Electronic voting must be unanimous to be official By Greg Ellison (March 24, 2022) Despite initial assertions that the Ocean Pines Board of Directors voted unanimously by email last week to amend the definition of owner of record in its proposed bylaws revisions, it has since come to light that Director Rick Farr opposed the… Read more »
News
Berlin awarded state grant to establish ‘Pollinator Way’
By Greg Ellison (March 24, 2022) Town of Berlin officials’ goal of converting an eyesore in to an educational attraction for youth — while promoting its Bee City designation — is coming to fruition after being awarded a $5,000 grant through the Keep Maryland Beautiful program. Clean Up & Green Up Maryland grants, which are… Read more »
Rose steps down as chair of HDC
But she’ll continue to serve while turning leadership role over to Norman Bunting By Greg Ellison (March 24, 2022) Leadership roles on Berlin’s Historic District Commission changed earlier this month with former chairperson Carol Rose handing the reins over to Norman Bunting. After 14 years as commission chair, Rose opted to vacate the role. “I… Read more »
Environmental Committee talks geese deterrence
By Greg Ellison (March 24, 2022) Continued efforts to reduce the wild goose population around ponds in Ocean Pines were focused on last week by the Environmental and Natural Assets Committee. In addition to the plan to post signs that discourage feeding wildlife, other proposals for geese control options were examined during the groups’ meeting… Read more »
Church retiring as commissioner at end of fifth term
By Jack Chavez (March 24, 2022) West Ocean City’s county commissioner is ready to “smell the roses.” That was the phrase Worcester County Commissioner James “Bud” Church used often in discussing his decision to retire from his position of the last 20 years when his term expires later this year. Church, 80, whose District 3… Read more »
Berlin council sticking with ’22 tax rate
Would net $144K more over current year’s revenue By Greg Ellison (March 17, 2022) Berlin officials appear ready to maintain the current real property tax rate for FY23, with a first hearing held during the mayor and Town Council meeting on Monday. Financial Director Natalie Saleh said the proposed tax rate is 81.5 cents per… Read more »
Planning votes in favor of Berlin Activities Depot plans
By Greg Ellison (March 17, 2022) After a further review of the stormwater management plans for an expanded Berlin Activities Depot, the Planning Commission gave a favorable recommendation last week for the project on Old Ocean City Boulevard. Last Wednesday, Jesyl Silva of George, Miles & Buhr presented site plans during the Planning Commission meeting,… Read more »
Berlin ping pong park plans greenlighted by Town Council
By Greg Ellison (March 17, 2022) The long-desired addition of ping pong at Burbage Park was approved by the Berlin Town Council on Monday. In November, the council authorized the nonprofit We Heart Berlin to purchase ping pong tables and equipment ahead of receiving formal approval. We Heart Berlin Vice-President Jeff Smith presented final project… Read more »
Election bylaws revisions spark strong protest
Speakers challenge rules on candidate eligibility By Greg Ellison (March 17, 2022) Granting more time for consideration or voting no for a host of proposed bylaw changes were the main messages residents sent to the Ocean Pines Board of Directors during a town hall on Saturday. Communications Advisory Committee Chair Cheryl Jacobs moderated the hybrid… Read more »
OP Racquet Sports looks to spring
By Greg Ellison (March 17, 2022) Ocean Pines Racquet Sports Committee members met last Thursday to review pending business as warmer weather begins to seep into the region. Committee Chairman Rhett Parsons said a new racquet sport option is planned for this spring. “The official Spec Tennis Club in Ocean Pines has been approved,” he… Read more »