Wicomico County council authorizes up to $17.8 million in general obligation bonds

The Wicomico County Council on Aug. 5 unanimously approved Legislative Bill 20-25-10, authorizing the county to borrow up to $17,766,000 through general obligation bonds to finance projects in multiple departments.

The bill, read into the record by Mr. Benson, proposes issuing one or more series of general obligation bonds and bond anticipation notes, and permits refunding bonds where appropriate. Mr. Benson said the proceeds would be used to “finance, refinance, or reimburse the cost of certain projects for the following departments: Emergency services, public library construction, civic center, recreation and parks, and solid waste,” and for related planning, design, acquisition, construction, improvement, renovation and financing costs.

The council did not debate the substance of the measure after the public hearing; a motion to approve was moved and seconded, and the council conducted a roll-call vote. Councilman Holloway, Councilman Hastings, Councilman Shields, Councilman Nennas and Vice President Merritt each voted “aye,” and the chair also voted aye. The motion carried unanimously.

Nut graf: The authorization allows the county to use its full faith and credit to back the bonds and to levy taxes as needed within lawful limitations to pay principal and interest. The action enables financing for capital projects across emergency services, recreation and solid waste that the county said require bonded funding.

Council members did not attach further amendments or conditions in the legislative session. The bill text, as read, allows the council to adopt resolutions fixing details of issuance and sale prior to borrowing and contemplates issuance of refunding bonds not exceeding 130% of the principal refunded.

Ending: The measure passed with unanimous council support and is recorded in the meeting minutes as Legislative Bill 20-25-10, approved Aug. 5, 2025.