Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland

The Government Operations Committee met on June 22, 2026, to discuss two main items: a proposed ordinance to allow the Chief Administrative Officer to waive or reduce interest on residential water bills, and a review of charter amendment ideas from the Charter Review Committee. The committee moved the water bill interest waiver legislation forward to full council and prioritized charter amendment topics for future discussion. Discussion Items Water Bill Interest Waiver: Director of Finance Katie Barkdall presented an ordinance that would give the Chief Administrative Officer the authority to waive or reduce interest on overdue residential water bills for customers participating in financial assistance programs. The city collects approximately $100,000 annually in interest, and a significant portion could be eligible for waiver under the proposed program. The city is also working to integrate water assistance into existing energy assistance programs and is updating its water billing software to better handle owner-tenant billing. Discussion included eligibility requirements, the need to define qualifying programs, and the potential to also waive water turn-on/turn-off fees in future legislation. Council Vice President expressed support for moving forward, and a motion to advance the ordinance to full council passed 4-0. Charter Amendment Priorities: The committee reviewed a list of potential charter amendments grouped by topic, including elections and redistricting, vacancy provisions, city council operations, financial disclosures, public ways and sidewalks, public property, and general administration. Council Vice President announced a personal interest in adding nonpartisan city elections to the discussion, noting that Frederick is one of only three cities in Maryland with partisan municipal elections. Councilmember Brem emphasized that vacancy provisions are a priority due to recent vacancies. The committee agreed to prioritize charter amendment discussions in the following order: 1) vacancy provisions, 2) elections and redistricting, and 3) public property. The committee will develop a schedule and begin with vacancy provisions. A process was outlined: committee discussion, a justification report, a vote on the concept, then legal drafting of a resolution, and finally full council consideration. Key Outcomes - Motion to forward the water bill interest waiver ordinance to full council passed 4-0. - Committee agreed to prioritize charter amendment discussions: vacancy provisions (first), elections and redistricting (second), and public property (third). - A schedule and framework for charter amendment discussions were established, allowing for public input and multiple voting stages.

The Frederick City Council held a public meeting on June 18, 2026, addressing a range of topics including a Juneteenth proclamation, community concerns about rat infestation, a councilmember's controversial social media post, and several legislative and administrative items. Key themes included community advocacy, ethics, and city operations. Proclamation & Consent Calendar - Juneteenth Proclamation: The council proclaimed June 19, 2026 as Juneteenth National Independence Day in Frederick, recognizing the African American Resource Cultural Heritage Society (ARCH). Dr. White and Rose Cheney accepted, inviting the public to an ancestral lighting program on June 19 and announcing the future African American Heritage Center opening October 17. - Minutes Approved: The council approved minutes from the May 20, 2026 regular meeting, the June 4, 2026 regular meeting, and the June 4, 2026 closed session, all with unanimous 6-0 votes. Public Comments & Testimony - Lee Wisner (City employee, Black Affinity Group): Expressed deep concern over a social media post by Councilmember Katie Nash from the 2025 inauguration, which contained the N-word and other explicit language. The group requested a public apology and commitment to inclusive communication, stating the post was harmful to Black employees and the community. - Marion Brown (Carroll Park Manor property owner): Described a severe rat infestation in her neighborhood, citing trash issues and lack of response from the city until contacting Councilmember Nash's office. She presented a petition from residents and requested action. - Willie Mahone (NAACP spokesman): Announced the NAACP's protest and non-participation in the city's Juneteenth event due to what he called "pimping of Juneteenth," citing a list of speakers that included only Democratic politicians, some running for office. He argued this misappropriates the holiday. - George Brennan (13th Street resident): Expressed concern about heavy commercial traffic on 13th Street, stating a 2023 change in the city's commercial vehicle definition (aligning with state law) has eliminated enforcement for trucks under 26,000 pounds, causing safety and noise issues. - Kathy Anderson (Frederick resident): Discussed an ethics complaint process that she argued is flawed, stating she was bound by a confidentiality provision preventing her from speaking to the council. She requested a review of the ethics process by independent counsel. - Unnamed speaker: Referenced the referendum on affordable housing, criticized the council's silence on issues, and called for an apology regarding the social media post. - Gail Peterson (Community advocate): Advised the council to let legal processes play out before public comment on certain matters, and praised Kathy Anderson's advocacy. - Jim Smersall (Downtown resident): Supported the Interfaith Housing Alliance loan forgiveness but urged the council to consider the role of program income from loan repayments. - Two taxi industry representatives (Bowie Transportation, Agamemnon Consultation, Mason Bowie, Dennis Hageman): Expressed concerns about high background check costs, competing with Uber/Lyft, and difficulty hiring drivers. They urged the council to reduce fees and streamline processes. - Christian Benford (Carroll Parkway resident) and Nick DiSalvio (Heimes Avenue resident): Opposed the proposed speed monitoring system ordinance (G264), arguing that fines alone don't address root causes like road design. They called for education and infrastructure improvements such as protected bike lanes and raised crosswalks. Discussion Items - Rat Infestation (Carroll Park Manor): Councilmember Nash summarized city actions, including collaboration with code enforcement, the HOA, and public works; introducing legislation for proactive measures in new development; and public education efforts. - Councilmember Social Media Post: Councilmember Nash apologized, stating she posted a Megan Thee Stallion clip in December without intent to harm, and took it down when misinterpretation arose. Councilmember Shackelford acknowledged the ongoing harm, called for learning and accountability, and noted the community's expectations. - OpenGov Software Purchase: Approval for a three-year, $248,225 contract (including implementation) to expand the enterprise asset management system to parks, fleet, and traffic signals. Unanimously approved. - Managed Print Services Contract: Approval of a $131,856 contract with UBO to reduce printing costs and fleet size, saving an estimated $3,613.90 per month. Unanimously approved. - Carroll Creek Garage Roof Repairs: Approval of a $239,640 contract for normal maintenance and repairs to the roof membrane. Unanimously approved. - Interfaith Housing Alliance Loan Forgiveness: Approved forgiveness of a $100,000 loan from 1993 for Weinberg House (23-unit senior affordable housing). Staff confirmed continued affordability through state regulatory agreements and a renewed PILOT. Unanimously approved. - Emergency Shelter MOU: Approved a one-year MOU with Beyond Shelter and Frederick County for the Allen P. Linton shelter, with city contributing $75,000 and county $112,500. Unanimously approved. - Hangar Club LLC Lease Amendment: Approved an amendment clarifying lease rights for hangar buyers in a 78-unit private development at Frederick Municipal Airport. Unanimously approved. - Ordinance G-263 (Commercial Vehicles/Taxis): Second reading. Councilmember Brem proposed amendments: reducing permit fee from $2,500 to $100, renewal fee from $100 to $50 for two years, allowing magnetic cab markings, and clarifying discount policies via the Taxicab Commission. The ordinance was continued to a third read for final language. - Ordinance G-264 (Speed Monitoring System) and G-265 (School Zones): Introduced for first reading; no discussion or public comment at this meeting. They will be brought back for a second read. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved all six consent agenda items: minutes, OpenGov software, managed print services, garage roof repairs, loan forgiveness, emergency shelter MOU, and hangar lease amendment. - Ordinance G-263 (taxi regulations) was continued to a third reading to incorporate further amendments on fees and discount policies. - No vote was taken on the speed monitoring or school zone ordinances (G-264, G-265) as they were introduced only. - Independent counsel review of the city's ethics process was not formally directed, though resident Kathy Anderson requested it. - Council comments included a Father's Day recognition and a note on Juneteenth events.

The Frederick City Council held a special public meeting on June 18, 2026 at 4:30 PM to convene a closed session. The council unanimously voted to enter closed session under Maryland General Provisions Article 3-305 for personnel matters, legal advice, and pending litigation. Closed Session Motion - Councilmember Brem moved, seconded by Councilmember Taylor, to close the meeting to the public under the authority of Maryland Code General Provisions §3-305(b)(1)(i) (appointment, employment, or performance evaluation of personnel), §3-305(b)(7) (consultation with counsel for legal advice), and §3-305(b)(8) (consultation about pending or potential litigation). - The motion passed with all six council members in favor (6-0) and the closed session commenced at 4:32 PM. Key Outcomes - The council voted unanimously (6-0) to enter closed session for the stated purposes. - No other public business was conducted.

The Frederick City Planning Commission held a workshop on June 15, 2026, reviewing two subdivision modification requests, a parkland site plan, a forest conservation zoning text amendment, and a proposed text amendment to allow data centers (Critical Digital Infrastructure). The meeting included presentations, commission questions, staff comments, and public testimony. Key themes included compatibility with neighboring uses, environmental impacts, and the appropriate level of regulatory oversight for new industries. Discussion Items - Subdivision Modification Request (PC-??) - The applicant requested modifications to combine two previously approved subdivisions (lots recorded, no further subdivision). Modifications included placing stormwater management facilities in the right-of-way and eliminating landscape screening between the merged parcels. - Commissioner Temple asked about applicant justification for the stormwater modification within the right-of-way. The applicant explained it allows positive drainage from the roadway into roadside swales, which is an efficient grading use. - Commissioner Roby raised concern that combining the two parcels might trigger a requirement for Moderately Priced Dwelling Units (MPDUs). Staff clarified that the lots were previously platted and exempt from APFO and MPDU provisions, as the final plats were recorded and exempted. The commission noted the issue for technical review. - Staff noted that updated modification letters had not yet been provided, but analysis was based on prior submissions. - Ren Quarter Parkland – Final Site Plan (PC 26-103 FSI) - Applicant Luke Zeller (St. John Properties) presented a site plan revision for 75 head-in parking spaces to be developed on land owned by the East Church HOA, to be turned over to the city as parkland as part of a stormwater agreement. - A landscape modification request was made due to existing utility easements (gas, power lines) and forest conservation easements, limiting interior landscaping within the parking lot. The applicant argued the existing forest screening meets the code intent. Trees and shrubs would be planted where possible. - Commissioner Roby asked about parking surface material; the applicant indicated asphalt, with trail material to be determined during the engineering phase. - Commissioner Temple inquired about the history of the blue paths on the exhibit and city vs. applicant responsibility. The path along the old farm driveway is applicant-built; the path along Bond Street will be constructed by the city. - Public comment: none. - Forest Conservation Ordinance – Zoning Text Amendment (PC 24-224, ZTA) - City staff presented comprehensive updates to Section 721 (Forest Conservation) to reflect state legislation (effective July 1, 2026) and local goals. Key substantive changes include: - Expanding applicability to any clearing of 10,000+ sq ft of forest (even on lots under 40,000 sq ft). - Adding five new exemptions (forest management, TOD, federal facilities, single multi-family building with 25+ units, solar energy) with reforestation/mitigation ratios. - Removing the exemption for real estate transfers. - Adding local exemptions for forced clearing by FAA, stream restoration, stormwater maintenance, and redevelopment on impervious areas built before 1991. - Extending the inspection and maintenance period from 2 to 5 years (total 6 inspections) with bond retention. - Moving fee amounts out of the code and into an annually adopted fee schedule; staff noted the current fee in lieu ($0.30/sq ft) is insufficient. - Requiring protective wire fencing (type D6) for newly planted areas. - Adding retention priorities for riparian buffers (50 ft for intermittent streams, 100 ft for perennial), forest interior dwelling species, Tier 2/3 watersheds, wellhead protection zones, and urban forests. - Requiring mitigation for removal of specimen trees (diameter 25 inches) at a ratio of diameter-for-diameter. - Changing mitigation ratios: cleared forest replaced at 1:1 (not 2:1), with a 0.5:1 ratio for non-priority areas within the Priority Funding Area (city). - Establishing a planting schedule with preferred stock and survival rates, limiting use of whips/seedlings to slopes 25%. - Commissioner Temple noted that larger planting stock beyond 2-inch caliper might be needed for specimen tree replacement. Sustainability Manager Jenny Willoughby said larger stock has cost and survivability issues. - Commissioner Roby asked about progress reporting; staff said a public dashboard and 4-year canopy assessments (starting 2027) will be available. - Commissioner Montes asked about staffing impacts from increased inspections; staff indicated the Urban Forestry division can handle the demand. - Public comment: several speakers supported a cautious, transparent approach and emphasized the importance of tree canopy for climate resilience. - Critical Digital Infrastructure Facility – Zoning Text Amendment (PC 25-626, ZTA) - Applicant Bruce Dean (Trammell Crow Company) proposed adding “Critical Digital Infrastructure” (data centers) as a permitted use in M-1 and M-2 zones on parcels 75+ acres. Four sites currently meet that criteria, two of which are owned by Trammell Crow (lots 1, 2, 4, 5 of Frederick Commerce Center). The amendment includes performance standards: 500-foot setback from residences, 55-decibel daytime/24-hour noise limit, Tier 4 generators, architectural design requirements, and pre- and post-construction noise studies. - Applicant Joe Whitebread explained the site’s advantages: proximity to National Cancer Institute, Riverside Tech Park, Frederick Municipal Airport, existing high-voltage transmission lines, and prior infrastructure improvements (gas house pike widening, utilities). He emphasized that without a specific user, detailed questions (water use, cooling, exact height) will be addressed during the site plan process. - Commissioner Montes questioned compatibility with the comprehensive plan, citing potential strains on water and electricity, limited job creation, and the inability to fully assess impacts. Commissioner Roby expressed concern about cumulative noise, generator testing duration (e.g., 50 generators = 10 weeks), and the need for a maximum water use ceiling and a city-wide cap on data center acreage. - Commissioner Temple recused herself from this item after requesting an advisory ethics opinion. - Staff Director Gabrielle Collard presented three regulatory options: (1) By-right (high threshold, planning commission compelled to approve if standards met), (2) Conditional use (Zoning Board of Appeals reviews context-specific impacts), (3) Floating zone (local law, council attaches conditions). Staff recommended the floating zone mechanism for greater oversight and transparency. - Public comment: multiple speakers (Elizabeth Law, Kathy Kinsey, Hannah Nickerson, Eric Belmont, Rob Thompson, Steve Jakicic) urged rejection of by-right zoning, citing lessons from Loudoun County, environmental impacts (water, climate, heat island), and the need for a thorough study prior to any decision. Some supported a conditional use or floating zone and highlighted opportunities for innovation (district energy, battery storage). Key Outcomes - Subdivision Modification: The workshop concluded with no vote. Staff and commission will address the MPDU concern during technical review. - Ren Quarter Parkland Site Plan: The workshop concluded with no vote; the applicant’s presentation was received and questions answered. - Forest Conservation ZTA: The commission is expected to make a recommendation in July 2026, followed by city council work session and regular meeting. Staff will incorporate feedback from this workshop. - Critical Digital Infrastructure ZTA: The commission will hold further workshops; staff will refine the proposed amendments, including consideration of a floating zone, and will provide an analysis of all parcels 75 acres in M-1/M-2 zones. The next step is a formal hearing for a commission recommendation.

The Frederick City Council held a special session on April 22, 2026, to consider two related actions: approval of Special Ordinance S 265 to amend the FY 2026 budget for the purchase of a new HVAC system for the air traffic control tower at Frederick Municipal Airport and approval of the corresponding purchase order. The existing system, installed in 2012, failed (mostly in February 2026) and is critically needed for cooling the six-story building with a greenhouse top. The Airport Manager, Andrew Moore, presented the background, procurement process, and funding strategy including potential FAA and state grants. Discussion Items - Airport Manager Andrew Moore explained that the HVAC system is essential for the contract tower (owned and operated by the city, staffed by FAA). The industry-wide refrigerant switchover complicated the replacement. The building is difficult to cool due to its design (six stories, greenhouse top, only two doors). - The current system ran at half capacity in winter and then fully failed around February 2026. Heating is manageable, but cooling is critical now. - The procurement was expedited via an IFB. The chosen solution is a direct replacement using the existing refrigerant (which was extended to end of 2026). Expected lifespan is 10-20 years (14 years from the previous system). - Funding: The budget amendment uses the city's fund balance. The city has applied for two competitive FAA Bipartisan Infrastructure Law grants (would cover 95-100%) and has state approval to pursue reimbursement at 75% as a backup. The FAA grants are expected to be known within 60-90 days; state reimbursement can occur later. - The Airport Manager noted that while past projects were 90% federally funded, this approach allows time-sensitive action without waiting for grant rules. Key Outcomes - Approval of Special Ordinance S 265 (to amend the FY 2026 budget): Motion by Council Member Brem, second by Council Member Taylor. Vote: 6-0 (unanimous approval). - Approval of the Purchase Order for the new HVAC system: Motion by Council Member Brem, second by Council Member Taylor. Vote: 6-0 (unanimous approval). - The council will seek reimbursement from FAA grants or state funds after the fact.

The City of Frederick Planning Commission held a workshop on April 20, 2026, to review several development applications, including a gas station consolidation, a mixed-use subdivision, a revised site plan for a shopping center, and airport hangars. The meeting also continued discussion on updating the commission's rules of procedure. No votes were taken; the workshop served as a forum for presentations, commissioner questions, and public comment. Public Comments & Testimony - Kevin Solner (5th Street) commented on the Brickworks site plan, expressing concern that the proposed white-paneled buildings deviated from the brick aesthetic of the surrounding historic area. He urged the commission to consider requiring more brick. - Sharon (last name not given) offered public comment on the Rules of Procedure, thanking the commission for their work and supporting the proposed changes, stating they provide necessary tools for the commission to do its job. Discussion Items - Carroll's Fuels Gas Station (PC 25-628 FSI / PC 25-629 FSCB): - Applicant Cole Hayden (Polar Engineering) and Jesse Newman (Carroll Fuel) proposed consolidating two existing fueling stations at 1180 and 1200 West Patrick Street into a single station with six fueling pumps (12 MPDs). Modifications requested included reduced landscaping along West Patrick Street due to utility constraints, adjustment to site sign setbacks, and a trash enclosure screened on three sides (the building screens the fourth). - Staff noted a lighting plan was still needed; any light spillage would require a modification. Signage variances would go to the Zoning Board of Appeals, not the commission. - Commissioners praised the reduction of driveways from four to two and encouraged additional street trees if possible. No public comment was made. - Canterbury Subdivision (PC 25-247 PSU FSI): - Applicants Chris Mariga (Harris Mariga) and Tim Comas (Duffy Companies) presented the final phase of the Canterbury subdivision, which includes a historic overlay. The plan calls for renovation of three historic buildings (Banner/Odd Fellows) into multifamily units and amenity space, plus new construction of eight rental townhomes, multifamily buildings along the perimeter, and fee-simple townhouses to complete the grid. A central quad green space will be preserved as required by the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). - Modifications requested pertain to landscaping shifted to fit the overall project rather than individual lot lines; more street trees and parking lot landscaping than required are proposed. - The applicant originally considered a waiver for parkland dedication but now plans to dedicate 2.34 acres adjacent to the existing dog park on Shifferstat, which received a positive recommendation from Parks and Rec. The parkland will be passive green space and floodplain. - Regarding connectivity to Thomas Johnson Middle School, the applicant proposed a sidewalk connection from a public road, but FCPS rejected it citing adequate sidewalks along North Market Street and a desired path through the school's rear yard. The applicant will rebuild and widen the sidewalk on Market Street and work with FCPS to improve a grade issue on an existing connection. - Commissioners asked about screening new buildings from historic structures; the applicant noted that new buildings sit behind the rear of the historic wings and that the quad and extensive tree planting (nearly 200 new trees) will provide visual screening. Commissioner Robey suggested more screening around the green space perimeter. - No public comment was received. - Brickworks Mixed-Use Central District Lot Four Revision (PC 26-32 FSI): - Eric DeVito and Jay Diamond (Greenberg Gibbons) presented revisions to the previously approved site plan. Two changes: (1) Building 3 (retail pad) increases from 10,441 sq ft single-story to 30,550 sq ft two-story for a new fitness concept called Club Studio (an LA Fitness brand with about 18 locations nationally). The fitness use requires limited glazing (dark rooms for classes) – only 19% of the façade would be transparent, whereas code requires 50%. To compensate, trellises and ivy walls are proposed. (2) Pad 1 (previously a drive-thru) is now a multi-tenant dry retail building with no drive-thru, consistent with project design. - Modifications requested: parking setback (25 ft from right-of-way) reduced – previously approved for other lots, now continued; loading space reduced (9x20 ft) – also previously approved; temporary dumpster location without full landscaping (future pad 2 will include a shared enclosure); building orientation setback due to a major stormwater outfall. - Staff opposed the glazing modification, stating that internal design could mitigate the need for dark rooms (e.g., hallways) and that lease terms are not a sufficient justification for such a large reduction. They recommended improvements. - Commissioners discussed the long-term viability of the fitness user and suggested incorporating architectural features (e.g., recessed panels) that could later be converted to windows. Commissioner Temple echoed a request for more brick rather than fiber cement panel, to better match the surrounding brick architecture. Public comment by Kevin Solner raised the same aesthetic concern. - The applicant offered to reconsider materials and noted that glazing could be added in the future if the tenant changes. No decision was made. - West Side Community Center (PC 26-29 FSI): - The applicant was not present; the item was continued. - FDK Airport Hangars (PC 26-34 FSI / PC 26-37 FSCB): - Ian Diaz (Adsec Engineering) presented a proposal by High Flying Hangers for eight rows of private airplane hangars, a clubhouse, and parking accessed via a private road from Aviation Way. The site will have gated access crossing an active taxiway. 78 hangar bays are planned. Modifications requested: reduced tree planting due to airport restrictions (shrubs and wetland grass used instead); utility buildings in different colors to aid navigation; sidewalk elevation modifications because no new street exists. - Staff confirmed the modifications and noted that design standards were difficult to meet due to airport constraints. Commissioner Roby suggested exploring solar panels on the large roofs, but FAA glare restrictions would need assessment. Commissioners noted strong demand (50% presold). No public comment. - Rules of Procedure Update: - Staff (Gabrielle Collard) reviewed the latest draft, which incorporates several workshops. Two key changes: (1) Section 1.1 – added language to handle elections when vacancies prevent a full election; (2) removed a previous change allowing the council liaison more latitude because city code requires the liaison to adhere to the same code of conduct as commissioners. All other feedback has been incorporated. The updated rules will be placed on the May hearing for approval. Public comment by Sharon supported the changes. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken on any agenda items; these were workshop presentations. - Carroll's Fuels Gas Station: No objections raised; commission expressed general support and encouraged additional street trees. Staff will require a lighting plan and address signage separately. - Canterbury Subdivision: The applicant committed to dedicating 2.34 acres of parkland, obviating the need for a waiver. FCPS’s position on school connectivity was confirmed. The commission provided feedback on screening and walkability; no final decision. - Brickworks Lot Four Revision: The commission did not support the glazing modification as presented. The applicant was asked to explore architectural alternatives (e.g., faux windows, more brick) and to provide more details on lease term and future adaptability. Staff will continue to work with the applicant. - West Side Community Center: Continued due to applicant absence. - FDK Airport Hangars: Commission was supportive of the project and the proposed modifications. Commissioner Roby suggested investigating solar panels; staff and applicant will consider. - Rules of Procedure: The revised draft will be presented for a vote at the May hearing. Staff noted all public and commission feedback has been addressed.

The Community Culture Committee met on April 16, 2026, to hear two presentations: one from United Way of Frederick County on the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) report, and one from the Mental Health Association (MHA) on its services and impact. Councilmembers engaged in discussion and asked questions about the data, community needs, and policy implications. Presentation: United Way ALICE Report - Ken Odom, Director of United Way of Frederick County, presented the ALICE report, which measures working households unable to afford a basic cost of living. The data is based on 2023 federal sources and is updated annually. - In Frederick County, 33% of households are ALICE (6% in poverty, 27% ALICE), totaling 35,000 households. The City of Frederick has a 45% ALICE rate, a decrease from over 50% a decade ago. - Between 2022 and 2023, ALICE households increased by 2,400, while non-ALICE households increased by only one, indicating the ALICE population is growing. - The survival budget for a single individual in Frederick County is $49,000, compared to the federal poverty level of $14,580—a gap of over $20,000. - High ALICE concentrations exist among single-female parents (76%), Hispanic and Black communities, and adults under 25 or over 65. Transportation and housing were identified as major pain points. - Odom highlighted the Ride United Network, which provides free rides to ALICE families via Lyft and community partnerships. - Councilmembers questioned data dynamics (e.g., whether ALICE growth is from in-migration or sliding incomes) and discussed policy implications for housing, transportation, and budget decisions. Chair noted Odom would return when new data is released. Presentation: Mental Health Association (MHA) - Susie Borg, representing MHA, described the organization's mission to build emotional wellness through three divisions: child care choices, family support services, and crisis services. - Child care choices: Trains and supports providers, helping open childcare centers. Over 2,000 educators trained. - Family support: Healthy Families program (first-time parents, up to age 5) shows a 96% reduction in parental stress; 83% of parents reported stress relief from initial help. - Crisis services: 24/7 call center, mobile crisis, and walk-in crisis care (15-minute wait). MHA partners with Frederick Police Department for Crisis Car, providing a clinician alongside police and EMS. - Counselors work with Medicaid, Medicare, and sliding scale clients; most services are free. - Funding comes from local, state, and program revenue. - Councilmembers asked about child care marketing support, funding sources, and common stressors (identified as transportation, child care, and basic needs). Borg noted stressors are interconnected, and MHA is exploring deeper analysis. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The committee received the presentations and thanked both organizations for their work. - Chair directed Ken Odom to return when the next ALICE report is released (expected in the coming months). - Councilmembers expressed intent to consider ALICE data and MHA insights in future policy and budget discussions. - The meeting adjourned with no further business.

The Frederick City Council held a regular public meeting on April 16, 2026. The meeting opened with a proclamation declaring April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month, followed by unanimous approval of minutes, multiple appointments and reappointments, a consent agenda, a series of three related items for the Lucas Village (Mosaic) redevelopment project, a resolution designating the city as a Bee City USA affiliate, and public comments on various topics including foreign policy and a vacant building issue. Proclamation – Child Abuse Prevention Month - Council President Sassartias read a proclamation declaring April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month, signed by all council members. - Robin Group, director of the Child Advocacy Center of Frederick County, reported that in the past year the center served approximately 375 children, provided more than 1,900 advocacy encounters, more than 1,000 hours of trauma-focused therapy, and more than 60 pediatric examinations. Additionally, prevention education reached more than 200 children and 100 adults. Consent Calendar - April 2, 2026 Regular Public Meeting Minutes – Approved unanimously (7-0). - Appointments/Reappointments: - Bethany Lord reappointed to the Personnel Board for a three-year term (April 17, 2026 – April 16, 2029) – Approved 7-0. - Chris May reappointed to a three-year term (April 17, 2026 – April 16, 2029) – Approved 7-0. - Marbadi Kamara appointed to the alternate position for a three-year term (April 17, 2026 – April 16, 2029) – Approved 7-0. - Matt Hewting appointed as a trustee for the C. Burr Arts Trust – Approved 7-0. - Release of Surety – Approved 7-0. - Requests to Serve Alcohol on City Property (multiple) – Approved 7-0. - Special Ordinance S264 – To amend the FY26 budget to accept a grant from the Maryland Department of Health, Office of Oral Health for a replacement benchtop fluoride meter. Councilmember recused herself due to employment with the Maryland Department of Health. Approved with 6 in favor, 1 abstention. Discussion Items - Donation Agreement – Lucas Village/Mosaic Redevelopment Project - The city proposed donating approximately 1.2 acres of land (a triangular parcel at Sagner and Vermont Way) to the Housing Authority of Frederick City for $1, to be used for a new stormwater management facility serving the redevelopment project and surrounding area. The parcel was previously city-owned and functioned informally as a stormwater holding area. - Councilmember Nash expressed concerns about the city disposing of property without a formal policy, questioning why the city would give away land rather than improving it itself. He acknowledged the property disposition policy may not cover such cases but urged updating it. Other council members noted the project is a LITEC (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit) development, and the donation helps solve existing drainage issues. - Approved 6-1 (Councilmember Nash voted against). - Resolution 267 – Vacation of Street Right-of-Way (Vermont Court and Pennsylvania Avenue) - To abandon portions of public street right-of-way to allow reconfiguration of streets in the Lucas Village project, improving connectivity by extending Vermont Way and Maryland Avenue. The planning commission recommended approval, and public notice requirements were met. - Approved unanimously (7-0). - Resolution 268 – Waiver of Parkland Dedication Requirement (Lucas Village) - To waive the required 1.5 acres of parkland dedication under Section 608 of the Land Management Code, as the project provides internal amenities (pocket park, art walk, connectivity to adjacent park) and the planning commission and parks and recreation commission both recommended approval. - Councilmember Nash supported the waiver given the LITEC nature of the project, but asked about mitigation of pedestrian/train track conflicts. Councilmember Taylor noted the project's common spaces and proximity to Carroll Creek Park. Staff noted the project will still pay park facilities impact fees. - Approved unanimously (7-0). - Resolution 269 – Designation as a Bee City USA Affiliate - Sustainability Manager Jenny Willoughby presented the resolution, which formalizes the city's commitment to pollinator-friendly spaces through education, habitat creation, integrated pest management, and community events such as the City Nature Challenge (April 24-27) and a movie night. The city already has a Bee Together Frederick subcommittee of the Sustainability Committee. - Councilmember Shackford questioned whether the city could establish a community beekeeping area for residents without private yards; Willoughby said it could be explored. Councilmember Nash noted the importance of internal city practices (e.g., pest management). - Approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Grady O'Rear – Thanked the council for the Child Abuse Prevention proclamation and the unanimous passage of the Fairness Act. Urged the council to pass a resolution opposing illegal wars, sanctions, and extrajudicial killings, citing the $8 trillion cost of the post-9/11 war on terror. Mentioned President Eisenhower's warning. Asked the city to use the National League of Cities for advocacy. - David Azumidiji (speaking for Frederick County NAACP) – Criticized war, police violence, and U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Gaza and Iran. Condemned the killing of civilians and called for change. - Eric Mousseau – Praised the council for passing the City Values Act (noted as the same session as the Fairness Act). Called on the council to oppose militarism and support anti-war resolutions for Gaza, Ukraine, Congo, Sudan, Iran, and elsewhere. Urged protection of free speech and human rights. - Joan Jenkins (124 South Carroll Street) – Addressed a vacant building notice issued for a property that suffered a fire but is undergoing renovation with proper permits. She argued the building should not be classified as vacant because work is actively occurring. She also invited the Blue Elephant to rent space at her property. Council staff promised follow-up via the new constituent services coordinator. - Unnamed speaker – Spoke about child abuse prevention in the context of war trauma experienced by children abroad. Urged the council to pass resolutions opposing illegal wars and sanctions, stating that silence is complicity. Council Member Comments - Councilmember Shackford announced that Donna Kasemchak has been hired as Constituent Services Outreach Coordinator. - Councilmember Nash and Shackford praised the state legislative session's conclusion, specifically the passage of the Community Trust Act. Key Outcomes - Appointments and reappointments approved as listed. - Special Ordinance S264 approved (6-1 abstention). - Donation agreement for stormwater parcel approved (6-1). - Resolution 267 (vacation of right-of-way) approved (7-0). - Resolution 268 (parkland dedication waiver) approved (7-0). - Resolution 269 (Bee City USA) approved (7-0). - Council directed staff to follow up on Ms. Jenkins' vacant building concern. - Next steps for Lucas Village/Mosaic project: proceed with improvement plans, bond financing closing anticipated summer 2026, construction start thereafter, with first residents returning fall 2027.

On April 16, 2026, at 10:00 AM UTC, the Frederick City Council convened. A motion was made to enter a closed session under Maryland law to discuss personnel matters. The council voted unanimously in favor. Closed Session Motion - The council moved to convene in a closed session pursuant to Maryland General Provisions Article §3-305(b)(1)(i) to discuss appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, or performance evaluation of an appointee, employee, or official under its jurisdiction. Key Outcomes - The motion passed with a vote of 7 in favor and 0 opposed (7-0).