Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen met on September 5, 2024, at 7:00 PM in City Hall for a public meeting with a lengthy agenda. The meeting included presentations, public comments on multiple issues, approvals of grants, contracts, and ordinances, two annexations, and a quasi-judicial rezoning hearing. The meeting adjourned after over three hours of deliberation. Consent Calendar - Grants: Approved a Capital Grant Agreement with the State of Maryland Board of Public Works for Weinberg Center Improvements. (Motion by Alderwoman Kazemchak, second by Alderman Shackelford; vote 5-0.) Public Comments & Testimony - Ceasefire Resolution: Multiple residents (Tina Meadows O'Rear, Grady O'Rear, Daniel Maluly, Willie Mahone of Frederick County NAACP, Hanaida Hamad) urged the Council to pass a ceasefire resolution regarding the Gaza conflict. Speakers emphasized humanitarian concerns and called for local action on global human rights. - Non-Citizen Voting: Yowande Oladeinde (president of Association of Nigerians in Frederick and chair of Frederick County Immigrant Affairs Commission) and Lakshmi Darbha (Aveni nonprofit) advocated for extending voting rights to all city residents regardless of immigration status, urging charter-level inclusion. - Ranked Choice Voting: Daniel Maluly (Frederick DSA) also supported ranked choice voting, citing a recent League of Women Voters forum and canvassing success. - Wormans Mill Court Rezoning: Public comment included Paul Gorgle (property owner) opposing the project due to traffic and walkability concerns, and Heather Goddard (East Frederick Rising) supporting the project for providing affordable housing near schools and trails. - Christoff Annexation: Leslie Powell (Meadowbrook resident) argued the annexation was premature per the comprehensive plan and requested a larger buffer; Catherine Plaskett and Laura Steele echoed concerns about buffers, density, and traffic on Opossumtown Pike. - Winpenny Annexation: David Matlik (Tuscarora Creek resident) raised concerns about road connectivity through Lake and Drive, a narrow residential street, and requested that townhomes be relocated away from his property. Discussion Items - Security Services Contract (MTAC Inc.): Nathan Hupp (City Emergency Manager) presented a $240,000 agreement for security services at City Hall and other locations, including executive protection (at $39.60/hour). Discussion revealed limited transparency on specifics. The motion passed 3-2 (Aldermen Russell, Shackelford, McShane in favor; Alderwomen Nash, Kazemchak opposed). - Police Headquarters Equipment: Mark DeCampo (Director of Strategic Planning) presented three purchase orders totaling approximately $1.03 million for 911 electronic equipment, dispatch stations, and interview room recording equipment. Funding comes from the approved CIP budget. The city is working with the county to seek reimbursement from the state 911 board for over half the costs. Approved unanimously (5-0). - School Mitigation Fees: Guy Samson (Chief of Staff) and Dr. Paul Lebo (FCPS COO) presented a Special Ordinance S-24-24 and an MOU to allocate $2.25 million each to Whittier and Hillcrest Elementary Schools. Discussion noted that the city collects fees from developers but FCPS is responsible for school facilities. Both items passed unanimously (5-0). - Employee Handbook Revisions: Matt Bowman (IT Manager) presented Resolution 24-12 to update the city's employee policies on communications and computer systems, aligning with recent IT security initiatives. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Imitation/Replica Weapons Ordinance (G-24-14): Sergeant Mike Murphy (FPD) presented a new chapter in city code prohibiting possession, sale to minors, and discharge of replica firearms (BB guns, air guns). Penalties include a $1,000 fine and up to 90 days incarceration. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Wormans Mill Court Rezoning (Conditions): This quasi-judicial matter included staff, applicant, and public testimony. The Planning Department recommended denial, citing incompatibility with the mixed-use floating zone criteria, lack of walkability, and environmental sensitivity. The applicant (Standard Communities) proposed a 100% affordable workforce housing project (315 units at 60% AMI) with a 5,000 sq ft commercial component. After several motions, the board approved a set of four conditions (motion by Alderman Shackleford, second by Alderwoman Kazemchak) by a 3-2 vote: (1) applicant to construct or fund the shared-use path (at the required grade for future bridge crossing) from the southern limits north to the ramp of the future Route 15/MD 26 bridge; (2) all costs for design, permitting, and construction of future access points across the Rails with Trails project; (3) site afforestation/reforestation requirements; (4) vehicle access from Hum Lane to North Market Street limited to emergency access only. Following the vote, applicant Bruce Dean requested 90 days to decide on acceptance. The board voted to table the ordinance and master plan items 4-1 (Alderman Russell opposed) pending the applicant's response. - Christoff Annexation (57 acres): Staff and applicant presented the three components of the annexation (plan, agreement, resolution). The property, zoned R-4 (low density residential), will yield up to 228 units with a PND cluster design, including a 15-acre park dedication and an $8,000 per unit regional infrastructure fee. Approved unanimously (5-0) on all three votes. - Winpenny Annexation (79 acres): Similar to Christoff, zoned R-4 (up to 316 units), with an $8,000 per unit regional infrastructure fee, a $2,000 per unit contribution to a new water tank, and a requirement to connect Winpenny Drive to the road network. A 100-foot stream buffer was agreed. Approved unanimously (5-0) on all three votes. Key Outcomes - Security Contract Approved (3-2) – for $240,000 with MTAC Inc. - Police HQ Equipment Purchase Orders Approved ($1.03 million) – unanimously. - School Mitigation Fees: Special Ordinance and MOU approved (5-0 each) – directing $4.5 million total to Whittier and Hillcrest Elementary. - Employee Policies Handbook Revised (5-0). - Replica Weapons Ordinance Enacted (5-0), effective immediately. - Wormans Mill Rezoning Conditions Approved (3-2); the rezoning and master plan items tabled (4-1) pending applicant's response within 90 days. - Christoff and Winpenny Annexations Approved (all 5-0) – enlarging the city boundary by a total of 136 acres for low-density residential development.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of Frederick held a workshop on September 4, 2024, from 3:00 PM. The meeting covered two major items: agreements for a youth center at 300 Scotty's Bus Lane and a report from the Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) Ad-Hoc Committee proposing changes to the NAC resolution. No formal votes were taken on the substantive items, but staff was directed to prepare an ordinance for the NAC changes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (August 21, 2024): Approved 4-0 (Alderman McShane absent). Motion by Alderman O'Connor, seconded by Alderman Nash. Discussion of Agreements for 300 Scotty's Bus Lane Youth Center - Presenters: Guyan Sampson (Chief of Staff), Ashley Waters (Senior Assistant Director, HHS), Scott Waxter (Assistant City Attorney). Representatives from the Osherman Family Foundation were also present. - Summary: Three agreements were presented: (1) a Donation Agreement with Frederick County donating the property (300 Scotty's Bus Lane) to the city at no cost, requiring the city to open a youth center within six years and operate it for at least five years or the property reverts to the county; (2) an MOU with the Osherman Family Foundation to lead design and construction, with a four-year completion timeline (plus two optional one-year extensions); (3) a Property Management Agreement with the Foundation to manage the property during construction and handle the existing tenant's lease through February 2025. - Key Discussion Points: - Alderman O'Connor expressed support for the youth center but questioned the long-term operational oversight, suggesting the Mayor's Office should lead initially rather than the Department of Housing and Human Services (HHS), which he described as having current challenges. - Alderman Nash raised concerns about the reversion clause and sought clarity on the county's role after transfer; Scott Waxter clarified the five-year operational requirement releases the reversion clause. - Alderman Russell and Alderman Shackelford emphasized the need for a clear programming and operational plan before construction, and requested regular updates on the project's progress. - Mayor O'Connor noted the Mayor's Office will oversee the build-out, but a final operational home (HHS or other) will be determined later, with input from the board. - No vote was taken; discussion concluded with acknowledgment of the Foundation's contributions. Presentation of Neighborhood Advisory Council Ad-Hoc Committee Report - Presenters: Schwan Brife (Community Engagement Specialist), Libby Taylor, Liz Tinker, Kevin Sellner (committee members). Alan Etzler (Communications Manager) was absent. - Summary: The committee proposed amendments to the NAC resolution, focusing on increasing two-way dialogue, reducing city liaison workload, introducing a NAC Liaison Representative Board (one rep per NAC to meet quarterly and present citywide issues to the Board), and enhancing social engagement. Other changes included requiring developer meetings with NACs prior to planning approvals (not after), encouraging social gatherings, and adding a one-year review period. - Key Discussion Points: - Alderman Russell opposed the proposed Liaison Board, calling it an unnecessary "middle management" layer that could filter and distort resident input. She favored direct engagement with NAC coordinators and suggested twice-yearly all-NAC meetings with elected officials. - Alderman O'Connor supported the idea of quarterly all-NAC meetings but questioned the formal liaison structure, citing concerns about autonomy and the open meetings act. - Alderman Nash expressed concern that the liaison board would create inequity for NACs with low participation and that elected officials should maintain direct contact. - Alderman Shackelford noted the value of the committee's work but proposed moving from a resolution to an ordinance to provide clearer legal standing, and suggested redlining the liaison board concept. - Public comment: A NAC coordinator (self-identified) urged the board to create a meaningful connection mechanism, stating that coordinators are "exhausted" and need support to engage residents. - Outcome: The board did not reach consensus on the liaison board. Staff was directed to draft an ordinance based on the committee’s proposals, incorporating feedback from the workshop (likely omitting or altering the liaison board). The committee's recommendation for a one-year review and increased social engagement received general support. Key Outcomes - Youth Center: No vote taken; the board will continue discussions on operational plans and receive updates during budget presentations. - NAC Resolution: Staff to draft an ordinance reflecting board feedback; further debate expected at a future public hearing.

On August 28, 2024, at 3:00 PM, the Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a workshop to continue discussion of proposed charter revisions. The meeting was broadcast on Channel 99. The only agenda item was a continued review of charter amendments, with staff presenting several resolutions and ordinances. The board discussed a comprehensive resolution (A) and subsequent resolutions (B through G), as well as ordinances to move planning commission, personnel board, and zoning board of appeals out of the charter. Key decisions included setting a March 15, 2025 deadline for a compensation commission report, agreeing to separate contentious items into individual votes on September 19, 2024, and reaching majority positions on several structural changes. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Resolution A (Comprehensive Charter Changes): The city attorney reviewed the consolidated document, which included consensus items such as changing the legislative body to "City Council" and members to "Council Members," lowering candidate age to 18, and revising residency requirements. The compensation commission was debated; Alderman McShane opposed it, but after discussion, the board agreed to include it with a March 15, 2025 report date. The mayor's role as president of the council remained unresolved. The board also debated whether the council should retain authority to create/abolish departments; no consensus was reached, so the provision was removed from Resolution A. - Resolution B (Structure and City Council President): The recommendation that the council president be elected by peers was discussed. Alderman Shackleford requested research on succession models. The board did not reach unanimous agreement, so the item will be voted separately. - Resolution C (Number of Seats and Districts): The committee recommended 7 members with 4 district seats and 3 at-large. Some members preferred 5-2. The board agreed to proceed with the committee's 4-3 language but noted it could be amended on September 19. The timeline for redistricting was debated; staff advised that districts could not be implemented in time for the 2025 election due to the need for a consultant, but the board directed staff to expedite the process. - Resolution D (Term Limits): The committee proposed 2 terms for mayor and 3 for council. Debate on consecutive vs. total limits was inconclusive; the resolution will be presented as drafted. - Resolution E (Open Primaries): The city attorney advised that the proposal may be unconstitutional. The board agreed to vote it down on September 19. - Resolution F (Administration): The resolution covers mayoral appointment of department heads with advice and consent. Discussion included adding explicit authority for the mayor to establish and abolish departments, but was left for future amendment. - Resolution G (Voter Qualifications): This allows non-citizen residents to vote in city elections by registering with the city clerk. It was presented as a charter amendment, though the same change could be made by ordinance. The board will vote on it. - Ordinances (Planning Commission, ZBA, Personnel Board): These ordinances remove the boards from the charter and establish them by city code. The planning commission language proposed a non-voting council liaison; a majority of board members supported removing the voting seat, while Alderman Russell opposed. The issue will be decided at the September 19 meeting. - Elected Officials' Comments: Alderwoman Kazemchak displayed her father’s naturalization certificate to highlight the importance of inclusive voting rights. Key Outcomes - Compensation Commission: The board agreed to establish a commission with a report deadline of March 15, 2025, to affect the next term. This item was removed from Resolution A and will be a separate vote. - Council Authority over Departments: The provision allowing the council to create/abolish departments was removed from Resolution A due to lack of unanimity; it will be considered separately. - Separate Resolutions: Six resolutions (B through G) and three ordinances will be presented for individual votes on September 19, 2024, rather than bundled. - District Map: Staff will expedite hiring a consultant to create districts, but districts will not be ready for the 2025 election; all seats will be at-large that year. - Vote on September 19: The board will hold a public hearing and vote on all charter amendments and ordinances. Some items (e.g., open primaries) are expected to be rejected, while others may be amended.

The Zoning Board of Appeals held its regular meeting on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at 7:00 PM at City Hall. The board considered a single conditional-use application for accessory retail sales at 550 Highland Street, located in the M1 Light Industrial District. The meeting included administrative approvals, staff presentations, applicant testimony, and a unanimous vote to approve the request. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes from the July 23, 2024 meeting as written. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided general comment or testimony related to this evening’s case. Discussion Items - ZBA24-7CU – Conditional Use, 550 Highland Street: The applicant, Canapas (represented by counsel from Adams PAL LLC), sought conditional use approval under Section 812(e) of the Land Management Code (LMC) to allow accessory retail sales of food manufactured on site. The subject property is a 27.95-acre lot containing a commercial kitchen that has operated since 2013. The business began offering grab-and-go sales, which triggered the need for conditional use approval. Staff reported that the proposed use satisfies all criteria: the food sold is manufactured on site; less than 750 square feet (less than 10% of floor area, well under the 1,000 sq. ft. limit) will be dedicated to retail; and 10 off-street parking spaces are provided, exceeding the required 3 spaces. The proposal was found to be consistent with the 2020 Comprehensive Plan’s land use and economic development policies. The applicant noted that Canapas provides free meals to the community during emergencies, such as during the pandemic. Board members asked about the origin of the compliance notification; the applicant declined to elaborate. No further questions were raised. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: Board member Dixon Hicks moved to unconditionally approve the conditional use, seconded by Bob Sisson. The motion passed unanimously (4–0). The approval allows Canapas to continue accessory retail sales of food at 550 Highland Street, subject to compliance with all LMC requirements. The board cited findings that the use is in harmony with the comprehensive plan, will not create adverse impacts beyond permitted uses, and meets the specific criteria of Section 812(e).

The Frederick Historic Preservation Commission met on August 22, 2024, at 6:00 PM at City Hall to consider several applications including a consent item, an ADA ramp installation, and a partial demolition and addition project. The meeting also included a workshop for a proposed rear addition at 136 W. 4th Street. Consent Calendar - HPC24-693 – 100 E. All Saints Street (City of Frederick rehabilitation): Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from August 8, 2024, were approved unanimously. - HPC24-684 – 5 E. 2nd Street (ADA ramp with railing): Applicant Peter Brehm proposed installing an ADA ramp and railing at the front of the building. Staff recommended approval, noting the railing would not be anchored into the facade. The commission approved the application unanimously, with a condition that the railing be painted matte black. - HPC24-695 – 136 W. 4th Street (Partial demolition): Commissioner Anne Hart recused herself. Staff presented that the property is a contributing resource to the Fredericktown Historic District. The commission voted unanimously to find the resource as contributing, which requires a subsequent hearing before a demolition decision can be made. Workshop – HPC24-695 & HPC24-696 (Demolition and Addition) - The commission held a workshop on the proposed partial demolition of approximately 225 square feet of roof at the rear and a new two-story addition to accommodate an accessible bathroom on the second floor for the homeowner to age in place. The applicant, Brian Bradfield, explained the interior layout constraints and the need for alterations. Key design elements discussed: - New opening in the rear wall to connect second floor to new addition. - Replacement of a rear window with a narrower unit to accommodate the new wall. - A new roof sloping front-to-back to allow adequate headroom. - A rear porch with a spiral staircase for secondary egress. - Materials: HardiePlank siding, wood windows (one-over-one), composite decking with traditional tongue-and-groove profile, painted trim. - Staff and commissioners provided feedback on materials, color, and detailing. The applicant plans to resubmit refined drawings and product specifications for the next hearing on September 12 or 26, 2024. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (unanimous). - Consent agenda HPC24-693 approved (unanimous). - HPC24-684 approved (unanimous) with condition that railing be matte black. - HPC24-695 determined contributing resource (unanimous); demolition decision deferred to subsequent hearing. - The workshop concluded with direction for the applicant to provide additional material samples and clarifications for final review.

The workshop covered three agenda items: a deferral agreement for the U-Haul project, a water mitigation agreement for the Bloomfields development, and a proposed rezoning and master plan for the Woman's Mill Court Apartments. The meeting began at 3:00 PM and adjourned at approximately 5:30 PM. Two aldermen (Shackelford and Kazemchak) were absent. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – August 7, 2024: Motion by Alderman Russell, second by Alderwoman Nash. Approved 3–0. Public Comments & Testimony - Woman's Mill Court Apartments: Kevin Fellner (Citizens for Responsible Growth) expressed strong support for the project, highlighting the need for affordable housing (estimated 12,000–16,000 units needed in the county, 4,000–5,000 in the city) and complimenting the developer’s engagement. He also noted the site’s proximity to a bus stop providing access to grocery stores. Discussion Items 1. U‑Haul Deferral Agreement (90 Monocacy Boulevard) - Presented by: Taiko Casano, Engineering Manager. Corrected that the site’s frontage is 300 feet (not 550 feet). The applicant proposes a $98,000 contribution to the city’s CIP project (320037, Monocacy Boulevard improvements between Patrick and South Street) in lieu of constructing a small frontage improvement. No developer or public comment were offered. The item was scheduled for a public hearing. 2. Bloomfields Development – Water Mitigation Agreement - Presented by: Taiko Casano. The original mitigation agreement was from 2015; due to changes during the site plan process, new conditions are needed (outlined in sections 1–2 of the agreement). A water tank in section five is planned for design in 2–3 years. No questions or public comment. The item was scheduled for a public hearing. 3. Woman’s Mill Court Apartments – Rezoning to MU2 and Master Plan - Staff Presentation (Pam Rapert, Planning Department): Provided follow‑up from the August 7 workshop. Of 16 mixed‑use projects in the city, only 7 involved rezonings. Staff recommended against the rezoning, finding the proposal (with modifications like reduced non‑residential land use) did not meet the criteria for a conditional rezoning. However, staff also offered conditions if the board chose to approve (e.g., limiting Home Lane to emergency access; constructing the portion of the Rails with Trails path adjacent to the site; requiring MTA approval for crossings; adhering to floodplain setback standards). The Planning Commission had recommended a slightly different set of conditions. - Applicant Presentation (Bruce Dean, Judd Neems, Chris Moriga – Standard Communities): Proposed a 100% affordable housing development (315 units, income‑restricted at 60% AMI) with a 5,000 sq ft commercial space. Requested modifications to building orientation and parking setback due to site constraints (wetlands, power line easement, highway noise). Argued the site is walkable (<1 mile to Wegmans) and that the Rails with Trails bridge (when completed) will improve connectivity. Home Lane (currently a narrow lane) is proposed as a secondary vehicular access; staff recommended emergency‑only. - Board Discussion: - Alderman McShane supported the project, noting it is more walkable to services than many other approved affordable housing projects. - Alderman Russell opposed the rezoning and questioned walkability (noting the walking route to Wegmans is long). He also raised procedural concerns about providing guidance during a quasi‑judicial proceeding. - Alderwoman Nash was supportive and agreed to discuss conditions. - Conditions Negotiation: The board reviewed staff and Planning Commission conditions. Key agreements: - Rails with Trails path: Applicant will contribute funding in line with standard frontage improvements, not the full cost of elevating the bridge. Condition: applicant to fund/frontage portion. - MTA crossing approval: Obtain prior to building permit (not final site plan). Applicant accepted. - Floodplain setback: No specific condition; project will follow existing city code, which allows future modification requests through standard processes. Applicant agreed. - Home Lane access: Left unresolved; staff recommended emergency‑only, applicant wants full vehicular access. Board consensus leaned toward emergency‑only, but no formal vote. - Procedural Note: The city attorney clarified that conditional rezonings require two meetings: one to vote on conditions (set for September 5, 2024) and a subsequent meeting for the applicant to accept conditions and for final approval of the rezoning and master plan. The board will prepare an ordinance based on the discussion. Key Outcomes - U‑Haul Deferral Agreement: Scheduled for a public hearing (date not specified). - Bloomfields Water Mitigation: Scheduled for a public hearing (date not specified). - Woman’s Mill Court Apartments: No final decision. The board provided guidance to staff to draft an ordinance incorporating conditions discussed (rails with trails contribution, MTA approval before building permit, floodplain code compliance). The public hearing to adopt conditions is set for September 5, 2024. A second meeting will follow for the applicant’s acceptance and final vote on rezoning and master plan. Elected Officials’ Comments - Alderman Russell reminded of Car Free Day on September 23, encouraging the pledge online. - Alderman Ash wished families a happy first day of school.

The Frederick Planning Commission held a workshop on August 19, 2024, at 2:00 PM to discuss the Final Site Plan application (PC24-557FSI) for Bakery de France, a family-owned artisan bakery seeking to expand its facility on Minocase Boulevard. The workshop included a presentation by the applicant, staff comments, and commissioner questions. No public comments were received, and no votes were taken; the commission will consider the item at a future hearing pending additional submissions. Discussion Items - Applicant Presentation: Alexander Salonet and Jason Hemis (Bakery de France) and Franz Ellen (Harris Smariga & Associates) presented the expansion. The bakery, operating in Frederick for 16 years, plans to add three new production lines, a freezer, and a guard house. The site is between other industrial uses. The applicant requested three modifications: - Single point of access for over 100 parking spaces, citing limited frontage and desire to avoid a second entrance on Monocase Boulevard. - Lighting modification due to spillage over property lines, addressed by adjusting wall-mounted lights. - Parking reduction to match actual employee count (75 anticipated employees, two overlapping shifts) rather than a general manufacturing standard, to minimize pavement. - Staff Comments: Monica Robyns (case planner) noted the 70-foot freezer height was reviewed by the airport manager and Maryland Aviation Association and found acceptable. She also noted that stormwater management development plans must be submitted before the hearing can be scheduled for October, and that traffic review by Chiron is ongoing. - Commissioner Questions: - Commissioner Beattie asked about the left-turn from the site onto Monocase Boulevard; the applicant noted that new signals have created gaps in traffic. - Commissioner Valencia asked about parking totals (159 spaces total). - Commissioner Beattie inquired about solar panels and covered parking; the applicant confirmed they are exploring solar options. - Commissioner Strawson asked about the height difference (40 ft vs. 70 ft); the applicant explained that the taller freezer allows more on-site storage, reducing truck trips to third-party cold storage. - Commissioner Strawson asked about light spillage and the feasibility of staff suggestions; applicant agreed to review. - Commissioner Menelas asked about bicycle parking; applicant confirmed existing bike racks. - Commissioner Strawson asked about gate access; applicant stated a combination of guard and code entry. - Food Safety Justification: The applicant explained that the fence and gate are required by food safety regulations (FSMA, GFSI, SQF) to prevent adulteration. Key Outcomes - No decisions were made at this workshop. The commission will schedule a public hearing in October 2024 provided the applicant submits complete stormwater management plans and traffic review concludes favorably.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of Frederick, Maryland, held a public meeting on August 15, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. at City Hall. Acting Mayor Alderman Russell presided in the absence of Mayor O'Connor and Alderwoman Nash, who were attending the Maryland Association of Counties Conference. Alderman McShane was also absent. The meeting included approval of minutes, an appointment to the Zoning Board of Appeals, a consent agenda grant approval, three public hearing purchase approvals, and extensive public comments on a proposed ceasefire resolution regarding Gaza. Two annexation items were rescheduled to September 5, 2024. Consent Calendar - Grant Agreement: Unanimously approved a grant agreement with the Maryland State Arts Council in the amount of $137,190 to support the operation of the Weinberg Center for the Arts and New Spire Arts. (Motion by Alderman Shackelford, second by Alderwoman Kazemchak; vote 3-0) Public Comments & Testimony - Ceasefire Resolution (Gaza): Multiple speakers urged the board to endorse a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to U.S. military aid to Israel. Speakers included Tina Meadows O'Rear (facilitator of Frederick Ceasefire Now), Chris Heiser (chaplain), Shala Yamani (Frederick County taxpayer), Grady O'Rear (Frederick City resident), David Wolinsky (Braddock Heights resident), Willie Mahone, Yusuf (from Palestine, part of Frederick community), Zachariah (poem), a resident of Monar Avenue, Dr. James Wagner (East Sixth Street), James Kirk (Frederick County resident), Eric Musa (Trail Avenue), Tasneem (Frederick City), and Khalil Shazley (Twin Peaks Court). They cited over 40,000 deaths and 90,000 wounded, 96% of Gaza's population facing acute food insecurity, U.S. military aid exceeding $14.5 billion, and alleged genocide. They referenced a precedent from a 2022 city resolution on nuclear weapons (Resolution 22-14) to argue the board can act on federal issues. The speakers requested the board use its moral authority to demand a ceasefire and stop complicity. - Non-Citizen Voting: Walter Ruby (202 Avenue) spoke in support of a proposal for non-citizen voting in Frederick elections, citing long-term legal residents who pay taxes but cannot vote. He represented the RISE coalition. Discussion Items - Purchase Approvals (Public Hearing): Three purchases were presented and approved unanimously without debate: 1. OpenGov Asset Management Suite: Purchase from Software House International for $149,833.51 in FY25, $79,187.21 in FY26, and $83,146.55 in FY27. Presented by Matt Bowman. The software will complete migration from the current system for water, sewer, and stormwater departments. (Motion by Alderwoman Kazemchak, second by Alderman Shackelford; vote 3-0) 2. Water Valve Bolt Replacement: Contract with Mid Atlantic Utilities, Inc. for $333,275.00 for replacement in the Walnut Ridge Community (Tuscany Drive area). Presented by Ben Arneson, Water Superintendent. (Motion by Alderwoman Kazemchak, second by Alderman Shackelford; vote 3-0) 3. Underground Storage Tank Replacement: Agreement with JF Petroleum Group for $743,643.38 to replace failing diesel storage tanks. Presented by Keisha Brown, Purchasing Manager. Noted as an urgent need but not an emergency, with Maryland Department of the Environment requiring expedited action. (Motion by Alderwoman Kazemchak, second by Alderman Shackelford; vote 3-0) - Rescheduled Annexations: The Christoff Annexation (57+/- acres, Opossumtown Pike, R4 zoning) and the Winpenny Annexation (79+/- acres, west of Tuscarora Creek PND, R4 zoning) were both rescheduled to the September 5, 2024 public hearing. The City Attorney announced this at the start of the meeting. Key Outcomes - Appointment: Stephen Colar was appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term expiring February 16, 2026. (Motion by Alderman Shackelford, second by Alderwoman Kazemchak; vote 3-0) - Minutes: Approved the July 18, 2024 meeting minutes. (Motion by Alderwoman Kazemchak, second by Alderman Shackelford; vote 3-0) - All three purchase contracts were approved unanimously (3-0) as noted above. - No board discussion or action was taken on the ceasefire resolution or non-citizen voting proposals during the meeting. - No further public business was conducted; the meeting adjourned after the second public comment period yielded no speakers.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a workshop on August 14, 2024, to discuss the implementation plans for funds generated by the city’s residential rental licensure and affordable housing conservation ordinance. The workshop focused on draft regulations, applications, and eligibility criteria for three funds: the Tenant Protection Fund (30% of net revenue), the Rental Assistance Fund (20%), and the Affordable Housing Conservation Fund (50%). Staff from the Department of Housing and Human Services presented the materials, and board members debated the intended use of each fund, the appropriate percentages, and the potential for using the conservation fund for rental assistance. Public comment was received from Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County. No votes were taken on the fund plans; staff will revise documents based on board feedback and bring forward a future proposal. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 31, 2024): Approved 3-0 (Mayor and Alderwoman Nash absent). - Release of Sureties and Acceptance of Improvements: Seven bond/surety releases approved under one motion. Items included bonds from Wormald Development Company, River X LLC, Tauraso Food Group, and Aldi Inc. for various infrastructure projects. Approved 3-0. - Grants: Four grants approved en bloc after discussion: (1) Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention MCIN Grant with interlocal agreements with Frederick County, Brunswick, and Thurmont; (2) FY 2025 Internet Crimes Against Children grant; (3) National League of Cities Advancing Economic Mobility Rapid Grant ($20,000); (4) Maryland Community Health Resources Commission Grant for chronic disease management ($200,000). Staff noted that the two HHS grants would later require a budget amendment. Motion passed 3-0. Workshop Discussion: HHS Implementation Plans for Rental Licensing Ordinance Funds - Background: The rental licensing ordinance (passed August 2022) generates revenue from registration fees. After operating costs, estimated net revenue for FY24 is $555,319 and for FY25 is $561,417. Funds are split into three special funds. - Tenant Protection Fund (30% of net revenue): Proposed use for relocation costs (moving, application fees, storage, utility connections) for tenants displaced due to enforcement of the ordinance. Eligibility criteria sparked debate. Board members questioned whether rent differentials (gap between old and new rent) should be covered; staff indicated rent gap would be handled under the Rental Assistance Fund. Language about “facing displacement as a direct result of the ordinance” was criticized as requiring tenants to make a legal judgment. Staff agreed to revise wording to be more resident-friendly and to rely on internal verification with DPW. - Rental Assistance Fund (20% of net revenue): Proposed for rental assistance to tenants displaced due to the ordinance. Board questioned whether this fund should serve only those displaced by the ordinance or a broader group of renters in need. Alderman O’Connor stated his understanding that the fund was intended for general rental assistance, while Alderman Russell believed it should be limited to ordinance-related displacement. Staff will revisit the ordinance language and the meeting record to clarify intent. Duration of assistance (e.g., 1 month vs. 6-18 months) and partnership with non-profits (Beyond Shelter, Advocates for Homeless Families) were discussed. - Affordable Housing Conservation Fund (50% of net revenue): Proposed uses include preservation/creation of affordable housing (new construction, rehabilitation, rental assistance). Board discussed whether rental assistance fits under this fund. Alderman O’Connor argued it should not be used for rental assistance, as the fund’s purpose is to preserve and create affordable housing stock, not subsidize rent. Alderman Russell was open to a one-time use for rental assistance if supported by the original ordinance intent. Staff suggested using MPDU funds instead, but noted legal constraints. Alderwoman Kazemchak requested clarity from the board: whether to pursue a one-time exception from the conservation fund or bring a separate proposal using MPDU funds. No consensus reached; staff will check the ordinance record and bring back options. - Applications and Review Forms: Staff presented draft applications for all three funds, including eligibility criteria, supporting documentation, and a review sheet. Board members suggested improvements: make online fillable forms, simplify language for tenants, avoid requiring tenants to make legal determinations, and clarify how applications will be queued if funds are exhausted. Staff will refine documents. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Anderson (Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County) : Advocated for using a portion of the Affordable Housing Conservation Fund to support home repairs for low-income homeowners (seniors, veterans, people with disabilities). Stated that their program aligns with at least four of the seven allocation factors in the ordinance. Noted that ARPA funding is expiring; the program expanded 344% (from 9 to 39 repairs) after receiving $250,000 in county ARPA funds. Asked for partnership with the city to sustain the program. No direct response from the board. Key Outcomes - Staff will review the ordinance record (August 2022 meeting) to confirm the correct percentage split (30/20 vs. 20/30) and the intended scope of each fund. - Staff will revise draft regulations, applications, and review forms to simplify language, remove requirements for tenants to make legal determinations, and add rent differential as a covered expense under the Tenant Protection Fund if appropriate. - Staff will bring back a proposal regarding use of MPDU funds for rental assistance, with legal analysis to ensure compliance with existing ordinances. - The board expressed interest in a broader ordinance revision (e.g., adjusting inspection frequency or fund percentages) in the near future, but no timeline was set. - No formal votes were taken on the fund implementation plans; they will return for a future meeting after staff revisions.