That's generous of you but we probably could have had federal and state funding for beach replenishment had the City been on the ball. And the local tax payer will have to foot the entire bill for what will amount to a drop in the bucket in terms of the amount of sand needed. But I'm not for a special assessment. That was suggested when the citizens complained about the condition of our streets. The problem isn't that the CIty doesn't have the money to spend. Its with how its spends the money. The City is taking an aggressive approach to street repairs in the proposed capital plan. Unfortunately it now has to borrowmoney to do it. For flood mitigation? Maybe.

Hey here's your chance to weigh in on the new new elevation guidelines. This time you'll have the chance to look at the ordinance before its voted on. As for Dan's Dockside Marina check out the quotes in the article in last Saturday's ACP. Very illuminating.

For regular readers I know I'm repeating myself but I suspect Think is relatively new to this.

Or possibly allow for coverage of only the amount owed? Cindy Neviit (shorenewstoday) listed possible options in an article a couple of weeks ago.

In terms of the effect it will have I can't see it as much more than a political expedient. And an expensive one. I agree that we have to find a better solution.

I actually received an eamil from Mr Van Drew indicating the city HAS requested funds and he continues to speak to our mayor. I think the problem is the availabilty of funds. If this were approved by the state it could be funded by the local municipalities as well or perhaps even broken out in seperate parts.

I feel badly for every one who's home where damaged during the storm.Those of us who live in ocean city must know that we have chosen a very dangerous place to live. Our marine climate puts us at risk to storms,tides and unusual wear and tear to our homes and roads and utilities. The same "Southend Resident" who seems to be demanding that the Goverment pile up sand in front of her house seems so reluctant to share access to the wetlands in her area. A nature trail on the old railway route would be spectacular attraction for residents and guests alike. So if you demand the Goverment take care of your front yard, your "not in my back yard" attitude towards the bike trail seems well, selfish

I would love to see a marina and a restaurant at that site but as a tax payer I don't want to invest in another private for profit business. Certainly not without hope of return to the taxpayer.

The deal we struck for the Bayside Center marina was a joke. A private for profit business is getting the use of a property the taxpayers paid $3 mill for and on top of that is receiving $100,000 / year to run the thing. Since it is a City owned property we don't even receive a ratable from it. It's tax free. The green acre designation we received for that property will now be used as a parking lot for that business.

The deal that is being proposed for Dan's Dockside Marina is very similar. The CIty (taxpayers) will again make the investment and assume the risk. The private entity will receive the return. If declared an area in need of rehabilitation the City can waive property tax going forward and possibly the taxes owed but not paid since 2007.

I don't understand why we make these deals. Why we use tax payer dollars toi bail out banks (the 8th Street parking was another example of that) and invest millions in private for profits without any return. Maybe the CIty would like to buy my place and pay me to rent it out? If I make a profit after expenses maybe I'll cut them in on some of it?

We'll have to wait and see exactly how this deal is structured, but judging from what I read in the paper. and from prior experinace, I'm dubious.

It should be noted that the property along with the property along 9th street they had was a dump when these people had it before. It was like a junk yard for boats.

Here is the e mail from him dated 3/12 10AM

I am in the process of setting up a meeting with the Mayor and Administrator. They have requested funds but I will ask them if they want or need my help.

Jeff

You're right. Its water over the dam now. LIke you I just want to see results. And I don't see a solution yet.

jj, if you're interested in the zoning ordinance, a copy of the exact text is attached to this story (click on the PDF ... changes are highlighted in red). The ordinance passed unanimously on first reading, which is often a good indication of how it will go on second reading. No live updates, but I'll try to get something posted quickly after the meeting.