Public Meetings - Ocean City, Maryland

The Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals met on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The meeting covered administrative approvals of prior meeting minutes and findings of fact, followed by three public hearings: a special parking exception for a 66-unit condominium development (BZA 2737), after-the-fact variances for a single-family home built in the wrong location (BZA 2738), and a variance for a fire escape staircase (BZA 2739). Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the March 26, 2026 meeting (4-0-1, with Emily Nock absent). - Approved Findings of Fact for BZA 2735 (Embers, LLC) – motion carried 4-0-1. - Approved Findings of Fact for BZA 2736 (Matthew H. Fogle) – motion carried 4-0-1. Public Comments & Testimony BZA 2737 – 14501 Coastal Highway (OC 107 146th Street, LLC) - Four members of the public spoke in opposition: Dennis Dare (former city engineer, Kane Woods resident) argued that tandem parking would lead to overflow street parking and that the reduced space dimensions (38 ft vs. 40/42 ft) would not accommodate large vehicles common among visitors. Dave Freebury (501 Seaweed Lane, Kane Woods) cited worsening traffic and parking in the area. Linda Deaton (13906 Sea Captain Road, Kane Woods) raised safety concerns and opposed tandem parking. Robin Yates (729 Laurel Avenue, Kane Woods) measured her vehicles and found they would not fit, also noting that handicap access and bike racks would be impractical. BZA 2738 – 179 Beachcomber Lane (Sean and Patricia Chenworth) - Two neighbors spoke in opposition: Carmelo Roth (owner of 181 Beachcomber Lane) testified that the house was built too close to her property, causing air conditioning units to encroach and forcing people to walk on her land. She also reported damage to her shed and landscaping. Mark Miller (owner of 177 Beachcomber Lane) stated that the applicants failed to clean up debris and nails, and that the parking pad and porch could be modified. He warned of safety hazards and liability. - A letter from Joan Cullison (180 Beachcomber Lane) was read into the record, opposing the variance because larger vehicles would overhang the sidewalk or park on the street. BZA 2739 – 202 8th Street (202 8th Street, LLC) - No public comments were received. Discussion Items BZA 2737 – Special Parking Exception for Tandem Parking and Reduced Depth - Staff presented that the applicant sought two special parking exceptions: (1) to allow 132 tandem parking spaces for 66 condominium units, and (2) to reduce the depth of those 66 tandem spaces from 42 ft to 38 ft. The code permits tandem parking by right only for single-family, duplex, and townhouse uses; condominiums require a special exception. Staff noted that the application was advertised as 36 ft but corrected to 38 ft. The applicant argued that tandem parking is common in Ocean City and cited the Bay Berry project as a precedent. The architect, Jeff Schoellkopf, testified that 38 ft is adequate for most vehicles and that reducing the depth allowed more landscaping. The applicant further argued that the special exception standard from Mossburg v. Montgomery County requires approval once criteria are met unless adverse effects are greater at this location. Board members questioned enforcement of vehicle size restrictions and the adequacy of the parking for larger trucks. Staff noted the 10 ft setback from Coastal Highway may need to be 25 ft under new ordinance, and that the plan is conceptual. After deliberation, the board found no evidence that the full provision of parking is unnecessary, citing that the character and use (multifamily condominiums) do not warrant a waiver, and that the proposal could negatively affect neighboring properties. The motion to deny the first request (tandem configuration) passed 5-0. The second request (reduced depth) was then also denied 5-0, as moot and for the same reasons. BZA 2738 – After-the-Fact Special Parking Exception and Variances - Staff explained that the applicants built a new house as their own general contractors, but the as-built survey revealed the house was placed 0.39 to 0.68 ft into the side yard setback and the parking pad was 19.14 ft deep instead of 20 ft. The applicants attributed the error to a surveyor who incorrectly staked the property line. They requested a special parking exception and three variances to allow the house to remain as built. The applicants stated they acted in good faith and relied on the surveyor. Board members discussed the two-part variance test: uniqueness of the property and practical difficulty. The board found no evidence that the lot itself was unique (standard rectangular lot in a mobile home park). While the applicants faced a hardship, the board determined that the hardship was not caused by the property's unique characteristics but by surveyor error, which is not a valid basis for a variance. The motion to deny all three variances passed 5-0. Subsequently, the parking exception was also denied 5-0 on the grounds that no evidence showed that the full provision of parking is unnecessary. BZA 2739 – Variance for Fire Escape Staircase - Staff recommended approval of a variance of 1.9 ft from the 5 ft side yard setback for a proposed staircase required by the Fire Marshal as a second means of egress. The building is an existing multi-unit rental property with a legal nonconforming setback of 4.6 ft. The Fire Marshal, Tom Schubert, testified that the staircase was the preferred option to meet life safety codes and that the location is the only feasible place. The applicant's surveyor, Frank Lynch, confirmed the proposed 3.1 ft setback. Board members debated whether the property itself was unique. The land is a standard rectangular lot; the board noted that uniqueness for a variance focuses on the land, not improvements. The motion to deny failed for lack of a second (only one vote in favor). No further motion was made, so no decision was reached on the variance. Key Outcomes - BZA 2737 (OC 107 146th Street, LLC) – Both special parking exception requests were denied (5-0). The board concluded that the applicant failed to demonstrate that the full provision of parking is unnecessary under Section 110-94(2)(b), and that the proposal would adversely affect adjacent properties. - BZA 2738 (Sean and Patricia Chenworth) – All three after-the-fact variances were denied (5-0) for lack of property uniqueness. The after-the-fact special parking exception was also denied (5-0) for failure to show that the full provision of parking is unnecessary. - BZA 2739 (202 8th Street, LLC) – No decision was made. A motion to deny the variance failed for lack of a second; the board did not take further action.

The Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission met in regular session at 6:00 p.m. on April 21, 2026, in Council Chambers. The meeting addressed approval of prior minutes and findings of fact, a site plan revision for Embers Restaurant, and a public hearing regarding alleged violations of a conditional use approval for Monte Go's Mini Golf. All votes were unanimous except for the mini golf hearing, which passed 5–1. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (March 17, 2026): Approved unanimously with a motion by Tony Butta and second by Gordon Kretser. - Approval of Findings of Fact for Maze Game LLC (PZ File 26-12100001): Approved unanimously with a motion by Janet Hough and second by Pam Robertson. Discussion Items - Site Plan Revision for Embers Restaurant / 1945 Steak and Seafood (PZ File 26-18100007): The Commission reviewed a proposal to permanently enclose a 1,425‑square‑foot outdoor deck on the third floor of the restaurant at 2305 Philadelphia Avenue. Staff and the applicant (represented by Hugh Cropper and architect Keith Iott) explained that the enclosure would allow year‑round use without adding new seats. The revised parking calculation, based on a shopping‑center criteria, showed that 228 spaces (214 on‑site, 14 off‑site) meet the 218‑space requirement. The applicant agreed to record a deed covenant for the off‑site lot. The Commission unanimously approved the site plan revision with staff conditions, including the deed requirement. - Public Hearing – Violation of Conditional Use for Monte Go's Mini Golf (PZ File 24-18100004): Staff presented evidence that the mini golf at 12901 Coastal Highway had failed to achieve compliance with its approved site plan by the April 7, 2026 deadline, particularly regarding stormwater management improvements. The applicant’s representative, Cole Taustin, acknowledged the delay and attributed it to contractor issues, frozen ground, and communication breakdowns. Staff also noted noise complaints from residents. Mr. Taustin denied that the noise incidents constituted a violation of the conditional use. The applicant committed to completing the required work within 30 days using a new contractor (Chesapeake Landscaping). Key Outcomes - Embers Restaurant Site Plan: Approved unanimously (6–0) with conditions, including a recorded deed dedication for the off-site parking lot at 2405 Baltimore Avenue. - Monte Go's Mini Golf Conditional Use Violation: The Commission voted 5–1 to grant a 30‑day extension for the applicant to complete all required stormwater and sidewalk improvements. If compliance is not achieved within that period, the matter will return to the Commission for possible reprimand, suspension, or revocation of the conditional use. No separate finding was made on the noise complaints, but the Commission noted them. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:00 p.m.

The Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, Maryland, held a regular meeting on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered the consent agenda with seven items, a series of ordinances and resolutions presented by the City Solicitor, and public comment. All votes on ordinances and resolutions were unanimous (5-0). A consent agenda item regarding the second annual Ocean City Seafood Festival was moved to a future work session for further discussion. Consent Calendar - Items A, B, C, D, F, and G were approved collectively (5-0): - A: Approval of minutes from Budget Meetings on April 7 and April 8, 2026. - B: Acknowledgement of Standing Committee Reports (Police Commission canceled, Transportation Committee held, Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee canceled). - C: Private event approval for Eastern Surfing Association 2026 Northeast Regional Surfing Championship, May 8–10, 2026. - D: Private event approval for Eastern Surfing Association 2026 Series, various dates May–September 2026. - F: Private event approval for Free State Corvette Club Corvette Weekend, October 17, 2026. - G: Request to serve beer and wine at Caine Woods Community Association functions in Fiesta Park. - Item E (Private event approval for second annual Ocean City Seafood Festival, August 29, 2026) was removed from the consent calendar by motion and moved to a future work session. Councilmember Metressic expressed concerns from local seafood purveyors about lack of outreach and promotion, requesting time for public comment and staff preparation. Public Comments & Testimony - John Atkins (resident, 8802 Caribbean Drive) commented on postal service delays, stating that mail from the Ocean City post office does not go out until the next morning, which he called unacceptable for the second-largest city in Maryland. He urged the Council to use their influence to improve mail service. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2026-09 (Second Reading) – Amends Chapter 1 to clarify law enforcement authority to issue citations on misdemeanor local ordinance violations even if penalty exceeds 90 days in jail. Adopted 5-0. - Ordinance 2026-10 (First Reading) – Amends Chapter 66 (Signs) to clarify treatment of banners, fence signs, and temporary signs (as reviewed March 24 work session). Approved for first reading 5-0. - Ordinance 2026-11 (First Reading) – Amends Chapter 110 (Zoning) to create clear parameters for outdoor merchandise displays on the Boardwalk and provide definitions for feather flags and teardrop flags (prohibited on page three). Approved 5-0. - Ordinance 2026-12 (First Reading) – Amends the General Employees' Pension Plan and Trust to permit application of late retirement factors. Approved 5-0. - Ordinance 2026-13 (First Reading) – Amends Chapter 110 (Zoning) for LC-1 and SC-1 districts to clarify that lots 5,000 sq ft or greater are subject to updated yard setback requirements, confirming treatment of smaller legally nonconforming lots under 5,000 sq ft. Approved 5-0. Public comment from John Atkins (lot 4,800 sq ft) was clarified that the ordinance does not apply to his R-1 district. - Ordinance 2026-14 (First Reading) – Amends Chapter 106 (Waterways, Beach Regulations) to increase canopy footprint area to 15' x 15' to accommodate modern canopy systems with structural sandbags or guidewire anchors. Approved 5-0. - Resolution 2026-09 – Amends the Zoning District Map, updating boundaries and classifications as presented March 24. Adopted 5-0. - Resolution 2026-10 – Authorizes disposition of surplus personal property. Adopted 5-0. - Resolution 2026-11 – Establishes rates for paid parking on streets and municipal parking lots, amending rates for 100th Street lot and parking citation dismissal language for app-only payment (reviewed April 14 work session). Adopted 5-0. - Resolution 2026-12 – Declares intent to reimburse expenditures for engineering and architectural design costs for the Racquet Center redevelopment project, not to exceed $145,000. Adopted 5-0. - Beach Enforcement Updates – Councilmember Metressic requested regular updates every two weeks throughout the summer on the number and nature of warnings and citations for canopy enforcement, as part of a trial period. The City Manager confirmed this is understood and Director Theobald will document all conversations. Key Outcomes - All eight ordinances (one second reading, six first readings) and four resolutions were approved unanimously (5-0). - The second annual Ocean City Seafood Festival consent item was moved to a future work session for further discussion. - The City Manager noted that the Worcester County Board of Elections has moved the general election from the Princess Royale back to the convention center; both early voting and Election Day will be at the convention center. - The Council thanked city staff for preparing the inlet for Springfest (opening 10 AM on Thursday). - Meeting adjourned at approximately 6:12 PM.

The Mayor and City Council held a work session on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, beginning at 1:00 PM. The agenda covered a closed session report, introduction of a new Public Works Maintenance Manager, approvals for the May 8 special election candidates, bid awards, parking rate changes, tent and canopy regulation amendments, zoning clarifications, signage code updates, a boardwalk pedicab franchise ordinance, and annual picnic table agreements. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Minutes from the March 24, 2026 work session and Regular Session 6 (April 6, 2026) were approved unanimously (5-0). - Council Candidates for May 8, 2026 Special Election: Three candidates—John Franklin Atkins, Anthony DeSantis, and William Murphy—were approved individually, each by a 5-0 vote. (Previously approved candidates Peter Bus and Jeff Heiser were confirmed without additional motion.) - Bid Award for 65th Street Service Center Renovations: Awarded to APEX Business Solutions for $1,285,600, with a total budget allocation of $1,465,800 to cover the complete project scope and contingencies. Approved 5-0. - 2026 Picnic Table Agreements: Approved annual agreements allowing picnic tables in the public right-of-way (primarily on the boardwalk) with Dough Roller, Dumser's, Corbin Brothers, and Thrasher's for a total revenue of $1,225. Motion carried 4-0 (Councilmember James absent? Not stated; transcript shows 4 in favor, likely one absent). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items - 100th Street Parking Lot Rates and Grace Period (Item D): Parking Manager Jon Anthony proposed changes to Resolution 2025-09 to restore the Hunter Street lot to a pay-by-day lot and adjust rates: $28/day for cars, $32/day for trailers, $140/week for cars, $160/week for trailers (a 66.7% discount from hourly rates). The existing one-hour grace period on expired meters was also proposed for removal, as parking is now app-based with notifications. Discussion included the possibility of offering hourly rates in addition to daily, but the motion to approve the changes as presented (daily-only rates and removal of grace period) passed 5-0. - Tent and Canopy Regulations (Item E): Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald and Beach Patrol Captain Butch Arbin reported on enforcement challenges from the 2025 season, including 8,000 documented contacts and 1,500 tags on unattended property. They proposed modifications to Ordinance 2025-07 and a new enforcement plan using dedicated beach ambassadors (code enforcement personnel on ATVs). After lengthy debate: - Amendment to Ordinance: Council approved (5-0) a motion to increase the maximum canopy footprint from 10'x10' to 15'x15' (to accommodate guy wires and common shade structures like Shibumi shades). No other changes were adopted at this meeting. - Enforcement Plan: An initial motion to adopt the full enforcement plan (as presented in the budget, with 6 personnel and equipment) failed 2-3 (Councilmembers Proctor, Garrick, and James opposed). A subsequent motion to proceed with the plan but limit daily operations to 6 hours (e.g., 8 AM – 2 PM) and revisit the pilot program in fall 2026 was approved. Councilmember Garrick requested biweekly updates during the pilot. The number of personnel was not specified in the final motion; staff indicated 5 could suffice. Equipment (ATVs and radios) can be repurposed if the program ends. - Amendment to Ordinance 2026-08 – Yard Setbacks on Lots under 5,000 SF (Item F): Planning Director George Bendler presented a cleanup change to ensure that the new setback requirements apply only to lots 5,000 square feet or greater, eliminating ambiguity for non-conforming lots under 5,000 SF. Council approved a motion to forward the amendment to first reading (4-0, with Councilmember Garrick noting the original ordinance should be revisited). - Signage in Unimproved Right-of-Way along Baltimore Avenue (Item G): Staff recommended amending the downtown design overlay district to prohibit new signs in the public right-of-way, while allowing existing signs to remain (with replacement allowed as long as the use continues) and requiring encroachment agreements. Council approved a motion to prepare legislation for a public hearing before the Planning Commission (4-0). - Boardwalk Pedicab Franchise Services (Item H): Deputy City Manager Elton Harmon reported that an RFP had been reissued after previous bids were rejected due to technical errors; 9 potential bidders attended a mandatory meeting on April 10. The proposed ordinance would create a single franchise for pedicab operations on the boardwalk, with a minimum fleet of 20, operating from Memorial Day to Labor Day (2 PM – 12 AM). First-year startup requires 10% fleet by Memorial Day and full fleet by July 1. Council voted to move the draft ordinance to first reading, subject to modifications based on bid results (4-0). Key Outcomes - Candidates Approved: John Franklin Atkins, Anthony DeSantis, and William Murphy are confirmed for the May 8, 2026 special election. Absentee ballots to be mailed by Friday or Monday. - 65th Street Service Center Contract Awarded: APEX Business Solutions to begin renovations at $1,285,600. - 100th Street Lot Rates Changed: Hunter Street lot becomes pay-by-day only ($28/day cars, $32/day trailers) and grace period for expired meters eliminated. - Tent/Canopy Ordinance Amended: Maximum footprint increased to 15'x15'. No other changes adopted. - Beach Ambassador Program Approved (Pilot): Code enforcement personnel will patrol the beach for up to 6 hours per day during the summer 2026 season, focusing on canopy/tent ordinance enforcement, with a fall review. Biweekly reporting to council requested. - Zoning Clarification Forwarded: Amendment to Ordinance 2026-08 to restrict new setback requirements to lots ≥5,000 SF sent to first reading. - Signage Code Update Directed: Staff to draft legislation prohibiting new signs in unimproved right-of-way along Baltimore Avenue, with a public hearing at Planning Commission. - Pedicab Franchise Ordinance Moved to First Reading: Ordinance to establish a single franchise for boardwalk pedicab services to be drafted, with final adjustments after bid opening on April 21. - Picnic Table Agreements Renewed: Four businesses granted permission to place tables in public right-of-way for $1,225 total.

The Mayor and City Council held a budget wrap-up meeting on April 10, 2026, to discuss and vote on several fiscal year 2027 budget items, including special appropriations, debt management, capital improvement projects, solicitor fees, and a new beach code enforcement program. The meeting, listed on the agenda as starting at 1:00 PM, concluded with four council members in favor of sending the FY27 budget to first reading. Note: The provided timestamp indicates 18:00 UTC (2:00 PM EDT), a one-hour discrepancy from the agenda's stated start time. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Special Appropriations – Diakonia: Council considered a request to increase Diakonia's funding from $60,000 to $75,000. The police chief confirmed frequent referrals and strong collaboration. Motion passed with four in favor; no opposition recorded. - Special Appropriations – Life Crisis Center: The center requested $10,000 for domestic violence services, having submitted required paperwork this year after failing to do so last year. Some council members expressed hesitation due to the center's relocation of its headquarters to Wicomico County and a six-year gap in requests. No vote was taken; the item was not included in the budget. - Train Principal and Interest: Finance staff reported that the debt (originally from a 2018 note to Taylor Bank, refinanced via 2020 bonds) will be fully amortized by FY29, before the earliest redemption date in 2031. No action was required. - CIP Pay-As-You-Go Projects: Council voted to fund the capital improvement projects as listed on page 10 of the agenda packet. The motion carried unanimously. - City Solicitor Fee Increase: A proposed increase from $175 to $205 per hour (projected additional $108,000 annually) was debated. One member noted the rate remains below market. The motion carried with four votes in favor and three opposed. - Beach Code Enforcement Program: Staff requested funding for personnel, ATVs, radios, and uniforms to start the program in May rather than July, with FY26 costs of $107,000 and FY27 costs of $82,000 (including $80,000 for labor). Several council members argued for waiting until after a scheduled Tuesday work session on the beach canopy ordinance, which this program would enforce. One member called the expense "crazy to spend $180,000 to harass our customers," while another stressed the importance of removing enforcement burdens from beach patrol. The motion to send the FY27 budget to first reading (which includes the $80,000 FY27 labor cost) passed with four in favor; one member stated they would not vote for it on first reading if the beach labor funding remained. Key Outcomes - Diakonia funding increased to $75,000 (4-0 vote). - City solicitor fee increase approved (4-3 vote). - CIP pay-as-you-go projects funded (unanimous voice vote). - FY27 budget sent to first reading on May 4, 2026 (4-0 vote, but with noted reservations from two council members regarding beach enforcement costs). - Life Crisis Center request deferred without a vote. - Beach code enforcement program details to be discussed further at the upcoming Tuesday work session. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 1:19 PM (per agenda closing notation "119").

The Mayor and City Council met at 1:00 PM on Thursday, April 9, 2026, for an FY2027 budget meeting. The meeting included a time-sensitive private event approval, approval of the Recreation and Parks fee schedule, and budget presentations from Recreation, Parks, Golf, Special Events, Convention Center, Museum, and Tourism staff. No public comments were offered, and no minutes were available. Approvals / Consent Calendar - Private event – Worcester County Humane Society (Boardwalkin' for Pets), April 11, 2026: Approved 4–0 on a motion by Councilmember Matresick, seconded by Secretary Savage. Staff said the item was time-sensitive because the event is scheduled for the coming weekend. - Recreation and Parks FY2027 fees and charges: Approved 4–0 on a motion by Secretary Savage, seconded by Councilmember Garrick. The fee schedule keeps non-resident program rates at least 20% higher and rental rates at least 25% higher and is intended to cover expenses at a nominal rate to prevent hardship for users. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. Discussion Items Recreation Administration, Programs, and Parks - The combined recreation and parks presentation described a responsible budget with a total general fund increase of $258,753, including roughly $66,000 in administration, $130,000 in parks, $62,000 in programs, and a balanced golf fund; $270,000 of the total is from general fund salaries, wages, and benefits. - Administration expenses are up $93,000, revenue is up $27,500, leaving about a $6,000 general fund increase. Revenue gains include $7,500 from a new kayak concession vendor and about $20,000 from additional tournament rentals, including a Black football tournament, baseball in May, lacrosse in June, and the Seafood Festival moving from September to August. Expense increases include $48,000 in wages and benefits, basketball hoop and East Gym siding repairs, additional cameras at North Side Park, and higher energy and IT costs. - The programs division presented a net general fund increase of $62,343, with revenue up $66,548 and expenses up $128,891. Revenue gains come from 10 new summer camps, higher youth league and pickleball participation, added sponsorships including OC Recreation and Boosters, and $14,300 in concessions, including a new vending machine at the skate park. Expense increases include $91,541 in salaries and benefits, conversion of a part-time skate manager to a full-time recreation supervisor, added facility-monitor hours, $24,600 in contract services, and $7,871 in supplies. When asked about the conversion cost, staff said the $65,000 figure covered all division salary-benefit changes, while the position itself increased about $55,000. - The parks budget increases $130,000, with personnel costs rising by almost the same amount. Salaries and wages increase $81,978 from step increases, cost-of-living adjustments, one exceptional achievement award, and part-time salary return, with no change in positions or hours; benefits increase $48,000. Other increases include repairs and maintenance, travel, general supplies, energy, IT, and intergovernmental expenses. Capital outlay decreases by $68,000 because the planned replacement of the 2-to-5-year-old playground at North Side Park is estimated at $200,000 versus the prior $268,000 phase-two project. The transcript says a $600,000 difference, but the cited figures equal a $68,000 difference. - Combined, the recreation division has a net general fund increase of $128,550. Golf Course and Eagles Landing Flood Mitigation - Staff presented a balanced golf budget for FY27, supported by drawing from reserve funds. From November 1 through spring 2027 the course will operate 12 holes while six flood-prone holes are addressed; completion is targeted for May 1, 2027. One hole will be redesigned and raised roughly 3–4 feet in areas; other holes will be graded and drained to reduce tidal flooding. The course will offer 6-hole, 12-hole, and 18-hole rounds, with 18 holes played by repeating six holes twice. Revenue projections account for lost rounds during the closure. - The golf budget increases by $85,248.27, including $37,955 in salary increases and $23,683 in benefits, with no position changes. Notable expenses are a $35,500 maintenance-building roof replacement and $60,000 to replace the last 400 feet of asphalt cart path, along with landscaping and screening between the course and the Humane Society. Decreases include $24,000 in contracted services and $49,650 in operational supplies because of no new small equipment; vehicle supplies and repair labor are down $2,000. Special Events, Festivals, and Programming - Staff described the event strategy as using hotel and short-term rental pacing reports to target weak periods, keeping events self-sustaining and buzzworthy for visitors and residents, and generating tax revenue and economic impact. Staff also said the team must recruit events rather than just take orders. - Sunfest will mark its 50th year and add Winefest at the Inlet parking lot, to be re-evaluated after the first year. Vendor rearrangement last year generated about $25,000 in additional revenue. - Winterfest will be open January 1 and 2 instead of closing on December 31, and carriage rides will expand from four nights to eight, including Monday and Tuesday nights when Winterfest is normally closed. - Springfest paid concerts move to the Performing Arts Center, with about $85,000 in gross revenue collected against roughly $35,000 in talent and vendor expenses. A band switch to The Hubcaps drove about 1,000 ticket sales. A street-painting festival featuring artist Michael Kirby and the Art League will be added, with about 20 vendors and potential to become a standalone event. - Other event items: a $50,000 calendar-change payment is tied to moving Boardwalk Rock to May; Bike Fest moves one week earlier; fireworks move from Monday nights to Thursday nights and will be tourism-funded; July 4th fireworks receive about $80,000 more for the U.S. 250th anniversary; and planned or proposed events include Summer Beach Safari beach soccer, a summer send-off hot air balloon event, an ESPN-televised international beach soccer event with teams from Italy, France, and Spain, and July 4th tribute performances by Tom Petty and Neil Diamond acts with speed painter Jessica Haas. - Beach matting was discussed as a possible way to hold events and create parking on the beach, with an estimated cost of $900,000. Staff noted installation and removal labor and equipment are a challenge, and using the event parking lot for Bike Fest setup and teardown would cost about $60,000 in lost parking revenue. Convention Center - The city contribution to the convention center will increase by $216,442 in FY27; the total city contribution was referenced as about $2.6 million. Hall rental and package revenue are projected to increase by $210,000, and revenue is expected to increase across most categories. - Staff highlighted a 3.1-to-1 return on investment to the state, $120 million in direct spending to the county, $131 million to the state, roughly $144–150 million in total economic impact, $15.2 million in combined county and state tax revenue, and 1,430 jobs supported. USA Field Hockey was booked for an additional day in December, and portable sports flooring is paying for itself through rentals. - Utility costs are a major budget driver: FY27 is projected to increase $150,000, an additional $150,000 was needed this year, and staff cited about $250,000 in utility growth over two years. The HVAC contract is $234,000. Other items include $138,000 for Terrazzo floor repair, future bathroom upgrades, a $65,000 dance floor, phased table and chair replacement, and a new destination services coordinator position. - The food-and-beverage contract, identified in the transcript as Sodexo/Center Plate, expires in 74 days; staff are evaluating a proposal and plan to bring a recommendation to the city. Lost business from groups that could not be accommodated is estimated at about $13 million. Staff also cited parking, internet service, and building attrition as challenges, while noting the recent completion of four elevators and two escalators. Museum - The Museum of Ocean City and the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum operate together under the convention center with two full-time and eight part-time employees; a part-time office associate was converted to full-time. Since the Museum of Ocean City opened in May 2025, it has welcomed just under 3,000 visitors and hosted 13 programs and community events, and the museums presented more than 150 programs and events in the past year. - The museum budget increases $106,558 from FY26 to FY27. Items include $41,891 for the full-time office associate and $21,320 in benefits, $9,805 for exterior painting and repair at the Life-Saving Station, $42,312 for attic and floor insulation at the new museum, new phones, $4,820 for conferences and preservation training, $1,789 for pest control, window cleaning, and power washing, and about $14,000 in energy costs. - A boardwalk expansion around the Life-Saving Station Museum is anticipated, with staff aiming for spring 2027 and describing it as beneficial for bike and foot traffic and as an outdoor classroom and programming space. Tourism and Business Development - A new ordinance passed in early January dedicates $12 million for tourism expenses, including $10.6 million for advertising. The FY27 tourism budget includes 11 full-time and one part-time employee. Contract services increase about $110,900, and the advertising increase is about $90,987. - Staff described a softer travel landscape caused by high gas prices and economic uncertainty, and said marketing must defend core markets, expand where value exists, and prioritize efforts. A third-party study measured $241 returned for every dollar spent on the FY25 campaign; this measurement will continue. The SMILE campaign creative will be refreshed, with a new campaign expected around 2028. - Staff argued that a sports complex would overcome many tourism challenges because youth tournament travel is a growing demand source that Ocean City currently lacks the facilities to capture. Key Outcomes - The council approved the Worcester County Humane Society event request for April 11, 2026, by a 4–0 vote. - The council approved the FY2027 Recreation and Parks fee schedule by a 4–0 vote. - The FY2027 budget presentations were informational and preparatory; no budget ordinance was adopted at this meeting. - A wrap-up budget meeting is scheduled for Friday, April 10, 2026, at 1:00 PM, with items including special appropriations, one new funding request, an FNE increase request, tram principal and interest payoff, CIP pay-as-you-go projects, city solicitor hourly rate, and beach patrol code enforcement. - The meeting adjourned with a motion by Secretary Savage and four votes in favor.

This budget meeting, held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:49 PM, focused on the FY2027 proposed budgets for public safety departments. No public comments were received. The meeting included presentations on Police, Communications, Electronics, Emergency Management, Beach Patrol, Volunteer Fire, EMS, and Fire Marshal budgets. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. Budget Presentations Electronic Services - Proposed increase of approximately $210,000, including a new apprentice technician position and a microwave link for 911 to provide redundancy after a previous outage. Communications - Proposed increase of approximately $407,000, adding five new employees: four Public Safety Communications Officers (PCO1s) for 24/7 City Watch operations and one supervisory trainer. The trainer will free up records staff and handle warrant coordination and mandated court discovery recordings. The new positions will also reduce overtime and support a new all-in-one software platform (Fusis). Emergency Management - Proposed increase of approximately $72,000, covering higher salaries, logistics for special events, and vehicle repairs ($13,000) for the OC1. Beach Patrol - Proposed increase includes six new code enforcement positions (salary $76,000) and $46,000 for fireproofing repairs at headquarters due to code requirements. Also, increased hours for beach patrol and code enforcement, with equipment (ATVs, uniforms, radios) funded from existing budget. Police - Proposed FY2027 budget: $32,671,326, an increase of approximately $3,006,005 from the FY2026 adopted budget of $29,667,661. The increase includes $1,780,092 in salary and benefits and $1,226,952 in operating expenses. Highlights: upgraded Axon contract (Taser 10, AI report writing, drone mitigation, in-car cameras with license plate readers), a real-time crime center (3-5 year project), and new applicant background investigation software. Grants decreased by $39,669, but two new grants were awarded. Police chief noted the Axon contract cost is about $5 million and will integrate with other city safety systems. Volunteer Fire Company & Fire EMS - Fire Chief presented a strategic plan review (ICMA study expected in May). Budget includes realignment of expenses across divisions. Key changes: hiring an executive administrative assistant, four additional full-time firefighter/EMT/paramedics, and an administrative lieutenant for training and inspections (placeholder for future discussion). Battalion chiefs' pay was adjusted to a 45-hour work week (from exempt 40-hour) to eliminate comp time backfill issues. Also, a new Tahoe vehicle for Fire EMS, replacing an older vehicle for community outreach. Fire Marshal’s Office - Budget includes $18,000 increase for two bomb technicians to attend training (due to federal delays), and replacement of bomb suits on an 8-10 year cycle. Community outreach coordinator costs moved to this division. Fire marshal investigators will continue using pickup trucks. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken on the proposed budgets; the meeting was a presentation and discussion session. - The council voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:49 PM. - Next steps: Police chief noted a finalized report on the school bus grant will be shared soon. Fire chief expects the strategic plan draft in May, with future discussions on additional positions after summer. Beach patrol will begin Memorial Day weekend, with possible mobile patrols earlier. The council will consider the code enforcement ordinance changes at a future work session.

The meeting was called to order at 1:00 PM on April 7, 2026. The Mayor added an emergency agenda item regarding a council resignation effective April 6, 2026, creating a second vacancy. A discussion and vote on rescheduling the special election preceded the scheduled budget presentations. The budget presentations covered the proposed FY27 operating budget, internal service funds, enterprise funds, and detailed departmental budgets. No public comments were made. Discussion Items Special Election Rescheduling: The Mayor announced a councilmember resigned effective April 6, 2026, creating a second vacancy. The City Clerk and City Solicitor outlined the legal timeline: a special election must be held within 90 days (by May 9) unless within 150 days of a regular election. To consolidate both vacancies into one election, the council considered postponing the existing special election (scheduled April 21) to May 8. This would reopen candidate filing through close of business Friday, April 10. Council members debated due process concerns (short filing window) vs. the need to fill seats quickly. The two existing candidates consented to the change. A motion passed unanimously (4-0) to postpone the special election to May 8, 2026, and direct staff to adjust all deadlines accordingly and maximize public notice. FY27 Proposed Budget – City Manager Presentation: The City Manager presented the draft FY27 operating budget. Key highlights: no fee increases; a one-cent property tax rate reduction (from 44.26 to 43.26 cents per $100 assessed value); general fund expenses up 8% ($10 million). The budget adds 14 full-time public safety positions (5 for City Watch dispatch, 2 sworn police officers, 4 firefighter/EMT/paramedic). Police staffing increases from 124 to 126 sworn officers. The budget includes midpoint pay increases and a 3% COLA for general employees; FOP and IAF contract step increases. Fund balance stands at $42.7 million. The City Manager cautioned that long-term sustainability is challenged by rising public safety costs and that the tax rate reduction may not be sustainable. Budget Manager Presentations: The Budget Manager detailed fiduciary funds (pensions/OPEB), internal service funds (IT, purchasing, vehicle trust, risk management), and enterprise funds (water, wastewater, airport, golf, transportation, convention center). The airport is projected to be self-sufficient for the first time. General fund contributions to transportation decrease by $136,000; convention center increases by $216,000. Property tax revenue now accounts for 45% of general fund revenue (down from 53.5% 20 years ago). Room tax (increased from 5% to 6%) adds $5 million. Total general fund budget proposed at $130,554,569. Departmental Presentations: Departments presented their FY27 proposed budgets, including: Mayor/Council ($583,613, +$51k); Legal ($889,500, +$295k – includes attorney rate increase from $175 to $205/hr and higher litigation estimates); City Manager ($1,469,023, +$101k); City Clerk ($788k, +$90k – mostly election costs); Finance (increase $30k); HR ($38,612 increase for new HRIS system); Planning & Zoning (increase $91k – includes part-time environmental inspector); IT (increase $2.29M – includes moving internet/dark fiber costs, hardware/software increases); Purchasing/Service Center ($112,700 increase – building repairs); Vehicle Trust (increase from $2.9M to $3.5M – includes 12 police take-home vehicles, 8 police replacements, ambulance, refuse trucks, street sweeper); Risk Management (premiums up 4.7% due to new exposures; workers’ comp up 3%; legal budget up for pending claims; actuarial study; successful move to Legit for casualty saved $128k); Public Works Administration (10 divisions, $65M total – 33% of town budget; staffing at FY87 levels; highlighted Baltimore Avenue project advancing, wastewater treatment project); Public Works Construction (sidewalk replacement, equipment rental, vehicle purchases); Public Works Maintenance (boardwalk shower towers, pressure washer, Polaris, trailer); Solid Waste (tipping fees increase to $114.46/ton, new containers and trucks); Water (rate increases: usage +30¢/kgal, fixture +10¢, capacity +70¢; capital projects include 1st Street tower paint, 4th Street tank repair, SCADA upgrade, water main upgrade); Wastewater (rate increases: fixture +30¢, parking lot +75¢, pool +$1.55; capital projects include clarifier valves, lab equipment, VFD replacements, sewer lining, outfall inspection, Arctic Ave pump station design; rate study update commissioned); Transportation (personnel costs +10%, operating +1.7%; capital $2.4M for 4 buses (85% grant-funded); town contribution down $136k to $2.52M; app-based fare payment pilot planned); Parking (personnel costs -$37k due to moving to global payments; operating costs -10%; capital projects include new electronic sign and cameras at 4th/5th Street lot; inlet lot revenue down due to special events; overall surplus flat); Airport (two active grants for taxiway; staff static; fuel revenue stable; Phase 2 taxiway construction; zero general fund contribution); Engineering (beach replenishment budget increased from $430k to $500k; full project may require additional one-time funding; Caroline Street hardening; Northside Park projects). Capital Improvement Plan (CIP): The Public Works Director presented the FY27 CIP. $2.33 million from the Capital Reserve Fund is allocated for street paving, canal dredging, Caroline Street hardening, City Watch cameras, and Northside Park projects. The town’s debt is well below policy limits. Ongoing projects include paving, dredging, sewer work, and Montego Bay paving. Key Outcomes Motion carried (4-0) to postpone the special election from April 21, 2026, to May 8, 2026, and to reopen candidate filing through close of business on Friday, April 10, 2026. Staff directed to provide maximum public notice via social media, newspaper, and direct calls to current candidates. The proposed FY27 budget was presented for discussion; no vote was taken. A budget wrap-up session is scheduled for the following day (April 8). The meeting ended without a formal adjournment due to lack of a quorum (only four members present; need four for quorum? Actually they had four, but the transcript suggests they couldn't adjourn? The final line: "We don't have a quorum to adjourn. So we're doing it." This likely means the meeting simply ended without a motion to adjourn.

The Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, Maryland, convened on Monday, April 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Due to the absence of Councilmember Proctor (illness), the meeting lacked a quorum. As a result, only ceremonial items were conducted: the Arbor Day proclamation and the Ocean City University graduation ceremony. All other agenda items, including consent items, public hearings, and ordinance readings, were postponed. The meeting adjourned shortly after the graduation. Arbor Day Proclamation - Mayor Rick Meehan read a proclamation declaring April 24, 2026, as Arbor Day in Ocean City. The proclamation highlighted the history of Arbor Day (first observed in Nebraska in 1872), the environmental benefits of trees, and Ocean City's status as a Tree City USA (awarded for 34 consecutive years). - Donna (Chair of the Beautification Committee) discussed the committee's volunteer efforts, including planting tulips and jonquils at the north end of town, entry park, and planters along the Boardwalk. She invited the public to the Arbor Day celebration at Ocean City Elementary on April 24, 2026, at 9:30 AM, which will feature second-grade students, skits, poems, and a visit from the police canine unit. - Kate Gaddis, Director of Recreation and Parks, thanked the Beautification Committee for their dedicated volunteer work, noting their collaboration with the Parks Department to keep Ocean City beautiful. Ocean City University Graduation - Diana (program host) explained that Ocean City University is a public education program founded in 2004 by Kathy Matthias to promote civic engagement and understanding of government operations. The program includes 30 hours of coursework, and participants also completed the Citizens Police Academy and/or Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program. - Graduates were awarded diplomas for completing 30 hours (bachelor's level), 60 hours (master's level), or 90 hours (doctorate level). Names of recipients were read aloud, including Marion Ardinger (master's degree) and Mary Jo Breslin (doctorate degree), among others. A total of 18 graduates were present; two were absent and will receive diplomas by mail. - Mayor Meehan praised the program as an educational tool, noting that graduates learn about city operations and can share that knowledge with neighbors. He also noted that graduates correctly answered questions about the length of the pier and the number of parking spaces in the inlet lot (1,186 spaces). Key Outcomes - No votes were taken, and no formal business was conducted due to the lack of a quorum. - The meeting was adjourned immediately after the graduation ceremony, with the Mayor noting that the remaining agenda items would be addressed at a future meeting (likely the April 14 work session).