Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

The Zoning Board of Appeals met on January 24, 2023, at 7:00 PM at City Hall (101 North Court Street) to consider two applications: a conditional use for an assisted living facility at 228 Thames Drive and a temporary use for an auto repair business at 430 Pine Avenue, along with routine board business. The meeting was broadcast live on Channel 99 and streamed online. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the November 22, 2022 meeting were approved unanimously (motion by Bob Sisson, second by Dixon Hicks). Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment: Kevin Blank (120 Pine Avenue) expressed concerns about potential rezoning near his property, stormwater drainage issues, and the impact of ongoing construction in the area. Staff directed him to the appropriate city contacts. - Public Testimony on ZBA22-1158TU (Temporary Use): Kevin Blank testified that while he had no issue with Kreitz Auto as a business, he was concerned about increased traffic on Pine Avenue and reckless driving by employees. He noted that the previous county use was unobtrusive, but the current operation has caused disruptions. Discussion Items ZBA22-1152CU – Conditional Use, 228 Thames Drive (Assisted Living Facility) - Staff Report: Joe Adkins presented the staff report recommending approval. The applicant, Rebecca Yaboah, requested a conditional use to operate an assisted living facility with up to seven beds in an existing single-family home on a 6,500 sq. ft. lot zoned R8. The use is permitted as a conditional use under Section 841 of the Land Management Code (LMC). Staff found the proposal met all criteria, including compatibility with the comprehensive plan, no adverse impact on the neighborhood, adequate parking (two spaces provided), and compliance with state licensing requirements. Two conditions were recommended: (1) provide proof of state licensing before a zoning certificate, and (2) development approval expires in two years if not established. - Applicant Statement: Rebecca Yaboah clarified that the owner, Andrew, will live in the facility as a resident, and caregivers will work in shifts. Parking will be managed by scheduling visitor visits and using the applicant's nearby home for overflow. The property has no HOA. - Board Questions: Members asked about the lease agreement, parking, and state requirements. Concerns were raised about the lease potentially conflicting with state safety signage requirements. The board noted that the applicant should address this before final inspections. - Public Comment: None. - Decision: Motion by Dixon Hicks to approve with the findings of fact and conditions as stated in the staff report. Seconded by Bob Sisson. Vote: 4 in favor (Hicks, Sisson, Aronow, Knapp), 0 opposed. Approved. ZBA22-1158TU – Temporary Use, 430 Pine Avenue (Auto Repair, Detailing, and Storage) - Staff Report: Joe Adkins presented the staff report recommending approval. The property is currently zoned Institutional (IST) due to a floating overlay from former county use. The applicant, Kreitz Properties (represented by attorney Bruce Dean and owner Kim Kreitz), requested a temporary use for six months to operate an auto repair and detailing business while a rezoning application to remove the IST overlay is pending. Staff found the temporary use met the 16 criteria of Section 312 and Section 867J of the LMC, noting that the use is similar to the prior county maintenance yard and will not cause adverse impacts. - Applicant Statement: Bruce Dean explained that the county sold the property after failing to get site plan approval for improvements. The Kreitz family purchased it in December 2022 and intends to use the existing buildings for light auto repair (installing lifts on vehicles), with no body work or painting. Kim Kreitz stated that most traffic will be between their nearby facilities on East Church Street, minimizing impact on Pine Avenue. They plan to make cosmetic improvements only. - Board Questions: Members asked about the scope of work (no body work or painting), the temporary nature of the permit, and the contingency if the rezoning fails. The board also discussed neighbor concerns about employee driving behavior. - Public Comment: Kevin Blank reiterated concerns about traffic and employee conduct, urging better control. - Applicant Rebuttal: Bruce Dean acknowledged the concerns and noted that the neighborhood is changing with the planned Fifth Street extension. Kim Kreitz offered to route traffic via East Church Street and Fifth Street to avoid Pine Avenue as much as possible, and committed to addressing employee behavior. - Decision: Motion by Bob Sisson to approve with findings of fact and conditions as stated in the staff report, including the requirement for a six-month zoning permit. Seconded by Lawrence Aronow. Vote: 4 in favor (Hicks, Sisson, Aronow, Knapp), 0 opposed. Approved. Key Outcomes - Conditional Use Approved (ZBA22-1152CU): The board approved the assisted living facility at 228 Thames Drive with conditions (proof of state licensing, two-year expiration). - Temporary Use Approved (ZBA22-1158TU): The board approved the six-month temporary use for auto repair at 430 Pine Avenue, contingent on the applicant obtaining a six-month zoning permit. The use will expire if the rezoning is not approved or after six months. - Election of Officers: Jim Racheff was re-elected as Chair (motion by Lawrence Aronow, seconded by Bob Sisson, unanimous). Lawrence Aronow was elected as Vice Chair (nomination by Bob Sisson, seconded by Stephen Colar, unanimous). - Acknowledgment of Departing Member: The board thanked Dr. Ying for his service as his term ended. Note: All votes were 4-0 in favor, with one seat vacant (no abstentions).

The City Council of Frederick met on January 19, 2023, at 12:15 PM UTC for a regular public meeting. The agenda included approval of minutes, a consent agenda, a public hearing on the final report of the Climate Emergency Mobilization Workgroup, an appointment to the Neighborhood Advisory Council, and aldermanic comments. The meeting was streamed live on Channel 99 and online. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Unanimously approved (5-0) the minutes of the December 15, 2022 Regular Public Meeting and the December 15, 2022 Closed Session. - Release of Surety and Acceptance of Public Improvements: Approved (5-0) the release of sureties for three projects: Monocacy Park Townhouses ($103,177.76), Kellerton Yellow Springs Road Phase 2 ($768,317.75), and Sycamore Ridge Christophers Crossing Phase 1 ($83,984.64). - Grants: Approved (5-0) acceptance of an FY23 Governor's Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services PACT grant. - Special Ordinances: Approved (5-0) a special ordinance to amend the FY2023 budget to include revenue and expenditures for the PACT grant. Public Comments & Testimony - Barb (last name not given): Spoke in support of the resolution on the Climate Emergency Mobilization Workgroup report. She thanked the council, urged expedited action on a green bank study, called for increased staff capacity and investment, and requested a formal mechanism to evaluate the climate impact of council decisions. - Kevin Sellner: Echoed support for the resolution, emphasized the need for department heads to assess the climate relevance of policies and ordinances, and noted the report's 40 recommendations as a resource. He also highlighted the importance of a partnership with the county on the green bank. - Karen Cannon (Mobilize Frederick): Supported the workgroup's efforts, framed climate action as an opportunity for growth, new jobs, and improved air quality, and encouraged the council to view climate challenges as a source of positive change. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – Climate Emergency Mobilization Workgroup Final Report: The council considered a resolution to accept the final report. City Attorney Rachel Nesson noted the resolution had been workshopped in December and the date would be corrected to January 19, 2023, upon passage. After public testimony, the resolution was moved and seconded. Alderman Shackelford, Russell, and the mayor expressed gratitude for the workgroup's efforts, noting the city's ongoing steps toward electrification, fleet and building improvements, and collaboration with the county. Key Outcomes - Resolution on Climate Emergency Mobilization Workgroup Report: Passed unanimously (5-0). The council accepted the final report and directed staff to incorporate its recommendations into future decision-making. - Appointment of Jack Weaver: Appointed as Neighborhood Advisory Council 1 Coordinator for a two-year term (January 20, 2023 to January 19, 2025), approved unanimously (5-0). - Report of Closed Meeting (January 5, 2023): Noted that the council convened in closed session to discuss personnel compensation, resulting in approval of an employment offer at requested salary (vote 3-0). - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned without further public comment.

The Frederick Planning Commission held a workshop on January 17, 2023, at 2:00 PM at City Hall (101 North Court Street) to review six agenda items: four final site plans, one zoning map amendment, and one text amendment. The workshop was less formal than a public hearing, with applicants presenting modifications, commission questions, staff input, and public comment. No formal votes were taken; the items are expected to proceed to future public hearings. Discussion Items PC22-834FSI: Governor's Place Lot 4A – Final Site Plan - Applicant Andrew Welker (Oshman Properties) presented a revised site plan to enlarge a stormwater management pond for efficiency, requiring removal of five non-specimen trees (hackberries and a pine) and relocation of trees. The plan also needs to add two trees to comply with Section 605. Staff (Pam Reppert) confirmed no modifications were requested, and technical comments can be addressed before resubmission. No public comment. PC22-1096PSU/FSI: Renn Quarter Phase 3 – Combined Preliminary Plat and Final Site Plan - Applicant Chris Mariga (Harris Smariga) and developer Karen McJunkin proposed adding 12 two-story, 24-foot-wide townhomes (with first-floor master bedroom) on end units, replacing previously approved 20-foot-wide three-story units. No changes to road network, parking, or lot count; open space was slightly reconfigured. Staff noted that design and elevation details will come later. No public comment. PC22-1016FSI: Frederick Commerce Center Lot 1 – Final Site Plan - Applicant Chris Mariga and Joe Whitebread (Tramel Crow) presented a revised speculative plan after a build-to-suit user withdrew. Modifications requested: counting trailer and loading spaces as parking (603 car spaces, 393 trailer spaces, 165 loading spaces) and reducing interior parking lot landscaping in truck courts from 10% to 6% (while providing 17% in employee parking areas). A condition requiring demolition of two residential lots on adjacent property (Tom's Farm) before site plan approval was discussed; applicant Bruce Dean argued the residential use has ceased and demolition should wait until the separate annexation application is resolved. Staff (Pam Reppert) maintained the demolition condition is tied to the annexation buffer requirement. No public comment. PC22-836FSI: West Park Village Lot 4 (VFW) – Final Site Plan - Applicant Chris Mariga and VFW representative Rick Stutt presented plans for a new one-story VFW building on a constrained lot (with floodplain, stream buffer, and rock outcropping). Modifications requested: front setback less than 35 feet, side setbacks less than 25 feet, lighting spillover across shared parking, and reduced buffering between lots. The building is oriented toward the parking lot rather than Alternate 40 (a highway ramp). Staff (Pam Reppert) emphasized the need for pedestrian connectivity and street orientation under MU standards. The applicant committed to enhanced landscaping and architectural design. No public comment. PC22-1001ZMA: Zoning Map Amendment – 430 Pine Avenue (IST to M1) - Applicant Bruce Dean and Kim Kreitz (Kreitz Properties) requested removal of the IST (Institutional) floating zone, reverting to underlying M1 (Light Industrial) zoning. The property, formerly a county maintenance site, will be used for auto storage and detailing. Discussion focused on future access via Fifth Street (currently being extended) and compatibility with nearby residential redevelopment. Staff (Gabrielle Collard) confirmed the three findings for reversion are met. This item requires two hearings. No public comment. PC22-1004ZTA: Text Amendment – Article 4, Section 417 (Mixed Use Districts) - Applicant Bruce Dean, Lisa Graditor, Josh Neiman (MCB), and Chris Mariga proposed a text amendment to Section 417 to allow modification authority for redevelopment projects in MU1 and MU2 zones. The amendment would prevent non-conformity designations when phasing redevelopment (e.g., retaining existing shopping center buildings while adding new residential). Key components: broadening modification authority with criteria (consistency with comprehensive plan, compensating design features), revising the definition of redevelopment, and setting a higher street connectivity ratio (1.8) while making it modifiable. Staff (Gabrielle Collard) supported the amendment as a tool to implement the 2020 Comprehensive Plan and provide discretion to the Planning Commission. Public comment: Kevin Sellner (Citizens for Responsible Growth) expressed support for the Westridge project but urged caution about unintended consequences of a citywide amendment, noting that the comprehensive plan can be interpreted broadly. No vote was taken. Public Comments & Testimony - Kevin Sellner (East Fifth Street, representing Citizens for Responsible Growth) spoke on the text amendment (PC22-1004ZTA). He commended the Westridge project but cautioned that the broad modification authority could lead to inconsistent decisions and that the comprehensive plan contains contradictory statements that could be selectively cited. He urged the commission to consider the future implications carefully. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were made on any agenda item. The workshop served as a discussion forum for applicants, staff, and the commission. All items are expected to return for public hearings or further workshops. The text amendment (PC22-1004ZTA) and zoning map amendment (PC22-1001ZMA) will require additional hearings. The final site plans will be resubmitted with revisions based on staff and commission feedback.

The Frederick Historic Preservation Commission met on January 12, 2023, at 6:00 PM in City Hall to conduct a public hearing and workshop. The Commission considered several applications involving demolition, additions, and rehabilitation of historic properties, and made decisions on designations and approvals. Commission Announcements - Staff announced vacancies on the Commission (one full-time and one alternate) and encouraged applications. - A tax credit workshop hosted by the city, Frederick County, and Maryland Historical Trust will be held on January 25, 2023, at 7:00 PM. - Commissioner Hart was authorized to represent the Commission at the Maryland Association of Historic District Commission annual meeting on January 28, 2023. Consent Calendar - The Commission unanimously approved the hearing and workshop minutes from December 8, 2022. - The administrative approval report for December 2022, which included eight administrative approvals, was entered into the record. Discussion Items 1. Demolition Review – 220 N. East Street (HPC22-1116DR) Staff recommended making an application to designate the property, noting its history as an early municipal electric plant. The property owner, Mr. Welker, expressed openness to designation but requested flexibility for the non-historic portions of the site. After discussion, the Commission unanimously voted to make an application to designate the entire property for further evaluation. 2. Demolition Review – 720 N. East Street (HPC22-1140DR) Staff found the three structures (a frame dwelling, an outbuilding, and a garage) did not meet criteria for individual historic designation. No applicant representative was present. The Commission unanimously voted not to make an application to designate the structures. 3. Partial Demolition – 230 E. 7th Street (HPC22-1075) Applicant Brian Bradfield (Catworks Design) proposed partial demolition of a rear stoop, deck, and basement areaway of a circa 1925 twin dwelling. Staff noted these elements were altered and not character-defining. The Commission unanimously approved the application, subject to approval of a replacement plan. 4. Addition – 230 E. 7th Street (HPC22-1077) Bradfield proposed a two-story frame addition at the rear of the same property. Staff supported the application noting the modest size, rear location, and appropriate materials (fiber cement siding, composite decking). The Commission unanimously approved the application. 5. Partial Demolition – 319 E. 3rd Street (HPC22-1088) – Public Hearing Portion Applicant Clyde Berger (architect for David & Wanda Ford) sought demolition of a wood frame garage/former stable. Staff recommended the structure be considered a contributing resource but not of unusual importance. After discussion, the Commission voted 4-1 (Commissioner Fitzgerald opposed) to find the structure as a contributing resource to the historic district but not of unusual importance. The case was continued to the workshop for further discussion on structural condition. 6. Rehabilitation – 68 E. South Street (HPC22-1115) Owner Mary Anne Wampler sought post-installation approval for a new fiberglass door, storm door, and wood transom on a non-contributing building constructed in 1993. Staff supported the storm door and transom but not the fiberglass door due to its faux-wood texture. The Commission voted 4-1 to approve the storm door and transom and to grant an exception to the guidelines for the fiberglass door, finding it visually acceptable for the new building. 7. Workshop: Rehabilitation – 216 E. Patrick Street (HPC22-602) – (Third Workshop) Applicant Brian Bradfield and William Randall (AC LLC) proposed replacing six upper-level glass block windows on the west elevation with aluminum-clad wood six-over-six double-hung windows. The Commission discussed the proposal, with several members expressing support for the design as a compromise for adaptive reuse. No formal vote was taken; the application will proceed to a public hearing. 8. Workshop: Demolition – 319 E. 3rd Street (HPC22-1088) – Structural Discussion Following the hearing determination, the workshop focused on the structural condition of the garage. Applicant Berger presented a structural engineer’s report indicating severe deterioration, lack of foundation, and substandard construction. Commissioners expressed concern about the rarity of such outbuildings but acknowledged the extreme structural issues. Staff noted that the threshold for demolition of a contributing resource could be met if the structure poses an imminent danger to public safety. The Commission requested additional documentation of the engineer’s qualifications. The application is scheduled for a public hearing on January 26, 2023. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes and administrative report (unanimous). - Voted to initiate designation application for 220 N. East Street (unanimous). - Voted not to designate 720 N. East Street (unanimous). - Approved partial demolition at 230 E. 7th Street (unanimous). - Approved addition at 230 E. 7th Street (unanimous). - Designated the garage at 319 E. 3rd Street as a contributing resource (4-1). - Approved storm door and transom, and granted exception for fiberglass door at 68 E. South Street (4-1). - Workshop provided guidance on 216 E. Patrick Street rehabilitation; formal application expected. - Workshop discussed 319 E. 3rd Street demolition; applicant to provide engineer qualifications; hearing scheduled for January 26, 2023.

The pre-planning meeting for the Planning Commission's December workshop (rescheduled to December 17 due to the holiday) focused on procedural updates and preparation for the upcoming hearing. Key discussions included a second workshop for the Carroll Creek overlay text amendment, the feasibility of inviting external stakeholders to that workshop, and a proposal for quarterly informational sessions for commissioners. The meeting also previewed a six-item hearing agenda, with most items reported as unchanged from prior discussions. Discussion Items - Carroll Creek Overlay Text Amendment: The applicant requested a second workshop (scheduled for February) instead of proceeding directly to a hearing. Commissioners expressed a desire to better understand the interplay between the Carroll Creek overlay, the future form-based code, and the density enhancement area. They asked staff to invite Mark from the city to provide a tutorial on the overlay and to be available for questions. Commissioners also discussed whether it would be appropriate to invite representatives from the Downtown Frederick Partnership or NAC 11 to the workshop to share their perspectives. Gabrielle (staff) cautioned against speculating on the unformed form-based code and noted that inviting specific individuals could be perceived as favoring certain viewpoints. She suggested broader public outreach (e.g., posting on the city website and Facebook) rather than direct invitations. The matter of ex parte communication was raised, and staff agreed to follow up with the city attorney for guidance. - Quarterly Informational Sessions for Commissioners: Commissioner Dorothy presented a proposal for quarterly 20–30 minute presentations (followed by Q&A) on topics relevant to the commission's work, such as affordable housing, available planning tools, CIP projects, and environmental design. The intent is to provide broader context for application reviews without adding significant staff burden. Dorothy and Commissioner Barbara will share a framework document via email for commissioner input on future topics. Gabrielle confirmed that her staff would not be directly involved, but she expressed support for the initiative. - Hearing Agenda Preview: Staff provided brief updates on the following items scheduled for the upcoming hearing: - East Pass Continuance: A 60-day continuance was requested due to ongoing archaeological investigations in a historically sensitive area. - Annual Election of Officers: Nominations for chair, vice chair, and secretary will be taken; no public comment. - Master Plan for Barrack Property: Second required hearing. Updates include reduction from four to three modifications and traffic analysis addressing Camp Lane and Christopher's Crossing completion. Staff highlighted that the updates were clearly noted in the report. - West Patrick Street (417 West Patrick) Final Plat/Site Plan: No new issues; conditions of approval remain. - Frederick Manufacturing Final Site Plan: No new issues; conditions of approval remain. - Take Five Car Wash: One modification discussed at the workshop; six conditions recommended. - Canon Hill Final Site Plan and Forest Conservation Plan: Staff noted unresolved lighting spillover (to be conditioned on adjustment), required multiple water/sewer connection approval from the mayor and board, MPDU payment agreement, and removal of off-site specimen trees. Property owners adjoining the site have signed agent authorization forms consenting to tree removal. Key Outcomes - The Carroll Creek overlay text amendment will be discussed at a second workshop in February 2023; staff will coordinate with city attorneys on inviting external parties. - Commissioners will receive an email with the framework for quarterly informational sessions and are asked to suggest future topics. - Hearing items will proceed as outlined: East Pass continuance (60-day), Barrack master plan, West Patrick Street plat/site plan, Frederick Manufacturing site plan, Take Five Car Wash, and Canon Hill site plan/forest conservation plan. - No votes were taken during the pre-planning meeting.

The Frederick Planning Commission held its regular public hearing on January 9, 2023, at 6:00 PM in City Hall, 101 North Court Street. The commission addressed multiple items including a master plan revision, final plats, site plans, and a forest conservation plan. All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. Public comments were heard on several items. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the December 12, 2022 meeting, December 19, 2022 workshop, and January 6, 2023 pre-meeting (all unanimous). - Granted a 60-day continuance for PC21-1431FSI (East Pat Lofts) to March 13, 2023, at the applicant's request (unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - 417 W. Patrick Street (Final Plat & Site Plan): Residents Amy Marsh, Debbie Jaffray, Rob Walsh, Sandra Laneert, and Linda Dove expressed concerns about lack of notification, the design of the clock tower, building height, shadow impacts, and parking. They generally supported redevelopment of the site but objected to the proposed design as not fitting the neighborhood's character. - Cannon Hill Apartments: Colin Crehan, William Cotton, and Julia Radowitz commented on insufficient parking, lighting concerns, tree removal, and increased traffic on East South Street. They also noted a zoning discrepancy (DB vs DR) and a propane tank on an adjacent property. Discussion Items - Election of Officers: Barbara Nicholas was re-elected Chair, Joan Strawson Vice Chair, and Ron Dini Secretary, all unanimously. - Barrick Property Master Plan (PC22-514PND): Approved a revision reducing dwelling units from 301 to 274, with three modifications (R4 dimensional regulations, driveway coverage waiver for front-loaded townhouses, and street details). The applicant cited 19 years of neighborhood changes and improved access via Christopher Crossing. Approved unanimously. - 417 W. Patrick Street Final Plat (PC18-791FSU): Approved resubdivision to create three lots, with conditions. Unanimous. - 417 W. Patrick Street Final Site Plan (PC18-792FSI): Approved a four-unit multifamily building with parking. The vote was 3-1-1 (McShane, Beattie, Strawson in favor; Nicholas opposed; one abstention). The applicant declined a continuance despite commissioner requests for a clearer rendering. - Frederick Manufacturing (PC22-730FSI): Approved a 3,600 square foot addition to a pharmaceutical manufacturing building. Unanimous. - Take 5 Car Wash (PC22-826FSI): Approved demolition of a former Pizza Hut and construction of a car wash with 12 vacuum stations, including two modifications (loading space location and landscaping buffer). Unanimous. - Cannon Hill Final Site Plan (PC22-404FSI): Approved a 34-unit multifamily building with 34 on-site parking spaces. Added a condition that parking spaces meet the 15-foot setback from the DR zoning boundary. Unanimous. - Cannon Hill Forest Plan (PC22-512FSCB): Approved a combined forest stand delineation and preliminary forest conservation plan, including a modification to remove three specimen trees and nine other trees, with a fee in lieu of $4,443.30. Unanimous. Key Outcomes - All consent items and continuances passed unanimously. - Barrick master plan approved with modifications (unanimous). - 417 W. Patrick final plat approved (unanimous). - 417 W. Patrick site plan approved (3-1-1). - Frederick Manufacturing site plan approved (unanimous). - Take 5 Car Wash site plan and modifications approved (unanimous). - Cannon Hill site plan approved with additional parking setback condition (unanimous). - Cannon Hill forest plan approved with conditions (unanimous). - Meeting adjourned after completing all agenda items.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a public meeting on January 5, 2023, at 7:00 PM in City Hall. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, approval of the December 1, 2022 minutes (4-0), and a report of a closed session held on December 15, 2022. Mayor O’Connor and all aldermen except Alderwoman Kazemchak (absent) were present. The board conducted five public hearings on items including a security camera policy, a memorandum of understanding with the Downtown Frederick Partnership, a parking fee amendment for the Fire in Ice event, a rezoning, and a master plan approval. No public comments were offered during either of the two public comment periods. Consent Calendar - No consent agenda was presented; all items were heard as separate public hearings. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during either public comment session. Discussion Items 1. Security Camera Policy (Resolution) Nathan Hupp, Security and Emergency Preparedness Administrator, presented the citywide security camera policy, which establishes standards and oversight for internal and public security cameras, including a protection of privacy and civil liberties statement updated to align with the city’s discrimination policy. Alderman Shackelford praised the work. The resolution was approved 4-0. 2. Memorandum of Understanding with Downtown Frederick Partnership Richard Griffin, Director of Economic Development, presented the MOU, which formalizes the city’s partnership with the designated Main Street organization. Key financial points include city general financial support of $101,311 in FY24, $106,377 in FY25, and $11,696 in FY26, subject to annual budget appropriations. The MOU also covers cost-sharing for the Downtown Frederick Ambassador Program, which provides cleaning and hospitality services. Kara Norman, Executive Director of the partnership, expressed gratitude and highlighted the program’s impact. In 2022, ambassadors removed 655 biohazards, cleaned 9,400 block faces, removed 700 cigarette butts and 1,000 stickers, filled 314 dog bag dispensers, completed nearly 1,000 business contacts, and provided hospitality assistance to almost 1,200 people. The program costs approximately $345,000 annually, with the city covering roughly 50%. Alderman Nash raised concerns about the mechanism of raising parking fees for events. The MOU was approved 4-0. 3. Ordinance to Amend Parking Fee for Fire in Ice Event Richard Griffin explained that the popular winter event generates significant pedestrian and vehicle traffic, requiring safety measures (shuttles, barricades, flaggers) costing the partnership an estimated $18,000. The city currently charges a $6 flat parking fee ($5 to city, $1 to partnership). The proposal increases the fee to $10 ($6 to city, $4 to partnership) to offset costs and encourage use of free shuttles. In FY20, the event generated $2,765 for the partnership; in 2022, about $3,800. If the same number of vehicles park, the new fee could generate about $13,000. Alderman Nash questioned the precedent of using parking revenue for an independent organization’s event, but Mayor O’Connor supported the approach as an enterprise fund solution that avoids general fund spending. The ordinance was approved 4-0. 4. Ordinance to Rezone 5.37 Acres at 1724 N. Market Street (MU-2 Floating Zone) Staff reported that at the December 1, 2022 hearing, the board imposed eight conditions for rezoning from Neighborhood Commercial to Mixed-Use (MU-2). The applicant (SCG Development Partners/New Harbor Development) accepted all conditions on December 7, 2022. David Severin, applicant’s representative, requested approval. The board could not modify conditions without restarting the process. A motion to approve the rezoning, finding compliance with all applicable criteria, passed 4-0. 5. Master Plan for Madison on North Market (60 Multifamily Units, 4,000 sq ft Nonresidential) Pam Rapper (Planning) presented the master plan, which is required for the floating zone. The Planning Commission recommended approval with two modifications. David Severin concurred. The board approved the resolution (PC22-168MU) including conditions such as vicinity map scale adjustments and corrections to notes. The vote was 4-0. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved: December 1, 2022 minutes (4-0). - Closed meeting report: Noted actions on a personnel board recommendation and appointment of Rachel Nesson as City Attorney. - Security Camera Policy: Resolution adopted 4-0. - Downtown Frederick Partnership MOU: Approved 4-0. - Fire in Ice Parking Fee: Ordinance to amend FY23 fee schedule approved 4-0. - Rezoning: Ordinance to rezone 5.37 acres to MU-2 approved 4-0. - Master Plan: Resolution approving Madison on North Market master plan approved 4-0. - Next meeting: Public hearing scheduled for January 19, 2023; no workshop on January 11 or 18 due to Maryland General Assembly opening and Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.

The board convened on January 5, 2023 at 11:00 AM and immediately moved to enter a closed session to discuss personnel compensation, pursuant to Maryland Annotated Code General Provisions § 3-305(b)(1)(i). A motion to convene in closed session was made by Alderman Russell, seconded by Alderman McShane, and carried unanimously (recorded as 3-0). The board then adjourned the open meeting to reconvene in room 212 for the closed session. Key Outcomes - Motion to go into closed session for discussion of personnel compensation passed unanimously (3-0).

The City of Frederick Planning Commission conducted a workshop on December 19, 2022, starting at 2:00 PM. The workshop covered five agenda items: three final site plans, one combined forest stand delineation and forest conservation plan, and one zoning text amendment. No votes were taken; all items were discussed for informational and deliberative purposes. Public comment was invited but none was offered for any item in person, though letters were received on the text amendment. Discussion Items - Frederick County Animal Control Renovation and Expansion (PC22-926FSI): The applicant, Dewberry Engineer, Inc., represented by Kevin Mack and Ellen Ox, presented a multi-phase renovation and expansion of the existing animal control facility. The plan adds three wings, reconfigures parking (adding eight spaces), relocates a bus stop to an ADA-compliant location, provides new utilities, and adds stormwater management. The project will remain operational through five construction phases. The existing structure is 12,661 square feet; the total after expansion will be 20,619 square feet. Commissioner Strawson questioned the parking layout and construction phasing. Staff noted that the applicant proactively worked with transit staff to upgrade the bus stop. No public comment. No decision. - SECU ATM (PC22-919FSI): The applicant, Adtek Engineers, proposed a walk-up ATM at a shopping center. The original drive-up design was revised to include sidewalk access per staff feedback. The plan results in a net loss of two parking spaces, but the site still meets parking requirements. Commissioner Strawson expressed concern about pedestrian safety for visitors coming from the shops, noting the ATM's location in a busy corner. She requested consideration of additional crosswalks or safety measures. Staff recommended approval of a modification to landscaping requirements for safety reasons and noted an existing crosswalk. Engineering staff added that a crosswalk is already marked on River Bend Way. No public comment. No decision. - Prospect Hall (PC21-334FSI / PC21-550FSCB): The applicant, Adtek Engineers, with landscape architect Michael Norton, proposed a reception venue at the historic Prospect Hall mansion. The parking lot was shifted north to preserve old-growth trees and the view shed. Parking was reduced from 72 to a lower number (after BZA approval). Four modifications were requested: reduced drive aisle width (20 ft instead of 24 ft) in paver areas, a setback modification for parking on the northern edge, a lighting spillage modification along Butterfly Lane, and a modification for removal of three specimen trees (though the modification letter stated one; staff flagged the discrepancy). A fee in lieu of $4,312.44 for 0.33 acres of afforestation is proposed due to site constraints. Owner Michelle Sigler noted the mansion needs significant interior renovation. Commissioner Strawson asked about restoration scope and pedestrian access. Commissioners discussed the paver design and transit planning for event venues. Staff noted that the tree removal information needed clarification. No public comment. No decision. - Visitation Academy (PC22-925FSI): The applicant, Harris, Smariga & Associates, presented a final site plan for a third multifamily building (seven units) to complete a 33-unit program originally approved. The building will be located on East Second Street, replacing a parking lot. The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) approved a Level 1 review of the building's massing and setback in July 2022. Commissioner Strawson questioned the need for a third building and the impact on neighbors regarding light spillover and proximity. The applicant explained that the third building allowed for unit count adjustments and that HPC had already reviewed streetscape impacts. Commissioners requested that renderings and phasing information be provided for the future planning commission hearing. Staff confirmed that the maximum of 33 units had already been tested and MPDU requirements were addressed. No public comment. No decision. - Zoning Text Amendment – Carroll Creek Overlay (PC22-370ZTA): A text amendment to Article 4, Section 420 (Carroll Creek Overlay) was presented by representatives of Warmalt Companies and Osherman Properties. The amendment aims to increase allowable residential density in the CCO by eliminating the existing density penalty (raising the density cap from 60 to 75 units per acre) and allowing for further density increases (up to 150 units per acre) when structured parking is provided. The applicants argued that current density limits make projects financially infeasible due to the high cost of structured parking, and that the market demands smaller units (800–900 sq. ft.) which require higher density to pencil. They emphasized that the amendment does not change height, massing, or setback requirements, and that parking minimums remain the same. Commissioner Strawson and Commissioner Beattie expressed concerns about tying density bonuses to structured parking, the potential elimination of the public space dedication requirement (currently 10% dedicated to public use), and the overall consistency with comprehensive plan goals of reducing car dependency. Staff (Gabrielle Collard) noted that the amendment is a limited first step but raises broader policy questions about downtown density, parking ratios, and infrastructure capacity (e.g., water supply). No public comment was offered in person, but letters were received. No decision. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were made on any agenda item. All items were discussed in a workshop format. - Commissioners requested additional information and clarifications for several items, including rendering and phasing details for Visitation Academy, and a more simplified analysis of the financial and policy implications for the Carroll Creek Overlay text amendment. - The text amendment discussion highlighted significant policy questions about density, parking, and public space that will require further deliberation before a future public hearing and recommendation. - The meeting concluded at approximately 4:30 PM (estimated from transcript length).