Council Minutes
The County Council of Wicomico County met in Executive
Session on
President Sarbanes brought the meeting to order. On motion of Mr. Long, the Minutes of October 21, 2003 were unanimously approved as amended.
Proclamations:
Mrs. Bartkovich presented a Proclamation to Mary Witt, Coastal Hospice, recognizing
November 2003 as National Hospice Month.
Mr. Long presented a Proclamation to Major Ronald Smith and Constance Spencer, Salvation Army, recognizing November 4, 2003 as Salvation Army Donut Day.
Mr. Sarbanes presented a Proclamation to Mr. Dennis Hebert, recognizing the week of
November 9-15, 2003 as Optimist Youth Appreciation Week.
Theodore E. Shea, II, submitted the following items for Council’s consideration:
Appointments:
Robert G. Corbin, Jr., Executive Director of Lower Shore Workforce Alliance, is requesting Council’s consideration to re-appoint Lawrence Elsey to another four-year term. Mr. Elsey currently serves as the representative of the Wicomico Private Sector and as Vice Chairman. On motion of Mr. Long, Council unanimously approved the re-appointment as requested.
Mr. Corbin also requested the re-appointment of Kaye Holloway to the Lower Shore Workforce Alliance Board. The four-year re-appointment requires concurrence of all participating counties. On motion of Mr. Dashiell, Council unanimously concurred the re-appointment of Ms. Holloway, as requested.
Board of Education Request:
Council is advised of the receipt of FY 2004 payments in the amount of $26,500 realized from the Board of Education’s contract with Pepsi Cola Bottling Company. The contract includes an “exclusive pouring rights” provision for a period of seven years. Such payments have been earmarked in the Board’s Capital Outlay Fund for upgrade of facilities at the County Stadium. On motion of Mr. Taylor, Council unanimously approved the requested use of the referenced funds.
Amendments to County Deferred Compensation Plan:
Mr. Shea referred to four amendments to the 457 Plan that would bring the Plan in compliance with Federal regulations. The changes will not have any monetary impact.
On motion of Mr. Long, Council unanimously approved the amendments and Resolution.
Grant Awards:
Mr. Shea advised that the County has been awarded a Community Development Block Grant of $414,190, comprised of the following grants: $200,000 for the County’s housing rehabilitation program; $114,190 for the Village of Hope, Inc., expansions of its medical and dental programs; and $100,000 to aid Homes for America, Inc. in construction of a community center for the Homes at Foxfield. John Lenox, Director of Planning, Zoning & Community Development, the department that administers the CDBG grant, thanked Council for their continuing support of this program.
Mr. Sarbanes recognized Mr. Henry S. Parker, former Council member, who was in attendance.
Grant Awards, continued:
The Board of Public Works, Maryland Department of Natural Resources has approved Program Open Space funds of $323,100 as a final installment for the design and installation of an automated irrigation system, night lighting for two soccer fields and two softball fields, roof replacement and relocation of homerun fences on two softball fields at the Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex.
The Department of Natural Resources has approved the County’s application for $25,000 to fund service contracts to provide portable toilets and/or trash removal service at public boating facilities.
Mr. Shea advised that a Homeland Security grant has been obtained to assist in the continued employment of law enforcement officers providing required security at the Salisbury Ocean City: Wicomico Regional Airport. Mr. Shea invited Sheriff Nelms, Robert Bryant, Airport Manager and Edward J. Kremer, Chair, Airport Commission, to join in the discussion. Mr. Shea continued that last May, Federal funds to pay for law enforcement presence were discontinued; the County has now secured partial Federal funding of approximately $100,000 for this purpose, but there is a shortfall of $33,560 that must be met by a local match. It was also noted that the grant must be executed not later than November 15. Sheriff Nelms stated the grant would help meet monthly expenses associated with homeland protection. Mr. Kremer added the Airport Commission plans to appeal the match requirement. In the event this is not successful, the Airport will make every effort to find sources to meet the required match.
Mr. Long moved to accept the referenced grant. Mrs. Prettyman asked if the Airport has money in reserve that could fund the match; Mr. Bryant stating that while there are funds in hand, the Airport Commission would like to retain these funds for matching Airport Capital Improvement projects; however, there is a possibility that the monies could come Airport Operating funds. Council will be kept informed of the issue. Council then unanimously approved the request.
Suggested Projects for Bonding:
Mr. Shea reported that during the first meeting of December a Bond Resolution designating projects to be funded through a bond issue would be presented to Council. Mr. Shea briefly reviewed a revised list of projects to be considered for bonding, including those that have been reduced, as shown below:
BOND PROJECTS
APPROVED
PROJECTS BY LEGISLATION SUGGESTED
PROJECTS FOR BONDING
Wor-Wic
Community College
Maintenance Building 130,029 130,029
Student Center/Addition
1,125,014 1,125,014
Water & Sewer (Comcast) 500,000 500,000
Library
Air Conditioning 100,000 100,000
Health
Department
Fritz Building 125,000 125,000
Finance
Department
Financial Management System
500,000 200,000
Contingency 200,000 200,000
Public
Works
West Side Collector 150,000
Water & Sewer Study 105,000 105,000
Coulbourn Mill Road 400,000 400,000
Schools
N. Salisbury – portables 50,000 50,000
N. Salisbury – construction 3,851,000 3,500,000
Pinehurst – roofs 104,000 104,000
Prince Street – A/E fees 510,000 300,000
Prince Street – roof repairs 67,000
Westside Primary – HVAC
355,000 355,000
Willards Elem – kindergarten
286,274 286,274
Mardela High – wastewater treat.
375,000 375,000
Parkside High – mechanical plant
125,000
Asbestos abatement
25,000 25,000
Land Acquisition/Improvements
685,000 685,000
Recreation,
Parks & Tourism
Parker
Ath. Cplx – lighting/parking
10,000 10,000
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$9,778,317
$8,575,317
Bonds
to be paid by others (Comcast) 500,000
------------
$8,075,317
Bonds
to be paid off $8,116,836
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Over/Under ($41,519)
Council members posed questions regarding the Board of Education revisions and the West Side Collector project. Mr. Dashiell commended County staff for their efforts to reduce total funding so that it did not exceed obligations retired, while meeting critical needs. Mr. Taylor was appreciative that funding for Wor-Wic Community College was not reduced.
Mrs. Petersen asked for Council’s consideration to increase funding for the Financial Management System by $25,000. There was discussion as to whether the bond amount should be increased or if Contingency funds might be used to meet the request. Following this discussion, Mr. Long motioned to grant the $25,000 funding by increasing the bond amount, rather than Contingency funds. Mrs. Prettyman provided a second to the motion, adding that the original list of Capital requests exceeded $21 million; the needs reflected in the requests remain, although budget constraints demanded that the funding be reduced; she further stated that a long-term plan is required to meet all the needs. Council then unanimously approved Mr. Long’s motion.
DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE
Patricia B. Petersen, Director, submitted the Statement of Latest Investment Rates/Balances for all County Funds: total general fund balance of $872,471; capital project fund balance of $30,825,403; total major non-designated funds, $47,952,694; total reserve funds of $4,795,687.
Mrs. Petersen requested approval to issue Permits to Operate to Best Western Motel, Thrift Travel Inn and Sign Inn, advising that the businesses have met all County criteria.
On motion of Mr. Long, Council unanimously approved the issuance of permits as requested.
DEPARMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Rai Sharma, Director, submitted a request by Robert L. Messick, Inc. to post a bond in the amount of $34,000 for Steeplechase Section 4. On motion of Mr. Taylor, Council unanimously approved the request.
Mr. Sharma then provided updates on the following projects:
Wetipquin Bride Repairs: With the require materials now in hand, the Department plans to begin repairs November 12 and conclude around December 30, weather permitting. Mr. Sharma asked Council’s concurrence prior to proceeding with public notices and advertisements. On motion of Mrs. Bartkovich, Council gave its unanimous approval to proceed.
Morris Road Project: The County has widened the road to 22 ft. and four of the seven drainpipes have been replaced. The road will be blacktopped in the spring of 2004 when weather conditions permit.
Sharps Point Crossing Project: Mr. Sharma stated that due to the upcoming holidays and a reduced crew, the Public Works staff has determined that planned repairs should be rescheduled to begin in December.
Inquiry regarding King Williams Court: Mr. Dodd reported conversations with residents of this area, who have expressed concerns about the possible causes for water drainage problems. Mr. Sharma responded that the Homeowners Association has not complied with stormwater management practices as required and the problem is not the result of the Bypass or the adjacent property owners. Mr. Sharma further stated that in an effort to alleviate the problem, he contacted the Soil Conservation Service. The SCS estimated a cost of approximately$2,500 to clean out the ditches (source of the problem); however, if the Homeowners Association is unwilling to pay, the work will be performed and the cost will result in a lien.
COUNTY ATTORNEY
Edgar A. Baker, Jr., wished to clarify a miscommunication, stating the County’s legislation (Bill 2003-19 Neighborhood Preservation Districts) does not contain a “sunset” provision; if the use is current and legal, it may continue; the legislation essentially established the status quo for what currently exists; and would mainly affect new conversions. Legislative Mr. Baker, Mr. John Lenox and Mr. Gary Pusey recently met officials of Salisbury University to clear up misunderstandings about the bill’s content. University officials shall share the correct information with its students.
PLANNING, ZONING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
John Lenox, Director, presented a request from the City of Salisbury for a zoning amendment in conjunction with the Glen Avenue – Stephens Annexation. The property in questions is located on the southerly side of Glen Avenue and is comprised of 0.4 acres. The site is proposed for development with a three-unit expansion of Chelsea Court Apartments, which adjoins the south side of the lot. Annexation would allow for the extension of City water and sewer services to the property.
The Wicomico County Planning commission reviewed this proposal during October 2003 and recommended R-8 Residential zoning upon annexation by the City. However, because the 1982 County Comprehensive Plan recommends low-density residential development for this area, Planning staff is requesting Council’s approval of the zoning classification. Following a brief discussion, Mrs. Prettyman motioned to amend the zoning designation to R-8A Residential; the motion was unanimously approved.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: None
COUNCIL COMMENTS:
Mrs. Prettyman referred to the Freedom Initiative Award presented to the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce. This award recognizes the Chamber’s involvement with the Eastern Shore Business Leaders’ Network, which focuses on the employment of individuals with disabilities. Mrs. Prettyman suggested that Council also recognize the Chamber at its next meeting. Council concurred.
Mr. Dodd wished to compliment Sandy Fulton, Tourism, and Gary Mackes Director of Recreation, Parks and Tourism, for a very successful Autumn Wine Festival held the previous weekend. In addition, Mr. Dodd stated he would like to see open dialogue with Salisbury University, that a task force be established and would be willing to serve on such a committee. Mrs. Prettyman and Mr. Taylor concurred with Mr. Dodd’s statement, with Mrs. Prettyman adding that dialogue among Salisbury, Fruitland and the County would be desirable. Upon inquiry by Mr. Dodd, Mr. Sarbanes said Council would discuss scheduling an initial meeting during the afternoon work session.
Mrs. Mary Ashanti, President, N.A.A.C.P., recalled that today is Election Day for the City of Salisbury and encouraged all eligible City residents to vote. Mrs. Ashanti also emphasized the importance of citizens sharing their views with their elected officials.
On a final note, Mr. Lenox also confirmed the recent meeting with Salisbury University officials regarding the County’s legislation addressing housing; the University plans to place a notice on its website to help students understand the technical differences between City and County legislation. It is staff’s understanding that Council should be presented with some type of licensing; however, staff would like to address a broader, overall housing plan for the County, keeping in mind that growth policies should integrate with other communities within the Metro Core. Mr. Lenox also said that it would be advisable to enact the new zoning currently being reviewed by Council, before implementing any licensing procedures. He also stated that Community Development Block Grant monies just received contain some funding to research housing issues.
Mr. Sarbanes responded that once zoning revisions have been adopted, Council would proceed to licensing issues, emphasizing the importance of involving community groups in the process.
With no further business to be discussed and on motion of Mrs. Prettyman, Council unanimously approved adjournment of Executive Session.
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Anthony Sarbanes, President
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Charles R. Dashiell, Jr., Vice President
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Edward T. Taylor, District One
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Stevie Prettyman, District Two
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Gail M. Bartkovich, District Three
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Marvin R. Long, District Four
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Larry W. Dodd, District Five
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Theodore E. Shea, II
Administrative Director