Ocean City Overhauls Fire Prevention Commission, Renews Coke Deal

The Ocean City Council recently voted to advance an overhaul of the town's Fire Prevention Commission. The proposed commission would replace its four-member, all-volunteer-fire-company leadership with a five-member body designed to better reflect the resort's modern fire service.

The new commission would include the fire chief, the career Fire/EMS deputy chief, the volunteer division deputy chief, an at-large fire protection industry representative and an at-large citizen member. The two at-large members would serve staggered five-year terms and be limited to two full terms.

Fire Marshal Joe Sexauer said the existing structure dates to the 1960s and can appear biased. 'Sometimes it … doesn't look very neutral for an outsider to bring an appeal before a body that is essentially nothing but fire service [and] city representation,' he said.

The Council also voted to renew Ocean City's beverage franchise agreement with Coca-Cola Consolidated for five years, which will run through March 31, 2032. The extension is projected to generate approximately $400,000 in franchise revenue.