Public Meetings - Ocean City, Maryland

The Ocean City Mayor and City Council held their regular meeting on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM at City Hall, 301 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland. The meeting opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the Beautification Committee's Beauty Spot Awards, approval of the consent agenda, reports from the City Manager and City Council, and a notice of a closed session on real estate matters. No public comments were offered. Beautification Committee Beauty Spot Awards - Beautification Committee Chair Donna presented the committee's work and recognized property owners, businesses, and community groups with Beauty Spot Awards for landscaping and container gardens. - Recipients included residents at Harbor Island; Captive Escape Rooms (101 South Baltimore Avenue); Hyatt Place (16th Street and Boardwalk); Tide to Table; Malia's Cafe (1800 Baltimore Avenue); a garden under a building at 66th Street; the 133rd Street Beach Entrance; and Elks Lodge 2645 (13708 Sinepuxent Avenue). Special awards were also presented. - The committee highlighted additional work, including a memorial garden at the convention center for longtime city servant Donna Abbott, plantings at City Hall, Arbor Day observances (Ocean City is a Tree City USA), and Christmas decorating of City Hall that has occurred for more than 25 years. - The Mayor thanked the committee and encouraged residents to nominate deserving properties for future recognition. Consent Calendar - Item A: Approval of the minutes from the September 15, 2026 work session. - Item B: Acknowledgement of standing committee reports from the Police Commission (September 14), Tourism Commission (September 14), Transportation Committee (September 15), and Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (September 16). - Item C: Acknowledgement of the Motor Event Task Force draft agenda for September 28. - Motion by Secretary Savage, seconded by Councilmember Garrick, to approve Items A through C. The consent calendar was approved without discussion. Public Comments - No members of the public came forward to speak. Note: The posted agenda states a three-minute speaking limit, while the meeting transcript references a five-minute period. City Manager's Report - The City Manager reviewed the draft agenda for the September 29, 2026 work session, including a closed session at noon on legal matters; approval of the evening's meeting minutes; a standing committee report with a recommendation from the Fire Prevention Commission; a bid opening for the Ocean City Rocket Center renovation; and discussion of a draft ordinance on signage in the unimproved right-of-ways along Baltimore Avenue. Comments from Mayor and City Council - A councilmember discussed the prior weekend's event brought to Ocean City by Garvey Heiderman and Brad Hoffman, describing it as a speaker-driven event featuring 19 innovators, leaders, and changemakers presenting original ideas in 20-minute segments. - The second part, "Evolution" at the convention center, included exhibits on AI, robotics, and health, a presentation by pilot Heather on the future of flying cars, and a Tesla light show. The councilmember noted the flying car did not take off. - The councilmember expressed strong support for the event and for "world-class" thinking, stating the city needs events, meetings, trade shows, and "a little something for everyone." - The councilmember cited the convention center's sports floor investment as a successful example of forward-looking decisions, but noted the center is now largely full on weekdays, limiting capacity for additional events. - The councilmember acknowledged past public pushback to major projects, including concerts, the golf industry, the public works complex, and the development of North Ocean City, and said the special events calendar adjustment drew major pushback, including threatened lawsuits over closing the boardwalk in the spring, but that the city worked with stakeholders to solve problems. - The councilmember also said a questionable event may not be worth three-quarters of a million dollars just to fill a gap in the calendar, and urged the city to revisit economic development priorities after the election season. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar (Items A-C) was approved by motion, seconded, and passed without objection. - The City Council recognized the 2026 Beauty Spot Award winners. - No action was taken on the September 29 work session agenda, which was reviewed by the City Manager. - The Council scheduled a closed session to follow the open session directly, for the purpose of discussing real estate matters.

The Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, Maryland, held a work session on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting included approvals of minutes, a funding request from Diakonia for a supportive living campus, a wrap-up of beach code enforcement for the summer season, and the Q2 2026 internal audit report. All agenda items were addressed, with unanimous votes on matters requiring decisions. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval (Regular Session 13, September 8, 2026): Approved unanimously (7-0) on a motion by Secretary Savage, seconded by Councilmember Heiser. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public wished to speak. Discussion Items B. Funding and Partnership Request for the Supportive Living Campus Project (Diakonia) - Presenters: Ken Argot (Executive Director) and Amanda Shick (Development Director). - Overview: Diakonia, which has served Ocean City for over 50 years, requested a leadership investment of $250,000 over five years ($50,000 annually) to support the first phase of a supportive living campus ($7.5 million of a $15.25 million total project). The funding would help meet a required 50% match ($1 million) for a recently awarded $2 million state grant from Maryland’s Shelter and Transitional Housing Facilities Grant Program. The campus would consolidate services (food pantry, veteran services, mobile outreach) currently scattered across West Ocean City. - Key Statistics: In 2025, Diakonia served nearly 1,200 individuals, including 381 newly homeless, prevented 209 evictions, and provided food assistance to over 13,000 people. Its veteran program has a 95% successful rehousing rate and has already surpassed its 2026 goal of 110 veterans served (now at 136). - Council Positions: Multiple council members (Garrick, Heiser, Mayor Mehan) expressed strong support, citing Diakonia’s track record, community impact, and effective case management. Councilmember Geig noted the naming opportunity could be offered to another sponsor if monetized. Councilmember Boos asked the Diakonia team to keep the council informed as construction approaches. - Motion and Vote: Councilmember Garrick moved to approve the $250,000 request as $50,000 annually over five years starting in FY2028, with a mutually agreed naming opportunity; seconded by Councilmember Heiser. The motion carried unanimously (7-0). C. Beach Code Enforcement Wrap-Up Report - Presenter: Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald. - Season Summary: Enforcement officers tagged approximately 3,300 unoccupied tents/canopies, achieved a 72% contact rate for violations, and spoke to about 11,500 guests, residents, and visitors regarding all beach ordinances. - Recommendations: Theobald recommended continuing the pilot program and considering amendments to the shade structure footprint definition (previously increased from 10 to 15 feet) to accommodate newer sun shades. He suggested a slight increase in manpower but no additional equipment. - Council Feedback: Council members praised the program’s effectiveness and the professionalism of enforcement staff. Councilmember Metrosick, who originally opposed the program, acknowledged it was implemented correctly. Theobald relayed positive resident feedback. There was consensus to continue the program. - Outcome: City Manager Terry McGean was directed to work with Theobald to bring forward budget recommendations based on lessons learned for the upcoming budget cycle. Councilmember Savage requested Theobald return at least monthly next season. D. Internal Audit 2026 Quarter 2 Report (April–June 2026) - Presenter: Internal Auditor Karin Scott. - Completed Audits: - Parking Operations & Revenue: No significant findings; revenues appropriately recorded and reconciled; some vendor administrative processing delays identified and communicated. - Convention Center Operations: No significant findings; processes are efficient but documentation of procedures should be strengthened (especially knowledge transfer as seasoned employees retire). - Audits in Progress: Information technology (Central Square financial/planning software user access), and vendor business accounts (P-card statement reconciliation against accounts like Amazon, Staples, Walmart). - P-Card Statistics (Quarter): Approximately $760,000 spent across 2,800 transactions; 22 transactions over $2,500 ($82,000 total); 241 cards issued; 33 follow-ups needed (sales tax, missing receipts). - Payroll Overtime Comparison (Q2 2026 vs Q2 2025): Total overtime hours decreased from 32,010 to 31,900 (excluding a 1,300-hour rock concert event in 2025, adjusted hours 2026 were slightly higher). Police overtime saw significant decreases in leave cancel, investigations, paperwork, RAM, and training categories. Fire department overtime increased due to contract work, no part-time availability, and training of new employees. Beach patrol overtime rose noticeably (Councilmember Metrosick asked for monitoring). - Other Activities: Scott conducts quarterly unemployment and ticket/event pass reviews, serves on pension committee, works on timekeeping system (fire department onboarding expected in upcoming payroll), and reviews Comcast franchise reports and daily transportation cash. Key Outcomes - Diakonia Funding: Approved unanimously (7-0) for $250,000 over five years ($50,000/year from FY2028) with a naming opportunity. - Beach Code Enforcement: Council directed the City Manager to develop budget recommendations for continuing the program in FY2028, incorporating lessons learned and considering a slight staffing increase. - Internal Audit: No formal action required; audit findings and recommendations noted for departmental follow-up. - Meeting Adjourned: At 1:36 PM by unanimous consent.

The Ocean City, Maryland Planning and Zoning Commission met in regular session at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue. The Commission approved the May 19 and August 18, 2026 meeting minutes and the 2027 meeting schedule, heard an introduction of a proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) zoning code amendment, and received a determination of nonconformity update. No public testimony was given, and no final decisions were made on the ADU amendment. Consent Calendar - Minutes of May 19, 2026 – Approved. - Minutes of August 18, 2026 – Approved with a correction noting that Commissioner Gordon was not present at that meeting. - 2027 Planning Commission Meeting Dates – Approved. Several 2027 meeting dates are adjusted to Wednesdays due to holidays and changes to the Mayor and City Council meeting schedule. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public testified at this meeting. The public hearing on the proposed ADU amendment is scheduled for the October 6, 2026 meeting. Discussion Items - Introduction of Proposed Code Amendment to Chapter 110 (Zoning) – ADU Provisions (PZ File 26-14100001): Staff introduced a draft ordinance amending sections 110-2, 110-275, 110-276, 110-426, 110-485, 110-665, 110-695, 110-845, and 110-861.4, and adding section 110-888, to implement Maryland's state Accessory Dwelling Unit requirements. Staff previously presented the information to the Mayor and City Council on July 14, 2026, and to the Planning Commission on August 18, 2026. No decisions were made; discussion and the public hearing are set for October 6, 2026. - A commissioner expressed concern about parking, asking that if a bedroom is added to a property, "where's that car gonna park?" - A commissioner expressed concern about ADUs being converted to short-term rentals, asking "when do you convert that ADU" and whether that conversion would be allowed. Another commissioner noted that a property receives one rental license but can hold more than one rental license. - A commissioner stated that although there is a shortage of affordable housing stock across Maryland, "I don't think that we're one of them." - A commissioner noted that single-family homes would not have had to add ADUs, and that adding a bedroom would not meet the code. - A commissioner predicted that "when all of Kane Woods comes in here... on October 6th and opposes this, we don't have any power to not pass this," citing the state mandate. Another commissioner responded that when the public comes in, the Commission can hear testimony and still make adjustments. - Commissioners discussed the draft ordinance's accessory building height limit (no more than 20 feet and no more than 1½ stories), kitchenettes versus full code-compliant kitchens, and HOA enforcement of private regulations beyond staff approval of code-compliant plans. - A commissioner noted that all Maryland municipalities are operating under the same state legislative guidelines, and stated the intent is that if all other parameters are met, zoning should not be the roadblock to ADUs. - A commissioner noted the ordinance "is gonna continue, it's gonna come back up in the next session in a different form until it gets passed." - Note: In the meeting transcript the chair read section "110-484," while the agenda and draft ordinance list "110-485." - Determination of Nonconformity Update: Staff reported on determinations of nonconformity, including the Ocean Gem Apartments at 1311 and 1401 Baltimore Avenue, for which the property owner requested a determination for current use and off-street parking; the official determination was issued August 6, 2026. A revised determination (PZ 20-18100028) was dated June 25, 2026. Staff explained determinations are based on existing conditions only, not on any proposed project or future use. - A commissioner commented that a large section of Ocean City is non-conforming. Another commissioner asked whether the determinations signal an upcoming project; staff responded the determinations are not tied to any project. - One commissioner said, "I don't recall receiving this information before," and asked what the Commission could do with the information; staff noted the code requires these updates to be provided to the Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals. Key Outcomes - Approved the May 19, 2026 minutes and the August 18, 2026 minutes (with correction). - Approved the 2027 Planning Commission meeting dates. - Introduced the proposed ADU zoning text amendment; the public hearing is scheduled for October 6, 2026. No vote was taken. - Noted upcoming meetings on October 6, 2026 (ADU public hearing) and October 20, 2026 (conditional use public hearing), with additional site plans expected to appear on those agendas.

The Ocean City Board of Port Wardens met Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland. The Board reviewed two minor and six major marine construction cases, approved the minutes of the August 13, 2026 meeting, and acted on the docketed applications. Staff recommendations covered cases PW 26-038 through PW 26-050 as advertised and posted. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The Board approved the minutes from the August 13, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - During the 805 Penguin Drive case, a speaker raised setback issues and said letters had been sent to Baltimore and that a stop order had been discussed. Board members responded that the new construction itself was not in the setback and that the Board was only dealing with the new construction portion. The speaker also described having to shrink a planned pier from six feet to five feet, or to three feet if two boat slips were kept, and referenced a person named Jackie not wanting “toys” around. Discussion Items - Minor Case PW 26-044 (321 White Heron Court): Staff read a request to install 132 linear feet of replacement vinyl bulkhead, not exceeding 18 inches channelward, with owner Phillip Creek and applicant Stacey Hart & Associates. Conditions included Town of Ocean City open-water bulkhead standard 8.0, an 18-inch channelward limit, engineered plans for bulkheads exceeding 100 feet in length, MDE approval at building permit application, and completion of all marine construction within 18 months of the Board decision. - Minor Case PW 26-045 (10607 Point Lookout Road): Staff read a request to repair, by vinyl replacement 18 inches channelward, about 60 linear feet of deteriorated timber batter-pile bulkhead with new batter-pile bulkhead, owner Mark Souders. Conditions included Town of Ocean City open-water standard 8.0, an 18-inch channelward limit, MDE approval at building permit application, and completion within 18 months. - Major Case PW 26-038 (227 N. Heron Drive): Staff read a request to install 60 feet of replacement vinyl bulkheading, construct a new 6-foot by 19-foot dock, drive two mooring piles, and install one boatlift, with all work extending 13.5 feet channelward; owner Mary Ring. The transcript reads “227 North Herring Drive” in one place, while the agenda lists 227 N. Heron Drive. Conditions included Town of Ocean City canal standard 6.1, an 18-inch channelward limit, five-foot setbacks and/or letters of no objection including any HOA, MDE approval, and completion within 18 months. - Major Case PW 26-046 (143 Pine Tree Road): Staff read a request to install 40 feet of replacement vinyl bulkhead including six batter piles, plus a boatlift, owner Brian Horn. Conditions included Town of Ocean City canal standard 6.1, an 18-inch channelward limit, a boatlift installed per manufacturer’s specifications not exceeding 31.5 feet channelward, MDE approval, and completion within 18 months. - Major Case PW 26-047 (603 Harbour Drive): Staff read a request to install 42 feet of new vinyl bulkhead 18 inches channelward, owner Carol Hunter. Conditions stated that all existing marine structures rebuilt or reinstalled must meet Town marine construction standards and that the new bulkhead would bring maximum channelward extension to 38 feet. Five-foot setbacks and/or letters of no objection, MDE approval, and completion within 18 months were required. - Major Case PW 26-048 (1556 Teal Drive): Staff read a request to relocate an existing boatlift by removing two pilings, redriving them, and installing two new additional pilings, with a maximum channelward extension of 38 feet, owner Ty Williams. Conditions required pilings reinstalled under Town of Ocean City Marine Standards not exceeding 38 feet, MDE approval, and completion within 18 months. - Major Case PW 26-049 (778 94th Street, Unit 201, Slip 18): Staff read a request to install one boatlift on existing pilings with a maximum channelward extension of 28 feet, owner Christopher Shelton. Conditions included MDE approval and completion within 18 months. - Major Case PW 26-050 (805 Penguin Drive): Staff read a request to install a 6-foot by 44-foot perpendicular pier, owner Jacqueline DeGroft, applicant Stacey Hart & Associates. Discussion focused on setback concerns, existing pilings, and whether the Board could consider only new construction. The Board approved the project as part of the staff recommendation as advertised and posted. Key Outcomes - The Board approved the August 13, 2026 meeting minutes. - The Board approved all eight docketed applications: PW 26-044, PW 26-045, PW 26-038, PW 26-046, PW 26-047, PW 26-048, PW 26-049, and PW 26-050, subject to the conditions read into the record. Standard conditions included MDE approval at the time of building permit application and completion of all marine construction within 18 months of the Board’s decision. - The transcript records a voice vote call of “all in favor” near the end; no numerical tally was recorded.

The Board of Zoning Appeals met on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland. The meeting included administrative matters, a public hearing on a zoning appeal, and board/staff comments. The transcript for this meeting is not available; this summary is based on the agenda and the pre‑meeting staff report. Consent Calendar - Minutes from August 27, 2026: The board was scheduled to review and consider approval of the minutes from the previous meeting. The outcome of this review is not recorded in the provided materials. - Findings of Fact for BZA 2750 (Bradley Construction Company, Inc.): The board was scheduled to review and consider approval of the findings of fact related to the special yard exception granted at the August 27, 2026 meeting. The outcome is not recorded in the provided materials. Public Hearing: BZA 2740 – Appeal of Zoning Administrator’s Determination (103 Sea Lane) The board held a public hearing on an appeal filed by Quinn McGinnes, Esq., on behalf of James E. LaRue, Inc., concerning property at 103 Sea Lane (Lot 977, Section 5B, Montego Bay Mobile Home Park). The appeal challenged the Zoning Administrator’s determination dated April 9, 2026, which denied an amendment to Permit 25‑1995 on the grounds that the second floor of the dwelling is defined as a habitable attic under Section 110‑2 of the Ocean City Code and is therefore subject to the requirements for habitable attics. Applicant’s Position: The applicant argued that the second floor should not be classified as a habitable attic and that the Zoning Administrator’s determination was in error. The applicant’s legal argument (Applicant Exhibit 1) was submitted as part of the record. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommended that the board carefully review the application materials, accept testimony, and determine whether the Zoning Administrator’s April 9, 2026 determination is correct. No public comments were recorded in the staff report or agenda for this hearing. The outcome of the board’s decision is not available in the provided materials. Discussion Items No additional discussion items beyond the consent calendar and the public hearing were listed on the agenda. Board/Staff Comments Board members and staff provided comments, including a reminder from Chase Phillips that the September 10 meeting required five members due to the appeal nature of the case, as noted in the August 27 minutes. Key Outcomes - The board’s decisions on the approval of minutes and findings of fact from the August 27 meeting are not documented in the provided materials. - The board’s decision on BZA 2740 (the habitable attic appeal) is not recorded; the transcript is empty and no minutes for this meeting are available. - The meeting adjourned at an unspecified time; the agenda indicates adjournment after board/staff comments.

The Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, Maryland, held a regular meeting on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall. The meeting began with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, adopted two ordinances and one resolution on second reading, received a brief report from the City Manager, and expressed appreciation for a successful summer season. Councilmembers Gehrig and Proctor were absent. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Approved the minutes of the September 1, 2026 work session. - Committee Agendas: Acknowledged upcoming meetings: Police Commission (September 14), Tourism Commission (September 14), Transportation Committee (September 15), Recreation and Parks Committee (November 12), Green Team (November 12), and Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (September 17). - 2027 Meeting Schedule: Approved the 2027 Mayor and City Council meeting schedule. - Softball Field Lighting: Approved the purchase of Northside Park softball field lighting through a cooperative purchasing network. Ordinances and Resolutions - Ordinance 2026-19 (FY26 Budget Amendment 2): Adopted on second reading as reviewed at the July 28 work session. Motion carried with 5 in favor. - Ordinance 2026-20 (Bond Authorization): Adopted on second reading to authorize the Mayor and Council to issue and sell general obligation municipal purpose bonds not to exceed $18,000,000 for projects reviewed at the August 11 work session. Motion carried with 5 in favor. - Resolution 2026-22 (Surplus Property Disposition): Adopted to authorize the disposition of certain surplus personal property. Motion carried with 5 in favor. Comments from the City Manager - The City Manager noted that the Department Activity Report was included in the meeting packet. - Announced the upcoming work session on September 15, 2026, which will begin with a closed session to discuss legal matters at noon. - New business items for the work session include: a request for funding and partnership for the Supportive Living Campus project presented by Dia Kenia, a final wrap-up on beach code enforcement presented by Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald, and the second quarter internal audit report. - Expressed thanks to staff for a great summer season, highlighting the work of all departments. Comments from the Mayor and Council - Councilmembers echoed the City Manager's appreciation, noting the efforts of public safety, public works, tourism, and communications teams. - The Mayor requested that the thanks be passed on to all employees, stating, "We do respect them. We do see... the job that they do every single day. And it makes a difference." Adjournment - The meeting adjourned at 6:06 PM following a motion by Secretary Savage, seconded by Councilmember Bruce, with 5 in favor. No public comments were recorded.

The work session was originally scheduled for 1:00 PM but began approximately one hour late at 2:00 PM. The meeting opened with a report on the closed session held from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by the appointment of a Board of Elections member, the retirement recognition of the Convention Center Director, approval of minutes, committee reports, a beach code enforcement update, and the announcement of a newly contracted lobbying firm. Closed Session Report - The Mayor and City Council held a closed session from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM to discuss legal, personnel, real estate, and public security matters. A motion to close the session passed 7-0 at 1:56 PM. Attendees included Mayor Rick Mehan, City Manager Terry McGean, Deputy City Manager Jarr Harmon, Council President Matt James, Council Secretary Will Savage, Councilmembers John Garrick, Jake McTresick, Carol Proctor, Peter Bruce, and Jeff Heiser, City Clerk Diana Chavis, City Solicitor Heather Stansbury, Police Chief Ray Austin, Police Captain Dennis Eed, and Board of Elections candidate Bobby DeCosta. Appointments and Recognitions - Appointment of Bobby DeCosta to the Board of Elections: The council appointed Bobby DeCosta to fill a vacancy created by the retirement/resignation of Mary Adelin Bradford, who had served on the board for about 40 years (including over 20 as chair). The motion passed 7-0. DeCosta was sworn in by the mayor. - Retirement Recognition of Convention Center Director Larry Noccolino: The council recognized Larry Noccolino for 14 years of service as Director of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. Mayor Mehan read a proclamation listing major expansions achieved during his tenure, including the Bayfront Ballroom, Dockside Exhibit Hall, Ocean City Performing Arts Center, approximately 30,000 additional square feet of exhibit space, and the 15,000-square-foot Bayfront Gallery. Noccolino thanked his staff, town departments, the Maryland Stadium Authority, City Manager Terry McGean, and his family. He was presented with a Key to the City. Public Comments - No members of the public spoke. New Business and Committee Reports - Approval of Minutes: The council unanimously approved minutes from the Closed Session of August 6, 2026, the Work Session of August 11, 2026, and Regular Session 12 of August 17, 2026 (7-0). - Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee: The August 19 report was noted (no further details in the transcript). - Pension Committee Report: The August 19 committee meeting produced two recommendations that were approved unanimously within the committee: (1) replace JP Morgan Mid-Value with Columbia Select Mid Cap Value; (2) fund the unbudgeted portion of the FY27 actuarial determined contribution using approximately $250,000 from the assigned fund balance set aside for pension contributions (requested by Jenny Knapp). The council voted 7-0 to approve the committee’s recommendations. - Recreation and Parks Committee Report – Bayside Park Concrete Repair: Public Works Director Hal Atkins presented a request to transfer approximately $123,000 from completed capital projects that came in under budget to address failing concrete at Bayside Park. The concrete was described as delaminating, cracked, and heaved, posing a liability. The council voted 7-0 to approve the transfer. - Fire Prevention Commission: A draft agenda for the commission’s September 1 meeting was noted. Beach Code Enforcement Report - Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald provided an update covering August 3 through August 23. Enforcement personnel have contacted about 70% of previously tagged violators. As of the meeting date, only 16 stands remained due to the late Labor Day and school returns. Theobald proposed keeping enforcement through September 27 to maintain Automated External Defibrillator (AED) coverage. No formal action was taken. Government Relations Services - The council reported that it had interviewed four firms on August 6 and August 17 for government relations services and has contracted with Manus Canning & Associates to assist with budget, legislative, policy, and regulatory matters at state and federal levels. Key Outcomes - Appointed Bobby DeCosta to the Board of Elections (7-0). - Approved minutes from three meetings (7-0). - Approved Pension Committee recommendations (7-0). - Approved $123,000 transfer for Bayside Park concrete repair (7-0). - Adjourned the meeting (7-0).

The Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals met on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The board addressed administrative matters, including approval of prior meeting minutes and findings of fact, and held two public hearings: a request for a special parking exception at 611 Penguin Drive (BZA 2748) and a request for a special yard exception at 12506 Assawoman Drive (BZA 2750). The parking exception was denied, while the yard exception was approved. Consent Calendar - Minutes from July 9, 2026 meeting: Approved unanimously (4-0). - Minutes from August 13, 2026 meeting: Approved (3-0) with two board members abstaining (the record shows 3 in favor, 0 opposed, and 2 abstentions). - Findings of Fact for BZA 2745 (Quiet Storm Surf and Turf): Approved unanimously (4-0). - Findings of Fact for BZA 2746 (Damon Mahoney): Approved unanimously (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke for or against either application during the public comment periods. Written support was received from one neighbor (Kreg Kephart) for BZA 2750, confirming no objection from a stakeholder in the owning LLC. Discussion Items BZA 2748 – Special Parking Exception at 611 Penguin Drive (Runaway Bay) - Applicant: Hugh Cropper IV, Esq., for the Luis and Stephanie deCelis Revocable Trust. Requested a waiver of two out of four required off-street parking spaces for reconstruction of an existing duplex unit (to be used as a single-family dwelling). - Staff Presentation: Chase Phillips, Senior Zoning Analyst, explained that the property is a duplex in the R-2 Medium Residential District. The proposed reconstruction adds a third floor with a bonus room/accessory room, which under code counts as a bedroom, increasing parking requirements from two to four spaces. Only two off-street spaces can be provided on the lot. - Applicant’s Argument: Hugh Cropper argued that the character and use of the building is as a single-family dwelling (due to deed restrictions and fee-simple ownership), and that the Runaway Bay subdivision’s wide streets (50-foot right-of-way) and ample on-street parking make full code parking unnecessary. He cited previous special exceptions granted in the neighborhood and provided testimony from architect Danielle Haley, owner Luis deCelis, and neighbors Todd Moore and David Steinbeck, all of whom stated that parking is not a problem and that the exception would not adversely affect adjacent properties. - Board Discussion: Board members debated whether the “character or use of the building” (as required by Section 110-94(2)(b)) justified the waiver. Some noted that the building is a duplex, not a detached single-family home, and that the domino effect of granting multiple waivers could lead to future parking issues. Others acknowledged the unique neighborhood but felt the code provision focuses on the building itself, not the neighborhood. The board also noted the potential for the storage room to be converted to a bedroom by a future owner, though staff indicated that would be a zoning violation. - Outcome: Motion to deny made by Emily Nock, seconded by John Moran. The motion passed 4-1 (Malcolm VanKirk voted against the motion, i.e., in favor of granting). The application was denied. BZA 2750 – Special Yard Exception at 12506 Assawoman Drive - Applicant: Bradley Construction Inc. for property owners Austin Scates and Kelsea Kephart (Ole 111, LLC). Requested a special yard exception to allow a second-floor bump-out extension to be built flush with the existing legally nonconforming 4.7-foot side yard setback, rather than the required 5 feet. - Staff Presentation: Chase Phillips explained that the existing house, built in 1966, is legally nonconforming with a 4.7-foot side setback. A permit was issued for substantial renovation (raising the house, adding a third floor). During construction, the applicant submitted a revision to add a 4.5-foot-deep bump-out on the second floor, which would extend to the same 4.7-foot setback as the existing wall. The encroachment is only 0.3 feet (3.6 inches) beyond the required 5-foot setback. Staff noted that the bump-out does not go any further into the setback than the existing structure, and that the property was properly noticed with no public opposition. - Applicant’s Argument: David Bradley and Justin Ball described the project sequence, noting that the bump-out was a change order after construction began. They emphasized that the extension is minimal (less than the thickness of a wall) and does not affect the side yard access or create any new adverse impact. They also noted that a deck was previously approved to the same line, so the enclosed space would have the same footprint. The applicant suggested the bump-out could be considered a box bay window, which is allowed a two-foot exception. - Board Discussion: Board members agreed that the exception was clear-cut, as the bump-out does not increase the degree of nonconformity and has no adverse effect on neighboring properties. The board found that the criteria under Section 110-93(2) and 110-94(3)(a) were met. - Outcome: Motion to approve made by John Moran, seconded by Emily Nock. The motion passed unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - BZA 2748 (611 Penguin Drive): Denied (4-1). The board found no evidence that the character or use of the duplex building made full parking provision unnecessary. - BZA 2750 (12506 Assawoman Drive): Approved (5-0). The special yard exception was granted for the 0.3-foot encroachment, as the bump-out does not extend beyond the existing legally nonconforming setback. - Administrative Items: All minutes and findings of fact were approved as noted. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for September 10, 2026, to hear an appeal of a zoning administrator’s determination (BZA 2740, previously postponed). The appeal for Mourning Wood Mushrooms (BZA 2747) was withdrawn.

The Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission met on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered three land-use applications and a staff presentation on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) mandated by Maryland House Bill 1466. All three applications were approved unanimously, and the ADU discussion was informational. Consent Calendar - Minutes of May 19, 2026: Tabled due to lack of a quorum. Approval deferred to the next meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments during the meeting. Discussion Items - Minor Site Plan Amendment – Atlantic Edge (14 142nd Street): The applicant, Atlantic Planning & Development (Jeff Thaler), requested permission to create two construction phases for the previously approved eight-unit condominium project (four duplex buildings). Phase 1 (Units 1–4) is already constructed; Phase 2 (Units 5–8) remains pending. Staff confirmed that all 22 conditions of the original July 31, 2025 approval remain applicable. The commission approved the phasing plan as presented. - Site Plan – Fenwick Dental (12910 Coastal Highway): The applicant, AKJ Dental DDS LLC (represented by Stan Bohnsack of Becker Morgan Group), proposed converting a former bank into a dental office with associated site improvements (parking, ADA access, landscaping, lighting, stormwater management). The project will add a second story and replace the drive-through with pervious pavers. Staff recommended approval with 14 conditions, including compliance with floodplain regulations, structural engineering review, and separate sign permits. The applicant addressed all Technical Review Committee comments. The commission approved the site plan as presented. - Final Subdivision Approval – 12709 Assawoman Drive: Coastal Development & Management Group LLC requested to subdivide an existing three-story duplex into two fee-simple parcels. The building already holds a certificate of occupancy. Staff conditions include separate water/sewer connections, a shared-use agreement for the party wall and driveway, and sidewalk/curb compliance. Attorney Hugh Cropper clarified that the units will not be condominiums. The commission approved the subdivision with the staff recommendations, allowing 60 days for submission of the shared-use agreement. - Staff Comments – Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Planning Director George Bendler introduced Maryland House Bill 1466 (effective October 1, 2025), which requires municipalities to authorize ADUs on single-family detached lots by October 1, 2026. The presentation summarized state mandates, key policy choices (e.g., by-right vs. conditional use, parking studies, setback limits), and a previous July 14, 2026 City Council workshop. No action was taken; the discussion was for information only, to prepare a future zoning amendment. Key Outcomes - Atlantic Edge Phasing: Motion to approve as presented by Commissioner Butta, seconded by Commissioner Hough. Unanimous approval (voice vote). - Fenwick Dental Site Plan: Motion to approve as presented by Commissioner Butta, seconded by Commissioner Hough. Unanimous approval (voice vote). - 12709 Assawoman Drive Subdivision: Motion to approve with staff recommendations by Commissioner Hough, seconded by Commissioner Robertson. Unanimous approval (voice vote). The shared-use agreement must be submitted within 60 days of the meeting. - ADU Discussion: No vote taken. Staff will continue developing a zoning amendment for consideration at a future meeting.