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Many towns owe their
existence to a railroad, and the two contiguous towns of Delmar,
Maryland, and Delmar, Delaware, are among them. In 1859, the
Delaware Railroad extended its track south to the
Delaware/Maryland border. At the end of the rail line, in both
states, merchants took advantage of economic opportunity, and
railroad workers established residences. Thus two towns
originated and prospered as one. Before the end of the century,
both had been chartered as incorporated municipalities in their
respective states: Delmar, Maryland, in 1888, and Delmar,
Delaware, in 1899.
Like other communities, each town elects its own mayor and
council, passes its own ordinances, and raises its own revenue.
But beyond those activities, arrangements are unique. According
to a formula based largely on population, the two revenue
streams are applied to a single municipal operation with a
single town manager. The wastewater treatment plant, the police
station, and the town hall are located in Delmar, Maryland,
while the water treatment plant, the library, and the volunteer
fire department are located in Delmar, Delaware. There are parks
and recreational facilities in both towns. Elementary school
students are all taught in Delmar, Maryland. Middle and high
school students who live in Maryland may choose to attend school
in Delmar, Delaware, or in nearby Salisbury, Maryland.
This unusual brand of municipal government is not without its
challenges. For example, police officers must have certification
and knowledge of the law in both states, although most local
regulations are compatible to avoid confusion among residents.
Overall, the benefits of Delmar’s unique municipal arrangement
outweigh the disadvantages—more efficient operations are
achieved and opportunities for state grants are broadened.
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