hearing and Public Comment on Constant Yield Tax.2. Discussion of fee schedule.3. Discussion of any outstanding budget items.4. Introduction of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax Rates.Tuesday, May 14, 2024 Town Council Regular Meeting - 1. Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 FeeSchedule.2. Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 FinancialPlan Budget3. Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Fee Schedule.4. Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Financial PlanBudget.5. Adoption of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax RatesTuesday, May 21, 2024 Town Council Regular Meeting - Adoption of Ordinances for FY 2025 Fee Schedule and Financial Plan Budget.This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

The source of this episode is a podcast called Go Cultivate!, produced by Verdunity, consultants in community planning, civil engineering, and engagement. This August 2023 podcast focuses on their work in Texas and around the country with observations about suburban growth and its consequences. La Plata and Charles County are experiencing this growth now, so I believe it's a relevant and important issue. References:Go Cultivate!The Need for Fiscal Impact, October 2023 Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO) Continued: The Need for Fiscal Impact AnalysisNational Association of REALTORS 2023 Community & Transportation Preferences SurveyThis concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

Hi and welcome again to this latest episode of La Plata Ward 4 Update Podcast.  This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast and the companion La Plata Ward 4 Video Update on YouTube. I want to talk about the Navy Facility in Indian  Head and its implications for La Plata.At the November 14, 2023, County Commissioner meeting, representatives from IH, County EDC, the Chamber of Commerce's Military Alliance, the Town of Indian Head, and the College of Southern Maryland (CSM)  discussed pending expansion at IH due to their unique capabilities to produce needed explosive resulting from the demands of world events – Ukraine, Middle East.  There is a possible initial expansion of 200-400 employees in the next 5 years, with the potential for additional growth.  All the partners stressed the need for continued collaboration. There is and will be significant economic impact on the Town of Indian Head, the County, and La Plata.  This is really about placemaking, a key element of economic development. It's not just attracting businesses and jobs. This means having a walkable community, with diverse housing, shopping, recreation/parks, and other community amenities, to attract and retain employment! Work where you live is smart growth and reduces out commuting and traffic, and keeping and spending money here in La Plata, and the County.References:Downtown La Plata DevelopmentLa Plata Town Plans - 2020 Comprehensive PlanTown 2022 Strategic Plan This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

Over the years, La Plata has developed many plans and studies/analysis to improve the downtown and adjacent areas. Selected policies and action items are highlighted from  the  studies.With all these plans, what progress has been made? What else can or should the Town do?  My view: Some progress has been made, due to re-building from the tornado – La Grange Avenue, Centennial Street extension to US 301, and Talbot Street extension from US 301 to Washington Avenue. But we can do more – YES! Be a full Main Street member? Business incentives? Façade improvement program (like Leonardtown) Need more civic infrastructure – full engagement by the town, business community and residents.We have the plans (more than enough), but now need incremental projects, events, to build success and progress to then fully engage our community to make La Plata a place to live, visit,  and shop, not just to drive through.  I will be posting a video  on YouTube (La Plata Ward 4 Video Update ) showing the status of downtown La Plata projects, recommended from these studies.Thanks again for listening. Email me at djenkins@townoflaplata.org with your questions and comments.This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

La Plata's development pattern does not generate enough revenue/taxes to pay for services and infrastructure. There's a gap between tax revenues needed to provide Town services and amenities, and the actual maintenance and other costs to pay for these services now and in the future, as town growth continues.  There is a need to be fiscally sustainable so that service costs align with what citizens and businesses are willing and able to pay for now and in the future. There is also a need to re-evaluate the town's dependency on residential development to fund infrastructure. We need to diversify our tax base, despite limited land area. The right kind of commercial and industrial (do we really need another gas station/car wash, storage?!) development demands fewer services than residential housing.  References:La Plata Town Council October 10, 2023 Meeting /Discussion 23:54 - 39:15 YouTube VideoVerdunity Fiscal Analysis Background/Examples Tate Texas:Strong Towns Article Fiscal Analysis/Fiscal Sustainability Policy La Plata Ward 1 Vacancy ProcessThis concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

This is podcast number 50!  WOW – hard to believe! So, I will do a modified AAR - what went right, what went wrong, and how to improve my podcast review of my podcast.  I used this process during my Army career (38 years, USA, MD/VA NG). I will modify this and discuss What Went Right and How to improve.  Email your know your comments and ideas to djenkins@townoflaplata.org.Thanks! La Plata Ward 4 Video UpdateThis concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

As you know I have been a member of Strong Towns for several years. I've talked about Strong Towns on this podcast, the most recent posted August 24, 2023 – Strong Towns – Local Conversations, The Next Step, and the first Strong Towns – New Thinking about La Plata's Growth posted May 22, 2022.  Please again note that the views expressed here are mine and do not represent the view of the Town.  This discussion is from a September 8, 2023, Strong Town blog post 10 Things Every Elected Leader Should Know About Building Strong Towns This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

This is another podcast about the Town's infrastructure, what they do, and their future planning.  This episode is about public safety - the La Plata Police Department, a critical component of any community.  The source of this podcast is from the Police Chief and their 2022 accreditation report by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). A reminder that at the Town Council's last meeting (the last Tuesday) each month, each department (Operations, Planning, Finance, Human Resources,  Legislative Affairs, and Police Department)  all provide a monthly update of their respective activities. These monthly reports are available from each meeting agenda. A link is provided in the podcast notes.  References:La Plata Police Department; CALEA Assessments ReportsNew La Plata websiteTown Council Meetings  This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

This episode is about the Town Planning Commission and Ex parte communications. The Town Council representative to the Planning Commission is Councilwoman Bryant-Ward, Ward 3.  Source:  Planning Ethics & Ex Parte Communications, Maryland Planning Commission Association (MPCA) Conference, November 7, 2019, Presentation by: Robert McCord, Esq. Secretary, Maryland Department of Planning; Town Planning Department.References:Maryland Planning Commissioners Association (MPCA)Planning Commission Education Course Town of La Plata Planning Commission Town of La Plata Board of Appeals This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

This is a follow-up to my August 13, 2022, podcast – Strong Towns – A New Thinking About La Plata's Growth. This update is timely, given the continued development in and adjacent to La Plata during the past year.  Full disclosure: I've been a Strong Town member for two years, following their blog and podcasts. Strong Town provides what I believe is a needed nuanced perspective about growth!  Also, the views and opinions are mine, as one Town Council member, and do not reflect to views and opinions of the Town. Reference Links:Strong TownsLocal ConversationsStrong Towns AcademyHistory Teacher Steps Up and Starts the Conversation for Change in Bloomington, IllinoisThis concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

This is the next podcast in the series about growth in and adjacent to La Plata, and its impact on our infrastructure. The first in this series, La Plata Development, was posted on July 6. The Town's water system followed this, posted on July 17, followed by the sewer system on July 26,   The source of these podcasts is La Plata's Director of Operations, and the staff, who operate these services. These are enterprise services, funded through user fees and state/Federal grants and loans.  This podcast is about La Plata's stormwater management system. References:La Plata Code of Ordinances - Chapter 167-Stormwater ManagementThis concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!

I want to interrupt the infrastructure podcast series and provide facts in response to recent misleading statements about the County having approval authority for projects within the Town limits.References:Maryland Manual On-Line - Local Government/MunicipalitiesLa Plata, Maryland - Code of OrdinancesThis concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful. Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments. My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org Talk to you soon!