Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

The committee held a workshop to review a proposed public-private partnership for the development of 78 new hangars (235,000 sq ft) at Frederick Municipal Airport. The project, proposed by High Flying Hangars, aims to address an 11-year wait list and generate $17.78 million in ground lease revenue over 40 years. Airport staff and the developer presented details, and councilmembers raised questions about title, longevity, bankruptcy protections, and minority/women-owned business participation. No formal vote was taken; the item was for discussion and feedback. Discussion Items - Project Overview: Andrew Moore, Airport Manager, explained that the airport generates 80% of its operating revenue from leasing about 250,000 sq ft of space. The midfield hangar development has been on the airport layout plan for about 20 years. After several years of development meetings, the city partnered with High Flying Hangars, which they believe has a well-developed plan, understands the market, and can complete the project. - Developer Presentation: Kendrick Dane, Chief Legal Officer of High Flying Hangars, described the company's mission to solve the nationwide hangar shortage (60,000-unit deficit). The project at Frederick would include 78 hangars (44 in phase one) with a ground lease rate of $1/sq ft annually, escalating 3% over 40 years, generating $17.78 million in direct revenue. The developer has secured reservation agreements and significant down payments for all phase one units. They are using a local contractor, Warner Design Build. The developer also noted the economic impact: each business aircraft generates $2.5 million annually for the local community. - Councilmember McShane's Questions: - Title and Financing: Asked about the "title" mechanism. Dane explained that because the airport is federally obligated and cannot sell land, they worked with mortgage banking, title companies, and airport managers to enable constructive receipt of title to the improvement. Purchasers get a title to the improvement for the lease term, with a reversionary interest to the city at the end of 40 years. - Building Lifespan: Concern about the condition after 40 years. Moore estimated 60 years of life with no major rehab. The lease obligates the developer to maintain the hangars in "first class condition." - Bankruptcy Protection: Asked what protects the city if the company goes bankrupt. Dane proposed including provisions for subordination and attornment agreements, allowing the city to step into the developer's shoes and collect management fees from sublessees. - MWBE: Inquired about minority and women-owned business participation. Dane stated the contractor is Warner Design Build but will check on MWBE status and report back. - Councilmember Russell's Questions: - Capacity: Asked how many new aircraft the project would accommodate. The developer said 78 hangars, but often multiple aircraft share one hangar, potentially doubling the based aircraft fleet (currently 200). The project also increases capacity for large aircraft; only 8 of 105 city-owned hangars currently accommodate large aircraft. The 60x60 hangars can fit small business jets. - Transient Use: Expressed interest in short-term or transient use. The developer indicated they hold back 10% of units for short-term leasing and are exploring an app-based booking system. Russell supported building in vibrancy and fail-safes to avoid a dormant facility. - Airport Vision and Future Plans: Moore and Dempsey discussed the airport's strategic direction. They are about to start a new master plan (last done in 2006). The hangar project, along with a potential South Corporate Apron expansion, represents years of work. Demand is already present; no speculative building. The project's revenue could potentially double the airport's annual margin, allowing for deferred maintenance and other projects. - Financial Outlook: The airport generates significant revenue from leasing, and this project is expected to further strengthen its financial position. Key Outcomes - No formal vote or decision was taken; the workshop was for discussion and gathering input. - The committee expressed general support for the project concept but raised specific concerns about protections, maintenance, and long-term management. - Councilmember McShane requested additional information on MWBE participation. - The project will proceed to further steps, likely including a formal vote at a future meeting.

The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) held a public hearing and workshop on August 14, 2025, at City Hall. The meeting covered demolition reviews for properties inside and outside the historic district, several rehabilitation applications, and workshop discussions on two major projects. Commissioners voted on contributing resource determinations and approved several applications with conditions. Consent Calendar - Administrative Approval Report: 25 projects were reviewed and approved by city staff in the past month. The report was entered into the record. Public Comments & Testimony - 301 Grove Boulevard: Two members of the public spoke. Gwen Kinsey (210 Grove Boulevard) argued that the property owner’s removal of the stone facade was an evasion of the law and urged the commission to assess eligibility based on the original condition. Eric Jenkins (610 Rosevont Avenue) testified that the contractor told him the stone was removed to then apply for a demolition permit. Both supported a finding of eligibility and stronger preservation tools. Discussion Items - HPC25-385DR – 301 Grove Boulevard (Demolition Review): Staff reported that the property, originally identified as potentially eligible, had its stone facade removed, significantly damaging historic integrity. Staff recommended not to designate. Commissioner McMahon strongly disagreed, arguing the building still retains significance and that the action evaded the ordinance. After a motion to designate failed (3-4), no overlay was pursued. - HPC-25-406DR – 20 Monocacy Boulevard (Demolition Review): Staff found the motel property did not meet significance criteria. The motion not to designate passed unanimously. - HPC-25-201 – 38 E. 2nd Street (Rehabilitation): Approved with conditions including a test patch for cleaning, limited power tool use, lime-based mortar, and railing posts installed on the marble step (not sidewalk pavers). - HPC-25-202 – 35 E. 6th Street (Deck Replacement): Approved as a deviation from guidelines. The commission noted the deck is not visible from the street and the structure is non-contributing. - HPC-25-203 – 66 E. South Street (Garage Door Replacement): Approved as a deviation. The applicant, a retiree on fixed income, requested a metal door. The commission found the alley location and limited visibility justified the deviation. - HPC-25-209 – 358 W. Patrick Street (Partial Demolition): Found to be a contributing resource. The demolition and replacement plan will be on the August 28 consent agenda. - HPC-25-212 – 500 N. Market Street (Partial Demolition): Found to be a contributing resource. The workshop discussion detailed the extensive structural issues discovered during renovation. The applicant plans to retain two masonry corners and reconstruct the rest in-kind. The commission provided design feedback on brick, lintels, windows, and cornice. - HPC-25-218 – 226 W. South Street (Partial Demolition) and HPC-25-219 (Addition): The partial demolition was found contributing. In workshop, the commission recommended preserving the brick rear wall with a smaller opening (10 ft max) and converting the proposed deck to a covered porch. The applicant agreed to submit revised drawings by August 18. Key Outcomes - 301 Grove Boulevard: No historic preservation overlay will be initiated (motion to designate failed 3-4). - 20 Monocacy Boulevard: No designation; demolition review proceeds without overlay. - 38 E. 2nd Street: Approved with four conditions (cleaning test patch, power tool limit, lime mortar, railing post on marble step). Vote: unanimous. - 35 E. 6th Street: Approved as deviation to replace deck in-kind without railings. Vote: unanimous. - 66 E. South Street: Approved as deviation for metal garage door. Vote: unanimous. - 358 W. Patrick Street: Found contributing resource. Vote: unanimous. - 500 N. Market Street: Found contributing resource (unanimous). Workshop direction: revise drawings for August 28 meeting with details on brick, lintels (flat), windows (6-over-6 restoration), and cornice. - 226 W. South Street: Found contributing resource (unanimous). Workshop direction: reduce ground-floor opening to 10 ft, design a covered porch instead of deck, preserve existing siding, and submit revised plans by August 18.

The Frederick Planning Commission held a public hearing on August 11, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting covered a range of items including zoning map amendments, a text amendment to mixed-use phasing requirements, architectural reviews, site plans, and a major redevelopment project. The commission voted on several items, including approvals, continuances, and recommendations to the City Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission approved minutes from the May 19, 2025 workshop, May 21, 2025 hearing, July 14, 2025 hearing, July 21, 2025 workshop, and August 8, 2025 pre-meeting. All votes were unanimous with qualifying members. Public Comments & Testimony - PC25-55ZTA (Text Amendment – MU Phasing): Multiple residents of the Ren Quarter neighborhood spoke, expressing disappointment over unfulfilled promises of retail and amenities. They requested transparency, accountability, and that the phasing schedule remain subject to commission oversight. Speakers included Mark Burroughs, Rob Thompson, Heather Goddard, Hannah Nickerson, Neelima, and Valerie Bromer. They emphasized the need for the originally promised mixed-use vision and for developer accountability. - PC25-187ZMA (27 Franklin Street – Historic Preservation Overlay): James Gibbs, a neighbor and NAC 12 coordinator, spoke in support of the historic preservation overlay, citing the building's unique character. - PC24-837/838 (Lucas Village): Residents Shelby Carmen, Mary Beth Angelo, and Caden Scott Angelo voiced concerns about parking, drainage, loss of the community center, and honoring the legacy of Claire D. Harris. Hannah Nickerson (East Frederick Rising) expressed support for the residents and asked about bike lanes and alternative mobility improvements. Discussion Items - PC25-186ZMA – 300 Scotty's Bus Lane Rezoning: Staff recommended approving the rezoning from General Commercial to Institutional to create a youth center. The applicant, Jeremy Holder (Osherman Family Foundation), presented the hub-and-spoke model serving youth ages 12-24, with behavioral health, workforce development, and recreational spaces. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to the City Council. - PC25-187ZMA – 27 Franklin Street Historic Preservation Overlay: Staff (Christina Martinkosky) presented the Historic Preservation Commission's application, highlighting the building's architectural significance (1924, English Gothic) and its association with Mayor Lloyd C. Collier. The property owner's representative (Sean Hughes) and Pastor Louis Serrano noted they had invested nearly $1 million in restoration. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to the City Council. - PC25-55ZTA – Text Amendment to Section 417 (MU Phasing): The applicant (Matten Companies) requested a change to allow phasing modifications via an administrative process rather than the current 75/25 residential/non-residential split. Staff supported the concept but noted concerns about transparency. The commission discussed the need for public engagement and accountability. After extensive debate, the commission voted to continue the item to the September 8, 2025 hearing to allow for further refinement of criteria. - PC16-434-01MU – Summers Farm Architectural Review: Staff recommended approval of new single-family detached and townhouse elevations for the Summervale development, including a modification to allow square windows (1:1 ratio) for privacy. The commission voted unanimously to approve both the modification and the elevations. - PC22-514-05PND – Sycamore Springs Architectural Review: Staff recommended approval of architectural elevations for Ryan Homes, including a modification for square windows. The commission voted unanimously to approve both the modification and the elevations. - PC25-160FSI – Lumen Fiber Hut Final Site Plan: Staff recommended approval with conditions. The applicant (Ryan Jolene) described the addition of three prefabricated fiber huts and a generator to expand telecommunications capacity. The commission voted unanimously to approve with nine conditions. - PC24-837PSU/FSI & PC24-838FSCB – Lucas Village Redevelopment: Staff presented a plan to redevelop 92 existing units into 222 multifamily LIHTC units, with street modifications, stormwater improvements, and a new park. The applicant (David Ling) detailed the road diet, perpendicular parking, and stormwater management. The commission approved all five actions: (1) modification to street standards, (2) modification to parking lot lighting, (3) recommendation to City Council to waive parkland dedication, (4) recommendation to abandon portions of Vermont Court and Pennsylvania Avenue, and (5) approval of the combined preliminary plat and final site plan. Also approved the forest conservation plan (PC24-838FSCB). Key Outcomes - PC25-186ZMA: Unanimous vote to recommend approval of the rezoning to City Council. - PC25-187ZMA: Unanimous vote to recommend approval of the historic preservation overlay. - PC25-55ZTA: Continued to September 8, 2025, for further discussion on criteria and transparency. - PC16-434-01MU: Unanimous approval of architectural modification and elevations. - PC22-514-05PND: Unanimous approval of architectural modification and elevations. - PC25-160FSI: Unanimous approval of final site plan with nine conditions. - PC24-837PSU/FSI: Unanimous approval of all five actions (modifications, parkland waiver recommendation, abandonment recommendation, and site plan). - PC24-838FSCB: Unanimous approval of forest conservation plan.

The Frederick City Council held a public meeting on August 7, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting covered consent agenda items, public hearings on several contracts and a fee waiver, and extensive public comments regarding a proposed ceasefire resolution. Councilmember Donna Kuzemchak made two motions related to a resolution calling for an end to U.S. complicity in global violence, both of which failed for lack of a second or a second failed vote. All other agenda items were approved unanimously (3-0). Consent Calendar - Release of Surety: Approved the release of a United Bank Letter of Credit for $66,556.70 (JR Capital Build, LLC, 206 Broadway project) and a Capitol Indemnity Corporation Bond for $270,569.94 (Bloomfields, LLC, water loop project). Motion by Councilmember Kuzemchak, second by Councilmember Russell. Vote: 3-0. - Alcohol in City Parks: Approved a waiver for the Maryland Ornithological Society, Inc. to serve beer and wine at the Monocacy Village Park pavilion on September 26, 2025, from 5-10 p.m. Motion by Councilmember Kuzemchak, second by Councilmember Russell. Vote: 3-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Ceasefire Resolution (Majority of speakers): Over 20 speakers, many representing or affiliated with Frederick Justice for Palestine, the Islamic Society of Frederick, and the NAACP, urged the council to pass a ceasefire resolution proposed by Councilmember Kuzemchak. Speakers cited the death toll of over 60,000 Palestinians in Gaza, U.S. tax dollars funding violence, and the moral obligation to act. Several speakers criticized Council President Katie Nash for not attending and for stating there was “no need to rush.” A few speakers expressed opposition, arguing the resolution was one-sided and failed to condemn Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attacks. - Other Public Comments: One speaker discussed a Maryland Public Information Act request dispute with City Attorney Mike Fry. Another speaker (Washington County Commissioner Derek Harvey) made disruptive and obscene comments, including flashing the council. Several speakers also addressed the broader issue of U.S. complicity in global violence and referenced prior council resolutions on nuclear disarmament, racism, and climate. Discussion Items - 7th Street Fountain Park Revitalization, Phase I (RFP 25-CC): Nicole Harshman (Manager of Projects and Inspections) presented a contract with Hazen Global LLC for $593,501 (plus $60,000 contingency, total purchase order $653,501) for fountain restoration/renovation. The project includes removing basin jets, adding a new underground mechanical vault, and restoring cast iron elements. Design to start in September with a 7-month performance period. Approved 3-0. - Crossing Guard Services Contract: Originally deferred, but later moved forward. Approval to piggyback Frederick County’s agreement with All City Management Services for crossing guard services for the 2025-2028 school years; purchase order of $216,056.20. Motion by Councilmember Kuzemchak, second by Councilmember Russell. Vote: 3-0. - Talley Recreation Center HVAC Replacement (RFP 25-C): Sean Poulin (Superintendent of Recreation) presented an amendment to the agreement with McClure Company for $66,464 to replace a rooftop unit. Approved 3-0. - Linganore Traveling Screen Upper Section Repair: Robert Rosenberg (Superintendent of Water Treatment) presented a purchase order to Atlas-SSI for $153,510 (including $15,000 contingency) for sole-source repairs. Approved 3-0. - Linganore Water Treatment Plant Vertical Turbine Pump: Tim Moffett (Superintendent of Water and Sewer Facilities Maintenance) presented a purchase order to Sydnor Hydro for $78,575 to replace an inoperable raw water pump. Approved 3-0. - Maryland Ornithological Society Pavilion Fee Waiver: Bob Smith (Deputy Superintendent of Parks and Recreation) presented a request to waive the rental fee for the Monocacy Village Park pavilion on September 26, 2025 (12 p.m. to 10 p.m.) for a birding field trip and dinner social. The Parks and Recreation Commission recommended reducing the fee to the city resident rate ($75). Council approved the reduced fee (motion by Councilmember Kuzemchak, second by Councilmember Shackelford). Vote: 3-0. - Ceasefire Resolution Motions: Councilmember Kuzemchak first moved to add a resolution calling for an end to U.S. complicity in ongoing violence to the agenda. The motion failed for lack of a second. Later, she moved to place the resolution on the August 21, 2025 agenda. That motion also failed (seconded by Councilmember Russell? No – transcript indicates: “Has been motioned by Councilman Zemchek is our second. Motion fails.” The second motion also lacked a second from another member). The council did not adopt the resolution. Key Outcomes - All consent and public hearing items (except the ceasefire motions) were approved unanimously (3-0). - The requested ceasefire resolution was not added to the agenda and was not discussed or voted on. Two motions by Councilmember Kuzemchak failed due to lack of a second or insufficient support. - Councilmembers noted the precedent of prior resolutions on issues beyond local jurisdiction (e.g., nuclear disarmament, Medicare for All, racism as a public health crisis). - A crossing guard contract was continued to the August 21 meeting but then approved after Councilmember Russell asked and received assurances about pay equity. - Public comments were acknowledged, and the council president reminded attendees of the rules of procedure and code of civility.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting date. Therefore, no discussion items, public comments, or outcomes can be summarized. The meeting was scheduled for 19:00 UTC on 2025-07-24.

The Historic Preservation Commission met on July 24, 2025, to conduct a public hearing and workshop. The meeting included the election of officers, approval of prior minutes, review of three demolition review requests, consideration of four rehabilitation and amendment applications, and a workshop on a proposed addition at 401 N. Market Street. The Commission voted on several items, with key decisions regarding demolition reviews and project approvals. Consent Calendar - No consent items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided testimony during the citizen comment period. Discussion Items - Election of Officers: The Commission re-elected Robert Van Rens as Chair and Paul Fitzgerald as Vice Chair for a one-year term, both by unanimous votes of 4-0. - HPC25-261DR – 430 Pine Avenue (Demolition Review): Staff recommended not to pursue a Historic Preservation Overlay (HPO) for the industrial property, citing lack of historic significance. After discussion, the Commission voted 3-1 (Commissioner McMahon opposed) to not initiate an HPO designation. - HPC25-338DR – 33 Thomas Johnson Drive (Demolition Review): Staff similarly recommended against HPO designation for the 1975 warehouse building. The Commission voted 4-0 to not pursue HPO designation. - HPC25-374DR – 348 Park Avenue (Demolition Review): Staff recommended against HPO designation for the circa 1923 dwelling. During discussion, Legal Counsel clarified that a demolition certificate for partial demolition applies to the entire building, allowing full demolition within three years. The Commission expressed concerns about the demolition review process and the shrinking historic district. The motion to not pursue HPO passed 4-0. - HPC25-171 – 104 Clarke Place (Solar Panels): The applicant proposed roof-mounted solar panels on a rear shed. Staff recommended approval as the panels would not be visible from the street. The Commission approved the proposal 4-0. - HPC25-180 – 164 W. All Saints Street (LED Address Panel): The applicant sought a 31.5-inch backlit LED address panel on a rear fence. Staff recommended approval with conditions: panel size no more than 24 inches and no LED backlighting. The Commission approved with conditions 3-1 (Commissioner Hart opposed). - HPC25-182 – 401 N. Market Street (Amendment to Demolition): The applicant proposed a reduced scope of demolition (partial instead of full) for the rear garage/warehouse of a contributing resource. Staff recommended approval subject to a replacement plan. The Commission approved the amended demolition 4-0. - HPC25-187 – 164 W. All Saints Street (Smart Lock Keypad): The applicant requested a smart lock keypad on the front door. Staff recommended approval with a condition that the lock not feature a keypad, citing guidelines. After discussion, the Commission granted a deviation due to the discrete design and approved the installation 4-0. - Workshop: HPC25-160 – 401 N. Market Street (Additions/Rehabilitation): The Commission discussed a proposed addition to the rear of the building, including a front elevation setback, height increase, garage door design, and materials. Staff and commissioners advised using materials more compatible with historic guidelines (e.g., clear glass instead of opaque, wood-like garage doors, smooth fiber cement trim). The applicant was asked to provide revised drawings addressing setback, height differentiation, and material choices. No vote was taken; the workshop was informational. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: July 10, 2025 hearing/workshop minutes approved 4-0. - Demolition Reviews: Three properties (430 Pine Ave, 33 Thomas Johnson Dr, 348 Park Ave) were found not individually eligible for HPO designation; no HPO applications will be initiated. - Solar Panel Approval: HPC25-171 at 104 Clarke Place approved as presented. - LED Sign Approval: HPC25-180 at 164 W. All Saints Street approved with conditions (24-inch max, no LED backlighting). - Demolition Amendment Approval: HPC25-182 at 401 N. Market Street approved subject to a replacement plan. - Smart Lock Approval: HPC25-187 at 164 W. All Saints Street approved with a deviation for a discrete keypad design. - Workshop: No formal action; the applicant will refine the design based on commission feedback and submit revised plans for further review.

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) held a public hearing on July 22, 2025, to consider a conditional use application for outdoor entertainment at 228 N Market Street, the site of the 7th Sister restaurant. The board also approved prior meeting minutes and deferred the election of officers due to an incomplete quorum. After extensive discussion about noise ordinance compliance and consistency, the board voted unanimously to deny the application. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the June 24, 2025, meeting were approved unanimously (motion by Mr. Hand, second by Mr. Sisson). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered testimony on any agenda item. The general public comment period was closed with no participants. - The applicant, Carrie Delant (co-owner of 7th Sister and founder of the Silverbox nonprofit), testified in support of the application, describing the venue’s three-year history of low-volume acoustic music, movie screenings, and stand-up comedy without noise complaints. She emphasized the courtyard’s physical shielding (building and five-foot brick walls) and that outdoor music ends by 8 p.m. She also noted that other downtown venues (e.g., Brewers Alley, New Spire Stage) operate under similar conditions without special approvals. Discussion Items - ZBA-25-13CU – Conditional Use, 228 N Market Street (7th Sister): The applicant requested approval to provide outdoor entertainment (live music, movie screenings, stand-up comedy) Wednesday through Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the restaurant’s private courtyard. - Staff Presentation (Gabrielle Collard, Deputy Director for Planning): Staff recommended denial based on two findings: (1) the use may create a greater adverse impact than permitted uses due to proximity to residential properties (the nearest residential lot is approximately 60 feet from the patio); and (2) the request would violate City Code Section 15.21.2, which prohibits sound from establishments serving alcohol from being plainly audible on a residential property or at a distance of 100 feet from the sound source. Staff noted that the noise ordinance applies to properties serving alcohol and that the plain-language standard (“plainly audible”) is difficult to satisfy given the spatial constraints. - Board Deliberation: Members raised concerns about inconsistent enforcement of the noise ordinance across the city (e.g., Brewers Alley, New Spire Stage, bandshell concerts). Mr. Hand suggested a possible condition requiring decibel readings. Mr. Sisson noted that the conditional use runs with the land, so approval could create future compliance issues. Mr. Waxter (assistant city attorney) explained that the ZBA cannot waive the noise ordinance via conditional use and that any approval could still lead to noise violations enforceable by police. The board discussed potential paths: (a) denial, (b) a trial period, or (c) sending a letter to the City Council urging ordinance revisions. Members acknowledged the financial hardship on the restaurant and the applicant’s good-faith efforts. - Election of Officers: The board postponed the election of officers (Item VIII(B)) because of an incomplete quorum (Mr. Hicks absent and one vacant seat). A motion to defer until the next meeting passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Motion for Denial (ZBA-25-13CU): Mr. Sisson moved to deny the conditional use application based on the finding that approval would violate Section 15.21.2 of the City Code regarding noise at locations where alcoholic beverages are served. The motion was seconded by Mr. Colar and carried unanimously (all six voting members in favor: Sisson, Colar, Hand, Racheff, and two others). - Future Action on Noise Ordinance: Chair Racheff indicated that he would draft a letter to the Mayor and City Council highlighting the inconsistencies in the noise ordinance and requesting a review to achieve more consistent enforcement citywide. - Election of Officers Deferred: The election of board officers was postponed to the next meeting due to an incomplete quorum.

The Frederick Planning Commission held a workshop on July 21, 2025, beginning at 2:00 PM. The agenda was reordered by motion to prioritize the Rules of Procedure discussion and the Lumen Fiber Hut site plan, followed by the remaining items. Seven agenda items were discussed, including development proposals and procedural updates. No formal votes were taken; the workshop served as a forum for discussion and direction for future submissions. Public Comments & Testimony - Hannah Nickerson (415 Sherman Avenue, also representing East Frederick Rising) spoke on Brickworks Lot 1. She expressed support for compact urban design and green space but raised concerns about pedestrian connectivity, the need for a street tree buffer, and the lack of a Wisner Avenue connection. She urged the connectivity ratio to meet the 1.8 minimum. - Vanessa Moreno (346 Madison Street, also representing East Frederick Rising) echoed concerns about connectivity, stating that the plan does not meet the intent of the approved master plan and fails to provide a grid system. She argued that the Wisner Street extension should be constructed as part of the initial phase, not delayed, and that poor connectivity undermines walkability and the potential for a Transit-Oriented Development designation. Discussion Items - Rules of Procedure (Item 8, moved to Item 1): Commissioner Menelas initiated a review of the rules of procedure, citing the upcoming recruitment of new commissioners. Discussion focused on attendance requirements (currently 50% of meetings in a 12-month period per city code), the role of alternate members, agenda order, and the prohibition on independent research of pending matters (Section 10.1). Commissioners expressed interest in adding more specific attendance language, clarifying the alternate's importance, and allowing limited independent research. Staff (Gabrielle Collard, Scott Waxter) noted that attendance rules are set by city code and cannot be changed by the commission alone. The commission agreed to develop draft language and revisit at a future workshop. - Lumen Fiber Hut – PC25-160FSI (Item 4, moved to Item 2): The applicant presented a plan to add two fiber huts (one single-wide, one double-wide) at 315 Ballenger Center Drive. The huts are unmanned, with motion-sensor lighting and security fencing. No modifications were requested. Commissioners had no questions. Staff noted that an archaeological assessment letter of no further action is needed before the public hearing. The item will proceed to a public hearing. - Brickworks Lot 1 – PC24-928PSU/FSI and PC24-929PFCP (Item 1): The applicant presented modifications to the preliminary plan, including changes to open space, forest conservation area, site circulation (improving connectivity ratio from 1.33 to 1.75), and architectural details. Four modifications were requested: reduction of rear setback from 20 feet to 7 feet, increased encroachment of decks into the rear yard (from 3.5 feet to 5 feet), reduction of side yards from 5 feet to 3 feet, and reduction of the setback between decks and property line from 5 feet to 1 foot 9 inches. Commissioners raised concerns about the lack of private backyards, the proximity of decks, standalone units, and the connectivity ratio not meeting the 1.8 target. Staff (Pam Reppert) noted that the plan had not been fully reviewed and that the applicant's statements about forest conservation and connectivity needed verification. The public comment speakers urged better connectivity. The applicant argued the plan is master plan compliant and modifications are minor. No decision was made; the item will return for further review. - Summervale Architectural – PC16-434-01MU (Item 2): The applicant requested approval of seven additional single-family detached styles and one additional townhouse style for the Summervale development. A modification was sought for a few windows that are 1:1 ratio (instead of the required 1:1.5) on some front and side elevations, citing bathroom privacy. Commissioners noted that renderings were difficult to follow and requested a clear table showing how each style meets the six architectural elements. Staff confirmed that the applicant needs to address red-lined items and provide better documentation. The item will return for a future workshop. - Sycamore Springs Architectural – PC22-514-05PND (Item 3): The applicant presented architectural plans for seven single-family homes and two townhomes. Modifications were requested for a few 1:1 ratio windows on side elevations (powder rooms) and for some windows on an elevation that do not meet the 1:1.5 ratio. The applicant also agreed to correct siding profiles (from Dutch lap to ship lap) and provide clearer exhibits. Commissioners praised the presentation format and had no substantive questions. Staff (Sherry Kelly) indicated the submission was thorough and the issues were minor. The item will proceed to a public hearing. - Bloomfield Water Tower – PC25-79PSU/FSI (Item 6): The applicant presented a combined preliminary plat and final site plan for a 1-million-gallon water tower to support the Bloomfield community and expand city water service. A modification was requested for an 8-foot fence with barbed wire, as required by the city’s Department of Public Works. Commissioners asked about safety near a future school site and the capacity of the tower. Staff noted that the water tower is part of the regional high-zone water infrastructure and will provide redundancy. The item will proceed to a public hearing. - Galleria at Carroll Creek – PC24-934FSI (Item 7): The applicant presented a final site plan for a mixed-use development with 210 residential units, 4,000 square feet of retail, and three levels of above-grade parking. The design features three courtyards, artful stormwater management, and a public plaza connecting to the Carroll Creek Linear Park. Commissioners discussed parking management, loading zones, and the number of retail spaces. Staff noted that the plan complies with parking requirements and that a $235,000 parkland improvement fee will be required, subject to unit count verification. The Historic Preservation Commission previously approved the architecture. The item will proceed to a public hearing. Key Outcomes - Rules of Procedure: Staff will prepare draft language incorporating commissioner feedback on attendance, alternate roles, agenda order, and independent research. The draft will be discussed at a future workshop. - Lumen Fiber Hut, Sycamore Springs, Bloomfield Water Tower, and Galleria at Carroll Creek: All four items received sufficient discussion and will move forward to public hearings, with minor clarifications needed from applicants. - Brickworks Lot 1 and Summervale: Both items require additional work. The Brickworks lot 1 plan will be resubmitted and reviewed again at a workshop. Summervale will provide a clearer table of architectural elements and address red-lined items before returning. - No formal votes were taken on any agenda item.

The Government Operations Committee of the City of Frederick met on July 17, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. to discuss four main agenda items: a proposed Memorandum of Understanding with East Frederick Rising, the Marriott Downtown at Carroll Creek Hotel and Conference Center development (including associated agreements), planning for the 2026 Maryland General Assembly legislative session, and updates to the City's parking ordinance. The committee voted on several items and provided feedback on a community survey for legislative priorities. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (June 5, 2025): Approved unanimously (3-0) without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - East Frederick Rising MOU: Richard Griffin (Economic Development Director) and Heather Goddard (President of East Frederick Rising) presented a draft MOU to formalize the city's partnership with the community organization. Goddard highlighted EFR's accomplishments over the past 10 months, including advocacy, community engagement, and support for business improvement programs. The MOU includes a financial request from the city: $30,000 in year one, $50,000 in year two, and $60,000 in year three, to support programming and staffing. Committee members praised EFR's work and moved the item to the full council for a vote. - Marriott Downtown at Carroll Creek Hotel & Conference Center: Richard Griffin and outside counsel Andrea Mate presented three interrelated items: (1) the Master Development Agreement, (2) a City of Frederick loan to the developer (Plumondin Hospitality Partners), and (3) a second amendment to the MOU with Frederick County. The project is a $103.5 million development with 204 hotel rooms, 26,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, retail, and parking. The City's contribution is up to $2 million (of which $150,000 has already been provided), structured as a 10-year loan at 2.21% interest. Key protections for the City include personal guarantees from the developer principals and a