Audit shows unmodified opinion and roughly $181,000 surplus; stormwater RFPs due Nov. 6

Tim Sawyer, CPA, of Barbacane, Thornton and Company told the Port Deposit Town Council that the 2024–2025 financial audit received an "unmodified opinion with no findings," indicating the financial statements were fairly presented.

Sawyer said the General Fund balance rose by about $182,000 (from $1.24 million to $1.42 million). Overall revenues exceeded budget by approximately $217,000 and expenditures were under budget by about $38,000, producing a net surplus of roughly $181,000. Treasurer Patti Gray thanked staff for cooperation and noted property tax rates decreased for the third consecutive year without reducing total revenues.

During public comment, Planning Commission member Bill Baron congratulated the Town on the audit and thanked the Mayor, Council and Town Administrator Vicky Rinkerman for the opportunity to attend the Maryland Municipal League Fall Conference. Resident Jerry Fuller asked for an update on the swale project, asked for clarification of the proposed layout, raised concerns about tree debris left by a Verizon contractor and noted flooding on his property. Rinkerman said stormwater project RFPs are due Nov. 6 and that full access around 43 South Main Street will be maintained.

Rinkerman also reported that the TAP grant has moved into preliminary engineering and that the Gas House electric upgrade estimate is under review by the Maryland Historic Trust. The Planning Commission is scheduled to meet Nov. 20 to consider preliminary and final site plans, and the Town will hold Clean-Up Day Nov. 22.

The council adjourned at 8:18 p.m. and moved into an executive session under the Annotated Code of Maryland, General Provisions Article, Title 3, Subtitle 3, Section 3-105(7) to consult with counsel on legal matters related to cyclical tax sale properties.