Back in 2011 the net operating loss for Parks and Recs was $356,000.00. The losses have continued to mount each year thereafter, reaching a now expected $553,000.00 loss this coming year. During the Budget process, the Budget and Finance Committee stated that Ocean Pines continues to subsidize Worcester County residents enjoyment of our programs and events. The committee pointed out that Worcester County spends $30.86/per resident to provide Parks and Recreational Services whereas Ocean Pines spends $73.32/per resident - more than double. (Our association members also support the County Parks and Recs programs through the county tax bill) The B&F Committee recommended that Ocean Pines mandate that programs offered should have a minimum of 66% of Ocean Pines residents enrolled and that associate fees for non-association members be analyzed and addressed. It seems the more these programs have expanded, by accommodating the non-association members, the greater the financial burden is being put on our membership.  

What should be of some concern to our membership is how lack of management and oversight continue to allow these losses to grow year after year.

Hopefully, the Parks and Recreation Committee will help explore and address these concerns and give consideration to how, we as a community, can become better stewards towards providing the fiscal responsibility and protection our association deserves.  

Tom Herrick