The Pocomoke City Mayor and Council convened on April 14, 2026, for a meeting largely centered on swearing-in ceremonies, leadership appointments, and recognition of outgoing service.
The meeting began at 6:41 p.m., with officials noting a delay due to livestream setup issues.
Closed Session Summary and Routine Approvals
Council reviewed a closed session held on March 19, 2026, conducted under Maryland statutory authority to discuss potential litigation and economic development matters. No votes were taken during that session.
Following the summary, council unanimously approved:
- March 19 work session minutes
- March 19 closed session minutes
- March 23 meeting minutes
- The city bill list
Multiple Officials Sworn In
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to administering oaths of office. The following individuals were sworn in:
- Doretha Whittington – Beautification Committee
- Robert Smith – Fair Board
- Joshua George – Planning and Zoning Commission
- Andrew Illuminati – City Attorney
- Melinda Stafford – City Clerk
- Brandy Matthews – City Manager
Officials noted that the swearing-in of administrative roles was required under the city’s governing structure and would not be an annual requirement.
Recognition of Outgoing Councilmember
District 1 Councilmember R. Scott Holland was formally recognized for his service.
The mayor highlighted Holland’s role in improving the city’s financial position, stating:
“Thinking back to the days where the city was in big debt with the state, you and I stepped in, looked over the financials, and we were determined to get it paid off.”
Holland reflected on his tenure and departure:
“I’m proud of the work that I put in in the service that I did for this town… I’m also thankful to get some time back and free some time with my kids.”
New Councilmembers Sworn In
Michael Hall was sworn in as District 1 Councilmember, while Diane Downing was sworn in for District 2.
Hall expressed his outlook for the term ahead:
“I do know we’re not going to agree on every issue. I just hope we can agree to disagree.”
Council Leadership Appointments
Council voted to appoint:
- Diane Downing as First Vice President
- C.L. Marshall as Second Vice President
Additionally, Mayor Todd Nock, Downing, and Marshall were authorized as bank signatories.
Community Announcements and Closing Remarks
Councilmembers used the comment period to:
- Thank outgoing and incoming officials
- Encourage participation in upcoming events
Announcements included:
- A poetry and art workshop at the Pocomoke Public Library on April 17
- A community-wide cleanup on April 18 starting at the fairgrounds
- A mayor’s business roundtable scheduled for April 16 at the Discovery Center
In closing remarks, Mayor Todd Nock emphasized unity despite differences:
“We may leave this room mad with each other some nights, but we’re still a family… when we can come together for the betterment of this town, that’s what we do.”
