The Pocomoke City Fair Board met February 10 at City Hall to review ongoing upgrades at the fairgrounds, with much of the discussion centered on barn improvements, track preparation, and upcoming racing events.
Barn Cleaning and Electrical Work
City officials have signed contracts for both barn cleaning and electrical upgrades. Board members confirmed that cleaning began Monday and is expected to take “no longer than two to three days for each side,” with completion anticipated by the end of the week or early next week, weather permitting.
“It already looks nicer,” one member commented as work progressed.
The exterior gutters will also be power washed as part of the project scope. Electrical upgrades are scheduled to begin approximately two weeks after cleaning is complete.
Louvers and ventilation fans, which will replace windows on the ends of the barn, have already arrived. Public Works will install the louvers after cleaning, and the electrical contractor will connect the ventilation components once power upgrades are completed.
Stall Maintenance and Clay Delivery
New clay has been ordered to build up several stalls that were identified as low. Horsemen have agreed to rebuild the stalls “as long as the dirt [is] provided.”
Of the 21 total stalls, 16 are currently occupied by horses. Board members noted that five stalls are being used for storage, with possibly two additional stalls whose storage status is unclear. With demand increasing, members discussed reviewing storage allowances in future lease agreements.
Stall rent is currently $100 per month. The Board indicated that a work session may be scheduled to review potential updates to the lease agreement, including rental rates and penalty provisions.
Track Grading, Stone Dust, and Water Truck Upgrades
A representative familiar with track operations at Ocean Downs inspected the Pocomoke track and offered guidance on improvements. The track will be graded in mid-June, followed by the application of stone dust either just before or just after July 1, depending on budget timing within the fiscal year.
The inspector was “pleasantly surprised” by the track’s current condition and advised that major excavation would not be necessary.
Stone dust remains one of the fair’s most significant annual expenses.
The Board also discussed recommended upgrades to the fairgrounds water truck. Improvements would enhance track watering efficiency and help reduce airborne dust, which members acknowledged has prompted neighbor complaints in the past. Pricing estimates are being gathered, and any upgrades will require City Council approval.
MDE Status: “Hurry Up and Wait”
When asked about the status of matters involving the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), the response was brief: “Still the same. So I always say no news is good news.”
Officials noted that no action is expected until warmer weather arrives.
Harness Racing Recognition
The fairgrounds received recognition from the Cloverleaf Standardbred Owners Association for longevity in harness racing. The award was presented at a recent harness racing dinner, with Gary Gillespie accepting on behalf of the fair.
“We have been supported and sponsored by the Cloverleaf association for a very long time,” one member said. “They presented [an] award to the Great Pocomoke Fair for longevity and harness racing.”
Another member noted that harness racing is “considered the common man sport,” contrasting it with thoroughbred racing.
Board members emphasized pride in Pocomoke’s racing history and its role as a starting point for young drivers. One member shared that three drivers told her this past year, “I raced the first time ever at Pocomoke. This is my first race.”
Upcoming Events and Stampede Concert Permit
The Board confirmed that paperwork for the upcoming Pocomoke Stampede will be submitted Thursday and requested that the item be placed on Tuesday’s City Council agenda. Officials reminded organizers that all required documentation, including alcohol service plans and special one-day permit details, must be included before Council approval.
An updated list of events scheduled at the fairgrounds through December 31 will be provided to the City.
Veterinary Records Requirement
Following a recent equine health outbreak that required state-mandated health certificates, the Board voted to require updated veterinary records for all horses currently stabled at the barn. Members agreed to allow approximately three weeks for owners to submit documentation due to limited availability of large animal veterinarians in the region.
Looking Ahead
Board members expressed optimism about the direction of the fairgrounds and racing program.
“Just glad to see everybody’s working together now,” one member said. “Seems like everybody’s pulling in the same direction right now.”
With barn improvements underway, track upgrades scheduled, and stall occupancy near capacity, the Board indicated that preparations for the 2026 racing season are moving forward steadily.
