Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

The Planning Commission held a workshop on March 17, 2025, beginning at 2:00 PM in City Hall, to review seven development applications. The meeting featured presentations and discussions on architectural revisions, site plans, a master plan, and multiple modifications. No formal votes were taken; items will advance to public hearings. The workshop was adjourned at approximately 5:45 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Heather Goddard (East Frederick Rising) – On Brickworks Lot 5, she urged the commission to consider increasing open space on a triangular lot (potentially reducing townhome count), adding pedestrian path connections to South Street, and ensuring improved connectivity to the wider neighborhood. - Kevin Sellner (Fifth Street) – On Brickworks Lot 4, he suggested a short wall to deter pedestrians from crossing Monocacy Boulevard at an opening near pad two, raised concerns about tree displacement onto parcel three (intended for an urban school), and pressed for progress on the Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP) and mitigation plans across the six parcels. Discussion Items - Bloomfields (PC18-387-07MU) – The applicant presented a third architectural revision replacing four home models with new ones meeting updated IRC code requirements (two-by-six wall construction). The changes were described as minor and nearly identical in exterior appearance. Staff found no issues, and the commission had no questions. - 27 Corporate Park (PC24-937FSI / PC24-938FSCB) – A proposal for a 12,000 sq ft mixed-use warehouse/office building on a vacant acre near Thomas Johnson Drive. The applicant requested a modification to landscape buffer requirements because of an existing county sewer easement. An archaeological assessment was submitted the day prior. Lighting will be adjusted to achieve zero spillover at property lines. Staff supported the plan pending resolution of outstanding conditions. - ExtraSpace Storage (PC24-1003FSI / PC24-1004FSCB) – Redevelopment of a self-storage facility at 1212 West Patrick Street, demolishing two existing buildings and constructing a five-story storage building. Parking was reduced to nine spaces (from 2 currently), based on an ITE parking study. The site is in the Golden Mile; the applicant addressed the Golden Mile Small Area Plan checklist. Lighting and landscaping modifications were requested to buffer residential property to the south. Staff noted that the parking reduction is consistent with recent industry standards, and the building height complies with code. - Taco Bell (PC24-1000FSI) – Redevelopment of the existing Taco Bell at 1314 East Patrick Street to accommodate a dual drive‑through layout. The applicant requested modifications for parking (21 spaces versus a maximum of 15), lighting (spillover onto adjacent city-owned property), and buffer requirements (due to a property line bisecting the development). FAA review is ongoing (60‑day period); Maryland Aviation Administration review will follow. Staff noted a discrepancy between the modification letter (23 spaces) and plan (21 spaces); the applicant confirmed 21 spaces. The parking lot landscaping is at 6.9% (below the 10% requirement), but compensatory landscaping is provided in a stormwater pond area. - Frederick Health Master Plan (PC24-662MU) – A master plan for 93 acres north of the city, adjacent to Monocacy Boulevard and US 15, owned by Frederick Health. The plan includes up to 750 residential units (tested for multi‑family) and non‑residential uses focused on medical services. Conditional uses requested: senior living/retirement, medical laboratory, and domiciliary care. Parkland dedication (minimum met) and forest conservation were addressed. The applicant deferred street detail and open‑space frontage modifications to later site plan stages. The commission discussed MPDU fees (fee‑in‑lieu intended), potential rail‑trail contributions, and connectivity to the broader street network. - Brickworks Lot 5 (PC24-834PSU/FSI / PC24-835PFCP) – NVR proposes 227 townhomes (70 at 20‑ft wide, 157 at 16‑ft wide), all alley‑loaded, on the eastern side of the Brickworks community. The plan includes 95 street trees (requirement is 51) and a modification for frontage on open space in two locations to create usable green spaces. Forest conservation exceeds the 50% on‑site requirement (2.61 acres provided vs. 2.1 required). Staff supported the plan but noted that off‑site planting credits must be allocated among lots. The commission asked for clarification on sidewalk connections and pedestrian links to adjacent areas. - Brickworks Lot 4 (PC24-930FSI) – Greenberg Gibbons presented a revised plan for the mixed‑use center at the corner of East Street and Monocacy Boulevard, including a grocery store, retail, and two pad sites with drive‑throughs. Seven modification requests were detailed: parking setback from Monocacy (with screen wall), buffer along the common driveway with Lot 6, building orientation (pedestrian entrances away from the highway), separation distance (right‑in/right‑out entrance), lighting spillover between lots, landscape buffer, and loading space size (use of smaller 9×20 ft spaces). New renderings and a block‑and‑connectivity plan were provided. Dumpster locations were debated—staff and commissioners expressed concerns about pedestrian safety, employee access, and lighting. Commissioner Strawson and others voiced strong reservations about the pad site orientation, suggesting they should face the street per the master plan. The commission requested further study of loading, dumpster placement, and pedestrian connectivity before the hearing. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; all items remain in workshop status and will proceed to public hearings. - Bloomfields – will move forward with minimal changes. - 27 Corporate Park – applicant must address outstanding conditions (archaeological approval, APFO comments, lighting) before hearing. - ExtraSpace Storage – hearing set; commission expects confirmation that no truck rentals will occur on site. - Taco Bell – applicant to provide lighting shield data and clarify tree species with FAA. Hearing scheduled. - Frederick Health Master Plan – commission requested more detail on MPDU choice, rail‑trail contributions, and street design. Hearing to follow. - Brickworks Lot 5 – applicant to provide a pedestrian connection amenity plan and clarify sidewalk continuity. Hearing scheduled. - Brickworks Lot 4 – the chair indicated that unless the applicant “does something drastic,” she is leaning against approving modifications for the pad site orientation. Staff asked for an exhibit showing lot line adjustments and a lighting plan update. Applicant will return with revised loading, dumpster, and sidewalk designs. The commission directed staff and applicant to address safety and walkability before the hearing (tentatively April).

The Historic Preservation Commission of Frederick, Maryland, met on March 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. Commissioners Robert Van Rens (Chair), Paul Fitzgerald, Anne Hart, and Iva Saller were present, along with staff including Gabrielle Collard, Christina Martinkosky, Sarah Hoffeditz, Iris Annan, and Tanzi Crayton. The meeting covered approval of prior minutes, an administrative approval report, and four case hearings. Public comments were minimal, and all votes were unanimous (3-0). Approval of Minutes - February 27, 2025 Hearing/Workshop Minutes: Approved with a clarification regarding terminology in the minutes for case HPC25-9. The phrase 'no further action letter' was revised to 'no further action letter regarding archaeological review.' The motion carried 3-0. HPC Business - Administrative Approval Report: 11 administrative approvals for February were entered into the record with no questions. Discussion Items - HPC24-773 – 347 S Market Street (Rehabilitation): Applicant Mark Christmas proposed replacing a vinyl window with a wood true divided light window. Staff recommended approval with conditions that the window feature true divided lights and be painted/stained with an opaque finish. The applicant provided a photograph confirming the mutton profile. The motion to approve included removal of an outdated drawing. Passed 3-0. - HPC25-9 – 606 N. Maxwell Avenue (Addition): Applicant Ron Cheeks proposed a one-story rear addition with screened porch. The project was previously workshopped. Staff detailed numerous conditions regarding materials (LP siding, porch posts, windows, decking, railing, roofing). Discussion clarified that pressure-treated posts are allowed for ground contact but not for above-ground posts; wood posts must be non-clad and non-pressure treated. Staff recommended approval with extensive conditions for submittal of product literature and revised drawings. The motion incorporated 12 specific conditions, including a revision for metal roofing to be flat panels. Passed 3-0. - HPC25-27 – 5 E Second Street (Rehabilitation): Applicant Peter Brehm proposed replacing mixed patterned and stained glass in an arched window with clear panes for uniformity. Staff noted the existing glass was a random collection, and the guidelines require stained glass retention but deemed replacement appropriate given the condition. No public opposition. Motion to approve passed 3-0. - HPC25-40 – 100 E All Saints Street (Signs): Applicant Kevin Kneer (architect) proposed pin-mounted letters, shield logos, and flagpoles for the new police headquarters (non-contributing building). Staff noted pin-mounted signs are generally allowed for non-contributing buildings. Condition required light fixtures to have a color temperature of 4,500 Kelvin or less to avoid cool blue tones. Discussion included shielding for flagpole spotlights. Motion to approve with the lighting condition passed 3-0. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved with clarification. - HPC24-773 approved with conditions (true divided lights, opaque finish). - HPC25-9 approved with 12 conditions (scope of work, materials, product literature, etc.). - HPC25-27 approved (no conditions). - HPC25-40 approved with condition (lighting color temperature max 4,500K). - All decisions were unanimous (3-0). The meeting adjourned after the case hearings.

The Frederick City Planning Commission held its regular meeting on Monday, March 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall. The meeting covered multiple items including recommendations on the Capital Improvements Program, annexation and zoning for High Glen and Faith Reformed Presbyterian Church, a final plat for the O'Rear property, and final site plans for Cabana Air hangar at the Frederick Municipal Airport. The commission approved all items on the agenda, with some votes including a 4-1 split on a landscaping modification. Minutes - The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the February 10, 2025 public hearing, February 18, 2025 workshop, and March 7, 2025 pre-planning meeting. Capital Improvements Program (CIP) - Staff presented the draft recommendation letter for the FY2026-2031 CIP, noting new additions such as the West Side Community Center, Sidewalk Retrofit, and equity emphasis area sidewalk repair. The Harry Grove Stadium renovations (funded by a $39 million state grant) were mentioned but not included as a CIP project. - Public comment: Hannah Nickerson (East Frederick Rising) expressed support for the East Street redesign ($750,000) and other east side projects. She asked about the source of equity emphasis area data and possible federal funding impacts. Staff responded that data comes from MWCOG and that the city is reviewing federal funding. - Discussion: Commissioner Beanie proposed removing the bullet supporting the Conference Center Parking Facility, as it appears to be moving forward. The commission agreed. - Outcome: The commission unanimously approved the CIP recommendation letter, based on last year's letter with updated dates and removal of the Conference Center parking bullet. High Glen Annexation (PC24-664ANX) - Staff recommended approval of the annexation of approximately 72 acres (north of Christophers Crossing, west of Yellow Springs Road) with R4 Low Density Residential zoning. Five conditions were proposed, including limiting driveway access on Christophers Crossing, requiring on-site parkland and forest conservation, and a contribution for the shared use path. - The applicant (representing Osherman Properties) requested amendments to several conditions, arguing that restrictions should be negotiated with the City Council. They opposed full on-site dedication of parkland and forest conservation, preferring flexibility. - Public comment: Hannah Nickerson supported staff's recommendations for parkland and forest conservation. - Commission discussion focused on the driveway condition wording. Some members considered a continuance to review the applicant's counterproposals, but ultimately decided to proceed with a vote. - Outcome: The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the annexation with the five staff conditions. Faith Reformed Presbyterian Church Zoning Amendment (PC24-665ZMA) - Staff recommended rezoning 4.08 acres from R4 to the Institutional (IST) floating zone to legalize the existing church use. The church has approximately 200 members and has been at the location for over 50 years. - The applicant supported the rezoning as essential after annexation to avoid non-conforming use status. - Public comment: none. - Outcome: The commission unanimously voted to recommend approval of the zoning amendment. O'Rear Final Plat (PC23-674FSU) - Staff presented a request to resubdivide two parcels at Shookstown Road and Willowdale Drive to create lots for a future 13-unit townhouse development. A modification to allow a 169.55-foot panhandle lot (instead of the 80-foot limit) was also requested. - The applicant explained that the panhandle serves an existing single-family home and provides access to HOA open space. - Commission discussion: Questions about the panhandle length and fire safety. Staff confirmed the driveway is at least 12 feet wide and provides adequate access. - Outcome: The commission unanimously approved the modification and the final plat. Cabana Air Final Site Plan (PC24-554FSI) - Staff recommended approval of a 32,887-square-foot airplane hangar at the Frederick Municipal Airport, along with three landscaping modifications due to FAA restrictions on trees near runways: (1) no property trees instead of 21 required, (2) no street trees instead of 9 required, (3) no shade trees in parking lot interior landscaping while meeting the 10% area with shrubs. - The applicant presented elevations and landscaping plans. Commissioner concerns included the lack of a full presentation and the visual impact of the building. - Public comment: none. - Commission discussion: Commissioner Menelas voted against the street tree modification. - Key Outcomes: - Modification to property landscaping (no trees): approved unanimously. - Modification to street tree requirements: approved 4-1 (Menelas opposed). - Modification to parking lot interior landscaping (no shade trees): approved unanimously. - Final site plan: approved unanimously with seven conditions as read by staff. Cabana Air Forest Conservation Plan (PC24-659FSCB) - Staff recommended approval of the combined forest stand delineation and preliminary forest conservation plan. Since there is no forest on the disturbed area, the applicant proposes a fee-in-lieu of $14,897 for the 1.14-acre afforestation requirement. - The applicant noted that fee-in-lieu has been consistently used at the airport to avoid tree planting near runways. - Outcome: The commission unanimously approved the forest conservation plan. Adjournment The meeting adjourned after completing all agenda items.

The Government Operations Committee met on March 6, 2025, at 3:30 PM. The meeting was interrupted by a fire alarm and later reconvened. The primary discussion focused on the role of Neighborhood Advisory Councils (NACs) in the planning process, as well as public comments on related topics. No formal votes were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - A member of the public expressed support for requiring developers to present plans at NAC meetings before appearing before the City of Frederick Planning Commission, so that the Planning Commission can consider NAC feedback with great weight. The speaker also opposed the idea of recasting NACs as a nonprofit entity, stating that should not happen. - Another commenter noted that some people have said requiring NAC review adds a layer to the process. Discussion Items - Councilmember Russell acknowledged the public comments and stated that while they previously felt strongly about not moving police or planning groups to concur with NACs, the public comment caused them to reconsider, saying their feelings are no longer "set in stone." They also expected the NACs to continue moving forward under the leadership of the city council. - The meeting was temporarily interrupted by a fire alarm. Councilmembers thanked the Fire and Rescue services for their prompt response. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were taken. The committee adjourned, noting it would meet again in two weeks or by call of the meeting.

The Government Operations Committee met on March 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM to discuss the 2025 municipal election procedures, an amendment to the disabled veterans tax credit, and a workshop on the impact of newly created council districts on city operations and council member responsibilities. The meeting began with the approval of the February 20, 2025 committee minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the February 20, 2025, committee meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Kevin Sellner (Frederick resident) urged the committee not to delay decisions on the Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) program, suggesting that the current council move forward with recommendations and allow the next council to amend as needed. He also noted that the Land Management Code (LMC) requires developer meetings with each NAC, not a single community outreach meeting, and that small area plans should consider overlapping district boundaries to include affected residents. - Peter Brand (Frederick resident) emphasized that NACs should remain a function of the city and be aligned with new council districts to improve communication and accountability. He recommended that NAC coordinator selection originate with NAC members and be approved by the city council, rather than the mayor’s office. Discussion Items - Resolution 25-03: 2025 Municipal Election: Elections Administrator Phyllis Hane presented the resolution, which largely follows the 2021 process: mail-in ballots with postage-paid return envelopes, drop boxes (at least one per district), and in-person voting at Trinity Recreation Center. Early voting dates are August 22–23 for the primary and October 24–25 for the general election, with hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Board of Supervisors supported the plan. Councilmembers discussed drop box distribution and turnout trends. The committee expressed support, and the resolution will be forwarded to the full council. - Ordinance G-25-07: Disabled Veterans Tax Credit Amendment: Councilmember Kelly Russell introduced the ordinance to amend Section 8-10.3 of the City Code to align the city’s disabled veterans tax credit with state law and the county program (which administers the credit). The committee voted to move the ordinance to a public hearing. - Workshop: District Impact Discussion: Council President Katie Nash led a brainstorming session on how new council districts may affect various city functions. Key topics included: - NAC Program Realignment: Possible changes to NAC boundaries, number of NACs, and their relationship with district elected officials. The ad hoc advisory committee’s recommendations were discussed; some councilmembers preferred deferring major decisions to the next council to avoid politicization. There was agreement to gather more staff input and set a timeline. - Council Liaisons to Boards and Commissions: Discussion on whether the city should continue formally assigning liaisons. Councilmembers expressed differing views—some saw value in the role, while others argued it is often ineffective and that councilmembers can participate voluntarily. The committee noted that many liaison assignments stem from ordinances or MOUs that may need review. - Small Area Plans and District Boundaries: Councilmembers generally agreed that small area plans should not be forced to align with district boundaries, as they are based on the comprehensive plan and geography, not voting districts. However, overlapping areas should still ensure resident input. - Department of Public Works (DPW) and Frederick Police Department (FPD) Operations: DPW Director Zach Kirchner confirmed that voting districts have no direct impact on city services, but changing NAC boundaries might require adjustments in service area division. Councilmembers saw no need to realign operational districts with political districts. - Responsibilities of At-Large vs. District Council Members: The committee explored whether formal responsibilities differ. Most agreed that while at-large members have a broader citywide perspective, there are no codified differences beyond the President and Vice President roles. The discussion touched on potential workload differences and the importance of collaboration. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously approved the February 20, 2025 meeting minutes. - Ordinance G-25-07 was moved to a public hearing (date to be set). - Resolution 25-03 received committee support and will be forwarded to the full city council for consideration. - No formal decisions were made on district impact topics; the committee agreed to continue discussions with more staff input and to consider deferring major NAC changes to the next council term.

The Housing, Health, and Education Committee of the City of Frederick met on March 6, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. to discuss a proposed housing workplan, a public art workplan, and a request to terminate restrictive covenants on three properties. The committee approved minutes from February 20, 2025, and heard public testimony. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the February 20, 2025 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Smursall (former city community development director) commented on the housing workplan, suggesting the planning department use American Planning Association resources for single-room occupancy (SRO) ordinances and recommending the city establish local income limits and fair market rents as per Ordinance 23-20. Later, on the covenant issue, he clarified that the properties were purchased with federal Community Development Block Grant funds, which may have sunset provisions, and noted the covenant includes a mayoral/board release clause. - Monica Perez (homeowner at 22 West 7th Street) requested the city release a restrictive covenant recorded by the city in 2003, which her title company interprets as running in perpetuity. She stated she fulfilled Habitat for Humanity's requirements and paid equity share, and the covenant prevents her from selling at market value. She has a March 13 closing date and asked for expedited action. - Jennifer Grove (real estate broker for Ms. Perez) explained the title company placed an exception on the title due to the covenant's “in perpetuity” language, and that the original title policy listed it as an exception when Ms. Perez purchased the property. - Eric Anderson and Darby Swanson (Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County) stated they were unaware of the city's covenant until the current sale, and their interpretation is that the covenant was fulfilled upon sale to Ms. Perez. Discussion Items - Continued Discussion of Proposed Housing Workplan: - Tenant Protections Website: Council President Nash proposed creating a city-specific website to provide tenant and landlord rights information, sourced from the Maryland Attorney General. Councilmember Shallford emphasized the need to protect both renters and property owners, and suggested using existing Rental Housing Program funds for catastrophic situations. No action taken; staff will draft website content and bring back for consideration. - Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Ordinance: A request for information was sent to advocacy groups, developers, and the Affordable Housing Council, with responses due by May 1. Councilmember Shallford cautioned against overcomplicating the ordinance, noting it can be refined later. Staff will work with legal and planning departments to draft an ordinance shell by May. - Public Art Workplan: Councilmember Kazimchek introduced the topic, highlighting the need to catch up on public art maintenance and policy. Manager of Arts and Culture Layla provided updates: retaining a conservator for collection assessment, conducting cultural asset mapping (Eastside and Golden Mile workshops), and incorporating public art language into RFPs for projects like the West Side Community Center and East Street Rails with Trails. A draft workplan is expected in the next few meetings. - Request to Terminate Restrictive Covenants at 18, 20-22 West 7th Street: Councilmembers reviewed a request from Monica Perez to release city- recorded restrictive covenants (from 2003) that require the property to remain affordable in perpetuity. City attorneys clarified the covenant is ambiguous and likely no longer enforceable because the Hope VI program is defunct. Councilmember Kazimchek expressed reluctance to set a precedent of acting on short notice, while Councilmember Shallford urged scheduling the vote as soon as possible to avoid harming the resident. The committee agreed to place the matter on the March 20, 2025 city council agenda for a vote rather than action that evening. Key Outcomes - Housing Workplan: Staff to draft a tenant protections website and an SRO ordinance shell; updates expected in May. - Public Art Workplan: Draft workplan to be presented at future committee meeting; manager to continue community outreach and policy development. - Restrictive Covenant: The committee voted to refer the release request to the March 20, 2025 city council meeting. Councilmembers expressed general support for terminating the covenant, though the timing was debated. Ms. Perez was advised to request an extension on her closing date. - No other formal votes were taken.

The Land Use, Public Safety, and Community Development Committee of the City of Frederick met on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The agenda included three items: a deed restriction removal and parkland dedication for Independent Hose Company, a text amendment to add caterers as a permitted use in Mixed-Use (MU) districts, and a review of Ordinance 25-06 addressing parallel and improper parking. All items were recommended for approval by the committee. 1. Independent Hose Company – Deed Restriction Removal and Parkland Dedication - Background: Independent Hose Company (IHC) requested removal of a deed restriction on its fire station property (transferred from the city in 1978) to secure financing for renovations. The restriction required the property to revert to the city if no longer used for fire/rescue. Staff (Mark DeCampo) noted the property is entirely within a floodplain, with over half in the Carroll Creek floodway, making it undevelopable for other uses. In exchange, IHC would gift the floodway portion to the city to connect the North Branch Trail. - Discussion: IHC Chair Rodney Masser explained the company's 100-year lease history and the need for clear title for equipment financing (e.g., a $2 million tower ladder, $750,000 pumper). Subdivision plat had been approved but not yet recorded. Committee members (two present) expressed support, noting IHC's long service and the park connectivity benefit. Questions clarified the floodway term and the unlikelihood of redevelopment. - Public Comment: None. - Outcome: Motion to recommend the request to the next public hearing passed 2-0. 2. Caterer in Mixed-Use (MU) Text Amendment - Background: Planning staff (Sherri Kelly) presented a text amendment (PC24-765ZTA) to add “caterer” as a permitted use in MU districts and provide a definition. The application was filed on behalf of Canapés, but the change would apply citywide. A proposed definition limits on-site retail sales to less than 50% of annual receipts to distinguish from restaurants. The Planning Commission had unanimously recommended approval on November 12, 2024. - Discussion: Committee questioned how the 50% cap would be enforced—staff indicated it would be complaint-based. A council member noted that restaurants are already permitted in MU zones, so the cap may not be needed for zoning; but staff clarified it affects parking requirements (caterers have lower parking needs than restaurants). Applicant's counsel (Clark Adams) explained that the business’ primary function is catering, making this the proper route. Committee found the approach reasonable. - Public Comment: None. - Outcome: Motion to recommend the amendment to the next meeting passed 2-0. 3. Review of Ordinance 25-06 – Parallel Parking and Improper Parking - Background: Deputy Chief Kirk Henneberry presented zoning code revisions to close gaps in Sections 13-26 (parallel parking) and 13-28 (improper parking). The issue arose from vehicles parking on grass and curbs at Carroll Park Manor on Baughmans Lane; the code did not explicitly prohibit parking beyond 12 inches from the curb or on non-sidewalk surfaces. The police had used courtesy citations and education to address the problem, but a clear ordinance is needed for enforcement citywide. - Discussion: A council member expressed concern that the underlying cause may be inadequate parking in dense neighborhoods, not driver negligence. They questioned whether the ordinance would penalize residents who park on curbs to avoid sideswipe damage. Henneberry acknowledged the parking shortage but argued the change allows consistent enforcement. The committee recognized broader parking issues that need cross-departmental attention but supported the ordinance as a police enforcement tool. - Public Comment: None. - Outcome: Motion to recommend the ordinance to the next available public meeting passed 2-0. Elected Officials’ Comments - No additional comments were made. Key Outcomes - All three agenda items were recommended by the committee (2-0 votes) to proceed to the full City Council for public hearings or future meetings. - For Independent Hose Company, the recommendation includes removing the deed restriction and accepting the floodway parcel for park connectivity. - The caterer text amendment will be forwarded for council consideration, with the 50% retail cap definition. - Ordinance 25-06 on parallel and improper parking will advance; council members noted the need for broader parking policy discussions.

The Historic Preservation Commission met on February 27, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall in Frederick, Maryland. The meeting included a public hearing, approval of minutes, a demolition review determination, five case hearings, and two workshop items. All votes were unanimous. The commission approved the minutes of the February 13 meeting with a correction, determined that 303 West College Terrace is not eligible for historic designation, and approved four rehabilitation projects and one public art installation with conditions. Workshop discussions focused on a rear addition at 606 N. Maxwell Avenue and a city wayfinding project for Carroll Creek Park. Approval of Minutes - The February 13, 2025 hearing and workshop minutes were approved with a correction to item HPC25-12 (striking a sentence regarding keyless entry keypads). Motion passed unanimously. HPC Business – Demolition Review - HPC25-63DR: 303 West College Terrace – Staff determined the circa-1923 dwelling lacks architectural significance and is not associated with significant persons or events. The commission voted unanimously not to pursue historic designation, allowing demolition to proceed. Cases to Be Heard - HPC24-817: 53 E. All Saints Street – Rehabilitation of a commercial building including installation of a chiller unit, new rear aluminum storefront door, corrugated galvanized roof, and up to eight skylights. Approved with conditions: up to eight skylights and a new rear aluminum storefront door (product data to be submitted). - HPC25-10: 40 S. Market Street (Carroll Creek Park) – Installation of a 7.5-foot bronze figure of former mayor Ron Young on a granite pedestal. Staff found no concerns with height, massing, or materials. Approved unanimously. The Public Art Commission had approved the design on December 10, 2024. - HPC25-13: 220 E. Patrick Street – Site modifications to incorporate a historic barn into the downtown conference center/hotel parking and delivery area. Includes underpinning the barn, removing non-historic stairs and fence, and adding a concrete retaining wall with stipple finish. Approved unanimously. - HPC25-16: 104 Clarke Place – Installation of a 10x16 ft Victorian glass greenhouse with aluminum framing, glass, and a red brick knee wall. Approved with conditions: submit a revised site plan showing dimensions and setbacks, and ensure aluminum components do not resemble wood (no texture or embossing). - HPC25-21: 606 N. Maxwell Avenue – Partial demolition of a non-historic rear brick stoop to allow a future addition. The commission first determined the dwelling is a non-contributing resource (structure built 1911 but heavily altered with aluminum siding and replacement windows). Then approved demolition with the condition that replacement plan HPC25-9 is approved. Workshop Items - HPC25-9: 606 N. Maxwell Avenue – One-story addition with screened porch (replacement for the demolished stoop). Staff and commissioners discussed roof design (shed + gable junction), siding (LP engineered wood vs. traditional wood), metal roofing color, windows (aluminum-clad Anderson), fiberglass door, decking (TimberTech composite tongue-and-grove), and railing. The applicant will submit a revised scope of work and product details by the March 3 deadline to be heard at the March 13 hearing. - HPC25-28: 40 S. Market Street (Carroll Creek Park Gateway and Wayfinding) – A phased project to install identification banners, directional signs, and kiosks along Carroll Creek Park. Phase 1 identifies park entrances; Phase 2 adds directional signs and distance markers. Materials are painted aluminum. The applicant (Downtown Frederick Partnership) will provide a message schedule and product specifications. No vote taken; continued to a future meeting pending submission of detailed materials. Public Comments - One member of the public arrived late to ask about the status of the 303 West College Terrace demolition review and was informed it had been approved. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous. - Approval of minutes (February 13, 2025) with correction. - Determination that 303 W. College Terrace is not eligible for historic designation. - Approval of four cases with conditions (HPC24-817, HPC25-10, HPC25-13, HPC25-16) and one partial demolition (HPC25-21) with condition. - Workshop items (HPC25-9 and HPC25-28) will return after applicants submit required documentation by March 3, 2025, for possible action at the March 13, 2025 hearing.

Date: February 20, 2025 Time: 2:00 P.M. Location: City Hall, Frederick, Maryland The Government Operations Committee met to approve prior meeting minutes and conduct a single substantive review: a proposed ordinance concerning voter registration qualifications for city elections. The committee voted 2–1 to forward the ordinance to the full City Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (January 23, 2025) – Moved by Councilmember Russell, seconded by Councilmember Kazimchak. Unanimously approved. - Approval of Minutes (February 6, 2025) – Moved and seconded; motion carried without dissent. Discussion Items - Review of Proposed Ordinance Regarding Voter Qualifications City Attorney Rachel Nesson presented the ordinance, which clarifies voter registration procedures for city elections. A key change was a stylistic re‑organization: the prohibition on registering during the window 30 days before to 10 days after a city election was moved from within the main registration paragraph into a separate subsection. Councilmember Russell expressed concern that the new structure could confuse readers, as the first paragraph states registration is open “any time the office is open” without immediately noting the exception. She preferred keeping the restriction in the same paragraph for plain‑language clarity. City Attorney Nesson explained the change follows state drafting style but offered to revert if the committee preferred the original wording. Councilmember Kazimchak remarked that the new wording is clear. No other councilmembers raised issues. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the meeting. (The agenda noted e‑comment and in‑person comment opportunities were available.) Key Outcomes - Motion to Forward Ordinance – Councilmember Kazimchak moved to forward the ordinance as presented; seconded by Councilmember Shockford. Vote: 2 in favor (Councilmembers Kazimchak and Shockford), 1 opposed (Councilmember Russell). The ordinance will proceed to the full City Council for further consideration.