Wicomico County public meetings in 2021

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a legislative session with several resolutions, including accepting an $8.86 million emergency rental assistance grant, approving a sole-source contract for sheriff's body cameras and Tasers, and establishing new councilmanic district boundaries based on the 2020 census. They will also consider a settlement in opioid litigation against major distributors and manufacturers. The agenda includes public hearings, appointments, and work sessions on airport projects.

• Resolution 144-2021: Public hearing on purchasing mitigation bank credits for Maple Dam Conservation Wetland (Dorchester County)
• Resolution 145-2021: Accept $150,000 Childcare Stabilization Grant for Three Kids Klub After School Program
• Resolution 146-2021: Authorize Axon Enterprises as sole source for body cameras and Tasers for Sheriff's Office
• Resolution 147-2021: Establish councilmanic district boundaries from decennial census
• Resolution 153-2021: Accept up to $8,862,646 in Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) funds

The Wicomico County Council approved a new councilmanic district map based on the 2020 Census, adopted an opioid settlement agreement with major distributors, and accepted a $150,000 childcare stabilization grant. The council also received recommendations from the Charter Review Committee and the Compensation and Allowance Commission, but took no formal action on them.

• Approved Resolution 147-2021 establishing councilmanic district boundaries (unanimous, Davis absent)
• Approved Legislative Bill 2021-07 as amended for redistricting (unanimous roll call)
• Approved Resolution 152-2021 opting into opioid settlement with McKesson, Cardinal Health, AmerisourceBergen, and J&J (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 145-2021 accepting $150,000 ARPA childcare grant for Kids Klub (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 146-2021 authorizing Axon as sole source for body cameras and tasers (approved, Davis absent)
• Approved Resolution 144-2021 purchasing mitigation bank credits for Maple Dam wetland (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 153-2021 accepting $8,862,646 emergency rental assistance grant (approved, Cannon and Hastings abstained)
• Approved three appointments to Commission for Women and one to Board of Appeals (all unanimous)

Tourism and Civic Center Commission

The Wicomico County Tourism and Civic Center Commission will discuss updates regarding various grants and several capital projects. The meeting includes reports on sales, marketing studies, and specific site developments.

• Shuttered Venue Grant update
• EDA Grant update
• Civic Center Projects update
• Harmon Field, Pirate’s Wharf, and HPAC project updates
• Tourism Marketing / Branding Study discussion

The commission approved the September 20, 2021 minutes. The Civic Center was awarded an additional $806,000 under the Shuttered Venue Grant, bringing the total to $2.4M. The county will submit an EDA grant application for $5.5M for a $6.9M project. Updates were given on capital projects and a tourism branding study.

• Approved minutes from September 20, 2021
• Awarded additional $806,000 Shuttered Venue Grant (total $2.4M)
• County to submit EDA grant application for $5.5M (project cost $6.9M)
• Approved Harmon Field Revitalization project (November)
• Approved $35,000 lighting upgrades
• Approved arena ceiling tile replacement (9,000 tiles)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting to review several preliminary/final plats, a revised comprehensive development plan, site plan approvals, a sign plan, and a zoning recommendation for annexation. They will also consider a proposed text amendment to the Wicomico County Zoning Code. The meeting includes approval of minutes from prior sessions.

• Preliminary/final plat for The Village Down River Growth, Riverside Drive
• Minor subdivision of lands of John L. and Nancy J. Flaig, 9494 Athol Road
• Revised comprehensive development plan for DHB Development LLC, Heritage, Pemberton Dr & Culver Rd
• Revised certificate of design and site plan for Chesapeake Shipbuilding, 704-710 Fitzwater Street
• Zoning recommendation for Safford Kia Annexation, 1911 N. Salisbury Blvd.

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting on December 16, 2021, to review several preliminary/final plats, a revised comprehensive development plan, site plan approvals, a sign plan, a zoning recommendation for annexation, and a proposed text amendment to the county zoning code. The agenda includes both residential and commercial projects, with decisions or discussions expected on each item.

• Preliminary/final plat for The Village Down River Growth Allocation Plan Sheet 3 Revision on Riverside Drive
• Minor subdivision of the Flaig property at 9494 Athol Road
• Revised comprehensive development plan for DHB Development LLC at Heritage, Pemberton Dr & Culver Rd
• Revised certificate of design and site plan approval for Chesapeake Shipbuilding at 704-710 Fitzwater Street
• Zoning recommendation for Safford Kia annexation at 1911 N. Salisbury Blvd.

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission approved a revised preliminary comprehensive development plan for the Heritage project, allowing 127 single-family homes and 179 townhouses (306 units total) on 55.31 acres. The commission also approved several other items, including subdivision plats, a revised sign plan for Target, and a zoning recommendation for the Safford Kia annexation. A revised certificate for the Chesapeake Shipbuilding office building was approved, but the architectural treatment was tabled for further review.

• Approved preliminary/final subdivision plat for Flaig property at 9494 Athol Road (unanimous)
• Approved revised Sheet 3 of Village Down River Growth Allocation Plan (unanimous)
• Approved revised preliminary comprehensive development plan for Heritage, 306 units, with 9 conditions (unanimous)
• Approved revised certificate of design for Chesapeake Shipbuilding office building; tabled architectural treatment (unanimous, Thomas abstained)
• Approved revised sign plan for Target 'Drive Up' wall sign (unanimous)
• Forwarded favorable zoning recommendation for Safford Kia annexation, Mixed-Use Non-Residential (unanimous, Drew abstained)
• Approved advancing Chapter 225 text amendment for liquid organic fertilizer storage to County Council (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 18 and December 9 meetings

Wicomico Board of Elections

The Wicomico County Board of Elections is meeting to handle routine administrative business, including approving the previous meeting's minutes and receiving reports from the election director and board attorney. They will also discuss and potentially decide on 2022 ballot drop box locations and Election Day polling places, as well as set the board's monthly meeting dates for 2022.

• 2022 ballot drop box locations request to State Board of Elections
• Designation of Election Day polling places for 2022 elections
• 2022 board monthly meeting dates
• Approval of November 17, 2021 minutes

The Wicomico County Board of Elections approved five polling place location changes due to school construction, and tabled three other proposed changes until the January meeting. The board also approved using three drop boxes for the 2022 elections, allowing Worcester County to use the fourth box under a written agreement. Meeting dates for 2022 were approved, with December moved to the second Wednesday.

• Approved five polling place changes (unanimous)
• Tabled three polling place changes until January meeting
• Approved three drop boxes for 2022 elections, with Worcester County using the fourth (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 meeting dates, with December on Dec 14 (unanimous)
• Approved November 17, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Natural Resources Conservation Advisory Committee

The Wicomico County Natural Resources Conservation Advisory Committee meets to discuss old business, including an invasive species project update, continuing management and restoration work at Pemberton, and a city invasives control grant. New business covers committee composition and branding. The meeting is open to the public with time for comments.

• Invasive Species project update
• Continuing management, restoration work at Pemberton
• Invasives control grant
• Committee composition discussion
• Committee branding, logo discussion

The committee discussed an unsuccessful grant application for the PRISM coordinator position and plans to request funding from the County Executive's office for an invasive species plan. They agreed to provide a letter of support for the City's DNR Trust grant application for the Beaver Dam Creek restoration project. The committee also noted that suggested changes to the draft Local Parks and Recreation Plan were included and will go to the County Council.

• Agreed to consider a funding request to County Executive's office for invasive species plan pending meeting with Mr. Whitelock
• Agreed to provide letter of support for City's DNR Trust grant for Beaver Dam Creek restoration
• Noted PRISM grant for $10,000 was not approved; extension of CBT funds requested
• Noted invasive species changes included in draft LPPRP going to County Council

Airport Commission

The Wicomico County Airport Commission is meeting to approve minutes and receive the Airport Manager's report on project and contract statuses, including the runway extension, grant funding, and various construction projects. The report also covers passenger activity, showing a significant increase in enplanements compared to last year. No formal votes or public hearings are scheduled for this meeting.

• Runway extension design work to begin by January; wetland permitting being organized
• SBY awarded $1.34M in federal funding per Senator Cardin and Van Hollen announcement
• Taxiway A Rehabilitation Phase 2B substantially complete; final markings pending weather
• ARFF facility awaiting FAA approval; bid expected early next year
• Passenger enplanements in October: 6,534, up 95% from October 2020 and 10% from October 2019

The Wicomico County Airport Commission met on December 13, 2021, and approved the minutes from the November 8, 2021 meeting. The airport manager's report included discussions on runway funding, avigation easements, property acquisition, and a new Piedmont Hangar, but no formal decisions were made on these topics. No public comments were received, and the meeting adjourned with a motion.

• Approved November 8, 2021 meeting minutes (motion by Young, second by Jackson)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission is holding a special work session to review proposed amendments to the Wicomico County Zoning Code (Chapter 225) that would regulate the construction, location, and size of open-top storage tanks. The amendments were proposed by the County Council and affect several sections of the code, including definitions, permitted uses, and standards for agricultural operations. No final decision is expected at this work session; it is a discussion item.

• Proposed text amendments to Section 225-20 'Amendments'
• Amendments to Section 225-25 'Terms Defined'
• Amendments to Section 225-76 'Agricultural Operation, Farming'
• Amendments to Section 225-67 'Table of Permitted Uses-designations'
• Regulation of open-top storage tanks

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a work session to discuss a proposed text amendment to Chapter 225 Zoning regarding open top storage tanks. By consensus, the Commission recommended five decision points: defining the use as storage of a State-approved soil amendment from poultry processing residuals, permitting it in the Agricultural-Rural (A-1) district, applying the same setbacks as poultry, requiring a special exception (with temporary portable/mobile storage exempt), and making no recommendation on road classification. The recommendation will be reported to the County Council, which has authority to amend the zoning code.

• Recommended defining use as storage of State-approved soil amendment from poultry processing residuals (consensus)
• Recommended permitting the use in Agricultural-Rural (A-1) zoning district (consensus)
• Recommended setbacks same as poultry (consensus)
• Recommended special exception required, with temporary portable/mobile storage exempt (consensus)
• Made no recommendation on road classification (consensus)

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to approve the agenda and minutes from November 4, 2021, and to review the presentation to the County Council and the final scorecard. The meeting includes a public comment period and is scheduled to adjourn at 6:45 p.m.

• Review of presentation to County Council
• Review of final scorecard
• Approval of minutes from November 4, 2021

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee unanimously approved its final narrative report and scorecard, which will be presented to the County Council on December 21, 2021. The committee also amended the scorecard to clarify that the County Attorney serves at the pleasure of the Executive, and made a minor age qualification fix. The report includes recommendations for future consideration, such as reviewing councilmanic districts and convening a charter review every five years instead of ten.

• Approved final narrative report with edits (unanimous)
• Approved scorecard as amended (unanimous)
• Amended Section 202a to state minimum age of 25 years (unanimous)
• Amended Section 507a to read 'The County Attorney shall serve at the pleasure of the Executive' (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The commission will review a request from Karl and Rose Anne Bizaro to elevate the primary residence structure at the Green-Burton/Thompson site. The meeting also includes administrative discussion regarding commissioner reappointments.

• Request to elevate primary residence at 2705 Church Road (Whitehaven Historic District)
• Commissioner reappointments

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission is considering a request from Karl and Rose Anne Bizaro to elevate an 18th-century residence to protect it from flooding. The body will also hold an administrative discussion regarding the reappointment of a commissioner.

• Request WHDW-2102: Permission to elevate the Green-Burton/Thompson site residence at 2705 Church Road
• Proposed structural reinforcement of the second floor using three new I-beams
• Administrative discussion on commissioner reappointment

The Wicomico County Historic District Commission approved a request by Karl and Rose Anne Bizaro to elevate their primary residence at 2705 Church Road, a Category B structure in the Green-Burton/Thompson site on Whitehaven Road. The approval was needed to apply for a FEMA grant, and final project details, including steps and a possible second-story addition, will require later Commission approval. The commission also discussed reappointments, with four members expressing interest and Pat Taylor declining.

• Approved elevation of Bizaro residence at 2705 Church Road (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 13, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed commissioner reappointments; four members expressed interest, one declined

County Council

The Wicomico County Council will hold public hearings on a proposed councilmanic redistricting map, a capital budget amendment for airport obstruction removal, and a bill adding Juneteenth as an official holiday. The council will also consider a bond award resolution, a forest conservation easement relocation, a wetland mitigation credit sale, and letters of support for a distillery and traffic improvements.

• Public hearing: Proposed Councilmanic Redistricting Map
• Resolution 140-2021: Reallocate FY21 Pay-Go funding to Airport Piedmont Obstruction Removal Project
• Bill 2021-06: Add Juneteenth National Freedom Day to official holidays
• Resolution 141-2021: Transfer $74,250 from contingency to Old Court Building Capital Account
• Request to relocate 2,770.9 sq ft forest conservation easement at 104 Paddock Drive, Fruitland

The Wicomico County Council elected John T. Cannon as Council President and Ernest F. Davis as Vice President by roll call votes. The council also approved several resolutions, including a capital budget amendment for airport obstruction removal, a personnel manual amendment adding Juneteenth as a holiday, and funding for an electrical system study at the Old Court Building. A public hearing was held on a proposed redistricting map, but no action was taken; it was scheduled for a future meeting as a resolution.

• Elected John T. Cannon as Council President (4-3)
• Elected Ernest F. Davis as Council Vice President (4-3)
• Approved Resolution No. 140-2021 reallocating FY2021 Pay-Go funding to Airport Piedmont Obstruction Removal Project (unanimous)
• Approved Legislative Bill No. 2021-06 adding Juneteenth National Freedom Day to county holidays (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 141-2021 transferring $74,250 from contingency for Old Court Building electrical system design (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 142-2021 confirming G. Matthew Drew to Planning and Zoning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 143-2021 confirming Minister George Mandel Copeland to Planning and Zoning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 16, 2021 (unanimous)

Compensation and Allowance Commission

The Compensation and Allowance Commission will meet by Zoom to approve minutes from its November 23 meeting and review the final report it will send to the Wicomico County Council. The meeting is scheduled for one hour and will be recorded.

• Approval of minutes from November 23, 2021
• Review of final report to the County Council

The Compensation and Allowance Commission voted 6-1 to recommend a Sheriff's salary of $121,000, based on parity with other positions. The Commission also finalized its letter of recommendations to the County Council, including $124,000 for County Executive, $25,000 for Council President, $23,000 for Vice-President, and $21,000 for Council members, with no changes to allowances. The letter will be presented to the County Council on December 21.

• Approved Sheriff's salary recommendation of $121,000 (6-1)
• Finalized letter recommending $124,000 for County Executive
• Finalized letter recommending $25,000 for Council President, $23,000 for Vice-President, $21,000 for Council members
• Decided to keep current allowances unchanged
• Approved minutes from November 23, 2021 (unanimous)

County Council

The County Council will hold a legislative session to vote on a bond award resolution and then open work sessions on four items: relocating a forest conservation easement, selling wetland mitigation credits, and issuing letters of support for a distillery project and traffic improvements. These are discussion items, with only the bond resolution scheduled for a vote.

• Resolution No. 139-2021 — Bond Award Resolution
• Request to relocate 2,770.9 sq ft forest conservation easement from 104 Paddock Drive, Fruitland, MD to off-site mitigation bank
• Agreement of sale of wetland mitigation credits with Maple Dam Conservation Wetland Mitigation Bank (Taxiway 0 Project)
• Letter of support for SBY Distillery Corp (The Winder Distilling Co.) for funding for 117-119 West Main Street, Salisbury, MD
• Letter of support for traffic improvements at US Route 13 and Foskey Lane intersection

The Wicomico County Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 139-2021, awarding bonds for tax-exempt and refunding series. The tax-exempt bonds drew 12 bidders at a true interest cost of 1.62534%, while refunding bonds drew 8 bidders at 1.849233%, saving over $900,000. The taxable portion includes about $1.8 million in new money for Airport projects.

• Approved Resolution No. 139-2021, bond award resolution (unanimous)
• Awarded tax-exempt bonds with 12 bidders at 1.62534% interest
• Awarded refunding bonds with 8 bidders at 1.849233% interest, saving over $900,000
• Included $1.8 million new money for Airport projects in taxable bonds

Compensation and Allowance Commission

The Compensation and Allowance Commission is meeting to review its report to the County Council. The agenda includes only this review item before adjournment, with no other substantive business listed.

• Review of Report to Council

The Commission approved a motion recommending County Council salaries of $25,000 for the President, $23,000 for the Vice President, and $21,000 for Councilmembers, replacing an earlier motion for $30,000 that failed. It also approved a $100,000 salary recommendation for the Sheriff, a motion to leave benefits unchanged, and a recommendation to include an annual COLA for the Sheriff and County Executive. The Commission unanimously approved a motion to set a minimum salary for Councilmembers in the County Code and a recommendation to discuss changing the timing of the Commission's review with State representatives. The final letter will be voted on at a later Zoom meeting and presented to the County Council on December 21.

• Approved motion for Council President $25,000, Vice President $23,000, Councilmembers $21,000 (8-2).
• Approved motion for Sheriff's salary $100,000 (6-4).
• Approved motion to leave benefits unchanged (unanimous).
• Approved motion to include recommendation to change timing of Commission review with State representatives (unanimous).
• Approved motion to set minimum Council salaries in County Code (unanimous).
• Approved motion to include COLA for Sheriff and County Executive (9-1).
• Failed motion for Council President $25,000, Vice President $24,000, Councilmembers $23,000 (3-7).
• Failed motion for Council President $30,000 (6-4).

Recreation Commission

The Wicomico Recreation & Parks Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including an update on the Schumaker Park mural, the Local Parks and Playgrounds Revitalization Program (LPPRP), division reports, and capital project updates. The agenda is largely procedural, with no votes or public hearings listed.

• Schumaker Park mural update
• LPPRP update
• Capital project updates
• Division reports

The Recreation & Parks Commission approved the September 28, 2021 minutes as written. They received updates on the Schumaker Park mural, the 2022 Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plan, and various capital projects. No formal votes were taken on these items; they were discussed only.

• Approved the September 28, 2021 minutes as written.
• Discussed the Schumaker Park mural; revisions will be shared at the next meeting.
• Discussed the 2022 LPPRP, noting over 800 survey responses received.
• Heard parks division update: winterizing bathrooms, closing Pemberton and Harbors after Thanksgiving, mulching leaves, mowing Pirate's Wharf by year-end, inmate labor agreement starting 12/6, Cedar Hill restrooms nearly complete.
• Heard that three playgrounds (Cedar Hill, Nick Meyer, Winterplace) will be replaced by Spring 2022.
• Heard that Parker & Associates hired for Harmon Field stormwater plan; goal completion by fall 2022.
• Heard that State of Maryland approved funding for lights on fields 7 and 8 at Henry Parker Athletic Complex; existing lights to be converted to LED.
• Agreed to keep meeting time at 12:00 for now, possibly rotating with evening meetings.

Compensation and Allowance Commission

The Compensation and Allowance Commission is meeting to approve minutes from prior sessions, review a draft letter to the County Council, and examine benefits data. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of minutes from November 8 and November 12, 2021
• Review of draft letter to Council
• Review of benefits data

The Compensation and Allowance Commission unanimously approved a motion to leave county council benefits as they are, following a recommendation from member Sharon Morris. The commission also approved minutes from November 8 and 12, 2021. A draft report with salary recommendations is being finalized, with a final version to be reviewed and signed at the next meeting on November 30.

• Approved minutes from November 8, 2021, unanimously.
• Approved minutes from November 12, 2021, unanimously.
• Approved motion to keep benefits unchanged, seconded and passed unanimously.
• Scheduled final report review and signing for November 30, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. in Council Chambers.

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will convene to consider three development items: a minor subdivision on Snow Hill Road, a revised comprehensive development plan for Glen Heights on Glen Avenue, and a preliminary/final subdivision plat for The Centre at Salisbury on North Salisbury Boulevard. The meeting includes approval of minutes from prior sessions and public hearings on these proposals.

• Minor subdivision of Lot 2, Block 'A', 'Subdivision for 5-0 Farms' on Snow Hill Road (A-1, Airport Overlay)
• Preliminary revised comprehensive development plan for Glen Heights, LLC at 1800 Glen Ave (R-10A Residential)
• Preliminary/final subdivision plat for Salisbury Mall Realty Holdings LLC at The Centre at Salisbury, 2300 N Salisbury Blvd (General Commercial)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting on November 18, 2021, to review and potentially approve several development proposals. Items include a minor subdivision on Snow Hill Road, a revised comprehensive development plan for Glen Heights, and a preliminary/final subdivision plat for The Centre at Salisbury. The meeting will also include approval of minutes from prior sessions.

• Minor subdivision of Lot 2, Block 'A', 'Subdivision for 5-0 Farms' on Snow Hill Road (A-1 and Airport Overlay)
• Preliminary revised comprehensive development plan for Glen Heights, LLC at 1800 Glen Ave (R-10A Residential)
• Preliminary/final subdivision plat for Salisbury Mall Realty Holdings LLC at The Centre at Salisbury, 2300 N Salisbury Blvd (General Commercial)

Compensation and Allowance Commission

The Compensation and Allowance Commission is meeting via Zoom to review salary data and set the next meeting date. The agenda is brief and procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Review of salary data
• Set next meeting date and time

Wicomico Board of Elections

The Board will discuss potential changes to polling locations for the 2022 elections. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the Fiscal Year 2022 Capital Improvement Plan request.

• Discussion of FY22 Capital Improvement Plan request
• Discussion of additions or changes to polling places for 2022 elections
• Requests to attend iGO Conference

The Wicomico County Board of Elections discussed and proposed multiple polling place changes for 2022 due to school renovations, with formal approval deferred to the December meeting. The board unanimously approved a motion to use no more than four drop boxes for the 2022 elections, and approved funding for the Election Director and Deputy Director to attend the IGO Conference in California, not to exceed $2,000 each.

• Approved minutes from October 20, 2021 meeting with one correction (unanimous)
• Approved funding for IGO Conference travel/hotel, not to exceed $2,000 per person (unanimous)
• Approved motion to use no more than four drop boxes for 2022 elections (unanimous)
• Discussed proposed polling place changes; formal approval deferred to December meeting

County Council

The Council will consider a $806,937.08 grant for the Civic Center and a sole-source contract for emergency services support. The meeting also includes a public hearing on purchasing mitigation bank credits and updates on broadband and redistricting.

• Resolution 137-2021: $806,937.08 supplemental grant award for Shuttered Venue Operators
• Public Hearing: Resolution 123-2021 regarding purchase of Mitigation Bank credits
• Resolution 124-2021: Sole source contract with Motorola Solutions for Fire/EMS encryption
• Legislative Bill 2021-06: Amendment to include Juneteenth as an official holiday
• Confirmation of 11 nominees to the Wicomico County Commission for Women

The Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 123-2021 to purchase mitigation bank credits for the airport, despite concerns about the $119,000 per acre cost. A motion to table the resolution failed for lack of a second. The Council also approved the redistricting committee's minimal-impact map, a broadband partnership proposal with Choptank Electric, and several other resolutions.

• Approved Resolution 123-2021 purchasing mitigation bank credits for airport (unanimous)
• Failed motion to table Resolution 123-2021 (no second)
• Approved redistricting map moving only 52 people (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 125-2021 official holidays for 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved 11 appointments to Commission for Women (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 137-2021 accepting $806,937.08 grant for Civic Center (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 138-2021 bond resolution (6-0)
• Introduced Legislative Bill 2021-06 adding Juneteenth as holiday (6-0)

Compensation and Allowance Commission

The Compensation and Allowance Commission is meeting to approve minutes from its November 8 session and review salary data. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Approval of minutes from November 8, 2021
• Review of salary data

The Compensation and Allowance Commission met to discuss salary recommendations for county officials. They reviewed data showing the County Executive's salary of $85,000 has not changed since 2006 and is below comparable counties and private-sector benchmarks. No formal decisions were made; the commission plans to continue discussions at a future meeting.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was informational and discussion-only

Redistricting Committee

The Wicomico County Redistricting Commission is meeting to approve minutes from its October 27, 2021 session and review a redistricting presentation. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific redistricting maps or decisions listed for action.

• Approval of minutes from October 27, 2021
• Review of redistricting presentation

The Wicomico County Redistricting Committee unanimously approved the redistricting presentation and executive summary for the County Council, choosing a minimal impact map that moves 49 people from District 3 to District 4 and 3 people from District 3 to District 5. No council or school board members were moved out of their districts. The presentation is scheduled for November 16, with a public hearing planned for December 7 and a council decision expected December 21. The committee also agreed to post the map and executive summary on the county website.

• Approved minutes from October 27, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved redistricting presentation for County Council (unanimous roll call)
• Approved executive summary for County Council (unanimous roll call)
• Agreed to post map and executive summary on county website

Natural Resources Conservation Advisory Committee

The Wicomico County Natural Resources Conservation Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the invasive species project, city zoning revisions, and city updates, followed by a review of the Local Parks and Playgrounds Review Program (LPPRP). The meeting includes public comments and is largely procedural.

• Invasive Species project update
• City Zoning revision
• City updates
• LPPRP review

The committee discussed ongoing invasive species treatments at Pemberton and Leonard Mill, noting progress and planning for future chemical applications. They also received updates on city zoning and infrastructure plans, and discussed a potential cost-sharing for algae removal at Schumaker Pond. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

• Scheduled bark treatment at Pemberton for December 15th (no vote recorded)
• Discussed potential funding for Weed Coordinator position (no action taken)
• Reviewed city zoning and infrastructure updates (no action taken)
• Discussed potential $10,000 cost-share for Schumaker Pond algae removal (pending)

Airport Commission

The Wicomico County Airport Commission is meeting to approve minutes and receive the Airport Manager's report. The report covers project and contract status updates, including the runway extension, grant funding, land acquisitions, and ongoing construction projects. No formal votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Runway extension design work to begin by January; wetland permitting being organized
• CARES grant reimbursements continue; American Rescue Plan grant application pending with FAA
• Five easement offers submitted; one accepted and in process
• Taxiway A Rehabilitation Phase 2B construction ongoing, asphalt paving this week, completion expected by end of November
• New ARFF truck delivered; wet-down ceremony scheduled for Wednesday at 3PM at ARFF Hangar

The Wicomico County Airport Commission met on November 8, 2021, and approved the minutes from the October 11, 2021 meeting. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of reports and discussions on projects, passenger activity, and the AMT school.

• Approved October 11, 2021 meeting minutes (motion by Creamer, second by Young)

Compensation and Allowance Commission

The Compensation and Allowance Commission is holding an introductory meeting to establish its role, timeline, and future meeting schedule. No decisions or substantive discussions are on the agenda; it is primarily procedural.

• Introduction of commission members
• Review of commission's role
• Discussion of work timeline
• Scheduling future meetings

The Compensation and Allowance Commission met for an introductory session to outline its charge of reviewing compensation for county elected officials. No decisions were made; the next meeting was scheduled for Friday, Nov. 12 at 8:30 a.m. to review a spreadsheet of data.

• Scheduled next meeting for Friday, Nov. 12 at 8:30 a.m. (tentative)
• Agreed to distribute documents electronically to members

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to discuss Charter Section 407, which covers vacancies in the office of the County Executive. They will also review a scorecard of approved motions, discuss prioritizing a list of charter changes, and plan how to present recommendations to the County Council in December 2021. The agenda includes public comments and is scheduled to adjourn at 7:00 p.m.

• Discussion of Charter Section 407 – Vacancy in the Office of the County Executive
• Review of Approved Motions Scorecard
• Discussion of prioritizing/ranking list of charter changes
• Discussion of presentation of recommendations to Council
• Planning for December 2021 presentation to Council

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee met and unanimously approved submitting all its work to the County Council for review and action. A proposal to change Section 407 to require a special election for a vacant County Executive office failed, but a separate recommendation requiring all Councilmembers to be present for the appointment vote was unanimously approved. The committee also discussed but did not finalize a scorecard of proposed charter changes.

• Approved submitting all committee work to County Council (unanimous)
• Failed motion to change Section 407 to require special election for County Executive vacancy
• Approved recommendation to require all Councilmembers present for County Executive appointment vote (unanimous)
• Agreed to present recommendations to Council on December 21, 2021 (preferred date)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council holds a legislative session with public hearings and votes. The main item is a public hearing on extending a moratorium on building permits for an agricultural storage tank storing dissolved air flotation washdown water. The council will also consider several resolutions, including park grants, honorary street signs, and personnel appointments.

• Public hearing on Legislative Bill 2021-05 to extend moratorium on building permits for agricultural storage tank storing DAF washdown water
• Resolution 115-2021: honorary street sign 'Greene Way' at North Westover Drive and Rose Street, and North Westover Drive and East Road
• Resolution 116-2021: honorary street sign 'Stewart Way' at West Road and Olivia Street, East Road and Olivia Street, and Olivia Street and Ellington Street
• Resolution 117-2021: accept $700,000 Maryland DNR grant for Harmon Field Revitalization Project
• Resolution 118-2021: license agreement with YMCA to jointly renovate Harmon Field, accepting $300,000 donation

The Wicomico County Council approved Resolution 117-2021, accepting a $700,000 state grant for the Harmon Field Revitalization Project, and Resolution 118-2021, entering a license agreement with the YMCA for a $300,000 donation. The project will convert the existing softball field into a 12-court pickleball and basketball complex. The council also approved a $350,000 grant for the Pirate's Wharf project, accepted the county Water and Sewer Master Plan, and extended a moratorium on agricultural storage tanks for DAF washdown water.

• Approved Resolution 117-2021 accepting $700,000 state grant for Harmon Field pickleball/basketball complex (roll call vote, 6-0, Dodd abstained)
• Approved Resolution 118-2021 for YMCA license agreement and $300,000 donation, amended to add 'substantially in the same form' (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 119-2021 accepting $350,000 state grant for Pirate's Wharf project (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 120-2021 accepting the Wicomico County Water and Sewer Master Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Legislative Bill 2021-05 extending moratorium on agricultural storage tank permits for DAF washdown water (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 115-2021 for honorary street sign 'Greene Way' (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 116-2021 for honorary street sign 'Stewart Way' (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 121-2021 appointing Lorenzo R. Cropper as Deputy Director of Emergency Management (unanimous)

Redistricting Committee

The Wicomico County Redistricting Commission is meeting to review five redistricting maps, including a previously approved minimal impact map, a two-percent deviation map, and three special request maps. The committee will discuss map selection and may choose a final map. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the October 19, 2021 meeting.

• Review of Minimal Impact Map (previously approved)
• Review of Two-Percent Deviation Map
• Review of three Special Request Maps (dated September 22 and October 19, 2021)
• Discussion on map selection
• Approval of minutes from October 19, 2021

The Wicomico County Redistricting Committee unanimously approved the minimal impact redistricting map, amended to place the entire Town of Willards within District 5. The committee eliminated other map options, including the special request maps and the 2 percent deviation map, before approving the final recommendation to send to the County Council.

• Approved minutes from October 19, 2021 (unanimous)
• Removed special request map from September 22, 2021 from consideration (unanimous)
• Kept special request map from October 19, 2021 for further consideration (4-3)
• Failed to keep special request map (2-5)
• Kept 2 percent deviation map (6-1)
• Eliminated October 19, 2021 map (unanimous)
• Eliminated 2 percent deviation map (unanimous)
• Approved minimal impact map with Willards amendment (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to review a list of potential charter questions from the County Council, discuss prioritizing and ranking charter changes, and consider a preliminary final scorecard. The meeting includes public comments and is largely a working session on the county charter.

• Review of County Council list of Potential Charter Questions
• Discussion of Prioritizing/Ranking List of Charter Changes
• Discussion of 'Preliminary Final' Scorecard
• Approval of minutes from October 7, 2021

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee met and approved a recommendation that changes to employee benefits programs require County Council approval. They also voted to change the residency requirement for the Director of Administration to allow six months to become a resident. The committee discussed prioritizing their 24 proposed charter changes but took no formal action on prioritization.

• Approved recommendation that proposed changes to employee benefits programs must be approved by County Council (unanimous)
• Approved removing 'prior to assuming the duties' and replacing with 'within six months of assuming the duties' for Director of Administration residency (8-3)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from October 7, 2021 (unanimous)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting on October 21, 2021, to review and decide on several development proposals, including a revised comprehensive development plan for The Preserve at Aydelotte Farm, a comprehensive development plan for a property at 227 Florida Ave, a preliminary/final plat for a minor subdivision on Warren and Morris Roads, a revised site plan for an accessory storage building at 800 Snow Hill Road, and a preliminary plat extension for The Pond at Nutters Crossing. The meeting will also include a public hearing on text amendments to the Wicomico County Code to regulate the construction, location, and size of open top storage tanks. The agenda includes approval of minutes from previous meetings.

• Revised Comprehensive Development Plan – The Preserve at Aydelotte Farm, Stream Valley Ct & Middle Neck Drive, Planned Residential District #7
• Comprehensive Development Plan – 227 Florida Ave, Neighborhood Business Zoning District
• Preliminary/Final Plat – Dedicated Properties, LLC (5 Lots), Warren Road and Morris Road, A-1 Zoning District
• Revised Site Plan – Accessory Storage Building, 800 Snow Hill Road, C-1 Select Commercial Zoning District
• Public Hearing – Text Amendments to regulate open top storage tanks (Section 225-20, 225-25, 225-76, 225-67)

The Commission approved a revised comprehensive development plan for the remaining 21 lots in The Preserve at Aydelotte Farm, allowing wider driveways and removal of one-car garages, with four conditions including waiving the Community Impact Statement. It also approved a comprehensive development plan for a shopping center at 227 Florida Ave, a five-lot minor subdivision on Warren and Morris Roads, a revised site plan for an accessory storage building at 800 Snow Hill Road, and a one-year extension for The Pond at Nutters Crossing preliminary plat. The Commission held a public hearing on proposed zoning text amendments to regulate open top storage tanks but took no action, keeping the record open until October 29, 2021.

• Approved revised comprehensive development plan for Preserve at Aydelotte Farm (unanimous)
• Approved comprehensive development plan for 227 Florida Ave shopping center (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary/final plat for Dedicated Properties LLC 5-lot subdivision (unanimous)
• Approved revised site plan for accessory storage building at 800 Snow Hill Road (unanimous)
• Approved one-year extension for The Pond at Nutters Crossing preliminary plat (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 12 and September 16, 2021 meetings (unanimous, with one abstention each)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will review several development plan approvals and site plan revisions. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding text amendments to the Wicomico County Code to regulate open top storage tanks.

• Revised Comprehensive Development Plan for The Preserve at Aydelotte Farm (Stream Valley Ct & Middle Neck Drive)
• Comprehensive Development Plan approval for 227 Florida Ave
• Preliminary/Final Plat approval for a 5-lot minor subdivision on Warren Road and Morris Road
• Revised site plan review for an accessory storage building at 800 Snow Hill Road
• Public hearing on Wicomico County Code amendments regarding open top storage tanks

Wicomico Board of Elections

The Board of Elections will meet to review reports from the Election Director and Board Attorney. The agenda includes a discussion regarding additions or changes to polling places for the 2022 elections.

• Discussion of additions/changes to Polling Place or Places for 2022 elections
• Approval of September 15, 2021 Minutes

The Wicomico County Board of Elections unanimously approved a motion to endorse the Election Director's capital improvement plan request to the County Administration, which includes a new roof, HVAC additions, an outdoor message sign, and an office addition. The board also reached consensus on several proposed polling place changes for the 2022 election cycle due to school renovations, but tabled a decision on Beaver Run Elementary School pending further research.

• Approved minutes from September 15, 2021 meeting with one correction (unanimous)
• Endorsed capital improvement plan request to County Administration (unanimous)
• Consensus to pursue Northwestern School as polling place for Mardela Middle/High School voters
• Consensus to pursue First Baptist Church as polling place for Chipman Elementary voters
• Consensus to move Pinehurst Elementary voters to Asbury Church
• Consensus to move Delmar Elementary voters to New Dimensions Church and Holy Redeemer
• Tabled decision on Beaver Run Elementary polling place pending more research

County Council

The Wicomico County Council will hold a legislative session to vote on several resolutions, including purchasing an avigation easement from Chesapeake Airport Properties, accepting a $50,000 state grant for Pirate's Wharf Park, and appointing a Compensation and Allowance Commission. They will also discuss the process for selecting commission members in a closed work session, hear an update from the Housing Authority, and consider creating a street lighting district for Wellington Estates. Later open work sessions will cover honorary street signs, a proposed salary increase for Orphans Court judges, and a draft Water and Sewer Master Plan.

• Resolution 113-2021: Purchase of avigation easement from Chesapeake Airport Properties for air rights over property on Airport Road
• Resolution 114-2021: Accept $50,000 MDOT SHA Recreational Trail Program grant for Pirate's Wharf Park development
• Resolution 115-2021: Appointing a Compensation and Allowance Commission
• Resolution 02-2021: Initiate creation of Urban Service District for street lighting in Wellington Estates subdivision
• Discussion on increasing Orphans Court judges' salary from $9,500 to $11,600

The Wicomico County Council unanimously approved two resolutions: purchasing an avigation easement from Chesapeake Airport Properties for air rights above property on Airport Road, and accepting a $50,000 state grant for Pirate's Wharf Park development. The council also postponed Resolution No. 115-2021 to the next meeting due to a lack of applicants. The Housing Authority provided an update on affordable housing projects, including a proposed name change and plans for Booth Street redevelopment.

• Approved Resolution No. 113-2021, purchasing avigation easement from Chesapeake Airport Properties (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 114-2021, accepting $50,000 state grant for Pirate's Wharf Park (unanimous)
• Postponed Resolution No. 115-2021 to November 2 meeting
• Approved Resolution 02-2021, initiating urban service district for street lighting in Wellington Estates (unanimous)

Redistricting Committee

The Wicomico County Redistricting Commission is meeting to review four redistricting map options, including a special request map, a previously approved minimal impact map, a special request map from September 22, and a two-percent deviation map. The commission will also approve minutes from its September 22, 2021 meeting. No final decisions are listed on the agenda; the meeting is for review and discussion.

• Review of Special Request Map
• Review of Minimal Impact Map (Previously Approved)
• Review of Special Request Map from September 22, 2021
• Review of Two-Percent Deviation Map
• Approval of minutes from September 22, 2021 meeting

The committee discussed a motion to redraw district maps so that all incorporated towns, except Salisbury, are united in single districts, citing legal concerns about racial division. The motion was tabled to the next meeting on October 27, 2021, to allow staff to verify data and prepare a new map. No final map was approved.

• Approved September 22, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Tabled motion to unite all towns in single districts to October 27 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a special open work session to discuss proposed text amendments to the Wicomico County Zoning Code (Chapter 225). The amendments, proposed by the County Council, would regulate the construction, location, and size of open top storage tanks. The commission is reviewing the proposed changes but no final decision is being made at this work session.

• Proposed amendments to Section 225-25 (Terms Defined)
• Proposed amendments to Section 225-76 (Agricultural Operation, Farming)
• Proposed amendments to Section 225-67 (Table of Permitted Uses)
• Regulation of open top storage tanks

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a work session to discuss proposed text amendments to the Wicomico County Code. The changes aim to regulate the construction, location, and size of open top storage tanks.

• Proposed amendments to Section 225-20 regarding County Zoning Code text
• Proposed regulations for open top storage tanks
• Review of permitted uses for agricultural, commercial, and industrial districts

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a work session to review a proposed County Council text amendment to Chapter 225 of the Zoning Code regarding open-top storage tanks. No decisions were made; the item was discussed and will be the subject of a public hearing on October 21, 2021. The meeting was adjourned with no substantive action taken.

• Adjourned work session (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Wicomico County Airport Commission is meeting to approve minutes and receive the Airport Manager's report on project and contract statuses, including runway extension design, grant funding, land acquisitions, and construction projects. The report also covers passenger activity, showing a significant increase in enplanements compared to the previous year. The meeting is primarily informational, with no formal votes or public hearings scheduled.

• Runway extension design work to begin this fall; wetland permitting being organized
• CARES/ACRGP/ARP grant funding updates; ARP application pending with FAA
• One of five land acquisition offers accepted and went to County Council on October 5
• Taxiway A Rehabilitation Phase 2B construction began October 4, expected completion by end of November
• New ARFF truck delivered; wet-down ceremony planned for later this month

The Wicomico County Airport Commission met on October 11, 2021, and approved the minutes from the September 20, 2021 meeting. The meeting included an Airport Manager's Report with updates on projects, contracts, and funding, but no substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval and adjournment.

• Approved September 20, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to discuss Sections 201B and C with Dr. Basehart, receive an update from the County Attorney, review workshop material, and continue its review of a scorecard. The agenda also includes approval of the agenda and minutes from the September 16, 2021 meeting, followed by public comments and adjournment at 7:00 p.m.

• Discussion with Dr. Basehart on Sections 201B & C
• Update from County Attorney on various topics
• Review of workshop material
• Continue review of scorecard
• Approval of minutes from September 16, 2021

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee heard a detailed proposal from Dr. Basehart to overhaul the county's redistricting process, including a larger, more balanced committee, public input requirements, and supermajority approval. The committee took no action on the proposal, deferring discussion to the next meeting. The committee also approved sending bond counsel recommendations to the County Council and added language clarifying that age requirements for office are based on the date of election.

• Approved agenda unanimously
• Approved minutes from September 16, 2021 unanimously
• Reconsidered and reverted Section 305 (Internal Auditor) to original Charter language unanimously
• Approved sending bond counsel recommendations to County Council unanimously
• Approved adding 'at the time of election' to Sections 202 and 405 unanimously
• Tabled redistricting reform proposal for further discussion

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners is meeting to handle routine business, including approving the agenda and prior minutes, discussing old business on code language for inspector licenses and permit fee increases, taking public comments, and reviewing limited exam applications from two named applicants. The meeting may be partially closed to the public under the Open Meetings Act.

• Discussion of code language for inspector licenses
• Discussion of permit fee increases
• Limited exam applications: Gavin Sahadatalli and Anthony DiRenzo
• Public comments period

County Council

The Wicomico County Council will hold public hearings and discussions on several items, including a $5.58 million emergency rental assistance grant, a $50,000 grant for senior meals and residential services, and a mutual aid agreement for sheriffs. They will also discuss broadband expansion, an airport CARES Act grant update, and introduce a bill to extend a moratorium on building permits for certain agriculture storage tanks. The meeting includes both legislative session and open work sessions covering police accountability, an avigation easement, and a capital project at Harmon Field.

• Public hearing on Resolution 112-2021: apply for and accept up to $5,576,800 in ERAP grant funds for emergency rental assistance
• Public hearing on Resolution 110-2021: accept up to $50,000 in CDBG funds for Shore-Up, Inc. senior meals and residential services
• Resolution 111-2021: mutual aid agreement between Wicomico County and Eastern Shore sheriff's departments
• Introduction of Legislative Bill 2021-05: extend moratorium on building permits for agriculture storage tanks storing DAF washdown water
• Discussion on broadband with Maryland Office of Statewide Broadband and Maryland Broadband Cooperative

The Wicomico County Council approved Resolution 112-2021, authorizing the Acting County Executive to apply for and accept up to $5,576,800 in Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) funds from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. The vote was 5-0 with two abstentions (Hastings and Cannon). The Council also unanimously approved several other items, including a mutual aid agreement for Eastern Shore sheriffs, a forest conservation easement relocation, and a grant application for senior meals and residential services.

• Approved ERAP grant application up to $5,576,800 (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved mutual aid agreement for Eastern Shore sheriffs (unanimous)
• Approved forest conservation easement relocation of 0.57 acres (unanimous)
• Approved grant application up to $50,000 for senior meals and residential services (unanimous, 1 abstention)
• Approved annual leave buyback provision in Personnel Manual (unanimous)
• Introduced Legislative Bill 2021-05 to extend moratorium on building permits for agriculture storage tanks (unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The Wicomico Recreation & Parks Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, hearing division reports, and discussing facility usage requests. They will also receive updates on capital projects and review a draft of the 2022 Local Parks and Playgrounds Rehabilitation Program (LPPRP).

• 75 Year Anniversary Dinner discussion
• Tree plantings in Tyaskin
• Schumaker Park recognition
• 2022 LPPRP draft review
• Facility usage requests

Redistricting Committee

The Wicomico County Redistricting Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and discuss how to adjust district populations to meet a 2% deviation from the ideal population. The GIS Coordinator will present examples of population adjustments. The meeting is a working session focused on redistricting criteria.

• Approval of minutes from September 8, 2021
• Discussion of 2% deviation from ideal population by district
• Examples of population adjustment by GIS Coordinator Frank McKenzie

The Wicomico County Redistricting Committee reviewed four redistricting scenarios and voted to eliminate the balanced population map, which would have moved 3,369 people. They also unanimously approved a motion to have GIS Coordinator Frank McKenzie develop a new map based on Mark Danderson's proposal to move blocks from precincts 16004 and 16005 from District 3 to Districts 4 and 2. The committee will continue with the minimal impact, special requests, and 2% deviation maps, plus the new scenario, at future meetings.

• Eliminated the balanced population map (unanimous)
• Approved motion to have GIS Coordinator develop a map based on Danderson's precinct proposal (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from September 8, 2021 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding its legislative session to vote on several resolutions, including allocating American Rescue Plan funds for premium pay, adjusting the FY2022 capital budget, and authorizing new positions in the State's Attorney's Office. They will also hear a COVID-19 update and hold public comments. Later, in open work sessions, they will discuss the Water and Sewer Master Plan and meet with the Board of Education.

• Resolution 100-2021: Public hearing to shift $39,978 from corrections roofing to emergency services fencing
• Resolution 101-2021: Allocate ARP grant funds for premium pay to corrections, emergency services, and sheriff's office
• Resolution 103-2021: Hire a Victim/Witness Coordinator in State's Attorney's Office with contingency funding
• Resolution 105-2021: Implement signing bonus for law enforcement veteran applicants in Sheriff's Office
• Resolution 106-2021: Reactivate the Wicomico County Commission for Women

The Wicomico County Council approved Resolution 101-2021, authorizing the Acting County Executive to allocate American Rescue Plan funds for premium pay to positions in the Department of Corrections, Emergency Services, and the Sheriff's Office. The resolution was approved as amended, with Councilmembers Acle, Dodd, and Holloway opposed. The Council also approved several other resolutions, including a $1,500 signing bonus for certain experienced law enforcement applicants in the Sheriff's Office, and accepted two audit reports on the county fuel system and purchase cards.

• Approved Resolution 100-2021, amending the FY2022 Capital Budget to shift $39,978 from a corrections roofing project to fund fencing around the Emergency Services generator.
• Approved Resolution 101-2021, allocating American Rescue Plan funds for premium pay to Corrections, Emergency Services, and Sheriff's Office positions; vote was 4-3.
• Approved Resolution 102-2021, authorizing the retitling of a staff position in the State's Attorney's Office.
• Approved Resolution 103-2021, authorizing the hiring of a part-time Victim/Witness Coordinator in the State's Attorney's Office, funded by a $28,000 supplemental appropriation from contingency.
• Approved Resolution 104-2021, reallocating $16,000 within the State's Attorney's Office salary account in the FY2022 budget.
• Approved Resolution 105-2021, implementing a $1,500 signing bonus for certain experienced law enforcement applicants in the Sheriff's Office.
• Approved Resolution 106-2021, reactivating the Wicomico County Commission for Women.
• Approved Resolutions 107-2021 and 108-2021, accepting the audit reports on the County Fuel System and Purchase Cards.

Tourism and Civic Center Commission

The Tourism and Civic Center Commission is meeting to handle routine approvals and receive updates on several ongoing projects. Old business includes the Shuttered Venue Grant, a marketing/branding study, room tax legislation, and a capital project update. New business covers a summer event recap, future bookings, and the Heron Ponds Amphitheater.

• Shuttered Venue Grant update
• Marketing/branding study for tourism
• Room tax legislation discussion
• Capital project update
• Heron Ponds Amphitheater update

The Commission approved the June 21, 2021 minutes and welcomed new members. The Civic Center was awarded a $1.6 million Shuttered Venue Grant. The Harmon Field renovation proposal was removed from the state Board of Public Works agenda at a County Council member's request, delaying the project. The Commission declined to recommend public funding for a proposed amphitheater at Heron Ponds.

• Approved June 21, 2021 meeting minutes
• Awarded $1.6M Shuttered Venue Grant to Civic Center
• Harmon Field LPPI funding request removed from state agenda
• Commission opposed public funding for Heron Ponds amphitheater
• Tourism marketing study awarded to Miles Media and Destination Analysts
• Arena ceiling project to proceed with purchase orders
• County to apply for $4.8M EDA grant for Civic Center exterior
• Autumn Wine Festival cancelled for 2021

Airport Commission

The Wicomico County Airport Commission is meeting to review project and contract status updates, including runway extension design, grant funding, and multiple construction projects. The agenda includes approval of minutes, reports from the acting county executive and airport manager, and public comments.

• Runway Extension design work to begin this fall
• CARES/ACRGP/ARP grant funding updates
• Environmental Assessment approved, FONSI issued
• Taxiway A Rehabilitation Phase 2B construction to start in early October
• Contract executed for fiber optic installation to terminal and Technology Park

The Wicomico County Airport Commission elected Wayne Strausburg as Chairman and Matthew Creamer as Vice-Chairman. The commission approved the minutes from the May 10, 2021 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports on projects, passenger activity, and airport priorities.

• Elected Wayne Strausburg as Chairman and Matthew Creamer as Vice-Chairman
• Approved May 10, 2021 meeting minutes (motion by Creamer, second by Church)

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee will meet to consider proposed charter amendments from bond counsel, review unfinished charter sections and workshop material, and prioritize its recommendations. The meeting includes public comments and is scheduled to adjourn at 7:00 p.m.

• Proposed charter amendments to Sections 313.B, 704.G, 710, and 712
• Review of Section 312.A if Sections 710 and 712 are amended
• Review of workshop material and unfinished charter sections
• Review of scorecard and prioritization of recommendations

The Committee approved a motion to reconsider its earlier action on Section 305F regarding the Internal Auditor, after concerns that the proposed change would undermine auditor independence. It also unanimously agreed to revert to the original Charter language on the County Executive's full-time employment, rescinding a prior proposal to ban secondary employment. Other actions included recommending a definition for 'Local Governing Body' in Article XI and deciding to defer bond counsel recommendations to the next meeting.

• Approved agenda and minutes from September 2, 2021.
• Recommended defining 'Local Governing Body' in Article XI definitions and rules section.
• Approved motion to reconsider previous action on Section 305F (Internal Auditor).
• Unanimously agreed to revert to original language on County Executive full-time employment.
• Decided to defer bond counsel recommendations to the October 7 meeting.
• Crossed off Section 204B change after determining it cannot be done.
• Noted that Section 206 (special elections) may be struck, pending legal review.
• Agreed to keep running scorecard of Charter changes on county website.

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposed zoning code amendment to add a non-conforming use zoning exemption program, and will review several preliminary and final development plans, including a 7-Eleven, subdivisions, and a commercial project. The meeting also includes an open work session on zoning for open top storage tanks.

• Public hearing on adding Section 17.16.090 Non-Conforming Use Zoning Exemption Program
• Preliminary/final comprehensive development plan for 7-Eleven at 31997 Beaver Run Drive (MUNR district)
• Preliminary subdivision and development plans for Parson's Lake Subdivision at Parson's Lake Drive and Brown Road (R-10A)
• Preliminary comprehensive development plan for Sweetbay Park at The Fountains Planned Business Center on Sweetbay Drive (RC district)
• Three minor subdivision plat approvals on Smith Road, Warren Road, and Morris Road (A-1 district)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the City of Salisbury Zoning Code to add a Nonconforming Use Zoning Exemption Program aimed at reducing vacant properties and increasing housing. The commission will also review several preliminary and final development plans, including a 7-Eleven, Parson's Lake subdivision, Sweetbay Park, and minor subdivisions, plus an open work session on zoning for open top storage tanks.

• Public hearing on adding Section 17.16.090 Nonconforming Use Zoning Exemption Program
• Preliminary/final comprehensive development plan for 7-Eleven at 31997 Beaver Run Drive (MUNR district)
• Preliminary subdivision plat and comprehensive development plan for Parson's Lake Subdivision at Parson's Lake Drive and Brown Road (R-10A)
• Preliminary/final plat approvals for minor subdivisions on Smith Road, Warren Road, and Morris Road (A-1 district)
• Open work session on proposed zoning of open top storage tanks

The Commission approved the Preliminary/Final Comprehensive Development Plan for a 7-Eleven convenience store at 31997 Beaver Run Drive, subject to six conditions including a reduced sign height. It also approved the Preliminary Subdivision Plat and Comprehensive Development Plan for the 333-lot Parson's Lake subdivision, adding a condition to review school impact. The Commission deferred approval of the August 12, 2021 minutes pending a review of recordings, and forwarded a favorable recommendation for a zoning amendment creating a Non-Conforming Use Zoning Exemption Program. A work session on open top storage tanks was held, with a public hearing scheduled for October 14.

• Approved 7-Eleven Preliminary/Final Comprehensive Development Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Parson's Lake Preliminary Subdivision Plat and Comprehensive Development Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Parson's Lake Preliminary Comprehensive Development Plan for 332 single-family homes (unanimous)
• Approved Sweetbay Park at The Fountains Preliminary Comprehensive Development Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Smith minor subdivision creating a fourth lot (unanimous)
• Approved Brittingham minor subdivision creating three lots (unanimous)
• Deferred approval of August 12, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Forwarded favorable recommendation for Non-Conforming Use Zoning Exemption Program (unanimous)

Wicomico Board of Elections

The Wicomico County Board of Elections is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and hearing reports from the election director and attorney. The main decisions on the agenda are selecting a new 2nd Early Voting Center and discussing additions or changes to polling places for the 2022 elections. The board will also review recent conference meetings.

• Selection of new 2nd Early Voting Center for 2022 elections
• Discussion of additions and/or changes of Polling Place or Places for 2022 elections
• Approval of August 18, 2021 minutes
• Review of SBE Biennial meeting and MAEO conference
• Next meeting set for October 20, 2021

The Wicomico County Board of Elections unanimously approved a motion to select First Baptist Church as the second early voting site for the 2022 primary and general elections, pending State Board of Elections approval. The board also discussed potential polling place changes due to school construction, with five schools possibly unavailable, and directed staff to seek written confirmation from the Board of Education. The meeting was otherwise routine, including approval of prior minutes and a report on new staff.

• Approved minutes from August 18, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved First Baptist Church as second early voting site for 2022 elections (unanimous)
• Discussed potential polling place changes due to school construction at five schools
• Directed staff to arrange further meetings with Board of Education and seek written confirmation
• Scheduled next regular meeting for October 20, 2021

Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)

The Wicomico County Local Emergency Planning Committee is holding a routine meeting to receive reports from officers and committees, discuss exercise planning, public education, hazard identification, and review the hazardous material plan. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Committee reports including Nominating Committee
• Exercise planning and drills discussion
• Hazardous Material Plan Review Committee report
• Community events and presentation
• Next meeting scheduled for January 19, 2022

Redistricting Committee

The Wicomico County Redistricting Commission is meeting to discuss district boundary lines for incumbents, receive an update on 2020 Census data from the GIS Coordinator, and consider proposed changes based on that data. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the August 11 meeting and discussion on appointing a parliamentarian.

• Discussion on district boundary lines for incumbents
• Update from GIS Coordinator Frank McKenzie on 2020 Census data
• Discussion on proposed changes based on 2020 Census data
• Discussion on appointing a parliamentarian
• Approval of minutes from August 11, 2021

The Wicomico County Redistricting Committee approved moving the City Park out of District 1 and relocating 49 people from District 3 to District 4 to bring District 4 within the 5% population deviation. They also made legal counsel the parliamentarian and asked staff to develop new district scenarios aiming for closer population balance while preserving the minority district and avoiding moving incumbents.

• Approved minutes from August 11, 2021 (unanimous)
• Appointed legal counsel as parliamentarian (unanimous)
• Moved City Park out of District 1 and 49 people from District 3 to District 4 (unanimous)
• Directed staff to create redistricting scenarios with 2% deviation, maintain minority district, minimize moves, and avoid moving incumbents (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for September 22 at 4:00 p.m.

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a public hearing on a $51,097,427 general obligation bond to fund projects for the Sheriff's Department, General Services, Wor-Wic Community College, Board of Education, Airport, and Solid Waste. The council will also discuss a resolution to increase the FY22 capital budget for planning at the West Metro Core Property, a signing bonus for correctional officers and 911 specialists, and a supplemental appropriation for redistricting software. Work sessions include discussions on forest conservation easement relocation, a generator fence at the Department of Corrections, and the American Rescue Plan interim report.

• Public hearing on Legislative Bill 2021-03: $51,097,427 general obligation bond for multiple county projects
• Resolution 97-2021: Increase FY22 capital budget by $100,000 for planning at West Metro Core Property on Levin Dashiell Road
• Resolution 98-2021: Signing bonus for certified correctional officers, 911 specialists, and communications specialists
• Resolution 99-2021: $5,000 supplemental appropriation for redistricting software
• Introduction of Legislative Bill 2021-04: Annual leave buy back provision in Personnel Manual

The Wicomico County Council unanimously approved Legislative Bill 2021-03, authorizing $51,097,427 in general obligation bonds for various projects, and Resolution 97-2021, which adds $100,000 for planning at the West Metro Core Property. The council also approved a signing bonus resolution for certain public safety positions (5-2) and a $5,000 supplemental appropriation for redistricting software. Discussions with the state delegation covered priorities like broadband, wastewater, and the Deer's Head Hospital privatization plan.

• Approved $51,097,427 general obligation bond authorization (unanimous)
• Approved $100,000 for West Metro Core Property planning (unanimous)
• Approved signing bonus for correctional officers, 911 specialists, and communications specialists (5-2)
• Approved $5,000 for redistricting software (unanimous)
• Introduced Legislative Bill 2021-04 for annual leave buy-back provision (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to continue its review of the county charter. The committee will finish reviewing Article VII on budgetary and fiscal procedures, then discuss Articles VIII through XII covering purchasing, miscellaneous provisions, charter amendments, definitions, and transitional provisions. This is a working session to review and potentially propose changes to the county's governing document.

• Finish review of Article VII, Budgetary and Fiscal Procedures (Sections 701-712)
• Discuss Article VIII, Purchasing (Sections 801-803)
• Discuss Article IX, Miscellaneous Provisions (Sections 901-907)
• Discuss Article X, Charter termination and amendments (Sections 1001-1002)
• Discuss Articles XI and XII, Definitions and Transitional Provisions

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee unanimously approved revised language for Section 707 allowing the County Council to change budget dates and corresponding public hearing dates, provided the resolution states reasons and is effective only for the fiscal year adopted. A motion to change Section 801.A purchasing language from 'lowest responsible bidder' to 'lowest and most qualified responsible bidder' failed 5-7. The Committee also unanimously approved adding a definition that 'County Commissioners' shall refer to 'County Council' throughout the Charter.

• Approved revised Section 707 language on changing budget dates and hearing dates (unanimous)
• Rejected motion to change Section 801.A bidder language to 'lowest and most qualified responsible bidder' (5-7)
• Approved adding definition that 'County Commissioners' refers to 'County Council' (unanimous)
• Discussed but took no action on Section 706 revenue cap; members agreed to leave it to elected officials
• Deferred action on Section 712 and other sections pending research by absent members

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners is meeting to handle routine approvals and discuss old and new business. Old business includes code language for inspector licenses, permit fees, and testing materials for the limited exam. New business covers state licensing requirements and implementation of the 2020 National Electrical Code. The meeting may be partially closed to the public per the Open Meetings Act.

• Discussion of code language for inspector licenses
• Discussion of permit fees
• Discussion of testing materials for limited exam
• State of Maryland licensing requirements presentation by George Landing, MEI
• Implementation of 2020 NEC presentation by George Landing, MEI

The Board of Electrical Examiners met and approved the September 1, 2021 agenda and the August 4, 2021 minutes as submitted. Public comments were heard from George Landing regarding new state legislation and the 2020 NEC implementation. Board member McIntyre requested that all current electrical license holders be notified of proposed permit fee increases so they can attend the next meeting. The meeting adjourned at 6:34 pm.

• Approved the September 1, 2021 agenda as submitted.
• Approved the August 4, 2021 minutes as submitted.
• Heard public comments from George Landing on state legislation and 2020 NEC implementation.
• Requested notification of all current electrical license holders about proposed permit fee increases.

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to approve its agenda and minutes, discuss proposed language for Charter Section 601.A, finish reviewing Article VI on personnel provisions (Sections 601-611), and begin reviewing Article VII on budgetary and fiscal procedures (Sections 701-712). Public comments will be heard.

• Proposed language for Charter Section 601.A presented by Paul Wilber
• Finish review of Article VI, Personnel Provisions (Sections 601-611)
• Begin review of Article VII, Budgetary and Fiscal Procedures (Sections 701-712)
• Approval of minutes from July 15, 2021

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee unanimously approved a revised Section 601-A, establishing that the County Council shall establish a personnel system upon recommendation of the County Executive, and may modify or revise it by resolution after a public hearing. The committee discussed but did not decide on changes to the capital improvement program (CIP) process, deferring further discussion to the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved revised Section 601-A on personnel system (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as amended to exclude Section 706 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 15, 2021 (unanimous)
• Deferred discussion of Section 704 (CIP) to next meeting
• Deferred discussion of Sections 706 and 707 to next meeting
• Deferred discussion of Sections 710-712 pending counsel input

Wicomico Board of Elections

The Wicomico County Board of Elections will review reports from the Election Director and Board Attorney. The board is also considering a potential new Early Voting Center and possible changes to existing polling places.

• Potential new Early Voting Center
• Possible change of Polling Place or Places
• SBE Biennial meeting and MAEO conference update

The Wicomico County Board of Elections unanimously approved a motion to pursue First Baptist Church as the tentative primary early voting site, with the American Legion as the secondary, pending further information from the National Guard Armory. The board also approved the minutes from the June 16, 2021 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the rest of the meeting involved reports and discussions on polling places, IT hiring, and redistricting.

• Approved minutes from June 16, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved First Baptist Church as tentative primary early voting site, American Legion as secondary (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council will hold a public hearing on a new property tax credit for hotel and multifamily residential developments. The session also includes discussions on budget amendments, forest conservation easements, and various personnel and funding topics.

• Public Hearing for Legislative Bill 2021-02 regarding hotel and multifamily residential property tax credits
• Resolution No. 95-2021 to accept a $1,613,874 federal grant for Shuttered Venue Operators
• Resolution No. 91-2021 regarding Enterprise Zone benefits for 106 North Division Street, LLC
• Resolution No. 96-2021 to amend the FY 2022 Budget Position Control Document for the Sheriff’s Office
• Work session on relocating .57 acres of forest conservation easement on Spearin Road

The Wicomico County Council approved Legislative Bill 2021-02, creating a property tax credit for hotel and multifamily residential development in the HORIZON Zone in downtown Salisbury, after a public hearing with both support and opposition. The bill was amended to clarify that existing projects would be grandfathered from future program changes, to replace the zone map, and to require County Executive and Council approval for applications. The final vote was 4-3, with Councilmembers Cannon, Hastings, Davis, and McCain in favor, and Acle, Holloway, and Dodd opposed.

• Approved Legislative Bill 2021-02 (HORIZON tax credit) 4-3
• Withdrew amendment allowing bank appraisal option (unanimous)
• Amended bill to grandfather existing projects from future program changes (4-3)
• Amended bill to replace Exhibit A map with clearer version (4-3)
• Amended bill to require County Executive and Council approval for applications (4-3)
• Approved Resolution 91-2021 for Enterprise Zone benefits for 106 North Division Street (6-1)
• Approved Resolution 95-2021 accepting $1,613,874 grant for Civic Center (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 96-2021 reinstating Sheriff's Office Major position (unanimous)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to consider final and preliminary development plan approvals. The agenda also includes a zoning recommendation for an annexation on John Deere Drive and site plan approval for Chesapeake Shipbuilding.

• Final approval of St. Albans Commons (Dollar General) at Mt. Hermon Rd. and St. Albans Dr.
• Preliminary approval of Wawa development on John Deere Drive
• Zoning recommendation for annexation on John Deere Drive
• Certificate of design and site plan approval for Chesapeake Shipbuilding at 704 & 710 Fitzwater Street

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission met to review various development applications, including new housing units and commercial site conversions. The Commission approved plans for the Villa’s at Aydelotte Farms duplexes, Fenzel Townhouses, and a mixed-use building on Zion Road.

• Approved Final Comprehensive Development Plan for 100 duplex units at Villa’s at Aydelotte Farms
• Approved Preliminary/Final Comprehensive Development Plan for nine townhouse units on Onley Road
• Approved mixed-use building site plan for 2333 North Zion Road involving a 1,702 sq. ft. addition
• Recommended rezoning for 3.55 acres at 2538 Old Ocean City Road to Planned Development District #1
• Recommended rezoning for 3.08 acres at 31997 Beaver Run Drive to Mixed-Use Non-Residential

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission approved three development projects: a final plan for a Dollar General store in St. Albans Commons, a preliminary plan for a Wawa convenience store on John Deere Drive, and a Certificate of Design and Site Plan for Chesapeake Shipbuilding. All approvals were unanimous and included conditions such as additional landscaping, signage plans, and lot consolidation.

• Approved Final Comprehensive Development Plan for Dollar General at St. Albans Commons with 4 conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Preliminary Comprehensive Development Plan for Wawa on John Deere Drive with 7 conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Design and Site Plan for Chesapeake Shipbuilding at 704-710 Fitzwater Street with 4 conditions (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 15, 2021 meeting as submitted

Redistricting Committee

The Wicomico County Redistricting Commission is meeting to review Charter Section 201 on district compositions, receive an Open Meetings Act briefing, discuss selecting a chairperson and vice chairperson, see a census software demonstration, and get an overview from the Board of Elections. This is an organizational and informational session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Review of Charter Section 201, Compositions and Districts
• Open Meetings Act briefing by County Attorney Paul Wilber
• Discussion on selection of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• Census software demonstration by GIS Coordinator Frank McKenzie
• Board of Elections overview by Executive Director Anthony Gutierrez

The Wicomico County Redistricting Committee held its first 2021 meeting, receiving an overview of its role and the redistricting process. It unanimously elected Gail Bartkovich as Chair and Mark Danderson as Vice Chair, and approved using Robert's Rules of Order. The committee scheduled its next meeting for September 8, 2021, at 6:00 p.m., with no substantive redistricting decisions made yet.

• Elected Gail Bartkovich as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Mark Danderson as Vice Chairperson (unanimous)
• Approved use of Robert's Rules of Order (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for September 8, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners is meeting for a routine session. The agenda includes old business on an inspector license for L. White, public comments, new business, and board member comments, with no action required on the latter. Parts of the meeting may be closed to the public under the Open Meetings Act.

• Review of inspector license for L. White
• Public comments period
• New business discussion
• Board member comments (no action required)
• Possible closed session per Open Meetings Act Section 3-305

The Board of Electrical Examiners met and approved the submitted agenda. The board then convened to a closed session and later reconvened to open session. No public comments were made. The board requested that code language changes for inspector licenses, permit fee changes, and a limited licensing exam be added to the September agenda. The meeting adjourned without any substantive decisions.

• Approved agenda as submitted (unanimous)
• Convened to closed session (unanimous)
• Reconvened to open session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:42 PM (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a legislative session with public hearings and votes on several resolutions, including accepting increased state loans for shoreline restoration projects, federal and state grants for the airport, and a $51 million general obligation bond to finance projects for the Sheriff's Department, schools, and other county facilities. The council will also introduce a bill on a property tax credit for hotels or multifamily housing and discuss county goals for the next fiscal year.

• Resolution 83-2021: Public hearing to increase funding for Shoreline Restoration Projects at Cove Road and Roaring Point, with loans totaling $280,155 and $389,660 respectively
• Resolution 85-2021: Accept $1,345,554 FAA grant through ARPA for airport operations and debt service
• Resolution 86-2021: Accept $70,495 from Maryland Aviation Administration for firefighting vehicle equipment
• Resolution 87-2021(SM): Authorize Motorola Solutions as sole source vendor for Emergency Services radio support
• Legislative Bill 2021-03: Introduction of $51,097,427 general obligation bond for county projects

The Wicomico County Council unanimously approved resolutions to accept increased state loans for shoreline restoration at Cove Road and Roaring Point, a $1.35M FAA grant for airport operations, a $70,495 state grant for firefighting equipment, and a $1,622 supplemental appropriation for gypsy moth surveys. They also introduced a $51,097,427 general obligation bond bill to fund various projects, and approved several sole-source vendor contracts. No public comments were made on the shoreline resolution, and the HORIZON project was not voted on, with a public hearing scheduled for August 17.

• Approved Resolution 83-2021 amending capital budget for shoreline restoration (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 84-2021 accepting increased state loans for Cove Road and Roaring Point (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 85-2021 accepting $1,345,554 FAA grant for airport operations (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 86-2021 accepting $70,495 MAA grant for firefighting equipment (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 87-2021 authorizing Motorola as sole source vendor for radio support (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 88-2021 authorizing TIX.com as sole source vendor for ticket software (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 89-2021 as amended for $1,622 gypsy moth surveys (unanimous)
• Introduced Legislative Bill 2021-03 for $51,097,427 bond issuance (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding its 14th legislative session of 2021, with votes scheduled on a hotel/multifamily property tax credit, the FY2022 audit plan, a $34,000 USDA tourism grant, and a $28,000 supplemental appropriation. The agenda also includes public hearings on a forest conservation easement relocation and appointments to a redistricting commission, followed by open work sessions on shoreline restoration and county goals.

• Public hearing on relocating a 2.86-acre forest conservation easement on Woodbrooke Drive, Salisbury, to an offsite mitigation bank at 2:1 ratio
• Resolution 80-2021: Accept $34,000 USDA Rural Business Development grant for Tourism Division
• Resolution 82-2021: Supplemental appropriation of $28,000 from contingency to insurance liability account
• Resolution 81-2021: Adopt FY2022 Annual Audit Plan
• Introduction of Bill 2021-02: Property tax credit for hotel or multifamily residential development to encourage revitalization

The Council unanimously approved several resolutions, including relocating a forest conservation easement, appointing a redistricting commission, accepting a $34,000 USDA grant, a $28,000 supplemental appropriation for insurance, and adopting the FY2022 audit plan. Legislative Bill 2021-02, creating a tax credit for hotel and multifamily residential development, was amended to allow an appraisal alternative to assessed value, then introduced as amended; a motion to table it failed. The public hearing is set for August 17, 2021.

• Approved Resolution 78-2021 relocating 2.86-acre forest conservation easement (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 79-2021 appointing a redistricting commission (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 80-2021 accepting $34,000 USDA grant for Tourism Division (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 82-2021 supplemental appropriation of $28,000 for insurance liability (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 81-2021 adopting FY2022 annual audit plan (unanimous)
• Amended Legislative Bill 2021-02 to allow appraisal-based value for tax credit eligibility (4-3)
• Motion to table Legislative Bill 2021-02 failed (4 opposed)
• Introduced Legislative Bill 2021-02 as amended (4-3)

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to finish reviewing Article V on administrative organization and begin reviewing Article VI on personnel provisions. The committee will also approve the agenda and minutes from the July 1 meeting, and discuss workshopping. Public comments will be heard.

• Finish review of Charter Sections 501-508 (Article V, Administrative Organization)
• Begin review of Charter Sections 601-611 (Article VI, Personnel Provisions)
• Approval of agenda and minutes from July 1, 2021
• Discussion on workshopping
• Public comments

The Charter Review Committee approved a motion to amend Section 601-A so that the County Executive shall prepare a system of personnel rules, with the County Council establishing the system by law. This reverses a 2016 change that gave the Council direct control. The committee also recommended removing the County Executive exemption from the full-time employment provision in Section 609.B, and rejected a proposal to allow the County Council to create citizen advisory boards.

• Approved motion to amend Section 601-A: County Executive shall prepare personnel rules, Council shall establish by law.
• Approved recommendation to remove 'other than the County Executive' from Section 609.B (full-time requirement).
• Rejected motion to add County Council to Section 508 for creating citizen advisory boards.
• Rejected motion to prohibit immediate family of Executive or Council from County employment.
• Approved agenda and minutes from July 1, 2021.
• Discussed but took no action on Section 507 (Department of Law) and Section 601-B (benefits/classification plan).
• Proposed skipping August 5 meeting for workshop time; reconvene August 19.

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will convene on July 15, 2021, to consider several development-related items. These include a corrected plat, preliminary comprehensive development plans for residential projects, a site plan for a mixed-use building, and zoning recommendations for two annexations. The meeting will also include approval of the June 17, 2021 minutes.

• Corrected plat for Double Mills, Sec. 1, Lot 5, BLK B on Grapevine Road
• Preliminary comprehensive development plan for Villa's at Aydelotte Farms on Still Meadow Blvd
• Preliminary/final comprehensive development plan for Fenzel Townhouses on Onley Road
• Comprehensive site plan for mixed-use building at Zion Road Business Center, 2333 North Zion Road
• Zoning recommendations for annexations at Sharen Drive (2538 Old Ocean City Road) and 31997 Beaver Run Drive

The Commission approved the Final Comprehensive Development Plan for the Villas at Aydelotte Farms, a 100-unit duplex development, subject to six staff conditions plus a waiver of community impact statement. It also approved the Preliminary/Final Comprehensive Development Plan for Fenzel Townhouses, a nine-unit townhouse project, with similar conditions. Both approvals were unanimous.

• Approved the Corrected Plat for Double Mills, Sec. 1, Lot 5, BLK B, removing the condition requiring Mr. Wright's signature, with two conditions retained.
• Approved the Final Comprehensive Development Plan for Villas at Aydelotte Farms, subject to six conditions plus a waiver of Community Impact Statement, Statement of Intent to Proceed, and Financial Capability.
• Approved the Preliminary/Final Comprehensive Development Plan for Fenzel Townhouses on Onley Road, subject to six conditions plus the same waiver.
• Approved the Comprehensive Site Plan for a mixed-use building at 2333 North Zion Road, with two conditions plus a bicycle parking/storage condition.
• Made a favorable zoning recommendation to the Mayor and City Council for the Sharen Drive annexation (2538 Old Ocean City Road) to be zoned Planned Development District #1.
• Made a favorable zoning recommendation to the Mayor and City Council for the 31997 Beaver Run Drive annexation to be zoned Mixed-Use Non-Residential.
• Approved the minutes from the June 17, 2021 meeting as submitted, with Mr. Rogers abstaining.
• Changed the next meeting date to August 12, 2021.

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners is meeting to approve the agenda and minutes, discuss old business regarding state legislation on local licensing, hear public comments, and consider a new business item about an American Inspection Agency inspector license. The meeting is largely procedural, with one substantive item on licensing.

• Discussion of State of MD legislation regarding local licensing
• Consideration of American Inspection Agency inspector license
• Public comments period

The Board of Electrical Examiners approved a motion to compile a letter requesting continued authority to issue general and limited licenses, to be reviewed by the County Attorney and County Executive before being sent to the state. This follows the passage of SB762, which removes local authority to issue master, journeyperson, and apprentice licenses. The board also approved an emergency testing date of June 23, 2021, for qualified applicants. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved motion to compile a letter to the state requesting authority to issue general and limited licenses (unanimous)
• Approved emergency testing date of June 23, 2021 at 12:00 noon for qualified applicants (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as submitted (unanimous)
• Convened to closed session and reconvened to open session (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding its 13th legislative session of 2021, with votes on accepting a $67,500 FAA grant for an airport pavement survey, engaging independent legal counsel, and confirming several board appointments. The agenda also includes open work sessions on topics like airport CARES Act funding, zoning for agricultural storage tanks, tax incentives, and redistricting committee selection.

• Resolution 72-2021: Accept $67,500 FAA Airport Improvement Program grant for pavement condition survey
• Resolution 73-2021: Engage independent legal counsel
• Resolutions 74-76: Confirm appointments to Animal Appeals Board and Public Library Board of Trustees
• Resolution 77-2021: Confirm Micah C. Stauffer as Implementation Coordinator for Blueprint for Maryland's Future
• Work sessions: Airport CARES Act funding, agricultural storage tank zoning, residential incentive zones, countywide tax incentives

The Wicomico County Council unanimously approved several resolutions, including accepting a $67,500 FAA grant for a pavement survey, engaging independent legal counsel, and confirming appointments to the Animal Appeals Board and Library Board of Trustees. The council also approved the appointment of an Implementation Coordinator for Blueprint for Maryland's Future legislation. No action was taken on the HORIZON tax credit proposal, which was discussed during public comments.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes from June 15 and May 4, 2021
• Approved Resolution 72-2021 accepting $67,500 FAA grant for pavement survey
• Approved Resolution 73-2021 to engage independent legal counsel
• Approved appointments to Animal Appeals Board and Library Board of Trustees
• Approved Resolution 77-2021 appointing Micah C. Stauffer as Implementation Coordinator
• Adjourned to closed work session to review redistricting committee resumes

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to approve its agenda and minutes, continue its review of Article V (Administrative Organization, Sections 501-508), and, if time permits, begin reviewing Article VI (Personnel Provisions, Sections 601-611). Public comments will be heard. This is a routine working session focused on reviewing the county charter.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of minutes from June 17, 2021
• Continue review of Article V, Sections 501-508 (Administrative Organization)
• Begin review of Article VI, Sections 601-611 (Personnel Provisions), time permitting
• Public comments

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee approved a recommendation to amend Section 507.a by placing a period after 'Executive' in the second paragraph, effectively removing the County Council's ability to remove the County Attorney. The motion passed with Ms. Chesnik and Mr. Todd opposed. The committee also discussed but took no action on other sections, including the County Attorney's residency requirements and the role of the Council Attorney.

• Approved recommendation to put a period after 'Executive' in Section 507.a, removing Council's removal power over the County Attorney.
• Failed motion to table the Section 507.a discussion until further research, with 6 in favor and 9 opposed.
• Discussed but took no action on Section 507.b regarding individual Councilmembers requesting legal drafting.
• Discussed but took no action on Section 507.d regarding the Council Attorney position.
• Discussed but took no action on Section 507.g regarding private practice conflicts.
• Discussed but took no action on renaming the Department of Law to the Office of County Attorney.
• Deferred discussion on Section 508 (Citizen Advisory Board) to the next meeting.
• Approved the agenda and minutes from June 17, 2021, unanimously.

Recreation Commission

The Wicomico Recreation & Parks Commission is meeting to discuss facility usage, park policy questions, and a sub-committee report on FY22 park infrastructure. They will also hear updates on the 75-year department homecoming dinner and the 2022 Local Parks and Playgrounds Revitalization Program (LPPRP). The meeting includes routine items like approval of previous minutes and division reports.

• FY22 Park Infrastructure Sub-Committee Report
• 2022 LPPRP Update
• 75 Year Department Homecoming Dinner
• Facility Usage / Park Policy Questions

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners is meeting to discuss old business, including state legislation on local licensing, and new business, such as master exam results. The meeting is open to the public with social distancing and face covering requirements, though parts may be closed per the Open Meetings Act.

• Discussion of State of MD legislation regarding local licensing
• Review of Master Exam Results
• Public comments period
• Board member comments (no action required)

Tourism and Civic Center Commission

The Tourism and Civic Center Commission is meeting to handle routine business: approving prior minutes, hearing updates on the FY22 budget and a shuttered venue grant, mass vaccination scheduling, and the visitor center. New business includes tourism advertising video spots, short-term housing legislation, and a capital project update.

• FY22 budget and Shuttered Venue Grant update
• Mass vaccination update and YCC scheduling
• Visitor Center update
• Tourism advertising and video spots
• Short-term housing legislation and capital project update

The Wicomico Tourism and Civic Center Commission met on June 21, 2021, approving the February minutes and discussing several updates. The FY22 budget passed with no changes by council, and the Shuttered Venue Grant application is pending SBA notification. The Mass Vaccination Site at the Civic Center closed June 19, and staff are rescheduling events. The Welcome Center opened tentatively for the summer, and a new advertising campaign boosted website visits by 700%. Capital projects discussed include a pickleball complex at Harmon Field, Pirate's Wharf park, and Civic Center exterior renovations, but no formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved minutes from February 22, 2021
• FY22 budget passed with no changes by council
• Shuttered Venue Grant application submitted to SBA, pending notification
• Mass Vaccination Site at Civic Center closed June 19, 2021
• Welcome Center opened tentatively for summer, future use to be discussed
• New advertising campaign launched using grant funds
• Discussed short-term rental tax collection options, no decision made
• Capital projects (Harmon Field, Pirate's Wharf, Civic Center) presented, no vote

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to continue its review of the county charter, focusing on Article IV (Executive Branch) and Article V (Administrative Organization), with discussion of Section 413 on administrative appointments. If time permits, they will begin reviewing Article VI on personnel provisions. The meeting includes public comments and approval of prior minutes.

• Discussion of Section 413 on administrative appointments, with Paul Wilber providing language
• Continue review of Article IV, Executive Branch, Charter Sections 401-414
• Review of Article V, Administrative Organization, Charter Sections 501-508
• Begin review of Article VI, Personnel Provisions, Charter Sections 601-611 (time permitting)

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee voted to remove the word 'substantial' from Section 504.a, which requires the County Executive to submit a reorganization plan to the Council. They also approved adding a requirement for the Executive to notify the Council in writing within ten working days of a Department Head vacancy, and made several other changes to the Executive Branch article.

• Approved adding Section 413.D: County Executive must notify Council in writing within ten working days of a Department Head vacancy.
• Approved changing Section 502.c to include 'including but not limited to those protected classes under federal and State law'.
• Approved adding Section 503.11: Department of Aviation.
• Approved removing the word 'substantial' from Section 504.a.
• Approved eliminating the last sentence in Section 505.a regarding the Director of Finance appointment.
• Approved removing the last sentence from Section 506.a regarding the Director of Public Works.
• Tabled further discussion of Section 507 (County Attorney) to the next meeting.

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission is meeting in person with a video option to review four development items: a revised site plan for Tractor Supply, final approval for an apartment building, a final subdivision, and a minor subdivision. The agenda includes both city and county projects, with decisions to be made on each.

• Revised paleochannel & wellhead protection district site plan for Tractor Supply at 112 East North Pointe Drive
• Revised certificate of design and site plan final approval for Ross Apartment Complex Building #2 at 144 E. Main Street
• Final subdivision for Cotton Patch Creek on Pemberton Drive
• Preliminary/final minor subdivision of James and Donna Newman lands at E. Line and Melson Roads, creating 4 lots on 9.62 acres
• Meeting available via Zoom and phone for public participation

The Commission approved the Final Certificate of Design and Site Plan for the Ross Apartment Complex Building #2, an eight-story, 120-foot-tall building with 45 residential units, subject to seven conditions, including addressing Wicomico County Board of Education concerns. The Commission also approved the Revised Paleochannel & Wellhead Protection District Site Plan for Tractor Supply, the Final Subdivision for Cotton Patch Creek, and the Preliminary/Final Minor Subdivision of the Lands of James and Donna Newman. All approvals were made with specific conditions and carried by majority votes.

• Approved the Revised Paleochannel & Wellhead Protection District Site Plan for Tractor Supply as submitted.
• Approved the Final Certificate of Design and Site Plan for the Ross Apartment Complex Building #2 with seven conditions, including addressing Wicomico County Board of Education concerns.
• Approved the Final Subdivision for Cotton Patch Creek with seven conditions, including further review by the City Department of Infrastructure and Development.
• Approved the Preliminary/Final Minor Subdivision of the Lands of James and Donna Newman with six conditions.
• Approved the minutes from the May 20, 2021 meeting as submitted.

Wicomico Board of Elections

The Wicomico County Board of Elections met on June 16, 2021, to approve previous minutes and review the Fiscal Year 2022 budget request. The agenda included a discussion on establishing a new Early Voting Center or changing existing polling places. No specific decisions or dollar amounts were recorded in this agenda document.

• Review of FY22 Budget Request
• Discussion of potential new Early Voting Center
• Discussion of potential changes to Polling Places

The Wicomico County Board of Elections approved closing the office for two days during the MAEO Conference in August and directed staff to research four possible locations for a second early voting center. The board also discussed budget cuts, a roof leak, and potential use of federal grant money for security.

• Approved closing office for two days during MAEO Conference (unanimous)
• Directed staff to research four early voting center locations: First Baptist Church, American Legion, National Guard Armory, Centre Mall
• Approved minutes from May 19, 2021 meeting with one correction (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a legislative session with public hearings on a license agreement for the Mason Dixon Sports Complex and the relocation of a forest conservation easement. They will also vote on a resolution to fund a collective bargaining agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police. Work sessions cover environmental health, zoning of agricultural storage tanks, a forest easement relocation, and a broadband update.

• Public Hearing: Resolution 69-2021, license agreement for Mason Dixon Sports Complex with Delmar Little League
• Public Hearing: Resolution 70-2021, relocation of 5,000 sq ft forest conservation easement at 9115 Old Dagsboro Road, Delmar
• Resolution 71-2021: intent to fund collective bargaining agreement with Wicomico County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #111
• Work session: zoning of certain large agriculture storage tanks
• Work session: update on broadband

The Wicomico County Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 71-2021, implementing a three-year collective bargaining agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #111, effective July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024. The agreement includes an 8% COLA, step increases, increased K9 handler time, and changes to pension and DROP provisions. The Council also approved two other resolutions: a license agreement for the Mason Dixon Sports Complex and a forest conservation easement relocation.

• Approved Resolution No. 71-2021, the collective bargaining agreement with the FOP Lodge #111, unanimously.
• Approved Resolution No. 69-2021, a license agreement for the Mason Dixon Sports Complex, unanimously.
• Approved Resolution No. 70-2021, relocating a 5,000 sq ft forest conservation easement on Old Dagsboro Road, unanimously.
• Approved the consent agenda, including minutes from June 1, 2021, and open work session minutes from April 20 and May 4, 2021, unanimously.

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to continue its review of the county charter, focusing on the executive branch (Sections 401-414) and administrative organization (Sections 501-508). They will also hear from a guest speaker, Walter Olson, chair of the Frederick County Charter Review Committee, and review compensation for the county executive compared to other Maryland counties. The meeting includes approval of the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting, and public comments.

• Guest speaker: Walter Olson, Chair of Frederick County Charter Review Committee
• Review of Charter Section 406: Compensation of the County Executive; salaries of other County Executives in Maryland
• Continue review of Article IV: The Executive Branch (Sections 401-414)
• Review of Article V: Administrative Organization (Sections 501-508)

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee voted to recommend setting the County Executive's minimum salary at $120,000, with 12 in favor, one opposed, and one abstention. They also voted to remove the requirement that department heads be reappointed after each election, and decided to workshop sections on filling vacancies and executive disability. The meeting included a guest presentation from Frederick County's charter review chair on process and timing.

• Recommended setting County Executive salary at minimum $120,000 (12-1, 1 abstention)
• Removed requirement for department heads to be reappointed within six months after each election (carried, 1 abstention)
• Approved workshopping Sections 407b and 407c on filling executive vacancies (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from May 20, 2021 (unanimous)

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners is holding a routine meeting. They will discuss state legislation regarding local licensing, review master exam results, and take public comments. The meeting is open to the public with social distancing and face covering requirements.

• Discussion of State of MD legislation regarding local licensing
• Review of Master Exam Results
• Public comments period

The Board of Electrical Examiners discussed SB762, a new State law effective July 1, 2021, that would remove Wicomico County's authority to issue master, journeyperson, and apprentice licenses. They approved drafting a letter to the State, to be reviewed by the County Attorney and County Executive, and also approved an emergency testing date of June 23, 2021, for qualified applicants. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as submitted (unanimous)
• Convened to closed session (unanimous)
• Reconvened to open session (unanimous)
• Approved motion to compile requests into a letter to State (unanimous)
• Approved emergency testing date of June 23, 2021 at 12:00 noon (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a legislative session to consider the FY2022 budget and property tax levy, along with several resolutions including land preservation easement sales, grant acceptances, and fee changes. Public hearings will be held on two land preservation easement sales. The agenda also includes proclamations and appointments, and the council will enter closed sessions for collective bargaining and legal matters.

• Public hearing on Resolution 57-2021: sale of land preservation easements on Pocomoke Road (150.49 acres and 58.84 acres)
• Public hearing on Resolution 58-2021: sale of land preservation easement near Pittsville (108.44 acres)
• Resolution 60-2021: accept revised CDBG grant agreements totaling $1,177,120 and $1,076,932.80 for low-to-moderate income families
• Resolution 61-2021: accept $116,400 grant for police recruitment and retention
• Resolution 65-2021: increase tipping fees and establish new fee for second household landfill permit

The Wicomico County Council unanimously approved the FY2022 operating and capital budget (Legislative Bill 2021-01) after several amendments, including removing $201,653 from the Elections contingency and moving $135,000 from the Tri-County Council contingency to general contingency. The council also approved the Capital Improvement Program for FY2022-2026 with an amendment removing language about using West Metro property sale funds for the Connelly Mill project. A resolution to authorize a sole-source software purchase for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program was postponed.

• Approved FY2022 budget (Legislative Bill 2021-01) unanimously as amended
• Approved Capital Improvement Program FY2022-2026 (Resolution 64-2021) unanimously as amended
• Amended CIP to strike West Metro funding language from Connelly Mill project (4-3)
• Approved solid waste fee increases including $30 second landfill permit (5-2)
• Approved property tax levy for FY2022 (Resolution 66-2021) unanimously
• Approved land preservation easement sales (Resolutions 57-2021, 58-2021) unanimously
• Approved enterprise zone benefits for SBY Development Group (Resolution 59-2021) unanimously
• Postponed sole-source software purchase for rental assistance (Resolution 68-2021)

Recreation Commission

The Wicomico Recreation & Parks Commission will convene to approve prior minutes, receive division reports, and discuss facility usage requests. They will also review FY22 legislation for the department, an update on the POS land conversion, and the 2022 LPPRP update, followed by open discussion.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Division reports from James Simmons and Chuck Poole
• Facility usage requests
• FY22 R&P legislation with Steve Miller and Tom Bowden
• POS land conversion update and 2022 LPPRP update

The Wicomico Recreation and Parks Commission approved an Eagle Scout ceremony request, discussed facility usage requests, and recommended focusing a disc golf course at Connelly Mill. They also reviewed options for a Program Open Space land conversion and received updates on FY22 funding and projects.

• Approved Eagle Scout ceremony at George Nichols Park (unanimous)
• Recommended disc golf course at Connelly Mill over Winterplace
• Discussed POS land conversion options; favored partial conversion
• Approved March 23, 2021 minutes as written

County Council

The Council will conduct a Budget Recap Work Session and a Board of Education Budget Session. The meeting also includes a motion to convene in closed session regarding an independent legal counsel personnel matter.

• Budget Recap Work Session
• Board of Education Budget Session
• Closed session discussion on Independent Legal Counsel personnel matter

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to discuss logistical items, including a potential new meeting site and a scorecard, and to review Articles IV and V of the county charter, which cover the executive branch and administrative organization. The committee will also approve the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.

• Discussion of new meeting site – Council Chambers
• Discussion on scorecard
• Review of Article IV: Executive Branch (Sections 401-414)
• Review of Article V: Administrative Organization (Sections 501-508)
• Approval of minutes from May 6, 2021

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee voted to recommend raising the County Executive's minimum salary from $85,000 to $120,000, though the vote was interrupted by a motion to table that was not seconded. The committee also unanimously approved a recommendation to set the minimum age for County Executive at 30. A motion to redefine the County Executive's full-time status failed unanimously, and the committee deferred action on Section 315 language until a future meeting.

• Approved recommendation to raise County Executive minimum salary to $120,000 (motion by Phil Tilghman, seconded by Jones)
• Approved recommendation to set minimum age for County Executive at 30 (unanimous)
• Failed motion to add language requiring County Executive to devote entire time during official working hours (unanimous)
• Deferred action on Section 315 language until future meeting
• Approved agenda and minutes from May 6, 2021 (unanimous)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will consider a revised final comprehensive development plan for Beaglin Mini Storage, adding a 4,375-square-foot storage building (241 total units) and modifying stormwater and access. The meeting also includes approval of the April 15, 2021 minutes. The agenda is otherwise limited to this single substantive item.

• Revised Final Comprehensive Development Plan for Beaglin Mini Storage, Beaglin Park Drive @ Dallas Drive, adding 4,375 sq ft storage building (241 total units)
• Wellhead Protection District review for the project
• Light Business and Institutional zoning district
• Stormwater management and access modifications
• Approval of April 15, 2021 meeting minutes

The Commission approved the Revised Final Comprehensive Development/Wellhead Protection District Plan for Beaglin Mini Storage on Beaglin Park Drive, adding a 4,375 square foot storage building (241 total units) and modifying stormwater management. The approval was unanimous and subject to five conditions, including a new requirement that the refuse disposal area be screened on three sides. The minutes also record approval of the April 15, 2021 meeting minutes as submitted.

• Approved April 15, 2021 meeting minutes as submitted (unanimous)
• Approved Revised Final Comprehensive Development/Wellhead Protection District Plan for Beaglin Mini Storage, adding 4,375 sq ft building (unanimous)
• Imposed condition: provide detail sign plan before signage installation
• Imposed condition: site work and stormwater management subject to Salisbury DID review
• Imposed condition: approval of Salisbury Fire Marshal required
• Imposed condition: forest conservation subject to Wicomico County PZCD review
• Imposed condition: refuse disposal area screened on three sides

Wicomico Board of Elections

The Wicomico County Board of Elections is holding its monthly meeting to approve minutes, hear reports from the Election Director and Board Attorney, and discuss old and new business. Key items include the FY22 budget request, a potential new Early Voting Center and/or polling place changes, and the FY23-27 Capital Improvements Plan submission. The meeting is largely procedural, with these substantive items under discussion.

• FY22 Budget Request
• Potential new Early Voting Center and/or change of Polling Place or Places
• FY23-27 Capital Improvements Plan submission

The Wicomico County Board of Elections approved funding for the Director and Deputy Director to attend the IGO elections conference in July, and decided not to meet in July. The Board discussed the new state law requiring a second early voting center, which will cost an estimated $100,000, and took initial steps to prepare, including drafting a letter to the State Board of Elections for guidance and meeting with the County Executive's Office. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved funding for Director and Deputy Director to attend IGO conference in July (unanimous)
• Decided not to hold a July board meeting due to the IGO conference
• Directed Director to draft letter to SBE for clarification on early voting center requirements
• Decided to meet with County Executive's Office to locate potential early voting facilities
• Directed Director to request early voting topic on MAEO annual conference agenda

Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)

This is a routine meeting agenda for the Wicomico County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). The agenda lists standard reports from officers and committees, with no specific items, decisions, or proposals detailed. The meeting is procedural in nature, covering reports, old and new business, and scheduling the next meeting for September 15, 2021.

• Committee reports including Nominating, Exercise Planning, Public Education, Hazards Identification, and Hazardous Material Plan Review
• Next meeting scheduled for September 15, 2021

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a legislative session with public hearings on the constant yield tax rate and a land conversion from the West Metro Core to the Connelly Mill property. They will also consider resolutions on airport fund reallocations, a supplemental appropriation, and board appointments. The meeting includes proclamations, public comments, and work sessions on transportation priorities, a sports complex lease, and a YMCA partnership.

• Public hearing on constant yield rate
• Resolution 52-2021: land conversion from Levin Dashiell Road to Connelly Mill Road
• Resolution 53-2021: reallocate FAA CARES grant funds for airport repairs
• Resolution 56-2021: $70,000 supplemental appropriation for actuarial services
• Work session on five-year license agreement for Mason Dixon Sports Complex

The Council unanimously voted to postpone Resolution 52-2021, which would have converted Program Open Space land from the West Metro Core property to the Connelly Mill property, until after another work session. The decision came after public testimony in favor of the conversion and a motion to table it. Other actions included approving a consent agenda, a proclamation for EMS and Public Works weeks, and several resolutions, including reallocating FAA CARES grant funds for airport repairs and making a supplemental appropriation for actuarial services.

• Postponed Resolution 52-2021 (land conversion for Connelly Mill park) until after another work session (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes from May 4 and April 20, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 53-2021 reallocating FAA CARES grant funds for airport repairs (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 54-2021 confirming John T. Cannon's reappointment to Airport Commission (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 55-2021 confirming Linda W. Mills' appointment to Animal Appeals Board (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 56-2021 supplemental appropriation of $70,000 for actuarial services (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission is meeting to discuss a request to restore and elevate a dairy building on the Bolton House site. The commission will also review and approve minutes from the December 10, 2020, meeting.

• Request by Greg and Paula Erdie to restore and elevate an 18th-century dairy building at 2750 Whitehaven Road

The Wicomico County Historic District Commission approved the restoration and elevation of the dairy building at 2750 Whitehaven Road, part of the Whitehaven Historic District. The applicant, Greg Erdie, recused himself from the vote. The approval was granted as submitted, with minor revisions to louvers and windows noted during discussion.

• Approved restoration and elevation of dairy building at 2750 Whitehaven Road (motion by Ngwaba, seconded by Thompson, carried)
• Approved minutes of December 10, 2020 meeting as submitted

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a budget session to review proposed funding for several county departments and agencies, including Emergency Services, Airport, Public Works, Corrections, LMB, and Administration. This is a working session to discuss the upcoming budget, not a final vote.

• Emergency Services (22) budget review
• Airport (52) budget review
• Public Works (Solid Waste, Roads & Engineering) (24, 50, 51) budget review
• Corrections (21) budget review
• Administration (5) budget review

Airport Commission

The Wicomico County Airport Commission is meeting to discuss the status of several airport projects and funding. Key items include the pending FAA approval of the Environmental Assessment for runway extension funding, updates on CARES Act grants, and progress on various construction projects. The commission will also hear the airport manager's report and take public comments.

• Runway extension funding: awaiting FAA Environmental Assessment approval; requested ACIP funding on March 26
• CARES Act grant: FAA approved first development grant addendum for Taxiway A reconstruction; $775,726 reimbursement submitted; awaiting $1 million Airport Coronavirus Response Grant
• ARFF support equipment: MAA favorable for FY22 funding; grant application up to $93,750 to be submitted
• Airport City Water project: waterline installation complete on Walston Switch Road and in technology park; September completion proposed
• Rental car parking lot repaving, reconfiguration, and expansion: design review with GMB; project to go out to bid

The Wicomico County Airport Commission approved the April 12, 2021 minutes. Chairman Calvin Peacock announced his resignation effective May 11, 2021, with Vice Chair Matt Creamer to lead until a replacement is named. The commission received updates on runway extension funding, CARES Act grants, and other projects, but took no other formal votes.

• Approved April 12, 2021 minutes (moved by Creamer, seconded by Strausburg)
• Accepted Chairman Calvin Peacock's resignation effective May 11, 2021
• Noted Vice Chair Matt Creamer will lead the commission until a permanent replacement is appointed

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a budget session to review proposed budgets for several county departments and agencies. The session will cover Administration, Library, Elections, Tri-County Council, State's Attorney, Fleet Vehicles/Purchasing, Volunteer Fire Department, and Sheriff's Office.

• Review of Administration budget (5)
• Review of Library budget (32)
• Review of Elections budget (7)
• Review of Tri-County Council budget (33)
• Review of Sheriff's Office budget (17)

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to review and discuss proposed updates to the county charter. The agenda includes updates from the County Attorney on the Compensation Review Commission report and the inclusion of the Sheriff's salary in that report. The committee will conduct a complete review of Article III (Legislative Branch), Article IV (Executive Branch), and Article V (Administrative Organization). Public comments will be heard before adjournment.

• Update on Compensation Review Commission Report in Year 1
• Update on including Sheriff's salary in the Compensation Review Committee report
• Complete review of Article III, Legislative Branch (Sections 301-315)
• Complete review of Article IV, Executive Branch (Sections 401-414)
• Complete review of Article V, Administrative Organization (Sections 501-508)

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee met and made several recommendations, including adding language to require the County Executive to devote full time to the office and not engage in secondary employment (passed 8-3-4). They also recommended amending Section 314-A to delete the word 'generally' and insert 'unless for the purpose of inquiry or information' (unanimous). The committee discussed but did not finalize changes to quorum requirements, petition timeframes, and appointment confirmation procedures, deferring to future meetings.

• Recommended adding 'the County Executive shall devote his or her full time to the duties of the Office and not partake in secondary employment' (8-3-4)
• Recommended amending Section 314-A to delete 'generally' and insert 'unless for the purpose of inquiry or information' (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and minutes from April 22, 2021 (unanimous)
• Withdrew motion to change petition timeframe from 60 to 90 days
• Withdrew motion to remove 'physically' from quorum language
• Deferred action on Section 315 appointment confirmation language to allow drafting

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners is meeting to handle routine business, including approving the agenda and prior minutes. They will discuss old business on license extension timeframes, review a master exam application from Jeffrey Garnett, and consider state legislation on local licensing, master testing procedures, and rules of procedure updates. Public comments will be heard but no action will be taken.

• License extension timeframe expiration discussion
• Master exam application by Jeffrey Garnett
• State of MD legislation regarding local licensing
• Master testing procedure review
• Rules of procedure update

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners met on May 5, 2021, and approved the agenda and the minutes from the April 7, 2021 meeting. The board convened into closed session and later reconvened to open session, but took no action on the Rules of Procedure update. No public comments or board member comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 6:35 p.m.

• Approved May 5, 2021 agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 7, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Convened to closed session (unanimous)
• Reconvened to open session (unanimous)
• No action taken on Rules of Procedure update
• Adjourned at 6:35 p.m. (unanimous)

Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board

The Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board is meeting via Zoom to consider and rank agricultural preservation easement applications for FY2022, then will make a recommendation to County Administration. The substantive discussion and ranking will occur in a closed session, with only the opening and closing portions open to the public.

• Closed session for FY2022 easement ranking
• Recommendation to County Administration on easement priorities

The Wicomico County Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board approved forwarding the updated FY2022 easement ranking list to County Administration. The update removed a property whose owner accepted a MALPF offer and added the Harcums' property as the new top-ranked application. The meeting was held via Zoom and adjourned after the single substantive action.

• Approved forwarding updated FY2022 easement ranking to County Administration (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2022 operating and capital budgets, and will consider several resolutions accepting federal airport grants. The agenda also includes proclamations, appointments to boards, and open work sessions on topics like CARES grant reallocation and land preservation easements.

• Public hearing on FY2022 operating and capital budgets
• Resolution 37-2021: Accept $1,023,818 FAA grant for airport COVID costs
• Resolution 38-2021: Accept $15,016 FAA grant for airport concessions relief
• Resolution 39-2021: Accept amendment to CARES Act grant for Taxiway A Phase 2B
• Work session: Sale of land preservation easements to Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation

The Wicomico County Council introduced the FY2022 annual budget bill and held a public hearing on the proposed operating and capital budgets, which include a decrease in the real property tax rate. The council also approved several resolutions accepting federal grants for the airport and confirmed appointments to the Animal Appeals Board and Library Trustees. No final budget vote was taken; a public hearing on the tax rate is scheduled for May 18, 2021.

• Introduced Legislative Bill 2021-01 (FY2022 budget) unanimously
• Approved Resolution 37-2021 accepting $1,023,818 FAA grant for airport operations (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 38-2021 accepting $15,016 FAA grant for airport concessions relief (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 39-2021 accepting CARES Act grant amendment for Taxiway A rehabilitation (unanimous)
• Confirmed Sharrell Callaway to Animal Appeals Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed Ola K. Meadowcroft and Capt. Tod Richardson to Animal Appeals Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed 8 members to Board of Library Trustees (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes from April 20 and April 6, 2021 (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to discuss the definition of 'local governing body' and to review Articles II, III, and IV of the county charter, covering the County Council, legislative branch, and executive branch. The meeting includes approval of the agenda and minutes from the prior session, plus public comments. This is a working session focused on charter text review, not final decisions.

• Discussion on defining 'local governing body'
• Review of Article II, County Council (Sections 202-206)
• Review of Article III, Legislative Branch (Sections 301-315)
• Review of Article IV, Executive Branch (Sections 401-414)
• Approval of minutes from April 8, 2021

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee made several recommendations, including striking Section 206 on special elections, eliminating a reference to it in Section 205, and adding a process for replacing unaffiliated Councilmembers. It also recommended changing the Compensation Commission's report timing and wording, and passed a measure to require County Executive approval for the Internal Auditor, removing the exemption from Executive veto. A motion to add term limits failed.

• Approved recommendation to strike Section 206 (special elections) (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to remove 'unless there is a special election as described in Section 206' from Section 205 (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to add line for replacing unaffiliated Councilmembers (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to change Compensation Commission report timing from 'fourth' to 'first' year and 'Resolution' to 'Report' (unanimous)
• Passed recommendation to add 'and County Executive' to Section F and eliminate exemption from Executive veto (8-6, 1 abstention)
• Failed motion to add term limits to Section 203
• Failed motion to change vacancy vote to only same-party Councilmembers
• Failed motion to remove 'by Resolution' from Section 304-C

Wicomico Board of Elections

This is the monthly meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Elections. The agenda is largely procedural, covering approval of prior minutes, reports from the Election Director and Board Attorney, and old/new business. No specific decisions or proposals are listed.

• Approval of March 17, 2021 minutes
• Election Director's report
• Board Attorney's report
• Next meeting set for May 19, 2021

The Wicomico County Board of Elections unanimously approved the minutes from its March 17, 2021 meeting. The director reported that a scanner was being repaired and post-election maintenance would be completed ahead of the April 30 deadline, and that the FY22 budget request had been sent to the County Council with 12% placed in contingency. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved minutes from March 17, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:21 a.m. (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a legislative session to receive the FY22 operating and capital budget, hear an audit presentation, and vote on several resolutions including accepting grant funds, increasing recreation fees, and appointing drainage association boards. The council will also convene as the Urban Services Commission to approve a sewerage repair payment, and later hold open work sessions on topics like solar projects and redistricting.

• FY22 Operating and Capital Budget submission by Acting County Executive and Finance Director
• Resolution 32-2021: Accept $17,268 grant from Maryland Tourism Development Board for marketing small businesses
• Resolution 33-2021: Fee increase for certain recreation program fees
• Resolution 36-2021: Accept Internal Auditor's report on Workplace Culture Audit
• Work session on proposed 7.20 MW solar facility by Kumquat & Citron Cleantech, LLC

The Council received the proposed FY22 operating and capital budget from Acting County Executive John Psota, which includes no property tax rate increase and a $2 increase in commercial tipping fees. The Council approved resolutions to increase certain recreation program fees (5-2), accept a $17,268 tourism grant, appoint drainage association managers, certify the drainage tax roll, and accept the Internal Auditor's workplace culture audit report. The Council also approved a payment for a sewerage system repair for Village Down River.

• Approved Resolution 33-2021 to increase recreation program fees (5-2, with Holloway and Dodd opposed)
• Approved Resolution 32-2021 to accept $17,268 tourism grant from Maryland Department of Commerce
• Approved Resolution 34-2021 to appoint Board of Managers for Public Drainage Associations
• Approved Resolution 35-2021 to certify drainage tax roll
• Approved Resolution 36-2021 to accept Internal Auditor's workplace culture audit report
• Approved Resolution 01-2021 to approve invoice and payment for Village Down River sewerage system repair
• Received FY22 proposed operating and capital budget presentation

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will convene via video conference on April 15, 2021, to consider several revised development and sign plan approvals, including for Lotus Plaza Shopping Center, Buffalo Wild Wings, and a residential development on Tressler Drive, as well as a preliminary/final plat for a subdivision on Spearin Road. The meeting will also include approval of the minutes from the March 18, 2021 meeting.

• Revised sign plan approval for Lotus Plaza Shopping Center at 2420 N. Salisbury Blvd.
• Revised comprehensive development plan and sign plan for Buffalo Wild Wings at 2734 N. Salisbury Blvd.
• Revised comprehensive development plan for MCAP Salisbury, LLC on Tressler Drive (Parcel 1134)
• Preliminary/final plat approval for Kinnamon/Anderson Subdivision on Spearin Road
• Meeting conducted via Zoom due to COVID-19

The Planning and Zoning Commission approved a revised sign plan for Lotus Plaza Shopping Center allowing owner-approved tenant panel colors, and a revised comprehensive plan and sign plan for Buffalo Wild Wings. It also approved the Harbor Pointe Phase 3 development plan adding 62 units, and a preliminary/final plat for the Kinnamon/Anderson subdivision, all with conditions.

• Approved revised sign plan for Lotus Plaza Shopping Center (unanimous, Heath recused)
• Approved revised comprehensive plan and sign plan for Buffalo Wild Wings (unanimous)
• Approved Harbor Pointe Phase 3 revised comprehensive development plan with 3 conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Kinnamon/Anderson subdivision preliminary/final plat with 5 conditions (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from March 18 meeting (Holloway abstained)

Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board

The Wicomico County Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board will review three easement applications and forward recommendations to the County Council. The board will also hold a closed session to rank easements for FY2022. The agenda includes approval of minutes from a prior meeting.

• Gary Breeding #1 – Pocomoke Road – 150.49 acres – recommendation to County Council
• Gary Breeding #2 – Pocomoke Road – 58.84 acres – recommendation to County Council
• Scrimgeour's Farm All, LLC – Pittsville Road – 108.44 acres – recommendation to County Council
• Closed session – easement ranking FY2022 – recommendation to County Administration

The Wicomico County Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board approved the July 28, 2020 minutes and forwarded favorable recommendations to the County Council for three easement applications: Gary Breeding #1 (150.49 acres), Gary Breeding #2 (58.84 acres), and Scrimgeour's Farm All, LLC (108.44 acres). The board also approved forwarding the FY2022 easement ranking to County Administration, with Acting Chair Eugene Lowe abstaining due to business involvement with the Simms property.

• Approved July 28, 2020 minutes as submitted
• Forwarded favorable recommendation for Gary Breeding #1 easement (150.49 acres, Pocomoke Road)
• Forwarded favorable recommendation for Gary Breeding #2 easement (58.84 acres, Pocomoke Road)
• Forwarded favorable recommendation for Scrimgeour's Farm All, LLC easement (108.44 acres, Pittsville Road)
• Approved forwarding FY2022 easement ranking to County Administration (Lowe abstained)

Airport Commission

The Wicomico County Airport Commission is meeting to review the airport manager's report on project and contract status, including runway extension funding, CARES Act grants, and an environmental assessment. The commission will also consider public comments and approve prior meeting minutes. Most items are status updates rather than final decisions.

• Runway extension: $5 million in discretionary funds requested for FAA FY22, pending environmental assessment approval
• CARES Act grant addendum approved for Taxiway A reconstruction; new grant could add $1 million for operations
• Draft Environmental Assessment out for public comment; final FAA approval expected by end of April 2021
• Cell tower RFP: two proposals received for construction to improve coverage and generate revenue
• Airport Cafe RFP: one proposal received; airport seeking other alternatives

The Wicomico County Airport Commission approved the March minutes and received updates on various projects, including runway extension funding, CARES Act grants, and the environmental assessment. No major decisions were made beyond routine approvals.

• Approved March 8, 2021 minutes
• Adjourned meeting

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to approve its agenda and minutes, select alternate members, and review Articles I, II, and III of the county charter, covering county name and rights, the county council, and the legislative branch. The meeting includes public comments and discussion of the next meeting date.

• Select order of alternate members
• Review of Article I: Name and Rights of the County (Sections 101-103)
• Review of Article II: County Council (Sections 201-206)
• Review of Article III: Legislative Branch (Sections 301-315)

The Charter Review Committee voted unanimously to retain the current county council structure of five district members plus two at-large members, rejecting proposals to change the number or composition. They also approved adding a residency and age requirement for council members, and recommended adding a table of contents to the Charter. A proposal to include charter violations as grounds for forfeiture of office failed for lack of a second.

• Approved motion to keep five councilmanic districts and two at-large members (unanimous)
• Approved adding residency requirement: 2 years in county, 1 year in district, minimum age 25 (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to add table of contents to Charter (unanimous)
• Approved amending Charter Section 202-D to include felony with moral turpitude as grounds for forfeiture (unanimous)
• Motion to include charter violations as grounds for forfeiture failed (no second)

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Electrical Board is meeting to handle old and new business. They will discuss a complaint about Campbell's Electric at 1309 S. Salisbury Blvd and an inspector application from Larry "Vince" White. They will also consider approving continuing education courses and updating their rules of procedure. The meeting is open to the public with social distancing and face coverings required.

• Complaint #21-002 regarding Campbell's Electric at 1309 S. Salisbury Blvd
• Inspector application from Larry "Vince" White of American Inspection Agency
• Approval of 16 continuing education courses for Rich F. Van Wert, including NEC 2020 and OSHA 10
• Rules of Procedure Update
• Public comments and board member comments (no action required)

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners approved 13 continuing education courses offered by Rich F. Van Wert, including Commercial Electric, Fire Alarms 101, and NEC 2020 Code Changes, while rejecting three courses (Electrical Project Estimating, NEC 2020- NJ Code Changes/Law, and OSHA 10) as irrelevant to licensing. The board also approved the agenda and the March 3, 2021 minutes, and convened and reconvened from closed session. No action was taken on the Rules of Procedure update, and no public comments were made.

• Approved agenda as submitted.
• Approved minutes of March 3, 2021 as written.
• Convened to closed session and reconvened to open session.
• Rejected 3 continuing education courses: Electrical Project Estimating (8 hrs), NEC 2020- NJ Code Changes/Law (10 hrs), OSHA 10 (10 hrs).
• Approved 13 continuing education courses, including Commercial Electric, Fire Alarms 101, Grounding Vs. Bonding, HVAC and NEC Rules, Motors, NEC 2020 Code Changes, NFPA 70E, Optional Standby Systems- Generators, Overcurrent Protective Devices, Residential Electric, Swimming Pools, Solar Calculations, and Transformers 101 (each 8 hrs).
• No action taken on Rules of Procedure update.
• Adjourned at 6:40 pm.

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is meeting to consider several resolutions, including accepting a $7,380,680 emergency rental assistance grant, and to hold public hearings and work sessions on topics like library renaming, recreation fee increases, and redistricting. The agenda also includes proclamations, consent agenda approval, and public comments.

• Resolution 30-2021: Accept up to $7,380,680 for Emergency Rental Assistance Program
• Resolution 27-2021: Public hearing to rename downtown library branch to Paul S. Sarbanes Branch
• Resolution 28-2021: Accept $25,000 grant for Early Childhood Advisory Council Quality Improvement
• Resolution 29-2021: Accept $130,000 grant for Promoting Positive Outcomes for Infants and Toddlers
• Work session: Proposed fee increases to recreation programs

The Wicomico County Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 27-2021 to rename the downtown library branch as the Paul S. Sarbanes Branch. The council also approved several other resolutions, including accepting grant funds for early childhood programs and emergency rental assistance, and confirmed a personnel board reappointment. The meeting included proclamations and public comments, and the council later held closed sessions for legal, personnel, and collective bargaining matters, with no formal action taken.

• Approved Resolution No. 27-2021 renaming the downtown library branch as the Paul S. Sarbanes Branch (unanimous).
• Approved Resolution No. 28-2021 accepting a $25,000 grant from Maryland State Department of Education for Early Childhood Advisory Council Quality Improvement (unanimous).
• Approved Resolution No. 29-2021 accepting a $130,000 grant for Promoting Positive Outcomes for Infants and Toddlers (unanimous).
• Approved Resolution No. 30-2021 accepting up to $7,380,680 in Emergency Rental Assistance Program funds (approved; Cannon and Hastings abstained).
• Approved Resolution No. 31-2021 confirming Debbie Moore's reappointment to the Personnel Board (unanimous).
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and letters of support (unanimous).
• Adjourned to closed sessions for collective bargaining, legal counsel, personnel, and internal auditor updates; no formal action taken.

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee is meeting to review minutes, set agendas, and discuss operational procedures including public comments, alternates, meeting locations, and the process for changing the charter. The meeting includes a presentation on recommended changes and a discussion on the current form of government.

• Review and approve minutes of March 10, 2021
• Discussion on public comments process
• Discussion on alternates selection
• Discussion on meeting location and possibility of Zoom
• Presentation on recommended charter changes and process for changes

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee adopted Robert's Rules of Order and an attendance policy (three consecutive or five total missed meetings triggers removal). It also decided to randomly draw and rank alternates, schedule public comments at the end of meetings, and review the Charter under the current Executive-Council form of government. The committee will work through the Charter section by section, aiming to finish by May 2022.

• Adopted Robert's Rules of Order (unanimous)
• Adopted attendance policy: removal after 3 consecutive or 5 total missed meetings (majority vote)
• Agreed to randomly draw and rank alternate names (unanimous)
• Scheduled public comments at end of meetings
• Decided to review Charter under Executive-Council form of government (unanimous)
• Set target to complete work by May 2022
• Agreed to follow Frederick County's process for Charter review

Recreation Commission

The Wicomico Recreation & Parks Commission is holding a tele-conference meeting to approve previous minutes, receive division reports, and consider recommendations from the POS (Parks and Open Space) subcommittee. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items or dollar amounts listed.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Division reports by Chuck Poole and James Simmons
• POS subcommittee recommendations by Steve Miller and Tom Bowden
• Open discussion period

The Commission unanimously approved the Program Open Space sub-committee's recommendations for FY22 projects, which include new playground equipment at Nick Meyer and Winterplace, Cove Road parking/amenities, Phase II Youth and Civic Center exterior renovation, and lighting for fields 7, 8, and 7-1/2 at Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex. The sub-committee also recommended granting the City of Salisbury's request to resurface existing tennis courts at City Park. The recommendations will move forward to the County Executive for approval.

• Approved minutes from January 26, 2021 as written
• Unanimously approved moving forward with POS sub-committee FY22 project recommendations
• Recommended granting City of Salisbury's request to resurface tennis courts at City Park
• Deferred court restoration projects (Emerson Holloway, Harmon Basketball, Edgewood) to FY23
• Noted delays in Cedar Hill restroom renovation and bulkhead work due to rain, with completion expected by end of April
• Noted all-inclusive playground construction at Henry S Parker Athletic Complex has begun, with a plan for full functionality by April 2021
• Noted replacement of irrigation pump at East Wicomico Little League after failure
• Noted plan to hold Good Beer Festival in October 2021, as spring version was not feasible due to COVID-19 restrictions

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will review three sign plan applications for commercial and medical properties in Salisbury. Additionally, the agenda includes three agricultural land preservation easement applications totaling over 317 acres. The meeting is held via video conference due to the ongoing pandemic.

• Sign approval for Coventry Plaza at 1495 Still Meadow Blvd.
• Revised sign plan for Rite Aid Pharmacy at 1316 Mt. Hermon Road
• Revised sign plan for TidalHealth at Woodbrooke, 1640 Woodbrooke Drive
• Agricultural land preservation easement for 150.49 acres on Pocomoke Road
• Agricultural land preservation easement for 108.44 acres on Pittsville Road

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission approved two sign plans (Coventry Square Plaza and Rite Aid), denied a TidalHealth directional sign for exceeding code limits, and made favorable recommendations for three agricultural land preservation easement applications. The meeting was held via Zoom due to COVID-19, and no public comments were made.

• Approved Coventry Square Plaza sign plan with condition (unanimous)
• Approved Rite Aid revised sign plan (unanimous)
• Denied TidalHealth directional sign for Building H (unanimous)
• Favorable recommendation for Gary Breeding #1 ag easement (unanimous)
• Favorable recommendation for Gary Breeding #2 ag easement (unanimous)
• Favorable recommendation for Scrimgeour's Farm All, LLC ag easement (unanimous)

Wicomico Board of Elections

The Wicomico County Board of Elections is holding its monthly meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, covering approval of prior minutes, reports from the election director and board attorney, and old business regarding the November 2020 general board of canvassers. No new business items are listed.

• Approval of February 17, 2021 minutes
• Election Director's Report
• Board Attorney's Report
• Old business: November 2020 general board of canvassers convened
• Next meeting set for April 21, 2021

The Wicomico County Board of Elections met and handled routine business, including approving prior minutes and canvass records. The main substantive action was tabling a decision on six uncounted ballots from the 2020 General Election pending written guidance from the State Board of Elections; after the meeting, the Board of Canvassers voted unanimously to reject those ballots for administrative error based on verbal guidance from SBE.

• Approved February 17, 2021 meeting minutes with one addition (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on six uncounted ballots pending written SBE guidance (unanimous)
• Directed Election Director to email Board with direction on six ballots (unanimous)
• Approved 2020 General Vote by Mail and Provisional Canvass Minutes with one correction (unanimous)
• Rejected six outstanding ballots for administrative error (unanimous, via email on 3/18/21)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is meeting in legislative session to consider a consent agenda, proclamations, and a public hearing on a license agreement for the Wicomico Equestrian Center at Winterplace Park. They will also receive a COVID-19 update, discuss abandoned poultry house remediation, and hear housing statistics from the Maryland Coastal Association of Realtors. The meeting includes several proclamations and a reappointment to the Ethics Commission.

• Public hearing on Resolution No. 25-2021: License agreement with Wicomico Equestrian Club, Ltd. for Wicomico Equestrian Center at Winterplace Park
• COVID-19 update from Local Health Officer Lori Brewster
• Discussion on remediation of abandoned poultry houses with USDA-NRCS and Delmarva Chicken Association
• Presentation on 2020 housing statistics by Maryland Coastal Association of Realtors
• Resolution No. 26-2021: Confirming reappointment of Ernie Colburn to Ethics Commission

The Wicomico County Council unanimously amended Resolution No. 22-2021 to add John Rankin as an alternate member of the Charter Review Committee. They also approved the consent agenda, a license agreement for the Wicomico Equestrian Center, and a reappointment to the Ethics Commission. The meeting included informational presentations on COVID-19, poultry house remediation, and housing statistics, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Amended Resolution 22-2021 to add John Rankin as alternate to Charter Review Committee (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and work session minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 25-2021 license agreement with Wicomico Equestrian Club (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 26-2021 reappointing Ernie Colburn to Ethics Commission (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee held its first 2021 meeting, which was an orientation session. Members introduced themselves, reviewed the roles of the executive and legislative branches, and discussed an absenteeism policy and future meeting dates. The committee is tasked with reviewing the County Charter and submitting recommendations to the County Council.

• Committee members introduced themselves and shared backgrounds
• County Attorney Paul Wilber explained executive and legislative branch roles
• Committee discussed a potential absenteeism policy for members
• Reviewed the Open Meetings Act and future meeting schedule
• Committee signed a pledge to act in the best interest of Wicomico County

The Wicomico County Charter Review Committee held its first 2021 meeting, which was primarily organizational. Members introduced themselves, received an overview of the executive and legislative branches, and signed a pledge. The committee elected Mike Dunn as Chairperson and Bob Benson as Vice Chairperson. They also agreed to meet every two weeks on Thursdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., with the next meeting scheduled for March 25, 2021, and deferred decisions on an absenteeism policy and consensus threshold to a future meeting.

• Elected Mike Dunn as Chairperson (8 yes, 6 no, 1 abstain).
• Elected Bob Benson as Vice Chairperson (majority vote).
• Agreed to meet every two weeks on Thursdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
• Scheduled next meeting for Thursday, March 25, 2021, at 5:00 p.m.
• Deferred absenteeism policy discussion to next meeting.
• Deferred decision on consensus threshold for recommendations to next meeting.
• Noted that a public email for Charter Review Committee questions is available on the County website.

Airport Commission

The Wicomico County Airport Commission is meeting to hear the airport manager's report on project and contract statuses, including runway extension funding, CARES Act grants, and construction projects. The commission will also review a passenger leakage study showing that 84.5% of local air travel demand leaks to other airports, and discuss an upcoming airport disaster exercise.

• Runway extension funding depends on FAA environmental assessment approval and discretionary funding cycle
• Applied for Airport Coronavirus Response Grant Program for up to $1 million for operational and maintenance expenses
• $100,000 grant from Maryland Department of Commerce for UAS hangar construction
• Passenger leakage study: 84.5% of traffic from Salisbury's catchment area leaks to other airports; BWI captures 54.2%
• January 2021 enplaned passengers at 2,434, about 44% of January 2020

The Wicomico County Airport Commission approved the February 8, 2021 minutes. The commission heard the Airport Manager's Report, which covered updates on the runway extension funding, CARES Act grants, UAS hangar construction, and other projects. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting included reports and discussion only.

• Approved the February 8, 2021 minutes.
• Heard the Airport Manager's Report on project and contract status updates.
• Discussed a passenger leakage study showing 84.5% of traffic leaks to other airports.
• Discussed a proposed Wings and Wheels 2022 event and a student documentary on the airport.
• Adjourned the meeting.

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners is meeting to handle routine business, including approving the agenda and minutes, and addressing old and new business. New business includes a complaint against Campbell's Electric at 1309 S. Salisbury Blvd, an inspector application from Larry "Vince" White of American Inspection Agency, and approval of a continuing education course. The meeting is open to the public with social distancing measures.

• Complaint #21-002 regarding 1309 S. Salisbury Blvd (Campbell's Electric)
• Inspector application by Larry "Vince" White (American Inspection Agency)
• Approval of continuing education course: Mike Holt Enterprises 2020 NEC Review with Updates Seminar (8 hours)
• Rules of Procedure update

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners approved Mike Holt Enterprises' '2020 NEC Review with Updates Seminar' for 8 Continuing Education hours, despite concerns about the class length and location. The board also approved the agenda and February minutes, and convened a closed session for Complaint #21-002 before reconvening. No action was taken on the Rules of Procedure Update, and no public comments were made.

• Approved the March 3, 2021 agenda as submitted.
• Approved the February 3, 2021 minutes as written.
• Approved Mike Holt Enterprises' 2020 NEC Review with Updates Seminar for 8 Continuing Education hours.
• Convened to closed session for Complaint #21-002.
• Reconvened to open session after the closed session.
• Took no action on the Rules of Procedure Update.

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a legislative session with several resolutions, including increasing the 9-1-1 fee to $1.00 per telephone number starting July 1, 2021, to cover operating costs. They will also appoint the 2021 Charter Review Committee, accept an audit report on Civic Center events revenue, and discuss a salary recommendation for the Sheriff. The agenda includes multiple work sessions and a proclamation on the Second Amendment.

• Resolution No. 23-2021: Increase 9-1-1 fee to $1.00 per telephone number effective July 1, 2021
• Resolution No. 22-2021: Appointing the 2021 Wicomico County Charter Review Committee
• Resolution No. 24-2021: Accepting audit report on Civic Center Events Revenue Study
• Discussion with Maryland Department of Environment Secretary Ben Grumbles
• Proclamation on Second Amendment - Right to Bear Arms with Sheriff Mike Lewis

The Wicomico County Council approved Resolution 23-2021 to increase the 911 fee to $1.00 per telephone number starting July 1, 2021, with two members opposed. The Council also unanimously approved Resolution 22-2021, appointing the 2021 Charter Review Committee, and Resolution 24-2021, accepting the audit report on the Civic Center events revenue. The meeting included a discussion with Maryland Environment Secretary Ben Grumbles about septic system issues and other environmental concerns, but no formal action was taken on those topics.

• Approved Resolution 23-2021 to increase the 911 fee to $1.00 per telephone number, effective July 1, 2021 (opposed by Dodd and Holloway).
• Approved Resolution 22-2021 appointing the 2021 Wicomico County Charter Review Committee.
• Approved Resolution 24-2021 accepting the audit report on the Wicomico County Civic Center events revenue.
• Amended the agenda to add a work session to discuss House Bill 795 and Senate Bill 715.
• Approved the consent agenda, including minutes and letters of support.
• Heard a presentation from Maryland Environment Secretary Ben Grumbles on septic system issues and other environmental concerns; no formal action taken.
• Received a proclamation from Sheriff Lewis recognizing the Second Amendment; no formal action taken.
• Adjourned to closed sessions for litigation update and personnel matter; no formal action taken.

Tourism and Civic Center Commission

The Tourism and Civic Center Commission is meeting to approve previous minutes, welcome new members, and discuss new business including visitor center trends, civic center recovery planning, and future marketing strategy. The agenda is largely procedural and discussion-focused, with no specific votes or dollar amounts listed.

• Approval of previous minutes
• Visitor Center trending and mission discussion
• Civic Center recovery planning
• Future marketing strategy discussion
• Discussion on meeting times and days

The Wicomico Tourism and Civic Center Commission discussed the declining visitation and rising costs of the Wicomico Welcome Center, and reached a consensus to pursue alternative uses for the building, such as leasing or repurposing. The board also received updates on the Civic Center's COVID recovery, including cost-saving measures and a planned market study for tourism marketing. No formal votes were taken; decisions were made by consensus.

• Consensus to pursue alternative uses for the Welcome Center (leasing or repurposing)
• Approved minutes from June 15, 2020 and September 21, 2020 as circulated
• Agreed to hold quarterly meetings at 11:00 am

Planning and Zoning Commission

The regular meeting of the Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission scheduled for February 18, 2021, was cancelled. No cases were submitted for review.

Wicomico Board of Elections

The Wicomico County Board of Elections is holding its monthly meeting to approve minutes, receive reports from the election director and board attorney, and discuss old and new business. The main item is a FY21 budget request submitted for board approval. The meeting is largely procedural, with no public hearings or major policy decisions listed.

• Approval of January 20, 2021 minutes
• Election Director's report
• Board Attorney's report
• FY21 budget request submitted for board approval
• Next meeting set for March 17, 2021

The Wicomico County Board of Elections unanimously approved its proposed 2022 budget request and voted to send a letter requesting an exemption from pending legislation that could require a second early voting center. The board also tabled approval of six post-election ballots and canvass minutes pending direction from the State Board of Elections. The manual audit of the November 2020 election was completed successfully, with counts matching scanner results.

• Approved 2022 budget submission (unanimous)
• Approved sending letter requesting exemption from second early voting center requirement (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of 6 post-election ballots and canvass minutes pending SBE response
• Approved minutes from January 20, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is meeting to hold public hearings and vote on several resolutions, including relocating a forest conservation easement, amending the capital improvement program for Taxiway G, approving a $200,000 contingency transfer for the airport water main extension, and zoning property in Delmar. The council will also discuss an equestrian club lease, a 911 fee increase, and other items in open work sessions.

• Public Hearing: Resolution 17-2021 to relocate a .08-acre forest conservation easement at 133 Paddock Drive, Fruitland
• Public Hearing: Resolution 18-2021 to change Taxiway G funding from General Obligation Bonds to Pay-Go
• Resolution 19-2021: $200,000 contingency transfer for Airport Water Main Extension Project
• Resolution 20-2021: Zoning classification of Highway/Regional Commercial upon annexation by Town of Delmar (6.226 acres, East Line Road)
• Resolution 21-2021: Appointment of Edward S. Werkheiser as Deputy Director of Emergency Services

The Wicomico County Council unanimously approved five resolutions: relocating a forest conservation easement, amending the Capital Improvement Program for Taxiway 6 funding, a $200,000 contingency transfer for the Airport Water Main Extension, a zoning classification for annexed property in Delmar, and appointing Edward S. Werkheiser as Deputy Director of Emergency Services. Public comments addressed enabling legislation and a property tax credit, but no action was taken on those topics. The council also held closed sessions for collective bargaining, personnel, and administrative matters, with no formal action taken.

• Approved Resolution 17-2021 relocating forest conservation easement on 133 Paddock Drive (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 18-2021 amending Capital Improvement Program for Taxiway 6 funding source (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 19-2021 $200,000 contingency transfer for Airport Water Main Extension (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 20-2021 zoning classification for annexed property on East Line Road, Delmar (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-2021 appointing Edward S. Werkheiser as Deputy Director of Emergency Services (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Wicomico County Airport Commission is meeting to discuss project and contract status updates, including the runway extension funding, CARES Act grants, and the construction of a new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) facility. The agenda includes reports from the airport manager and chairman, with no public votes or decisions scheduled beyond routine approvals.

• Runway extension funding depends on FAA Environmental Assessment approval, expected by April 2021
• CARES Act grant addendum for Taxiway A Rehabilitation Phase 2B sent to FAA
• ARFF facility construction estimated at $2.5M, grant addendum to be submitted
• UAS Hangar construction complete, ribbon cutting held February 5
• RFP advertised for Taxiway G obstruction clearing and airport cafe

The Wicomico County Airport Commission met on February 8, 2021, and approved the January 11, 2021 minutes. The meeting was primarily informational, with the Airport Manager reporting on project statuses, including the runway extension, CARES Act grants, UAS hangar completion, and other ongoing projects. No substantive policy decisions or votes were taken beyond the minutes approval and adjournment.

• Approved January 11, 2021 minutes (motion by Cannon, second by Arnold)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Arnold, second by Cannon)

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners is meeting to handle routine business, including approving the agenda and prior minutes. They will discuss an extension deadline for license renewals, review a complaint about 311 Autumn Terrace, and consider electrical examination test results and rules of procedure updates. Public and board member comments are scheduled but no action is required.

• Extension deadline for license renewals
• Complaint #21-001 regarding 311 Autumn Terrace (Carlton Littleton)
• Electrical examination test results
• Rules of procedure update
• Meeting open to public with social distancing and face covering required

The Board of Electrical Examiners approved a new deadline for the 2018-2020 license cycle: license fees must be paid in full by June 30, 2021, and the 10 hours of continuing education must be submitted by June 30, 2022. The board also approved the agenda and the January 6, 2021 minutes with amendments, convened and reconvened from closed session for Complaint #21-001, and tabled a rules of procedure update until March 2021.

• Approved agenda as submitted (unanimous)
• Approved January 6, 2021 minutes with Calloway's amendments (unanimous)
• Convened to closed session for Complaint #21-001 (unanimous)
• Reconvened to open session (unanimous)
• Adopted new license renewal deadline: fees by June 30, 2021, CEUs by June 30, 2022 (unanimous)
• Tabled rules of procedure update until March 2021 (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 6:07 pm (unanimous)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council will hold its legislative session, including a vote on a $110,000 supplemental appropriation for the Deferred Compensation-457 Plan and confirmation of two airport commission appointments. A scheduled discussion with the Maryland Department of Environment secretary was canceled due to snow. The council will also hold open work sessions on the Capital Improvement Program, airport projects, and other items, followed by a closed session on personnel matters.

• Resolution No. 16-2021: Supplemental appropriation of $110,000 from contingency to Deferred Compensation-457 Plan account
• Resolution No. 14-2021: Confirm Weston S. Young, P.E. to Airport Commission
• Resolution No. 15-2021: Confirm Gregory E. Padgham as ex-officio member to Airport Commission
• Work session: Capital Improvement Program FY2022-2026 (Public Works, Airport)
• Work session: Salisbury Regional Airport Taxiway G project funding

Recreation Commission

The Wicomico County Recreation & Parks Commission will meet via teleconference to approve previous minutes, hear division reports, and discuss the FY22 Program Open Space and 2022 Local Parks and Playgrounds Revitalization Program (LPPRP) update. Capital project updates will cover the Inclusive Playground, Pirate's Wharf, and a possible Harmon Field project. The meeting is primarily informational and planning-focused, with no final decisions listed on the agenda.

• FY22 Program Open Space update
• 2022 LPPRP update
• Inclusive Playground capital project update
• Pirate's Wharf capital project update
• Possible Harmon Field project discussion

The Wicomico Recreation and Parks Commission met via Webex and approved the minutes from September 22 and December 8, 2021. Staff provided updates on park projects, recreation programming, and funding, but no formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved minutes from September 22, 2021 and December 8, 2021 meetings
• Discussed potential conversion of Harmon Field into pickleball complex (no vote)
• Noted boat slip rental liability insurance requirement starting 1/1/2022 (no vote)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Salisbury-Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission will convene via video conference to review and vote on several development-related items, including a site plan for a body shop, revised comprehensive development plans for a Panera Bread and other properties, and multiple revised sign plans. The meeting will also consider approval of the December 17, 2020 minutes. No public hearings are scheduled, but public comments will be accepted on each item.

• Paleo Channel/Wellhead Protection Site Plan Approval for Hertrich Salisbury Body Shop at 500 E. Naylor Mill Road
• Revised Comprehensive Development Plan Approval for Panera Bread at 2835 N. Salisbury Blvd.
• Revised Sign Plan Approvals for Virginia Square Shopping Center, TidalHealth at Woodbrooke, and Lotus Plaza Shopping Center
• Approval of minutes from December 17, 2020 meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission approved four items: a Paleo Channel/Wellhead Protection Site Plan for Hertrich Salisbury Body Shop, a revised Comprehensive Development Plan for Panera Bread, an unlimited sign color palette for Virginia Square Shopping Center, and a revised sign plan for Lotus Plaza. It also approved an identification sign for TidalHealth at Woodbrooke but tabled the directional sign for Building H, asking staff and applicant to work on a code-compliant alternative. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Paleo Channel/Wellhead Protection Site Plan for Hertrich Body Shop (unanimous)
• Approved Revised Comprehensive Development Plan for Panera Bread (unanimous)
• Approved unlimited sign color palette for Virginia Square Shopping Center (unanimous)
• Approved identification sign for TidalHealth Building 9 with 15-ft setback (unanimous)
• Tabled directional sign for TidalHealth Building H for redesign
• Approved Revised Sign Plan for Lotus Plaza with condition banning flags/banners (unanimous)
• Approved December 17, 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)

The Wicomico County Local Emergency Planning Committee is meeting to review routine reports and approve minutes from its September 2020 meeting. The information coordinator will report 14 gas leaks and 14 petroleum spills between September 16, 2020 and January 11, 2021. No presentation is scheduled, and most committee positions are vacant or have no updates.

• Approve minutes from September 16, 2020 meeting
• Reported HazMat incidents: 14 gas leaks, 14 petroleum spills (Sept 16, 2020 – Jan 11, 2021)
• Exercise Planning committee position vacant
• No scheduled presentation

Wicomico Board of Elections

The Board of Elections will meet to approve December 16, 2020 minutes and receive reports from the Election Director and Board Attorney. The agenda also includes a review of the November 2020 General board of canvassers.

• Approval of December 16, 2020 minutes
• Election Director’s Report
• Board Attorney’s Report
• Review of November 2020 General board of canvassers

The Wicomico County Board of Elections met and approved the December minutes. The director reported that six ballots from the 2020 General Election were found uncounted; SBE advised it was too late to count them, and the board unanimously approved requesting written confirmation from SBE. The board also discussed the proposed budget, SolarWinds alert, and a letter recommending a return to normal election processes.

• Approved December 16, 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to request written SBE confirmation of legal counsel recommendation on uncounted ballots (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of Canvass minutes pending SBE response

County Council

The Wicomico County Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a concession agreement with Sentinel Robotic Solutions for drone operations at Salisbury Regional Airport. They will also confirm appointments to county boards and commissions, accept a $5,000 grant for emergency hotel stays, and discuss the Capital Improvement Program, broadband, and other items in open work sessions.

• Public hearing on Resolution 04-2021: Sentinel Robotic Solutions drone concession at Salisbury Regional Airport
• Confirmations to Tourism and Civic Center Commission, Recreation and Parks Commission, and PAC 14 board
• Resolution 12-2021: Accept $5,000 grant from Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore for emergency hotel/motel stays
• Resolution 13-2021: Concur with Internal Auditor's declaration on organizational independence
• Work session: Capital Improvement Program FY 2022-2026, broadband discussion, and water/sewer study

The Wicomico County Council unanimously approved Resolution 04-2021, a concession agreement with Sentinel Robotic Solutions for unmanned aircraft operations at Salisbury Regional Airport, after a public hearing with no comments. The council also approved several appointments to county boards and commissions, accepted a $5,000 grant for emergency hotel stays, and concurred with the Internal Auditor's declaration of organizational independence. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included proclamations and public comments.

• Approved Resolution 04-2021, concession agreement with Sentinel Robotic Solutions (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and proclamations (unanimous)
• Approved Resolutions 05-2021 through 11-2021, appointments to Tourism and Civic Center Commission, Recreation and Parks Commission, and PAC 14 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 12-2021, accepting $5,000 grant from Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore for emergency hotel/motel stays (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 13-2021, concurring with Internal Auditor's declaration of organizational independence (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Wicomico County Airport Commission is meeting to receive the airport manager's report on project and contract statuses. Key items include funding efforts for the runway extension, CARES Act grant updates, and the construction of a new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) facility. The commission will also hear public comments and approve minutes.

• Runway extension funding briefings with Senators Cardin and Van Hollen and Governor Hogan's office; $400M in FAA supplemental discretionary funding in Omnibus bill
• CARES Act grant addendum for Taxiway A Rehabilitation Phase 2B, needing $1.9M
• ARFF facility construction expected to cost approximately $2.5M
• UAS Hangar construction substantially complete by Feb 1; ribbon cutting Feb 5
• Environmental Assessment draft sent to FAA; public comment period upcoming

Board of Electrical Examiners

The Wicomico County Board of Electrical Examiners is meeting to handle routine administrative matters, including swearing in new members, electing seated positions, and discussing the board's PNC bank account. The board will also set the 2021 licensing exam schedule and consider approving a continuing education course from Bay Area Inspection Agency Inc. No major policy decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Swearing in of new board members
• Elections for seated positions
• Discussion of Electrical Board PNC Account authorized signers and future funds
• Approval of 2021 licensing exam schedule
• Approval of Bay Area Inspection Agency Inc. 2021-2020 NEC Continuing Education Seminar (5 hours)

County Council

The Wicomico County Council is holding a legislative session with public hearings on three items: transferring payroll functions from Human Resources to Finance, amending the emergency management chapter for 9-1-1 systems, and adopting the FY2022-2026 Capital Improvement Program and FY2022 Capital Budget. The council will also vote on resolutions to extend the CIP adoption deadline, designate Open Meetings Act training persons, and increase the 9-1-1 fee to $1.30 per telephone number. Additionally, there are open work sessions on invasive species management, a forest conservation easement relocation, and letters of support for a liquor license change and the HORIZON program.

• Public Hearing: Legislative Bill 2020-14 to transfer payroll functions from Human Resources to Finance
• Public Hearing: Legislative Bill 2020-15 to amend emergency management for 9-1-1 telephone systems
• Public Hearing: Capital Improvement Program for FY2022-2026 and Capital Budget for FY2022
• Resolution No. 03-2021 to increase 9-1-1 fee to $1.30 per telephone number effective July 1, 2021
• Open work session: Forest conservation easement of .08 acres to be relocated off site at 2:1 ratio, 133 Paddock Drive, Fruitland, MD

The Wicomico County Council rejected a proposed increase to the 911 fee from $0.75 to $1.30 per phone line, with a 4-3 vote. They unanimously approved two legislative bills: one transferring payroll functions from Human Resources to Finance, and another amending the emergency management chapter for 911 systems. The Council also unanimously approved resolutions extending the Capital Improvement Program adoption deadline to June 1, 2021, and designating all council members for Open Meetings Act training. Public hearings were held on the CIP and capital budget, with comments supporting a new Pittsville library and school funding, but no final action was taken on those items.

• Rejected 911 fee increase to $1.30 per line (4-3)
• Approved Legislative Bill 2020-14 transferring payroll to Finance (unanimous)
• Approved Legislative Bill 2020-15 amending emergency management for 911 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 01-2021 extending CIP adoption to June 1, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 02-2021 designating council members for Open Meetings Act training (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and CIP amendment (unanimous)