Caroline County commissioners said they will not move forward with a proposed regional correctional center agreement until Queen Anne County supplies detailed operating and financial information the board requested.

Commissioner Porter told the board he had asked for the data on Jan. 27 and had not received a substantive response; he said the absence of information prevents him from telling county taxpayers the county will realize savings or operational benefits by joining the regional center. "At this point, I can't say that. I had no information to say that, and I take exception to that," Porter said. He added, "Till we do, this is a dead project to me." Several other commissioners agreed that the board needs the figures before scheduling public hearings or committing the county to an intercounty agreement.

Staff noted they have received an appraisal and have held follow‑up conversations with potential developers and state agencies about grants and site work, but the board emphasized that Queen Anne County must provide the operating‑cost model and assumptions currently being relied on by that county’s staff. Commissioner Porter asked staff to transmit the board’s concerns in writing to Queen Anne County and to set a short deadline for a response so Caroline County can determine whether to continue considering participation.

Why it matters: joining a regional correctional facility would shift capital and operating responsibilities off the county but could also require up‑front capital contributions or contractual commitments. Commissioners said they require transparent, verifiable cost and savings estimates before moving forward.