Md. Code, Local Government § 27–204

(a) Each landowner who has not signed the petition is a respondent.

(b) (1) The designated officer shall issue a summons to be served on each

respondent.

(2) A summons may be served by publication as to any respondent

who cannot be served as provided by law.

(c) (1) If a mortgage is held on land in the proposed drainage district,

notice of the proceedings shall be given to the holder of the mortgage in the same

manner as to a respondent.

(2) A mortgage holder may appear before the county commissioners

or county council in person or by counsel.