Ocean City · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ocean City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
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.
Internal audit Quarter 2 findings
Q1 overtime hit 23,603 hours — up about 2,600 from last year, with fire department training overtime doubling. Council members Heiser and Gehrig pressed for optimization, and the FY 2027 audit plan will scrutinize vendor accounts, rental licenses, legal fees, and AI usage.
Pension Fund Investment Manager Change
The Pension Committee's plan to swap the JP Morgan Mid Value fund for Columbia Select Mid Cap Value and pour about $250,000 of set-aside cash into the unbudgeted FY27 pension contribution got unanimous council approval.
Government relations lobbying contract
After interviewing four firms, the city hired Manis Canning and Associates to represent Ocean City on budget, legislative, policy and regulatory matters in Annapolis and Washington.
First Artificial Intelligence Use Policy for town government
Town employees are already using AI tools, so the city set its first formal rules on approved platforms, data protection, and prohibited uses. Council members agreed it's a necessary first step but expect it to need constant updating — and eventually paid enterprise subscriptions with tighter network controls.
Business License Fees (Resolution 2026-17)
A resolution establishing certain business license fees was on the agenda as companion legislation to Ordinance 2026-17. Local businesses could see changes to what they pay.
Increased Match for Employee Tuition Assistance
The town is doubling down on employee education: tuition reimbursement jumps from a 50% match capped at $2,000 to a full 100% match with a $3,000 annual cap. Only 11 employees used the benefit in five years, and the town hopes the richer terms build a stronger workforce.
100th Street parking lot rates
New paid parking rates for the 100th Street lot are set, and the citation dismissal language was updated because payment is now app-only — a safeguard for drivers who hit app glitches.
Special Event Parking Fines
Parking fines will double during designated special events under a new ordinance, and one resident questioned the special event parking fees during public comments.