Wicomico County Council debates budget transparency and audit issues

The Wicomico County Council held a legislative meeting on May 6, 2025, where significant discussions centered around budget allocations, transparency in government operations, and the recent audit of the Safari at the Quarry event.

During the meeting, council members expressed concerns regarding the county's budget, particularly the allocation of funds for various departments. Jim Atkins highlighted that while the Board of Education and public safety received substantial funding, a notable portion of the budget—$29.8 million—was categorized as "miscellaneous." He urged the council to reconsider proposed pay raises for certain employees, arguing that they were disproportionate compared to the cost-of-living adjustments for other workers.

The audit report concerning the Safari at the Quarry event sparked intense debate. Several council members criticized the lack of transparency and the incomplete information provided during the audit process. They emphasized that the absence of a proper business plan for the event contributed to the confusion and financial discrepancies. Council members noted that the community was not adequately informed about the event, leading to feelings of mistrust among residents.

Council member Joe Merritt acknowledged the internal auditor's efforts but lamented the ongoing challenges in obtaining necessary information from the administration. He pointed out that the council had faced repeated instances of "stonewalling," which hindered their ability to make informed decisions regarding taxpayer money.

The meeting concluded with a call for improved communication between the council and the public. Several members stressed the importance of transparency and the need to keep constituents informed about developments that could impact their neighborhoods. The council expressed a commitment to ensuring that future projects involve community input and adhere to proper procedures.

Overall, the discussions highlighted ongoing concerns about budget management, the need for transparency in government operations, and the importance of community engagement in local decision-making processes. The council's next steps will likely involve addressing the issues raised during the meeting to foster better communication and accountability within Wicomico County.