5/3/2006
Getting to know
Sandy Coyman
By Bob Lassahn
He feels he has found a home on the Eastern Shore, reflecting that although he grew up in an urban environment he tends to gravitate towards rural areas where he finds the lifestyle more in tune with his preferences.
Mr. Coyman describes the primary function of his department as the “worker bees” who assist policy makers by providing necessary information. Unlike the county’s Comprehensive Plan that provides a model for development in the county over the coming years his Department of Comprehensive Planning is not the decision making body that drives the content of the document
A comprehensive plan is a vehicle for the community to plan for the future. The plan must adhere to state legislation and must be based upon valid data. It is the responsibility of Mr. Coyman’s department to ensure that the planning commission and the county commissioners are provided with the tools they need to reach appropriate conclusions.
His group handles the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or computerized mapping to provide a visual aid in sorting out a complex jigsaw puzzle of interrelating land use, zoning, water and sewer plans, conservation areas and numerous other components of the county’s makeup. Additionally they compile the statistical information on population, housing, projected growth and other data critical to sound decision-making.
Those who might have attended some of the county commissioner meetings in Snow Hill would recognize Mr. Coyman as a “regular.” His expertise and input is important to the commissioners as they consider issues from the Coastal Bays Program, to proposed developments and everything in between.
Charged with overseeing many of the programs impacting development Mr. Coyman says he rarely gives opinions on issues or projects, preferring to provide information and support to decision makers, but at times is asked “what does staff think” and must then weigh the varied interests.
When called upon to make a judgment call he says his focus is to remain objective and remember that each issue is being evaluated from a variety of perspectives from environmental concerns to developers and they all have their own agendas. He always looks for the best possible solutions and tries to achieve some balance between the different interests.
Mr. Coyman believes Worcester County is a “poster child for smart growth” having done an outstanding job of maintaining the rural character of the area. He frowns upon the trend in some counties to allow sprawl with scattered subdivisions and a “sameness” that destroys the unique natural and cultural characteristics of the area.
In his view maintaining the character of the area is essential not only to the quality of life for residents, but also to the future of the hospitality industry that is so important to the county. He says that while the beach and boardwalk may be vital to tourism, many people also come here to experience local culture.
Sandy Coyman resides in Berlin with his wife of almost six years, Marge, and their three “rescued” dogs. When not busy at his job he enjoys surfing, swimming, bike riding, gardening, carpentry and basically just staying busy. Since moving here he has also taken an interest in architecture and the history of the area.
He has two grown sons. Kevin, his youngest lives in Orlando, and Jason is in the Navy stationed at Norfolk. He has one grandchild and a second on the way.
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Uploaded: 5/3/2006
