Port Deposit council approves final façade grant payments, eyes 50% matching grant for visitor counter and banner

The Port Deposit Town Council on Sept. 2 approved awarding $5,000 to each of the final two façade-grant applicants so awards would be even. Town Administrator Vicky Rinkerman requested the Town contribute $276 toward the $50,000 state façade grant so the last two applicants could each receive $5,000. Councilwoman Randa Thiele moved and Councilman Daniel Berlin seconded the motion; it carried unanimously.

Rinkerman also reported a possible grant opportunity through the Lower Susquehanna Heritage Greenway that would cover 50% of the cost for both a new visitor counter and a town banner. The application window opens this fall; Rinkerman will pursue feedback and next steps.

The Council agreed to the purchases and application steps discussed; the façade grant adjustments were handled by motion, while the banner and visitor-counter work will proceed through the grant-application process and, if awarded, will require matching funds according to the grant terms.

Council members present during the vote were Deputy Mayor Kevin Brown, Councilman Daniel Berlin and Councilwoman Randa Thiele. No abstentions were recorded.