Public Meetings - Ocean City, Maryland

This work session was held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, beginning at 1:00 PM, following a closed session from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM to discuss legal and real estate matters. The council addressed a range of topics including the approval of meeting minutes, the 2026 employee benefits renewal, the moratorium on new short-term rental licenses in R1 and MH districts, a property tax credit for volunteer firefighters and city employees, and a draft ordinance regulating bicycles and similar conveyances. Public comment was heard on the rental moratorium and other agenda items. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The council approved the minutes from the Regular Meeting 17 dated October 6, 2025. The motion carried with seven votes in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident of Teal Drive (R1) spoke in favor of making the moratorium on new short-term rental licenses permanent, citing disruption to the single-family neighborhood and a personal incident involving an intruder. They urged the council to protect R1 property rights and enforce zoning ordinances. - A second resident of Teal Drive described ongoing noise and party issues at a neighboring short-term rental, and asked the council to continue the moratorium to preserve residential safety and security. - Leslie Smith (107 Convention Center Drive) opposed extending the moratorium, stating that police and code enforcement data showed no measurable increase in issues related to short-term rentals. They argued that the moratorium's purpose had been fulfilled and it should be lifted. - Terry Miller (116 Bering Road) opposed the moratorium, claiming the facts never supported it (e.g., only four noise complaints in R1/MH over 12 months) and that short-term rentals have been part of the community since inception. They called for lifting the moratorium to heal the community and restore trust. - Brian Yanovich (153 Channel Bowie), a vacation homeowner who rents his property 6-8 weeks a year, opposed the moratorium, stating his renters cause no trouble and the neighborhood feels like a family community. He suggested addressing specific problem properties rather than a broad ban. - Tammy Johnson (101 Sea Breeze Drive, Montego Bay) questioned the emergency basis for the moratorium and argued crime did not increase significantly. She offered to volunteer services to help resolve problems constructively. - Linda Tucker (303 South Ocean Drive, Montego Bay) opposed the moratorium, noting the data showed no problems in R1/MH and that one problem house (1533 Teal) should be addressed individually rather than punishing all owners. - Michael Bell (9000 Caribbean Drive, Little Salisbury) questioned why the moratorium targeted only R1/MH when most problems occur in condos. He asked about tax revenue loss and why Council President James did not recuse himself due to his hotel industry ties. - Cynthia Hill (700 Gulf Stream, Montego Bay) spoke as a mobile home owner affected by the moratorium, highlighting an insurance crisis for steel-framed homes. She urged the council to help mobile homeowners with pathways to compliance rather than removing rental income needed for improvements. - Bridget Garchek Stone (401 142nd Street, Kane Woods) echoed that decisions should be based on data, which does not support an emergency. She noted vacant second homes are also detrimental and suggested market forces should drive rental licenses. - Lauren Bunting (1545 Teal Drive), President of the Coastal Association of Realtors, stated the referendum vote against the ban should be respected regarding the moratorium. She asked that any decision on extending the moratorium follow the full ordinance process with public hearings. - Beth Roach (9205 East Biscayne Drive), a former full-time resident not allowed to vote on the referendum, argued that property owners who work in Ocean City should have a voice in property-related decisions. - An unnamed speaker expressed concern that the moratorium is a backdoor to further rental restrictions and that hotels may be behind the push. They offered to help mediate issues. - Jenny Shepard (10150 Queen's Circle, West Ocean City) supported the referendum outcome and urged the council to consider the voters' decision. - Breezy Camameyer (303 Pacific Avenue, Little Salisbury) opposed the moratorium, stating the people spoke in the special election and should have the choice to use their property. Discussion Items - 2026 Benefits Renewal: Senior Financial Analyst Josh Weaver and Human Resources Director Katie Callan presented a historical review of renewals. The original CareFirst renewal was 22.4%; after negotiation, the final increase for active employee medical and pharmacy stands at 18.4% – the highest in a decade. Strategies to reduce costs included a “laser” on one high-cost claimant (raising the threshold from $175,000 to $800,000) and an aggregate specific deductible of $200,000, saving approximately $1.1 million in premiums. Additional savings were achieved by removing aggregate stop loss coverage ($30,000/year) and adding a $5 generic drug copay. Dental and vision rates remain flat. The council approved the plan design changes and 2026 premiums with a motion (7-0). - Moratorium on Short-Term Rental Licenses in R1 and MH: Planning Director George Bendler and Fire Marshal Joe Sexauer provided a status update. As of October 1, 2025, there are 8,093 rental licenses, 97% short-term. In R1, 361 licenses exist; in MH, 448. Since the moratorium began in February 2025, licenses decreased by 9 in R1 and 7 in MH (with exceptions for death and settlement). Police data from October 2024 to September 2025 showed 13 disorderly calls out of 1,800 in R1/MH. The inspection program found 25 illegally converted bedrooms across town, mostly not in R1/MH. The council debated extending the moratorium. A motion to permanently extend the moratorium in R1 only was amended to extend the existing moratorium (R1 and MH) for one year through January 3, 2027. The motion passed 4-3 (Councilmembers DeLuca, Savage, Yates, and Metresic in favor; Council President James and Councilmembers Proctor and Garrick opposed). A subsequent motion to bring the topic of minimum length of stay back for discussion passed 6-1 (Councilmember Proctor opposed). - Property Tax Credit for Volunteer Firefighters and City Employees: City Manager Terry McGean presented a proposal to grant a property tax credit to active volunteer firefighters (allowed by state law) and an equivalent taxable bonus to city employees who own their primary residence in Ocean City, to incentivize residency. The fiscal impact is approximately $37,000 annually ($6,000 for volunteers, $8,000 for police/fire, $23,000 for other employees). A cap of $2,500 was added. The motion to draft an ordinance for volunteers and a policy for employee bonuses passed 6-0 (Councilmember Savage absent). - Draft Ordinance on Bicycles and Similar Conveyances: City Solicitor Heather Stansbury presented a comprehensive rewrite of Article 5, regulating where various conveyances (bikes, e-bikes, skateboards, roller skates, segues, pushcarts) can be ridden. Key changes: on roadways, all conveyances except segues and pushcarts are allowed; on the boardwalk, only traditional bicycles, class-1 e-bikes, non-motorized skateboards, roller skates, segues, and pushcarts; on sidewalks, most conveyances are prohibited, with an exception for children under 16 on non-motorized bicycles. The ordinance also clarifies rules for Somerset Plaza and the Trimper strip. The council voted 6-0 to advance the draft ordinance to first reading. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes of October 6, 2025 (7-0). - Approved: 2026 benefits renewal with plan design changes and new premiums (7-0). - Approved: Extension of the moratorium on new short-term rental licenses in R1 and MH districts for one year, through January 3, 2027 (4-3). - Approved: Directing staff to bring the topic of minimum length of stay back for discussion (6-1). - Approved: Draft ordinance for property tax credit for volunteer firefighters and annual bonus for city employees (equivalent to city property tax, capped at $2,500) (6-0). - Approved: Advance draft ordinance on bicycles and similar conveyances to first reading (6-0).

The Board of Port Wardens met on October 9, 2025, to consider eight applications for marine construction, including bulkhead replacements, pier extensions, boat lifts, and a case revision. All applications were approved unanimously per staff recommendations. Consent Calendar - PW 25-078 (192 Pine Tree Road, Hopp): Replacement of 40 feet of timber bulkhead with vinyl using a batter pile system, not to exceed 18 inches channelward. Approved per staff recommendations. - PW 25-079 (190 Pine Tree Road, Schadt): Replacement of 50 feet of timber bulkhead with vinyl using a batter pile system, not to exceed 18 inches channelward. Approved per staff recommendations. - PW 25-080 (715 Loop Road, Keister): Repair and replacement of 50 feet of timber bulkhead, not to exceed 18 inches channelward. Approved per staff recommendations. - PW 25-081 (1103 Edgewater Avenue, Timme): Installation of 50 feet of replacement vinyl bulkhead and replacement of existing parallel dock in kind, maximum channelward extension 18 inches. Approved per staff recommendations. - PW 25-083 (506 32nd Street, Unit 6, Araquel): Removal of existing PWC lift and installation of a new elevator-type lift, maximum channelward extension 30 feet 6 inches. Approved per staff recommendations. Discussion Items - PW 25-082 (13503 Holly Lane, Unit A, Magliano): Request to install one boatlift with pilings and a 17-foot pier extension (total pier length 47 feet), not to exceed 50 feet channelward. Board discussed measurement methods for ensuring a 40-foot setback from the nearest property line. Josh Lipner (representative) clarified that MDE does not measure navigational distance but the board decided the waterway is wide enough. Approved per staff recommendations. - PW 25-084 (601 Seaweed Lane, Baytree CM): Request to install 100 feet of replacement vinyl bulkhead and a new 5-foot by 100-foot parallel platform, maximum channelward extension 6 feet 6 inches. Board discussed that the replacement is in kind and the platform will be rebuilt in the same footprint after the bulkhead is set back 18 inches. The project serves five condominium units. Approved per staff recommendations. - PW 24-063 (206 52nd Street, Dea): Case revision for a previously approved pier extension. The original approval was for a 22-foot extension; due to an after-the-fact construction change, the actual pier length is 27.5 feet. Board noted that the original sketch may have been ambiguous and the revision was re-advertised. Approved per staff recommendations. Key Outcomes - All eight applications were approved unanimously (5-0) per staff recommendations. - For PW 24-063, the board required submission of a new MDE approval and a final building inspection. - All approved projects must complete marine construction within 18 months of the board's decision.

The Planning and Zoning Commission met on October 7, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in City Hall. Commissioners Joe Wilson, Pam Robertson, and Palmer Gillis were absent, so Secretary Janet Hough acted as Chair. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, a public hearing on a conditional use renewal for OC Bay Hopper, and a discussion of potential changes to off‑street parking regulations. Consent Calendar - Approval of September 3, 2025 Minutes – Motion by Gordon Kretser, second by Tony Butta, passed unanimously (4‑0‑3 with three members absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing – Conditional Use Renewal for OC Bay Hopper – No members of the public offered comments during the public portion. The applicant, Stephen Butz (owner/operator of OC Bay Hopper), testified under oath. He stated that the business has operated continuously since 2019, transported over 12,000 passengers in the past year with no accidents or incidents, and has received only three complaints in five years (all related to speed, which were addressed). He expressed willingness to install a life ring and a bike rack as additional safety and transportation improvements. The Commission noted that the business is compatible with the Comprehensive Plan and the surrounding neighborhood. Discussion Items - Conditional Use Renewal for OC Bay Hopper (PZ File 25‑12100002) – Staff presented a summary of the request to renew the water taxi conditional use at 11703 Coastal Highway. The Commission discussed the need for a life ring near the dock and a bike rack on site. Commissioners emphasized that the use reduces traffic and parking demand, aligns with the Comprehensive Plan, and has ample parking. The Commission added two conditions to the staff‑recommended list: (1) installation of a life ring, and (2) provision of a bike rack at a location to be approved by the Zoning Administrator. A motion by Tony Butta, second by Kevin Rohe, to recommend approval to the Mayor and City Council with all conditions passed unanimously (4‑0‑3). - Off‑Street Parking Regulations (Sec. 110‑932) – Planning Director George Bendler opened a discussion about revising minimum parking requirements for commercial properties, particularly restaurants. He noted that the current code counts all square footage (including kitchens, dish rooms, and walk‑ins) for parking calculations, which can hinder small businesses. The Commission explored alternatives such as basing parking on public seating area rather than total square footage, and considering location‑specific standards (e.g., downtown vs. north Ocean City). No action was taken; the discussion was a precursor to a winter work session on the topic. Key Outcomes - Conditional Use Recommendation – The Commission voted 4‑0‑3 to recommend that the Mayor and City Council approve the renewal of the conditional use for OC Bay Hopper, subject to the following conditions (including two new conditions): 1. Docking limited to private commercial properties unless approved for public facilities by Mayor and City Council. 2. No amplified noise (music or crew announcements) in residential areas adjacent to the canal or at the ticket kiosk. 3. Boats must operate at posted speed and comply with Coast Guard regulations. 4. Boats must be appropriately sized for narrow canals. 5. Floating dock posted for OC Bay Hopper only. 6. Only two passenger boats may be docked at the floating pier. 7. Conditional use must be renewed every five years from the date of the signed agreement. 8. Life rings shall be readily available within the docking area. 9. Bike racks shall be provided on site, with location approved by the Zoning Administrator. - Parking Regulation Discussion – The Commission will continue to study potential changes to commercial parking standards, with a goal of bringing incremental recommendations to the Mayor and City Council later in the year. - Next Meeting – Scheduled for October 21, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. to hold a public hearing on the Comprehensive Plan update and a driveway apron ordinance amendment.

The Mayor and City Council held their regular meeting on Monday, October 6, 2025, at City Hall. The open session began at 6:22 p.m. after a closed session on real estate matters and adjourned at approximately 7:30 p.m. The council approved a new volunteer fire company MOU, a boardwalk canopy request, the $52 million bond ordinance, a surplus property resolution, and the consent agenda. Closed Session Notice and Report - The council met in closed session from 5:30 to 6:18 p.m. to discuss the acquisition of real property for public purpose. The motion to close passed with seven in favor. Consent Calendar - Approved, 7-0, consent agenda items A through E: - Minutes of the September 30, 2025 work session. - Standing committee draft agendas, including Police Commission on October 15, Transportation Committee on October 14, and Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee on October 15; other committees not meeting in October. - Private event approval for Run the Boards Like Rob 5K on October 19, 2025. - Authorization to proceed with the 2025 Beach Equipment Franchise Auction. - Bid award recommendation for Convention Center Landscaping Installation. Public Comments & Testimony - Vince Gisrael, 1408 Sailing Road, addressed the bond ordinance and asked the council to postpone second reading for two weeks. He cited a rate study showing combined water and wastewater debt service of approximately $24.5 million over FY25-FY29, or about $4.9 million per year, and a discrepancy with the stated $3.068 million sewer debt service. He also cited projected rate increases of about 18.2% for wastewater, 25% for water, and 21.6% for the combined bill over the five-year period, plus plans for more than $52.6 million in wastewater capital projects. He raised questions about a $6 million administration building item, plant capacity of 16.67 million gallons per day, and asked for more transparency and detail before the expected December 4 bond market entry. - Frankie Boyer spoke about installing water stations for dogs, renting bicycles for exercise, and his personal recovery; he asked the city to consider these ideas. - John Biggs, 12301 Jamaica Avenue, an Uber driver, said unauthorized and rogue drivers were soliciting rides during festival weekends, driving in bus lanes, and operating with expired tags and without proper vetting. He asked for more active enforcement by police or the town. - Jacqueline Crook, 12301 Jamaica Avenue, an Uber driver, echoed concerns as a mother and grandmother, reporting young women being harassed by solicitors at bus stops. She asked for a deterrent or presence to prevent predatory behavior while praising Ocean City's overall safety and festival management. - Scott Chismar, of Worcester Street, praised festival logistics, safety, paramedic response, and visitor feedback. He suggested considering the under-pier lighting used for the festival and promoted the Beach Heroes Tuesday morning cleanups, noting heavy cigarette butt litter despite smoking rates below 15%. Discussion Items - MOU with Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company: The council considered a new MOU and an amendment to the 2019 operating MOU. The new MOU transfers ownership of all capital apparatus, including fire engines and towers but not smaller utility vehicles, to the town, establishes minimum funding for apparatus replacement, and creates a separation process requiring mediation if the fire company initiates and an ordinance subject to petition if the city initiates. It also commits the city to a property tax credit for active volunteers residing in Ocean City. The amendment clarifies city employees reporting to the volunteer fire company and members' operational status. The motion by Secretary DeLuca, seconded by Councilmember Metresick, carried 6-0 with Councilmember Savage abstaining. During discussion, Councilmember Garrick asked how active member is defined; a former fire company leader explained the point system, which requires 60 points in at least three categories compared with the state minimum of 50 points in two categories, and said it represents many hundreds of hours per year. Mayor Meehan thanked the volunteer fire company for 120 years of service. - Boardwalk canopy for Dumsers Dairyland: The council approved, 7-0, a fixed build-over canopy extending 3 feet 6 inches over the boardwalk at Caroline Street. The Planning and Community Development Director noted the original 1989 approval prohibited signs, but signs had since been approved on other boardwalk canopies. The motion, as amended by the applicant request, allowed signage as presented. Council discussion clarified the second floor is only a facade, the project has OCDC support, and the council may consider codifying such fixed canopies in a future work session on boardwalk outdoor displays. - Bond ordinance 2025-25: On second reading, the council adopted Ordinance 2025-25, 7-0, authorizing issuance and sale of general obligation municipal purpose bonds not exceeding $52 million for projects reviewed at the September 9 work session. After the vote, Mayor Meehan directed that staff provide answers to questions raised in public comment and clarified that West Ocean City pays its share based on metered flow including debt service. - Resolution 2025-25: The council adopted, 7-0, the resolution authorizing disposition of surplus personal property. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda 7-0. - Approved the new MOU and amendment with Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company 6-0; Councilmember Savage abstained. - Approved the fixed canopy with signage for Dumsers Dairyland 7-0. - Adopted Ordinance 2025-25, authorizing up to $52 million in general obligation bonds, 7-0. - Adopted Resolution 2025-25 on surplus personal property, 7-0. - Referred unauthorized ride-solicitation concerns and hotel beach shuttles to the Police Commission; directed staff to provide bond and rate study answers; planned work session discussion on boardwalk outdoor display rules. - The City Manager reviewed the October 14 work session agenda, including 2026 benefits renewal, fire hydrant assessment funding, a property tax rebate ordinance for active volunteer firefighters and city employees, business license code amendments, and a short-term rental license moratorium.

The Board of Adjustments and Appeals (BAA) met on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 3:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The board considered two variance requests: one for a residential townhouse substantial improvement (BAAV 25-076) and one for an after-the-fact variance for the new Ocean City Skate Bowl administrative building (BAAV 25-077). Both requests were approved. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (August 6, 2025): The board voted unanimously to approve the minutes from the August 6, 2025 meeting. Discussion Items - BAAV 25-076 – Partington Residence (431 Bayshore Drive, Unit C): Applicant Harry B. How 3rd, P.E., representing owners Sang D. and Sandra A. Partington, requested a variance to reduce the minimum 3-foot freeboard elevation requirement above the AE-6 flood zone by up to 2.7 feet. The existing first floor elevation is 6.3 feet NAVD88; the required elevation for additions extending into the AE-6 zone is 9.0 feet. The proposal is for substantial improvement reconstruction of the townhouse, matching the existing floor elevation and adjacent structures. Staff noted a similar variance was approved for the adjacent Unit B (BAA Case 25-011) on February 5, 2025. The board questioned the applicant about flood vents and crawl space grading. The applicant confirmed no garage is involved and that the crawl space will be filled to match outside grade. The board approved the variance unanimously. - BAAV 25-077 – Ocean City Skate Bowl Administrative Building (300 St. Louis Avenue): The Town of Ocean City requested an after-the-fact variance to reduce the minimum 3-foot freeboard elevation requirement above the AE-5 flood zone by 2.95 feet. The building, completed in 2025, has a first floor elevation of 5.05 feet NAVD88 (base flood elevation is 5.0 feet). Mechanical equipment is elevated to 9.07 feet. Staff explained that the building is non-residential and of masonry construction, and that requiring full freeboard would have made public access impractical due to the need for a long handicap ramp. The board discussed conditions for closure during heavy rain/flooding. Staff recommended that the applicant verify operational plans, and the board added a condition that the Recreation and Parks Department provide written confirmation of such plans. The variance was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - BAAV 25-076: Approved unanimously. The variance reduces the required freeboard elevation from 3 feet to 0.3 feet above BFE (effective elevation 6.3 feet NAVD88) for the Partington residence, subject to staff conditions including no subgrade crawl spaces, flood vents, and a non-conversion agreement for any enclosed areas. - BAAV 25-077: Approved unanimously. The after-the-fact variance reduces the required freeboard from 3 feet to 0.05 feet above BFE (effective elevation 5.05 feet NAVD88) for the Skate Bowl administrative building, conditioned on the applicant providing written operational plans for closing the facility during severe flood events.

The Ocean City Mayor and City Council held a work session on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, starting at 1:00 PM and adjourning at 2:31 PM. The meeting included a closed session report, public comments, and a series of new business items covering bids, contract awards, policy discussions, and approvals. All votes recorded seven in favor unless otherwise noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Susan Jones (representing the Hotel Motel Restaurant Association, 5700 Coastal Highway) expressed full support for the Bike Fest event and event producer Matt Odachowski, stating that the hospitality community is "100% behind this event" and hopes to ensure it remains in town. - Frankie Boyer (9201 Seahawk Road, Berlin, Maryland) spoke about the need for water for dogs, bike and scooter regulations on sidewalks, and suggested bike rentals during winter months. His comments were rambling and did not pertain to a specific agenda item. Consent Calendar - Bid Opening for Convention Center Landscaping Installation: A late bid from Posado Landscape was rejected (motion passed 7-0). Four eligible bids were remanded to staff for further review (motion passed 7-0). The scope includes removing existing landscaping at 41st and 40th streets, replacing with stone, and irrigation repairs. - Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting 16 dated September 15, 2025, were approved (motion passed 7-0). - Acknowledgement of Standing Committee Report: The Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee meeting of September 17, 2025, was noted. Discussion Items - Bid Award for Airport Taxiway A Relocation (Item B): Airport Manager Jaime Giandomenico and Public Works Deputy Director Scott Wagner presented the award recommendation. The base bid plus alternate one from David A. Bramble Inc. was $8,338,449.50. After discussion, the council awarded the bid (motion passed 7-0). - Worcester County Request for Increased Sewage Treatment Capacity (Item E): Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young requested to purchase up to 170,000 gallons per day of capacity to serve two existing service areas (Acetic Point and the Landings community). The county will pay $780,386 to cover the one-twelfth cost of the 2000 plant expansion adjusted for inflation. Public Works Director confirmed the request is manageable, noting current peak flows (11.5 MGD on July 5) and remaining capacity. The council voted to direct the city attorney to draft an ordinance amending the sewage treatment facilities transfer agreement, with the increase restricted to those two communities (motion passed 7-0). - 2025 OC Rock & Ride Bikefest Recap and Future Years (Item F): Event producer Matt Odachowski presented a detailed recap, noting the event had a $50 million economic impact, 500,000 people, and 200,000 motorcycles. He highlighted challenges due to a late contract signing (May 30, 2025) and called for improvements, including later closing times and consistent alcohol marketing guidelines. He also presented Positive Energy, a hemp-based business owned by his wife and daughter. Council members praised the event and the promoter's efforts. The council voted to direct staff to work with the promoter and bring back terms for the 2026 contract (motion passed 7-0). - Celebration Fireworks Contract Extension (Item G): Tourism Director Tom Perlozzo requested extending the contract through 2027 and consolidating all fireworks shows under one umbrella. An initial motion to extend with a fixed Monday night schedule failed (5 opposed, 2 in favor). A subsequent motion to extend with flexibility for dates passed (7-0). The council also agreed to discuss the Monday night show's timing and potential alternatives at the October 21 Tourism Commission meeting. - 2026 General Employee Pay Table Recommendations (Item H): HR Director Katie Callan and Budget Director Jennie Knapp requested an additional 3% increase (total 6%) to the pay table minimums and maximums, and moving command staff pay increases from January to July (retroactive to July 1). The total cost for a half-year is $180,000, funded from reserved fund balance and vacant position savings. The motion passed 7-0. - Request to Transfer Funds from Environmental Deferred Revenue (Item I): Planning Director George Bendler requested $239,000 for projects including an intern, anti-litter campaign, and North Side Park improvements. Councilmember Garrick questioned the anti-litter campaign's effectiveness, but the motion passed 7-0, with a directive to discuss the campaign's language at the November Green Team meeting. - Lease for Underground Transatlantic Fiber Optic Cables at Airport (Item J): City Manager Terry McGean presented a 25-year lease with Global Links for up to four cables. Compensation totals $800,000: $200,000 per cable paid within 150 days, and $20,000 per year for 20 years with a 3% annual escalator for additional cables. The cable diameter is approximately the size of a pen. The motion to approve lease terms passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Late bid rejected (7-0). - Airport taxiway bid awarded to David A. Bramble Inc. for $8,338,449.50 (7-0). - Minutes approved (7-0). - Sewage capacity increase authorized; city attorney to draft ordinance (7-0). - Bike Fest 2026 contract terms to be developed by staff with promoter (7-0). - Fireworks contract extended through 2027 with flexible dates (7-0). - Pay table increased by 6% with command staff retro pay (7-0). - Environmental deferred revenue transfer of $239,000 approved (7-0). - Fiber optic cable lease approved (7-0).

The Ocean City Mayor and City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, September 15, 2025, starting at 6:00 PM. The meeting began with a prayer led by Councilmember Gehrig, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Key agenda items included the presentation of the 2025 Beauty Spot Awards by the Beautification Committee, approval of consent agenda items, first reading of a $52 million bond ordinance, resolutions for reimbursement of project expenditures and surplus property disposition, a continuing discussion of municipal infraction fines and penalties, and public comments on golf cart usage, cell connectivity, speed enforcement, and bus passes. All council votes were 7-0 in favor. The next meeting is scheduled for September 30, 2025. Beautification Committee 2025 Beauty Spot Awards - The Beautification Committee, led by Donna (chair), presented awards to residential, retail, commercial, condominium, hotel/motel, restaurant, and community beach entrance winners for outstanding landscaping efforts during a challenging summer. Award recipients included the Wingfields, Foxes, Joneses, Stable House, Mary Annies, Bells, Duncan, Malibu Surf Shop, Farmers Bank, Nick's Golf and Ropes Course, Montego Bay Association, Beach Point Condominium, Tierra West, Gateway Grand, Days Inn Motel, King Charles Hotel, Secrets Hideaway, Wedge Restaurant, Tail Chasers, Bluefin, and the 53rd Street beach entrance. A group photo was taken with the winners and council. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Approved the minutes from the September 9, 2025 work session. - Standing Committee Reports: Acknowledged reports from the Police Commission (September 8) and Coastal Resources Legislative Committee (September 10). - Both items were approved unanimously on a motion by Secretary DeLuca, seconded by Councilmember Yates. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2025-25 (First Reading): Authorized the issuance and sale of general obligation municipal purpose bonds not to exceed $52 million for projects reviewed at the September 9 work session. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2025-23: Declared the Mayor and Council's intent to reimburse expenditures for water radio-read meters (up to $2.3 million) and new boardwalk signage (up to $765,000) with debt proceeds. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2025-24: Authorized the disposition of surplus personal property. Approved unanimously. - Continued Discussion of Municipal Infraction Fines and Penalties: City Solicitor presented an updated code chart (highlighted in yellow) including a proposed addition to Chapter 18 allowing the City Clerk to issue infractions for campaign finance reporting violations (Section 22-42) with a $1,000 fine, consistent with state law. The City Solicitor noted that a comprehensive 46-page code rewrite is pending review by the Ocean City Police Department. Council voted unanimously to move the updated chart to ordinance for a future reading. Public Comments & Testimony - Andrew Sanderson (13406 North Ocean Road 23, Cain Woods): Expressed support for allowing low-speed vehicles (golf carts) to use dedicated lanes on Coastal Highway, citing their prevalence among residents and environmental benefits. He requested the council provide an opinion to state legislators for a potential state law amendment. He also requested a full-time bus pass option for full-time residents under 60. - Mary Jo Breslin (608 Gulf Stream Drive, Montego Bay): Raised concerns about cellular connectivity issues in her neighborhood, describing a safety hazard when she could not use her phone for an EKG during a medical emergency. She requested council help to improve coverage, offering to host a tower on her property. - Sandy Covek (202 Beachcomber, Montego Bay): Echoed connectivity concerns, noting that previous petition against towers may have been conflated with lighting issues and that many signers are no longer residents. She urged re-examination of the issue. - John Atkins (8802 Caribbean Drive): Commented on high county tax share (62%), fiber optic connectivity, scooter safety problems, and sewer system issues. He expressed frustration with limited public comment time at county meetings. - Michael Bell (9,000 Caribbean Drive): Requested speed cameras on Pacific Avenue to curb speeding in residential areas, but City Manager clarified state law restricts speed cameras to construction and school zones. Key Outcomes - All motions passed with 7-0 votes. - Council voted to include discussion of macro cell towers and citywide connectivity (including Comcast) on an upcoming work session agenda (motion by DeLuca, second by Yates, amended by Savage). - Councilmember Terry suggested exploring speed feedback signs (like on South Ocean Drive) as an alternative to cameras in residential areas. - Secretary DeLuca offered to refer the low-speed vehicle issue to the Police Commission and Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee for recommendations, and the non-senior bus pass request to the transportation committee for review. - The next Mayor and Council meeting is a work session on September 30, 2025, with a closed session for legal matters at noon.

The Ocean City Board of Port Wardens met at 2:00 PM on Thursday, September 11, 2025, in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland. The Board approved the August 14, 2025 meeting minutes and acted on 14 port warden cases, including two continued cases and two cases with letters of objection. All motions were carried by voice vote with no recorded opposition; several approvals included conditions. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - The minutes of the August 14, 2025 meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote. - Minor cases PW25-064 through PW25-067 were approved unanimously per staff recommendations: - PW25-064 – 10605 Point Lookout Rd: 60 ft of replacement vinyl bulkheading and reframe/redeck of an existing 9 ft x 60 ft walkway, max 18 in channelward. - PW25-065 – 202 Beachcomber Ln: 40 ft of replacement vinyl bulkheading and in-kind replacement of an existing 4 ft x 32 ft platform, max 18 in channelward. - PW25-066 – 162 Old Wharf Rd: 60 ft of replacement vinyl bulkheading, max 18 in channelward; TOC Public Works must be contacted due to a stormwater outfall pipe. - PW25-067 – 14117 Caine Stable Rd: 50 ft of replacement vinyl bulkheading, max 18 in channelward. Public Comments & Testimony - For PW25-069 (609 Bayshore Dr, Unit 39), an audience member questioned whether the 50 ft pier extension would reach toward a sandbar and affect navigation. Applicant J. Stacey Hart clarified the existing pier lengths and location; the Board approved the case. - For PW25-075 (2003 Herring Way, Unit A), Tom O’Keefe requested a copy of the staff recommendation and asked the Board to clarify that PW25-071 had been approved with the 30 ft exception. The Board confirmed it had. - For PW25-059 (770 94th St, Unit D), a letter of objection from neighbor June Robinson was read into the record. Robinson stated she had not received installation drawings, believed the float had previously hit her pilings, and did not approve the installation. Owner Kelly Barr testified that the float is 10 ft x 20 ft, his boat is 21 ft (not 23 ft), it fits within the 13 ft-wide by 24 ft-deep slip, and he could use tide-slide anchoring to prevent side-to-side sway. - For PW25-074 (1207 Edgewater Ave, Unit 104B), Jerry Mullinix, secretary/treasurer of the Mariner’s Wharf Condominium Association and a 27-year resident of Unit 102, submitted and read a formal objection. The association raised concerns about channelward encroachment, congestion near the Ocean City Fire Department water access at 13th Street, increased traffic during the White Marlin Open, environmental and view impacts, and unresolved ownership/riparian-rights questions, and recommended that the number of boat lifts be restricted within the channel. The letter clarified that the association did not object to modifications to the finger pier itself. Sherry Mullinix also testified, emphasizing navigation and emergency-response concerns. Applicant Keith Fisher responded that he had met with neighbors, nearby slip owners did not oppose the project, and the work would use existing pilings and improve boat access by turning the vessel head-on in the slip. Discussion Items - PW25-068 (609 Harbour Dr): Board members noted a discrepancy between plan sheets showing waterway width of 500+ ft and 250+ ft, but agreed the requested 39 ft channelward extension remained within the 20% limit even under the smaller distance. - PW25-071 (2101 Herring Way): Staff reported the bulkhead portion met standards, but the four boatlifts requested a 30 ft channelward extension, exceeding the TOC code allowance of 20% of 145 ft = 29 ft. The Board approved the case with a condition that all marine construction not exceed the 30 ft existing pilings. - PW25-059: Staff corrected the written agenda packet, stating the application did not meet minimum specifications because only 86 ft of open water existed; 20% of 86 ft is 17.2 ft. The Board ultimately approved the float with a condition that it not exceed 20 ft channelward. - PW25-062 (2205 Philadelphia Ave, Slip 53): This continued case had previously drawn an objection from a jet ski business operator across the waterway. That objector was not present at this meeting, and the Board approved the boat lift on existing pilings, max 23 ft channelward within the slip. - PW25-074: Board members observed that the proposed work would not change the slip’s physical dimensions and that boat-size limits are enforced by the Harbor Master/City of Ocean City, not by the Board. Key Outcomes - Approved PW25-064, PW25-065, PW25-066, and PW25-067 (minor cases) per staff recommendations. - Approved PW25-068 (609 Harbour Dr) per staff recommendations. - Approved PW25-069 (609 Bayshore Dr, Unit 39) per staff recommendations. - Approved PW25-070 (118 Harbour Island) per staff recommendations. - Approved PW25-071 (2101 Herring Way) per staff recommendations, with the condition that all marine construction not exceed 30 ft beyond existing pilings. - Approved PW25-072 (743 Laurel Ave) per staff recommendations. - Approved PW25-073 (10611 Point Lookout Rd) per staff recommendations. - Approved PW25-075 (2003 Herring Way, Unit A) per staff recommendations. - Approved PW25-062 (2205 Philadelphia Ave, Slip 53) per staff recommendations. - Approved PW25-059 (770 94th St, Unit D) with the condition that the floating dock not exceed 20 ft channelward; the approved dock size is 10 ft x 20 ft. - Approved PW25-074 (1207 Edgewater Ave, Unit 104B) per staff recommendations despite the Mariner’s Wharf Condominium Association’s objection. Standard staff conditions applied to most approvals, including MDE approval at the building-permit stage, completion of all marine construction within 18 months, maintenance of 5 ft setbacks or submission of letters of no objection, and contacting TOC Public Works where stormwater outfall pipes were present.

The Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals met on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall. Chair Christopher Rudolf presided. The board approved administrative items, conducted a public hearing for a special yard exception and variance, and received an educational presentation on Maryland's Critical Area program. Administrative Matters - Minutes from August 28, 2025 meeting – Approved unanimously (5-0). - Findings of Fact for BZA 2727 (Clayton Homes) – Approved unanimously (4-0-1, with one abstention by John Moran). Public Hearings BZA 2728 – Craig Reichard (251 Flounder Lane) The applicant requested: (1) a special yard exception to allow a proposed dwelling to be 2.9 feet from the front lot line (matching an existing legal nonconformity), and (2) a variance of 3.5 feet from the 10-foot separation distance requirement, allowing the dwelling to be 6.5 feet from a neighboring dwelling. Staff testimony by Chase Phillips confirmed the site (Lot E-24, Isle of Wight Mobile Home Park) is in the MH Mobile Home Residential Zoning District. The applicant's representative, Edward Moore of P.E. Moore and Sons Construction, testified that the lot's configuration, shared electric meter with adjacent property, parking constraints, and the need for emergency vehicle access justified the requests. He also noted that a firewall would be installed to address fire safety. No members of the public spoke for or against the application. Board Discussion and Actions: - Special Yard Exception (Request 1): The board found that under Section 110-94(3)(a) a similar nonconformity existed on the lot, and the exception would not substantially affect adjacent properties. Motion to grant passed 4-0. - Variance (Request 2): The board determined that the property was not unique or peculiar (the lot is larger than typical, not smaller) and that the applicant had not demonstrated an unwarranted hardship—a smaller house could be built or the house relocated. The variance was denied 4-0. Educational Presentation: Maryland Critical Area Program Emily Vainieri, Assistant Attorney General and Senior Counsel to the Department of Natural Resources, provided a detailed overview of the Critical Area program, including its history since 1984, the three land designations (Ocean City is entirely "Intensely Developed Area"), and the seven variance standards that must all be met. She emphasized the higher bar for critical area variances compared to typical zoning variances, the applicant's burden of proof, and best practices for board decisions (e.g., tying evidence to each standard). Board members asked questions about uniqueness, structure vs. land, reasonable accommodations for disabled applicants, and after-the-fact variances. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from August 28, 2025 (5-0). - Approved Findings of Fact for BZA 2727 (Clayton Homes) (4-0-1). - Granted special yard exception for BZA 2728 (4-0). - Denied variance for BZA 2728 (4-0). - No meeting scheduled for September 25, 2025. - Meeting adjourned shortly after 7:15 PM.