Editor’s note: This meeting was not streamed on YouTube and the Arrowhead did not receive the recording until April 15th.
The Pocomoke City Mayor and Council met on March 23, 2026, at City Hall, covering a wide range of items including zoning changes, tax rates, and community event approvals.
Closed Session and Routine Approvals
The meeting opened with the reading of a closed session summary related to potential litigation. According to the record, the session was held under statutory authority to consult on “pending or potential litigation,” with “a consensus…taken” following discussion.
Council unanimously approved prior meeting minutes and the bill list.
Board Appointments and Agenda Adjustment
Clara Jackson was sworn in as Board of Election Supervisor.
A scheduled Fair Board swearing-in was postponed due to the appointee’s absence, and the agenda was adjusted accordingly.
Alcohol Permits Approved
Council approved two special one-day alcohol permits:
- Women’s Fellowship Group event on May 2, 2026
- Graduation party on May 30, 2026
Both passed unanimously.
Debate on Business Owners Serving on Committees
A significant discussion centered on whether business owners should be allowed to serve on city committees and commissions.
Mayor Todd Nock said the issue “has been frequently raised,” noting that some committees require city residency and would need code changes to allow broader participation.
Councilman Scott Holland voiced support for expanding participation and suggested even broader inclusion:
“I’m in favor of business owners being able to participate… I would take it a step further and I would allow business owners to have the right to vote in our local elections.”
Councilman Marshall agreed, emphasizing the value of business owners’ contributions:
“We need to take advantage of the skill sets that our local business owners bring… we’re missing a good pool of talent.”
Mayor Nock directed staff to analyze the city charter and code before the council considers any formal changes.
Community Event Approved with Conditions
Council approved a Community Yard Sale and Resource Day hosted by Greater New Macedonia Baptist Church for May 2, contingent on completing required agency signatures.
The event is expected to include vendors, service organizations, and community outreach, with an estimated attendance of 150–300 people.
Nonconforming Use Extension Sent to Planning Commission
Council voted to refer a proposal to extend the allowable lapse period for nonconforming uses from six months to twelve months.
City staff noted that surrounding jurisdictions already allow a 12-month period.
Zoning Change for Old Virginia Road Property
The council introduced Ordinance 2026-O-8, which would rezone property on Old Virginia Road owned by Cypress Grove LLC from industrial and general business to a Planned Redevelopment District (PRD).
The Planning Commission previously recommended approval.
Support for State Revenue Task Force
Council introduced a resolution supporting Maryland House Bill 1142, which would create a task force to modernize municipal revenue systems.
The resolution states Maryland is “one of only 6 states that fails to share tax revenue from goods and services with local governments,” contributing to reliance on property taxes.
Proposed Tax Rates for FY 2026–2027
Council held the first reading of proposed tax rates, including:
- $0.9375 per $100 (owner-occupied real property)
- $1.1311 per $100 (non-owner occupied)
- $2.00 per $100 (personal property)
- $2.40 per $100 (public utilities)
During public comments, a resident asked whether rates could change after the budget process. Mayor Nock clarified:
“This is just the first reading… they could always amend it.”
Tax Abatements Considered
A resolution was introduced to continue or grant property tax abatements for certain parcels, including properties lacking full city services or tied to infrastructure uses such as sewer lines.
City Updates and Infrastructure Work
City Manager Brandy Matthews reported:
- Completion of concrete work on Walnut Street
- Upcoming RFPs for street and sidewalk repairs
- A new capital improvement plan for 2028–2032
- Planned surveys and appraisals of city-owned properties
Mayor Announces Sidewalk Enforcement
Mayor Nock announced that enforcement against sidewalk parking will begin May 1:
“The police department will actively start ticketing your car if you are parking on the sidewalk.”
Clarification on Discovery Center Relationship
The mayor addressed questions about the Delmarva Discovery Center, stating:
“We are literally just their landlords… the center is controlled by an independent board.”
Closing Remarks
The meeting concluded with Mayor Nock thanking outgoing Councilman Scott Holland for his service, acknowledging that while they “have not always seen eye to eye,” he appreciated his contributions.
