With skyrocketing lumber prices caused by supply concerns and shipping delays, Ocean City needs to have another conversation about the surface of the Boardwalk. It’s clear the replacement project needs to happen after this summer.It’s going to cost much more – potentially more than double – than budgeted to replace the wooden decking of the… Read more »
It’s been interesting to observe local governments work through their budget review processes this month.Though each is different with their specifics, most governments are working with a reduction in revenues associated with the pandemic coupled with decreases in expenses, also a result of reduced operations due to restrictions from COVID-19.Worcester County government and Ocean City… Read more »
The police reform package headed toward passage in Maryland is not all bad, but the new legislation will certainly make a law enforcement career unappealing to many.With roots in some extreme examples of police misconduct across the country, Maryland lawmakers debated a series of bills this year aimed at heightened transparency and accountability for police…. Read more »
The Ocean City Mayor and Council was smart to not rubberstamp approval for the 2021 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the OC Air Show and the city. If agreements are not honored, they are not worth the time to discuss. If public funds are used inappropriately, scrutiny is required.Heading into the meeting it was evident… Read more »
When it comes to the drafting of short-term rental regulations in Ocean Pines and other areas, the philosophy needs to be don’t let perfect get in the way of good.There is no magic formula to address some of the ills associated with short-term rentals, such as crowding, trash and noise. Governments should do what they… Read more »
There was no need for a massive shift in Ocean City’s special events planning this summer, but it’s clear the city’s elected officials wanted a bang for this season.On one hand, the bold change in plans for the peak season in March is laudable. It signals Ocean City wants to demonstrate confidence and grandly provide… Read more »
This week’s announcement rolling back capacity limits and other restrictions is more about symbolism than pragmatism. Loosening the restrictions represents progress, but it comes with complications as far as a realistic impact on improving life within the hospitality industry.As he has been prone to do over the last year, Gov. Larry Hogan dropped a surprise… Read more »
Considerable discussion was held last week on the possibility of adding drone light shows to Ocean City’s special events offerings this summer. These are worthwhile talks, but there is no need to rush this year to fund the $200,000 required to hold eight drone shows over the next two summers.Illuminated drone shows set to music… Read more »
Among the many things confirmed over the last year has been education decisions are complicated because there are multiple layers to weigh in nearly all judgments. However, in nearly all cases, keeping convoluted matters as simple as possible should be the guiding force.An example would be there is no debate in-school instruction is superior to… Read more »
Worcester County Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor and the Board of Education formalized a second four-year contract this week. The new contract represents a significant increase – about 13% — over his current salary, but a little research shows his new salary of $210,000 effective July 1 is consistent with counterparts in Maryland and across… Read more »
