Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

The Frederick City Council convened in a closed session on February 21, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. to discuss matters permitted under Maryland law. No public discussion or votes on regular agenda items occurred; the meeting solely involved a motion to enter closed session. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were received, as the meeting immediately moved to closed session. Discussion Items - The council voted to enter a closed session to consult with counsel for legal advice, discuss pending or potential litigation, conduct an investigative proceeding on possible criminal conduct, and discuss cybersecurity risks. The motion was made by Albert Russell and seconded by Alderman McShane. Key Outcomes - Motion to convene in closed session passed 3–0 (Alderwoman Kazemchak and Alderman Shackleford were not present). The council adjourned to Room 212 without any other public business.

The Frederick Planning Commission held a workshop on February 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM in City Hall to discuss six agenda items. The workshop aimed to allow applicants to present their proposals and receive preliminary feedback from commissioners, staff, and the public. No votes were taken; decisions are expected at future public hearings. Fence Modification – 324 Heather Ridge Drive (PC23-1410PCM) - The applicant, Antonia of MC Fence and Deck, explained that a new fence was installed in the same location as a previous rotten fence, extending beyond what the permit allowed. The homeowner requested an appeal for the existing fence. - Commissioners observed that the fence visually separates the property from a private drive and provides safety, preventing cut-through traffic. Staff noted that the lot has no public street frontage and the fence is consistent with the comprehensive plan; the police department concurred it is necessary for public safety. - No public comment was offered. The applicant will be notified of the public hearing date for a vote. Architectural Review – Sycamore Ridge (PC16-436-08PND) - Andrew Walker (Oshman Properties) and Dango Milkovich (Lennar) presented Phase 2 of Sycamore Ridge, which includes 16-foot-wide townhomes replicating the approved design from Phase 1. - Commissioners asked about windows on the Devonshire model; staff confirmed they meet the minimum aspect ratio and do not require a modification. Commissioner Strawson requested photos of completed 20-foot-wide product for comparison; the applicant agreed to provide them. - No public comment was offered. The item will proceed to a public hearing. Combined Preliminary & Final Forest Conservation Plan – Rose Hill Farm Exhibit Barn & Carriage House (PC23-1300PFCP/FFCP) - Tim Kellerman (Triad Engineering) presented the plan for Frederick County’s proposed carriage house and exhibit barn at Rose Hill Manor Park. The plan mitigates a small planting requirement by retaining forest in perpetuity. - Staff clarified that the forest conservation plan was triggered by the cumulative impact of two minor site plans. The plan avoids removing any specimen trees. Commissioner Strawson noted the park’s proximity to the Wormans Mill Court Apartments proposal and confirmed the park is open to the public. - No public comment was offered. The plan will be considered at a future hearing. Preliminary Plat & Final Site Plan – 226 W South Street (PC22-924PSU / PC22-291FSI) - Jeff Holtzinger (project engineer) and Ron Hemby (project manager) presented an infill townhouse project. They have addressed technical comments, received APFO certificates (provisional for schools), and request forward movement to the Planning Commission. - Commissioners inquired about grade changes, retaining a cinder block garage, and a handicap parking space. Staff noted that the garage cannot be demolished per HPC requirements. The parkland fee-in-lieu of $7,000 will be used for improvements in the area. - No public comment was offered. The item is scheduled for a public hearing. Preliminary Plat & Preliminary Forest Conservation Plan – Sycamore Springs (PC23-1054PSU / PC23-1055PFCP) - Jonathan Pembroke (Oshman Properties), Jody Walker (Harris Smariga), and Jeremy Holder presented the development, formerly the Barrick Property. The master plan was approved in 2005 and revised in June 2023. They request modifications to street setbacks, centerline radii, street details, and architectural guidelines. - The applicant proposes 16.93 acres of parkland (exceeding the 6.29-acre requirement), a shared-use path network, and a trailhead with parking. Commissioners expressed concerns about the 25-year floodplain analysis, visual impact of corner lots, and connectivity of the shared-use path. Staff noted that the city floodplain manager has no basis to establish a 25-year floodplain, and a modification may be needed. - The applicant agreed to provide visual exhibits and a vicinity map before the hearing. Parks and Recreation recommended the plan. The item will go to a public hearing. Zoning Map Amendment & Master Plan – Wormans Mill Court Apartments (PC23-1056ZMA / PC23-1057MU) - Bruce Dean (attorney), Judd Ulom (Standard Communities), and consultants presented a proposal for 100% workforce affordable housing (up to 315 units, all restricted at 60% AMI) on an 11-acre site near North Market Street. The project requires a zoning map amendment from General Commercial and Light Industrial to Mixed Use. - The applicant argued that the site is underutilized and landlocked; acquiring the adjacent Warmans Mill Court property provides necessary access. They propose a 5,000 sq ft non-residential space for a nonprofit tenant. Commissioners discussed traffic, school access, parkland fee-in-lieu, noise buffers, and the future Rails-to-Trails project. Staff recommended that Hum Lane be emergency access only due to conflicts with a planned protected bike lane; the applicant preferred right-in/right-out. The project also requires relief from APFO standards for two intersections on MD 26. - The applicant emphasized that the project is a rare opportunity for workforce housing without local subsidy. The commission will continue discussion at a public hearing, with conditions to be considered. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided testimony on any agenda item. Key Outcomes - All items were discussed and will proceed to future public hearings for formal action. Specific dates will be provided after the workshop. - The applicant for the Wormans Mill Court Apartments was asked to provide additional information on park amenities, pedestrian access to bus stops, and detailed visuals of the project. - The Planning Commission will consider conditions for the Wormans Mill project, including environmental buffers, parkland dedication, and the use of the non-residential space.

The Frederick Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a public meeting on February 15, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in City Hall. The meeting included a presentation of an Accredited Airport Executive certification, approval of minutes, public comments on traffic safety, a consent agenda, and seven public hearing items. All votes were 4-0 in favor, with Alderman McShane absent. Presentations & Proclamations - Mayor and Board presented a plaque to Sean Dempsey, Assistant Airport Manager, for earning the Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) designation from the American Association of Airport Executives, awarded December 18, 2023. Public Comments & Testimony - Josh Faust (Jefferson Street resident) spoke about ongoing traffic safety concerns on Jefferson Street. He expressed cautious optimism after receiving communications from the Department of Public Works about a community meeting scheduled for February 27 at 6:00 p.m. He urged the board to prioritize immediate and long-term solutions, stating that the issue will require political will and that his neighbors will remain involved. - Jim Smersal (downtown Frederick resident) commented during the second public comment period, noting a survey from Parks & Recreation about Hill Street and Mullinix Parks and thanked staff for outreach. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (January 18, 2024) – Approved 4-0. - Category A: Release of Sureties – Approval to release Liberty Mutual Insurance Company bond of $83,242.18 for Sheetz Northgate project (Lot 10R-AA). Approved 4-0. - Category B: Special Ordinances – Items B.1 (S-24-04 speed camera budget amendment) and B.2 (S-24-05 Dugas Family Foundation grant) were initially on the consent agenda. B.2 was removed for discussion; B.1 approved 4-0. B.2 later approved separately (see Discussion Items). - Category C: Alcohol in City Parks – Items C.1 (Benefactor Events Battle of the Bands, April 27, 2024), C.2 (Celebrate Frederick 4th of July in Baker Park), and C.6 (Downtown Frederick Partnership Lawn Party, July 13) were approved together 4-0. Items C.3, C.4, and C.5 were removed for discussion (see Discussion Items). Discussion Items Special Ordinance B.2 – Dugas Family Foundation Grant - Alderwoman Nash noted the $13,000 grant will fund sport wheelchairs. No public comment was offered. Approved 4-0. Alcohol in City Parks – Items C.3, C.4, C.5 - C.3 (Celebrate Frederick In the Streets, September 14, 2024): Approved 4-0 after public comment from Jim Smersal clarifying that alcohol sales are limited to the designated areas (Carroll Creek Linear Park south side, from Market Street to Amphitheater and Site C-2). - C.4 (The Frederick Center Pride, June 22, 2024): Approved 4-0. Staff confirmed that alcohol service is only at the amphitheater and Site C-2, not the entire event area. - C.5 (Downtown Frederick Partnership Alive @ Five, Thursdays May 9 – October 3, 2024): Approved 4-0 after clarifying the date range (a typo in the agenda was corrected). Public Hearing Item 1 – Police Mobile Command Unit Upfitting - Lt. Aaron Lapp presented a request to accept a U.S. Department of Justice grant ($83,450) and issue a purchase order ($82,448.75) to 911 Rapid Response for retrofitting a donated command vehicle. The vehicle will serve as a mobile command post and crisis negotiation center. Estimated cost of a new comparable vehicle is over $1 million. Two votes taken: (a) Special Ordinance S-24-06 to amend the FY2024 budget for the grant – approved 4-0; (b) Purchase order – approved 4-0. Public Hearing Item 2 – Airport Lease with Airways Inn - Andrew Moore, Airport Manager, presented a 10-year lease extension for the first floor of the terminal building. Rent increased by approximately 10% initially, with 3% annual increases thereafter. Approved 4-0. Public Hearing Item 3 – CDBG Program Year 2023 Substantial Amendment - Rebecca Gramling, CDBG Program Manager, presented a substantial amendment to reprogram funds from canceled projects (2019-2023). Key changes: $150,000 to Carver Center additions (over budget), $17,000 moved between FCAA projects, $297,342 in COVID funds for Asbury Foundation Senior Escapes Park. Public comment from Jim Smersal supported the amendment. Staff acknowledged past delays but assured improved tracking. Approved 4-0. Public Hearing Item 4 – Forest Conservation Easements on Parkland - Takako Sato, Engineering Manager, requested approval of 12.29 acres of conservation easements at three parks (Willowbrook, Taskers Chance, and others). Alderwoman Nash raised concerns about relying solely on parkland planting and the need for broader tree canopy policy. Approved 4-0 (Alderman Shackelford temporarily absent but later registered aye). Public Hearing Item 5 – Forest Conservation Planting Contract - Scott Keesey, Parks Superintendent, requested two purchase orders to Empire Landscaping: $72,001.78 for invasive removal and tree planting at four park locations, and $83,939 for planting at Sanner Farm (related to Christopher’s Crossing Road). Trees will be 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, planted at 200 per acre, with a two-year warranty and 85% survivability requirement. Funding from forest conservation fees. Alderwoman Nash noted the fees may not cover long-term care but acknowledged an upcoming forest conservation ordinance update. Approved 4-0. Public Hearing Item 6 – Second Amendment to Mitigation Agreement (Renn Property) - Tracy Coleman, Deputy Director of Public Works, requested approval to modify condition 8 of the mitigation agreement to allow a roundabout instead of a traffic signal at the intersection of Monocacy Boulevard, Hughes Ford Road, and Monroe Avenue. Condition 6 remains unchanged. Staff recommended roundabout for safety and efficiency. Approved 4-0. Public Hearing Item 7 – Replacement Pickup Truck and Snow Plow - Scott Satherity, Fleet Maintenance Superintendent, requested a purchase order for $77,063.20 to Blake Ford for a 2023 F-250 with plow, replacing a 2004 vehicle. No MWBE forms were submitted due to limited vehicle availability. Approved 4-0. Appointments - Natasha Valencia appointed to the Education Commission for a three-year term (February 16, 2024 – February 15, 2027). Approved 4-0. Aldermanic Comments & Mayor’s Comments - Alderwoman Nash recognized Jackie Duda for advocacy on accessibility issues. - Alderman Shackelford announced a Black History Month celebration on February 21 at 6:00 p.m. - Mayor O’Connor reminded the public of the Tree Frederick program ($20 trees pickup in May) and announced two budget town halls: February 20 at Waverley Elementary and February 26 at Governor Thomas Johnson High School (evenings). Key Outcomes - All action items were approved by a vote of 4-0 (Alderman McShane absent). - Approval of minutes, consent agenda items, special ordinances, alcohol permits, and all seven public hearing items. - Community meeting on Jefferson Street traffic safety scheduled for February 27, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. - Upcoming budget town halls and Black History Month celebration announced. - Staff will return with updates on the forest conservation ordinance in spring 2024.

The Planning Commission met on February 12, 2024, beginning at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The agenda included approval of minutes, a continued discussion of the "Let's Move, Frederick" bicycle and pedestrian plan (no vote), and a discussion of the 2025-2029 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) (no vote). Commissioners Joan Strawson (Chair), Dorothy Menelas (Vice Chair), Natasha Valencia, and Ben MacShane (City Council Liaison) were present. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the January 8, 2024 Planning Commission meeting were approved unanimously by a motion from Commissioner Strawson, seconded by Commissioner MacShane. Public Comments & Testimony - Hannah Nickerson (415 Sherman Avenue) – Spoke in support of ambitious bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, citing climate goals (35% of Maryland emissions from on-road transportation, 19% in Frederick), the state's goal to reduce vehicle miles traveled by 20% by 2050, and the need for the city to lead on climate-friendly transportation. She argued that eliminating parking minimums would free space for affordable housing and that Frederick's flat terrain and warming climate make biking more viable. She urged proactive steps to build infrastructure and noted that people have a right to bike and walk safely. - Leanne Cruz (108 East South Street, on behalf of Downtown Frederick Partnership) – Expressed adamant support for the downtown streetscape project being included in the CIP. She emphasized the partnership's commitment to an accessible downtown with walkable streets, bikeable pathways, and vibrant public spaces, and noted that the partnership is actively seeking federal earmark funding for design and implementation. Discussion Items Let's Move, Frederick – Continued Discussion (Chapters 7-10) - David Edmonson (Planning Department) presented chapters on maintenance, legislation/policy, finance, design standards, and implementation. He noted that maintenance cost estimates are high, especially with snow removal, and that the plan intentionally avoids definitive recommendations on maintenance because it touches on tax policy and political decisions. Extensive commissioner debate focused on the recommendation to eliminate parking minimums by 2027. - Commissioner Valencia and Commissioner Menelas expressed strong reservations about the 2027 timeline, arguing that Frederick lacks robust transit options (unlike larger cities cited in the plan) and that a culture shift and improved infrastructure must precede such a change. Commissioner Valencia suggested a longer timeline (e.g., 2035) or using a mode-share metric as a trigger. Commissioner Menelas also questioned whether comparable-sized cities with similar transit had been studied. - Commissioner Strawson voiced the opposite view, favoring a shorter deadline, arguing that the city has had 15-20 years of comprehensive plan goals for walkability and that removing parking minimums would spur affordable housing and infill. She noted that parking minimums are a barrier to ADUs and smaller units. - Commissioner MacShane asked about shared parking and unbundling rent from parking; staff explained that unbundling is difficult to enforce. Discussion also covered transportation demand management (TDM) as an interim step, the need for an executive summary with clear bullet points on costs and timelines, and the importance of culture change through programs. - Public Works Director Zach Kirschner answered questions about snow removal and garage opening policies. Staff indicated that they would revise the plan, particularly softening or clarifying the parking minimums section and providing a more robust executive summary, for a future vote. Capital Improvements Program (CIP) 2025-2029 – Discussion - Zach Kirschner and staff reviewed the CIP matrix, which included updates on projects recommended by the commission last year (conference center parking facility, E Street improvements, downtown streetscape study, East Street improvements south of South Street, rails-with-trails phases, and Monocacy/26 interchange). New projects added to the matrix include West Patrick Street/Maryvale flood improvements, parks equity emphasis area (Hill Street Park and Melanox), and traffic calming (including a proposed circle at Modern 13th and Fairview). - Commissioners asked about cost estimates for E Street design, the status of East Street improvements relative to the Brickworks development, funding for rails-with-trails phase four, and the criteria for selecting new CIP projects. Commissioner Strawson raised a persistent concern about road connectivity on the east side, suggesting the need for a CIP to investigate and fund road extensions (e.g., 7th Street through to the airport area). Staff acknowledged the issue and noted that the city typically waits for development to trigger road construction but that some gaps may require city action. Commissioner Menelas requested the return of a previous map showing planned but unbuilt roads. Key Outcomes - Let's Move, Frederick: No vote was taken. Staff will revise the plan based on commissioner feedback, with emphasis on softening the parking minimums recommendation, extending the timeline, adding a concise executive summary with costs and timelines, and clarifying the relationship to other city studies (e.g., downtown streetscape). The revised plan will be brought back for a potential vote at a future meeting. - CIP: No vote was taken. The discussion will inform the commission's recommendation letter to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen. Commissioners expressed interest in adding a study on east-side road connectivity to future CIPs and receiving additional information on funding sources for the conference center parking facility.

The Frederick City Historic Preservation Commission met on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 6:00 PM in City Hall. Commissioners Robert Van Rens (Chair), Paul Fitzgerald (Vice Chair), Anne Hart, Iva Saller, and Blair Wilson were present, along with staff including Gabrielle Collard, Christina Martinkosky, Sarah Hoffeditz, Iris Annan, and others. The meeting included a hearing for approvals and a workshop for discussion of future projects. All applicants and public speakers were sworn in. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period or in regard to any specific case. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes: The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the January 25, 2024 hearing and workshop. - Administrative Approval Report: Staff reported 19 staff-level approvals for the month of January 2024. The report was entered into the record. - HPC24-95DR – 7518 N. Market Street (Demolition Review): Staff presented a memo finding that the dwelling, constructed in 1959, met the 50-year threshold but lacked architectural significance and association with significant events or persons. The Commission unanimously voted not to initiate an application for historic preservation overlay designation. - HPC23-1351 – 48 E. South Street (Post-Installation Approval): Applicant Peter Huyser sought approval to infill a garage door with wood siding and a vinyl window. Staff noted the building is non-contributing (c. 1990) and that vinyl windows are not permitted under the guidelines. The Commission approved the application with the condition that the paired vinyl window be removed and replaced with a wood, wood composite, or metal-clad window, with appropriate muntin details if divided lights are used. - HPC24-37 – 419 W. South Street (Rehabilitation): Applicant Arnold Farlow, representing Frederick County Rescue Mission, proposed repointing, brick replacement, cleaning, and paint removal on the historic jail wall (c. 1875-76). The Commission approved the application with multiple conditions: power tools limited to horizontal joints (vertical joints subject to staff test approval), mortar tooling to match existing, replacement brick to match historic materials, cleaning at ≤300 psi and ≥8 inches from surface, and a test patch for paint removal to ensure no brick damage. All staff-level approvals must be obtained before a building permit. - Workshop – HPC24-55 and HPC24-56 – 216 E. Patrick Street (Partial Demolition and Rehabilitation/Addition): The applicant (Will Randall, agent Brian Bradfield) presented plans for selective demolition of two rear blocks and a roof opening, plus a comprehensive rehabilitation including a roof overlay with insulation, new entry door, stoop modifications, rear addition, and rooftop deck. The Commission engaged in detailed discussion, expressing general support for the concept but raising concerns about the rooftop deck's visibility, the stoop design, and the neon sign. No formal vote was taken; the applicant was encouraged to refine the design and return with more details. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of January 25 meeting minutes. - Administrative approval report accepted. - Motion passed unanimously not to initiate historic designation for 7518 N. Market Street. - 48 E. South Street: Approved with condition to replace vinyl window with an approved material. - 419 W. South Street: Approved with conditions regarding power tools, mortar, brick matching, cleaning, and paint test patch. - 216 E. Patrick Street: No vote taken; workshop feedback provided for further development. The applicant will revise plans based on Commission comments. Note: Each decision on cases (except the workshop) was made by unanimous vote.

[The meeting covered routine consent agenda items, public hearings on fee waivers and a bicycle lane MOU, and impassioned public comments from residents about a severe crash on South Jefferson Street. All votes were 4-0 with Alderman McShane absent.] Public Comments & Testimony - South Jefferson Street Traffic Safety: Multiple residents testified about a high-speed crash on January 24, 2024, involving six cars and two houses. Josh Faust described the incident as a pattern of neglect, stating, "People have died here, and they're going to continue to die unless you make some serious decisions." He demanded a traffic study and concrete improvements, criticizing the city for using "the same round of excuses." Alison Crawford, his partner, recounted the explosion and fire, saying she felt "shocked and helpless" and urged a speed monitoring analysis and traffic calming. Another resident, Scott Atkins, reported that his house shook three houses away and that speed data already exists from police radar showing speeds of 40–50 mph in front of a school. Lori Relusco, a 20-year resident at 22 South Jefferson Street, noted at least eight accidents on her block and suggested rumble strips to slow traffic entering the city. The mayor acknowledged the comments and said a transportation planner was in the room taking notes, promising a response but not the specifics. Consent Calendar - Grants: Approved a $301,525 Community Services Block Grant Agreement with the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. - Special Ordinance: Approved an amendment to the FY24 budget to include revenue and expenditures from the same grant. - Alcohol in City Parks: Approved requests by Christ Reformed Evangelical Church to serve beer and wine at a September 14, 2024 picnic in Baker Park, and by Frederick Arts Council to sell and serve beer and wine on June 7–9, 2024 for the Frederick Festival of the Arts at Carroll Creek Park. Public Hearing Items - Frederick Arts Council Fee Waiver: Approved waiver of park rental fees for setup on June 7 and the event June 8–9, 2024 for the 29th annual Festival of the Arts at Carroll Creek Park. The motion cited public benefits including social, educational, networking, and entertainment opportunities that support local business and tourism. - Children's Festival Fee Waiver: Approved a resolution to continue the partnership with Child Care Choices/Frederick County Mental Health Association for the 34th Annual Children's Festival on April 27, 2024, waiving gymnasium and park rental fees at Baker Park, with similar findings. - Seventh Street Protected Bike Lane MOU: Approved a memorandum of understanding with the Maryland State Highway Administration for funding the Seventh Street Protected Bicycle Lane Design. Staff noted it was essentially a re-signing of a previously approved MOU due to a template change. Discussion Items - Charter Review Process: Alderwoman Ash updated the board on the charter review process. She noted a workshop scheduled for end of February and expected full staff analysis. She emphasized the need for a communications plan and clarity on implementation barriers for 2025 elections. - Aldermanic Comments: Alderman Russell reminded residents of the Fire and Ice weekend downtown and traffic disruptions. Alderman Shackelford highlighted Black History Month events at the Weinberg Center. Alderwoman Ash promoted the Mobilize Frederick climate summit at Hood College on February 2–3. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and public hearing items were approved 4-0. - The reappointment of Alyssa Boxhill to the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (term February 7, 2024 – February 6, 2028) was approved 4-0. - The mayor directed a response to the South Jefferson Street safety concerns, with a transportation planner present to document the testimony. - Items 4 and 5 on the agenda (agreements with GHD and WRA for water infrastructure projects) were pulled before the meeting.

The Historic Preservation Commission met on January 25, 2024, at 6:00 PM at City Hall in Frederick, Maryland, to conduct a public hearing and workshop. The meeting included the approval of minutes, a hearing on a sidewalk and coal chute cover replacement, and a workshop discussion on masonry repointing and painting. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the January 11, 2024 hearing and workshop were approved unanimously without discussion. Discussion Items - HPC24-04 – 10 S. Market Street (Bilco Door Replacement): Applicant Anthony Owens (agent for Taft) proposed replacing an existing metal panel covering a former coal chute or cellar entrance with either a new steel plate or a concrete infill, along with sidewalk repairs. Staff noted the existing feature is not historic and the work does not damage the building's integrity. The applicant favored concrete to eliminate future tripping hazards and water leakage issues that had damaged the underlying masonry foundation. Commissioners discussed the historic nature of the opening and agreed that documenting it with photographs before covering would be appropriate, but found no preservation objection to either option. Chairman expressed preference for a stainless steel plate if metal were chosen for durability. - HPC24-08 – 54 E. Patrick Street (Masonry Repointing and Painting) – Workshop: Applicant Mike Stultz (Spinner's Contracting, agent for owners Ronald & Patricia Smith) proposed repointing brick and painting the entire building with a breathable masonry paint. Staff reported that the building, originally built in 1764, is one of the oldest in Frederick. The applicant had already used an acrylic-based concrete patch to repoint large areas on the side, which staff strongly criticized as inappropriate for historic soft brick. The guidelines require lime-based mortar that is softer and more vapor-permeable than the brick; the acrylic product is harder and impermeable, likely causing future brick deterioration. Commissioners stressed the need to remove the improper mortar with the help of a historic masonry specialist before any painting of unpainted masonry could be considered. Painting of wooden elements (windows, doors, shutters) does not require HPC approval. The commission did not approve the current scope of work and directed the applicant to engage a qualified historic mason to assess and remedy the repointing issues, then return with a revised plan. Key Outcomes - HPC24-04: Approved unanimously (4–0) with both options (concrete infill or steel plate) allowed; applicant must provide additional documentation (photographs of the coal chute) to staff before proceeding. If a steel plate is chosen, staff recommends using stainless steel for longevity. - HPC24-08: No formal decision; the application was continued to a future meeting. The commission advised the applicant to: (1) contact the manufacturer of the acrylic mortar for removal guidance, (2) hire a historic masonry specialist to evaluate the wall and develop a plan to remove the inappropriate mortar and repoint with lime-based mortar, and (3) revisit the painting proposal only after masonry issues are resolved. Staff will provide resources for finding a qualified contractor.

The Zoning Board of Appeals met on January 23, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall to hear a variance application and conduct administrative business. The board approved the previous meeting's minutes and unanimously granted a variance for 406 Magnolia Avenue. Consent Calendar - Approval of the December 19, 2023 meeting minutes was moved by Mr. Sisson, seconded by Mr. Hicks, and approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comment during the general public comment period or on the variance case. Discussion Items - ZBA23-1382V – 406 Magnolia Avenue: The applicant, Kevin Young (1404 South Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA), requested a variance to reduce the required setback along Evergreen Avenue. The property is a 1,210-square-foot single-family home built in 1927 on a corner lot. Per the staff report, the home is non-conforming, sitting only 2.5–2.8 feet from Evergreen Avenue, while the Land Management Code requires a 25-foot front setback. (Note: The agenda listed the requirement as a 15-foot side setback, whereas the staff report and transcript reference a 25-foot front setback; this discrepancy was not resolved during the meeting.) Staff recommended approval, finding that all seven variance criteria were satisfied. The applicant concurred and requested approval. Board members asked clarifying questions, confirming the proposed second-story addition would not expand the footprint beyond the existing vertical plane but would extend an existing dormer approximately 14 feet to the rear. No public testimony was offered. Key Outcomes - Vote on ZBA23-1382V: The board voted 4-0 (members Colar, Sisson, Hicks, and Chair Racheff in favor) to approve the variance, reducing the required 25-foot setback along Evergreen Avenue to 2.4 feet (a reduction of 22.6 feet) under Section 203 of the Land Management Code. - Election of Officers: Listed on the agenda under Board Business but was not discussed during the meeting. - Other Items: The board acknowledged a list of completed zoning determinations. No continuances or old business were considered.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a regular public meeting on January 18, 2024, at 7:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, consent agenda items, public hearings on several contracts and tax credit ordinances, and public comments from residents regarding police conduct. All actions were taken with a 4-0 vote unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from December 7, 2023 and December 21, 2023 regular public meetings. - Release of Sureties: Approved release of a $92,762.93 cash surety for Prospect Investors, LLC (Dutch's Daughter Parking Lot) and a $51,060.00 bond for Land Bay A, LLC (Kellerton Land Bay A, Phase 1 afforestation). - Grants: Approved grant agreements with the Community Foundation of Frederick County for behavioral health services – substance use response and veteran support. - Special Ordinances: Approved two budget amendments to incorporate grant funds for substance use disorder support services and veteran behavioral health support services. Public Comments & Testimony - Jacob Pugh (resident) described being pulled over on December 29, 2023 by Frederick City Police, charged with five counts including DUI of marijuana, despite blowing 0.00 on alcohol, failing a field sobriety test, and not taking a drug recognition test. He alleged the officer committed perjury on citations and argued there was no probable cause. He expressed concern about losing his livelihood. - Levi Trumble spoke in support of Mr. Pugh, noting he himself was pulled over three days earlier (December 26) and experienced a similar routine with three deputies. He stated he refused the field sobriety test and was not arrested, suggesting possible police quota issues. He offered body camera footage from his incident. Public Hearing Items - Approval of Agreement with Flyleaf Creative, Inc. for Weinberg Center for the Arts Website (RFP 24-G): Barbara Hiller, marketing manager, presented. The current website (launched 2018) needs updating. Bid was $50,000, within the $40,000 budget plus $15,000 grant from Visit Frederick. Flyleaf has experience with Spectrix ticketing platform. Approved 4-0. - Approval of Amendment to Master Services Agreement with AXON Enterprises for AXON VR Training Platform: Aaron Lapp (police department) presented. A grant covers the first year (equipment plus four months service) and the city would fund the next three years (amounts in requested budget). The VR platform is mobile, provides immersive training, and can be used for community outreach. Approved 4-0. - Approval of Contract with Capital Electric Supply for Replacement of Variable Frequency Drives at Wastewater Treatment Facility (IFB 24-4): Tim Moffat (superintendent) presented. The contract is for $421,428, $20,217 over the budgeted $401,211 due to inflation, but current operating budget can cover the excess. The drives are obsolete and failing. Alderman Kelly abstained due to prior work with a parent company (Schneider Electric). Approved 3-0-1. - Approval of Two Ordinances for Property Tax Credits (Items 4 & 5): Katie Barkell (Budget Director) presented three credits mirroring Frederick County programs: 1. Elderly Individuals and Uniform Service Members Property Tax Credit: Available to individuals 65+ who are retired uniform service members, or to active/retired/honorably discharged with service-connected disability; also for elderly residents (65+) with income ≤$80,000 and 30 consecutive years of ownership. Each credit is 20% of net property tax on up to $400,000 assessed value. 2. Partially Disabled Veterans Property Tax Credit: For honorably discharged veterans with at least 50% permanent service-connected disability. Credit equals 50% of net tax for 75-99% disability, or 25% for 50-74% disability. - Public comment: Lance English (resident) thanked Alderman Russell and noted that currently only 11 city homeowners receive the disabled veteran credit, 38 receive the uniform services credit, and 3 receive the elderly credit. He urged advertising on Veterans Day. Both ordinances approved 4-0. Key Outcomes - All consent items approved unanimously (4-0). - Weinberg Center website contract with Flyleaf Creative approved 4-0. - AXON VR training platform amendment approved 4-0. - Capital Electric Supply contract approved 3-0-1 (Alderman Kelly abstained). - Property tax credit ordinances (Items 4 and 5) approved 4-0 each. - The Board expressed appreciation to DPW and police staff for managing foul weather conditions and to agencies serving homeless individuals. - Introduction of Devin Pert, new local government relations associate from Frederick County. - No further public comments or new business; meeting adjourned.