Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by the Chair at 6:30 PM.
Roll Call
Present: Pete Baker, Paul Kowalski, Chuck Zimmerman, Mayor Gary Lucks, Michelle Jackson, Edwin Ramos, and others in attendance.
Approval of Previous Minutes
The Commission reviewed the April 13, 2026 meeting minutes. Members noted that discussions regarding Lots 38 and 40 and the awning on the Koski property had been omitted. It was agreed that the minutes would be amended to include these items. Motion carried to approve the April 13 minutes as amended.
Code Enforcement Report
Edwin Ramos reported that the Sugar Drive property was cleaned following notice. Grass ordinance enforcement continues throughout town. Inspection of a damaged tree at 8 Railroad Avenue is pending. A town-wide ride-along inspection will be conducted during the week of June 1 to identify additional violations.
Status of Problem Properties
The Buckland Property
Attorney requested a complete accounting of outstanding obligations, including mowing expenses. Ownership transfer from the mortgage company to the bank is underway. Unauthorized work on the property was halted. Upon transfer, daily fines of $100 will begin due to the property’s condition.
Zeller Property
The Historic District Commission established a June deadline for submission of restoration plans. Failure to comply will result in daily fines of $100.
House of Hinges
Daily fines began May 1, 2026. Current fines exceed $3,000 and have increased to $200 per day. Significant structural concerns remain, including roof damage, broken windows, and water intrusion.
Harvey Street Townhouse Proposal
The Commission reviewed a proposal to remove an existing trailer and two structures and construct three townhomes on the property. Discussion included zoning designation concerns (B▪1 versus R▪1/R▪2), density limitations identified in the Comprehensive Plan, availability of existing EDUs, neighborhood compatibility, and potential subdivision requirements. Following discussion, a motion to support a three-unit townhouse development failed by a vote of 4▪0. The Commission expressed its preference for a single-family dwelling consistent with the surrounding neighborhood and Comprehensive Plan objectives.
Comprehensive Plan Update
The Commission discussed the Comprehensive Plan update process and timeline. Members will review and update Pages 3–17. Staff will assist with demographic and economic data updates. Public participation efforts will begin later in the year. Coordination with Dorchester County and the State of Maryland will continue throughout the process.
Parking and Future Growth Discussion
The Commission discussed long-term growth planning, annexation opportunities, sewer and water capacity, and possible locations for additional public parking to support downtown businesses. Several potential sites were identified for further study. The Commission also discussed the importance of planning for future growth while maintaining the character of the community and ensuring infrastructure capacity is available to support future development.
Committee Membership
The Commission discussed adding Howard (“Bear”) as a prospective member. A binder containing ordinances, maps, procedures, and reference materials will be prepared for orientation.
Action Items
Amend the April 13, 2026 minutes; continue enforcement actions on Buckland, Zeller, and House of Hinges properties; issue written denial of the Harvey Street townhouse proposal; verify zoning designations and nonconforming use provisions; continue Comprehensive Plan review and updates; and evaluate future parking opportunities and annexation strategies.
Adjournment
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.