Charlene Sharpe

May 30, 2024 | oceancitytoday.com | Charlene Sharpe

Elected officials approved a $14 million budget that includes funding for key projects such as a new public works facility, an employee step and grade system and design guidelines this week. The Berlin Town Council voted 4-0 on Tuesday to approve the town’s fiscal year 2025 budget, which at $14 million is almost 24% higher than the current year’s budget. Council members said the spending plan would allow the town to accomplish several of its goals.

May 30, 2024 | oceancitytoday.com | Charlene Sharpe

A new round of grants are expected to help make sure live music remains a part of popular Berlin events. The Berlin Arts and Entertainment District and Berlin Main Street recently received grants from the Worcester County Arts Council. A $3,000 grant will ensure the Edelweiss Band once again performs at Berlin Oktoberfest while a $1,500 grant will pay for live music at the Berlin Farmers Market.

May 30, 2024 | oceancitytoday.com | Charlene Sharpe

As a state task force prepares to address accessory dwelling units, Berlin planning officials are trying to determine what if any sort of additional units should be permitted in town. The Berlin Planning Commission is expected to discuss accessory dwelling units — things like in-law apartments and tiny homes — in the coming weeks as the Maryland Department of Planning Accessory Dwelling Unit Policy Task Force prepares to issue its final report in June.

May 30, 2024 | oceancitytoday.com | Charlene Sharpe

Several Berlin residents voiced support this week for the town’s plan to seek grant funding for a community center on Flower Street. The Berlin Town Council on Tuesday hosted a public hearing for Berlin’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application, which seeks $500,000 to assist with development of a community center at the site of the multi-purpose building on Flower Street.

May 30, 2024 | oceancitytoday.com | Charlene Sharpe

While the new oversight system mandated by the Maryland Police Accountability Act is causing strife and contention in some parts of the state, law enforcement officers in Worcester County say they’re working well with the Police Accountability Board. As some counties struggled to set up their boards and others have been flooded with complaints about police, here in Worcester County the Police Accountability Board (PAB) has quietly established a schedule of quarterly meetings.