City of Gaithersburg City Council met May 21.
Here is the minutes provided by the Council:
1. Call To Order
The Regular Session of the Mayor and City Council was called to order at 7:30 pm with Mayor Jud Ashman presiding.
Attendee Name; Title; Status; Arrived:
Jud Ashman Mayor Present
Ryan Spiegel Council Vice President Present
Neil Harris Council Member Present
Laurie-Anne Sayles Council Member Present
Michael Sesma Council Member Present
Robert Wu Council Member Present
Staff present: City Manager Tomasello, Deputy City Manager Enslinger, City Attorney Board, Assistant City Attorney Johnson, Community and Public Relations Director Monaco, Digital and Social Media Specialist Smith, Community Service Division Manager Herndon, Community Services Program Coordinator Srinivasachar, Legislative Affairs Manager Marquina, Planning Division Chief Schwarz, Planner II Berger, Economic and Business Development Director Lonergan, Housing and Community Development Chief Kauffmann, Parks, Recreation and Culture Director Potter, Public Works Director Johnson, Police Officer III Jordan, and Administrative Assistant II Betancourt.
2. Pledge Of Allegiance
The pledge was led by Zayd Salahuddin, Gaithersburg's Junior Mayor.
3. Reflection
Mayor Ashman mentioned the passing of Maryland Gubernatorial Candidate and Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz. He expressed condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues and asked for a moment of silence.
4. Approval Of Minutes
A. Regular Session held May 7, 2018
Motion was made to approve the above minutes, as amended.
Result: Approved [Unanimous]
Mover: Neil Harris, Council Member
Seconder: Ryan Spiegel, Council Vice President
For: Ashman, Spiegel, Harris, Sayles, Sesma, Wu
5. Appointments
A. Resolution of the City Council Confirming Reappointments Made by the Mayor to the Educational Enrichment Committee and Environmental Affairs Committee
This resolution confirmed the City Council reappointments made by the Mayor to the Educational Enrichment Committee, Jason Wilcox, 207 Little Quarry Road, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878, two-year term and the Environmental Affairs Committee, Doug Wolf, 44 Beacon Hill Court, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878, two-year term.
Motion was made to approve the above resolution.
Result: Passed [Unanimous]
Mover: Michael Sesma, Council Member
Seconder: Ryan Spiegel, Council Vice President
For: Spiegel, Harris, Sayles, Sesma, Wu
6. Presentations
A. Introduction of the 2018 Junior Mayor
In a statewide essay contest sponsored by the Maryland Municipal League in partnership with the Maryland Mayors’ Association and the Chesapeake Employers Insurance Company, fourth graders were asked how they, as Mayor, would explore the topic “Live to Lead.” In Gaithersburg, students from five area schools submitted 103 essays to the statewide contest. The City takes the program one step further by using the essays as the basis for the City’s own Junior Mayor contest. Members of the Educational Enrichment Committee reviewed more than 100 essays from resident students and video interviews were conducted with six finalists.
Zayd Salahuddin, the 2018 Junior Mayor, from Mr. Yates’ 4th grade class at DuFief Elementary School was introduced and read his essay. Zayd will have the opportunity to participate with the Mayor and City Council at events throughout the year. His winning essay is published on the City’s website. Zayd was officially introduced at the State of the City event on April 26.
B. Great Award Presentation to Diamond Elementary School
Education Enrichment Committee Chair Stacey Simon joined the Mayor and the City Council to recognize Diamond Elementary School with the Great Award. Great stands for “Gaithersburg Recognizing Educational Achievement Today” and the award promotes and celebrates higher achievement and success in Gaithersburg area schools.
Diamond Elementary School was recognized for their school-sponsored activities that encourage its students to demonstrate the Six Pillars of Character Counts! Its PTA started off the year collecting food for Manna and winter wear for the Andrea Virga Coat Drive. In the fall, former Gaithersburg Junior Mayor Purani Kannan, who is a student at the school, organized items to be distributed at the Montgomery County Homeless Resource Day. The student government promoted kindness by organizing classes to make cards and centerpieces for a Valentine’s party at a local senior center, while the PBIS committee collected hundreds of pictures to send to the Color A Smile organization.
C. Recognition of the 2018 W. Edward Bohrer, Jr. Memorial Character Counts! Scholarship Winners
2018 marks the 20th Annual W. Edward Bohrer, Jr. Memorial Character Counts! Scholarship Awards. The scholarships recognize students who have a firm commitment to both their education and their community as a whole and who embody the Six Pillars of Character Counts: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Recipients must be high school seniors who are residents of the City of Gaithersburg and pursuing post-secondary education or trade school.
Mayor Ashman recognized the several sponsors who contributed to the scholarship awards, including: The W. Edward Bohrer, Jr. Memorial Character Counts! Scholarship Fund, Gaithersburg Rotary, City of Gaithersburg Student Union, Rodgers Consulting Inc., and private donors.
The scholarship recipients were joined by their role models who inspired them: Maria Del Rosario Contreras - Maura Dinwiddie, Youth Services, City of Gaithersburg; Kiara Navarrete Aguilar - Mother; Ivana Samuels - Veronica Stroman, Gaithersburg High School Wellness Center parents, and Julien Labiche, Liberty’s Promise; and John Woodward - Jesus Christ.
D. Certificate of Recognition Presented to Dr. Christine Handy, Principal, Gaithersburg High School
Mayor Ashman was joined by Gaithersburg High School Principal Dr. Christine Handy to recognize her retirement and many accomplishments. She was acknowledged not only for her efforts to foster success within the school but her unwavering commitment to an entire community as evidenced by the partnerships and collaborations she has nurtured. Dr. Handy oversaw the complete transformation of Gaithersburg High School with the opening of the new facility at the start of the 2013 - 2014 school year. She has continually supported the work that the City does with youth and their parents through involvement with the City’s Educational Enrichment Committee, Youth Services and Community Services programs. Her efforts have ensured the success of several school-based collaborations, including Forever Sisters, the Student Union, Great school recognition, Character Counts! Scholarships, and the City’s annual Principals, Counselors and PTA Appreciation Breakfast.
E. Certificate of Recognition Presented to Susan Barranger, Principal, Washington Grove Elementary School
Mayor Ashman was joined by Washington Grove Elementary School Principal Susan Barranger to recognize her retirement and many accomplishments. She has served the residents of Montgomery County as an educator for the past 33 years, six of them as a teacher and 12 of them as the Principal of Washington Grove Elementary School. Her commitment to her students, their parents and the community at-large is evidenced by her involvement in many City-sponsored events and activities. Of special note is an innovative City grant-funded program that she established called Baskets for Babies, which delivers early education tools to new mothers in her school community, thus setting our next generation of young learners on a path to success. Susan has also collaborated with the City for the Great school recognition program, the Character Counts! Program and many other educational initiatives.
F. District 17 State Delegation Legislative Wrap-up
Members of the District 17 Delegation provided a wrap-up of the 2018 State Legislative Session.
Delegate Kumar Barve-
• Stated that this was a very successful year in the General Assembly.
• Mentioned that the Highway User Revenue (HUR) Bill passed. Recognized Council Vice President Spiegel for his work with the Maryland Municipal League (MML).
Mayor Ashman recognized Delegate Barve for his dedication to the HUR bill. Council Vice President Spiegel stated that Barve’s advice and guidance was absolutely critical in the passing of the bill. Delegated Barve was thanked for his work.
• Stated that funding of $167 million has been dedicated to the Metro system.
• Introduced and passed a bill that ends the possibility of offshore oil and gas drilling.
• Stated that the state has reaffirmed its strong position of being in favor of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.
• Stated that the State of Maryland passed a law to include the State in the U.S. Climate Alliance due to the Trump Administration withdrawing from the Paris Climate Accords.
Delegate James Gilchrist-
• Stated that last year a bill was passed to raise the gas tax. Mentioned that this was done as a precursor to the HUR Bill.
• Stated that Senator Kagan passed a bill protecting the personal contact information of citizens who sign up for electronic newsletters and text emergency alerts.
• Mentioned that it is too early to comment on the Governor's plans for highways. Stated that he hopes that The Department of Transportation will work with municipalities for input of projects.
• Mentioned that there is a State program which awards school construction funds to Counties that has significantly increasing enrollment. $14 million was added to the $11 million already allocated for this program.
• Mentioned that a bill was introduced that would restrict local authority on cell phone towers. Stated that the bill was withdrawn before the hearing.
Council Member Sayles requested updates on the bond bill status for Gaithersburg’s Police Station. Delegate Gilchrist did mention that they were not successful in getting that bond bill passed, but will make it a priority for the next session.
Maryland State Senator Cheryl Kagan-
• Stated that she has been named a Municipal Super Star by MML for the fourth year in a row.
• Recognized Council Vice President Spiegel, Legislative Affairs Manager Marquina, City Attorney Board, and Moira Moynihan from Alexander & Clever, P.A. for their work during this session.
• Thanked Delegate Platt for representing Gaithersburg. Reminded everyone that he will be retiring from the Maryland House of Delegates.
• Stated that the Delegates will be encouraging the Governor to tour the new police station site for the bond bill.
• Stated a law was passed that terminated parental rights of rapists.
• Mentioned coming forward about her personal sexual harassment incident. As a result, strong sexual harassment legislation was enacted that would apply to all House personnel, including reporters.
• Stated that Governor's veto on earned sick leave was overridden.
• Mentioned that several gun laws were enacted.
• Stated that a second language access bill was enacted to include all state websites including scholarships, transportation, and public safety.
• Announced that Montgomery County, City of Rockville, Prince Georges County, Washington, D.C., City of Baltimore have all passed a polystyrene ban.
• Announced that conversion therapy has been banned in Maryland.
• Stated that the Forest Conservation Bill did not pass as many negotiations with municipalities were required. Mentioned that the bill will come before the house next session.
• Mentioned the Nonprofit Interest Free Micro Bridge Loan Bill that was passed last year. Stated that two more loans have been approved that will provide up to $25,000 to nonprofits who are held up in the grant approval process.
• Stated that the federal guidelines for nonprofits are now applicable in the State.
• Mentioned that two out of the five 911 bills that were introduced, passed.
• Announced that $15 million has been set aside to provide free community college tuition for those who qualify.
• Announced that automatic and same-day voter registration has been made easier and more available. Stated that June 5 is the deadline to make changes to voter information prior to the upcoming State elections.
Council Vice President Spiegel commended Senator Kagan for her work with the City. Mentioned that the Municipal Super Star Award is a rare award only given to a few legislators a year and both Senator Kagan and Delegate Barve received it. Stated that the Bill that protects the personal contact information of citizens who sign up for electronic newsletters and text emergency alerts was cosponsored by every member of the State Senate.
G. 2018 Final Update from the City's State Lobbyist on Legislative Priorities
Legislative Affairs Manager Marquina introduced Moira Moynihan, Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., to provide a brief overview of the 2018 Legislative Session and highlighted several of the City's priorities. A Sine Die Report from Alexander & Cleaver outlining the outcome of the City’s 2018 State Legislative priorities and other items of concern were presented to the Mayor and City Council.
Ms. Moynihan recognized the Mayor and City Council, City staff, and the District 17 delegation on their hard work during the legislative session. She stated that this was a great session for the City's and MML’s priorities. Noted that staff is exploring every option regarding the Public Safety Police Station Bond Bill. Stated that they are working with the Maryland Emergency Management Agency and Montgomery County Emergency Management as well as seeking Federal Grants and other state funding. She also mentioned the Small Cell Bill. Stated that the City should expect an ad hoc work group being established in August. No action will be made prior to the upcoming primary election.
The Mayor and City Council thanked Ms. Moynihan, City Staff and the District 17 delegation for all their work and advocating on behalf of the City.
Council Members stated that the small cell bill would supersede what the City put into place last year. Noted that this bill would limit the municipalities' ability to control anything regarding small calls including height, appearance, location, and the amount of towers. Ms. Moynihan noted that the more local action taken helps fend off the attempts to preempt the local authority. Stated that it is the hope that more Municipalities will follow suit.
Council members questioned when the automatic voter registration would be implemented, how can citizens take advantage of this, and where will it be available. Staff responded that this would go into effect this election year and citizens should contact the Montgomery County Board of Elections for more information.
Council Members questioned the photos of Governor Hogan holding puppies. Senator Kagan stated that this was in response to a bill passing that bans puppy mills. Noted that there are only seven stores in the State that were selling cats and dogs from suspected puppy mills. The lead time on this bill is long as to allow enough time for the store to find alternate sources of income.
7. Public Comments
1. Bruce Cohen, 2 North Glade Court, expressed opposition to the proposed school at Kelley Park. Stated that street parking and traffic is already an issue and that any construction would change the dynamic of the neighborhood.
2. Pam Plaisted, Saybrooke resident, representing people who will be disenfranchised by any changes to the Kelley Park. Stated that she has collected signatures from residents of Villa Ridge, Newport Estates, and other neighborhoods.
3. Yarly Peraz, Newport Estates resident, stated that building a school at Kelley Park would prevent them from using the park while summer school is in session. Also stated that traffic will be bad before and after school. Mentioned that he plays there often with his friends and his soccer team.
4. Kenneth (inaudible), Newport States resident, stated that building a school with cause Kelley Park to no longer be peaceful. Many people will be forced to travel to far away parks. Kelley Park will no longer be a place to hang out with friends and family.
5. Jackie Wozniak, 1 Library Court, recognized the need for a school. Questioned why the park was chosen.
6. Dave Cleveland, Whetstone Run resident, mentioned the memories he has of his children playing at Kelley Park.
7. Tom Vassar, 7 Rideout Court and 35 year Gaithersburg resident, provide documentation for saving Kelley Park. Advocated for the Hispanic families who use the park. Encouraged the Mayor and City Council to visit Kelley Park to view the many citizens utilizing the park.
8. Steve Kaufman, representing Audubon Square Homeowners Association (HOA), stated their opposition to building a school at Kelley Park due to increased traffic in the neighborhood, potential additional parking issues, and the safety of students who will walk to school.
9. Ronald Carbis, 13 Saint Ives Place, stated that he is against a school built at Kelley Park. Mentioned that the Montgomery County Public School (MCPS) Site Selection Advisory Committee listed 10 other potential sites.
10. Joanne Zeidman, 19 year Saybrooke resident and MCPS employee, stated that Kelley Park is grossly underutilized. Mentioned the overcrowding is area school including issues with bathrooms and art programs.
11. Jayden (inaudible), 4th grader, expressed that his neighborhood is already cramped. Stated that a school would limit the available space to play.
12. Cousin of Jayden (inaudible), stated that she will be sad if you take away Kelley Park. Talked about the memories that she has made with her family and the book she is making about the park.
13. Rosie Alva, Saybrooke resident, stated that she walks at Kelley Park daily. Mentioned that taking away green space goes against what the City stands for. Requested that green space be kept for the children.
14. Shayna Johnson, Saybrooke resident and PTA volunteer, expressed her strong support of the proposed school location at Kelley Park. Stated that there are over 3,200 students currently at the Gaithersburg cluster schools with over 95% of them being non-white and 69% of them being in poverty.
15. Ward Johnson, Saybrooke resident, mentioned that there is a lead and overcrowding problem at Gaithersburg Elementary School. Mentioned that a lot of portables have been installed. Expressed support for a new school.
16. Jim McNulty, Saybrooke HOA, expressed support of the new school. Stated that the park will not disappear and that there is enough room for the park and school. Stated that the decision and planning process should stay with the City.
17. Seth Caymen, Saybrooke resident, expressed support for the school at Kelley Park.
Mentioned the diverse community of Gaithersburg.
18. Carolyn Garvey, Saybrooke resident, stated that the proposed school provides the City an opportunity to enhance the park, addressed the overcrowding at 5 elementary schools, 3 of which are in the Gaithersburg cluster, and will be within walking distance for many residents. Expressed support for the proposed school location.
19. Carolyn Donovan, Saybrooke resident, stated that she visits Kelley Park on a daily basis and is usually the only one there. Stated that the needs of the needy must out way the annoyances of the few. Suggested a shared user agreement for use of the park and school as a solution to the long time problem of overcrowding.
20. Matt Mangelson, Saybrooke resident, expressed support of the proposed school location. Understands that there are legitimate concerns about the location and boundary study of the school but those are not reason for the City not to negotiate with MCPS.
21. Rita Hoover, Whetstone Run resident, congratulated Mayor Ashman on the Gaithersburg Book Festival. Mentioned the many amenities available at Kelley Park including the sand pit volleyball court that cost $58,000. Stated that it would be a waste of the City’s money to get rid of the park and that building the school would not provide the opportunity to use the park during school hours.
22. Bob Hoover, Whetstone Run resident, mentioned the many fields that are used throughout the day. Understands that a school is needed, but not at Kelley Park.
23. Art Shenk, 418 Belle Grove Road, mentioned the many documents that he reviewed prior to attending tonight's meeting and provided his observations.
24. Nancy Anthracite, Whetstone Run resident, agrees that there is overcrowding. Mentioned that the park is heavily utilized and should be saved.
25. Melissa Goodwin, Saybrooke resident, expressed her support for the school at Kelley Park.
26. Melissa McKenna, Hidden Creek resident and Site Selection Advisory Committee member, announced that MCPS is the recipient of a $200,00 grant from the State to restart the recovery and academic program in partnership with Family Services Inc. Stated that the decision of the committee was tough but a school is needed in Gaithersburg to alleviate the overcrowding in the cluster. Mentioned that there were sites that were larger and better suited for a school, but were not in the correct location. $16 million dollars was put aside for a Gaithersburg Elementary school addition but it was not feasible. The funds have now been set aside for the new school.
27. Oscar Alvarenga, 95 Bralan Court and Summit Hall Elementary School PTA President, stated that this is the closest Gaithersburg has been to getting a new school in 10 years and the need for one is dire. Mentioned the portables at several schools are already taking away park space for the children. Stated that Gaithersburg will continue to grow and expressed support for a new school.
28. Chantal Poix, Whetstone neighborhood, stated that the neighborhood already dealt with the previously mentioned issues when Saybrooke Elementary School was built. Stated that the Mayor and City Council will make the decision but it is the residents who will have to live with that decision.
29. Lynn Slepski, Saybrooke resident, mentioned the traffic related issues in her neighborhood and the money spent on improvements to the area. Doesn't feel that MCPS really considered other locations. Mentioned that Forest Oak Elementary School was built on 47 acers and suggested that another school be built on that property. Provided the Mayor and City Council with a petition.
30. Rhonda Gleeson, Gaithersburg resident, mentioned the overcrowding is an issue throughout Montgomery County and that a cluster solution is needed. Requested that school and cluster boundaries be reevaluated.
31. Beth Junim, Saybrooke resident, expressed opposition to the proposed school location at Kelley Park and reiterated the comments above. Presented several pictures of people using the park.
8. From Mayor And City Council
Neil Harris-
1. Spoke on the proposed school site at Kelley Park. Stated that he would like to talk with residents outside of the Council Chamber setting.
2. Congratulated award recipients. Thanked the City staff for making sure that funds were available for the W. Edward Bohrer, Jr. Memorial Character Counts! Scholarship.
3. Attended the recent Economic and Business Development Committee (EBDC) meeting where a presentation from Montgomery County was given on plans for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) on Route 355 and 29.
4. Mentioned that the pedestrian walkway through the Kimco properties will begin construct in June. Stated that the movie theater in the Kentlands will also start construction around the same time.
5. Announced that the new Japanese restaurant in the Kentlands has filed for their liquor license.
6. Met with a Cub Scout Troop to discuss how City government works.
Laurie-Anne Sayles-
1. Spoke on the proposed school site at Kelley Park. Stated that the Mayor and City Council were elected to do what is best for all residents.
2. Congratulated the new Junior Mayor.
3. Participated with the Maryland Municipal League (MML) to recognized the Statewide winner of the “If I Were Mayor.” essay contest who is a 4th grader from Rachel Carson Elementary School.
4. Mentioned the retirement of Dr. Handy from Gaithersburg High School. Stated that she will be missed.
5. Attended the Gaithersburg Book Festival (GBF). Mentioned that despite the bad weather, it was well attended. Thanked Politics and Prose, who co-sponsored the event.
6. Announced that she was elected to serve as Vice President for Montgomery Chapter of MML.
7. Announced that a health and wellness committee will be proposed to the Mayor and City Council.
Ryan Spiegel-
1. Extended congratulations to all the award recipients.
2. Wished those celebrating a happy Ramadan, or Ramadan Kareem.
3. Thanked everyone involved in the GBF. Stated that this event helped put Gaithersburg on the map.
4. Requested a moment to remember the El Paso Texas school shooting victims.
5. Reminded everyone about the importance and meaning of Memorial Day.
6. Mentioned the Flags for our Heroes event scheduled for Saturday, May 26.
Michael Sesma-
1. Expressed condolences to the family of Kevin Kamenetz. Stated that Gaithersburg had a great working relationship with him.
2. Expressed condolences to the friends and family of the Baltimore County Police Officer that was killed in the line of duty.
3. Congratulated Diamond Elementary School on receiving the Great Award.
4. Congratulated and extended best wishes to those who received the Character Counts! scholarship.
5. Recognized Principals Dr. Handy and Ms. Barranger for all their work in the City.
6. Thanked everyone involved with the GBF. Mentioned the importance of the vendors. Congratulated Mayor Ashman on a successful event.
Robert Wu-
1. Recognized Principals Dr. Handy and Ms. Barranger.
2. Congratulated the new Junior Mayor.
3. Thanked everyone for coming out and speaking. Stated that public comments and written testimony does help the City Council make decisions.
Jud Ashman-
1. Thanked all those involved with the GBF. Mentioned that there were an estimated 14,000 attendees.
2. Announced that the Mayor and City Council will not conduct a work session on Monday, May 28.
3. Announced that the next Regular Session of the Mayor and City Council is scheduled for Monday, June 4, 2018, 7:30 p.m., at City Hall.
9. Closed Executive Session
A. Closed Executive Session Announcement
Mayor Ashman requested the following:
Motion was made to conduct a closed executive session immediately following the regular session pursuant to the General Provisions Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland Sections 3-305(b)(8) consult with staff, consultants, or other individuals about pending or potential litigation and 3-305(b)(1)(i) the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation or performance evaluation of appointees, employees, or officials over whom it has jurisdiction. The topics discussed were potential litigation regarding the City’s MS4 Stormwater Permit and a personnel matter to conduct the City Manager’s annual performance evaluation.
Result: Passed [Unanimous]
Mover: Michael Sesma, Council Member
Seconder: Neil Harris, Council Member
For: Spiegel, Harris, Sayles, Sesma, Wu
10. From City Manager
Tony Tomasello-
1. Recognized Gaithersburg’s Information Technology staff for their involvement with the Gaithersburg Book Festival.
2. Mentioned that the FY19 budget is scheduled to be adopted at the June 4 Mayor and City Council Regular Session.
11. Economic Development Update
Thomas Lonergan-
1. Stated that Kite Pharmaceuticals, a Santa Monica based biotech, has leased around 25,000 square feet of office and lab space at 930 Clopper Road.
2. Mentioned that Yardhouse has started construction at 211 Rio Boulevard, formally the Macaroni Grill.
3. Announced that Economic Development staff, along with Rockville Economic Development Inc., will co-sponsor a booth at the 2018 Bio International Convention between June 4 and 7 in Boston, Massachusetts. Staff plans to highlight the 270 Corridor.
12. Policy Discussions
A. MP-1-17: Resolution of the Mayor and City Council Approving an Amendment to the General Plan for the City of Gaithersburg Master Plan Revising the Historic Preservation Element Plan
Planner Berger presented the above resolution for policy discussion and final action. The City of Gaithersburg is empowered under the Land Use Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, to exercise autonomous planning and zoning powers. Land Use establishes the requirements of a municipal comprehensive master plan and its required elements, and the procedures for approving said master plan. Land Use Division 1, Section 3-301(a) Plan Revisions requires the City’s comprehensive master plan to be reviewed and if necessary revised and amended at least once every 10 years. Land Use Division I, Section 3-102(b)(1) Elements-Municipal Corporations permits the City to include additional plan elements beyond what is required, such as Historic Preservation. MP-1-17 is an update to the 2003 Historic Preservation Element and is the first element of the 2018 Master Plan Update to be reviewed.
A joint public hearing was held on February 20, 2018. The draft Historic Preservation Element was revised in response to comments received into the record and made during the public hearing. The Planning Commission held a meeting on April 18, 2018, and recommended approval. The Historic District Commission also was supportive of the document. The Mayor and City Council’s record closed at 5 p.m. on April 27, 2018.
Council Member Sesma reminded the public that no property would be automatically designated as a historic property, an application and review process would be required.
Motion was made to approve the above resolution.
Result: Passed [Unanimous]
Mover: Michael Sesma, Council Member
Seconder: Robert Wu, Council Member
For: Spiegel, Harris, Sayles, Sesma, Wu
13. Staff Guidance
A. Recommendations for Housing Initiative Fund (HIF) Loans to Support Improvements to Multi-Family Properties
Economic Development Director Lonergan and Housing and Community Development Chief Kauffmann sought guidance on expanding the HIF to provide: financial assistance to “Class C” multi-family property owners; loans for modernization of units, common areas, and exteriors; and loans for improvements that reduce utility costs directly incurred by tenants. The current available funds are $400,000. Staff went over the goals of the program, preliminary ideas for the terms and conditions, other County and State programs that are currently offered, how the expanded program would be marketed, and the next steps.
CityCouncil members requested clarification on the Montgomery County’s Voluntary Rent Guidelines and how that would affect the borrowers. Staff stated that by taking this loan, the borrowers would in turn commit to the County’s Rent Guidelines that would no longer be voluntary. Council Members expressed concern with rent escalations. Staff stated that they have not seen “wild” rent escalation in properties who have received funds in the past. There have been one or two properties that had substantial re-investments made to the exterior of the properties where tenants saw a rent increase of $100, which was still the best deal in the region. Council Members stated that this program would increase the quality of the aging garden style apartments, stop building from deteriorating further, and would be an inexpensive way for the City to maintain market level affordable housing.
It was questioned whether matching funds would be a requirement during the approval process. Staff stated that they have not gone that far into the process but would discuss recommendations.
It was further questioned why the amount of money being budgeted was only $400,000 with a max loan amount of $100,000. City Manager Tomasello stated that the City has had no real experience servicing commercial loans so staff is taking gradual steps in this process to protect the City’s investment. It was mentioned that there are some institutions in the City that are consider community banks that may be willing to assist with the program.
Mayor and City Council members agreed that staff should proceed with some clarifications on the loan terms and encouraged staff to make sure that utilities savings, where applicable, be passed down to the tenants and not the landlords.
B. Staff Guidance In Regards to Slates
A Joint Work Session with the Board of Supervisors of Elections (BOSE) was held on February 12, 2018 to discuss potential changes to the election process. The BOSE met on April 25, 2018 to finalize their recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on amendments that are scheduled to be introduced on June 18, 2018. The one topic that was not given clear direction on was the issue of slates. As a result, staff has drafted two versions of proposed amendments in a memorandum dated May 4, 2018; one including slates (attachment A) and one excluding slates, but including provisions for joint campaign events in the Regulations (attachment B). The BOSE reviewed both options at their meeting but made no recommendation as to which option it preferred as the Board believed that this was a decision for the Mayor and Council. City Attorney Board stated that staff is seeking guidance on whether or not to include provisions for slates in the ordinances and regulations proposed for introduction.
It was questioned why the City’s election code differs from the County and State election laws. Council Member Spiegel and staff clarified that the County Laws are the State laws and that the Maryland Municipal League (MML) has strived to keep local municipalities with the right to have their own election laws and codes. If the City was to opt in to the State laws, the City would be unable to make changes. Council Member Sesma reminded everyone that the City operates as a non-partisan municipality while the County and State do not which does affect their slate operations.
The City Council concurred that staff should proceed with attachment B as it provides better transparency for campaign contributions and expenditures. It was requested that clarification be made regarding campaign finance reports, the difference between individual and slate expenditures, donations, whether or not contributions and expenditures should be proportionate, and the difference between slate maximum and individual maximum for contributions.
14. From City Attorney / Deputy City Manager / Other Staff
No report from staff.
15. Correspondence
A. Outside
16. Adjournment
There being no further business, the session was adjourned at 10:55 pm
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