The Worcester County Planning Commission meeting on October 2, 2025, highlighted significant developments for the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department, which is seeking to expand its South Station to better serve the community. The current facility, built in 1981 and last expanded in 1987, has become inadequate for the increasing demands of fire and emergency medical services.

Joe Hensey, president of the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department, presented the need for the expansion, citing a dramatic rise in service calls—from approximately 100 to over 350 fire calls annually, and EMS calls increasing from around 1,000 to over 2,500 last year. The existing station lacks sufficient space for equipment and personnel, leading to safety concerns and operational inefficiencies. Hensey emphasized the importance of having adequate facilities for decontamination and proper storage of equipment, particularly in light of health risks posed by exposure to hazardous materials.

The proposed expansion aims to address these issues by providing more room for emergency responders, including dedicated areas for training and decontamination. Hensey noted that the current setup forces personnel to share limited facilities, which can compromise safety and efficiency. The new design will also accommodate the growing number of staff, ensuring that both career and volunteer members can work effectively together.

In addition to the fire department's expansion, the meeting briefly touched on other agenda items, including a review of a cemetery expansion and a lack of items on the Technical Review Committee's agenda for the upcoming meeting.

The Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department's expansion project is not just a matter of improving infrastructure; it is a crucial step towards enhancing community safety and emergency response capabilities. As the department continues to adapt to the increasing demands of service, this project represents a commitment to better protect and serve the residents of Worcester County. The Planning Commission's support for this initiative will be vital as the project moves forward, ensuring that the community's needs are met effectively.