The Caroline County Commissioners meeting on March 25, 2025, marked a significant step forward in the county's planning efforts with the introduction of Olivia Vedado as the new planner. With 30 years of experience from Calvert County, Vedado's arrival is expected to revitalize the comprehensive plan update process, which has faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and staffing shortages.

During the meeting, Vedado outlined the timeline for the 2025 comprehensive plan update, emphasizing the importance of public outreach. The county aims to gather community input through surveys and events throughout the year, ensuring that residents have a voice in shaping the future of Caroline County. The last comprehensive plan was adopted in February 2020, and the Maryland Department of Planning requires counties to submit draft plans by the end of this year or early 2026.

Commissioners expressed their commitment to transparency and community engagement, highlighting the need for effective communication to avoid situations where residents are unaware of zoning changes affecting their properties. The discussion also touched on the integration of critical area updates into the comprehensive plan, which will address sensitive environmental zones.

In addition to planning updates, the meeting included the introduction of Legislative Bill 2025-003, aimed at eliminating term limits for members of the Board of Zoning Appeals. This change is intended to retain experienced members who can navigate the complexities of zoning regulations, as finding volunteers for these positions has proven challenging. The bill will undergo further readings and a public hearing in April.

As the county moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering community involvement and adapting to new legislative requirements, ensuring that Caroline County's growth aligns with the needs and desires of its residents.