Jeffrey Fleetwood

The Planning & Zoning Commission meeting involved reviewing several new home build proposals and a new facility proposal. Key discussions included favorable recommendations for two new home builds by Chris Brown/Ryan Homes (Lots 59 and 77 on Winterberry Dr.). A third home build proposal by Denice Martinez was presented, pending final review comments from DBF. For a proposed home addition by Holly Campbell/Doug Marshall Sr., the Commission recommended approval, contingent upon confirmation that the site plan is consistent with the prior approval from the Maryland Board of Zoning Appeals regarding the property's occupancy, as the addition might result in a triplex. Finally, a favorable recommendation was issued for the new Farmers Bank of Willards facility, noting the inclusion of a 12-foot addition to the south side of the building and confirmation of stormwater reduction efforts.

The meeting covered several key items, including a discussion on Library Initiatives where the Library Director sought approval for a Community Story Walk. The Mayor and Commissioners adopted Dog Ordinance #763, which adopts the Wicomico County Animal Control dog laws for enforcement within the Town of Delmar, Maryland. The Police Chief reported on ongoing vehicle theft issues, an upcoming officer down status, the success of the Christmas Parade, and hydrant zone marking. The Utility Commission reported on the forthcoming MS4 Permit mapping requirement, expected arrival of pumps for the Water Treatment Plant project, and near completion of a stormwater project on Lincoln Ave. The Parks and Recreation Committee reported cancellation of the New Year's Eve Celebration and no December meeting. The Planning & Zoning committee recommended approval for a significant site plan for Shore Appliance. The session concluded with the swearing-in of Mayor Benjamin Jorden and Commissioners Jacob Boothe and Cory Shaffer.

The Town Manager's report covered several key items, including updates on forthcoming changes to the MS4 Permit prerequisites by the State of Maryland, necessitating stormwater infrastructure mapping, for which funding may be available. Progress on Water Treatment Plant (WTP) operations included pending installation of two high service pumps and the superintendent finalizing O&M and SOP documentation. Stormwater repairs and concrete work on Lincoln Ave. were completed, with milling materials being donated to the Delmar Nursing Home for parking lot improvements. The report also noted planned spot paving on Sixth St. and the closing of State Street Park restrooms for the winter due to vandalism.

The Mayor and Council meeting covered several key items. Discussions included a suggestion to potentially change the start time of future meetings, although the town charter specifies the first Monday of the month. A new member, Mr. Jeff Melvin, was sworn in to the Parks and Recreation Committee. The Council approved the placement of a new stop sign at Lincoln Avenue and N. Eighth Street. Key committee reports involved the Police Chief addressing recurring issues of unlocked vehicles with valuables left inside, leading to vehicle theft and recovery. The Student Advisor provided updates on upcoming student activities, including basketball games and concerts. Council Member Lanier reported on public works progress, noting the repair of Old Racetrack Rd., completion of the Lincoln Ave. stormwater project, and operational status of Well 2 at the Water Treatment Plant. It was also reported that the bid for Phase 3 of a project came in significantly over budget, requiring the RFP to be re-issued as two separate projects. The Planning & Zoning Committee recommended and the Council approved two new home builds by Chris Brown/Ryan Homes, and a Benrow Appliance Showroom and Warehouse, with specific conditions related to lot line adjustments, landscaping, and signage. The Town Manager reported on upcoming milling and overlay work and the necessary shift to obtain a Maryland Separate Stormwater Permit (MS4).

The Planning & Zoning Commission addressed several new business items, including two resubmissions for new home builds by Chris Brown/Ryan Homes on Lot 56 and Lot 82 of Winterberry Drive, both of which received favorable recommendations to the Mayor and Council. The commission also reviewed and granted a favorable recommendation, subject to follow-up plans for a lot line adjustment, a landscape plan, and a sign plan, for the Benrow Appliance Showroom and Warehouse proposed by Ryan Larmore/Tim Metzner on a lot south of Thornton Blvd. and west of Old Stage Rd. Public comments included concerns regarding street paving in Heron Ponds and the recent approval of amendments regarding pools and hot tubs. Commission comments recognized the Clerk of Council for achieving the Certified Municipal Clerk designation and announced retirements and new personnel hires for Administrative Assistant/HR and a CDL license holder position.