CHESAPEAKE BEACH, Md. — In a highly charged Town Council meeting on Dec. 4, 2024, the council approved two emergency ordinances, sparking heated debate among residents and officials alike. Central to the controversy was an ordinance addressing a severance package for outgoing Town Administrator Holly Wahl, as well as a second ordinance reallocating budget funds for various projects.
Public Objections to the Ordinances
Residents expressed strong opposition to the emergency designation of the ordinances, arguing that the measures failed to meet the criteria for urgency outlined in the Maryland Open Meetings Act. According to the act, emergency meetings are intended for unforeseen circumstances that directly impact public health, safety, or essential government operations.
“Approving a severance package for a resigning employee does not meet this standard,” one resident said.
Adding to the frustration was the lack of rationale provided for holding a special meeting or designating the ordinances as emergencies. The meeting agenda outlined the following items:
- Emergency Ordinance EO-24-20: “An emergency ordinance of the Town Council of Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, regarding the separation of Holly Wahl, Town Administrator.”
- Emergency Ordinance EO-24-21: “An emergency ordinance of the Town Council of Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, amending the annual budget for the general fund of the Town of Chesapeake Beach for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, to allocate funds from the General Fund unassigned fund balance to authorize an emergency stormwater pump purchase, for future improvements in the removal and replacement of the Beach Elementary School tennis courts and for wage expenses related to employee separation.”
Critics raised concerns about transparency and fiscal responsibility, highlighting the lack of public notice and engagement on decisions with significant financial implications. A petition opposing the ordinances, signed by multiple residents, called for the council to rescind the measures and address them in a properly noticed meeting.
Additionally, residents questioned the justification for the severance package.
“Resigning and receiving severance is not a privilege that the rest of us receive,” one resident commented, calling the decision “careless.” Others voiced concerns over the potential misuse of taxpayer funds, suggesting the money could be better spent on infrastructure or essential services.
Support for Holly Wahl
Despite the criticism, numerous residents and council members praised Wahl’s contributions during her eight years as Town Administrator. Supporters cited her professionalism, responsiveness, and pivotal role in improving the town’s fiscal health and communications.
“Holly Wahl was the best hire this town ever made,” Mayor Mahoney said. “The town has never been so well-informed or well-managed.”
Supporters also defended the severance package as a necessary measure to protect the town from potential lawsuits. Town Attorney Todd K. Pounds emphasized that the actions taken were legal and well-considered.
“We would not be here tonight if I thought something illegal was going on,” Pounds said.
The severance agreement includes a release clause ensuring Wahl will not pursue legal action against the town.
“Legal proceedings would cost much more than the settlement,” Councilman Jaworski explained. “This is a compromise solution to end this issue cleanly.”
Budget Reallocation Ordinance
The council also approved an emergency ordinance reallocating funds for stormwater improvements, tennis court replacements, and employee wage expenses. Council members clarified that this ordinance involved no new expenditures but instead reallocated existing budget funds. They emphasized that the incoming administration could revisit these allocations if desired.
Polarized Community
The meeting underscored deep divisions within the Chesapeake Beach community. Residents were split between those who decried a lack of transparency and fiscal accountability and those who lamented the personal attacks and lack of civility surrounding the issue.
“This is what happens when we abandon civility,” Councilman Fink said, calling for a more constructive public dialogue.
Final Votes and Statements
Both emergency ordinances were approved unanimously by the council.
In closing remarks, council members reiterated their commitment to ensuring a smooth administrative transition.
“The election is over, and it’s time to move forward,” Councilman Morris concluded. “We wish the incoming administration success as they take on the challenges ahead.”
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