EMS Director Resigns

Sadly, I have to report that our Director of Emergency Services, Barrie Contee, has tendered his resgination effective in thirty days. Director Barrie Contee has only been with the city since June of this year. He cited personal reasons for the departure. Based upon convesations with Director Contee, his attempt to live in Pocomoke City during the week and commute home on the weekends to the western shore was taking a toll on him and had a direct impact on his decision.

Director Contee is a career long paramedic who served as a director of paramedic services for Prince George County as a Batallion Chief prior to his retirement last year.

The search will begin immediately to hire a new Director of EMS.

A New Home For The Police Department?

As progress moves forward with the new Fire Station (and what a great building!), the city has begun to turn attention to the building that has housed the Fire Company for many years. Structurely, the building is sound and a rennovation project is more than feasible.

At the same time, the city is interested in providing a new location for the Police Department which will serve the needs of the city in the coming decades. Previous Councils and the City Manager have felt the Fire Department building could be designed and rehabilitated to meet the current and future needs of the police department.

The old National Guard Armory building was gifted to the city by the State of Maryland when they relocated the unit that once called Pocomoke City "home". While it was never designed as a police department, it has undergone numerous adaptations over the years to accomodate the ever increasing needs of the police department. It has also served as a home to various civic groups and organizations over the years. The Salvation Army and Save The Youth programs continue to utilize the gym which makes up most of the first floor of the building.

The Armory Building is not very serviceable and is very costly to maintain. So, the question that we face is what to do with two buildings that are old and need to be completely rennovated? We have only a few choices:

• Keep the police department at the current location and rennovate the building;


• Move the police department to the old fire house following a rennovation of that building;


• Find another location for the police department in existing or new construction.

I would prefer a new building, but the city did not plan for this in the past and land may not be available in a location that would make the most sense.

The current location of the department is geographically a poor choice. There is also limited parking and little room for expansion as the building is also accomodating other community uses.

The old fire house is being abandoned for good reason by the Fire Company. A full rennovation of the building would be required. The location is good and parking is superior. Also, the city already owns the building and it may be in our best interest to rehabilitate it to our best use.

Rennovating the current location would probably be the least expensive, but it would continue to limit future growth of the department and the parking situation would remain poor.

Rennovating the old fire house would not cost less than one million dollars, but the results would meet the needs of the city for decades to come and would make good use of a city property.

Aquiring the land for a new build along with the costs of the building would, most likely, exceed one million dollars. The city would also be left with two properties which may be difficult to sell or otherwise utilize.

These are some of the questions and decisions the City Council must make in the near future. While some preliminary work has been performed to garner the appropriate knowledge to make an informed decision, no decision has been made at this time. The city has applied for a Legacy Grant from the State of Maryland to be used in the event we decide to move forward with rehabilitation of an existing building. There is no grant money available for new construction, although low interest loans could be an option.

This issue should be on the November 5th agenda for the Mayor and Council to be discussed.

Weekly Update

Police Activities

• A traffic stop near Wal-Mart resulted in the arrest of a juvenile and the recovery of a stolen handgun from Accomac County, Virginia. The juvenile was charged and turned over to Juvenile Justice.
• Officers located Megan Benton, 22, and arrested her on outstanding warrants from Worcester County and Hillsborough, Florida. She was placed in jail under a bond of $50,000.00
• Jeffrey D. Hillman, 47, was located by officers and arrested on an outstanding warrant from 816 Second Street.
• An officer conducting a routine traffic stop found the driver, Stephen Petitt, in possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance. A passenger in the vehicle, Travis Parsons, was found to be wanted on an outstanding Worcester County Warrant. Parsons was also arrested and turned over to the Worcester County Sheriff's Office.
• George Justice was issued a citation for an Open Container of Alcohol Violation.
• The Worcester County Narcotics Task Force executed a Search and Seizure Warrant at #5 Bonneville Apartments. As a result of the search, Marcus D. Fletcher and Anthony M. Westcott were arrested and charged. Powder cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana were located in the residence.

Public Works Activities

• Our mechanic is working on the transfer of equipment to the new police vehicles.
• Crews finished the last two remaining Fire Hydrant repairs at Fifteenth and Market as well as Homewood Drive near White Oaks. At this point, all hydrants in the city are now working properly and no valves are shut off in the street due to leaks around the hydrants.
• Crews worked downtown in preparation for the Pocomoke Fireman's Muster.
• Crews continue work on the new section of the Cypress Nature Trail as well as replacing boards on the older sections of the trail system.
• Our mechanic completed the installation of a motor into the city's mini van now utilized by Public Works on a regular basis.

Water Department

• Our contractor for annual repairs on our water towers was in town this week to flush and inspect the water tower on Seventh Street.
• Some hydrant flushing was performed in the downtown and Walnut Street areas.

Street Projects

• The city's contractor for the street widening project at Cedar Street and Eighth Street will continue work on the project beginning on Monday. They expect completion prior to November 1st.

Comcast Changes

• I received a letter from R. Thomas Worley (Area Director of Government Relations and Public Affairs) regarding some changes relative to a Blocking Requirement of Fox 21. It seems that WBOC-16, our local Fox affiliate, has formally notified Comcast Delmarva that it is invoking its right to block Fox Network and certain syndicated programs carried on out-of-market television stations on their lineup. The programs to be blocked are identical to programming which is being aired already on WBOC-16. Under FCC regulations, Comcast is obligated to carry out this request and will be doing so effective October 25th. While they regret having to make the change, they will attempt to make it appear seamless to their customers.

Room Tax Increase

• I will be attending a meeting of the Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday the 16th for a Public Hearing on an Ocean City request to raise the County established Room Tax for hotel and motel accommodations from 4% to 4.5%. I am in favor of the proposal which will result in increased revenues for Pocomoke City if adopted.

Upcoming Events

• The new Shore Bank branch located at Market Square will have their Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting on Saturday at 10am.
• El Gran Charro, a new Mexican Food store located on Newtowne Blvd., will hold a Grand Opening on Saturday at noon.
• A musical showcase of original songs and talent will be on tap at the Marva Performing Arts Theater Saturday evening beginning at 6pm. Cost is $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for kids. At least eight different acts will be on stage with a variety of music.
• Sunday morning downtown will the the second annual Pocomoke Fireman's Muster and Olympics. Opening ceremonies begin at 9am and the event is scheduled through 4pm. Vendors will be on hand for this free event.
• The Worcester County Developmental Center will be holding a fund raiser and awareness drive at the American Legion on Sunday beginning at 1pm.

New Business

• Another new restaurant will open its doors on Monday, October 15th. Nuevo Leon offers fine Mexican cuisine and is located on Newtowne Blvd. near Domino's Pizza.

Zoning Appeals Board

• The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet on Wednesday night. A hearing is scheduled on the transfer of ownership of the Assisted Care Home located on Market Street at Third Street.

Weekly Report

Police Activities

• Beverly Walters reported that someone broke into her vehicle which had been parked in the Wal-Mart parking lot.
• Police assisted Theodore Townsend of Bank Street in the recovery of a stolen dog from his residence. The recovery was made from a residence on McMichael Avenue and charges are pending.

Surveillance Cameras

• Two additional camera sites were established: one at Fourth Street and Bonneville Avenue and one at Fourth Street and Cedar Street.

Public Works

• The recently ordered Street Sweeper was delivered on Friday and will be in use soon around the city.
• A sewer line was replaced near Hartley Hall on Cedar Street to improve flow.
• Staff replaced a motor in one of the Public Works vans.

Golf Course

• Fertilizing and preparing the greens for winter continues.
• Underground placement of electric line is being plotted with DP&L.
• Irrigation areas are being addressed.

Grant Funding

• The city filed paperwork seeking grants totalling over $180,000.00 through Community Legacy funds. This money is for a variety of projects.

Project Open Space Funds

• The State Board of Public Works announced the final approval for several projects in Pocomoke City.
• $27,000.00 for Fairgrounds Building Improvements.
• $37,000.00 for Winter Quarters Cart Path Improvements, benches, picnic tables, etc.
• $35,000.00 for placement of electric lines underground at Discovery Center and Farmer's Market area of Cypress Park.
• $43,000.00 for Skate/Bike Park to be located in Cypress Park.

Upcoming Events

• Ribbon Cutting for Shore Bank offices at Market Square Plaza Saturday, October 13th at 10am.
• Fireman's Muster and Olympics downtown Pocomoke City on Sunday, October 14th beginning at 9am.

City Council Action

The following is a synopsis of the actions taken by the City Council on October 1st, 2007. These are my "unofficial" minutes of the meeting, to wit:

• The Mayor and Council recognized the twelve years of service provided by Mr. Steve Aron as a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission. Mr. Aron was a big help in completing the Master Comprehensive Plan during the past two years. His presence will be missed. He was presented a certificate in recognition for his service.



• I signed a Proclamation declaring October 14th, 2007 as "Neighbors Helping Neighbors Day" in Pocomoke City. This is in recognition of the ongoing efforts to rebuild the burned out Worcester County Developmental Center in Newark. Several events are planned on this date to draw attention to the plight of those folks most affected by this tragic loss. The Council also agreed to make a donation on behalf of Pocomoke City of $1000.00 in support of the center.



• A Permit to discharge firearms in the city limits was granted to the Bayshore Gobblers Association in support of their annual event held at the Pocomoke City Fair Grounds on October 6th. This is a youth oriented event and the public is invited to attend and find out more about this organization and their efforts to promote safe hunting experiences.



• City Police Chief J.D. Ervin presented facts and figures to us regarding activities of the department during the previous four months. Some documented highlights included over 4000 patrol/premise checks along with hundreds of Foot Patrol assignments to improve neighborhood contacts. The Chief advised that the newest surveillance cameras were still being installed and he hoped to have them up and running soon. (Three are currently in operation and two more are in process).


• The Council adopted Resolution #395 which establishes and outlines the composition and organization of the police department. This resolution was passed in support of the CALEA certification process being sought by the department.


• Long time City Police Lieutenant Lee Brumley was promoted from his current rank to the rank of Captain effective January 1st, 2008 with the commensurate pay grade. This was well received by Council members and citizens in attendance who were familiar with the long standing work and reputation of Lt. Brumley.


• Resolution #412 was presented and adopted by the Council. The resolution was in support of several Community Legacy Grant Applications currently being submitted by the city. Those projects included: Money for the renovation and rehabilitation of the old Fire House Building in support of moving the police headquarters to that location when the Fire Department moves into their new building; Money for some projects a the Costen House Museum including fencing and a new door; and Operational Start Up funding for the Marva Performing Arts Theater project. This resolution was passed on the first reading as an "Emergency Resolution" due to the time constraints of the grant deadlines.


• Bids for several paving projects were presented and approved. These paving projects included: Winter Quarters Drive, Fourth Street, Hampshire Terrace, Golf Cart pathways, Skate/Bike Park Pad in Cypress Park, along with patching projects on several streets. Chesapeake Paving and P&A Paving were the low bidders on these projects. In all cases, the lowest bids were accepted by the Council.

Planning And Zoning Recommendations

• New plans for Beracah Homes on the old site of Regent Homes were recommended for acceptance by the commission. Mr. Lee Williams was on hand to go over the details of the new proposed building site plan. This plan was approved as submitted. The new business will feature Beracah Homes instead of the Regent brand which were previously marketed on the site.
• The Council accepted the recommendation of the commission for the Phase II development of the Woodland Manor Subdivision located across the street from the High School. Phase II includes 22 additional home sites and will directly tie in to the current Phase I project. Phase III will develop the remainder of the property and include another entrance/exit on Old Virginia Road. Mike Hall, the principal developer, was on hand to respond to any questions. He had a brief discussion with the Council in response to when the final top coat would be paved on the new Cedar Street extension. He advised this would happen in the next 60 days and was already under contract.

Annexation Proposals

• Mr. Lee Williams representing Gate World Properties, LLC, discussed a proposal to bring water and sewer service to a 10 acre Commercial parcel located next to Bonanza Restaurant on Rt. 13. His company wishes to develop the site and has already received inquiries from a major restaurant chain and hotel complex for the location. After discussing the concept, the issue was forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Commission for further deliberations and consideration.
• The first reading of Resolution A-07-03 was presented. This annexation concerns property located on Rt. 13 next to the Pahanka Collision Center and is owned by Mr. Carlton Mason. It comprises approximately 8.1 acres. A Public Hearing and the Second Reading will be performed at the next meeting of the Mayor and Council in November.

Items Brought Up By Council Members Not On The Agenda

• Councilwoman Cottman advised that Lt. Gov. Brown would be the host of a breakfast meeting at the Henson Center at UMES on October 13. The Public is invited.
• Councilman Cane reminded the Council that a plaque honoring Rev. Issac Jenkins would e unveiled at 4pm at New Macedonia Church on October 7th. This plaque will be placed on the renovated Train Station Building in his honor.
• Councilman Hawkins and Councilman Morrison brought up the need for enforcement of city ordinances relative to the screening of garbage dumpsters at several locations as well as some unsightly properties with junk equipment stacking up in the downtown area. The City Manager was instructed to address this issue and make a report to the Council.
• Councilman Morrison asked about the status of the Dunn property located at the corner of Clarke Avenue and Willow Street known as the "old liquor store building". City Manager Blake advised that the Dunn's have secured a firm to conduct demolition of the building and it should be brought down soon. The building is currently under a Repair/Demolish Order of the City.
• I requested an update on the Height's Water Study. City Manager Blake advised that the study had revealed two dead end lines and several valve problems. George E. Young Engineering is currently conducting an additional sampling from homes on Dorchester Street to get a better representation of this block since the original sampling in the area was light. Dorchester and Belair Streets have been determined to have the most problems. I advised him that we would like to see the study completed by the next meeting.

Public Comments

• Mr. Bill Kerbin reported that the Homewood Drive area had experienced another power outage approximately three weeks ago. The City Manager was instructed to make another call to DP&L regarding our continued concerns for action to resolve this matter.

Weekly Update

Police Department

• A complaint was received concerning juveniles receiving tattoos from an unlicensed operator in the city limits. An investigation identified Sonny James Kelly, 37, as the one responsible for giving tattoos to two juveniles at a residence in Wendy Garden Apartments. A warrant was issued for the arrest of Kelly for his actions.
• Harry Cropper reported that someone had broken the window of his vehicle while it was parked at 718 Sixth Street.
• Charles Preston Collins was issued an Alcohol Citation for possessing an Open Container of Alcohol on Bonneville Avenue.
• Jeffrey Alan Hickman drove his vehicle through the barricades on the Pocomoke River Drawbridge causing $3,000.00 in damages.
• A call was received in the area of 400 Bank Street that Marlon Dewayne Jenkins was threatening to shoot another person. Jenkins drove away but was located by officers and apprehended. He was also found in possession of CDS and CDS paraphernalia. He was placed in the Worcester County Jail under bond.
• A man reported that he had been assaulted by several other men in the area of Young Street. He was transported by Pocomoke EMS to the hospital. The investigation continues.
• Gregory Holden, 511 Cedar Street, reported a burglary of his residence. The back door was damaged but no items were reported stolen.
• Following a traffic stop, Leroy John Hope was arrested on a Wicomico County Warrant.
• David Lewis Lynn, 49, was arrested for DWI on Route 13.
• A bicycle was reported stolen from 618 Walnut Street.
• Worcester County workers located several firearms at the Bunting Road Bridge which is undergoing repairs. They were found to have been stolen two years ago from a residence on Eighth Street. The investigation continues.
• A golf cart at the YMCA was damaged when the cart rolled over. Damage was estimated at $200.00.
• Police warned several property owners to remove abandoned vehicles located on their property or face fines and removal charges.

Public Works

• Work was done on storm drains this week.
• Grass cutting at the lagoons and Waste Water Treatment Plant.
• Repairs made at the Firehouse.
• Repairs made at the EMS Building.

Golf Course

• Crews worked on equipment repairs.
• Gypsum was applied to the greens.
• Repairs were made on the irrigation system.
• Regular grass cutting and weed eating.

Finance Department

• The city received annual Business Taxes from Wal-Mart totalling $111,130.00

Fairgrounds Events

• The Bay Shore Gobblers Chapter NWTF will sponsor a youth event at the Fairgrounds on Saturday, October 6th.

Downtown Association

• The annual Downtown Block Party will be held Saturday (tomorrow), September 29th in front of the Marva Theater as well as inside of the theater. The outside car show begins at 6pm and the Marva will open its doors at 7pm. A Beer Garden and entertainment provided by the Funsters will be on stage. Cost is $10.00.

Are Slots The Answer?

Governor O'Malley wants to move forward with some aggressive new taxes and an increase in gambling in Maryland in order to offset the projected budget deficit. Today on my show, I spent some time talking about gambling as a means of raising revenue in support of government spending.

I do not believe the government should raise revenues from gambling. I mean, consider that the Governor's proposed spending package includes setting aside 6 million dollars a year in support of those suffering from Gambling Addictions. This should raise all of our eyebrows. Traditionally, gambling preys on those who can least afford to lose money in the first place. Is this where we should be trying to find revenue?

Gambling is a limited revenue. There is a limit to the number of folks who will come to casinos to pull the one armed bandits and we will find ourselves in competition with our border states for those same dollars. Surely, other gamblers will be created in Maryland, but is this a good thing?

It is my experience that government is addicted to money and spending. Government never received an increase in spending that it ever gave back. If slots revenues come in as projected at 150 million dollars, it will only take two or three years for the state to absorb this money and then come back for more. More slots, more casinos, and more money for those suffering from Gambling Addictions. More problem families. More poor choices.

Maryland State Government sold the citizens of this great state over twenty years ago on having a lottery system. The sales pitch featured a State Police Helicopter coming to the rescue of a citizen and the lottery was hailed as the answer to providing money for this much needed service. This money would only be used for public safety (medivac services) and education. So after all of these years, what do you think? That money is just another General Fund source that we never even talk about. The same will be true of slots revenue. Eventually, it will simply be absorbed into the General Fund, and other sources will be needed to fund our insatiable appetite for taxes and public spending.

Governor Ehrlich left office with 1.5 billion dollars in surplus which could have been used to off set the budget shortfalls. Instead, this money was spent last year with no thought of today. Now we face a 20% increase in the State Sales Tax and slots. This is the result of legislators unwilling to make some tough decisions and a public that demands their representatives "deliver the goods...or else!"

All of us must change the way we think in terms of what services government should be providing and what we classify as "success" in our legislators.