BERLIN – After hours of discussion and four failed votes, Berlin’s elected officials approved a one-and-a-half cent tax increase this week.On Monday, the Berlin Town Council voted 4-1 to approve a tax rate of $.815 per $100 of assessed property valuation The decision, which will equate to a $45 increase for someone with a home… Read more »
SNOW HILL – Worcester County is moving closer to installing cameras at local recycling centers to prevent illegal dumping.The Worcester County Commissioners voted unanimously last week to explore pricing associated with placing surveillance cameras at recycling drop-off locations in Bishopville, Whaleyville and at the Walmart in Berlin. The stepped-up enforcement plan comes in the wake… Read more »
BERLIN – The town’s spring celebration will mark the start of what merchants hope is the beginning of a return to normal in Berlin.The Spring Celebration of Hope, set for April 3, will include a variety of socially distanced activities meant to bring people to town in a safe way. It is expected to be… Read more »
SNOW HILL – State officials are currently reviewing comments from the public regarding proposed timber harvesting in the Pocomoke State Forest and Chesapeake Forest.The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) received more than 100 comments regarding the harvest of more than 2,300 acres of timber at the forests as part of the fiscal year 2022… Read more »
BERLIN – A grant will allow the town to install a rooftop solar array at the Schoolfield Street substation.The town has received a $122,375 grant from the Maryland Energy Administration for a solar array for the substation on Schoolfield Street.“We were the first to apply and the first to receive the grant,” Town Administrator Jeff… Read more »
SNOW HILL – The multi-million-dollar price tag associated with bringing broadband to Worcester County isn’t deterring elected officials.The Worcester County Commissioners last week asked a Chestertown company to return in April with a plan to deploy fiber throughout Worcester County in three years.“If we have to bond money to get it done, we bond it,”… Read more »
BERLIN – Elected officials in Berlin are expected to consider adopting a reserve policy later this month.On Monday, the Berlin Town Council discussed a reserve policy drafted by town staff. They’re expected to review a final version of the policy at their next meeting.“It is a guide,” Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood said. “It’s not edict…. Read more »
SNOW HILL – Businesses in downtown Berlin will continue to have access to façade improvement funds thanks to a grant from the state.The town received $50,000 in façade improvement funding from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development this week. Shop owners who want to enhance their storefronts can apply for up to $10,000… Read more »
NEWARK – Worcester County Public Schools is now offering COVID-19 testing to students and staff at all 14 schools.The school system this week announced that a new school-based testing program would be offered to participating students and staff. The program is intended to allow those who become ill during the school day to be tested… Read more »
BERLIN – The Berlin Historic District Commission approved signs for new shops, the addition of a flower cart to Bay Street and extensive renovations to a well-known Main Street home this week.Highlighting the meeting was discussion of the renovation of the 19th century home at 200 South Main St. Commission members praised efforts to refurbish… Read more »