Maryland Education Section 16-601

      (a)      The establishment of the College of Southern Maryland as a regional college is based on the findings and policies set forth in this section.

      (b)      (1)      Charles County Community College has provided higher education opportunities in Calvert County for more than 15 years and in St. Mary's County for more than 20 years through a contractual arrangement with the county.

            (2)      The continuing growth of Charles County Community College as a quality institution requires that a partnership be established to provide a new college identity reflective of the three southern Maryland counties, a governance structure of shared ownership, and the equitable distribution of fiscal support.