Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

On January 23, 2025, the City of Frederick's Government Operations Committee held its first official meeting, chaired by Council Vice President Shackelford. The committee reviewed the Compensation Commission's salary recommendations, discussed the proposed legislative district maps, and received an update on the Maryland General Assembly session. No formal votes were taken; the committee scheduled further discussions for February 6 and February 13, 2025. Committee Overview - Chief of Staff Guy Sampson outlined the committee's purpose, membership (Council Vice President Shackelford, Councilmember Donna Kuzemchak, Councilmember Kelly Russell), and meeting schedule: first and third Thursdays, 2-4 p.m., with a quorum of two members. Compensation Commission Recommendations - Director of Budget Administration Katie Barkdahl presented the Commission's report, recommending a mayor's salary of $131,497 (a 16.8% increase from $112,640), a council member salary of $36,546 (same percentage increase), and a 20% differential for the Council President, resulting in a salary of $43,855 (computed). - Commission members Christy Rogaski (vice chair) and Barbara Kirshner Daniel defended the differential, citing comparable municipalities and the Council President's additional duties (staff oversight, agenda setting). - Councilmember Russell expressed uncertainty about the 20% differential due to lack of implementation data, but Council President Nash supported it, citing leadership responsibilities. - The ordinance will be introduced on February 6 and must be passed by March 1. Legislative Districts Discussion - Andrew from Haystack presented two proposed maps (Map 1 and Map 2) for five city council districts. Public feedback (survey open since December 12, closing January 31) shows a slight preference for Map 1 (49% vs. 37% for Map 2), with 13% neutral. - Community members emphasized alignment with Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) boundaries; NAC 7 is split across three districts in both maps, though the split areas have no population. - The committee discussed potential realignment of NAC boundaries (drawn in 2001) with new districts, but no decision was made. - The item was referred to the Committee of the Whole on February 13, 2025, at 4 p.m., with a target public hearing on February 20. Maryland General Assembly Update - Luke Penton of Funk Bolton reported a $2.7 billion state deficit, with the governor's budget released January 22. The city received $7.5 million for Route 15 improvements and $7.5 million for a downtown hotel/conference center. - Other tracked legislation includes the Procurement Reform Act and the Housing for Jobs Act. The committee requested weekly legislative updates from the lobbying team. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. - The compensation ordinance will be introduced on February 6, with a committee discussion on that date. - The legislative district maps will be discussed at the February 13 Committee of the Whole meeting. - Staff will provide updated survey data and a memo by the February 6 meeting.

The Frederick Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) held a public hearing and workshop on January 23, 2025, starting at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The hearing included approval of minutes, administrative reports, and decisions on several applications. The workshop provided preliminary review and guidance for six upcoming projects. No public comments were made during the meeting. Consent Calendar - No consent items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the citizen comment periods. Discussion Items Hearing Portion (6:00 PM – 6:46 PM) - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the December 12, 2024 hearing and workshop minutes. - Administrative Approval Report: Staff reported that 17 applications were approved administratively in the past month. - HPC25-7DR – 536 Wilson Place (Demolition Review): Staff determined the circa 1937 dwelling was not individually eligible for historic designation due to alterations and lack of significant associations. The commission voted unanimously not to pursue a historic preservation overlay application. - HPCR-25-4 – 179 W. All Saints Street (Extension Request): The applicant requested a six-month extension for a previously approved project. A prior extension had been granted administratively; the commission approved this extension unanimously. - HPC24-702 – 127 E. 6th Street (Continuance): The item was postponed to the next meeting due to lack of a commission quorum. - HPC24-796 – 350 E. 3rd Street (Rehabilitation): The applicant proposed demolishing a non-historic rear staircase, filling the void with vinyl railing, and replacing front steps and railing. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved unanimously, noting the existing vinyl railing predated guidelines. - HPC24-804 – 200 E. Patrick Street (Amendment for Lighting): The applicant sought to add artistic uplighting to the Frederick Conference Center Hotel. Staff recommended approval after the applicant reduced lighting output by 80% to diminish intensity. The commission approved unanimously, citing compatibility with guidelines. - HPC24-813 – 103 S. Carroll Street (Window Replacement): The owner sought to replace eight original six-over-six metal windows with one-over-one metal windows for uniformity after a fire. Staff recommended denial because guidelines require preserving historic windows. However, the commission voted unanimously to approve with a deviation, reasoning that only eight of 76 windows were affected, the elevation was non-prominent, and uniformity was appropriate. They added a condition that window openings must not be enlarged. Workshop Portion (7:00 PM – 8:45 PM) – Preliminary Reviews - HPC24-800 – 500 N. Market Street (Rehabilitation): The applicant discussed roof repairs, masonry work, door replacements, and a new side door for trash removal. Staff guided the applicant to provide a structural engineer's report, use traditional materials (wood siding), and submit product literature. The applicant agreed to retain and repair second-floor wood windows rather than replace them. - HPC24-810 – 40 S. Carroll Street (Public Art): The applicant proposed installing a 14-foot stainless steel sculpture along Carroll Creek Linear Park, approved by the Public Arts Commission. Staff found no conflicts with guidelines. The commission offered no objections and directed staff to process the application. - HPC24-817 – 53 E. All Saints Street (Rehabilitation): The applicant plans to convert a former industrial building into a brewery. Discussions covered new entrances, skylights, corrugated metal roofing (standing seam preferred), and fencing. Staff requested updated drawings, product literature, and details on mechanical equipment. The commission encouraged preserving historic features like the arched opening. - HPC24-732 – 168 W. All Saints Street (Public Art/Mural): The applicant sought to install a mural on the west elevation of the historic dwelling, representing African American educators. Staff noted masonry repairs were needed first. The applicant agreed to update the scope of work to request power tools. The commission urged a test patch for chemical paint removal. - HPC24-824 – 101 W. South Street (Rehabilitation): The applicant is repairing fire damage to a historic schoolhouse. Staff praised the organized application. The commission approved the proposed door replacement (wooden, matching original design), window replacements, and roof repairs. They conditionally allowed chemical paint removal (test patch required) and power tool use for masonry repairs. The applicant will submit updated elevation drawings. - HPC24-825 – 38 E. 6th Street (Rehabilitation): The owner discussed converting a second-story door to a window or infilling with brick. The commission preferred infill with a recessed outline to retain the historic opening. The owner also considered repairing existing vinyl windows rather than replacing them. Staff advised using non-pressure-treated wood posts for the porch. The owner will submit revised plans. Key Outcomes - Votes (all unanimous): - Approved December 12, 2024 minutes. - Approved not to pursue historic designation for 536 Wilson Place. - Approved six-month extension for 179 W. All Saints Street. - Approved rehabilitation at 350 E. 3rd Street. - Approved lighting amendment at 200 E. Patrick Street. - Approved window replacement at 103 S. Carroll Street with deviation and condition. - Postponed: 127 E. 6th Street demolition review continued to the next meeting due to lack of quorum. - Workshop Guidance: Applicants for 500 N. Market, 40 S. Carroll, 53 E. All Saints, 168 W. All Saints, 101 W. South, and 38 E. 6th were directed to submit revised plans, product literature, and additional documentation by the resubmission deadline of Monday, January 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM. These cases are expected to return for formal hearing at the February 13, 2025 meeting.

The City of Frederick Planning Commission held a workshop on January 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in City Hall to discuss two subdivision and land-development applications. The meeting focused on a boundary-line adjustment for parcels along Willowdale Drive (Item 1) and a preliminary plat and forest conservation plan for the Rock Hill subdivision (Item 2). No formal votes were taken; the workshop allowed commissioners to hear applicant presentations, staff analysis, and public testimony before moving applications toward future hearings. Public Comments & Testimony - Bruce Tobias (resident of the neighborhood) raised four concerns about the Rock Hill project: (1) a proposed sidewalk on Hoke Place ended before connecting to an existing sidewalk, leaving a gap; (2) existing neighborhood roads (Hoke Place, Poplar, Linden) are in poor condition and need resurfacing; (3) parking will be a problem given the density; (4) the two parks cited as nearby (Linden Hills Park, 0.2 acres with minimal equipment, and Hillcrest Park) are not adequate—Linden Hills is too small, and Hillcrest requires a 23- to 30-minute walk along Route 40, which is unsafe for children. He asked for additional parking and park/recreational space. - Chris McDonald (Golden Mile Alliance) echoed the parking concerns, noting existing parking challenges in the neighborhood, and requested consideration of visitor and overflow parking. He also opposed the fee-in-lieu parkland dedication, arguing Linden Hills Park is too small to serve 50 new homes and that accessing Hill Street Park requires crossing heavily trafficked Hillcrest Drive, creating a safety hazard. Discussion Items 1. PC23-674FSU – O’Rear Addition to Community Ventures LLC The applicant (Harris Smariga & Associates) presented a plan to add two parcels to Lot 1 and a small strip (Lot 3) to Lot 2 along Willowdale Drive. The main modification request was to allow a panhandle (flagpole) driveway longer than the 80-foot city standard—extending it to roughly 170 feet. The driveway already existed and served an adjacent warehouse and a single-family home. Staff (Sharon Suarez) supported the modification, explaining that the driveway predated city standards and was created when the area was rural. The existing playground on the added parcel is no longer used for a daycare (the special exception for daycare has been vacated), and the applicant stated that the playground and all open spaces would be maintained by a future homeowners association. The new lots would be part of a future 13-townhouse development to be submitted later. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about the rationale for the 80-foot standard and why this panhandle exists; staff noted that the goal of the standard is to avoid many houses on a panhandle, which is not the case here (only one house and future HOA-maintained open space). No public comment was offered. 2. PC23-1045PSU / PC23-1047PFCP – Rock Hill Subdivision Applicant Stephen Crumb (McCreese Hendrickson Glasscock) represented the owners Barber Fritchie Inc. and Blue Diamond Trust. The project proposes to resubdivide a 13.5-acre R6-zoned property into 50 single-family lots (density 4.4 du/ac, well under the 80.8-unit maximum). The plan extends the historic street grid (Hoke Place, Birch, Maple) and will require abandonment of short stub streets from the original 1923/1954 plats. Modifications requested include: (1) not following standard street details ST11.0 and 11.1 – allowing narrower right-of-way widths (50 ft for most streets, 40 ft for Linden Ave, compared to current 55-60 ft with on-street parking), and proposing no on-street parking except on Poplar Street; (2) approval to remove 22 trees ≥25 inches DBH (about one-third in poor condition or dead) located within proposed public rights-of-way. Staff (Gabrielle Collard) noted that the applicant worked hard to keep the unit count at 50 (matching the original plat yield) and that stormwater management has been approved. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources found no rare species on site. The historic Kramer House on the property is within the Historic Preservation Overlay; the HPO must approve tree removal and construction impact plans before the application can proceed. Public comment raised concerns about parking (applicant countered that each unit would have two-car garages and driveways for two cars, totaling four off-street spaces per home), sidewalk connectivity, and parkland adequacy (applicant plans a fee-in-lieu contribution). Staff clarified that off-site road repairs and sidewalk gaps outside the development are not the applicant’s responsibility but are city capital improvement projects. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (O’Rear Addition): No decision was made. The commission took the applicant’s presentation and staff comments under advisement. The applicant will correct a reference from “condo association” to “homeowners association” on the plat. The modification to the 80-foot panhandle length (to 170 feet) appeared to receive preliminary staff support; the commission will vote at a later hearing. - Item 2 (Rock Hill Subdivision): No vote was taken. The commission will continue review after the Historic Preservation Commission issues its approval regarding tree removal and construction impacts. Staff will invite a representative from the city’s traffic engineering division (Carian) to address specific questions about street design standards at the next meeting. The applicant will also need to address sidewalk gap concerns raised in public testimony, but staff noted off-site gaps are not part of this application. The modification to street details (narrower rights-of-way, no on-street parking) and tree removal will be further evaluated. Public comments regarding parkland adequacy and parking will be considered. - Next Steps: Both applications are expected to return to the Planning Commission for public hearings and final decisions. No dates were announced.

The Frederick City Council held its regular public meeting on January 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Council President Nash presided, with Councilmembers Russell and the Vice President present. Councilmembers McShane and Kazimczek were absent, limiting the council to three voting members. This prevented the approval of budget-related special ordinances that require a four-vote majority. The council approved appointments, a consent agenda item, several public hearing items, and heard public testimony. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council unanimously approved the minutes from the December 19, 2024 meeting (3-0). - Zoning Board of Appeals Reappointment: Dixon Hicks was reappointed to a three-year term (February 4, 2025 to February 3, 2028) by a 3-0 vote. - Planning Commission Appointment: Elaine Llewellyn was appointed to a five-year term (January 17, 2025 to January 16, 2030) by a 3-0 vote. - Grant Acceptance: A U.S. Department of Justice 2024 BJA Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant in the amount of $40,929 was accepted (3-0). Note: Several Special Ordinances (S-25-01, S-25-02, S-25-03) to amend the FY25 budget for various grants were deferred due to the lack of a quorum for budget votes. Public Comments & Testimony - Tina Meadows (Shookstown Road): Speaking on behalf of Frederick Ceasefire Now, Ms. Meadows urged the council to adopt a ceasefire resolution. She noted a planned 42-day ceasefire between Israel and Palestine but argued it is not a permanent agreement, calling for sustained humanitarian aid and an end to the occupation of the West Bank. She announced a march and rally on February 2nd. - Miran (Shookstown Road): Miran expressed cautious encouragement regarding the planned 42-day ceasefire but emphasized differences with the Frederick Ceasefire Resolution, including the need for a permanent ceasefire and the safe return of all hostages from both sides. He referenced a study estimating $8 trillion in U.S. war costs in the Middle East from 2001-2021, which he calculated equates to $80,000 per household in Frederick County. He urged the council to endorse the resolution. Discussion Items - Pool Management Services Agreement: Sean Cullen, Superintendent of Recreation, presented a three-year agreement with Continental Pools, LLC for lifeguard and maintenance services at the Edward P. Thomas, Jr. and William R. Diggs Memorial Swimming Pools. The council approved the agreement (3-0). - Safe Streets for All Action Plan: Dave Edmondson, Transportation Planner, presented a contract with Mead & Hunt for $218,645 to develop a Safe Streets for All Action Plan, funded by a U.S. Department of Transportation grant. The 18-month project will integrate the Let's Move Frederick bike/ped plan and the Green Streets Master Plan. The council approved the contract (3-0). - Downtown Frederick Streetscape Project: Richard Griffin, Director of Economic Development, presented a proposal to piggyback on a Montgomery County contract with RKK Engineers for utility, parking, and design analysis work totaling $500,000. This item is tied to Special Ordinance S-25-04. City Attorney Rachel Nesson advised against approving the contract without the budget amendment, which could not be passed without a full council. The council voted to continue both the Special Ordinance and the contract to the next public hearing on February 6, 2025 (3-0). - Collective Bargaining Agreements (FOP): City Attorney Rachel Nesson and HR Director Karen Paulson presented two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 91. The MOUs provide a 75% health insurance subsidy for commissioned and non-commissioned officers who retire due to a line-of-duty catastrophic disability, regardless of years of service. The change is retroactive to August 1, 2024. Councilmembers expressed strong support for the policy. The council approved both MOUs (3-0 each). - Water and Sewer Rates (FY 2026-2030): The council introduced a resolution to establish water and sewer rates for fiscal years 2026 through 2030. The resolution was referred to committee. Key Outcomes - Appointments Confirmed: Dixon Hicks (Zoning Board of Appeals) and Elaine Llewellyn (Planning Commission) were appointed unanimously. - Contracts Approved: The pool management contract (Continental Pools) and Safe Streets Action Plan contract (Mead & Hunt) were approved. - FOP MOUs Approved: Two MOUs providing catastrophic disability health insurance subsidies for police officers were approved. - Item Deferred: The Downtown Streetscape Project contract and associated budget ordinance were continued to the February 6, 2025 meeting due to an insufficient quorum for budget amendments. - Resolution Introduced: The water and sewer rate resolution was introduced and referred to committee.

The Frederick City Council convened a closed session on January 16, 2025, at 6:30 PM, pursuant to Maryland General Provisions Article 3-305(b)(1), to discuss the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, or performance evaluation of an appointee, employee, or official over whom it has jurisdiction. The stated reason for closing the meeting was to allow the council to candidly discuss a recommendation from the personnel board. A motion to convene was made and seconded, and all council members present voted in favor. No additional agenda items were discussed, and the meeting proceeded entirely in closed session.

The Frederick Planning Commission held its regular meeting on January 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting included approval of minutes, election of officers, discussion of updates to the commission's Rules of Procedure, and action on four development applications. All applications were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - The Commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes of December 9, 2024 (hearing), December 16, 2024 (workshop), and January 10, 2025 (pre-planning commission meeting). Public Comments & Testimony - Hannah Nickerson (resident of Sherman Avenue and member of East Frederick Rising) spoke during the Renn Quarter Phase 3 discussion. She asked about the status of shared-use paths connecting Monocacy Boulevard and Highland Street, questioned enforcement mechanisms, and inquired whether the project contributed to the active mobility fee fund. The applicant responded that the shared-use path is being constructed as part of the Monocacy Boulevard widening, which is underway, and that the project predates the mobility fee district but has a matrix of road improvement conditions tied to unit development. Discussion Items - Election of Officers: Chair Joan Strawson called for nominations. Commissioner Beattie nominated the slate: Joan Strawson as Chair, Dorothy Menelas as Vice Chair, and Natasha Valencia as Secretary. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Commissioners noted the value of rotating leadership. - Rules of Procedure Updates: Deputy Director Gabrielle Collard presented proposed changes to the commission's Rules of Procedure, necessitated by recent updates to the city code. Key substantive changes discussed include: - Attendance requirements (Section 2.6): Mirroring state law, a member who fails to attend at least 50% of meetings during any consecutive 12-month period shall be considered to have resigned. The provision for the commission to recommend removal was deleted; the city council will handle the process. - Speaking time (Section 3.3): Clarified that individuals or groups cannot cede their speaking time to another person or group. Individuals get 3 minutes, groups 10 minutes. - Voting and recusal (Sections 4.4-4.5): The commission discussed distinctions among recusal (conflict of interest, must leave room), abstention (qualified member chooses not to vote, still counts toward quorum), and ineligibility (unable to vote, does not count toward quorum). Staff will refine the language before the next meeting. - Reconsideration (Sections 8.4-8.5): A petition to reconsider makes the original decision null and void; review cannot be limited to a single condition. This mirrors Historic Preservation Commission rules. - Public notice for rule amendments: Changed from newspaper publication 15 days prior to 14 days to align with other public notice requirements. - Liaison role: The liaison is not a member of the commission but must follow rules of conduct. Further clarification on duties is expected. - The commission also discussed the need for regular training, especially for new members, and the ability to call special meetings for training (Section 2.5). No public comment was offered on the rules. The item will return for a vote at the February meeting. - Stulz Air Systems Final Site Plan (PC24-757FSI): Planner Sherry Kelly presented. The applicant seeks approval for a 7,400-square-foot metal storage building at 1560 and 1572 Tilco Drive, replacing a tent structure. The 10.6-acre property is zoned Light Industrial and lies in the Airport Overlay District. The building will straddle two lots; a consolidation plat is under review. The plan meets bulk/dimensional standards, impervious surface ratio (0.77 vs. 0.9 max), parking (297 spaces after loss of 22, minimum 114 required), loading, landscaping (11 new street trees), and stormwater management. The FAA and MAA issued letters of no hazard to air navigation. Staff recommended approval with two conditions: update APFO dates and add archaeological assessment note. The applicant concurred. No public comment. The commission voted unanimously to approve. - Frederick County Prospect Center Final Site Plan (PC24-559FSI): Planner Pam Reppert presented. The applicant requests approval for a 14,300-square-foot vehicle storage/maintenance building, a 3,500-square-foot data center (911 call center), an associated telecommunications tower, and renovations to the existing 207,843-square-foot building at 585 Himes Avenue to create a multifunctional government services center. The rezoning was approved by City Council on December 5, 2024, with conditions. A modification to LMC Section 605D (landscape buffer) is sought to eliminate level two screening along Oak Street due to underground utilities; compensating shrubs will be planted. The plan includes a 6,000-square-foot playground, solar arrays, covered bicycle parking, and maximized landscaping along Route 15. Staff recommended approval of the landscape modification and the final site plan with 10 conditions. The applicant answered questions about shrub species and heights (up to 25 feet). No public comment. The commission voted unanimously to approve both actions. - Frederick County Prospect Center Forest Conservation Plan (PC24-560FSCB): Planner Reppert presented. This companion application seeks approval of a combined forest stand delineation and preliminary forest conservation plan, along with a modification to remove three specimen trees (Nos. 4, 6, 11) due to construction constraints. The site has an afforestation requirement of 3.9 acres; the applicant proposes off-site credits at three county properties (Rhodes Hill Manor, Montague Campus, Monta View Campus South) plus on-site planting. Staff recommended approval of the modification (finding unwarranted hardship) and the forest plan with two conditions. The commission voted unanimously to approve both actions. - Renn Quarter Phase 3, Section 2 Combined Preliminary Plat and Final Site Plan (PC24-555PSU/FSI): Planner Reppert presented. The applicant requests approval for 101 townhouse units (15 fee-simple, 86 condominium townhouses) on 28.38 acres south of Monroe Avenue. The development includes public roads (including Big Al Cohen Boulevard), alleys, and private streets. A modification to Standard Street Detail ST-11.2 is requested to remove a sidewalk on one side of Big Al Cohen Boulevard to preserve existing trees and provide an increased landscape buffer; compensating features include a crosswalk near unit 67. Staff recommended approval of the modification and the combined plat/site plan with five conditions. The applicant explained the condominium townhouses will be rentals. Public comment from Hannah Nickerson addressed shared-use path completion and APFO contributions. The commission voted unanimously to approve both actions. Key Outcomes - Election of Officers: Joan Strawson (Chair), Dorothy Menelas (Vice Chair), Natasha Valencia (Secretary) – approved unanimously. - Rules of Procedure: Discussion held; revisions will be finalized and voted on at the February 2025 meeting. - Stulz Air Systems Final Site Plan (PC24-757FSI): Approved unanimously with two conditions. - Frederick County Prospect Center Landscape Modification: Approved unanimously. - Frederick County Prospect Center Final Site Plan (PC24-559FSI): Approved unanimously with 10 conditions. - Frederick County Prospect Center Forest Conservation Modification (specimen tree removal): Approved unanimously. - Frederick County Prospect Center Forest Stand Delineation/Preliminary Forest Conservation Plan (PC24-560FSCB): Approved unanimously with two conditions. - Renn Quarter Phase 3, Section 2 Street Detail Modification: Approved unanimously. - Renn Quarter Phase 3, Section 2 Combined Preliminary Plat and Final Site Plan (PC24-555PSU/FSI): Approved unanimously with five conditions.

The Frederick City Council held a regular public meeting on January 2, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The meeting covered approval of prior minutes, an appointment to the Fair Housing Commission, extensive public comment on several topics, a donation agreement for a new library, introduction of a legislative districting ordinance, and discussion of proposed standing committees. Public Comments & Testimony - Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) Opposition: Steve Brown (Frederick resident) opposed RCV, arguing it complicates elections and reduces transparency. Fred Propheter cited studies from Maine and Alaska showing increased ballot errors and delays. Kat Harper noted 60-80% opposition in recent state referendums. Willie Mahone expressed support for RCV, saying it expands democracy. - Ceasefire Resolution in Gaza: Multiple speakers urged the council to pass a local ceasefire resolution. Zoe Dell (Jewish resident) cited humanitarian concerns and called for action. Arian referenced Eisenhower and MLK. Salvey Mortensen noted $17.9 billion in U.S. military aid to Israel (Oct 2023-Oct 2024). Tess, Yusuf, Hebametwelli, and others voiced support. Willie Mahone read from MLK’s writings and announced a rally on February 2, 2025, at 2 PM at Winchester Hall. - Non-Citizen Voting Opposition: Jay Kaminsky argued the council’s decision to allow non-citizen voting was made with insufficient public notice; he cited a successful petition drive. Ralph Siegrist, Shelley Alloy, Jennifer Charlton, and Kate Sullivan criticized the decision as unconstitutional and urged a referendum. Councilmember Kassem responded that the issue was discussed for 18 months and that city residents had ample opportunity to comment. - Mayor’s Statements on Vulnerable Communities: Ed Mooney (New Market resident) applauded Mayor O’Connor’s support for LGBTQ+ students and education policies, noting 60% of votes in the recent Board of Education election favored pro-443 candidates (70% within city limits). He criticized ties between campaign staff and an SPLC-recognized anti-LGBTQ hate group. - Immigrant Defense Fund: Kaiser Sosa opposed the mayor’s proposed fund, calling it a political stunt and arguing it wastes taxpayer money. Ben spoke in favor, stating immigrants deserve protection. - Other Topics: John Milk spoke against abortion pills. Sam Rosenblum offered a prayer for IDF. Several speakers criticized illegal immigration and expressed concerns about public safety. Discussion Items - Donation Agreement for West Side Library (IX.B.1): The city proposes donating a parcel of land (currently a park) to Frederick County for construction of a public library. Key points debated: - Reversionary clause: City would reclaim property if library development not commenced within six years or closed within five. - Ball field replacement: Section 13 required the city to replace an existing unused baseball field at West Side Regional Park. Councilmember Russell and Councilmember Nash objected, arguing the field is obsolete and the provision gives the county input on city CIP. Councilmember Nash moved to strike Section 13.B (baseball field). - Timeline: Councilmember O’Connor wanted a two-year ground-breaking deadline; Councilmember Nash proposed changing the reversionary clause from six to three years to ensure urgency. County representatives confirmed they plan to start construction by winter 2027 and have full funding in CIP. - Introduction of Ordinance G-25-01 (Legislative Districts): The council introduced an ordinance establishing five legislative districts for the 2025 city election, in accordance with charter amendments passed September 2024. - Discussion of Proposed Legislative Standing Committees: The council president proposed three committees: Land Use; Public Safety; Community Development, Housing, Health & Education; and Government Operations. Councilmember Russell raised concerns about workload balance and lack of reference to strategic plans, but indicated willingness to serve. The proposal was discussed but no vote taken. Key Outcomes - Approved Minutes of December 5, 2024 (unanimous). - Appointment of Stephanie Kelley to the Fair Housing Commission for a three-year term (January 3, 2025 – January 2, 2028) (unanimous). - Donation Agreement Approved with Amendments (4-0): Section 13.B (baseball field) was struck; Section 15 reversionary timeline changed from six years to three years from the deed date. The agreement authorizes the mayor to execute the deed, with settlement anticipated January 9, 2025. - Ordinance G-25-01 Introduced (first reading). A public hearing will be scheduled. - Legislative Standing Committees: Discussion held; no formal action taken. Council president will refine proposal based on input.

The Frederick City Council held its regular public meeting on December 19, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included approval of minutes, appointments to various boards, public comments on non-citizen voting, and approval of several consent agenda items and public hearing purchases. All votes were unanimous (4-0). Consent Calendar - Release of Sureties and Acceptance of Public Improvements: Approved release of Great American Insurance Company bonds for Kellerton Land Bay B projects: $303,608.86 for Hillfield Drive, Heartland Circle, and Bluegrass Way improvements; $122,847.26 for mass grading. The city accepted the public improvements. - Parkland Dedication: Accepted Sycamore Ridge City Park J Phase 2, a 2.07-acre parcel from Sycamore Ridge, LLC. - Special Ordinance S-24-34: Approved a budget amendment for the city's Compost Pilot Program, funded by a USDA grant. - Special Ordinance S-24-35: Approved a budget amendment for a Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention BJAG Grant. Public Comments & Testimony - Jay Kaminski (Frederick County resident): Expressed opposition to the council's decision to allow non-citizen voting in city elections without a public referendum. He stated that approximately 2,000 city residents signed petitions against the measure in a 40-day drive, and noted that New York City's similar law was overturned as unconstitutional. He warned he would make this a major issue in the upcoming election. - Shelley Aloy (City of Frederick resident): Opposed non-citizen voting, noting that her petition gathered 2,003 signatures in 40 days (17 times more than the Rise Coalition's 132 signatures over two years). She alleged that the council's decision was influenced by the Western Maryland Rise Coalition, and pointed out that Councilmember Nash's former husband is a founding member of that coalition and president of the Maryland ACLU board. She urged the council to reconsider or place guardrails on the decision. Discussion Items - Council Comments: Councilmembers made closing remarks wishing everyone a happy holiday season and emphasizing unity. No substantive discussion on agenda items occurred. Key Outcomes - Approved Appointments: Jake Thurman to the Active Mobility Advisory Committee (term to May 2029), Jay Sedgewick to the Weinberg Center board (term to June 2029), Paul Fitzgerald to the Historic Preservation Commission (term January 18, 2025 to January 17, 2028), and Barbara Kershner-Daniel to the Ethics Commission (term December 20, 2024 to December 19, 2027). - Approved Minutes: November 21, 2024 meeting minutes. - Purchase Order Amendment: Approved increasing a purchase order from $19,678.43 to $55,882 for repair of decanting centrifuge bowl assembly 2 at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. - Field Renovation at McCurdy Field: Approved a $265,800 purchase order to Hummer Turf for grading, irrigation, and sod installation. - Bleacher Replacement at McCurdy Field: Approved a $55,959 purchase order to Outdoor Aluminum for two aluminum bleachers with ADA access and safety upgrades. - Medicare Advantage Plan: Approved a one-year agreement with Cigna Health Spring for Medicare-eligible retirees, covering 273 individuals at a cost of just under $580,000, fully funded in the FY25 budget. - Pulled Items: Two items were pulled from the agenda: the Safe Streets for All Action Plan contract with Mead & Hunt ($218,645) and the removal of deed restriction and parkland dedication for Independent Hose property.

The Frederick Planning Commission held a workshop on December 16, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. in City Hall. The workshop covered two agenda items: a final site plan and forest conservation plan for Frederick Subaru, and an annexation and zoning map amendment for High Glen (Great Southern) and Faith Reformed Presbyterian Church. No public comments were received, and no formal votes were taken; the commission discussed the projects and provided feedback for future steps. Discussion Items Frederick Subaru Final Site Plan and Forest Conservation Plan (PC24-762FSI, PC24-763FSCB) - Mary Patton and John Mazellan of Fox & Associates presented on behalf of owner Jim Warfield. The project involves reconfiguring lot lines to allow a 34,000-square-foot expansion of the existing Subaru dealership, adding 19 service bays. The site is located at 1417 West Patrick Street, within the Golden Mile Small Area Plan. - Three modification requests were presented: (1) reduce lot line screening along a portion of the northern property line adjacent to a commercial shopping center, where a stormwater facility is proposed; (2) waive lot line screening between the Subaru site and the adjacent Frederick Motor Company site, as the two sites will function as one overall property; (3) allow light spillover of 0.1 foot-candles at three property line locations (east, west, and north) adjacent to commercial areas, with lights limited to 18 feet in height and the option to install shields. - A fourth modification (parking lot landscaping) was noted by staff as not requiring a separate request because the applicant meets the total required area through existing and proposed plantings, including forest conservation trees. - Commissioner Beattie disclosed he purchased vehicles from Frederick Motor Company but received no benefit. He and others asked about lot line replatting, bike parking locations, and tree counts; staff clarified that the forest planting offsets tree requirements and that the staff report language would be corrected. - Staff (Monica) confirmed that most intersections operate at acceptable levels, an archaeological assessment found no further action needed, and SHA has no issues. The applicant will return with a revised plat after the site plan advances. Annexation and Zoning Map Amendment for High Glen / Great Southern and Faith Reformed Presbyterian Church (PC24-664ANX, PC24-665ZMA) - Jonathan Pembroke and Mary Patton of Fox & Associates, joined by Bruce Dean, presented. The annexation involves five parcels totaling 71.94 acres: Johnson residence (0.5 acre), Faith Reformed Presbyterian Church (4.08 acres), Marvin Osherman’s personal residence known as High Glen, and two parcels owned by Great Southern Investment LLC (56 acres total). The Doll property was not included. - The property would be annexed into the city with R4 base zoning for most parcels and an institutional floating zone for the church site to avoid non-conforming use. The applicant stated there is no current plan for development; the owner seeks to have the property annexed now so it is under city jurisdiction for future planning. - Staff recommended several annexation agreement conditions: interim taxes to offset city services, contributions toward the water tank site and North Branch Trail, a per-unit fee ($8,000 per unit, CPI-escalated, payable at building permit) for road improvements, and a restriction on access to Yellow Springs Road only (not Christopher's Crossing) to preserve the arterial’s function. - Commissioners discussed the lack of a development plan, the potential for a future PND or mixed-use, and the ability to amend the annexation agreement in the future if needed. Commissioner Beattie noted the property makes sense for annexation given its location surrounded by city development. Staff explained that the access restriction can be changed through a future amendment process. - No public comment was received. The commission will continue to consider the annexation and rezoning at a future public hearing. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were taken at this workshop. Items will return for public hearings and future commission action. - For the Subaru project, staff and the applicant will address the minor issues raised (tree count clarification, replatting) before returning for a final review. - For the annexation, the commission will consider the staff recommendations and public input at subsequent meetings; the annexation agreement terms will be negotiated with the city council.