Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

The Frederick Planning Commission met on October 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting began with the swearing-in of a new commissioner, approval of previous minutes, and consideration of continuances before addressing two major agenda items: a final site plan for the Galleria at Carroll Creek and an annexation request for the Sage Way property. Announcements - Commissioner Zach Bologna was officially welcomed as a new permanent member. He expressed his commitment to learning the commission's procedures. - The next planning commission workshop was announced for October 20, 2025, at 2:00 PM, followed by a citywide community outreach meeting at 6:00 PM. Minutes - The minutes from the September 8, 2025, September 15, 2025, and October 10, 2025, meetings were all approved unanimously. Continuances - PC25-50PSU/FSI & PC25-56PFCP (Highland Trail): A 30-day continuance to the November 10, 2025, hearing was granted unanimously due to stormwater review issues. - PC25-193FSI (AstraZeneca Perfusion Addition): A 60-day continuance to the December 8, 2025, hearing was granted unanimously because the project's increased square footage required an additional review cycle. Public Comments & Testimony - Galleria at Carroll Creek: - Jill Pitts Simmons (332 East Third Street) opposed the project, arguing it would harm Frederick's historic skyline (clustered spires), raise parking concerns, and found the design too contemporary. She urged the commission to protect the historic character. - Bob Ruby (East Second Street) questioned the adequacy of the transportation mobility fee for the current density, noted the voluntary cleanup program with MDE from 2005, and requested status updates on contamination issues. - A downtown resident (name not stated) urged approval, citing the site's proximity to transit (MARC station, bus hub) and walkability, consistent with the comprehensive plan's goal of transit-supportive density. - Roberta Huber (Maxwell Square) criticized the parking calculations, questioned the parkland dedication fee ($210,000), and raised concerns about MDE agreement age and school impact fees. - Another speaker (name not given) supported the project but noted concerns about truck routing on South Carroll Street, pedestrian connectivity, and building electrification standards. - Sage Way Annexation: - C Raven (5512 Old National Pike) opposed the annexation, citing dangerous entrance conditions on Alternate Route 40, potential property value decline, and a desire to preserve green space and Sugar Loaf Mountain views. He suggested the property could remain a wedding venue. Discussion Items - Galleria at Carroll Creek (PC24-934FSI): - Staff presented a final site plan for a 61,200 sq. ft., 7-story building with 210 multi-family units and 4,000 sq. ft. of non-residential space, plus underground parking. Key conditions included MPDU agreement, APFO compliance, stormwater approval, parking table correction, parkland dedication ($210,000), and forest conservation fee ($5,096.52). - Applicant Mike Wiley (Piedmont Design Group) and owner Ed Warmold addressed parking management (gated access, card readers), HPC Level 1 approval, MDE cleanup plan updates, and truck routing design. They argued the project meets all LMC requirements and is pedestrian- and transit-oriented. - Commission discussion focused on parking calculations, with some members skeptical about the commercial parking ratio (1 space per 4 seats). The commission noted that the project fully complies with the city's parking code. No further amendments were made. - Sage Way Annexation (PC24-1010ANX): - Staff recommended approval of the 24.98-acre annexation with R16 (high-density residential) zoning, subject to a road connection to the adjacent Summerville subdivision, a $8,000/unit regional infrastructure improvement contribution (RIIC), $750/unit for a pedestrian bridge, full parkland dedication on-site, 100-foot stream buffer, and on-site forest conservation. - Applicant attorney Bruce Dean (McCurdy Dean & Gratator) acknowledged the property's tier-two growth designation and argued that R16 density is necessary to support the required infrastructure (road connection, bridge, water tank, etc.). He noted that 50% of the property is unbuildable due to water pressure, making net density lower. He warned that excessive financial demands could make the project infeasible. - Commission discussion was contentious. Commissioner Strawson opposed the annexation, arguing that high-density zoning is inappropriate for this location—far from downtown and transit—and inconsistent with the comprehensive plan's emphasis on walkability and connectivity. She noted the lack of safe multimodal access. Other commissioners (Valencia, Llewellyn, Bologna) expressed conditional support, emphasizing the road connection to Summerville as an absolute requirement. Commissioner Valencia proposed lowering the density to R8 and adding conditions for MPDUs on-site (no fee-in-lieu), historic preservation review, and a bikeway contribution if feasible. Key Outcomes - Galleria at Carroll Creek: The commission voted unanimously (5-0) to approve the final site plan (PC24-934FSI) with the 10 conditions read into the record by staff. The approval finds the plan compliant with LMC articles 4, 6, 7, 8, and 12, consistent with the master plan and 2020 comprehensive plan, and with adequate public facilities. - Sage Way Annexation: The commission voted 3-1 (Strawson opposed, Valencia, Llewellyn, Bologna in favor) to recommend approval to the City Council with the following modifications to staff's recommendations: - Zoning changed from R16 to R8 (lower density). - The road connection to Summerville is required (removing the feasibility exception; must be built unless proven infeasible by the Department of Public Works). - The RIIC ($8,000/unit) will be CPI-adjusted from annexation resolution adoption to first building permit. - The pedestrian bridge contribution ($750/unit) is not deductible from the RIIC. - Full parkland dedication must be met on-site. - The motion also incorporated staff's other conditions (right-of-way improvements, water tank contribution, etc.). The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for final action.

The City of Frederick Historic Preservation Commission held a combined hearing and workshop on October 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. Commissioners Robert Van Rens (Chair), Paul Fitzgerald (Vice Chair), Anne Hart, and newly appointed Jerry DeYoung were present. Staff presented reports on 23 administrative approvals, a demolition review, and several rehabilitation and infill projects. The meeting included the swearing-in of new Commissioner DeYoung, who received a certificate of appreciation. Key decisions included declining to pursue historic designation for 16 Kline Boulevard, approving five hearing cases with conditions, and providing guidance on two workshop cases. Consent Calendar - HPC-25-291 (104 W Fourth Street): Rehabilitation work including window and door replacements, shutter removal, and painting of concrete porch. Approved 3-0 with one abstention (Commissioner Hart). Discussion Items Hearing Cases (Votes Taken): - HPC25-511DR (16 Kline Boulevard): Demolition review. Staff determined the 1960s ranch house retains integrity but lacks architectural or historic significance. Commission voted 4-0 not to pursue historic designation. - HPC-25-215 (204 E Fifth Street): Corrective action for unapproved work. Applicant proposed replacing vinyl windows with wood, removing storm door and shutters, and other repairs. Approved 4-0. - HPC-25-241 (106 E Third Street, Quinn Chapel): Amendment to add ADA access by converting an east elevation window into a door. Approved 4-0 with conditions including: move the door north to retain an existing brick pier; submit updated drawings and product literature for gate, doors, and lighting. - HPC-25-267 (5 E Second Street): Masonry repairs on rear wall using power tools. Approved 4-0 with conditions: power tools only on horizontal joints; replacement brick must match historic material, size, color, and texture. - HPC-25-282 (20 S Carroll Street): Amendment to approved site plan for retaining walls, fence, utilities, and incorporation of a historic barn. After discussion on transformer screening, the commission approved 4-0 with conditions: clarify barn footprint on drawings, expand Area 3 to include barn, and incorporate landscaping details from A7 into the overall site plan. - HPC-25-293 (114 N Court Street): Roof replacement. Front slate roof may be replaced with slate or synthetic slate; rear may use architectural shingles. Approved 4-0 with conditions on matching tile dimensions and product literature for chimney caps. Workshop Cases (No Votes): - HPC-25-281 (138-140 W Fourth Street): Proposed window replacements due to code requirements for tempered glass. Discussion revealed building code may not mandate replacement; applicant to consult city building department. Application likely to be withdrawn or amended. - HPC-25-300 (30 E All Saints Street): Level 1 review for 12 new townhomes (previously approved but expired). Commission gave feedback: consider slight massing offsets to break up facade; prefer wood doors on street; evaluate siding on rear elevations; explore green wall or artwork on the large retaining wall. Applicant to refine plans and submit for a formal Level 1 hearing. Key Outcomes - Administrative Approvals: 23 applications processed administratively in September. - Minutes: Hearing and workshop minutes from September 25, 2025 approved 4-0. - Demolition Review: No historic designation pursued for 16 Kline Boulevard. - All Hearing Cases: Approved with specific conditions as noted. - Workshop: Two cases received guidance; next submission deadlines: October 27 or December 1, 2025 for future meetings.

The Government Operations Committee met on October 2, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. to receive an update from Taft Mills Group on the MPDU Fund recipient project, The Junction, located at the intersection of West South Street and Patrick Street in Frederick, Maryland. The committee also approved the minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from September 4, 2025. Motion by Councilmember Semchak, seconded by Councilmember Russell. The motion carried 3-0. Discussion Items - MPDU Fund Recipient Update – The Junction - CJ Tyree from Taft Mills Group presented an update on the 179-unit affordable housing project, all units restricted to households at or below 60% of area median income. - The project is located at a key gateway into the city, and the design was carefully planned for visual impact. Construction began after closing in May 2024, which was enabled by city MPDU funds and tax abatement. - Timeline: The first building (524 building) is expected to be completed by January 2026 (possibly December 2025), with applications starting by the end of October 2025. The second building is projected for completion by August 2026 (possibly July 2026). - Rents (estimated): one-bedroom $1,550–$1,575 (700–780 sq. ft. with den), two-bedroom around $1,800, three-bedroom around $2,100. Tyree noted these rents are consistent with or lower than comparable 4% affordable housing projects in the area. - A councilmember expressed concern about the rent levels, noting that $1,500 for a one-bedroom is high and contributes to affordability challenges. Tyree responded that market-rate rents would be 25–30% higher. - Another councilmember raised safety concerns for school-aged children walking to nearby schools, as sidewalks adjacent to the construction are closed, forcing pedestrians to cross South Street at points without adequate crosswalks or traffic control. Tyree acknowledged the issue and agreed to discuss with city staff about installing a crosswalk earlier and managing pedestrian traffic. - Tyree noted that the project includes streetscape improvements (curb extensions, wider sidewalks, crosswalks) that will eventually improve pedestrian safety, but these are not yet in place. Key Outcomes - The committee received the update and expressed appreciation for the project's progress. - No formal votes were taken on the workshop item. - CJ Tyree committed to following up with city staff regarding pedestrian safety measures during construction. - The meeting adjourned after the discussion.

Date: October 2, 2025 The Housing, Health, and Education Committee convened to discuss four main agenda items: the Climate Emergency Action Plan (CEAP) update, a developer comment on affordable housing incentives and the MPDU/ADU programs, a review of the Moderately Priced Dwelling Units (MPDU) Housing Fund, and proposed changes to Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) regulations. The meeting included staff presentations, a developer guest, several public comments, and robust council discussion, particularly around the use of MPDU funds and ADU parking and size requirements. The committee did not take formal votes but provided direction for further staff work. Public Comments & Testimony - Kevin Sellner (East Fifth Street; writer/editor of 2021 climate report): Urged that every policy considered by council or planning commission include a "climate implications" statement in the executive summary, so climate is not invisible. Recommended the new council and mayor make climate a priority, and that the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) embed climate as a priority area. - Kevin Sellner (East Fifth Street) on ADUs: Suggested the city consider incentives for ADUs specifically designated for low-income families, such as fee waivers, to increase affordable ADU housing. - Jim Smursall (public comment on MPDU fund): Noted three lines of attack for affordable housing: improving the stock of decent/safe/sanitary homes, getting people into housing (counseling, down payment assistance, vouchers), and building more units. He observed that MPDUs were originally intended to be integrated into market-rate developments and that providing gap financing for LIHTC projects is a key tool. - Developer Speaker (Danny, representing the Builders Association): Presented three topics: development incentives (zoning, permitting, codes), MPDUs, and ADUs. Key recommendations included: conducting a continuum of housing needs assessment; creating a dedicated housing staff; using Developer Rights and Responsibility Agreements (DRRAs) for predictability; revisiting zoning rules (minimum lot size, parking, missing middle housing); alleviating permitting roadblocks ("green tape"); adopting reasonable, cost-effective building codes; and for ADUs, considering parking reductions near transit, removing the owner-occupancy requirement, and increasing the 800 sq. ft. size cap via planning commission review. Discussion Items - Climate Emergency Action Plan Update (CEAP): Staff presented the joint city-county CEAP, emphasizing goals of 50% GHG reduction by 2030 and 100% by 2050. Public engagement included 18 in-person sessions, 6 technical working group sessions, over 650 survey responses, and 40 comments on the draft report. Top public priorities were improving efficiency in homes/businesses/public buildings, transitioning to clean energy, improving infrastructure for climate resilience, improving air/water quality, and reducing urban heat. Council members asked about solar panel cost comparisons (20-year life vs. environmental benefits); grid capacity conversations with the electric utility; green roofs/walls; integration with wastewater treatment upgrades; and specific timelines for creating cooling centers. Staff noted the plan aims to be finalized by end of October 2025. - Developer Comment: Affordable Housing Overlay, MPDU Program, ADU Review: The Builders Association representative (Danny) shared a broad set of recommendations, emphasizing that no single policy will solve the housing crisis. She detailed MPDU program administration challenges (e.g., qualifying buyers, 90-day resale windows, recapture of equity), and stressed that the goal should be volume of units. She also outlined ADU benefits (aging in place, caregiver proximity, entry-level housing) and challenges (NIMBYism, regulatory hurdles, cost $180,000 average). She noted the 800 sq. ft. size cap and impact fees for detached ADUs over that threshold, and suggested allowing planning commission review for larger units. - MPDU Housing Fund: Review and Prioritization of Uses: Director Stuart Campbell reviewed the 10 eligible activities of the City Housing Fund, funded by developer fees-in-lieu. He flagged several activities as potentially redundant with existing federal/state/city programs (e.g., homebuyer education, weatherization, accessibility modification). He recommended considering a catch-all phrase allowing other activities promoting affordable housing at the discretion of the director (council members preferred council approval). Councilmember Shackelford expressed concern that MPDU funds, collected for new for-sale housing, should be primarily used for new construction (both rental and homeownership) rather than spread across many categories. She cited the need to restore the "missing middle" and build generational wealth. Councilmember Kazimchuk initially expressed concern about concentrating poverty in LIHTC projects but later indicated openness to using funds for unit production. - ADU Review: Proposed Changes: Planning staff presented a rough draft of changes, including: 1) Relaxing parking requirements (smaller dimensions, counting tandem parking as two spaces, and eliminating the additional parking space if the unit is within a quarter-mile of a transit stop with pedestrian connectivity); 2) Eliminating the owner-occupancy requirement (with ADU becoming subject to rental licensing); and 3) Creating a pathway for ADUs over 800 sq. ft. via planning commission modification review. Councilmember Shackelford opposed eliminating the owner-occupancy requirement and the parking reduction near transit, while Councilmember Kazimchuk supported all changes. Councilmember Shackelford stated she would not vote for any ADU over 800 sq. ft. but offered a compromise: she could support the changes if the ADU were required to be for low-income housing. Key Outcomes - CEAP: Staff will incorporate remaining public comments and aim to finalize the plan by end of October 2025. Immediate action items (e.g., cooling center expansion) may be brought forward for the next budget cycle. - Developer Comment on ADU/MPDU: No formal decision was made. The Builders Association may present a housing symposium in 2026. Staff will follow up on whether an attached ADU is treated differently from a home addition. - MPDU Fund: Council did not vote on changes. Staff will continue to refine the list of eligible activities. Councilmember Shackelford and Councilmember Kazimchuk expressed that the primary use of MPDU funds should be for constructing new units (both rental and for-sale), with possibly a small discretionary portion. Staff will bring forward a revised prioritization for further discussion. - ADU Regulations: Staff will incorporate the feedback from the two present councilmembers (disagreement on parking, owner-occupancy, and size) into a formal text amendment for later committee and full council consideration. Councilmember Shackelford floated a potential compromise linking ADU incentives to low-income affordability.

The Frederick City Council held a public meeting on October 2, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall. The meeting included approval of minutes, an appointment, council comments, public comments, consent agenda items, a public hearing on a sound system contract, and a resolution updating small and minority-owned business enterprise programs. All votes were 3-0 in favor. Consent Calendar - Release of Sureties: Approved the release of three bonds: $323,614.21 for Cascades Senior Living (Monocacy Manor), $1,719,075.76 for Frederick Commerce Center Lot 3, and $519,320.95 for Frederick Commerce Center Mass Grading Area 3. These were posted to guarantee improvements per public works agreements. - Grant Agreements for Rental Licensing Funds: Approved agreements with Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County (home repairs program) and Beyond Shelter of Frederick (rental assistance program), funded from Rental Licensing Funds. Public Comments & Testimony - Ben Maston (Frederick): Criticized the city legal department for processing a Maryland Public Information Act request, claiming the city spent taxpayer resources on a vexatious ruling. He presented a "Dunscap Award" to the legal department and submitted another PIA request. - B Man Standing (identified as Washington County Commissioner Derek Harvey): Raised two concerns: (1) At an "In the Streets" event, vendors could not give out individually wrapped candy to children without a food vendor's license; (2) The city refused to accept tires and debris pulled from the Monocacy River by Boy Scouts unless the items were cleaned, causing the cleanup effort to be lost. He also criticized city responsiveness to PIA requests and alleged a government employee followed Levi Trumbull into a bathroom and videotaped him at the Weinberg Center, with the city blurring the lobby video. - David Azion BG (Togo, French-speaking Africa): Spoke about U.S. support for Israel, arguing that tax dollars fund technology killing Palestinian children and that the council has not condemned the Israeli government. He called for an end to arms shipments to Israel and a ceasefire in Palestine. He criticized the term "liberal" and expressed disappointment that Councilmember Shackelfords did not second a resolution supporting Palestine. Discussion Items - Council Comments: Councilmember Russell announced that a Request for Proposals (RFP) has been issued for the demolition and rebuild of the city skate park, a project shepherded for nearly four years, which will include public art space. Councilmember Kazimczak had no comments. - Public Hearing – Sound System Contract (Showtime Sound LLC): Greg Davis (Weinberg Center) presented a contract for a new sound system funded by a $200,000 state bond bill and approximately $230,000 from the Weinberg board. Showtime Sound LLC, a small business located in Frederick, was the sole bidder. Councilmember Kazimczak inquired about the number of bidders (one) and the company's demographics (not women- or minority-owned, but with many women employees). After public comment, the council approved the contract 3-0. - Resolution 25-13 – Small, Minority, and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Program Changes: Gerard Bowens (Contract Compliance Administrator) summarized changes: addition of a 2% service-disabled veteran-owned small business goal as part of the MWBE program, and modifications to the Small Business Reserve Program for purchases over $50,000 or formal solicitations. Councilmember Russell clarified no changes were made to the MWBE program itself. Councilmember Kazimczak expressed comfort with the changes, noting she had reviewed contracts and that exemptions could be overridden. A public commenter requested that data on diversity within the small business category be captured and shared. The resolution was approved 3-0. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: September 4, 2025, regular public meeting minutes approved 3-0. - Appointment: Kevin Meyer appointed as Trustee for the City's Pension and OPEB Trust Funds, replacing Joe Hayer, approved 3-0. - Consent Agenda: All items (release of sureties and grant agreements) approved 3-0. - Sound System Contract: Approved contract with Showtime Sound LLC for the Weinberg Center sound system (3-0). - Resolution 25-13: Approved revised purchasing policies adding 2% service-disabled veteran-owned small business goal and small business reserve changes (3-0).

On September 25, 2025, the Land Use, Public Safety, and Community Development Committee of the City of Frederick held a workshop to discuss six proposed ordinances updating several building codes. Chief Building Code Official Dustin Newsbaum presented each ordinance, which primarily adopt newer editions of national and state codes, eliminate outdated provisions, and clarify permit requirements and local amendments. The committee unanimously voted to recommend all six ordinances to the full City Council for adoption. Discussion Items 1. Ordinance G-25-17 (Electrical Code – Chapter 26) - Updates the adopted electrical code from the 1987 National Electric Code to the 2023 edition, bringing the city into alignment with the state of Maryland. - Removes outdated provisions regarding electrical inspectors and consolidates permit requirements from Chapter 5 (Building Code) into this chapter. - Modifies eligibility for electrical permits: property owners may apply for and perform minor electrical work (e.g., installation of fixtures, branch circuits) on their own principal residence, but not on rental properties, to ensure tenant safety. - Clarifies permit expiration and extension procedures. - Committee members expressed support for the clarity and life-safety focus. 2. Ordinance G-25-18 (Property Maintenance Code – Chapter 12.5) - Adopts the 2021 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), replacing the 2015 edition previously in use. - The 2021 IPMC is the version currently adopted by the state of Maryland. - Committee members inquired about the implementation timeline. Newsbaum noted that the effective date for new codes will be January 1, 2026, with a grace period allowing use of the updated code before that date. Permits applied for under the old code remain valid and will be inspected under that code. 3. Ordinance G-25-19 (Local Amendments to Property Maintenance Code) - Codifies local amendments previously adopted by resolution into the city code as a new section (12.5-1.2), making them easier for the public to find. - Increases the maximum fine for violations from $1,000 to $5,000, aligning with a recent state of Maryland change. - Updates cross-references to match the new IPMC section numbers. - Committee members commended the improved accessibility and transparency. 4. Ordinance G-25-20 (Building Code – Chapter 5) - Updates the Maryland Building Performance Standards reference to the latest state-adopted version (2021 International Building Code and 2021 International Energy Conservation Code). - Moves permit-related provisions (e.g., references to electrical, plumbing permits) from Chapter 5 into the respective code chapters so that users find all requirements in one place. - Adds a table for wind load, snow load, and other design criteria to answer frequent public questions. - Incorporates local amendments previously in resolutions into the ordinance. - Committee members praised the streamlining effort. 5. Ordinance G-25-21 (Plumbing and Gas – Chapter 16) - Adopts the 2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC) as referenced by the Maryland State Plumbing Code, replacing the previous adoption without a specific edition. - Eliminates permit requirements for replacing in-kind fixtures (e.g., faucets, lavatories) that do not involve changing pipe size or routing. - Committee members noted that this realistic approach matches common homeowner practices and modern DIY-friendly fixtures. 6. Ordinance G-25-22 (Fire Protection – Chapter 9) - Adopts the state fire prevention code that incorporates the 2024 editions of NFPA 1 (Fire Code) and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code), replacing the 2012 editions previously referenced. - Transfers permit provisions from Chapter 5 and updates references and language. - A committee member asked whether recent state laws regarding piping prone to explosion (which caused a firefighter fatality) were covered. Newsbaum confirmed that those changes are in the gas code and are reflected through state amendments already adopted. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously (2-0) voted to recommend all six ordinances (G-25-17 through G-25-22) to the full City Council for a public hearing and final adoption. - The ordinances are expected to appear on the next regular City Council meeting agenda. - If adopted, the updated codes will go into effect immediately upon the Mayor's signature, with an administrative goal of full enforcement starting January 1, 2026. - No public comments were made during the meeting.

The City of Frederick Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) convened on September 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall to conduct a public hearing and workshop. The meeting included the election of new officers, approval of minutes, a request for a two-year extension for a park project at 641 North Market Street, a public hearing on a rehabilitation at 219 East Church Street, and workshop discussions on three pending applications: signage at 216 East Patrick Street, rehabilitation at 204 East Fifth Street, and an amendment for the hotel project at 20 South Carroll Street. All votes were unanimous (4-0) where recorded. Election of Officers - Following the resignation of Chair Robert Van Rens, the commission elected Paul Fitzgerald as Chair and Anne Hart as Vice Chair, both by a vote of 4-0. Request for Extension – HPC22-134 (641 N. Market Street) - The applicant, Leanne Cruz (Associate Director, Downtown Frederick Partnership), requested a two-year extension for the 7th Street Fountain Park project due to delays in the city bidding process. Staff noted that a standard six-month extension had already been granted and that further extensions require commission approval. The commission approved the two-year extension unanimously (4-0) to provide scheduling flexibility. Public Hearing – HPC-25-280 (219 E. Church Street) - Proposal: Rehabilitation of the front stoop, including repointing brick, reattaching railing, and using power tools on horizontal joints. Staff recommended approval with conditions (power tools limited to horizontal joints, mortar matching in color/texture/tooling, and allowing lime-based or Portland cement or a mix). - Applicant testimony: Katherine Johnson-Couch, property owner, stated the stoop was concrete in the 1950s and brick was added later; she had no objection to staff recommendations. - Decision: Approved unanimously (4-0) with the three conditions. Workshop – HPC-25-210 (216 E. Patrick Street) – Signage - Proposal: Three cabinet awning signs and one wall-mounted cabinet sign for a new restaurant. Staff noted that cabinet signs are not supported by guidelines, the proposed signage exceeds the code maximum of 62.5 square feet (total 87.75 sq ft), and the historic FOE neon sign should be preserved. - Discussion: Commissioners debated whether to allow cabinet signs, the fate of the historic neon sign (suggested relocation to the Eagles Club or interior preservation), and possible alternatives such as neon or externally lit metal signs. The applicant agreed to explore a neon sign option and reduce total signage. - Next steps: Staff will provide guidance; resubmission deadline is October 13, 2025, for the October 23 hearing. Workshop – HPC-25-215 (204 E. Fifth Street) – Rehabilitation - Proposal: Correcting unapproved work: replacement of windows with vinyl, new front door, shutters, railing, and painting of the concrete stoop. The applicant (Rachel Matzke and Zach Clopper) requested to replace only front windows with wood, but staff recommended all windows be replaced with wood to match historic character. For shutters, the commission favored removal rather than replacement with wood. The front door (six-pane wood) was deemed acceptable. The painted stoop was allowed (neighbors also painted). - Next steps: Resubmission deadline October 13 (or October 9 for earlier hearing); applicant to provide documentation of all windows and decide on full wood replacement vs. partial. Workshop – HPC-25-282 (20 S. Carroll Street) – Amendment for Hotel - Proposal: Amendments to the previously approved level two site plan for the hotel project, including relocation of retaining walls, stormwater management, utilities (transformers), and fencing. The applicant (Kevin Roycroft, architect) presented updated plans moving the transformer to a less visible location. Commissioners requested additional screening for the transformers (e.g., metal trellis or enhanced landscaping) and clearer identification of the historic barn on site plans. - Next steps: Resubmission deadline October 13, 2025, with updated plans addressing screening and clarity. Key Outcomes - Elections: Paul Fitzgerald elected Chair, Anne Hart elected Vice Chair (4-0). - Extension approved: Two-year extension for 641 N. Market Street park project (4-0). - Rehabilitation approved: HPC-25-280 with conditions (4-0). - Workshop items: All three cases continued to the October 23, 2025 hearing with resubmission deadlines; applicants to incorporate feedback from commission and staff.

The Housing, Health, and Education Committee met on September 18, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. to discuss three workshop items: the geographic applicability of an Affordable Housing Overlay, the permit process and fees for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and an informational update on the Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) fund. Councilmember Shacklet was absent; Councilmember McShane arrived late. The committee received public testimony and set next steps for further research and draft proposals. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Smursall (community member with long‑standing interest in affordable housing) recommended creating a map of all city‑supported housing projects, color‑coded by affordability period end dates. He also suggested using the adaptive reuse section (804) of the zoning code to allow R20 density on former industrial properties, provided 60% of units are for low‑ and moderate‑income households. - Ann Ryan (Frederick Housing Solutions Task Force) urged the committee to consider creating 75 new units over the next year affordable to households earning under $25,000/year. She cited the Hope Village project in Baltimore as a model using a mix of private money and government incentives, and called for the committee to actively seek solutions rather than stating the problem is too difficult. Discussion Items - Affordable Housing Overlay: Geographic Applicability – President Nash and staff presented examples of overlays from other cities (compiled by Clara). The committee agreed the overlay should be citywide, but debated whether to include non‑residential zones (e.g., general commercial). Councilmember McShane favored limiting the overlay to zones already permitting residential development to keep the policy focused and achievable. Councilmember Kazembe argued for including adaptive reuse of commercial properties to increase land availability. Gabrielle (Planning Department) noted that most residentially zoned land is already developed, suggesting that a floating zone for 100% affordable projects (e.g., LIHTC) could be a separate tool. The committee decided to move forward with a discussion draft of an overlay for the next meeting (in four weeks) and to gather developer input at the next HHE meeting (with Daniel Adams from Frederick Builders Association). - Accessory Dwelling Units: Review of ADU Permit Process and Fees – Zach Kirshner presented the fee structure: total fees for an ADU under 800 sq. ft. are just under $10,000, including city impact fees (water, sewer, parks) and county‑imposed fees (library, school). Councilmember McShane questioned whether the fees are a barrier, noting that for a simple conversion (e.g., basement) the fees could be a significant percentage of project cost. Others noted that construction costs ($100,000+ for a basement conversion) are a larger barrier. The committee agreed to proceed with a community survey to identify barriers and to revisit fee reduction during the ADU rewrite. Parking requirements were also identified as a barrier. - Moderately Priced Dwelling Units – Information Only – President Nash provided an update on MPDU fund expenditures: a $200,000 grant to Habitat for Humanity (condominium project on West All Saints Street) and $2 million to The Junction (rental project). Presentations from recipients are scheduled for the Government Operations Committee on October 2 (Junction) and October 16 (Habitat for Humanity). Councilmember Kazembe expressed interest in further funding for homeownership projects. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - Affordable Housing Overlay: The committee will work toward a discussion draft of an overlay text amendment, to be presented in four weeks (approximately October 16). Councilmembers are to provide their preferred model or starting point to Clara by next Friday, September 26. The committee will also hear from the Frederick Builders Association at the next HHE meeting (date not specified but likely two weeks later). - ADU Fees and Process: The committee will launch a community survey (via communications team) to assess barriers to ADU construction. Fee reductions will be considered during the upcoming ADU rewrite. No immediate action on fees was taken. - MPDU Update: Informational only; formal presentations from grantees will occur at the Government Operations Committee on October 2 and October 16, 2025. - Public Comment Follow‑up: The GIS department will work with the housing department to create a map of city‑supported housing projects, as suggested by Jim Smursall.

The Frederick City Council held its regular public meeting on September 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall. The meeting included a UN Peace Day proclamation, certification of primary election results, public comments, a consent agenda, and several public hearing items covering water infrastructure, trail design, airport projects, a ground lease, a Memorandum of Understanding, collective bargaining legislation, and a historic preservation overlay. The meeting concluded with additional public comments and council announcements. Consent Calendar - Approval to Serve Alcohol in City Parks: Approved a request to serve beer only at the Fall Festival on the Creek. (Vote: 5-0) - Special Ordinances: Approved Special Ordinance S-25-18 to amend the FY 2026 budget to include revenue and expenditures for a Preservation Maryland Grant. (Vote: 5-0) Public Comments & Testimony - Christian Gobel (AFSCME Council 3): Spoke in support of the collective bargaining ordinance (G-25-08) with proposed amendments, including a neutral third-party election administrator, specific timelines (90 days from valid petition), and language changes to ensure a strong duty to bargain (changing "may" to "shall" and adding "wages, hours"). - Tina Meadows O'Rear: Addressed the violence in Gaza and urged the council to recognize the suffering of Muslim citizens and take action beyond celebrating peace. - Grady O'Rear: Criticized U.S. military spending, noting Frederick's share of over $480 million annually versus a $238 million city budget, and called for a ceasefire resolution. - Fatima Kareem: Expressed strong opposition to U.S. complicity in what she described as genocide in Gaza, quoting Senator Bernie Sanders, and urged the council to take a stand. - Christina Martinkosky (Planning Department): Presented the Historic Preservation Commission's application for a historic preservation overlay at 27 Franklin Street (St. Timothy's Chapel). Noted unanimous support from HPC and Planning Commission. - Sean Hughes (Attorney for property owner): Stated the property owner does not oppose the overlay but asked for timely approvals to allow renovations and future expansion. - Peter Brem (District 3 resident): Endorsed the historic overlay, calling the building architecturally significant. - Heather Goddard (NAC representative): Conveyed unanimous support from NAC 12 and praised staff work. - Luis Serrano (Pastor and property owner): Expressed frustration that the building was not flagged as historic earlier despite prior inquiries, and noted the renovation work could not have been done under historic rules. Asked for a use and occupancy permit. Discussion Items - Water Valve Bolt Replacement Contract: Approved a $450,042.25 contract with Mid Atlantic Utilities for bolt replacement in Tuscarora Knolls. Staff noted the bolts corroded due to non-stainless steel installation (1993-2000). (Vote: 5-0) - Water Meter System Agreement with Sensus USA: Approved a software services agreement and a $7,000,000 purchase order with LB Water Services for modern meters. The in-house installation will take 24 months and includes a 15-year warranty and real-time leak detection. (Vote: 5-0) - Rock Creek Trail Conceptual Design: Approved a $150,000 agreement with Woodvalley Community Strategies (RFP 25-N) for ADA-compliant shared-use path design within city-owned land, including a walking workshop with stakeholders. (Vote: 5-0) - Airport Projects: - Task Order 2 with Delta Airport Consultants for a master plan update (FAA grant). - Task Order 1 with Delta and a construction contract with Conewago Enterprises for the South Corporate Apron (grant related). - Special Ordinance S-25-19 for a budget amendment covering FAA grant, pay-go, and county matching funds. All three items approved. (Votes: 5-0 each, with task orders combined in one motion) - High Flying Hangar Ground Lease: Approved a ground lease for Hangar Club LLC to construct 80 hangar units at Frederick Airport. (Vote: 5-0) - Memorandum of Understanding with East Frederick Rising: Approved the MOU after legal review and Government Operations Committee discussion. (Vote: 5-0) - Collective Bargaining Ordinance (G-25-08): Extensive debate centered on the definition of bargaining units (two general, one supervisory, with "community of interest"), lack of election timelines, and the use of "may" vs "shall" in negotiating language. Councilmember Kazemchak expressed concerns about leaving some employees out. Councilmember McShane moved to table the ordinance for further review, which was seconded and passed 5-0. - Historic Preservation Overlay for St. Timothy's Chapel (G-22-23): After sworn testimony and public comment, council members expressed support. Councilmember Nash moved for approval with findings of fact (significance to city history, association with significant persons, architectural distinctiveness, and integrity). (Vote: 5-0) Key Outcomes - Approved Contracts and Agreements: Water valve bolt replacement ($450,042.25), water meter system ($7,000,000), Rock Creek Trail design ($150,000), Delta Airport task orders, Conewago construction contract, High Flying Hangar ground lease, and MOU with East Frederick Rising. All approved unanimously (5-0). - Tabled Collective Bargaining Ordinance: The ordinance (G-25-08) was tabled by a 5-0 vote for further discussion on unit definitions, election processes, and bargaining language. - Adopted Historic Preservation Overlay: Ordinance G-22-23 was approved 5-0, applying a historic preservation overlay to St. Timothy's Chapel at 27 Franklin Street, with findings that the site meets designation criteria. - UN Peace Day Proclamation: Issued for September 21, 2025. - Primary Election Results Entered: The September 9, 2025 Democratic primary results were certified and entered into the minutes.