Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

The Frederick Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a public meeting on June 6, 2024, beginning at 7:00 PM. The meeting included presentations, approval of minutes, appointments, a consent agenda, and a public hearing covering multiple purchases, agreements, resolutions, and ordinances. All votes were 4-0, with Alderman McKazemchek absent. Presentations & Proclamations - If I Were Mayor Essay Contest: Tao Tao Yang, a fourth grader at The Banner School, presented his essay on creating a "Zen Garden" park. He was recognized as a semifinalist among 1,300 entries statewide. - Pride Month Proclamation: The Mayor read a proclamation declaring June 2024 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Frederick, commemorating the Stonewall riots and affirming the city's commitment to equity and respect. Consent Calendar - Release of Sureties: Three bonds were released: (1) $87,472.13 for Redeemed Christian Church of God; (2) $128,731.00 for Day Development (Tuscarora Creek Phase 4); (3) $154,571.50 for Day Development (Tuscarora Creek Phase 5A). Approved 4-0. - Grant Acceptance: Accepted a $30,912 Housing Counseling Program grant from HUD. Approved 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Vicky Understein (East Church Homeowners Association and East Frederick Rising) commented on the St. John Properties easement agreement, urging that park funds not be diverted and requesting a crosswalk and pathway connectivity improvements. - Heather Goddard (East Frederick Rising President) voiced support for the East 5th Street extension ordinance, praising the city's efforts to improve connectivity and relieve congestion in East Frederick. Discussion Items - Pavement Marking Contract: Awarded to Alpha Space Control for $200,000 (year one). City staff noted it supports long-line striping and ADA improvements. - Talley Recreation Center Roof Unit: Approved an amendment with McClure Company ($79,797) to replace a failing rooftop unit; staff emphasized proactive replacement to avoid cooling outages. - Wastewater Treatment Plant Engineering: Approved an agreement with Whitman, Requardt and Associates ($75,836.17) to study high-flow events and system upgrades. - Stormwater Easement with St. John Properties: Approved granting a 9.8-acre easement for East Park stormwater management on Renn Quarter parkland. In exchange, the developer will acquire and convey an adjacent parcel to the city, construct a $200,000 parking lot, and contribute $90,000 toward park improvements. Public comment raised concerns about preserving park funding and ensuring safe pedestrian access. - Lucas Village Redevelopment Funding: Approved a $1 million grant agreement with the Housing Authority of Frederick, plus a budget amendment to use MPDU funds. Alderman Russell noted the project will replace 88 dilapidated public housing units with 220 units, and all existing residents will receive vouchers with a right to return. He emphasized that a reversion clause protects city funds if the project stalls. - Bird City Maryland Resolution: Approved Resolution 24-08 to pursue recognition; staff highlighted partnerships, habitat improvements, and mental health benefits. An upcoming public event will unveil the city's official bird. - National Park Service Training Center: Approved Resolution 24-09 supporting relocation of the Historic Preservation Training Center to Westside Regional Park. The resolution includes land sale terms and $750,000–$1.4 million in park amenities. - Active Mobility Advisory Committee: Approved Ordinance G-24-10 creating a new committee to replace the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, broadening its scope to all non-motorized modes and emphasizing equity. Alderman Russell sponsored the change after months of committee work. - East 5th Street Extension Right-of-Way: Approved Ordinance G-24-11 to acquire 4,991 sq ft at 603 East Church Street for extending East 5th Street through the County Lane corridor; staff noted construction may begin the first week of July. Key Outcomes - All nine action items received unanimous 4-0 approval, with Alderman McKazemchek absent. - Next steps: The city will proceed with contracting, easement negotiations, and capital projects as outlined. The Active Mobility Advisory Committee will be formally established, and the Lucas Village grant agreement will move forward pending any further conditions from the Housing Authority.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a workshop on June 5, 2024, at 3:00 PM in City Hall (due to HVAC issues on the second floor). The meeting covered four main agenda items: the Program Year 2024 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan, substantial amendments to prior CDBG program years, a continued discussion on the annexation of the Christoff Property (57.16 acres), and a first discussion on the annexation of the Winpenny Tell Property (79 acres). The board approved minutes from May 15 and May 22, 2024, and heard public comments on several items. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of May 15, 2024 (motion by Alderman Shacklewood, second by Alderwoman Nash, 3-0). - Approved minutes of May 22, 2024 (motion by Alderman Shackleberg, second by Alderwoman Kazemchak, 3-0). (Alderwoman Kazemchak was absent.) Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Smersal (former city employee, downtown resident) expressed support for the Operation Rehab program, noting its history and effectiveness, but acknowledged the city's staffing constraints and suggested residents could seek similar loans through Frederick County's housing department. - Linda Miller (property owner in Tuscarora Creek) opposed the Winpenny Tell annexation, citing the value of natural lands and agriculture. She requested that if development proceeds, the layout be shifted away from her property to preserve views. Discussion Items 1. Program Year 2024 CDBG Annual Action Plan - Rebecca Gramling (CDBG program manager) presented the plan. The city received $435,469 in CDBG funds plus $341,149 in program income, totaling $776,618. - Funding allocations: - $8,000 – Asian American Center (greenhouses for senior volunteers) - $275,375 – Habitat for Humanity (HVAC, electric, plumbing for West All Saints Street condominiums) - $5,000 – Advocates for Homeless Families (case management) - $17,000 – Central Hispano (intake specialist for LEP clients) - $17,000 – Department of Housing and Human Services (Housing First case management) - $7,000 – Justice Jobs (case management for recovery, reentry, homeless) - $9,500 – Housing Authority (youth services coordinator) - Program income: $120,000 for HHS food pantry roof repair and loading dock repaving; $221,149 for an acquisition for affordable housing program (or down payment assistance). - The plan was developed with public input and an ad hoc committee. No questions or public comment were offered on the action plan itself. 2. CDBG Substantial Amendments for Program Years 2019, 2020, and 2021 - Staff proposed reprogramming $440,204 from canceled projects to four new or expanded activities: - $128,192 – program administration (20% cap, covering costs from 2020 to 2026) - $119,052 – Love for Lochlin (medical/educational supplies and fuel for a mobile unit, using CV funds to bypass the 15% public service cap) - $57,775 – Asbury Foundation Senior Escapes Park (project delivery costs for West All Saints condominiums) - The remaining funds were distributed to other approved projects. - Alderman McShane questioned the cancellation of Operation Rehab (a revolving loan fund for low-income homebuyers). Staff explained the program was labor-intensive and lacked staffing. Alderman McShane expressed concern about shifting funds to the Trinity renovation, but staff clarified that the ad hoc committee makes funding decisions. Staff noted the new acquisition/affordable housing program will help low-income buyers. 3. Continued Discussion: Christoff Property Annexation (57.16 acres, Opossumtown Pike) - Gabrielle Collard (Planning) recapped: the applicant requests R4 zoning (max 228 units) with a planned neighborhood development (PND) clustering of 114 single-family and 114 townhouses. The city’s comprehensive plan recommends higher densities, but the PND design allows compact development preserving environmentally sensitive areas. - The main unresolved issue was the regional infrastructure improvement contribution per unit. City staff recommended $11,000 per unit based on a methodology considering funding gaps for specific road projects (Christopher’s Crossing, West Side Extension, Willowbrook Road). The applicant (Bruce Dean, representing the Christoff team) proposed $5,800 per unit (based on a 0.56% trip share) and later offered $7,500 using a 10% trip distribution from a nearby traffic study. The board indicated support for the city’s methodology but was open to further discussion between the applicant’s traffic engineer and city staff. Alderman McShane suggested forwarding the annexation to a public hearing, allowing the applicant to present additional data to staff. The board appeared inclined to move forward with the city’s recommendation. 4. First Discussion: Winpenny Tell Property Annexation (79 acres, west of Tuscarora Creek) - Staff presented the proposal: 316 units (210 townhouses, 106 single-family) under R4 zoning. Key issues included: - School capacity: Yellow Springs Elementary is over capacity but a new school is planned for fall 2026. Minoxey Middle School is projected to be over capacity by 2031, but no plan for a new middle school exists despite a site being acquired. - Water/sewer: County sewer service capacity is unconfirmed until a water and sewer map amendment is completed. The city’s water supply agreement would need amendment. - Winpenny Drive connection: The county indicated that a through connection to Winpenny Drive would require replatting with consent of all property owners. The applicant provided a legal opinion arguing the connection is permissible under covenants. Staff recommended requiring the connection before any building permits (except a model home). The board discussed the risk of annexation without a guaranteed connection. - Regional infrastructure fee: Staff recommended $10,000 per unit, using the same methodology as for Christoff. - Stream buffer: Staff requested a 100-foot buffer (instead of 50 feet) for stream restoration, excluding stormwater management. The applicant was amenable to 100 feet but wanted to allow stormwater management within the buffer. - Water tank contribution: Staff recommended $623,000 ($2,000 per unit) for a pro-rata share of a regional water tank. - The Planning Commission recommended against annexation, citing broader concerns about growth timing. The board noted the recommendation but did not treat it as dispositive. - Public comment: Linda Miller opposed annexation, preferring the land remain undeveloped; she requested layout adjustments if development proceeds. - The board decided not to schedule another workshop, signaling readiness to move toward a public hearing. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved: May 15 and May 22, 2024 (unanimous). - CDBG Action Plan and Amendments: Discussed; no formal vote taken. The board will likely vote on the resolution at a future legislative session. - Christoff Annexation: The board directed staff to proceed toward a public hearing, with the understanding that the applicant may further discuss the traffic impact fee with city engineers. The fee remains at $11,000 per unit per staff recommendation, but the board left the door open for adjustment based on additional analysis. - Winpenny Tell Annexation: No further workshop needed; staff will begin the public notice process for a public hearing. Conditions will include the Winpenny Drive connection, potential 100-foot stream buffer, and a pro-rata water tank contribution. The regional infrastructure fee will be negotiated further.

The Zoning Board of Appeals of Frederick, Maryland, met on May 28, 2024, at 7:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, a single variance case, and the election of officers. The board unanimously approved a variance for a garage at 140 West Church Street. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the meeting minutes from January 23, 2024, as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during general public comment or on the variance case. Discussion Items - Variance Case ZBA24-2V – 140 West Church Street: The applicant, Jason West, requested a variance to reduce the required alley setback from six feet to zero feet along Delphi Alley to allow construction of a two-story enclosed garage (replacing an existing carport). Staff Planner Monica Robyns presented the staff report, which found that the property's unique lot shape (a 5.24-foot offset jog) made it impossible to build a usable garage with the standard setback. The report concluded that all seven conditions for granting a variance were met, and staff recommended approval. The applicant had no additional comments. Board members had a brief question about whether the bonus room was allowed by right (yes) and whether historic preservation review was pending (yes, to come). The board then deliberated and moved to approve. Key Outcomes - Variance Approved (4-0): The board voted unanimously to approve the variance for 140 West Church Street, reducing the alley setback from six feet to zero feet. The motion was made by Board Member Dixon Hicks, seconded by Lawrence Aronow, and included specific findings of fact: (1) not contrary to public interest, (2) unique lot condition creates undue hardship, (3) variance is minimum necessary, (4) strict application would deprive applicant of rights common to other properties, (5) no special privilege conferred, (6) in harmony with code intent, (7) applicant did not create the situation. Voting 'yes' were Chair Jim Racheff, Vice Chair Lawrence Aronow, Bob Sisson, and Dixon Hicks. The alternate Stephen Colar did not vote. - Election of Officers: The board re-elected Jim Racheff as Chair (nominated by Bob Sisson, seconded, unanimous). Dixon Hicks was elected Vice Chair (nominated, seconded, unanimous).

On May 23, 2024, the Frederick City Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) convened at City Hall to conduct a hearing and workshop. The meeting included public testimony, discussion, and votes on several applications involving awnings, retaining walls, signs, demolitions, and new construction. The workshop addressed masonry repointing, a residential development at B&O Properties, a partial demolition at 124 S. Carroll Street, and a level 1 amendment at 1730 N. Market Street. Consent Calendar - HPC24-422 – 216 E. 3rd Street (Roof & Skylight): Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - 12 W. 3rd Street Awning: Neighbors Jeffrey McAvoy and Mary Kearney spoke in support, stating the awning fits the guidelines and enhances the property. - 124 S. Carroll Street Partial Demolition: Applicant Joanie Jenkins expressed safety concerns about a deteriorating train gear. A neighbor, Martha, also testified about the danger of falling debris. - Other items: No oral public comments were offered for the majority of cases; written comments were noted for the B&O Properties workshop. Discussion Items Hearing Cases (Evening Session) - HPC24-168 – 610 N. Market Street (Demolition of Brick Garden Wall): Staff determined the wall is a non-contributing resource. The commission unanimously found the wall non-contributing and then approved the demolition. - HPC24-423 – 210 E. 2nd Street (Awning Installation): The commission approved installation of seven awnings and two shades on a non-contributing building, finding the design consistent with guidelines. - HPC24-428 – 12 W. 3rd Street (Awning on Rear Porch): The commission denied the application (3-1) because the proposed awning spanned the porch rather than aligning with individual window openings, altering the character of the contributing historic structure. Staff suggested a garden structure as an alternative. - HPC24-449 – 225 E. 5th Street (Retaining Wall Replacement): The commission approved an interlocking concrete block wall, deeming it an in-kind replacement that fits the working-class character of the neighborhood, despite guidelines favoring brick or stone for street-facing walls. - HPC24-463 – 6 S. Bentz Street (Neon Sign): Approved with a condition that the applicant reduces the sign size by 1 square foot to comply with the Land Management Code’s 58 sq. ft. limit. The commission noted the historical appropriateness of neon for the 1934 building. - HPC24-476 – 124 S. Carroll Street (Partial Demolition): The commission first determined that the entire building (grain elevator) is a contributing resource, and staff recommended it be considered of unusual importance. The proposal to remove historic train gear was deferred to the workshop for further documentation. Workshop Items (Session After Recess) - HPC24-008 – 54 E. Patrick Street (Repoint/Paint Masonry): Discussion focused on the use of a hard acrylic mortar that could damage historic brick. Staff recommended against painting, but the commission encouraged the applicant to submit product data for a permeable “lime-wash” paint. The issue of a previously painted middle section was debated. No vote; continued to June 13, 2024 hearing with a June 3 submission deadline. - HPC24-343 – B&O Properties Lot 7 (Level 1 – Townhomes): The applicant presented revised plans with a shed roof alternative. Commissioners expressed concerns about excessive massing, height, and suburban roof complexity. They suggested simplifying stepbacks, using a single gable or hip roof, increasing brick on end caps, and adding a street-facing building to anchor the corner. No vote; applicant to revise and return for a future workshop. - HPC24-476 – 124 S. Carroll Street (Workshop Continuation): Staff requested a structural engineer’s report to determine if the historic train gear can be repaired. The applicant stated it is unsafe, but the commission emphasized the need for documented evidence before considering removal. No vote; applicant to provide assessment and a clearer replacement plan (e.g., a replica). - HPC24-477 – 1730 N. Market Street (Level 1 Amendment): The applicant proposed replacing previously approved four-story multifamily buildings with three-story townhomes and two large four-story buildings. Commissioners raised concerns about the length of the northern buildings (300 ft. vs. historic 200 ft.), visual dominance, and lack of architectural connection to the historic Colonial Revival campus. Suggestions included reintroducing a street-facing building, using hyphens to break massing, and incorporating more brick and historic window motifs. No vote; applicant to revise and return. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda: Approved (HPC24-422). - 610 N. Market Street: Wall found non-contributing; demolition approved. - 210 E. 2nd Street: Awning approved. - 12 W. 3rd Street: Awning denied (3-1). - 225 E. 5th Street: Retaining wall replacement approved. - 6 S. Bentz Street: Neon sign approved with condition to reduce size by 1 sq. ft. - 124 S. Carroll Street: Building determined a contributing resource unanimously; demolition application continued subject to structural evaluation and revised replacement plan. - 54 E. Patrick Street: Continued to June 13, 2024; applicant must submit paint product information. - B&O Properties Lot 7: Continued for redesign; commission provided specific guidance on massing and materials. - 1730 N. Market Street: Continued; applicant to revise plan with street-front building, hyphens, and increased brick usage. All decisions and guidance are recorded for the official record.

On May 22, 2024, the Frederick Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a combined Business Meeting and Workshop. The Business Meeting approved routine items: minutes of May 8, a surety bond release, and a special ordinance amending the FY2024 budget for speed camera revenue. The Workshop focused on discussing four draft charter amendment resolutions (8-11) from the Charter Review Committee, covering the legislative process, elected official compensation, and mayoral appointments. The meeting also included public comment and closing remarks from elected officials. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (May 8, 2024): Approved 4-0 (Alderman McShane absent). - Release of Sureties: Approved 4-0 the release of a $45,857.03 bond from Great American Insurance Company for improvements to Kellerton Land Bay B, Section 1, Bluegrass Way. - Special Ordinance S-24-20: Approved 4-0 to amend the FY2024 Budget for revenue and expenditures from the Town of New Market speed camera program. Public Comments & Testimony - Stuart Frazier, a 28-year resident of Fairview Avenue, spoke in opposition to non-citizen voting in municipal elections. He argued that voting is a privilege of citizenship balanced with responsibilities, and he urged that residents be allowed to vote on the proposal, which he characterized as unfair and unwarranted. Discussion Items - Resolution 8 (Legislative Process): The draft proposed that ordinances be introduced by Board members and proceed in accordance with rules of procedure. Aldermen debated whether the charter should explicitly permit the mayor to introduce legislation. Alderwoman Kazemchak and Alderman Russell expressed concerns that omitting the mayor could hinder routine staff-driven ordinances. Mayor O'Connor noted that the resolution does not preclude the mayor, but some members favored adding clarifying language. The resolution leaves details to rules of procedure, diverging from the committee's recommendation to embed timelines in the charter. No consensus was reached. - Resolution 9 (Compensation Commission): The draft established a compensation commission by ordinance to review salaries every four years. Discussion focused on whether to retain automatic COLA adjustments, the timing of the commission (late in the term), and making elected office accessible. Alderman Russell noted that the base salary has not been evaluated in a decade. Alderwoman Kazemchak raised concerns about the political difficulty of setting salaries and the need to include benefits. The board did not reach a final position. - Resolution 10 (Chief Administrative Officer): The draft authorized the mayor to appoint a CAO with advice and consent of the Board, with removal only with Board consent. Brief discussion. - Resolution 11 (Mayoral Appointments and Directors): The draft repealed Article 6 of the Charter and provided that the mayor appoint directors for core city functions (legal, police, public works, budget, economic development, housing/human services) with advice and consent, and removal only with Board consent. Mayor O'Connor advocated for broad flexibility in organizational structure, while Alderwoman Kazemchak sought clarity on police chief reinstatement and years of service. The board discussed whether to enumerate specific functions or allow mayoral discretion. No vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Business Meeting items (minutes, surety release, special ordinance) were approved unanimously (4-0). - No votes were taken on the four charter amendment resolutions; they remain under discussion. - The board agreed to compile individual members' proposed changes for future workshops and continue the charter review process.

The Frederick Planning Commission held a workshop on May 20, 2024, at 2:00 PM at City Hall (101 North Court Street) to discuss three agenda items: a final site plan for Yellow Springs Elementary School, a zoning map amendment for the Frederick County Prospect Center, and a text amendment to Section 721 (Forest Conservation) of the Land Management Code. No decisions were made; the workshop was for discussion, staff and applicant presentations, and public comment. Commissioner Beattie arrived late, but the commission proceeded with two members present. Public Comments & Testimony - John Citrone, president of the Tuscarora Creek HOA (543 homes), presented a 10-minute presentation (approved by a motion to suspend the three-minute rule) opposing the traffic plan for the new Yellow Springs Elementary School. He stated that the HOA gathered 550 signatures on a petition citing traffic safety and student safety concerns. He argued that the proposed parent drop-off entrance on Spring Run Drive would cause congestion and safety hazards, and suggested using Christopher's Crossing for private vehicle access. He noted that the traffic study estimated 250+ vehicles entering during drop-off/pickup, while the applicant claimed 65-car stacking on site. The HOA had requested an alternate plan in February but felt it was not considered. Discussion Items - Yellow Springs Elementary School Final Site Plan (PC24-74FSI) Applicant Brian Siger (Frederick County Public Schools, Senior Project Manager) and Alyssa Nelson (Adtek Engineers) presented the plan for a new school at Walter Martz Spring Run Drive and Christopher's Crossing. The site has been master-planned for a school for 26 years and is zoned institutional. The design includes a separate bus loop (access from Christopher's Crossing) and parent drop-off loop (access from Spring Run Drive) to enhance safety. A mini roundabout at Walter Martz and Spring Run Drive is proposed to ease congestion. The applicant requested a modification under Section 601 for a parking lot with more than 100 spaces on a single access (109 spaces). Staff supported the modification. Commissioners discussed stacking capacity (65 cars on site, expandable to 87), the feasibility of an alternate entrance on Christopher's Crossing (rejected due to grade changes, floodplain, and separation distance requirements), and the need for a traffic study summary. The traffic engineer (Carl Wilson) explained that existing school volumes are low (138 vehicles exiting in morning, 61 entering in afternoon) and that the roundabout mitigates delays. - Frederick County Prospect Center Zoning Map Amendment (PC24-250ZMA) Applicant Peter Soprano (Site Resources) requested rezoning 25.9 acres at 585 Himes Avenue from Professional Business (PB) to Institutional Floating Zone (IST) for a multi-functional government office building. Uses include the Division of Family Services, 911 call center, Scott Key Center (employment for individuals with cognitive disabilities), data center, vehicle storage, and community spaces. The justification letter cited population change, public facilities, transportation patterns, compatibility, and consistency with the Comprehensive Plan. Commissioner Menelas noted the justification lacked detailed analysis of transportation patterns and population change; the applicant indicated a traffic statement was included in the submission but not in the justification letter and agreed to provide additional information. Staff noted the IST zone offers flexibility for community uses and reduced impervious surface requirements. - Forest Conservation Text Amendment (PC24-224ZTA) City Planner III Pam Reppert presented proposed changes to Section 721 to comply with state Senate Bills 234 and 526. Key changes include: adding exemptions for transit-oriented development, forest management, and federal facilities; extending the fee-in-lieu spending period from 2 years (3 growing seasons) to 5 years (6 growing seasons); requiring 1:1 mitigation for clearing forest in priority retention areas (the entire city is a priority funding area); lowering the threshold for forest conservation applicability to 10,000 square feet of forest on lots under 40,000 square feet; removing the real estate transfer exemption; increasing the bond survivability period from 2 to 5 years (based on DPW data that 75% of plantings do not survive in 2 years); removing fee rates from the ordinance to be set by fee schedule; bonding street trees used for forest conservation credits under the forest conservation bond; adding a fence detail (recommended by a retired regional forester); and requiring specimen tree replacement based on diameter at breast height (DBH). Commissioners discussed typos, enforcement of clear-cutting violations, feasibility of tree relocation (species-dependent, with low survival rates for large trees), and clarified that mitigation ratios are based on priority retention areas, not funding areas. The applicant agreed to provide additional information on mitigation ratios and bond history. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; all items will proceed to a future public hearing for formal action. - For the Yellow Springs Elementary School, the commission requested that the applicant provide a summary of the traffic study and additional information on the design iterations considered for alternate traffic layouts. - For the Prospect Center zoning map amendment, the applicant was asked to provide a more detailed justification regarding transportation patterns and population change. - For the forest conservation text amendment, staff will refine the ordinance based on commissioner feedback, including correction of typos, clarification of mitigation ratios, and consideration of threshold language for tree relocation. The fence detail may be moved to engineering standard details. Staff will also provide bond history from DPW.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a public meeting on May 16, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included a proclamation for Stop the Bleed Day, appointments to city boards, approval of a consent agenda item, and the introduction and adoption of several fiscal year 2025 ordinances, including the budget. The meeting lasted approximately 43 minutes. Consent Calendar - Alcohol on Public Property: Approved a request from the Asian American Center of Frederick to serve alcohol at the "Asian on the Creek / Thai Water Festival" at Carroll Creek Linear Park on June 1, 2024, pursuant to Section 6-19 of the City Code. (Motion by Alderman Russell, second by Alderman McShane; passed 5-0.) Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during either public comment period. Discussion Items - Proclamation: Mayor O'Connor proclaimed May 23, 2024, as Stop the Bleed Day in Frederick. Gina from Risk and Safety highlighted the campaign's importance; the proclamation was adopted 5-0. - Appointments: - Robin Rose appointed to the Weinberg Center for the Arts Board of Directors for a three-year term (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2027). (5-0) - Maureen Connors reappointed to the Ethics Commission for a three-year term (May 17, 2024 – May 16, 2027). (5-0) - Ordinance – Master Fee Schedule (FY2025): Introduced and approved. City Clerk Phyllis Hane noted changes to airport, engineering, pretreatment, parking, planning, police, and recreation fees, including a new differentiation between city and non‑city resident golf fees at Clustered Spiers. Alderman Russell expressed support, noting the fee schedule is not the vehicle for policy changes. (5-0) - Ordinance – Employee Positions, Grades, and Civilian Pay Scale (FY2025): Director of Budget Katie Barkdoll presented. Alderman Kazemchak moved to amend: (1) upgrade all administrative assistant positions from Grade 2 to Grade 3; (2) remove the Economic Development Specialist position and replace it with a Grants Manager (Grade 7) in the Budget Office. Motion passed 4-1, with Alderman Russell opposed (citing concerns about singling out one position without a comprehensive salary study). - Ordinance – Real Property Tax Classification (Sec. 8-14): Amended to align the vacant property tax escalation table with the definition of habitually vacant (starting at year three instead of year four). (5-0) - Ordinance – Tax Rate (FY2025): Adopted unchanged rates: real property at $0.731 per $100 of assessed value; business personal property at $1.55 per $100. Includes escalation rates for habitually vacant properties. (5-0) - Ordinance – Budget Adoption (FY2025): The Mayor had previously amended his proposed budget to add $50,000 for community event support and $5,000 for Flowers over Frederick. Alderman Kazemchak offered a successful floor amendment: increase donations by $50,000 for Pride events in June, increase donations by $50,000 for Federated Charities, increase expenditures by $86,793 for admin assistant upgrades, decrease professional services (Mayor’s office legislative services) by $50,000, decrease Economic Development GROW program by $50,000 (reducing the increase from $75,000 to $25,000 over last year), and offsetting revenue/expenditure adjustments (increased income tax $72,691, grant tax $1,450, water revenue $10,481, and decreased airport contingency $2,171). The motion also included fund shifts for the Grants Manager position. The amended budget passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - Proclamation adopted unanimously. - Appointments approved unanimously. - Consent agenda item approved unanimously. - Fee schedule ordinance adopted 5-0. - Employee positions/pay ordinance adopted 4-1 (Ald. Russell opposed). - Real property classification ordinance adopted 5-0. - Tax rate ordinance adopted 5-0. - FY2025 budget ordinance adopted 5-0 with amendments. - The city’s FY2025 budget and related ordinances take effect July 1, 2024.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a workshop on May 15, 2024, beginning at 7:00 PM, primarily to receive a presentation on the feasibility study for a new Westside Branch Library proposed at 501 McCain Drive (Hillcrest Park). The meeting included approval of prior minutes, the presentation, public comment, and elected officials' comments. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (May 1, 2024): Motion by Alderman Shackelford, seconded by Alderman Russell. Approved with one abstention (4-0-1). Public Comments & Testimony - Sandy Captain (resident adjacent to Hillcrest Park): Opposed the library location, citing traffic congestion, pedestrian safety concerns, and lack of community engagement. She stated that the county executive told her the library would be built there if the feasibility study was positive. - Lance English (retired, Emerald Farm): Expressed that the community was not properly informed, the NAC was not consulted, and the location would worsen traffic. He suggested alternative locations, including a small county-owned parcel on Butterfly Lane. - Steve Jakupsky (Market Street resident): Supported the library at this location, acknowledging the difficulty for immediate neighbors but emphasizing the greater good and the need for library services in a diverse community. He agreed with Alderman McShane's position. Discussion Items - Feasibility Study Presentation: - Mark DiCampo (Director of Strategic Planning) introduced the item, noting the city had suggested four potential sites; the county selected 501 McCain Drive for detailed study. He explained that other sites were ruled out due to state Program Open Space restrictions or location issues. - Victoria Venable (County Government Relations Director) and James Kelly (FCPL Director) outlined the need for a library on the west side, calling it "long overdue." The study focused on a 15,000 sq ft library (same size as the new Middletown library). - Becky Virgo and Douglas Pfeiffer (Dewberry Architects) presented the feasibility findings: the site is 4.15 acres, suitable for a single-story building with 100 parking spaces. Four conceptual designs were shown, all preserving existing trees and providing buffers. Traffic, geotechnical, and archaeological assessments were favorable. - Alderman Questions: - Alderman O'Connor questioned the site selection process and equity issues, noting that other communities get larger libraries and more robust public process. She expressed frustration that the city was presented with a "false choice" between a library and a park. - Alderman McShane emphasized that the city had been actively involved in choosing this site after defeating an earlier poor location, and that the project is a priority. - Alderman Russell asked about the county's willingness to provide additional park improvements in exchange for the land; the county responded that was not currently on the table. - Alderman Shackelford and Alderman Kazemchak raised concerns about traffic, park loss, and the need for a deliberate public process. - Process and Timeline: - Amanda Radcliffe (County DPW) outlined next steps: rezoning and transfer of the property, then 18 months of design, with construction funding in FY26 CIP. Design would begin only after land is secured. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken. The board will continue to discuss the rezoning and land transfer at future meetings. - Mayor O'Connor expressed support for moving forward, stating that no better location exists and that the decision is a deliberate choice, not a foregone conclusion. - Several aldermen requested further public engagement and clarity on the rezoning process and any potential agreements with the county.

The Frederick Planning Commission met on Monday, May 13, 2024, at 6:00 PM at City Hall to consider a consent agenda item, multiple miscellaneous items, old business, and new business. Key actions included approval of a final site plan for the Rose Hill Manor Carriage House, an extension for 800 E. Patrick Street, architectural elevations for Kellerton, a final plat for Barrick Addition, final site plans and forest conservation plans for 7615 Hayward Road Apartments and Patrick East Self Storage. The most heavily debated item—the Wormans Mill Court Apartments zoning map amendment and mixed-use master plan—was continued to the June 10, 2024 hearing to allow commissioners to develop detailed findings and conditions. Consent Calendar - PC23-313FSI – Rose Hill Manor Carriage House (Final Site Plan): Removed from the consent agenda at the request of a commissioner due to a question regarding museum window guidelines and the use of the National Park Service Museum Handbook as a compensating element. After discussion, staff recommended and the commission unanimously approved the final site plan, finding it complies with LMC Articles 4-8 and will be adequately served by public facilities. Public Comments & Testimony - Wormans Mill Court Apartments (Items D & E): Kevin Sellner (Fifth Street) expressed support for the project, emphasizing the need for affordable housing and encouraging the commission to creatively use exemptions or conditions (e.g., reduced parking, parkland fees in lieu) to move forward. He urged against sacrificing environmental protections. - 7615 Hayward Road Apartments (Item G): Kevin Sellner requested clarity on the MPDU fee-in-lieu calculation under the new ordinance, noting the amount could double compared to the previous ordinance. - General: A representative from Citizens for Responsible Growth thanked outgoing Chair Barbara Nicholas for her decade of service, praising the commission’s thoroughness and responsiveness. Discussion Items - PC23-1056ZMA & PC23-1057MU – Wormans Mill Court Apartments: The applicant (Standard Communities) seeks rezoning of 11.54 acres from Light Industrial and General Commercial to Mixed Use (MU-2) and approval of a master plan for up to 315 multifamily units (100% affordable at 60% AMI) and 5,000 sq ft of non-residential space. Staff recommended denial of the rezoning and master plan, citing inconsistency with the comprehensive plan’s mixed-use goals, insufficient non-residential allocation, inadequate compensating features for requested modifications (setbacks, building orientation, parking, floodplain), and unresolved traffic/access issues. Staff also recommended denial of modifications to reduce non-residential land, eliminate maximum front setback, adjust building orientation, and reduce parking requirements. However, staff supported modifications regarding lot frontage onto open space/private drives. The applicant argued the project meets many comprehensive plan goals (affordable housing, infill, pedestrian connectivity) and is feasible only with the requested flexibility. Commissioners debated the trade-off between affordable housing and code compliance. After discussion, a motion to continue the items to the June 10, 2024 hearing passed unanimously (5-0) to allow commissioners time to draft appropriate findings and conditions. - PC23-1044FSU – Barrick Addition to Barrick (Final Plat): Staff noted the originally requested modification was no longer needed. The plat approves resubdivision of an estate lot and farm tract in conjunction with the Sycamore Springs PND. The estate lot is not part of the PND and will be recorded with road frontage. The plat must be recorded prior to unconditional approval of the combined preliminary plat and final site plan. The commission unanimously approved with three conditions. - PC23-1417FSI – 7615 Hayward Road Apartments (Final Site Plan): Proposal for three four-story buildings, 112 multifamily units, plus two modifications: (1) reduce minimum access points to one public street access (relying on an emergency easement to adjacent property), and (2) allow light spillover onto Hayward Road and abutting PB-zoned properties. Staff supported both modifications and the final site plan, finding them consistent with the comprehensive plan and including compensating features (shared access easement, reduced light poles). The commission unanimously approved both modifications and the final site plan with six conditions. - PC23-1418FSCB – 7615 Hayward Road Apartments (Forest Conservation Plan): The commission unanimously approved the combined forest stand delineation and preliminary forest conservation plan, which meets planting requirements via street tree credits and a fee-in-lieu of $14,056.50. - PC23-807FSI – Patrick East Self Storage (Final Site Plan): Proposal for a one-story self-storage facility in two phases (21,726 sq ft) with a requested modification to reduce parking from 22 to 7 spaces. Staff supported the modification and plan, citing reduced impervious surfaces and environmental benefits. The commission unanimously approved both. - PC23-808FSCB – Patrick East Self Storage (Forest Conservation Plan): The commission unanimously approved the combined forest plan with a fee-in-lieu payment of $2,352.30 for 0.18 acres. Key Outcomes - Rose Hill Manor Carriage House (Final Site Plan): Unanimously approved. - 800 E. Patrick Street (APFO Extension): Unanimously approved (6-month extension to November 11, 2024). - Kellerton Architectural Review (Nottingham cottage elevation): Unanimously approved. - Wormans Mill Court Apartments (ZMA & Master Plan): Continued to June 10, 2024 hearing (unanimous). - Barrick Addition to Barrick (Final Plat): Unanimously approved with three conditions. - 7615 Hayward Road Apartments (Final Site Plan & Modifications): Unanimously approved. - 7615 Hayward Road Apartments (Forest Conservation Plan): Unanimously approved. - Patrick East Self Storage (Final Site Plan & Modification): Unanimously approved. - Patrick East Self Storage (Forest Conservation Plan): Unanimously approved. - Chair Barbara Nicholas recognized for her 10 years of service on the commission.