Wicomico County Executive delivers state of county address
Salisbury, Md. – Wicomico County Executive Julie Giordano delivered the state of the county address highlighting collaboration and progress on long-term projects in education, the economy and infrastructure.
“I am proud to stand before you today and say with confidence that Wicomico County stands stronger, more financially stable and more strategically positioned for long term success than any other point in recent memory,” she said in her opening remarks, stating that the county is “not just a place on the map, it is the heart of this region.” “We are home to a diverse and growing community, a thriving agricultural industry that leads the state, a port that supports commerce and trade, and an airport that connects us to the rest of the country.”
Giordano’s state of the county address was celebratory in nature, bringing several heads of county departments and local leaders to share updates on the local economy, public safety and education.
According to the Director of Finance Pam Oland, financial reserves grew by roughly $11 million, citing more funds than expected from income taxes. Several leaders also cited balancing projects with the preservation of agricultural land for economic growth.
However, Sheriff Mike Lewis also said a rise in gun violence among youth is putting a strain on public safety. Lewis cited youth being driven by “immaturity, pride, the influence of social media and gang culture.”
“Each one represents real pain in our community and we take every single one personally,” he said of youths convicted of crime.
However, there has also been a decrease in felony filings according to State’s Attorney Jamie Dykes. She reported a 25% reduction in felony filings.
“A trend we hope means that our efforts are having a beneficial effect on crime,” she said.
Education was also a key commitment for the county executive, stating it was reflected in the state budget by fully funding the Board of Education’s request of more than $57 million. However, despite strides made, housing was another topic of concern.
“Housing affordability is a real issue, not just here in the county, but the statewide and probably nationally,” Planning, Zoning and Community Development Director Tracey Taylor said. “I want you to know that we’re committed to look into this.”
Taylor said the planning and zoning department is conducting a housing study that will be released in coming months.
Giordano spoke with WMDT after the address and said her four years as County Executive feels like her team is in the middle of progress, and she hopes to continue forward collaboratively.
“I’m really hoping that people see the good work that we’re doing and politics set aside, you know, realizing that, you know, myself and this team — and it’s really the team, you know — is a very good team,” she said. “And we wouldn’t want to change anything right now.”
Giordano has also announced the launch of her re-election campaign.
