Public Meetings - Hyattsville, Maryland

The Hyattsville City Council held a virtual regular meeting on February 18, 2026, at 7:00 PM, chaired by Mayor Robert S. Croslin. All councilmembers were present except for Councilmember Emily Strab (Ward 2). The primary agenda items included a presentation on FY27 budget planning and a motion to authorize a letter of support for Maryland House Bill 1142. The meeting also featured two public comments and discussions on tax rate strategy, property assessments, and alignment of the budget with the city's strategic values. Consent Calendar - The agenda was amended by a motion from Council President Joseph Solomon (seconded by Council Vice President Kareem Redmond) to add a motion regarding a letter of support for Maryland HB 1142. The amended agenda was approved unanimously (10-0, with Councilmember Strab absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Jesse Seitel (Ward 5) – A seven-year resident and native of Prince George's County spoke in favor of expanded funding for the Department of Community Services in the FY27 budget, particularly to support the immigrant community with education and rights preparation. - Tatjana Hrubik-Vulanovic (Ward 5) – Expressed concerns about the city's financial health, noting that despite approximately $30 million in revenue, the city projects multi-million-dollar deficits nearly every year. She urged the council not to pass a future budget that shows a funding deficit and requested publication of total liabilities for debt service. Discussion Items - FY27 Budget Planning Presentation – City Administrator Tracey Douglas and Treasurer Ron Brooks, joined by new Deputy Budget Director Ben Bosch, presented an overview of budget priorities, revenue sources, and expenditure trends. Key topics included: - The constant yield tax rate certificate (CYTR) for FY27, projecting a net assessable base of $3.3 billion as of July 1, 2026, with a constant yield rate of 61.7 cents per $100 of assessed value, compared to the current rate of 63 cents. - Second-quarter FY26 financial results showed total revenues outpacing last year by $2.7 million, with real property taxes at 106% of budget. - Discussion of must-fund items: salaries and benefits (65–70% of budget), public safety, debt service (4–6%), and rising utility costs. - Presentation of budget impacts (staffing needs from new developments, infrastructure, technology) and strategies to manage spending (grant seeking, hiring freeze continuation, contract reviews). - Tax Rate and Assessment Discussions – Councilmember Danny Schaible raised concerns about undervaluation of multi-family apartment buildings, citing the North Point Apartments purchased for $37.5 million in 2020 but assessed at only $14.5 million. He questioned the equity and revenue loss. Treasurer Brooks acknowledged the issue, noting the city may appeal commercial assessment reductions and suggested considering a separate tax rate for apartment buildings. - Role of Constant Yield Tax Rate – Council President Solomon argued that the constant yield rate is no longer a meaningful benchmark due to changes in state law, and continuing to use it distorts public understanding of fiscal needs. He advocated for alternative models. Treasurer Brooks explained that the certificate is still necessary for certifying the assessable base, but agreed the constant yield rate language can be confusing. The council agreed to explore better ways to communicate tax rate assumptions. - Alignment with Strategic Plan – Councilmember Joanne Waszczak emphasized that the budget should reflect the city's strategic values (livability, inclusivity, prosperity, connectivity, accessibility, sustainability) and strategic goals developed through community engagement. City Administrator Douglas confirmed that staff already include alignment with goals in budget forms, and the new strategic plan will be presented for approval in March. Key Outcomes - Motion to Support Maryland HB 1142 – The council voted unanimously (10-0, with Councilmember Strab absent) to authorize the Mayor to send a letter to the Maryland General Assembly expressing support for House Bill 1142, which establishes a task force to modernize county and municipal revenue structures. The letter will recommend amendments to the appointment structure for municipal representatives, as outlined in the draft letter. - Budget Timeline Confirmed – The next steps include a council priorities discussion on February 23, budget introduction on March 18, department presentations in April, a public hearing on the tax rate, and council amendments in May, with first reading and adoption by the end of May. - Directive to Staff – Staff will research alternative models for presenting tax rate baselines and provide options for addressing apartment property assessment issues, including potential separate tax rates or appeals.

The Hyattsville City Council met virtually on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, starting at 7:00 PM (called to order at 7:05 PM) and adjourning at 9:25 PM. All 11 councilmembers were present. The agenda was amended by unanimous consent to add a proclamation honoring outgoing Deputy City Administrator Laura Reams. The meeting included public comment, a city administrator update on Winter Storm Fern response, a Treasurer's action plan on audit recommendations, appointments, consent items, adoption of Resolution 2026-01 on Council Rules of Procedure, and discussion of a proposed personnel manual charter/code amendment. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the December 1, 2025, and December 15, 2025, Council meetings were approved unanimously. - FY26 Special Revenues Fund Budget Amendment: The Council appropriated the remaining $269,918 of COVID-19 FEMA Reimbursement Grant Funds to close out costs for vaccines, equipment, and testing sites that are 100% reimbursed by FEMA for the period ending June 30, 2025. Approved. - Renewal License Agreement with Friendship Arms, LLC: The Council authorized the City Administrator to enter into the renewal license agreement for the City's use of an office at the Friendship Arms building for the Mental Wellness Check-in Initiative. Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Erin Hogeboom thanked the Mayor for the opening moment of silence and thanked city staff (Cindy Zork, Leslie Riddle, and Hal Metzler) for their timely assistance with parking and traffic at the Greenwood School during pick-up and drop-off. - Daniel Broder (Ward 2) thanked everyone who attended a recent ranked choice voting event, strongly encouraged the Council to implement ranked choice voting, thanked the Department of Public Works for clearing streets during the winter storm, asked the city to continue standing against ICE, and thanked Laura Reams for her years of service. City Administrator & Staff Updates - City Administrator Tracey Douglas acknowledged that this was Laura Reams's last meeting with the city, congratulated HR Director Jay Joyner on completing the Public Sector HR Association Senior Certified Professional certification, and gave an overview of snow response and upcoming programs. - Acting DPW Director Hal Metzler described the snow-clearing process: 13 trucks plus skid steer and wheel loader were deployed, with priority given to arterial and connector roads, then residential passable lanes, intersections, and curb-to-curb clearing. Crews worked Saturday through Monday evening and returned Tuesday; most city streets were still in the first two clearing phases. - Emergency Operations Manager Reginald Bagley reported that Prince George's County residential roads were 52% complete, Operation Silver Shovel had reached capacity, warming centers and shelters remained open, county schools were closed through Thursday, and meal support was available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. He also explained the WSSC essential water use alert effective January 27, asking residents to limit nonessential water use to prevent main breaks and maintain fire-flow pressure. Utilities reported only minor outages outside the immediate Hyattsville area. - Race and Equity Officer Shakira Louimarre gave equity updates: city staff were participating in the Urban Institute Upward Economic Mobility Action Learning Cohort; roughly 140,000 households, about 41%, in Prince George's County are below the ALICE threshold; staff completed the National League of Cities homelessness cohort; an updated homelessness encampment administrative procedure was nearing completion; Dewberry's data analysis was nearing completion with an equity mapping dashboard; and upcoming events included a community cultural conversation on February 5 and a Black History Month genealogy event on February 11. - Councilmembers asked follow-up questions about staff resources, sidewalk snow-removal enforcement, and the WSSC alert, and expressed appreciation to DPW, HPD, and Laura Reams. Presentation: Treasurer Action Plan on Audit Committee Recommendations - Treasurer Ron Brooks presented the City's action plan responding to the Audit Committee's 10 recommendations. Key points included: the FY24 audit was expected to close within three weeks; the FY23 ARPA single audit was expected to be filed within two weeks; the current ERP system (BC Systems) was deemed incompatible and cumbersome, with a termination notice planned by Monday of the following week and a new RFP expected by end of March 2026; the monthly close would be reduced from 15-20 days toward 10 or 7 business days; the capital asset capitalization threshold would increase from $2,500 to $10,000; and quarterly financial reports were back on track. - Audit Committee Chair Daniel Lange thanked Treasurer Brooks and said the committee would meet again to draft a response to the action plan. - Council President Solomon asked for a written summary of ERP challenges within one week, and Councilmember Straub asked for a tracking spreadsheet, expected within two weeks; she also suggested future reports should be vetted by the committee before presentation. Appointments - The Council unanimously approved the 2026 Council of Governments (COG) Policy Committee appointments: Mayor Robert Croslin to the Region Forward Coalition, Human Services and Public Safety Policy Committee, Climate Energy and Environment Policy Committee, and Chesapeake Bay and Water Resources Policy Committee, with the listed staff alternates (Tracey Douglas, Police Chief Jarod Towers, Sandra Shephard, and Hal Metzler). Motion by Council Vice President Redmond, seconded by Councilmember Waszczak. - The Council unanimously approved Bradley Phelps (Ward 2) and Ross van Dongen (Ward 5) to the Hyattsville Environment Committee for two-year terms ending January 26, 2028. Action Items - The Council unanimously adopted Hyattsville Resolution 2026-01, adopting the Council Rules of Procedure. During discussion, members addressed the one-week anticipated agenda item list (to be shared via Trello and email), council workgroups, and access to the agenda management system. Motion by Council President Solomon, seconded by Councilmember Strab. Discussion: Proposed Charter Amendment and Code Update on Personnel Manual - Deputy City Administrator Laura Reams and HR Director Jay Joyner presented a proposal to remove the requirement that City Council approve the personnel manual by resolution. The personnel manual would instead be maintained, updated, and administered by the City Administrator or designee. - They explained that the current manual is more than 150 pages, has not been comprehensively updated in many years, and that employment laws and HR best practices change quickly, creating legal and operational risks. - Council authority would be retained over compensation and pay scales, the retirement and pension system, employee benefits, and budget appropriations for authorized staffing positions. All personnel policies would remain subject to the charter, code, ordinances, and state and federal law. - Examples of needed manual updates included the definition of relative, remote work policy, Maryland parental leave (up to 18 weeks), a crime victim policy, the federal Fairness for Breastfeeding Mothers Act, and an anti-retaliation policy. - Next steps: if the Council wishes to proceed, the City Clerk's office would schedule the required public hearing for the charter amendment, followed by Council consideration of the charter amendment and ordinance. No vote was taken on this item. Proclamations - The Council unanimously adopted a proclamation honoring Laura Reams for her years of service. The proclamation cited 14 years of service (2012-2026) in the roles of city clerk, director of communications and legislative services, and deputy city administrator, and highlighted election innovations, communications expansion, and the 2024 Maryland Municipal Clerks Association Clerk of the Year Award. Note: the City Administrator's remarks during the meeting referenced 13 years of service, creating a minor discrepancy with the proclamation's 14-year figure. Key Outcomes - All votes taken during the meeting were unanimous: approval of the amended agenda, minutes, appointments, consent agenda, Resolution 2026-01, and the Laura Reams proclamation. - The Treasurer's action plan was received; next steps are an Audit Committee response, a written ERP summary, and a tracking spreadsheet. - The personnel manual charter/code amendment was discussed only; the Council may direct the Clerk to schedule a public hearing if it decides to move forward. - The meeting adjourned at 9:25 PM.

The Hyattsville City Council held a virtual regular meeting on Monday, December 15, 2025, beginning at 7:00 PM (called to order at 7:04 PM) and adjourning at 9:54 PM. Mayor Robert S. Croslin presided. The agenda was amended to add Emergency Ordinance 2025-05 on temporary housing for displaced tenants. Councilmember Edouard Haba arrived at 9:27 PM and was absent for votes before that time. Call to Order, Agenda, and Minutes - The Council approved a motion to add Emergency Ordinance 2025-05 to the agenda, approved the amended agenda, and then approved minutes from the November 3, 2025 Council Meeting, November 8, 2025 Council Work Session, and November 17, 2025 Council Meeting. These votes were unanimous with Councilmember Haba absent. - Mayor Croslin also led a moment of silence for victims of violence at Bondi Beach in Australia and Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. Public Comments & Testimony - There was no public comment. City Administrator Update - City Administrator Tracey Douglas reported on recent city activities, including three new businesses (Saxera, Fireplace Records, and Buddha Customs Art Studio), the new Ward 3 residential parking zone 5, and Eric's Law driver's license butterfly icon for people with special needs. - Transportation Manager Taylor Robey and Deputy DPW Director Hal Metzler provided updates on State Highway Administration and Prince George's County projects, including MD 410 pedestrian safety improvements, the MD 208/Hamilton Street transfer, planned signalization at Charles Armentrout and Route 1, Ager Road and Nicholson signal work, and Safe Streets for All projects on Adelphi and Bellcrest Roads. - Staff updated the teen center (temporary use and occupancy expected early January after food safety permit) and 3505 Hamilton Street (large punch list, elevator reinspection pending). - Other updates included Shop with a Cop (over $9,000 in donations and more than 60 children served), CERT senior fire safety and File of Life kits, implicit bias workshops, holiday tree lighting, calls from Santa to 75 families, youth content creation classes, caregiver support groups, and Battle of the Lights voting December 22-31. Presentation: Financial Feasibility for Affordable Rental Housing Preservation - Economic Development Director Jeff Ulysse and Housing Manager David Cristeal introduced Anita Morrison, principal and co-founder of Partners for Economic Solutions (PES), who presented findings from a Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments-funded feasibility study. - The study examined four older apartment communities totaling approximately 1,100 units: Kirkwood (661 units), North Point (235), Landon Courts (116), and Madison Park (91). The goal was to identify ways to secure long-term affordability commitments in exchange for financing upgrades. - PES found significant financial gaps for renovation. For example, the Kirkwood first-phase renovation gap was $6.2 million, or about $28,000 per affordable unit; Landon Courts had a gap of about $51,000 per affordable unit. County PILOTs reduced gaps by about $6,000-$13,000 per unit, and city tax abatements by about $5,000-$10,000 per unit. - A hypothetical new-construction scenario on vacant land at Kirkwood with 250 units and 30% affordable units had a $59 million gap, or about $766,000 per affordable unit. Morrison said local market rents and current high interest rates make it difficult to close gaps, and recommended increased federal and state support, city budget contributions, and philanthropic investment. - Councilmembers asked how disrepair became so extensive and what may happen to the properties; Morrison said some may remain affordable, while others could eventually be redeveloped at market rates if rents rise. No action was taken; the item was for presentation. Proclamation and Consent Calendar - The Council adopted Proclamation 2026-125 recognizing December 21, 2025 as National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day. The vote was unanimous with Councilmember Haba absent. - The Council approved the consent agenda, which included: (1) renewal of the MOU among Hyattsville, Brentwood, and Mount Rainier for the Joint CIT Mobile Crisis Program; (2) authorization of $6,500 for FY26 Thrive Grant awards and reallocation of the remaining $1,000 to the Health, Wellness, and Recreation Advisory Committee speaker series; and (3) adoption of Resolution 2025-07 establishing historic preservation as a city priority. The vote was unanimous with Councilmember Haba absent. Action Item: Emergency Ordinance 2025-05 - Temporary Housing for Displaced Tenants - The Council approved, with Councilmember Haba absent, a motion to suspend City Charter Section C-2(9) to allow consideration of the emergency ordinance. The vote was 10-0. - The Council then adopted Emergency Ordinance 2025-05, amending Chapter 96 of the Hyattsville Code. The ordinance requires landlords of tenants displaced by substandard conditions to arrange temporary housing, cover costs not paid by renters insurance, reimburse the city for relocation costs if incurred, and immediately offer reoccupancy once the unit is habitable. If a unit remains uninhabitable after 30 days, the landlord must return the security deposit plus interest, pay two months' rent, cover relocation and storage costs, and allow lease termination without penalty. The vote was 10-0 with Councilmember Haba absent. - During discussion, staff and code officials clarified that heat must be maintained at a minimum of 70 degrees throughout the dwelling; air conditioning must be operable if provided. Councilmembers discussed per diem and comparable housing standards, distance limits, landlord appeals, and enforcement through emergency orders. Staff said outreach to landlords and tenant rights materials would follow. Action Items: Police Contracts, DPW Equipment, and West Hyattsville Phase 2 - Lexis Nexis Risk Solutions: The Council authorized the City Administrator to enter an agreement with Accurint/Lexis Nexis for database access. Chief Jarod Towers confirmed the contract now includes breach-of-confidentiality and termination provisions requested by Council on November 3. The vote was 10-0 with Councilmember Haba absent. - LeadsOnline: The Council authorized a three-year Subscription Services Agreement with LeadsOnline not to exceed $24,412.24, funded by the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy Gun Reduction Grant. Chief Towers explained LeadsOnline tracks pawned and scrapped property, and NightHawk analyzes digital evidence. The vote was 10-0 with Councilmember Haba absent. - FY26 DPW Capital Budget Amendment: The Council amended the FY26 capital budget and authorized the Treasurer to adjust appropriations not to exceed $95,000 to purchase snow and street maintenance equipment from Autrusa, funded from cash reserves. The vote was 10-0 with Councilmember Haba absent. - DSP-20053-02 West Hyattsville Phase 2: The Council authorized the Mayor to submit formal correspondence to the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission conveying the city's official position as outlined in the December 9, 2025 staff report. The proposed project includes about 4.9 acres, 342 units, an integrated parking structure with 379 spaces and 8 EV charging stations, 20 bicycle spaces, stormwater management, and a promenade to West Hyattsville Metro. - City Planner Chloe Kauffman and Director Ulysse presented staff analysis. The applicant (Gilbane) requested modifications, including eliminating ground-floor retail and using a single-use resident parking garage. Staff did not support eliminating retail and recommended including retail space, extending the connector trail, adding wayfinding, city bicycle racks, updated traffic analysis, and pursuing affordable housing financing. - Planning Committee comments supported density and traffic monitoring and recommended connecting roads between Kirkwood and Riverfront. Police comments recommended secure parking, surveillance, and building access for officers. - Council discussion covered retail leasing (applicant's attorney said a market study found only 1,000-2,500 square feet of retail supportable), the status of the Nicholson Street connection to Kirkwood, parking concerns, possible affordable units, and impact fees. Applicant's attorney stated no impact fee waiver had been requested for this project. - Councilmember Haba asked whether the equity officer had reviewed the project and expressed concern about the lack of affordable units; staff noted no inclusionary zoning tool exists and no equity review had been performed. Councilmember Schaible moved to add a recommendation that Gilbane connect Nicholson Street to the Kirkwood apartment complex; the motion received no second. - The final motion passed 8-1-2: Ayes - Waszczak, Barnes, Schaible, Strab, Redmond, Lee, Haba, and Dhokai; Nay - Nisbett; Abstentions - Mayor Croslin and Council President Solomon. Council Dialogue - Councilmembers exchanged holiday greetings and thanked staff. Councilmember Schaible also mentioned that he, Councilmember Waszczak, and others were drafting a letter to the Prince George's County Council about safety recommendations for Ager Road, following a national pedestrian-bike safety remembrance event. Key Outcomes - Approved amended agenda and prior meeting minutes. - Adopted National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day proclamation. - Approved consent agenda: Joint CIT Mobile Crisis Program MOU renewal, FY26 Thrive Grant disbursement with $1,000 reallocation, and Resolution 2025-07 on historic preservation. - Suspended Charter C-2(9) and adopted Emergency Ordinance 2025-05 on temporary housing for displaced tenants. - Authorized Lexis Nexis Risk Solutions agreement. - Authorized LeadsOnline subscription agreement for three years, not to exceed $24,412.24. - Amended FY26 DPW capital budget and authorized up to $95,000 for Autrusa snow and street maintenance equipment. - Authorized submission of West Hyattsville Phase 2 DSP-20053-02 correspondence to M-NCPPC with the city's position; the motion passed 8-1-2.

The Hyattsville City Council held its regular meeting virtually on Monday, December 1, 2025, beginning at 7:02 PM and adjourning at 10:12 PM. Mayor Robert S. Croslin presided; all 11 councilmembers were present. The agenda was amended by unanimous consent to move item 9.c, the 2026 Council Meeting Calendar resolution, from the Consent Agenda to Action Items. Public Comments & Testimony - Daniel Broder (Ward 2) expressed full support for the proposed election charter and code changes, including the resignation-to-run rule and the 365-day vacancy period, and encouraged the Council to press Prince George's County for more aggressive rent stabilization. He called the exemption for buildings constructed after 2000 unacceptable. - Lisbeth Melendez Rivera (Ward 2) urged the Council to take more direct action to support residents affected by ICE raids and abductions, and asked for a stronger public response from Hyattsville elected officials comparable to neighboring municipalities. City Administrator Update - City Administrator Tracey Douglas reported on holiday community service efforts: about 17 staff volunteers packed and delivered 121 bags of produce to schools and families, 60 prepared meals were delivered to older adults, first responders were served a Thanksgiving meal, and student volunteers decorated city buildings. - Public Works staff updated the Council on the Tanko streetlight purchase project. The city is negotiating with Pepco to purchase streetlights outright rather than lease them after tariff changes; a letter of intent is expected by January, with purchase completion in summer and LED conversion beginning in fall/winter 2026. Staff identified potentially overcharged lights and possible reimbursement. - The Blue Dot Shop Local Rewards Program will launch December 3; residents who download the app and connect to the Hyattsville community will receive an automatic $5 reward. - Upcoming events included implicit bias workshops on December 2 and 8, the Winter Wonderland tree lighting on December 5 from 7-8 PM, and free parking through New Year's Day. - Police Chief Jarod Towers explained that the city police cannot intervene in federal ICE operations, but residents can safely record, be good witnesses, report to police, and request identification if directly involved. Staff said materials on free legal services and Delegate Healy/CASA event resources would be shared with Council. Presentation: DSP-20053-02 West Hyattsville Phase 2 - Gilbane Development Company presented Phase 2, the final phase of the West Hyattsville Riverfront development. The project includes 342 apartment units, 356 parking spaces on a 5-acre site, with 3 acres of buildable area and 2 acres of compensatory floodplain storage. All units are planned as market-rate apartments with no affordable units and no retail space. - The development will include a 5-story wood-frame building over a precast garage, a top-floor amenity facing Little Branch Run, and enhanced pedestrian/bicycle connections to the West Hyattsville Metro and Northwest Branch Trail. - Councilmembers asked about the traffic study, community engagement, parking allocation, entry/exit points, unit pricing, and amenities. Councilmember Nisbett, a Riverfront resident, noted the traffic study was from a pandemic year and should be updated for ride-share, delivery, and changed household car use; Councilmember Waszczak echoed the need to account for ride-share and delivery impacts. The developer said the 2021 study conservatively assumed 750 units and 15,000 square feet of retail, more than the current proposal, and offered to consult traffic engineers on ride-share trends. - The developers acknowledged no town hall has been held for this detailed site plan and agreed to hold one. Council President Solomon noted he would abstain from any future vote on the project because of a business relationship. Proclamations and Appointments - The Council adopted the World AIDS Day proclamation recognizing December 1, 2025, as World AIDS Day. - The Council approved the appointment of Malik Ferguson (Ward 3) to the Hyattsville Environment Committee for a two-year term ending December 1, 2027. - The Council approved the appointment of Christopher Koya (Ward 3) to the Race and Equity Task Force for a two-year term ending December 1, 2027. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously without separate discussion: - 2026-115: Authorization for the City Administrator to renew a 5-year lease with the United States Postal Service for the Gallatin Street parking lot. - 2026-117: FY26 Corridor Investment Program grant awards totaling $29,779 to 11 businesses/organizations, including 5132 Baltimore Avenue LLC ($1,899), AV Professional Tax Accounting LLC ($500), Art Works Now ($2,500), Green Owl Design ($2,500), Lipstick x Misfits ($5,000), Little INKPLAY Shop ($3,500), Naomis Flowers & Boutique ($5,000), Pyramid Atlantic ($1,500), Sangfroid Distilling LLC ($2,500), Triple Line Studio ($1,380), and Tuft'N Up Studio & Social ($3,500). Action Items - 2026-121 - 2026 Council Meeting Calendar: The Council adopted Resolution 2025-06 by a 10-1 vote, with Councilmember Schaible voting no. The calendar shifts from first/third Mondays to second/fourth Mondays, schedules 17 regular meetings and 5 budget work sessions (up from 3), and includes an August recess. Councilmember Schaible opposed the extended summer gap and the net reduction of one meeting; supporters noted the spending approval threshold was raised from $10,000 to $50,000, allowing the longer break. Additional meetings can be called by the Mayor or five or more Councilmembers. - 2026-120 - Rent Stabilization Comments: The Council unanimously authorized staff to submit comments to Prince George's County DPIE by December 5, 2025. Staff recommendations were: (1) provide further guidance and clarity on the public-facing rent registry and how DPIE will use it; and (2) provide an additional opportunity for public comment before the official publication of the regulations. The current rent increase allowance is 5.7% (CPI-U plus 3% or 6%, whichever is less), effective July 1, 2025 through July 1, 2026. The county regulations are scheduled to be adopted by January 1, 2026 and take effect February 1, 2026. - 2026-104 - Council Chambers Change Order: The Council approved a $50,000 FY26 Capital budget amendment and authorized a change order to the Washington Woodworking contract for the Council Chambers renovation by a 10-0-1 vote, with Councilmember Schaible abstaining. The change order adds two clerk workstations and two staff workstations with built-in technology. The dais will be bullet-resistant rather than bulletproof, and the project is expected to be installed and tested by June 2026. Discussion: Charter Amendment Resolution - Filling Council Vacancies - City Clerk Nate Groenendyk and Board of Supervisors of Elections Chairman Zack Peters presented draft charter amendments addressing vacancies. The proposals would require off-cycle councilmembers who run for Mayor to resign their seat after the election and serve until the new Council is sworn in, and would extend the time a vacancy may remain open to 365 days before the next regularly scheduled election, provided each ward retains at least one councilmember. A special election would be triggered if both seats in a ward are vacant or if four or more Council seats are vacant. - Councilmembers raised concerns about the burden of one councilmember representing a ward for up to a year, the effect on experienced members running for Mayor, and the value of special elections for public engagement. Councilmember Shibley said he would support moving the proposal forward, while Councilmembers Waszczak, Solomon, Haba, and others were not ready to vote or offered alternatives such as appointments or lower vacancy thresholds. No formal action was taken. Council Dialogue - Council Vice President Redmond reported attending the National League of Cities conference, where immigration-related safe-space protections were discussed. Councilmember Strab invited residents to Winter Wonderland on December 5; Councilmember Haba mentioned the December 11 BG SMA legislative holiday celebration and asked for prayers for kidnapped schoolchildren in Nigeria. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved as amended; all items requiring votes passed except as noted. - Adopted the World AIDS Day proclamation recognizing December 1, 2025, as World AIDS Day. - Approved appointments: Malik Ferguson (Ward 3) to the Environment Committee and Christopher Koya (Ward 3) to the Race and Equity Task Force, both for two-year terms ending December 1, 2027. - Adopted the 2026 Council Meeting Calendar (10-1). - Authorized rent stabilization comments to Prince George's County (unanimous). - Approved the $50,000 Washington Woodworking change order for Council Chambers (10-0-1). - Discussed, but did not decide on, the charter amendment resolution for filling Council vacancies. - Meeting adjourned at 10:12 PM.

The Hyattsville City Council met virtually on Monday, November 17, 2025. Mayor Robert S. Croslin called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM, and all 11 councilmembers were present. The council approved the agenda and prior minutes, heard two public comments, received updates from the City Administrator and Department of Public Works, adopted two proclamations, approved three appointments and two consent items, held council dialogue, and adjourned at 8:25 PM. All formal votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as amended by adding the appointment of Colin Hendy (Ward 3) to the Educational Facilities Task Force. The minutes later spell the name "Hendry," while the attachment and transcript use "Hendy." - Approved the minutes of October 6, 2025, and October 20, 2025. - Adopted a proclamation recognizing November 29, 2025, as Small Business Saturday. - Adopted a proclamation recognizing November 17-25, 2025, as American Education Week. - Reappointed Daniel Amador (Ward 5) to the Racial Equity Task Force for a two-year term ending November 17, 2027. - Reappointed Thaddeus Waterman (Ward 5) to the Hyattsville Environment Committee for a two-year term ending November 17, 2027. - Appointed Colin Hendy/Hendry (Ward 3) to the Educational Facilities Task Force for a two-year term ending November 17, 2027. - Adopted the Race and Equity Task Force Equity Vision Statement. - Authorized a $461.67 disbursement of Ward 4 discretionary funds to Councilmember Michelle Lee as reimbursement for refreshments and supplies for the Ward 4 Fall Community Event. The agenda and minutes date the event to October 4, 2025, while the transcript reads "October 4th, 2024." Public Comments & Testimony - Melissa Schweisguth (Ward 5) thanked staff for the pet costume contest gift basket and urged the council to ensure traffic calming projects include safe bike and pedestrian infrastructure, bike lanes, and sidewalk improvements for all users. - Dan Broder (Ward 2) asked the council to keep Hyattsville affordable, equitable, and accessible, and encouraged the council to advance ranked-choice voting and zero-waste legislation in the coming year. City Administrator Update - City Administrator Tracey Douglas congratulated the Hyattsville Police Department on receiving CALEA accreditation, describing it as the gold standard for law enforcement. She noted the department met more than 460 standards and that this was the third accreditation during her tenure. - Douglas reviewed volunteer opportunities for Thanksgiving: prepared meal deliveries for older adults on Thursday from 11 AM to 1 PM, basket packing and delivery to schools on Friday from 10 AM to 2:30 PM, plus evening volunteer slots on December 2 and December 8. - Jeff Ulysse, Director of Community, Business, and Economic Development, presented the Hyattsville Open Rewards program, launched in partnership with Blue Dot Technologies. It is free for participating businesses; customers use the Blue Dot app to earn and redeem rewards when shopping at Hyattsville businesses. The program is planned to launch on Small Business Saturday, November 29, 2025, and will operate year-round. - Councilmembers asked about app availability, business participation, and reward mechanics; Ulysse confirmed the app works on iPhone and Android and that businesses do not need to sign up. Councilmembers also thanked DPW for recent neighborhood work, including Gaines Alley, and thanked staff for handling a traffic issue at a daycare on Toledo Road. Streets Projects Presentation - Director of Public Works Lesley Riddle, Deputy Director Hal Metzler, and Transportation Manager Taylor Robey presented updates on major street projects. - Lancer Drive/Longfellow Street: Two community petitions prompted a traffic calming study for cut-through traffic and speeding between Queens Chapel Road and 36th Avenue. Initial concepts included chicanes, curb extensions, and high-visibility crosswalks; a parking study was completed. A community meeting is scheduled for November 18, 2025, at 6:30 PM, with a recommended design expected in spring 2026 and construction funding proposed for FY27. - Driskell Park Intersection Study: The five-way intersection analysis prioritized pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicle safety. Existing conditions and three design alternatives have been developed; property acquisition and park entrance changes remain under review. More community feedback will be gathered before a council presentation. - Oliver Green Alley: The green alley project, located along the Hyattsville/Riverdale Park boundary, received a Chesapeake Bay Trust Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns grant for concept design. Conceptual design is complete; property owner outreach continues. A community meeting is planned for early 2026, with a council update in spring 2026. - West Hyattsville Roads Projects: Staff presented the phased approach, with 10 original phases, one removed because it was not city right-of-way, and the West Hyattsville Green Alley added. Completed work includes phase one street reconstruction, Nicholson Street pedestrian safety improvements, intersection safety improvements near an elementary school, and mill-and-overlay resurfacing coordinated with Washington Gas. - Jamestown Road: Based on a 2018 transportation study recommendation, the city is designing a bike boulevard between Ager Road and 35th Avenue, with green street and stormwater elements. Short- and long-term concepts will be presented at community meetings on December 2, 2025, and in January 2026. Staff acknowledged the originally listed January 18, 2026 date was a Sunday and said it would be corrected. Council updates and FY27 construction funding are anticipated in spring 2026. - West Hyattsville Green Alley: This ARPA-supported project has received about $143,000 for concept and stormwater design. Staff are coordinating with Prince George's County on drainage work and planning short-term storm drain repairs, traffic calming on 31st Avenue, and placemaking improvements. - Council discussion included lower Ward 1 sidewalk and stormwater projects, the Hamilton Street transfer from the Maryland Department of Transportation, and EPA review of stormwater projects. Councilmember Haba requested that future community meetings be held on the west side and offered a pre-meeting briefing; Councilmember Lee requested a virtual option; staff agreed to adjust. Councilmember Schaible raised concerns about the Driskell roundabout design, noting the bus route has changed and that residents reacted negatively to removing stop signs; he asked staff to consider a roundabout with stop signs. Councilmember Nisbett suggested asking Google to de-prioritize Lancer Drive for cut-through routing. DPW staff said they would inspect cracked concrete on Madison Street and Maryhurst and follow up on other concerns. Council President Solomon praised the DPW team, stated the council refused to cut DPW's budget this cycle, and thanked staff and contractors. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved the amended agenda, minutes, proclamations, appointments, consent items, and adjournment, with no nays or abstentions recorded. - The council adopted two proclamations and three appointments and approved the equity vision statement and the Ward 4 discretionary fund reimbursement. - Next steps include DPW continuing community engagement, correcting the January meeting date, considering relocation and virtual access for meetings, providing advance briefings to councilmembers, and presenting recommended designs and funding requests to council in spring 2026.

The Hyattsville City Council met virtually on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 7:00 PM; the meeting was called to order at 7:03 PM and adjourned at 9:43 PM. The agenda was approved after an amendment clarifying that Juan Pablo Madrid, the Code Compliance Committee appointee, resides in Ward 4. Council heard public comment, received departmental updates, adopted three proclamations, approved appointments and consent items, and acted on two law-enforcement technology contracts. Public Comments & Testimony - Erin Hogeboom (Ward 2), speaking as a member of the Friends of Greenwood board, expressed concerns that newly installed stanchions near the Greenwood School/old Kaiser building have negatively affected parents and students, and requested collaboration on a better solution. - Melissa Schweisguth (Ward 5) expressed full support for stop sign cameras but asked the Council not to approve the JENOPTIK contract without a publicly available contract and cost details, calling the proposed revenue split an incentive to issue more tickets. - Tatjana Hrubik Vulanovic (Ward 5) raised financial transparency concerns, stating that multiple financial reports have not been published on the City website, the Quarter 1 report and Capital Improvement Plan do not match, and the City Treasurer has not fulfilled commitments. - Daniel Hunt (Ward 4) advised that the federal government is seeking office space in Hyattsville, and said he is concerned ICE may be preparing to set up operations that could increase ICE raids; he urged the City to protect residents' civil rights. - Daniel Broder (Ward 2) supported the data-protection provisions in the Accurint/Lexis Nexis agreement, asked for a termination clause if data is shared with ICE, echoed concerns about voting on the stop sign camera contract before public review, and supported ranked choice voting. City Administrator Update - Staff highlighted resources for federal workers affected by the government shutdown, including a $62 million state grant for SNAP benefits and local/nonprofit assistance. - Drug Take Back Day collected 112 pounds of unused/expired medications. - Economic Development Week included a business roundtable and visits to local businesses; seven-year anniversaries were noted for Sam Froid, Streetcar 82, and Meatworks. - A proposed affordable housing project at First United Methodist Church of Hyattsville would deliver 124 units (50 family, 70 senior, 36 permanent supportive housing), but did not receive low-income housing tax credits; the City will continue working with the developer on funding pathways. - A proposed Business Improvement District in Ward 3 did not gather the required 51% property-owner support; 32 parcels were in the proposed boundary. Staff said conversations will continue through alternative approaches. - The teen center, public safety building, and newly opened environmental depot (accepting batteries, electronics, clothing, styrofoam, and related items) are in various stages of completion/operation. - The City was awarded over $150,000 toward the Hyattsville Climate Action Plan; UMD students are conducting door-to-door surveys, with adoption targeted for late next summer. - Council members requested follow-up updates on the Portland Loo at Heurich Park, an overflowing clothing bin near Kaiser, the traffic light at Nicholson Street and Ager Road, the West Hyattsville traffic plan, and opening Nicholson Street near Riverfront. Proclamations - 2026-94: Native American Heritage Month (November 2025) - adopted unanimously. - 2026-95: Veterans Day (November 11, 2025) - adopted unanimously. - 2026-96: Municipal Government Works Month (November 2025) - adopted unanimously. Appointments - 2026-91: Alexander Houck (Ward 3) appointed to the Planning Committee; Todd Dengel (Ward 2) and Maureen Foster (Ward 2) reappointed, terms ending November 3, 2027 - approved unanimously. - 2026-97: Juan Pablo Madrid (Ward 4) appointed to the Code Compliance Advisory Committee, term ending November 3, 2027 - approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - 2026-92: Authorized $93.31 in Ward 3 discretionary funds to Council Vice President Redmond as reimbursement for refreshments for a Teen Action Group meeting at the Hyattsville Branch Library - approved unanimously. - 2026-93: Accepted Audit Committee recommendations on the FY23 Audit and directed the City Treasurer to present a corrective action plan in January 2026 - approved unanimously. Action Items Lexis Nexis Risk Solutions Agreement (9.a) Chief Towers and Lexis Nexis CEO Haywood Talcove presented the Accurint/Virtual Crime Center agreement. Staff described contract amendments limiting data sharing to CAD/RMS data, prohibiting third-party or DHS/ICE access unless required by law/court order, and requiring notification of data requests. Councilmember Waszczak moved to send the contract to the City Attorney to add a clause covering breach of confidentiality and the City's right to terminate for material breach. The motion passed 6-4-1 (AYE: Waszczak, Solomon, Schaible, Redmond, Haba, Lee; NAY: Barnes, Strab, Nisbett, Dhokai; ABSTAIN: Mayor Croslin). The original contract-approval motion was not voted on because contract language will return to Council after legal review. (Note: The agenda lists this item without a resolution number; the minutes identify it as 2026-131.) Contract Award: Stop Sign Cameras (9.b) Chief Towers presented the RFP process that selected JENOPTIK Smart Mobility Solutions, LLC for a three-year Automated Stop Sign Enforcement Program. The proposal has no upfront costs and a 65/35 revenue split. JENOPTIK representative Katherine Nash answered questions on pricing, camera locations, data retention, and warning periods. Councilmembers discussed school-zone-only placement, a citation warning period, data security, enforcement thresholds, and community feedback. Councilmember Schaible said he would not support the program without a threshold aligned with speed camera practices. A motion by Council President Solomon, seconded by Councilmember Strab, was amended to authorize the City Administrator to negotiate a three-year contract subject to review and approval by the Mayor, City Council, and City Attorney for legal sufficiency. The amended motion passed unanimously (11-0). Council Dialogue - Councilmember Haba reminded colleagues of the November 13 PG County Councilmember buddy meeting in Morningside. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved as amended (unanimous). - Three proclamations adopted (unanimous). - Planning Committee and Code Compliance Committee appointments approved (unanimous). - Consent items approved (unanimous). - Lexis Nexis agreement sent back to the City Attorney to add breach/termination language; final contract to return to Council (6-4-1). - JENOPTIK stop sign camera contract award approved, with negotiation authority for a three-year contract subject to Mayor, Council, and City Attorney review (unanimous). - Council requested follow-up reports at the next meeting on the Portland Loo, clothing bin, Nicholson Street/Ager Road traffic light, West Hyattsville Traffic Plan, and Nicholson Street opening. - Meeting adjourned at 9:43 PM.