Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a public meeting on October 3, 2024, at 7:00 PM. Key actions included approval of a purchase order, a forest conservation planting agreement, reconsideration and approval of conditions for a major rezoning and master plan (Wormans Mill Court), and adoption of several ordinances implementing charter changes. The meeting also featured a proclamation for World Habitat Day, public comments on a Middle East ceasefire resolution, and discussions on emergency planning and security. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from September 5, 2024, were approved by a vote of 4-0. - Purchase Order – Decanting Centrifuge Bowl (X.A.1): Approved a $129,620 purchase order from Alfa Laval Inc. for a spare centrifuge bowl assembly for the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Vote: 4-0. - Sycamore Springs Forest Conservation Planting (X.B.1): Approved a request to plant 3.09 acres of forest conservation area on parkland dedicated to the City as part of the Sycamore Springs Planned Neighborhood Development. Vote: 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - World Habitat Day Proclamation: Mayor O'Connor proclaimed October 7, 2024, as World Habitat Day in Frederick. Representatives from Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County (Scott McCaskill and Nicole Rolls) spoke about the organization's work and President Jimmy Carter's legacy. - Charter Review: Tom Lynch (34 East All St.) thanked the Charter Review Committee, staff, and the Board for prompt action on charter recommendations. - Ceasefire Resolution: Multiple speakers (Tina Meadows O'Rear, Grady O'Rear, Emily Van Norden, Annette Brilling, Khalil El Shazley, Jamie Morar) urged the Board to adopt a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. They cited U.S. complicity, international law violations, and the need to add Frederick's voice to over 150 other jurisdictions. No council member made a motion on this item. - Wormans Mill Court Rezoning/Master Plan: - Eric Anderson (Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County) expressed strong support for the project, citing the need for workforce housing and the positive impact of the Rails with Trails contribution. - Heather Goddard (East Frederick Rising) supported the project, emphasizing its proximity to retail, schools, and the enhanced Rails with Trails contribution. Discussion Items - Aldermanic Business – Emergency Planning and Event Security: Alderwoman Nash called for a formal review of the city’s emergency planning, security, police services, and crisis response. She expressed concerns about private security contracts and requested transparency. Alderwoman Kazemchek asked to broaden the conversation to include costs of city events and who pays for police support. No formal resolution was introduced; discussion was deferred to future workshops. - Reconsideration of Conditions for Wormans Mill Court Rezoning (X.B.2): Following a September 5 vote that imposed conditions the applicant could not accept, the Board reconsidered. The applicant proposed replacing the on-site forest conservation condition (Condition C) with a $1,188,000 contribution to CIP project 38004 (phase three pedestrian bridge over MD 26) for planning, design, and construction. Staff recommended removing the phrase "to be applied to the city's anticipated 20% match" to avoid limiting the use of funds. The Board debated the language and the value of the contribution. The motion passed 3-1 (Russell opposed), adopting four revised conditions: (A) contribution equal to cost of constructing an at-grade shared-use path bisecting the property; (B) developer to fully fund access points across Rails with Trails; (C) $1,188,000 contribution for phase three of the bridge; (D) Hum Lane access limited to emergency vehicles. - Ordinance G-24-16 – Planning Commission (X.D.1): Transfers planning commission provisions from charter to city code and removes the requirement for a voting elected official, replacing it with a non-voting liaison. Passed 3-1 (Russell opposed). Alderman Russell argued that a voting elected member provides accountability. - Ordinance G-24-17 – Zoning Board of Appeals (X.D.2): Transfers zoning board of appeals provisions from charter to code and updates removal procedures per state law. Passed unanimously (4-0). - Ordinance G-24-18 – Compensation Commission (X.D.3): Establishes a compensation commission to recommend salary amounts for the mayor and council. Discussion arose about whether the charter allows the council to reduce salaries; language was unclear. The item was deferred to second reader (vote 4-0) to allow time for clarification. - Ordinance G-24-19 – Personnel Board (X.D.4): Transfers personnel board provisions from charter to code. An amendment was made to strike membership options allowing non-residents, requiring all members to be city residents. Passed 3-1 (Shackelford opposed). - Ordinance G-24-15 – Rezoning to MU-2 (X.D.5): Rezones 11.54 acres (parcels at Wormans Mill Court, North Market Street, and adjacent to US 15 off-ramp) from General Commercial and Light Industrial to Mixed-Use floating zone (MU-2). Staff presented findings of fact. Alderwoman Kazemchek sought explicit language linking the contribution to the Rails with Trails bridge as a compensating feature. Language was added to the findings. Passed 3-1 (Russell opposed). - Resolution 24-17 – Master Plan for Wormans Mill Court Apartments (X.D.6): Approves the master plan for a mixed-use development with up to 315 multifamily units and 5,000 square feet of nonresidential space, along with a finding of adequacy for failing intersections (MD 26 at Monocacy Boulevard and MD 26 at Wormans Mill Road). Staff revised the resolution to correct dates and to change the Hum Lane condition to an emergency-access-only driveway with a 20-foot paved road and trail connection. Passed 3-1 (Russell opposed). Key Outcomes - Purchase Order Approved: $129,620 for centrifuge bowl (4-0). - Forest Conservation Planting Approved: Sycamore Springs (4-0). - Revised Conditions for Wormans Mill Rezoning Adopted: Four conditions including $1,188,000 contribution toward the Rails with Trails bridge over MD 26. Vote: 3-1. - Rezoning (G-24-15) Approved: 11.54 acres rezoned to MU-2, incorporating revised conditions. Vote: 3-1. - Master Plan (Resolution 24-17) Approved: Up to 315 units, 5,000 sq ft nonresidential, with modifications. Vote: 3-1. - Ordinances Adopted: G-24-16 (Planning Commission, 3-1), G-24-17 (ZBA, 4-0), G-24-19 (Personnel Board amended, 3-1). - Ordinance G-24-18 Deferred: Compensation commission ordinance deferred to second reader for clarification on salary reduction authority (4-0). - No Action on Ceasefire Resolution: No motion was made; public comments were received.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a workshop on October 2, 2024, to discuss the city's 2025 legislative priorities, a proposed ordinance to ban invasive bamboo, and a proposed ordinance to expand collective bargaining rights to non-sworn city employees. The meeting began with the approval of minutes from September 18, 2024 (3-0, with Alderman Kazemchak and Alderman McShane absent). Public Comments - Denise Gilmore, Legislative and Political Director for AFSCME Maryland, offered six suggestions to modernize the draft collective bargaining ordinance: (1) remove a reference to the Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights, (2) change unit composition from department-based to a community-of-interest model, (3) establish an 18-month recognition window after enactment instead of a rigid October window, (4) consider card-check certification as an alternative to an election, (5) broaden the scope of bargaining to "wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment" rather than a list of topics, and (6) include binding arbitration as the final step in the grievance procedure. She praised the council for being proactive. Discussion Items 1. Legislative Priorities Update - Chief of Staff Guyon Sampson presented a legislative agenda for the 2025 Maryland General Assembly session, based on a community survey (480 responses) and three town halls (total attendance 100). Top transportation priority: traffic calming. Top community development priority: park improvements for connectivity and access. Top non-capital priority: expanding mental health services, followed by incentivizing bicycle/pedestrian safety and re-entry opportunities. - Staff reviewed past state funding trends, noting that District 3 received $15M in FY24 and $18M in FY25. A list of shovel-ready capital projects under $5 million was provided. Non-capital priorities were grouped into equity, public safety, and sustainability. - Council members discussed how to translate survey results into specific requests for the state delegation. They agreed to present the data to the delegation at a breakfast meeting on October 9, 2024, and to seek alignment on policy and capital funding. Staff committed to providing more frequent updates during the legislative session. 2. Proposed Ordinance Concerning Invasive Bamboo - Staff presented an ordinance, enabled by 2023 state legislation, to ban the sale and planting of invasive bamboo species, with a $500 civil penalty. - Discussion focused on whether the ordinance should apply to large retailers (e.g., Home Depot) since state law already prohibits distribution of invasive plants. Alderman Russell expressed concern about the financial burden on property owners required to mitigate bamboo and the technical difficulty of removal. The council agreed to clarify the ordinance's scope (individuals vs. businesses) and to consult with code enforcement and the extension service. No vote was taken. 3. Proposed Ordinance to Enable Collective Bargaining for Non-Sworn Employees - The ordinance, mirroring the police employee relations article (Chapter 17, Article II), would grant collective bargaining rights to all non-sworn city employees. The city's charter requires such an enabling ordinance, which has never been enacted. - Key points: the recognition window (October), the use of the existing Labor Relations Panel (or creation of a separate panel), and the absence of binding arbitration. Alderman Nash expressed support but stressed the need for binding arbitration. AFSCME's public comments echoed that and offered detailed amendments. - The sponsor agreed to work with the legal department to incorporate feedback. No vote was taken. Key Outcomes - The minutes of September 18, 2024, were approved (3-0, with two members absent). - No ordinances were adopted; both items are expected to return for further discussion and possible introduction. - The legislative priorities will be presented to the state delegation on October 9, 2024. The city will submit Local Bill Initiatives (LBIs) and advocate for capital and policy priorities. Governor Moore is anticipated to visit Frederick before the session begins. - Staff will update the collective bargaining ordinance based on public and council input.

The Frederick City Historic Preservation Commission met on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting included a public hearing, consideration of minutes, a demolition review, a case for a splash pad and landscaping, and workshop discussions on a multi-building development project and a rear addition to a historic home. Key actions included approving minutes, deciding not to pursue historic designation for a farm property, approving a park improvement with conditions, and setting future workshop dates for two pending cases. Announcements - The election of officers, originally scheduled for this meeting, was postponed to the next agenda (October 10, 2024) due to an omission in the agenda. - Case HPC24-702 (127 E. 6th Street) failed to meet public notice requirements; no action was taken. The project will be reviewed at the October 24, 2024 meeting. - Case HPC24-705 (18 Lord Nickens Street) was continued to the October 10, 2024 hearing. - Commissioner Paul Fitzgerald recused himself from HPC24-702. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the September 12, 2024, hearing and workshop were approved unanimously. - The minutes from the September 12, 2024, site visit to 127 E. 6th Street were approved unanimously. HPC Business – Demolition Review HPC24-679DR – 8907 Gas House Pike (Molin Property) - Staff presented a request for demolition review for all existing buildings at the Molin property. Five structures under 50 years old were cleared for demolition; the remaining structures (built 1889 and later) were evaluated for historic significance. Staff determined the property lacks historic integrity and significance due to extensive alterations and loss of early farm buildings. - Commissioner Anne Hart questioned the significance of agricultural land; staff replied that better-preserved farmsteads exist in Frederick County. - Decision: The Commission voted unanimously not to pursue historic designation for the property, effectively allowing demolition. Cases to Be Heard HPC24-743 – 101 N. Bentz Street (Tally Recreation Center Playground Improvements) - Applicant Brent Turner presented a proposal for a splash pad, seat walls, pathways, site furnishings, and removal of three trees (one existing Zelkova and two cherry trees to be relocated). Staff noted that the scope of work lacked detail on a proposed wire fence. - The Commission discussed tree removal, fence details, and appropriate materials. Commissioner Robert Van Rens supported the project, noting the materials were compatible with the historic district. - Decision: The Commission approved the application unanimously with a condition that the applicant update the scope of work to include fence details for staff-level review. Workshop Agenda HPC24-477 – 1730 N. Market Street (Level 1 Amendment) - Applicant Tim Kamas presented revised plans for a mixed-use development on the former Trout & Sons site. The amendment sought to reconfigure density, replacing a multi-family building with townhouses to create a transition to adjacent single-family homes. Key staff concerns included: reintroducing new construction close to historic buildings contrary to previous approval, increased massing, lack of detailed elevations initially, and insufficient green space near buildings. - Commissioners discussed: building height (three-story townhomes with gabled roofs vs. previous three-story civic market building), lot coverage, and the need for more landscaping between buildings and parking. The applicant agreed to re-examine a three-building option from a prior expansion that better respects the historic cottage plan and to break up long roof lines. - Outcome: The workshop concluded with a consensus to hold another workshop after the applicant revises plans. Action items include: reworking the two main buildings to reduce massing and lower heights, shifting back to the three-building plan, and providing clearer documentation of changes. HPC24-739 – 147 W. South Street (Residential Addition) - Applicant Mike Grewe proposed a two-story, 180-square-foot rear addition to a historic brick dwelling. Staff noted that the demolition of the entire rear brick wall (estimated 300-400 sq ft) would trigger demolition review; the guidelines strongly discourage removing exterior walls. The applicant expressed a desire for a large kitchen, but commissioners recommended using existing window openings to create doors instead of removing the wall. - Discussion covered materials: the applicant proposed HardyPlank siding (smooth finish considered acceptable), a standing seam metal roof (product literature needed), and a PVC railing (Commission preferred wood matching existing). Commissioner Van Rens opposed removing the rear wall, stating it would damage historic fabric. - Outcome: The case will be continued to a future hearing (likely October 24, 2024) after the applicant submits a demolition application or revises the design to reuse existing openings. Staff will assist the applicant in determining the correct demolition threshold. Key Outcomes - Minutes from September 12, 2024, approved unanimously. - 8907 Gas House Pike – No historic designation; demolition allowed. - 101 N. Bentz Street – Approved with condition to clarify fence details. - 1730 N. Market Street – Workshop continued; applicant to revise plans focusing on massing, green space, and a possible return to a three-building layout. - 147 W. South Street – Workshop continued; applicant to either submit a demolition application or revise design to preserve the rear wall. - Next meetings: October 10, 2024 (includes election of officers) and October 24, 2024.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a workshop on September 25, 2024, at 3:00 PM. The primary agenda item was an annual update presentation from East Frederick Rising (EFR), a community development organization. The consent calendar was approved unanimously (4-0) with Alderman McSheen absent. No public comments were given. Consent Calendar - Release of Surety: Approved the release of a $32,759.65 Hartford Casualty Insurance Company bond posted by Canterbury Station Development, Inc. for improvements to the Canterbury Station – East Street @ 16th Street project. - Grants: Accepted a Maryland Department of Transportation Highway Safety Grant. - Special Ordinances: Approved a special ordinance to amend the FY2025 budget to include revenue and expenditures for the MDOT Highway Safety Grant. - Request to Serve Alcohol on Public Property: Approved a request for alcohol service during a Maryland Economic Development hosted Main Street Conference kick-off event on October 7, 2024, from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM within a designated area. Discussion Items - Presentation of East Street Rising Annual Update: - Heather Goddard (President, EFR) and Vicky Understein (Vice President) presented the organization's progress over the past 18 months. EFR was founded in 2010 and covers 2,200 acres in East Frederick. The board has 13 directors representing five neighborhoods, major employers (First United Bank, Frederick County Public Schools, Dairy Maid, Frederick Magazine), and diverse professional backgrounds. The organization has no paid staff except a part-time communications and outreach coordinator. - Key accomplishments included: updating bylaws, purchasing insurance, expanding the board by nine members since May 2023, building a social media presence with over 900 followers, raising $1,050 from non-board sources, and hosting a community meet-and-greet (May 2024) that attracted strong interest. EFR spent down a prior banked balance from about $40,000 to roughly $11,000. They are currently unfunded by the city but seek a future multi-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) without requesting financial assistance at this time. - EFR's advocacy efforts included: submitting public comments on development projects (e.g., Brickworks school site, parkland location), writing letters in support of the downtown hotel, flood control funding, and the Arts Council grant; assisting with street naming; and initiating communication with Frederick County Public Schools regarding school capacity. They track over 4,000 residential units in the pipeline. - Aldermen expressed strong appreciation for the presentation and the organization's revitalization. Questions addressed: the lack of current city funding (EFR confirmed they are unfunded), the financial history, future vision (e.g., gateway project at the Circle, pedestrian bridge, linear park, site J and K, connectivity), and the status of the form-based code initiative (EFR reports regular updates from city planning liaisons). Aldermen noted the importance of connectivity to Lucas Village and encouraged continued engagement. - EFR moved its board meetings to the fourth Thursday of the month to allow aldermen to attend. An alderman (sustainable monocussy and airport commission) indicated a desire to attend future meetings. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar items were approved unanimously (4-0). - No formal vote was taken on the EFR presentation, but the board expressed support for the organization's direction and encouraged continued partnership. - EFR will provide financial documents to the city upon request. - The organization will continue to advocate for East Frederick initiatives, including form-based code, Rails with Trails, school capacity, and connectivity projects. - An alderman committed to attempting to attend EFR board meetings.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen (City Council) held a public meeting on September 19, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The meeting covered routine approvals, public comments on global and local issues, and a comprehensive series of charter amendment resolutions. Key decisions included adopting a five-district, two at-large council structure; enacting term limits; and allowing non-citizen residents to vote in city elections. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from August 15, 2024 (5-0). - Appointed Lee Hand to the Zoning Board of Appeals through September 21, 2026 (5-0). - Approved four grant agreements: $138,645 for Supportive Services in Permanent Supportive Housing (HUD), $64,000 for the Maryland Housing Counseling Fund, a Maryland Community Action Partnership grant for 2-G services, and a Maryland Department of Emergency Management flood mitigation grant. - Accepted 11.698 acres of parkland at West Park Village Parcel A and 1.668 acres at Kellerton Land Bay B Parcel B (both 5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Ceasefire Resolution: Multiple residents (Haya Morrar, Tina Meadows O'Reilly, Grady O'Rear, Eric Clements, Rachel Rice, Kelly Esslinger, Willie Mahone, Seth, Tasneem) urged the council to adopt a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, citing humanitarian crisis and aligning with over 150 U.S. jurisdictions. Speakers emphasized moral duty and local government's role in advocating for peace. - Non-Citizen Voting: Eric Clements, Rachel Rice, Kelly Esslinger, Viviana Westbrook, Maggie Currier, Jessica Douglas, and others supported extending voting rights to all residents regardless of citizenship status, arguing for inclusivity, community involvement, and public safety benefits. Opponents (e.g., Shelley Alloy, Kurt Bossler) urged guardrails or respect for naturalization process. - Ranked Choice Voting: Eric Clements and Rachel Rice advocated for ranked choice voting, citing examples from Takoma Park. Discussion Items - Reconsideration of Rezoning Conditions (11.54 acres near Wormans Mill Court): The board voted 4-1 to reconsider conditions applied to a rezoning from GC/M1 to MU-2. The underlying rezoning and master plan were untabled and continued to October 3, 2024, by a 3-2 vote (Russell, Kazemchak opposed). - Charter Amendment Resolutions (24-18 through 24-25): Extensive deliberation on eight resolutions to revise the city charter. Key highlights: - Resolution A (Charter Consolidation): Changed name from Board of Aldermen to City Council; added minimum age 18 for office; established compensation commission with March 1 deadline; removed requirement for chief administrative officer; revised quorum to majority; added residency and ethics provisions. Passed 5-0 after amendments. - Resolution B (Structure & Council President): Created a City Council President and Vice President elected by council; clarified vacancy succession. Passed 5-0 with amendments. - Resolution C (Districts): Establishes 5 districts and 2 at-large seats; requires district council members to reside in their district (with one-year residency requirement starting 2029). Passed 4-1 (Russell opposed). - Resolution D (Term Limits): Council members limited to three consecutive terms; mayor limited to two consecutive terms; individuals may run again after a full term out of office. Passed 3-2 (Shackelford, Russell opposed). - Resolution E (Open Primaries): Motion to reject semi-open primaries passed 5-0 based on legal concerns from staff. - Resolution F (Administration): Mayor to appoint directors for core functions (budget, economic development, finance, housing, legal, planning, police, public works); removed specific chief administrative officer, city attorney, and chief of police requirements from charter. Passed 5-0. - Resolution G (Voter Qualifications): Allows all city residents, regardless of citizenship status, to register and vote in city elections; city clerk maintains supplemental registry. Amended to add “regardless of citizenship status” in Section 2.2b. Passed 4-1 (Russell opposed). - Resolution H (Legislative Process): Allows ordinances to be introduced by one or more council members; provides for public notice and approval; sets five votes to override mayor’s veto (assuming seven-member council). Passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - Votes on Charter Amendments: All eight resolutions passed with majority support. Notable split votes on districts (4-1), term limits (3-2), and non-citizen voting (4-1). - Deferrals and Continuations: Rezoning reconsideration continued to October 3, 2024. Related ordinances (G-24-16 to G-24-19) postponed to next agenda. - Purchases Approved: $335,000 for airport apron design (Delta Airport Consultants) and $63,562 for server hardware (Tan Consulting) – both 5-0. - Youth Center Agreements: Approved four items for the Scotty's Bus Lane Youth Center: property acquisition (donation), MOU with Ausherman Family Foundation, property management, and lease – all 5-0. - CIP Deferral: Approved deferral agreement with Amerco (U-Haul) for $98,000 towards front improvements – 5-0. - Mitigation Agreement: Approved water mitigation agreement for Bloomfields development – 5-0.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen met on September 18, 2024, at 3:00 PM in City Hall for a workshop focusing on two sustainability initiatives: the Residential Compost Pilot Program and proposed amendments to City Code Chapter 32 regarding low impact landscaping. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, staff presentations, board discussion, and public comments. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (September 4, 2024): Approved 4-0 (Alderman Nash absent). Motion by Alderman Shaker, second by Alderwoman Kazemchek. Public Comments & Testimony Residential Compost Pilot Program: - Patrice Gallagher (East Fifth Street resident): Praised the program, noting it aligns with prior county-level recommendations for composting and education. She expressed hope the city’s leadership would influence the county’s new solid waste director. - Kathy Kinsey (Chair, Government Affairs and Policy Committee, Mobilize Frederick): Submitted written comments expressing strong support for continuing the program. She suggested exploring commingling (compostable bags in regular trash, then sorted) and advocated for the city to support Maryland General Assembly legislation (HB 1318) that would impose a $2/ton waste disposal surcharge to fund local composting programs. Low Impact Landscaping Code Amendments: - Kathy Kinsey (Mobilize Frederick): Submitted written comments in support of the ordinance, noting that individual actions like native landscaping can address climate change and provide ecological benefits. - Brandon Carberry (West South Street resident, native plant nursery owner): Supported the 85% native plant requirement, cited national trends (one in four Americans purchasing native plants), and suggested providing pre-planned garden examples from University of Maryland resources during the six-month implementation period. Discussion Items 1. Residential Compost Pilot Program Update and Options Sustainability Manager Jen Willoughby presented data on the program’s first year of citywide operation: - Participation: Over 1,400 households (4.7% of eligible households); average 47 pounds composted per household per month. Total: 397 tons (nearly 1 million pounds) diverted. A community drop-off site opened in the last month received over 1,000 pounds with zero contamination. - Costs: Program costs $19/household/month. Current total cost $332,000/year. If participation reaches an estimated maximum of 30% (without a mandate), cost would be $2.1 million/year, offset by $190,000 in reduced tipping fees (net $1.9 million). Current tipping fee at county transfer station: $73.46/ton. - Funding: Grant-funded (USDA) through June 30, 2025; grant covers $200,000 with $100,000 city match. Marketing outreach (22 media mentions, 8 million+ impressions, 17 events) has been effective. - Barriers: Pay-as-you-throw is not feasible with current automated trucks. Restaurant/commercial composting was previously studied and found problematic due to training turnover and wastewater treatment plant compatibility. - Board discussion: Aldermen asked about cost recovery, yard waste diversion data, and potential for requiring participation. Staff noted that mandatory programs elsewhere (e.g., Berkeley, CA) often lead to high contamination rates. The board leaned toward continuing the program as a free service funded through the city budget, with further cost analysis expected during budget season. 2. Low Impact Landscaping Code Amendments Jen Willoughby presented a draft ordinance adding definitions and standards to Chapter 32 (weed ordinance): - Key requirements: Low impact landscapes (including pollinator gardens, rain gardens, xeriscapes, meadows) must contain at least 85% native species, no noxious weeds, and may include turf grass and walkways. Meadows limited to one acre or larger with annual invasive species evaluation. - Purpose: Provides a framework for residents to install low impact landscapes without HOA or city weed ordinance violations. State law (HB 322, 2021/2022) already prohibits HOAs from banning such landscapes; this ordinance extends protections citywide. - Implementation timeline: Staff requested at least six months before the ordinance becomes effective to develop outreach materials, websites, and educational resources. Board discussed options: passing the ordinance now with a six-month effective date (allowing planning over winter for spring planting) versus waiting. Staff noted that without an effective date, current weed ordinance enforcement would continue until the new code is active. The board expressed support for moving forward with a six-month effective date. Key Outcomes - Compost Pilot Program: The board gave general guidance to continue the program and asked staff to bring back cost-recovery options during the FY2026 budget process. No formal vote was taken. - Low Impact Landscaping Ordinance: The board directed staff to proceed with the ordinance, with the understanding that it will be passed with a six-month effective date to allow for public education and outreach. The final ordinance language and effective date will be brought back for a vote at a future meeting. - Elected Officials’ Comments: Alderman Nash expressed interest in converting city green spaces to native landscaping. Alderman Russell reminded residents of Car Free Day on Monday, September 23, 2024. Alderman McShane celebrated his birthday (age 43). The mayor announced a Hispanic Heritage Month briefing at 5:30 PM that evening.

The Frederick Planning Commission held a workshop on September 16, 2024, to discuss three items: a final site plan for the Frederick County Prospect Center, a preliminary plat for the Brickworks development, and a zoning map amendment for Hillcrest Park. No votes were taken; the commission provided feedback and guidance for further revisions. Public Comments & Testimony - For the Prospect Center, one speaker complimented the inclusion of solar panels on all buildings. - For Brickworks, Kevin Sellner (East Frederick Rising) expressed concern about reliance on fee-in-lieu for forest conservation and urged requirements for tree planting on each parcel. He also asked about the status of the voluntary cleanup plan. Heather Goddard (East Frederick Rising) advocated for a shared-use path connection between East Street and South Street under power lines, citing the East Frederick Vision plan. - No public comment was made for the Hillcrest Park item. Frederick County Prospect Center (Final Site Plan and Forest Conservation Plan) - Applicant Peter Soprano (Site Resources) presented plans to renovate the existing 207,000-square-foot building at 585 Himes Avenue into county government offices, a vehicle storage building, and a data center. The site is currently zoned PB but is undergoing a zoning map amendment to IST. Modifications were requested for landscaping buffers due to underground/overhead utilities, for parking lot landscaping on an undeveloped western lot, and for two specimen trees (one in poor condition, one non-native). A potential fourth modification for loading spaces was noted. The forest conservation plan proposes 3.89 acres of afforestation, with on-site planting and off-site areas at Rose Hill Manor and Montague campus. - Commission questions addressed tree screening near the data tower, the percentage of parking lot landscaping, loading zone requirements, and the need for detailed afforestation sheets. Staff reminded that the institutional floating zone approval is pending, and the site plan hearing will not be scheduled until the zoning is in place. Brickworks (Preliminary Plat and Forest Conservation Plan) - Applicant Chris Maringa (Harris Smariga & Associates) presented a preliminary plat to subdivide the master-planned site into six lots. Parkland dedication of 9.9 acres was shown, with the remainder to be met through private spaces or fee-in-lieu. Modifications were requested: (1) street trees on Monocacy Boulevard cannot be planted in the right-of-way due to a dam regulated by MDE; (2) the shared-use path on East Street will be relocated to preserve existing street trees. The forest conservation plan includes retention of 1.5 acres, street tree credits, and potential off-site planting or fee-in-lieu, as on-site options are limited by parkland, utility easements, and road infrastructure. - Commission discussion focused on the difficulty of achieving forest conservation on urban infill sites. Commissioners urged maximizing on-site afforestation and suggested using small outparcels. Staff explained the prioritization hierarchy and the challenge of balancing density, parkland, and environmental requirements. The applicant updated on ongoing discussions with Frederick County Public Schools for a potential school site on Lots 2/3 and on the voluntary cleanup plan with MDE. Hillcrest Park (Zoning Map Amendment) - Mark DuCampo (City of Frederick) presented the city's application to rezone Hillcrest Park from public park to IST (Institutional Floating Zone) to allow a West Side branch library. The library would serve a high-density, diverse area. Six alternative sites were studied, including the Prospect Center, but were deemed unsuitable due to state funding requirements, walkability, or equity concerns. The feasibility study is a conceptual stress test, not a final design. The city plans to relocate existing park amenities (e.g., little league field, restrooms) to West Side Regional Park as part of a larger community campus. - Commission questions touched on the concept of parkland alienation and community concerns about traffic and loss of open space. Staff noted that the rezoning process requires two additional meetings before a recommendation to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen. Key Outcomes - Prospect Center: The applicant will submit revised plans addressing commission comments (e.g., loading spaces, landscaping percentages, afforestation details). The hearing will be scheduled after the IST zoning is approved by the Mayor and Board. - Brickworks: The applicant will continue exploring forest conservation options, including off-site planting, and work with FCPS on the school site. The voluntary cleanup plan is ongoing. A deferral agreement for Brickwork Street will be drafted. - Hillcrest Park: The commission will hold two more meetings (October and November) before issuing a recommendation to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen for final consideration. - No motions or votes were taken on any item.

The Frederick Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) met on September 12, 2024, at 6:00 PM in City Hall to conduct a public hearing and workshop. The meeting included swearing in of participants, announcements, approval of minutes, administrative reports, and consideration of several demolition, rehabilitation, and new construction applications. The commission also reviewed a National Register nomination and approved the 2025 HPC schedule. Announcements - The demolition review application for 301 Grove Boulevard (HPC24-657DR) was withdrawn, requiring no further action. - The applicant for HPC24-477 (1730 N. Market Street, Level 1) could not attend; the workshop item will be reviewed at the September 26, 2024 HPC workshop. - On Tuesday, September 24, 2024, the City's Planning Department will host a community event regarding a new initiative to research and document sites associated with slavery, partially funded by the Maryland Historic Trust and in partnership with the African American Resources Cultural Heritage Society of Frederick County. The event will be held at the City Annex Building (140 West Patrick Street) at 6:00 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The August 22, 2024, hearing and workshop minutes were approved unanimously. HPC Business - Administrative Approval Report: 26 applications were reviewed administratively in August 2024; the report was entered into the record. Discussion Items - HPC24-769DR – Request for Demolition Review – 503 Fairview Avenue: Staff determined the garage structure, built circa 1970, retains historic integrity but lacks architectural significance and association with events or persons. The commission voted unanimously not to pursue an historic preservation overlay designation for the garage. - CLG Review of Kemp Property National Register Nomination – 1761 Eagle Rock Lane: Staff presented a draft nomination for the Kemp property, which includes the 1780 Peter Kemp House, a circa 1980 tenant house, and outbuildings. The nomination identifies significance under Criteria A (agriculture and religion) and C (architecture). The commission voted unanimously to support the nomination and prepare the recommendation form for the chair and mayor. - Approval of 2025 HPC Schedule: The schedule was presented, accounting for public notice requirements, holidays, and calendar coordination. The commission voted unanimously to approve the 2025 schedule. Cases to Be Heard - HPC24-591 – 123 W. 2nd Street – Rehabilitation: Applicant Suzanne Beal proposed a small rear addition (2'10" x 7'2") for a bathroom, using an existing door and cement board siding. Staff recommended approval with a condition that the roof color be galvanized, green, or red. The commission approved the application unanimously with that condition. - HPC24-695 & HPC24-696 – 136 W. 4th Street – Demolition and Rehabilitation/Addition: Commissioner Anne Hart recused. The partial demolition (225 sq. ft. of roof) and replacement plan were reviewed. Staff found the demolition would not alter the building's contributing status to the historic district. The replacement plan includes a rear addition, new windows, and a porch. The commission approved the partial demolition conditioned on approval of the replacement plan, and approved the replacement plan with conditions: revising drawing HPC3 to show the second-story window not partially infilled, and specifying porch decking color as slate gray, oyster, or coastline. Workshop Items - HPC24-720 – 155 B&O Avenue – Level 2 Review: Applicant Michael Gordon proposed five four-story townhomes on a site near the historic preservation overlay boundary. Discussion focused on materials (cultured stone veneer, standing seam roof color, fiberglass doors, composite decking), fencing (42-inch wood picket fence recommended), cluster mailbox location, and HVAC unit placement. The commission requested additional details on the paneling system, awning feature, and lighting locations. No vote was taken; the applicant will submit revised plans by September 30, 2024, for the October 10, 2024, hearing. - HPC24-702 & HPC24-714 – 127 E. 6th Street – Demolition and Level 1 Review: The applicant proposes complete demolition of the dwelling and garage to construct eight townhomes. Staff and the applicant's architectural historian debated whether the dwelling (associated with 19th-century businessman Benjamin F. Winchester) is a contributing or non-contributing resource, or of unusual importance. The commission leaned toward finding the dwelling contributing but not of unusual importance, and the garage non-contributing. Public comments strongly opposed demolition, citing historic value and neighborhood character. No vote was taken; the commission will vote on contributing/non-contributing status at the next meeting, followed by a decision on demolition approval. Public Comments & Testimony - 127 E. 6th Street (Winchester House): Several neighbors spoke in opposition to demolition. Jim Wagner (121 E. 6th Street) presented photos showing the garage's condition and argued the property retains integrity, referencing historic maps. Daniel Fabulous (123 E. 6th Street) expressed interest in restoring the house if it were marketed historically. Another resident criticized the replacement plan as out of character and urged preservation, noting the loss of green space and light. Additional speakers argued the house's evolution from single-family to multi-family reflects urban history and should not diminish its significance. Written comments were also submitted. Key Outcomes - Unanimous votes: Approval of minutes, administrative approval report, 2025 HPC schedule, demolition review decision for 503 Fairview Avenue, support for Kemp Property National Register nomination, approval of 123 W. 2nd Street rehabilitation, and approval of 136 W. 4th Street demolition and replacement plan. - Workshop items: No votes taken; continued to future meetings. For 155 B&O Avenue, revised plans due September 30, 2024, for October 10 hearing. For 127 E. 6th Street, the commission will determine contributing/non-contributing status at the next meeting, followed by a demolition decision.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of Frederick, Maryland, held a Workshop on September 11, 2024, beginning at 3:00 PM. The Mayor was absent (attending a Council of Governments meeting and feeling unwell), and three aldermen were initially present. A fourth alderman joined later, enabling approval of special ordinances. The meeting included approval of routine business items, discussion of a forest conservation planting request for the Sycamore Springs development, and remarks commemorating Patriot Day. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (August 28, 2024): Approved 3-0. - Release of Surety: Approved release of a $107,240.09 bond for Sycamore Ridge City Park Phase 1 improvements. - Grants: Approved three grants: Emergency Food and Shelter Phase 41 ($16,000), FY25 Police Accountability, Community, and Transparency (PACT) grant from the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy, and a Federal Aviation Administration grant ($282,600) for design of the south corporate apron expansion at the airport. - Special Ordinances: Initially deferred due to lack of a supermajority; later approved 4-0 after a fourth alderman arrived. The ordinances amended FY25 budgets for Department of Housing and Human Services grant funds and incorporated the PACT grant revenue and expenditures. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on any agenda item. Discussion Items - Sycamore Springs Forest Conservation Planting: The Planning Department presented a request to plant 3.09 acres of forest conservation area on land to be dedicated to the City as parkland (16.98 acres total) within the Sycamore Springs Planned Neighborhood Development. The 71.45-acre project is zoned low-density residential and includes 120 single-family homes and 58 townhouses. The planting site is in the southeastern portion of the parkland, carefully located to avoid impeding active park areas and future stream restoration projects. The Parks and Recreation Commission recommended approval in January 2024, and the Planning Commission approved the preliminary plat and forest plan in April 2024, conditioned on Mayor and Board approval of the parkland dedication with forest conservation. Staff supported the request, noting it provides active park space, enhances stream restoration efforts (important for the city's MS4 stormwater permit requirements), and protects floodplains. The applicant, Jonathan Pembroke of Alshman Properties, confirmed that 10.44 acres of forested area exist elsewhere on the site, leaving only the 3.09 acres to be planted in the park. The planting design was coordinated with the city's sustainability manager to allow for future stream restoration along Rocky Springs Run. Key Outcomes - Votes: All consent items and special ordinances were approved without dissent (3-0 or 4-0). - Next Step: The Sycamore Springs forest conservation request will be placed on a future public hearing for formal consideration. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after elected officials' comments remembering the September 11, 2001 attacks.