Wicomico County preview: capital plan, Hurdle Building surplus and staffing concerns ahead of Jan. 6 meeting

Open Agenda panelists reviewed several agenda items that will be considered at the Wicomico County Council meeting on Jan. 6, focusing on capital projects, building surplus declarations and staffing stability.

Speakers said the capital improvement plan (CIP) open for public comment does not include new funding for emergency medical services and lacks designated funds for renovation of the Verizon building. The program noted a resolution to declare the Hurdle Building surplus while renovation costs for the Verizon property remain unknown, and one commentator called declaring surplus before cost estimates are secured a "risky business." Panelists discussed a proposal to relocate the health department to Mount Hermon Road (the broadcast used the name "Mount Herman"), and they urged caution on surplus declarations until renovation budgets are clear.

Other operational concerns raised on the program included the pending expiration of 90-day terms for acting department heads in public works and human resources and unusually fast turnover in the public works director position during the past year. Guests recommended that the council use outside expert consultants (engineers, certified planners) to advise on large, long-term sanitary projects rather than relying solely on administration-contracted experts.

Panelists also noted that the fiscal year 2025 financial audit is expected to be released earlier than last year (promised for the next January meeting), which program contributors called an improvement though some said late submission remains a charter compliance issue. These items were framed as important context for council budget planning and public hearings listed on the Jan. 6 agenda.