Monarch Preschool College Park invites you to their Open House on Friday, Dec. 9, between 9 am and 7 pm.
Learn about their December incentives and their project-based curriculum that aims to prepare children for their academic careers.
New registrants receive 30 days of free before or aftercare.
Follow the link to register>> http://ow.ly/EtyN50LLEb4
The City of College Park, with One Warm Coat, a national non-profit organization, will once again hold our annual One Warm Coat Drive from November 16 through December 6.
Please donate either new or like-new coats and cold-weather items. Children’s coats, hats, and gloves for ages 4-11 are particularly in need.
Help fellow College Park residents in need by donating your clean, new, or like-new coats, hats, and gloves during the City’s annual warm coat drive. All donated coats will be distributed to designated local elementary schools for children and families in need.
Comments are by Councilmembers Llatetra Brown Esters and Susan Whitney and are not approved or sanctioned by the City of College Park.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS/COMMENTS – MAYOR, COUNCIL, STUDENT LIAISON
Councilmember Kabir announced that the last day of the Hollywood Farmer’s Market would be on Saturday, November 19. He also mentioned that the College Park Food Bank was accepting Turkey donations through November 18.
Councilmember Kennedy thanked those responsible for coordinating Good Neighbor Day held on November 12. She mentioned her participation in a mental health workshop.
Councilmember Esters mentioned the upcoming Berwyn District Civic Association (BDCA) meeting to be held on Thursday, November 17 at 7:30pm.
Councilmember Whitney thanked the individuals who help with her vine removal project for Good Neighbor Day.
Councilmember Rigg acknowledged those who gathered on Good Neighbor Day to recognize the life of Rose Colby on the Trolley trail, including Mayor Wojahn. Mayor Wojahn acknowledged Ms. Colby’s contribution to the community.
Councilmember Mackie thanked those who helped remove invasive species during her project for Good Neighbor Day. She encouraged everyone to read the city website about the many things to do during the holidays. She also acknowledged the Department of Public Works (DPW) for the first day of food waste pickup on Tuesday, November 15. Mayor Wojahn mentioned his participation and appreciation for the food waste program.
Councilmember Mitchell acknowledged the volunteers who came out to assist with her project at Attick Towers for Good Neighbor Day.
SGA Liaison, Adrian Andriessens, acknowledged Good Neighbor Day. He also mentioned the student group UMD Democracy and their upcoming event to talk about the outcome of the midterm elections.
Mayor Wojahn thanked all those responsible for coordinating Good Neighbor Day including Maryland-National Capitol Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), City Staff, and the Office of Community Engagement (OCE) and their leader Ms. Gloria Aparicio Blackwell who contributes much of her time and energy.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
Mr. Young thanked everyone who attended the event held on November 14 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of College Park City University Partnership (CPCUP). He announced that City offices will close at Noon on Wednesday, November 23rd and will reopen on Monday, November 28.
PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS
Thanking County Council Member Dannielle M. Glaros for her service to the City of College Park
Mayor Wojahn read the proclamation and presented Councilmember Glaros with a gift from the city. He acknowledged Councilmember Glaros for her compassion and advocacy for various issues including affordable housing and food insecurity
AMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Councilmember Kabir made a motion to amend the agenda by moving the hearing for Redistricting Plans prior to the presentation on plastic bags.
Councilmember Rigg made a motion to add 22-G-165 [Approval of two new Class C (Joint) appointments to CUPCUP Board] to the Consent Agenda
The agenda as amended passed unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CONSENT AGENDA AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Mary King, college park resident, said that two weeks ago she was awoken by a terrible car crash. She suggested that a white line and bollard be added along Metzerott road to steer drivers clear of cars parked close to that intersection.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Ordinances 22-O-09 and 22-O-10, Redistricting Plans
Mr. Gardiner, Assistant City Manager, introduced the redistricting maps that were previously moved forward by Council and outlined the process conducted by the Redistricting Commission.
October Plan 1 Map- works to keep the districts in tact as much as possible.
Plan 3A Map – one of the original maps submitted by the Redistricting Commission.
Mr. Gardiner indicated both Maps meet the criteria for + or – 5% for population and + or – 7.5% for actual voters
Mary King, resident of College Park, suggested that Council maintain map 3A as it meets constitutional requirements. She said Council should choose what the commission did originally.
Ms. Lerbeck, resident of College Park, expressed a desire to stay in District 1 and voiced her strong support for the October Plan 1 Map.
City Attorney, Suellen Ms. Ferguson, indicated that the updated description of district boundaries in Councilmembers’ red folders was done for clarification; there were no substantive changes.
PRESENTATIONS
Presentation from Michelle Whittaker, RCVMaryland, about Ranked Choice Voting
Ms. Whittaker described RCV Maryland as a grassroots organization with the purpose of helping to ensure people understand what ranked-choice voting (RCV) means. According to Ms. Whittaker, the major question for many is why to do ranked-choice voting. This voting structure assists people who have several people to choose from for a variety of reasons. She said the system helps people recognize their commonality and ensures that people can advance other values they would like to advance, like representation.
She added that RCV helps to eliminate the spoiler effect, saying it allows voters to express desires and ends non-majority winners and identifies the candidate with the greatest consensus.
Ranked-choice voting is a system that allows voters to rank candidates of preference. The structure also works for multi-choice winners such as College Park’s city council elections. All first choices are counted. If the candidate reaches the majority threshold as voters’ first choice, they win. If a candidate does not reach that threshold, the candidate who received the lowest number of first-choice votes is eliminated. The process continues until a winner is identified. There is a Universal tabulator that will help with the calculation of the election RCV is being used and successfully implemented across the county. Some examples include Takoma Park (Since 2006); Alaska (2022); and New York City (2021). It has also been used in Democratic Primaries in two states, one county, and 53 cities. She mentioned that Fair Vote is a national organization that focuses on RCV.
Mayor Wojahn wondered how this would work in College Park, where two representatives are elected per district.
Councilmember Whitney asked whether or not there is evidence of increased voter participation. Ms. Whittaker indicated that increased voter participation can be a side effect of RCV, but is often not the only reason for increased turnout.
Councilmember Kabir ask how those using this voting structure deal with errors on the ballot. Ms. Whittaker indicated the error rate is similar to the current voting process and that voter education is key. She added that the State of Maryland currently has a system that can utilize RCV. Councilmember Kabir mentioned the potential of a local jurisdiction to cause confusion by changing to a different voting structure. Ms. Whittaker reiterated the importance of voter education. She added that confusion is not necessarily caused by the system.
Councilmember Kabir asked Ms. Whittaker if there was a referendum in Takoma Park to change to RCV. She said she believed it had been a ballot initiative but did not have the information in front of her.
Councilmember Mitchell asked of any jurisdictions outside of Maryland during this last election cycle used ranked-choice voting. Ms. Whitter said she focuses on Maryland, but that jurisdictions out west had used it, as well as St. Paul, MN. She said the Virginia’s Arlington County Board is currently considering it for Board elections. She indicated the Ranked Choice Voting Resource Center could provide additional information.
Councilmember Kennedy shared that she is an advocate for ranked-choice voting but struggles with it in such a small, local jurisdiction. She shared that College Park elections have not been competitive. She asked how we avoid this becoming a distraction. Ms. Whittaker indicated that we must ask ourselves why we want to use this voting system and what outcome we are looking for. She added it may not work in all areas, but it allows for expanded voices in the process.
Councilmember Rigg thanked Ms. Whittaker for her presentation and talked about his experience with the process where there were multiple candidates. He mentioned how such a change could be good, but he expressed concern about its worth given the amount of effort needed to make the change. He concluded by saying he likes it conceptually.
Mayor Wojahn indicated the administrative burden may remain the same under RCV as it is for current elections.
Councilmember Adams expressed interest in RCV like other council colleagues. He asked Ms. Whittaker if more candidates were willing to put themselves in elections where ranked-choice voting exists. Ms. Whitter said data shows an increase in the number of women and People of Color (POC) running and winning. Councilmember Adams asked about statistics regarding the number of ballots invalidated as it compares to other voting structures. Ms. Whittaker did not have that data at her fingertips but referred him to the Ranked Choice Voting Resource Center.
Councilmember Esters acknowledged the number of reasons why rank choice voting would work but asked if there were cases in which it had been adopted but hadn’t worked. Ms. Whittaker shared two instances. First, in Cincinnati during the 1920s, a Black candidate was elected for mayor through RCV, and the City interpreted that as a failure and stopped using RCV going forward. Second, in Burlington, VT, a mayoral candidate elected via RCV in 2009 became embroiled in scandal and RCV was blamed for elevating a bad candidate. She said that often, where it has been implemented and then rescinded, the choice to repeal is based upon the individuals who were elected.
Ms. Whittaker concluded her comments by stressing the importance of having ranked-choice voting to ensure that voters have their voice and for the purpose of improving democracy.
Councilmember Rigg said that ranked-choice voting could be considered as a ballot initiative for the next municipal election.
Presentation from the Committee For A Better Environment on a proposal to ban plastic bags
Mr. Robert Marsili, Director of Public Works, introduced the item by indicating that the Committee for a Better Environment (CBE) would present their proposal, and he recognized CBE for their work on a number of environmental projects. Todd Larsen and Alexa Bely presented the proposal on behalf of the committee.
According to Ms. Bely, here is College Park we see plastic pollution that flows into our waterways. A major source of plastic pollution is plastic bags. Annually, we see about 13 million bags used in College Park. Only 5% of plastic bags are recycled, and. they the most common contaminant in recycling machines. She said county data shows that 90% of individuals will take bags if they are offered. However, in places where plastic bags are banned and there is a fee for paper bags, we see a dramatic increase in the use of reusable bags.
She said the CBE conducted a study and observed that within the city, 75% of patrons used plastic bags when offered. The CBE asked how we could reduce the use of plastic bags. The CBE outlined the following approaches for reducing plastic bag usage:
Mr. Larsen discussed lessons learned from other municipalities about which approach is most effective.
Mr. Larsen indicated vendors would be given a 6-month period to comply, which would allow them to use the bag supply they already have and prepare for the transition. He said Hyattsville, Greenbelt and Berwyn Heights are considering such proposals and College Park doing the same would help to create a coordinated effort in the area.
Mayor Wojahn said a resident had asked if input was received from retailers. Mr. Larsen indicated they had not received input from retailers but that many of the stores in the area are accustomed to such restrictions.
Councilmember Esters thanked the committee for their work and acknowledged the importance of restricting the use of plastic bags. However, she expressed concerns for small businesses and their ability to comply with such a ban given the increased cost of other bags.
Councilmember Kennedy talked about how putting this in place may be challenging and suggested that their presentation be made into an FAQ. She wondered if the $.10 charge would be enough for small businesses to recoup additional costs. Mr. Larson said that the $.10 charge is the floor for stores to charge for paper bags, and individual stores can choose to charge more. Maryland Sierra Club’s Martha Ainsworth noted that the implementation of the fees reduces the demand for paper bags, which in turn reduces overhead.
Councilmember Adams echoed sentiments regarding smaller vendors, specifically takeout restaurants, and challenges they may have integrating this into their operations.
Councilmember Mitchell asked that this proposal be brought back to a future work session to discuss an implementation plan.
Councilmember Kabir indicated education is important and expressed concern about the use of the word “ban.” He suggested that branding of this program be considered. He also suggested a community meeting and meetings with the small business owners. He emphasized the opportunity for city-branded bags to be given out to residents and said he looks forward to further discussion.
Councilmember Mackie said the presentation is great and the proposal is something we should do. She asked if CBE had thought of ways to discourage people from going onto Amazon and buying plastic bags. Mr. Larsen said it would be hard to stop people from making such purchases, but they would like to encourage people to use multi-use bags made from recycled materials. He mentioned that each year there could be a reusable bag week when vendors can give out bags and promote themselves.
Councilmember Whitney thanked the committee for their work. She mentioned having a collection of plastic bags that she had tried to recycle at Mom’s but was told they no longer did so after learning the organization they had worked with was burning the bags instead of recycling them. She said she liked the idea of City-branded bags and suggested the City could peak interest in and awareness of the effort by having a contest through which K-12 and UMD students could create artwork for the bags. She said just this month, Salisbury, MD decided to advance toward a plastic bag ban. She said this is an opportunity for the City to be at the forefront of this effort. She noted that Salisbury consulted with its chamber of commerce and the majority were in favor and that it was mentioned in Salisbury’s discussion visits to fast food establishments that had shifted away from plastic without issue.
SGA Liaison, Adrian Andriessens, thanked the CBE for their presentation. He felt that University of Maryland students would be behind this effort.
Mayor Wojahn thanked the CBE for their work.
CONSENT AGENDA
22-G-161- Approval of minutes from the November 1, 2022, Work session.
22-G-162 – Authorization for the City Manager to sign a contract with Trinity Wiring and Security Solutions in the amount of $152,381.46 for the design, build and installation of a new video security systemin the City Garage, including maintenance and support. The contract shall be reviewed by the City Attorney – Gio Gordeziani, IT Manager
22-G-165 – Approval of the appointments of Erica Bondarev Rapach and Kenneth Young to the new Class C seats on the CPCUP Board of Directors. CPCUP voted in July 2022 to expand the board by adding two new Class C seats
ACTION ITEMS
22-O-09 – Ordinance Of The Mayor And Council Of The City Of College Park To Adopt A Redistricting Plan “October 1” For Council Member Elections As Required By § C2-2 Of The College Park
Councilmember Whitney indicated her interest in moving forward with October Plan 1 Map. She added that it meets the criteria while the other map raises concerns about serving six civic associations.
Councilmember Stu Adams indicated his support for October Plan 1 map.
Councilmember Mitchell indicated her support for October Plan 1 map
Councilmember Esters said that she echoed her colleagues support for October Plan 1 map because it keeps the currently boundaries in place as much as possible, and she does not believe she will get scooters requested for district 2 if Map 3A were chosen.
Councilmember Kabir said Council should move forward with the October Plan 1 map because our residents want the districts to be as close to what they are now as possible, which was part of the guiding principles of the charge to the Redistricting Commission. He thanked the Commission for working with Council to address resident and Council concerns. He noted that the Commission recommended Council consider revising the Charter to improve the process, given the challenges of this redistricting. He said a future work session might be needed to consider the recommendations in the Commission’s final report.
Councilmember Kennedy – Indicated her interest in moving the October Plan 1 forward. However, she expressed concern that with this map District 1(D1) has a higher number of voters now than it did before, which she said is essentially a disservice to the district. She said if we start to see D1 residents have trouble getting on committees, that would be a signal. She said we may see that others may be discouraged from running in District 1 because the high voter participation favors incumbents, saying Council needs to consider those items moving forward.
Councilmember Rigg commended the Redistricting Committee for their work. He acknowledged 3A as a better map but recognized there is more support for the October Plan 1 Map.
Councilmember Mackie thanked the Redistricting Commission for their work and for distributing student housing across the districts. She said she is sad to lose Autoville and Cherry Hill but recognized this process is for the entire city.
SGA Liaison Valerie Graham said that October Plan 1 Map was not the choice of students on the Commission but understands the need for change.
Councilmember Mitchell echoed her colleague by expressing she will miss representing Autoville and Cherry Hill.
Councilmember Esters thanked the students for their part on the Redistricting Commission and expressed interest in working with students to encourage their participation in City elections moving forward.
Councilmember Whitney moved to adopt Ordinance 22-O-09 to adopt the October Plan 1 redistricting map. Councilmember Esters seconded, and the ordinance was unanimously adopted.
22-O-10 Ordinance Of The Mayor And Council Of The City Of College Park To Adopt A Redistricting Plan “3A” For Council Member Elections As Required By § C2-2 Of The College Park Charter
No vote taken on this item as Council voted to adopt the October 1 Redistricting Plan.
22-G-125 Approval of a contract amendment in the amount of $138,537 with NZI Construction Corporation for sidewalk construction
Ms. Terry Schum, Director of Planning and Community Development introduced this item. She indicated that work started last year and there were delays for a variety of reason.
Councilmember Kabir asked for the final design and the timeline for sidewalk construction. Ms. Schum said she believes it will take 30 days to complete.
Councilmember Esters indicated that this sidewalk borders District 2, and she is happy to see it move forward as it will assist with walkability in the area.
Councilmember Whitney expressed her appreciation for the project moving forward, saying she often see residents walking in the street, which sees a fair amount of traffic.
22-G-163 Amendment to contract with Wallace Montgomery in the amount of $34,850 for the Hollywood Streetscape project –Terry Schum, Director of Planning
Ms. Schum said the project has gone on much longer than anticipated. and there are very large cost overruns, some of which have to do with additional permit-related work. She explained that we are still waiting for permit modification and that there were additional electrical concerns that may not have existed had we owned the road when the contract was negotiated. She said this amendment will help get us to the end of the project.
Councilmember Kabir expressed his excitement about the work that will help to bring more people to the Farmer’s Market. He asked when the goat path will be completed. Ms. Shum explained that we will need to discuss cost overruns in December. The contractors hope to have substantial completion by December, saying supply chain issues have delayed some items like customized furniture for the parklets.
22-O-06 Introduction of an Ordinance, 22-O-06, to approve the Comcast Cable Franchise Agreement – Suellen Ferguson, City Attorney
Ms. Ferguson introduced this item and indicated her pleasure to present an ordinance for an agreement we have been working on since 2012. She indicated this is a collaboration between other cities and the county. She said the outcome was good, but there are some setbacks. We rely heavily on the C-Net which is a combination of two systems. Comcast is not willing to support this system beyond year 10 of the contract. There will be a required payment fee for I-Net, which is paid annually.
The ordinance moved forward, and the Public Hearing will be held on December 13, 2022.
MEETING ADJOURNED
CLOSED SESSION AFTER THE MEETING
Pursuant to the statutory authority of the Maryland Annotated Code, General Provisions Art.
§ 3-305(b), the Mayor and Council of the City of College Park are providing notice that they will meet in a Closed Session after the meeting on Tuesday, November 15 to discuss the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, or performance evaluation of appointees, employees, or officials over whom this public body has jurisdiction; any other personnel matter that affects one or more specific individuals. The Mayor and Council will conduct the City Manager’s evaluation and will discuss the timeline and process for City Attorney’s evaluation. They will not return to public session.
Click here to see the meeting agenda for November 15.
Click here to view the Mayor and Council Work Session held on November 15.
Click here to access the Mayor and Council work session agenda scheduled for December 6.
Comments are by Councilmembers Llatetra Brown Esters and Susan Whitney and are not approved or sanctioned by the City of College Park.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS/COMMENTS – MAYOR, COUNCIL, STUDENT LIAISON
Councilmember Kabir mentioned the turkey donation drive by the College Park Food Bank and drop-offs both November 11th and November 18th. He mentioned the North College Park Community Association (NCPCA) meeting to be held on November 10 at 7:30pm. He concluded by mentioning the Coat Drive the City is sponsoring with the One Warm Coat organization from November 16 – December 6.
Councilmember Kennedy mentioned Election Day and thanked the voting polls workers for their time. Mayor Wojahn also acknowledged those working the voting polls.
Councilmember Esters also thanked voting polls workers for the important work and mentioned having previously served as an elections judge and understanding their very long day. She also mentioned the upcoming Lakeland Civic Association (LCA) to be held on November 10 at 7pm.
Councilmember Rigg saidd the elections did not go smoothly at Ritchie Coliseum, which opened two hours late. As a result, many individuals had to go to other polling areas to cast a provisional ballot. He said the City sent a message to the Prince George’s Elections Board about concerns experienced during the primary held in July. Unfortunately, we have not heard back as of yet. Mayor Wojahn reiterated the concern about the challenges at the election polls.
Councilmember Mackie reminded residents that November 9th is the last day to register for Good Neighbor Day (GND) and that people must register to participate. She also mentioned the Veterans Day event sponsored by the City and Veteran Memorial Committee (VMC) and asked for any veterans feeling alone or suicidal to call for help.
Councilmember Mitchell thanked Mr. Rigg for bringing up the issues about the polling places and noted her Good Neighbor Day project to be held at Attick Towers.
Mayor Wojahn mentioned the Veterans Day Ceremony to be held at the American Legion on Friday, November 11. He mentioned that Frank Underwood, Corporal and Chaplin at the Branchville Volunteer Fire Department, will provide remarks and be celebrated for his service. He also mentioned that IKEA would host a breakfast for Veterans Day. He thanked the mayor of Madison, Wisconsin for hosting him to watch the Terps football team play the Badgers in Madison. He said the Terps gave it their all, but the Badgers prevailed. He said he felt welcomed by the community of his alma mater and informed Mayor Rhodes Conway that her gift basket is on the way.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
Mr. Young mentioned the virtual presentation on the Discovery District Trail sponsored by County Councilmember Danielle Glaros. He also acknowledged the Food Scrap program which will begin on Tuesday, November 15.
PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS
Municipal Government Works Month
AMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Councilmember Kennedy moved to add 22-G-160, enforcing no-right-turn-red restrictions at Edgewood Road and Rhode Asland Avenue during school hours.
Councilmember Esters asked to move 22-G-151 to the Action Agenda to allow for her to abstain due to her recent appointment to the Finance Committee for the College Park Food Bank.
Councilmember Rigg added 22-G-159 approving funds for holiday decorations at City Hall to the Consent Agenda. Councilmember Rigg asked to add 22-G-158 to the Consent Agenda.
The revised agenda was unanimously approved as amended.
CONSENT AGENDA
22-G-149 Award an emergency expenditure not to exceed $89,285.00 and authorize the City Manager to sign a contract to hire a contractor to fabricate and install a new ornamental safety barrier fence around the perimeter of the 5th floor walls of the Municipal Parking Garage – Robert Marsili, Director of Public Works Motion By: To: Second: Aye: Nay: Other:
22-G-151 Approval of additional ARPA grant funding in the amount of $125,000 ($25,000 each) to five local food service delivery organizations: 1) Meals on Wheels of College Park; 2) College Park Community Food Bank; 3) Community Meals Program at College Park United Methodist; 4) Route 1 Communities Care; and 5) Helpers to Good, Inc. – Gary Fields, Director of Finance
22-G-153 Approval of the Fourth Amendment to Contract CP-21-05 with NZI Construction Corporation in the amount of $84,393.00 for construction of a Basketball Court at the southwest corner of the Calvert Hills Playground in substantially the form attached – Steve Halpern, City Engineer
22-G-154 Approval of minutes from the October 11 Regular Meeting; the October 18 Work session; the October 18 Special Session and October 25, 2022, Regular Meeting.
22-G-158 Approval of City Legislative Priorities for the 2023 General Assembly Session – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager
22-G-159, Approval of funding for holiday decorations for City Hall
22-G-160, Approval for enforcing no-right-turn-red restrictions at Edgewood Road and Rhode Asland Avenue during school hours.
The Consent Agenda was unanimously approved.
ACTION ITEMS
22-G-151 Approval of additional ARPA grant funding in the amount of $125,000 ($25,000 each) to five local food service delivery organizations: 1) Meals on Wheels of College Park; 2) College Park Community Food Bank; 3) Community Meals Program at College Park United Methodist; 4) Route 1 Communities Care; and 5) Helpers to Good, Inc. – Gary Fields, Director of Finance
Mr. Fields did not have any prepared comments but said this is funding that these organizations need. Councilmember Mackie made the motion and Council Whitney seconded. Councilmember Mackie said these organizations are dealing with food disparity and we need to continue supporting them.
The item passed with 7 yes votes and 1 abstention from Councilmember Esters who serves on the Finance Committee for the College Park Food Bank.
22-G-155 Award ARPA funds for the hospitality industry to 8321 COLLEGE PARK HOTEL LLC, t/a Cambria Hotel at College Park in the amount of $150,000, subject to 8321 College Park Hotel, LLC entering into the American Rescue Plan Act State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Beneficiary Funding Agreement with the City in substantially the form attached – Michael Williams, Economic Development Manager
Councilmember Mackie made the motion and Councilmember Esters seconded. Councilmember Mackie indicated that the operative word was “rescue” and it was important that we use funds to rescue businesses that experienced loss due to the pandemic.
Ms. Ferguson, City Attorney, informed Mayor and Council that The Hotel edited the agreement. Some adjustments requested were not acceptable, but those that were acceptable were included in the information provided.
Council voted unanimously to approve the grant.
22-G-156 Award ARPA funds for the hospitality industry: $350,000 to GrillMarx UMD, LLC’s Restaurant in the amount of $350,000 allocated through Loss of Revenue provisions of the ARPA program subject to GRILLMARX UMD, LLC entering into the American Rescue Plan Act State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Beneficiary Funding Agreement with the City in substantially the form attached – Michael Williams, Economic Development Manager
Mr. Williams informed Council that this was discussed this last week and there were no changes.
Councilmember Kabir asked Mr. Williams to clarify where the monies were coming from to provide to GrillMarx. Mr. Williams indicated the funds will be provided using the loss revenue provision in the ARPA funds guidelines.
Mr. Young indicated that anything under general government services can be used at the discretion of the City that can make decisions about the best use of those funds.
Councilmember Adams asked how the City plans to deal with similar businesses that might come to the City asking for funds. Mr. Young said there are several businesses in the pipeline. He described the application process as exhaustive and indicated that awards will depend upon money that is left. Councilmember Adams indicated this could open the flood gates for others who seek to open businesses in the City and seek funds. He understands that funds are contingent upon availability and has some concerns about the funding amount for GrillMarx and what that means for future businesses. Mr. Young indicated he and Mr. Williams are working with the County and the State for potential funding that may be available to encourage other businesses to come to College Park.
Councilmember Mackie asked for clarification about where money for GrillMarx is coming from. Mr. Young explained the $10 million Loss revenue provision that allows flexibility for the City to use the funds. Councilmember Mackie understands that we need a nice place for people to eat in the City. Given the explanation but with a bit of hesitation, she would like to move forward. Mr. Williams reiterated that funds for The Hotel at th eUniverity of Maryland and The Cambria Hotel at College Park did demonstrate pandemic-related losses, so their grants would come from the regular ARPA funds.
Councilmember Mitchell thanked the City for their work in supporting businesses. She also acknowledged residents who had questions and wanted to let them know the funds are a one-time support and were fully vetted. Councilmember Kabir said he supports businesses coming into the City and knows GrillMarx is a high-quality business, but he’s concerned because the proposal calls for using lost revenue funds that could be used for other purposes. He said he’d be happier with different numbers, saying he will abstain rather than voting no.
Councilmember Kennedy called for a roll call.
Kabir – Abstained
Kennedy – yes
Esters – Yes
Whitney – Abstained due to her employment
Riggs – Yes
Mackie – Abstained
Adams – Abstained
Mitchell – Yes
Ms. Ferguson indicated that we have 4 abstentions and 4 yes votes. Not sure that we have a path forward in this situation. We will table it until the attorney can check further and come back during this meeting.
When Council returned to the item, Ms. Ferguson said that the Mayor could not vote to break the tie, which he could only have done had the abstaining members instead voted no, which Councilmember Whitney did not have the option to do.
Councilmember Adams asked that $250,000 be offered instead of $350,000. He suggested that the other $100,000 could be offered to GrillMarx at a later date at the discretion of staff if it did not interfere with offering funds to other businesses.
Councilmember Kabir indicated that he would be supporting the suggestion from Councilmember Adams.
Councilmember Rigg moved that we fund the grant at $249,999 now with the other $101,000 be granted at a later date as determined by staff. Mitchell seconded the motion. Councilmember Rigg encouraged his colleagues to simply vote no if they oppose something, rather than abstaining.
College Park resident Mary King said she was surprised at comments concerning this issue. Some Councilmembers suggested that because the item had already been in work session, it should be mostly decided when brought to the regular meeting. She said that, seeing as though residents don’t have the opportunity to comment during work sessions, that approach would diminish the comments that residents make. She said the purpose of ARPA funds is to help businesses hurt by the pandemic. She hopes the comments against the proposed were valid and hopes Council takes them into consideration.
Councilmember Adams said he had spoken to multiple residents and shared his suggestions with other members of Council. Mr. Williams expressed his disappointment with what was happening as he has been working on the proposal for some time.
Mayor Wojahn asked Councilmember Adams what triggered the suggested amount, and he said there was not specific trigger; he just chose an amount. He also asked what conditions Adams envisioned would need to be met in order for the other $100 thousand to be released.
Councilmember Kennedy brought forward an amendment to the amendment that specified that, if by 1/1/23, no other viable (as determined by staff) businesses were to step forward with a request for funding from the City, the other $101 thousand would released to GrillMarx.
Councilmember Esters indicated that she would support the adjusted amount in order to allow some level of funding to move forward. However, she indicated that what was happening felt arbitrary to her. She also said that the ARPA funds have been available for some time, and it is the responsibility of business to apply. She felt the work of staff was being disregarded.
The Mayor expressed frustration that the current voting rules can stall process and inhibits the mayor from weighing in when the Council is split, saying he would like to see us move forward but understands it is an iterative process and he appreciates that we can work through issues to come to compromise.
The Council voted to move forward with the amendments as stated with a vote of 7 in favor and Councilmember Whitney abstaining due to her employment.
Councilmember Kennedy said although the discussion was intense, she was proud of us for governing.
22-G-157 Award ARPA funds for the hospitality industry to THE HOTEL AT UMCP, LLC, dba The Hotel at the University of Maryland in the amount of $300,000, subject to THE HOTEL AT UMCP, LLC, dba The Hotel at the University of Maryland entering into the American Rescue Plan Act State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Beneficiary Funding Agreement with the City in substantially the form attached – Michael Williams, Economic Development Manager
Mr. William said that nothing was changed from the previous discussion on this item, but the beneficiary agreement was added. There were no questions. Councilmember Kabir made the motion that was seconded by Mr. Adams.
Mary King is a College Park resident who disagrees with the funding of $300,000 because she feels it is too much. She added that the Hotel had already received a Cares grant from the City.
Councilmember Mitchell asked if we could clarify whether or not the Hotel had received a Cares grant from the City.
The motion was amended to ensure that the granting of money to The Hotel would only occurred if they had not previously receive grant funds from the City. Staff confirmed that The Hotel had not receive Cares monies. Mayor Wojahn asked for the maximum amount of money a business could have received from Cares funding. Mr. Fields indicated the maximum award would have been $25,000.
It was decided with a vote of 7 for and 1 abstaining (Councilmember Whitney due to employment) that the grant would be distributed to The Hotel were it confirmed (which happened after the motion to amend was made and voted in) that The Hotel had not already received funds from the City via the Cares Act.
22-O-11 Introduction of Ordinance 22-O-11, an ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of College Park to amend Chapter 69, Purchasing Procedures, to increase the dollar limit of expenditures (contracts) that require a full bid process and that the City Manager is authorized to award instead of the Mayor and Council from $30,000 to $150,000 and to include a reporting requirement – Suellen Ferguson, City Attorney Public Hearing Date: December 13, 2022
Ms. Ferguson explained that the request is for bid and purchase authority be extended to the City Manager and increased from $30,000 to $150,000.
Councilmember Whitney asked if the City Manager entered into an agreement and, upon being notified of that agreement, the Council had concerns, what actions Council could take to oppose entering into the contract. Ms. Ferguson said that presumably, the city manager would hold off on continuing with an agreement were the Council to express concern. She said the city manager answers to Council. The assumption is that there would be further consideration before moving forward.
Councilmember Kabir asked if it wouldn’t be too late to oppose an agreement once it had already been executed. Ms. Ferguson explained that she approves all of the contracts, and they all have a provision for “termination for convenience” in them. If Council had serious concerns, the City could exercise its right to terminate the contract for convenience.
Councilmember Kabir stated that he was ok with moving forward with the ordinance but would like to see the $150,000 threshold be lowered.
Councilmember Kennedy moved to approve introducing the ordinance, saying she thinks the question is going to be the dollar threshold. She suggested conversations be had between now and the December hearing and that Council should come back with amendments if need be. She said we always complain that things move slowly, but that in order to speed things up, we need to give the City Manager permission to move faster. She thinks we should move forward with the full $150 thousand.
Councilmember Esters seconded the motion. The public hearing will occur on December 13, 2022.
22-O-12, an Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of College Park, to amend City Code §§38-4, ”Definitions”, 38-11, “Conflicts of Interest”, and 38-15, “Required disclosure by City elected officials and candidates to be City elected officials”, to conform to the changes required by the General Assembly – Suellen Ferguson, City Attorney Public Hearing Date: December 13, 2022.
Ms. Ferguson informed Mayor and Council that various changes have occurred to the State ethics code and the city is required to adopt these changes into the City Ethics code. She noted that this also includes gifts made to the Maryland Municipal League (MML)
GENERAL COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Ms. King, resident of College Park, mentioned the 4/4 vote from Council and the abstaining voters doing their job. She said it worked as it should have, and the rules should not change.
Councilmember Kennedy said that she was proud of us tonight, although it was tough. She said she was proud of us for being able to move forward.
Mr. Young mentioned that the ordinance for redistricting is coming up, and he wanted to know when we should adopt. Mayor Wojahn acknowledged that redistricting plan is to be adopted by the end of the year.
MEETING ADJOURNED
Click here to see the work session agenda for November 8.
Click here to view the Mayor and Council Work Session held on November 8.
Click here to access the Mayor and Council Meeting agenda scheduled for November 15.
Councilmembers Esters and Whitney would like to thank all veterans for their service and wish them a happy Veterans Day. Today, the City of College Park will honor all veterans who have served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard in times of war and peace. Due to inclement weather, the City’s Veterans Day Observance will be held at the American Legion Post 217. Join the City there at 11am to honor the commitment of brave men and women to our nation.
Help reduce hunger this Thanksgiving! Click here to sign up to donate one or more frozen turkeys, turkey breasts, or chickens for families in need.
The College Park Community Food Bank will accept donations Friday, November 11, 4:00pm-6:00pm, and again Friday, November 18, 4:00pm-6:00pm. If those times won’t work for you, contact them at cpcommunityfoodbank@gmail.com.
They are located at 9704 Rhode Island Ave, College Park, MD in the College Park Church of the Nazarene. Drop off your donation at the awning in the parking lot.
The 2022 Gubernatorial General Election Day is Tuesday, November 8. Polls are open from 7am to 8pm.
Click here if you have questions about your polling location or early voting centers.
Click here if you have questions about which county, state, or congressional district you are in after Maryland redistricting.
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Comments are by Councilmembers Llatetra Brown Esters and Susan Whitney and are not approved or sanctioned by the City of College Park.
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City Manager’s Report
Mr. Young did not have anything to report but reminded Mayor and Council that the agenda should be re-ordered to accommodate for invited guests on the agenda who will be late due to an event honoring County Councilmember Glaros.
Discussion of City Events – Ryna Quiñones, Communications and Events Manager
Ms. Quiñones indicated the past two years have been busy with events. She said that since Kevin Blackerby started a year ago, we have added a number of events including the Friday Night Live series, we brought back College Park Day, and held a parade for Fourth of July. They would like to discuss what we would like to see in the events moving forward.
Mayor Wojahn talked about how great events have been and how he has heard good things from many folks about family-oriented events.
Councilmember Esters thanked Ms. Quiñones and Mr. Blackerby for their work. She mentioned just having heard from a resident on Friday while talking to Mr. Blackerby during an event at Duvall field who indicated her appreciation for the family-oriented events. She expressed her understanding of the amount of work that goes into holding events whether there are 20 or 200 in attendance. She shared her appreciation for events such as the Friday Night Live series that bring people together.
Councilmember Whitney recognized the work for events and spoke of her enthusiasm about the return of College Park Day. She mentioned the July Fourth parade and believes that gathering volunteers should be easier moving forward. She added that it may be helpful to do a pared-down fireworks display in conjunction with the University of Maryland.
Mr. Blackerby mentioned staff response to input from the community about offering family-oriented events. They are working to create events that appeal across the age spectrum.
Councilmember Mitchell thanked staff for their work and understood where we came from and where we are now. She acknowledged staff for coming to College Park Woods to hold events. She asked about staff involvement in the planning of the Veterans Day event. She knows that many veterans look forward to this memorial for Veterans Day. Ms. Quiñones said they work with the Veterans Memorial Committee (VMC) to coordinate the event held at the memorial.
Councilmember Kabir thanked staff for their work. He acknowledged both comments about the parade that many residents looked forward to and the challenge in getting volunteers. He mentioned the possibility of offering paid volunteer opportunities like other cities. He agreed it would be challenging to pull off two events on July 4. He added that two major upcoming projects, including Duvall Field and Hollywood Streetscape, would have parklets and asked for events to be held in these spaces. He also asked for a general event for immigrants as they are a large part of our community. He mentioned an international food festival and shared that as a possibility. Suggested decorating City Hall with international flags. Kevin Blackerby mentioned that volunteers are often nurtured and feels that we are at the base level of asking people to participate. He explained that we are getting volunteers from high schools and the University, but not too many residents. He added that volunteers participate via word of mouth. They have a strategy they will be working on to increase volunteers. Councilmember Kabir mentioned the possibility of having a pool of volunteers.
Councilmember Adams offered thanks and recognized the success of events within the City. He mentioned the return on investments on the events and having heard positive things from many about the events that are occurring and how they bring folks together. In particular, he mentioned Friday Night Live, saying they set the bar high. He suggested we can extend what we do by blocking off Knox Road near city hall to hold smaller events. He mentioned intermittent events throughout the year and activities to recognize unique experiences that obtain national recognition.
Mr. Young shared that he is working with the businesses that will be in city hall to host events on both Fridays and Saturdays, including Shop Made in Maryland.
Mr. Blackerby spoke of resources and seeking opportunities for cost savings. As they look at 2023, they will consider ways to obtain items that will increase efficiency.
Ms. Quiñones mentioned the upcoming Winter Wonderland event to include a Christmas market at City Hall on December 10.
Mayor Wojahn recognized Cub Scout Troop 740 that joined the meeting in person to learn more about city government.
Councilmember Rigg said he, too, was enthusiastic about events that have activated City Hall Plaza and bring folks together. He mentioned the possibility of work with Inter-Fraternity Council (IFC) and Panhellenic Society to host events. He went on to share his understanding of challenges associated with getting volunteers and mentioned his interest in more staff involvement with VMC and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Committee events to sustain them over time. He indicated his disappointment that we were unable to have fireworks on July 4th because people look forward to it and expressed his belief the fireworks would be a better return on investment versus the parade. He said he would support steady growth of the events budget moving forward to help increase events.
Councilmember Kennedy stated that the most impressive thing about the events team is their analytical abilities and expressed trust in their work and insight. She asked about committees and staff recommendations being at odds and suggested that there be an off-the-record discussion to learn more. She said there can often be an emotional attachment to activities and mentioned staff having the support from the council to do their work. She suggested that the parade be held at a time other than July 4th and shared her thoughts about the parade being more unique. She said she would be happy to give money to the university and have them do the fireworks. She asked that marketing be used to obtain more volunteers and for more turn-key resources that will assist in getting volunteers. She suggested it would be good to bring back the volunteer appreciation dinner we used to hold and expressed interest in data about College Park residents attending events, perhaps at the events as they occur. She said she’s curious about what brings non-residents to College Park and how we might get them to move here. Ms. Quiñones said we do have data for some events, especially those that were ticketed through Eventbrite. It is hard to capture data for larger events, such as College Park Day. However, they know there are people who come from other areas, such as Bethesda and Silver Spring. They’re working to fine-tune events such as College Park Day.
Councilmember Mackie asked if there would be questions about events in the resident survey. She indicated she is pro-parade; you cannot interact with people during fireworks. She thinks food at events is a great thing.
Councilmember Whitney suggested that older volunteers be given access handicap parking and said having a prize raffle for volunteers might get people excited.
Councilmember Esters mentioned Mayor Wojahn’s highlights of restaurants throughout the city and suggested the city host a Taste of College Park event to give exposure to the various restaurants in the city.
Councilmember Mitchell mentioned an event done by her sorority that gives men the chance to show off their cooking skills and suggested the City consider holding such an event.
Mayor Wojahn suggested that the staff are doing many things and are stretched thin. Kevin mentioned that they appreciate the ideas and will work to incorporate them into what they’re already doing.
Mayor Wojahn mentioned the MLK event at the Clarice Center for the Performing Arts and the Dream Team Basketball Classic held pre-pandemic. He said a nationally-prominent shot coach and former Lakeland resident reached out before the pandemic about potentially holding a local event, saying UMD’s Office of Community Engagement might be interested in following up on that.
Mr. Young said the University has been a great partner and that we’d need to look at our budget and coordinate with the University to determine how fireworks will be done moving forward.
Discussion of 2023 Legislative Session and City Priorities – City lobbyists Len Lucchi and Stephanie Anderson and Sen. Rosapepe – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager
Mr. Gardiner introduced the item and talked about what normally occurs and asked the lobbyist to discuss what they anticipate being the most prevalent issues during the upcoming session.
Mr. Lucchi said 2023 will be a year of change with a new Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Comptroller. The legislative leadership will be new. The City is well positioned, as the two new committee chairs for appropriations and health live in College Park (Delegate Ben Barnes will chair the Appropriations Committee and Delegate Joselyn Peña-Melnyk will chair the Health Committee). He also recognized Senator Rosapepe, who also lives in College Park, as the third most senior senator.
Mr. Lucchi went on to say that the Legislature will need to deal with Governor Hogan’s budget. For the first time in 100 years legislators can add and change the budget when in the past they could only cut. Paid family medical leave, the Climate Solutions Now Act and, if Question 4 passes, the legalization of Cannabis will be considerations during the upcoming session.
He went on to discuss the City’s legislative agenda, saying he’s heard discussion about giving municipalities more authority in monitoring noise. Mr. Lucchi mentioned that the Prince George’s delegation normally starts taking submissions from municipalities now for State bond bills (one-time expenses for local initiatives). He expressed his belief that the City is in a good space with Senator Rosapepe and Ben Barnes in bond-related leadership positions.
Senator Rosapepe began his remarks by saying the state has a $1 billion surplus for this year and a similar surplus is anticipated for next year, which is a big difference from past years. He said everyone is surprised by the outcome of the growing economy. He added that the stock market has gone way down while inflation is up, and there is talk of a recession over the next 18 months. He said the State wants to take advantage of what they want to do, but is also putting money in the rainy-day fund. His advocacy was to go heavy on rainy day fund contributions, saying that during past recessions, taxes were raised and services were cut, and he’d rather be conservative now so those difficult decisions don’t have to be made. He said we’ve had 8 years of stable government and described Governor Hogan as rather hands-off except for those things that were important to him. That has been the culture of the Hogan administration. He anticipates it will be very different with a democratic governor. Senator Rosapepe said Wes Moore has not held office before, he is bright, and it’s hard to predict how aggressive he will be with his agenda.
Senator Rosapepe advised the City to pick priorities that are reasonable and doable. Graduate Student housing will be a priority. He wants to go back and get more of the $50 million requested for graduate student housing. Thus far, only $5 million of that has been appropriated.
Mayor Wojahn thanked the lobbyists and the Senator for their advocacy. He specifically thanked Senator Rosapepe mentioning money for graduate housing. Mayor Wojahn said the priorities of city including affordable housing, Attick Towers, noise ordinances, a community center in North College Park, stormwater management, Route 1 reconstruction project (phases 2 and 3), making the city more walkable, working with UMD to make Campus Drive more walkable & bikable, andwith Greenbelt to make Greenbelt Road more walkable & bikable.
Councilmember Kennedy thanked the 21st Delegation for securing almost $8 million for the Community Preservation Trust (CPT) and mentioned that it was Day 1 for CPT’s next executive director.
Councilmember Mitchell asked Senator Rosapepe for support for MML’s push for local police reform and accountability boards. She underscored the importance of stormwater management. She also mentioned asked that the State consider restoring unemployment funding for caregivers, saying those benefits were taken away 10-15 years ago, and the pandemic underscored their importance.
Councilmember Whitney mentioned the increase of incidents of investors buying properties and single-family homes and its impacts on neighborhoods within the City. She said mitigating that was one of the goals of the Community Preservation Trust (CPT), but she thinks we might need more than the CPT to address it. She mentioned an initiative in Ohio to place a 45-day hold on investor purchases to stall the process and give purchasing preference to individuals who want to live and stay in the city or to a nonprofit affordable housing group. Senator Rosapepe thought it was a good idea and suggested the city come up with the actions the city can take on their own, what the county can do, and what the State can do. He suggested coordinating with other entities like the City of Baltimore and Montgomery County to build a coalition. He also mentioned the Council talking about tougher enforcement of county prohibitions on more than five unrelated persons living in a home.
Councilmember Kabir highlighted the ask for a bond bill for a North College Park Community Center. He said Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) has come up with a site selection and the next focus will be on design. He also thanked the Senator for funds provided to Meals on Wheels and the 21st Delegation for their work on the modified muffler legislation. Councilmember Kabir mentioned a recent meeting with Hollywood Elementary School about school overcrowding. He said they need more classrooms and could use some trailers. He then asked about the possibility of helping with bond bills for that. Senator Rosapepe said that bond bills cannot be used for school build outs. However, he has worked for increased funds to go to the County for schools. The new school board representative and Eric Olson will play an important role. He suggested talking to Valerie Woodhall if there were ideas about College Park Academy.
Councilmember Adams expressed his support for graduate student housing and senior housing and spoke of the importance of plans to increase walkability. He also mentioned the possibility of the flat fare for Washington Metropolitan Transportation Authority (WMATA) and said that sometimes it is cheaper to drive and pay for parking than to take the metro into DC. He went on to mention stormwater management; advocate for changes to the Resilient Maryland Revolving Loan Fund (RMRLF) that would provide additional state and local government channels for receiving and distributing funds, would enable the Fund to access money from FEMA, and would enable some low-income property owners to be relieved of the burden of full loan repayment; and undergrounding electric poles. He said the reliance on electrical poles is different now and asked about the possibility of supplemental funding. The Senator explained he has been working on this issue for years and Pepco continues to fight undergrounding. He said undergrounding of power lines will create jobs. He said the involvement of the Maryland Municipal League (MML), Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) and environmentalists would help to make a difference. The challenge is putting together the coalition to make this happen.
Councilmember Rigg mentioned concern about County redistricting and zoning and talked about providing land use authority to the City. The Council has been pretty successful in helping to work with the State in planning for the City, but we can only do so much if we can’t shape our own destiny. The Senator said he has been working on this for a while. There is land use in authority in Laurel where developers and residents are happier. Senator Rosapepe suggested that the City work to get UMD on board. He does not know how it is that a County government that is so slow and inefficient would not allow the City to take on more of the burden.
Mayor Wojahn mentioned the work that is being done to help us take on more permitting authority. Mr. Lucchi said that of the 27 municipalities in Prince George’s County only Laurel has land use authority.
Councilmember Esters reiterated the need to address senior housing, but specifically mentioned transitional housing for those seeking to stay in the city but who are not in need of subsidized housing. Senator Rosapepe mentioned his knowledge of individuals in similar situations and said that it is a city planning issue that will require local leadership. He added that the city will need to identify locations and solicit developers.
Councilmember Mackie mentioned her concern about infrastructure in Maryland, saying we don’t want College Park to be mentioned like Jackson, MS, where residents have to boil water. She also wanted the state to focus on emergency preparedness, saying major weather events are no longer just a Florida problem, they happen here, too.
Councilmember Mitchell said she hopes that state legislators in Annapolis understand what municipalities do on a day-to-day basis and engage with them, saying not all municipalities have the benefit of a close working relationship with their representatives like College Park has.
Councilmember Kabir asked about Route 1 reconstruction and what needs to happen to get the next phases funded. Senator Rosapepe said Phase 1 of the project is to be completed soon and added that funding for transportation is not currently in great shape. He said the goal is to make improvements during the upcoming session. He mentioned there is federal funding for infrastructure projects such as the Route 1 reconstruction. He said the City will need to get the county to put other phases on their priority listing ASAP.
Senator Rosapepe thanked us for what we do and said he likes working with us. He indicated he worked to greet everyone who enter College Park Day and suggests that Mayor and Council do the same.
Discussion of additional use of ARPA funds for the hospitality industry: $300,000 to The Hotel/Southern Management Companies – Michael Williams, Economic Development Manager
Discussion of additional use of ARPA funds for the hospitality industry: $150,000 to Cambria Hotel/Southern Management – Michael Williams, Economic Development Manager
Discussion of additional use of ARPA funds for the hospitality industry: $350,000 to GrillMarx UMD Restaurant in the amount of $350,000 allocated through Loss Revenue provisions of the ARPA program – Michael Williams, Economic Development Manager
Mr. Williams introduced the items associated with the request of ARPA funds. He shared that the City has helped residents, non-profit groups, most of the City’s small businesses. He explained that the next phase is hospitality, tourism and travel. He said The Hotel and The Cambria have shown the negative impact of COVID. He mentioned that during COVID the National Guard were housed in the Cambria.
Mr. Young indicated we broke the items up to ensure transparency.
Councilmember Whitney indicated that she would need to recuse herself from the discussion matter related to the Hotel and GrillMarx due to her employment.
Councilmember Mitchell asked on behalf of the residents whether we were using City money. Mr. Young indicated we were not using City budget funds but would be using ARPA funding.
Councilmember Kabir asked how much is left in ARPA dollars after what we have already given. Mr. Young did not have an exact number but indicated he would follow up to provide that information to Council. He added that we have until December 2024 to allocate and 2026 to spend.
Councilmember Rigg asked how staff identified these three businesses as uniquely qualified to obtain these funds. Mr. Williams explained these weren’t the only applicants, but these 3 properties had their paperwork in line and seemed ready to use the funding and meet the reporting requirements. Mr. Young mentioned the spinoff benefits of identifying these businesses; one space houses a convention center, while GrillMarx will contribute jobs to the city and spur development in the area. Councilmember Rigg asked to clarify whether the businesses were strategically identified. Mr. Young mentioned the benefit of knowing what will be developed near these sites. Mr. Williams indicated there was an application process and that a few more businesses are being considered.
Councilmember Rigg asked about how recommendation for funding were determined. Mr. Williams talked about the consideration of proportionality. Everyone asked for the maximum amount, and the City understood not everyone could not receive that. They had to consider the negative impact of the pandemic as outlined in the Federal guidelines.
Councilmember Adams said residents want to know what material change they should expect to see at The Hotel and The Cambria as a result of these dollars. Mr. Williams talked about working with the hotels to get more conventions in the city and said that residents will walk into The Hotel and get a four- or five-star experience.
Mr. Williams explained that GrillMarx is going into the space that was the Old Maryland Grill. At one point, Chef Geoff was slated to go into the space, but COVID hit and that fell through. GrillMarx now wants to come into the city.
Councilmember Adams asked why the funding would not go to The Hotel to help with the build out. Mr. Young explained it was much better and much cleaner to go to directly to the entity if knew it was going to pass through a third party. Councilmember Adams expressed his belief that we are setting precedent for other restaurants to feel like they can receive such a large amount of money.
Ms. Ferguson, City Attorney, said it’s fairly clear that funding that is not for lost revenue has to be clearly for ARPA-approved uses. And basically, you can’t do something indirectly that you can’t do directly.
Councilmember Mitchell thanked Mr. Adams for his comments but shared that for many years, the City sought opportunities to help build beneficial economic infrastructure. She added that sometimes in order to move forward we have to take a risk.
Councilmember Mackie asked about money that may be available for other places that may come to the City. Mr. Williams said the City is definitely keeping in mind restaurants already here that might need help but doesn’t see funds remaining to attract additional restaurants with ARPA dollars. He said 4 -5 additional hotel applications being considered. One concern she has mentioned is affordable eats in the city and she would like the city to address this issue. Mr. Williams mentioned that Trader Joe’s at College park will be one of headquarter points for the Neighborhood Shares Program.
Councilmember Kabir asked about ARPA qualifications for what is a new business. Ms. Ferguson indicated that the first $10 million dollars is considered loss to the City and can be used in the way deemed by the city. Anything beyond that would need to meet specific requirements.
Mr. Williams indicated GrillMarx is not a new business, they have other successful locations in the State. College Park is a new location.
Requests for/Status of Future Agenda
Councilmember Rigg mentioned a request to discuss/update regulation of short-term rentals.
Councilmember Whitney mentioned a request for a traffic calming study for Roanoke Place.
Mayor and Councilmember Comments
Councilmember Adams thanked the Calvert Hills neighborhood for their recent event.
Councilmember Mackie thanked the DEA and UMD for hosting the recent Drug Dropoff event.
Councilmember Whitney congratulated the Berwyn District Civic Association (BDCA) for a successful Bonfire event.
Mayor Wojahn acknowledged the reception for County Councilmember Danielle Glaros and suggested that the City do something in honor of her service.
City Manager’s Comments
No comments from Mr. Young
Meeting Adjourned
Click here to see the work session agenda for November 1
Click here to view the Mayor and Council Work Session held on November 1
Click here to access the Mayor and Council Meeting agenda scheduled for November 8
The College Park District 2 Digest 