LEXINGTON PARK, Md. — More than 7 in 10 businesses operating in Lexington Park are locally owned and operated, a finding that economic leaders say bodes well for long-term growth and community stability.
Results from a Lexington Park Business Association (LexBA) survey, presented Jan. 21 to the St. Mary’s County Economic Development Commission, show that 71% of responding businesses are locally owned, according to Wynne Briscoe, president of LexBA.
“That was really good to see,” Briscoe said, noting that local ownership helps keep investment, wages and decision-making rooted in the community.
The survey, which closed Dec. 31, also revealed a broad mix of industries operating in the area, ranging from professional services and retail to restaurants, real estate and government services. Briscoe said the diversity reflects progress toward reducing reliance on government and Naval Air Station Patuxent River as the area’s primary economic drivers.
Photo Source: LexBA Survey
Photo Source: 1/21/2026 Economic Development Commission
Most businesses surveyed are small operations, with 62% reporting between one and five employees. Another 36% reported workforces of six or more, indicating a range that includes solopreneurs and growing companies.
Beyond ownership and size, the survey identified marketing as the top challenge facing businesses, cited by 46.9% of respondents. Staffing and financing followed as other major concerns.
“Their biggest challenge, which was really what we wanted to know, of their top three, the first one, marketing, 46.9%,” Briscoe stated.
Briscoe said LexBA plans to address those needs through expanded member benefits, including combined print and digital marketing efforts, a job portal and connections to financial resources. She said local ownership paired with targeted support can strengthen the area’s economic resilience.
You can watch the full presentation from the Economic Development Commission on Jan. 21 below.
1/21/2026 Economic Development Commission | Video by: St. Mary’s County Government
The strong presence of locally owned and operated businesses positions Lexington Park for sustained economic health, keeping dollars circulating within the community and supporting local jobs, suppliers and services. With owners who are invested in the area’s success, these businesses are more likely to reinvest in neighborhoods, respond to local needs and contribute to community life. As Lexington Park continues to diversify beyond traditional economic drivers, local entrepreneurship serves as a stabilizing force, strengthening resilience and helping build a more self-sustaining, locally driven economy for the future.
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