Valhalla,

Don't forget that a very large number of Ocean Pines properties are rentals, in which case the homeowners fee is deductible to the owner as an operating expense.   So, there would be no added benefit to them in that regard.

Also,  it is my understanding  that about 50% + (-) ???  of  Ocean Pines homes are not the primary residences of their owners.  That is, they are second homes or the aforementioned rental properties.   In these cases, if Ocean Pines were to become a city, these folks presumably would not be able to vote here ---- due to the archaic election laws, so recently in the news re: Ocean City, that prevented more than half the property owners there from voting.  (Taxation without representation !).  I would think this very large block of Ocean Pines owners would be dead set against changing our Homeoners Association status. 

OPiner