The Town of Ocean City has given a local church until March 23 to remove a tent encampment from its property.
On March 13, city staff notified St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, which is across the street from City Hall on Baltimore Avenue, that daily fines will be levied next week if the church does not remove the tents, located in an alcove just south of the church building.
While the church says the tents are being used by members of the homeless population until a more permanent housing solution can be found, the city maintains it is a violation of the zoning code.
“This action is not something that we undertake lightly but the current situation is simply untenable,” City Manager Terry McGean told the OC Today-Dispatch this week.
In November, St. Paul’s began welcoming members of the homeless population to stay on church property, purchasing tents and setting up an encampment near the corner of Baltimore Avenue and 3rd Street.
The goal, according to Pastor Jill Williams, is simple – to provide some relief from the elements until the church can establish an indoor shelter at its outreach center. However, the church’s efforts are being challenged by the city’s zoning code, which only allows the use of temporary tents by special exception. The congregation has until March 23 at 5 p.m. to remove the tents, or face a fine of up to $5,000 per day for any violations.
“We are shocked and saddened,” Williams said in an interview Monday.
2026 Session – HB0104 = Unhoused Individuals – Rights and Affirmative Defense
Bill Summary – can’t wait for MD Leg to enact this gem!
Maybe jill williams can open the church and let them live inside.