Ocean View public meetings in 2025

Planning & Zoning

The Planning & Zoning Commission will consider a site plan application for a design showroom (by appointment) in an existing structure at 100 Atlantic Avenue, zoned GB-1. The meeting also includes approval of the agenda and minutes from November 20, 2025.

• P-362: Land development site plan for a general business (design showroom) at 100 Atlantic Avenue
• Property owner: A1 100, LLC; applicant: Plitko, LLC
• Zoning: GB-1 (General Business District 1)

The commission reviewed a concept site plan for a design showroom at 100 Atlantic Avenue but took no vote, as the item was for concept review only. The plan requires multiple variances due to existing lot coverage of 79.8% exceeding the 50% maximum, parking shortfalls, and other code issues. The applicant will need to address comments from the town engineer and obtain approvals from DelDOT and the State Fire Marshal before proceeding.

• Reviewed concept plan P-362 for 100 Atlantic Avenue design showroom (no vote taken, concept only)
• Approved agenda unanimously (5-0)
• Approved minutes of November 20, 2025 unanimously (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:19pm unanimously (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will hold a meeting to consider a variance request from Mark and Maureen Nicholson for a 4'x20' deck extension at 21 Port Royal Road. The proposed deck would encroach about 3.5 feet into the required 25-foot front yard setback in the R-1 residential zone. The meeting also includes swearing in a new member, reorganization, and approval of prior minutes.

• V-463: variance request for deck extension at 21 Port Royal Road
• Proposed deck would project 3.5 feet into required 25-foot front yard setback
• Swearing in of Eric Thornton to the Board
• Reorganization of the Board of Adjustment
• Approval of September 18, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance for Mark and Maureen Nicholson to extend their front deck 4x20 feet, encroaching 3.5 feet into the required 25-foot front yard setback. The board added a condition that the deck remain uncovered. The meeting also included the swearing-in of new member Eric Thornton and reorganization of board officers.

• Approved variance V-463 for deck extension at 21 Port Royal Rd (5-0)
• Swore in new board member Eric Thornton
• Elected Greg Neuner as Chair (5-0)
• Approved the agenda (5-0)
• Approved September 15, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Town Meetings

The Ocean View Town Council will hold a public hearing on a new chapter regulating community demonstrations in parks and on town property, and will consider appointments to fill a council vacancy and a board term.

• Public hearing and second reading of ordinance to repeal Chapter 77 and adopt new rules for community demonstrations
• Possible vote to appoint John Planchart to Town Council District 1 seat vacated by Stephen Cobb
• Possible vote to appoint Eric Thornton to the Board of Adjustment for a term ending May 2027

The Town Council voted unanimously to appoint John Planchart to fill the District 1 council seat until the April 2026 election. Eric Thornton was also appointed to replace Planchart on the Board of Adjustment. A second reading of an ordinance to establish a permit process for community demonstrations was held but no vote was taken.

• Appointed John Planchart to District 1 council seat (5-0)
• Appointed Eric Thornton to Board of Adjustment (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes of November 18, 2025 meeting (5-0)

Planning & Zoning

The Ocean View Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public meeting to review two applications: a request to rezone a parcel on Windmill Drive from R-1 to R-2, and a site plan to subdivide land near Elliott Avenue and DeMarie Drive into four residential lots and one open space parcel. The meeting will also include approval of prior minutes and the agenda.

• P-360: Rezone 32451 Windmill Drive from R-1 to R-2 (24,916 sq ft, owner SMC Enterprises)
• P-361: Subdivide NW/Elliott Ave & E/DeMarie Dr residual lands into 4 residential lots + open space (owner Jeffrey A. & Stephanie A. Wilkinson, applicant Plitko, LLC)
• Approval of September 18, 2025 meeting minutes

The commission voted on a local rezoning request (P-360) to change a 0.572-acre parcel at 32451 Windmill Drive from R-1 Single Family Residential to R-2 One and Two Family Residential. The motion failed 3-2, with members Nicholson, DiNoto, and Maly voting against it due to overcrowding, aesthetic continuity, and negative community impact concerns. A concept plan review for a four-lot subdivision at Elliott Avenue and DeMarie Drive (P-361) was discussed but no vote was taken.

• Approved meeting agenda unanimously (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 18, 2025 unanimously (5-0)
• Denied rezoning of 32451 Windmill Drive from R-1 to R-2 (motion failed 3-2)
• Discussed concept plan for residual lands at Elliott Avenue and DeMarie Drive; no vote taken

Town Meetings

The Town Council will hold a public hearing on a new ordinance to regulate community demonstrations in town parks and on town-owned property. The council will also discuss and possibly vote on accepting a street in Stingray Harbor, implementing a structured pay scale for the police department, and deciding how to use remaining proceeds from the sale of the town's water distribution system.

• Public hearing on Ordinance to repeal and replace Chapter 77 with new guidelines for community demonstrations in town parks and on town-owned property
• Discussion and possible vote on street acceptance for Stingray Harbor
• Discussion and possible vote on a structured pay scale for the Ocean View Police Department based on years of service for FY27 through FY29
• Discussion and possible vote on a recommendation for use of remaining proceeds from the sale of the town's water distribution system

The Ocean View Town Council unanimously approved a structured pay scale for the police department based on years of service for FY27-FY29, accepted streets in Stingray Harbor, and adopted a plan to use remaining proceeds from the water system sale to create a Tax Rate Stabilization Fund and bolster capital funds. A first-reading ordinance on community demonstrations in parks was discussed but not voted on.

• Approved structured police pay scale based on years of service for FY27-FY29 (5-0)
• Accepted streets in Stingray Harbor (5-0)
• Approved recommendation to create Tax Rate Stabilization Fund and allocate remaining water sale proceeds to capital funds and general fund (5-0)
• Adopted agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes of October 14, 2025 meeting (5-0)

Town Meetings

The Town Council will hold a workshop to receive presentations on a Police Department total compensation study and on next steps after the water distribution system sale is finalized, including how to use remaining funds. No votes are scheduled; the meeting is for review and discussion only.

• Presentation: Police Department Total Compensation Study
• Presentation: Water Distribution System Sale is Final – Utilization of Remaining Funds
• Council to provide direction to Town Manager on proposed items

The Town Council held a workshop to discuss two main items: a presentation on a structured pay scale for the police department by consultant PFM, and a proposal from the Town Manager on how to use $2,103,804 in remaining funds from the water sale. No votes were taken on either item; the meeting was informational only.

• Adopted meeting agenda unanimously (5-0)
• Heard PFM presentation on police pay scale; no action taken
• Discussed Town Manager's recommendation to create a tax stabilization fund and add to Street Repair and Capital Replacement funds; no action taken

Town Meetings

The Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on three ordinances that define fast-food restaurant types, add them as special exceptions in certain zones, set parking requirements, and allow additional signs for drive-in fast-food restaurants. The council will also consider accepting the solicitor's resignation, hiring a new solicitor, approving a pipe replacement on Eastgate Blvd, and moving facility cleaning in-house.

• Second reading of ordinance defining fast-food restaurant types and adding them as special exceptions in certain zoning districts
• Second reading of ordinance setting off-street parking requirements for fast-food restaurants
• Second reading of ordinance allowing additional signs for fast-food restaurants with drive-in in GB-1 and GB-2 zones
• Acceptance of Solicitor Veronica Faust's resignation and hiring of Connolly Gallagher as replacement
• Approval of Eastgate Blvd pipe replacement at Deep Hole Prong #4

The Town Council unanimously approved second readings of three ordinances defining and permitting fast-food restaurants in certain zoning districts, adding parking and sign regulations. They also voted 4-0 to hire Connolly Gallagher as the new town solicitor starting November 1, 2025, and approved a $212,750 pipe replacement contract with Richard E. Pierson. Public comment on a separate community activities ordinance was heard but no vote was taken.

• Approved second reading of ordinance defining fast-food restaurant types and adding them as special exceptions in certain zones (4-0)
• Approved second reading of ordinance adding fast-food parking requirements to the code (4-0)
• Approved second reading of ordinance adding fast-food drive-in sign types in GB-1 and GB-2 zones (4-0)
• Approved hiring Connolly Gallagher as town solicitor effective November 1, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved $212,750 Eastgate Blvd pipe replacement contract with Richard E. Pierson (4-0)
• Approved bringing facility cleaning in-house with a part-time Public Works hire (4-0)
• Approved minutes of September 9, 2025 regular meeting (4-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider a variance request from the developer of Shore Vista to use Type 2 Integral Curb & Gutter (rolled curb) instead of the required Type 1 vertical face curb. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and standard procedural items.

• V-462: variance from §187-11-B to permit rolled curb at 142 Woodland Avenue (Shore Vista subdivision)
• Applicant: George, Miles & Buhr, LLC for DRB Group of the Eastern Shore, LLC
• Property zoned R-3 (Townhouse and Multifamily District)

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance to allow Type 2 Integral Curb and Gutter (rolled curb) instead of the required Type 1 vertical face curb for the Shore Vista subdivision at 142 Woodland Avenue. The town has previously granted similar variances, and staff had no objection.

• Approved variance V-462 for rolled curb at Shore Vista (4-0)

Planning & Zoning

The Ocean View Planning and Zoning Commission is meeting to consider a land development plan (P-358) for a proposed retail/office building at 104 Atlantic Avenue, submitted by Plitko, LLC on behalf of Nguyen Real, LLC. The property is zoned GB-1 (General Business District 1). The agenda also includes approval of the July 17, 2025 meeting minutes. Public comment is limited to 3 minutes per speaker.

• P-358: Land development plan for retail/office building at 104 Atlantic Avenue (PIDN: 074.002 / CTM# 134-12.00-428.01), zoned GB-1
• Applicant: Plitko, LLC; property owner: Nguyen Real, LLC
• Approval of minutes from July 17, 2025 meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved a land development plan for a proposed retail/office building at 104 Atlantic Avenue, contingent on conditions from the town engineer's September 12, 2025 letter. The property is zoned GB-1 and the use is by-right. The approval requires the applicant to address several technical items including lot coverage calculations, parking layout, landscaping, and updated approvals from outside agencies before final plan approval.

• Approved P-358 land development plan for retail/office building at 104 Atlantic Avenue (5-0), contingent on engineer's September 12, 2025 letter
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 17, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:14pm (5-0)

Town Meetings

The Ocean View Town Council will hold public hearings on several ordinances, including second readings on seized property disposition and water system fees, and first readings on fast-food restaurant zoning, parking, and signage rules. New business includes an ordinance on First Amendment assemblies in parks and a zoning change for a parcel on Windmill Drive. The council will also receive the FY25 audit results from PKS.

• Second reading: ordinance on disposition of seized, forfeited, or unclaimed property
• Second reading: ordinance amending water system fees and private well regulations
• First reading: ordinance defining fast-food restaurant types and adding them as special exceptions in certain zoning districts
• First reading: ordinance setting off-street parking requirements for fast-food restaurants
• New business: ordinance repealing Ordinance #405 and adopting Chapter 77 on permitting First Amendment assemblies in town parks

The council approved first readings of three ordinances defining and regulating fast-food restaurants, including permitted uses, parking, and signage. They also approved second readings on seized property disposition and water system fee amendments, and introduced a rezoning for a parcel on Windmill Drive. The FY25 audit received an unmodified opinion with no material weaknesses.

• Approved second reading of ordinance governing disposition of seized, forfeited, or unclaimed property (5-0)
• Approved second reading of ordinance amending water system fees and repealing related articles (5-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance defining fast-food restaurant types and adding them as special exceptions (5-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance adding fast-food restaurants to off-street parking requirements (5-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance adding fast-food restaurant signage types in GB-1 and GB-2 zones (5-0)
• Introduced rezoning of 32451 Windmill Drive parcel from Single Family Residential to unspecified district
• Received and filed FY25 audit with unmodified opinion, under budget by $592,046
• Entered executive session at 4:30pm, returned at 5:17pm, no action taken

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will hold a meeting on July 17, 2025, to consider a variance application for a fence and pillars exceeding the 3-foot height limit in a front yard at 46 Betts Avenue. The meeting also includes reorganization of the board and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• V-461: Variance request by David and Kellie Regn for fence height exceeding 3 feet at 46 Betts Avenue (R-1 zone)
• Reorganization of the Board of Adjustment
• Approval of May 15, 2025 meeting minutes

Planning & Zoning

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on three ordinances that would define fast-food restaurants, allow them as special exceptions in certain zones, and set parking and sign standards. They will also review a lot consolidation plan for two R-1 lots at 12 and 14 Oakland Avenue. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and agenda.

• Lot consolidation plan P-359 to merge two lots at 12 and 14 Oakland Avenue into one R-1 lot
• Ordinance P-356 defining fast-food restaurants, fast-food with drive-through, and fast-food with drive-in as special exceptions in General Business and MXPC zones
• Ordinance amending off-street parking requirements for fast-food restaurants and revising restaurant parking calculations
• Ordinance adding sign types for fast-food restaurants with drive-through and drive-in in GB-1 and GB-2 zones

The Planning and Zoning Commission voted 3-1 to recommend a revised fast-food restaurant ordinance to the Town Council, with modifications to dumpster-sharing language. They also unanimously approved related parking and sign ordinances. Separately, the commission unanimously approved a lot consolidation at 12 & 14 Oakland Avenue.

• Recommended fast-food restaurant ordinance with dumpster modifications (3-1)
• Approved parking ordinance with no changes (4-0)
• Approved sign ordinance with no changes (4-0)
• Approved lot consolidation at 12 & 14 Oakland Avenue (4-0)

Town Meetings

The Town Council will hold public hearings on four ordinances: establishing guidelines for First Amendment assemblies in town parks, amending the FY2025 annual operating budget, governing disposition of seized property, and updating water system fees and private well regulations. The council will also consider approving environmental design for ditch cleaning and open-end general engineering services contracts.

• Second reading of ordinance establishing guidelines and permitting process for First Amendment assemblies in town parks and town-owned property
• First reading of ordinance amending annual operating budget for fiscal year ending April 30, 2025
• First reading of ordinance governing disposition of seized, forfeited or unclaimed property
• First reading of ordinance amending water system fees and charges and private wells (Chapter 213)
• Discussion and possible vote on environmental design for ditch cleaning from Cottages to Kelly Estates

The Ocean View Town Council approved a second reading of an ordinance establishing guidelines for First Amendment assemblies in parks (5-0), a first reading of the FY2025 budget amendment (5-0), and a $79,400 design contract for ditch cleaning at Cottages and Kelly Estates. They also approved five open-ended, five-year general engineering services contracts with Century Engineering, McCormick Taylor, Wallace Montgomery, AECOM, and Davis, Bowen and Friedel, Inc. (5-0). First readings were introduced for ordinances on seized property disposal and water system fees, but no votes were taken on those items.

• Approved ordinance for First Amendment assemblies in parks (5-0)
• Approved FY2025 budget amendment (5-0)
• Approved $79,400 ditch-cleaning design contract with McCormick and Taylor (5-0)
• Approved five open-ended engineering services contracts (5-0)
• Approved June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Introduced but did not vote on seized property disposal ordinance
• Introduced but did not vote on water system fees and private wells ordinance

Town Meetings

The Ocean View Town Council is holding an emergency meeting with a single substantive item: an executive session to discuss legal advice related to litigation, personnel, land acquisition, or the sale of a town asset. No public votes or decisions are scheduled on the agenda.

• Executive session for legal advice on litigation, personnel, land acquisition, or sale of town asset

Town Meetings

The Ocean View Town Council will hold a public hearing on a first reading of an ordinance establishing guidelines for First Amendment assemblies in town parks and on town-owned property. The council will also introduce six ordinances, including amendments to the annual operating budget, rules for seized property, water system fees, and zoning changes to define and regulate fast-food restaurants. Reports from town departments and a proclamation for Wallace Evans are also on the agenda.

• Public hearing on first reading of ordinance for First Amendment assemblies in town parks and town-owned property
• Introduction of ordinance amending annual operating budget for FY ending April 30, 2025
• Introduction of ordinance governing disposition of seized, forfeited, or unclaimed property
• Introduction of ordinance amending water system fees and charges and private wells
• Introduction of ordinances defining fast-food restaurants, adding them as special exceptions in certain zoning districts, and setting parking and sign standards

The Ocean View Town Council held a regular meeting on June 10, 2025, with all members present. They held a first reading of an ordinance to establish a permitting process for First Amendment assemblies in town parks, approved the previous meeting's minutes, and introduced six new ordinances covering budget amendments, property disposition, water system fees, and fast-food restaurant regulations. After executive session, they unanimously approved a $10,266 salary adjustment for two police officers in the FY26 budget.

• Approved minutes of May 13, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Adopted agenda as presented (5-0)
• Opened executive session (5-0)
• Returned to regular session (5-0)
• Approved $10,266 salary adjustment for two police officers in FY26 Budget (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:03 PM (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider two variance applications: one to exceed the 45% maximum lot coverage for a paver patio and walkway at 44 Old Forge Drive, and another to allow a front-yard fence taller than the 3-foot limit at 46 Betts Avenue. The meeting also includes reorganization of the board and approval of prior minutes.

• V-460: Variance from 45% lot coverage limit for paver patio and walkway at 44 Old Forge Drive (MXPC zone)
• V-461: Variance from 3-foot front-yard fence height limit at 46 Betts Avenue (R-1 zone)
• Reorganization of the Board of Adjustment
• Approval of April 17, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance for property owners at 11 Woodland Road to exceed the maximum 45% lot coverage by 3.8% (309 sq ft) to allow construction of a paver patio and walkway. The board cited the applicant's mobility needs and lack of adverse impact on surrounding properties. The meeting also included reorganization, electing John Planchart as Chair and Ron Galey as Vice-Chair.

• Elected John Planchart as Chair (5-0)
• Elected Ron Galey as Vice-Chair (5-0)
• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes from April 17, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved variance V-459 for 11 Woodland Road to exceed lot coverage limit by 3.8% (5-0)

Planning & Zoning

The Planning & Zoning Commission will review two applications: a preliminary subdivision plan to create 13 residential lots on Central and Woodland Avenues, and a lot consolidation plan to reduce tax parcels on Hickman Avenue. The meeting is open to the public in person or via YouTube.

• P-346: Preliminary plan for 'The Howard Property Subdivision' to split 8.28 acres at 107 Central Ave, 97 & 99 Woodland Ave into 13 residential lots (R-1 zoning)
• P-357: Lot consolidation plan to eliminate one tax parcel and reconfigure three others at 6, 4, 0, and 47 Betts/2 Hickman Ave (R-1 zoning)

The commission unanimously approved a lot combination at Hickman Avenue and a preliminary development plan for the Howard Subdivision (13 single-family homes on 8.22 acres) by a 4-1 vote. The subdivision approval included conditions addressing floodplain, drainage, open space, and street requirements. One commissioner voted against the subdivision plan.

• Approved lot combination at 6, 4, 0 Hickman Ave. and 47 Betts/2 Hickman Ave. (5-0)
• Approved preliminary development plan for Howard Subdivision (13 lots) at 107 Central Ave., 97 and 99 Woodland Ave. (4-1)
• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes of April 17, 2025 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:00pm (5-0)

Town Meetings

The Ocean View Town Council will hold a regular meeting with a cancelled public hearing on a fast-food ordinance. They will consider introducing an ordinance to establish guidelines and a permitting process for First Amendment assemblies in town parks and town-owned property, and review recurring contract awards for FY26. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, reports, and an executive session for legal advice.

• Introduction of ordinance for First Amendment assemblies in town parks and town-owned property
• Review of recurring contract awards for FY26
• Cancelled public hearing: 2nd reading of fast-food ordinance
• Approval of minutes from April 8 and April 22, 2025
• Executive session for legal advice on litigation/personnel/land acquisition/sale of town asset

The Ocean View Town Council approved recurring FY26 contracts with a spending cap increase from $7,500 to $10,000, and introduced an ordinance to regulate First Amendment assemblies in town parks. In executive session, the council unanimously supported bonuses for three town officials and approved a lien settlement for 30 Brighton Street. All votes were 4-0.

• Approved recurring FY26 contract awards with spending cap raised to $10,000 (4-0)
• Introduced ordinance for First Amendment assembly guidelines in town parks and property
• Supported bonuses for Town Manager Houck, Finance Director Parks, and Planning Director Cimino (4-0)
• Approved lien settlement for 30 Brighton Street (4-0)

Town Meetings

This is a reorganization meeting where the council will administer oaths to newly elected members Stephen Cobb and Colleen Twardzik, elect a mayor pro tem, and vote on reappointments to several town boards. The agenda is largely procedural with no major policy decisions or financial items.

• Administer oath of office to Stephen Cobb and Colleen Twardzik following annual town election
• Elect mayor pro tem
• Reappoint Preston Coppels and Ron Galey to Board of Adjustment (term ending May 2028)
• Reappoint Sharon DiNoto to Planning & Zoning Commission (term ending May 2030)
• Reappoint Ed Donnelly, Kitty Rehrig, Tom Maly, Sue Kerwin to Board of Assessment (term ending May 2026)

The Ocean View Town Council held a reorganization meeting, unanimously reappointing Donald Walsh as Mayor Pro-tem and approving appointments to the Board of Adjustment, Planning and Zoning Commission, and Board of Elections. The council also adopted the 2025 meeting calendar with a November date change.

• Approved Donald Walsh as Mayor Pro-tem (5-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting calendar, moving November meeting from Nov. 11 to Nov. 18 (5-0)
• Reappointed Preston Coppels and Ron Galey to the Board of Adjustment through May 2028 (5-0)
• Reappointed Sharon DiNoto to the Planning and Zoning Commission through May 2030 (5-0)
• Reappointed Ed Donnelly, Kitty Rehrig, Tom Maly, and Sue Kerwin to the Board of Assessment through 2026 (5-0)
• Reappointed Gayle Driver, Bette Meredith, and Linda Fiscus to the Board of Elections through May 2028 (5-0)

Planning & Zoning

The Planning & Zoning Commission will consider a land development plan for a proposed retail/office building at 104 Atlantic Avenue. The property is zoned GB-1 (General Business District 1). The commission will also approve minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting.

• Application P-358: land development plan for a retail/office building at 104 Atlantic Avenue, submitted by Plitko, LLC for owner Nguyen Real, LLC
• Property is zoned GB-1 (General Business District 1)
• Approval of March 20, 2025 meeting minutes

The commission reviewed a concept plan for a mixed-use development at 104 Atlantic Avenue but took no vote. Staff comments raised issues with lot coverage, parking, wetlands, floodplain, landscaping, and sidewalk requirements. The applicant, represented by Plitko Engineering, responded to concerns but no decision was made.

• Agenda approved unanimously (5-0)
• Minutes of March 20, 2025 approved unanimously (5-0)
• Concept plan for 104 Atlantic Avenue reviewed, no vote taken
• Meeting adjourned unanimously (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider a variance request from Robert and Barbara Svenson to allow an 8-foot fence at 11 Woodland Avenue, exceeding the R-1 district's maximum of 3 feet in the front yard and 6 feet in the side yard. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and agenda.

• Variance V-459 for 11 Woodland Avenue: proposed 8-foot fence exceeds 3-foot front-yard and 6-foot side-yard limits
• Property zoned R-1 (Single-Family Residential District)
• Approval of January 16, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance for an 8-foot fence at 11 Woodland Avenue, exceeding the maximum allowed height of 3 feet in a front yard and 6 feet in a side yard. The lot is uniquely shaped, and the town's planning department did not oppose the request.

• Approved variance V-459 for 8-foot fence at 11 Woodland Avenue (5-0)

Town Meetings

The Ocean View Town Council will hold a public hearing and first reading of ordinances establishing the FY26 annual operating budget and the FY26–30 capital expenditures budget. The council will also consider an ordinance to define fast-food restaurant types and add them as special exceptions in certain zoning districts, along with development standards. Other business includes a vote on HVAC repairs at 201 Central Avenue and a resolution setting the FY2026 fee schedule.

• First reading of FY26 Annual Budget ordinance (Parks)
• First reading of FY26–30 Capital Budget ordinance (Parks)
• First reading of ordinance amending Land Use Code to define fast-food restaurants and add them as special exceptions in certain zoning districts (Cimino)
• Discussion and possible vote on HVAC repair/replacements at 201 Central Avenue (Houck)
• Resolution establishing a fee schedule for FY2026 (Parks)

The Ocean View Town Council voted 5-0 to approve the FY2026 Annual Budget and the FY2026-2030 Capital Budget after first readings and no public comment. They also held a first reading and discussion on an ordinance defining fast-food restaurant types and adding them as special exceptions in certain zoning districts. Additionally, the council approved appointments to the Board of Assessment and the FY26 Fee Schedule.

• Approved FY2026 Annual Budget as presented (5-0)
• Approved FY2026-2030 Capital Budget as presented (5-0)
• Approved appointments of Mr. Maly and Ms. Kerwin to the Board of Assessment (5-0)
• Approved FY26 Fee Schedule resolution (5-0)

Planning & Zoning

The Planning & Zoning Commission will consider an ordinance (P-356) that defines fast-food restaurant types, adds them as special exceptions in General Business and Mixed Use Planned Community zones, and sets development standards. A lot consolidation plan (P-357) for properties on Hickman Avenue has been postponed. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and agenda.

• P-356: Ordinance amending fast-food restaurant definitions and adding them as special exceptions in General Business Districts and MXPC zone
• P-357 POSTPONED: Lot consolidation plan for 6, 4, 0, and 47 Betts/2 Hickman Ave. to reduce parcels from four to three in R-1 zone
• Approval of January 16, 2025 meeting minutes

The Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously (4-0) to recommend a draft ordinance to the Town Council that would amend the land use code to define fast-food restaurants and set standards for them as special exceptions in General Business Districts and MXPC zones. The ordinance also adds and defines fast-food restaurants with drive-through and drive-in as uses requiring special exceptions. The recommendation follows a public comment in favor of the change.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes of January 16, 2025 (4-0)
• Recommended draft ordinance amending fast-food restaurant definitions and standards to Town Council (4-0)

Town Meetings

The Board of Supervisors of Elections will meet to swear in members, certify candidates for two districts, and vote to cancel the 2025 town election. The agenda is largely procedural, focused on election administration.

• Certification of candidates: Steve Cobb (District 1) and Colleen Twardzik (District 2)
• Motion to approve Steve Cobb as reelected
• Motion to approve Colleen Twardzik as reelected
• Motion to cancel 2025 Town Election

The Board of Supervisors of Elections voted unanimously to cancel the 2025 Town Election after certifying that Stephen Cobb (District 1) and Colleen Twardzik (District 2) were the only candidates and are therefore reelected. The board also approved the agenda and swore in election members.

• Approved agenda unanimously (7-0)
• Certified Stephen Cobb as reelected for District 1 (7-0)
• Certified Colleen Twardzik as reelected for District 2 (7-0)
• Cancelled the 2025 Town Election unanimously (7-0)

Town Meetings

The Town Council will introduce the annual FY26 budget ordinance and five-year capital expenditures budget. A public hearing on fast-food restaurant regulations, originally scheduled for February 20, has been postponed to April 8, 2025. The council will also consider appointments to the Board of Assessment, a mosquito sprayer purchase, card access expansion at 201 Central Avenue, and a street paving project award.

• Public hearing on fast-food restaurant ordinance delayed to April 8, 2025
• Introduction of Annual FY26 Budget Ordinance
• Introduction of Five-year Capital Expenditures Budget
• Appointments of Tom Maly (District 3) and Susan Kerwin (Alternate, District 2) to the Board of Assessment
• Award recommendation for FY2025 Street Paving Project OVPZ&D 25-04

The council unanimously approved a $79,284 grant request from the Millville Volunteer Fire Company and introduced the FY26 Annual Budget and FY26-30 Capital Budget. Appointments to the Board of Assessments were approved, and a $239,602.70 street paving contract was awarded to George & Lynch. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $79,284 grant for Millville Volunteer Fire Company (4-0)
• Introduced FY26 Annual Budget (first reading)
• Introduced FY26-30 Capital Budget (first reading)
• Appointed Tom Maly and Susan Kerwin to Board of Assessments (5-0)
• Authorized advance order of a mosquito sprayer (5-0)
• Approved card access expansion at 201 Central (5-0)
• Awarded FY2025 Street Paving Project to George & Lynch for $239,602.70 (5-0)

Town Meetings

The Town Council holds a budget workshop to review the proposed FY26 General Fund and Water Fund Operating Budget and 5-Year Capital Improvement Program. A consultant presents a financial condition assessment with options and recommendations. Council will discuss and provide direction to the Town Manager.

• Presentation of FY26 General Fund and Water Fund Operating Budget and 5-Year Capital Improvement Program (Houck)
• Presentation of Financial Condition Assessment – Diagnosis to Treatment: Options & Recommendations (PFM Group Consultants)
• Public input on proposed FY26 budget during Citizens Privilege
• Council discussion and direction to Town Manager on FY26 budget

The Town Council held a workshop to review the proposed FY26 budget of $6,377,515, which is balanced and includes a two-cent tax rate increase to $0.2578 per $100. No formal vote was taken; the presentation was informational and council members asked questions that will be answered in writing. Council declined a second workshop.

• Adopted the meeting agenda as presented (5-0)
• No formal decisions made on the FY26 budget; workshop only
• Adjourned the meeting at 4:48 p.m. (5-0)

Planning & Zoning

The Planning & Zoning Commission will consider a proposed ordinance that defines fast-food restaurants, including drive-through and drive-in types, and adds them as special exceptions in General Business Districts and the Mixed Use Planned Community zone. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and agenda.

• Ordinance P-356: defines fast-food restaurants and sets standards for special exceptions in General Business Districts and MXPC zone
• Adds fast-food restaurants with drive-through and drive-in to Table of Permitted Uses as special exceptions
• Moves surgical centers to Section 140-121 for renumbering purposes
• Approval of January 16, 2025 meeting minutes

Community Events

The Sussex County Southeast Regional Police Accountability Committee will vote on accepting the Selbyville Police Department's request to join the PAC. The committee will also hear a presentation on the duties and responsibilities of regional PAC members from the Executive Director of the State of Delaware Police Officer Standards and Training Commission.

• Vote on accepting Selbyville Police Department’s request to join the PAC
• Presentation by Sean Moriarty, Executive Director of POST, on duties and responsibilities of regional PAC members
• Location of next meeting to be discussed

Town Meetings

The Ocean View Town Council will consider appointing William Goodwin and Melissa Tuttle to the Board of Election, and will receive a presentation of the proposed FY26 operating, capital improvement, and water utility budgets. The council will also discuss a recommendation to add a vendor debarment policy to the town policy manual. The meeting includes routine reports, a donation presentation, and a financial condition assessment as part of long-range planning.

• Appointments of William Goodwin (District 3) and Melissa Tuttle (District 1) to the Board of Election
• Presentation of proposed FY26 Operating Budget, 5-year Capital Improvement Budget, and Water Utility Budget
• Discussion and possible vote on adding a Vendor Debarment Policy to Town Policy Manual
• Donation presentation by Nam Knights of America First State Chapter Motorcycle Club
• PFM Financial Condition Assessment provided for review

The council unanimously approved William Goodwin to fill a vacant Board of Election seat and Melissa Tuttle for a new three-year term. A debarment policy was also approved unanimously. The town manager presented FY26 budget considerations including a proposed two-cent tax increase, but no vote was taken on the budget.

• Approved William Goodwin to Board of Election, District 3, term ending 2027 (5-0)
• Approved Melissa Tuttle to Board of Election for three-year term through 2028 (5-0)
• Approved Debarment Policy for the Policy Manual (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance applications. One seeks to allow two oversized wall signs at 1 Town Road. The other requests to exceed the 50% lot coverage limit on three Atlantic Avenue parcels proposed for consolidation.

• V-457: Variance to allow two wall signs larger than 10 sq ft each at 1 Town Road (GB-1 zone)
• V-458: Variance to exceed 50% lot coverage on three parcels at 33, 35, and 39 Atlantic Avenue (GB-1 zone)
• Applicant for V-458 proposes to consolidate the three lots into one

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved two variance requests. One allows a new business at 1 Town Road to install two wall signs exceeding the size limit. The other allows up to 56.48% lot coverage on three consolidated parcels at 33-39 Atlantic Avenue, subject to conditions on stormwater management, DelDOT approval, and parking use.

• Approved variance for two wall signs (19 sq ft and 25 sq ft) at 1 Town Road for Bethany Beach Billiards by RR Games (5-0)
• Approved variance to exceed 50% lot coverage by 6.48% on three parcels at 33-39 Atlantic Avenue, with conditions on stormwater, DelDOT no-objection letter, and parking-only use (5-0)

Planning & Zoning

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a preliminary land development plan (Application P-355) to merge three lots at 33, 35, and 39 Atlantic Avenue into one and construct a bank with a drive-in and an office building. The commission will also consider approving the minutes from its December 19, 2024 meeting.

• P-355: Consolidation of three lots (33, 35, 39 Atlantic Avenue) into one lot
• Construction of a bank with drive-in and an office building on the consolidated lot
• All lots are zoned GB-1 (General Business District 1)

The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved a preliminary site plan for three parcels at 33-39 Atlantic Avenue, subject to conditions including DelDOT approvals. The plan allows up to 56.48% impervious cover pending a variance from the Board of Adjustment.

• Approved preliminary site plan P-355 for 33-39 Atlantic Avenue (4-0), conditioned on fulfilling items in engineer's December 9, 2024 letter
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes of December 19, 2024 (4-0)

Town Meetings

The Town Council will hold a public hearing and second reading of an ordinance to prohibit smoking in any public park. They will also consider several other items including an ARPA funding update, a sidewalk project on Woodland Avenue, an auditor contract extension, a capitalization policy, FY2026 budget input, and the 2025 election schedule.

• Public hearing and possible vote on ordinance to prohibit smoking in all public parks
• Discussion and possible vote on ARPA funding update as of December 31, 2024
• Discussion and possible vote on awarding OVPZ&D 25-03 Woodland Avenue Sidewalks, Hudson to Daisey, North Phase
• Discussion and possible vote on extension of PKS External Auditor Contract
• Discussion and possible vote on adding a Capitalization Policy to Town Policy Manual

The Town Council unanimously approved an ordinance prohibiting smoking in any public park, with designated smoking areas allowed. They also awarded a $688,360.30 contract for Woodland Avenue sidewalks, extended the PKS auditor contract three years, and added a capitalization policy to the Town Policy Manual. FY26 budget input and the 2025 election calendar were discussed and approved.

• Approved ordinance banning smoking in all public parks (5-0)
• Awarded $688,360.30 contract to Mumford & Miller for Woodland Avenue sidewalks (5-0)
• Extended PKS auditor contract for three more years (5-0)
• Added Capitalization Policy to Town Policy Manual (5-0)
• Approved 2025 Election Calendar (5-0)
• Introduced ordinance defining fast-food restaurants and adding them as special exceptions in certain zoning districts
• Received ARPA funding update; no vote needed
• Council provided input on FY26 budget items (early property tax discount, transfer tax, employee benefits, wage increase, sick leave, community events, capital contingency, water budget)