The City of Pocomoke’s monthly newsletter, The Pocomoke Papers, returned this month with its second edition, offering residents updates on city projects, upcoming events, community news and municipal services. One article in the November edition caught my attention: “Who Does What at City Hall?”
The article explains the responsibilities of several new and expanded positions within city government, including roles in Planning and Code Compliance, Economic Development, infrastructure project oversight and administrative support. I had specifically asked the city to provide residents with more information about these positions and what they mean for the community. The article offers a look at how the city describes the purpose of these roles, the services they support and the benefits they are intended to provide. I appreciate the city’s continuous effort to improve services and transparency.
For residents who have wondered why City Hall is adding positions or how these departments work together, this is a useful overview.
The November edition of The Pocomoke Papers can be found on the City of Pocomoke’s official Facebook page.
I’m reprinting the “Who Does What at City Hall?” article below for readers who want to take a closer look.
Who Does What at City Hall?
Originally published in the City of Pocomoke’s November 2026 edition of the Pocomoke Papers newsletter.
Planning and Code Compliance Department
Previously, the City’s Planning and Zoning Department was managed by one employee. Following the vacancy in that position, the City’s Code Enforcement Director maintained those responsibilities while the City evaluated how to better meet the community’s needs. Through that process, we recognized that Pocomoke City needed additional planning capacity to manage development, support responsible growth, and address code compliance concerns. As our community grows, we must ensure that development is thoughtfully planned and that our existing neighborhoods remain attractive, safe, and well-maintained.
Senior Planner
The Senior Planner works alongside the Planning Director to review development proposals, support daily and long-term planning, and identify opportunities for responsible growth. This provides greater attention to how development fits Pocomoke City’s character, infrastructure, and community needs while ensuring residents, property owners, and developers receive timely guidance.
Benefit to the Community: More efficient planning services and a proactive approach to growth that preserves Pocomoke City’s character.
Code Enforcement Officers
Code Enforcement Officers enforce City ordinances related to vegetation, property maintenance, nuisances, and other code requirements. Addressing violations helps protect neighborhood appearance, support public health and safety, and maintain consistent standards throughout the City.
Benefit to the Community: Cleaner, better-maintained neighborhoods and a more attractive environment for residents, visitors, and businesses. Together, Planning and Code Compliance balance responsible growth with the care and preservation of the community we call home.
Project Operations Manager
The Project Operations Manager provides dedicated, hands-on oversight of municipal infrastructure projects and developer-installed improvements, including streets, sidewalks, water lines, and sewer systems. Consistent oversight helps ensure work meets approved plans and standards while identifying concerns early, reducing future repairs, delays, and costs. It also allows Public Works, water, and wastewater staff to remain focused on essential services.
Benefit to the Community: Greater accountability, better protection of the City’s infrastructure investments, and improvements that meet the City’s expectations.
Economic Development Department
The Economic Development Department brings together three complementary roles: the Economic Development Director, Events and Facilities Coordinator, and Community Outreach Coordinator. While each has distinct responsibilities, they work together to support local businesses, attract investment, strengthen community partnerships, and make Pocomoke City a stronger place to live, work, visit, and do business.
Economic Development Director
The Economic Development Director supports existing businesses, assists prospective business owners, identifies grant opportunities, and develops strategies to attract new businesses and residents to Pocomoke City. This includes connecting businesses with available resources and potential funding, promoting local economic activity, and pursuing initiatives that encourage investment and strengthen the City’s economic base.
Benefit to the Community: Greater support for local businesses, increased opportunities for business development, improved access to grant resources, and continued efforts to expand Pocomoke City’s economic opportunities and tax base.
Events and Facilities Coordinator
The Events and Facilities Coordinator organizes City events throughout the year and helps oversee the use and upkeep of public facilities, including Cypress Park and the Horse Stables. Community events bring residents together, create activities for local families, attract visitors, and encourage spending within the community. Oversight of City facilities helps ensure these public spaces remain welcoming and available to residents and visitors.
Benefit to the Community: More opportunities for community engagement, improved use and maintenance of public facilities, and events that support local businesses while showcasing Pocomoke City.
Community Outreach Coordinator
The Community Outreach Coordinator builds relationships with churches, schools, nonprofits, civic groups, and other community partners to identify needs and create opportunities for collaboration. This position maintains connections between City Hall and those who contribute to the community while exploring initiatives residents value, including efforts to restore activities such as a farmers market.
Benefit to the Community: Stronger partnerships, improved communication, increased collaboration, and programs that respond to residents’ interests and needs. Together, the Economic Development Department supports business development, tourism, events, community involvement, and Pocomoke City’s continued improvement.
Administrative Assistant to the City Manager
The Administrative Assistant provides direct support to the City Manager and helps manage the daily operations of the City Manager’s Office. The position organizes activities, manages administrative tasks, coordinates information, and helps identify which matters require the City Manager’s immediate attention. This support allows the City Manager to focus on departmental oversight, major projects, resident concerns, operational issues, and the priorities established by the Mayor and Council.
Benefit to the Community: Improved administrative efficiency, more organized communication, better coordination of City business, and appropriate attention to important municipal matters.
Our Commitment to Pocomoke City
These positions were not created simply to increase staffing. They reflect the City’s recognition that Pocomoke City’s needs are expanding and that we must have the appropriate personnel in place to meet those needs effectively.
Pocomoke City is a unique community with a rich history and significant opportunities for the future. Preparing for that future requires planning, coordination, investment, and the right people in the right roles. Our responsibility is to ensure that City government continues to meet the needs of the people it serves.
These positions are part of that commitment—to provide better services today while building a stronger, more vibrant Pocomoke City for tomorrow.
Distinct Positions Supporting the Same Objectives
- Better service: Providing residents and businesses with more focused assistance and improved access to City services.
- Responsible growth: Ensuring that development is planned carefully and that infrastructure improvements receive appropriate oversight.
- Accountability: Identifying problems early, enforcing applicable standards, and protecting the City’s investments.
- Economic opportunity: Supporting existing businesses, encouraging new investment, and pursuing resources that benefit the community.
- Community engagement: Strengthening partnerships, supporting events, and creating more opportunities for residents to participate in community life.
- Efficient government: Ensuring that City Hall has the capacity to manage daily responsibilities while continuing to move important projects forward.
