JUNE 29, 2023
Heron Park’s future awaits final decision
OP CANDIDATE FORUM
Board candidates face annual quiz before full house
Town still undecided on ways to develop 17-acre property
Four hopefuls keep it calm, deliberate and thoughtful By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer (June 29, 2023) It was standing room only at the Ocean Pines candidate forum on Wednesday night, as heavy rain and winds did not prevent residents from coming out to hear the viewpoints of the four candidates vying for three seats on the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors. Tom Piatti, the chair of the Election Advisory Committee reminded the audience that the two top votegetters this year’s election will serve a full three-year term on the board, and the third-place finisher will serve out the remainder of Frank Daly’s term, following his resignation from the board to move to Florida. The four candidates — John Latham, Jerry Murphy, Elaine Brady and Jeff Heavner — provided opening remarks, outlining their backgrounds and why they are running. Residents submitted 14 questions for the candidates in advance to the elections committee. The topics included public use of the boat ramps, digital signs, congestion, yard maintenance, budget questions and the debate over a roundabout at the north entrance. In addition, audience members had a chance to ask questions of the candidates. In his opening comments, Latham remarked that he would have a servant leadership style. Murphy voiced his desire to serve the community that has served him so well over the nearly 50 years he has owned property in Ocean Pines. He was the builder of the infamous round houses. Brady would be a legacy board member, as her father served on the board in the 1990s. She has a multigenerational perspective on the comSee CANDIDATES Page 4
CINDY HOFFMANDC/BAYSIDE GAZETTE
TOUR OF THE TOWN
Mayor Zack Tyndall talks with Comptroller Brooke Lierman during a walking tour of Berlin on Monday. They were joined by members of the Berlin Council. See story on page 13.
Independence festivities abound in Worcester Co. Fans of fireworks will have four shows to choose from By Jack Chavez Staff Writer (June 29, 2023) Whether you want to celebrate among the throngs of tourists or find something more local-focused, there are plenty of options for you and your family this July 4. Berlin The Town of Berlin will be holding its annual fireworks celebration at Heron Park on Monday, July 3, giving anyone who can’t get their fill of
fireworks in just one day a chance to fit in other July 4 activities. The fireworks will start at dusk — roughly 9:15 p.m. — at the park located at 10009 Old Ocean City Road. The town is still accepting sponsors for the event. Those interested can find more information on the Town of Berlin’s official Facebook page. Ocean Pines The Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department will host a nearly four-hour celebration at Veterans Memorial Park off Route 589 and See BERLIN Page 3
By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer (June 29, 2023) The continuing discussion of what to do with Heron Park resumed at the Berlin mayor and Town Council meeting Monday night, with officials still debating how to proceed with the development of a portion of it. The former Tyson chicken processing plant land and buildings were purchased in 2016 by the town of Berlin for $2.5 million and has been used as park land since then. The town currently owes $2.3 million on the property. The town requested proposals for the property last year and received responses from Palmer Gillis of Coastal Ventures Properties LLC and another for a mixed use development of 78 homes. The council agreed that the latter not the best fit for the property, according to Mayor Zack Tyndall. The offer is for 17 acres of the property. Forty four acres will remain untouched. A subcommittee of the council has been exploring options for the property. The members are Mayor Tyndall, Councilmembers Jack Orris and Jay Knerr, Town Administrator Mary Bohlen and Town Attorney David Gaskill. Gillis offered the town $1.5 million for three parcels with an additional $200,000 earmarked for rails and trails and an amphitheater. His proposal included partial demolition of the existing structure. The discussion during the meeting ranged from an amphitheater and skate park to a garden center on the premises. “We have two goals in mind. Bring forth a project to enhance the town. The problem is the second goal, to retire the debt on this property,” said See HERON Page 7
The Area’s Premier Physical Therapy Clinic
NOW 2 Great Locations to Serve You! Spelled Different Because We Are Different® FYZICAL-DELMARVA.COM
Fyzical of Ocean Pines 11204 Racetrack Rd, Suite 101 • Ocean Pines, MD, 21811 410-208-1525
Fyzical of West Ocean City 12472 Sea Oaks Ln, Unit 1 • Berlin, MD 21811 410-747-3522