Public Meetings - Rockville, Maryland

The Rockville City Council held a work session on September 2, 2026, to discuss upcoming meeting schedules, snow removal responsibilities, and review pending state legislation as part of the Legislative Review Team process. The council considered 13 bills, took positions on each, and designated councilmembers for testimony where applicable. Discussion Items - Agenda Preview: The city manager outlined upcoming action items including a private improvement for the EV program right-of-way, approval of minutes, an annexation for the Winks property (as a first step), and adoption of the green building code as part of the climate action plan. - Snow Removal: The city manager thanked public works and recreation & parks for snow removal efforts and urged private property owners, residents, and businesses to shovel walks, especially near schools and crosswalks. Mayor Ashton added that volunteers can still help and requested reporting of impassable crosswalks. - Six-Month Schedule Review: The council reviewed the upcoming meeting calendar including the February 9 meeting (with a consent item for a leaf collection truck contract), February 23 landlord-tenant work session, March 2 Vision Zero update and JEDI Strategic Plan first work session, and future budget and zoning ordinance discussions. A joint meeting with Gaithersburg was confirmed for June. The council requested detailed topics for the zoning ordinance rewrite (ZOR) and updates on the climate action plan and housing acceleration. Councilmember Shaw asked about community engagement for the JEDI plan. Mayor Ashton requested that boards and commissions be scheduled for future appearances. Councilmember Van Grack suggested updating Engage Rockville with likely zoning hearing dates. The timeline for adopting the zoning ordinance by June was discussed, with the city manager proposing piecemeal review. Legislative Review The council reviewed the following bills, determined positions, and assigned testimony where appropriate: - HB 601 (Stop Sign Monitoring System): Supports; no testimony at this time. - HB 60 (Landlord-Tenant Residential Leases): Supports; Councilmember Shaw to testify on February 5. - HB 68 (Housing & Community Development – Workforce Housing): Supports; Mayor Ashton to testify. - HB 434 (Prohibiting Landlord Use of Algorithmic Devices): Supports; Councilmember Jackson to testify; staff to compare with proposed city code. - SB 36/HB 329 (Prohibits local enforcement in areas with public water/sewer): Council chose to monitor amendments and let MML lead due to preemption concerns; Mayor Ashton flagged concerns about setbacks, lot requirements, tree ordinances, and stormwater management. - SB 325/HB 548 (Predictability for housing developers): Similar approach – monitor amendments; council requested more detail. - SB 267 (Land use regulation, housing oversight & taxation): Monitor amendments; aligned with housing priorities but wary of preemption. - SB 385 (VAX Act – Vaccinations): Supports; written testimony preferred, but Mayor Ashton offered to testify if needed. - HB 466 (Civil actions – vulnerable individuals): Supports; written comments; staff to check with Councilmember Valerie. - HB 177/SB 155 (Bicycles, play vehicles, unicycles have pedestrian rights in crosswalks): Supports; check-the-box. - HB 35/SB 266 (Invasive Bamboo): Supports; Councilmember Van Grack and Valerie may coordinate testimony. - SB 288 (Municipal highway user fund distribution – 3% increase): Supports; check-the-box. - SB 389 (Maryland Transit & Housing Opportunity Act – TOD near rail stations): Council chose to wait for MML discussion; staff to align with zoning code updates and send details. - Additional note: Councilmember Hernandez flagged a forthcoming permitting bill; the governor’s economic development bill; and immigration bills related to face covers. The council agreed to add these to the tracker. Key Outcomes - The council confirmed positions on all 13 reviewed bills, with testimony assigned for HB 60 (Shaw), HB 68 (Ashton), HB 434 (Jackson), and potential testimony on HB 35/SB 266 (Van Grack/Valerie). Written comments will be submitted for HB 385, HB 466, HB 177/SB 155, and SB 288. - The council will monitor amendments on SB 36/HB 329, SB 325/HB 548, SB 267, and SB 389 before finalizing positions. - Staff will provide additional comparisons between state bills and proposed city codes (HB 434, HB 60), and share detailed summaries on SB 325/HB 548 and SB 389. - The six-month schedule includes key milestones for the zoning ordinance, budget, JEDI plan, and Vision Zero update. Engage Rockville will be updated with likely zoning hearing dates. - Snow removal responsibilities were clarified, with a reminder for private property owners and residents.

The Rockville Human Services Advisory Commission (HSAC) held its September meeting on September 2, 2026, chaired by Ricky. The meeting focused on reviewing the city's Human Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis, community program updates, and planning future actions. Key decisions included rejecting a proposal to create additional reference documents for grant review panels and setting future meeting topics. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the previous meeting (September 2026) were approved unanimously by voice vote after a motion by Deborah and second by Nancy. Community Services Report - Elsa provided an update on city programs: National Recovery Month concluded with a lunch-and-learn with Tree of Hope, which offers free resources including anonymous support groups and 24-hour overdose assistance. - Holiday drive preparations: The city aims to serve over 900 families for Thanksgiving meals and up to 1,500 children for December gift-giving. Volunteer opportunities and an Amazon wish list are available. - RockKids programs: Social-emotional learning and academic support are emphasized. A new mentor training program and merged middle school soccer teams were introduced. - Counseling program: One counselor left; current caseload is 24 with a single staff member. Additional support is needed. - Linkages to Learning: Expanded after-school programming to four days a week, including STEM, arts, and dance. - Housing programs: Increased calls for REAP (emergency assistance) and MPDU inquiries. A second cycle of Bank on Rockville financial empowerment classes started in October. The FY25 grant cycle closed, with panels starting for FY27. - Elsa noted that the city anticipated increased housing needs due to economic conditions and increased holiday drive numbers from 700 to 900+ families. Human Needs Assessment Review - Sarah presented key challenges and potential solutions from the Human Needs Assessment (conducted by Health Management Associates). Areas covered included: - City-County Partnerships: Better alignment with county services, creation of a joint advisory board. - System Navigation & Care Coordination: Need for case management, transportation, financial literacy, and streamlined information. - Behavioral Health & Substance Use: Gaps in crisis services, residential treatment beds, and workforce shortages. - Housing: Need for more affordable units (30-80% AMI), pre-eviction services, and granny unit matching programs. - Aging: Need for adult day programs and better coordination with county aging services. - At-Risk Youth & Teens: Need for more school resource officers and community-based wraparound services. Discussion on Next Steps - Members discussed how to use the needs assessment to inform grant-making. Ricky suggested creating a one-page synthesis for the mayor and council. Sarah and others cautioned against duplicating the council's already-received report. A motion was made and seconded to not create additional references for the grant review panel; the motion passed without dissent. - Several members emphasized HSAC's unique role in recommending funding allocation (Deborah) and the need to advocate for ongoing priorities like housing and case management (Rima, Nancy). - Elsa agreed to follow up with the new collective impact manager about incorporating the needs assessment into future RFPs and panel training. The timeline for RFP drafting is around July; HSAC can suggest language earlier. - Discussion on county coordination: Nancy noted past difficulties engaging the county council but highlighted the role of Nonprofit Montgomery as a potential advocacy partner. Elsa confirmed continued collaboration with Nonprofit Montgomery. - Members raised the need to avoid conflict of interest given some members apply for grants. Key Outcomes - The commission voted not to create additional reference documents for grant review panels (motion by Deborah, second by Nancy; passed). - Future speakers: Rima will invite Friendship Bench from DC; Ricky will invite Tree of Hope to present outcomes. The new collective impact manager will attend the November meeting for introductions. - Elsa will share volunteer links and Amazon wish list for the holiday drive. - The next meeting is scheduled for November 19, 2026 (third week of November).

The Rockville Human Services Advisory Commission (HSAC) convened. While the meeting transcript references a date of November 19th, the official meeting date is September 2, 2026. Key agenda items included the community grant review process, updates on human services programs, a presentation by the city's new Collective Impact Manager, and planning for the final meeting of the calendar year. The commission discussed ways to improve the grant review panels, the status of the Caregivers Coalition, and voted to hold an informal potluck meeting in December. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the previous meeting were approved. The motion was made by Bill, seconded by Dr. Ravi, and passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Ricky shared plans to invite a community member with lived experience of homelessness to speak at a future meeting, whose story illustrates successful transition to independence. - Deborah (Consumer Representative) advocated for formalizing a method to include service recipients in grant review panels, balancing the concern for conflict of interest with the value of lived experience. Nick acknowledged this goal, noting efforts to recruit more Rockville residents and directly impacted individuals as panelists. Discussion Items - Grant Application Review Process: Nick and Elsa explained the evaluation of 50 Community Services and Enrichment Grant applications by 30 volunteers using a standardized form, guided by the Human Services Needs Assessment. Nick emphasized that nonprofits should be vocal about their financial needs and community impact during the upcoming spring budget process. - Caregivers Coalition Status: The commission learned that the Caregivers Coalition dissolved during the COVID-19 pandemic. Commissioners discussed its potential future, with many favoring a broader nonprofit networking model similar to recent community cafe events over recreating the original coalition. - Collective Impact Manager Presentation: Nick Sushka introduced himself as the city's new Collective Impact Manager, outlining his role in improving housing stability, economic mobility, and community well-being through collaborative strategies. He led a round of personal introductions to foster relationship building within the group. - December Meeting Planning: Members debated the format for the final meeting of the year. A motion to hold an informal potluck and craft-making meeting was made by Deborah and seconded by Nancy. Key Outcomes - The previous meeting's minutes were unanimously approved. - The December 17th meeting will be an informal potluck and craft-making gathering (motion by Deborah, seconded by Nancy, passed without dissent). - The commission will explore methods to integrate service recipients' perspectives into future grant review panels. - Nick Sushka will coordinate with the commission for site visits to current grantees scheduled for February and March. - The meeting was adjourned.

The Rockville Cultural Arts Commission (CAC) convened on September 1, 2026, to discuss public art projects, city ordinance revisions, and upcoming cultural events. Commissioners approved an artist for the Lincoln Park Memory Walk, requested earlier involvement in the ordinance revision process, and received updates on community engagement activities and city cultural programming. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes from the previous session. Discussion Items - Ordinance Revision Process: Commissioner Francis requested clarification on the timeline for CAC input into the city ordinance revision, expressing a desire for the commission to review revisions earlier in the process, before city attorney review. Commissioner Francis characterized the proposed timeline as a significant change in how commissions are valued and asked staff to relay to the executive team whether they genuinely seek commission input before budget decisions are finalized. Mayor Ashton noted that state law updates sometimes necessitate early attorney review. Staff liaison Ann confirmed she would forward the commission's concerns to the executive team. - Lincoln Park Memory Walk Artist Selection: Commissioner Liz presented the selection of artist Dina Fisher for the Lincoln Park Memory Walk project. The selection committee included community representatives who prioritized themes representing the historic African American community, including the North Star and the Underground Railroad. Commissioners praised the selection for respecting the community's past while educating new residents. Chairperson Karen stated the process represented a win for building trust with the community. - King Farm Park Project Update: Commissioner Howie reported on a public meeting regarding the King Farm park project, identifying significant parking challenges and a projected completion timeline extending to 2035. Commissioner Karen noted that survey data identified arts programming as the second-highest priority for the space. - Temporary Arts Commission Report: Commissioner Francis reported that the College Gardens Park mural dedication was successful, noting approximately 29 city staff were involved in the project at a total cost of roughly $17,500. The installation date for the Twin Brook mural remains to be determined. Key Outcomes - Vote: The commission unanimously approved Dina Fisher as the artist for the Lincoln Park Memory Walk Project. The selection will be forwarded to the Mayor and Council for final approval. - Ordinance Timeline Request: Staff will formally request that the CAC be included earlier in the ordinance revision process, before city attorney review, and will relay broader concerns about the shift in governance philosophy regarding board and commission input. - Upcoming Events: The Rockville Literary Festival featuring author Percival Everett is scheduled for October 18th and is fully booked, with an overflow room available. Commissioners Francis and Karen announced a free weekly collage class for furloughed and laid-off instructors starting the following Monday. The request for proposals for the David School Public Art Project is open until November 7th.

The Rockville Cultural Arts Commission met on September 1, 2026, at the supplied timestamp of 17:00 UTC, with a quorum present. No agenda or minutes were provided, so this summary is reconstructed from the raw transcript. Note: the transcript's content—references to Thanksgiving, New Year's, and January 2026 planning—conflicts with the supplied September 2026 date; the discrepancy is noted without changing the supplied date. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the minutes from the November meeting by voice/vote. A motion and second were made with no substantive discussion. Commissioner and Mayor Reports - Chairperson: New Commissioner Laura introduced herself. She has been a Rockville resident for 15 years and an arts administrator/theater professional for more than 45 years, recently retiring as theater program manager at the Arts Barn in Gaithersburg. - Mayor Ashton: Reported completion of the CSX bridge project, which addressed long-standing graffiti concerns in East Rockville/Lincoln Park and now displays 'I Part Rockville.' She also reported the unanimous approval by the full council of King Farm Farmstead activation, a $1.5 million Redgate grant, and recent visits to Rockville Civic Ballet's 'Nutcracker' and the Rockville Art League gallery. - Empty Bowls: Laura said the VizArts Empty Bowls event drew about 150 people and raised about $7,000. Half of the proceeds went to Stepping Stone Shelter; the remainder supported ceramic student scholarships and event costs. Mayor Ashton praised the event and encouraged attendance next year. Staff Report and Public Art Updates - Ann, staff liaison, reported that ordinance revisions are on a timeline for the Cultural Arts Commission to approve comments at its January meeting, with a committee meeting immediately following this meeting. She noted the city uses a six-month agenda calendar and that delays would push back the mayor/council work session. - Ann's survey of arts/culture organizations closed on Friday. Results will shape future program design. Commissioner Karen asked that the unaggregated, organization-level survey responses be shared with the Cultural Arts Commission; Ann agreed to ask respondents for permission and to check the number of groups surveyed. - Ann described the new flow of communication beginning January 2026: if the commission wants updates on Recreation and Parks-managed arts and culture programs, a Recreation and Parks advisory board member will be requested to attend a Cultural Arts Commission meeting. - Memory Walk: The contract is being signed with artist Dinah Fisher; her first visit will be the last week of January, focused on community involvement, handprints, and interviews. - David Skull Park: The Art Selection Committee will meet in closed session next Tuesday because it is a procurement process. Selected finalists will visit in January, and the goal is a Cultural Arts Commission recommendation to the mayor and council in March 2026 to meet procurement and fiscal year deadlines. - Public art collection maintenance assessment will begin in 2026, with a report expected in early June 2026. Discussion Items - Meeting start time: A commissioner requested moving regular meetings from 7:00 to 7:30 due to child care/family obligations. Some commissioners supported the change; Melissa noted that a 7:30 start could conflict with her child's bedtime and cause meetings to run later. Mayor Ashton said she would support a change if it helped with child care. Instead of voting on the time change, the commission directed the commission president to contact the affected commissioner and report back in January. The motion passed by ayes. - Explore Rockville calendar: Commissioners discussed the need for a cohesive cultural calendar. They said Explore Rockville is the main tool, but it depends on organizations posting their own events. Mayor Ashton offered to help craft outreach emails to groups such as the chorus and concert band. - Young Artists of America: A commissioner announced the organization has signed a lease in Rockville, with the exact location not yet public. It will have about six or seven rooms and is expected to hold launch events and performances in February. Ordinance Revisions Committee Session - After the main meeting, the ordinance subcommittee convened. Francis was elected committee chair. The subcommittee discussed the process for providing comments on the proposed arts program ordinance revisions. - Ann said the mayor and council are waiting for the commission's comments before giving broad direction, and she urged the subcommittee to provide questions so she could respond. Francis, Karen, and Susan said they had both questions and comments and did not want to bring incomplete comments to the full commission or mayor/council. - The subcommittee agreed to compile its questions and email them to Ann by the end of the upcoming weekend. Ann will provide a response timeline. A second subcommittee meeting is planned in early January, with the goal of approving comments at the January Cultural Arts Commission meeting. Key Outcomes - November meeting minutes approved. - The commission will pursue sharing of organization-level survey responses, pending respondent permission. - The meeting-time change was deferred; the president will contact the affected commissioner. - Memory Walk contract is moving forward; David Skull Park selection will proceed with a target March 2026 recommendation. - Ordinance subcommittee will send its questions to Ann and reconvene in early January to finalize comments for the January CAC meeting.

(Note: Although the transcript references the meeting as occurring on November 12, 2026, the provided meeting date is September 1, 2026. This summary follows the required date but notes the inconsistency.) The Rockville Cultural Arts Commission (CAC) met on September 1, 2026, to discuss updates on public art projects, a major code revision process, and the creation of a subcommittee to provide commissioner input. The meeting included a staff report, a report from Mayor Monique Ashton, committee updates, and new business. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the October 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. (Motion by Liz, second by an unnamed commissioner.) Discussion Items - Staff Report (Anne): Anne presented the process for obtaining commissioner comments on suggested revisions to the city's cultural arts code. Staff held a work session with the mayor and council on November 3, 2026 (future date from transcript). Commissioners will receive a document by late November with suggestions and a comment column; comments are due back by December 8, 2026, for inclusion in the December 10, 2026, meeting packet. Anne encouraged all commissioners to watch the recorded work session. - Mayor's Report (Monique Ashton): Mayor Ashton reported that mayor and council had a productive discussion on the code, valued commissioner feedback, and supported the subcommittee idea. She encouraged the commission to take the budget survey, noted a budget hearing in March, and announced upcoming appointments to the CAC to coordinate with RESCOs (non-profit arts organizations). The mayor also noted discussions about permanency and flexibility of public art. - Committee Updates: - Twinbrook Mural (Francis): The mural was installed using a poly-tab technique (first for the city). The 15-foot canvas required three panels due to length, and the brick wall's unevenness required sealant. A dedication date is planned. - Memory Walk at Lincoln Park (Liz): Mayor and council approved the recommendation on November 3, 2026, to move forward. - David Skull Park Public Art (Liz): Applications closed on November 7, 2026, with 109 submissions (a record). Anne is vetting applications; the artist selection committee will meet in December to determine finalists. - Maintenance and Conservation: Work completed October 2025; assessment to follow in spring 2026. - New Business – Code Revision Subcommittee: Karen proposed creating a subcommittee to work on the commission's input on code revisions. After discussion, the commission voted unanimously to create the subcommittee. Susan Hoffman, Francis Bevington, and Karen were appointed as members. The subcommittee will report back to the full commission. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of October minutes. - Unanimous vote to create an ordinance subcommittee for code revision input. - Appointment of Susan, Francis, and Karen to the subcommittee (final chair to be determined). - Staff will distribute the comment document by late November; commissioner comments due December 8, 2026. - The commission noted the upcoming addition of a new member (to coordinate with RESCOs) by November 17, 2026 (date subject to mayoral and council approval). - Announcements included the successful F. Scott Fitzgerald Festival (with Tobias Wolf as the 2026 award recipient), BizArts workshops for furloughed federal employees, and Karen's retirement after 27 years with BizArts. The meeting adjourned with thanks to staff, Mayor Ashton, and the visiting student Sam from Montgomery College.

The Rockville Historic District Commission (HDC) held a virtual meeting on the evening of Thursday, August 20, 2026, to consider a single agenda item: a request for reconsideration of the Commission's July 16, 2026 decision to designate a portion of the property at 200 Monroe Street (200B Monroe) in the Historic District Overlay Zone. The meeting was attended by Chair Peter Fosselman, Commissioners Seth Dembo, Anidini O'Powell, Mercy Shenge, and Michael Goldfinger (who joined late), along with staff members Megan Flick (Principal Planner), Katie Gerbis (Comprehensive Planning Manager), and Acting Deputy City Attorney Nick DeMay. Discussion Items Request for Reconsideration (Case 2026-330 EOS, 200 Monroe Street) - Background: The applicant, Mr. Bachet (owner of 200 Murray Street), had previously submitted an evaluation of significance in anticipation of a demolition permit for structures at 200 A and B Monroe Street. After postponements, the HDC reviewed the case on July 16, 2026, and voted 3-0 to designate only the original 1906 building at 200B Monroe, finding that 200A did not meet criteria. - Applicant's Grounds for Reconsideration: The applicant requested reconsideration citing: (1) desire to provide additional details about original exterior materials from the 1906 structure; (2) wish to present to the full Commission (two commissioners were absent on July 16); and (3) need for clarity on which portions of the building at 200B are considered historic. - Staff Recommendation: Megan Flick recommended reconsideration, stating that designating only a portion of the property was not a good policy outcome and that inadvertence justified reconsideration. - Legal Perspective: Acting Deputy City Attorney Nick DeMay explained that the Commission has broad discretion to reconsider under its rules, which allow for grounds such as mistake of fact, inadvertence, surprise, fraud, or other good cause. He clarified that tonight's meeting was solely to decide whether to grant reconsideration; if approved, the original July 16 decision would be voided and a new hearing would be held at the next meeting (September 17, 2026). - Commissioner Comments: - Commissioner Dembo supported reconsideration, noting the complexity of designating only a portion and that previous staff support was limited due to turnover and leave. - Commissioner Shenga asked about additional information from the applicant; staff confirmed no new information had been provided beyond the request letter. She was comfortable waiting until September. - Commissioner O'Powell agreed to reconsider based on staff and attorney input. - Commissioner Goldfinger stated the July motion was incomplete because it addressed only the building footprint without clarifying surrounding land area, and he supported reconsideration to add necessary detail. - Chair Fosselman initially opposed reconsideration but changed his mind after discussing with staff, supporting a second hearing for the applicant. - Motion: Commissioner Dembo moved to reconsider the July 16, 2026 decision for inadvertence and good cause, specifically due to lack of clarity on how much of the property to designate and concerns about the effect of listing only a portion. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - Vote: The HDC unanimously voted (5-0) to grant the request for reconsideration of its July 16, 2026 decision regarding 200 Monroe Street. - Next Steps: The reconsideration hearing will be held at the regularly scheduled HDC meeting on September 17, 2026. Staff will prepare a report with options for the Commission, including designating the whole property, none, or a clearly defined portion with specific boundaries. - Original Decision Voided: As a result of the reconsideration vote, the prior motion to file a sectional map amendment for a portion of 200B Monroe is voided. The Commission will hear the application anew in September.

The Mayor and Council of Rockville met virtually on August 3, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The meeting featured proclamations for National Night Out and the National Day of Service and Remembrance, approval of the consent agenda, and a detailed work session on proposed changes to the city's grants to nonprofits program. The work session focused on three key questions: adopting five impact focus areas, prioritizing one or two areas in FY28, and creating a streamlined renewal pathway for high-performing programs. Council provided feedback and direction to staff, with majority support for the impact focus areas and the renewal pathway, but no consensus on prioritization at this time. Proclamations - National Night Out: Mayor Ashton read a proclamation declaring August 4, 2026, as National Night Out in Rockville, highlighting over 20 community events across the city and the Rockville Police Department's participation to build community trust. The proclamation was moved by Councilmember Willary and seconded by Councilmember Van Grack, passing unanimously. - National Day of Service and Remembrance: Councilmember Jackson read a proclamation declaring September 11, 2026, as a National Day of Service and Remembrance, honoring victims of the 9/11 attacks and encouraging community service. The proclamation was moved by Councilmember Jackson and seconded by Councilmember Van Grack, passing unanimously. A remembrance event is scheduled for September 11 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Courthouse Square Park. Consent Calendar - Item 9A: Award and authorization for the City Manager to execute a contract with Ferguson Enterprises, LLC (Tysons, VA) for RFP 30-25 – Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project. - Item 9B: Approval and authorization for a change order (Contract 18-24) with Boulevard Contractors Corp (Owings Mills, MD) for the Lincoln Park Community Center Renovation Project, in an amount not to exceed $316,719, for a revised total of $1,277,738. - Item 9C: Approval and authorization for the City Manager to execute the Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit Rental Program Agreement and Declaration of Restrictive Covenants for Twinbrook Place between the City and Twinard Limited Partnership, subject to legal form approval. - Item 9D: Authorization for the City Manager to execute a grant agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration for FY2023 Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program for the Maryvale Park to Redgate Park Shared Use Path Study. - Item 9E: Award of MWCOG/Montgomery County Cooperative Lead IFB 1180960 for road deicing salt to Morton Salt, Inc. (Chicago, IL) in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000 per year, aggregate not to exceed $5,000,000. - Item 9F: Authorization for the City Manager to execute a Settlement Agreement with Norair Engineering Corporation. All consent items were approved unanimously via a motion by Councilmember Van Grack, seconded by Councilmember Jackson. Work Session: Grants to Nonprofits Program Design Changes Staff (Nick Shushka, Collective Impact Manager, and Sarah Mazel, Program and Grant Specialist) presented proposed changes to the city's community services and enrichment grants and community empowerment matching grants. Key proposals included: - Adoption of five impact focus areas: Housing Stability, Economic Mobility, Youth and Family Success, Service Access and Navigation, and Community Enrichment and Belonging. - Streamlined renewal pathway for high-performing programs (up to two years of renewal with modest cost-of-service adjustments, subject to available funding). - Creation of a mini-grant program for awards up to $10,000 with simplified requirements. Council discussion included: - Councilmember Van Grack supported the impact focus areas and the streamlined renewal pathway, but opposed prioritizing one or two areas in FY28, preferring to allow nonprofits to align with any of the five. - Councilmember Jackson supported the overall direction, raised questions about definitions (e.g., household stability vs. housing stability), and emphasized the need for data before prioritizing specific areas. He supported the streamlined renewal pathway. - Councilmember Shaw supported adopting the impact focus areas but wanted more data before prioritizing. She also raised concerns about terminology, suggesting 'community resiliency' might be more inclusive, and stressed the importance of including seniors in the youth and family category. - Councilmember Valerie strongly supported the impact focus areas as a necessary prioritization tool, supported the streamlined renewal pathway, and suggested incorporating equity focus areas aligned with the city's JEDI strategic plan. She also raised concerns about grants to Montgomery County-run programs and the use of grant funds for lobbying. - Councilmember Dr. Miles supported the five areas, did not see a need to prioritize one or two, and supported the streamlined renewal pathway with appropriate guardrails. Key Outcomes - Question 1 (Adopt five impact focus areas): Majority support from council; staff directed to proceed with adoption. - Question 2 (Prioritize one or two areas in FY28): No consensus; council generally opposed prioritization at this time, preferring to allow all five areas to be competitive. Staff will not prioritize specific areas for FY28. - Question 3 (Streamlined renewal pathway): Unanimous support; staff directed to implement the pathway for high-performing programs, with criteria including meeting at least 80% of metrics and compliance with grant requirements. - Next steps: Staff will finalize program changes based on council feedback, communicate changes to grantees via application materials and technical sessions in September, and launch the FY28 application in October 2026. The mayor requested that staff review timing to ensure continuity for existing grantees, especially for the mini-grant program. Boards and Commissions Appointments - Anna Day Long was appointed to an expiring three-year term on the Human Rights Commission until April 1, 2027. - Richard Hoffman was appointed to an expiring three-year term until July 1, 2028. Both appointments were approved unanimously. City Manager's Report - City Manager Jeff Mahilwick invited participation in the Economic Development Strategic Plan, with a survey available on Engage Rockville. Mock Agenda and Old/New Business - The council reviewed the mock agenda for a future meeting (no action taken). - Mayor Ashton noted that the council will be on recess during August, with no meetings scheduled, but city operations continue. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:05 PM.

The Rockville City Council convened on July 27, 2026, at 11:30 AM for Meeting 19-26. Key actions included unanimous adoption of the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Strategic Plan, approval of several board and commission appointments, and work sessions on arts ordinance revisions and transportation code updates. Community members testified on pension COLAs, mold enforcement, and transportation policy. Consent Calendar - Agenda Items 9A-9H: Approved unanimously. Items included: - 9A: Carpentry contract services (not to exceed $200K) - 9B: Natural gas supply agreement with WGL Energy Services (initial term: Aug 1, 2026 – Jul 31, 2027, with renewals through Jun 2031) - 9C: Electricity supply agreement with WGL Energy Services (terms consistent with Howard County contract, renewals through Sep 2036) - 9D: Authorization for PEPCO's Empower MD rebate program for LED streetlight conversion (Climate Action Plan) - 9E: Software subscription/services with CDW Government LLC (virtual service, not to exceed $1.496 million over 5 years) - 9F: Amendment to rider agreement with Gale Associates for building envelope construction/repair (not to exceed $390K annually) - 9G: Amendment to interlocal contract for SPDC software licensing with South Central Planning and Development Commission (Louisiana) - 9H: Approval of minutes for June 29 and July 6, 2026 Public Comments & Testimony - David Levy (Rockville resident, former employee): Expressed concern that Rockville granted a 0% pension COLA for the second consecutive year, while 133 local government units in Maryland (including Annapolis, Bowie, Hartford County) received 2.698% (CPI estimate). Stated that retirees have lost 26% purchasing power over 11 years. Urged the council to provide CPI-based COLAs for retirees. - Elizabeth Adams (former Rockville resident): Detailed that after filing a mold complaint at Fields of Rockville on April 4, 2026 (with positive test results for black mold), the complex had not conducted a professional mold assessment within the required 15 days (114 days passed) and remediation timeline also expired. Claimed the city is not enforcing the Mold Law and that her family is facing eviction. Asked for enforcement and legal resources. - Madison Dunn (resident): Supported his mother Elizabeth Adams's testimony, stating the family has received no help and their belongings (including childhood items) are mold-damaged. Expressed frustration with the council's inaction. - Jake Jacobeck (Chair, Rockville Bicycle Advisory Committee; personal capacity): Spoke on the Comprehensive Transportation Review (CTR) update. Recommended: (1) ensuring more developments pay the Transportation Improvement Fee (TIFF), (2) adding an adequacy measure for whether cycling/pedestrian facilities exist (not just capacity), and (3) relaxing thresholds that mandate roadway widening for added vehicular trips, which can harm pedestrian/cyclist safety. Supported maintaining balance across modes. Discussion Items JEDI Strategic Plan Adoption - Presentation: Jean Booth (Director of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) and Dr. Patricia Morgan (CEO, Executive Learning Lab) presented the final plan. Highlights: - Process: 7 months, 210+ staff surveyed (38% participation), 9+ focus groups, community listening sessions. - Staff survey strengths: 81% feel valued; 74% engage with diverse community; 98% of leaders confident in inclusive environments. - Gaps: Only 35% rated JEDI training positively; 38% believe residents are aware of city JEDI efforts (36-point gap vs. internal confidence). - Four key gaps: training, data use, resident awareness, leadership accountability. - Subgroup analysis: Frontline staff, women, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, and new employees reported lower ratings on discrimination and microaggressions. - Seven strategic priorities: (1) Shared definition and training, (2) Inclusive service delivery/language access, (3) Accessibility/inclusive design, (4) Trusted messenger community engagement, (5) Policy alignment, (6) Accountability/public reporting, (7) Governance/shared ownership. - Year one roadmap: Five phases (Jul 2026 – Jun 2027) focusing on foundations, tools, pilots, and governance. - Requested adoption and direction to proceed with year one implementation. - Council Discussion: Members expressed strong support. Specific points: - Mayor and council requested a ratifying resolution and appendix of past council actions. - Concern that 10-21 (racial equity) may need updating to be more expansive. - Importance of geographic equity (Route 355 and I-270 dividing lines), interfaith inclusion, and socioeconomic disparities. - Desire for outcomes-based metrics and measurable social impacts (not just process). - Need for training to be mandatory (staff and council). - Emphasis on disability access beyond physical, and participatory decision-making. - Vote: Motion by Councilmember Fulton, seconded by Councilmember Van Grack. All in favor. Unanimous adoption of the JEDI Strategic Plan with amendments (include ratifying resolution and appendix). Arts and Cultural Affairs Ordinance Revisions (Chapter 4) - Presentation: Anne O'Donnell (Arts and Culture Program Manager) proposed revisions to merge Articles 3 (AIPA) and 5 (AIPP) into one Public Art Program article, clarify roles, update definitions, and revise Article 4 (public art in private development). Key changes: - Preamble to clarify scope. - Shift budget/project management from Cultural Arts Commission to staff. - Merge funding streams and allow public art on sites in public realm (not just city property). - For AIPD: eliminate option to remove artwork (require permanent, 30-year minimum); change formula to 1% of development cost (not to exceed $300,000) with only two options (install on-site or pay into city fund). - Enhance community engagement via art selection committees including community members. - Council Feedback: Generally supportive of merging and updated processes. Concerns raised: - Mayor and council should retain final approval for large contracts ($250K) and oversight due to fiduciary responsibility. - Need for wiggle room on “permanent” to allow removal if culturally inappropriate over time. - Desire to encourage local artists and support performing arts spaces (though developers rarely use that option). - Importance of aligning with Vision Zero (avoid art obstructing pedestrian/cyclist safety). - Next Steps: Staff to prepare draft ordinance incorporating council feedback, share with Cultural Arts Commission, then return to council. Comprehensive Transportation Review (CTR) and City Code Chapter 21 Amendments - Presentation: Sean Murphy, Craig Simoneau, and Ahmad Al-Shafi proposed updates to Chapter 21 (Streets, Roads, Rights-of-Way) and CTR regulations. Key topics: - Private Streets: Restrict private streets to limited cases (alleys, non-residential campuses, mixed-use zones under specific conditions) – council supportive. - Private Improvements in ROW: Allow administrative approval for EV chargers, awnings, balconies, etc., with license and maintenance agreements – council supportive, with larger changes requiring council oversight. - Easements: Clarify approval and abandonment process – supportive. - Primary Access: Allow alleys and shared driveways for residential access (with pedestrian connectivity) – supportive. - Road Code Waivers: Allow dead-end streets under 150 ft without turnaround if fire access is maintained – supportive. - Street Classification: Administrative approval for emergency access drives – supportive. - Street Closings: Temporary closures administratively (permits) vs. permanent closures requiring council resolution – council noted need for notification and potential veto power. - CTR Changes: 1. Eliminate mitigation requirement if intersection still operates at acceptable level of service – focused discussion. 2. Eliminate on-site transportation report for <30 net peak-hour trips (duplicative with site plan) – concern from some members about loss of information. 3. Lower TIFF threshold from 30 to 10 net peak-hour trips and add 50 total trip threshold – supportive. - Council Feedback: Emphasis on getting input from Transportation Mobility Commission, RPAC, and RBAC. Desire for holistic transportation evaluation (not just vehicular) and alignment with Vision Zero. Concerns about developer-generated trip counts and need for robust review. - Next Steps: Staff to hold public meeting, briefings with commissions, return with draft ordinance and CTR in September for further work session. Key Outcomes - Unanimously adopted the JEDI Strategic Plan, including directive to include a ratifying resolution and appendix of past actions. - Approved all consent agenda items (9A-9H) as presented. - Approved appointments/reappointments to multiple boards and commissions (Commission on Aging, Education Commission, Environment Commission, Human Rights Commission, Human Services Advisory Commission, Retirement Board) – all unanimous. - Directed staff to prepare a letter of support for Peerless Rockville’s grant application for the “Rural Roots, Freedom and Kinship in Rockville’s Haiti Community” project. - Set next meeting for August 3, 2026 (virtual). - Adjourned at approximately 10:30 PM.