Public Meetings - Rockville, Maryland

The Rockville Historic District Commission (HDC) held meeting 02-2025 on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM (UTC). Chair Anita Neil Powell presided, with Commissioners Seph Dimbo, Peter Falseman, Mercy Shingay, and Michael Goldfinger present. Staff included Sheila Pasier (Preservation Planner), Katie Gerbis (Comprehensive Planning Manager), and Cynthia Walters (Deputy City Attorney). The meeting covered organizational reports, a consent agenda, a demolition evaluation, and discussions on historic preservation initiatives. Committee & Organization Reports - Peerless Rockville: Executive Director Nancy Picard presented a report on the organization's archival collections. She detailed a digitization project funded by a Montgomery County grant (2023–2024) that digitized over 4,441 slides, ledgers, maps, and architectural plans. The project aims to preserve fragile items and increase public access. An upcoming virtual exhibit, "Changing the Map," will focus on urban renewal in Rockville and launch this spring with an in-person event. - Lincoln Park Historical Foundation: The president announced the annual Gospel Train Ride to Freedom event on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 4–6 PM at Mount Calvary Baptist Church. The event will celebrate the foundation's 48th anniversary and the 20th anniversary of the Leroy E. Neil African American Research Center. Activities will include intergenerational conversations, cultural performances, and original artwork. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the open forum. Consent Calendar - Minutes of January 16, 2025: Commissioner Falseman noted minor errors (the heading incorrectly stated "convened virtually" and a note under item HDC 2025-1180 misstated the motion). The commission approved the minutes with corrections by a unanimous vote of 5-0. Discussion Items - Historic Preservation Work Plan: Staff reported that three working groups have concluded, and staff are focusing on codification and strengthening historic preservation code language. An update will be brought to the commission at a spring meeting. - Preservation Month Event: Commissioners Falseman and Goldfinger proposed a joint event with other municipalities (e.g., Gaithersburg, Takoma Park, Washington Grove) on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Gray Courthouse (rented for 9 AM–3 PM for under $200). The theme would center on sustainability and historic properties. Commissioners considered inviting M-NCPPC and Montgomery College as partners. Commissioner Dimbo noted that May 17 coincides with the Brown v. Board of Education anniversary, which could be incorporated. - New Business – Community Character and Post-War Housing: Commissioner Goldfinger raised concerns about the loss of post-WWII modest homes being replaced by larger houses, altering neighborhood character. Staff supported the need for a citywide survey to identify intact neighborhoods. This led to a broader discussion about preservation and education. - Mayor's Suggestions and Wayfinding Signage: Commissioner Goldfinger relayed suggestions from Mayor Ashton, including involvement in the US 250th anniversary, comprehensive planning, and adding historic plaques. The commission discussed the need for better wayfinding signage and historic district markers. Staff noted that a previous wayfinding study was paused and that historic plaque inventory letters are being sent to property owners. - Budget Advocacy: Commissioner Falseman proposed sending a letter to the Mayor and Council requesting funding for wayfinding/historic signage. Staff provided budget hearing dates: March 17, March 24, and April 7, 2025. Commissioner Falseman volunteered to draft the letter and a map, with the goal of submitting it before the budget cycle. The commission expressed unanimous support for this action. Key Outcomes - Approved the January 16, 2025 meeting minutes with corrections (5-0). - Recommended against historic designation for 109 Charles Street (HDC 2025-01881) (5-0), allowing demolition to proceed. The applicant, Stan Karadeva, stated the house’s front setback (24 feet) prevented an addition, leading to the demolition request. The commission encouraged donating salvaged materials (e.g., storm doors) to Habitat for Humanity. - Agreed to hold the Preservation Month event on May 17, 2025, pending final confirmation from all commissioners. - Agreed to send a letter to the Mayor and Council regarding wayfinding and historic signage, with Commissioner Falseman drafting it and a map by the next day. - Adjourned unanimously (5-0).

The Rockville Mayor and Council held Meeting 5-25 on February 10, 2025, at 11:45 AM. The meeting included a city manager’s report, reappointments to boards and commissions, a community forum, consent agenda approvals, a mid-year report from Rockville Economic Development Inc. (REDI), a market overview from Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), and discussion of the city’s legislative testimony process. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved: (A) award and authorize the city manager to execute a contract for mowing services to Lorenz; (B) ratify the city manager’s execution of a grant agreement with the State of Maryland to upgrade the city’s exposure management system; (C) approval of minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Erin Adams, representing the Huntington Tenant Association, urged the council to place rent stabilization back on the agenda. She expressed frustration that the council had stonewalled the request and noted that the association is thinking about the 2027 elections and candidates who will listen to renters. She also highlighted the precarious position of federal workers facing job uncertainty and emphasized that rent is a primary concern for them. Discussion Items - City Manager’s Report: The city manager reported monitoring a winter storm, the ongoing recruitment for a new chief of police (with a public survey online), and several state bills under review: HB 343 (speed camera violation efficiencies), HB 232 (Maryland’s bottle bill), HB 1032 (stop sign monitoring in Montgomery County), HB 84 (Transportation and Climate Act), and SB 609 (algorithmic device use by landlords to determine rent). - Boards and Commissions Reappointments: The council unanimously approved reappointments to the Board of Appeals (Roy Dochman, term until Nov. 1, 2027), Historic District Commission (Michael Goldfinger, term until Feb. 1, 2028), Retirement Board (Paulo Perez, term until July 1, 2026), and Senior Citizens Commission (Ellen Wicker, term until Feb. 1, 2028). - REDI Mid-Year Report (Work Session Item 12): Cindy Rivard (CEO), Rochelle Wilson (Deputy Director), Amanda Bosland (Marketing Director), and Rhonda Devan (CFO) presented. Key points: - REDI’s FY25 city funding allocation: $1.4M from the city (60% of total budget), plus $90,000 from Montgomery County for placemaking grants, and additional funds for the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC). - As of December 2024, REDI had distributed $153,796 in incentives to 16 businesses, leveraging $1.4M in capital investment, 19,807 sq. ft. of leased space, and 34 full-time jobs. - Life science branding project: logo adopted, campaign being finalized; photo shoot may be needed; launch planned at Bio 2025 in Boston. - Small-scale manufacturing cohort completed; a second cohort for scaling businesses is planned using county placemaking grants. - Clean tech industry: REDI presented findings to its board and is partnering with Maryland Energy Innovation Accelerator. - Rockville’s retail vacancy rate is 4.9% (vs. county 6%); Rockville Town Center at 5.1%. - Marketing reached 150,312 individuals via 5 websites and 20 social media accounts. Global Bytes Fest generated over $200,000 economic impact. - Hotel occupancy in Rockville was 60.9% vs. Montgomery County’s 64.7%. - Councilmembers praised the data and transparency, asked about diversification of grants, inclusion of Twinbrook on Explore Rockville, and ways to support federal workers. Mayor suggested a dedicated webpage for resources. - JLL Market Overview (Work Session Item 13): Morgan Sullivan, Michael Hartnett, and Tommy Lanaway presented on commercial real estate trends: - National office leasing activity has returned to pre-pandemic levels, but tenants are downsizing (7.8% space giveback) and seeking trophy/Class A space (“flight to quality”). - Metro DC vacancy is 23.1%, but trophy buildings downtown have only 9% vacancy. - Suburban Maryland office market: Rockville municipality has 31.8% vacancy across 70 assets (8.5M sq. ft.), with 270,000 sq. ft. of occupancy loss in 2024. Rents flat to slightly down. - Life science conversions previously saved the market but have slowed; 30.7% vacancy in life science sector due to recent deliveries and easing demand. - Venture capital funding is off pandemic highs but still significant; DC region ranks 2 in AI job postings. - Population growth projections for Rockville are flat (based on census data), but new housing developments (e.g., Twinbrook Quarter) could boost numbers. - Councilmembers discussed the need to focus on life sciences and AI, the impact of tariffs on construction, and tools for office-to-residential conversions. - Legislative Testimony Process: Councilmember Valeri called for confirming the current process for testifying in Annapolis (which he deemed sufficient). Councilmember Shaw advocated for formalizing the process in writing to make it more inclusive of resident and staff voices. Councilmember Jackson and Mayor supported the current process. No formal vote was taken; the mayor noted staff would continue to share upcoming hearings with deadlines. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of all four board/commission reappointments. - Unanimous approval of consent agenda items (contract, grant agreement, minutes). - REDI and JLL presentations were received and discussed; no formal votes taken. - Staff will submit testimony on HB 84 (Transportation and Climate Act) and SB 609 (algorithmic rent-setting) by deadlines of 11:00 AM and 10:00 AM, respectively, on February 11. - Council will continue to explore ways to support federal workers and promote economic development resources. - Discussion on legislative testimony process will continue; no change adopted.

The Mayor and Council of Rockville met on February 3, 2025, in both a morning recognition session and an evening regular meeting. The morning session featured proclamations and recognitions for student athletes, American Heart Month, Rare Diseases Day, and Black History Month. The evening session included a city manager's report, community forum, a special presentation on Vision Zero progress, and approval of a consent agenda item. Consent Calendar - Item 9A – Resolution to authorize execution of employee separation and release agreements: Adopted unanimously (motion by Councilmember Shaw, second by Councilmember Valeri). Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Prushela (former councilmember, 816 Fordham Street) expressed opposition to the Town Center Master Plan’s support for a third MARC rail track through Rockville, arguing it lies outside the planning area and conflicts with redevelopment projects. He requested the mention of a third rail be removed. - Jeffrey Gance (Montrose neighborhood resident) voiced opposition to the proposed rezoning in Planning Area 10, alleging inconsistent rationale from staff. He proposed eight traffic-calming solutions for the Montrose neighborhood, including additional stop signs, pedestrian islands, speed cameras, and making Congressional Lane one-way. - John Becker (148 Monroe Street) expressed support for Vision Zero goals but observed that marked crosswalks with blinking lights are often ignored, and red-light running is common. He urged the city to push the state for speed cameras on Rockville Pike, Veirs Mill Road, and East Jefferson Street, noting a 90-day response deadline had passed. City Manager’s Report - King Farm Farmstead Master Plan: Progress reported with upcoming community engagement, including a survey and public meetings. - Summer Camps: Camp guide available online; registration opens February 12. - State Legislation: Staff reviewed several bills, including HB 80 (transit-oriented development), HB 348 (speed cameras), HB 628 (sidewalk/bike path funding), HB 709 (good cause eviction), SB 609 (algorithmic rent-setting), HB 801 (financial empowerment centers), and HB 489 (single staircase buildings). Council’s priorities align well with most bills. Discussion Items - Vision Zero Update (Special Presentation): Brian Barnett Woods, Vision Zero Coordinator, presented progress on the city’s Vision Zero Action Plan, Pedestrian Master Plan, and Bikeway Master Plan. Key highlights: - In 2024, there were 15 serious injury crashes and 1 fatal crash (pedestrian) in Rockville; 9 of those occurred on state roads. - Sidewalk projects: Group 1 sidewalks (e.g., Monroe Street) completed; Group 2 moving to design; Group 3 feasibility studies starting this year. Twinbrook area: 7 gaps studied, 5 moving forward. - Intersection safety audits: First round completed; second round ongoing. Federal grant (Safe Streets and Roads for All) will study 30 intersections (10 city, 20 state). - New crosswalk guidelines adopted; several crosswalks being installed. - Bike lane projects on Martin’s Lane, Manakee Street, and others. Bike share stations planned for Twinbrook. - Traffic calming projects on Manakee Street, Smallwood Road, and resident-requested locations (Twinbrook Parkway & Metal Hall Drive; Edmondston Drive & Crawford Drive). - Speed limit reduced on MD 28 (Baltimore Road to Veirs Mill) and Veirs Mill Road after state approval. - Pedestrian/bicycle bridge over rail tracks in Twinbrook under study via federal grant. - Councilmember Valeri noted inconsistencies in Q&A responses and suggested hosting Q&A on the Vision Zero webpage. Key Outcomes - Proclamations approved unanimously: American Heart Month (February 2025), Rare Diseases Day (February 28, 2025), and Black History Month (February 2025) were proclaimed by unanimous votes. - Board appointments approved unanimously: - Alan Frankel reappointed to the Board of Appeals (term to September 1, 2027). - Peter Fosselman reappointed to the Historic District Commission (term to February 1, 2028). - Kathleen Kleinman reappointed to the Transportation and Mobility Commission (term to February 1, 2028). - Consent agenda item 9A adopted unanimously. - Next steps: Vision Zero Q&A to be posted on city website; further community engagement on King Farm and transportation projects; staff to follow up on state legislation.

The Rockville Mayor and Council met on January 27, 2025, at 11:45 AM (UTC) to address a range of agenda items including routine approvals, public comments on rezoning, adoption of the Lincoln Park Neighborhood Conservation District amendments, adoption of the Town Center Master Plan, and a work session on the zoning ordinance rewrite and comprehensive map amendment. The meeting lasted several hours, with staff presentations and extensive council discussion. Consent Calendar - 9A: Award of a contract to 72 Hour LLC / National Auto Fleet Group (Watsonville, CA) for the purchase of one Freightliner M2106 utility truck. - 9B: Authorization for the City Manager to execute a contract for the construction of King Farm's Electric Infrastructure Capital Improvements Program project (IFB 1-25). - Approval of previous meeting minutes. - All consent items were approved by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony Six residents from the Montrose neighborhood (Planning Area 10) spoke during Community Forum, all opposing the proposed rezoning. Key concerns included: - Traffic and pedestrian safety: Evelyn Drive and Rollins Avenue are described as dangerous, with narrow streets, illegal turns, lack of enforcement, and high traffic volumes. Speakers cited near-misses and expressed fear for children and emergency vehicle access. - Increased density: Opposition to rezoning the Martha Terrace parking lot (currently a community center/pool) for medium-density housing, preferring single-family zoning. - Property taxes and affordability: New development would raise property values and taxes, pricing out long-term residents. Existing buildings (Rollins Apartments, Congressional Towers) are already affordable naturally occurring housing. - Character and green space: The neighborhood is walkable, and Montrose Park is already heavily used; additional density would reduce open space. - Speakers urged the council to visit the neighborhood and reconsider all rezoning in Area 10, especially the Martha Terrace lot. Discussion Items - 11A: Lincoln Park Neighborhood Conservation District Amendments – Staff proposed revisions to building footprint and height standards, removal of redundant rules, and addition of alternative compliance provisions. Council discussed the process for future amendments (decoupled from comprehensive plan), tracking feedback, and exemption for institutions. The ordinances were introduced, the layover period was waived (supermajority), and adopted unanimously. - 12A: Town Center Master Plan Adoption – Staff reviewed changes made since the January 13 meeting (errata, 60-day extension). The plan was adopted unanimously after a motion to waive the layover. Council also directed staff to move wayfinding/signage improvements from mid-term to near-term and to add a chart on bonus vs. by-right heights to the plan document. - Work Session: Zoning Ordinance Rewrite and Comprehensive Map Amendment – Staff presented proposed rezonings by planning area, focusing on those recommended in the Rockville 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Council gave initial feedback (thumbs up/down) on each area: - Planning Area 2 (East Rockville): Supported RMD infill and MXCD near Metro; asked for more information on the RO zone for West End (Area 4) and concerns about traffic infrastructure in Lincoln Park (Area 6). - Planning Area 4 (West End): Need for clarity on the new RO zone, layback slopes, and engagement with Jerusalem Mount Pleasant Church (downzoning concern). - Planning Area 6 (Lincoln Park): Qualified support pending traffic infrastructure improvements on Ashley Avenue. - Planning Area 8 (Twinbrook): Generally supported, but council asked for options on MXB vs. MXCD near the Twinbrook Metro station, considering state transit-oriented development law. - Planning Area 10 (Montrose): More information needed on the new high-density residential zone for Congressional Towers/Rollins Park and the green parcel, with concerns about displacement of naturally occurring affordable housing. - Planning Area 12 (Tower Oaks): Theoretically supported, but actual development unlikely due to private agreement. - Planning Area 16 (King Farm/Shady Grove - Picard Drive): Council requested clarification on whether MXCD is a downzoning from MXE (height and uses) before final support. - Planning Area 17 (South Lawn/Redgate): Supported the change from IL to MXE to correct historic zoning, with a call to engage the David Scull Courts and Redgate Farms communities. - Staff will incorporate feedback and return with more detailed options. Key Outcomes - Boards & Commissions: Kevin Gash reappointed to the Ethics Commission (3-year term) and Deborah Landau appointed to the Environment Commission (3-year term)—unanimous. - Consent Agenda: Approved. - Lincoln Park Conservation District: Both ordinances (plan amendment and zoning text amendment) adopted unanimously after waiving layover. - Town Center Master Plan: Adopted as an amendment to the 2021 Comprehensive Plan (unanimous). - Zoning Rewrite Work Session: Council provided direction on each planning area; staff will conduct additional outreach (especially to renters, faith institutions, and HOAs) and return with refined proposals for areas needing more study. - Future Meetings: Next regular meeting scheduled for February 3, 2025, with a Vision Zero presentation.

The Historic District Commission (HDC) met in a hybrid format on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 12:15 PM. Chair Anita Neil Powell presided, joined by Commissioners Seth Dimbo, Peter Falseman, Mercy Shingay, and Michael Goldfinger, along with staff Sheila Pazieri (Preservation Planner), Katie Gerbis (Comprehensive Planning Manager), and Cynthia Walters (Deputy City Attorney). The meeting covered committee reports, a consent agenda, a certificate of approval application, and planning for the May Preservation Month event. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (December 19, 2024): The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the December 19, 2024 meeting (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Peerless Rockville Report (Nancy Picard): Reported on the organization’s 50th anniversary wrap-up, including an open house at the Red Brick Courthouse in December and a successful program at Glenview Mansion on the Marquis de Lafayette’s 200th anniversary tour (65 attendees on a cold night). Upcoming events: an online talk with artist Sandra Davis on Lincoln Park, and a lecture on Thurgood Marshall on March 13, 2025, at Glenview Mansion. Picard also noted Peerless Rockville has been following the Town Center Master Plan and zoning rewrite. - Lincoln Park Historical Foundation Report (President): The president testified at the Mayor and Council work session on January 6, 2025, regarding the Lincoln Park Neighborhood Conservation Plan and Design Guidelines. The council voted not to move forward with the design guidelines and will update existing conservation district standards. A follow-up meeting is set for January 27, 2025. - Public Comment on Certificate of Approval (Nancy Picard): Picard expressed support for the 11 Wall Street application, calling it a “great example of what is possible within the confines of historic preservation code” and praising the homeowners for wanting to honor the past while making the home more livable. Discussion Items - Certificate of Approval – HDC 2025-01180 (11 Wall Street): The applicant seeks to enclose a side porch and add a second-story rear addition to a circa-1930s house modeled on a Sears design. The project includes closing the side porch with Hardy Board panels and Marvin multi-light casement windows, and adding a box bay window on the rear elevation. Staff recommended approval (meets Secretary of Interior Standards for Rehabilitation 9 and Technical Guide for Alterations 4). The applicant (owner) and architect (Jimmy Stringer) answered questions about the porch enclosure, windows, and the existing rear addition. Commissioners discussed the differentiation of new work from historic fabric. The motion to approve passed 5-0. - May Preservation Month Event Planning: Staff updated that the commission will continue planning for the May event. Commissioners discussed potential themes (sustainability, accessory dwelling units, preservation in the 21st century, solar panels), venue options (e.g., Glenview Mansion, Red Brick Courthouse, King Farm, pump house), and partnerships with other jurisdictions (Gaithersburg, Takoma Park, etc.). The commission elected Commissioners Peter Falseman and Michael Goldfinger to work offline with staff on logistics. It was recommended that the theme and invitations be finalized by the February meeting. The possibility of sponsors (in-kind or monetary) was discussed, but staff noted city sponsorship policies may apply. The event is likely to be held on a Saturday rather than an evening, based on feedback. - Other Business: - Hybrid Meetings: The commission confirmed that all 2025 meetings will be held in hybrid format in this room. - Encouraging In-Person Attendance: A commissioner suggested adding language encouraging applicants to appear in person, but the chair clarified that approval is not based on attendance. Staff will communicate the option to applicants. - Staff Announcements: Sheila Pazieri announced that the Zed Thompson interpretive sign was installed earlier that day on North Washington Street (near the garage where Dawson’s market used to be). The sign includes an ADA-accessible tilted panel and a vertical Civil War Trails logo sign. A press release and ribbon-cutting event will be scheduled. - Commissioner Announcements: Chair Powell announced the city’s MLK Jr. celebration “Unity Gathering” on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Bell Elementary School, including a panel discussion and volunteer opportunities. - Open Meetings Act Training: Commissioners were reminded to complete the state-required training and submit certificates and reappointment applications to the city clerk. Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes of December 19, 2024 (5-0). - Approved Certificate of Approval HDC 2025-01180 for 11 Wall Street (5-0). - Formed a subcommittee (Commissioners Falseman and Goldfinger) to plan the May Preservation Month event with staff. - Next Steps: The subcommittee will develop a theme, venue, and date by the February 2025 meeting. Staff will provide updates on the Zed Thompson sign dedication event.

The Rockville Mayor and Council met on January 13, 2025, at 11:45 AM (start time) to discuss a range of topics including a town center master plan, a zoning text amendment, community engagement, and a consent agenda item. The meeting featured public comments on rent stabilization, housing, and a duck derby fundraiser, as well as a special presentation on the 2024 Community Survey. Several actions were taken, including extending the deadline for the town center master plan, authorizing a zoning text amendment, and approving proclamation policies. Consent Calendar - Ratify Grant Agreement for Twinbrook Pedestrian/Bicycle Bridge: The council unanimously approved the city manager's execution of a grant agreement with the Federal Highway Administration for the FY23 Neighborhood Access and Equity Grant Program. Councilmember Valerie moved, seconded by Councilmember Fulton. The motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Chip Boylan and Alice Welch (trustees of the Rockville Recreation and Parks Foundation) reported on the successful July 2024 duck derby, which raised over $12,000 in net proceeds, enabling a $25,000 check to the city for the swim center. They announced a 2025 duck derby to benefit the Rockville Recreation Fund. - Carlo Galfano (owner of an MPDU townhouse at Tower Oaks) described the problem of undersized garage spaces (8'7" wide instead of required 9') and expressed support for the proposed zoning text amendment (ZTA) to reduce parking requirements, stating it would allow families to use the garage for living space without costly construction. He requested that the council authorize the ZTA. - Mark Persheila (resident, 816 Fordham Street) commented on the town center master plan, supporting increased density but opposing a third rail for MARC through Rockville. He urged the council to delay approval to allow more time for public review. - Tyler Charujas (representing Solar on Earth) introduced a free opt-in solar program for city residents, noting potential annual savings of $99,000–$150,000 for the city based on 2023 electricity costs of $1.8 million. He requested contact with the right city official. - Dwayne Rollins (resident, 560 Anderson Ave) expressed concern about zero parking requirements for new developments near metro and BRT, stating that no one he has spoken to supports the idea. He urged the council to reconsider. - Zoe Pollock (tenant) criticized the mayor and council members Van Grack, Fulton, Valeri, and Jackson for blocking discussion on rent stabilization. She referenced PAC funding from developers and asked whether the council works for the people or landlords. - Justin Lee (resident) urged the council to implement rent stabilization, citing displacement and mental health impacts. He noted that a third of city residents are non-U.S. citizens and asked for protection. - Daniel Dunlavy (resident) supported rent stabilization and social housing, arguing that the market does not self-correct on housing. He criticized the council for ignoring present needs. - Michelle Shen (resident) advocated for rent stabilization, thanking Councilmembers Shaw and Miles for support and criticizing the rest of the council for leaving poor constituents behind. - Chris Madden (resident of King Farm) thanked Councilmember Jackson for meeting with the Huntington Tenant Association but called on the rest of the council to talk to renters about rent stabilization. - A speaker (unnamed) expressed concern about lack of meaningful engagement and dismissed community input, particularly on rent stabilization, and urged the council to listen and incorporate feedback. Special Presentation: 2024 Community Survey Results - Dave Gottesman (Polco/NRC) presented key findings: - 9 in 10 residents rated overall quality of life as excellent or good. - All 44 city services received favorable ratings (≥50%), with top scores for fire, library, and ambulance services (provided by county). - Safety ratings were high; public transportation ease of travel was rated much higher than national benchmarks. - Variety of business establishments rated higher than comparison communities. - Diversity, equity, and inclusion received high marks—all five areas were higher or much higher than national/regional benchmarks. - Government performance ratings were favorable, with openness and transparency higher than benchmarks. - Response rate was 16% (476 surveys), margin of error ±5%. Survey was available in eight languages online. Discussion Items - Town Center Master Plan (Items 11B, then moved to C): Staff presented an update. The council had previously solidified the character areas map and eliminated minimum off-street parking requirements within a half-mile of Metro and quarter-mile of BRT. Key changes from the planning commission draft included increased housing goal from 2,000 to 3,000 units, modified bonus height program requiring 20% MPDUs, and added a public park along Maryland Avenue. Staff identified three errata (pages 17, 43, 109) to correct. The council discussed the need for more time; Councilmember Fulton moved to adopt a resolution extending the deadline by 60 days (to March 17, 2025) to allow public review and final edits. The motion passed unanimously. Councilmembers then provided feedback on specific sections, including schools, parking, dog park location, historic preservation, and transition to neighborhoods. The plan will be considered at the January 27 meeting. - Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) to Modify Parking Requirements for Certain Townhouses (Item 11C): Staff proposed a ZTA to address noncompliant garage spaces in 35 MPDU townhouses at Tower Oaks (Allen model). The ZTA would reduce required parking to one space per unit for such units within planned developments, provided on-street parking at 0.5 spaces per unit and pedestrian access within 0.7 miles of transit. The council discussed ensuring the developer still fixes the two units that want repairs, waiving permit fees, and expediting the process. Councilmember Valeri moved to authorize filing of the ZTA; seconded by Councilmember Shaw. The motion passed unanimously. The ZTA will proceed to a public hearing and planning commission review. - Policies, Procedures, and Guidelines for Proclamations and Certificates of Recognition (Item 11B, moved to C): Deputy City Clerk Danny Wenborn presented a framework categorizing proclamations and certificates, with criteria including non-political, non-controversial, and city-related. The council discussed the online request form, annual review of the proclamation list, and handling of certificates. Councilmember Van Grack moved to approve the policies as amended; seconded by Councilmember Valeri. The motion passed unanimously. - Work Session: Engage Rockville Community Engagement Framework (Item 13): Kathy Kirk Dansler presented a proposed framework based on the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) spectrum: Inform, Consult, Involve, Collaborate, Empower. The framework aims to centralize engagement planning, using tools like social media, Rockville Reports, surveys, and community events (e.g., Neighborhood Connect). The council expressed support, with suggestions to add language on equity, houses of worship, and vulnerable populations. Staff will operationalize the framework and develop a new Communications and Community Engagement Department in FY26. The council took no formal vote but indicated support. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Unanimously approved the grant agreement for the Twinbrook Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge. - Town Center Master Plan: Unanimously approved a resolution extending the adoption deadline by 60 days to March 17, 2025, with adoption scheduled for January 27, 2025. - Zoning Text Amendment: Unanimously authorized the filing of the ZTA to modify parking requirements for certain MPDU townhouses, initiating the public review process. - Proclamation Policies: Unanimously approved the policies, procedures, and guidelines for proclamations and certificates of recognition. - Community Engagement Framework: The council expressed support for the presented framework and directed staff to operationalize it, with additional considerations for equity and vulnerable groups. - Old Business: The council agreed to draft a letter to Senator Alsa Brooks's team requesting an office in Rockville, and to explore a ban on algorithmic rent pricing (similar to Philadelphia and San Francisco). The city clerk will circulate information about a Sister Cities delegation to Pinneberg. - Next Steps: The town center master plan will be considered on January 27, 2025. The ZTA will proceed to a public hearing. Staff will implement the community engagement framework and report back.

The Rockville City Council met virtually on January 6, 2025, beginning at 6:30 p.m. to conduct a regular meeting that included proclamations honoring President Jimmy Carter, Lunar New Year, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a consent agenda item, and two major work sessions: proposed amendments to the Lincoln Park Neighborhood Conservation District Plan and the Rockville Town Center Master Plan. The meeting lasted approximately four hours. Consent Calendar - Montgomery County Housing Initiative Fund Loan: The council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing Montgomery County to issue a $1.5 million loan to RHE Scarborough Square, LLC, owner of the Scarborough Square townhomes and apartments. The loan is from the county, not the city. Public Comments & Testimony - Senator Cheryl Kagan (District 17): Provided a legislative update, noting a $2.7 billion state budget shortfall, 9‑1‑1 modernization bills, and capital bond projects for the Elwood Smith Center, Talbot Park, and Montgomery History. She also promoted her podcast featuring Mayor Ashton. - Peter Lovell: Expressed concern about eliminating parking requirements in the Town Center Master Plan, arguing that a market‑based approach would not respond quickly enough and that handicapped parking would be lost. He suggested using bonus height as an incentive for developers to include parking. - Jake Jacobeck: Supported allowing more housing in the town center and improving pedestrian and cycling safety, stating that a vibrant downtown depends on enough residents to support local businesses. - Anita Powell (President, Lincoln Park Historical Foundation): Urged the council to focus on the current character of Lincoln Park while considering design changes, noting that the community is already undergoing transformation. She asked that future decisions respect the historic footprint and that monitoring of new construction be robust. - Dwayne Rollins (former council member): Warned against eliminating parking requirements, citing difficulties in Washington, D.C., and urged the council to keep heights along the West End at 60 feet or less. Discussion Items Work Session: Lincoln Park Neighborhood Conservation District Plan Amendments - Staff Presentation (Christopher Davis, Planning Director): Reviewed 10 proposed design guidelines (modifications to existing standards and new standards). Key modifications addressed building footprint (increase from 1,500 to 1,800 sq. ft., with 2,100 for one‑story homes), building height (from 29 ft. to 30 ft.), and additions. New standards included requirements for porches, building orientation, massing (max. 4 outside corners), garages, and trees (3 per lot). Staff recommended all guidelines; the Planning Commission had previously approved them. - Council Deliberation: Members expressed a strong preference for amending only the existing conservation district standards that were causing the most community concern – namely building footprint and height. Councilmembers Valeri, Fulton, Van Grack, and others noted that only 13 survey responses were received, and additional restrictions (on materials, window sizes, building articulation, porches, trees) were not clearly requested by the majority of residents. Several members raised equity concerns about imposing a tree requirement unique to Lincoln Park. The council directed staff to bring back a targeted zoning text amendment to modify only the building footprint and height standards, effectively eliminating the need for a full set of design guidelines at this time. The amendment will be prepared for the January 26 meeting. Work Session: Rockville Town Center Master Plan – Maryland 355 Corridor & Parking - Maryland 355 Corridor Character Area (Andrew Rettelbach): Staff presented three scenarios for defining the corridor – Scenario 1 (quarter‑mile from Metro), Scenario 2 (half‑mile from Metro or quarter‑mile from BRT), and Scenario 3 (all parcels along 355 within the planning area). Staff recommended Scenario 2, which provides a transition zone. Council consensus favored Scenario 2. - Parking Minimums Elimination (Katie Gerbis): Staff presented data showing existing parking surpluses in both public (Garages A, B, C) and private garages (Boulevard Ansel and Boulevard 44). Three options were discussed: (1) eliminate minimums throughout the entire planning area; (2) eliminate minimums within 1/2‑mile of Metro and 1/4‑mile of BRT (matching Montgomery County’s approach); (3) eliminate minimums in the corridor and core character areas, reduce by 25% in the edge. Staff recommended Option 3, but after debate, the council settled on Option 2 with an add‑on requiring developers to submit a parking plan justifying their proposed number of spaces. Council also agreed to explicitly note that state‑required accessible (ADA) parking spaces are not affected by this decision. The planning team will revise the plan to incorporate these choices and will present a clean version at the January 13 meeting, with adoption possible on that date. Key Outcomes - Lincoln Park Conservation District: The council directed staff to prepare a zoning text amendment to modify only the building footprint and height standards, removing the need for a full set of design guidelines. The amendment will be brought back for introduction on January 26. Council deferred action on all other proposed guidelines pending further community input. - Town Center Master Plan – 355 Corridor: Council selected Scenario 2 as the character area definition for the Maryland 355 corridor. - Town Center Master Plan – Parking: Council selected Option 2 (eliminate minimums within 1/2‑mile of Metro and 1/4‑mile of BRT) and added a requirement for a parking plan. The plan will also state that accessible parking requirements remain in effect. Staff will revise the plan and post changes to Engage Rockville by noon on Wednesday, January 8, if possible. Council will consider adoption of the Master Plan on January 13, 2025, unless additional time is needed. - Other: The council requested that implementation of wayfinding and beautification enhancements in town center be planned and tracked, and that an annual report on the Master Plan’s progress (including affordable housing units created) be provided.

This meeting of the Rockville Historic District Commission (HDC) covered routine approvals, planning for the May Preservation Month event, and a decision on meeting format for 2025. The commission also received staff updates on ADU regulations and a cemetery preservation workshop. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (November 21, 2024): Motion to approve the minutes passed unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the open forum for non-agenda items. Discussion Items - May Preservation Month Event: Commissioners discussed potential themes, including sustainability, ADUs, and solar panels. Ideas included a hybrid in-person event with a panel, tours, or homeowner interviews. Staff has begun scouting city-owned historic venues. The commission agreed to continue refining the theme via email and aim for a decision by the next meeting. - Return to In-Person Meetings in 2025: After discussion, the commission reached a consensus to hold regular hybrid meetings at City Hall starting January 2025, with a remote option for those unable to attend. Staff will confirm availability of council chambers. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (5-0). - Meeting format change: The HDC will meet in a hybrid format (in-person at City Hall with remote participation) beginning in 2025, contingent on staff confirming space. - Preservation Month planning: Staff will continue venue research; commissioners will share ideas via email to finalize a theme and date by the next meeting. - Staff updates: Reported on an ADU webinar (December 12) and a cemetery preservation workshop. The city’s detached ADU ordinance takes effect January 1, 2025, with outreach efforts underway. - 2025 meeting calendar: Previously approved in November; no additional action needed.

The City of Rockville Board of Appeals held a public hearing on December 18, 2024, to consider a variance application for a property at 100 Lynch Street. The board also handled old business, elected a chair for 2025, and approved previous meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - One written comment from Margaret Dawn Holebrook expressed support for the proposed addition, stating it would be "beautiful and an asset to the neighborhood." - The property owner, Mr. Abel, spoke via WebEx, thanking the board and expressing commitment to respecting the historic nature of the home. Discussion Items - Variance Application VAR 2025-0122 (100 Lynch Street): The applicant, represented by Jeff Broadhurst (Broadhurst Architects), requested a variance from the front yard setback requirement for a corner lot in the R60HD zone (historic district) to construct a second-story addition within the existing building footprint. Staff recommended approval with conditions. The variance would allow a front yard setback of 9 feet 11 inches along Anderson Avenue instead of the required 25 feet (a 15-foot-1-inch variance). Staff found all four variance standards satisfied due to peculiar property conditions (narrow lot, arched frontage, corner lot, topography). The applicant testified that the design respects the historic character and that the porch may be enclosed with glass while appearing open. - Old Business – VAR 2024-00120 (203 Forest Avenue): The board noted that the applicant for a fence variance at 203 Forest Avenue had withdrawn the application in writing on August 23, 2024, and will pursue a compliant fence. The matter was closed on the record. - New Business – Proposed Meeting Dates for 2025: Staff proposed meeting dates from January 15, 2025, through February 18, 2026. Chair Alan Frankel noted potential conflicts on March 19 and June 18, 2025, and the board agreed to address those later. - Election of Chair for 2025: Board Member Roy Deutschmann nominated Alan Frankel to continue as chair for 2025. The motion was seconded by Jimmy Hauer and approved unanimously (Frankel abstained). - Approval of July 31, 2024 Meeting Minutes: The minutes from meeting 03-2024 (July 31, 2024) were approved as submitted without changes. - Alternate's Role: Chair Frankel asked staff to research whether alternate board members can have a more participatory role (they cannot vote but may be allowed to ask questions). Key Outcomes - Variance Approved: The board voted unanimously (3-0) to approve VAR 2025-0122 subject to staff conditions, including the possibility of an enclosed porch using glass panes that maintains an open appearance. - Election: Alan Frankel was elected chair for 2025 (3-0, with Frankel abstaining). - Minutes Approved: The July 31, 2024 meeting minutes were approved (3-0). - Next Steps: Staff will research the alternate's participation role. Future meetings scheduled for January 15, 2025, and February 19, 2025, with possible adjustments for March and June.