Date: April 14, 2026
Location: Town Hall
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by Mayor Gary Lucks followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and opening prayer.
Attendance: Present were Mayor Gary Lucks, Commissioners Holiday, Sisson, Yockey, and Stagg, Town Attorney Zach Smith, Administrative Assistant/Code Enforcement Officer Edwin Gomez, Clerk/Treasurer Michelle Jackson, and members of the public.
Approval of Minutes: A motion was made and seconded to approve the March Council Meeting minutes. All members voted in favor. Motion carried.
Financial Report: The Town reported a positive monthly cash flow. The Trading Post grant has been fully received. Additional funds are pending including approximately $70,000 for the walking trail and parking lot project and $6,100 for train station landscaping. The Town continues to follow up on senior apartment reimbursements and other outstanding balances.
Budget Amendments: Council reviewed and approved amendments to the FY 2025-2026 budget. A total of $20,450 from grant reimbursements was allocated to cover overages in internet, computer expenses, legal services, audit, grant writing, stipends, and trash collection. An additional $15,872 was transferred into the contingency fund. Motion passed unanimously.
Budget Timeline: The budget work session will take place in April. First reading is scheduled for the May Council Meeting, with final adoption in June.
Capital Projects: Discussion included the Sugar Drive culvert replacement and ditch cleaning project estimated at $50,000. Work is anticipated to begin in July pending dry conditions. Erosion control measures are also being evaluated.
Website and Records Management: The Town website continues to improve with regular posting of agendas and minutes. Plans include adding the Town Charter, Planning & Zoning Ordinances, Historic District Commission information, and the Comprehensive Plan. The Clerk is working toward implementing a cloud-based document storage system.
Code Enforcement: The Town has implemented the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC). A structured enforcement process is in place, with minor issues handled administratively and major violations involving the Town Attorney. Edwin Gomez will manage enforcement operations.
Property Updates: Zeller Properties has been given 90 days from April 1 for demolition with a 30-day appeal window. The House of Hinges property is pending further review. The Buckland property remains under coordination with the bank and legal counsel.
Sewer Smoke Testing: Testing is scheduled for the week of April 20. The purpose is to identify leaks and illegal connections. Public notices will be issued and volunteers will assist in identifying problem areas.
Twin Cities Commission: Council discussed ongoing challenges with quorum and delays in EDU approvals. Moving forward, all approvals will be documented in writing to improve accountability and efficiency.
Farmers Market: The Farmers Market will launch in May with approximately 15-16 vendors expected, offering a variety of products. Future improvements may include installation of water and electric infrastructure to support vendors.
Events Committee: Upcoming events include the Heart Walk, May Day, Movie Nights, and Mayor’s Walks. Community participation continues to be strong.
Community Day: Community Day is scheduled for May 16 at 12:00 PM and will include food, games, and community engagement activities.
Building Permits: Multiple residential and commercial permits were reviewed and approved to proceed to the Historic District Commission, including new construction, renovations, and accessory structures.
Infrastructure & Utilities: Discussions included streetlight upgrades to sensor systems, coordination with Delmarva Power for park electric, and exploration of solar energy options.
Water Treatment Facility: Plans for a new water treatment building near the Trading Post were reviewed. The project is estimated between $300,000 and $340,000 and must be completed by December to meet grant requirements.
Town Hall Improvements: Proposed improvements include repainting, installation of flagpoles, and structural inspection of the building.
Citizen Comments: A resident addressed tree removal and requested information regarding burn permits. The Town will provide appropriate contact information and guidance.
Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 7:25 PM.