Public Meetings - Rockville, Maryland

On August 4, 2025, the Rockville Mayor and Council convened virtually for Meeting No. 20-25. The agenda included a proclamation for National Night Out, appointments to boards and commissions, community forum comments, a special presentation on Results Rockville dashboards, consent agenda, a budget amendment, a memorandum of understanding with Morgard regarding Town Square, and a work session on the zoning ordinance rewrite covering uses, parking, and development review processes. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved: authorization for MPDU homeownership program agreement, electric senior transit bus grant, renaming Senior Citizens Commission to Rockville Commission on Aging, and a sidewalk construction contract. - Also approved appointments: Eddie Friedman to Community Policing Advisory Board, Francis Bebington to Cultural Arts Commission, David Hill to Rockville Sister Cities. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Prashela addressed the council regarding the King Farm Farmstead Master Plan, urging staff to include pricing for all options, analyze the need for a third kitchen, provide capacity details for dairy barn hall, assess competition with other venues, share projected uses of outdoor spaces, discuss historic preservation obligations, provide usage projections for Option 4, overall project cost, consider private partnerships, and post the agenda item two weeks before the September 29 work session. Discussion Items National Night Out Proclamation - Mayor read a proclamation designating August 5, 2025 as National Night Out. Councilmember Valeri moved, Councilmember Jackson seconded, unanimous approval. Police Chief West highlighted over 25 community events. Boards and Commissions Appointments - Councilmember Jackson moved to reappoint Eddie Friedman as full member of CPAB; Councilmember Larry moved to reappoint Francis Bebington to Cultural Arts Commission; Councilmember Jackson moved to reappoint David Hill to Rockville Sister Cities. All approved unanimously. Special Presentation: Results Rockville Dashboards - David Gottesman presented the launch of five public-facing dashboards tracking Mayor and Council initiatives, FAST Phase 2, housing strategies, Vision Zero, and Climate Action Plan. Dashboards go live August 5. Council members requested more geographic diversity in photos, inclusion of budget process, and clearer language (e.g., avoid "FAST 2"). Councilmember Jackson and others expressed support. Budget Amendment 11A - Mary Sue Martin presented FY26 budget amendment 1, appropriating $2M from general fund reserves, grants for rooftop solar, IT software, CDBG projects, playground replacement, CSX bridge painting, town center wayfinding, King Farm utilities, REAP, water meter FTE, and reappropriations. Council introduced ordinance, waived layover, and approved unanimously. Councilmember Van Grack made the approval motion from an airplane, noted as historic. Memorandum of Understanding with Morgard (11B) - City Manager Mahalik presented a five-year MOU with Morgard covering town square operations, signage improvements (murals, CSX bridge art, wayfinding, "Town Center" letters on pedestrian bridge), parking garage management (reduce reserved city spaces from 40 to 5, 90-minute free parking, study of impacts), free Wi-Fi at City Plaza, security cameras for police access, continued events, use of vacant retail space for recreation programming, and leasing incentives. Council discussion focused on parking concerns: residents upset about reduction from 2-hour free to 90 minutes, impact on businesses and nonprofits (Trader Joe's, VizArts, movie theater), ADA and expectant mother parking, signage inconsistencies, and the need for better communication. Councilmember Fulton moved to approve the MOU as a non-binding framework. Approved with 4 in favor; Mayor expressed concerns but voted yes, noting it is non-binding and further negotiations on parking will follow. Zoning Ordinance Rewrite Work Session (Item 12) - Staff (Holly Simmons, John Foreman) presented recommendations on uses, parking, zone standards, and development review processes. Uses: - Recommendation 1: Updated home-based business definitions (little/no impact, low impact, major) – supported unanimously. - Recommendation 2: Remove definition of "family" from zoning, move occupancy limits to Chapter 18 – supported with caveats to protect multi-generational and diverse households. - Recommendation 3: Convert many special exception uses to conditional or permitted; allow multifamily housing on nonprofit/faith-owned properties in all zones – supported with comments on senior housing and EV charging conversions. - Recommendation 4: Allow faith-based/nonprofit multifamily housing – supported. Parking: - Proposed changes to further Vision Zero (pedestrian/bike facilities, bicycle parking for accessory uses, pedestrian visibility at parking entrances). - Right-size minimums and maximums, introduce by-right adjustments for EV charging, MPDUs, bike commuter facilities, pickup/drop-off spaces. - Eliminate parking minimums within ½ mile of Metro and ¼ mile of BRT. - Revise process for parking reductions (de minimis 10% reduction by approving authority, additional reductions with parking demand analysis). - Council generally supportive. Mayor and Councilmember Valeri raised concerns about medical office parking needs; staff will follow up. Others supported going further on eliminating minimums citywide. Zone Standards: - Increase base height in MXNC from 45' to 65' by right (supported). - Adjust comprehensive map amendment to reflect BRT 95% design shift from Broadwood Drive to Twinbrook Parkway (supported). Development Review Process (FAST 2): - Streamline PD amendment process to mirror project plan process with planning commission recommendation. - Allow administrative site plan approvals in most intense mixed-use zones (MXCs, MXEs, MXTs, AZC) when not within 300 feet of residential zone. - Allow administrative site plan for R&D/life science in MXE and for certain housing types (small-scale infill, residential conversions, etc.). - Simplify residential area impact points calculation using straight-line distances. - Council discussed balance between streamlining and maintaining council oversight. Many supported administrative approvals but Mayor and Councilmember Valeri expressed desire for continued council involvement and notification of major projects. Planning commission unanimously supported. Council provided direction with request to notify planning commission and other advisory bodies of administrative approvals. Key Outcomes - Proclamation and consent items approved unanimously. - Budget amendment approved. - MOU with Morgard approved as non-binding; further parking negotiations to come. - Zoning ordinance rewrite recommendations largely endorsed; staff will proceed with drafting and return with updates. - Future meeting schedule adjusted: proclamations moved to September 15, start time for September 8 meeting moved to 7:00 PM.

On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the City of Rockville Planning Commission held Meeting No. 09-25, chaired by Jamie Espinosa. Commissioners Susan Pittman, Eric Fulton, and Mong Sun were present; Commissioner Shayant Saoudin was absent. The primary agenda item was a recommendation to the Mayor and Council on Project Plan 2025-00020, an amendment to allow conversion of previously approved street-level retail into 13 residential units. The meeting also included a staff liaison report, approval of minutes, and adjournment. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - One resident of Rockville spoke during public testimony, asking whether the project factored in flood mitigation measures such as permeable pavers. Staff responded that the project works within an existing building footprint and will address stormwater management as required by code, but does not specifically address flood mitigation beyond the existing stormwater approval. Discussion Items - Project Plan 2025-00020 – Staff presentation by Senior Planner Chris Davis outlined the proposal: conversion of 13,001 square feet of previously approved street-level retail at 198 East Montgomery Avenue into 13 residential units (11 two-bedroom, one one-bedroom, one three-bedroom), leaving 6,500 square feet of commercial space. Staff found no issues with conformance to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan or the recently adopted Town Center Master Plan, zoning, adequate public facilities (including schools in the Richard Montgomery cluster), or transportation impacts (the conversion would generate fewer vehicle trips than the retail use). Staff recommended approval with conditions, and proposed an additional condition allowing the entire converted space to revert to commercial use via a level two site plan, without requiring another plan development amendment. - Applicant Presentation – Nancy Reglin (land use counsel for Comstock 33) and Chris Green (Comstock Vice President) presented design refinements addressing prior commission feedback, including inset doors, varied colored doors, planters, awnings, lighting, and private entry features along Monroe Street, East Middle Lane, and Helen Hennigan Way to create a residential transition from the sidewalk. The applicant accepted staff’s conditions. - Commission Questions – Commissioner Sun asked about door colors (gradient) and landscape maintenance (owner Comstock). Commissioner Espinosa inquired about window transparency; applicant confirmed windows are transparent with interior shades. The resident’s question about flood mitigation was addressed by staff. - Staff Liaison Report – Mr. Waselec announced the next meeting on August 13, 2025, a work session on the zoning ordinance rewrite, and upcoming September items including a mandatory referral for the county jail site and another ZORA work session. Key Outcomes - Motion to Recommend Approval – Commissioner Sun moved to recommend approval of Project Plan 2025-00020 to the Mayor and Council, subject to conditions in the staff packet and the additional condition presented. Seconded by Commissioner Fulton. The motion passed unanimously (4-0). - The Mayor and Council have scheduled a public hearing on September 15, 2025, and will consider final approval. Upon approval, the project will return to the Planning Commission for a level two site plan review. - Approval of Minutes – The June 11, 2025 meeting minutes (Meeting No. 08-25) were approved unanimously. - Meeting adjourned.

The Rockville Mayor and Council convened on July 21, 2025, at 6:30 PM (local time) for a lengthy meeting focused on two major work sessions: rent stabilization and election reform. The meeting included over three hours of public testimony, with more than 50 speakers, followed by council debate and votes. The council voted 5-2 to reject a motion to adopt a rent stabilization program and then passed a motion to not consider rent control policies for the remainder of the council term. On election reform, the council gave direction on several topics including campaign finance transparency, public financing, ranked choice voting, and lowering the voting age to 16. Consent Calendar - Final Design Approval for Twinbrook Community Recreation Center at Next Mural – Approved unanimously. - Memorandum of Agreement with Maryland Transportation Authority Police – Authorized unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Rent Stabilization (majority of speakers): - Ryan Murphy (Rockville resident) opposed rent control, urging supply-based solutions and citing studies showing long-term harm. - Vincent Russo (Rockville resident) opposed rent control, calling it a flawed policy that discourages investment. - Stacey Kaplowitz (multifamily owner) opposed rent caps, detailing operating cost increases of 6.5%+ annually. - Sandy Peck (attorney, Tower Companies) opposed rent control, arguing it reduces supply and quality. - Todd Pearson (BFSol Company) opposed rent control, noting that areas without rent control have seen rent growth negative. - Bettina Guevara (SALS Centers) urged the council to avoid alienating investment; she supported supply-side solutions. - Gunnar Gingery (GDG/Commodore Management) warned that rent control could force redevelopment and displacement. - Chris Baru (Donahoe Companies) cited Montgomery County's permit decline and called rent control a flawed policy. - Hugo Cantu (AOBA) opposed rent control, citing flat inflation-adjusted rents and declining multifamily permits. - Julie Pollinger (Pollinger Company) said rent control would make reinvestment in older buildings unsustainable. - Lee Henry (multifamily co-owner) urged a collaborative approach and rejected the narrative of landlord greed. - Kenneth Becker (Rollins Park/Congressional Towers) opposed rent control, citing rising costs and supply crash. - Alex Forrest (real estate lender) explained that caps make refinancing difficult and lead to disinvestment. - Steven Silver (Lantean Development) warned that rent control drives capital away; Montgomery County is already redlined. - Margie Graff (Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce) opposed rent control, citing decreased housing quality and investment. - Brigita Mollikan (50-year resident) argued rent control reduces available units and worsens shortages. - Peter Henry (developer) noted that permit applications have fallen dramatically since the county's rent control. - Brian Barkley (King Farm resident, former landlord) opposed rent control based on his experience and county data. - John Becker (Americana Center resident) recommended a task force to study the issue. - James Doffermeyer (Rockville resident) passionately supported rent stabilization, arguing that profits should not trump tenant needs. - Joshua Wildridge (NRP Group) provided data showing Rockville rents actually decreased 0.87% over the past year. - Brad Crozen (short testimony) threatened to vote out council members who oppose rent control. - (Several other speakers supported rent stabilization, including teachers, federal workers, and renters sharing personal stories of high rent increases.) - Election Reform: - Senator Cheryl Kagan (vice chair of Senate elections committee) supported ranked choice voting, a handbook, and independent BSE oversight, but opposed term limits and ballot measures without public information. - Michelle Whitaker (Ranked Choice Voting Maryland) advocated for ranked choice voting, noting its feasibility. - Nancy Wallace (resident) supported ranked choice voting for majority outcomes. - Adam Wise (Maryland Ford Party) supported ranked choice voting. - Sandra Crow (resident) supported ranked choice voting for five reasons. - Christopher Hughes (Ranked Choice Voting Resource Center) explained RC Tab software and ease of implementation. Discussion Items - Rent Stabilization Work Session (Item 12A): - Staff presented a framework for potential rent stabilization, including caps, junk fee bans, exemptions, and enforcement. - Councilmember Van Grack argued against rent control, citing Montgomery County's 70%+ loss in housing revenue and a drop in multifamily permits. - Councilmember Shaw moved to adopt a rent stabilization program identical to Montgomery County (6% cap or CPI+3%, whichever is lower). The motion was seconded by Councilmember Miles. - Councilmember Jackson spoke against rent control, emphasizing the council's other housing efforts and criticizing outside organizations for funding campaigns. - Councilmember Valeri opposed rent control, calling for nuanced solutions and criticizing the lack of collaboration. - Councilmember Fulton opposed rent control, citing the need for long-term solutions and warning of unintended consequences. - Mayor Ashton noted the council's comprehensive housing strategy and the need to balance short-term relief with long-term supply. - After debate, Councilmember Van Grack moved that the council not implement rent control or rental renewal hard caps and not consider it for the remainder of the term. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Jackson and passed 5-2 (Shaw and Miles opposed). - Election Reform Work Session (Item 12B): - Consultant Jason Gantt presented recommendations on eight topics: campaign finance, public financing, reporting, enforcement, BSE role, ranked choice voting, and 2023 ballot measures. - Campaign Finance: Council unanimously supported increased transparency and modernizing the code. - Public Financing: Council expressed interest but noted budget constraints; most supported exploring a pilot program with public input, but not before the 2027 election. - Campaign Finance Reporting: Council agreed on the need for full reporting of PACs and independent expenditures, including small-dollar donations. They asked for options in the final report. - Enforcement: Council favored an independent administrative hearing process to handle violations, separate from the BSE and city staff. - Role of the Board of Supervisors of Elections (BSE): Council asked for two options in the final report: keeping BSE administrative functions vs. making it a policy-only body, with greater clarity on responsibilities. - Ranked Choice Voting: Council generally supported moving toward ranked choice voting, though timing was debated. Most favored exploring it for future elections (2029 or 2031) and seeking public input. A motion to implement by 2027 was not made. - Lowering Voting Age to 16: Council heard public support and some reservations. They agreed to survey youth through the Youth Commission and consider it further. No vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Rent Stabilization Motion (Shaw/Miles) – Failed 2-5. - Motion to Not Consider Rent Control (Van Grack/Jackson) – Passed 5-2. The council will not implement rent control or rental renewal hard caps for the remainder of the term. - Election Reform: The council gave direction to the consultant to provide a final report by September 8, 2025, with detailed options on campaign finance, public financing, enforcement, and BSE roles. The council will also consider a youth survey on lowering the voting age. - Lobbying Disclosure: Councilmember Jackson proposed adding an agenda item to discuss lobbying disclosure requirements; the item was agendized for a future meeting. - Next Meeting: The next Mayor and Council meeting is scheduled for August 4, 2025 (virtual only).

The Rockville Historic District Commission (HDC) held its sixth meeting of 2025 on July 17, 2025, chaired by Anita Neil Powell. The meeting featured public comments on the King Farm Farmstead adaptive reuse project, approval of consent agenda items and a certificate of approval for demolition, presentation of the annual report, a work session on proposed zoning ordinance amendments for historic preservation, and initial discussion on strategic priorities for FY26. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of June 26, 2025 (5‑0). - Approved tax credit applications HDC 2025‑01188, HDC 2024‑01192, HDC 2024‑01193, and HDC 2024‑01195 (5‑0). Application HDC 2024‑01190 (307 West Montgomery Avenue) was deferred to September due to a date error in the staff report; staff will confirm and bring it back for approval. - Commissioner Falseman requested that future tax credit staff memos include brief descriptive notes (e.g., “tree,” “roof”) for easier reference. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Persheila (816 Fordham Street, former Rockville Council Member) expressed concern that the Mayor and Council work session on the King Farm Farmstead adaptive reuse project did not adequately involve the HDC or address the city’s obligations as owner of a designated historic property. He noted that Option 4 (adding a connecting wing and a second‑level bump‑out between the dairy barns) was chosen and that the horse barn has been allowed to deteriorate. He asked that the HDC be engaged earlier in the process. - Staff (Katie Gerbis, Comprehensive Planning Manager) responded that Rec and Park staff have been coordinating with preservation staff and that formal plans have not yet reached HDC review. She confirmed that any future exterior alterations would require HDC approval and offered to have Rec and Parks present to the commission. Commissioners broadly supported earlier involvement and requested such a presentation at the September meeting. - Paul Goldberg, owner of 100 West Montgomery Avenue (later during the certificate of approval discussion), stated that demolition costs have become prohibitively expensive and that he is open to suggestions, including use of the property for fire department training. Discussion Items - Organization Reports: Peerless Rockville representative Nancy Bukard reported on two recent events: a Heritage Days walking tour of Rockville’s displaced African American community on Middle Lane (to be repeated in September) and a program by Preservation Maryland on LGBTQ+ history. She also echoed concerns about King Farm Farmstead, noting that the staff report mentions a master plan presentation in September and adoption by October, leaving little time for HDC review. - HDC and Staff Comments: - Commissioner Falseman announced a ribbon‑cutting for a mural at 1350 East Gude Drive as part of the Rock East development, created by local artist Robert Cohen. - Commissioner Goldfinger presented a historical feature on the Bell Dawson House (built 1815), including its original owners, enslaved persons, and its current use as a museum by the Montgomery County Historical Society. - King Farm Farmstead Update: Chair Neil Powell and staff discussed the status of the adaptive reuse project. Staff confirmed that HDC will review all exterior modifications once formal plans are submitted, and the commission decided to invite Rec and Parks to the September 18 meeting for a presentation on the four options considered. - Certificate of Approval – 100 West Montgomery Avenue (HDC 2025‑01198): The applicant requested re‑approval of demolition of a deteriorated historic structure, as the original one‑year approval had expired. Owner Paul Goldberg explained that demolition costs have soared, making the project economically unfeasible. Commissioners expressed disappointment with the delay but acknowledged the challenges. The certificate was approved 5‑0, and the commission suggested the owner contact the fire department about using the property as a training exercise to reduce costs. - FY25 HDC Annual Report: Preservation Planner Sheila Pasheri presented a draft report summarizing FY25 activities: only five certificate of approval applications (compared to a typical 10‑13), three evaluations of significance, one designation (Courthouse Square), and ten tax credit applications. Accomplishments included inclusion in the city newsletter, reinstatement of the historic bronze marker program, receipt of two Maryland Historical Trust grants, and ongoing staff professional development. The commission approved the draft 5‑0, with final edits due by mid‑August before submission to the Mayor and Council on October 6. - Zoning Ordinance Rewrite – Historic Preservation Code Amendments: Katie Gerbis led a work session on proposed amendments prompted by the Historic Preservation Work Plan and the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Key proposals included: - Consolidating all historic preservation regulations into a single article. - Adding explicit designation criteria and a definition of integrity to the code. - Limiting consecutive evaluations of significance to five‑year intervals. - Expanding administrative approvals for minor alterations (e.g., small accessory structures, light fixtures, tree removal, fencing). - Creating a delisting process for properties that have lost their historic character. - Restricting designation applications to the property owner, HDC, or Mayor and Council; requiring unanimous HDC approval if the owner does not consent. - Adding enforcement against demolition by neglect, with municipal infractions. - Adjusting triggers for evaluation of significance to focus on structures in the historic buildings catalog or those staff finds potentially eligible. - Extending certificate of approval validity from one to five years. - Removing obsolete references and adding commissioner qualification requirements for CLG status. - No action was taken; the commission provided feedback. The amendments will be presented to Mayor and Council on September 15 and at a public meeting on September 25, with formal adoption targeted for May 2026. - Strategic Priorities Discussion: Commissioners explored potential budget requests for FY26, including funding for an internship program to engage younger generations in preservation, signage to increase HDC visibility, and resources to advance the Historic Preservation Work Plan (e.g., continued historic context survey). They agreed to revisit the issue at the September meeting and to advocate directly with council members. Key Outcomes - Approvals and Votes: - Minutes of June 26, 2025 approved (5‑0). - Tax credit applications approved (5‑0), with one deferred for correction. - Certificate of Approval (HDC 2025‑01198) for demolition at 100 West Montgomery Avenue approved (5‑0). - FY25 HDC Annual Report approved (5‑0) as a draft, with edits to be submitted by mid‑August. - Directives and Next Steps: - Staff will coordinate with Rec and Parks to present the King Farm Farmstead concepts at the September 18 HDC meeting. - The deferred tax credit application (307 West Montgomery Avenue) will be brought back in September after staff confirms the correct dates. - The annual report will be finalized and presented to Mayor and Council on October 6, 2025. - Proposed zoning ordinance amendments will be presented to Mayor and Council on September 15 and at a public meeting on September 25; the HDC may provide formal comments during the public hearing process. - Commissioner discussion on strategic priorities and budget requests will continue at the September 18 meeting. - The next HDC meeting is scheduled for September 18, 2025.

The Rockville Board of Appeals met on the evening of July 16, 2025, to conduct a public hearing on a variance application for a carport addition. The board also approved minutes from a prior meeting, heard an update on a report to the mayor and council, and discussed future agenda items. Public Comments & Testimony - Applicants (John and Sharon McCoy): Spoke in support of the variance, explaining that the proposed carport location on an existing concrete pad is optimal for drainage and uses existing driveway. They noted an informal conversation with a neighbor who expressed no opposition. - No other public comments or written testimony were received in support or opposition. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Christopher Davis, Senior Planner, presented variance application VAR 2025-00127 for 2288 Dunster Lane. The applicant requested a variance from the 11-foot side yard setback requirement in the R90 zone to allow a 2-foot 2.3-inch setback (an 8-foot 9.7-inch variance) for constructing an attached carport. Staff highlighted the property's unique topography (downward slope from right to left and front to rear) and its wedge shape (78 feet wide at front, 88 feet at rear) as conditions peculiar to the property. No previous variances were recorded for the property. Staff recommended approval with conditions. - Board Questions: Members asked about the property's topography, the wedge shape, and the absence of prior variances. The applicants confirmed that the carport would be placed on a level concrete pad and that the neighbor had no objection. - Board Deliberation: Members expressed support, noting that the location is optimal given the property constraints and that the carport would be in character with the neighborhood. A question was raised about whether the variance could allow a future garage enclosure; staff clarified that a separate variance would be needed. Key Outcomes - Variance Approval: A motion was made to approve variance application VAR 2025-00127 based on the recommended findings and conditions in the staff report. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (3-0). - Minutes Approval: The minutes from meeting number 1-2025 (April 16, 2025) were approved unanimously. - Old Business: Chair Alan Frankel reported that he and Chief of Zoning Jim Waslick presented the Board of Appeals' annual report to the mayor and council on May 19, 2025, and it was well received. - New Business: The board agreed to discuss the zoning ordinance update at the September 2025 meeting.

The Rockville Mayor and Council convened Meeting 18-25 on July 14, 2025. The evening included proclamations and student recognitions, community forum, a special presentation from the Rockville Sister Cities Corporation, a consent agenda, a public hearing and action on 900 Rockville Pike, a work session on the King Farm Farmstead, and discussion of an upcoming rent stabilization work session. Proclamations & Recognitions - The Mayor and Council proclaimed July 17, 2025 as Maddie JT Stepanic Peace Day. Dr. Jenny Stepanic accepted and described the Toast to Peace event at World of Beer from 5–8 p.m. on July 17, 2025, including a global "clink" connecting peace day parties around the world. - The Mayor and Council proclaimed July 26, 2025 as the 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Human Rights Commission representatives accepted and highlighted Rockville-based disability organizations, the ADA transition plan, and a new disability justice subcommittee. - The Mayor and Council proclaimed July 2025 as Park and Recreation Month. Recreation and Parks Advisory Board members accepted, and Community Service Awards were presented to Joe Roach (volunteer track coach for more than 20 years) and Marty Major (volunteer graphic designer at Croydon Creek Nature Center). - Numerous student achievers were recognized, including National Merit Scholars from Richard Montgomery High School, state swimming/wrestling/tennis champions, C-SPAN StudentCam winners, a Gatorade Player of the Year, and University of Maryland commencement speaker Jay Lishack. Consent Agenda - Item 9A, an ordinance amending Chapter 15 of the Personnel Code, was pulled by the Mayor for discussion. Councilmember Van Grack moved to adopt the ordinance with an amendment requiring the city manager to advise the council of all substantive changes, including any budgetary impacts, no later than July 1 of each year. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Jackson and passed; Councilmember Fulton indicated opposition, calling the addition redundant. - Items 9B (a resolution authorizing a settlement agreement and release) and 9C (approval of minutes) were approved unanimously on a motion by Councilmember Van Grack, seconded by Councilmember Jackson. Public Comments & Testimony - Former Councilman Mark Piscella urged a nontraditional, economically viable approach to activating the King Farm Farmstead, including a September open house, inviting groups to pitch visions, prioritizing the horse barn, and avoiding a new kitchen. - Former Mayor Steve Van Grack praised the FY26 budget, public safety investments, and economic development staffing. He expressed continued opposition to rent control and noted the city's property tax rate has remained the same for 30 years. - Ashandra McLean thanked Mayor Ashton for promptly connecting her with the police chief after she was assaulted, helping her obtain camera footage for the State's Attorney. - Kate Gold, a King Farm Community Garden board member, supported a public recreational purpose with flexible building uses and noted the garden donates excess produce to Manna. - Ilsa Bay Urban advocated for continuing and expanding the community garden, daycare, native plantings, and smaller repeated events rather than large amplified events. - Rockville Science Center representatives Ulysses Santa Maria and Kyle Kuzinski expressed support for a makerspace at King Farm and a partnership with the city. - Nadaj Stagbow alleged racial bias and unresponsiveness by city and county staff regarding child welfare concerns and called for removal of Beth Loftus. City Manager Mahalick responded that the police chief responded the day the complaint was made, that the employee is a county employee, and that the county is investigating. - Community speaker Goodman thanked the Council for the ADA proclamation and advocated for accessible transit and rent stabilization as human rights. - Gabriela Paikowski spoke in favor of maintaining the King Farm Community Garden, describing it as a source of community and reprieve. Special Presentation — Rockville Sister Cities Corporation - President David Hill presented FY25 activities: Richard Montgomery High School jazz ensemble trip to Pinneberg (15 students; city contributed about $2,000, roughly 4% of costs), the Bubble Tea Festival (about 12,000 attendees; city contributed about $7,000, roughly 35% of costs), the lantern festival, hosting a German clarinet ensemble, and ongoing discussions about a possible third sister city in Korhogo, Côte d'Ivoire. - Hill raised concerns about the organization's reclassification as a partnership organization, administrative burdens, city support below 20% of the budget, and the need for more institutional support. Public Hearing & Action — 900 Rockville Pike Project Plan - Public hearing TXT 2025-00022 was held on an amendment to extend the implementation period for the approved project plan at 900 Rockville Pike (0.44 acres, Plan Development Champion Billiards with equivalent MXCD zoning). Staff recommended approval. - Applicant representatives Jody Klein and Mr. Danches requested an additional year, citing historical delays and an access dispute. Former Councilman Piscella spoke in support. No other speakers signed up, and the hearing was closed. - The Council unanimously adopted PJT 2025-0022 on a motion by Councilmember Van Grack, seconded by Councilmember Fulton. Discussion Items — King Farm Farmstead Work Session - Recreation and Parks Director Tara Stewart and consultant Mike Stover presented community engagement results and four building use options. The Engage Rockville project page achieved a 10% engagement rate, the third highest among seven city projects using the platform. - Community feedback favored Option 4, followed by Option 2 and Option 3. Option 4 would connect the dairy barns with an addition (rough cost $1.2–1.4 million) and include daycare, wellness, maker, and multipurpose spaces. - Councilmembers broadly supported preserving the community garden, flexible multipurpose spaces, child care/daycare, historical interpretation, native plantings, and a phased approach. Councilmembers Van Grack and Jackson favored more moderate options, while Mayor Ashton and others supported analyzing Option 4. - City Manager Mahalick recommended moving forward with economic analysis and construction cost estimation for Option 4, with the addition priced as an alternate. Old/New Business — Rent Stabilization Discussion - Councilmember Shaw explained that an upcoming work session on rent stabilization would not include updated data, contrary to the process she said was agreed on June 16. Councilmember Van Grack responded that no decision was made on June 16 and that staff had provided extensive data on July 8, 2024. Dr. Miles and Councilmember Shaw argued that updated market data and post-implementation data from Montgomery and Prince George's counties were needed. No vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Adopted the Chapter 15 Personnel Code ordinance with the budgetary impact notification amendment; Councilmember Fulton indicated opposition. - Approved the settlement resolution and meeting minutes unanimously. - Approved the 900 Rockville Pike project plan amendment unanimously. - Directed staff to conduct economic analysis and construction cost estimation for King Farm Farmstead Option 4, incorporating Council feedback on the community garden, flexible spaces, daycare, historical interpretation, and native plantings. - Next steps include a draft King Farm Farmstead master plan in September 2025, a rent stabilization work session the following week, and Rockville High School student recognitions in September.

The Rockville Historic District Commission (HDC) held its meeting 05-2025 on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Mayor and Council Chambers at Rockville City Hall and via WebEx. Chair Anita Neal Powell presided, joined by Commissioners Seth Dimbo, Peter Falseman, Mercy Sinye, and Michael Goldfinger (via WebEx). Staff members Sheila Pazieri and Cynthia Walters were present. The meeting covered committee reports, consent agenda items, a certificate of approval application, a discussion of the May Preservation Month event, and new business items including a new application platform and a strategic planning proposal. Committee and Organization Reports - Peerless Rockville: No report was given. - Lincoln Park Historical Foundation: Chair Anita Neal Powell, as president of the foundation, reported on the 134th anniversary of the Lincoln Park community held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Mount Calvary Baptist Church. The event included proclamations, citations, awards from elected officials, a parade, and activities for children. Voting and expungement opportunities were also offered. The celebration was recorded and can be viewed on Channel 11. Planning for the 135th anniversary has already begun. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the open forum for non-agenda items. HDC and Staff Comments - Commissioner Goldfinger presented a short historical highlight on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Station at 98 Church Street, built in 1873, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, and relocated in 1981. He proposed beginning each future meeting with a similar feature. - Staff Announcements: - The City has been notified of a conditional Certified Local Government (CLG) funding allocation of $2,500 from the Maryland Historical Trust for education and training, though the formal award is pending federal approval. - No applications have been received for the July 2025 meeting (deadline passed), but the meeting will still be held to review tax credit applications and other business. The commission will not meet in August 2025; the next meeting after July will be September 18, 2025. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (May 15, 2025): Commissioner Goldfinger initially noted he could not locate the minutes but later confirmed he had them. A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes. The motion passed unanimously, 5-0. - Montgomery County Historic Preservation Tax Credit Applications: The commission approved two tax credit applications (HDC 2025-01185 and HDC 2025-0087) as a block. The motion passed unanimously, 5-0. Discussion Items Certificate of Approval – HDC 2025-01197 (310 West Montgomery Avenue) - Applicant: Scott H. Allen (architect) and owners James and Megan Owen. - Proposal: Replace an existing one-story rear addition with a new addition, add a covered porch, a large patio with a curved masonry seat and fire pit, an outdoor kitchen, a hot tub with screening, and landscaping. The existing rear addition, steep stairs, and small patio would be removed. Materials include HardiePlank siding and aluminum-clad windows and doors. - Staff Presentation: The house, built in 1887, has undergone several alterations (porch removal, bay window, half-timbering removal). The new addition would extend about five feet beyond the existing bump-out, but arborvitae screening would limit visibility from the right-of-way. Staff noted the work meets Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation (Standard 9) and the technical guide for alterations (New Additions). - Public Comment: None. - Commissioner Discussion: Commissioner Dimbo praised the design. The applicant explained the house’s history of additions (doctor’s office, carport, etc.). Commissioner Goldfinger asked about the foundation, which was not altered. - Vote: Commissioner Michael Goldfinger recused himself due to a personal friendship with the owners. The motion to approve the certificate of approval passed 4-0. Discussion of May Preservation Month Event (May 17, 2025) and Brown v. Board of Education Anniversary - Commissioners expressed strong satisfaction with the event’s turnout, presentations, and the use of the historic courthouse location. Suggestions for future events included surveying attendees about their origin and possibly selecting a different venue to ease staff logistics. Staff noted that photos were taken but had glare issues. The event was seen as a team effort, and planning for next year will begin in advance. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes of May 15, 2025 (5-0). - Approved: Two Montgomery County Historic Preservation Tax Credit applications (5-0). - Approved: Certificate of Approval for 310 West Montgomery Avenue (4-0, with one recusal). - New Business: - Staff announced that starting July 1, 2025, HDC applications will be submitted through the My Government Online Connect (MGOC) portal instead of via email. No changes to application requirements. - Chair Powell proposed a strategic planning session during a future meeting with a lighter agenda to discuss signage, budget items, the African American booklet, and other commission priorities. Commissioners supported the idea. - Commissioner Falseman suggested holding the July 2025 meeting virtually due to the limited agenda. Staff will explore logistics. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:30 PM (motion passed 5-0).

The Mayor and Council of Rockville met on June 16, 2025, beginning at 11:45 AM. The meeting featured extensive public testimony on rent stabilization and lowering the voting age to 16, a special presentation on affordable housing preservation, a work session on landlord-tenant code transparency, and several consent and action items. Councilmember Shaw announced an intent to introduce a rent stabilization framework during the meeting. Consent Calendar - 9A, 9B, 9C: Approved a consent agenda (motion by Councilmember Van Grack, second by Councilmember Miles) including a service agreement for technical support, approval of caregiver and community grants totaling $1.5 million for FY26, and the first amendment to a funding agreement for mental health services. These passed with unanimous votes. - 9D: After being pulled by Councilmember Valeri, the council approved a memorandum of agreement with Montgomery County for a mental health specialist for the Rockville City Police Department. The motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Rent Stabilization: Over 25 speakers, including representatives from Rockville Renters United, the Huntington Tenant Association, the Reed Tenant Association, and individual renters, expressed strong support for a binding rent stabilization policy. Speakers such as Grant Sams, Chris Madden, Isaac Burmy, Katie Midor, Travis Kinder, Allison Bohack, Mike Haywood, Sandra Velarde, and Lily Adams urged the council to cap rent increases, ban junk fees, and provide tenant protections similar to Montgomery County’s policy. Several speakers criticized the council for not advancing rent stabilization, accusing some members of prioritizing landlord interests over renter needs. Councilmembers Shaw and Miles were repeatedly thanked for their support. - Lowering the Voting Age to 16: Seven speakers, including Rosie Clemens Cope, Layla McCarthy, Ariana Rainey, Jan Portier, Roshan Diodar, Amina Ahmed, and Marshall Friedman (virtual), advocated for lowering the voting age in Rockville municipal elections to 16. They argued that 16-year-olds are responsible, pay taxes, are taught civics, and are directly impacted by local policy decisions. They cited the success of similar policies in Takoma Park as evidence of higher youth turnout. - Ranked Choice Voting: Michelle Whitaker, a resident, spoke in support of ranked-choice voting for Rockville’s at-large council elections, citing successful examples in neighboring jurisdictions. - Other Topics: Zoe Polak referenced research linking housing costs to homelessness, and Tyler McClennathon linked rent stabilization to broader democratic values. Discussion Items - Agenda Item 12B (Election Reform): The council voted 6-1 to move this work session to a future date, citing the need for more preparation and specific direction for the consultant. Councilmember Miles expressed regret for those who prepared to testify. - Item 8A: Special Presentation on Affordable Housing Preservation: Thomas Garda, a graduate researcher, presented findings from a year-long study funded by the city. Key recommendations included creating a preservation database, reviving a small rehab loan program, and building or strengthening preservation networks. He noted that within the next 10 years, five properties with 226 MPDU units are set to expire. The council will receive follow-up reports. - Item 11B: Ordinance Amending Chapter 15 (Personnel): After extensive discussion, the council reached consensus (via straw polls) on the following amendments: - Strike section 15.2.9 (city manager approval of personnel policy manual changes with council oversight) and adopt a new process: the city manager will provide advance notice of substantive changes and an annual report by July 1st. - Extend timeframes for employee preparation and PAB hearings. - Revise 15.42C to state: “No employee shall actively support any candidate or group of candidates or referenda by either directing or coercing in any manner another employee by using their knowledge, position, or city of Rockville resources.” - The ordinance was introduced (first reading) but did not achieve six votes to waive the layover period, so it will return for final action at a future meeting. - Item 12: Work Session on Chapter 18 (Rental Facilities and Landlord-Tenant Code): Staff presented preliminary recommendations for data collection, reporting, transparency, and lease requirements. The council generally supported the direction, with preferences for: lowering the applicability threshold from eight units to a lower number; requiring rent increase history to be provided to tenants and displayed in a color-coded system (option 3); and maintaining the 90-day notice requirement to the city. Staff will return with refined proposals. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda and Mental Health Agreement: Approved unanimously. - Rent Stabilization Framework Introduced: Councilmember Shaw, joined by Councilmember Miles, introduced a framework for a rent stabilization policy, including a cap on rent increases at 3% or CPI (whichever is lower), a ban on junk fees, exemptions for new construction and small landlords, a waiver process, and strong enforcement. The city manager will gauge council interest in scheduling a work session. - Election Reform Work Session Postponed: Moved to a future date after council members requested more detailed guidance for the consultant. - Personnel Ordinance: Introduced but will require a second reading and final vote at a subsequent meeting. - Affordable Housing Preservation: Council received the report; follow-up on recommendations will be scheduled. - Landlord-Tenant Code Update: Staff will incorporate feedback and return with draft code amendments in the fall. - Invitation to Board of Education: Councilmember Shaw expressed interest in inviting the Board of Education and superintendent to discuss school-related priorities (boundary studies, Rock Terrace, Stone Street housing, Twinbrook feasibility, Wootton). The council will consider this for a future meeting.

The City of Rockville Planning Commission met on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 12:00 PM (UTC) for meeting number 08-25. Chair Jamie Espinosa presided, joined by Commissioners Susan Pittman, Eric Fulton, and Mengson. Commissioner Shayan Salu Dean was absent. The meeting included a final record plat approval, a recommendation to Mayor and Council on a project plan amendment, a work session on the zoning ordinance rewrite, and routine commission items. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - Gerald Sushi, a resident of Rockshire since 1969, spoke about a pool membership covenant issue. He expressed concern that original Rockshire residents might be required to place a covenant on their homes to join the community pool, which he opposed. He requested the city protect the ability of original residents to join the pool without such covenants. Staff and the applicant (EYA) clarified that the plat applications do not involve the pool property and that new homeowners will not be obligated to join the pool or have covenants placed on their properties. Discussion Items - Final Record Plats PLT 2025-00637, PLT 2025-00638, PLT 2025-00639 (Rockshire Redevelopment): Staff presented three final record plats for the redevelopment of the Rockshire Village Project at 2401 Wooten Parkway. The project approved by Mayor and Council (May 20, 2024) and Planning Commission (October 23, 2024) involves subdividing 7.32 acres into 60 residential lots, one commercial lot, HOA parcels, and a public street. Plat 00637 (4.36 acres) will accommodate 31 single-family detached dwellings. Plat 00638 (2.2 acres) will accommodate townhouses, a commercial office building, and a neighborhood park. Plat 00639 (0.76 acres) will accommodate 11 townhouses. Staff recommended approval with conditions. - Project Plan Amendment PJT 2025-00022 (900 Rockville Pike): Staff presented an application to amend the approved project plan for 900 Rockville Pike (Champion Billiards site) to extend the implementation period for site plan filing by one year (from March 30, 2025, to March 30, 2026). The property (0.44 acres) has been undeveloped since 2006. The applicant (J. Danch's LLC, represented by Jody Klein) cited ongoing marketing and recent interest. Commissioner Pittman expressed concern about the 19-year delay, calling it irresponsible. Chair Espinoza noted the extension is reasonable but further extensions should be carefully considered. The Commission voted to recommend approval to Mayor and Council with a letter expressing concerns about the lengthy delay. - Zoning Ordinance Rewrite Work Session (FAST 2): Development Services Manager John Foreman (via WebEx) presented follow-up on the April 23 work session, focusing on four recommendations. Feedback was requested on: (1) streamlining the PD amendment process (now following the streamlined project plan process) – supported; (2) allowing administrative site plan approval in certain mixed-use zones (not within 300 feet of residential) – supported; (3) allowing administrative site plan approval for certain development types (R&D/life sciences, office-to-residential conversion, smaller developments, housing exceeding affordable housing requirements, senior/disabled housing) – supported with caution about the human element; (4) improving transparency of the residential area impact point table – supported. Staff provided analysis showing 25 of 32 level-two site plans over 10 years would have become administrative under these changes. No impact on mayor/council review. Public notification will continue for all processes. Key Outcomes - Final Record Plats Approved: Motion by Commissioner Pittman to approve PLT 2025-00637, PLT 2025-00638, and PLT 2025-00639 subject to staff conditions. Seconded and passed unanimously (4-0). - Project Plan Amendment Recommended: Motion by Commissioner Pittman to recommend approval of PJT 2025-00022 to Mayor and Council, with a transmittal letter summarizing the Commission's concerns about significant delays. Seconded and passed unanimously (4-0). Staff will coordinate the letter. - ZOR Work Session Feedback: The Commission provided general support for all four recommendations (1-4) as presented. Staff will incorporate feedback into the zoning ordinance rewrite. - Next Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for June 25, 2025. Staff noted no items are currently lined up; the Commission may consider canceling. The July 9 meeting may have a site plan, and the July 23 meeting will include another ZOR work session. - Minutes Approved: Meeting minutes for April 9, 2025 (meeting 04-25) were approved with a minor modification to add the word "infrastructure" after "pedestrian" in a section about Commissioner Fulton's comments (passed unanimously). - Staff Report: The Commission was informed that a zoning text amendment for cannabis retail establishments was adopted by Mayor and Council on June 9, 2025, adding an option for medical cannabis dispensaries with drive-throughs, subject to separation distance and on-site circulation requirements.