Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

The Frederick City Council held a regularly scheduled public meeting on February 20, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The agenda included routine consent items, public hearings on contracts for sidewalk assessment, a catwalk at the Monocacy Basin Water Plant, and paving repairs, as well as second readings of ordinances on legislative redistricting and elected official compensation, and introduction of a tax credit for disabled veterans. Several members of the public spoke during public comment on the Gaza ceasefire and the city's redistricting process. All votes were 5-0 except for one abstention on a budget amendment. Consent Calendar - Release of Sureties and Acceptance of Improvements: Approved unanimously (5-0) the release of five performance bonds totaling over $2.4 million for various development projects (Frederick Commerce Center, Kellerton Land Bay B, Tuscarora Creek phases 5C and 6). - Special Ordinance S-25-06: Approved (4-0-1, with Councilmember McShane abstaining) to amend the FY2025 budget to account for revenue and expenditures from the Town of New Market speed camera program. - FY2026 Budget Public Hearing Schedule: Approved unanimously (5-0) the schedule for upcoming public hearings on the city's FY2026 budget. Public Comments & Testimony - Tina (first speaker, no address given): Expressed support for a permanent and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, criticizing the current 42-day temporary ceasefire and the U.S. president's proposal to relocate Palestinians. - Grady O'Rear (Frederick City resident): Cited UN data reporting 107 Palestinians killed and 47 injured in a six-day period in February 2025, and Brown University's estimate of $17.9 billion in U.S. military aid to Israel since October 2023. Urged the council to support the ceasefire resolution. - Eric Musa (Trail Avenue resident): Spoke about the Gaza conflict and broader federal issues, urging kindness and community. Supported the local ceasefire resolution. - Willie Mahone (President of Frederick NAACP, 129 W. Patrick Street): Urged the council to consider alternative redistricting maps from the ACLU that would create two majority-minority districts, stating that the council's process rushed without reviewing those maps. - Salvey Mortensen (1724 Shookstown Road): Asked the council to more urgently consider endorsing the ceasefire resolution. Discussion Items - Sidewalk Assessment and Inventory Contract (RFP 25-Q): Nicole Harshman (DPW Manager) presented a contract with O'Connell & Lawrence, Inc. for $149,517.48 (plus $15,000 contingency, total purchase order $164,517.48) to collect data on sidewalk conditions and create a condition index. Councilmembers asked about timeline (5–6 months, starting late March) and emphasized need for proactive follow-up. Approved 5-0. - Monocacy Basin Catwalk Contract (IFB 25-8): Robert Rosenberg (Assistant Superintendent of Water Treatment) presented a contract with R.W. Warner, Inc. for $135,975 to fabricate and install a catwalk for cleaning tube settlers. Discussion focused on only one bid being received and an MWBE exemption. Councilmember McShane expressed frustration over limited outreach. Approved 5-0. - Paving Repair Program Contract (IFB 25-7): Justin Griden (DPW Project Manager) presented a contract with M.T. Laney Company, Inc. for line-item pricing (low bid $146,000 vs. high bid over $1 million). Deputy Director Tracy Coleman noted that the high bid was considered non-responsive. Councilmembers questioned the bid disparity and repeated use of incumbents. Approved 5-0. - Resolution 25-03 (2025 City Elections): Introduced but not voted on. The resolution would designate early voting dates and one in-person voting location. - Ordinance G-25-01 (Legislative Districts) – Second Read: Phyllis (City staff) presented the adoption of Map 2 (renamed as the official district map). Councilmember Russell raised a concern about a cul-de-sac off Rock Creek Drive split between Districts 1 and 2. After discussion, the council decided not to adjust the map. Approved 5-0. - Ordinance G-25-02 (Elected Official Compensation) – Second Read: Katie Barkle (Budget Director) presented compensation recommended by the Compensation Commission: Mayor $131,497, Council President $43,855 (20% differential), Council Members $36,546. Discussion included how amounts were derived based on comparisons to regional cities and city pay grades. Councilmember McShane noted the council raise percentage matched the mayor's. Approved 5-0. - Ordinance G-25-07 (Disabled Veterans Tax Credit) – Introduction: Councilmember Russell introduced an ordinance to amend the definition of disabled veteran to include those with a 100% non-permanent service-connected disability, per a recent state law change. Referred to committee. Key Outcomes - All consent and public hearing items received unanimous approval except Special Ordinance S-25-06 (4-0-1). - Resolution 25-03 (election dates/voting location) was introduced for further discussion. - Ordinance G-25-07 (disabled veterans tax credit) introduced and referred to committee. - Council comments included recognition of Black History Month and encouragement for self-care.

The Planning Commission held a workshop on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM at City Hall (101 North Court Street) to review the FY2026–2031 Capital Improvements Program and three development applications: The Corner at Willowdale (PC23-672PSU/FSI, PC23-673PFCP), and the Brickworks Lots 4 and 6 (PC24-932PFCP, PC24-930FSI, PC24-931FSI). No formal votes were taken; staff and applicants were directed to provide additional information for upcoming hearings. Public Comments & Testimony - Karen Norman (Downtown Frederick Partnership) expressed continued support for the downtown streetscape project and urged that it align with downtown flood control efforts so the city can "dig once." - Vicky Understein (East Frederick Rising) expressed appreciation for past commission support for East Street redesign and Rails with Trails and asked that these projects remain in the recommendation letter. - Hannah Nickerson (East Frederick Rising) called East Street "a death trap" and argued that funding for its redesign should not wait for form-based code adoption; she suggested using the project as a pilot. - Heather Goddard (East Frederick Rising) expressed concern that the forest conservation drawdown for Brickworks Lots 4 and 6 increases the burden on remaining lots, potentially complicating negotiations for a future school site on Lot 3. - Kevin Sellner (resident) asked whether trees would be native, whether they would be placed in connected water-capturing green spaces, and whether the developer would be required to fund off-site planting if on-site space is unavailable. - Bart Nicholas (Citizens Way) urged the commission not to approve modifications denied at the master plan level unless they are applied to a specific situation; he supported the building orientation modification only for the two pad sites and asked for clear grocery entrances along East Street. - Hannah Nickerson also asked about greenways, green street infrastructure, separated bike lanes along East Street, and tree placement relative to the shared use path. - Kevin Sellner asked whether the tree plots on Lot 4 would be connected in a swale or greenway to convey stormwater to the regional pond. Discussion Items FY2026–2031 Capital Improvements Program - Gabrielle Collard, Deputy Director for Planning, reviewed updates on projects from the commission’s prior-year recommendation letter: conference center/hotel (site plan approved August 2024, groundbreaking December 2024); East Street improvements from Fifth to Market (no current funding; $750,000 requested for design); downtown streetscape study (city council approved a piggyback contract in January 2025); East Street improvements between Monocacy and South Street (partially to be constructed by the Brickworks development); Rails with Trails (Phase 1 complete; Phase 2 about 1.5 miles remaining with designs underway; Phase 3 bridge awaiting SHA approval to advertise for bids; Phase 4 in 30% design); Monocacy Boulevard/I-70 interchange (no specific CIP; estimated cost $118 million); smart traffic systems study (not yet initiated); streets master plan (work to begin in 2025); flood improvements; West Side Community Center (construction anticipated 2026–2027); sidewalk retrofit program; equity emphasis area sidewalk repair (no direct cost to property owners); and Harry Grove Stadium renovations (state-funded, not a CIP project). - Commissioners asked about the status of smart traffic studies (none done), form-based code adoption (still in policy discussions; four major policy topics remain), Husky Park relocation (currently a DPW storage yard being moved to open land for redevelopment), and police headquarters completion (late spring 2025). - Staff noted that projects remain in the CIP until complete; once funded, they generally stay funded. The Corner at Willowdale – PC23-672PSU/FSI, PC23-673PFCP - Applicant Luke Zeller (Harris Smariga Associates) presented a plan for 13 fee-simple townhouse lots on a 1.56-acre site, accessed by a single driveway from Willowdale, with an existing playground retained and utility connections along Shookstown Road. - Two modifications were discussed: (1) light spillage from proposed 12-foot poles along the access drive and rear of units; the lighting model cannot incorporate landscaping, and spillage extends to neighboring properties though evergreen screening is proposed; (2) removal of six of 15 specimen trees—two within townhouse footprints and four along the access drive where the critical root zone would be impacted past the 30% threshold. The applicant intends to attempt to preserve the four along the drive using arborist techniques. - Staff (Pam Reppert) noted the project passes school, water, and sewer adequacy. She acknowledged the applicant’s attempt to save trees and use downlighting. - The chair observed that the site’s maximum parking appears to be 39 spaces while the plan shows 44 spaces with visitor parking; staff indicated a modification would be needed. - No public comments were offered on this item. Brickworks Lots 4 & 6 – Preliminary Forest Conservation Plan (PC24-932PFCP) - Eric DeVito (Greenberg Gibbons) and Chris Mariga (Harris Smariga) stated the plan is consistent with the overall preliminary forest conservation plan approved December 9, 2024. About 160 trees are proposed on Lot 4 and about 65 on Lot 6, but none will count toward forest conservation because of area requirements. The shortfall is expected to be made up off-site or on Lots 2 and 3. - Staff expressed concern that shifting the obligation to future lots could handicap their development if off-site planting is not found. Chair Strawson asked staff to add a summary sentence clarifying that nothing is changing in the overall plan. - The applicant acknowledged they are incentivized to find off-site options and are actively pursuing them, including parcels in the annexation area. Brickworks Lot 4 – Final Site Plan (PC24-930FSI) - The applicant presented the mixed-use retail core: a grocery store, three multi-tenant retail buildings, two pad sites, and a planned residential component. The project has been reoriented to meet most building orientation standards except for the two pad sites along Monocacy Boulevard. - Modification requests include: building orientation for Pad 1 and Pad 2 (entrances placed away from Monocacy Boulevard to reduce pedestrian conflict, with a shared use path connection), loading spaces (nine 9-by-20-foot van spaces in the parking area instead of full-size 12-by-50-foot loading berths), dumpster enclosures placed in the parking lot, a level 1 landscape buffer modification between Lots 4 and 6, and lighting adjustments. - The applicant said Pad 1 has a confidential tenant but did not disclose it. Commissioner Menelas expressed concern about granting modifications without knowing future tenants and requested a matrix table detailing each modification, justification, and compensating design feature. Another commissioner questioned the loading space location in the parking lot. Staff (Pam Reppert) opposed loading spaces in parking areas and dumpsters away from buildings, and asked for clearer circulation and stacking analysis, noting past issues with Starbucks drive-throughs. - The applicant agreed to provide a matrix, a block and connectivity plan, and revised details before the hearing. Brickworks Lot 6 – Final Site Plan (PC24-931FSI) - The applicant described a 340-unit multifamily building with a structured parking garage, ranging from three to five stories, with two courtyards and a lobby. Modification requests cover light spillage along the shared access easement between Lots 4 and 6, and a rear setback reduction from 20 feet to roughly 13 feet on Brickwork Street because the building fronts that street. - Commissioner Menelas asked about the building’s wing along Monocacy Boulevard; the applicant clarified the layout. - Public commenter Kevin Sellner asked whether there would be vegetation on the east side of Lot 6; the applicant responded that street trees and courtyard landscaping are planned. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; all agenda items will return for public hearings. - The commission will vote on a CIP recommendation letter at its March 2025 regular meeting. - The Willowdale applicant will provide an additional modification to address visitor parking and continue working with staff on lighting and specimen tree preservation. - The Brickworks applicant will prepare a modification matrix, revise loading/dumpster configurations, provide a pedestrian connectivity plan, and update elevations and landscaping plans before the hearing. - Staff will track forest conservation commitments across Brickworks lots as subsequent plans are submitted.

The Land Use, Public Safety, and Community Development Committee held its first meeting on February 13, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. The meeting included a presentation on small area planning, discussion of two ordinances, and public comment. The committee reviewed its duties and procedures, received an overview of the city's small area planning efforts, and deliberated on amendments to parking regulations and land management code. Public Comments & Testimony - Small Area Planning Overview: Kevin Sellner (East Fifth Street) asked whether residents of each small area would be included in an official planning group to guide discussions. Heather Goddard (Board of Directors, East Frederick Rising) recommended adding an evaluation step to track implementation success and pointed out that the Brickworks development within the East Street Corridor Small Area Plan has not met community vision due to lack of regulatory tools (e.g., no yards, forest conservation issues). Bob Roby (East Second Street) raised concerns about tracking progress and unfunded obligations, emphasizing that commitments made in small area plans should be funded. - Ordinance G-25-03 (Hospitals in Mixed-Use Districts): Heather Goddard returned to argue that if a hospital use can be added to the mixed-use zone for a private applicant, the city should also consider adding schools as a permitted use, citing obstacles faced by the Brickworks school site. Discussion Items - Committee Procedures: The committee reviewed its role, meeting schedule (second and fourth Thursdays, 1:00–3:00 PM), and public comment rules (3 minutes per speaker). - Small Area Planning Overview: Planning Director Gabrielle Collard and Division Manager Brandon Mark presented an overview of the eight small area plans in the city. They described the planning process, benefits, and current status. The East Street Corridor form-based code is in development; work on the Golden Mile and Jefferson Street corridors is beginning. Members questioned the slow pace (no plan fully implemented from the 2020 comprehensive plan) and how plans translate into binding rules. Staff requested an additional planner position to accelerate work. Discussion also covered the balance between prescriptive rules and flexibility in form-based codes. - Ordinance 25-06 (Parallel Parking and Improper Parking): Councilmember Russell introduced an ordinance to clarify that parking with tires on the curb or grass strip is prohibited, at the request of the police department. Councilmember McShane expressed concern that residents may park on curbs for safety reasons (e.g., avoiding side-swipes) and wanted the ordinance to also address vehicles protruding into the street. The committee voted 2-1 to continue the item to a future meeting with staff present to provide additional information on why residents engage in this practice and potential impacts. - Ordinance G-25-03 (Hospitals as Permitted Use in Mixed-Use Districts): Planner Sherry presented a text amendment to add hospitals as a permitted use in all mixed-use (MU) districts, filed by Frederick Health Village for their 93-acre property. The planning commission had recommended approval. Representatives from Frederick Health argued the change provides long-term flexibility without causing proliferation due to state certificate-of-need requirements. Councilmember McShane questioned whether the city should also add schools to the MU zone given similar issues; staff suggested that could be done through a separate process. The committee voted unanimously (3-0) to recommend the ordinance to the full council. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 25-06: Not approved as written. The committee (2-1) voted to continue discussion at a future meeting with staff from relevant departments to address concerns about why people park on curbs and the potential need for additional parking width regulations. - Ordinance G-25-03: Approved for recommendation to the full city council (3-0). The text amendment will allow hospitals as a permitted use in mixed-use districts. - Small Area Planning: Staff will seek an additional planning position in the upcoming budget to accelerate plan development. No formal vote was taken.

The Frederick Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) held a hearing and workshop on February 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall, 101 North Court Street. Commissioners Robert Van Rens (Chair), Paul Fitzgerald, Anne Hart, and Iva Saller were present. Staff included Gabrielle Collard, Christina Martinkosky, Sarah Hoffeditz, and Iris Annan. The meeting covered demolition reviews, rehabilitation approvals, public art proposals, and workshop items. Consent Calendar - HPC25-5 (226 W. South Street, Level 1 rehabilitation): Approved unanimously as part of the consent agenda. Discussion Items - HPC25-18DR (401 Center Street, demolition review): Staff found the structure not individually eligible for historic designation. The Commission voted unanimously not to pursue a designation application. The work had already been completed. - HPC25-19DR (226 Dill Avenue, demolition review): Similar determination; Commission voted unanimously not to pursue designation. - HPC24-800 (500 N. Market Street, rehabilitation): Approval with conditions, including staff review of roof material, wood or smooth-finish fiber cement siding for the northeast rear wall (due to maintenance concerns), metal door literature, hand-tool repointing with lime mortar, and revised sign details (no plastic or cabinet style). Unanimous. - HPC24-810 (40 S. Carroll Street, public art “Welcome Tree”): Approved unanimously as the installation does not adversely affect historic resources. - HPC24-824 (101 W. South Street, rehabilitation after fire): Approved with conditions for power tools on horizontal joints only, test patch for paint removal, and matching mortar. A written public comment from Grant Saller was entered into the record. Commissioner Saller recused herself. - HPC24-825 (38 E. 6th Street, rehabilitation of rear sleeping porch): Approved with conditions that all wood components be painted/stained, lime mortar used, hand tools only, and brick infill recessed a minimum of 1 inch. Unanimous. - HPC25-12 (423A E. Patrick Street, key fob readers): Approved unanimously as compatible with the individually designated landmark for adaptive reuse. - HPC24-732 (168 W. All Saints Street, public art mural): Approved with conditions limiting power tools to horizontal joints, matching mortar, and a test patch. The Commission added a condition that only vapor-permeable coating (not latex) be used. Unanimous. Continuances - HPC24-702 (127 E. 6th Street, demolition): Continued to March 27, 2025, at the applicant’s request. Commissioner Saller recused herself. Unanimous. Workshop Items - HPC24-821 (113 E. 7th Street, tower alterations): Post-work approval for a Queen Anne style dwelling. The applicant withdrew the current application and will revise to restore the tower to its original design (wood windows, siding, decorative panels). Resubmission deadline March 3 for March 13 hearing. - HPC25-10 (40 S. Market Street, public art): Bronze sculpture of former Mayor Ron Young, approximately 7.5–8 feet tall on a granite pedestal at Carroll Creek Linear Park. No concerns from staff; the Commission asked about rotating the figure slightly. Will proceed to the February 27 hearing. - HPC25-13 (220 E. Patrick Street, rehabilitation for hotel loading area): The applicant plans to lower grade around a historic barn, underpin it, and add a concrete protective barrier. The Commission recommended a more sympathetic finish for the concrete (e.g., form liner, tinting) and a solid corner guard instead of bollards. The applicant will resubmit revised drawings and finish details by February 14 for the February 27 hearing. Key Outcomes - Demolition Reviews: Two properties (401 Center Street, 226 Dill Avenue) found not eligible for historic designation; no further action. - Rehabilitation Approvals: Four applications (500 N. Market, 101 W. South, 38 E. 6th, 423A E. Patrick) approved with conditions. - Public Art Approvals: Two projects (40 S. Carroll Street sculpture, 168 W. All Saints Street mural) approved. - Continuance: 127 E. 6th Street postponed to March 27. - Workshop Guidance: 113 E. 7th Street applicant to restore original tower design; 40 S. Market Street sculpture set for hearing; 220 E. Patrick Street to refine concrete finishes and protective barrier. - Minutes: Approved with corrections (date and numerical sequencing).

The Frederick City Planning Commission held its regular meeting on February 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall, 101 North Court Street. The meeting included approval of previous meeting minutes, updates to the Planning Commission's Rules of Procedure, approval of a final site plan and forest conservation plan for the Frederick Subaru Service Center expansion, and first hearings on the High Glen annexation and a zoning map amendment for the Faith Reformed Presbyterian Church. No public comments were received on any agenda item. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the January 13, 2025 Planning Commission hearing, the January 21, 2025 workshop, and the February 7, 2025 pre-planning meeting. Discussion Items - Rules of Procedure Update: Deputy Director Gabrielle Collard presented updates to the Rules of Procedure, primarily clarifying recusal procedures (Section 4.3) and the order of agenda items for forest conservation plans. Commissioner Strawson proposed amending Section 4.2 to require reviewing meeting recordings (if available) rather than only minutes for absent members, and simplifying the language in Section 4.3 regarding recusal due to bias. The commission approved the rules with these amendments. - PC24-762FSI – Frederick Subaru Service Center Final Site Plan: The applicant (represented by Mary Patton, Fox and Associates) seeks approval for a 34,300-square-foot addition to the car dealership at 1417 W. Patrick Street, including a new service center and car wash. Three modifications were requested: (1) elimination of level one landscape screening along GC and PRK lot lines; (2) allowance for light spillover (less than one foot-candle) along three lot lines; (3) reduction of interior parking lot landscaping from 10% to 0% for a new 44-space lot. Staff recommended approval with conditions, including planting three additional shade trees along the new lot. The commission voted unanimously to approve all three modifications and the final site plan. - PC24-763FSCB – Combined Forest Stand Delineation and Preliminary Forest Conservation Plan: Staff recommended approval of the forest plan for the Subaru site, which retains 0.36 acres of existing forest and plants 1.42 acres on-site, meeting the required 1.78 acres. The commission approved the plan unanimously. - PC24-664ANX – Annexation, High Glen (Great Southern): First hearing for the annexation of approximately 71.7 acres (five parcels) north of Christophers Crossing and west of Yellow Springs Road, with a request for R4 (Low Density Residential) zoning. Staff presented conditions including restricted access to Yellow Springs Road, a contribution of $8,000 per residential unit toward regional road improvements (with CPI escalation), and a water tank contribution. The applicant (Bruce Dean, attorney) noted the property is Tier 2 under the Comprehensive Plan and may not be developed for 15+ years. The commission deferred action to a second hearing. - PC24-665ZMA – Zoning Map Amendment, Faith Reformed Presbyterian Church: First hearing for a zoning map amendment to apply the Institutional (IST) floating zone to approximately 4.08 acres of the High Glen annexation, reflecting the existing church use. Staff noted the church is currently a non-conforming use under R4 zoning. The applicant requested the change to permit future improvements. The commission deferred action to a second hearing. Key Outcomes - Rules of Procedure: Approved with amendments to Section 4.2 (review of meeting recordings preferred) and Section 4.3 (simplified recusal language). - Frederick Subaru Service Center: Approved modifications (unanimous votes): - Modification to Section 605 D2 (lot line screening) – approved. - Modification to Section 607 E2 (light spillover) – approved. - Modification to Section 605 G (parking lot landscaping) – approved, with added condition of three additional shade trees. - Final Site Plan (PC24-762FSI) – approved with conditions: resolve stormwater concerns, plant three shade trees, update note 18. - Forest Conservation Plan: Approved (PC24-763FSCB) – unanimous. - High Glen Annexation and Zoning Map Amendment: First hearings held; no vote taken. Continued to a subsequent meeting for further discussion and a second public hearing.

The Government Operations Committee of the City of Frederick met on February 6, 2025, to discuss two main items: a proposed ordinance regarding recommendations from the Compensation Commission, and proposed water and sewer rates for fiscal years 2026 through 2030. The meeting was chaired by the Council President and included Councilmembers Kelly Russell and Donek Zumchak. The agenda also included approval of minutes from the January 23, 2025 meeting, but this item was not addressed during the meeting. Discussion Items 1. Proposed Ordinance Regarding Recommendations of the Compensation Commission The committee considered an ordinance to set compensation for the Mayor, City Council President, and City Council members for the next administration beginning December 11, 2025. The Compensation Commission recommended a 16.8% increase for the Mayor (from $112,640 to $131,497), an identical percentage increase for Council members (from $31,289 to $36,546), and a 20% differential for the Council President (to $43,855) due to expanded duties including agenda setting and staff oversight. Councilmember Russell expressed concerns that the recommendations lacked a rational nexus and argued for higher compensation based on city employee grade scales. She proposed $151,000 for the Mayor (based on grade 15's 20% hiring flexibility), $45,000 for Council members (a 43.8% increase from the current salary), a 20% differential for the Council President, and a 10% differential for the Vice President. She also emphasized the need to attract diverse candidates and noted that the current salaries may deter lower-income individuals from running. Councilmember Zumchak questioned the 20% president differential, arguing that many council members have significant committee responsibilities and that the differential might not be justified. Discussion explored using the city's standard 7.5% grade differential for supervisory roles, leading to suggestions of 7.5% for Vice President and 15% for President. Councilmember Russell noted that the timing of the raise in an election year is distasteful and requested that future compensation commissions be convened every two years instead of four to avoid election-year timing. 2. Proposed Water and Sewer Rates for FY 2026–2030 The committee reviewed a five-year rate study conducted by NewGen Strategies, which recommended a 3% annual increase in water and sewer rates through fiscal year 2030. This would replace the expiring five-year schedule from 2019. The study projects revenues, expenditures, debt service, and capital improvements. Councilmembers noted that the 3% expenditure increase outpaces the 1% customer growth assumption. They inquired about the risk of higher inflation; the administration responded that if rates become inadequate, they could return to seek adjustments. Key Outcomes - The committee voted 2–1 (Councilmembers Russell and Zumchak in favor; the third committee member opposed) to advance the compensation ordinance as presented to a public hearing scheduled for February 20, 2025. The opposing member clarified the opposition was to the content, not to the procedural advancement. - The committee voted unanimously to advance the water and sewer rate proposal to a public hearing. Note: The meeting agenda included approval of minutes from January 23, 2025, but this item was not discussed during the meeting as reflected in the transcript.

This was the first meeting of the Housing, Health and Education Committee, chaired by Councilmember Donald Kazemchuk. The primary discussion centered on a proposed housing policy work plan presented by Council President Katie Nash, which outlined policy solutions across five income groups. Committee members and public speakers provided input on priorities, emphasizing quick, high-impact actions. The committee agreed to request additional data and to compile priority lists for the next meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Nick Brown (Executive Director, Beyond Shelter; Chair, Continuum of Care): Highlighted the success of case conferencing and coordinated entry, noting a 93-year-old shelter resident placed into housing. Stressed the growing crisis of senior homelessness (15% increase year-over-year) and lack of subacute/respite care. Warned of a potential humanitarian crisis due to defunding of refugee and asylum resettlement programs, with at least 50 individuals (14 families) at risk. Urged city insulation from federal funding cuts, noting his organization alone could lose $150,000 in direct federal dollars. - Ann Ryan (Frederick Housing Solutions Task Force): Noted that zero percent of housing in Frederick is affordable for a senior on Social Security ($23,000/year). Proposed using private money and church partnerships to expand single-room occupancy (SRO) units and a tiny home village for vulnerable seniors. Requested city land and an incentive fund for developers. - Hugh Gordon (Chair, Frederick County Affordable Housing Council; CEO, Frederick County Association of Realtors): Expressed frustration that the council has struggled to produce substantive results. Suggested a comparative analysis of permitting processes with other jurisdictions to identify bottlenecks. Recommended adaptive reuse of properties and consolidation of nonprofit efforts to avoid duplication. - Fourth speaker (name unclear, from Frederick Housing Solutions Task Force): Thanked the committee for addressing the housing crisis and stated that housing should be a human right. Discussion Items - Presentation of Proposed Housing Work Plan: Council President Nash presented a five-group framework (homelessness/emergency shelter, below 30% AMI, 30-60% AMI, 70-120% AMI, and affordable homeownership). She assigned time, cost, staff, and impact ratings to each policy solution, noting that many items require budget legislation or policy changes. Key categories included coordinated entry, transitional housing, inclusionary zoning, zoning reform, rent stabilization, ADUs, and homeownership programs. - Committee Member Reactions: - Council Vice President Shackelford: Emphasized need for partnerships, streamlined funding, use of city-owned properties (short- and long-term), urban planning for affordable housing, and preventing displacement. - Councilmember McShane: Favored prioritizing policies that incentivize private development (zoning, permitting, gap financing) over city-operated programs, due to faster timelines. Expressed skepticism about city-led projects like repurposing city properties within five years. - Chair Kazemchuk (Councilmember): Supported homeless services and generational wealth through homeownership. Noted the importance of smart growth, infill development, and ending the demonization of developers. - Staff and Data Requests: Chair Kazemchuk asked for information on senior housing across all income groups. Council Vice President Shackelford requested a list of all housing services and organizations (noting Nick Brown's offer from the Continuum of Care) and asked that housing staff and a mayor's office representative attend the next meeting. He also requested information on federal funding threats. Key Outcomes - Committee members will submit their priority lists (from the work plan or new ideas) within one week to the chair. - Staff will prepare information on senior housing needs and existing services. - The next meeting will include housing staff and a point person from the mayor's office. - The committee expressed intent to focus on low-time, low-cost, high-impact items (under one year, within existing budget/staff) while also pursuing longer-term strategies. - The chair will continue to use the work plan as a living document and incorporate feedback from members and the public.

The Frederick City Council held a regular public meeting on February 6, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall. The meeting included approval of minutes, appointments, public comments, a consent agenda, and several public hearing items. Councilmembers were present in person and virtually, with all votes resulting in unanimous approval (5-0 or 4-0). Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes from the January 2, 2025 regular public meeting and four workshops (October 30, November 20, December 3, and December 4, 2024) by votes of 4-0. - Appointments: Reappointed Jennifer Grove to the Parks and Recreation Commission (term February 7, 2025 – February 6, 2029) and appointed Philip Prestia to the Active Mobility Advisory Committee (term through May 6, 2025, then reappointed to May 6, 2029). Both approved 4-0. - Consent Agenda Items: Approved unanimously (5-0) the release of sureties for three projects (St. Katharine Drexel Memorial Garden, Worman's Mill Section 7C, and Preserve at Tuscarora Mass Grading), three special ordinances (S-25-01, S-25-02, S-25-03) to amend the FY25 budget for police grants totaling $522,825, and special ordinance S-25-04 for the Airport Festival of Flight event. Also approved four requests to serve alcohol on public property for the Frederick Festival of the Arts, Christ Reformed Evangelical Church picnic, Downtown Frederick Partnership's Lawn Party and Alive @ Five events. Public Comments & Testimony - Dennis McQuiston (no address given) addressed the council, demanding they stand up against what he described as an unconstitutional federal takeover by Elon Musk and the Trump administration. He claimed Musk illegally gained control of federal data and impounded $6 trillion, calling it a security breach and a constitutional crisis. He urged the council to go to Washington D.C., lobby politicians, and oppose the actions. He did not receive a response from the council, per meeting rules. - No additional public comments were offered during the first or second public comment periods. Public Hearing Items - Downtown Streetscape Project (Items IX.A.1.a & IX.A.1.b): Richard Griffin, Director of Economic Development, presented two related items. First, a special ordinance (S-25-05) to amend the FY25 budget to include a $500,000 grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Strategic Demolition Fund. Second, an agreement to piggyback on a Montgomery County contract with RKK Engineers for utility and parking analysis and design work for the Downtown Frederick Streetscape Project, also for $500,000. Both items were approved unanimously (5-0) after public comment was opened and closed. - Senior Park at Monocacy Village Park (Item IX.A.2): Bob Smith (Parks and Recreation) presented a requisition for $130,000 to SeniorScapes Inc. for construction of a senior park, based on a 2019 MOU. The project was delayed due to funding availability and COVID-19. Construction is expected to begin in late winter/early spring and finish by early summer. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Frederick Festival of the Arts Fee Waiver (Item IX.B.1): Bob Smith presented a request by the Frederick Arts Council to waive fees for the June 7-8, 2025 festival at Carroll Creek Park, including setup on June 6. The Parks and Recreation Commission recommended waiving fees for two days (excluding setup). Councilmember Russell noted potential mobility issues due to the event's popularity. The council approved waiver of fees for all three days (5-0), finding a public benefit. - Parkland Dedication with Forest Conservation Easements (Item IX.B.2): Pam Rapine (Planning) presented a request to accept 1.61 acres of afforestation in a public park within the Bel Aire Planned Neighborhood Development. The development exceeded its required park dedication (4.66 acres vs. 2.52 required) and satisfied afforestation requirements with the inclusion of 1.61 acres in the park. A path system will also be installed. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Annexation Announcement (Item IX.C.1): The council announced receipt of a petition for annexation of the Sage Way property – 24.976 acres, located on the south side of Maryland Route 40, east of I-70. The applicant was directed to prepare a resolution for future introduction. - Resolution 25-02 – Children's Festival (Item IX.C.2): The council approved a resolution to continue the partnership with Child Care Choices/Frederick County Mental Health Association for the 25th Annual Children's Festival, waiving gymnasium and park rental fees at Baker Park. Approved unanimously (5-0) after a brief procedural pause for public comment (none offered). Ordinance Introductions Five ordinances were introduced for first reading; they will be discussed further in committee or committee of the whole: 1. G-25-02: Establishes compensation for the Mayor, City Council President, and Council members for the term beginning December 11, 2025. 2. G-25-03: Amends Land Management Code Section 404, Table 404-1 to add hospitals as a permitted use. 3. G-25-04: Amends Section 404 to add caterer as a permitted use and adds a definition of caterer to Section 1002. 4. G-25-05: Concerns voter qualifications; deletes outdated voter registration provisions from the city code and adds provisions for registration only in city elections, clarifying language. 5. 25-06: Amends parking regulations (Sections 13-26 and 13-28) to require that vehicles with curbs present have all tires on the road surface and to prohibit parking that obstructs pedestrian or vehicle traffic. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items, appointments, and public hearing items were approved unanimously (5-0 or 4-0). - The council directed staff to bring a full presentation on the Downtown Streetscape Project at a future meeting. - The Sage Way annexation application will proceed to a future resolution. - The five introduced ordinances will be scheduled for further deliberation.

The City of Frederick Zoning Board of Appeals met on January 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM at City Hall. The board approved minutes from the August 27, 2024 meeting, granted a continuance for a variance case, and approved a temporary use permit for a catering business at 1 Frederick Health Way. The board also welcomed alternate member Lee Hand to his first meeting. Approval of Minutes - The board approved the minutes of the August 27, 2024 meeting by voice vote (motion by Bob Sisson, second by Dixon Hicks). Lawrence Aronow and Lee Hand abstained as they were not present at that meeting. Continuances - ZBA-24-30V, Variance, 184 E South Street: The applicant requested a continuance to the February 25, 2025 meeting because justification materials are still being prepared. Staff confirmed. The board voted unanimously to grant the continuance. Discussion Items - ZBA-25-1TU, Temporary Use, 1 Frederick Health Way: The applicant (Canopase, represented by Clark Adams) requested a six-month temporary use permit to operate a catering business at a property zoned Mixed Use (MU1). Catering is not a permitted use in MU1, but a text amendment to add it is pending before the city council. Staff (Gabrielle Collard) recommended approval, finding the use temporary, not involving new construction, and unlikely to cause nuisance. Board members asked about the distinction between catering and restaurant uses; Mr. Adams explained the proposed definition limits accessory retail to under 50% of sales and focuses on off-site catering. The board discussed whether to grant a six-month extension in addition to the initial permit to allow for possible delays in the text amendment. The applicant had no objection to an extension. Key Outcomes - ZBA-25-1TU Approved: The board voted 4-0 to approve the temporary use for six months with an additional six-month extension (total up to 12 months), subject to the applicant obtaining a zoning permit. The motion included findings that the use does not conform to current regulations but is temporary, involves no new construction, and will not adversely affect public health, safety, or welfare. - Continuance Granted: The variance case at 184 E South Street was continued to the February 25, 2025 meeting. - Welcome to New Member: Board Chair Jim Racheff welcomed Lee Hand as an alternate member attending his first meeting.