Public Meetings - Annapolis, Maryland

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.

The Finance Committee held a special budget hearing on April 21, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 10:37 AM, with a recess from 9:27 AM to 10:35 AM. The committee reviewed the proposed FY2027 budgets for the City Manager's Office and the Recreation & Parks Department, discussed supplemental appropriations and fund transfers, and deferred action on several items to the next day. Consent Calendar - The meeting agenda and the minutes from the April 13, 2026 Special Meeting were approved by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - City Manager’s Office (ID-81-26): Acting City Manager Buckland and Deputy City Manager for Resilience & Sustainability Guild presented the office’s budget, which includes oversight, the Harbor Master's Office, and resilience/sustainability programs. Key points included: - Over $1 million in grants secured in the past year for energy efficiency and pollution reduction. - Completion of a climate action plan and updated greenhouse gas emissions inventory (first since 2008). - A no-cost community solar contract that could save the city $100,000 annually in utility expenses. - The electric leaf blower rebate program: $105,000 allocated, with $85,500 for rebates after fees. To date, about $36,000 has been spent, with $49,500 encumbered. Alderman Thorp requested the number of citations issued under the leaf blower ban—Deputy Guild stated she did not have that figure and would obtain it. - Discussion on enforcement: currently done by Planning & Zoning inspectors via overtime, citations issued to the operator (not the homeowner). Alderwoman O'Neill questioned the effectiveness of relying on email complaints. - The environmental program manager position was funded in FY26 from savings from a vacant city manager position; the FY27 budget request seeks to make that funding permanent. Alderman Thorp clarified this does not represent a headcount increase. - Holiday decorations and Downtown Annapolis Partnership funding: Alderman Huntley questioned the rationale for increases in holiday decorations and decreases in flower funding. Acting City Manager Buckland noted these are separate line items and that shifting funds is possible with council direction. - The national community survey was deferred to FY28 due to other workload. - Recreation & Parks (ID-82-26): Director of Recreation & Parks Johnson presented the department’s FY26 accomplishments and FY27 budget requests. Key topics included: - FY26 revenue of nearly $1.9 million, with Pip Moyer Recreation Center bringing in $705,000, facility rentals $387,000, and programs $285,000. - Performance measures: 87% satisfaction with programming; 190 registrants per 100,000; 61% city residents; 100% of housing units within a 15-minute walk. This is a baseline year for many metrics. - Budget enhancements: $40,000 accepted for qualified child care staff (child care director and teacher) for an additional location; $10,000 for new dugouts; $20,000 for e-sports; $28,000 for increased recreation programming. Not accepted: converting two part-time maintenance workers to full-time ($34,000), permanent expansion of programming ($11,000), and increasing the food line ($10,000). - Lifeguard staffing: Current level is 28 lifeguards for Truxton Park Pool; goal is 32. Harbor House Pool currently has no lifeguards and operates only with the aquatics supervisor. Alderwoman O'Neill and Alderman Thorp requested a plan to open Harbor House Pool seven days a week, including exploring pool management companies. - Stanton Center Recreation Center: Efforts to increase usage include adding a computer at the front desk and a scanner for tracking attendance. Alderman Huntley requested daily tracking of Stanton Center use. The budget for Stanton Center shows a 20% decrease from the FY26 projected budget ($78,000) to FY27 budgeted ($65,000). Alderman Thorpe asked for a plan to make Stanton Center more like Pip Moyer and to explain the decrease. - Child care programs: Serve about 130 children across multiple sites. The $40,000 enhancement would support an additional site. Challenges include limited space from schools and difficulty finding qualified staff for the 2-6 PM shift. - Parks maintenance: Director Johnson requested converting two part-time maintenance workers to full-time. Alderman Huntley expressed support for this investment. - Security guards: $28,000 for a security guard at Truxton Park Pool. Huntley questioned the need; Johnson defended it as necessary during peak times. - Legislation R-8-26 (Fee Waivers for City Supported Special Events in FY2027): This item was not discussed in detail. At adjournment, the committee agreed to move it to the next day's meeting. Key Outcomes - Action Items: - Deputy Guild will report the number of citations issued under the leaf blower ban. - The Budget Book will be updated to reflect the appropriate number of lifeguards (target 32) under the Health and Fitness & Pool section. - Recreation & Parks will provide a plan and cost estimate for opening Harbor House Pool seven days a week, including the option of hiring a pool management company. - Recreation & Parks will begin tracking daily attendance at Stanton Center. - The department will provide a breakdown of revenue sources for all programs. - The City Manager's Office will provide objectives and goals for the 'Decreasing Food Deserts' program by June 2026. - A spreadsheet of remaining questions from committee members will be compiled and sent to departments for written follow-up or a future meeting. - Deferred Items: Supplemental Appropriations SA-20-26 and Fund Transfer FT-9-26 were postponed to the next day's Finance Committee meeting. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 10:37 AM with a motion to carry over remaining business to April 22, 2026.

The Annapolis City Council held a work session on April 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. to review the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget. Acting City Manager Vicky Becklin and Acting Finance Director Al Cal presented an overview of the budget binder, covering revenue trends, expenditures, enterprise funds, capital improvement program, and debt capacity. The session was intended as a high-level review, with a continuation scheduled for the April 27 regular council meeting. Key discussions focused on fund balance policies, one-time use funds, staffing levels, and enterprise fund rate increases. Discussion Items - Budget Fundamentals: Presenter Joel outlined the four roles of a budget (policy document, financial plan, operations guide, communications tool) and explained the city’s fund structure, including general fund, enterprise funds, special revenue funds, and internal service funds. - Revenue Trends: General fund revenue is projected at $122 million, with $75 million from real property taxes. Property assessments have grown from $8.1 billion in FY23 to $9.8 billion in FY27, driven by reassessments and home sales. The city has not raised property tax rates. - Fund Balance and One-Time Use: The city maintains a 15% unassigned fund balance reserve. The proposed budget uses $1.9 million in one-time funds, exhausting the available balance. Alderman Savage questioned the reduction in one-time funds; officials explained that improved expenditure forecasting and the expiration of COVID funds contributed to lower availability. The mayor emphasized that all one-time funds have been thoughtfully allocated to specific projects. - Expenditures: Staffing remains nearly flat (671 full-time positions in FY26 vs. 674 proposed for FY27). The police department’s budget appears to decrease from $31.1 million to $30.3 million due to a higher vacancy adjustment ($2 million vs. $1.2 million). Fire department funding increased for a peak-time medic unit and training administrators. Office of Emergency Management’s budget increased to address grant uncertainty. - Enterprise Funds: The budget proposes rate increases for sewer (9.5%), water (9%), and refuse (7%) to sustain operations and capital needs. Without increases, sewer and water funds would deplete by 2031. Alderman Savage expressed concern about fund balance usage; staff noted that conservative budgeting and project delays often cause lower-than-projected expenditures. - Capital Improvement Program (CIP): The FY27-32 CIP proposes $14.1 million in bond authorization, totaling $92 million over the six-year period. Major projects include fleet replacement, fire station replacements, and potential city office space. Debt capacity remains within policy limits (10% target, 12% ceiling), though FY29 may briefly exceed 10% before declining. - Debt Capacity: Bond ratings remain strong. Officials highlighted the importance of maintaining reserves to support future capital needs. Mayor noted that fully funding fleet replacement required $4.4 million annually; after a state grant for medic vehicles, the budget allocated approximately $3 million. Key Outcomes - The work session did not conclude the budget review; discussion will continue at the April 27 regular council meeting at 7:00 p.m. (following a closed session at 6:00 p.m.). - The mayor plans to hold multiple public hearings on the budget legislation, starting April 27, to allow input at various points. - Mayor announced intention to withdraw the mooring ball legislation for revision and resubmission after DNR comments. - Council members agreed to an informal meeting (rather than closed session) to meet the candidate for finance director, to be scheduled before the April 27 confirmation vote. - Staff will provide council members with the current pay grade scales and a list of vacant positions for further review. - Director of Finance urged council members to submit questions in advance of departmental budget hearings and to include his office in communications.

The Annapolis Public Safety Committee met on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 4:46 PM to 6:22 PM in City Council Chambers. Alderwoman O'Neill chaired the meeting, with Alderman Smith-Brown present and Alderwoman Contee absent. The sole substantive agenda item was a comprehensive overview of the Annapolis Police Department (APD), presented by Acting Chief Miguez, Deputy Chief Brandford, and other command staff. The committee approved the meeting agenda and minutes from March 18, 2026, by voice vote. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Moved by Alderwoman O'Neill, seconded, carried on voice vote. - Approval of Minutes (March 18, 2026): Moved by Alderwoman O'Neill, seconded, carried on voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - APD Overview and Presentation: Acting Chief Miguez led a detailed presentation covering the department's history (dating to 1867), organizational structure, command staff, internal affairs, patrol division, investigations division, administrative services, recruitment, training, and current crime reduction efforts. Key highlights included: - History: The department was formalized in 1867; first African American officers hired in 1960; first female officer in 1970s; accredited by CALEA since 2004. - Internal Affairs (Director Blue): Compared complaints from 2024 (25 total) to 2025 (41 total: 16 internal, 25 external). Use of force incidents: 10 in 2024 vs. 11 in 2025. Vehicle pursuits: 1 in 2024 vs. 3 in 2025 (one found outside policy). A mediation program for minor complaints is planned for July 1, 2026. - Patrol Division (Captain Thacker): Currently at full staffing with 48 officers across four squads (12 per squad), plus 8 supervisors. Additional units include traffic safety (3 personnel), crisis intervention (1 officer), canine (3 officers, one recently retired), marine unit (boat operational after 7 years), and a citizen academy planned for 2026. Traffic accidents decreased 9% from 2024 to 2025; pedestrian strikes increased from 36 (2 fatal) to 47 (0 fatal). Future goals include adding a flexible sergeant, expanding SWAT to tier 2 (19 personnel, currently 10 short), and a full-time drone coordinator. - Investigations Division (Captain Howard): Criminal investigation section exceeds national clearance averages for homicides, shootings, aggravated assaults, and burglaries. Re-entry program (Officer Horn) has graduated 12 cohorts, providing skills like CDL, HVAC, and medical training. Community outreach includes movie nights, fishing camps, cooking with a cop, and STEM programs. A 39-year-old homicide was solved in 2025. - Administrative Services (Captain Hill): Budget is 86% salaries and benefits. Sworn staffing at 118 (goal 124); hired 19 sworn officers in 2025, lost 12 (net +7). Recruiting focuses on local universities, HBCUs, military transitions, and referral bonuses. Firearms range is being upgraded; 38 of 126 officers remain to qualify on new Glock 45. Training budget is $80,000 (currently at $0). - Policy on Immigration: Acting Chief Miguez clarified that APD has no ongoing relationship with ICE, does not enforce federal immigration law, and does not ask about immigration status. Mandatory consulate notifications only occur when required by treaties for serious crimes. - Encampments: Acting Chief Miguez described a collaborative approach with county outreach teams, code enforcement, and property owners to address homeless encampments, noting challenges when individuals refuse services. - Councilmember Questions and Requests: - Alderman Smith-Brown requested more details on the re-entry program and asked about recruiting within Annapolis, property tax relief for officers, and legislation ideas to support APD. - Alderwoman O'Neill asked about the strategic plan (no cost if funded by DOJ grant), CALEA accreditation, complaint patterns, patrol staffing breakdown, cadet program (policy changed to allow cadets over 21 if in school), and the re-entry referral process. - Alderman Smith-Brown raised concerns about homeless encampments in Ward 3 and expressed interest in legislation to address impacts on property values, while also noting ongoing work on legislation about parking in front of private driveways. - Alderwoman O'Neill discussed the need for public forums on policy changes, clarifying that APD policies are published online and subject to state law, but the Rules and City Government Committee's requirements do not apply to departmental operational policies. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on substantive items beyond consent calendar approvals. - Future Agenda Items: Alderwoman O'Neill requested the following topics for the June 2026 Public Safety Committee meeting: - Re-entry program presentation (with Officer Horn) - Crime statistics for Annapolis - Complaints (internal and external), including possible invitation to the Police Accountability Board and Administrative Charging Committee - Directives: The committee will receive further information on complaint trends and outcomes. The APD was asked to identify legislative ideas to support public safety, to be shared after budget season. - Follow-up: The committee acknowledged the APD's ongoing efforts and thanked the presenters for their thorough briefing.

The Annapolis City Council met on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. for a regular meeting. Mayor Gavin Littman delivered the State of the City address, highlighting fiscal discipline, customer service improvements, public safety investments, and capital projects. The council adopted a balanced budget without raising the property tax rate, confirmed new city manager Yolanda Lewis and city attorney Anthony Cooper Smith, and passed several ordinances, including a property tax credit for child care centers and amendments to harbor lines. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved as amended. Items included journals of proceedings (CCM 3926, CCM 32326), fund transfer FT 726 ($25,000 from enterprise funds to standard specs project), and council acceptance of the FY 2026 audit report (ID 7026). - Fund transfer FT 1026 (debt service to mayor's salaries, $36,300) was removed by Alderman Savage for discussion, then approved separately. Alderman Savage explained the transfer was for an already-authorized position. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Bird (2 Silapano Road) asked about parking discounts for city residents and beautification help on Spa Road. Mayor Littman explained the existing two-hour free parking program in city garages and announced a relaunch of the Golden Pass pilot for seniors (age 62+, $20/month for unlimited two-hour daily parking) starting May 1 for three months. The mayor advised Mr. Bird to contact the ombudsman (ombudsman@annapolis.gov) for beautification assistance, noting Spa Road is a state road. - Diane Gentilette (137 Stilly Way, Parks High Preserve) reported that her neighborhood has not been turned over to the city despite being on a city road, so residents lack services like snow plowing and trash removal. She said the developer and city recently posted no-parking signs, leaving only 39 parking spots for 130 homes, with no spaces for residents, contractors, or family visitors. She asked why the city approved a site plan with insufficient parking and requested a pause on new development until parking is addressed. The mayor and Alderman Savage offered to connect her with the ombudsman and provide assistance. Discussion Items - State of the City Address (Mayor Littman): The mayor presented a balanced budget for FY 2027 without raising the property tax rate. Key points: - Customer service improvements: permit turnaround reduced from 15 to 5–10 business days; new ombudsman email launched. - Public safety: Fire department response times exceed national standards; no fatalities in 2025; budget includes a peak medic unit, six new hires, a fifth ambulance, and $2 million for fire station upgrades. Police: cold case unit prosecuted a 1989 murder; three of four 2025 homicides resulted in charges; motor vehicle crashes down 9%; 29 new employees (including 17 sworn officers and a K9) added. - Overdoses down 55% (second lowest in 10 years). - City Dock project: $35.5 million FEMA grant secured; climate action plan advancing. - Capital projects detailed by ward, including Ward 1 (water/sewer infrastructure), Ward 2 (Robert East Park, $500,000 added), Ward 3 (sidewalk improvements), Ward 4 (Annapolis Walk multi-sport courts), Ward 5 (Spa Road sidewalks), Ward 6 (Bay Ridge Ave repairs, traffic/pedestrian safety), Ward 7 (Carrs Beach public access, speed cameras on Edgewood Road). - Proposed consolidated government center on Spa Road for future consideration. - Budget does not fund a cost-of-living allowance (COLA) but fully funds merit increases; union negotiations ongoing. - Committee Reports: - Public Safety (Alderwoman O'Neill): Next meeting April 22; noted fire department cadet graduation and police retirement/promotion ceremony. - Environmental Matters (Alderman Savage): Rescheduled meeting to April 16 for update on Morning Ball legislation and resilience/sustainability. - Audit Committee (Alderman Thorpe): Approved FY 2025 audit with unmodified clean opinion; single audit also clean. - Rules and City Government (Alderman Smith Brown): Committee recommended favorable as amended for O-26 (property tax credit for child care centers); heard from two daycare providers (Diego, Jennings Janik Smith) who supported the legislation. - Legislative Actions: - First Reader: Budget ordinance 0826, fee schedules (R1026, R1126), position classification (R1226), fee waivers (R826), and grant application (R926) all passed on first reader and referred to committees. R926 (MTA grant) was passed on second reader after suspending rules to meet a deadline. - Resolutions: R1326 (compensation of acting city manager Victoria Buckland) passed on first and second reader. R1426 (confirmation of Anthony Cooper Smith as city attorney) and R1526 (confirmation of Yolanda Lewis as city manager) both passed on first and second reader after suspending rules, with roll call votes (all ayes). - Second/Third Reader: - Ordinance 126 (Property tax credit for child care centers): Amended to scale credit from $10,000 to $4,000 (Amendment 1), require annual reporting by city manager (Amendment 2), and extend credit to landlords leasing to licensed child care operators (Amendment 3). Adopted on third reader with roll call (all ayes). - Ordinance 326 (Annapolis Harbor Lines at Hawkins Cove): Amended to move the harbor line inward to align with potential MDE recommendations. Adopted on third reader with roll call (all ayes). Key Outcomes - Budget Adoption: The FY 2027 budget (ordinance 0826) was introduced on first reader and referred to the planning commission, finance committee, and financial advisory commission. A work session on the budget is scheduled for April 16, 2026. - New Appointments: Yolanda Lewis was confirmed as city manager, and Anthony Cooper Smith was confirmed as city attorney, both effective immediately. - Child Care Tax Credit: Ordinance 126 passed, providing a property tax credit of up to $4,000 for child care centers, family child care homes, and large family child care homes, including lessees, with annual reporting requirements. - Harbor Lines: Ordinance 326 amended harbor lines at Hawkins Cove, approved on third reader. - Public Parking: The mayor announced a three-month extension of the Golden Pass pilot for seniors starting May 1, 2026, offering unlimited two-hour daily parking for $20 per month. - Next Steps: The Finance Committee will hold budget hearings starting the week of April 20, and the council will continue committee meetings as scheduled.

The Finance Committee of the City of Annapolis held a special meeting on April 13, 2026, at 6:04 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting, called by Alderman Huntley, focused on approving the agenda, minutes from the previous meeting, and a single fund transfer (FT-10-26) to reallocate debt service savings to fund a Deputy Chief of Staff position. Alderwoman O'Neill arrived at 6:08 PM. The meeting adjourned at 6:09 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Alderman Thorp moved to approve the special meeting agenda; seconded and carried on a voice vote. - Approval of Minutes (FC 4.1.26): Alderman Thorp moved to approve the minutes from the regular meeting on April 1, 2026; seconded and carried on a voice vote. (Alderwoman O'Neill arrived at 6:08 PM, after this vote.) Discussion Items - Fund Transfer FT-10-26 – Debt Services to Mayor’s Salaries and Benefits ($36,300): This budget revision transfers $36,300 in appropriations from the Nonallocated Debt Service account (unused debt interest savings) to the Mayor’s Office Salaries and Benefits account to fund a Deputy Chief of Staff position through the end of FY26 (June 30, 2026). Alderman Thorp moved to recommend FT-10-26 favorably. He emphasized that the transfer follows the city’s transparency process and is a unique situation because the budget for the next fiscal year was to be presented later that evening. He noted that while the position had been debated significantly, the fund transfer simply moves money to pay the employee once hired. Alderman Huntley supported the transfer, stating it uses savings without taking from other priorities and helps deliver on customer service. Alderwoman O'Neill had no comment. The motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote by all three present members (Huntley, O'Neill, Thorp). Key Outcomes - FT-10-26 Approved: The committee unanimously voted to recommend favorable approval of Fund Transfer FT-10-26 to the full City Council. Transfer: $36,300 from Nonallocated Debt Service to Mayor’s Office Salaries and Benefits for a Deputy Chief of Staff position through June 30, 2026. Vote: 3-0 (voice vote). No public testimony or objections were recorded. Note: The meeting was called to order at 6:04 PM, and Alderwoman O'Neill arrived at 6:08 PM. The meeting adjourned at 6:09 PM. No finance director update was provided, though normally scheduled.

The meeting of the Annapolis Transportation Committee was held on April 8, 2026, commencing shortly after 4:00 PM. The committee reviewed updates on the city's free all-electric trolley service, bike share and e-scooter RFP, parking operations, and the Golden Pass pilot. Key discussions centered on route changes, ridership data, and plans for future mobility initiatives. Consent Calendar - The agenda was amended to reorder items (ID 1126 first, then ID 752) and approved unanimously. - Minutes from the March 11, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were recorded. Discussion Items - Transportation Department Update (Director Marcus Moore): - The free all-electric trolley service launched for the season on Saturday, April 4, 2026. Trolleys operate Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM on two routes: the Maryland Avenue/State Circle/Calvert Street Loop (connecting three garages) and a new downtown route from Park Place Garage along Main Street to City Dock (replacing the former Eastport route). - Ridership data from the previous year (over 14 months) was presented: The West Street/Maryland Avenue route averaged high ridership; the Eastport route averaged under 10 riders per day, with its best day at 15 riders. The change was made to better serve City Dock businesses as City Dock redevelopment proceeds. - The trolleys are limited to two vehicles due to battery capacity (requiring midday charging) and lack of HVAC, making them fair-weather only. The director noted plans to potentially add more carts in FY28 to re-evaluate Eastport service. - Discussion included hailing (no fixed stops, flag down like a taxi), headway (approximately 10 minutes, ranging from 8 to 13 minutes depending on traffic and lights), and overlap with the magenta shuttle. Committee members suggested experimenting with dual carts on a single route to test frequency impact, and possible marketing for seniors and mobility-challenged individuals. - Other updates: EV charging infrastructure at 308 Chinquapin Round Road expected to be complete by end of April; RFP for automatic vehicle locator approved by MTA and going to bid soon; FY26 transportation enhancements (Bay Ridge Avenue/Edgewood Road circulator and Forest Drive improvements) being developed with consultant KFH. - Bike, Pedestrian, and Micromobility Program (Will Rao, Micro Mobility Coordinator): - Bike Share and E‑Scooter RFP: The RFP due date was extended to April 24, 2026 (from April 4) to allow more vendors to apply. Three proposals received so far. Evaluation committee includes Eric Lashinski and Casey Ortiz. Scoring will emphasize safety, equity, integration with existing transit, data sharing, and lessons learned from the previous Bird pilot (e.g., docking solutions to prevent sidewalk clutter). The goal is to have bikes/scooters on the road by late spring/early summer 2026. - Access Annapolis Symposium: Scheduled for May 1, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Graduate Hotel. Keynote speaker Veronica O. Davis, author of "Inclusive Transportation." Panels on policy, safety, community experiences, trails, and evolution of transportation in Annapolis. - Bike to Work Week: Annapolis day is May 15, 2026. Meetup at 8:30 AM (likely moved to 7:45 AM) at Poplar Trail at Taylor Avenue, ride to Donner lot for a pit stop with coffee, giveaways, and partner tents (Bike Triple A, county, etc.). The city secured 150 bicycle helmets for distribution at events. - Committee members emphasized expanding the e-scooter program into county areas (e.g., to the mall and Riva Road) and converting on-street parking to docking stations. The director noted legal and jurisdictional questions to explore. - Premium Parking Update (Jason Parola, Market President): - Elevator and EV charger status: All elevators operational; final replacement part for an EV charger to be installed April 9. Garage washing completed April 8. - MVA/integration for drive-in/drive-out (gate-less parking): Still pending a decision from a processing group; city to provide missing data by end of week, with an answer expected by end of April. Committee noted public pressure and frustration over delays. - April mystery shop scored well (one minor issue: meter out of receipt paper). - Golden Pass Pilot: 30-day pilot (ended late March) had about 100 households express interest, but only 20 fully registered. Participants ranged in age from 62 to 93 (oldest born 1933), residing as far as Ellicott City and Baltimore. Feedback requested more advanced notice. Program may be re-launched as a longer pilot (May–July) with in-person enrollment help and possible age range adjustment (currently 62+). The city will also consider fee schedule implications to ensure it remains a pilot. - February occupancy data: 100% capacity days were due to snow-related free parking extensions (nearly two weeks). March occupancy back to normal: weekdays busy, weekends moderate. - March residential promo code usage: approximately $6,800 in parking comped for residents' two-hour free parking, with peaks at lunch and dinner hours. - Metropolis (John Kemp): Brief update that equipment for gate-less conversion at Gott's Court Garage and Knighton Garage had no hardware cost to the city; total signage/installation was under $50,000. - ID 7526 (Blue Mobility Manager Discussion): Postponed to May meeting due to speaker unavailability. - Transportation Board Update: No updates reported. Key Outcomes - The agenda and minutes were approved unanimously. - The transportation department will provide a final report on the e-cart pilot this fall, including cost-per-passenger data and exploration of route/time experiments. - The bike share RFP evaluation will proceed, with committee members invited to submit questions for consideration. - The Golden Pass pilot may be extended to May–July 2026, with improved outreach and in-person registration. - The city will continue to work with the county on seamless e-scooter service across jurisdictional lines. - The next meeting will include action on ID 7526 and updates on MVA integration and the Golden Pass follow-up.

The Annapolis City Council held a special meeting on April 7, 2026, primarily to conduct a closed session to meet and greet potential City Manager candidates. The meeting was called to order at 2:00 pm and adjourned at 5:24 pm. No public comments were heard. Proposed Closed Session - Item ID-76-26: A motion to enter closed session under Maryland Code §3-305(b)(1) for the purpose of meeting potential City Manager candidates was made by Alderman Thorp, seconded, and carried on a voice vote. The council was in closed session from 2:01 pm to 5:21 pm. Key Outcomes - The council voted unanimously (voice vote) to enter closed session. - After exiting closed session, the council voted to adjourn the meeting at 5:24 pm. - Aldermen Huntley and Schandelmeier were absent; Schandelmeier joined remotely for part of the meeting.

The Rules and City Government Committee of the Annapolis City Council met on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 6:30 PM (called to order at 6:41 PM, adjourned at 8:05 PM) to discuss and vote on legislation creating a property tax credit for child care providers, hear from daycare operators and city staff, and review related programs. The meeting was held virtually and chaired by Alderman Smith-Brown, with Aldermen Schandelmeier and Thorp present. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda and the March 5, 2026, meeting minutes were approved by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Diego Medina (301 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis, MD – Little One's Child Care Center, opening soon) expressed gratitude for the city’s support during the licensing and zoning process, noted his other locations are outside Annapolis, and stated that a $4,000 tax credit would help with improvements. He also emphasized the need for more support directed to operators, not just parents. - Janique Smith (1778-B Belle Drive, Annapolis, MD – Little Lions of Judah family daycare) shared her experience as a four-year provider renting her space. She expressed strong need for help, especially in finding affordable locations and landlord support. She indicated a $4,000 credit would allow her to purchase curriculum materials and keep children engaged. She also noted that many women in the field struggle to find landlords willing to rent to daycare providers. Discussion Items - ID-66-26 – Daycare Providers in the City of Annapolis: The committee heard from Diego Medina and Janique Smith. Discussion covered the barriers providers face, the importance of the tax credit, and the need to include renters. - ID-65-26 – Children and Families Success Grant: Aisha Young (Community Engagement Administrator/Director) and Aaron Lee (Social Work Care Coordinator) presented. The grant provides $50,000 annually to 10 organizations for after-school and summer programs, but no daycare providers have applied. The grant is focused on programming, not facility improvements. Alderman Thorp asked about increasing funding, but Young cited limited staff capacity (3 full-time, 2 part-time) managing over 70 grantees. Acting City Manager Buckland clarified the tax credit would be managed by finance, not community services. - Legislation O-1-26 – Property Tax Credit for Child Care Centers, Family Child Care Homes, and Large Family Child Care Homes: The committee reviewed the bill, which originally set a maximum $10,000 credit for property owners who operate a child care facility. Discussion included: - Reducing the maximum to $4,000 based on median property tax paid by in-home providers (about $3,500). - Extending the credit to property owners who lease their property to a state-licensed child care operator (Amendment 3). - Adding an annual reporting requirement for the City Manager (Amendment 2). - Clarifying that the credit applies to improvements used exclusively for child care, whether made by owner or tenant. - The city attorney confirmed that landlords may apply for the credit on behalf of a tenant-operated facility, and that the credit is annual and conditional on continued operation. Key Outcomes - Amendment 1 (reduce max credit to $4,000 and update language throughout): Moved by Alderman Schandelmeier, seconded, carried on voice vote. - Amendment 2 (Reporting Requirement – City Manager to report annually by February 28 the number of facilities requesting/receiving the credit, amount approved, assessment of effectiveness, and recommendations): Moved by Alderman Thorp, seconded, carried on voice vote. - Amendment 3 (extend tax credit to property owners who permit (lease to) a child care facility – adding “or permit” after “who operate” on page 2, line 24): Moved by Alderman Schandelmeier, seconded, carried on voice vote. - O-1-26 was recommended favorably as amended (moved by Alderman Schandelmeier, seconded, carried on voice vote). The legislation will now proceed to the full City Council for consideration.