Public Meetings - Annapolis, Maryland

The Finance Committee of the Annapolis City Council met on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 9:47 AM in a special budget hearing to deliberate the FY2027 budget. The committee reviewed fund transfers, discussed budget priorities, and set timelines for amendments. The meeting adjourned at 12:22 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (FC 5.4.26): Alderman Thorp moved to approve the previous day's special meeting minutes. The motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote. Public Comments No public comments were heard at this meeting. Discussion Items Fund Transfers - FT-11-26: Transfers $156,974 from Bonds - Cedar Park Sidewalks project to Bonds-Watershed - Stormwater MS4 Permit Compliance. Director of Public Works Vogel and Stormwater Project Manager Rossberg explained that stormwater installation was not possible during Phase I due to site limitations, and the funds will be used for stormwater management in the same subwatershed. Alderwoman O'Neill moved to recommend favorably; carried on voice vote. - FT-12-26: Transfers $195,000 from Finance Department Salaries and Benefits and $143,000 from Nonallocated Debt Services to Finance Department Contractual Services to cover consulting expenses. Acting City Manager Buckland and Acting Finance Director Pallikal answered questions about debt service estimation and the master capital lease for fleet replacement. Alderman Thorp moved to recommend favorably; carried on voice vote. General Discussion - FY27 Budget Deliberations (ID-97-26) The committee engaged in extensive discussion on the FY27 budget. Key topics included: - Community Grants: Alderwoman O'Neill emphasized the need to fund an LGBTQ organization (Annapolis Pride) that received no funding. Alderman Thorp called for more results-oriented focus on grant outcomes. - Central Services: Alderwoman O'Neill expressed interest in funding additional positions (real estate administrator, facility maintenance tech) while Alderman Huntley expressed skepticism about the risk management specialist and security guards. Acting City Manager Buckland explained the logic behind proposed positions. The committee discussed potential swaps between positions. - Parks and Recreation Fees: Alderwoman O'Neill and Alderman Huntley supported increasing fees for non-residents, particularly for boat ramps and park facilities, to avoid raising resident fees. - Infrastructure Investment: Alderman Thorp stressed the need to focus city resources on streets, sidewalks, and parks maintenance. Alderwoman O'Neill suggested shifting a greater percentage of the streets operating budget to sidewalks. Alderman Thorp argued for prioritizing external-facing services over internal administrative growth. - Communications: Alderman Thorp highlighted the need for better public communication, citing complaints about the boat show traffic and lack of information. The committee discussed consolidating public information officers. - Vacancy Savings and Contingency: Alderman Huntley proposed applying vacancy savings analysis to large departments (similar to police) to free up funds for contingency and other priorities. Acting Finance Director warned about potential impact on future fund balance. - Capital Budget Review: Alderman Huntley noted insufficient time to review capital projects and suggested sending questions to directors about impacts of reducing funding for major projects like fire station planning. - AI and Software: Alderman Huntley supported investing in AI for efficiency gains in planning, public works, and IT. - Revenue Ideas: Discussion included potential revenue from a new medic unit (fire department), increased short-term rental fees, and liquor license fee adjustments. Key Outcomes - FT-11-26 and FT-12-26: Both fund transfers were unanimously recommended favorably. - Legislation (O-8-26, R-10-26, R-11-26, R-12-26): The committee took no action on the annual budget ordinance, fees schedule, fines schedule, and pay plan. These items will proceed to the full City Council without committee recommendation. - Budget Process Timeline: Questions for departments must be submitted by close of business May 5; department responses due May 6; amendments due by May 11 (Monday). The Finance Committee report is due May 11. - Continued Deliberations: The committee will reconvene in closed session on May 6 to continue budget discussions and finalize recommendations.

This special meeting of the Annapolis Finance Committee, held on May 4, 2026, from 9:34 a.m. to 12:21 p.m., focused on budget presentations for the Office of Community Services (OCS) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) for Fiscal Year 2027. The committee reviewed performance metrics, discussed program priorities, and requested follow-up data on several items. Consent Calendar - Approved the special meeting agenda and the minutes from the April 29, 2026 special meeting (FC 4.29.26) by voice vote. Discussion Items - Office of Community Services (OCS) – Community Grants Program: Director Aisha Young and Aaron Lee presented accomplishments including rebranding, site visits, grant trainings, and a new health enrollment assistance program. Key performance measures: 19 site visits in FY26 (goal: all 35 grantees in FY27), 47 of 69 grantees submitted quarterly reports, rental assistance program open seven months in FY26 (goal: nine months in FY27), 92 of 161 rental applications approved. A request for a case management software (Capstone, $9,600) was discussed. The committee prioritized housing, homelessness, food security, and utility assistance over general programming for the 35 recommended grant awards (out of 62 applicants, total request $1.7M, funding pool $373,700). Alderman Thorp requested adding an "FY26 Adopted Community Grants" column to the spreadsheet. Alderwoman O'Neill raised concerns about repeat rental assistance clients and proposed partnerships with financial literacy programs. Questions about specific grant allocations (e.g., Assistant League of the Chesapeake, Blacks of the Chesapeake, Eastport Volunteer Fire Department) were addressed. - Department of Transportation (DOT): Director Marcus Moore and Deputy Director Agyemang-Duah presented on transit and parking performance. Noted: 0 FTA-reportable accidents per 100,000 vehicle revenue miles; 100% adherence to preventive maintenance; on-street parking revenue outpacing FY25; collection rate of fines at 76% (previously reported). The committee discussed the electric shuttle pilot in Eastport (ended, assets redeployed to City Dock), and Alderman Thorp expressed interest in reinstating the service in Ward 8. Alderman Huntley requested a cost estimate for additional variable messaging signage and the current percentage for collection rate of fines. The deputy director confirmed that the city has signed a grant agreement for a hybrid ferry, but the mayor has not made a final decision to proceed. Discussion also covered marketing needs, ADA service, and the possibility of a third electric shuttle for Eastport. Key Outcomes - Follow-ups requested: - OCS to add an FY26 Adopted Community Grants column to the Grant Funding spreadsheet. - DOT to provide data tracking for the electric shuttle in Eastport, a cost estimate for more variable messaging signage, and the current collection rate of fines (previously 76%). - DOT to explore the feasibility and cost of a third electric shuttle for Eastport (potential March 2027 start). - Decisions: No formal votes on budget items; the committee will consider amendments at a future meeting. Alderman Thorp indicated potential changes to the community grants code. - Next steps: Committee members will receive updated spreadsheets and follow-up data before further budget deliberations.

The meeting began with a morning ceremony announcing the final funding for the City Dock resilience project, followed by a joint session of the City Council and Financial Advisory Commission (FAC) in the evening to review the capital improvement plan (CIP) and debt affordability. The day combined a celebration of a major federal grant with a detailed fiscal analysis of the city's capital program. City Dock Project Funding Announcement - Mayor Jared Littman announced the receipt of $33 million from FEMA plus an additional $2.5 million for the City Dock resilience project, securing full funding for the project. He highlighted the total funding breakdown: $24 million from a concession agreement for Hillman Garage, $10 million from the State of Maryland, $4.8 million in federal congressional earmarks, $2 million from Anne Arundel County, and city bond funds. The project is intended to protect the historic waterfront, local businesses, and meet rising sea-level challenges. - Congresswoman Sarah Elfrith praised the project as a model for climate resilience, noting that it started with a vision from former Mayor Gavin Buckley and involved nearly 300 public engagement opportunities. She credited the Navy, state, and federal delegations for their support. - Former Congressman John Sarbanes called the project a "Rubik's Cube" and a testament to Annapolis's leadership in innovative approaches. - County Executive Stuart Pittman expressed relief at the FEMA funding, noting that without it the project would have been scaled back. He thanked the delegation for persevering in a challenging federal environment. - Secretary Strickland of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management emphasized the importance of mitigation, citing a $1 invested yields $6 in disaster recovery savings. He committed to supporting the project through completion. Discussion Items Debt Capacity Presentation (Davenport & Company) - Jennifer Derrickson and Susan Osteski of Davenport & Company presented the annual debt capacity analysis. They showed that the city's existing tax-supported debt (general fund, fleet, transportation) is declining, allowing room for new debt. The proposed CIP borrowing of $95.2 million over six years (including $15 million in authorized but unissued debt) is projected to keep debt service as a percentage of general fund expenditures at or slightly above the city's 10% policy target for several years, but well within the 12% ceiling. - Council Member Huntley questioned the trend of breaching the 10% policy for five consecutive years in the current projections. Davenport noted that conservative assumptions (1% expenditure growth, 5% interest rates) may overstate the breach, and actual growth has historically been higher (4.8-6.3% annually). - FAC member Jim Cardillo expressed concern about the growth of general fund expenditures, which creates a self-fulfilling capacity for debt, and reiterated the need for a spending affordability plan. Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Presentation - Director of Public Works Burr Vogel presented the CIP changes, highlighting that $16 million was moved from 2028 to 2027 for City Dock. He explained that many projects were adjusted based on capacity to spend, with a focus on not front-loading debt. New projects include general striping/marking for red curbs and crosswalks. - Council Member Savage asked about the method for determining reduced appropriations in FY27 for recurring projects like roadways. Director Vogel explained that the remaining unspent funds from prior years were considered, and project managers estimated realistic spending capacity—e.g., for general roadways, the city can spend about $3.5 million per year, but only $1.35 million was added in FY27 due to existing carryover. - Council Member Arnett raised concerns about sidewalk spending decreasing and the lack of new sidewalk projects, despite resident demand. Vogel noted that a mobility action plan is being developed to prioritize new sidewalks. - Council Member Smith Brown requested a ward-by-ward breakdown of CIP projects. The mayor presented a summary showing that Ward 1 (City Dock) receives the largest share (51% of gross project dollars), with other wards ranging from 25-40%. The analysis counts projects multiple times if they affect multiple wards. Council Priorities Alignment - The mayor's staff presented a slide summarizing each council member's stated priorities, including infrastructure, pedestrian safety, traffic calming, youth programs, and environmental sustainability. The mayor noted that the CIP reflects these priorities, though many wish for more funding. Key Outcomes - City Dock project fully funded with $33 million FEMA grant plus $2.5 million, along with state, county, and city funds. No vote was taken; the announcement was a milestone. - Debt capacity analysis accepted as a tool for budget decisions. The council acknowledged the conservative assumptions and noted that the city remains within its policy limits, with limited additional capacity for new borrowing. - CIP changes noted but no formal approval was given at this meeting. The council will continue discussions on specific projects, with a request for a follow-up work session if needed. - Council asked for better documentation of how projects are prioritized and how options are presented to the council. The mayor committed to improving the process, including more public engagement and a new city manager. - A ward-by-ward analysis of CIP projects was shared and will be added to the meeting materials. The council agreed to use a shared document for follow-up questions rather than email.

The Finance Committee met in a special budget hearing on April 29, 2026 from 12:33 PM to 3:55 PM, with recesses, to review FY27 budgets for the Annapolis Fire Department (AFD), Office of Law, and Department of Planning & Zoning (DPZ). Alderman Huntley chaired; Alderwoman O'Neill and Alderman Thorp were present. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as written. Motion carried on voice vote. - Approved the minutes from the April 28, 2026 special meeting. Motion carried on voice vote. Discussion Items Annapolis Fire Department (AFD) – ID-92-26 Chief Remaley, Deputy Chief Lopez, Acting Deputy Chief Ortlieb, Fire Administrative Specialist Coughlin, and Budget Analyst Turner presented. Key points: - Accomplishments: No fatal fire since 2010; emergency response times meet or exceed national standards; developed a five-year strategic plan; graduated eight cadets from a state partnership program. - Performance measures: 32 injuries last year, 15 year-to-date; three active cancer cases; 23 vehicle accidents (mostly minor); nine complaints for the year; average soft openings (personnel not in field) of 18 per month. - Run statistics: Over 13,000 emergency calls annually, with over 25,000 unit responses. - Budget enhancements: Mayor's proposed budget includes six personnel ($588,000) for a peak-time medic unit (12-hour day, 7 days/week) expected to generate $200,000–$250,000 in additional EMS billing revenue; a contractual paramedic EMS trainer; $200,000 for obsolete equipment; $15,000 for professional cleaning of turnout gear; and funding for office space planning. - Overtime: Budgeted $2.1 million; primarily driven by minimum staffing needs due to sick leave, injuries, and special events. - Staffing concerns: Minimum staffing requires 25 personnel per shift; with leave and training, the department often has 18 soft openings per month, leading to overtime. - Four-person staffing: Discussed adding a fourth person to suppression units, starting with the crew that cross-staffs the fire boat. The cost for that single crew would be approximately half of the $429,000 estimated for both truck companies. - Revenue: EMS billing brings in about $4 million annually; a new peak-time unit is expected to increase that slightly. - Concerns: Hospital (Annapolis Medical Center) will stop providing one-for-one medical supplies after July, adding an estimated $80,000 in costs; potential loss of federal SAFER grants. Committee members (Alderman Thorp, Alderwoman O'Neill) asked detailed questions about overtime management, staffing factors, response time variability, fire boat adequacy, and the impact of new housing developments (800+ units). Chief Remaley provided explanations and committed to follow-up data. Office of Law – ID-93-26 Acting City Attorney Berger, Paralegal Steel, City Clerk Watkins-Eldridge, and Budget Analyst Turner presented. Key points: - Litigation: Since July 1, 2025, investigated 140 claims (exclusive of workers' comp); handled 20 lawsuits entirely in-house, one mixed, and one entirely by outside counsel. Provided examples of time-intensive cases (389 filings in one pro se case; 110 hours of trial prep in another). - Transactional work: Drafted/negotiated 410 documents; processed 140 PIA requests (including email searches with thousands of emails); 60 municipal infraction citations. - Legislation: Drafted 150 bills since July 1, 55 adopted; all legislation made ADA-compliant. - City Clerk functions: Administered 2025 municipal election; attended and recorded minutes for 24 city council meetings and 66 standing committee meetings; processed 857 liquor license applications generating $547,000 in projected revenue. - Performance measures: Proposed changes: response time for legal advice within 48 hours (acknowledgment) and completion within two weeks (complexity dependent); legislative draft timeline changed from 30 days to “reasonable time”; emphasis on reducing liability exposure rather than focusing on court rulings. - Enhancements: Requested $3,000 for a Nexis Lexis subscription for labor/employment research; included in mayor’s budget. - Budget trends: Salaries and benefits higher in FY26 projected due to severance payouts; supplies decreased because items moved to ITS. - Elections: Estimated cost for the next municipal election may increase significantly; discussions on whether to align with county elections pending. Alderman Thorp requested Acting City Attorney Berger to review the fee schedule resolution to solidify fees, and to follow up on resources needed for efficiency. He also emphasized tracking the input metric of “number of meetings staff and counsel were required to attend.” Department of Planning & Zoning (DPZ) – ID-94-26 Director Jakubiak, Senior Budget Analyst Johnson, and Budget Analyst Turner presented. Key points: - Accomplishments: Reduced average residential building permit review time from 27 to 14 days (48% improvement); reduced commercial building permit time from 16 to 9 days (44% improvement); expedited 240 simple residential permits; achieved these through one additional architectural plan reviewer and internal realignment. - Performance measures: - Zoning compliance: 83% resolved with notice or outreach; proposed benchmark 85%. - Major site design: 85 days FY26, proposed 80 days. - Minor site design (e.g., new houses in R2NC): 50 days proposed. - Commercial building permits: FY26 actual 15 days, proposed 15 days. - Residential building permits: FY26 actual 9 days, proposed 9 days (currently meeting target). - Enhancements in proposed budget: - Assistant Chief of Code Enforcement ($166,000) to prepare for retirement of current chief and improve capacity. - Permits Associate ($117,000) to replace contract position, improve customer service, and support permits administrator. - Reclassification of Assistant Chief of Historic Preservation from contract to civil service (no cost increase). - Fee adjustments: Proposed increase in short-term rental licensing fee from $420 to $650, and adjustment of biannual rental licensing fee, together expected to generate $150,000 to cover costs of new positions. - Innovation: Director Jakubiak expressed interest in using AI to pre-qualify permit applications, potentially reducing review times further. He requested $100,000 in one-time funding for FY27 to develop an AI platform. - Budget trends: Total DPZ budget $5.9 million, 8% reduction from projected; 67% of operating costs covered by revenue from permits and licenses. Committee members asked about staffing for short-term rental coordination, fee justification, sustainment of permit improvements, and specific fund balances (affordable housing trust, reforestation fund). Alderwoman O'Neill requested follow-up on why FY27 proposed differs from FY26 projected for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and where the HERO program will be funded. Key Outcomes - Fire Department: No formal action taken; committee requested follow-up data on overtime hours and response time factors. - Office of Law: Committee requested Acting City Attorney Berger to review and solidify fee schedule resolution, and to report on resources needed for efficiency. - Planning & Zoning: Committee requested Director Jakubiak to provide information on the Affordable Housing Trust Fund discrepancy and the HERO program funding source. - All departments: Presentations and discussions will inform the full council’s budget deliberations. Meeting adjourned at 3:55 PM.

On April 28, 2026, the Annapolis City Council Finance Committee met to discuss the enterprise funds (water/sewer, stormwater, refuse) and the Department of Public Works (DPW) budget. The meeting included presentations from Stantec consultant Dave Heider and DPW Director David Vogel, followed by extensive Q&A. Key topics included rate recommendations, fee structure changes, performance metrics, and infrastructure challenges. Consent Calendar - The agenda and minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Enterprise Funds Presentation (Dave Heider, Stantec): - Water and Sewer Fund: Recommended 4.75% rate increase for FY27 and future years. The fund is projected to exhaust cash by 2030 or 2031 if spending continues as planned, but delays in capital execution typically push that out. Current typical residential quarterly bill for water/sewer (12,000 gallons) is $190; with the increase, it would rise to $199 (+$9.10/quarter). Water losses have been reduced by 20-30% over five years. - Stormwater Fund: Recommended 15% increase for FY27, followed by 7% increases through 2030. The tree program ($515,000 in FY27) accounts for 20% of stormwater operating expenses. The city proposes transitioning non-residential properties from tier-based fees to charges based on actual measured impervious area (ERUs), effective January 1, 2027, with a six-month grace period. About 23% of non-residential properties would see a bill reduction, while others would see increases (e.g., 11 properties would see over $2,000 increase). A stormwater fee reduction program for on-site management is planned. - Refuse Fund: Recommended 7.5% increase for FY27, with 5% increases in future years. The new 10-year collection contract (7-year base) began in FY27, leading to a 30% increase in contract costs over three years. The typical annual refuse fee would rise from $431 to $463. Council discussed the contractor's performance, including trash left in streets and the need for better enforcement. DPW noted that the contractor has a new technology (cameras) and will face financial penalties for poor service. - Combined Impact: Total residential quarterly bill increase of $22 (water/sewer $9, stormwater $5, refuse $8). - Department of Public Works Presentation (Director David Vogel): - Accomplishments: Progress on City Dock project, stormwater fee adjustment, traffic safety studies, and consolidation of fire hydrant data. - Performance Metrics: Proposed changes to metrics (e.g., pothole response target of 80% within a week, hydrant testing on a two-year cycle). DPW acknowledged they are not keeping up with infrastructure condition (e.g., roads, sewers) but are treading water. The asset management program is improving. - Budget Highlights: Salaries and benefits show a significant increase due to mapping corrections (positions misallocated to general fund). Engineering construction contract services decreased to $135,000, limiting agility. Snow removal budget was $170,000, but actual spending was $800,000; a fund transfer will be requested in Q4. Council discussed the need for emergency procurement authorities for snow and other crises. - Street Sweeping: Currently limited by personnel and lack of scheduling. DPW is exploring software to improve route planning, which could enable better communication to residents. Alderman O'Neal and Alderman Huntley supported a pilot program with parking restrictions. - Sidewalks: Staffing is a constraint; DPW is hiring another engineer. Additional capital funding could be used once staffing is fully staffed. - Water and Sewer Capital: The water plant operating system update (software) and vertical assessment of sewage pump stations are ongoing. Key Outcomes - The committee discussed but did not vote on the rate recommendations; they will be considered as part of the FY27 budget adoption. The Enterprise Fund Study will be used to inform rate setting. - The proposed stormwater fee structure change for non-residential properties (from tiers to measured impervious area) received broad support, with the condition that a strong communication plan be implemented. The city attorney will review the legality of a progressive rate structure. - DPW will work with council members to explore a pilot street sweeping program with signage and parking restrictions, likely in Ward 8. - The committee noted the need for a more formal process for emergency spending (e.g., snow removal) and a discussion on financial controls for the city manager. - The committee requested a future update on the trash contract performance and the food waste composting program.

On April 27, 2026, the Annapolis Finance Committee held a special meeting to review the Fiscal Year 2027 budgets for the Department of Central Services (DCS), the Annapolis Police Department (APD), and the Office of Human Resources (HR). The meeting began at 8:32 AM and adjourned at 11:53 PM after three presentations, detailed questioning, and a postponed fund transfer. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved on a voice vote (motion by Alderman Thorp, seconded). - The minutes from the April 23, 2026 special meeting (FC 4.23.26) were approved on a voice vote (motion by Alderwoman O’Neill, seconded). Discussion Items Department of Central Services (ID‑87‑26) - Presenter: Director of Central Services Matt Flinner. - Key Points: - Flinner reported that the department has filled most vacancies, consolidated offices into one location at 25 Shaw Street, and is working to improve procurement timelines and facility management. - He requested seven new positions (deputy director, real estate administrator, contract administrator, engineer 2, fleet parts specialist, fleet maintenance technician, risk management specialist) but noted that the three funded positions (engineer 2, fleet parts specialist, risk management specialist) were lower priorities; he would trade them for the top two (real estate administrator and deputy director). - Performance metrics were discussed: many are hard to measure due to lack of systems; Flinner committed to developing SMART goals. - Overtime: the department eliminated day‑to‑day overtime but added weekend on‑call overtime for fleet and facilities; Flinner will provide a breakdown of planned FY27 overtime. - Alderwoman O’Neill requested a non‑public list of city real estate properties; Alderman Thorp requested quarterly performance data on work orders, CIP costs, procurement timelines, fleet age, workers’ comp claims, and overtime history. Annapolis Police Department (ID‑88‑26) - Presenter: Acting Chief of Police Miguez, with Major, Accounting & Equipment Manager Meadley, and Acting Captain of Administration O’Heirly. - Key Points: - APD handled over 39,000 calls for service year‑to‑date in FY26, on pace for 50,000; proactive foot patrol and frequent checks increased. - Crime rates per 100,000 residents decreased from FY25 to FY26; clearance rates for robbery and aggravated assault improved; the 500% clearance rate for homicide reflects prior‑year cases cleared in FY26. - Enhancements include civilian conversions of contract positions nearing their five‑year limit, a new sergeant position for patrol supervision, drone program upgrades, Axon contract renewal, and a new CAD system shared with Anne Arundel County. - Overtime: the FY27 budget includes $2.5 million for overtime; Chief Miguez provided a year‑over‑year tracking slide. The committee discussed vacancy savings: the FY27 budget includes $2 million in built‑in vacancy savings. - Alderman Thorp requested past accomplishments data and a projection for FY27; Alderwoman O’Neill asked about community programs, grants, and the professional standards manager position. Office of Human Resources (ID‑89‑26) - Presenter: Acting HR Director Lassan Crispin. - Key Points: - Crispin highlighted accomplishments: expanded NeoGov HRIS, streamlined complaint process on the intranet, implemented a career ladder framework, created job description cover sheets, and launched an electronic exit interview survey. - Performance measures for employee satisfaction, training, diversity, and applicant pool are being revised; 80% of applicants now apply through NeoGov, with a goal of 100%. - No personnel or non‑personnel enhancements were requested for FY27. - The contract services budget increased from $30,000 to $117,000 for training and contractual staff; Crispin emphasized the need for citywide training (diversity, conflict resolution, harassment prevention) after years of underinvestment. - Discussion of the upcoming Maryland Family Leave insurance program: premiums due January 2027, but rates are unknown; the budget does not yet include this cost, and a supplemental appropriation may be needed. - Alderman Thorp requested the results of the new employee orientation survey; Alderwoman O’Neill asked about the summer internship program (24 interns, $80,000 budget). Key Outcomes - Fund Transfer FT‑11‑26 (Public Works: Capital): Postponed to the April 28, 2026 special meeting by a voice vote (motion by Alderwoman O’Neill, seconded). The transfer would move $156,974 from the Cedar Park Sidewalks bond project to the Stormwater MS4 Permit Compliance project. - Information Requests: - Director Flinner will provide a spreadsheet showing budget movements into DCS, a list of city real estate properties, quarterly performance metrics, and overtime breakdowns. - Acting Chief Miguez will provide past accomplishments data, overtime trends, and details on short‑term rental enforcement collaboration with Planning and Zoning. - Acting HR Director Crispin will provide the timeline for the new employee orientation survey. - Meeting Adjournment: 11:53 PM after a motion and second.

The Annapolis City Council held a special meeting on Monday, April 27, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:21 PM in the Mayor John T. Chambers, Jr. City Council Chambers. The meeting included a closed session, ceremonial recognitions, a presentation from the District 30 state delegation, public hearings on FY2027 budget-related legislation, approval of a consent calendar, adoption of a new street café fee resolution, and continued council discussion on the FY2027 budget. Closed Session - The Council entered closed session at 6:09 PM pursuant to Maryland General Provisions Article § 3-305(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters. The closed session adjourned at 6:59 PM. The motion to go into closed session was carried on a voice vote, and the motion to exit was carried unanimously. Consent Calendar - SA-20-26: A $3,000 grant from the USTA/Mid-Atlantic Foundation for new and expanded community and adaptive/wheelchair tennis programs was approved. - FT-9-26: A transfer of $32,900 from Non-Allocated Debt Service to the General Fund for Fleet Operations (to cover a budget deficiency in vehicle repair and maintenance) was approved. - AP-19-26: The appointment of Marcia Ormsby to the Human Relations Commission was approved. - All consent calendar items were approved by roll call vote (7 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Nick Manis (84 Duke of Gloucester Street) urged better communication from the city regarding temporary traffic pattern changes during boat shows and concerning proposed changes to Duke of Gloucester Street and Main Street. He expressed that residents and businesses were not given adequate notice. - Danielle Miller (4 Mooring Point Court, Ward 7) spoke in support of the Mayor’s FY2027 budget proposal to fund additional childcare aftercare sites through Annapolis Parks and Recreation. She highlighted inequities: only 5 of 8 elementary schools have city-supported aftercare, and families at Eastport, Georgetown East, and Tyler Heights are excluded. She noted that a spring aftercare program at Pitt Moyer is thriving despite transportation challenges and urged the council to fund additional sites. State Budget & Legislation Update (District 30 Delegation) - Senator Shanika Henson reported on state budget wins for Annapolis: nearly $1 million (just shy of a million) in unrestricted payment-in-lieu-of-tax (PILOT) funds (indexed to CPI), and $950,000 for a new medic unit for the Annapolis Fire Department. She highlighted two bills she sponsored: - Senate Bill 298: Expanded Capitol Police jurisdiction from a 1,000-foot perimeter around state buildings to statewide, enabling better coordination with local police. - Senate Bill 941: Targets chronic bad-acting landlords (those owning 500 or more units) by requiring the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development and Office of the Attorney General to develop an action plan for enforcement and support. - Delegate Dana Jones noted nine of her 19 sponsored bills passed. Key bills for Annapolis: - Increased the cap on heritage area funding from $6 million to $12 million. - House Bill 728: Provides a procurement exemption for state agencies to negotiate directly with nonprofits in preservation. - Maryland Housing Certainty Act: Locks in local zoning rules at the time a complete application is submitted, aimed at speeding housing development. - Utility Relief Act: Addresses rising energy rates by: preventing corporate utilities from passing exorbitant salaries onto ratepayers, banning the use of forecast test years (basing rate increases on actual historic spending), reining in data center grid costs, promoting advanced transmission technologies, and allowing “balcony solar.” - Increased retirement income subtraction modification for first responders by $5,000. - Delegate Del. Behler (Deputy Speaker Pro Tem) reported on the nearly $35 million in capital budget and $2.5 million in operating budget for the district. Specific Annapolis items: bomb containment unit for police, two new ambulances, funding for YWCA of Annapolis, and the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum. He also noted passage of the council’s resolution to create a task force to modernize municipal revenues. Discussion Items - FY2027 Budget and Related Legislation (Public Hearings): - Ordinance O-8-26 (Annual Budget and Appropriation and Property Tax Levy): Public hearing opened and continued to the next meeting. - Resolution R-10-26 (FY2027 Annual Fees Schedule): Public hearing opened and continued. - Resolution R-11-26 (FY2027 Fines Schedule): Public hearing opened and continued. - Resolution R-12-26 (FY2027 Position Classifications and Pay Plan): Public hearing opened and continued. - First Reader – R-16-26 (Street Café Fees): Adopted on first reader, then rules were suspended to allow passage at the same meeting. Council sponsors added Mayor Littmann, Alderman Huntley, and Alderman Schandelmeier. The resolution sets street café fees at 10 times the hourly parking rate (reducing from a previously considered 17 times rate) to align with outdoor dining concessions. Adopted on second reader by a vote of 6-0-2 (Alderman Smith-Brown out of room, 2 absent). - Second Reader – R-8-26 (Fee Waivers for City Supported Special Events FY2027): Alderman Thorp introduced Amendment 1 to add “Eastport a Rockin’ (June)” to the list of waived fees. The amendment carried on voice vote. The resolution as amended was adopted on second reader by a vote of 6-0-2 (same split). Alderman Huntley requested the staff report be updated to include Eastport a Rockin’. - Council Discussion – Continued FY2027 Budget Review: Acting Finance Director Pallikal answered questions. The council discussed deadlines for budget amendments: - May 5, 2026 (Tuesday): City Council deadline to submit questions to department directors. - May 6, 2026 (Wednesday): Directors’ deadline to answer those questions. - May 8, 2026 (Friday): Council deadline to submit formal budget amendments (per resolution). - A budget work session was scheduled for Thursday, May 1, 2026, to review the capital budget and council priorities. Key Outcomes - Closed session held on personnel matters from 6:09 PM to 6:59 PM. - Agenda amended to remove O-2-26 (Mooring Requirements) from second reader. - Ceremonial items: Citations presented to Captain Jennifer Kaye (Schooner Woodwind retirement) and Nurse Jackie Maloney (life-saving CPR). A $900 donation from Knights of Columbus to Friends of Stanton Center Youth Programs Fund was accepted. - Consent Calendar approved (SA-20-26, FT-9-26, AP-19-26). - R-16-26 adopted with suspension of rules (6-0-2) – new street café fees set at 10x hourly parking rate. - R-8-26 adopted as amended (6-0-2) – fee waivers for FY2027 special events, including added “Eastport a Rockin’”. - Budget amendment deadlines set: Questions to directors by May 5; director answers by May 6; amendments due May 8. - All public hearings on FY2027 budget legislation (O-8-26, R-10-26, R-11-26, R-12-26) were opened and continued to the next council meeting. - Meeting adjourned at 8:21 PM.

On April 23, 2026, the Annapolis Finance Committee held a special meeting to review the proposed FY27 budgets for the Department of Finance and the Office of Emergency Management (OEM). The meeting was called to order at 8:46 AM, recessed at 9:40 AM, reconvened at 9:48 AM, and adjourned at 10:44 AM. Acting Finance Director Pallikal and OEM Director Simmons presented their respective budgets, followed by committee questions and discussion. Several action items were identified for follow-up. Consent Calendar - Approval of the meeting agenda (moved by Alderman Thorp, seconded, carried on voice vote). - Approval of the April 22, 2026, Finance Committee special meeting minutes (moved by Alderwoman O'Neill, seconded, carried on voice vote). Discussion Items - Department of Finance FY27 Budget Presentation – Acting Finance Director Pallikal, along with Acting City Manager Buckland, Senior Budget Analyst Johnson, and Budget Analyst Turner, presented the department's accomplishments (clean audit, on-time budget delivery, SOP development), performance measures, and budget enhancements—primarily converting a contractor payroll manager to a full-time position. Key discussion points included: - The need for a monthly close process (currently only a soft close on cash basis); Alderman Thorp emphasized the importance of granular monthly data for staff, council, and the mayor. - A 12% increase in salary and benefits (partly due to a new payroll manager, benefit election changes, and step increases). - A 33% increase in the Brinks security contract (from $30,000 to $40,000) due to an additional pick-up location for Wrecks and Parks. - The transition of $118,000 in capital outlay costs to ITS (software and laptop refresh). - A $90,000 consultant line item, justified as a reserve for unknown needs. - Debt service: The committee requested confirmation that the FY27 debt service number will be significantly lower than budgeted, as occurred in FY26. - Interfund transfers: The committee questioned why the FY27 budget shifts $240,000 from the transportation fund to the off-street parking fund; staff explained it was a one-time project for directional signage. - Self-insurance fund: The committee requested the actuarial report behind the fund's consistent level, despite large lawsuits. Staff noted a mixed self-insurance/insurance policy structure. - Office of Emergency Management (OEM) FY27 Budget Presentation – Director Simmons and Deputy Director Mandell presented accomplishments (a $35.5 million FEMA grant, winter storm response with 745 calls, 72% reduction in total overdoses since 2020). They highlighted the department's heavy reliance on federal grants (historically $624,000 to $583,000) and the uncertainty of FY25 grant funding (not yet received). The proposed budget moves three grant-funded positions (two emergency management planner positions and one training/outreach position) into the general fund at a cost of $224,000 and $108,974 respectively, to avoid layoffs. Other non-personnel enhancements included a hazard mitigation plan ($60,000) and training/exercise funding ($13,000). A request for a $21,000 radio maintenance plan was not funded. Committee discussion included: - The possibility of centralizing radio maintenance across departments; a request was made for a cumulative report on current radio maintenance spending across all departments. - The impact of lost grants: If FY25 grants do not materialize, OEM may have to lay off three staff and cannot meet city code requirements for annual exercises. - Alderman Thorp requested a closed session to address sensitive OEM concerns. Key Outcomes - Action Items: - Acting City Manager Buckland to report back on whether the FY27 debt service number is expected to be significantly lower than budgeted. - The budget team to explain why the fund transfer to the off-street parking fund is different this year compared to last year. - The Finance Department to provide the self-insurance fund actuarial report to the committee. - A cumulative report on radio maintenance spending across all departments and the cost of a centralized program (potentially in OEM or central services). - Votes: No votes were taken on budget items; the meeting was for discussion only. - Next Steps: The committee will continue budget hearings; a closed session was requested by Alderman Thorp to address OEM concerns. The mayor has asked the audit committee to review the self-insurance fund.

The Finance Committee held a special budget hearing on April 22, 2026, at 8:31 AM, called to order by Alderman Huntley. Members present: Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderman Thorp. The committee reviewed the Mayor's Office and Integrated Technology Services (ITS) budgets for FY27, approved a supplemental appropriation and fund transfer, and recommended fee waivers for city-supported special events with an amendment. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the April 21 special meeting (voice votes, all in favor). Discussion Items - Mayor's Office FY27 Budget Presentation (ID-83-26): Chief of Staff Neely Garrity presented the budget, emphasizing achievements in community engagement (over 500 residents reached, overdoses down 55%) and proposed enhancements: two new personnel (Deputy Chief of Staff; conversion of Assistant PIO from contract to full-time) and four software subscriptions (Constant Contact, IndieGov, Slack, Engage HQ) totaling under $60,000. Alderwoman O'Neill requested a breakdown of Assistant PIO benefit costs and asked to see current city-wide Granicus spending before adding $50,000 in enhancements. Alderman Thorp requested a meeting with Chief of Staff Garrity and ITS Director Paquin to discuss the website update plan, and asked what budget needs are not included but will be necessary within six months. Alderman Huntley questioned the large cut to supplies and asked whether the philanthropist consultant is one-time use or recurring, requesting performance metrics. The committee discussed the structure of communications staffing and the distinction between contract employees and true contractors. - Integrated Technology Services (ITS) FY27 Budget Presentation (ID-84-26): Director Brian Paquin reviewed accomplishments including cloud migration of GIS, strategic plan progress, and new performance metrics (server uptime nearing three nines, average help desk response time 2.5 hours, website bounce rate targeted at 50%). The budget increase is largely due to centralising software costs from departments – capital outlay jumping to $2.1 million and contractual services rising $500,000 from cell phone budget reallocation. Proposed enhancements include converting a fire department IT consultant ($133,800), police cruiser laptop replacements, and ERP workflow software. Alderman Thorp requested a spreadsheet detailing dollar amounts moved from each department into ITS, and action plan and timeline for implementing credit card payments in Recreation & Parks and Transportation. He also asked to add to the follow-up document a question on what the ITS department gave up in the budget. Alderman Huntley asked about the unfilled cybersecurity specialist position (being refilled under a broader job class), and requested cost estimates for 10 enterprise seats of leading AI software to encourage experimentation. Alderwoman O'Neill noted the capital outlay transfer and asked for confirmation that enhancements appear there. Legislation - R-8-26 Fee Waivers for City Supported Special Events in FY27: Alderman Thorp moved to amend the list to include Eastport a Rockin' (waiving estimated $6,700 in police and fire fees). Alderwoman O'Neill and Alderman Huntley supported the amendment but called for a broader review of the fee waiver policy and its impact on overtime costs (noting fire department overtime near $2 million). The amendment passed by voice vote (3-0). The resolution was then recommended favorably as amended (voice vote, 3-0). Key Outcomes - SA-20-26: $3,000 grant from USTA/Mid-Atlantic Foundation for adaptive tennis programs. Recommended favorable (voice vote, 3-0). - FT-9-26: Transfer $32,900 from non-allocated debt service to fleet operations to cover vehicle repair budget deficiency. Recommended favorable (voice vote, 3-0). - R-8-26: Fee waivers for specified events including new addition Eastport a Rockin'. Recommended favorable as amended (voice vote, 3-0). - Directives added to follow-up document: Breakdown of Assistant PIO salary and benefits (O'Neill); city-wide Granicus contract total for comparison with proposed enhancements (O'Neill); spreadsheet of software costs moved from departments into ITS budget (Thorp); action plan and timeline for credit card payment acceptance in Recreation & Parks and Transportation (Thorp); meeting on website redesign strategy (Thorp); what the ITS department gave up in its budget (Thorp); cost estimates for 10 enterprise AI software seats (Huntley); impact analysis if the second IT specialist (conversion of fire IT consultant) were not funded (Thorp). The meeting recessed from 9:31 to 9:39 AM and adjourned at 10:50 AM.