By Morgan Pilz, Staff Writer

(May 16, 2019) With less than three months before the Ocean Pines Board of Director’s election, director Esther Diller has announced her resignation.

Diller, who was elected to a one-year term last August, cited personal and health reasons for stepping down.

“I would like to take this time to say I think our board, did a lot of great things,” Diller said in a press release. “The right decisions are usually the hardest and after several years of ‘kicking it down the road,’ this board made those difficult decisions. I was able to gain a better understanding of the ins and outs of our community and have walked away from this experience better schooled and with a whole new appreciation for public service and governing of a community.

“Governing isn’t easy. Volunteering isn’t easy,” she continued. “Everyone who serves on this board should be applauded for the time and effort it takes not to mention the personal attacks we must endure. This decision to leave the board has been difficult one for me and my family. I never like to start something I can’t finish but has now become necessary.”

Diller thanked her fellow board members for the time she has spent with them and her plans to volunteer for Ocean Pines in the future.

“It has been an honor to work with all of you and I hope to again in the future be able to serve the community in a positive manner,” Diller said. “I intend to continue to work with several committees in our community and will be here to show support to the board.”

With Diller stepping down within 90 days of the upcoming election, the Ocean Pines bylaws allows the board to choose whether it wants to appoint a director to fill the vacancy.

“Since we just received Esther’s resignation, the board will need to discuss and determine whether or not we fill the position,” Board President Doug Parks said.

Diller and former director Ted Moroney earned one-year terms on the board last year and were up for reelection. Moroney finished third and Diller fourth in last year’s contest to be elected to the unexpired portions of the terms of Pat Supik and Brett Hill, both of whom resigned. Moroney resigned his seat in March.

As of filing deadline last Friday, eight residents had signed up as candidates for three spots on the board. The association bylaws require two more candidates than there are seats up for election.