Heather L. Chandler

The meeting included comments from the Mayor congratulating the newly elected Fire Department officers and urging residents to move vehicles off the street during snowstorms for plow safety. Discussions covered a promising meeting with a State Representative regarding federal funds for infrastructure projects. Key business included the amendment of the MOU with Wicomico County Animal Control, which was approved. The Planning and Zoning section addressed several new home builds by Ryan Homes in the Stillwater development, which received favorable recommendations and approvals. Additionally, rezoning for a property on Delaware Avenue was approved under the condition of lot consolidation. Conceptual plans for the North Delmar Shopping Center, which involves significant infrastructure development including a new road and potential TIF grants, were accepted. Final approval was granted for a standalone Dunkin Donuts site. The Town Manager's report covered updates on the WTP upgrade, enforcement of parking regulations at State Line Plaza, advertising for the INI project RFP, budget workshop schedules, and grant funding secured by Delmar, MD for park improvements. Council members also discussed the need for a crosswalk on US Rt. 13.

Key discussions during the meeting included the formal reappointment of the Deputy Mayor. Under New Business, the Commissioners considered the potential acquisition of an adjacent property to expand the town hall parking lot, culminating in a motion to proceed with an appraisal. The Student Advisor reported on winter sports performance, the start of spring sports, and the installation of new weapon detectors. Committee reports covered police enforcement actions regarding illegal parking, a utility commission consideration of options for a broken bulk water valve, and the status of a $2.8 million loan for a new water tower. The Planning & Zoning committee reviewed final plans for a Dunkin Donuts and conceptual plans for commercial developments involving Delmar Pizza property. The Town Manager reported on efforts to correct high ammonia levels at the WWTP, plans to use a SWORDFISH device to detect lead and copper pipes, and the securing of two Maryland state grants totaling $370,500 for park improvements, including funding for field lights at the Mason Dixon Complex and improvements at Gordy Park. The date for the first budget workshop was also announced. A resident requested the investigation of a speed bump installation in the Woodcreek area.

The Town Manager reported on several operational and financial matters. Key updates included the broken valve for WTP bulk water sales requiring an estimated $8,000 for replacement, the WWTP year-end flow closing at 597,000 gallons per day, and a recent MDE violation at the WWTP due to elevated ammonia traces. The two high service pumps for the WTP are delayed due to propeller issues but are expected soon. Discussions covered upcoming Lead and Copper testing presentations and funding mechanisms for testing on both Maryland and Delaware sides, as well as closing on a $2,800,000 loan/grant for a new water storage tank. Additionally, the Town received two grants from the State of Maryland: $300,000 for lighting at the Mason Dixon Complex and $70,500 for Gordy Park improvements, which may include upgrading the skateboard park and building a pavilion. Town Manager Fleetwood also noted an offer from a local business owner to sell a duplex adjacent to the town hall to the Town of Delmar.

The meeting included congratulations for the Clerk of Council upon achieving Certified Municipal Clerk status. Key discussions focused on New Business, specifically the adoption of Animal Control Ordinance #763, which replaces the town's local animal control standards with those of Wicomico County, following a public hearing. Committee reports covered police activities, including ongoing monitoring of vehicle tampering incidents and mandatory departmental training. The Utility Commission reported on the necessity of obtaining an MS4 Permit, reallocation of funds for a fire hydrant, and ongoing issues with Water Treatment Plant pump procurement. The Fire Department reported high call volumes for both fire and EMS services, noting an issue with the Fire Marshal's Office recognition affecting reporting. Planning and Zoning reported on favorable recommendations for a new home build and a new home addition, both of which were subsequently approved. The Town Manager updated the commission on the completion of infrastructure work on Lincoln Avenue and budgetary issues surrounding the Phase 3 DE INI Project, requiring a re-bid of work components. Public comments included concerns from Woodcreek HOA members regarding trash collection services.

The meeting began with honoring a Delaware State Trooper who lost his life in the line of duty and a moment of silence. The Mayor congratulated the Clerk of Council for earning the Certified Municipal Clerk designation and discussed census differences between Delmar, MD and DE. Committee reports included updates from the Police Chief regarding holiday season operations, an officer vacancy due to a departure, the resolution of burglaries at 910 E. Grove St., and diminished vehicle break-ins. Student Advisor Nichols provided updates on exam schedules, school closures, and upcoming basketball and wrestling schedules. The Council approved Planning & Zoning recommendations for two new home builds by Chris Brown/Ryan Homes in the Stillwater development (Lot 59 and Lot 77 on Winterberry Dr.). Approval was also granted, conditional upon final review by DBF, for a new facility (Farmers Bank of Willards) at 38552 Sussex Highway. The Town Manager reported on the Phase 3 I&I Project funding shortfalls and the status of Lincoln Ave. paving. The council discussed the potential purchase of challenge coins.