The Pocomoke Public Eye would like to hear from you if you'd be interested in sharing highlights of Pocomoke City Council meetings with our readers, either attending the meetings or viewing the meetings on Zoom and emailing us a recap.  

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The Pocomoke Public Eye would like to hear from you if you'd be interested in sharing highlights of Pocomoke City Council meetings with our readers, either attending the meetings or viewing the meetings on Zoom and emailing us a recap.  

Interested? Let us know: email tkforppe@yahoo.com .

Candidate For District 3 Pocomoke City Council, Kim Jackson To Speak at Pocomoke Senior Center

Kim Jackson ~ "Bringing A New Perspective To Pocomoke"

 

http://www.vote4kimjackson.org/

Visit her website:  http://www.vote4kimjackson.org/

Like her page on Facebook: Kim Jackson For Pocomoke City Council, District 3

 Or give her a call:  443-735-VOTE (8683)

Pocomoke Election Day is April 1st!

A Few Words From Pocomoke City Mayor Bruce Morrison

I would like to thank the citizens of Pocomoke City for allowing me to serve a second term as Mayor.

I have thoroughly enjoyed being Mayor of this great city and look forward to leading us in the next three years continuing to move Pocomoke in a forward direction.

  Thank you again for your confidence in me.

Mayor Bruce Morrison

AGENDA~Pocomoke City Mayor & Council

A G E N D A

POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING

7:30 p.m., Monday, December 3, 2012

City Hall

1. Call to Order, Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.

2.  Review and approval of minutes from meeting of November 5, 2012.

3.  Review and approval of bills to be paid.

4.  Police Chief Kelvin Sewell to announce the promotion of two officers from the rank of P.F.C. to Corporal.  (Robert Horseman and Brad Morgan)

5.  Ms. Annette Wallace, Principal of Pocomoke High School, to present plaque thanking City for previous support.

6.  Ord. No. 412  to approve a revised voting election district map as a result of the 2010 U.S. Census.

7.  Review letter from Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman Richard Seidel recommending approval of  minor subdivision on Newtown Boulevard (Hob Mason, owner).

8.  Res. No. 472 to approve new Septic Tier Map as required by State law. (Letter from Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman attached)

9.  City Manager to present summary of bids received for downtown sidewalk repairs. (Bid opening 2:00 p.m., 12/3/12)

10.  Resolutions:
(a)     Second Reading of Res. No. 469 regarding new radio read water meters
(b)    Second Reading of Res. No. 470 regarding permanent financing for new restaurant building (Taylor Bank)
(c)    Second Reading of Res. No. 471 regarding permanent USDA financing for new police department at 1500 Market Street

11.  Authorize Mayor to sign administrative services agreement with Nationwide Retirement Solutions, Inc. for employee savings plan.

12.  Discuss letter from Bishop Isaac Jenkins regarding new location for Save-The-Youth offices at 126 Willow Street.

13.  Letter from Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker concerning donation of 1000 “Nature Trail” books.

14.  City Manager to present list of items to be declared as surplus.

Comments from the Audience.

Mayor and Council Items.

Adjourn.

AGENDAS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UNTIL THE TIME OF CONVENING.

Pocomoke City Mayor and Council Meeting

A G E N D A

POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING

7:30 p.m., Monday, September 10, 2012

City Hall

1. Call to Order, Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.

2.  Review and approval of minutes from meeting of August 6, 2012.

3.  Review and approval of bills to be paid.

4.  Authorize Mayor to issue proclamation for American Legion Month in honor of the 80^th Anniversary of Post 93 in Pocomoke City.

5.  Second Reading of Ord. No. 410 regarding Ethics.

6.  Discuss recommendations from Planning and Zoning Commission:

1. Annexation of Hertrich Ford property on US Rt. 13 at Sheephouse Road
2. Site Plan for proposed improvements at Buchanan Subaru on Market Street Extended
3. Site Plan for Coastal Commodities project to construct new grain elevators on Quinn Avenue south of railroad tracks

7.  Res. No. 466 to authorize the City Manager to sign certain forms on behalf of the City regarding purchase of a new trash collection vehicle.

8.  Review proposal from Bozman Paving Co. for patching several street cuts and openings and for repaving at Cypress Park.

9.  City Manager and Water/Sewer Superintendent to recommend purchase of used generator.

10.  City Attorney to discuss proposed ordinance to regulate bulk item collections.

11.  Discuss letter from Major East requesting approval to hunt on City property on Dunn Swamp Road with bow and arrows.

12.  City Manager to discuss recently approved state grant for sidewalk repairs on Willow Street and Clarke Avenue.

Comments from the Audience.

Mayor and Council Items.

Adjourn.

AGENDAS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UNTIL THE TIME OF CONVENING.

Minutes From Pocomoke City Mayor and Council Meeting ~ 7/2/12

July 2, 2012

The regular meeting of the Pocomoke Mayor and Council was held in the Council Chambers at City Hall on Monday July 2, 2012. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M.

Present: Mayor Bruce Morrison

Council Members: Tracey Cottman,

Rob Clarke, Diane Downing,

Donald L. Malloy, George Tasker

City Attorney William Hudson

City Manager Russell W. Blake

City Clerk Carol L. Justice

Review Minutes:

In a motion (Malloy, Clarke passed), to approve the minutes of June 18, 2012.

Review Bills:

In a motion (Downing, Clarke passed), the bills presented to be paid. (Copy of bill list attached to original minutes).

Chief Kelvin Sewell to introduce new Police Officer, Anthony Foy:

Chief Sewell introduced Anthony Foy as a new certified officer. Mr. Foy has been a dispatcher for two and half years and became a certified police officer two years ago. Mr. Foy lives in Fruitland Maryland.

Mayor Morrison welcomed Mr. Foy to the City of Pocomoke.

Chief Kelvin Sewell to discuss recent grand opening of new police station building and National Night Out event (August 7):

Chief Sewell thanked the Mayor and Council for the new police building. He stated that staff morale is up and crime rate are down.

Chief Sewell stated that the National Night Out will be August 7 this year and the State funding for this event has been cut. He would like to request $1,500 to fund this project. He stated that it is a well-attended event.

Mayor Morrison stated that it is a wonderful program.

In a motion (Malloy, Downing passed) to sponsor the National Night Out with a donation of $1,500.

Authorize Mayor to sign renewal agreement for monitoring and laboratory services for Water and Wastewater Treatment with Maryland Environmental Service (MES):

City Manager Blake stated the MES has been a back-up service that advises and counsels the Superintendent with monitoring and laboratory services at the Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant. He stated that the contract was up for renewal at a cost of $21,905.

Councilman Clarke asked if there were any alternatives.

City Manager Blake stated yes, but they would be very costly.

In a motion (Tasker, Cottman passed) to authorize the Mayor to sign the renewal agreement with MES in the amount of $21, 905.

Discuss recommendation from Housing Coordinator Harvey Davis for repair or demolition of houses at 724 Sixth Street (James Finney, owner) and 415 Oxford Street (Mr. James H and Mary E. Wright, lifetime and others, owners):

Mayor Morrison read a memo from Housing Coordinator Harvey Davis stating that both properties show signs of progressive structural failure, neglect, and abandonment, and should be considered unsafe structures.

In a motion (Cottman, Downing passed) to accept Housing Coordinator Harvey Davis’ recommendation to send notification to owners to repair or demolish 724 Sixth Street and 415 Oxford Street.

Discuss proposal from building inspector Ron Hamblin for preliminary inspection services at Armory Building:

City Manager Blake stated that the City needed to have a preliminary inspection of the Armory building to find out the condition of the building and the possibilities for reuse of the building. He suggested Ron Hamblin for this job since Mr. Hamblin has done other inspections for the City. There would be two phases; Phase one would be to inspect the building and determine possible reuses and Phase two would be an environmental review inspection.

Councilwoman Cottman suggested to move forward with the preliminary inspection and not to make any decision regarding the building until the preliminary study was completed.

In a motion (Malloy, Cottman passed) to hire Ron Hamblin for preliminary inspection of the Armory building.

Councilman Clarke stated that Save the Youth would like to use the gym this summer.

In a motion (Clarke, Cottman passed) to allow “Save the Youth” to use the gym if they sign the proposed lease agreement, and abide by all conditions, for the summer using the back door. Also Save the Youth could continue to use the office downstairs until preliminary study is completed. Councilman Malloy was not in favor of this motion.

City Attorney to discuss proposed Ethics Ordinance as required by Maryland State Law:

City Attorney Hudson stated that the City has an Ethics Ordinance (Chapter 37) in the Code book but it has been thirty (30) years since it has been updated. The new state law is much more comprehensive. The City requested and was exempted from the lobbying requirements. Two model ordinances which we must choose trying to add into them can be cumbersome. He suggested going with the simplest model ordinance and he would have a draft Ordinance at the next meeting.

Mayor Morrison stated that he did speak with Scott Hancock at the MML Convention and stated his displeasure with how MML handled this situation.

City Attorney to discuss progress on right-of-way acquisition for Stormwater Drainage project near Butler’s Village:

City Attorney Hudson stated that since the last meeting he spoke with City Manager Blake and Attorney Paul Wilbur who has handled things like this before. Mr. Wilbur stated that Tucker Homes is in foreclosure and in 2010-2011 they filed bankruptcy. PNC Bank holds the lien and has initiated a foreclosure. Auctions take time because they have to be advertised for three weeks and several months after to complete the sale. He stated that he doesn’t believe that the City can negotiate and finalize an agreement with Tucker Homes at this time.

City Manager Blake stated that they need to look at the map again to see if there may be another way to proceed with the stormwater plan.

Mayor Morrison asked City Manager Blake to request an extension for the grant.

City Manager to discuss proposed cell phone policy:

City Manager Blake stated that Finance Director Monna VanEss has recommended a cell phone policy for privately owned cell phones used by employees for City business. Employees who are required to have a cell phone would be required to sign an agreement and be reimbursed $40.00 a month which would be taxable. The IRS is considering a cell phone policy and we would be required to keep more documents to determine what was used as business or personal. This proposal would make it easier for the City and could possibly save money.

Councilman Tasker asked what the percentage of the cell phone would be paid.

City Manager Blake stated maybe 50%.

It was suggested to reimburse employees $60 per month for cell phone use and the employee would be required to maintain the cell phone, chargers and headsets.

Councilwoman Cottman asked how many people have City cell phones.

City Manager Blake stated approximately 12.

In a motion (Malloy, Tasker passed) to adopt a cell phone policy with to reimburse employees $60.00/month to maintain a cell phone for both personal and City buisness.

Cameras on Cedar Street near school zones:

Mayor Morrison said he would like to have a trial period using cameras on Cedar Street to slow traffic down in that area. He recommended a three month trial period.

Councilman Malloy stated that he liked Councilman Clarke’s idea a couple of months ago about adding stop signs.

Councilman Clarke stated he doesn’t like the cameras. It’s a scam for local government to raise taxes without taxes being raised.

Esther Troast, from the audience, stated that she would be happy with the cameras but something had to be done regarding the speeding on Cedar Street. She has almost been killed twice pulling out of her driveway; she said give her stop signs and she would be happy.

Councilman Malloy asked Councilman Clarke where he thought stop signs should be installed.

Councilman Clarke stated a 4-way at 10^th and Cedar; 3-way at 11^th and Cedar; and 3-way at 14^th and Cedar.

In a motion (Malloy, Clarke passed) to install new stop signs at 10^th and Cedar, 11^th and Cedar and 14^th and Cedar.

Ms. Troast thanked the Mayor and Council.

Comments from Audience:

Josh Nordstrom thanked the City for their help at the Cypress Festival. He stated that they had hired a new executive director who will be working on Saturdays.

Comments from Council:

Councilman Tasker stated that 802 Second Street is infested with bats. The man living there had to move and the neighbors are upset.

City Manager Blake stated that the Health Department has been called.

Councilman Tasker asked if a handicap sign be installed at Front Street near the church.

In a motion (Clarke, Cottman passed) to have a handicap sign installed on Front Street.

Following a motion by Councilman Malloy and seconded by Councilwoman Cottman, the Council voted to meet in a closed session at 8:18 P.M. in the Council Chambers. Present were Mayor Morrison, Councilman Clarke, Councilman Malloy, Councilwoman Cottman, Councilwoman Downing, Councilman Tasker, City Manager Blake, City Attorney Hudson, and City Clerk Carol Justice. Items discussed were real estate matters and personnel. The Executive Session was adjourned at 8:26P.M.

Approved:___________________

________________________________

Carol L. Justice

City Clerk

Pocomoke City Mayor and Council Meeting ~TONIGHT

AGENDA

POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING

7:30 P.M., MONDAY, JULY 2, 2012

CITY HALL

1. 
   
   1. Call to Order, Prayer, and Pledge of Allegiance.

2. Review and approval of minutes from meeting of June 18, 2012.

3. Review and approval of bills to be paid.

4. Chief Kelvin Sewell to discuss recent grand opening of new police station building and National Night Out event (August 7).

5. Authorize Mayor to sign renewal agreement for monitoring and laboratory services for Water and Wastewater Treatment with Maryland Environmental Service (MES).

6. Discuss recommendation from Housing Coordinator Harvey Davis for repair or demolition of house at 724 Sixth Street (James Finey, owner).

7. Discuss proposal from building inspector Ron Hamblin for preliminary inspection services at Armory Building.

8. City Attorney to discuss proposed Ethics Ordinance as required by Maryland State Law.

9. City Attorney to discuss progress on right-of-way acquisition for Stormwater Drainage project near Butler’s Village.

Comments from the Audience

Mayor and Council Items.

Adjourn to Executive Session to discuss personnel, real estate, and legal matters as permitted under the provisions of Sec. 10-508 (A), (1), (7), (8) of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland and perform executive actions.

AGENDAS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UNTIL THE TIME OF CONVENING.

Pocomoke City Mayor and Council Meeting Tonight

AGENDA 

POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING

7:30 P.M., MONDAY

 MAY 7, 2012

CITY HALL

1. Call to Order, Prayer, and Pledge of Allegiance.

2.  Review and approval of minutes from meeting of April 9, 2012.

3.  Review and approval of bills to be paid.

4.  Authorize Mayor to sign  lease agreement for new restaurant.

5.  Public Hearing on proposed 2013 CDBG and status report on current CDBG projects.

6.  Emergency Resolution No. 459 to authorize submittal of CDBG application and to adopt updated “Section 3 Plan”.

7.  Discuss letter from Andy Clarke, president of Pocomoke City Volunteer Pocomoke Fire Company, Inc. to purchase new slip-in pump and tank unit for their brush fire response unit.  Total cost $11,185.

8.  Consider request from DPGA to use Winter Quarters Golf Course for a tournament on Friday morning June 15.

9.  Second Reading of Res. No 457 to authorize USDA loan to purchase new ambulance.

10.  Second Reading of Res. No. 458 to refinance loan with new police department building with USDA funds.

11.  Emergency Resolution No. 460 to approve a three year lease with Ford Motor Credit for a new Ford police vehicle purchased for the Police Department, and allowing the Mayor to sign documents relating to this lease.

12.  City Manager to discuss proposed regulation of interior furnishings left on open porches, balconies or other exposed areas.


Comments from the Audience.
Mayor and Council Items.
Adjourn.

AGENDAS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UNTIL THE TIME OF CONVENING.

Pocomoke City Mayor and Council Meeting Tonight

A G E N D A

POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING

7:30 p.m., Monday, April 9, 2012

City Hall

1. Call to Order, Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.

      2.Review and approval of minutes from meeting of March 5, 2012.

      3. Review and approval of bills to be paid.

      4.Mayor Morrison to swear in Councilmembers Tracey Cottman (three year term), Rob Clarke      (three year term), and George Tasker (one year term).

      5.Selection of First and Second Vice President of the City Council for the coming year.

      6.Introduction of new Police Officer Damien McGlotten.

      7. Consider request from Assateague People of Delmarva for use of Cypress Park for Pow Wow on May 19-20, 2012. 

       8. Public Hearing on proposed annexation of property located at 1139 Ocean Highway (Pocomoke Animal Hospital).

      9. Second Reading of Res. A-12-01 to approve annexation of property at 1139 Ocean Highway into the corporate limits.

    10.Public Hearing to obtain comments regarding the proposed re-designation of the City’s Enterprise Zone by the State of Maryland.

   11. Emergency Res. No. 456 to authorize submission of Enterprise Zone Application to State of Maryland.

  12. Authorize Mayor to sign proclamation for Fair Housing Month (April 2012).

   13. Review bids received for new ambulance.  (Bid opening 11:00 a.m., April 9, 2012)

   14.First Reading of Res. 457 to authorize U.S.D.A. loan for purchase of new ambulance.

    15. First Reading of Res. 458 to refinance loan for new Police Department building with U.S.D.A. funds.

  16. Discuss recommendation from Housing Coordinator Harvey Davis for repair or demolition of property at 523 Young Street (Allen Blount, owner). 

    17. Discuss possible dates for reception with members of City Boards and Commissions.

 Comments from the Audience.
Mayor and Council Items.
Adjourn.

 AGENDAS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UNTIL THE TIME OF CONVENING.

Pocomoke City Mayor and Council Meeting

A G E N D A

POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING

7:30 p.m., Monday, November 7, 2011

City Hall

1.      Call to Order, Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.

2.      Review and approval of minutes from meeting of October 3, 2011.

3.      Review and approval of bills to be paid.

4.      Authorize Mayor to sign proclamation for Native American Month – November 2011 and Native American Heritage Day – November 25, 2011.

5.      Mr. Donnie Drewer, District Engineer of Maryland State Highway Administration, to discuss S.H.A. projects and plans for 2012.

6.      Mr. Tom Worley, representing Comcast of Delmarva, Inc., to discuss upcoming franchise agreement renewal.

7.      Discuss letter from the County Council of Talbot County regarding the possible closure and relocation of the U.S. Postal Service Processing Facility in Easton, Maryland.

8.      City Manager to present four-month budget status report.  (October 30, 2011)

9.      Discuss proposal from Beauchamp Construction Company to construct concrete pad for generator at Water Treatment Plant.

10.  Discuss proposal from Maryland Environmental Service (M.E.S.) for smoke testing of sewer manholes as part of an Infiltration/Inflow Study.

11.  Review bids for demolition of vacant house at 501 Laurel Street.

Comments from the Audience.

Mayor and Council Items.

Adjourn.

AGENDAS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UNTIL THE TIME OF CONVENING.

Pocomoke City Mayor and Council

Pocomoke to secure mortgage for renovation

Written by

Bill Kerbin

POCOMOKE CITY -- The Pocomoke mayor and council voted to approve an emergency resolution to secure a $1.08 million mortgage from Shore Bank for the acquisition and renovation of the building at 1500 Market St. for the new police department headquarters.

The loan will include $532,500 for the acquisition of the property and $550,000 for the renovations of the building. Last month the council approved the bid by Beauchamp Construction for the renovation work. The bid was for $468,400, which was to be "value engineered" to reduce the costs.

Mayor Bruce Morrison reported that the Delmarva Discovery Center had requested additional help to cover the utilities at the center. Currently the town is giving the center $15,000 per year toward the cost of the utilities. However, according to Brian Garrett, the executive director, the cost for power is approximately $25,000 per year.

The council voted to conditionally approve the increase in the reimbursement but wanted to see the accounts of the center. Councilman Robert Clarke voted against the increase, saying he wanted instead to work on controlling the center's costs.

Audit report

Saying that the financial position of the town had improved, Mike Kleger, vice president of P.K.S., town auditors, reported that they had given Pocomoke City an unqualified opinion, which is the highest opinion that an auditor can give. City Manager Russell W. Blake reported that Mona Van Ess does an "excellent job" in taking care of the town's bookkeeping.

Kleger reported that the town's fund balance had increased $199,450 to a total of $668,275, or 15 percent of the town's operating expenses. The increase would have been even higher if the town had not had to transfer $491,000 to the water and sewer fund and $60,000 to the ambulance fund. The ambulance deficit was an improvement from the previous year, when the town had to transfer $107,000 into the fund.

The council passed a second emergency resolution to apply for a Community Legacy Grant of $148,000 from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. If successful, approximate amounts would be awarded to the following areas: Mar-Va Theater, $15,000; Costen House, $28,000; Delmarva Discovery Center for a generator system, $35,000; and downtown business development incentives, $70,000.

Blake suggested that the downtown business money could be used for business owners to make improvements and to help new businesses locate downtown. He said that maybe it could be used to pay the first few months rent for a new business or maybe for a deferred loan. He added that Angela Manos, the downtown coordinator, could work with the owners to find new businesses that would make a good fit downtown.

Awarding bids

The council voted to award a bid to Hill's Electric for the replacement of three four-inch valves and three six inch valves at the water treatment plant at a cost of $11,836. He said that some of the valves were leaking and needed replacing.

The other bid was for the demolition of the house at 707 Clarke Ave. and was awarded to Harry White at a cost of $10,000.

Under other business, the council voted to give Samaritan Shelter a round of golf for four players including a cart to be used in their Christmas gift basket; to allow the Chamber of Commerce the use of the Winter Quarters Golf Course for its annual tournament on Oct. 21; and to purchase an ad in the Pocomoke High School yearbook.

http://www.delmarvanow.com/article/20111016/NEWS01/110160302/Pocomoke-secure-mortgage-renovation?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|frontpage|p

Pocomoke City Mayor and Council Minutes ~ September Meeting

Welcome to the newest Pocomoke City Police Officer Lynell Green.  Congratulations to Lt. Kelvin Sewell on your promotion to Captain.  And GREAT JOB to Pocomoke City Police Chief Ervin and PCO Shawna Gammino on  your hard work in keeping the Pocomoke City Police Department in high standings with CALEA.  (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies).

MINUTES FROM SEPTEMBER  12, 2011

MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING

The regular meeting of the Pocomoke Mayor and Council was held in the Council Chambers at City Hall on Tuesday, September 12, 2011. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M.
Present: Mayor Bruce Morrison



Council Members: Tracey Cottman,
Rob Clarke, Bob Hawkins, Donald L. Malloy
City Attorney William Hudson City Manager Russell W. Blake
City Clerk Carol L. Justice

Review Minutes:In a motion (Hawkins, Clarke passed), to approve the minutes of August 8, 2011.

Review Bills:In a motion (Cottman, Hawkins passed), the bills presented to be paid. (Copy of bill list attached to original minutes).

Introduction of new police officer, Lynell Green:Chief Ervin introduced Lynell Green as a new officer, stating that he is Maryland certified and currently working in Baltimore City. He will begin his duties on October 13, 2011.
Police Chief J.D. Ervin and CALEA Coordinator Shawna Gammino to present official certificate from CALEA renewing the Pocomoke Police Department’s status as a "Recognized CALEA Agency."Chief Ervin stated that he was happy to present the Council with this great honor. The Department was first recognized in 2008 and must be recertified every three years. Following an extensive update of all CALEA files by P.C.O. Shawna Gammino, the Department has met all standards to be recertified.
Mayor Morrison congratulated the Chief and Ms. Gammino on their hard work in getting the Department up to the high standards of CALEA.
Councilman Hawkins stated that it is a great honor to have our Police Department recognized by CALEA.
Chief Ervin also stated that he was pleased to announce the promotion of Lt. Kelvin Sewell to Captain effective October 1. He added that Lt. Sewell is doing a great job for the Department and he was very pleased with his work.
Mayor Morrison stated that it was a well deserved promotion, and Councilman Hawkins added that he is very pleased by this promotion.

Representative of Pocomoke City Chamber of Commerce to present plaques thanking several City Departments for their assistance during the 2011 Cypress Festival:Bill Hickman, President of the Chamber of Commerce, stated that it was a great pleasure to present these awards tonight. He said that the City Departments help the Cypress Festival and that the Chamber is very appreciative for the help of the City. He presented awards to Pocomoke City Police Chief J D Ervin for the help from the Police Department; Mayor Morrison accepted a plaque on behalf of the Public Works Department. Mr. Hickman stated that the Public Works Department maintained the park for the festival and they helped with the set-up and taking down the tent, booths and other. Mr. Hickman also presented the Mayor and Council a plaque, stating that the festival would not be successful if the Chamber did not have their support. He added that he appreciates all the things the City does for the Chamber.
Mayor Morrison thanked Denise Wagner for her work at the Chamber and the things that she does to promote the City.

Authorize Mayor Morrison to appoint the Law Office of William C. Hudson as the City’s legal advisor in accordance with Section C-66 of the City Charter:Mayor Morrison stated that he would like to appoint the Law Office of William C. Hudson as the City’s legal advisor.
In a motion (Hawkins, Malloy passed) to authorize Mayor Morrison to appoint the Law Office of William C. Hudson as the City’s legal advisor in accordance with Section C-66 of the City Charter.

City Manager and representatives from Becker Morgan Group to present summary of bids received for renovation to building at 1500 Market Street for new Police Department offices. (Bid opening 11:00A.M., 9/12/11):City Manager Blake stated that the City had received seven (7) bids. Although one of them did not meet all the requirements of the complete bid. He presented a spread sheet summarizing the bids received along with several alternates and unit prices as well as a base bide amount for each bidder. He recommended accepting the low bid from Beauchamp Construction of Pocomoke City in the amount of $468,400, and suggested that he meet with the architectural firm and Beauchamp Construction Co to " value engineer" some of the costs on the right side of the spreadsheet. Beauchamp Construction is willing to do value engineering. All bids received are over our estimated budget, but we have already talked to Shore Bank and they are still interested in financing this project for us. Meanwhile we are talking with USDA about permanent financing for this project.
Mayor Morrison asked if Unit Price Items in A, B, C, D are negotiable.
City Manager Blake stated that Beauchamp Construction is more than willing to work with the City on this project to reduce the cost.
Mayor Morrison asked is there is a standard for holding cells.
Chief Ervin stated that the walls be solid concrete or cinderblock with reinforcement.
Councilman Malloy asked how long does a person stay in a cell.
Chief Ervin stated that sometimes they must stay overnight because the Commissioner is not always available.
Jason Pierce, of Becker Morgan Group, stated that they appreciated all the work the City has given them and they are here to help. He stated that he agreed with Mr. Blake that Beauchamp Construction was the low responsible bidder.
In a motion (Cottman, Malloy passed) to accept Beauchamp Construction as the contractor with the understanding that the cost may fluctuate because of value engineering.
　
City Manager to present memo recommending that certain delinquent business taxes be written off:City Manager Blake stated that Finance Director Monna VanEss recommended to take several older accounts off our books because they are uncollectable. The auditors look at this list as a liability. With business taxes unless the business still owns a building in Pocomoke City, there’s no opportunity to collect these taxes.
City Attorney Hudson stated that he would check on one of them for the next meeting, but he thinks that just changing the corporate structure and continuing the same business operation might allow the City grounds to go after the new entity.
Councilman Hawkins asked what the cost would be for City Attorney Hudson to complete the research to see if it was cost effective.
City Attorney Hudson stated that with about fifteen minutes of research he would know if it would be worth the City pursuing with collecting the taxes.
In a motion (Malloy, Cottman passed) to write off the delinquent taxes except Steve Black/Arby’s until next meeting.

Discuss letter from Landmark Insurance Company concerning Worker’s Comp. Insurance:City Manager Blake stated that our worker’s comp insurance is with IWIF. IWIF works though agencies which get commissions. We don’t pay that directly to the agency. Landmark has offered to be more proactive in trying to protect the City’s interest than what we have had over the past few years. They are offering to have safety seminars, work with the department heads, and try to get the employees to think and work smart to get our rates down. It is something to try and see how it works. It does not cost us any more or any less to change agencies.
Mayor Morrison stated that he liked the fact that they are willing to do training and work with the department heads on working smarter.
In a motion (Clarke, Hawkins passed) to transfer the City’s worker’s comp to Landmark Insurance Company.

Discuss vacancies on various Boards and Commissions:Mayor Morrison stated that we really needed to fill some of the vacancies. John Chamberlain has agreed to sit on the Board of Zoning Appeals.
Councilman Clarke stated that Kennis Austin is willing to be on the Board of Zoning Appeals or the Planning Zoning Commission. Also, Jay Pittman is interested in serving on one of the Boards.
Mayor Morrison stated that he would like to reappoint the other Board members if they are interested in staying on the Board.
Councilman Clarke stated that Bob Coulbourne may also be interested in serving.
In a motion (Malloy, Clarke passed) to reappoint the current Board members and appoint John Chamberlain, Kennis Austin, and Jay Pittman to the Board of Zoning of Appeals and/or the Planning Zoning Commission.
　
Comments from the Audience:Richard Merrick, of Cedar Street, stated that during the last storm, the water was quite high at 14th and Cedar Street. He stated that there were people putting branches in the ditch and City has cleaned out the ditch all the way down to 5th Street. He stated that he took pictures of two people putting branches in the ditch. He said there may be a law against filling ditches with branches and trash. He stated that he has a neighbor that is always putting branches and things in the ditch.
Mayor Morrison stated that he would like to talk with this gentleman before any action is taken.
Mr. Merrick also stated that some people are cutting their lawns and blowing grass in the streets which clogs the stormwater drain.
Councilman Clarke stated he would like to see something put on the water

Rev. George Tasker stated that on September 23 there will be a Gospel Concert in Cypress Park and there will be free food. He invited the Mayor and Council and also asked if it was possible to have extra trash cans for that night.

Councilman Hawkins stated that the shrubbery in the parking lot around the Farmer’s Market needs to be pulled up as it looks bad. Also, at 603 14th Street, there is a storage pod which has been there for several months.

City Manager Blake stated that the recent Zoning Code does not allow them in the City limits.

Councilman Malloy asked about the status of several houses that were recommended to demolish: 618 Clarke Ave, 707 Clarke Ave., 705 Second Street, and 523 Young Street.
City Manager Blake stated that three that of them sent letters to repair or demolish within120 days and Mr. Davis is getting prices to demolish the house at 707 Clarke Ave.

Councilman Clarke stated that at the Log Cabin, the paper towel dispenser was broken and needed to be replaced. There is an erosion problem at the corner of Winter Quarters Drive and Rt. 13 that should be repaired.
City Manager Blake stated that it is on the list to repair as soon as possible.
Councilman Clarke stated that the Log Cabin needed to be power washed or refinished and needs screen doors. The swing set next to the building needs some repair work.

The next meeting will be October 3rd.

In a motion (Malloy, Cottman passed) to adjourn the meeting at 8:25 P.M.
Approved:______________________2011
　
　
___________________________________
Carol L. Justice
City Clerk

Pocomoke Officials Plan For Main Budget Fund To Rise

Written by

Bill Kerbin

POCOMOKE CITY -- The proposed budget for next year's municipal spending calls for the same tax rate for owner-occupied homes, 75 cents per $100 assessment, as they were charged last year. But rates for other real property would rise by four cents, to 80 cents per $100 of assessed value; and the budget calls for some increases in what property owners and businesses pay for municipal utilities.

Because the estimated value of Shore properties has declined recently, on average, no property owner should see an increase in any tax bills, town officials predicted.

The total budget for all three areas calls for spending $8.5 million next year, compared to $10.6 million in expenses in the current year. The drop in spending follows the end of one-time grants for upgrades to the sewer plant, which were taken in and spent right away in this year's budget. The water and sewer fund is shrinking from $4.8 million to $2.5 million.

The general fund portion of the budget, which pays for salaries and services like streetlights, road maintenance and trash pickup, is set to rise 3 percent, from $4.96 million to $5.1 million. A fund for ambulance service is planned to go up 5 percent, from $823,000 to $867,000.

One major cost for residents of Pocomoke City is the bill for water and sewer service, which will remain the same for owner-occupied homes. All other properties will see a 15 percent increase, the first in several years, if the proposed budget passes.

One increase for city residents is the trash disposal fee, which will be raised 50 cents per month to $9.50.
City Manager Russell W. Blake is expecting an increase in highway user funds from $22,900 to $59,200.

That's still down from recent years; in 2008 the town received $240,000 in state funding for city streets. That figure was substantially reduced the following year.

The $5 million upgrade at the wastewater treatment plant is expected to be completed by the end of this month. The only funds coming from the city will be $102,078, with the rest coming from grants, according to the budget.

Some other income expected includes $400,000 in economic development funds from Worcester County; $110,000 in room taxes; $40,000 from the county liquor department; $50,000 in franchise fees from the CATV service; and funds from other sources.

Concerning expenses, the town plans to increase employees' salaries by two percent to cover the state increase in their pension contributions. Another two percent cost of living allowance is planned because, officials said, they have not received raises for three years.

There are expected to be savings in personnel costs because of retirements and resignations in the public works department, the police department, the ambulance service and the golf course.

A major cost from the general fund is an $87,324 subsidy for the ambulance fund. The general fund will also have to subsidize the water and sewer fund to the tune of $22,356. With the purchase of the new building on Market Street for the Police Department, Blake estimates that the interior renovations next year will cost about $100,000.

Some other major costs include $150,000 for street lighting; over $100,000 for worker's compensation; $720,000 for health insurance payments, which is less than if the town had remained with Blue Cross (the town is self-insured); and $100,000 for street paving and repairs.

Blake has also included $20,000 to hire a new half-time employee to help promote downtown and work on other economic development. This money would come from a previous grant for downtown business start-ups and expansions.

The council will meet June 20 to vote on the final passage. The July meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 5.

The council granted the Rev. Barbara Bassuener, rector of St. Mary's Episcopal Church, permission to hold services one day a week in Cypress Park. Along with the service, bag lunches would be provided for homeless people attending.

Under other business Mayor Bruce Morrison presented a plaque to former Mayor Michael A. McDermott in recognition of his six years as mayor of Pocomoke City; he presented a proclamation to Bill Kerbin in recognition of his being named to the newspaper Hall of Fame; and swore in Jarmel Gibson and Jessica Villanueva as the town's new police officers.

Source;  http://www.delmarvanow.com/article/20110609/WCT01/106090310/Pocomoke-officials-plan-for-main-budget-fund-to-rise?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Worcester County Times|s

Mayor McDermott To Oversee His Last Council Meeting

POCOMOKE CITY -- Mike McDermott will oversee his last City Council meeting as mayor, resigning the position as he moves into the role of state delegate.

Scheduled for the meeting is routine business, including the review of minutes, a second reading of legislation and the city manager presenting project bids.

Also on the agenda is discussion of the 2011 Cypress Festival. Denise Wagner, executive director of the Pocomoke City Chamber of Commerce and event organizer, said the Chamber had previously spoken with the council and is expected to return with more information.

"It's more preliminary than anything," Wagner said. "(The council) asked for some additional information. ... We didn't have the sketches with us before."

The Cypress Festival is scheduled to enter its 37th year this summer, expanding once again, according to Wagner. She hopes to include life-saving demonstrations from the U.S. Coast Guard, expanded food and craft booths as well as a fishing tournament in Cypress Park.

"We haven't had our first Cypress meeting yet," Wagner said. "But we would like some additional space and to rearrange some things."

The council is also scheduled to discuss incentives for new homebuilders who install sprinkler systems in single family homes.

McDermott is specifically scheduled to present a deed for industrial property at the corner of Broad and Eighth streets to Dan Boyle of Beretta and Benelli Corp. The property was originally sold to Beretta on a lease-purchase contract in 1990.

After McDermott resigns, Robert Hawkins will fill in as mayor until city elections are held in April.

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