WORCESTER COUNTY, Md. – Worcester County officials are considering a proposal to increase water rates across 11 service areas to address a $9 million deficit caused by lapses in operation and financial management. The proposal discussed at the recent commissioner’s meeting would require each service area to share the burden equally.
Commissioner Chip Bertino confirmed that Ocean Pines has only contributed $118,000 toward the deficit. He expressed concern that residents of Ocean Pines should not pay more than their fair share, stating that, “Regardless of your service area, you pay what it costs to operate and maintain the service area in which you live.” Bertino stressed that fairness should be central to any changes and expressed hope that a new proposal will be presented at the next Worcester County Commissioners meeting on April 1.
