COMMENTARY: Your home should not be an ATM for government. Teamwork Made the Charlie Kirk Tribute Successful.

Your home should not be an ATM for the government.

Homeownership should provide stability, not an ATM for the Government. Yet in Maryland and here in St. Mary’s County, families are taxed multiple times on the very same property

• Transfer and recording taxes at the time of purchase

• Annual property taxes based on assessed value

• Recordation taxes and fees again when refinancing or accessing equity, even though the property has already been recorded

When a homeowner refinances to secure a better interest rate or responsibly uses their equity, they are forced to pay the same tax again. Paying to re-record documents that are already on file is unnecessary, costly, and unfair.

 This practice discourages families from reducing their monthly costs, making improvements, utilizing their equity for education, investments, and emergencies. Instead of supporting financial responsibility, the system penalizes it. That is the very definition of insanity.

• It’s time for reform. Together, we can put an end to duplicate taxes and fees that punish homeowners for doing the right thing. Families in our community deserve relief, and I am dedicated to making it a reality.

 Do you agree? If so, please share this, as this is exactly the type of work we need to start doing to give homeowners and families a break, especially in a State that taxes everything and anything. We need to start making a difference locally.

Protecting Our First Amendment Rights is Stronger with Teamwork, as Shown in Charlie Kirk’s Tribute

In every successful community event, there are people whose names appear on the program, whose faces are visible on stage, and whose words are remembered at the moment. But just as important are those who work quietly behind the scenes, orchestrating, organizing, and making sure everything comes together. For the recent St. Mary’s County Charlie Kirk tribute, one such person was Brandie Edelen of Golden Beach, a former candidate for the St. Mary’s County School Board.

While others held the microphone or stood in front of the crowd, Brandie worked tirelessly behind the scenes. She co-hosted the Facebook event, sent countless texts, volunteered to play gospel music, registered voters, and spread the word with a determination that gave the program its foundation and strength. Her steady drive turned an idea into a reality that brought thousands of people together.

Former Delegate Deb Rey created the program, Delegate Matt Morgan (R. District 29A) gave it a recognizable face, but it was Brandie and countless other unsung volunteers who made it possible. Their dedication turned an effort into a movement.

It’s easy to see the obvious people, but it’s equally important to recognize those who make things happen without seeking praise. Without them, community events would lack the heart and support that make them truly successful. This quiet leadership is what makes St. Mary’s County great, and it reminds us that with the same spirit and determination, we can make its government great again.