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New Pocomoke planning director outlines options to tighten demolition permits
Summary
Planning Director Kristen Tremblay recommended that Pocomoke City require site plans, environmental checks and time-limited permits and asked the council whether it wants to review demolition permits before issuance; council asked staff for more information.
Council members on June 22 raised concerns about the city’s demolition-permit process and invited input from incoming Planning Director Kristen Tremblay on possible reforms.
Tremblay, speaking to the council after being introduced, described practices she encountered in Worcester County: applicants submit site plans showing the structure to be removed; environmental programs check for wells and septic issues (well abandonment and septic capping reports); and inspections confirm the site is cleared and safe after demolition. She noted many municipalities issue demolition permits with a limited active period (commonly 180 days) to prevent permit holders from indefinitely delaying work while keeping a permit active.
Tremblay also said if the city is contemplating a historic-preservation district, the council could tie demolition review to that district and allow expedited processes for properties outside it. Council members asked for more detailed options and asked Tremblay to prepare additional information on possible criteria the council might use to review and approve demolition permits.
Next steps: Planning Director Tremblay will prepare further information for council consideration, including options for site-plan requirements, environmental checks and time limits on permits.
