Council approves Regular Session #16 Minutes (October 19, 2026), 7–0

Approval of Regular Session #16 Minutes (October 19, 2026)

7 yes, 0 no

Bid Award — Northside Park Living Shoreline

7 yes, 0 no

Fiscal Year 2026 audit and financial report

The town got a clean audit and its finances look strong — net position up $22.5 million, revenues up 12%, and pensions over 95% funded. Council is now asking whether the town is holding too much in reserves and whether some should pay down debt instead.

What it means: Town net position grew $22.5 million; general fund reserves sit at $37 million, well above the 17% policy minimum.

Cancellation of November 2 regular session

The November 2 council meeting is canceled due to a light agenda. Council Member Proctor objected, saying canceled meetings cut into the public's chance to speak.

What it means: Council and staff save time with a light agenda.

Delmarva Power substation expansion and battery storage

The Second Street substation upgrade — including elevating equipment against downtown flooding — is at 30% design with construction targeted for fall 2027. The 100th Street battery storage unit should be fully online by January 2027, but neighbors say its floodlights are shining into condominium bedrooms.

What it means: Residents and businesses get more reliable power during peak summer loads and storms.

Northside Park Living Shoreline project

The council awarded a $110,850 contract for a living shoreline at Northside Park, fully paid by a federal grant through the Maryland Coastal Bays Foundation — no local tax dollars needed.

What it means: No town funds required — the $167,113 federal grant covers the full project plus contingency.

State Highway Administration projects and Route 90 dualization timeline

SHA outlined winter work on the Route 50 bridge, mastic repairs to the Maryland 90 bridge deck, and Coastal Highway repaving from the Delaware line to 60th Street. The Route 90 dualization remains 15 to 20 years out, and council wants bridge joint repairs expedited since the deck will be in place for a while.

What it means: Drivers and visitors benefit from smoother roads and a repainted Route 50 bridge; the flooding crosswalk fix helps pedestrians at 130th Street.