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Council tables proposal to create water and sewer technical advisory committee pending state guidance
Summary
After lengthy discussion about whether to create a volunteer sanitary commission or an in-house technical advisory committee, the Wicomico County Council voted to table Resolution 134-2025 and asked staff to seek written confirmation from the state about the implications for future funding and authority.
The Wicomico County Council on Sept. 2 tabled Resolution 134-2025, which would have created a county Water and Sewer Technical Advisory Committee and adopted committee bylaws. The proposal was the subject of extended discussion about the difference between a state-authorized sanitary district commission and an in-house advisory committee.
County Attorney Paul Wilbur told the council the state had passed enabling legislation allowing a sanitary district and sanitary commission with powers to bond, set rates and sign contracts. The proposed approach before the council would instead create a volunteer advisory committee to provide technical advice to the Department of Public Works, while leaving bonding, rate setting and contracting authority with the executive and the council.
Council members raised concerns about how the state would view replacing or declining to establish a sanitary commission created under enabling state law, and whether future state funding could be affected. Adam Corey, executive director of environmental services, told the council that state officials have in other counties allowed both approaches and that existing projects have proceeded with state blessing in the absence of a formal commission. Still, several members asked staff to obtain a written opinion or confirmation from the state.
After a motion to table the resolution, the council voted to postpone consideration until staff obtains written confirmation from the state about whether the proposed advisory committee route would affect funding or regulatory standing. The motion to table passed by voice vote.
Why it matters: The choice affects governance of future sewer and septic projects, whether volunteer commissioners would have independent financial authority, and how the county secures and manages state funding for large wastewater projects.
Action taken: Resolution 134-2025 tabled pending written guidance from state authorities regarding the use of an advisory committee versus a sanitary commission.
