I'm not advocating incorporation. And yes, it would cost money.

Bill, There have been a couple of studies done in Ocean Pines on incorporation. I have read thru them and the biggest hurdle would be taxes. Remember, as an Association, we all pay a lot assessment. Doesn't make any difference what price home is on the lot. In Ocean Pines people don't vote, lots vote.

If Ocean Pines becomes incorporated and we switch to a millage system like Municipalities some residents would have a hefty increase in their annual tax. That is the main reason why the studies for the most part come to the conclusion that incorporation for Ocean Pines would be a tough sell. Especially when it needs a high percentage of votes to make the switch. I am sure any one interested could look at a copy of the study which is kept in the GMs office.

Personally, I have not seen the advantage of incorporating. It would be a benefit to our police department but hopefully that problem will be solved with legislation [it may be already, I have not followed the issue closely] . In my former life I was in a Municipality where the big topic of debate was why taxes were based on the value of the homes. There was pretty much universal agreement amoung both political parties in the Township that the system was unfair but the problem was coming up with something to replace it. Every time I start questioning why someone in a much more expensive home in the Pines pays the same assessment as me I remind myself that Ocean Pines has accomplished by default what a lot of communities wish they had.