OPA Board candidate forum held, video now available on YouTube

(June 10, 2021) Four candidates up for two seats on the Ocean Pines Board met during a forum on Wednesday night in the community center. 

Candidates answered questions on topics ranging from short-term rentals and the recent referendum, to mailboxes and road repairs.  

Running this year are incumbent Frank Daly, and challengers Stuart Lakernick, David C. Hardy and Richard Farr.  

The Elections Committee hosted the forum, and committee Chairman Habeger underscored the importance of returning ballots in a timely manner. A year ago, he said 165 ballots arrived late.  

“We can’t count them. They’re not valid – we don’t even open the envelopes,” he said. “Please, we want to count your ballot. Your vote is important.” 

Habeger said ballots would be mailed the week of July 12 and must be received by 5 p.m. on Aug. 11.  

Ballots must be sealed in the return envelope provided in the mailing, and may be returned either to the ballot box inside the Police Department office on 239 Ocean Parkway, or mailed to the Ocean Pines Post Office. 

To view a video of the forum, visit https://youtu.be/x71qsDXIBYI. 

Habeger said the committee plans to host a second forum, virtually.  

“Time, day [and] everything will be announced when we can get that coordinated,” he said.