WICOMICO COUNTY, Md.– County Executive Julie Giordano vetoed emergency legislation creating a new commission to oversee the county-owned Wicomico Nursing Home, citing government overreach.
Wicomico County Council passed the measure 6-1 on Sept. 15 after approving multiple amendments.
This came after weeks of public debate concerning recent operational changes at the facility.
Council President John Cannon said the legislation looked to improve communication and clarify the roles of both branches, but Giordano argues it could create more confusion.
"That structure blurs the fundamental distinction between legislative oversight and executive administration and creates serious governance concerns," a press release from the County Executive's Office states. "It creates competing chains of command, unnecessary legal uncertainty, and potentially significant new liability for County taxpayers"
Giordano tells WBOC she supports increased accountability at the nursing home and does not oppose the creation of a board itself.
“I agree with accountability. I do believe in the board,” Giordano said.
Giordano has said her primary concern with the emergency legislation was granting Council the authority to remove the new Nursing Home Administrator, who the County Executive has repeatedly defended.
She also cited potential legal ramifications in her decision.
"The bill does not adequately address what that change could mean for employment status, benefits, retirement obligations, procurement, contracts, insurance, regulatory liability, or other financial obligations," Giordano stated. "No fiscal analysis was provided identifying the potential cost to taxpayers."
Cannon argues the commission could provide an additional layer of oversight by bringing people with professional experience into the process.
“The idea of a commission, it's going to bring objectivity and professional experience to the table,” Cannon said.
Giordano tells WBOC she does not expect to personally challenge the legislation in court if Council overrides her veto. However, she said the Nursing Home Administrator has sought legal counsel regarding the legislation.
The County Executive previously expressed support for some portions of the emergency legislation but says decisions over personnel could violate the County Charter, pointing to possible legal action.
Council could vote to override Giordano's veto at a future meeting, with the next scheduled for Oct. 20.
Cannon said he expects Council to have the votes necessary to do so.
“I don't think the council is going to have any problem overriding the veto whatsoever,” Cannon said.
