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FYI: Washington Security Group

WSG provides realistic operational training to military units and federal organizations chartered with conducting pre-attack counterproliferation operations. The pre-attack continuum includes all WMD activities from enemy research to stopping a terrorist from delivering a weapon to a target. WSG training is suited for both domestic and internationally-focused U.S. Government customers, with an intense focus on actions at known or suspected WMD sites and related facilities. This includes securing a potentially contaminated facility or vessel, under hostile or contested conditions, as well as site survey and exploitation prioritization, agent detection and sampling, packaging and transporting hazardous materials and neutralization and destruction.
[...]
WSG offers specialized training in chemical and biological agent and laboratory disablement and destruction. This includes using field-expedient methods and concepts to neutralize and defeat chemical and biological agents. A key component of training is learning how to render critical equipment inoperable during post-sampling and exploitation operations to deny the enemy the capability to recover, use or remove desired materials if the target/site must be abandoned.

Related: Board of Appeals: Docket #1232

[...]

Washington Field

Located approximately 30 miles from the Pentagon, Washington Field is a private airport located in the vicinity of Indian Head, MD. The 80-acre facility is operated exclusively by the WSCC and includes a 2,400-foot runway and a variety of aviation and counterproliferation support structures. Washington Field allows for a multitude of operational support services, training and research and analysis in an area close to our nation’s capital and within easy driving distance from a number of federal organizations chartered with combating the use of WMD.


Posted by: Sammy on 02/08/09 at 09:05 AM
    Page 1 of 1 pages
  • 1. · The key word here is REALISTIC...

    Exactly what types of operations will be conducted?

    Will IED's be detonated? What kind of "training" is involved with chemical/biological agents?

    What about night operations when people are trying to get a decent night's sleep?

    I wonder if this has anything to do with the new communications tower (which I understand is for Homeland Security) that was recently installed in Nanjemoy??

    This facility should be located at Ft. A.P. Hill, close enough to D.C. yet far enough away from neighborhoods and people and not in or near the VILLAGE OF NANJEMOY!


    This is a BAD omen....

    Comment by cheryl  on  02/08/09  at  09:39 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 2. · Wasn't there already an existing tower (non-sinister) in Nanjemoy, standard cell type?

    Comment by Jack Wyatt  on  02/09/09  at  11:38 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 3. · Looks like they already have their foot in the door! Why do I get the feeling something stinks big time?

    http://www.washingtonsecuritygroup.com/index.php/facilities/#washington_field

    Located approximately 30 miles from the Pentagon, Washington Field is a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved “private” (non-public use) airport (FAA Airport ID: 70MD) located in Charles County, MD. The 80-acre facility includes a 2,000-foot runway and a variety of aviation support structures in an area close to our nation’s capital and within easy driving distance from a number of federal organizations chartered with preventing the use of WMD. WSG submitted a formal request to the FAA and subsequently gained approval to change the name of the airport from “Parks Airport” to “Washington Field.” WSG is registered with the FAA to manage the Airport.

    Comment by seahorse  on  02/10/09  at  03:42 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 4. · Excuse me, but WHERE is this field? Nanjemoy?

    Comment by Jack Wyatt  on  02/11/09  at  11:13 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 5. · This is the facility where all Non-Obama supporters's will be taken for re-education training. Its a secret.

    Comment by jdman1  on  02/11/09  at  12:07 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 6. · The field is in Nanjemoy near the Nanjemoy Bar aka Linda's. On Liverpool Point Road between Adams Willett and 224.

    I don't necessarily consider bringing in law enforcement types for training to be a problem. I would expect that they will want to provide lodging and food service. After all, you can't very well send people to La Plata for lunch. Or are they planning to build a hotel and a restaurant someplace nearby?

    In today's world, there need to be facilities like this and they don't belong in Waldorf. Affordable housing belongs there. grin

    There are some pretty smart people on this board and I would like to hear your thoughts.

    Comment by Wayne  on  02/12/09  at  10:08 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 7. · I live on Adams Willett Rd here in Nanjemoy> I'm less than 3 miles from where they wish to set of shop.

    I will attend this meeting and my question is how many others will. If one isn't happy about this then they should show up but they will not and my guess is maybe 2 will show up me being one of them. So no wonder the Zoning Board approves everything >IF NO ONE SHOWS UP< So if the Zoning Board approves it then no one should complain about it.

    That being said I do wonder then what is next to be asked for. We happen to like Nanjemoy just the way it is that's why we moved out here in the 1st place. My Wife and I moved to Nanjemoy in 1990 and my wife and I love it here. Last thing we want to see is a light placed at Liverpool Rd. and Rt 6. I told the wife if I drive home one day and see a light there WE ARE MOVING and not to N.C. or S.C. but to Alaska!

    Comment by DeGiorgi  on  02/13/09  at  08:20 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 8. · I'm with you on that Johnnie!

    This facility will probably require a hotel and restaurant of some kind to accommodate the trainees, unless they will commute the 20+ miles twice or three times a day!

    Nanjemoy is also one of the areas being considered for one of those "waterfront villages". In addition to Swan Point, the others are Benedict, Aqualand, Indian Head/Marshall Hall, Port Tobacco/Goose Bay, and Smallwood.

    I foresee the entire county becoming more and more like Northern Virginia, stop lights and all!!!

    Comment by cheryl  on  02/13/09  at  08:43 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 9. · I would think that anyone offering serious training for para-military, homeland security-types would want them living onsite not galavanting off to the Hampton Inn for a comfy nighty-night or hitting the local Hooters for wings and a brewski at the end of the day.

    Comment by seahorse  on  02/13/09  at  08:19 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 10. · Wayne - #6

    Thank you for the directions. Took a ride out there this morning and snapped a few pictures. I'll post a link to them on this thread as soon I get them up.

    Comment by P.H. Coons  on  02/15/09  at  12:21 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 11. · Pics are here.

    Comment by P.H. Coons  on  02/15/09  at  01:38 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 12. · Phillip- link sends me right back here.

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as spirit of the elder & BJGoodwin

    Comment by Barbara  on  02/15/09  at  07:17 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 13. · Sorry, try this.

    Comment by P.H. Coons  on  02/15/09  at  07:27 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 14. · Thanks- this looks like a property that was up for sale many years ago-10 maybe? I thought the County or State bought it for a park. If Im thinking of the right place.

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as spirit of the elder & BJGoodwin

    Comment by Barbara  on  02/15/09  at  10:38 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 15. · If you look at MapQuest or Google Earth you can see the distinctive X shape of the runways from pretty far out. It pretty much jumps out at you at the City level in MapQuest.

    I'll be at the hearing. I'm with Johnnie on the light and noise pollution. Two of the main reasons we bought down here are that it's dark and quiet at night. But a high-tech company like this should be able to secure their facility without bathing it in light. That's one thing I'll be sure to ask them. Along with what will be their hours of operation.

    We're already surrounded by four facilities where they play with explosives. And there are people shooting all over the place down here. So a few more booms and gunshots might not make much difference - as long as it's during the daytime.

    Anyone who wants to bring jobs to Charles that are not service or retail sector deserves a listen. And if we say no to everything, we just sound shrill when we say no to development.

    Comment by Wayne  on  02/16/09  at  05:25 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 16. · It is a different spot then I was thinking- and there is not much around this particular area.
    It could be agood thing and something very needed for training near DC- if basic rules of courtesy are applied.

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as spirit of the elder & BJGoodwin

    Comment by Barbara  on  02/16/09  at  07:16 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 17. · http://nimb.nanjemoy.net/

    Comment by amphibia  on  02/16/09  at  07:52 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 18. · good site

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as spirit of the elder & BJGoodwin

    Comment by Barbara  on  02/16/09  at  09:16 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 19. · "Not much around" I would have to agree if I considered families, farms, forests, wildlife, peace and quiet "not much".

    It would be a dream come true if we could stop having to say "no" to things. Unfortunately there seems to be a bottomless well of bad ideas here in Charles County that is constantly drawn upon. I wish that the citizens of Charles County did not have to work so hard defending their quality of life from all the profit motivated special interest groups that steer the theme of this county. Charles County seems content bringing up the rear or even going backwards when it comes to enlightened ideas regarding economics and environment. Until we get people of integrity in place, who understand their duty to the general public, we are compelled to say "no" to the bad ideas that decrease our quality of life - no matter how many there are.

    Comment by tuebor  on  02/16/09  at  09:56 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 20. · What I am saying is that there is not a large population of people there to enfringeupon and if done right may not be that disturbing. And by that I mean- a development and the ensueing cars, trucks and other service vehicles as well as the noise and lights from the same would be much more disturbing to the environment and people there.

    I dont know the whole proposal so dont kno what would disturb- but it may be better the alternatives.

    I know nothing is best... but to be realistic something will go there eventually unless you can find someone to buy it and perserve it.

    So lesser of 2 evils perhaps?

    What did you find out from the meeting?

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as spirit of the elder & BJGoodwin

    Comment by Barbara  on  02/16/09  at  10:07 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 21. · I like this one:

    "Training ranges from one-week programs designed to train personnel to extract timely and accurate information and actionable intelligence from captured individuals"

    Sounds like Nanjemoy will be training water-boarding techniques if this approval goes through.

    Comment by Iamangttia  on  02/16/09  at  10:54 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 22. · Obama says no torture- I beleive him but I dont beleive the Black Ops.

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as spirit of the elder & BJGoodwin

    Comment by Barbara  on  02/16/09  at  11:33 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 23. · This is a very, very bad idea. The research facility will be bringing in all types of explosives and vehicles to conduct "research" on, as well as running an airport, with very little oversight.

    Furthermore, we will have all types of vehicles running up and down our roads with ALL types of explosives on them, to and from this facility - yes I am presuming they will have all the safety measures required, but, yes accidents do happen, and I would very much prefer they NOT happen anywhere NEAR our schools, children and homes and on the roads with our wives and teenagers!

    For petes sake, they are testing WMDS! This is not the place for this! Go to the damn Mohave Desert! Not 2 miles from an elementary school and in the middle of our neighborhoods!

    What jobs! Screw that! Read the website. They are contracting with "3rd parties". What does that mean? Who are the 3rd parties?!

    This stinks to high heaven folks and that our commissioners yet again have let this slip through without big time community approval and meetings just irks all of us! You don't just let this type of WMD (that is their description, not mine folks!) research shop set up behind closed doors, no questions asked and expect that everyone is going to be okay with it like Wal-Mart is moving in!

    We are talking about bombs moving up and down our streets here! Vehicles for research going up and down the streets, sunrise to sunset, Monday through Friday, Saturday 7 am. to 1 p.m. and no one is suppose to question anything?!

    Enough already! It is time to tell this Board that they simply can not keep granting these special exceptions and expect everyone to wink and nod along!

    Meanwhile, the Government building installs bomb proofing at their location! Perhaps they may want to have the same installed for all the homeowners and schools in Western Charles IF this goes through! What the hell do we all do if there is an accident at this research location!?

    Are our fire houses and EMS people going to be able to handle responding to a major incident at this research facility? We MUST be prepared for the worst. Do Charles County First Responders have WMD training and equimpment, capable of handling this research facility and all of the community that could be affected? If we are not ready for the worst, we are not able to do this, period. We have seen in this country what not being ready for the inevitable can do! Again, we are talking about research with WMDs here!!!

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as boozacbe

    Comment by Rick Campbell  on  02/17/09  at  10:32 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 24. · A T T E N T I O N


    Special Exception Hearing
    7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2009
    La Plata Govt. Building

    A shadowy Washington corporation wants planning approval
    by Special Exception for a counter-WMD “research center” to
    be located in a rural, residential neighborhood on Liverpool
    Point Rd.

    Activities will include live weapons and firearm testing in
    outdoor ranges, evaluation of biological weapons, training in
    simulated assault and emergency response, and
    deforestation of at least 10 acres of land, all with a potential
    introduction of irreversibly toxic substances and residue in
    Beaverdam Creek, Nanjemoy Creek, Potomac River and
    ultimately Chesapeake Bay.

    If your property values and the quality of peace and quiet in
    Nanjemoy and Charles County are important to you, read
    more at Nanjemoy.net and voice your concerns at the
    hearing.

    7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2009
    La Plata Govt. Building

    PLEASE ATTEND THIS HEARING!!!

    __________________________

    Something like this belongs at a VERY REMOTE location, i.e. Fort A.P. HILL -

    Eventually, they will request an "expansion" and a hotel/restaurant in the area, thereby setting a precedent for future development in the "Village of Nanjemoy".

    This is NOT CONSISTENT with the Comprehensive Plan!!

    Comment by cheryl  on  02/17/09  at  10:39 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 25. · I think that the military should pick one of their Country Clubs that are reserved for Officers and retired military at some of the finest places in this Country and around the world that the taxpayers support and level the golf courses and put this there.

    Comment by Iamangttia  on  02/17/09  at  11:05 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 26. · booz... i'm not saying that I support this facility, but all of the transportation fears you have are currently being frequently carried in trucks in our county in very large quantities... the addition of this facility wouldn't raise the number or the risk by any significant amount. the only difference is that you weren't aware of it before... secondly, this isn't a wmd test facility (from what i've read) but a counter-wmd training facility... a training ground for training containment and response to a wmd attack (but I could be wrong about that).

    currently the wmd/biological warfare/military hazmat response for the d.c. area is staged in our county... they test and train here now... I won't say exactly where, but they do (and its not hard to figure out where im talking about).

    I haven't done any significant research on this site or the proposal, but from the little I do know its nothing evil and sinister... but as I said, i'm not syaing that I support it or agree that its the correct location for it.

    Comment by The Quack  on  02/17/09  at  11:31 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 27. · If they want to house people who are here for training, they need to do it on the premesis - that was why it was brought up in the first place. But that's another very good question to bring up at the hearing. How do you plan to house and feed the people who will be coming here? Because if they plan on there bring a hotel and restaurant, that's a whole other story.

    Anyone know what people at the police academy do for lunch? Not that it's the same thing, but it's a similar circumstance.

    Comment by Wayne  on  02/17/09  at  11:51 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 28. · I am aware of the training and testing - my house rocks every day, literally and not from music. I know about the base and Stump Neck, but what Federal facilities do and having them set up for years is one thing.

    Having a private contractor propose to come in, and hiring third party contractors to assist, and test simulator WMD effects and other bombs and vehicle (most likely IUDs) right here, without much more oversight and conversation, is not copasetic.

    I am not being paranoid here either (I don't think). I have my years of military service to guide my hesitation though.

    I too have not used the words evil nor sinister, but have used their own, WMD, biochemical, bombs, etc. And that does raise enough awareness with me (and others) to ask more questions. With only one week to go before approval, it just behooves more conversation is all.

    Like you said, we already have enough of this stuff riding around our streets, why add more?

    Just think of all the things that could be bettering our community - and I am not suggesting that this facility will in fact make it worse in and by itself for a fact, because what I am calling for is much more information and until that happens it sounds like a loser.

    As it reads it reads ugly. Very little information and the information we (neighbors and citizens) have, it does not sit well with us. If only we were included in the process perhaps, who knows? Someone said only two people would have shown up for a meeting. I doubt that. Nanjeonites seem to show up for meetings.

    It is getting the elected officials to show up...


    And then actually telling us something...

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as boozacbe

    Comment by Rick Campbell  on  02/17/09  at  12:04 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 29. · I would like to caution everyone about posting comments "in public" regarding this proposal.

    It's my understanding that WSG is "monitoring" the local blogs in order to obtain info pertaining to what the "locals" are saying...in order to prepare for their presentation at the Hearing.

    Comment by cheryl  on  02/17/09  at  12:04 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 30. · Personally, I would prefer to have them know the concerns and be able to address them. If they are good answers, then fine. If they are bad answers, I'd rather hear them than get a "We'll get back to you on that".

    We could go to Linda's and discuss it over a beer, but the place is probably bugged by now.

    Comment by Wayne  on  02/17/09  at  12:26 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 31. · That's a good point Wayne...but personally, I and some others would rather not give them any "ammunition" for their cause...

    Comment by cheryl  on  02/17/09  at  12:29 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 32. · Has anyone picked up a copy of their application (for the proposed Special Exception) from the Planning Department?

    Comment by Sammy  on  02/17/09  at  12:37 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 33. · http://www.nanjemoy.net/1232/pgreport1232.pdf

    Comment by amphibia  on  02/17/09  at  12:47 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 34. · "Driving Tactics and Research Area." That sounds like a lot of fun!

    Comment by mbillard  on  02/17/09  at  01:15 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 35. · Thanks, amphibia.

    Comment by Sammy  on  02/17/09  at  01:46 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 36. · I got into this discussion late (sorry) but have a great deal of experience with this sort of training and this sort of facility. The problem is that you can't get all the details because the details are often classified. I believe I can say without going into "detail" that these kinds of operations typically don't "endanger" folks in the surrounding areas and, when I did this sort of thing, we would, indeed, knock off at 5pm or so and head to the local watering holes and restaurants. We also stayed in the local hotels.

    Perhaps this could be viewed as an opportunity to initiate some new business with the Fed and, hopefully, attract some other large operations to the County. I think that sometimes we bloggers tend to equate secret with evil and, in this case anyway, I don't believe that to be the case. Keep in mind, just because the facility offers training in the area of counter attack and response to incidents involving nuclear, biological and chemical exposure, doesn't mean that they're going to disburse anthrax, VX nerve agent or detonate a nuclear device.

    Comment by Birdman  on  02/17/09  at  04:58 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 37. · If the Birdman approves, that's good enough for me.

    Comment by Iamangttia  on  02/17/09  at  06:13 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 38. · saw a bunch of guys in "blue suits" touring the old Rev Shine and Dee Dee property today- this place is a facility to house folks- Anyone know about it? Could it be tied together?

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as spirit of the elder & BJGoodwin

    Comment by Barbara  on  02/17/09  at  06:49 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 39. · Oh, dat Birdman, he sing a different tune from when the Facchina man was gonna put a gravel pit near him - NIMBY- he scream! But now that his beloved military plans on putting another big noise maker in somebody else's back yard - just forget about it. Window-rattling Stump Neck ordinance disposal, continuous Marine artillery fire from Quantico and now small arms, IED's, land mines, mortars, RPG's-you name it from this anti-terrorist training facility-Ah, the sound of freedom. ENJOY IT!!

    Comment by Angler  on  02/17/09  at  10:44 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 40. · Thank goodness, a personal guarantee of our safety from someone not even involved with SGC and who probably won't be living near it. Hopefully nothing "atypical" happens. Human error and accidents never occur.

    Comment by tuebor  on  02/17/09  at  10:48 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 41. · OK, help me out. Rev Shine and Dee Dee property?? Where exactly is that?

    Comment by Wayne  on  02/18/09  at  07:26 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 42. · Save the Seed is run by Rev. Shine and his wife Dee Dee. (Drug & Alcohol Rehab) The building has sat empty for years on Billingsley Road. It has been considered numerous times as a place to move Catholic Charities and be used as a senior facility (combo use).

    formerly known on the ‘Duck as CCCitizen

    Comment by Pauleen Brewer  on  02/18/09  at  07:31 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 43. · Thanks CCC.

    That's quite a bit farther from Nanjemoy than the motels in La Plata. I wouldn't see any connection.

    Comment by Wayne  on  02/18/09  at  08:21 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 44. · Did I really say IUD's? I am so sorry! (From WMDs to IUDs, wouldn’t that be something?!) smile

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as boozacbe

    Comment by Rick Campbell  on  02/18/09  at  09:47 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 45. · The facts , Grid 2, Parcel 231. The property consists of approximately 80 acres and is in the Agricultural Conservation (AC) Zone with a Resource Protection Zone (RPZ) overlay. . DON'T COMPLICATE THIS MATTER by worry of food and lodging or hopes of a food joint down there in Nanjemoy. The point is this is inapropriate. You want to know about the lights they will be on all the time. Want to know what their gonna do? any thing they want once they get there! #20 lesser of 2 evils WHAT! rules of courtsy.HOW about #15 "We're already surrounded by four facilities where they play with explosives. And there are people shooting all over the place down here. So a few more booms and gunshots might not make much difference - as long as it's during the daytime." This should not be perceived as a good thing. Don't turn this into a circus act. WE have some serious problems and this is not going to help. I am all for inproving U.S. security but not in a irresponsible way -resource protection zone??? HEY NANJEMOY -GOT LEAD ... HEY CHARLES COUNTY GOT ETHICS???

    Comment by amphibia  on  02/18/09  at  10:02 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 46. · I would like to see this type of thing go to one of the four existing facilities where any additional noise can be muffled by the roar of the devloper's bull dozers who will quickly put in a fast food joints, strip malls, coffee joints and storage facilities if nothing is done to keep our present Leader's from developing this area.
    I figure a lot of people moved into this area to get away from the urban utopia that the county pushes.
    Then whats next slots?

    Comment by jdman1  on  02/18/09  at  10:36 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 47. · The county's motto - "Where Eagles Fly" would have to be changed to "Where Eagles Fly Away"!!

    Comment by cheryl  on  02/18/09  at  10:43 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 48. · Just sounds like this needs more conversation with the community involved, that should not be too difficult.

    The Commissioners should come to the meeting prepared to discuss openly without a preconceived agenda and willingness to listen to their neighbors and the proposed business that wants to come into the county. All should present, ask questions and give answers, openly.

    So far lots of this just appears to be speculative and until we, the people who live here know exactly what is proposed and either say yeah, or nea, based on the facts we hear on the 24th we will continue to expect the worse based on past experience with this Board.

    If the demeanor is "them" against "us" it will be a long night. If however, this company and the Commissioners are willing to discuss all aspects clearly and honestly and answer all the questions each person has to their satisfaction - and yes, that could be a long night, but this is an emotional subject- then this meeting could be handled transparently to everyone’s satisfaction.

    I am not saying how the outcome will turn, but just that the meeting will at least not turn into a "barn-burner" or bad blood between this business and the community.

    Get everything out on the table. Don't show up in your 3-piece suits and fancy slid shows telling us all about your company bio. Pull up chairs right next to us and discuss exactly how, what, why, when and with whom this is going to happen and don't shit anyone. Don't lie to anyone. We have had plenty of double speak and lack of cooperation between this Board, some businesses and the community already in our county.

    This business may be here in 2010. Most of us who live here will be here in 2010. The majority of this board will not be here in 2010.

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as boozacbe

    Comment by Rick Campbell  on  02/18/09  at  10:54 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 49. · "Save the Seed is run by Rev. Shine and his wife Dee Dee. (Drug & Alcohol Rehab) The building has sat empty for years on Billingsley Road. It has been considered numerous times as a place to move Catholic Charities and be used as a senior facility (combo use)."

    Didn't they also own property on DeMarr Drive across from the car pound?

    Comment by Iamangttia  on  02/18/09  at  11:13 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 50. ·
    Oh, dat Birdman, he sing a different tune from when the Facchina man was gonna put a gravel pit near him - NIMBY- he scream! But now that his beloved military plans on putting another big noise maker in somebody else's back yard - just forget about it. Window-rattling Stump Neck ordinance disposal, continuous Marine artillery fire from Quantico and now small arms, IED's, land mines, mortars, RPG's-you name it from this anti-terrorist training facility-Ah, the sound of freedom. ENJOY IT!!
    Angler, you need to get your facts straight. First of all, the gravel washing facility has never been slated to go anywhere near me. Secondly, in my comments about the "Chaney" gravel wash facility (not Facchina), I defended the action and was so unpopular that I simply stopped commenting in deference to the will of the people. I certainly don't mind taking an unpopular side in a debate if I think I'm right but I won't tolerate half-truths and lies with regard to me.

    And, by the way Angler, it's not "my" military. It's the United States' military, without which, you wouldn't be blogging!

    My posting of March 20th, 2008 on the gravel wash matter:
    OK, I want to weigh in on the potential for a gravel wash site in Hughesville. As any Duck regular knows, I am normally opposed to unchecked growth in this county (that is to say "un-smart" growth). As an outsider to Hughesville, I can completely empathize with their desire to keep this kind of plant out of their "backyard", but the fact is, there are lots of facilities that I wouldn't want to see move in next door that have to go somewhere. Nobody wants to live next to a prison, airport, halfway house, meth clinic, etc, and if they were slated to go in next door to me I'd fight like hell. Chaney employs roughly 250 people in this county which makes them a top 20 employer here. That's important. Chances are, if you live in Charles County and have sidewalks, a driveway, decorative stone, etc, you have contributed to Chaney Enterprises. Their employees have kids to raise and bills to pay just like the rest of us. I must admit that I don't have all of the facts but I am pro-business and just wanted to offer up another point of view.
    Also, there have been several suggestions for usage of the Rev. Shine facility. One that I heard (just a rumor in the grapevine) was that Opening Day Partners might be interested in using it to house ballplayers instead of host families and to put up traveling teams. Seems reasonable to me but again, just heard it through the grapevine.

    Comment by Birdman  on  02/18/09  at  11:32 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 51. · boozacbe, the Public Hearing is before the Board of Appeals. The County Commissioners don't usually attend Board of Appeals meetings. The public will be able to comment at the hearing, but the Board of Appeals won't answer any questions. However, the Board of Appeals will probably question the applicant during or after their presentation. IMHO it would be a good idea if someone who speaks at the hearing would request at least a 30-day written comment period.

    Comment by Sammy  on  02/18/09  at  11:36 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 52. · ...And one more thing. As for the "sounds of freedom" that you describe, I grew up on an Army ordnance testing facility. After a while, you just didn't notice the booms anymore. In fact, it was kind of amusing when we'd have out-of-town guests visiting. A Howitzer would fire and our guests would say in surprise, "What the hell was that?" and we'd all say, "What was what?"

    The fact is that this is a government community. It thrives because of the government and the military. Statistics indicate that our area was more fortunate than others during the recent economic downturn precisely because of our association and proximity to government and military jobs. I would suggest that most people know this. I guess if that isn't the kind of place you want to live, there's always Gary Indiana or Newton Iowa. Personally, I'd rather put up with the sound of exploding ordnance than live in a ghost town...but that's just me.

    Comment by Birdman  on  02/18/09  at  11:47 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 53. · Thanks Sammy,

    Birdman brings in the other side to the debate, the economics and all very on point. Too they speak somewhat to the next context of what most of the blogging really references here; culture.

    Being from or familiar with military situations/families/housing/jobs/surroundings does acclimate one to and soften one to the conditions for businesses coming into your communities more easily. Spouses take jobs, children even get employed and yes, you get "used" to the effects of their being there, whatever that is.

    However, not everyone is excited with the total expansion of what we have here. The base at Indian Head is not exactly your typical military base town where all you see are military uniforms, bail-bonds shops, swap meets, coin operated laundry mats, pawn shops and row upon row of car dealers right outside the gates.

    This area had a community, is a community and will be a community with and without the base and all the sub-let installations of government outlets of the feds. While the government employs a great deal of people here, the greatest employer within Charles County is still; Retail!

    So much for all the hi-tech jobs Steny and the feds are, where suppose to create over the years, Charles County's greatest strength is freakin Retail!

    The culture here Bird (and bird, I have great respect for you, so please do not take any of this wrong) is not the same as what maybe you or I may be familiar with. Western Charles County is very poor. They don't have the government jobs on the base. They don't want to hear the contrib. stuff about military jobs. Read the other blog; they are losing their damn clinic and bus service(s)!

    Some of the others are just worried about what’s next. That would be the other shoe.

    After the culture is the frustration.

    It is appearing to the community here that it is just one thing after another that is being TOLD to them how things are changing without their input/cooperation/consideration/approval/opinion and damn it around here that still matters. These are the folks who have owned land in this county for years. Their parents have owned this land - or someone in their family has owned this land. Things are just not going right for a long time around here and they look at the Stadium, the Ice Rink, the proposed Connector, the traffic, the budget, the government building, $10 million domes in schools and ALL the other messes created by this Board and they just stomp their feet with resounding "NOs".

    So, the Economics, Culture and Frustration coupled with the lack of information.

    I need to go study up on how this meeting is going to be held...

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as boozacbe

    Comment by Rick Campbell  on  02/18/09  at  12:30 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 54. · Todays paper says that the Western Charles County Business Group is planning for Indian Head Base to the National Harbor to become an "Energetics Corridor" much like "Silicon Valley" of the 80's.

    Even though the COunty Commssioners always say there isnt a plan- seems there is a plan.

    I guess they dont have plans , they have ideas (hence they can deny plans) and they keep ideas secret until it is in the works- then its a plan they can announce.

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as spirit of the elder & BJGoodwin

    Comment by Barbara  on  02/18/09  at  01:16 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 55. · Points well taken! I understand the "culture" of the region, however, as I have often said, Charles County has reached a crossroads of sorts. We can't really move forward (and by "move forward" I mean increase the tax base to support the growing infrastructure concerns associated with increased population) without doing something about the lack of high-tech, white-collar jobs in the county. The past boards of commissioners didn't bring the jobs as promised and the current board is no better. The best possible source for these jobs (in my opinion) comes from the DoD machine. Why reinvent the wheel for our county when we have a never-ending supply of government and defense contractor opportunities already in the DC Metro area?

    The growth is coming. And it's coming whether or not the people of Marbury, Nanjemoy, Dentsville, Port Tobacco and the like want it to. Our commissioners have decided to take action to meet the growth head on by building more houses. What they're not accounting for is where these new residents will get their water, where they'll go to school, where they'll work, the impact of that many more cars on roads that are already in need of repair, the increased pollution of our waterways, the impact on a volunteer fire department, the need for a larger police force, the denegration of our "rural charm", AND, most importantly, the will of the voting public (just to name a few things).

    I just feel that slamming the door on another potential employer (and a business that may attract other businesses) is the wrong message to send. We're at that proverbial crossroads and we can't go both ways. Hughesville didn't want a stadium and wanted a by-pass. They got their wish in both cases and now they have a ghost town.

    We just need to be smart about all this. build vertically in Waldorf. Make it safe to walk to stores and bring public transportation to the northern end of the county. Put high-tech jobs in the industrial zones of Waldorf and White Plains. Stop issuing building permits to strip-mall owners, convenience stores and McMansion builders. Reduce the size of the development district and create a plan that protects the natural beauty of the county while adapting to the demand for quality jobs, lower-cost housing and better transportation infrastructure. AND THEN STICK TO THE PLAN! I'm not saying it's easy but I sure would like to see some effort on the part of our leaders. Along those lines, I believe that all five commissioner seats should be full-time positions. We're outgrowing the "let's get together once a week to govern our county" mentality.

    Comment by Birdman  on  02/18/09  at  01:33 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 56. · Again, then all that just needs to be agreed to up front. Nothing wrong with that plan if that IS the plan.

    People here just thought they were going to a baseball game and brought a bat and showed up for the game only to find out the other team was planning to play football...

    Nothing wrong with either game just can't be played at the same time. Same thing here. Folks are finding out late in the "game" bits and pieces and speculating about lots more, when perhaps things should have been done way before this to ease tensions or answer questions.

    Or at least know what kind of ball to show up with.

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as boozacbe

    Comment by Rick Campbell  on  02/18/09  at  01:59 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 57. ·
    We just need to be smart about all this. build vertically in Waldorf. Make it safe to walk to stores and bring public transportation to the northern end of the county. Put high-tech jobs in the industrial zones of Waldorf and White Plains. Stop issuing building permits to strip-mall owners, convenience stores and McMansion builders. Reduce the size of the development district and create a plan that protects the natural beauty of the county while adapting to the demand for quality jobs, lower-cost housing and better transportation infrastructure. AND THEN STICK TO THE PLAN! I'm not saying it's easy but I sure would like to see some effort on the part of our leaders. Along those lines, I believe that all five commissioner seats should be full-time positions. We're outgrowing the "let's get together once a week to govern our county" mentality.

    agreed!

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as spirit of the elder & BJGoodwin

    Comment by Barbara  on  02/18/09  at  02:13 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 58. · We're coming together, BJ, we're coming together!

    Comment by Birdman  on  02/18/09  at  02:21 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 59. · "Todays paper says that the Western Charles County Business Group is planning for Indian Head Base to the National Harbor to become an "Energetics Corridor" much like "Silicon Valley" of the 80's."

    When I read this article, the first thing that came to mind was a new Lower Potomac Bridge, connecting Charles County with Woodbridge VA along the I-95 corridor.

    Believe me, there's a method to their "madness"....

    Comment by cheryl  on  02/18/09  at  04:05 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 60. · "When I read this article, the first thing that came to mind was a new Lower Potomac Bridge, connecting Charles County with Woodbridge VA along the I-95 corridor."

    I'm all in favor of the Lower Potomac Bridge and I have not heard anyone on this Forum cast a negative opinion except Cheryl. What is the problem? People coming in from the North is the problem and that won't stop so why not have another way to get out of Chuck County rather than having to go through D.C. to 95 South or go across a dangerous 2-lane bridge to no-where.
    If people coming over here from VA is your concern, don't worry; what does Charles County have to offer that VA doesn't already have in abundance?

    Comment by Iamangttia  on  02/18/09  at  05:01 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 61. · I am with Birdmans plan protect the natural beauty of our county. Put high-tech jobs in the inustrial zone of Waldorf and White Planes". WSG offers specialized training in chemical and biological agent and laboratory disablement and destruction. Seems like high-tech to me.

    Comment by amphibia  on  02/19/09  at  09:15 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 62. · Sammy - got it thanks, reviewed all the docs and I am still hoping that at least District 2 Commissioner will show up since she informed a couple of residents here about 2 years ago when asked "will WSG be coming into Nanjemoy?" she replied she did not know but would inform the residents if she heard anything.

    The residents never heard back from her and since she obviously is aware of the request and planning process and will be voting on it, I think it only fair that she be available at the meeting to speak with her constituents on why she didn't get back to them and at least tell them what is being planned and where she stands in the process. Fair? This is her District.

    But I will let them speak for themselves (here)...if they wish. I spoke with some of them here within the community about this, but was not a part of that dialog between the Commissioner and the residents.

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as boozacbe

    Comment by Rick Campbell  on  02/19/09  at  10:08 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 63. ·
    #62 and will be voting on it
    Commissioner Patterson will only be voting on this proposal if the Board of Appeals decision is appealed to them. I really doubt she'll be at the meeting...
    Hope I'm wrong.

    Comment by Sammy  on  02/19/09  at  10:16 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 64. · I guess I (we) are "appealing" to her sense of representation...

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as boozacbe

    Comment by Rick Campbell  on  02/19/09  at  10:29 AM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 65. · Posting to support BJ's post (#55.) And - did I miss it? - what's the plan to deal with those empty big box, soon to be embarrasing eyesore stores??

    Comment by Jack Wyatt  on  02/19/09  at  01:24 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 66. · is there ever a plan?

    only forward thinking Counties and Cities do that.

    formerly known on the ‘Duck’ as spirit of the elder & BJGoodwin

    Comment by Barbara  on  02/19/09  at  01:56 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
  • 67. · The plan is just like Iverson Mall about 25 years ago--let the good stores leave and then the developer has no choice than to lease the big box to scum and there goes another mall.

    Comment by Iamangttia  on  02/19/09  at  03:05 PM | [Back to Top] | [Back to Main]
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