Public Meetings - Ocean City, Maryland

This meeting of the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals was held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The Board addressed administrative matters, an approval extension request, two public hearings, and the proposed 2026 meeting calendar. All votes were taken with four members present (Christopher Rudolf, John Moran, Dan Stevens, Sean Buckley) and one member absent (Emily Nock), resulting in a 4-0-1 tally for each motion. Consent Calendar - Minutes from November 6, 2025: Approved unanimously (4-0-1). - Findings of Fact – BZA 2728 (Craig Reichard): Adopted unanimously (4-0-1). - Findings of Fact – BZA 2730 (P.E. Moore and Sons Construction): Adopted unanimously (4-0-1). - Amendment to Rules of Procedure – 60‑day review for Findings of Fact: The Board approved a resolution changing the review period from 30 to 60 days after the close of the public hearing, to allow more time for staff and to accommodate meeting cancellations. Approved unanimously (4-0-1). Approval Extension Request - KYMA Hotel (BZA 2608): Attorney Hugh Cropper, representing the property owner, requested an 18‑month extension of site plan approvals (originally granted in 2022) through May 4, 2027. He detailed recent design modifications (eliminating a seventh‑floor restaurant, moving food service to the second floor, and incorporating a Bayside Boardwalk easement) that required a new site plan approved November 4, 2025. Staff had no objection. The Board unanimously approved the extension (4-0-1). Public Hearings Beach Variety – Outdoor Display of Merchandise (BZA 2731) - Request: Special outdoor display exception for retail items (eight clothing racks and four beach chairs) on the exterior of Beach Variety, 2802 Philadelphia Avenue, within the 28th Street Plaza. - Staff Summary: Zoning Analyst Chase Phillips confirmed the property had held similar approvals since 2011, the most recent expiring July 23, 2023. No violations or complaints were on record. Staff recommended approval with six standard conditions (restricted to current owner and business type; three‑year expiration on November 20, 2028; no outdoor sales; no amplified sound or flashing lights; prohibition of offensive materials; and a show‑cause clause for violations). - Applicant Testimony: Timothy Rolleston, owner, stated the display is placed in an indented alcove (for which he pays rent), has been in place for 11 years without complaints, and draws customers into the store. All transactions occur indoors. He confirmed no issues with adjacent businesses (Candy Kitchen, laundromat). - Board Deliberation: Board member John Moran noted the lack of separate planters or architectural features to delineate the display, but accepted that the alcove walls and rent payment satisfy intent. The Board found the request compatible with the neighborhood and consistent with code requirements. - Motion and Vote: Motion to approve under Section 110‑94(5) with the six recommended conditions. Approved unanimously (4-0-1). Bradley Construction – Porch and Second‑Story Addition (BZA 2732) - Request: Two special yard exceptions at 102 Winter Harbor Drive (Lot 65, Caine Keys II): (1) a porch to be built to the existing legally nonconforming side yard setback of 4.7 feet; (2) a second‑floor addition over the garage to be built to the existing legally nonconforming side yard setback of 5.9 feet. - Staff Summary: The existing dwelling, built in 1966, does not meet the R‑1 district’s required 15‑foot aggregate side yard setback. The proposed additions would not extend beyond the existing footprint. Letters of no objection from neighbors at 100 and 104 Winter Harbor Drive were received and placed into the record. Staff confirmed proper noticing. - Applicant Testimony: David Bradley (Bradley Construction) explained the owners wished to add a bunk room, a bedroom, a shared bathroom, and a coffee bar, increasing the total bedroom count to five. The neighbor Williams Voigt testified that he had shown renderings to both adjacent property owners, who agreed in writing after reviewing the design. No opposition was expressed. - Board Deliberation: Board members noted that the request satisfied the code standards for special yard exceptions because the nonconformity existed on the lot and the proposed construction would not adversely affect adjacent properties. The color rendering was entered into the record. - Motion and Vote: Motion to approve both exceptions under Sections 110‑93(2) and 110‑94(3)(a). Approved unanimously (4-0-1). Calendar for 2026 - Staff presented the draft 2026 meeting calendar, maintaining the current schedule of second and fourth Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. (with November and December meetings on first and third Thursdays). The Board expressed satisfaction with the existing schedule and did not propose changes. The item was informational only; no vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Minutes of November 6, 2025 approved (4-0-1). - Findings of Fact for BZA 2728 and BZA 2730 adopted (both 4-0-1). - Rules amendment (60‑day findings review) adopted (4-0-1). - Approval extension for KYMA Hotel granted through May 4, 2027 (4-0-1). - Beach Variety outdoor display exception approved with six conditions, effective through November 20, 2028 (4-0-1). - Bradley Construction special yard exceptions for porch and second‑story addition approved (4-0-1). - 2026 calendar presented; no action required. - Next meeting reminder: December 18, 2025, which will include a major postponed application. Board members were asked to confirm availability for quorum.

The Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission met on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered approval of previous minutes, a site plan for converting a commercial building into three residential condos, and deliberation on a proposed driveway apron ordinance. The commission also discussed staff scheduling improvements and commissioner comments. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the November 4, 2025, meeting were approved unanimously via motion by Pam Robertson and second by Janet Hough. (No roll call vote recorded; all present voted in favor.) Discussion Items Site Plan Review: The Mariner at 87th - Project Description: S&S 86th Street LLC (represented by architect Jonathan Selway) proposes to convert the former Century 21 building at 8606 Coastal Highway from commercial office to three four-bedroom residential condominiums. The property (Block 53, Parcel 1049A, Lots 6 and 7) is in the R-3 Residential zone. The plan includes interior and exterior renovations, new decks, and parking lot restriping. Staff recommended approval subject to conditions. - Applicant Presentation: Jonathan Selway explained the adaptive reuse, emphasizing the building's historic design, new private entrances on 87th Street, and preservation of existing architectural details. He noted future plans for a Phase 2 on adjacent Lot 8, which would include three new units. - Commission Discussion: Key points included: - Sidewalk Waiver: The applicant requested waiver of the 8-foot sidewalk requirement on Coastal Highway due to existing mature landscaping and stormwater management considerations. Staff supported the waiver, noting the location is not at a major crosswalk. - Lot Consolidation: Staff and commission discussed the need to consolidate Lots 6 and 7 into a single parcel, with a condition that consolidation occur prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy (C of O) or within 18 months of site plan approval, whichever comes first. - Alley Easement: Commissioners raised concerns about the deeded public easement (10-foot-wide alley) along the southern boundary. The alley was abandoned by the town in 1965 but remains a public right-of-way per recorded easements. Discussion suggested that in Phase 2, the applicant should clarify and potentially codify the alley's status, possibly dedicating it to the city for future maintenance or bicycle/pedestrian use. - Parking: The plan provides 9 compliant parking spaces (10' x 20' each) with a 20-foot drive aisle, meeting requirements for three 4-bedroom units. - Motion and Vote: Pam Robertson moved to approve the site plan with the condition that lots 6 and 7 be consolidated prior to C of O or within 18 months of approval. Kevin Rohe seconded. The motion passed unanimously (all in favor). Commission Deliberation: Driveway Apron Ordinance Amendment - Background: At the October 21, 2025, public hearing, staff proposed requiring a minimum 5-foot driveway apron between garage doors and interior drive aisles. Following public comment and commissioner input, staff revised the draft. - Revised Proposal: The amendment (to Section 110-935 of the Zoning Code) now applies only to townhouse garages on lots greater than 50 feet wide. The 5-foot apron can be achieved by recessing the garage within the building envelope (e.g., using a cantilevered second floor or wing walls). Staff presented examples. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners generally supported the revised language, noting it addresses concerns about feasibility. Commissioner Palmer Gillis expressed disappointment that opposition at the public hearing offered no drawings or evidence, simply stating it could not be done. He urged that future presentations include detailed evidence. - Motion and Vote: Pam Robertson moved to forward the revised draft ordinance to the Mayor and City Council for adoption. Kevin Rohe seconded. The motion passed with one commissioner opposed (name not specified in transcript). Staff Updates - Application Schedule: Zoning Administrator Sabrina Hecht presented a new schedule for application deadlines and Technical Review Committee (TRC) meetings, designed to give applicants and commissioners clearer timelines. The schedule will be posted on the city website. Commissioners voiced support. - Plan Distribution: Staff will continue to provide digital and paper packets to commissioners at least one week before meetings. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: November 4, 2025, minutes approved unanimously. - Site Plan Approved: The Mariner at 87th site plan approved with condition of lot consolidation before C of O or within 18 months. - Apron Ordinance Forwarded: Revised driveway apron ordinance (Section 110-935) sent to Mayor and Council for final action; one commissioner opposed. - Alley Discussion: Commission encouraged applicant to resolve alley easement clarity during Phase 2; staff noted potential need for city involvement to codify public right-of-way. - Next Steps: Applicant to proceed with building permit applications; Phase 2 site plan expected in future.

The Ocean City Mayor and City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered consent agenda items, reports, presentations, and public hearings. Key actions included approval of a dark fiber agreement with Crown Castle, a bid award for comfort station renovations, allocation of fund balance for police vehicles, adoption of a property tax credit for volunteer firefighters, and passage of a sewer agreement amendment on first reading. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved Regular Meeting 19 (November 3, 2025). - Standing Committee Reports: Acknowledged Tourism Commission (November 3) and Coastal Resources Legislative Committee (November 12) reports. - Draft Agenda: Acknowledged Pension Committee meeting scheduled for November 19. - Bid Award: Approved bid award for Eagle's Landing Golf Course Tidal Flood Remediation. (All items passed unanimously with six in favor; Councilmember Metresic absent.) Public Comments & Testimony - James L. Jester (12923 Pine Street, West Ocean City, Volunteer Deputy Chief) thanked the council for passing Ordinance 2025-30 (property tax credit for volunteer firefighters), calling it a strong retention and recruitment tool. He noted he would also approach Worcester County for a similar credit. - Eric Fiore (Worcester County Commissioner, 8808 Hunting County Road, Berlin) thanked the city and first responders for their response to a recent fire at his business. He expressed deep gratitude for the coordinated effort that prevented a larger disaster, emphasizing the importance of supporting first responders. Discussion Items - Crown Castle Dark Fiber Agreement: Information Technology Director Chris Burkey, along with Crown Castle representatives, presented a proposal to activate dark fiber for the city network. The agreement costs $120,000 per year, saving approximately $6,000 annually over the current Comcast contract, and provides up to 10 Gbps bandwidth to multiple sites. The council approved the motion unanimously. - Worcester and Caroline Street Comfort Station Renovations: Procurement Manager Matt Perry and Public Works Director Hal Adkins presented a bid award recommendation for renovating both comfort stations. The low bidder was Infinity Construction and Development, with a total award of $774,049. Supplemental funding of $157,000 was assembled from interest, closed police substation savings, and the Capital Reserve Fund to cover a 10% contingency and HVAC work. The scope includes gutting interiors, new fixtures, HVAC modifications, and converting the second floor of Worcester Street into a command center for special events. Construction starts December 2, 2025, and must be completed by April 17, 2026 (before Springfest). The council approved the motion unanimously. - Police Vehicle Purchase: Budget and Management Director Jenny Knapp requested allocation of $975,000 from unassigned fund balance (currently $7.2 million) to purchase 12 police vehicles (11 new Ford Explorer interceptors and one replacement pickup truck for vehicle 804, which was totaled). The purchase is needed to meet the take-home vehicle requirement under the new FOP contract. The council approved the motion unanimously. - Ordinance 2025-30 (Second Reading) – Property Tax Credit for Volunteer Firefighters: Adopted 5-1 (Councilmember Savage abstained). - Ordinance 2025-31 (First Reading) – Sewerage Treatment Facilities Transfer Agreement Amendment: The ordinance increases allocated flow capacity for West Ocean City. City Solicitor Heather Stansbury presented. Discussion included a late addition to allow emergency flow from the Mr. Carver plant to the Ocean City wastewater plant during maintenance. Council President James opposed, voicing concerns that the county’s bill tying this to the room tax vote felt like a hostage situation, and requested clearer language to prevent future changes to service areas. The county’s Chief County Administrator Weston Young and Commissioner Fiore noted the two issues were always connected. Councilmember Savage clarified that the county will pay for infrastructure upgrades and treatment costs. The motion passed 5-1 (President James opposed). A red-lined agreement will be presented at second reading. - Resolution 2025-29 – Disposition of Surplus Personal Property: Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2025-30 – Reward for Information Leading to Conviction: Authorized a $5,000 reward for tips leading to the apprehension, arrest, and conviction of any person committing a criminal act, as recommended by the Police Commission. Adopted unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Crown Castle Dark Fiber Agreement: Approved unanimously. - Comfort Station Renovation Award: Awarded to Infinity Construction and Development for $774,049, with supplemental funding approved. Unanimous. - Police Vehicle Purchase: $975,000 allocated from unassigned fund balance for 12 vehicles. Unanimous. - Ordinance 2025-30 (Property Tax Credit): Adopted 5-1 (Savage abstained). - Ordinance 2025-31 (Sewer Agreement Amendment): Passed first reading 5-1 (President James opposed); second reading and red-lined agreement to follow. - Resolution 2025-29: Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2025-30: Adopted unanimously. - Public Comments: Heard and acknowledged. - City Manager Comments: Upcoming work session on November 25 includes closed session, minutes approval, committee reports, water taxi renewal, and discussion of short-term rental length-of-stay restrictions. - Meeting Adjourned: At 6:49 PM.

The Board of Adjustments and Appeals met on November 12, 2025 at 3:00 PM to consider one variance request for a townhouse at 601 Bayshore Drive, Unit 14. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, a staff presentation, applicant testimony, and a unanimous vote to approve the variance with conditions. Consent Calendar - The Board unanimously approved the minutes from the October 1, 2025 meeting (motion made and seconded; all in favor). Discussion Items - BAAV 25-086 – Variance for Minimum Elevation Requirements (601 Bayshore Drive, Unit 14) - City Planner Bill Neville presented the request: a variance from Town Code Section 38-71(a)(5) to reduce the required 3-foot freeboard elevation above the AE-6 flood zone by approximately 2.7 feet for an interior remodel and addition to an existing townhouse. The existing first floor elevation is 6.3 feet NAVD88; the code requires 9.0 feet (AE-6 base flood elevation + 3 feet freeboard). - Neville noted that similar variances were granted for neighboring properties earlier in 2025 and that the property’s location in the AE-6 flood zone is due to a “finger” of the flood zone extending under the building. He recommended approval with a condition that the crawlspace be verified and elevated as needed, mechanical equipment comply with code, and compliant flood vents be installed if necessary. - Applicant Jeff Formosa (owner) testified that the home is his primary residence, the addition is minor (extending a porch 5 feet and building above), and the existing crawlspace is open and allows water flow. He argued the variance does not pose a threat to public safety or property, and noted that the neighboring rebuilt unit (at 7.1 feet) has a solid wall that could deflect water. He requested the same relief granted to others. - Board members asked clarifying questions about staff recommendations, mechanicals, and the crawlspace. The applicant confirmed existing mechanicals are above ground and that he agreed to the staff conditions. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve BAAV 25-086 with the staff recommendations (crawlspace verification, mechanical equipment compliance, and flood vents if needed). The motion was made and seconded. The Board voted 4-0 in favor. The variance allows the first floor to remain at 6.3 feet (a 2.7-foot reduction from the required 9.0 feet). - The meeting adjourned at approximately 3:20 PM.

The Board of Zoning Appeals met on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall to conduct administrative matters and one public hearing. The board approved minutes from the September 11, 2025 meeting, tabled findings of fact from a prior case due to errors, introduced a rule change to extend the findings review period from 30 to 60 days, postponed a hearing on the Sea Cove Motel appeal, and approved a special yard exception for a new dwelling in the Isle of Wight Mobile Home Park. Consent Calendar - Minutes from September 11, 2025: Approved by a vote of 3-0-1 (one abstention). - Findings of Fact for BZA 2728 (Craig Reichard): Tabled to the next meeting (November 20, 2025) after Mr. Stevens noted an error in the draft. Motion passed 3-0-1. Discussion Items - Rule Change to 60-Day Findings Review: Staff requested amending the rules and procedures to allow a 60-day period for preparing findings of fact, instead of the current 30-day period, to accommodate canceled consecutive meetings. The board voted to introduce the rule change and directed staff to bring back the written amendment. Motion passed 4-0-1. - Postponement of BZA 2729 (Sea Cove Motel): The appeal by Peter Buas, Esq., on behalf of Kozmas, Inc., concerning a zoning administrator’s determination of legal nonconformity for the Sea Cove Motel (105 27th Street and 2611 Baltimore Avenue) was postponed and will be advertised for a later date, tentatively scheduled for January 8, 2026. Public Hearing - BZA 2730 – P.E. Moore and Sons Construction: A request for a special yard exception to allow a proposed dwelling at 251 Flounder Lane to be 1.0 foot from the side lot line (instead of the required 5 feet) in the MH Mobile Home Residential District. The applicant, Edward Moore (contractor) and property owner Craig Reichard, testified that the adjacent lot (E-23) has a legally non-conforming 1-foot side yard setback, and the proposed setback would not adversely affect neighbors. The board found the criteria under Sections 110-93(2) and 110-94(3)(a) were met. The special yard exception was approved by a vote of 4-0-1. Key Outcomes - Meeting called to order at 6:00 PM and adjourned after completion of agenda. - Minutes of September 11, 2025 meeting approved. - Findings of Fact for BZA 2728 tabled to November 20, 2025. - Rule change for 60-day findings review period introduced; written amendment to be brought back for final vote. - BZA 2729 (Sea Cove Motel) postponed to January 8, 2026. - BZA 2730 (P.E. Moore and Sons Construction) special yard exception approved (4-0-1). - Next meeting scheduled for November 20, 2025.

The Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission met on November 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The commission approved the minutes of the October 21, 2025 meeting, approved a site plan amendment for the KYMA Luxury Resort, postponed discussion of a driveway apron ordinance, and continued work on the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update. Consent Calendar - Approval of October 21, 2025 Minutes: Motion by Janet Hough, second by Pam Robertson. Unanimously approved (5‑0). (Two commissioners were absent.) Discussion Items - Site Plan Amendment – KYMA Luxury Resort (PZ File 25‑18100013): The commission reviewed an amendment to the previously approved KYMA Luxury Resort at 700 S. Philadelphia Avenue. The amendment reconfigures the approved hotel from 71 to 83 total units (78 standard guestrooms, 4 luxury guest suites, and 1 three‑bedroom owner’s suite) and replaces the approved 720‑sq‑ft banquet room with a 1,445‑sq‑ft event venue plus additional deck and kitchen. Parking is adjusted to 113 spaces (43 standard on‑site, 16 compact/accessible, 52 off‑site). The applicant, represented by Hugh Cropper, noted that the project now includes a public easement for the Bayside Boardwalk, a change from the original 4‑3 approval in 2023. Staff recommended approval subject to 28 conditions. The commission voted to extend the original site plan (PZ File 22‑18100011) for 18 months and to approve the amendment with conditions. Both motions passed 5‑0. - Driveway Apron Ordinance (PZ File 25‑14100002): Staff proposed amending Chapter 110 to require a minimum 5‑foot driveway apron between garage doors and interior drive aisles. Because only five commissioners were present, the commission agreed to postpone further discussion to a future meeting with a full complement of members. - Comprehensive Plan Update – Work Session: Bill Neville presented a draft priority action list to implement the updated Comprehensive Plan. The list includes potential code updates (e.g., downtown design standards, workforce housing) and items requiring further study (e.g., downtown parking garage, amusements protection). Commissioners reviewed the list and provided feedback. The commission agreed to hold a second public hearing on December 2, 2025, to finalize the plan before forwarding it to the Mayor and City Council. No vote was taken; consensus was reached to proceed with revisions and the scheduled hearing. Key Outcomes - Approved: Extension of original site plan 22‑18100011 for 18 months (5‑0). - Approved: Site Plan Amendment 25‑18100013 (KYMA Luxury Resort) with conditions (5‑0). - Postponed: Driveway apron ordinance discussion to a future full commission meeting. - Scheduled: Second public hearing on the Comprehensive Plan Update for December 2, 2025. - Next Meeting: November 18, 2025.

The Ocean City Mayor and City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included a prayer and pledge led by Councilmember Garrett, a bid opening for the Worcester and Caroline Street Comfort Station Renovations, approval of a consent agenda, multiple ordinance readings and resolutions, public comments, and adjournment at 6:32 PM. Councilmembers Savage and Yates were absent for the entire meeting. Bid Opening - Worcester and Caroline Street Comfort Station Renovations: Multiple bids were received ranging from approximately $297,602 (Infinity Construction) to $572,871 (PBI Commercial) against a budget of $722,000 each. The council unanimously (5-0) voted to acknowledge the bids and remand them to staff for further review. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from Regular Meeting 18 (October 20, 2025) and Work Session (October 28, 2025). - Acknowledged standing committee draft agendas: Police Commission (November 10), Tourism Commission (November 3), Recreation and Parks Committee (November 13), Coastal Resources Legislative Committee (November 12); Transportation Committee and Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee not meeting in November. - Approved private event request for Winterfest of Lights Jingle Bell 5K (December 7, 2025). - Approved business license application for US Ghost Adventures, LLC. Public Comments & Testimony - George Stoll, resident of 500 South Philadelphia Avenue, expressed full support for allowing bicycles on the 16-foot-wide sidewalk on South Philadelphia Avenue (from South 1st Street to the bridge). He stated it would be a shame to lose that amenity for pedestrians and bicyclists. Council noted this would be addressed in a future work session. - Linda Condon, resident of 158 Winter Harbor Drive, asked for clarification on the moratorium related to residential rentals and why the vote on a ballot item in July did not hold. Council responded that the moratorium is a separate ordinance expiring January 3, 2026 (or 2027?), and a second reading to extend it is tentatively scheduled for November 17. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2025-26 (Second Reading): Amends Chapter 90 (Traffic and Vehicles) regarding bicycles, skateboards, and similar conveyances. Adopted unanimously (5-0). A public comment from George Stoll raised the issue of allowing bicycles on sidewalks in specific areas. Council subsequently voted unanimously (5-0) to schedule a work session to further discuss where bicycles may be allowed on sidewalks. - Ordinance 2025-27 (Second Reading): Amends multiple sections of the town code to increase municipal infraction and misdemeanor fines to a maximum of $5,000, with a code rewrite for consistency. Adopted unanimously (5-0). - Ordinance 2025-29 (Second Reading): Amends Chapter 110 (Zoning) to remove references to “tourist courts” and “tourist homes,” replacing them with “rooming-house or lodging-house and/or boardinghouse.” Adopted unanimously (5-0). - Ordinance 2025-30 (First Reading): Adopts a property tax credit for active members of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company. Passed on first reading unanimously (5-0). Councilmember questioned eligibility criteria; staff clarified that active member is defined by the volunteer fire company’s bylaws and minimum definition appears in the ordinance and MOU. - Resolution 2025-27: Establishes periods and times for operation of certain bicycles, Class I electric bicycles, non-motorized skateboards, roller skates, pushcarts, and EPAMDs on the boardwalk (companion to Ordinance 2025-26). Times do not change. Adopted unanimously (5-0). - Resolution 2025-28: Authorizes disposition of surplus personal property. Adopted unanimously (5-0). - Charter Amendment Introduction (C-1406): Introduces amendment to Charter Section 1406 (Misdemeanors) to increase maximum monetary penalties to $5,000 and align with state law. Council unanimously voted to schedule a public hearing and formal presentation on December 1, 2025. - Continued Designation of State’s Attorney: Council unanimously voted to prepare documentation confirming continued designation of the State’s Attorney as forfeiting authority for civil forfeiture proceedings. Key Outcomes - All actions passed unanimously with five votes (Councilmember Savage and Yates absent). - Bids for comfort station renovations were remanded to staff for further review. - Ordinance 2025-26 adopted; future work session scheduled to discuss sidewalk bicycle allowances. - Ordinance 2025-27 (fine increases) adopted. - Ordinance 2025-29 (zoning update) adopted. - Ordinance 2025-30 (volunteer fire company tax credit) passed on first reading; second reading to follow. - Resolutions 2025-27 and 2025-28 adopted. - Charter amendment on misdemeanor penalties introduced; public hearing set for December 1, 2025. - State’s Attorney continued as forfeiting authority. - Next regular meeting scheduled for November 17, 2025 (no work session due to Veterans Day).

The Ocean City Mayor and City Council held a work session on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, beginning at 1:00 PM. The agenda included a closed session from 12:00 to 1:00 PM, public comments, and several new business items: acknowledgement of the Police Commission report, presentation of the independent auditor opinion for FY2025, annual comprehensive financial report, State Highway Administration fall update, and two contract approvals for fire hydrant assessments and softball field lighting. Public Comments & Testimony - Anonymous Resident: Commented on traffic congestion on the Route 90 bridge, noting that long lines make it difficult for emergency vehicles to pass. The speaker requested a "no stopping, no standing zone" near the fire station to improve emergency access. Discussion Items A. Police Commission Report Acknowledgement - The council acknowledged the Police Commission meeting held on October 15, 2025, with no questions. B. Independent Auditor Opinion (FY2025) - Chris Lehman of SB & Company, LLC presented the audit results. The firm issued an unmodified (clean) opinion on the June 30, 2025 financial statements, indicating they are free of material misstatement. No fraud was discovered, no material weaknesses in internal controls were found, and no audit entries were proposed. The audit included a single audit due to federal expenditures over $750,000, with no findings to date. The town's control environment was assessed as strong. Council members expressed thanks to the finance team for their excellent work. C. Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (FY2025) - Finance Director Chuck Bireley and Assistant Finance Director Shawn Bunting presented highlights: - Town-wide net position increased by over $12 million in FY2025. - Total revenue increased over 3% from the prior year, expenses increased by just over 5%. - Governmental activities revenue increased $6 million; property taxes increased nearly $5 million despite a 1-cent reduction in the real property tax rate. The assessable base rose by $1.2 billion due to state reassessment. - Operating grants increased over $1 million (including $900,000 for ambulance services), rental license revenue up $260,000. - Governmental expenses increased $5.6 million, including $800,000 more in advertising (tied to room tax revenue growth) and $400,000 more in legal fees for offshore wind opposition. - General fund: Revenue exceeded final budget by $1.5 million (including $600,000 more in room taxes, $275,000 more in tourism grants); expenditures were $2.5 million under budget (public safety $1.2M under). Fund balance increased by nearly $550,000, contrary to the projected $3.3 million decrease. Unassigned reserves exceeded three months of expenditures (policy requires at least 17%, or 2 months). - Water and wastewater funds each saw over $2 million increases in net position. - Transportation fund net position decreased $1.3 million due to an $800,000 drop in tram revenue. - Convention center net position increased over $900,000. - Golf course profitable for the fifth consecutive year, requiring no general fund subsidy. - Pension plans: Both plans had investment returns over 12%. General employees plan funded ratio increased from 83% to over 88%; public safety plan from 82% to over 86%. Combined net pension liability decreased by over $8 million. The town contributed less ($300k and $630k reductions) yet liabilities fell due to investment gains. - Other post-employment benefits (OPEB) plan: 12% return, funded ratio 132%, no town contribution required. - Long-term debt: $4.8 million bonds issued Dec 2024 at 3.6% for 20 years for convention center and golf course clubhouse. Total debt outstanding $114 million. Debt ratings: AA+ (S&P), AA (Fitch), A1 (Moody's). - A prior period adjustment of $2.5 million was recorded to implement GASB Statement 101, recognizing all compensated absence liabilities (comp time, unused holiday, sick leave). This decreased beginning net position. - Council members discussed debt capacity (5.2% of assessable base ≈ $500M, current debt $114M) and noted that debt service affordability is the real constraint. D. State Highway Administration (SHA) Fall Update - District Engineer Mark Crampton provided updates on multiple projects: - Route 50 Bridge: Under-bridge spalling concrete work to finish spring 2026. Interlock system work (fingers locking bascule spans) planned for January 2026, requiring the bridge to open for 2-3 weeks, diverting traffic to Route 90. Painting of the bridge planned for January–March 2026 (45-60 days), bridge will remain closed to vertical clearance but open to vehicles. Fence repairs completed. - Route 90 Corridor Study: Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) study complete; NEPA study to begin in July 2026 (FY2027). - Route 528 Resurfacing: Sections last paved 2016-2020 with 9-11 year life. Northern section (Delaware to 60th St) tentatively in FY2028 (starting July 2027). Crosswalks will be converted to continental style. - Fifth Street Post Office Site: Access permit submitted; SHA comments sent to designer in early October; awaiting response. The lot will likely replicate the adjacent Fourth Street lot (58 spaces), but SHA compliance may reduce it to 54 spaces if a second driveway cannot be waived. The two lots will remain separate due to critical area/stormwater requirements. - Traffic Signals: 144th Street signal designed but not funded. 50@818 and 50@610 signals in design, with construction expected in 2027. Old Railroad Road intersection project awarded and about to start. - Maintenance: Storm drain outfall at 56th Street cleaned; SHA may transfer ownership to town. Route 90 bridge lighting repairs scheduled first week of November. Median fence at old fire station awaiting site redevelopment. Tree replacement at Coastal 137th delayed to spring due to high bids. Route 90 bridge deck needs joint replacement before resurfacing; district will continue patching. - Bollards at Route 50 bridge: Repaired after a July letter from the council. SHA had difficulty finding bidders but now maintains a stock of replacement fence panels. - Route 90 wall cleaning: Environmental restrictions (need to capture all wastewater) make power washing challenging; SHA will explore options. E. Fire Hydrant Assessments - Contract Approval - Public Works Director Hal Adkins requested approval to award a contract to Xylem Dewatering Solutions, Inc. for hydrant assessments (flow testing, lubrication, GPS data collection) at a cost of $115,000 ($122 per hydrant). Funding is available from the water enterprise fund. The contract uses a piggyback from a Kansas cooperative. Required for ISO ratings affecting insurance premiums. Unanimously approved (7-0). F. Northside Park Softball Field Lighting - Waiver of Competition - Recreation and Parks Director Kate Gaddis and Procurement Manager Matt Perry requested approval to award a contract to Musco Sports Lighting using the Keystone Purchasing Network cooperative contract, with expenditure up to $500,000. The project replaces 1500-watt fixtures on fields 2 and 3 with LED lighting, reducing energy and maintenance costs, with a 10-year warranty. The project is in the FY26 CIP and may qualify for a $28,800 rebate from Delmarva Power. Unanimously approved (7-0). Key Outcomes - Police Commission Report: Acknowledged. - Independent Audit: Clean opinion received; no issues. - Annual Financial Report: Accepted and will be posted online; citizens' report mailed in November. - SHA Update: Information received; council expressed thanks for prompt bollard repairs. - Fire Hydrant Assessment Contract: Approved unanimously (7-0) to Xylem Dewatering Solutions, Inc. for $115,000. - Northside Park Lighting Contract: Approved unanimously (7-0) to Musco Sports Lighting up to $500,000. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned after all business.

The Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission held a regular session on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue. The meeting included approval of minutes, two public hearings (Comprehensive Plan Update and Driveway Apron Ordinance), and discussion of proposed code changes. The meeting was adjourned after a vote on the driveway apron ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approval of October 7, 2025 minutes: Unanimously approved (motion by Gordon Kretser, second by Janet Hough). - Approval of Findings of Fact for Stephen Butz (OC Bay Hopper, Blue Bimini Inc.) conditional use request: Unanimously approved (motion by Janet Hough, second by Tony Butta). Public Comments & Testimony Comprehensive Plan Update (6:00 PM Public Hearing) - Zach Bangert (Executive Director, OCDC): Expressed support for the plan, highlighting the inclusion of downtown design standards, workforce housing, and the "lead by design" concept. He noted the need to protect amusements and attractions, and suggested that the plan should encourage employee housing in larger hotel projects. He also commented on the downtown parking garage, urging consideration of multiple funding sources. - Regan Smith (Attorney, Williams Moore Shockley & Harrison): Congratulated staff on the plan. He advocated for restoring the boardwalk train, extending the concrete boardwalk north to 12th Street, and addressing parking non-conformity downtown. He urged the commission to consider the impact of code changes on existing properties and to avoid creating more non-conformity. Driveway Apron Ordinance (7:00 PM Public Hearing) - Regan Smith: Testified that the proposed 5-foot driveway apron could make townhouse development on 50-foot-wide lots infeasible. He noted that a previous exception for 50-foot lots was omitted from the code when the ordinance was adopted. He argued that enforcement of existing garage-use rules is more effective than changing design standards and that the apron would reduce developable land and increase stormwater management requirements. - Owen Graves (Developer of Sanibel): Strongly disputed claims that garages in his projects are not used for parking. He stated that the apron requirement would cause him to lose 25-30 units at Sanibel, making the project financially unfeasible and pushing development toward high-rise buildings. He argued that the change would regulate townhouses out of the code. - Jeff Thaler (Architect/Developer): Opposed the apron requirement, stating it would eliminate entire townhouse stacks in his projects. He noted that this is the third time the proposal has come before the commission and that previous council votes rejected it. He suggested that the commission focus on enforcement rather than design changes. Discussion Items Comprehensive Plan Update (6:00 PM) - Staff Presentation (William Neville, Planner; George Bendler, Planning Director): Provided an overview of the 2025 update, including updated census data, housing element analysis, land use map stability, and climate adaptation strategies. They noted that the plan must comply with state requirements and that the commission will need to finalize a prioritized work list. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners asked about redevelopment potential (not just vacant land), the accuracy of the 7,000 resident population figure, and the need to address underdeveloped parcels. The commission decided to close the public hearing and hold a work session to review comments, with a second public hearing scheduled for December 2, 2025. - Motion: To close the current public hearing and move to a work session. Passed unanimously. Driveway Apron Ordinance (7:00 PM) - Staff Presentation (George Bendler): Presented the proposed amendment to Section 110-935 to require a minimum 5-foot driveway apron between the garage door and the interior drive aisle. The intent is to improve maneuverability and provide space for trash cans. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners debated the impact on 50-foot-wide lots, the use of wing walls, and the feasibility of recessing garage doors. Several commissioners expressed support for exempting 50-foot lots and allowing wing walls to support the apron under the townhouse structure. Commissioner Palmer Gillis made a motion to approve the ordinance with those amendments. - Motion: To approve the driveway apron ordinance with an exemption for 50-foot-wide lots and allowance for wing walls (as structural support) to enable the apron to be set back under the townhouse. Motion passed 6-1 (Commissioner Kevin Rohe opposed). Staff will bring back the amended language for final confirmation. Key Outcomes - Comprehensive Plan Update: The public hearing was closed; a work session will be held to consider public comments and finalize the plan. A second public hearing is scheduled for December 2, 2025. The plan will then be forwarded to the Mayor and City Council for adoption. - Driveway Apron Ordinance: Approved with amendments (exemption for 50-foot lots and allowance for wing walls). Staff will prepare revised language for the commission’s final approval before sending to the City Council. - Next Steps for Commission: The commission will hold a work session on the Comprehensive Plan update and review the revised driveway apron ordinance language.