County Executive Steuart Pittman announced that the county signed a contract to purchase the Lothian Grain Elevator from Perdue. Parties have 90 days from signing to close the $1.25 million deal.
“I want to thank Senator Elfreth for convening the group that gave me the confidence to take this major step forward in support of Southern Maryland agriculture, MDA Secretary Kevin Atticks for immediately seeing the potential of this opportunity and bringing it to the Moore administration, the Maryland General Assembly and Governor Moore for acting quickly to support Southern Maryland agriculture in its time of need, and Perdue CEO Randy Day for allowing time for this collaboration to happen,” said County Executive Steuart Pittman. “In a very short timeframe, we concluded that this facility could and should support local farms for many decades into the future. Once purchased, we expect to lease the facility to an experienced elevator operator, and then to work with SMADC on plans for additional agriculture support services at the site, such as composting, a mill, or other uses.”
The county will conduct an environmental assessment, appraisal, and seek County Council approval. The state’s FY24 proposed budget includes funding to reimburse the county for the purchase and initial capital needs.
Perdue first announced its intent to close the elevator in January 2021. After speaking with local farmers who depend on the facility to purchase their crops, County Executive Pittman expressed concern publicly and spoke privately to Perdue CEO Randy Day about delaying the closure to allow time for a new owner to step in and continue operations there.
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