NEWARK – An online petition aims to reverse school hour changes made by Worcester County Public Schools.In response to the news that school day hours would be extended at some northern Worcester County schools, parents are now signing an online petition asking for the changes to be reversed.“While I understand how important education is, the… Read more »
BERLIN – As the town’s growth continues to be a concern among residents, candidates in this fall’s municipal election agree that annexations need to be looked at carefully moving forward.Both mayoral and town council candidates were asked to share their thoughts on growth during this month’s virtual town hall sessions hosted by The Dispatch. Plans… Read more »
SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Commissioners voted 5-2 in an emergency meeting Tuesday to move forward with the purchase of a riverboat.The commissioners agreed to loan Snow Hill and Pocomoke roughly $350,000 to buy the Black Eyed Susan, a 149-passenger riverboat that has been used in Havre de Grace. The boat is meant to… Read more »
BERLIN – While none of the town’s mayoral candidates believe a tax increase is necessary in the coming year, they have varying ideas on how to keep the rate steady.At last week’s online candidate forum, hosted by The Dispatch, each of the town’s five mayoral candidates were asked how they would approach the budget process…. Read more »
BERLIN – A housing relief program could help local renters affected by COVID-19.The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is administering $10 million for the Assisted Housing Relief Program. The program brings financial aid to those behind on their rent as a result of the pandemic.“This is so important for our apartment community… Read more »
OCEAN PINES – School system officials hope to dedicate the new Showell Elementary School next month.At a meeting of the Worcester County Board of Education Tuesday, Superintendent Lou Taylor shared plans to dedicate the new facility in October, depending on guidelines related to COVID-19.“We’re looking at a mid- to late-October dedication for that school,” he… Read more »
BERLIN – Though COVID-19 remains a concern, officials are planning ahead for next year with a full slate of events in Berlin.On Monday, the town council approved the 2021 schedule of special events as recommended by Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director.“This is usually the time of year we approve them,” Mayor… Read more »
SNOW HILL – Two weeks into the virtual launch of the school year, parents are already sharing internet frustrations with elected officials.While the school system has provided mobile hotspots to those who need them, internet speed and rural connectivity issues continue to plague local students.“If you’re in one of the municipalities you have everything available… Read more »
BERLIN – Mayor Gee Williams stands by last week’s decision to cancel the Berlin Christmas Parade while at least one of his challengers has plans to reverse that decision if elected.In an online candidate town hall session hosted by The Dispatch Tuesday, mayoral candidates shared their reactions to last Friday’s news that the annual Christmas… Read more »
OCEAN PINES – The Worcester County Commissioners expressed concern regarding a potential casino overlay zone at a meeting this week.On Tuesday, the commissioners held a work session regarding the Ocean Downs Casino’s proposal to create a casino overlay zone, which would allow for more entertainment uses on the property. While not all commissioners weighed in… Read more »