Lancaster Park For Lease

Originally Published: July 3, 2023

St. Mary’s County had a no-cost lease in place with the Department of the Navy (DON) to lease Lancaster Park for the last 25 years. Last week, the County Commissioners approved a one year lease extension at a cost of $42,000. Last December, the County paid the DON $15,000 for a fair market appraisal of Lancaster Park, providing $42K as the value.

The County has invested millions into making the park a destination for families including the addition of a dog park, turf fields, picnic pavilion, an additional parking lot, more athletic field lights, and the Colored Troops Memorial. The Navy owns the property, former home of military housing, and has an interest in keeping it as low-intensity use to prevent encroachment on the base. Lancaster Park is in the heart of the AICUZ.

When questioned by Commissioner Eric Colvin, St. Mary's County Recreation & Parks Director Arthur Shepherd explained there was no cost to lease the park from the Navy previously. This lease extension is needed because long-term leases must be reviewed by the Secretary of the Navy prior to being authorized, and the Navy requires more time to complete the process. The lease extension also includes permission to replace the playground at the park. Full replacement costs total $750,000, of which the County has paid $200K and the remainder will be paid by grants.

Scott Ostrow County Commissioner asked Director Shepherd if the cost of $42K would continue if the lease is renewed after this year. Shepherd said yes, it could. Commissioner Hewitt motioned to write a letter to Congressman Steny Hoyer, as well as Senator Ben Cardin and Senator Van Hollen asking for assistance in advocating for the Navy to not charge the lease amount. The motion was approved.

Do you think it’s fair for the Navy to charge the County rent for Lancaster Park?