Bestgate Road Property

November 2025

Update on the Bestgate Road Property from the 716 Steering Committee

 

Following the purchase of 716 Bestgate Road in July, Father Woods established the 716 Steering Committee to oversee the discernment process, which will provide recommendations to the Pastor on how best to utilize the property, based on the four principles of discernment they were provided. The committee has been meeting since August. The members of the committee are:

· Chief Financial & Operations Officer, Diana Conway

· Finance Council Member, Caroline Ewing

· School Board President, Patrick McCarthy

· Interim School President, Deacon Leroy Moore

· Facilities Committee Chair, Bob Rowan

· Pastoral Council Member, John Vernon

The committee has reviewed notes taken during the three listening sessions that were held prior to the purchase of the property to gain a broad view of the expressed opinions of the community. They have reviewed the zoning report to gain knowledge of what may be allowed or require special exception. They have spoken with the Archdiocese regarding their spatial programs. 

 

The committee researched consultants who are experienced in assisting organizations in making this type of decision and met with three consultants whose knowledge and qualifications align with the needs of St. Mary’s. They have selected a consultant, Russ Robertson of Cap Ex Advisory Group, to assist them with strategic guidance during this transformative process to help shape future operations.  

 

The committee will continue to follow Father Wood’s guidelines as communicated in his letter dated July 2 (see on the right).

 

At this point, it is still unknown whether St. Mary’s will have possession of the property in July 2026 or if Annapolis Area Christian School will lease the property for an additional year.

 

The next planned committee update will be during the next quarter.