Council approves nine special events, reappoints Marina Commission member and records lighthouse lighting for Down Syndrome Day

Havre de Grace — At its March 16 meeting the City Council approved a slate of special‑event permits for 2026, reappointed a member to the Marina Commission and voted to illuminate the Concord Point Lighthouse for World Down Syndrome Day.

Administration read emails from applicants who could not attend because of weather. The council approved eight events on a consent calendar, including the Havre de Grace Farmers Market (May–December), the Friday night summer concert series, the 30th annual children’s art festival and the Upper Chesapeake Bay Pride Festival. Council then separately considered and approved the Chesapeake Print and Book Arts Fair, set for May 9 on the 200 block of North Washington Street. Administration noted the fair had described plans for a secure perimeter around a planned beer garden but had not yet contracted a vendor; if the beer garden is not secured, officers planned for the event would be adjusted.

Council also reappointed Jamie Bennett to the Marina Commission. Council member Schneggs moved the reappointment; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. Members praised Bennett’s ties to the business community and his involvement with the marina.

Separately, Council member Boyer moved that Concord Point Lighthouse be illuminated in blue and yellow on March 21 to mark World Down Syndrome Day. Administration said the lighting had already been scheduled in response to the request; the council voted to make the lighting a recorded council action. The motion carried.