Oxford public meetings in 2025

Commissioners

The Oxford Town Commissioners will vote on authorizing the Town Manager to request a modification of the NOAA earmark to reallocate $776,300 for sea‑level rise adaptation staffing and expenses. They will also consider approving a $250,000 Department of Natural Resources grant to replace the bulkhead and boating structures on Tilghman Street. A closed‑session request to consult counsel under General Provisions Article § 3‑305(b)(7) is also on the agenda.

• Request to modify NOAA earmark and reallocate $776,300 (personnel, fringe benefits, travel) for sea‑level rise adaptation
• Approval of $250,000 DNR Waterway Improvement Fund grant for bulkhead and boating structure replacement at Tilghman Street
• Closed‑session request to consult legal counsel under General Provisions Article § 3‑305(b)(7)
• Two open positions on town boards: Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Election Supervisors
• Award of contract to Royal Plus for interior repairs and flood‑proofing of the U.S. Post Office building

The commissioners voted to authorize Town Manager Holly Wahl to formally request a modification of the NOAA earmark, reallocating $776,300 of administrative funds to the town. They also approved a $250,000 Department of Natural Resources Waterway Improvement Fund grant to replace the bulkhead and boating structures on Tilghman Street. Both motions were carried unanimously.

• Authorized Town Manager to request NOAA earmark modification reallocating $776,300 (unanimous)
• Approved $250,000 DNR Waterway Improvement Fund grant for Tilghman Street bulkhead replacement (unanimous)

Board of Port Wardens

The Board of Port Wardens announced that there will be no meeting on December 11, 2025. Consequently, no items will be discussed, decided, or voted on at this time.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss draft comments for the Comprehensive Plan. The body will also review various utility, tree removal, and building permit applications.

• Comprehensive Plan working session to discuss draft plan comments
• Building permit for porch/deck addition at 101 South
• Building permit for stormwater pipe solution at 216 S Morris
• Utility permits for plumbing and HVAC at 100 High Street
• Tree removal applications for Town Hall, Dog Park, Ball Park, and Soccer Field

The commission unanimously approved the October 28 meeting minutes and a series of permit applications, including plumbing, HVAC, emergency plumbing, propane cylinder installation, and building work. It also approved multiple tree removal requests for town property and private sites. All motions were carried with all members in favor.

• Approved October 28 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved plumbing and HVAC permits for 100 High Street (unanimous)
• Approved emergency plumbing after‑the‑fact permit for 303 Market Street (unanimous)
• Approved propane cylinder installation at 700 S. Morris (unanimous)
• Approved multiple tree removals: town property, 102 Tilghman, 305 Bonfield, 101 Sinclair (unanimous)
• Approved building permit for new porch and deck at 101 South (unanimous)
• Approved stormwater drainage pipe permit at 216 S. Morris (unanimous)
• Approved interior remodel permit at 107 Tred Avon (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Oxford Town Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on Ordinance No. 2509, which adds Chapter 21 “Elections” to the town code to regulate local elections. They will also consider authorizing PayStar for online utility payments, with ACH at no cost and $1.50 per transaction for unregistered users, and a phased conversion to LED streetlights on utility poles at no additional town cost. A closed‑session portion will address personnel matters under General Provisions Article § 3‑305(b)(1).

• Public hearing and vote on Ordinance No. 2509 – establishes Chapter 21 “Elections” in the town code
• Authorize PayStar for online utility payments; ACH free, $1.50 per transaction for users without registration
• Authorize conversion to LED streetlights on utility poles, phased in 20 lights at a time, with no extra town cost
• Closed‑session to discuss personnel matters per General Provisions Article § 3‑305(b)(1)
• Police Report from Talbot County Sheriff’s Office

The Commissioners amended Ordinance 2509 with a series of language changes and approved it, with all members in favor. They also authorized third‑party payment processing (PayStar) for online utility bills and approved the phased conversion to LED streetlights at no extra cost to the Town. A motion to enter closed session for personnel matters was also carried. The consent agenda was approved unanimously.

• Approved Ordinance 2509 as amended (all in favor, motion carried)
• Authorized third‑party payment processing with PayStar for online utility payments (all in favor, motion carried)
• Authorized conversion to LED streetlights on utility poles, phased 20 at a time (all in favor, motion carried)
• Approved the consent agenda (all in favor, motion carried)
• Moved to closed session to discuss personnel matters (all in favor, motion carried)

Commissioners

The Oxford Town Commissioners will hold a special meeting at 11 AM with a pledge of allegiance and public comment. They will discuss going into closed session under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(7) to consult counsel for legal advice. No other agenda items are listed.

• Consider closed session under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(7) to obtain legal advice

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will discuss a supplemental voter registration list to expand voter eligibility, referenced as Resolution 2501. They will also consider a write‑in candidate discussion. Public comments on Resolution 2501 will be heard from several residents.

• Discussion of supplemental voter registration list (Resolution 2501) to expand eligibility
• Write‑in candidate discussion
• Public comments on Resolution 2501 from multiple residents

Historic District

The Oxford Historic District Commission will review several applications, including a fence extension at 312 N Morris Street and roofing replacements at 211 S Morris Street and 103 W Strand. The commission will hold a work session introducing a property identification and enforcement process for demolition by neglect and will schedule a follow‑up work session. It will also approve the minutes from the November 3, 2025 meeting.

• Fence extension request for 312 N Morris Street (4‑ft posts, 3.5‑ft pickets, matching existing fence)
• No‑permit notices for roofing replacements at 211 S Morris Street and 103 W Strand
• Work session on “Demolition By Neglect” property identification and enforcement process
• Schedule next work session on demolition‑by‑neglect procedures
• Approval of November 3, 2025 meeting minutes

The commission approved the November 3, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to table the fence extension request for 312 N. Morris pending additional information. It determined that re‑roofing projects in the historic district do not require a permit and no formal hearing is needed. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved November 3, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Tabled fence extension application for 312 N. Morris (all in favor)
• Determined re‑roofing projects in historic district require no permit (all in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will approve the minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting and consider several permit applications, including a new screened porch and deeper rear deck for 101 South Street. It will also vote on tree removal requests for 103 Third and 103 Stewart, and a shed relocation at 102‑B Bonfield. A work session on the town’s Comprehensive Plan will follow the permit reviews.

• Approve October 28, 2025 meeting minutes
• Permit for 101 South Street – new screened porch, removal of existing deck, and new rear deck
• Tree removal for 103 Third (three trees along rear property line)
• Tree removal for 103 Stewart – 11 arborvitae and two canopy trees, linked to rain garden project
• Modification of 102‑B Bonfield shed location and concrete pad

Commissioners

The Oxford Town Commissioners will hold a special meeting on November 25, 2025. They will consider moving the meeting into closed session under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(7) to consult counsel for legal advice. No other agenda items are listed.

• Consider closed session under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(7) to obtain legal advice

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold a public hearing and vote on Charter Resolution No. 2501 to amend election and voter registration rules. The body will also consider a contract for new water meters and a request for temporary police oversight.

• Charter Resolution No. 2501: Amends Article V regarding voter eligibility, Board of Elections size, and elimination of write-in candidates
• Proposed $355,975 contract to Core & Main L.P. for 625 water meters and related hardware
• Proposed request to Sheriff Gamble for temporary oversight of the Oxford Police
• Authorization of Crime-Embezzlement Coverage for USDA projects
• Discussion of Strand project litigation, ADA access, and stormwater improvements

Community Resilience Committee

The committee will meet to review survey results from Engagement Session #3 and discuss the development of the town's Resilience Plan. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from June, July, and September 2025.

• Review of Engagement Session #3 Summary Survey Results
• Discussion on Resilience Plan Development
• Approval of minutes from June 20, July 18, and September 19, 2025

The committee approved the minutes from the July 18 and September 19, 2025 meetings. Members unanimously approved moving forward with a Resilience Action Plan and agreed to appoint a specialist to draft the plan and guide the effort. The committee assigned Curt to contact the University of Maryland Sea Grant Program and tasked Tim to summarize town resources for resiliency hubs. They also set a timeline for a draft in six months, final approval by November 21 2026, and a consultant SOW by January.

• Approved July 18, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved development of a Resilience Action Plan and appointment of a lead specialist (unanimous)
• Assigned Curt to contact UMD Sea Grant Program (Eric Behul)
• Assigned Tim to summarize town resources for Resiliency Hubs
• Set target for first draft of Resilience Plan within 6 months
• Set target for final Resilience Action Plan approval by 11/21/2026
• Set deadline for consultant SOW by January

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will hold a special meeting on November 20, 2025 at 101 Market Street. After a pledge of allegiance, they will consider invoking General Provisions Article § 3‑305(b)(7) to go into closed session and consult counsel for legal advice. No other agenda items are listed. The meeting is open to the public in person or via a virtual link.

• Consideration of closed session under General Provisions Article § 3‑305(b)(7) to obtain legal advice

Board of Election Supervisors

The Oxford Board of Election Supervisors will discuss draft charter amendment language and proposed Elections Chapter language. Items include changes to voter eligibility wording, a shift to 30‑day registration with the county, and a proposal for a seven‑member board with staggered three‑year terms. The board will also consider updates to absentee ballot procedures and notice requirements.

• Review draft Charter Amendment language
• Review proposed Elections Chapter language
• Proposed change: residents must register with Talbot County at least 30 days before an election
• Proposed board composition: seven members with staggered three‑year terms
• Update absentee ballot rules: require ID, eliminate online ballots, retain ballots for at least 6 months

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford are holding a special meeting to consider entering a closed session. The purpose of the session is to consult with staff or consultants regarding pending or potential litigation.

• Closed session regarding pending or potential litigation under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(8)

Board of Port Wardens

The Board of Port Wardens will not hold its regular November meeting. Consequently, no agenda items, decisions, or public hearings are scheduled for this date.

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold a public hearing and consider voting on Ordinance 2508 to authorize a general obligation bond and note for water system upgrades. The body will also introduce an ordinance to regulate town elections and discuss a comprehensive plan.

• Ordinance 2508: General obligation bond/note not to exceed $2,572,000 for Water System Improvement Project
• Ordinance 2509: Proposed new Chapter 21 'Elections' to regulate town elections
• Transfer of $1,827,785.29 from Shore United to Maryland Local Government Insurance Pool (MLGIP)
• Contract with GMB for floodproofing specifications for the US Post Office
• Appointments to the Board of Appeals and Board of Election Supervisors

Planning Commission

The Oxford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to review findings from the Comprehensive Plan open‑house sessions. Commissioners will share the plan’s findings and invite residents to give feedback and ask questions. No formal decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion and input.

• Public hearing on the Oxford Comprehensive Plan
• Review of findings from open‑house sessions
• Opportunity for resident feedback and questions

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold a work session to discuss proposed changes to the town charter and the establishment of an Election Code. The session focuses on updating voter registration, eligibility, and election administration processes.

• Discussion of Charter Resolution 2501 regarding voter registration and eligibility
• Proposed increase of Board of Elections members from 6 to 7
• Discussion of a new Election Code and related ordinances
• Proposed change to voter registration deadline from 4 weeks to 30 days
• Review of absentee ballot identification and verification requirements

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will interview Bruce Beglin, a candidate for the Board of Appeals Alternate position. They will also consider authorizing Lane Engineering, LLC to perform flood‑benchmarking for the U.S. Post Office at an estimated cost of $500. Public comment will be accepted before adjournment.

• Interview of Bruce Beglin for Board of Appeals Alternate
• Consideration of authorizing Lane Engineering to set flood benchmarks for the Oxford Post Office
• Estimated contract amount of $500 for flood‑benchmarking services
• Public comment period for residents
• Pledge of Allegiance at meeting start

Historic District

The Historic District Commission will hold a work session to develop formal procedures for identifying and enforcing 'Demolition by Neglect' violations. The body will also review several property modification applications and a consultation for a home expansion.

• Work session on 'Demolition By Neglect' property identification and enforcement process
• Application for 106 Stewart: door color, driveway, and sidewalk materials
• Application for 228 South: replacement of two street-facing windows
• Consultation for 200 Tred Avon: extending rear bay to the second floor
• Withdrawn application for garage demolition at 110 Norton

The commission approved the minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting with a name correction. It authorized a town letter to the Robert Morris Inn owner for a “Right to Enter” emergency inspection. The commission also approved the black front‑door color, the driveway and sidewalk materials, and a fence‑permit modification for 106 Stewart Avenue. The window‑replacement request for 228 South Street was tabled pending a survey, and the plan to remove a dilapidated structure at 110 Norton was withdrawn.

• Approved October 6, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved town letter for Right to Enter inspection of Robert Morris Inn (all in favor)
• Approved black front‑door color for 106 Stewart Avenue (all in favor)
• Approved driveway and sidewalk materials for 106 Stewart Avenue (all in favor)
• Approved fence‑permit modification for 106 Stewart Avenue (all in favor)
• Tabled window‑replacement request for 228 South Street pending survey
• Withdrawn removal of accessory structure at 110 Norton

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on Ordinance 2507, which updates minimum standards and penalties for short‑term rentals. They will also consider Resolution 2501 to amend the town charter’s election provisions and Ordinance 2509 to create a new Chapter 21 governing elections. New business includes a one‑year $2,310 contract with Granicus for short‑term rental data and a $7,500 contribution to the Tred Avon Yacht Club for the 2026 fireworks display.

• Vote on Ordinance 2507 to amend Chapter 20 (short‑term rentals)
• Resolution 2501 to amend Article V of the charter on election voting and board composition
• Ordinance 2509 to establish Chapter 21 regulating town elections
• Approve a $2,310 annual contract with Granicus for short‑term rental data services
• Authorize a $7,500 contribution to Tred Avon Yacht Club for the 2026 fireworks display

Commissioners

The Oxford Town Commissioners will hold a regular meeting on October 28, 2025. They will interview candidates for appointed positions on the Board of Supervisors and the Board of Appeals. The Commissioners will consider moving into a closed session to discuss personnel matters such as appointments, employment actions, and performance evaluations.

• Interviews of candidates for Board of Supervisors and Board of Appeals appointments
• Consideration of a closed session under Statutory General Provisions Article § 3‑305(b)(1) for personnel matters

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider several residential permit applications for demolition, relocation, and repairs. The body will also hold a working session to discuss initial comments on the draft Comprehensive Plan.

• Garage demolition at 110 Norton Street
• Shed relocation permit modification at 102B Bonfield Avenue
• Deck replacement at 105 Jefferson Street
• Interior plumbing permit at 101 East Street
• Tree removal requests for 103 Third and 103 Stewart

The commission approved the October 7, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved a deck replacement at 105 Jefferson, interior plumbing work at 101 East, and a shed relocation at 102‑B Bonfield. Tree removal requests were approved for 103 Third and 103 Stewart. The removal of a dilapidated structure at 110 Norton was withdrawn pending a design. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved October 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved deck replacement permit for 105 Jefferson (unanimous)
• Approved interior plumbing permit for 101 East (unanimous)
• Withdrawal of accessory structure removal at 110 Norton (pending design)
• Approved shed relocation permit for 102‑B Bonfield (unanimous)
• Approved removal of three trees at 103 Third (unanimous)
• Approved removal of 11 arborvitae and two canopy trees at 103 Stewart (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will consider Ordinance 2508, which authorizes a general‑obligation bond and note each not to exceed $2,572,000 for the Water System Improvement Project. They will also vote on a contract with Royal Plus for fire‑damage repairs at the U.S. Post Office up to $200,000, and on two small purchases for the water reclamation plant ($8,298 for pumps and $3,874 for a blower motor). A motion to shift the November 25 regular meeting to November 24 because of Thanksgiving will be discussed.

• Ordinance 2508 authorizing a $2,572,000 general‑obligation bond and note for the Water System Improvement Project (public hearing set)
• Contract award to Royal Plus for U.S. Post Office fire‑damage repairs, not to exceed $200,000 (with $10,000 window replacement cost excluded)
• Purchase of methanol and alum feed pumps for the water reclamation treatment plant for $8,298 from FY26 wastewater capital line
• Purchase of a blower motor for lagoon aeration at the water reclamation plant for $3,874 from FY26 wastewater capital line
• Motion to move the November 25 regular meeting to November 24, 2025, due to the Thanksgiving holiday

Board of Port Wardens

The Oxford Board of Port Wardens meeting on October 9, 2025 will approve the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting. The board will consider a permit to construct a 150‑foot bulkhead at Bachelors Point Marina (Tax Parcel 179/Map 0053). New business includes a request to place Christmas trees at the town dock and an update to the town map by ESRGC. The meeting is open to the public in person and via a virtual link.

• Permit review: construction of 150 ft new bulkhead at Bachelors Point Marina (Tax Parcel 179/Map 0053)
• Town Dock Christmas Trees placement request
• ESRGC Town Map update
• Approval of August 13, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board approved the August 13, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved a permit for a 150‑foot bulkhead at Tax Parcel 179 (Bachelors Point Marina). The Board gave a favorable recommendation for the Christmas Holiday Dock Trees project. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 150‑ft bulkhead permit at Tax Parcel 179 / Map 0053 (unanimous)
• Provided favorable recommendation for Christmas dock trees project (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Oxford Town Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss proposed amendments to the town charter and the creation of an Elections Town Code. Topics include voter registration requirements, absentee ballot procedures, and election notice rules. The agenda also includes a request to go into closed session for legal advice under statutory authority.

• Proposed amendment to Charter Section C5-1 on voter registration eligibility and verification
• Proposed amendment to Charter Section C5-6 to specify registration deadline in days rather than weeks
• Proposal to require identification for absentee ballot applications (Charter Section C5-11)
• Recommendation to remove references to online ballots from the charter (Charter Section C5-12)
• Consideration of entering closed session under Statutory Authority Article § 3-305(b)(7) for legal advice

Planning Commission

The Oxford Planning Commission will open sealed bid envelopes for the Post Office building restoration. It will also consider several permit applications, including an interior remodel at 106 Third Street, a telescoping addition at 100 High Street, and tree removal requests. Notices of work that do not require permits, such as new gutters at 101 Benoni and porch flooring at 207 S Morris, will be reviewed.

• Opening of Post Office Restoration RFP sealed bid envelopes (Special Agenda Item)
• 106 Third St – Leonardi – interior remodel of kitchen, master bedroom, laundry, etc.
• 100 High St – Richardson – telescoping addition with new bedroom/bath and screened porch
• Tree removals: 901 S Morris (Fotteler), 100 Myrtle (deBeaufort), 102 Myrtle (Pulzone)
• No permit required notices: 101 Benoni – new gutters; 207 S Morris – porch flooring/shed siding replacement

The commission unanimously approved the September 2nd and September 16th meeting minutes. It approved permits for interior remodels at 106 Third Street and 100 High Street, and the interior restoration of the U.S. Post Office building. Three tree removal requests were also approved, and the meeting schedule was moved to the last Tuesday of each month at 2 PM.

• Approved September 2nd meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 16th meeting minutes with pool/patio note (unanimous)
• Approved interior remodel permit for 106 Third Street (Leonardi’s) (unanimous)
• Approved interior restoration permit for U.S. Post Office building (unanimous)
• Approved telescoping addition permit for 100 High Street (Richardson’s) (unanimous)
• Approved three tree removal requests (901 South Morris St, 100 Myrtle Ave, 102 Myrtle Ave) (unanimous)
• Approved motion to move Planning Commission meetings to last Tuesday of the month at 2 PM (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Historic District

The Oxford Historic District Commission will elect a new chair and approve the August 4, 2025 meeting minutes. It will consider applications for a gutter color change at 101 Benoni Street, porch floor and shed siding repairs at 207 S Morris Street, and window replacement at the Post Office on 101 Wilson Street. The commission will also discuss other pending items as listed on the agenda.

• Election of new Historic District Commission chair
• Approval of August 4, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of gutter color change at 101 Benoni Street
• Approval of porch floor and shed siding repair at 207 S Morris Street
• Approval of window replacement at 101 Wilson Street

The commission elected Pete Linkins as chair and approved the August 4, 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved four property alteration applications: gutter replacement at 101 Benoni Street, porch and shed repairs at 207 South Morris Street, window replacement at the 101 Wilson Street post office, and a telescoping addition at 100 High Street.

• Elected Pete Linkins as chair of the Historic Commission (unanimous)
• Approved August 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved gutter replacement at 101 Benoni Street (unanimous)
• Approved porch floorboard, shed siding, and window/door replacements at 207 South Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved window replacement for the Oxford Post Office at 101 Wilson Street (unanimous)
• Approved telescoping addition at 100 High Street (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold a public hearing and vote on Ordinance 2506 to reconcile expenses and ratify over-expenditures for the FY2025 budget. The body will also introduce updates to short-term rental standards and consider several board appointments.

• Vote on Ordinance 2506 to amend the General Fund and Enterprise Funds budget for July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025
• Introduction of Ordinance 2507 to update short-term rental minimum standards and non-compliance violations
• Consideration of appointing Pete Linkens and Karen Wayland to the Historic District Commission
• Consideration of authorizing the Town Manager to open an operating account at Shore United Bank
• Notice of $1,060,000 in NOAA earmark funding for shoreline condition studies

The commissioners unanimously approved Ordinance 2506, amending the General Fund and Enterprise Funds budget for July 1 2024 – June 30 2025. They also introduced Ordinance 2507 to update short‑term‑rental standards and set a public hearing for next month. Appointments to the Historic District Commission and the Board of Supervisors of Elections were confirmed, and motions to move the November meeting, open a bank account with Shore United, and deny an appeal on voter‑ID requirements all carried.

• Approved Ordinance 2506 to amend FY 2024‑25 budget (unanimous)
• Introduced Ordinance 2507 on short‑term rentals and scheduled a public hearing (unanimous)
• Swore in Margaret Andersen to the Board of Supervisors of Elections (unanimous)
• Appointed Pete Linkens to the Historic District Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Karen Wayland to the Historic District Commission (unanimous)
• Denied Richard Wahlgren’s appeal on voter‑ID requirement (unanimous)
• Moved the November 11 meeting to November 12 in observance of Veterans Day (unanimous)
• Authorized the Town Manager to open an operating account at Shore United Bank (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Oxford Town Commissioners will hold a special meeting on September 29, 2025 at 101 Market Street. After a pledge of allegiance, the commissioners will move to a closed session. In that session they will consider invoking statutory authority to seek legal advice and to discuss personnel matters affecting specific individuals. No other agenda items are listed.

• Consider closed session under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(7) to seek legal advice
• Consider closed session under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission held a special session to receive a presentation of town maps from ESRGC. Commissioners also reviewed materials that will be used at the Comprehensive Plan Open House scheduled for October 7, 2025. No formal actions were listed on the agenda.

• Presentation by ESRGC – Town Maps
• Review of materials for Oct 7 Comprehensive Plan Open House

Board of Appeals

The Oxford Board of Appeals meeting on September 25, 2025 will approve the August 25, 2025 administrative meeting minutes. It will also discuss and formally accept proposed edits to the appeals findings document for the primary structure at 504 South Morris Street. No other items are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of August 25, 2025 administrative meeting minutes
• Discussion and formal acceptance of proposed edits to appeals findings for 504 South Morris Street – primary structure

Commissioners

At the special meeting, the Oxford Commissioners will consider authorizing a special event permit for the Oxford Library. The permit would allow a partial road closure on Market Street between Morris Street and Pork Alley on September 27, 2025, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a library book sale. No other agenda items require a decision.

• Authorize a Special Event permit for the Oxford Library book sale, including a partial closure of Market Street from Morris Street to Pork Alley on Sep 27 2025, 7 AM‑2 PM

Community Resilience Committee

The Oxford Community Resilience Committee will approve the July 18, 2025 meeting minutes and hear member updates. It will discuss unfinished business on the Comprehensive Plan, including edits to the Resilience Chapter and review of GIS mapping data. New business includes planning for the October 2, 2025 engagement session deliverables such as funding source listings and establishing a Tree Committee to pursue Tree City status. Public comments will be taken before adjourning.

• Approve minutes from the July 18, 2025 meeting
• Review and incorporate edits to the Comprehensive Plan Resilience Chapter
• Examine GIS mapping data and plan future GIS meetings for sea‑level rise and storm surge information
• Plan October 2, 2025 engagement session deliverables: summarize reports, identify funding sources, and establish a Tree Committee
• Coordinate Earmark Award activities with the Cooperative Oxford Laboratory

The committee noted that July 18 minutes will be presented for approval at the November 21 meeting. Updates on the $1,060,000 NOAA Earmark award and related staffing were shared, and the CRC website page was updated with links to the MyCoast app and the Oxford Tide Gauge. Members discussed GIS mapping support and a draft outline for a Resiliency Plan, but no formal votes or approvals were recorded.

Ethics Commission

The Ethics Commission will review remaining 2024 financial disclosure forms. The body will also hold workshops to discuss draft updates to the Ethics Code and confidentiality language for Town Code Chapter 13.

• Review of 2024 CY Financial Disclosure Forms filed under Town Code Section 13.4
• Workshop on draft confidentiality language for Ethics Chapter 13 of the Town Code
• Workshop on draft Ethics Code Section updates
• Workshop on proposed Financial Disclosure Form updates

The commission accepted two completed 2024 CY Financial Disclosure Forms. It approved adding confidentiality language as Section 13.4 and adopted the draft Ethics Code with the proposed edits. The proposal to shorten the Financial Disclosure Form was tabled pending Town Commissioners' approval.

• Accepted two completed 2024 CY Financial Disclosure Forms
• Approved addition of confidentiality language as Section 13.4 (all in favor)
• Approved draft Ethics Code Section with proposed edits (all in favor)
• Tabled shorter Financial Disclosure Form proposal until Town Commissioners approve updated Ethics Code
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The commission will consider three permit applications: an HVAC system for a new residence at 110 First Street, installation of three propane tanks and ceiling‑mounted heaters at 26106A Bachelors Harbor Drive, and dead‑tree removals at 101 South Street. Staff reports note the HVAC project is partially in an AE‑4 floodplain and the propane tanks must meet state fuel‑storage guidelines. The meeting also includes a comprehensive‑plan work session with a town‑maps presentation and planning for an October 7 open house.

• HVAC permit for new construction home at 110 First Street (Cerrone)
• Propane tank and heating system installation at 26106A Bachelors Harbor Dr (Hinckley Yacht)
• Dead tree removal request at 101 South Street (White)
• Comprehensive Plan work session: town maps presentation by ESRGC
• Logistics planning for October 7 open house

The commission approved a permit for a multi‑zone HVAC system at 110 First Street. It also approved the installation of three 100‑gallon propane tanks and associated heating fixtures at 26106A Bachelors Harbor Drive. Additionally, the commission approved removal of three dead trees at 101 South Street. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved HVAC permit for 110 First Street (motion carried)
• Approved three 100‑gallon propane tanks at 26106A Bachelors Harbor Drive (motion carried)
• Approved removal of three dead trees at 101 South Street (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will consider amending the annual budget to reconcile expenses and ratify over-expenditures. The agenda includes authorizing the purchase of water treatment equipment and public works vehicles, as well as discussing short-term rentals and town elections.

• Amending General Fund and Enterprise Funds budget
• Authorize $4,942.13 for water treatment plant probe replacements
• Authorize $9,159.33 for backhoe repair
• Authorize $6,464.97 for brush cutter attachment
• Public hearing on budget on September 29th

The Commissioners formally accepted a $1,060,000 NOAA earmark award. They approved the consent agenda after a motion by Commissioner Bell was seconded and carried. Ordinance 2506 to amend the FY2024‑25 budget was introduced, and a public hearing was scheduled for September 29 at 6 PM. The board also set a public workshop for early October on upcoming town elections and postponed further action on short‑term‑rental penalties until the October meeting.

• Accepted $1,060,000 NOAA earmark funding (Commissioners approved)
• Approved consent agenda (motion by Bell, seconded by Donovan, carried)
• Introduced Ordinance 2506 to amend FY2024‑25 General and Enterprise Fund budgets
• Set public hearing for September 29 at 6 PM (as part of Ordinance 2506)
• Decided to hold a public workshop on town elections in early October
• Deferred further action on short‑term‑rental penalties to the October Commissioners meeting

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold a special meeting to interview four candidates for an appointed office. The body may also enter a closed session to discuss personnel matters.

• Interviews of candidates Pete Linkens, Karen Wayland, Joe Howard, and Veronica Wainwright
• Closed session to discuss appointment, employment, or performance evaluation of officials

Planning Commission

The Oxford Planning Commission meets to review permit applications for residential projects and discuss a potential expansion of the Pier Street Parking Lot. The Commission will also consider a zoning interpretation request for front stairway setback allowances.

• 101 East Street – Kitchen and Master Bath Remodel
• 101 East Street – Swimming Pool Construction
• 104 Jefferson – Roof Dormer Extension
• 504 S Morris Street – Oxford Inn – Accessory Structure
• Pier Street Parking Lot expansion (final public comment session)

The commission approved the meeting minutes and a series of permits, including an interior remodel and swimming pool for 101 East Street, a dormer extension at 104 Jefferson, an accessory structure at 504 South Morris Street, and renovations at 407 East Strand. It also approved the Pier Street Parking Project recommendations to the Town Commissioners. All motions carried, with the pool permit passing 4‑1.

• Approved August 5 and August 19 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved interior remodel permit for 101 East Street (unanimous)
• Approved swimming pool permit for 101 East Street with safety gates (4 in favor, 1 against)
• Approved dormer extension permit for 104 Jefferson (unanimous)
• Approved accessory structure permit for 504 South Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved renovation permit for 407 East Strand (unanimous)
• Approved Pier Street Parking Project recommendations to Town Commissioners (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Community Resilience Committee

The Community Resilience Committee will hold a workshop on August 27, 2025, to learn how Geographic Information System (GIS) technology can support flood and sea-level rise planning in Oxford. Kelly Greenhawk, a GIS Analyst with the Oxford Lab since 1990, will demonstrate ArcGIS and its potential benefits for the committee’s work.

• GIS workshop led by Kelly Greenhawk to review ArcGIS for flood and sea-level rise planning

Ethics Commission

The Oxford Ethics Commission will meet to review 2024 calendar year financial disclosure forms. These forms were filed according to Oxford Town Code Section 13.4.

• Review of 2024 CY Financial Disclosure Forms filed pursuant to Oxford Town Code Section 13.4

The commission accepted all complete 2024 financial disclosure forms after a motion by Eva Smorzaniuk, seconded by Mary Klair, with unanimous support. The meeting was then adjourned by a motion from Eva Smorzaniuk, seconded by Mary Klair, also with unanimous support.

• Accepted all complete 2024 financial disclosure forms (all in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting (all in favor)

Board of Appeals

The Board of Appeals will discuss proposed edits to findings documents for a primary structure at 504 South Morris Street. The board will also formally accept findings documents for Safe Harbor Marina and two structures at 504 South Morris Street.

• Proposed edits to findings for 504 South Morris Street (Primary Structure)
• Formal acceptance of findings for Safe Harbor Marina
• Formal acceptance of findings for 504 South Morris Street (Primary Structure)
• Formal acceptance of findings for 504 South Morris Street (Accessory Structure)

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will hold a special meeting to enter a closed session to consult with counsel under state law. No substantive decisions or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will hold a regular meeting to decide on several new agreements and appointments. Key decisions include entering an apprenticeship program with Maryland Rural Water Association, authorizing FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant agreements, and hiring an architect for U.S. Post Office reconstruction. The meeting will also consider multiple appointments to local boards and committees.

• Consider apprenticeship agreement with Maryland Rural Water Association for Public Works training
• Authorize FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant agreements with homeowners, including escrow payments and repayment terms
• Hire David H. Still, RA to define reconstruction scope for U.S. Post Office at $150/hour from FY26 General Fund
• Appoint Margaret Andersen, Jane Selden to Board of Election Supervisors
• Appoint Barbara Ranson, Will Cawley to Historic District Commission

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review findings from the August 5th outreach session and plan the next session for September 2nd. The body will also consider several permit applications for residential improvements and tree removals.

• Permit for new fireplace chimney/door replacement at 105 Jefferson
• Permits for solar panels and plumbing at 106 Stewart
• Tree removal permits for 203 S Morris Street, 210 N Morris Street, and Bachelors Point HOA Common Area
• Discussion of Comprehensive Plan Outreach Session #1 findings

The Planning Commission approved the Bennett fireplace project pending engineered drawings, a solar panel installation and a plumbing permit at 106 Stewart Avenue, and several tree removal permits. It also approved the Bachelors Point HOA common‑area application and a motion to work with the Planning Office to expedite post‑office permits through special sessions. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Bennett fireplace project pending engineered drawings (motion by Steve Mroczek)
• Approved solar panel installation at 106 Stewart Avenue (motion by Russ Gray)
• Approved plumbing permit for 106 Stewart Avenue (motion by Steve Mroczek)
• Approved emergency tree removal at 203 S Morris Street (motion by Steve Mroczek)
• Approved tree removal at 210 N Morris Street (motion by Russ Gray)
• Approved Bachelors Point HOA common‑area application (motion by Cameron Mactavish)
• Approved motion to expedite post office permits via special sessions (motion by Skip Case)
• Approved adjournment (motion by Cameron Mactavish)

Board of Port Wardens

The Oxford Board of Port Wardens will hold its regular monthly meeting to review permits for mooring and pier construction. The board will also approve the minutes from the July 10 meeting. The meeting is open to the public in person or via livestream.

• Review mooring application for Riverview Hotel Corporation (Sandaway) to accommodate up to 55-foot sail
• Review permit for 105 E Division Street (Hilger) to construct a 55-foot long, 6-foot wide fixed pier with a floating platform and mooring piles

The Board of Port Wardens unanimously approved the minutes from the July 10, 2025 meeting. They also approved the Sandaway mooring location proposed by Riverview Hotel Corporation. Finally, they approved the Hilgers application for a new fixed pier and floating platform. All motions carried without dissent.

• Approved July 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Sandaway mooring location (unanimous)
• Approved Hilgers pier construction application (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will hold a regular meeting to decide on several new contracts and costs, including asbestos removal not covered by insurance, GPS services for police vehicles, and third-party inspection agreements. They will also consider an appeal related to voter ID requirements and receive updates on federal grants and town planning projects.

• Consider appeal by Richard Wahlgren on 2025 voter ID process
• Approve $454.80 for Verizon GPS services for two police vehicles
• Approve contract with Middle Department Inspection Agency (MDIA) for permit inspections
• Approve $500 per inspection for GMB stormwater inspections
• Approve contract with All Safe Elevator Inspections for Town Hall elevator inspections

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will hold a special meeting to decide whether to authorize the Town Manager to approve a demolition permit for a structurally unsafe building at 206 Market Street. The structure has severe foundation and termite damage, posing risks to neighboring properties and public safety. A third-party inspection confirmed the hazards, recommending careful deconstruction.

• Consider authorizing demolition permit for unsafe structure at 206 Market Street
• Closed session to discuss personnel matters under § 3-305(b)(1)
• Public comment period included

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford are holding a special meeting on August 7, 2025. The agenda consists of a request to enter a closed session to obtain legal advice from counsel.

• Closed session to consult with counsel for legal advice under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(7)

Commissioners

The provided agenda consists only of procedural instructions regarding public comment. No specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items are listed.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review several residential and commercial permit applications. The body will also hold a public hearing to gather final comments on options for expanding parking on Pier Street.

• Public hearing on Pier Street parking expansion options
• New home construction permit for 4480 Bachelors Point Road
• Commercial sign application for Coldwell Banker at 214 N Morris
• Elevation and addition permit for 508 South Morris
• Code interpretation regarding entry stairs encroachment across BRL/Setback

The commission unanimously approved the July 1 and July 15 meeting minutes. It approved a series of permit applications, notably a 5,703‑sq‑ft single‑family home with pool and a large addition project, as well as solar, shed, sign, and tree‑removal permits. The commission chose to review future stair‑encroachment requests case‑by‑case rather than issue a rigid zoning interpretation. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved July 1 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 15 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved sign installation for 214 N Morris (unanimous)
• Approved shed permit for 104 N Morris (unanimous)
• Approved solar panel permit for 106 N Morris (unanimous)
• Approved 5,703 SF house, pool house, and pool project for 4480 Bachelors Point Rd (unanimous, pending engineer review)
• Approved elevation and addition project for 508 S Morris (unanimous)
• Motion to review stair‑encroachment permits case‑by‑case (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will meet to consider authorizing the Town Manager to move payroll processing from QuickBooks Online to ADP. The proposed change follows reported errors with tax withholdings and employee contributions in the QuickBooks Online system.

• Proposed switch to ADP payroll processing at an annual cost of $2,736 for Year 1
• Current QuickBooks annual cost of $3,144 for Year 1
• Closed session to consult with counsel for legal advice

Historic District

The Historic District Commission will meet to review applications for solar panels, a new masonry fireplace, and property deconstruction. The body will also consider a consultation regarding a porch and deck.

• Solar panel installation at 106 Stewart
• New masonry brick fireplace and French door replacement at 105 Jefferson
• Deconstruction and salvage at 206 Market
• Porch and deck consultation at 101 South

The Historic District Commission approved the White family's application for a new enclosed screened porch, removal of an existing rear deck, and construction of a deeper rear deck at 101 South. It also approved the Bennetts' fireplace renovation, deferred the Cawley’s solar panel request to the Planning Commission, and tabled the Leavitt’s deconstruction pending Maryland Historical Trust input. All motions were carried with the recorded vote counts.

• Approved June 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred Cawley’s solar panel application to Planning Commission
• Approved Bennetts’ fireplace and French door project (unanimous)
• Tabled Leavitt’s deconstruction application pending MHT findings (3‑2 vote)
• Approved White’s new porch and deck project (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford are holding a special meeting to enter a closed session. The purpose of the session is to consult with counsel for legal advice.

• Closed session under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(7) for legal advice

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will discuss the acceptance of a federal earmark and the management of a FEMA house elevation project. The body is also considering several municipal contracts, road repairs, and the rental rates for town-owned slips.

• Acceptance of a $1,060,000 federal earmark
• FEMA House Elevation project escrow agreements and RFP for 14 residential dwellings
• Asphalt patches on Oxford Rd., South Street, Market Street, Tilghman Street, Mill Street, and Richardson St using $87,864 from the FY26 budget
• Backhoe repair in the amount of $7,737.14
• Audit engagement and Agreed Upon Procedures with Wigglesworth, Layton, Moyer & Chance, P.C.

The Oxford Commissioners unanimously accepted a $1,060,000 NOAA federal earmark and authorized the Town Manager to secure escrow funds and issue an RFP for the FEMA house‑elevation project. They also approved the FY25 town audit, related procedures for the clerk/treasurer transition, and several operational items such as slip‑rental rates, asphalt repairs, and backhoe repair, while denying a private wedding permit for Town Park.

• Approved acceptance of $1,060,000 federal earmark (unanimous)
• Authorized escrow agreement and RFP for FEMA house‑elevation 10% commitment (unanimous)
• Approved audit engagement with Wigglesworth, Layton, Moyer & Chance for FY25 (unanimous)
• Authorized Agreed Upon Procedures with same firm for clerk/treasurer transition (unanimous)
• Confirmed FY26 billable rate for town‑owned slip rentals (unanimous)
• Authorized asphalt patches on multiple streets via Accurate Asphalt contract (unanimous)
• Approved repair of backhoe for $7,737.14 (unanimous)
• Denied special event permit for 200‑guest wedding in Town Park (unanimous)

Community Resilience Committee

The committee will review deliverables for the Comprehensive Plan's Resilience Chapter and GIS mapping. Members will also discuss an earmark award with the Cooperative Oxford Laboratory and prioritization strategies for a strategic plan.

• Comprehensive Plan Resilience Chapter goals
• GIS Mapping follow-up
• Earmark Award with Cooperative Oxford Laboratory
• Strategic Plan prioritization strategies

The committee decided to incorporate the discussed edits into the draft Resilience Chapter and submit it to the Planning department for further review. Selected 2016 NOAA maps will be inserted into the chapter, and two sea‑level‑rise charts were recommended for inclusion. Holly will coordinate with Dr. Jacobs to schedule an engagement meeting for the Earmark Award program.

• Incorporate draft edits and submit Resilience Chapter to Planning (agreed)
• Insert selected 2016 NOAA Technical Memorandum maps into the chapter (agreed)
• Insert two sea‑level‑rise charts into the chapter (suggested)
• Holly to work with Dr. Jacobs to set an engagement meeting for the Earmark Award program (planned)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford are holding a work session to discuss future agenda items. The meeting includes time for commissioner and public comments.

• Discussion of future agenda items

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is discussing the planning of the first open house for the town's 20-year Comprehensive Plan. The body will also review two residential permit applications.

• Planning for Open House #1 regarding the Comprehensive Plan
• Six-month permit extension for renovations and addition at 202 Market
• Plumbing permit to remove a powder room for an elevator shaft at 4517 Bachelors Point

The commission unanimously approved a six‑month extension of building permit 23‑61 for the Dean’s property at 202 Market Street. It also approved a plumbing permit for the Hockmeyer’s residence at 4517 Bachelors Point to allow removal of a powder‑room and installation of an elevator shaft. The remainder of the meeting was devoted to a Comprehensive Plan workshop, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved six‑month extension of building permit 23‑61 for 202 Market Street (unanimous)
• Approved plumbing permit for 4517 Bachelors Point elevator shaft project (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Port Wardens

The Board of Port Wardens will meet to approve minutes from the previous meeting and review a permit application. The board is considering a mooring request to accommodate a sail boat up to 55 feet.

• Mooring Application from Riverview Hotel Corporation (the Sandaway) for a sail up to 55 feet

The board approved the minutes from the June 11, 2025 meeting. It approved a maintenance permit for the Palmers at 100 Tred Avon to add rock to existing riprap. The mooring application for the Riverview Hotel Corporation (the Sandaway) was tabled pending coordinates and an updated map. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved June 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved maintenance application for Palmers, 100 Tred Avon (unanimous)
• Tabled Riverview Hotel Corporation (the Sandaway) mooring application pending coordinates and updated map
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will swear in David P. Donovan and vote for a President. The body is considering mitigation work for the U.S. Post Office following a fire and a franchise agreement with Cogeco US (Delmar) LLC d/b/a Breezeline.

• Authorization for removal of wet asbestos flooring, drywall, and paneling at the U.S. Post Office
• Franchise agreement with Cogeco US (Delmar) LLC d/b/a Breezeline
• Resolution R 2502 recognizing Stephanie Lewis and Cher Thomas
• Notice of lease termination by Bay Vanguard effective October 31, 2025
• Implementation of new Muni-link utility billing software

The commission swore in new commissioner David P. Donovan and elected Katrina Greer as president. They adopted a resolution honoring two post‑office employees. The consent agenda was approved, the August meeting was moved up, and the commission authorized removal of wet asbestos flooring, drywall and paneling in the post‑office building.

• David P. Donovan sworn in as commissioner (all in favor)
• Katrina Greer elected President of the Town Commission (all in favor)
• Resolution R 2502 honoring Stephanie Lewis and Cher Thomas adopted (all in favor)
• Consent agenda approved (all in favor)
• August 26 meeting moved to August 19 approved (all in favor)
• Authorization to remove wet asbestos flooring, drywall, and paneling at the U.S. Post Office approved (all in favor)

Historic District

The Historic District Commission will review several applications for residential exterior changes and a commercial sign. The body will also receive a structural and grant-funding update regarding the Banks House at 206 Market Street.

• Installation of a 16’ft x 10’ft shed at 104 N Morris
• Replacement of sliding glass doors with fixed pane windows at 104 Jefferson
• Installation of solar panel roofing tiles and metal roofing at 104 Jefferson
• Replacement of front porch decking and step treads at 228 South Street
• Installation of a two-sided shingle-style hanging sign for Coldwell Banker at 214 N Morris

The commission approved a shed at 104 N. Morris with a hardiplank siding requirement. It also approved replacement sliding doors at 104 Jefferson, solar roofing tiles at the same address pending a sample, porch repairs at 228 South Street, and a commercial sign at 214 N. Morris. All motions carried, with vote counts noted where recorded.

• Approved shed at 104 N. Morris with hardiplank siding (unanimous)
• Approved replacement sliding doors at 104 Jefferson (unanimous)
• Approved solar roofing tiles at 104 Jefferson pending sample (4‑1)
• Approved porch repair at 228 South Street (unanimous)
• Approved commercial sign at 214 N. Morris (4‑1)

Board of Election Supervisors

The Board will evaluate which Election Day procedures were effective and discuss potential changes to the Charter and Code. Members will also address term expirations and determine how and where to store election documents.

• Review of Election Day procedures and processes
• Recommendations for Charter and Code changes for Commissioner review
• Discussion of Board member term expirations and staggered terms
• Determination of document retention requirements
• Discussion on using the Police evidence locker for document storage

The Board of Election Supervisors unanimously approved the minutes from the June 11 and June 16, 2025 meetings. A motion to adjourn the July 2, 2025 meeting was also unanimously carried. No other substantive actions were decided during this session.

• Approved June 11 & June 16, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the July 2, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review several residential permit applications for plumbing, HVAC, and construction. The body will also hold a public hearing to gather comments on options for expanding parking on Pier Street.

• Public hearing on Pier Street Parking expansion options
• Flood vent installation at 110B Oxford Rd
• New construction plumbing permit at 202 Factory
• New construction plumbing permit at 110 First Street
• Tree removal requests at 100 Sullivans Alley, 200 Tred Avon, and 502 S Morris

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the April 15, June 3 and June 16 meetings. It also approved a flood‑vent installation at 110B Oxford Road, several plumbing and HVAC permits, a deck membrane replacement, and tree removals at three properties. All motions were carried with all members in favor.

• Approved April 15, June 3, June 16 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved flood‑vent installation at 110B Oxford Road (unanimous)
• Approved new construction plumbing permit for Ellor’s, 202 Factory Street (unanimous)
• Approved HVAC and ductless heat‑pump installation at 502 South Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved plumbing repair and horizontal bore for Foster’s, 220 South Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved deck membrane replacement and new patio doors for Bryan’s, 209 Bonfield Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved new construction plumbing permit and later modifications for 110 First Street (unanimous)
• Approved tree removals at 100 Sullivans Alley, 200 Tred Avon Avenue, and 502 South Morris Street (unanimous)

Community Resilience Committee

The Community Resilience Committee will hold a work session to document strategic planning and goals for a new resiliency chapter in the Town of Oxford's Comprehensive Plan. This effort includes determining priorities and goals for the town's future.

• Work session on documenting resiliency strategic planning and goals
• Coordination of a new resiliency chapter for the Comprehensive Plan
• Planning for a community open house to introduce the Comprehensive Plan update

Board of Appeals

The Board of Appeals will consider two variance applications. One request involves floodplain ordinance relief for a boat storage facility, and the other concerns zoning setbacks and height for a commercial district accessory building.

• Safe Harbor Marina: Variance request from Floodplain Ordinance elevation requirements for 402 E Strand
• Colgate Smith and John Gibbs: Variance request for accessory structure use, setbacks, and height at 504 South Morris Street
• Safe Harbor Marina proposal: Installation of a 45’ x 15’ concrete pad with two bollards
• Safe Harbor Marina proposal: New concrete floor with radiant heating and replacement of roof and wall insulation

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will meet to discuss several funding requests for local organizations and a maintenance agreement for treatment plant blowers. The body will also consider cancelling a previously rescheduled meeting on June 26.

• Tred Avon Yacht Club funding request: $12,500 for July 3 fireworks
• Talbot Arts funding request: $2,000 for general operations
• Oxford Day funding request: $1,000
• Oxford Library funding request: $500 for general operations
• Maintenance agreement with Excelsoir Blower Systems for Treatment Plant blowers

Community Resilience Committee

The Community Resilience Committee will hold a work session to document strategic planning and goals for a new resiliency chapter in the Town of Oxford's Comprehensive Plan. Planning Commission members Lucy Garliusakas and Leslie Kelly are invited to attend.

• Work session on resiliency strategic planning and goals for the Comprehensive Plan
• Discussion on a new resiliency chapter for the Town's Comprehensive Plan
• Planning of an open house to introduce the Comprehensive Plan update to the community

Board of Election Supervisors

The Board of Election Supervisors will meet to discuss and vote on providing absentee voter lists to candidates before the election. The body will also finalize procedures for Voting Day.

• Vote on request to provide absentee voter lists to candidates prior to election
• Finalization of Voting Day procedures
• Review of June 11th meeting minutes

The Board voted to allow candidates or registered voters to review a paper copy of the approved absentee voters list at the Town Office after the absentee ballot application period closed. Requests must be verified with a separate election request form and copies or photos of the list are prohibited. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved release of absentee voter list for inspection at Town Office (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review final draft building plans for an accessory structure at the Oxford Inn. Members will also hold a worksession to review draft chapters of the Comprehensive Plan Update and discuss community resilience comments.

• Review of Final Draft Accessory Structure Building Plans for Oxford Inn
• Review of Draft Comprehensive Plan Update Chapters
• Discussion of Community Resilience Committee comments
• Planning for a Comprehensive Plan Open House

The commission voted to move the Oxford Inn accessory structure building plans forward to the Appeals Board, with all members in favor. The motion was seconded by Cameron Mactavish and carried unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Approved moving Oxford Inn accessory structure plan to Appeals Board (all in favor)
• Approved adjournment of meeting (all in favor)

Community Resilience Committee

The Community Resilience Committee will hold a work session to document resiliency planning. This effort is part of a required new chapter for the Town of Oxford's updated Comprehensive Plan.

• Work session on resiliency planning for the Comprehensive Plan
• Approval of May 16th minutes

A quorum was established and the minutes from the May 16, 2025 meeting were approved. The committee received updates on the operational Oxford Tide Gauge and pending FEMA grant funding. A discussion began on the Resilience chapter of the Oxford Comprehensive Plan. The next meeting was scheduled for July 2, 2025.

• Approved May 16, 2025 minutes (approved)
• Scheduled next meeting for July 2, 2025

Board of Port Wardens

The Board of Port Wardens will review mooring applications for two individuals. The board will also provide an update on town mooring renewal fees following a 2024 fee proposal.

• Mooring application review for William Wrightson at The Strand (central portion)
• Mooring application review for Kevin Wagstaff at The Strand (northeastern portion)
• Update on town mooring renewal fees to be sent after July 1

The Board approved the minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting. It approved a mooring application submitted by Kevin Wagstaff for the northeastern portion of The Strand. It approved a mooring application submitted by William Wrightson for the central portion of The Strand. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Kevin Wagstaff Mooring Application on NE portion of The Strand (unanimous)
• Approved William Wrightson Mooring Application on central portion of The Strand (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Election Supervisors

The Board of Election Supervisors is meeting to prepare for the June 17 election. The body will certify absentee ballot applications and finalize logistics for provisional ballots and judge scheduling.

• Certification of final absentee ballot applications
• Finalization of provisional ballot process and packet
• Creation of a list of signs and locations
• Finalization of Judge schedule
• Discussion of continuity processes for Election Day (June 17)

The board approved the minutes from the June 4 meeting unanimously. They adopted a motion that any rejection of a provisional ballot must be approved by a unanimous board vote. The board scheduled an election‑day setup meeting at Town Hall at 5:00 pm on June 16, with Public Works and police assistance. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved June 4 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted motion requiring unanimous board vote to reject provisional ballots (unanimous)
• Scheduled election‑day setup meeting for June 16 at 5:00 pm (decision)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners will vote on the General Fund, Utility Fund, and Stormwater Management Shoreline Protection Fund budgets for fiscal year 2026. The meeting includes decisions on infrastructure financing and personnel postings.

• Vote on General Fund budget and tax rate of .32 per $100 of assessed real property value
• Vote on Utility Fund budget including water and sewer rates, charges, and fees
• Consideration of $2,572,000 in interim financing for USDA critical infrastructure improvements
• Consideration of transferring $1,085,897.06 from a maturing Bay Vanguard CD
• Approval of employment postings for an Administrative and Accounting Clerk and a Public Works Operator

The board adopted Ordinance 2503, setting the General Fund budget for July 1 2025‑June 30 2026 and a tax rate of .32 per $100 of assessed value. Amendments adding a $50,000 façade grant and a $325,000 DNR grant were also approved. A motion to halve contributions to charitable organizations passed. The board authorized a $1,085,897.06 transfer from the Bay Vanguard CD to a Shore United Bank account.

• Approved Ordinance 2503 (General Fund budget) with tax rate .32 per $100 assessed value (all in favor)
• Adopted amendment adding $50,000 façade grant to General Fund (all in favor)
• Adopted amendment adding $325,000 DNR grant for floating dock, kayak launch, bulkhead (all in favor)
• Motion to halve contributions to charitable organizations passed (Bell and Costigan in favor, Greer opposed)
• Approved Ordinance 2504 (Utility Fund budget) with multiple amendments (all in favor)
• Approved Ordinance 2505 (Stormwater Management Shoreline Protection Fund budget) (all in favor)
• Authorized transfer of $1,085,897.06 from Bay Vanguard CD to Shore United Bank account (all in favor)
• Adjusted June 24 Commissioners’ meeting to June 26 at 6 PM (all in favor)

Board of Election Supervisors

The Board of Election Supervisors is meeting to coordinate logistics for the June 17th election. Members will discuss provisional ballot procedures, room setup, and staffing shifts. The board will also hold a work session to update the poll list by removing ineligible residents.

• Provisional Ballot procedures and packet security
• Election Day room set-up and shift sign-ups
• Certification of Absentee Ballot Applications by June 11
• Work session to cull the County Poll list
• Election Day scheduled for June 17 from 8:00AM to 8:00PM

The Board approved the minutes from the May 20 meeting by unanimous vote. Karen Saum volunteered to certify absentee ballot applications on June 5. The Board scheduled a June 16, 5:00 pm meeting to begin Election Day set‑up. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved May 20 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Assigned Karen Saum to assist with absentee ballot application certification on June 5
• Scheduled June 16, 5:00 pm meeting to begin Election Day set‑up
• Adjourned the June 4 meeting (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will review the FY26 General Fund, Utility Fund, and Stormwater Management Shoreline Protection budgets. The meeting follows public engagement sessions regarding police staffing, legal fees, and utility rates.

• Proposed $50,000 amendment to General Fund for Façade grant income and expenses
• Proposed update to General Fund fee schedule for Public Information Request costs
• Proposed Utility Fund salary adjustments: Water Salaries to $65,000 and Wastewater Salaries to $66,300
• Review of FY26 General Fund, Utility Fund, and Stormwater Management Shoreline Protection budgets
• Discussion of public concerns regarding police officer costs and commercial water/sewer rates

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to review several permit applications for residential renovations and additions. A primary item includes a request to recombine two lots at 100 Myrtle Avenue to allow for the installation of a swimming pool and patio.

• 100 Myrtle: Lot line abandonment and lot consolidation for pool and patio installation
• 504 S Morris: Primary and accessory structure renovations for Oxford Inn, including a variance
• 512 E Strand (The Hod): Remodel and addition
• 4517 Bachelors Point: Elevator shaft addition
• 101 East: Roof mounted solar panels

The commission approved the May 6 and May 20 meeting minutes. It approved several permit applications, including a lot consolidation, a swimming‑pool pad replacement, roof‑mounted solar panels, an elevator shaft addition, an HVAC permit, and an abandoned oil‑tank removal. It denied the Oxford Inn's request for a setback variance on an accessory structure. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved May 6 and May 20 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved lot consolidation for 100 Myrtle Avenue (motion carried)
• Approved swimming‑pool pad replacement for 213 North Morris Street (motion carried)
• Approved roof‑mounted solar panels for 101 East Street (motion carried)
• Approved elevator shaft addition for 4517 Bachelors Point (motion carried)
• Approved HVAC permit for 100 Factory Street (motion carried)
• Approved abandoned oil‑tank removal for 218 South Morris (motion carried)
• Denied accessory‑structure setback variance for 504 South Morris Street (motion carried)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold a special meeting to interview three candidates for the Ethics Commission. The body may also enter a closed session to discuss personnel matters.

• Interview of Dick Deeran
• Interview of Mary Klair
• Interview of Susan Delean-Botkin
• Potential closed session regarding personnel matters

Historic District

The Historic District Commission will review several property permits, including HVAC installations and solar panels. The body will also consider a justification for HVAC placement at 202 Factory Street.

• HVAC justification for 202 Factory
• HVAC installation for 100 Factory
• Pool Pad Replacement for 213 N Morris
• Solar Panel Installation for 106 N Morris

The commission approved the minutes from the May 5, 2025 meeting. It approved the HVAC location at 202 Factory Street, allowing wood‑grain composite shielding and rejecting vinyl (4‑1). It also approved HVAC installations at 100 Factory Street, a pool‑pad replacement at 213 North Morris Street, and a solar‑panel installation at 106 North Morris Street (all carried). The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved May 5, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved HVAC location for 202 Factory Street, disallowing vinyl shielding (4‑1)
• Approved HVAC installation for 100 Factory Street (4‑1)
• Approved pool‑pad replacement at 213 North Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved solar‑panel installation at 106 North Morris Street (4‑1)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Port Wardens

The Oxford Board of Port Wardens will meet in person and virtually to review new and tabled permits for waterfront maintenance and repairs. The board will consider applications for mooring, dock piling relocation, and rip rap replenishment.

• Kevin Wagstaff – Mooring Application – The Strand
• 520 E Strand – Kordell – Center dock piling relocation (maintenance/repair)
• 100 Tred Avon – Palmer – Rip rap replenishment (maintenance/repair)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold public hearings to adopt the General Fund, Utility Fund, and Stormwater Management Shoreline Protection Fund budgets for fiscal year 2026. The proposed General Fund budget includes a tax rate of .32 per $100 of assessed real property value.

• Proposed tax rate of .32 per $100 of assessed real property value (Ordinance 2503)
• Contract with Capital Coatings for $4,735 to refinish Town Hall exterior
• Purchase of a UVI sensor for the Water Reclamation Treatment Plant from Trojan for $9,063.13
• Purchase of a Wapro 14in valve for the causeway inlet check valve for $12,350
• Proposed transfer of $1,082,214.45 from Bay Vanguard CD to the Maryland Local Government Investment Pool

The commissioners approved several items, including a police officer posting, a DNR licensing application, multiple contracts for town facilities, and a fund transfer to the Maryland Local Government Investment Pool. All motions were carried unanimously. The meeting also moved into closed session for personnel matters.

• Approved employment posting for one Oxford Police Officer (motion carried)
• Approved authorization for Town Manager to apply to DNR for offshore blinds licensing (motion carried)
• Approved $4,735 contract with Capital Coatings to refinish Town Hall exterior (motion carried)
• Approved $9,063.13 purchase of UVI sensor from Trojan for water reclamation plant (motion carried)
• Approved $12,350 purchase of Wapro 14‑in valve for stormwater inlet (motion carried)
• Approved $7,134 purchase of emergency water reclamation plant pump (motion carried)
• Approved transfer of $711,288.59 from Shore United Bank account to MLGIP (motion carried)
• Approved Avery Hall auto‑renewal for employee health benefits (motion carried)

Board of Election Supervisors

The Oxford Board of Election Supervisors meets to approve absentee ballot instructions, affidavit envelopes, and election-day logistics for the June 17 town election. The board also reviews candidate certifications and voter registration deadlines.

• Finalize Absentee Ballot Directions and Affidavit Envelope templates
• Finalize Election Day Ballot and Absentee Ballot
• Discuss Provisional Ballot Process and Election Day shift lengths
• Candidate certifications due May 20; voter registration deadline May 19
• Absentee ballots due June 17 by 8:00 PM

The Board of Election Supervisors approved the minutes from the May 6 meeting. It voted to amend the absentee ballot application by adding phone, email, and pickup/mailed ballot sections, and to adopt updated absentee ballot instructions with revised oath wording and X‑mark guidance. The Board also removed document control numbers from absentee ballot packets.

• Approved May 6 meeting minutes (all members in favor)
• Amended absentee ballot application to add phone, email, and pickup/mailed sections (all members in favor)
• Adopted updated absentee ballot instructions with new oath wording and X‑mark guidance (all members in favor)
• Removed document control numbers from absentee ballot packets and instructions (all members in favor)
• Accepted the new absentee ballot instructions as amended (all members in favor)

Planning Commission

The Oxford Planning Commission will meet May 20 at 2 p.m. to decide whether roof-mounted solar panels are allowed under R1 zoning and review emergency plumbing and tree-removal permits. The body will also approve the 2024 annual report for submission to the Maryland Department of Planning and begin a work session to update the Town Comprehensive Plan.

• Solar panels — 101 East Street: interpretation of R1 zoning for 29 roof-mounted panels
• Emergency plumbing permit — 311 N Morris Street: horizontal boring to replace leaking water lines
• Tree removal permits — 212 Market Street and 4659 Bachelors Point: removal of dead arbor vitae and pine trees
• Approval of 2024 annual report for Maryland Department of Planning
• Worksession to update Town Comprehensive Plan

The Planning Commission adopted an interpretation that permits solar panel structures in zoning districts R1, R2 and R3, with R2 requiring Historic District Commission approval. It also approved an emergency plumbing permit for 311 N Morris Street and tree‑removal permits for 212 Market Street and 4659 Bachelors Point. The commission finalized the Maryland Department of Planning annual report and forwarded it for commissioner approval.

• Interpret zoning code to allow solar panels in R1, R2, R3 (R2 requires HDC approval) – motion carried
• Approve emergency plumbing permit for 311 N Morris Street – motion carried
• Approve tree removal permit for 212 Market Street – motion carried
• Approve tree removal permit for 4659 Bachelors Point – motion carried
• Finalize MDP annual report and forward to commissioners – motion carried
• Adjourn meeting – motion carried

Community Resilience Committee

The committee will review updates on coastal resiliency and stormwater pump plans. Discussions include the Community Rating System, the Working Waterfront Strategic Plan, and the development of a Green Team.

• The Strand Coastal Resiliency Shoreline Enhancement Project
• Stormwater Pump Plans
• NOAA Study on Living Shorelines efficacy
• Town website resiliency upgrades including a 2013–2024 activity list
• Maryland Sustainable Community Green Team development

The committee approved the minutes from the January 2024 meeting and three 2025 workshop sessions. It passed two unanimous motions to forward recommendations to the commissioners: one to consider future property purchases for flood management in the budget, and another to revise the Stormwater Management Plan to encourage cisterns on all properties. The town manager will post a vacancy after a member’s resignation and will work with a committee member to upgrade the town website resiliency page.

• Approved minutes from the Jan 17 2024 meeting
• Approved minutes from the March 7 2025 workshop
• Approved minutes from the March 17 2025 workshop
• Approved minutes from the April 2 2025 workshop
• Motion approved unanimously to forward recommendation for future property purchase budgeting
• Motion approved unanimously to forward recommendation to revise stormwater plan to encourage cisterns
• Member resignation noted; Town Manager to post opening online
• Jody Ware to meet with Town Manager to upgrade town website resiliency page

Commissioners

The Commissioners will introduce three ordinances: the FY26 General Fund budget with a tax rate of $0.32 per $100 of assessed property value, the Utility Fund budget with water/sewer rates, and the Stormwater Management Shoreline Protection Fund budget. Public hearings are set for May 27. The board will also consider purchasing a police vehicle ($62,680.25), rifles ($3,754.96), and radar sign software, and discuss fee schedules and grant expenditures. A proclamation declaring June 6 as National Gun Violence Awareness Day is on the agenda.

• Introduce Ordinance 2503: FY26 General Fund budget with property tax rate of .32 per $100 assessed value (public hearing May 27)
• Introduce Ordinance 2504: FY26 Utility Fund budget setting water/sewer rates (public hearing May 27)
• Introduce Ordinance 2505: FY26 Stormwater Management Shoreline Protection Fund budget (public hearing May 27)
• Consider purchase of 2025 Dodge Durango with upfitting for Police Department at $62,680.25
• Consider purchase of rifles for Police Department at $3,754.96

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford are meeting in special session solely to enter closed session under Maryland law to discuss a specific personnel matter. No public decisions or discussions are scheduled.

• Closed session under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(1) for personnel discussion

Board of Port Wardens

The Board of Port Wardens will meet to review three permit applications for moorings and dock maintenance. The board will also discuss the status of town mooring renewal letters.

• Mooring application for Kevin Wagstaff at Town Creek off of First Street
• Center dock piling relocation permit for 520 E Strand (Kordell)
• Rip rap replenishment permit for 104 Tred Avon (Ober)
• Discussion on sending town mooring renewal letters by the end of May

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 10 meeting. It also approved a riprap replenishment permit for 104 Tred Avon. Two items—a center dock piling relocation at 520 East Strand and a mooring application on Town Creek off First Street—were tabled pending additional information. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved April 10 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved riprap permit for 104 Tred Avon (unanimous)
• Tabled center dock piling relocation at 520 East Strand pending neighbor letters
• Tabled mooring application on Town Creek off First Street pending new location proposal
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold a virtual work session to review the proposed FY26 budget, which separates the Utility Fund (water/sewer) from the General Fund for the first time. The draft budget keeps the property tax rate at $0.32 per $100 of assessed value and proposes a 3% incremental water/sewer rate increase. It also includes funding for a new police officer with LEOPS retirement, highway user revenues allocated to paving and sidewalk repair, and a $2,572,000 obligation to secure USDA funding for arsenic media replacement.

• Proposed 3% water/sewer rate increase consistent with the Town's past practice
• Property tax rate unchanged at $0.32 per $100 of assessed real property value
• $2,572,000 enterprise fund obligation to receive $2,102,000 in USDA funding for arsenic media replacement and well planning
• New police officer and LEOPS retirement for Oxford Police Department
• Highway user revenues allocated to paving and sidewalk repair

Board of Election Supervisors

The Board of Election Supervisors will approve minutes from prior meetings and discuss election day processes, including worker schedules, the distinction between domicile and residence, an ingress/egress diagram, Hatch Act compliance, and a VAC card process. They will also review and finalize the absentee ballot, including chain of custody, ID requirements, and write-in candidate options. Key deadlines include voter registration and candidacy filing by May 19.

• Finalize absentee ballot form and chain of custody process
• Discuss requiring a copy of ID with absentee ballot return or on election day
• Decide whether to employ VAC card process to ensure vote count accuracy
• Review and finalize election day ingress/egress diagram for polling station
• Set worker schedules and shift lengths for June 17 election

The Board of Election Supervisors unanimously approved the meeting minutes after minor spelling and content edits. The board certified David Donovan as a candidate for Town Commissioner, with the chair signing and all members initialing the form.

• Approved meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Certified David Donovan for Town Commissioner (signed and initialed)

Planning Commission

The Oxford Planning Commission will review six building permit applications, including a structural cleanup of the historic 'Banks House' at 206 Market Street, a tree removal request at 104 Third Street, and permits for a rear porch, elevator tower, permeable paver patio, and HVAC system. All items are for discussion and decision at the May 6, 2025 meeting.

• 206 Market Street – demolition of outbuilding, removal of sidewalks and cistern/septic tank, and interior cleanout of historic 'Banks House' for structural analysis
• 104 Third Street – removal of a mature tree damaging sidewalk and driveway, with critical-area replacement requirements
• 507 Strand – construction of an elevator tower and porch rearrangement, with net impervious surface increase of 16 sq/ft
• 218 S Morris – rear two-story open porch construction, reducing impervious coverage from 2,208 to 2,164 sq/ft
• 202 Factory Street – HVAC permit for new-construction single-family home, requiring floodplain compliance

The commission approved the minutes from the April 1, 2025 meeting. It then approved building permit applications for 218 South Morris Street, 507 Strand, 207 Bonfield, 206 Market Street, and 202 Factory Street. A tree removal request at 104 Third Street was also approved, with four votes in favor and two abstentions. The meeting was adjourned after all items were voted on.

• Approved April 1, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved 218 South Morris St. residential porch application (all in favor)
• Approved 507 Strand demolition, elevator, and porch application (all in favor)
• Approved 207 Bonfield permeable patio application (all in favor)
• Approved 206 Market St. dumpster, demolition, and cleanup application (all in favor)
• Approved 202 Factory St. HVAC system permit for flood‑plain residence (all in favor)
• Approved tree removal at 104 Third St. (4 in favor, 2 abstained)
• Adjourned the meeting (all in favor)

Historic District

The Historic District Commission will meet to review permit applications for residential modifications and new construction. The body will consider requests for HVAC installations, roofing changes, and a new pool house.

• 206 Market Street: Outbuilding demolition, roll-off dumpster, and interior clean-out
• 202 Factory Street: HVAC installation for a new single-family residence
• 210 Market Street: Replacement of asphalt shingles with Medium Bronze standing seam metal roofing
• 106 Stewart Avenue: HVAC installations for main house and pool house
• 106 Stewart Avenue: Construction of a 312 square foot pool house

The commission approved the minutes from the April 7, 2025 meeting. It approved permits for 206 Market Street, 210 Market Street roofing, and HVAC locations and a pool house at 106 Stewart Avenue. The HVAC permit for 202 Factory Street was postponed for a later session. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved April 7, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved permit for 206 Market Street (multiple items) (motion carried)
• Postponed HVAC permit review for 202 Factory Street (deferred)
• Approved permit for 210 Market Street metal roofing replacement (motion carried)
• Approved HVAC location permit for 106 Stewart Avenue (motion carried)
• Approved pool house permit for 106 Stewart Avenue, contingent on Planning Commission approval (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Commissioners

The Commissioners will hear presentations on draft FY26 General Fund and Utility Fund budgets. They will consider an ordinance to update town ethics provisions. New business includes interim financing for water system upgrades, a revised financial disclosure form, and a proposal to plant salt-tolerant native plants at the causeway using donated plants valued over $2,000. The town manager also reports on election preparations and coastal resiliency projects.

• Presentation of draft FY26 Annual General Fund and Utility Fund budgets
• Ordinance No. 2502 to repeal and reenact Chapter 13 (ethics provisions)
• Consider interim financing for Water System upgrades
• Consider revised financial disclosure form
• Consider authorizing planting of salt-water tolerant native plants at causeway (donated, value over $2,000)

The Commissioners voted to reject Ordinance 2502, which would have repealed and reenacted Chapter 13 of the town code on ethics provisions. The motion to reject was made by Commissioner Greer, seconded by Commissioner Costigan, and carried unanimously. The board also approved the donation of salt‑water‑tolerant native plants for the Causeway, with a motion by Greer and second by Costigan, also carried unanimously.

• Rejected Ordinance 2502 (ethics provisions) – motion carried unanimously
• Authorized planting of donated salt‑water‑tolerant native plants at the Causeway – motion carried unanimously
• Motion to adjourn the meeting – motion carried unanimously

Board of Election Supervisors

The Board of Election Supervisors will hold a preliminary discussion on reviewing voter rolls and Election Day procedures. No decisions are expected; the items are listed as preliminary discussions. Public comment will be accepted.

• Preliminary discussion on review of voter rolls
• Preliminary discussion of Election Day processes
• Public comment period

The Board voted to table the poll watchers matter for this election. It accepted Tom Costigan’s filing for Town Commissioner and set a May 20 deadline for final candidate certifications. The Board assigned members to transport absentee ballots and will create a pickup schedule at the next meeting. Election‑day staffing plans and a no‑cell‑phone rule were also outlined.

• Tabling of poll watchers issue passed (motion passes)
• Tom Costigan’s candidacy form signed and initialed, accepting his filing
• Candidates may be certified as nomination forms are received; final certification deadline set for May 20
• Chair Krolicki and one other member assigned to convey absentee ballots from the post office to the town lock box
• Board will develop an absentee‑ballot pickup schedule at the next meeting
• Chair Krolicki will bring Maryland voter‑ID information to the next meeting
• All Board members will be at the polling station at 7:30 AM on Election Day; shift schedule to be finalized at the May 6 meeting
• No cell phones will be allowed inside the polling station; volunteers may assist with directions outside

Board of Election Supervisors

The Oxford Board of Election Supervisors will discuss and potentially approve amendments to the voter oath and absentee ballot application, as well as review election day processes. The meeting includes a public comment period.

• Consider amendments to the voter oath
• Consider amendments to the absentee ballot application
• Consider election day processes

The Board of Election Supervisors unanimously approved adding “is received” to the oath wording. They also approved inserting the word “was” in the absentee ballot language and adding a note that ballots must be received by June 16. The board confirmed that candidates will not be required to file a financial disclosure form for the 2025 election.

• Motion to add “is received” to the oath passed (unanimous)
• Motion to insert the word “was” in the absentee ballot checkbox passed (unanimous)
• Motion to add a note that ballots must be received by June 16 passed (unanimous)
• Decision that candidates will not need to submit a financial disclosure form this election year

Planning Commission

The Oxford Planning Commission will review several building permit applications and continue work on updating the town's Comprehensive Plan. Permits include structural work at Safe Harbor Marina, HVAC installations, and excavation for sewer cleanout.

• Work session: continued update of the Comprehensive Plan
• 407 Strand – Safe Harbor Marina – metal wall repair/replacement, roof replacement, concrete floors
• 200 Tred Avon – Williams – HVAC installation
• 221 South Street – Stanley – gravel path
• 303 Bonfield – Martha Cole – excavation/trenching for new sewer clean out

The commission approved six building and utility permits, each by unanimous vote. The Safe Harbor Marina permit was given a favorable finding and a recommendation for approval by the Board of Appeals due to floodplain requirements. All other permits were approved without conditions. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Safe Harbor Marina (407 Strand) building permit; recommended approval to Board of Appeals
• Approved HVAC permit for 200 Tred Avon
• Approved 44’ x 4’ brick‑red chip gravel path permit for 221 South Street
• Approved plumbing permit for Doc’s Sunset Grille (104 West Pier Street)
• Approved HVAC permit for 100 Stewart Avenue (Woofter’s residence)
• Approved sewer trench permit for 303 Bonfield Avenue (Martha Cole)
• Adjourned meeting

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold a special meeting on April 14, 2025. The primary purpose of the meeting is to consider entering a closed session to obtain legal advice.

• Closed session to consult with counsel per General Provisions Article § 3-305(b) (7)

Board of Election Supervisors

The Board of Election Supervisors will discuss appointing a new chair, revising the oath of office and absentee ballot application, and formalizing the ballot chain of custody. The meeting also includes recognition of outgoing chair Pam Baker and welcome of new member Debbie Krolicki. These procedural updates aim to clarify election processes for the upcoming municipal elections.

• Recognition of Pam Baker for service as chair of the Board of Election Supervisors
• Consider appointment of a new Board chair
• Consider revisions to the absentee ballot application form (Exhibits A–C)
• Consider formalizing the absentee ballot chain of custody process (Exhibits E–F)
• Consider election day processes and proposed candidate nomination certificate (Exhibit D)

The Board elected Debbie Krolicki as Chair. It approved revisions to the absentee ballot form, adding the phrase “my domicile is” and required charter contents. The Board also amended the oath to include “received no later than” the election day and added “general and special.” A motion to obtain a post‑office box was made, receiving a 4‑1 vote but the outcome was not recorded.

• Appointed Debbie Krolicki as Chair of the Board (unanimous)
• Approved Exhibit A absentee ballot form and changed “reside” to “my domicile is” (unanimous)
• Added required charter contents “absentee voting” to ballot form (unanimous)
• Amended oath to include “received no later than” the day of election (unanimous)
• Added “general and special” language to the oath (unanimous)
• Motion to acquire a post office box for the Board (vote 4‑1; outcome not recorded)

Board of Port Wardens

The Board approved the March 5 and March 13 meeting minutes with edits. It also approved six separate repair and construction permit applications, including projects at Robes Harbor Condos, 311‑313 South Morris Street, 311‑203 South Street, 113 First Street, and Safe Harbor Marina at 402 E. Strand. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved March 5 and March 13 minutes with edits (unanimous)
• Approved repair permit for Robes Harbor Condos (broken piling replacement) (unanimous)
• Approved repair permit for 311‑313 South Morris Street (replace stringer, crossrail, decking) (unanimous)
• Approved repair permit for 311‑203 South Street (pier and piling replacement) (unanimous)
• Approved bulkhead and pier application for 113 First Street as approved by MDE/USACE (unanimous)
• Approved application for Safe Harbor Marina at 402 E. Strand (floating pier replacement, vinyl bulkhead replacement, travel lift pier fixes, spot dredging) (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will vote on Ordinance 2502, which repeals and reenacts Chapter 13 of the town code to update ethics provisions for officials, employees, and appointees. They will also consider appointing Bruce Beglin to the Planning Commission, authorizing a Community Legacy Program grant agreement, and approving up to $30,000 for sand fencing and monitoring on the Strand project. A subaward agreement for 14 residential elevations under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program is up for approval as well.

• Ordinance 2502 – repeal and reenact Chapter 13 (ethics provisions) for elected officials, employees, and appointees
• Appointment of Bruce Beglin to the Planning Commission
• Authorization of DHCD Community Legacy Program grant agreement
• Strand project funding up to $30,000 for sand fencing, plantings, and monitoring (funds must be spent by April 30, 2025)
• Subaward agreement for 14 residential elevations under Maryland Hazard Mitigation Grant Program with extension request

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will hold a work session to review election-related procedures, including the chain of custody for absentee ballots, candidate financial disclosure forms, and polling place rules for service dogs. No votes or decisions are scheduled; all items are for discussion only.

• Review of chain of custody for absentee ballots
• Discussion of candidate financial disclosure form requirements
• Election day logistics including service-dog-only policy at polling location
• Review of oath for elected officials

Historic District

The Oxford Historic District Commission holds its regular monthly meeting on April 7, 2025, to approve prior meeting minutes and review several permit applications for alterations to historic properties. Permits include elevator installation, porch reconfiguration, covered porches, roof replacements, and other changes. The commission will also hold a consultation and a good neighbor notification.

• 507 Strand – Baker: Elevator installation/porch reconfiguration
• 218 S Morris – Blanton: Two-story covered porch
• 200 Tred Avon – Williams: HVAC installation
• 111 South Morris – Number Seven: Roof replacement
• 407 E Strand – Safe Harbor Marina: Repair/replacement of building siding and trim

Commissioners

This is a special meeting of the Commissioners of Oxford. They will first consider a motion to enter closed session to discuss a personnel matter. After reopening, they will consider an appointment to the Town of Oxford Board of Supervisors of Elections and a proposal to move the April 22nd regular meeting to April 29th.

• Closed session to discuss appointment, employment, or performance evaluation of an employee or official
• Consider appointment to the Town of Oxford Board of Supervisors of Elections
• Proposal to move the April 22nd regular commissioners meeting to April 29th, 2025 at 6 PM

The commissioners appointed Debbie Krolicki to the Board of Elections with a 2‑1 vote; Commissioner Costigan opposed. They also moved the April 22 regular meeting to April 29, 2025 at 6 PM, with all commissioners in favor. All other motions were procedural matters to open and close a closed session.

• Appointed Debbie Krolicki to Board of Elections (2‑1)
• Rescheduled April 22 regular meeting to April 29, 2025 at 6 PM (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold a special meeting to interview five candidates for the Board of Supervisors of Elections. Following the interviews, the body will consider an appointment to the board to ensure the town can effectively conduct annual elections.

• Interviews of candidates Debbie Krolicki, Dodi Sutton, Jan Greenhawk, Jane Selden, and Pam Baker
• Consideration of an appointment to the Town of Oxford Board of Supervisors of Elections

The commissioners assigned the Town Manager to add a watermark to the 2025 ballot and to send revised absentee ballot language to the Board of Election Supervisors. The Town Manager will also contact the League of Women Voters for poll‑watcher training. The Town Attorney will review the candidate financial‑disclosure form for possible ethics‑ordinance changes. A work session was scheduled for April 7, 2025, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Town Manager to add watermark to 2025 ballot (planned)
• Town Manager to send revised absentee ballot language to Board of Election Supervisors (planned)
• Town Manager to reach out to League of Women Voters for poll‑watcher training (planned)
• Town Attorney to review candidate financial disclosure form for ethics ordinance updates (planned)
• Work session scheduled for April 7, 2025 at 11 AM (set)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous approval)

Planning Commission

The Oxford Planning Commission will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes from March 18, review several building permits (including a living room addition and a portico), and discuss two consultations: a church columbaria expansion and a porch addition with a 100-foot buffer non-conformity issue.

• Approval of March 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• Building permit review: 206 S Morris – living room addition
• Building permit review: 100 South Street – small portico over side steps
• Consultation: Michelle McTavish – Church Columbaria Expansion
• Consultation: 302 Bonfield – John Hay – porch addition with 100-foot buffer/existing non-conformity

The Planning Commission approved the March 8, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved several permit applications, including an expansion at 206 S Morris Street, a remodel at 100 South Street, emergency sewer line repairs at Safe Harbor Marina (502 E Strand), a propane tank at 200 Market, and tree removals at 112 First Street and 103 Willows Avenue. No other actions were taken.

• Approved March 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved permit for 206 S Morris Street expansion (unanimous)
• Approved permit for 100 South Street remodel (unanimous)
• Approved emergency sewer line repair permit at 502 E Strand (Safe Harbor Marina) (unanimous)
• Approved propane tank permit at 200 Market (unanimous)
• Approved tree removals at 112 First Street and 103 Willows Avenue (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will hold a special meeting to consider authorizing the Town Manager to execute a contract with a licensed operator for the Enhanced Nutrient Removal (ENR) Plant, pending Town Attorney approval. They will also consider authorizing the purchase of a DR3900 spectrophotometer and components for in-house water analysis at the plant, both actions aimed at regulatory compliance. The agenda includes commissioner comments, public comments via email, and scheduling of future meetings.

• Authorizing Town Manager to execute contract for ENR plant operation (pending attorney approval)
• Authorizing purchase of DR3900 spectrophotometer and components for in-house water analysis
• Public comments accepted via email to oxfordmanager@goeaston.net
• Future meetings: April 3 special meeting and work session, April 22 and May 6 regular meetings

The commission authorized the Town Manager to enter a contract for a temporary Maryland Department of the Environment Class 5A Treatment Plant Superintendent, pending Town Attorney approval, to meet regulatory requirements by April 1 2025. They also approved an emergency purchase of a DR3900 spectrophotometer and necessary components to enable in‑house water analysis at the Enhanced Nutrient Removal Plant. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Authorized temporary MDE Class 5A superintendent contract (pending attorney review) – motion passed unanimously
• Approved emergency purchase of DR3900 spectrophotometer and components – motion passed unanimously

Board of Appeals

The Board of Appeals will hold a regular meeting to review three variance applications filed by Colgate Smith and John Gibbs for the Oxford Inn at 504 South Morris Street. The variances seek relief from side yard setback for an exterior egress stair and additions, front yard setback for a porch extension and ADA ramp, and building height limits for rooftop HVAC units. The Planning Commission has referred the first two variances with favorable recommendation and the third (height) with an unfavorable recommendation, subject to further study.

• Variance from side yard setback to encroach 11 feet for an exterior staircase and additions at 504 South Morris Street
• Variance from front yard setback to extend the existing front porch 4 feet to accommodate an ADA ramp
• Variance from 30-foot building height limit to exceed by 54 inches for rooftop HVAC units and vents
• Property is the Oxford Inn, a commercial inn in the C-2 zoning district with an existing non-conforming building

Commissioners

The Commissioners will consider Resolution 2501 to clarify voter registration requirements and Ordinance 2502 to update ethics rules. They will also vote on a street closure for the Oxford Library book sale on April 26. The Town Manager's report includes updates on a $50,000 facade grant program with multiple pending requests, a new town website, and coastal resiliency projects.

• Resolution 2501: Charter amendment to require voter registration with Talbot County Board of Elections
• Ordinance 2502: Repeal and reenactment of ethics provisions for town officials and appointees
• Street closure request for Oxford Library book sale on Oxford Day (April 26, 2025)
• $50,000 facade grant program: requests include Cutts and Case Shipyard ($3,000), Oxford Museum ($3,000), Sandaway Suites ($15,000), and others
• Closed session to discuss personnel appointment/performance and legal advice (General Provisions Art. §3-305(b)(1) and (7))

Planning Commission

The Oxford Planning Commission will meet to approve minutes from March 4, review building permits including a boiler replacement at 402 E Strand, an underground tank at 228 S Morris, tree removals at 110 Tilghman and 104 N Morris, and a stop work order at 213 N Morris. The main item is a work session on the Comprehensive Plan.

• Approval of March 4, 2025 meeting minutes
• Building permit: 402 E Strand – boiler replacement (no HDC review)
• Building permit: 228 S Morris – underground tank (no HDC review)
• Tree removals at 110 Tilghman & 104 N Morris
• Stop work order determination at 213 N Morris

The Planning Commission approved all four building permit applications on the agenda. They approved an indoor boiler replacement at 402 E Strand, a 120-gallon underground propane tank at 228 South Morris, tree removals at 110 Tilghman Street and 104 North Morris Street, and two after-the-fact applications at 213 North Morris for sewer work. The after-the-fact approvals included double fees and a $1,000 penalty for working without a permit. The meeting then transitioned to a Comprehensive Plan work session.

• Approved indoor boiler replacement at 402 E Strand (Safe Harbor Marina) (unanimous)
• Approved 120-gallon underground propane tank at 228 South Morris, with condition to comply with MDE requirements (unanimous)
• Approved tree removals at 110 Tilghman Street and 104 North Morris Street, with 1:1 replacement recommendation (unanimous)
• Approved after-the-fact plumbing and site work permits at 213 North Morris, with double fees and $1,000 penalty (unanimous)

Board of Port Wardens

The Oxford Board of Port Wardens will hold its regular monthly meeting, beginning with approval of past meeting minutes, then reviewing three permit applications for pier modifications and boat lifts on private properties. The permits include a pier replacement with boat lifts at 201 N Morris St., a platform addition and PWC lifts at 100 Sullivans Alley, and a pier lengthening with bulkhead replacement at 512 Strand.

• Permit: Elizabeth Candler and Vladimir Dubinsky – 201 N Morris St. – replace existing pier and platform, install two boat lifts and one PWC lift
• Permit: Steven and Susan Harris – 100 Sullivans Alley – construct 10' x 10' platform addition on existing pier and two PWC lifts
• Permit: Laurence and Sarah Peseski – 512 Strand – replace and lengthen existing pier, replace 85 linear feet of bulkhead
• Approval of September 2024 and January 2025 meeting minutes

The Board of Port Wardens approved three waterfront construction permits: one for 201 N Morris Street, one for 100 Sullivans Alley, and one for 512 Strand. All approvals were unanimous. The 512 Strand permit included conditions about coordinating with neighbors on grading and drainage.

• Approved permit for 201 N Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved permit for 100 Sullivans Alley (unanimous)
• Approved permit for 512 Strand with neighbor coordination conditions (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will consider a new ethics ordinance for officials and a resolution clarifying voter registration requirements. The body will also discuss stormwater pumping concepts and potential contracts for the Town Comprehensive Plan update.

• Resolution No. 2501: Amending Oxford Charter to require voter registration with Talbot County Board of Elections
• Ordinance No. 2502: Repealing and reenacting Chapter 13 of Town Code regarding ethics provisions
• Proposed contract with Emerald Creek Planning, LLC for Comprehensive Plan update
• Discussion of $50,000 in approved facade improvement grants for local businesses
• Authorization for NOAA to deploy surveying equipment at the Strand

The Commissioners authorized sending letters to U.S. Senators Van Hollen and Alsobrooks and Congressman Harris about the impacts of recent terminations at the Cooperative Oxford Laboratory (NOAA). They also approved a contract with Emerald Creek Planning, LLC for the Comprehensive Plan update, opened applications for several boards, and authorized NOAA to deploy surveying equipment at the Strand. Resolution 2501 on voter registration was tabled, and the consent agenda was approved.

• Tabled Resolution No. 2501 (voter registration amendment) by a 2-1 vote.
• Approved the consent agenda, including the Fire Company report.
• Authorized letters to U.S. Senators Van Hollen and Alsobrooks and Congressman Harris regarding NOAA lab terminations.
• Opened applications for two Board of Elections openings.
• Opened applications for one alternate on the Board of Port Wardens.
• Opened applications for one Historic District Commission opening.
• Authorized a contract with Emerald Creek Planning, LLC for the Comprehensive Plan update.
• Authorized NOAA to deploy surveying equipment at the Strand for flood protection assessment.

Board of Port Wardens

The Board of Port Wardens will hold a special session to review a permit application from the Tred Avon Yacht Club for demolition and construction at 102 W Strand. The project involves replacing concrete floating breakwaters, removing portions of an existing timber pier, and removing floating finger piers, with work to begin immediately upon approval.

• Permit review for Tred Avon Yacht Club (102 W Strand): replace concrete floating breakwaters, remove portions of timber pier, remove floating finger piers

The Board of Port Wardens approved an application from the Tred Avon Yacht Club to replace concrete floating breakwaters, remove portions of an existing timber pier, and remove floating finger piers at 102 W Strand. The project has received federal and state approval, and the board discussed ADA accessibility benefits, including a special lift. The motion carried with all present members in favor, and a delayed member expressed support in advance.

• Approved Tred Avon Yacht Club application for breakwater replacement, timber pier removal, and finger pier removal (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will hold a work session to discuss Resolution 2501, which seeks to amend Article V of the Oxford Charter. The amendment clarifies that to vote in Town elections, residents must register with the Talbot County Board of Elections. A public hearing on this resolution was held February 25, 2025.

• Discussion of Resolution 2501: amending the Oxford Charter to clarify voter registration requirements
• Review of state law (MD Code, Election Law § 3-403) and House Bill 680 regarding municipal voter registration

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting, reviewing building permits and hearing from Sarah Franklin, the Comprehensive Plan Consultant. Action on permits and discussion of the comprehensive plan are on the agenda.

• Approval of February 2025 meeting minutes
• Building permits: 110 First Street (new single-family home), 228 Tred Avon (patio/footpath), 106 N Morris (stop work order), 103 High Street (raise building/plumbing/roof), 221 S Morris (koi pond removal), 101 South Street (fence/river rock/driveway), 109 High Street (mini-split)
• New Business: Presentation by Sarah Franklin, Comprehensive Plan Consultant

The Oxford Planning Commission approved seven building permits, including new construction at 110 First Street, and denied a patio repurposing item at 208 Tred Avon that would have increased lot coverage. All votes were unanimous. The commission also noted the appointment of Leslie Kelly to replace outgoing member Bruce Beglin.

• Approved new single-family home permit at 110 First Street (unanimous)
• Approved patio and driveway items at 208 Tred Avon, denied flagstone path item (unanimous)
• Approved amended building permit at 106 North Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved home elevation and repair permit at 103 High Street (unanimous)
• Approved koi pond removal at 221 South Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved fence, rock, and driveway permit at 101 South Street (unanimous)
• Approved mini split heat pump installation at 109 High Street (unanimous)

Historic District

The Oxford Historic District Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting on March 3, 2025, to approve meeting minutes and review several permit applications for property alterations, including a rear patio, enclosed porch, koi pond removal, and mini-split installation. The board will also consult on a proposed new bedroom addition and screened porch at 100 High Street.

• Approval of February 2025 meeting minutes
• 208 Tred Avon – rear patio/stepping stone path permit
• 2068 Morris – enclosed porch, new windows, roof deck permit
• 2218 Morris – koi pond removal permit
• 109 High Street – mini-split installation permit

The Historic District Commission approved four permits: a patio/driveway replacement at 208 Tred Avon Avenue (3-2, with a condition that the Planning Commission must approve the lot coverage increase), a living room expansion at 206 South Morris Street, a koi pond removal and landscaping at 221 South Morris Street, and a mini-split heat pump installation at 109 High Street. The commission also held a consultation for a proposed addition at 100 High Street, with four members favoring the design and one opposed.

• Approved patio/driveway replacement at 208 Tred Avon Ave (3-2), conditioned on Planning Commission approval of lot coverage increase
• Approved living room expansion at 206 South Morris St (unanimous)
• Approved koi pond removal and landscaping at 221 South Morris St (unanimous)
• Approved mini-split heat pump installation at 109 High St (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from February 3, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners will hold a public hearing and then vote on Resolution No. 2501, which amends the Oxford Charter to clarify that voters must register with the Talbot County Board of Elections. They will also introduce an ethics ordinance (No. 2502) and consider several appointments, including to the Planning Commission and Community Resiliency Committee. The Town Manager reports a $50,000 facade improvement grant and progress on a FEMA grant to raise 14 homes.

• Public hearing and vote on Resolution No. 2501: amending voter registration requirements
• Introduction of Ordinance No. 2502: ethics provisions for town officials and employees
• Consideration of appointing Leslie Kelly to the Planning Commission and three members to the Community Resiliency Committee
• Announcement of $50,000 Maryland DHCD facade improvement grant
• FEMA grant to raise 14 residential homes in town

The Oxford Commissioners held a public hearing on Resolution 2501, which would require voters to be residents for 30 days and register with Talbot County. After hearing public comments, they voted to schedule a workshop to craft charter language on voting eligibility. They also approved several appointments and the posting of a Treasurer position.

• Held public hearing on Resolution 2501 (voter residency requirement)
• Approved workshop to craft charter language on voting (unanimous)
• Approved sending Ethics Provisions (Chapter 13) to Ethics Committee for review (unanimous)
• Approved posting Town Treasurer position (unanimous)
• Recommended Barbara Ranson to Talbot County Economic Development Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Leslie Kelly to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Berkley Cone, Warren Davis, Pete Linkins to Community Resilience Committee (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of Oxford will consider awarding a $3,000 contract to Gold & Associates for wastewater system training to ensure operator redundancy. They will also consider a special event permit for Scottish Highland Creamery to use Town Park on May 3. The meeting includes consent agenda items (minutes, reports) and a closed session for legal advice and personnel matters.

• Consider awarding contract to Gold & Associates not to exceed $3,000 for wastewater training (funds available $64,128.61)
• Consider special event permit for Scottish Highland Creamery for May 3 at Town Park (rain date May 10)
• Consent agenda includes minutes from October 22, 2024 and November 12, 2024, plus town manager, police, fire, maintenance, and finance reports
• Closed session planned under General Provisions § 3-305(b)(7) and (b)(1) for legal advice and personnel matters
• Public comments accepted via email or mail by noon on Thursday before meeting

The Oxford Commissioners approved a $3,000 contract with Golden Associates to train wastewater treatment plant staff for state certification, and approved a special event permit for Scottish Highland Creamery's 20th anniversary on May 3. The clerk/treasurer was terminated due to policy violation, and the town manager is working with a CPA on financial matters. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $3,000 contract with Golden Associates for wastewater staff training (motion carried)
• Approved special event permit for Scottish Highland Creamery 20th anniversary on May 3 (motion carried)
• Accepted consent agenda (motion carried)

Commissioners

The Commissioners of the Town of Oxford will hold a special meeting solely to convene a closed session under Maryland law for discussion of a personnel matter affecting a specific appointee, employee, or official. No other business will be conducted. The public may observe the opening vote to enter closed session but not the subsequent discussion.

• Closed session under General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(1) to discuss appointment, employment, compensation, or performance evaluation of an individual

Planning Commission

The Oxford Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting to approve January 2025 minutes and review several building permits. Items include a new home at 202 Factory Street, a fence/driveway at 213 S Morris, a shed at 102 Bonfield, a parcel combination at 100 Myrtle Avenue, and six tree removal applications. No new business items are listed.

• 202 Factory Street – new construction home (Ellor)
• 213 S Morris – fence/driveway (Theiss)
• 102 Bonfield – shed (Catherine Bitter)
• 100 Myrtle Avenue – parcel combination (DeBeaufort)
• Multiple properties – six tree removal applications

The Oxford Planning Commission approved minutes from January, three construction permits, and six tree removal applications. All decisions were unanimous. A consultation on property recombination was discussed but no action was taken.

• Approved January meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved new single-family home at 202 Factory Street (unanimous)
• Approved fencing and river stone driveway at 213 South Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved 10x20 foot shed at 102 Bonfield (unanimous)
• Approved tree removal at 103 Willows Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved removal of two trees at 218 South Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved removal of two maple trees at 102 Riverview Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved removal of two pear trees at 104 Bayview Avenue (unanimous)

Historic District

The Historic District Commission will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review property consultations and permits. The body is considering specific exterior changes to residential properties within the historic district.

• Consultation for primary bedroom addition at 100 High Street
• Consultation to remove patio and add two-story back porch at 218 South Morris Street
• Permit review for fence, river rock, and driveway modification at 101 South Street

The Oxford Historic District Commission approved the November, December, and January meeting minutes, with the November minutes amended per Jennifer Stanley's suggestion. They approved a driveway extension and an Oxford-style picket fence for 101 South Street, but referred the river rock installation to the Planning Commission because it is in the public right-of-way. The commission discussed but did not approve a proposed addition at 100 High Street, expressing concerns about its impact on the streetscape and historic status. They also discussed a porch replacement at 218 South Morris Street, with members generally favorable.

• Approved November minutes with Jennifer Stanley's suggested edits (unanimous)
• Approved December minutes as submitted (unanimous)
• Approved January minutes as submitted (unanimous)
• Approved driveway extension at 101 South Street (unanimous)
• Approved fence installation at 101 South Street (unanimous)
• Referred river rock installation at 101 South Street to Planning Commission (no vote recorded)

Board of Port Wardens

The Board of Port Wardens will meet to review a permit application for property improvements. The board is considering a request to modify a pier and riprap.

• Permit review for 106 Tred Avon Ave. to replace and reconfigure existing pier 2
• Permit review for 106 Tred Avon Ave. to replace 110 ft of existing riprap

The Board of Port Wardens approved an application by Anthony Jacobs and Toni Harris to replace and reconfigure an existing pier and replace 110 feet of riprap at 106 Tred Avon Avenue. The approval was granted as presented, with the condition that any future installation of davits or PWC/JetSki lifts would require a new application. The motion carried unanimously.

• Approved pier replacement and riprap replacement at 106 Tred Avon Avenue (unanimous)

Commissioners

The Oxford Commissioners will discuss and consider two new business items: upgrades to the town website and codification of the Town Charter and Code to improve citizen access to searchable legislation. They will also address an open application for the Planning Commission with a deadline extended to January 17, 2025. The meeting includes a consent agenda, public comments, and the oath of office for new Town Manager Holly Wahl.

• Discussion and consideration of upgrades to the Town website
• Discussion and consideration of codification of the Town of Oxford Charter and Code
• Planning Commission application deadline extended to January 17, 2025
• Oath of office for new Town Manager Holly Wahl
• Consent agenda including meeting minutes from October 8, 2024

The Oxford Commissioners swore in Holly Wahl as the new Town Manager and unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included minutes from October 8, 2024, a maintenance report, a finance report, and a PIA listing. The town also extended the Planning Commission application deadline to January 17, 2025. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports and announcements.

• Swore in Holly Wahl as Town Manager
• Approved consent agenda (minutes, maintenance, finance, PIA listing) unanimously
• Extended Planning Commission application deadline to January 17, 2025

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission voted to forward two variance requests for the Oxford Inn (side yard setback and front porch extension) to the Board of Appeals with a favorable recommendation. A third request regarding building height was forwarded with an unfavorable recommendation, but the Commission encouraged the applicant to explore alternative HVAC placement and screening options and return at a later date.

• Forwarded variance requests 26.04 and 26.05 (side yard and front porch) to Board of Appeals with favorable recommendation (unanimous)
• Forwarded building height variance request to Board of Appeals with unfavorable recommendation (unanimous)
• Encouraged applicant to explore alternative HVAC placement and screening to mitigate roof line impact

Historic District

The Oxford Historic District Commission approved four applications: filling a fence gap and replacing driveway gravel at 213 South Morris Street, an above-ground propane tank at 200 Market Street, and two HVAC units at 202 Market Street. The commission postponed a decision on a pool house at 106 Stewart Avenue to the February meeting. It also held consultations on properties at 206 Market Street, 106 North Morris Street, and 100 High Street, and heard citizen comments on buffer management and historic district designations.

• Approved fence completion and river stone driveway at 213 South Morris Street (unanimous)
• Approved propane tank with screening at 200 Market Street (unanimous)
• Approved HVAC units with screening at 202 Market Street (unanimous)
• Postponed pool house decision at 106 Stewart Avenue to February meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission voted to forward two variance requests for the Oxford Inn to the Board of Appeals with favorable recommendations, and a third request with an unfavorable recommendation. The variances relate to side yard setback for an egress stair, front yard setbacks for a porch renovation, and building height for HVAC units.

• Forwarded variance 26.04 (side yard setback) to Board of Appeals with favorable recommendation (unanimous)
• Forwarded variance 26.05 (front yard setbacks) to Board of Appeals with favorable recommendation (unanimous)
• Forwarded building height variance to Board of Appeals with unfavorable recommendation (unanimous)