On the agenda: Wicomico County meeting — data center (Jul 16)

WICOMICO COUNTY, MARYLAND
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, ZONING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
125 N. DIVISION STREET, ROOM 203
P.O. BOX 870
SALISBURY, MARYLAND 21803-0870
PHONE: 410-548-4860 | FAX: 410-548-4955

Julie M. Giordano
County Executive
Steven S. Lakin
Assistant Director of Administration

Bunky Luffman
Director of Administration

WICOMICO COUNTY PLANNING
AND ZONING COMMISSION

Tracey G. Taylor
Director

AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING

July 16, 2026
ROOM 301, THIRD FLOOR
GOVERNMENT OFFICE BUILDING

4:00 P.M. Convene, Chip Dashiell, Chairman
County Minutes – Meeting of June 18, 2026
4:05 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING – ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT – An Act to amend Chapter 225 of the
Wicomico County Code, titled “Zoning,” to establish and revise regulations pertaining to
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and related provisions as necessary to comply with the
requirements of Acts of Maryland 2025, Chapter 196 (Maryland Senate Bill 891), amending
the Land Use and Real Property Articles of the Annotated Code of Maryland to regulate
Accessory Dwelling Units. (T. Taylor)
WORK SESSION - WICOMICO COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE – Public Survey
(Wallace Montgomery Staff)
***NOTE: Please be advised that the Planning Commission review of the Draft 2027
Comprehensive Plan is a Work Session; therefore, there will be no opportunity to comment
during the Work Session. The opportunity for public comment will become available through
the County website at a future date.
PLANNING DIRECTOR UPDATES – (T. Taylor)
MEETING DATES – August 20 and September 17, 2026
MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT
Agenda items might not be considered in sequence. This agenda is subject to change to include the addition or deletion of items, including closed
session. If a closed session is utilized, it will be pursuant to either General Provisions Article of the Maryland Annotated Code, § 3-305(b)(1), the
“personnel matters” exception, or General Provisions Article of the Maryland Annotated Code, § 3-305(b)(7), the “legal advice” exception.

WICOMICO COUNTY, MARYLAND
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, ZONING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
125 N. DIVISION STREET, ROOM 203
P.O. BOX 870
SALISBURY, MARYLAND 21803-0870
PHONE: 410-548-4860 | FAX: 410-548-4955

Julie M. Giordano
County Executive

Bunky Luffman
Director of Administration

Steven S. Lakin
Assistant Director of Administration

Tracey G. Taylor
Director

MINUTES
The Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission (“Commission”) met in regular session
on June 18, 2026, in Room 301, Council Chambers, Government Office Building, with the following
persons participating:
COMMISSION MEMBERS:
Charles “Chip” Dashiell, Chairman
Daniel Morena-Holt
Sara Bynum-King
Mandel Copeland
Tanesha Siggers
Jim Thomas
PLANNING STAFF:
Kaylee Justice, Wicomico County Department of Planning, Zoning, and Community Development
(“PZCD”)
Janae Merchant, Recording Secretary, PZCD
Becky Thayne, PZCD
Matthew Littlejohn, PZCD
Gabby Carr, Wicomico County, Department of Law

Chairman Dashiell called the meeting to order at 4:03 p.m.
MINUTES: The County minutes from May 21, 2026, were brought forward for approval. Chairman
Dashiell discussed a revision to the minutes on page 4. He requested that condition #12 be modified
to include “and to direct vehicles from blocking the crosswalk.” All the Commissioners agreed with the
modification. Mr. Daniel Moreno-Holt moved to approve the minutes with the revision, seconded by
Mr. Mandel Copeland; the motion carried. The minutes from the May 21, 2026, meeting were
APPROVED. Ms. Sara Bynum-King and Mr. Jim Thomas abstained from voting on the minutes, as they
were not present at the May 21, 2026, meeting.

Minutes – June 18, 2026
Page |2

Chairman Dashiell requested that all individuals who planned to provide testimony before the
Commission stand and be sworn in; Ms. Gabby Carr administered the Oath.

PUBLIC HEARING – Zoning Text Amendment – An Act to amend Chapter 225 of the Wicomico County
Code, titled “Zoning,” Part 2, titled “Administration and Enforcement,” Article IV, titled “Zoning Map,”
Section §225-20, titled “Amendments,” and Part 4, titled “Zoning Districts,” Article XII, titled “Special
Districts: Overlay Districts,” Section §225-43, titled “A-2 Airport Overlay Zone,” to amend the 8,000’
Airport Turning Radius of the A-2 Airport Overlay Zone on the Wicomico County Zoning Map. (T. Taylor
K. Justice)
The Public Hearing began at 4:08 p.m.
Ms. Kaylee Justice provided a brief overview of the Zoning Text Amendment. Chapter 225-43 of
the Zoning Code, which is the A-2 Airport Overlay District, requires an 8,000-foot airport turning radius,
measured from the geometric center of the airport's usable runway. The airport is currently undergoing
an expansion, and therefore, the runway expansion necessitates relocating the center point. Mr. Frank
McKenzie, GIS Manager, provided a map showing the proposed airport reference point in the yellow
circle and the current circle in green. The expansion shifts the center point slightly.
Certain uses are prohibited within the Airport Overlay Zone. They include townhomes, places of
assembly, sanitariums, schools, wireless telecommunications towers and antennas, hospitals, daycare
centers, and apartment buildings.
As there were no additional comments, Chairman Dashiell requested a motion for a Wicomico
County Zoning Text Amendment to revise the location of the 8,000-foot Airport Turning Radius within
the Airport Overlay District due to the runway expansion project, which resulted in the relocation of the
airport reference point. Mr. Moreno-Holt moved to approve, which was seconded by Ms. Bynum-King,
and the motion duly carried.
Chairman Dashiell stated the motion was APPROVED.
The Public Hearing ended at 4:14 p.m.

AMENDED PRELIMINARY/FINAL SUBDIVISION PLAN – Raegan’s Run – Bierman Family LLC, rep by Parker
and Associates – Riverside Road – TT Town Transition – M0047, G0016, P0065 (B. Thayne)
Ms. Becky Thayne and Mr. Kevin Aydelotte with Parker & Associates approached the table. Ms.
Thayne distributed a revised Staff Report to correct a formatting error in the conditions, number eight
(8), items A through C. Ms. Thayne presented the Staff Report.
The Applicant submitted a revised plat to amend the final subdivision plat approved by this
Commission in March 2026. Lots 1, 2, 3, and 4 have been reconfigured to incorporate the remainder of
Parcel One shown on the previously approved plat, and the septic reserve area for Lot 6 has been
relocated. The layout of the subdivision is otherwise unchanged.
After final approval of the original Raegan’s Run plat was issued, the Health Department
conducted additional research, which necessitated changes to the final plat. To meet the Health
Department’s criteria for the septic areas identified on this plat and to avoid decreasing the total

Minutes – June 18, 2026
Page |3

number of lots, it was necessary to increase the acreage of some of the proposed lots, as shown on
the Amended Plat. The remainder of Parcel One, left undeveloped and labeled as “Chesapeake Bay
Critical Areas Limited Development Area” on the original plat, will be absorbed into Lots 1, 2, 3, and 4
to increase the acreage of each lot. This land will remain subject to the constraints of Chapter 125 of
the Wicomico County Code, “Critical Area Resource Protection,” and any development will require a
Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Certificate of Compliance. Additionally, the septic reserve area for Lot
6 has been relocated. The Health Department approved the Amended Plat.
The Planning Staff recommended approval of the Amended Plat for Raegan’s Run, subject to
the following eight (8) conditions.
1. The Department of Public Works must receive the following from Parker and Associates prior to the
recordation of the final plat:
a. An approved construction cost estimate and bond for 150% of that amount.
b. An approved Public Works Agreement.
c. An approved Maintenance Agreement.
2. All lot owners must become members of a homeowners’ association, and the Articles of
Incorporation for this association must be recorded prior to or simultaneously with the final
subdivision plat. Covenants and Restrictions for this HOA shall be recorded in the Land Records of
Wicomico County with the final plat.
3. A deed conveying the newly constructed road must be provided to the Planning and Zoning
Department within 180 days of recordation of the final plat.
4. The Planning Commission signature block on the final plat must contain language specifying the
Tier redesignation per the requirements of Appendix VI of the Wicomico County Comprehensive
Plan.
5. The final plat shall comply with all requirements of the Wicomico County Subdivision Regulations.
6. This approval is subject to further review and approval and conditions imposed by the Departments
of Planning and Zoning and Public Works.
7. A long-term agreement to prohibit development in the Forest Conservation Regeneration Area
must be recorded in Land Records prior to or simultaneously with the recordation of the final plat.
8. Either of the following must occur prior to the recordation of the final plat:
a. A deed of easement must be recorded, relocating the 10-foot right-of-way for the benefit of
Parcel 664; or
b. The owners of Parcel 664 must be signers on the final plat; or
c. A deed extinguishing the right-of-way must be recorded in Land Records.
There was a brief conversation between the Commissioners, Mr. Aydelotte, and Ms. Thayne
concerning the placement of houses on Lots 6 and 9. Chairman Dashiell suggested that no additional
amendments be made, as the Health Department has already approved this revised plat.
As there were no additional comments, Chairman Dashiell requested a motion to approve the
Revised Preliminary/Final Subdivision plat for Raegan’s Run subdivision, subject to the eight (8)
conditions outlined in the Staff Report. Ms. Bynum-King moved to approve, and it was seconded by
Mr. Copeland and duly carried.
Chairman Dashiell stated the motion was APPROVED.

Chairman Dashiell noted that the public notice regarding the Public Hearing on the Text
Amendment had not been read into the record prior to the hearing. Ms. Carr read the notice into
the record at this time.

Minutes – June 18, 2026
Page |4

WORK SESSION - WICOMICO COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE – SWOT Analysis and Draft Survey
(Wallace Montgomery Project Team)
The Work Session began at 4:27 p.m.
Chairman Dashiell noted that the Comprehensive Plan Update discussion was a Work Session;
therefore, public comment would not be taken during this portion of the meeting. Public comment
opportunities will be provided through the County website at a future date.
Ms. Nichole Wiley (Assistant Project Manager) and Mr. Ted Foglietta (Vice President, Planning
Division) with Wallace Montgomery approached the table. Chairman Dashiell reminded everyone that
they are here for the Commission and our county to make the Comprehensive Plan (“Comp Plan”)
Update process smooth and effective.
Ms. Wiley discussed the project schedule so the Commissioners could anticipate what is coming
up and what to expect chapter by chapter. The Commissioners will receive the chapters in advance
so that they may prepare for the next meeting.
Ms. Wiley proceeded with a discussion of the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and
Threats) Analysis framework. She explained that the purpose of the exercise is to identify internal and
external factors that may influence Wicomico County’s future growth, development, and planning
efforts. The information gathered through this discussion will assist with the development of the
Comprehensive Plan Update survey, which will seek input from residents and stakeholders.
Ms. Wiley requested that the Commissioners and staff consider strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities, and threats affecting the County and provide their feedback to Ms. Taylor and/or Mr.
Littlejohn. Ms. Wiley and the Wallace Montgomery team will compile and analyze the responses to
assist in preparing a survey tailored to Wicomico County.
The Commissioners were encouraged to provide comments and recommendations based on
their knowledge and experience with the County.
The Commissioners discussed the strengths identified through the SWOT Analysis. Ms. Bynum-King
identified parks and recreational activities as a strength, and Mr. Moreno-Holt noted the County’s
natural resources. Chairman Dashiell stated that Wicomico County benefits from economic diversity
due to its agricultural industry, university, educational system, and other industries. Mr. Thomas added
that Wicomico County is the largest county on the Eastern Shore and has knowledgeable, wellresourced staff with expertise in various areas.
Ms. Justice asked when Wallace Montgomery would like to receive feedback from the
Commissioners. Ms. Wiley requested that responses be provided within approximately two weeks, by
July 2, 2026, to allow time for review and preparation of a summary for the July meeting.
The discussion then moved to weaknesses. The Commissioners identified several challenges,
including zoning concerns, slower economic growth compared to neighboring jurisdictions, water and
sewer limitations, school capacity, and affordable housing. Mr. Foglietta noted that the Water
Resources element of the Comprehensive Plan Update would evaluate water-related issues and
provide recommendations. Ms. Justice noted that water and sewer limitations also impact housing
diversity and development opportunities.

Minutes – June 18, 2026
Page |5

The Commissioners discussed opportunities for the County, including attracting visitors and
residents, enhancing community events and destinations, downtown Salisbury development, and
leveraging the County’s historic resources, including the White Haven and Quantico historic districts.
The discussion then moved to potential threats. The Commissioners identified data centers, state
legislation impacting local authority, infrastructure limitations in areas such as White Haven, and
balancing renewable energy development with the preservation of productive agricultural land as
potential concerns. Ms. Justice noted the importance of balancing alternative energy opportunities
with agricultural preservation.
Ms. Wiley then reviewed the draft Comprehensive Plan Update survey. She explained that the
survey will be available in both digital and paper formats and will seek input from residents,
stakeholders, and visitors. Wallace Montgomery also discussed the possibility of conducting a survey of
high school students to gather input from future homeowners, business owners, and entrepreneurs. The
Commissioners were asked to review the draft survey and provide comments within two weeks.
Ms. Wiley noted that outreach materials, including flyers with QR codes, will be developed for
distribution through utility bills, libraries, community centers, and other locations. Survey results will be
analyzed and shared with County staff and the Planning Commission. The Commissioners also
discussed the importance of providing survey materials in multiple languages, including Spanish and
Creole.
As there were no additional comments, Ms. Wiley reminded the Commissioners that their SWOT
Analysis feedback and survey comments were due by July 2, 2026.
The Work Session ended at 5:28 p.m.

PLANNING DIRECTOR UPDATES – ( T. Taylor/K. Justice)
Ms. Justice provided updates on behalf of the Planning Director, including the following:
• There is a vacancy on the County Planning Commission due to the resignation of Ms. Teri Denton.
• A final draft of the Housing Study is currently under review. The study will be incorporated into the
Comprehensive Plan Update, and the Commissioners will have an opportunity to review the
document.
MEETING DATES – July 16, 2026, and August 20, 2026
Chairman Dashiell announced the meeting dates for the next two months. He also asked the
Commissioners to provide the names of any qualified individuals who may be interested in serving on
the Planning Commission to replace Ms. Denton and forward that information to Ms. Tracey Taylor
and/or the County Executive.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
With no additional comments, Chairman Dashiell requested a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Ms. Bynum-King made the motion, seconded by Ms. Siggers, and the motion was duly carried.
The meeting adjourned at 5:30 p.m.

Minutes – June 18, 2026
Page |6

The next regular meeting of the Wicomico County Planning Commission will be held on July
16, 2026.

This is a summary of the meeting's proceedings. Detailed information is in the permanent files for
each case, as presented and filed with the Wicomico County Department of Planning, Zoning, and
Community Development Office.
Charles “Chip” Dashiell, Chairman
Kaylee Justice, Acting Secretary
Janae Merchant, Recording Secretary

M

WICOMICO COUNTY, MARYLAND
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, ZONING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
125. N. DIVISION STREET, ROOM 203
P.O. BOX 870

SALISBURY, MARYLAND 21803-0870
PHONE: 410-548-4860 | FAX: 410-548-4955

Bunky Luffman

Julie M. Giordano
County Executive

Director of Administration

Steven S. Lakin

Tracey G. Taylor

Assistant Director of Administration

Director

Planning Director’s Report
July 16, 2026
SPONSOR:

Wicomico County Planning, Zoning & Community Development

REQUEST:

Zoning Text Amendments:
AN ACT TO AMEND CHAPTER 225 OF THE WICOMICO

COUNTY CODE, TITLED “ZONING” PART 3, TITLED “BASIC
DEFINITIONS

INTERPRETATIONS,” ARTICLE VI,
TITLED “TERMS DEFINED,” SECTION 225-25, TITLED
“DEFINITIONS OF BASIC TERMS”; AND PART 6, TITLED
“ACCESSORY AND PRINCIPAL USES,” ARTICLE XVII,
TITLED “ACCESSORY USES,” SECTION 225-59, TITLED
AND

“ACCESSORY USES AND STRUCTURES” AND SECTION

225-60, TITLED “ACCESSORY APARTMENTS”; AND PART 6,
TITLED “ACCESSORY AND PRINCIPAL USES,” ARTICLE
XVII, TITLED “PRINCIPAL USES,” SECTION 225-67, TITLED
“TABLE OF PERMITTED USES-DESIGNATIONS”; AND
PART 10, TITLED “OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING,”
ARTICLE XXII, TITLED “OFF-STREET PARKING AND
LOADING REGULATIONS,” SECTION 225-135, TITLED
“NUMBER
ZONING

OF

SPACES

REQUIRED”

TO

AMEND

THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING

UNITS.

REQUEST:

Maryland Senate Bill 891, Land Use and Real Property Accessory Dwelling Units Requirements and
Prohibitions, was signed into law by Governor Moore on April 22, 2025. This law establishes a statewide policy
to encourage the development of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as a means of expanding housing
opportunities, particularly affordable housing options. The legislation requires local governments to authorize
—-

—

~

through local zoning law and establishes minimum statewide standards that local regulations must
accommodate by October |, 2026.
ADUs

The following is
e

asummary of the key provisions of the SB 891,

as

they apply to Wicomico County:

Establishes State policy to promote and encourage the creation of accessory dwelling units on lots containing

single-family detached dwellings.
Requires local governments to adopt local legislation authorizing ADUs on or before October 1, 2026.
Defines an ADU as a self-contained residential dwelling unit located on the same lot as a principal singlefamily detached dwelling that contains permanent facilities for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.
Requires local governments to allow at least one ADU on eligible residential lots, subject to reasonable local
regulations protecting public health, safety, and welfare.
Prohibits local governments from adopting regulations that unreasonably restrict or effectively prohibit the
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e

e

e

construction or use of ADUs.
e

Prohibits local governments from counting an ADU as an additional dwelling unit for purposes of residential

density calculations where the principal dwelling is otherwise permitted.
Limits the ability of homeowners’ associations, condominium associations, and similar
common ownership communities to prohibit or unreasonably restrict ADUs, while allowing
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reasonable architectural and maintenance standards.
e

Allows local governments to establish reasonable standards addressing issues such as:
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setbacks,

a

lot coverage,

r
r

building height,
design compatibility,
utility connections,

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environmental connections,

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life-safety requirements,
building code compliance, and
other legitimate land use considerations that do not unreasonably impede ADU development.

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>

Vd

Il.

DISCUSSION AND REVIEW:

At previous meetings, the Planning Director briefed the Planning Commission members on the pending
ADU law, advising that local legislation for County implementation was anticipated in July of 2026, as the State
deadline for implementation is October 1, 2026.

The purpose of this meeting is to present the proposed amendments to the Wicomico County Zoning
Ordinance for the Planning Commission’s consideration. Planning staff worked with the County Attorney to
revise the following specific sections of the Zoning Code: Part 3, “Basic Definitions and Interpretations”, Article
VI, “Terms Defined”, Section 225-25, “Definitions of Basic Terms”; Part 6, “Accessory and Principal Uses”,
Article XVII, “Accessory Uses”, Section 225-59, “Accessory Uses and Structures” and Section 225-60,
“Accessory Apartments”; Part 6, “Accessory and Principal Uses”, Article XVII, “Principal Uses”, Section 22567, “Table of Permitted Uses-Designations”; and Part 10, “Off-Street Parking and Loading”, Article XXII, “OffStreet Parking and Loading Regulations”, Section 225-135, “Number of Spaces Required”.
In accordance with the County Zoning Code, an advertised Public Hearing regarding the proposed text
amendments (Exhibit A) will be held on July 16, 2026, in the Council Chambers (Room 301) of the Government
Office Building 4:15 PM Eastern Standard Time. At the time of this Planning Director’s Report, the Planning
Department had received no inquiries regarding this Public Hearing or the content of the proposed legislation.

"RECOMMENDATION:
.

Staff recommends advancing a favorable recommendation to forward the proposed Zoning Text Amendments, as
outlined in the Planning Director’s Report and detailed in Exhibit A, to the Wicomico County Council for their
review and action based upon the following:

1) The proposed legislation is required per State law (SB 891) passed in Maryland’s 2025

Legislative Session.
2) The State law (SB 891) is preemptive legislation which becomes effective October 1, 2026; and,
text amendments constitute revisions made to the existing “Accessory Apartment”
provisions of the current County Zoning Code to address the new ADU requirements of SB 891.

3) The proposed

Attachments:
Attachment #1: Public Hearing Notice
Attachment #2: Proposed Legislative Bill (Exhibit A)

INDEDEN DENT
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Arizona Delaveare- Flonda Warylanc

:

Delaware Print ng Company Va ley Nevsspapers

NEWS
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Celebrating & Connecting Our

oP otanties

Proof of Publication
7/8/2026

State of Maryland:

WICOMICO COUNTY PLANNING
AND ZONING COMMISSION
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TEXT AMENDMENT

Affidavit of Publication
This hereby certifies that the annexed Notice
was

;

County Times and the Salisbury Independent
in its issue(s) of:
BaytoBayNews.com: 6/30/2026, 7/1/2026,
7/7/2026, 7/8/2026
County Times: 7/8/2026
Salisbury Independent: 6/30/2026, 7/7/2026
.

Unk

2 fbb

Tonda L. Parks
Associate Publisher

Independent Newsmedia Inc. USA
Name

WICOMICO COUNTY PLANNING &
ZONING

Order Number

45090

Ordered By

Kaylee Justice

Order Date

6/24/2026

Description

July 16 Public Hearing

Number Issues

7

Pub Count

3

First Issue

RIUPAUPAG)

Last Issue

7/8/2026

Order Cost

$405.98

Publications

BaytoBayNews.com, County Times,
Salisbury Independent
BaytoBayNews.com: 6/30/2026, 7/1/2026,

Pub Dates

IN

WITH

ACCORDANCE

CHAPTER

225 OF

WICOMICO COUNTY CODE TITLED
ZONING” TO AMEND CHAPTER 225 TO
REGULATIONS
AND
REVISE
ESTABLISH
DWELLING
PERTAINING TO ACCESSORY

_THE

published in the Crisfield-Somerset

7/7/2026, 7/8/2026

County Times: 7/8/2026
Salisbury Independent: 6/30/2026, 7/7/2026

UNITS
AS

(ADUs) AND RELATED PROVISIONS

NECESSARY

TO

COMPLY

THE

WITH

REQUIREMENTS OF ACTS OF MARYLAND
2025, CHAPTER 196 (MARYLAND SENATE
BILL

891), AMENDING THE LAND USE AND

OF
THE
ARTICLES
PROPERTY
TO
ANNOTATED CODE OF MARYLAND
REGULATE ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS.
REAL

-

;

A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD ON

Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 4:15 P.M. in the
Councii
Chambers (Room
301) of the
Building, 125 N. Division
Street, Salisbury, Maryland, to hear opponents and
proponents, if there be any."
Subsequent to the consideration of this
proposal by the Wicomico County Planning
and Zoning Commission, a recommendation
will be made to the Wicomico County Council

Government Office

and Executive for its consideration at a Public

Hearing.
Copies of the draft amendment are available
through the Wicomico County Planning &
Zoning Commission Office at the Government
Office Building, 125 North Division St., Room
203, Salisbury, MD, and are also available
through the County Website (www.wicomico
county.org) under Government\Departments\
,Planning and Zoning. The Commission
reserves the right to close a part of this
meeting as authorized by State Government
Section 10-508(a) of the Maryland Annotated
Code.

(FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CALL
410-548-4860)
45090 SI 6/30,7/7 CT 7/8/2026

Attachment #1

COUNTY COUNCIL OF WICOMICO COUNTY, MARYLAND

Legislative Day No.

2026 Legislative Session

___

Legislative Bill 2026-_
Introduced:

,

2026

Introduced by: The Council President at the request of the Planning Commission
AN ACT TO AMEND CHAPTER 225 OF THE WICOMICO COUNTY CODE, TITLED
“ZONING” PART 3, TITLED “BASIC DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS,”
ARTICLE

VI,

TITLED

“TERMS

“DEFINITIONS OF BASIC TERMS”;

DEFINED,”

SECTION

225-25,

TITLED

AND PART 6, TITLED “ACCESSORY AND

PRINCIPAL USES,” ARTICLE XVII, TITLED “ACCESSORY USES,” SECTION 225-

59, TITLED “ACCESSORY USES AND STRUCTURES” AND SECTION 225-60,
TITLED “ACCESSORY APARTMENTS”; AND PART 6, TITLED “ACCESSORY
AND PRINCIPAL USES,” ARTICLE XVHI, TITLED “PRINCIPAL USES,” SECTION
225-67, TITLED “TABLE OF PERMITTED USES-DESIGNATIONS”; AND PART 10,
TITLED “OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING,” ARTICLE XXII, TITLED “OFFSTREET PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS,” SECTION 225-135, TITLED
“NUMBER OF SPACES REQUIRED” TO AMEND THE ZONING REQUIREMENTS

FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS.

WHEREAS, during the 2025 Legislative Session, the Maryland General Assembly passed
Senate Bill 89] and House Bill 1466 which established the policy of the State to promote and
encourage the creation of accessory dwelling units on land with a single-family detached dwelling
unit as the primary dwelling unit in order to meet the housing needs of the citizens of the state; and

WHEREAS, on April 22, 2025, Governor Moore signed the bill into law; and
WHEREAS, the law requires that on or about October 1, 2026, the legislative bodies of

municipal corporations adopt a local law authorizing the development of
accessory dwelling units on land with a single-family detached dwelling unit as the primary
dwelling unit; and

certain counties and

WHEREAS, the Wicomico County Planning and Zoning Commission, in accordance with
§ 225-20 of the Wicomico County Code, has reviewed the proposed text amendment and
recommends amending the Wicomico County Code to reflect current state law.

Section . BEIT ENACTED AND ORDAINED BY THE COUNTY COUNCIL OF WICOMICO

COUNTY, MARYLAND, IN LEGISLATIVE SESSION, THAT CHAPTER 225 OF THE
WICOMICO COUNTY CODE, TITLED “ZONING” PART 3, TITLED “BASIC DEFINITIONS
AND INTERPRETATIONS,” ARTICLE VI, TITLED “TERMS DEFINED,” SECTION 225-25,

TITLED “DEFINITIONS OF BASIC TERMS”; AND PART 6, TITLED “ACCESSORY AND
PRINCIPAL USES,” ARTICLE XVII, TITLED “ACCESSORY USES,” SECTION 225-59,

Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

TITLED “ACCESSORY

USES AND STRUCTURES” AND SECTION

225-60, TITLED

“ACCESSORY APARTMENTS"; AND PART 6, TITLED “ACCESSORY AND PRINCIPAL

USES,” ARTICLE XVI, TITLED “PRINCIPAL USES,” SECTION 225-67, TITLED “TABLE
OF

PERMITTED

AND

USES-DESIGNATIONS”;

PART

10,

TITLED

“OFF-STREET

PARKING AND LOADING,” ARTICLE XXU, TITLED “OFF-STREET PARKING AND
LOADING

SECTION

REGULATIONS,”

225-135,

TITLED

“NUMBER

OF

SPACES

REQUIRED” TO AMEND THE ZONING REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING
UNITS IS HEREBY AMENDED, TO READ AS FOLLOWS:
le
ste

bias

ste

ote

ah

sk

abcd

Chapter 225

Zoning
Part 3

Basic Definitions and Interpretations

Article VI
Terms Defined

§225-25 Definition ofbasic terms.
B. Definitions. As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:

(Note: An added definition is to be inserted in alphabetical order with the terms already defined)

accessery-apartment ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT
A SECONDARY DWELLING UNIT THAT IS ON THE SAME LOT, PARCEL, OR TRACT

AS A PRIMARY SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED DWELLING UNIT. Not mcre-+than-one
an owner-oecupied sinelefamHy residence-oran
apurtmentant—as an
aceessory-building on the sametot-on a-minimunetef20,000 squareteet, provided that:

accessery—use-within

}-Fheapartment shallbe-netarger than 50758%-efthe-square feotage-of theresidence2) parking
of
bythe Board Appeals:
for the apartmentis-appropriatelytoeated-as-specified
AH

option
(3) No aecessory-apartment may-be-censtructed on-any-preperty whieh has-exercised the
of
under
of
the
provisiers-ofthis-chapter.
renting guestrooms
Dwelling Unit
A SINGLE UNIT PROVIDING COMPLETE LIVING FACILITIES FOR AT LEAST ONE

INDIVIDUAL,

INCLUDING,

AT

A

MINIMUM,

PROVISIONS

FOR

SANITATION,

Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

COOKING, EATING, AND SLEEPING. A building-er-perticnthereefarranged or destened
for

occuparney-bynet more than one familyfertving purpeses-and having cookie facilities:

Part 6

Accessory and Principal Uses
Article XVII

Accessory Uses
te Kok

§ 225-59 Accessory uses and structures
C. General requirements.

(1) Unless otherwise provided herein, no accessory structure or building, other than a
fence, shall be locatedin any required front or side setback requirements or within any
easement.

(2) When an accessory use or structure is attached to a principal use or structure, it then
becomes a part of that use or structure and must comply with the setback requirements
for the principal structure.

(3) An accessory use or structure may not occupy more than 35% of the area of a rear

yard. THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE AN ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT.
(4) A utility trailer or truck body shall not be permitted as an accessory structure.
(5) A manufactured home, shipping or storage boxes, or travel trailer shall not be used as
a

storage structure.

(6) No accessory use or structure shall be permitted unless the principal use or structure is

previously existing or unless a building permit has been approved for the principal use or
structure.

(7) Use of a motor vehicle parked on a lot, out of which, or from which any goods are
sold or stored, any services are performed, or other business is conducted shall not be
considered a principal or accessory use.

§ 225-60 Accesscryapartments ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS.
A. An aecessory-apattrrent ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT may be permitted, provided that

there shall be no more than one aecesscry-apartment ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT permitted
per lot, PARCEL, OR TRACK WITH A SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED DWELLING UNIT

Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

AS THE PRIMARY RESIDENCE. and provided such-aeeessory apartmentshall comph—-withthe

follewinestandards:
B. DENSITY. THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT SHALL BE
EXCLUDED FROM THE CALCULATION OF DENSITY AND THE APPLICATION OF
ANY MEASURES LIMITING RESIDENTIAL GROWTH THAT PERTAIN TO THE LOT,

PARCEL, OR TRACT PROPOSED FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNIT.

B-C, Applicability. An aecessory apartment ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT may be permitted

(1) On the same lot as a detached single-family dwelling unit ortwe-famiby celine.
(2) An aeeessoryapartment ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT is prohibited on a
site with a Type II and III home-based business.
GC. D. Desiga DEVELOPMENT standards.

(1) Purpose. Standards for creating accessory apartments ACCESSORY DWELLING
UNITS address the following purposes:

(a) Ensure that accessory apartments ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS are
compatible with the desired character and livability of Wicomico County's
residential districts;

(b) Respect the general building scale and placement of structures to allow

sharing of common space on the lot, such as driveways and yards; and
(c) Bastvethat accessory apartments-are-smaller in size thanthe-principal

dweltinge-ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS MUST BE HARMONIOUS IN
DESIGN WITH THE PRIMARY DWELLING UNIT.

(2) Generally. The design standards for aeeessery apartments ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNITS are stated in this section. If not addressed in this section, the base
district development standards apply.

(3) Extericr finish-matertals.-Fhe extericr-finish-matcrial mustbethesame orvisually
mateh;intype, size, and placementthe-extericr finishmaterials-oHhe
principal dweltinge:

AN ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT INCLUDES A STRUCTURE THAT IS:

(A) SEPARATE FROM THE PRIMARY SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED
DWELLING UNIT; OR
(B) ATTACHED AS AN ADDITION TO THE PRIMARY SINGLE-FAMILY
DETACHED DWELLING UNIT.

Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

(4) Reefpiteh—Fhe roefpiteh must be compatible with+the-predominant rocf piteh-ofthe

principal dwelinea-AN ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT CANNOT BE ADDED TO A
MULTI-FAMILY DWELLING.

(5) Trim. Trim on the edges of elements-on-the addition mustbethe-same intype size
and location as the trim used-erthe rest of the principaldweHine-LOCATION OF

ENTRANCES. ONLY ONE ENTRANCE MAY BE LOCATED ON THE FACADE OF
THE PRINCIPAL DWELLING FACING THE STREET, UNLESS THE DWELLING

CONTAINED ADDITIONAL ENTRANCES BEFORE THE ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNIT WAS CREATED. AN EXCEPTION TO THIS REQUIREMENT IS
ENTRANCES THAT DO NOT ACCESS FROM THE GROUND, SUCH AS
ENTRANCES FROM BALCONIES OR DECKS.

(6)-Windows-Windows must match those in the-prinetpal dwelling in-propertien
(relationship of width te height) and crientation-therizontal or verticab:-PARKING AND
PARKING WAIVERS. COMPLY WITH ARTICLE XXII TITLED “OFF-STREET
PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS.”

(7)-Baves-Eaves must project from the building-wals-the-same distance-asthe eaves-on
the restof the principaldweling: SETBACK REQUIREMENTS. AN ACCESSORY

DWELLING UNIT MUST COMPLY WITH THE SETBACK REQUIREMENTS OF
THE PRIMARY DWELLING UNIT SET FORTH IN

§ 225-70.

(8) Maximum size. The SQUARE FOOTAGE of an accessory-apartment ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNIT may be no more than 50% of the Hyving-area SQUARE FOOTAGE of
the PRIMARY SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED DWELLING UNIT.

(9) BULK LIMITATIONS.
(A) AN ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT MAY NOT HAVE A LARGER
FOOTPRINT THAN THE FOOTPRINT OF THE PRINCIPAL DWELLING.

(B) THE COMBINED FOOTPRINT OF ALL DETACHED ACCESSORY
STRUCTURES MAY NOT EXCEED THE SQUARE FOOTAGE OF THE
PRINCIPAL DWELLING.

(10) ACCESS RESTRICTION
(A) THE FULL OR PARTIAL CONVERSION OF AN ACCESSORY
STRUCTURE INTO AN ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT MAY BE
PROHIBITED IF THE ONLY VEHICULAR ACCESS TO THE ACCESSORY
STRUCTURE IS FROM AN ALLEY.

(11) ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT SHALL COMPLY WITH ALL APPLICABLE
BUILDING CODES AND PUBLIC HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE

REQUIREMENTS.

B-Attached-accesscory apartment development standards
At attached aceesseryapartments
should meet the folowing:
Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

(b-An aceesseryapariment may onklybe-created through the folowing metheds:

garage:
(a}-Converting existine-Hyine-area, attic, basementorattached
)

Adding

floor

area:

l dwelling with-aninternal accesseryapartment
(e}+-Gernstructicn new-priicipa
of
cr anew-attached

unit
dwelling te-an-existing principaldweline

(2 Lecaticn-efentrances. Only cre-entrance may be located-onthe facade-ofthe
contained
principal
dwelling facinethe-street, unlessthe-dwelling or attached dwelling
additicnal entrances-befere the accessery-dwelling unit was-ereated. An exceptiontethis

requirementis-entrances thatde-netaecess

from-the-ground,

such-as-entrances-from

balcontes-or-deeks-

(3}Parking.

See Partt0-

artments
must
Detached
E-Detached-accessery-apartment developmentstandards. -accesseryap
(Hb Setback requirements-Setbaek-+equirementsAnaceessory apartmontimust-be-set
back atleast:

(a}-Sixty-fect from the frontteHtine-or 85 feetfrom-eenter oFroad-whicheverts
steater
oF
(b) Bohind the single-famHydwelling ortwe-famiby dweline-sixteet

(c}-Fhe-same side and rearsetback-requirements-as-would-apphin the-appheable
district ferthe-dweHing or bulding+to-which the-aeecessory-apartment is-asseeiated
shall apply for the-aecessory-apartmentas-welt

(a)}-Fhe-detached accessory-apartment may nethave-atarger foctprintthanthe

fo ctprint of principal
dwetine-and
the

-.{b) The combinedfeotprint of all detached-aceessory structures
may netexceed
25%-of the tctalsite-area.

KR

Part 6

Accessory and Principal Uses
Article X VII

Principal Uses

Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

ok Ae oe

§225-67 Table of Permitted Uses-designations
1. The Table of Permitted Uses, Attachment |, Part I regulating the A-! Agricultural- Rural, V-C

Village Conservation, R-8 Residential, R-15 Residential, R-20 Residential, REC Residential,
Educational and Cultural District, R-30 Residential and TT Town Transition Districts, shall be
amended to reflect the changes created by this legislation.
-

|

Use

Description

|

A-l

|

V-C

R8

| R-15

R-20

SB

SE

SE

Pp

P

| REC

R-30]

TT

SE

SE

SE

PP

>

op

Residential:
=

Aceessory-apartment ACCESSORY

|

PHELLING UNTE (See § 225-60)

SE

‘Pp

2. The Table of Permitted Uses, Attachment 2, Part II, C-1 Select Commercial, C-2 General

Commercial, C-3 Regional Commercial, LB-1 Light Business and Industrial, LB-1 Light Business
and Residential, I-] Light Industrial and I-2 Heavy Industrial Districts, shal] be amended to reflect
the changes created by this legislation.

Use Description
:

Miscellaneous Use:

Accessory structures and uses

i

C-3
a

LB-l

| LB2 f
P

12
——

P

(EXCLUDING ACCESSORY DWELLING

UNITS)
Residential

Accesscry-apartment ACCESSORY

| DWELLING

UNIT

Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

ah we ok

Part 10

ff-Street Parking and Loading

Article XXII
Off-Street Parking and Loading Regulations
aiokook

§ 225-135 Number of Spaces Required
Table of Minimum Parking Requirements
7

Off-Street Parking

Use

Requirement

(number of spaces)
—_

Residential
Accessory
the front yard

DWELLING UNIT

SECTION I]: BE IT FURTHER ENACTED AND ORDAINED BY THE COUNTY COUNCIL
OF WICOMICO COUNTY, MARYLAND, IN LEGISLATIVE SESSION THAT this bill shall
be known as Legislative Bill No. 2026-__ and shall take effect sixty (60) days after its

shall be filed prior to said date; in
enactment, unless a proper Petition for Referendum
which event, the Bill shall not take effect until the expiration of thirty (30) days following the

thereof

approval of this Bill by a majority of the qualified voters of the County voting tn any such
referendum.
Certified correct as passed and adopted by the County Council of Wicomico County,

Maryland this

day of

,

2026.

WICOMICO COUNTY, MARYLAND

_(SEAL)

By: John

Cannon, President

.

By:

_____ (SEAL)

Laura Hurley, Secretary

Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

I HEREBY CERTIFY that copies of the above Bill are available to the public, the press

and other news media at the time of its introduction.

(SEAL)

By:

Laura Hurley, Secretary

Explanation:
Strike-Outindicates matters deleted from cxistingtaw.
CAPITAL indicates matters added to existing law.
STRHIKE-OUFCAPHAS indicates matter stricken from Bill by Amendment.
CAPITAL UNDERLINING indicates Amendments to Bill

Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

COUNTY COUNCIL
OF

WICOMICO COUNTY, MARYLAND

Legislative Day No.

2026 Legislative Session
LEGISLATIVE BILE NO. 2026

-

__

DATE:

___,

2026

Introduced by: The Council President at the request of the Planning Commission
AN ACT TO AMEND CHAPTER 225 OF THE WICOMICO COUNTY CODE, TITLED

“ZONING” PART 3, TITLED “BASIC DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS,”
ARTICLE

VI,

TITLED

“TERMS

“DEFINITIONS OF BASIC TERMS”;

225-25,

SECTION

DEFINED,”

TITLED

AND PART 6, TITLED “ACCESSORY AND

PRINCIPAL USES,” ARTICLE XVI, TITLED “ACCESSORY USES,” SECTION 225-

59, TITLED “ACCESSORY USES AND STRUCTURES” AND SECTION 225-60,
TITLED “ACCESSORY APARTMENTS”; AND PART 6, TITLED “ACCESSORY
AND PRINCIPAL USES,” ARTICLE XVIH, TITLED “PRINCIPAL USES,” SECTION
225-67, TITLED “TABLE OF PERMITTED USES-DESIGNATIONS”; AND PART 10,
TITLED “OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING,” ARTICLE XXII, TITLED “OFFSTREET PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS,” SECTION 225-135, TITLED
“NUMBER OF SPACES REQUIRED” TO AMEND THE ZONING REQUIREMENTS
)

FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS.
2026,

Introduced and read on
__

Ordered posted and public hearing scheduled for

—__..

_

2026.

al

a.m./p.m.
Having been posted and notice of time and place of hearing and tile of Bill having been published according
2026.
2026. and concluded on
public hearing was held on

PUBLIC HEARING:
to the Charter. a

.

_.

___

Laura Hurley. Council Administrator

CERTIFICATION: The undersigned hereby certifies that this Bill was Approved and Adopted by the County Council of
2026.
Wicomico County. Maryland. on the
day of
_.

____

Laura Hurley. Council Administrator

Presented to the County Executive for approval this

_

day of

.

a.m./p.m. (5 days ‘41 1)

2024, at

Laura Hurley. Counci) Administrator

BY THE EXECUTIVE:

APPROVED
Date:
_
.

(21 days ‘411)

Julie Giordano. County Executive

VETOED
Date:

EFFECTIVE DATE:

Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

This Bill. having been approved by Uie County Executive and returned to the Council. becomes law on
and effective on:

.
_

2026 160 days 31h)

ENROLLMENT: Legislative Bil! No, 2026-__
being the text as finally passed.

is herewith submitted to the County Council of Wicomico Counts for enrollment

as

_

CERTIFIED TRUE AND CORRECT

ENROLLED

Laura Hurley. Council Administrator

John Cannon. Council President

Date:

Date:
.

_

Attachment #2 (Exhibit A)

Wicomico County

SWOT Analysis Summary
In June of 2026 Wallace Montgomery presented the SWOT Analysis exercise to the Wicomico
County Planning Commission and asked that each member work through the answers and
provide feedback, for use in guiding the plan and chapters throughout the Update process.
SWOT stands for “Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.” A SWOT analysis is an
analytical tool that planners use to identify and categorize significant internal (strengths and
weaknesses) and external (opportunities and threats) facing an organization, community or
governmental unit. This process is used in the development of comprehensive, strategic plans
and similar documents to identify key issues facing the community, understand existing
conditions, and begin to define potential goals, objectives and actions that may be included in a
plan.
Strengths are internal elements that give the County an
edge or competitive advantage. These can be unique
assets, skills, or resources that Wicomico County can use
to its benefit.
Weaknesses are internal elements that may hinder the
County’s ability to attain its desired outcomes and goals.
These areas provide opportunities for improvement.
Opportunities are external circumstances and potential
situations that can be leveraged to benefit the County.
Some of these elements can be beyond Wicomico’s
control, but the County can take steps to mitigate them.
Threats are external circumstances that pose a threat to the County’s ability or capacity to
achieve what it wants to do. Wicomico should mitigate these to avoid potentially damaging
effects.
The following represents the five responses received from the Wicomico County Planning
Commission using the electronic SWOT Analysis Worksheet.

July 8, 2026

1

Wicomico County

WICOMICO COUNTY
•
•
•
•
•

Strengths
Transportation & Infrastructure
Regional Hub / Salisbury’s Role
Higher Education & Workforce Assets
Healthcare Facilities
Affordability/Quality of Life

•
•
•
•
•

Opportunities
•
•
•

Location/Geographic Positioning
Economic Diversification & Industry
Growth
Infrastructure & Asset Expansion

Weaknesses
Housing Challenges
Water/Septic/Sewer Constraints
School Performance
Lack of Employment Opportunities
Fiscal/Regulatory Constraints
Threats

•
•
•
•

State Regulations & Mandates
Competition from Neighboring States
Environmental & Climate Risks
Agriculture/Poultry Industry Risks

Strengths
The following strengths were identified by three out of five respondents:
Transportation & Infrastructure
The County benefits from having a diverse and well-established transportation network that
includes an airport, a port, rail service, and access to two major highways (U.S. 50 and U.S. 13).
Respondents consistently identified this multimodal transportation system as a significant
economic asset, enhancing regional connectivity, supporting the movement of goods and
people, and improving access to markets.
Regional Hub
Wicomico County’s central location, transportation connectivity, and concentration of regional
assets—including Salisbury’s economic base, higher education institutions, and healthcare
facilities—establish the county as a regional hub. The County’s positioning as a regional hub is a
strength because it provides services for residents and attracts visitors from across the Eastern
Shore and neighboring states, contributing to economic stability, employment growth, and
sustained demand for services.

July 8, 2026

2

Wicomico County

Higher Education & Workforce Assets
Salisbury University, UMES, Wor-Wic Community College, and workforce training programs were
frequently cited as a strength of the County. Respondents frequently identified these assets as a
key county strength, noting their contributions to workforce development, economic
diversification, and community stability. One respondent described higher education as an
important cultural asset, while others highlighted its role in creating employment opportunities
and supporting a more resilient local economy. As one respondent stated, “Schools and
educational programs enhance the stability of the county.” Collectively, these responses
underscore the far-reaching impact of higher education institutions.
Other strengths highlighted…
•
•

Healthcare Facilities: Regional hospital and specialized medical services were viewed as
strengths compared to neighboring counties.
Affordability/Quality of Life Low cost of living, quality of life, recreation, and proximity to
beaches emerged as key advantages.

Weaknesses
Housing Challenges
Housing was the most frequently identified weakness, cited in four of the five responses. The
only respondent who did not identify housing as a weakness indicated "N/A" for the
weaknesses section. Respondents highlighted several housing-related concerns, including
affordability, limited supply, an aging housing stock, and a lack of diverse housing options.
Water/Sewer/Septic Constraints
Respondents cited limitations related to septic systems, sewer capacity, and the availability of
utility services as barriers to future growth and investment. This was the second most
frequently identified weakness, with three of the five respondents highlighting infrastructure
constraints as a key concern. Infrastructure capacity is viewed as a significant barrier to
economic growth and commercial development, particularly in the rural areas.

Other weaknesses highlighted…

July 8, 2026

3

Wicomico County

•
•
•

School Performance: K-12 school quality and rankings emerged as concerns despite
strong higher education assets.
Lack of Employment Opportunities: Lack of high-paying jobs and shortages in skilled
trades were identified as challenges.
Fiscal/Regulatory Constraints: Revenue caps, tax limitations, and development approval
processes were viewed as limiting county flexibility and opportunity.

Opportunities
Location
Wicomico County's geographic location emerged as the most consistently identified
opportunity, with every respondent highlighting one or more location-related advantages.
Respondents cited the County's proximity to the Atlantic coast and tourism destinations, its
strategic location within the Delmarva Peninsula, access to the larger and expensive and densely
populated housing markets of central Maryland and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area,
and its multimodal transportation assets, including major highways, airport facilities, and port
infrastructure. Collectively, these attributes were viewed as positioning the County for
continued economic growth, business investment, tourism, and regional connectivity.
Economic Diversification & Industry Growth
Aviation, aerospace, defense, agribusiness innovation, logistics, and industrial development
were the most frequently cited opportunities. These are all industries that already have a
presence in the area that have the potential for expansion. Expanding these sectors could
address gaps in the job market by creating higher-wage employment opportunities.
Infrastructure & Asset Expansion
Respondents consistently viewed the County’s transportation network, broadband
infrastructure, industrial areas, and institutional assets as a strong foundation for attracting new
investment and expanding economic opportunities. As one respondent noted, the
infrastructure and assets identified as strengths are the fundamental building blocks for future
development and can help reduce economic vulnerability by supporting a broader mix of
industries and employment opportunities. This perspective suggests that future investment
should focus not only on attracting new businesses but also on maximizing the value of existing
public and private assets.

July 8, 2026

4

Wicomico County

Threats
State Regulations & Mandates
State regulations and mandates were the most frequently identified external threat, cited by
three of the five respondents. Respondents expressed concern that increasing state
requirements could limit the County's flexibility to address local priorities and increase
operational and fiscal burdens. While there was broad agreement that these external factors
present a challenge, respondents did not identify specific strategies for mitigating their potential
impacts.
Other threats highlighted…
•
•
•

Competition from Neighboring States: Delaware, Virginia, and Pennsylvania were
identified as competitors for business investment and workforce.
Environmental and Climate Risks: Sea-level rise, climate change, and environmental
regulations were noted as growing risks.
Agriculture/Poultry Industry Risks: Heavy reliance on the agriculture and poultry
industries creates economic vulnerability to disease outbreaks, changing regulatory
requirements, market fluctuations, and other industry-specific disruptions that could
significantly affect the local economy.

Conclusion
The SWOT analysis highlights Wicomico County’s strong foundation for future growth while
identifying several challenges that must be addressed to maintain its competitiveness and
quality of life. The County’s strategic location, diverse transportation network, role as a regional
service hub, higher education institutions, and healthcare assets provide significant advantages
that support economic stability, workforce development, and regional influence.
At the same time, stakeholders identified housing availability and affordability, utility
infrastructure constraints, school performance concerns, and limited access to high-paying jobs
as key weaknesses that could hinder future growth if left unaddressed. Addressing these issues
will be critical to ensuring that residents and businesses can fully benefit from the County’s
existing assets.
The opportunities identified through this process suggest that Wicomico County is wellpositioned to capitalize on its geographic location, transportation infrastructure, and emerging
industry sectors. Expanding aviation, aerospace, defense, logistics, agribusiness innovation, and

July 8, 2026

5

Wicomico County

other growing industries could diversify the economy, create higher-wage employment
opportunities, and strengthen the County’s role as an economic center for the Eastern Shore.
The County must also remain mindful of external threats, including state regulations and
mandates, competition from neighboring states, environmental and climate-related risks, and
vulnerabilities associated with the agriculture and poultry industries. While many of these
factors are beyond local control, they underscore the importance of proactive planning,
economic diversification, and strategic investment in infrastructure and community assets.
Overall, the findings reveal a community with substantial strengths and opportunities upon
which to build. The issues, opportunities, and challenges identified through the SWOT analysis
will help inform the goals, policies, and implementation strategies developed as part of the
Wicomico County Comprehensive Plan update, ensuring that the plan reflects stakeholder
perspectives and positions the County for long-term prosperity and resilience.

July 8, 2026

6

222 S. DuPont Highway, Suite 202
Dover, Delaware 19901
www.wallacemontgomery.com
T 302.257.3100
F 302.257.3101

WICOMICO COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE:
COMMUNITY SURVEY QUESTIONS
Wicomico County is in the process of updating its Comprehensive Plan. This Plan will help to guide the
County’s growth and development for the next 10-20 years. The first step in the public engagement
process is to ask the County’s residents, business owners and stakeholders to tell us what type of place
they would like it to be.
DEMOGRAPHIC QUESTIONS:
Responses to the following demographic questions will help us to make sure we’re reaching the broadest
audience possible within the County.
1. Do you: (check all that apply)
a. Live in Wicomico County (primary home)
i. Own my home
ii. Rent my home
b. Own other property in Wicomico County
i. Other residential property
ii. Agricultural property
iii. Non-residential property
iv. Vacant property
c. Own a business in Wicomico County
i. Brick & mortar
ii. Home-based
d. Work in Wicomico County
e. Visit Wicomico County
f. Other interest in Wicomico County (please elaborate)
2. I’ve lived/worked in Wicomico County for:
a. Less than 2 years
b. 2-5 years
c. 6-10 years
d. 11-20 years
e. 20+ years
3. My age is:
a. Under 18
b. 18-24
c. 25-34
d. 35-44
e. 45-64
f. 65-84
g. 85 and over

Sustainable Infrastructure through Innovative Engineering

A Limited Liability Partnership

Wicomico County Comprehensive Plan
Draft Community Survey Questions

COMMUNITY SURVEY QUESTIONS:
4. I live in Wicomico County because: (top 3)
a. I was born here
b. Close to family/friends
c. Cost of living (taxes, utilities, etc.)
d. Housing affordability
e. Community character
f. Rural character
g. Green/Open space
h. Parks/recreation facilities
i. Pace of life/less hectic

j. Schools
k. Easy access to nearby towns
l. Less traffic congestion
m. Safety/low crime
n. Available services (e.g., medical)
o. Proximity to work
p. Proximity to school
q. Other (please specify)

5. Which of the following concern you as a resident of Wicomico County: (Check all that

apply)
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.

Drinking water
Wastewater treatment/capacity
Preserving community character
Too much growth/growth pressure
Too little growth/development
Affordability of housing
Availability of housing
Keeping local businesses
Climate change
Traffic/congestion (year-round)
Traffic/congestion
(seasonal
or
summer)
l. Crime/safety
m. School facilities/education
n. Adequate public transportation

o.
p.
q.
r.
s.

Recreation facilities
Public space maintenance/upkeep
Property maintenance (private)
Loss of farmland
Loss of natural features (e.g., trees,
wetlands, dunes)
t. Over-tourism
u. Employment opportunities
v. Diversity
w. Public health (of community, access
to)
x. Access to healthy/affordable food
y. Other (please specify)

6. What are the most critical issues facing the County today and in the future?
a. Flooding and/or climate resilience
b. Aging Infrastructure
c. Transportation Constraints
d. Housing Affordability
e. Community Character and Safety

7. Considering County’s existing facilities, what new or additional facilities are needed and
where? (top 3)

Page 2

222 S. DuPont Highway, Suite 202
Dover, Delaware 19901
www.wallacemontgomery.com
T 302.257.3100
F 302.257.3101

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.

Accessible parks
Artificial turf/multi-sport field
Baseball/softball fields
Basketball courts
Climbing Park
Community center/indoor facility
Dog park
Ice rink
Multi-use trails
Outdoor adult fitness
Pickleball courts

l. Playground for ages <5
m. Playground for ages 5-12
n. Shuffleboard
o. Skatepark
p. Soccer fields
q. Tennis courts
r. Volleyball courts
s. Water access/soft launch
t. None
u. Other (please specify)

8. Do you agree or disagree with the statements below? (agree, disagree, no opinion +

comments)
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

The County has an adequate supply of housing
The County should encourage more affordable housing
The County should actively promote job growth
The County should encourage new businesses to open
The County should prioritize agricultural/natural resource/open space preservation

9. Do you agree or disagree with the statements below? (agree, disagree, no opinion +

comments)
a.
b.
c.
d.

I am/was easily able to find a job within the County
I can afford to live in Wicomico County and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle
I find it hard to maintain a job and afford a comfortable lifestyle while living within the County
There are plenty of options for work in the County

10. In the space below, please provide any additional comments on issues, suggestions, or solutions of
importance to you for Wicomico County’s future that should be considered in the Comprehensive
Plan’s development:
Thank you for participating in our Community Survey!
OPTIONAL
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Name:
Email:

Sustainable Infrastructure through Innovative Engineering

A Limited Liability Partnership