The Pocomoke City Mayor and Council met on April 20, 2026, addressing a wide-ranging agenda that included tax rates, zoning changes, infrastructure updates, and significant policy discussions on code enforcement and city funding priorities.
Tax Rates Approved with Future Funding Concerns Raised
Council unanimously approved Resolution 2026-R-09, setting the city’s fiscal year 2026–2027 tax rates, including $0.9375 per $100 for owner-occupied residential property and $1.1311 for other real property.
During discussion, officials signaled concern about long-term funding for emergency services. One council member noted the need to explore “alternative ways to raise funds for EMS” as grant funding declines.
Mayor Todd Nock urged caution, pointing to an existing wastewater-related tax that is expected to expire around fiscal year 2028, suggesting the city should evaluate finances after that obligation ends.
Property Tax Abatements Continue, With Communication Improvements Planned
Council approved Resolution 2026-R-10, continuing annual tax abatements for certain properties that do not receive full city services, totaling $5,814.50. Residents raised concerns about the yearly renewal process. City officials confirmed abatements must be approved annually due to changing assessments but agreed to improve notification efforts by mailing advance notices to affected property owners.
Zoning and Annexation Actions Move Forward
Council approved a zoning map amendment for the Cypress Grove property on Old Virginia Road, converting it to a Planned Redevelopment District (PRD) to support future mixed-use development. Additionally, a first reading was held for the annexation of a 2.494-acre Brittingham property, with a public hearing scheduled for May 18.
Capital Improvement Plan Near Completion
City staff reported that the majority of projects identified in the Capital Improvement Plan have already been completed, including:
- Water system upgrades and pump station replacements
- Police vehicle and equipment upgrades
- Street and sidewalk improvements
- Infrastructure tied to the Market Street waterline project
The plan came in under budget, with $27,623.20 in CDBG funds used and total project costs approximately $5,692 below projections. Council members praised the scope of completed work, calling it “a lot” of progress for the city.
Major Policy Shift Proposed: Donations to Grants
One of the most significant discussions centered on converting roughly $80,000 in annual city “donations” to nonprofits into a structured grant program. Mayor Nock said the goal is to ensure funds produce measurable community benefit, such as workforce training or educational programs, rather than simply covering operating expenses.
City Manager Brandy Matthews emphasized accountability, stating organizations would need to demonstrate how funds “actually poured back into Pocomoke.” Council expressed strong support, and consensus was reached to move forward with developing the program.
Trash Policy and Code Enforcement Reforms Under Review
Council began discussions on requiring trash to be placed in receptacles instead of bags, citing sanitation and worker safety concerns. However, concerns were raised about affordability and enforcement fairness. The issue was referred to a future work session for further development.
A broader overhaul of code enforcement policy was also proposed, including:
- A standardized violation process
- Stronger enforcement mechanisms
- Adding unpaid fines to water bills for collection
Officials said the changes are aimed at giving enforcement “teeth” while reducing reliance on court action.
Staffing and Housing Compliance Concerns
City leadership acknowledged that current staffing levels are insufficient for code enforcement demands, particularly during peak seasons.
Officials also discussed ongoing challenges with rental property compliance, noting difficulties in identifying unregistered rental units unless tenant activity is observed directly.
Looking Ahead
Mayor Nock called for the reinstatement of regular monthly work sessions to handle the increasing complexity of city business, stating that more in-depth collaboration is needed before formal votes. The meeting concluded with recognition of recent community cleanup efforts and ongoing infrastructure improvements across the city. The next meeting of the Mayor & Council is scheduled for Monday May 4th, 2026.
