Join the Mayor and Councilmembers* for a town hall to discuss City-wide issues! This is an opportunity for residents to ask questions, make suggestions, and discuss issues with the Mayor and Councilmembers. 

Attend the meeting in person at the City Hall Council Chambers and enjoy coffee and light refreshments.

Can’t make it in person? Join virtually by watching online on Zoom, or on your local broadcast channel. 

*Please note that not all Councilmembers will be in attendance due to long-standing previous engagements that could not be rescheduled.

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 Esters thanked everyone for their activities during Trolley Trail day which took place from Hyattsville to Hollywood.  She said that she and Councilmember Whitney traveled from Hollywood to Calvert Hills, but they had a particular affinity for events in the Berwyn and Lakeland neighborhoods.  She also announced the upcoming Berwyn Civic Association meeting on Thursday, June 15 at 7:30pm and said looking for more information to visit myberwyn.org.  

Councilmember Whitney mentioned the Dine or Shop event on at Franklins Restaurant General Store in support of the Community Meals Program at College Park United Methodist Church on June 27^th from 11am – 9p.  Twenty percent of all proceeds will be donated to the Community Meals Program.  Patrons should remember to tell their server or shop attendant they are shopping for Community Meals and provide their receipt at the end.  She also said the WMATA request for input into the better bus initiative has been extended to June 18.   

Councilmember Mackie said the College Park Wood Neighbor Watch event will be held on Saturday, June 17 from 12 – 3 in the College Park Woods Neighborhood Park. She also mentioned the Bee City event at Clarice Performing Arts Building from 1pm -3pm as part of Pollinator Week.  

Councilmember Adams mentioned the Calvert Flyers as one of the few groups in the DMV area that plays disc golf and that they have a Facebook page.  

Councilmember Rigg congratulated staff and Council colleagues for being selected to host the next meeting of the International Town and Gown Association (ITGA).  There is much work to be done together to help make it happen.  

Mr. Young and Mr. Rigg attended the ITGA conference in Fort Collins, Colorado. It was nice to discuss what is great in College Park and the challenges faced by the city.   

Mr. Rigg chimed in to say he enjoys living in this community and hopes that others are just as excited.  He asked if council members would be interested in helping with a committee.  

Mayor Kabir thanked Councilmember Rigg and the University of Maryland Office of Community Engagement (OCE) for their work. 

SGA Liaison Mironi mentioned a successful meeting he attended between members of City Staff and City Council (Assistant City Manager, Bill Gardiner, Councilmember Esters, and Councilmember Whitney)  with the  OCE about student engagement and looks forward to opportunities to engage residents.

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

Mr. Young mentioned an upcoming event hosted by the Prince George’s Property Owners Association (PGPOA) at the Parish Hall on 6/15.  The quest speaker will be Eric Wayne who will discuss housing trends.  

He also mentioned the upcoming State of the Economy 2023 event to be held by County Executive Alsobrooks that will be held in College Park at the Hotel on Wednesday, June 14,  He concluded by announcing the upcoming City of College Park Townhall to be held at the City Hall Chambers on June 24 at 10am. Coffee and good discussion will be served.  

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Alan Hew – former council member for District 4

Monroe Dennis – Former council member for District 2

PROCLAMATIONS:

• Pollinator Week – June 19 – 25, 2023

AWARDS:

1. Employee of the Year Awarded to Jessica Prentice, Clinical Supervisor, Department of Youth, Family and Senior Services – Kenneth Young, City Manager and Teresa Way-Pezzuti, Director of Human Resources

Ms. Prentice was nominated by two of her colleagues at the end of the year. She serves as a Clinical Supervisor. She values the wellbeing of her team and continues to show patience and a great deal of care. She has lead the city’s employee wellness initiative and serves as Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE) lead.  

2. Recognition of Outstanding Essayists in the MML “If I Were Mayor, I Would” essay contest – Kiaisha Barber, Director of Youth, Family and Senior Services

The theme of the essay contest was “Preserving the Past and Empowering the Future.” Mayor Kabir recognized students from Hollywood Elementary, Holy Redeemer, Paint Branch Elementary, and Al-Huda School. He said members of Council were able to go to schools and hear readings of the essays. He also announced that one of the State semi-finalists was from the Al-Huda School. Essays were read by each of the students, and the topic focused on regulation of speed cameras, discrimination, speed limits, bringing people together, accessibility, and inclusivity.

AMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

Councilmember Kennedy made a motion to move 23-G-97 (Appointment to fill the District 1 Council vacancy) to the beginning of the Action items. 

Councilmember Esters made a motion to move 23-G- 94 (Approval of closing the Locust Spring Alley between 49^th Place and Rhode Island Ave. to drive through traffic) to consent agenda. Motion was seconded by Councilmember Whitney. 

CONSENT AGENDA 

23-G-91 Award a contract in substantially the form attached to Vertex Roofing Contractors Inc. in the amount of $52,300 for the removal and replacement of the roof on the DPW Truck Garage – Robert Marsili, Director of Public Works

23-G-92 Annual appointments to City advisory boards – Yvette Allen Assistant City Clerk

23-G-93 Approval of the minutes from the May 2, 2023

23-G-98 Approval of the installation of stop signs on 52nd Avenue at the intersection with Kenesaw Street to make the intersection a multiway stop and relocate the stop bar on Eastbound Kennesaw Street.

23-G-94 Approval of closing the Locust Spring Alley between 49th Place and Rhode Island Avenue to drive through vehicles – Bob Ryan, Director of Public Services

ACTION ITEMS

23-G-97 Appointment to fill the District 1 Council vacancy

Councilmember Kennedy made the motion to appoint Alan Hew to the District 1 Council vacancy.  She said that 12 people applied and 3 did not live in the district. She explained that only those who live in the district were considered using the following criteria: Leadership, Professional Skills, Community Service, and Diversity. She went on to say that Alan has had a lot of experience serving the community. He lived in District 4 but due to redistricting now lives in District 1.   

Councilmember Whitney said she was impressed by the applicants.

Councilmember Mackie said she was happy to work with Mr. Hew. 

Councilmember Adams said he hoped that applicants would get involved in the city, including civic associations.

Both Councilmembers Rigg and Esters said they hope that folks will get involved through the various City boards and committees.

Mayor Kabir swore Mr. Hew into his Council seat.  

Councilmember Hew thanked the Council for consideration and approval to serve for the next few months, and he said plans to be a candidate in November.  

23-G-81 Approval of City-Wide Tutoring Program with Imagine Learning -Kiaisha Barber, Director of Youth, Family and Senior Services

Ms. Barber reminded those in attendance that the program was brought to council in December, and the council allocated $30,000 and a part-time position to support this initiative.  She discussed the benefits of the program, saying it would be for K-12 College Park students.  Dr. Caroline Bernache of the Education Advisory Committee said she was delighted to bring this program forward to council. She said there may be a variety of reasons why students may not have access to tutoring, and this will provide excellent access to students. 

Councilmember Whitney asked what protections are in place to protect students in one-on-one tutoring sessions. Imagine Learning’s Aaron Cole said all sessions are recorded and staff may view all sessions.  

Councilmember Kennedy asked if GED support was an option. Mr. Cole indicated he would ask for another line to the contract that would provide access to GED prep courses for free. GED sessions are   asynchronous, recorded sessions led by real teachers.  

SGA Liaison Mironi – Ask about real-time access to bilingual teachers. Mr. Mironi referred to a Buzzfeed article that critiqued the program. Mr. Cole indicated his familiarity with the article and said the complaints occurred during COVID when all educational providers were struggling to meet demand. Mr. Mironi asked if there was an average estimate of time when a student can access a teacher. Mr. Cole said two – three minutes. He explained the program is asynchronous; the student needs to go through self-help modules before getting to a real teacher. 

Councilmember Rigg asked if staff had any idea of the need and if the monetary amount was based upon need? Ms. Barber said there isn’t a minimum. Dr. Bernache said we will need to encourage enrollment into the program. The staff person will be key in helping to promote the program.  

Councilmember Rigg asked about the specific population being targeted. Mr. Cole said the program has a capacity to take students in Math and Reading comprehension. Often, this is used in conjunction with core programs. It can be used for intervention and enrichment. The program assesses where a student may be. 

Councilmember Mitchell shared her understanding of the program’s proven track record and mentioned student challenges with reading comprehension. She asked if there are tutors who could assist with reading comprehension. Mr. Cole said it would not be possible with the current budget but could be something that may be done in the future.  

Mr. Mironi referenced the recent changes with SAT and ACT testing. He asked if the platform would reflect the expected changes with both the ACT and SAT. Mr. Cole said they work closely with both ACT and SAT and that he would take the question to his team.  

Mayor Kabir asked about the promotion of the program. Ms. Barber said once approved, she would like to consider the various ways it will be promoted, including mailings and discussion with all schools serving College Park students.  

Councilmember Esters mentioned the importance of such a program and thanked the Education Advisory Committee (EAC) for their forethought in bringing this to Council.

Councilmember Kennedy acknowledged the work and the long-standing desire of Councilmember Mackie to bring a tutoring program to the city. 

Councilmember Mackie acknowledged the work of the EAC and referenced her work as a homeschooler and former tutor.  

23-G-82 Consideration of Detailed Site Plan DPS-22024 and Related Departure, Discovery Point, located at the southeast quadrant of Baltimore Avenue and Campus Drive and a Declaration of Covenants and Agreement Regarding Land Use – Miriam Bader, Director of Planning and Suellen Ferguson, City Attorney

Erik Valentine, College Park Community Development Planner, summarized the staff report and memo.  This phased project came to council on May 16. He focused on two major issues, the BPIS and College Park Airport concerns. 

Ms. Ferguson said that as it relates to the Bicycle Pedestrian Impact Statement (BPIS), M-NCPPC would allow parties to come in to ask for a change in the BPIS to determine when the improvements would be required to be completed.  

Mr. Taub, the attorney representing the developers, thanked Ms. Ferguson and Ms. Bader for their work and acknowledged the work with the University and Terrapin Development. He also referenced compliance with Federal aviation regulations related to Part 77. 

Councilmember Adams made a motion to approve the Detailed Site Plan for Discovery Point and the Declaration of Covenants and Agreement of Land use. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Rigg.

Councilmember Mitchell echoed a compliment to Mr. Taub for his work with our attorney to come to consensus.

Councilmember Rigg disclosed discussion with Mr. Taub and others involved in the project.  

23-G-95 Consideration of reducing the speed limit on Rhode Island Avenue between University Boulevard to Paducah Road from 35 MPH to 30 MPH as soon as possible, and following the   implementation of traffic calming measures, further reduce the speed limit to 25 MPH if determined by staff after a traffic study to be justified by the traffic data and other factors – Steve Halpern, City Engineer and Suellen Ferguson, City Attorney

City Engineer Steve Halpern referenced a recent report related to driving speed on Rhode Island Ave. The report indicated 35 miles per hour is too fast on this neighborhood street. A plan was provided, and it was recommended we drop to 30 mph now and make other adjustments (i.e., raised bus stops, chokers, bus stops in the lane so cars cannot pass, and flex posts). Another study will be done to determine if/how behavior has improved. A re-evaluation will be done to determine if we need to move the speed limit down to 25.  

Councilmember Mackie asked for clarification about the plan and asked how long it would take for improvements to be made. Mr. Halpern said improvements would be made by August.  

Councilmember Adams asked what further action would be needed from Council on this matter. Mr. Halpern said the next study will be conducted after the improvements have been completed, and the City will lower the speed limit to 25 without further council action if that study shows the need for it.

SGA Liaison Mironi asked how the speed limits of 30 and 25 were derived. 

Councilmember Esters clarified that the change was not an arbitrary decision from our City Engineer, rather it was based on the study that was recently done. 

PRESENTATIONS AND WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS 

1. Discussion of the City’s Revitalization Tax Credit Program (45) – Michael Williams, Economic Development Manager

Mr. Williams led the discussion and wanted to address the story of the program and where it has been.  

Mr. Young said he has been asked about how we can get affordable housing and certain types of housing. He said that Council needs to consider what type of projects it wants to see in order to give tax credits. He used the example of a recent project that came to council as one thing but was quite different when it came back to Council. He said that when projects come before us, we do not always ask for right questions, like proforma. He said we need to consider asking such questions.  

Councilmember Adams said the tax credit is important to our tax base. In aggregate, it has substantially increased our tax base. He said he appreciated the criteria that is set forth before us. He asked if the tax credit was only for new construction.  Ms. Ferguson, the City Attorney, said she would look up whether or not it can be used for re-development. His research found the tax credit can be allowed for redevelopment at a higher value than the initial assessment. He mentioned the requirement of LEED qualification and said that SMART Growth and amenities are important, but he would caution us not to go too far because there are many ways to be sustainable. He said tax incentives done right can work. He added that the size of retail spaces should be considered and that condos should be an option.   

Councilmember Whitney said she understood the sustainability factor brought forth by Councilmember Adams but thought it might not be a bad idea to consider gold, pointing out that it was only one of many criteria that might qualify a project. She asked whether Council receives the application for review when it considers a tax credit, and Ms. Ferguson said they did. Councilmember Whitney said she would like to consider adding an attestation that the developer is not putting forth the types of housing considered ineligible for the tax credit. Ms. Ferguson said that the City must be careful not to restrict housing for any particular group. Councilmember Whitney also suggested that if a community center is offered as a criterion, it might include a provision to provide utilities. Finally, she asked if Council might require a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) to the City were the property to be assessed at a lower value. Finally, she echoed the concern about certain types of housing needed within the city, including affordable housing which, she said, should not be concentrated in one district, as it is now.    

Councilmember Esters reiterated the importance of having affordable housing throughout the city as indicated by Councilmember Whitney. She mentioned the need for middle housing and senior housing to help individuals stay in College Park. In particular, she mentioned the areas lacking development, especially in North College Park.  

Mr. Williams said this discussion will help us to level the incentives, and mentioned the interest rate environment has changed.

Councilmember Rigg referenced a document from the Council of Government (COG) report 2010 recommends that municipalities commit 75% of housing to be near transportation centers and activity centers. He also mentioned the need for Market rate and senior housing for those over 55. He thinks we should focus on commercial development as well.  We should think more about smaller commercial build-outs. Is there the opportunity to create greater incentives for minority-owned business? Public art is something that our city responds well to, he continued, saying we should look for opportunities to beautify the city.  

Councilmember Mackie said that RTC gives her trepidation, although she understands the need, saying we should take measures to protect the city environmentally. She said we should not develop every inch of the city and should maintain green spaces. She said we should make even more infrastructure improvements as mentioned by Councilmember Whitney. 

Mr. Williams indicated there have been jurisdictions that have overused tax credits.  

Councilmember Hew agreed with much of what had been said. He said it would be important to include residents in the discussion, saying he believes there is misunderstanding of the goals of the RTC and how it works. He suggests a workshop to see what residents would like to incentivize.  

Mr. Williams agreed about the importance of getting feedback before decision are made. He will work to get feedback.  

Councilmember Hew said not all criteria fit within all parts of the city.  

Councilmember Adam said we need to consider stormwater management and not having people do fees in lieu. He stressed the importance of considering the actual parcel of land to be developed. 

Councilmember Hew said as development occurs, it seems that developers do not abide by regulations. 

Mayor Kabir summarized the ideas and asked if the update of the ordinance would be our next step.  Ms. Ferguson said it would.   

Mr. Young suggested that Council determine what constitutes graduate housing and suggested the city bring ideas to help make determinations.  

Councilmember Mackie suggested we bring graduate students to the table to have the discussion. Councilmember Adams said it will be difficult to define graduate housing.  

Mr. Young said clarification about what graduate housing is considered is not defining graduate student housing, but there is the need to set parameters.  

Councilmember Whitney said the need for affordable graduate student housing has been a longstanding issue, and there might be documentation from previous discussions by the graduate student SGA (The Graduate Student Government [GSG]) of what graduate students are looking for. 

Councilmember Esters said she appreciated the staff suggestion to provide guidance on graduate housing.  Just like other housing within the city, we need to have a diverse inventory at all levels and clearly identify what is not acceptable.  

Councilmember Rigg said we will need to get comfortable with density in certain areas.  

Review and confirm the Strategic Plan priorities for FY ’24 – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager Does the Council choose to focus on the objectives for FY 23 

This item will be brought back to a future meeting agenda for discussion.  

REQUESTS FOR / STATUS OF FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

Councilmember Rigg expressed frustration about certain types of furniture, particularly those left outside for drinking games. He said inside furniture set outside can also be problematic.

Councilmember Esters said a request for a commemorative bench would be brought forth on behalf of the Lakeland Community Heritage Project (LCHP) for former Lakeland business owner and City Councilmember J.W. Chesley Mack Sr.   

COMMENTS FROM THE MAYOR, COUNCIL, STUDENT LIAISON OR CITY MANAGER

Councilmember Rigg welcomed Mr. Hew back to the Council.  

Councilmember Hew thanked the Council.   

MEETING ADJOURNED

Click here for the June 13^th  meeting agenda. Click here to watch the video of the June 13, 2023, meeting (when it is available). 

Click here to see the agenda for the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid Meeting on July 11, 2023 (When it is available) . Tune in, show up or share your thoughts/concerns about the following anticipated Action Items, Presentations and Workshop discussions:

• Public Hearing and action on the petition request for traffic calming in the 4700 Block of Navahoe Street – Steve Halpern, City Engineer 
• Public Hearing and action on the petition request for traffic calming in the 6800 Block of Dartmouth Avenue – Steve Halpern, City Engineer 
• Discussion with College Park Board of Election Supervisors: debrief of Special Election and plans for General Election  
• Discussion of the Mayor Pro Tem position 
• Discussion of plans for the additional revenue from the 3-cent increase in taxes on commercial, industrial and apartments 

All City offices will be closed on Monday, June 19 in observance of the Juneteenth holiday. Refuse and recycling will occur one day later than normal during this holiday week: 

• Monday collections will occur Tuesday, June 20
• Tuesday collections will occur Wednesday, June 21
• Wednesday collections will occur Thursday, June 22 
  
  
  Special collections for brush and bulky items will only be scheduled for Friday, June 23, of this holiday week. You must call 240-487-3590 or email publicworks@collegeparkmd.gov to schedule a pickup before setting your items out to the curb.

Officially recognized as a City holiday since 2020, and a federal holiday since 2021, Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Although the Emancipation Proclamation issued by Abraham Lincoln was meant to end institutional slavery in 1863 for confederate states, after the end of the Civil War, some former confederate states still refused to grant freedom to their enslaved populations. On June 19, 1865, the last African Americans enslaved were finally freed when Union Major General Gordon Granger went to Galveston, Texas to enforce the emancipation with General Order No. 3. Celebrations erupted from the newly freed people, and commemorations have been held since 1866. Slavery was formally abolished in the United States with the adoption of the 13th amendment in December 1865. 

To learn more about African American history in Prince George’s County this Juneteenth, check out links below:

• Black Heritage Resources
• Juneteenth with the Prince George’s County Memorial Library
• Juneteenth at the National Museum of African American History & Culture

You can also plan a visit to these places to learn more about Juneteenth and African American history and culture:

• African American Heritage Sites in Prince George’s County
• Prince George’s African American Museum & Cultural Center
• National Museum of African American History and Culture
• The Library of Congress is hosting “LIVE! At the Library” events throughout June that discuss Juneteenth’s history and legacy. Learn more here.

  

During the third of June, Pollinator Week is celebrated internationally. During this week, many events across the country are organized, seeking to increase awareness and improve the protection of pollinators and pollination. In this context, the City of College Park Bee City USA Committee is collaborating with the newly certified University of Maryland Bee Campus USA and the Sustainable Maryland Route 1 Pollinator Corridor group to host the screening of the movie “My Garden of a Thousand Bees”, followed by a Pollinator Resource fair. 

See event details here.

“My Garden of a Thousand Bees” is a documentary filmed in the UK, in which the filmmaker decides to let plants naturalize and spread in his yard and observes the changes in the pollinator populations that appear in the garden as a result. The film has been acclaimed for showcasing the impact that increasing floral diversity in our green spaces can have on insect and pollinator diversity and abundance, and how each of us has the power to contribute to protecting these important parts of our ecosystem. The screening of this family-friendly film is open to all audiences.

The film will be shown at the University of Maryland Clarice Smith Center, 8270 Alumni Dr. followed by a Q&A session; the Pollinator Resource Fair will be held at the Arboretum Outreach Center across the street at, 3931 Stadium Dr. At this Fair, attendees will have the opportunity to meet with Bee City/Campus USA affiliates from the region, biodiversity organizations, and local native plant nurseries and resources.

The event is free and will be held at the Clarice Smith Center and the UMD Arboretum Outreach Center on Saturday, June 17th, 1-4PM.

June 13, 2023, College Park, MD – The City of College Park’s Mayor and Council has appointed Alan Y. Hew as District 1 Councilmember to fill the vacancy left after Fazlul Kabir was elected Mayor in the City’s Special Election. Passed by Council motion on June 13, Mr. Hew will begin his tenure as District 1 Councilmember immediately. “I welcome Mr. Hew back to City Council as a District 1 Councilmember,” said Mayor Kabir, “his work and service in the community is commendable and we look forward to having him join Council on the dais.”

Mr. Hew previously represented District 4 as Councilmember from 2013 to 2015, and has served on several City Committees including the Bee City USA committee, the Committee for a Better Environment, Animal Welfare Committee and the Redistricting Commission.

As a result of the May 6 Special Election, Dr. Kabir’s District 1 Council seat became vacant when he was sworn in as Mayor. In accordance with the City Charter, the vacancy may be filled by appointment within 30 days of the Special Election (by June 15) by majority vote of the Council. 12 residents applied to be considered by the Council to fill the vacancy.

Mr. Hew will serve as Councilmember until the end of the current Mayor and Council term of office. The next City of College Park General Election will be held on November 5, 2023. All Mayor and Council seats will be up for election and the new two-year term will begin in December 2023.

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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ROLL CALL

Mayor Kabir recognized and congratulated the new SGA liaisons, Dhuvrak Mironi and Gannon Sprinkle.  Mr. Sprinkle was unable to attend the meeting.  

ANNOUNCEMENTS/COMMENTS – MAYOR, COUNCIL, STUDENT LIAISON

Councilmember Esters announced the upcoming Lakeland Civic Association (LCA) meeting to be held on Thursday, June 8 at the College Park Community Center beginning at 7pm.   

Councilmember Whitney announced Trolley Trail Day scheduled for Saturday, June 10 with activities to be held from Hyattsville to Hollywood.  She mentioned activities to be held in the Berwyn and Lakeland communities.    

Mayor Kabir – On June 24^, the Mayor and Council will host a hybrid Town Hall meeting in Council Chambers that will be live broadcast on the City’s cable channel. Mayor Kabir said it will be an open discussion with residents able to ask any questions they have. The exact time will be announced later on the City’s website. 

Councilmember Mackie announced an upcoming College Park Woods event on June 17 in the neighborhood park from 12:30pm – 3:30pm. She also mentioned the Bee City USA event at the Clarice Performing Arts center June 17 at 1pm. She indicated that Pollinator Week is the week of June 19.  

Councilmember Adams announced a Storm Water Management discussion on June 22 from 8:30am – 12noon at the University of Maryland. The event is sponsored by those in the greater community.  

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

Mr. Gardiner, Assistant City Manager, said Mr. Young was off to celebrate his son’s graduation with his family.  Mr. Young will then be attending the International Town and Gown Association (ITGA) conference in Fort Collins, Colorado.  

He mentioned 24/7 speed enforcement on Rhode Island Ave and the electronic sign at Greenbelt and Rhode Island notifying drivers.  He announced the next event in the Friday Night Live series to be held on June 9 at City Hall Plaza from 6:30pm – 8:30pm where stickers and pins to celebrate Pride month will be distributed.  He reminded residents that parking in the garage would be free.  

Mr. Gardiner directed residents to the College Park Community University Partnership (CPCUP) for more information about Trolley Trail Day events and activities. He mentioned that there would be a stop at the Hollywood Shopping Center.  

SGA Liaison Mr. Mironi thanked everyone for creating a welcoming environment and said he was looking forward to the year ahead and sharing student voices.   

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Mayor Kabir recognized former District 4 Councilmember, Alan Hew, who now lives in District 1 due to recent redistricting.  

PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS:

• Immigrant Heritage Month

• Juneteenth

• LGBTQ+ Pride Month

AMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

Councilmember Mitchell moved to remove the consideration of detailed site plan (DSP) of Discovery Point from the agenda, seconded by Councilmember Mackie.   

Councilmember Whitney moved to add the acceptance of application for the vacant District 1 council seat to the agenda, seconded by Councilmember Mitchell.  

Councilmember Kennedy moved to add the nomination of applicants for the District 1 council seat to the agenda, seconded by Councilmember Mitchell.  

Councilmember Mitchell moved to approve the amended agenda, seconded by Councilmember Esters

PUBLIC COMMENT ON CONSENT AGENDA AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS 

Oscar Gregory, non- resident – commutes to the National Archives consistently. Until 2 years ago, his family lived in the community for 4 decades. He believes that College Park works because those who live in the community should be involved and engaged.  He said a de facto election for a council seat goes counter to the Open Meetings Act. Making this decision in a closed session disenfranchises people from the process. He asked that the discussion regarding the open seat be open to the public. 

CONSENT AGENDA 

23-G-88 Approval of Cooperation Agreement to participate in the Prince George’s County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Urban County Qualification for FY24 – FY26 – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

23-G-87 Approval of minutes from the May 23, 2023, Council meeting.

Moved by Councilmember Esters, seconded by Councilmember Whitney

PUBLIC HEARING AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE 23-O-06:

An Amended Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of College Park to increase the salary for the Mayor to $15,000 per year, to increase the salary for a Councilmember to $10,000 per year, and to establish a separate level of pay for the Mayor Pro Tempore at $12,500 per year. Salary increases will be effective after the next General Election.

Ms. Way-Pezzuti, Director of Human Resources, said this would be the first change since the Mayor and Council compensation increase occurred in 2013. Staff believe an increase in compensation to the Mayor and Council is warranted. Ms. Ferguson, City Attorney said the amended ordinance indicates payment to the Mayor and Council would occur when City employees are paid. 

Oscar Gregory, non-resident, said it is about time that elected officials get increased pay. He acknowledged the employees in the city for their work and said employees should also receive raises.  He said if the City gave less tax incentives there could be more funds to increase employee wages.  

Moved by Councilmember Adams, seconded by Whitney.

Councilmember Mitchell thanked staff and recognized the first time this came up was years ago, and there was a different feeling and response.   

Councilmember Adams said he heard overwhelming approval from residents. They understand that people do not do this for the money, but it helps make life a bit easier. He hopes it may help others to run for office.

Mayor Kabir said in the future, the decision should be made by a committee. 

ACTION ITEMS

23-G-89 Acceptance of qualified applicants for appointment as nominations to the District 1 Council seat, to enable referral by the Mayor for review and comment by the Council as a committee of the whole, for the purpose of reporting on the qualifications of the nominees.

Ms. Ferguson outlined the process Council will follow. She mentioned that the individual appointed will fill that seat until the next election in November. Based upon the City charter, those who are qualified will be nominated. After the nomination, any council member will be able to nominate someone from the floor. All who are to be nominated are qualified. She said only the Council will vote on the applicants.

Councilmember Mitchell asked if, when the vote is taken next week, the person would be seated that night. Mr. Gardiner said staff have not made that determination yet, but it could happen.  

Moved by Councilmember Mitchell, seconded by Councilmember Kennedy.

Oscar Gregory, non-resident, said he does not know who all the candidates are and asked that the individuals nominated be from District 1.  

Carol Macknis, resident of College Park, asked that those nominated be from District 1. 

23-G-90 Nomination by any Councilmember for the District 1 Council seat. No nominations were taken from the floor. 

Mayor Kabir made a referral of the nominations to the committee of the whole for review.  

REFERRAL BY THE MAYOR OF NOMINATIONS TO THE DISTRICT 1 COUNCIL SEAT, FOR REVIEW AND COMMENT, TO THE COUNCIL AS A COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE, PURSUANT TO §C-6(B)(3)(b) OF THE CHARTER, FOR THE PURPOSE OF REPORTING ON THE QUALIFICATIONS OF THE NOMINEES

PRESENTATIONS AND WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS 

Discussion of lowering the speed limit (currently 35 mph) on Rhode Island Avenue – Steve Halpern, City Engineer and Suellen Ferguson, City Attorney

Steve Halpern, City Engineer, said the City has taken over Rhode Island Ave as of last year. A traffic study was done and revealed that we could lower the speed limit to 25, but it is recommended to reduce the speed limit to 30 and put in place other mitigations before reducing it to 25.  

Councilmember Kennedy asked how quickly this change will happen and recommended a neighborhood meeting to get input from residents.

Councilmember Adams asked if the report says that we can change the speed limit to 25 miles per hour, why not do so now?  He said we need to consider safety for the unprotected bike lanes. 

Councilmember Esters agreed with Councilmember Adams that the speed should be lowered to 25 eventually, but said she lives off of Rhode Island and believes the issue has to do with more than speed, it has to do with behavior. We should first lower to 30 and utilize other mitigation methods to change behaviors that impact bikers and pedestrians.  

Councilmember Kennedy agreed with Councilmember Esters. She said we need to get the word out about the change.  

Councilmember Whitney asked about other enforcement measures because of hazardous behaviors that occur. She said we need to be mindful that even if we do have protected lanes, that bikers need to come out of lanes to turn; she said we need to consider things comprehensively. She said the accident statistics provided by SHA didn’t include whether or not a cyclist was involved and said we should pursue legislation that requires SHA to track those statistics so municipalities have data to make decisions.  

Councilmember Mitchell said we should send out letters to those who live on Rhode Island Ave. Mr. Gardiner said information can also be placed in the College Park Here and Now and the College Park Bulletin.  

Councilmember Rigg shared concerns about bike safety. He said before we make substantial changes to Rhode Island Ave, we need to consider how emergency vehicles will maneuver the roadway. He said that fire departments in Branchville, Beltsville and College Park use the roadway.  

Mayor Kabir said he heard from a firefighter living in District 1 who expressed concerns about the lowering of the speed limit and believes that the dispatcher system may divert trucks from other areas that may be farther away. He asked staff to reach out to fire departments in the area.   

Councilmember Rigg said we should speak to the Prince George’s Fire Department (PGFD) to get their feedback. 

Council Mackie asked the City engineer about the speed limit on Route 1 which is 30 at certain points and goes down to 25. She said it makes sense to decrease the speed limit on Rhode Island as a neighborhood roadway. 

Councilmember Adams referenced the 25 mph speed limit on Route 1 and said that the report we received regarding Rhode Island Ave indicates we can reduce the speed limit on Rhode Island Ave to 25 miles per hour and we should. 

Councilmember Esters said that the report also says, “speed limit changes alone may not have the desired effect without other measures or enforcement.” 

Councilmember Kennedy said that reducing the speed so drastically could cause a negative impact.  

Councilmember Mitchell asked for clarification from Ms. Ferguson and Mr. Halpern and said we should go with advice from the content experts.  

Mr. Gardiner said the item would be on the agenda for next week and have a timeline for moving forward.  

Mayor Kabir indicated that attendees will be able to speak about this issue next week. 

Discussion of closing the alley between 49th Ave and Blackfoot Road to drive through vehicles – Bob Ryan, Director of Public Services

Bob Ryan, Director of Public Services, said Locust Spring Alley runs between 49^th Place and Blackfoot Road. There have been expressed concerns about vehicles driving through this pathway. He assessed the area and realized that it is possible for cars to drive through. The suggested solution is to install a bollard midway the path. This would still allow residents to walk through and allow for contractors to utilize the area as needed but would not allow anyone to drive through.  

Councilmember Esters confirmed that she has seen cars drive through, and on occasion speed through.  She is concerned about the safety of those using the walking path.  

Councilmember Rigg said this looks like one of the City’s “paper streets”, which have a checkered history. He asked if the city had assumed responsibility for this paper street but not others.  

Mr. Ryan said the City maintains this alleyway, and Ms. Ferguson said we have various paper streets throughout the city, saying the city has exercised jurisdiction for some but not others.

Councilmember Whitney said she supports this solution, especially as we consider walkability, and thinks we should do this to the paper streets throughout the city.  

Councilmember Rigg said we need to get a handle on paper streets, saying there might be an opportunity to create interconnectedness with these pathways and identify consistencies.  

REQUESTS FOR / STATUS OF FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

Councilmember Mitchell asked staff for an update on the Youth Advisory Council. She also wondered if there could be a presentation by the County about missing middle housing.  

Councilmember Mackie asked for a discussion with the school board. She thought it would be a good time to speak with the new CEO and Prince George’s Board of Education District 2 member Jonathan Briggs. Mr. Gardiner said the City will reach out to the County and the School Board.

COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE 

Resident Carol Macknis said she’s glad the city is looking into lowering the speed limit and acknowledges bike safety. She said there should be education about proper bike protocols. She suggested having Youth and Family Services educate young cyclists about safety. She also asked how the city is addressing crime prevention, including vandalism and other things. She does not want to see the survey be a waste of time and money for the residents who took the time to complete it. 

Oscar Gregory, non-resident, said the Mayor and Council should consider unintended circumstances. At one point, the bike lanes were being considered for the service lanes. There was concern that would divert more traffic onto the service lanes. People may try to avoid Rhode Island Ave. He said he and a group of residents would like to form a group to help folks with code enforcement issues, saying they’d like to work with staff to help code enforcement before things get out of hand.   

Resident Elizabeth McMahon emphasized the heavy pedestrian traffic on Rhode Island, which cars do not stop for. She would like to suggest that the service roads be included in any future studies. She said cars turn at high rates of speed and do not anticipate pedestrians, saying the service roads are also an issue. She said she was almost hit on the road a few weeks ago, and the motorist rolled down his window and told her to watch where she was going.  

COMMENTS FROM THE MAYOR, COUNCIL, STUDENT LIAISON OR CITY MANAGER

Councilmember Whitney asked staff to look at repainting the crosswalks at the intersection of Potomac Avenue and Quebec Street, saying there is a school bus stop at the intersection which residents have reported residents speeding through.

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell – She will not be at the meeting next week due to a work obligation. She would like parking and code to look into parking at 35^th Avenue in College Park Woods.  

Councilmember Mackie attended the veterans’ event last week and acknowledged the Veterans Memorial Committee and the boy scouts for a moving ceremony. She also recognized Ms. Way-Pezutti for her work on the staff picnic.    

Mayor Kabir – acknowledged all members of council who attended the recent Veterans’ event –  Councilmember Esters, Councilmember Mackie, and Councilmember Mitchell.  

Councilmember Mitchell – asked if the Veterans Memorial Committee and staff could partner to compile a list of veterans in the city.  

Councilmember Adams  –  mentioned the wildfires smoke from Canada.  He said the air quality will be code red on Thursday, June 8, adding that NYC currently has the worst air quality in the world. 

Councilmember Rigg – attending ITGA in Fort Collins, Colorado. It is a meeting for elected officials and staff of college towns and those who inhabit them. There is interest in hosting the conference in College Park in the near future. He asked Mr. Gardiner about Pride-themed events being held in the City and was told the Friday Night Live Event on Friday will be Pride themed.  

Dhuvrak Mironi– looks forward to meeting with UMD Office of Community Engagement and Council members.  

Mayor Kabir recently attended the Council of Mayors meeting and described it as a wonderful networking opportunity.  

MEETING ADJOURNED

Closed Session after the meeting: Pursuant to the statutory authority of Maryland Annotated Code, General Provisions Article § 3-305, the Mayor and Council will meet in a closed session after this meeting 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. (Council will discuss applicants for the Council vacancy and Advisory Board applications.) They will not return to open session.

Click here for the June 6^th meeting agenda. Click here to watch the video of the June 6, 2023, meeting. 

Click here to see the agenda for the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid Meeting on June 13, 2023 . Tune in, show up or share your thoughts/concerns about the following anticipated Action Items, Presentations and Workshop discussions:

ACTION ITEMS:

23-G-81 Approval of City-Wide Tutoring Program with Imagine Learning – Kiaisha Barber, Director of Youth, Family and Senior Services 

23-G-82 Consideration of Detailed Site Plan DPS-22024 and Related Departure, Discovery Point, located at the southeast quadrant of Baltimore Avenue and Campus Drive and a Declaration of Covenants and Agreement Regarding Land Use – Miriam Bader, Director of Planning and Suellen Ferguson, City Attorney 

23-G-94 Approval of closing the Locust Spring Alley between 49th Place and Rhode Island Avenue to drive through vehicles 

23-G-95 Consideration of reducing the speed limit on Rhode Island Avenue between University Boulevard to Paducah Road from 35 MPH to 30 MPH as soon as possible, and following the implementation of traffic calming measures, further reduce the speed limit to 25 MPH if determined by staff after a traffic study to be justified by the traffic data and other factors

23-G-97 Appointment to fill the District 1 Council vacancy.

PRESENTATIONS AND WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS:

A. Discussion of the City’s Revitalization Tax Credit Program 

B. Review and confirm the Strategic Plan priorities for FY ’24 

Join the College Park City-University Partnership, Anacostia Trails Heritage Area, Hyattsville CDC, and communities along the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail for a full-day celebration. Don’t miss out on District 2 stops in Lakeland and Berwyn!

Live Music and Entertainment • Food & Drink Vendors • Bike Rides • Creative Scavenger Hunt • Farmer's Market • Interactive Community Art Project • Family-Friendly Activities • Prizes and Freebies • Outdoor Fitness Classes • Nature Walks • History Tours • Exclusive Deals •

Overview

• Trolley Trail Day Itinerary
• Trolley Trail Day Activity Hub Map
• Stay Updated and connect!
• About: Trolley Trail Day
• Learn about our Sponsors, Participating Organizations and Businesses
• Trolley Trail Day 2019 Recap

The City of College Park hosts a series of concerts over the summer and you are invited! 

Join us on the plaza at the City Hall building on select Fridays for Friday Night LIVE!  The events will feature a variety of musical genres and performers and will include something for everyone, music, food, beer, and entertainment.  There will be children’s performers, a bounce house, kids’ activities, and arts and crafts.  

All concerts will be held at City Hall Plaza (7401 Baltimore Avenue) between May -September from 6:30 to 8:30PM.  Parking will be offered for free at the Downtown College Park parking garage at the corner of Yale and Knox.  Local food and beer will be available for purchase during the event! 

2023 LINE-UP:

• May 12 – The Nighthawks, Classic Rock and Blues
• June 9 – Starlight Anthem, 90s and 2000s
• July 14 – The Real Genius’s, 80s Rock
• August 11 – Groovalicious, Funk and Disco
• September 8 – OKTOBERFEST! with Edelweiss Band

For City of College Park residents only

The Summer Reading Program provides reading instruction and tutoring to children experiencing difficulty with reading.  The program is taught by certified teachers who are enrolled in or have recently completed the graduate program in reading and literacy at the College of Education at the University of Maryland, College Park. They are generally  K-8 classroom teachers with a wide range of experiences with diverse groups of children.

During the program, students receive lessons in phonics and spelling, reading fluency, comprehension and vocabulary, and writing. Teachers work in pairs to teach small groups of children. They utilize a variety of strategies and techniques to address individual reading needs. Emphasis is placed on helping children become more strategic and proficient readers. 

The program is for students in kindergarten through 6th grade in the 2022-2023 school year.

Location: Stamp Student Union, University of Maryland Campus

Dates: July 5 – July 20, 2023

Days:  Monday through Thursday

Time: 9:00 am to 11:30 am

  CLICK HERE TO APPLY