Whereas his extensive experience in the building industry may have been considered a huge plus previously, after taking flack for another board’s previous votes on controversial residential projects two Calvert County commissioners were not in support of appointing Dale Weems to a five-year term on the planning commission.
Commissioner Catherine M. Grasso (R) noted “a lot of problems on this commission,” in reference to votes that have advanced the Lusby Villas apartment project and a large townhome development in Prince Frederick. The latter project — Magnolia Ridge — will be a blend of townhouses and single-family dwelling units, according to local planning and zoning documents.
Without mentioning her by name, Grasso noted that despite being a realtor, planning commission member Lisa Williams did not recuse herself on votes regarding the big developments.
“I want to avoid the perception of anything out of the ordinary,” Grasso said. “I’ve been very disappointed with this planning commission.”
In addition to Williams — who has been filling an unexpired term the past four years — and Weems, others applying for the seat were Dave Bury, Zandreia Keys and Erik Thompson. All of the five applicants reside in the second election district.
Grasso said Weems, whose nomination was moved and seconded, has done work on building permits, commercial and residential building projects, has served on the building board, an architectural review committee, the liquor board (he’s currently serving as an alternate) and is a part-time building inspector.
“While I appreciate his service to the county, the perception of us putting someone else on the board with a connection to building is not transparent,” Grasso.
Commissioner Mike Hart (R), who has been a vocal critic of the Lusby Villas project as well as other planned apartment complexes in Calvert, said he could not support Weems’ appointment because, “I don’t want to subject him to criticism that wouldn’t be deserving. There’s going to be a lot of bullets fired at that board.”
Commissioner Todd Ireland (R) said he has known Weems all his life, calling him a man with “morals and integrity. He’s giving back to the community.”
“I don’t think it’s fair to put Mr. Weems in the same category with what we’ve been dealing with the last couple of years,” Commissioner President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance (R) said.
On a 3-2 vote Weems appointment was confirmed. The planning commission’s next meeting is Sept. 18.
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