NOTE

connection. In addition to a county-issued hydrant meter, all connections to a fire hydrant must include a back flow preventer. Connection to a hydrant without the use of a back flow preventer has the potential to contaminate the water supply.

The county only rents hydrant meters to qualified commercial establishments, such as land developers, landscapers, brick masons, swimming pool companies, and construction companies. The county does not rent hydrant meters to residents.

For additional information about hydrant meter connections, contact Kristy McAndrew at 301-609-5606. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 866269-9006.

To report the illegal use of hydrant meters, contact the Charles County Sheriff’s Office at 301-932-2222 with the street location of the hydrant connection and any identifying information regarding the vehicle.

Business seminar with state, local government scheduled

The Charles County Department of Economic Development will host a free seminar on how to do business with Charles County Government and the State of Maryland on Thursday, April 28 from 8:30-11 a.m. at the Charles County Government Building, 200 Baltimore St., La Plata.

The seminar will host 20 panelists and speakers, including state and local government leaders, economic development professionals, state and county buyers and users, and a small business resource panel.

Featured presentations by top state and local government executives will include C. Gail Bassette, secretary, Maryland Department of General Services; Jimmy Rhee, special secretary of the Maryland Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs; Michael Mallinoff, county administrator, Charles County Government; and Darrell Brown, director, Charles County Department of Economic Development.

Participants will learn how to register and certify their small business or minority-owned business with Charles County Government and the State of Maryland, how to access county and state business resources and opportunities, and how to take advantage of the county’s business development programs, including its procurement and outreach programs, retention and expansion services, loan fund program, and marketing tools to help businesses grow.

Reservations are required. Contact Lucinia Mundy at MundyL@ MeetCharlesCounty.com or call 301-885-1340 to RSVP. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 300735-2258.