Updates

I want to apologize for not being more consistent in posting on my site during the past month. My plan is to continue to update you on a weekly basis with a report on city wide activities and to provide more commentary on events or other news worthy items.

I want to remind you that I host a weekly radio show on WBEY 97.9 fm and WGOP 540 am from 10:30-11:00 am every Wednesday. I hope you can take the time to listen to the show. I often bring in guests to talk about the goings on in our area and it is a lot of fun.

Look for several updates this weekend!!!

Weekly Update

Police Department

• Twice this week police responded to the Skate/Bike Park for juveniles not wearing proper safety equipment. They were advised on the requirements.
• McDonald's reported they had received a counterfeit $50.00 bill. The case was turned over to the Secret Service.
• Worcester County Animal Control responded to Second Street near Oak Street for a Pit Bull Terrier on the loose.
• Dollar General reported a shoplifting theft and called in a description of the vehicle. Officers located the vehicle and investigated further. This resulted in the arrest of Alfreda Corbin, 46 years old, for the theft of $31.00 worth of items from the store.
• Allen Holland reported the theft of his bicycle from in front of Advanced Auto.
• Officers responded to 504 Moore Street for a domestic disturbance. After investigating the incident, officers arrested Anthony Holden and Juanita Holden for Assault.

Water/Sewer Department

• Our staff continued their training with our consultant on ways to upgrade the performance of our plant operations as well as cost saving measures which can be implemented. This has been an ongoing review of the overall operations of the plant.

Public Works

• Interviews were conducted of several job applicants for work in our Public Works Department.
• Crews serviced the basketball courts located behind the Middle School.
• Several parcels of city owned/controlled property are now being serviced by a private contractor as a cost saving measure for employee time.
• Crews serviced and worked on the City Horse Stables located at the Fairgrounds.

Golf Course

• Crews worked on applying fertilizer to the greens.
• Crews worked on chipping brush and trees.
• New mowing equipment has been ordered for the course.

EMS Department

• CPR classes are being conducted by personnel from the department. Anyone interested in taking the three hour class can contact City Hall at 410-957-1333. The classes will be held in August.

MARVA Theater

• The MARVA nears completion as the balcony seats are expected to arrive this week ready for installation. The original order was no to specifications.
• A Swing Band will be in concert on Thursday night, July 31st. Cost is $10.00.

New Business

• The final permits are expected to be issued this week for the new Tractor Supply Company which will be located in the old Ames buidling at Market Street Plaza.

Weekly Report

Police Department

• Officers have been stepping up bike patrols around the city in recent weeks.
• Rosabeth Matthews and Livina Watson were both charged with Theft from Wal-mart.
• Market Street Deli reported a window apparently damaged by a BB.
• Police responded to an attempted burglary at 724 Ninth Street. Damage was discovered to a window.
• Norman Crawley was charged with an Open Container violation.
• Officers assisted the Worcester County Sheriff's Office in taking down a vehicle operated by Carlos Acevedo Jr. of Pocomoke City. Officers and Deputies recovered over a pound of Marijuana during the stop.
• Officers continue working on abandoned/junk vehicle removals around the city.

Public Works

• The city is considering hiring out many of the grass cutting jobs currently performed by Public Works. This would allow the staff to focus on other assignments. This is needed due to several employees being sidelined with various ailments in recent weeks and the staff shortage this has created.

Golf Course

• The annual Invitational Tournament was held this past weekend. Crews were on hand to insure the course was in top shape for the golfers.
• Work continues on fairway improvements.

Water and Sewer Department

• Letters have gone out to notify those using irrigation meters of a new $50.00 annual fee being charged for the reading of these additional meters.
• Superintendent Mike Phillips has recently attended a seminar on plant operations and has had additional training on site to help in improving plant operations and cost savings.

Industrial Park

• Alion Science and Technology Corp. of Chicago will begin operations in the park beginning in August. They will start in the MIST Building.
• Hardwire continues to work on their new facilities. This includes new port upgrades and an extensive boardwalk on the river.

Enjoy This Sacred Holiday

I hope you take the time to be with family and friends during this holiday weekend to celebrate the tremendous freedoms our forefathers have secured for their heritage. Freedom has never been free. We will have it so long as we are willing to fight for our security. Ironically, as quick as liberals are to point to the global nature of our world and express their willingness to submit to the whims of a world body politic, they are incredibly slow minded in seeing our national defense strategies as being equally global in nature.

In an unstable world, the best strategy is to promote freedom around the globe. As tyranny is defeated and freedom comes to a people, stability is the byproduct. In time, those countries join the world market and prosper. Our country is often seen by the far left as being "imperialistic" when nothing could be further from the truth.

If the United States was "imperialistic", the Stars and Stripes would be flying over Germany and Japan. We would have extracted our pound of flesh from those whose countries we liberated from the iron boot and the rising sun. If we were an imperialistic people, our flag would be waving over the entire Korean Peninsula, Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, Cuba, Mexico, and the list goes on and on...

Instead, we pay with our own blood the purchase price of freedom for those in bondage. We pay with our own treasure to rebuild that which we destroyed through the war that secured freedom for the very people who sought to destroy us as a nation. We then continue to offer security for those same people that they may prosper while resting in the shadow of the eagle.

The principle export of our nation is Freedom. It is the enduring, eternal flame that burns in the hearts of every human born on the face of the earth. It has been trampled by tyrants and villains, yet it rises from the ashes and strikes at the heart of the wicked.

As you celebrate our Independence Day in this great country, remember those who will be on patrol this hour securing your liberties. Remember those who have shed blood in defense of this nation. Bring to mind those families who have sacrificed their loved ones on the alter of freedom, and talk to your young ones about the responsibilities of liberty.

The erosion of freedom is not from those who strive to protect it; rather, it is from those who diminish the worthiness of the fight, and encourage others to do likewise.

May God's Blessing continue to rest upon the "land of the free, and the home of the brave!"

Weekly Report

Police Department

• Officers issued a citation to the owner of a pit bull terrier who had been left in a vehicle in the Wal-Mart parking lot during one of the hot days earlier in the week.
• Last Friday, our police assisted the Sheriff's Office in executing two search warrants which were performed in conjunction with search warrants served by members of the DEA earlier. The final warrants were served on 705 Clarke Avenue and 602 Laurel Street. Cash, drugs, and drug paraphernalia were seized.
• Clarence Jackson Jr. was arrested on an outstanding warrant and turned over the the Sheriff's Office.
• Animal Control and our officers investigated a report that a juvenile was bitten by a pit bull terrier on the sidewalk in front of 402 Fifth Street. The investigation continues and the Health Department is also involved.
• Our K-9 Drug unit assisted the State Police on a traffic stop on Rt. 13. The K-9 scanned the stopped vehicle and alerted to the presence of drugs. A subsequent search uncovered two bags of marijuana. The New York driver was arrested by MSP.
• Donnease Sturgis was charged with Trespassing at Wal-Mart.

Fire Company

• The volunteers burned down the abandoned house at Clarke Avenue and Oak Street as part of a training exercise.

Main Street Coordinator

• Our application to become a designated Main Street Community has been submitted to the State.

City Docks

• Two boaters were warned against performing work on their boats which spilled over onto the dock.
• Two boats have been removed from the dock by the owners at the city's request.

Public Works

• Crews focused on the Cypress Festival. Bathrooms were painted and coordinated work was done with the Chamber in preparation for the amusements.
• Weed killer was applied to city sidewalks.

Golf Course

• Pesticides have been applied to the tee boxes.
• A used roller was picked up this week for use at the course.

Upcoming Events:

• MARVA Performing Arts Theater will play host to a traveling New York Theater Group who will present "Driving Miss Daisy" on Friday and Saturday nights (20th &21st)
• The Costen House will hold an art show at the Cypress Park near the flag pole on Saturday afternoon (21st)
• Next weekend, the fairgrounds will be hosting "Jeeps on the shore" for the weekend.

Golf Camps This Summer

In recent months, I met with officials of the Lower Shore Family YMCA to discuss the potential for partnerships between the YMCA and Pocomoke City. Director Gary White, Board President Vernon Redden, and the full Board seemed eager to work with the city to provide an extension of recreational opportunities for area residents.

It was agreed that we would focus on two project for the upcoming year. The first to the reestablishment of Summer Golf Camps at the Winter Quarters Golf Course. In past years, this was a very successful program which continued on for decades. Most recently headed by Councilman Robert Hawkins, the program fell into decline due to a lack of adult support staff able to assist Mr. Hawkins.

Last night at the Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Council, Director White provided the city with a proposed budget for to operate the golf program for ten weeks this summer. The cost was nominal at $1522.00 and I believe this will be fully funded by the city. The first camp would begin the week of June 16th. This promises to be a great opportunity for those wishing to expose a young person to the sport or to provide aspiring young players a chance to improve their skill level. I love the idea of this type of partnering in our community.

The second program would involve the city working with the YMCA to provide funding for transportation costs to allow more underprivileged kids a chance to benefit from after school sports and recreational/learning classes being offered. Currently, students who participate can ride to the YMCA direct from their respective schools following the conclusion of the school day. The problem comes in when some parents do not have transportation to bring their child home. There is currently no provision for getting the kids home following the program, thus parents must pick the kids up at the YMCA. I have suggested that the city would pick up the tab for the return transportation costs for kids living in the city. This would be a means of creating further opportunities for some of the more vulnerable in our community. The budget for this has not been established as of yesterday.

These are just two of the ideas that have been floated around in my meetings with the YMCA staff and Board of Directors. I wish to thank them for meeting with me and being willing to think outside the box on creative ways to provide greater experiences and opportunities for our young people in Pocomoke City.

Skate/Bike Park Opens This Week

During my first campaign for the Office of Mayor (2005), I met many young people in my travels around the city who clamored for a place where they could practice their sport of Skateboarding or BMX style Biking. I pledged to make this a reality as I believe that our city is more family friendly when we provide accessible recreational opportunities for our young people.

This week, a professionally designed and built Skate/Bike Park will open as part of the Cypress Park Recreational Complex. American Ramp Company is known throughout the United States for providing well designed parks and equipment that will stand the test of time. Pocomoke City will be only the second municipality on the shore to provide this recreational experience for our citizens (Ocean City being the other, however they do not allow bikes).

Registration will be required by those wishing to utilize the facility. The forms will be available at City Hall (downtown on Clarke Avenue) along with a complete list of the rules governing the park. Full safety equipment is required. City residents will pay no fees while those residing outside of the city will pay $25.00 at the time of registration.

The park is monitored 24/7 by police surveillance cameras which will focus on the Skate/Bike Park and Police Officers will monitor riders and conduct spot checks in the park to insure compliance with all rules and registration.

I encourage parents to take the time to come to the park and participate by observing the tricks and stunts performed by their own kids as well as others. Policing the park largely rests on the shoulders of those who use the facility. I ask for all who care about recreational opportunities in Pocomoke City to notify police of any potential problems before they get out of hand and to report any damage they may observe to the city.

This great facility represents a $65,000.00 investment in recreational opportunity by Pocomoke City. May it provide hours of entertainment for years to come.

Weekly Report

Police Department

• A guest at the Pocomoke Inn Motel reported that some items had been removed from his unlocked motor vehicle.
• Leroy Crippen of Young Street was arrested following his transport to McCready Hospital for a leg injury. He was wanted by the Maryland State Police on two outstanding warrants.
• While shopping at Pocomoke Market Place, Grace Dennis reported that someone removed a pocket bookf from her unlocked vehicle. The purse was later recovered by police at the Dollar General Store with money missing.
• Following a parking lot scan by law enforcement at the Green Turtle Restaurant, Cleveland Jones Jr. of Exmore and Presten Satchell of Tasley were arrested for possessing a handgun in a motor vehicle unlawfully.
• Police reported graffiti located at the rail siding and dock area behind Benelli's on Broad Street.
• Charles Bailey, 50, of 210 Linden Avenue was charged with theft at the Dollar General Store.
• H&H Furniture reported the theft of a vehicle tag from one of their service vehicles located near the store.
• Elvis Northam was charged with theft at the Wal-Mart Store.

Public Works

• Weeding and mulching occupied some crews in the downtown area.
• The Street Sweeper has been in heavy use in the past week around the city.
• Crews conducted an emergency sewer tap at Tenth and Laurel Streets.
• Crews painted benches downtown
• Crews moved voting machines to the polling place and returned them to storage.

Golf Course

• Crews trimmed many low branches near greens and cart paths.
• Crews continue to fertilize fairways and T-Boxes.
• Crews pressurized the irrigation system for the coming season.

EMS Department

• Director Tilghman met with membership of the Pocomoke Vol. Fire Company at their regular meeting where he introduced himself and talked about further cooperation between the two agencies. Several Firefighters have offered to serve as backup volunteers or as part-time paid staff for our Second Duty Crews.
• Orientation of new crew members was conducted by Director Tilghman.

Other News

• City Discount Pharmacy is expanding to a second location near the corner of Cedar and Tenth Streets.
• Several new building permits have been issued for Woodland Acres subdivision located across from Pocomoke High School.
• The City has been selected to receive an Award for Excellence from the Maryland Municipal League at their annual meeting in Ocean City this June.
• I will be attending a meeting of the Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday the 8th to discuss our budget/grant requests from Worcester County for the coming fiscal year.
• I have been asked to be the Master of Ceremonies for the Worcester County Drug and Alcohol Abuse Council's annual banquet being held on April 18th in Ocean City. The county takes this opportunity to recognize excellence in the field of prevention and apprehension as it relates to drugs and alcohol. This is the fourth year I have MC'd the event, and it is truly an honor to do so.

Republican Women and Liberty

This past week, I was delighted to speak at the meetings of the Delmarva Women's Republican Club and the Worcester County Republican Women's Club. It was an honor to speak to these dedicated ladies (and a few of their husbands) about Pocomoke City, Worcester County, and politics in general across this great state.

The meetings bring to mind the importance of being informed and involved in our respective communities. Those on the eastern shore share many concerns which traverse jurisdictional boundaries and party lines. I spoke about freedom and liberty as it relates to our traditional Constitutional Republican form of government, and how they lead to greater wealth, opportunity, education, and ultimate prosperity when they are our focus.

I spoke about individual responsibility and the power of individual freedom. Government was never intended by the Founding Fathers to provide the entitlements we have come to rely upon as a people. Quite the contrary, our government was established to provide protection so we could endeavor to seek, "...life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" all the days of our lives.

As a people, we were never meant to become dependants of our government. When we stray from those founding principles, we must pay the price with our liberty. Taxes are how government pays the price demanded by her constituents. In the past 100 years, over 100 new taxes have been added. The average citizen paying taxes will, overall, pay half of their income in taxes to the government. It is a recipe for bondage and further dependence.

It is good to raise these issues and to consider the principles for governing laid out in our founding documents. It is good to remember why we sought to throw off the former government of the British Crown in order to "adopt new guardians" for our future. Those principles have not changed, but we have compromised our liberty, and our future prosperity is in jeopardy if we continue on this course.

Easter Activities

Good Friday Service
The community service for Good Friday was held by the Pocomoke Ministerial Association at the Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church. Many of the local ministers participated in the event by taking a small part in a combined sermon text on "the last words of Jesus". There was a nice turnout from many of the local congregations and a great start to a busy, yet reflective weekend.

American Legion
I had a busy weekend around the city. Saturday began with a celebration at the American Legion. I had a great time interacting with the many kids that were on hand to meet the Easter Bunny and enjoy a variety of planned activities. For my part, I had the opportunity to read the story of Peter Rabbit to the young ones.

While at the Legion, I also had a chance to sample a great breakfast and to meet with several members of the Flat Land Rescue Team. These are a devoted group that enjoy conducting professional search/rescue operations when requested. I have worked with them professionally in the past as great to see some of them at the event.

Cypress Park Easter Egg Extravaganza
The Pocomoke Police Department also conducted a grand Easter Egg Hunt along with a cook out in Cypress Park from noon until 2:00pm. There was a huge turnout that was very reflective of our city. Many came for the first time, but it surely will not be their last! Six bikes were given away and many other large prize baskets were given to those who found an egg with a special symbol. Along with many members of the police department was Chief J.D. Ervin, Councilman Robert Hawkins, Councilman Honiss Cane, Councilman Bruce Morrison and his wife Laura.

Also helping out was Reverend George Tasker and his son-in-law Frank. They provided the grilling of the burgers, while Councilman Hawkins handled the French Fries. My wife, Laura, joined me in following after the hundreds of children who came to enjoy the festivities. Channel 47 came by and took some great footage of the kids. It was great weather and a great time had by all!

Glad Tidings Assembly Service
Sunday morning, we enjoyed the service at Glad Tidings and had a chance to meet the pastor of a new Spanish speaking church which will be meeting at Glad Tidings on a regular basis. This has been a work in progress for Pastor Bob Blevins, and I am glad to see things are progressing along. It was a way to conclude Holy Week.

Weekly Update

Police Department

• Our officers are partnering with the State Police for the next week to provide increased patrols. The MSP Scout Team is a special unit which travels the eastern shore providing local assistance. This arrangement will continue with MSP and the Worcester County Sheriff's Office from now and throughout the summer months.
• Employees of the Duck In reported that a man shoplifted a can of beer valued at $1.05.
• Officers noticed a vehicle on Payne Avenue with a broken side window while on patrol. They made contact with the owner and several items were found to have been stolen from the vehicle.
• Officers have increased their patrol checks of various city fuel tanks in recent weeks.
• Officers reported finding several locations with graffiti this week: Laurel Street, Riverside Drive, Gray Street, and behind the DP & L building on Broad Street.

EMS Department

• Our new ambulance, A-1, went into full service. Director Tighlman is working on securing all of the needed equipment for the spare ambulance to be completely operative.
• DOT inspections are being performed on the two older units.

Public Works

• Crews continued stabilizing berms at the treatment plant.
• Crews installed a new bleeder line and valve box at the end of Greenway Avenue.
• Crews repaired a storm drain and sidewalk problem on Front Street near Linden Avenue.

Golf Course

• DP & L installed a larger meter on our new pole location on Winter Quarters Drive. This is being done in preparation for a new line being trenched into the course which will eliminate the overhead line on Hole #2.
• Crews worked on our pump station and sprayers while repairing the foot valves at the site where we draft water for course irrigation.
• The cart path work was reviewed with the contractor and the bill submitted for payment.

Skateboard Park Update

• All of the equipment has been ordered from American Ramp Company (ARC)and delivery is expected within 8-weeks.
• A fence will be installed prior to the delivery of the equipment.

Heritage Tours in 2009

One of the add on items brought to the council meeting last Monday night involved a project I have been working on with several other government officials and private citizens. It involves the promotion of Heritage Tours in Worcester County, specifically for Black History and historical Worcester County figures and prominent sites. The group has included members of the NAACP such as President Edward Lee and Gabe Purnell, Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan, Berlin Mayor Tom Cardinale, Worcester County Director of Tourism Lisa Challenger, and Pocomoke Main Street Coordinator Michael Day.

The idea began to simply find a way to recognize the efforts and contributions of black individuals who were born or lived in Worcester County. It was agreed that establishing a historical record was the place to begin. At the same time, it was agreed that the effort could provide opportunity for commercial endeavors and tourism outside of Ocean City.

In earnest, the group is working toward a phase one goal of developing a series of Heritage Tours which would begin in the summer tourism season of 2009. Since Pocomoke City already has the Sturgis One Room School House Museum, Heritage House Museum, and the Delmarva Discovery Center, it seemed best to utilize these locations. The tour could also include a boat tour up river which would provide details of the Underground Rail Road established by Harriett Tubman which had a leg of the journey through the Pocomoke River basin. The day would be capped off with a theatrical performance at the Marva Theater of a play written specifically about black heritage on the eastern shore.

We are currently seeking support from the municipalities as well as Worcester County to assist in funding the historical research needed as well as the promotion of the tour events. Pocomoke City was ahead of the curve when we sat down at the table and, as a result, we will reap the benefit of being able to provide a wonderful opportunity for folks to explore the shore through Heritage Tours next year if the project becomes a reality.

PAC-14 "One on One" Show

I recently was a guest on the "One on One" show hosted by Phil Tilghman on PAC-14. It was a thrity minute interview with the initial airing this week. I enjoyed the opportunity to talk about Pocomoke City and the current and future growth issues which we face.

I also had a chance to speak with the PAC-14 folks about the broadcasting of government meetings. I am looking forward to disucssing this at our next city council meeting. I wanted to address it this past meeting, but I was unable to speak with Comcast prior to the meeting and was not prepared to have the discussion.

While I realize we do not receive PAC-14 in Pocomoke City, it was a great opportunity to showcase the city to Wicomico County and beyond.

Weekly Update

Police Department

• Following a Domestic Disturbance at the Meadows Town homes, police arrested Michelle Roberts, 26, on charges of Disorderly Conduct and MDOP.
• Wal-Mart reported that they had received a counterfeit $10.00 bill during the previous week. The bill was sent to the US Secret Service.
• Following a Domestic Disturbance at 806 Second Street, police arrested Donte Washington when it was discovered that he was wanted on an outstanding warrant.
• Following a Domestic Disturbance at 103 Eighth Street, Paul Owen was arrested and charged with Second Degree Assault.
• Police located Marcus Dennis near the Bonneville Ave. Apartments. Following a brief foot chase, Dennis was arrested on Fourth Street on an outstanding warrant.
• Police observed and photographed some graffiti this week on the Cypress Nature Trail. Some was also discovered in the area of Fifth and Bonneville Ave.
• Officers assisted the Sheriff's Office and the State Police on six occasions in the past week outside of the city.

EMS Department

• The new ambulance is finished and was placed into service this week. All personnel are receiving training in the operation of new equipment.

Water/Waste water Department

• Crews continued to work on stabilizing the berm areas around the treatment ponds.
• Crews continued to work on painting fire hydrants this week.
• Three of our employees attended training sessions at Chesapeake College this past week.

Other Announcements

• The annual Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by the Police Department will be held Saturday, March 22nd from noon to 2:00pm at Cypress Park.
• Friday, March 21st is Good Friday and City Hall will be closed in observance of the holiday.

Weekly Update

Police Department

• The owner of 207 Seventh Street reported that someone caused damage to two windows with a BB gun.
• Clyde Adams of Onancock, VA was arrested at the Walmart Parking lot on a Worcester County warrant. He was placed in the Worcester County Jail under a $2500.00 bond.
• Police reported graffiti on the street surface at the corner of Oak and Second Streets.
• The resident of 105 Oak Street reported that someone caused damage to two windows on their vehicle parked at that location.
• Tremayne Rogers received a citation for Excessive Noise from a Vehicle while driving on Eighth Street near the Middle School. He was also found to be driving on a Suspended Out Of State License and was charged accordingly.
• Police responded to a horse in the roadway at Broad Street and Eighth Street. Public Works and the Police Department staff were able to guide the horse back to the stables at the Fairgrounds.
• Raymond W. White, age 47, was charged with DWI and Attempting to Elude Police. He was first observed on remote surveillance cameras consuming an alcoholic beverage and then getting behind the wheel of his vehicle near Bonneville Avenue and Second Street.
• Residents of 700 Second Street reported that their residence had apparently been entered by unknown person(s), but nothing appeared to be missing.

EMS Department

• Our new Director of EMS, Daniel Tilghman, began working for the city this week in his new position.

Public Works

• Jimmy Hammond has agreed to allow the city to extend our Dorchester Water Line across his property to allow for a connection on Market Street. We are also working with Lynnhaven Baptist Church to secure the ability to cross their property and make a connection with the dead end line at Bel Air Drive. Both connections will eliminate dead end lines in the Heights.
• Bids requests have gone out for the Skateboard/Bike Park equipment. They will be opened on March 10th.
• MES worked with our crews in running a camera in four suspected problem areas of our sewer lines. The problems were identified for future repair.
• Crews were repairing berms at the Sewage Treatment Plant.
• Crews repaired picnic tables in Cypress Park and worked on the Nature Trail.

Golf Course

• Crews worked on new fill which was brought into supplement low areas on hole #1 and #3.
• Crews worked on rebuilding the Ladies Tee Box located at hole #7.
• Crews worked on Cart Path edges.
• Repairs and maintenance continue on our fleet of golf carts.

Fire Company

• The Pocomoke Volunteer Fire Company is slated to move into their new Station 100 located on Market Street this week.

City Charter/City Code

• The City Charter and City Code are now available on line at www.cityofpocomoke.com

Planning and Zoning Commission

• The board met on Tuesday to review the Comprehensive Zoning in the city. This included a tour of the city conducted by all of the board members with the professional staff hired to assist them in the process.
  

Other News

• The Board of Education agreed to donate surplus fencing from the high school to the city. They also donated the field lighting to the YMCA.
• The annual MARVA Theater Dinner will be held on Friday night, March 7th, at the Fire Hall.

Weekly Update

Police Department

• Walmart Employees reported that two juveniles threw a few items over the fence in the Garden Center area before fleeing the store and making off with the goods across the highway.
• Brian L. Harmon was arrested as he walked on Second Street on an Outstanding Warrant. He was incarcerated in the Worcester County Jail under a bond of $20,000.00.
• Officers confiscated 86 cartons of cigarettes which had been purchased in Virginia by John J. Martin. Police work with the State Comptroller's Office on these apprehensions and Martin was charged with Possession of Untaxed Cigarettes.
• Claude R. Ward, 36, was charged with DWI following a motor vehicle accident near the Days Inn on Rt. 13.

Public Works

• Crews continued work on the Cypress Nature Trail.
• Crews repaired a broken Storm Sewer line a the corner of Market and Third Streets

Golf Course

• Crews relocated all Tee signage and Golf Ball Washers to the cart path side of all Tee Boxes.
• Crews removed a bridge on the 7 fairway
• Crews cleaned the area surrounding the #9 Tee Box.
• Crews installed a new Safety Rail on the Cart Path at #6 hole.
• Work continues on servicing the fleet of golf carts.

Planning and Zoning

• Board members will meet on Tuesday with the Zoning consultant to review the current city zoning issues in preparation for a comprehensive zoning review being conducted by the city.

Community Legacy Grant

• The city has been selected to receive a grant through the Governor's Office but we will have to wait until Thursday to find out which projects are being funded.

Chamber of Commerce News

• The Chamber will host a Business After Hours event on Thursday at 5pm at the Discovery Center downtown.

EMS Department

• Danny Tilghman has accepted our job offer and will become the new Director of Emergency Medical Services for Pocomoke City beginning in March. I will do a more extensive article on Danny and his background on another post.
• Our new ambulance is being painted and striped and will be in service soon.

It's Official: Holdren Calls it Quits

Around lunch time today, former City Councilman Don Holdren came into City Hall and formally resigned his candidacy for the Third District Seat currently held by Councilman Bruce Morrison. That means it is officially a two person race with the incumbent, Councilman Morrison, facing off against newcomer Angela Hayes.

As I have always said, it is up to the challenger to make the case for change. In this case, I believe Councilman Morrison has worked with me over the past three years to promote positive changes in Pocomoke City. In fact, Councilman Morrison has supported a request by Ms. Hayes in funding a "Ladies and Gentleman Manner's Class" conducted earlier in the past year.

The fact is, Councilman Morrison has spoken with Ms. Hayes, as I have, a number of times and has always supported her efforts. She is a nice and gentle woman, but I do not believe she can make a case for change based upon Councilman Morrison's performance in office.

On another note, Ms. Hayes is a member of the Democratic Central Committee for Worcester County. Our local elections are purposely Non-Partisan. If Ms. Hayes is serious about serving our community in a Non-Partisan office, perhaps she should consider resigning from her current position. Just some food for thought.

Don Holdren Calls it Quits???

A letter to the editor appeared in yesterday's Daily Times authored by Mr. Holdren indicating his withdrawl from the District Three race for City Council. This was followed by another short article in the Worcester Times today restating the same information.

Yet as of this afternoon, Mr. Holdren has not officially withdrawn his name from the race as required by law. He visited City Hall, but apparently did not elect to officially resign from the race.

Perhaps it was an oversight or a time constraint issue. At any case, the former Councilman needs to make it official. For whatever reason, Mr. Holdren decided he was not up to the task at hand. I respect his decision, but now it is time to "officially" move on and allow the remaining candidates in the race (Councilman Bruce Morrison & newcomer Angela Hayes) to act accordingly.

Weekly Update

Police Department

• Michael Garcia of 3 Clarke Avenue was charged with violating a Peace Order filed by his neighbor.
• A Warrant was issued for Demitrius Mills for the theft of several games from Wal-Mart.
• Brent Cooper of 926 Second Street was arrested on a Salisbury Warrant.
• A white male broke into the Duck-Inn convenience store early Tuesday morning and removed several items. A suspect was developed and an arrest is pending.
• Robert Johnson Sr. was arrested on a Somerset County Paternity Warrant.
• Pocomoke City Police have assisted the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation with the homicide investigation of Judy Wojcik. The investigation continues.

Public Works Department

• Several new street signs and other signage have been installed this past week.
• Work was performed on fencing at the sewage treatment plant.
• A Fire Hydrant was replaced at Lynnhaven Apartments after being struck and damaged by a vehicle collision.
• Crews worked on ditch clean outs near Sunshine Village and the surrounding area.
• Crews made several street repairs and patches with cold mix this week.
• Crews winterized the log cabin at Winterquarters. It will not be available for rental use until the spring.

Department of EMS

• Delivery of our new ambulance is set for early February.
• Interviews continue in our search for a new Director of the department.

Golf Course

• Superintendent Doug Gunns met with the paving contractors to review the time table for completion of the cart path project. We were advised that it would be weather dependant as to when the next paving would be accomplished.

Industrial Developments

• Hardwire Company has begun their new building construction. Blades Construction has been working 6-days a week during all daylight hours to get the project completed in time for the arrival of the industrial equipment in March and April. The new production facilities are being built on the old Campbell Soup site and will encompass over 100,000 square feet in the first phase.

Reception For State Champions

• The Mayor and Council have issued invitations to our Maryland State Champion Field Hockey and Soccer players, parents, coaches, and PHS faculty to join us as we host a reception in their honor at the Pocomoke Elks Lodge this coming week.

City Offices Closed

• City Hall will be closed on Monday, January 21st, in recognition of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. National Holiday.

Planning And Zoning

• Next meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 22nd at 3:00 pm at City Hall. Agenda includes a preliminary meeting with the recently hired Zoning Code Consultant, preliminary subdivision plat for the Jay Tapman property, and a review of the proposed renovations at the Pocomoke High School.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Downtown Pocomoke Association will meet on Wednesday, January 23rd at the Upper Deck Restaurant.
• The Marva Theater Board will meet at City Hall Tuesday, January 22nd at 7:00 pm.

Unofficial Minutes of January 7th Meeting

The following are the "unofficial minutes" which I keep during the regular meeting of the Mayor and Council:

• Mike Shannon was recognized for his efforts as Chairman of the Pocomoke Christmas Parade. Mike was presented with an Achievement Award and his faithful committee members were recognized. The parade is a signature event for the city which requires a lot of effort to run smoothly.
• A Public Hearing was held for Resolution A-07-03 concerning the proposed annexation of the Kenny Lankford property located on Map 92, Parcel 38. No one made any comment on this annexation. The council proceeded by unanimous vote to annex this property.
• President Jimmy Hammond and several Pocomoke Vol. Fire Company officials were on hand to review a Memorandum of Understanding to be established between the company and the city relative to the "old" fire house building and the future use of this property by the city and Fire Company. The MOU was approved and I signed on behalf of the city.
• Engineer Ed Young was on hand to provide his final report and findings relative to the water issues in Pocomoke Heights as well as the sewer issues for the Rt. 13 Corridor. After reviewing his findings and hearing his recommendations, I proposed to the council the following action to be taken: (1) Two "dead end" lines on Belair and Dorchester Streets will be looped to Market Street and Lynnhaven Drive thus eliminating stagnant water. This work will be done by Public Works staff in the next 4-months; (2) The city will provide funds in the upcoming fiscal year for "Pigging" the water lines throughout the affected areas of the Heights. This work will be accomplished during the summer months. (3) The City Manager will report back to the Mayor and Council with finance recommendations as to replacement of all infrastructure in the affected areas within the next 60-days. The City Council agreed unanimously with these recommendations and voted to do so.
• Ms. Kathy French presented the Pocomoke Police Department with a $1000.00 donation for the many youth programs they conduct throughout the year. Chief Ervin was on hand to receive the donation. It is one of many Wal-Mart provides to citywide organizations annually.
• Housing Coordinator Harvey Davis provided an update on our Housing Inspection Program conducted during the past year. Three phases have been accomplished and the fourth is underway. Over one hundred units have been inspected. Many have been identified with deficiencies and many citations have been issued. Mr. Davis also reported that there are 7 housing rehabilitation projects underway.
• A proclamation was read by Councilwoman Cottman recognizing January, 2008 as National Mentoring Month. The public was encouraged to be involved in the mentoring of our young people.
• The Council approved on a unanimous vote to allow controlled Goose hunting on property owned by Mr. Harold Scrimgeor which is located in the city limits off of Rt. 13. The approval was contingent on the hunting party providing a plan relative to their shooting.
• Appointments and re appointments were made to the Board of Zoning Appeals and the Board of Elections Supervisors.
• One public comment was received complimenting the police departments efforts in making positive contact with the youth of the city, particularly in the black community. The resident stated she had seen a big difference in the past two years and she appreciated the effort.

This concluded the public portion of the meeting. Following this meeting, the Mayor and Council met in Executive Session to discuss and review a preliminary Memorandum of Understanding with the City Attorney; and to ask legal advice on fines related to code enforcement.

Weekly Update

Police Department

• One of our patrol vehicles was struck by a deer while on Old Virginia Road patrolling the area of Southern Fields. Minor damage.
• Mr. Victor Mills was arrested and charged with Trespassing at the Lynnhaven Apartments. He was placed in the Worcester County Jail under a $3000.00 bond.
• Mr. Robert Elmer of 605 Sixth Street reported that someone had entered his unlocked vehicle and removed several items.
• Ms. Shawanda Wharton was arrested on an outstanding warrant when she was observed on Sixth Street.
• After receiving a tip from Pennsylvania authorities, police arrested Michael Acevedo on a warrant and weapons charges from 1409 Somerset Avenue.
• The Abundant Life Church reported several doors and windows damaged on their building. Damage was estimated at $500.00.
• Police arrested Mr. Markeith Davis at Fourth and Bonneville for Disorderly Conduct and Possession of Marijuana.
• Police are investigating a reported Burglary at 5 Clarke Avenue.
• Police assisted the Maryland State Police and the Worcester County Sheriff's Office on several occasions during the past week.
• All of the new police vehicles (6) are now in service.
• Cpl. Scott Mitchell was assigned to the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation as a Detective effective January 2nd.

Public Works

• A cellular phone has been purchased for the On Call Public Works employee to replace the unreliable pager that has been in use.
• The primary trash collection truck has been down for engine repairs but should be back in service next week.
• Paving projects came to a stop with the colder weather. It is unclear if the contractors will complete their jobs until warmer weather arrives. Most have been completed, with the exception of the golf course paving of cart paths (which is half completed).
• Contractor Mike Hall has completed his roadwork on Phase 1 of Woodland Manor subdivision.

EMS Department

• The search and interview process continues for the new Director of EMS to replace outgoing Director Barrie Contee. Mr. Michael Thornton has been the Acting Director of EMS following Contee's departure the end of November.

Upcoming Election

• I filed for a second term of office this week as did Councilman Morrison. I hope to continue the progress we have made over the past three years.

Meeting of the Mayor and Council

• The next meeting of the Mayor and Council is Monday night at 7:30PM. The Agenda for the meeting is available on line at www.cityofpocomoke.com