Work Session

WORK SESSION MEETING MINUTES DECEMBER 8, 2025 PUBLIC OFFICIALS Present: Council President Angela M. Blake, Council Vice President April R. Jackson, Councilwoman Michele R. Gregory, Councilwoman Sharon C. Dashiell and Councilwoman Melissa D. Holland IN ATTENDANCE Mayor Randy Taylor, City Administrator Nick Rice, Deputy City Administrator, Zoo Director Chuck Eicholz, City Clerk Julie English, City Solicitor Ashley Bosche CALL TO ORDER The City Council convened in Work Session on December 8, 2025 at 7:41 p.m. in the Government Office Building Council Chambers, Room 301, located at 125 N. Division Street. PRESENTATION President Blake called the Parks Committee forward to provide an update. • Parks Committee Update The Parks Committee outlined proposals for a sensory trail and expanded adaptive recreation opportunities, which had been developed in collaboration with Team 360, United Needs and Abilities, and the Lower Shore Autism Community. Members shared firsthand experiences demonstrating the physical and mental health benefits of sensory gardens and adaptive trails for children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, and emphasized the value of inclusive design that benefitted the broader community. The committee also identified systemwide needs, including improved park signage, sidewalks, crosswalks, traffic calming near parks, lighting, safety equipment visibility, and regular communication with surrounding neighborhoods. Additional concerns included underserved areas that lacked nearby parks, limited after-hours access to school playgrounds, and the need for long- term planning through a comprehensive parks system master plan. City administration responded by highlighting recent and completed park improvements, available capital funds for smaller projects, and its willingness to work with the committee on a prioritized punch list. Council members and staff thanked the committee for its thorough work, community engagement, and commitment to improving accessibility, safety, and quality across the city’s parks system. President Blake noted on the record that the Enterprise Zone Eligibility for 201 Marvel Road was removed from the agenda. • Salisbury Zoo Commission Transition Presentation Director Chuck Eicholz reviewed significant improvements over the past year, including renovated animal habitats, upgraded facilities, new exhibits, and rare medical procedures, all  supporting the zoo’s pursuit of the AZA accreditation and enhancing guest experiences. He highlighted collaborations with volunteers, sponsors, and the community, which helped complete projects efficiently and cost-effectively. The history of the zoo commission was also noted. Established in 1967 as an advisory board, it became an official nonprofit in 1983, focusing on day-to-day zoo operations. In 2009, the Delmarva Zoological Society was created to manage capital campaigns and major improvements. In 2023, the society dissolved, transferring assets to the Salisbury Zoo Commission, which, with city support, has since taken greater ownership of zoo operations. The commission proposed renaming itself the Salisbury Zoo Foundation to focus on supporting capital improvements and educational programming. Council praised the zoo’s accomplishments, the effective use of funds, and the foundation’s role in future projects and fundraising. PUBLIC COMMENT (Agenda Items Only) The following public comment was heard: • Speaker #1 highlighted that College Park Apartments was underserved, noted recent sewer and sidewalk improvements, and suggested using a nearby triangular lot for a safe neighborhood playground. ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS Mr. Rice recognized his office admin for organizing an outstanding Christmas party and shared enjoyment of judging the well-attended Christmas parade with over 90 floats. Mayor Taylor thanked everyone for attending the tree lighting and welcomed Ms. Holland to the council. COUNCIL COMMENTS Ms. Dashiell welcomed Ms. Holland and noted community efforts, including Thanksgiving dinners at Hope Outreach, the city Christmas party and parade, and the Hands and Hearts shelter serving 36 men during cold months. She also asked for a list of all the city parks. Ms. Jackson welcomed Ms. Holland to the council, highlighted upcoming community events, and stressed working together for the benefit of the city and its citizens. Ms. Holland thanked supporters, expressed a commitment to transparency and unity on the council and emphasized prioritizing the city’s needs. Ms. Gregory praised the parade, highlighting the impressive school bus float, and encouraged support for local businesses by attending the downtown Christmas bar crawl. President Blake outlined 20 key priorities for 2026. She also emphasized involving youth in community events, recognized the hard work of the Christmas parade organizers, and expressed excitement to collaborate with the council to advance their goals. ADJOURNMENT The Work Session adjourned at 8:50 p.m. _________________________________ City Clerk _________________________________ Council President