The Subcommittee on the Needs Based Student Housing Subsidy will present its draft proposal and respond to questions committee members have received at an Information Meeting on Tuesday, February 6, at 6:30 p.m. 

The Subcommittee first presented a draft proposal for use of a portion of the FY24

3-cent tax increase on commercial, industrial and apartment property at the January 23 Council Meeting. Additional information and responses to questions raised on January 23 will be provided during the February 6 Information Meeting. 

Questions and recommendations for the Subcommittee may be submitted in writing to cpmc@collegeparkmd.gov and will be forwarded to the Subcommittee for evaluation and consideration. The record will be kept open until February 9, 2024, for submittal of questions and recommendations to the subcommittee, after which the Subcommittee will finalize their report to Council. 

The Information Meeting will be held in the Council Chambers of City Hall and streamed over Zoom. The meeting will end at 7:15 p.m. and the regular Council meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m.

There will not be a public comment period during the February 6 Information Meeting. The Mayor and Council will provide the usual and customary opportunities for public comment when the proposal comes up for Council consideration at a future meeting.  

This will be a Hybrid meeting:

 In Person: City Hall, 7401 Baltimore Avenue, College Park, 2^nd Floor Council Chambers

On Line: Via Zoom

To watch or participate in the meeting virtually at 6:30 p.m., please CLICK HERE.

Dial-in information
Phone number:  301-715-8592
Enter Meeting ID:  923 9857 4069  then press #
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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.

Haga clic aquí para leer esta publicacion en español.

Click here to watch the video of the City of College Park Mayor & Council Virtual Meeting on January 23, 2024. By going to this link, you are able to watch the discussion of specific agenda items you are interested in. If you have questions about Council actions and discussions, please email us at lbesters@collegeparkmd.gov and swhitney@collegeparkmd.gov.

AMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA 

Councilmember Adams motioned to add 24-G-16 to send a letter of support for a grant creating ADA compliance at the College Park MARC station. Seconded by Mackie.

The agenda was unanimously approved as amended.

PUBLIC COMMENT ON CONSENT AGENDA AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS 

Berwyn resident and former College Park Councilmember Bob Catlin explained the history of the Homestead Tax Credit in the City and its relationship to the apartment buildings built along Route One, starting with University View. He said keeping the Homestead Tax Credit at 0% cost $1.5 million per year and is only possible when the apartment buildings are profitable. He predicted that increasing the cap the 4% might be more sustainable in future years. He thinks we will see a significant reduction in tax revenue in the future.

CONSENT AGENDA 

24-G-10 Approve the appointment of Valerie Novak to the Bee City USA Committee; the appointments of Edward Ridge and Joseph Tannir to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee; the appointments of Susan Huemmrich and M. Ruth Murphy to the Board of Election Supervisors; the appointments of Jonathan Riedel and Tami Watkins to the City Events Advisory Board; the appointment of Betty Colonomos to the College Park Seniors Committee; the appointments of Michael Hottinger, Frank Cifaldi, Shyamala Rajan, and Sam McGranahan to the Committee For a Better Environment; the appointment of Vincent Alexis-Laona to the Education Advisory Committee; and the appointment of Willie Sellers to the Restorative Justice Commission. Motion By: 2nd: Vote: 

24-G-13 Approve the annual Service Maintenance Contract and Agreement with Metric Group, Inc., subject to approval of the City Attorney, for maintenance and support of the City’s 17 pay stations (equipment and software) in the amount of $30,400.00 which is included in the FY ‘24 budget. 24-G-14 Approval of minutes from the December 14, 2023 Council meeting and the January 16, 2024 Council meeting. 

24-G-16 Approval of a letter of support, in substantially the form attached, for the Maryland Transit Administration’s (MTA) application for funding from the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) to complete full design plans and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation for a fully accessible College Park Station on the Maryland Area Rail Commuter (MARC) system’s Camden Line.

Councilmember Mackie moved to pass the Consent Agenda. Second by Councilmember Adams. Unanimously approved.

ACTION ITEMS 

24-G-15 Approval of a contract of sale to purchase the property known as W 35.2 FT Lot 14 04-05 Pierce Avenue, from Williams C Ferguson and Williams H. Bass Maryland for a purchase price of $100,000, plus settlement costs. Settlement is anticipated to occur on or before February 29, 2024. Deed Reference 34817/00095 

City Manager Young said Councilmember Esters and Whitney have been working with Lakeland residents to determine how they might want to use the property if it is purchased, with suggestions being open space or building a small home on the property. 

Councilmember Whitney made the motion, which was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell. The item was unanimously approved.

24-O-01 Introduction of an Ordinance Of The Mayor And Council Of The City Of College Park Authorizing The Acquisition Of Certain Property Located At W 35.2 FT Lot 14 04-05 Pierce Avenue (Deed Reference 34817/00095) College Park, Maryland, For A Public Purpose – Kenneth A Young, City Manager The Public Hearing Will Be Held On February 6, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers Motion By: 2nd: 002 

City Manager Young said the City Charter requires an Ordinance be approved for the acquisition of any property for a public purpose. The goal is to settle by 2/29/24. If adopted, on 2/6, it will be effective 2/27/24.

Motion by Councilmember Whitney. Second by Councilmember Hew.

WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS 

Auditor’s presentation of the FY 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report – SB & Company, LLC 

Director of Finance Gary Fields introduced Chris Lehman of S&B and Company, who was in charge of the city audit. This is year 2 of the 4 consecutive years for which the company may perform the audit.

Mr. Lehman presented an overview of the audit findings, stating in summary that no fraud was discovered, no material weaknesses were identified, full cooperation was received and that the fact that no audit journal entries were required speaks to the quality of the books. 

Mr. Fields clarified a matter about long-term debt obligations, then noted that the Duvall Field portion of the 2019 bond for City hall and Duvall Field will drop off after 20 years. 

FY 2024 2nd quarter financial presentation – Gary Fields, Director of Finance 

Mr. Fields presented the Q2 financial report and said you are looking for revenue and expenditures to be around the 50% of the budgeted amounts. He said there wasn’t much to bring to Council’s attention, saying most departures were related to timing issues.

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell asked Mr. Fields about the apparent short-fall in Admissions & Amusement Tax. Mr. Fields explained that a big chunk should come in this month or next from UMD football and basketball. Mr. Fields will share the itemized report with the Council so they can see the source of income. The Mayor Pro Tem said that some Maryland municipalities are challenging the fact that the rate has not changed in 10 years.

Discussion of Homestead Tax Credit Rate, and FY 2025 budget preview – Gary Fields, Director of Finance 

Mr. Fields explained that passing the budget takes 5 ½ months and said they’re expecting a tighter budget in FY25 than they’ve had in recent years. The City has added a lot of staff. Meetings with department heads will begin next week and the proposed budget will be released during the first week of March. 

He said the Constant Yield Tax Rate (CYTR) will be released on February 14^th. They informed councilmembers that February 6^th is the deadline for submitting special requests for their district and said Balancing Act closed last week. Communications will provide results of the survey to Finance.

Mr. Fields said the Homestead Tax Credit Rate has been set at 0% since 2019, which provides the most benefit to homeowners. He explained that not going with the 10% rate allowed by the County costs the city about $220 thousand annually, and said it’s estimated the city would collect $22 thousand in additional revenue with each percentage point increase in the current 0% rate. 

He said the proposed budget will provide recommendations, and the Saturday, March 23^rd budget session will give us time to decide that. 

Mayor Kabir asked why the FY25 budget is expected to be tight.

Mr. Young said that the ongoing classification and compensation study will impact the budget, saying the goal is to bring projects in pipeline across the finish line. He said we’ve added extra services over the years and might have to curtail that. The goal is stability. 

Mr. Fields said the accumulation of expenditures, positions and services added over the last several years impacts the budget, but he’s not overly concerned about revenue. 

The Mayor noted that the FY24 budget factored in ARPA money, and Mr. Fields concurred that the ARPA dollars are, for the most part, gone. 

Council discussion included the desire to maintain the Homestead Tax Credit Rate at 0%, with awareness that it might not be sustainable long term. Points were made that maintaining the credit at that level both encourages homeownership and is a huge subsidy for homeowners that compounds over time. Councilmembers expressed concern about maintaining existing services, And Mr. Young said that is not anticipated. It was suggested that it would be best for Councilmembers not to put forward any budget wish list items. Mr. Fields stated that the biggest priority is to bring forward a budget without cutting any services.

Report from Needs Based Student Housing Subsidy Subcommittee on use of 3-cent tax increase on commercial, industrial and apartment – Councilmember Adams 

Mayor Kabir introduced the presentation, saying the proposal first came up during the past budget session. He said a subcommittee was created in July to further explore the proposal. He introduced subcommittee chair Councilmember Adams, saying he would make the presentation, which was not a formal report. He stated that this is a work session, for which public comments are not taken. He said the Mayor and Council have read many comments and there will be opportunity for more. He said a public forum was being planned sometime next month. 

Councilmember Adams partnered with Student Government Association (SGA) Student Liaison Dhruvak Mirani to make the presentation. He said that the subcommittee meetings were attended by the City Manager. During the presentation, he said that the supply of housing, which was supported through Revitalization Tax Credits, will eventually drive down the cost of housing, but we do not know when it will reach that point. He also noted the revenue benefits stemming from the fact that 60% of College Park residents are under the age of 25. He said that without those residents, the city would have received $8 million in ARPA dollars instead of $20 million. 

Councilmember Adams also noted that College Park has the lowest property tax rate among Prince George’s County municipalities. He said the 5 largest property taxpayers in College Park are student apartments, with 22% of total tax revenue generated from just 5 student housing properties. He said this proposal was self-funded and allowed Council both to focus on a population that comprises a large part of the city and would create more parity in rental cost between off-campus single family homes and apartment buildings and include graduate students and non-students in future years.

SGA student liaison Dhruvak Mirani detailed the proposed dollar amount of the grants (150 grants at  $1,500 each), eligibility requirements, the application process and selection by lottery and how the program will be advertised.

After the presentation concluded, Councilmembers made comments and ask questions. The questions and responses are listed below.

Councilmember Esters 

• Has there been engagement with the University of Maryland to understand what their plans or ideas may be to help to address affordable student housing, and what their thoughts were on the proposed program? Adams: We had strong engagement with SGA and the Graduate Student Government Association. He stressed the university’s awareness of and strong efforts toward  different housing needs. He stressed improvements to dorms on campus and the project to convert Old Leonardtown to affordable graduate student housing.
• Was there consideration of other programs or initiatives and why not? Adams: That’s a very open-ended question that we could spend weeks talking abt. This is an avenue to create a feasible program with low administrative costs. We want to benefit residents in need of affordable housing.
• When considering the amount of the grant and who is eligible (Pell Grant recipients) grants, have we considered how such a grant may affect their financial aid? Do we really think the program will be helpful to students who have financial need. Mr Mirani said they had spoken with SGA informally but had not consulted specifically with students with financial aid specifically. Adams said the grant would be considered income. He said students will need to be aware that it could change other programs they could be eligible for.
• Councilmember Esters closed with her assertion that it is critical to engage with UMD administration about how this might or might not be helpful to students, as financial literacy  can  be an issue.
• Councilmember Esters said there might be an opportunity to do more research on other programs that may exist. The National League of Cities has information on how cities have worked with institutions to address affordable housing issues, and the International Town and Gown Association conference is coming to College Park this June.

Mayor Kabir:

• Was there any attempt made to get partnership with UMD at the administrative level? Adams said a UMD administrative official was in the audience, and Mr. Ulman was supportive of the proposed program. He said we could partner with UMD, but this is a city priority.
• We might vote in March, but this will start in FY25, correct? Mr Young: If distribution happened in FY24, it would come out of this year’s budget. If it occurred after July 1, Council would have to identify what funds roll over to FY25

Councilmember Rigg

• Commended the clarity of the brief, saying it had clean eligibility and low difficulty to administer. 
• Said there are different levels of Pell Grant eligibility and asked if the program would prioritize eligibility based on the type of Pell Grant. Mirani – We have not considered that, but we are collecting data.
• Asked how the program would primarily or nearly exclusively serve people experiencing food or housing insecurity, saying he would prefer a larger subsidy for those with higher need.
• Said City has array of housing affordability programs, but has basically neglected students

Councilmember Hernandez

• When Council agreed to the 3-cent increase for commercial properties, was it agreed that this would be funded as part of it? Adams: It was not an agreement that it would be funded, but a discussion of what that funding would be used for. 
• Out of the $515 thousand from the increase, we’ve spent $225 for business retention, and funded the senior housing tax credit. He said he’s concerned that if we spend $225 thousand on this, it will exhaust what’s left for other council priorities. 
• Were non-student officials of the university consulted for this project? Adams: Mr. Ulman was a participant, and Ms. Glaros is aware of the presentation. 
• Mr. Hernandez said many have expressed concern that we should work with UMD because we are trying to build partnership with UMD. Adams: We have a strong partnership with the SGA.
• How does this benefit the homeowners of District 1? Adams: We are helping residents of College Park. I have always championed changes that help homeowners. This is a fiscally responsible, self-funded program. Mirani: The city has many initiatives that benefit one grp. No one asked how a senior tax credit benefitted student residents who are 50% of the population. 
• Asked for D1 representation on the subcommittee since Kennedy is no longer on Council.

Councilmember Whitney

• Would it be feasible to add money to the City’s emergency assistance fund and allow local, post-secondary students to access those emergency funds with a letter from their institution verifying need? This would include students from trade schools, gig workers who get injured and can’t work, etc. Mirani: I don’t think every student could justify the situation as an emergency, but plenty of students face housing insecurity; I would want to familiarize this with that fund. Adams: I think opening that fund to students would open the floodgates for applications. 
• I expressed concerns in July that this money would support only UMD students, not community college students, young people in trades, etc. I was told that concern was being addressed by developments like The Flats and Branchville Gardens, but those won’t be built for 2 years. Making this assistance more broadly accessible would help more people. This program will be impactful, but it is intended to be a pilot.
• Will this money actually reduce overall costs for the students it purports to assist. Using your numbers, the median price for a 1BR in a 4BR, shared apt is $1245/mo. High-end estimate for a bedroom in a home is $800/mo. For 12 months in an apartment building, that’s $14,940 as compared to $9,600 for a SFH. We chose not to identify which buildings would participate in the pilot because that opened up a range of apartments. Students choosing to live in a less expensive building would get more than one month’s rent.
• There are many possible avenues that we’ve not considered that might be more beneficial and sustainable. For example, Coppin State University partnered with HABC to provide low-income college students with vouchers to live in tenant-based housing. The subsidy will be limited to housing assistance, in the form of rent in privately owned housing and will be paid directly to the housing provider. Maybe we could explore something like that here?

Councilmember Mackie 

• Was any attempt made to ask developers to consider lowering their rental rates because they’ve been helped by the city? The market rates are very high. Adams: We didn’t speak to any specific developments. We could explore relationships with certain apartments, but by opening to all buildings, it creates more options.
• Do students pay by the month, semester, by year? Mirani: usually monthly but some complexes may offer a payment plan
• Will the money go directly to the students or to the apartment buildings? Adams – to the individual
• This would only be available to sophomores – seniors because of the GPA requirement. Adams: Good point, grad student also might not have GPAs. Mirani: The vast majority of freshman live in dorms.
• Have other university towns done this? Whitney – I have not been able to find a similar program. Rigg- It’s essentially based on a Section 8 model. You find an eligibility model and create a subsidy. It’s an opportunity for College Park to try something out and is a relatively low-cost way to help people.

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell- 

• The University of Maryland Baltimore has a program we should look at.
• We have non-UMD students living in College Park apartments Howard University, Bowie State, Prince George’s Community College, have we considered that? We reduced complexity since this is a pilot. He said expanding eligibility is a goal in the future. Council can decide to expand eligibility, but it adds complexity. Mirani, the fact that eligibility criteria are relatively straightforward makes expanding eligibility doable.
• Non-UMD students have heard about the proposal. Hernandez – It should be available to all students. Adams: We’re here to iron these things out. Mirani – Doesn’t see a problem expanding this to other students.
• Is this legally sound? Adams: I defer to the City Attorney and City Manager. My understanding is grant context gives lots of flexibility. Young: With non-UMD students living in the same buildings as UMD students, it might raise questions of equal treatment. This hasn’t been tried anywhere yet.  
• Said this will be considered income for the student, which the city will have to report. She wanted to make sure the city was prepared for that and that student understood what they were getting into. She asked city staff and the attorney to look into it.

Councilmember Hew

• He had reservations going into this but the presentation, questions and answers were good. He would have benefitted from this as a UMD student.
• Is the timeline realistic? Who will review applicants? Adams: GSGA and SGA are willing to assist, and maybe UMD would help. You could consent to those orgs approving that. Here today to hear feedback of council. Young – We don’t see it as a huge administrative burden. We handle sensitive financial information from residents all the time. 

A town hall will happen at 6:30 pm on February 6^th.  The item could return to the agenda on 2/20.

Strategic Plan quarterly update – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

Mr. Gardiner highlighted a few items, saying the new videographer has been a big benefit to the city and has already produced 5-10 short videos. He said Mr. Fields did a great job on the budget and upcoming items, and the city is on track with Tyler implementation. Ms. Carter, the city’s Racial Equity Officer has taken over the former consultants’ work with the Restorative Justice Commission, but it’s taken her away from equity work internally. The city will bring in a consultant for more training with staff. Our new Director of Public Services is bringing staff up to speed. They are working on using mobile devices to fully implement the Acella program.

Legislative Review – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager 

Legislative lobbyist Len Lucchi said he continues to focus on the city’s desire for land use authority. HB105 allow four cities in Prince George’s that have more than 10 thousand people to have land use auth subject to county zoning law:  College Park, Greenbelt, Hyattsville and Bowie. He’s in conversation with M-NCPPC Chair Peter Shapiro to see if they can reach common ground on expanding municipal authority. If so, he will circle back to College Park, talk to other cities, then go back to Delegate Holmes to make the bill match.  

He said the big topic for the session is the Governor’s budget, which was submitted a week ago. He hasn’t moved money from municipalities thus far.

Councilmember Hernandez asked for attention to noise abatement / noise tracking legislation, and Adams asked about HB364, which would allow the city to put cameras on stop signs. Mr. Gardiner said there were many affordable housing bills.

Councilmember Hew asked about public utilities street light acquisition, and Mr. Gardiner said former City Attorney Suellen Ferguson is already negotiating with Pepco on behalf of the city and other municipalities. If the bill negatively affects that, it will be changed or withdrawn.

Councilmember Whitney mentioned 4 bills the CBE is interested in and asked if comment on those was urgent, and Mr. Lucchi said it were not. 

Council went into special session to vote on sending letters in favor of SB155 and HB212 (noise abatement) and HB364 (stop sign cameras). Council voted unanimously in favor.

REQUESTS FOR / STATUS OF FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 

Mackie – Asked about the crossing guard task force, which was confirmed to be on the list.

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

Mackie – said she could share notes from tree canopy discussion at the Chesapeake Bay & Water Resources Policy Committee

Mayor  – attended the Conference of Mayors in DC 

Hernandez – tomorrow at 7 pm, there is a community meeting to discuss the future of the Beltsville Fire Department. 

Mirani – Excited for the first day of school. 

Sprinkle – The last person in the audience is a student.

ADJOURN

Click here to see the full agenda for the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid Meeting on February 6, 2024 once it has posted. Tune in, show up or share your thoughts/concerns about the following Consent Agenda and Action Items, and Workshop discussions proposed to be on the agenda that may interest District 2 residents. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need accommodations to participate in a meeting, including language translation:

Action Items:

Proposed Consent: Award of construction contract for College Park Woods Clubhouse 

Proposed Consent: Extension of grass-mowing contract with LevelGreen Landscaping for final option year 

Consideration of annual liquor license renewals for businesses in the City 

Approval of EAC recommendations for Public School education grants 

Discussion items: 

Discussion of grants for senior and social sports leagues – Councilmember Adams 

Discussion of revisions to the Revitalization Tax Credit Program 

Legislative Review – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

This Winter: Don’t Crank the Heat to Stay Warm

As the days get shorter, the temperatures get colder.  To stay warm indoors, you might be tempted to crank the thermostat.  But there’s no need to overheat your whole home to keep yourself warm.  Instead, focus on ways to bring the warmth to you:

• During the day, open the blinds and shades and sit in the sunniest rooms in your home.  Keeping the blinds and shades open can help to heat the whole home as well.
• At night, do the reverse, close the curtains and blinds to keep out the cold.
• Wear cozy fleece or flannel.  Warm fabrics will keep you feeling warm.
• Get moving.  Walk around the house, run up and down stairs, follow an exercise video online.  Moving around will warm you up and it’s good for your health, too.
• Get a cozy comforter for your bed.  You’ll be snug and warm all night.
• Use an electric blanket.  The blanket will keep you warm and uses a lot less energy than heating the whole home.
• Reverse ceiling fans so they are pushing warm air down.
• Stop drafts.  For just a few dollars, you can purchase outlet insulators, insulate around doors and windows, and put draft stoppers at the base of your doors.
• Try to avoid space heaters.  They cause 25,000 house fires every year.  But, if you do use them, make sure to buy ones that are UL listed and stay in the room with the heater and make sure no fabrics fall on or cover them.

Comments are by Councilmembers Llatetra Brown Esters and Susan Whitney and are not approved or sanctioned by the City of College Park.

Haga clic aquí para leer esta publicacion en español.

Click here to watch the video of the City of College Park Mayor & Council Virtual Meeting on January 16, 2024. By going to this link, you are able to watch the discussion of specific agenda items you are interested in. If you have questions about Council actions and discussions, please email us at lbesters@collegeparkmd.gov and swhitney@collegeparkmd.gov.

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

Mr. Young acknowledged city staff for the removal of snow and clearing bike lanes.  He also thanked residents who cleared their walkways and said some of businesses on Route 1 would be reminded of the requirement to shovel snow.  

AMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

Motion to approve the agenda by Councilmember Mitchell, seconded by Councilmember Hew

PUBLIC COMMENT ON CONSENT AGENDA AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS 

Mr. Dorsch, resident – Mentioned the crossing signal located on Campus Drive.  He tried the signal on two occasions, and on each occasion the time allotted to cross differed; one time it was 70 seconds and the other time it was 40 seconds.  He said the biggest problem is the signal being changed from on- demand to timed. He also mentioned past parking problems at the Old Town property located at 4619 College Avenue, saying there was not enough parking to accommodate the number of residents the City will allow in the building.  

Arelis Pèrez, resident – Would like for Mayor and Council to consider what the state of Maryland has done with Mail-in voting. Our efforts do not seem cost effective with only 10 percent of the City’s population voting. The state has mailed out ballots to everyone. The money used for the elections could be used to do something else.  

Two individuals were removed from the Zoom and blocked due to inappropriate comments.  Public comments were ended. 

CONSENT AGENDA 

24-G-11 – Approval of a Letter to Maryland State Highway Administration Requesting Improvements to the Pedestrian Signal at Campus Drive and College Park Trolley Trail – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

Motion to approve by Councilmember Mackie, seconded by Councilmember Esters

ACTION ITEMS 

24-G-12 Approval of a Declaration of Covenants by ZS 4619, LLC in favor of the City of College Park, for 4619 College Avenue – Suellen Feguson, Attorney for the City

Ms. Suellen Ferguson said the updated Declaration of Covenants will allow for 25 people to live in the building, , with 5 additional residents being allowed to live in the attic after the two years of compliance. A property manager will be on premises for the first two years, and the City will have access to the building. There will be no on-street parking.  There will be a limit of 15 persons to attend any gathering.  If there are compliance issues, the maximum occupancy will revert back to 16.

Motion to approve by Councilmember Rigg, second by Councilmember Adams

Mr. Dorsch, resident – expressed concern about the number of people allowed in the building and said the former owner worked to enlarge the building without permits. He said the property was lost due to unpaid property taxes.  He expressed concerns about the lack of parking for residents of this property.  

Ms. Blaine (Posh Fitness), Resident – owner of Posh Fitness saw that three businesses were granted funds and wondered if similar funding was available to other businesses.  She asked how the businesses were picked.  Michael Williams, Economic Development Manager, responded to the inquiry. Most of the retention funds have been focused on displaced Campus Village merchants.  We have not entered the phase of helping other businesses in College Park.  Posh was a recipient of ARPA funds that were made available.  There was discussion for months with Prime Time to attract business that would offer a number of jobs.  The money for Krazi Kebob vocational training was to expand access to the industry.  

(The resident sought to make comment earlier but was unable to do so after two individuals made inappropriate comments and public comments were ended.)

WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS

2023 Election debrief – Board of Election Supervisors (John Payne and Tina Batten)

Mr. Payne said the 2023 elections were successful. There was concern they would not be able to hire enough poll workers, but the City Clerk did an outstanding job working with local municipalities.  They worked well with the vendors – ElectionGuard and Hart InterCivic. The survey data collected is the most comprehensive data we have ever had about city elections.  There is concern about the turnover of the BOES, and the way in which the city staffs and provides resources for the elections has to be considered.  They suggest the city hire a contracted elections specialist. The specialist would be able to provide manuals and training materials. The BOES is disappointed by the turnout of the elections, especially since there was a very comprehensive campaign to promote the elections.  

Mr. Payne said every election is unique. There is a chain of custody for every piece of paper. It is important for the BOES and Clerk to maintain that level of control. The manual is extremely important. The importance of this election was the use of technology and ensuring the integrity and security of the elections. We continue to look for ways to improve turnout. 

City Clerk Janeen Miller said increasing the number of vote-by-mail ballots is key, and BOES’ Tina Batten said voters appreciated being able to review their vote. She added that the accessible device allowed more people to vote independently. She suggested retaining them in future elections, saying they would also allow ballots to be offered in more languages at a reasonable cost. 

Dr. Payne was asked if voter fatigue could be associated with the two elections and if the special elections have diminished turnout for the general election.  He said it was challenging for BOES to go from a special election to the general election.  A big piece of burnout can be attributed to the weeks around the election with early voting. He said Council may need to consider the burden on BOES and work to ensure good elections. We need to recruit new members who understand the role and expectation of the committee. There is a need for commitment and help with administration.  

The ElectionGuard component did not cost us any more than a regular election. The increase in cost was due to the three days of the elections and the payment of poll workers (as dictated by the state) and overtime for City staff. Mail-in voting also added cost.  

Dr. Payne noted that contested elections normally bring out more voters. He said some say that rank-choice voting may encourage more individuals to vote but that it would take a lot of education of both the public and candidates.  

The question of running the election concurrent with State and national elections was raised, but there was concern that the Hatch Act would prevent many federal employees from running since state and national elections are partisan and City elections are not. Three out of the 9 people on the dais would not have been able to run had City elections coincided with partisan ones.

The Mayor and Council will be asked to identify additional volunteers for the upcoming election cycle.  They should talk to community leaders and make sure they understand the commitment of engagement. 

Discussion of an incentive program to eliminate gas-powered leaf blower equipment –Robert Marsili, Director of Public Works

CBE presentation on an incentive program to move toward use of electric leaf blowers (Todd Larsen and Alexa Bely)

Janet McCaslin said the program will require limited staff time.  There will be the creation of the form.  The return of items will take some staff time.  She explained the proposal began as an electric leaf blower incentive.  The focus on various equipment is intended to help change behavior.  

There was a question about individuals who use gas powered devices programs for their work.  Ms. McCaslin said the city is not imposing a ban; rather they seek to encourage the move toward electric or manual lawn care tools.  

Question about tracking of Council of Governments Metropolitan Washington Air Quality committee (MWAQC) work on such programs.  It shows the negative impact of two-stroke engines on air quality.  It helps that we are following Bowie.  It would be great for the county to adopt such a program.  University Park bans the use of gas-powered leaf blowers by residents and landscaping companies. 

The Council expressed support for launching the program; $8 thousand has already been funded in the FY24 CBE budget. An ask for $20 thousand will be included in the FY25 budget proposal.

Review advisory board annual reports and workplans 

There was a request for the Advisory Planning Commission (APC) and the Noise Control Board (NCB) to come before the City Council.  The City manager said there were a number of budget requests made in some of the reports that have budget implications for FY25 and will need to be discussed at budget time.  

Clarification was provided that a request to suggest a new committee would need to come from the Council as a body.  

Discussion of Mayor and Council Rules and Procedures

Stephanie Anderson, City Attorney – in response to the bi-annual review of rules and procedures, two issues were raised during the 10/12 meeting – looking at the City Charter regarding what to do if the Mayor was absent and outlining Mayor Pro Tem duties.  A line was added to the procedures indicating that the Mayor may request assistance from the Mayor Pro Tem to fulfill commitments when needed.  

There was a suggestion to make sure the rules and procedures coincide with our practice as it relates to extending meetings. Right now, to extend meetings it is done once at 10:30, and if the meeting is extended, we suspend the rules.  Council concluded that we maintain the current practice.  

There was a discussion about the expectation for residents to have their questions answered during Public Comment and a suggestion about taking comments from residents on Work session items. Concerns were expressed that if something is controversial, doing so may extend the meeting. If it is a worksession with possible action, public comment will be allowed after the discussion has concluded but before action is taken.  Council also made suggestions on clarifying on agendas the directions on how the public can provide comment.

Agenda items for January 25 Four Cities meeting hosted by College Park

College Park will ask Greenbelt about and update on the FBI, will discuss proposed cuts to the Maryland transportation budget and revisit the proposal for a North County animal control shelter.

REQUESTS FOR / STATUS OF FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell proposes a worksession with the county about ADUs. 

ADJOURN

CLOSED SESSION 

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 for the following purposes:  1) to consider the acquisition of real property for a public purpose, and 2) to discuss the appointment an individual over whom this Council has jurisdiction.  We will not return to open session tonight.

Click here to see the full agenda for the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid Meeting on January 23,2024. Tune in, show up or share your thoughts/concerns about the following Consent Agenda and Action Items, and Workshop discussions that may interest District 2 residents. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need accommodations to participate in a meeting, including language translation:

CONSENT AGENDA

24-G-10 Approve the appointment of Valerie Novak to the Bee City USA Committee; the appointments of Edward Ridge and Joseph Tannir to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee; the appointments of Susan Huemmrich and M. Ruth Murphy to the Board of Election Supervisors; the appointments of Jonathan Riedel and Tami Watkins to the City Events Advisory Board; the appointment of Betty Colonomos to the College Park Seniors Committee; the appointments of Michael Hottinger, Frank Cifaldi, Shyamala Rajan, and Sam McGranahan to the Committee For a Better Environment; the appointment of Vincent Alexis-Laona to the Education Advisory Committee; and the appointment of Willie Sellers to the Restorative Justice Commission. 

ACTION ITEMS

24-G-15 Approval of a contract of sale to purchase the property known as W 35.2 FT Lot 14 04-05 Pierce Avenue, from Williams C Ferguson and Williams H. Bass Maryland for a purchase price of $100,000, plus settlement costs. Settlement is anticipated to occur on or before February 29, 2024. Deed Reference 34817/00095

24-O-01 Introduction of an Ordinance Of The Mayor And Council Of The City Of College Park Authorizing The Acquisition Of Certain Property Located At W 35.2 FT Lot 14 04-05 Pierce Avenue (Deed Reference 34817/00095) College Park, Maryland, For A Public Purpose – Kenneth A Young, City Manager 

The Public Hearing Will Be Held On February 6, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers

DISCUSSION 

Auditor’s presentation of the FY 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report – SB & Company, LLC 

FY 2024 2nd quarter financial presentation – Gary Fields, Director of Finance

Discussion of Homestead Tax Credit Rate, and FY 2025 budget preview – Gary Fields, Director of Finance 

Report from Needs Based Student Housing Subsidy Subcommittee on use of 3-cent tax increase on commercial, industrial and apartment – Councilmember Adams 

Strategic Plan quarterly update – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager 

Legislative Review – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

Comments are made by Councilmembers Llatetra Brown Esters and Susan Whitney and are not approved or sanctioned by the City of College Park.

Click here to find the video of the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid Meeting on January 09, 2024. By going to this link, you are able to watch the discussion of specific agenda items you are interested in. If you have questions about Council actions and discussions, please email us at lbesters@collegeparkmd.gov and swhitney@collegeparkmd.gov.

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

Apology for the council meeting schedule that currently includes a meeting on June 4, which is the evening right before the International Town and Gown Association (ITGA) conference that will be hosted by College Park.  Councilmembers were asked to share any conflicts on Monday or Wednesday of that week.  

Mr. Young introduced the new director of public services, Jatinder Khokhar, who started on January 8. Mr. Khokhar spoke during the meeting and shared his appreciation for the opportunity to serve. He said staff has been welcoming and encouraging and that his work experience has been in Pennsylvania, Washington, and Virginia. An Electrical Engineer by education, Mr. Khokhar has many extended family members who attended UMD. Most recently, he worked for Fairfax, VA. He will be learning more M-NCPPC and WSSC. He has a wife and two children and looks forward to working for the city.  

Councilmember Mitchell asked about updates related to the weather. Mr. Young said there was a tree and wires down in District 4. Councilmember Mitchell mentioned standing water in front of Jerk Pit, Monument Village and China Buffett. Mr. Young said this was our last week of leaf pick up and most of our drains are clear, which helped with stormwater management. 

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Mary Cook, former District 4 councilmember

PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS  

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute

AMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

Councilmember Whitney made a motion to move item 24-G-02 from Consent Agenda to the Action item Agenda.

PUBLIC COMMENT ON CONSENT AGENDA AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS 

Mary Cook, resident – Talked about a recent letter about the dissolution of the Veterans Memorial Committee which was sent to the Veterans Memorial Committee on Friday, January 5 to their surprise.  The committee does not want to be disbanded; their work is heartfelt.  There are veterans who do not want the committee disbanded. The most recent event was the 30^th year commemoration.  She shared a certificate of Congressional recognition received from Congressman Glenn Ivey.  

Mr. Blaine Wilson Thomas Davis, resident- has lived in the city for 50 years and has been on the committee for 20 years. When the committee was first formed they had an agreement with the VFW that there was to always be one member of the VFW and American Legion associated with the committee. He does not want to see the committee disbanded.  

CONSENT AGENDA 

24-G-01 Approval to submit a grant to the National Safety Council (NSC) for Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) infrastructure for the Engineering Department – Miriam Bader, Director of Planning and Community Development and Rakhmel Rafi, Grants Coordinator

24-G-03 Consideration of staff recommendation to replace a yield sign with a stop sign at the intersection of Dewberry Lane and Limestone Place – Steve Halpern, City Engineer

24-G-04 Consideration of staff recommendation to replace a yield sign with a stop sign at the intersection of Davidson Street N and Limestone Place – Steve Halpern, City Engineer

24-G-05 Consideration of staff recommendation to replace a yield sign with a stop sign at the intersection of Davidson Street S and Limestone Place – Steve Halpern, City Engineer

24-G-06 Consideration of staff recommendation to replace a yield sign with a stop sign at the intersection of Wofford Lane and Limestone Place – Steve Halpern, City Engineer

24-G-07 Approval of minutes from the October 24, 2023, November 7, 2023, November 14, 2023, and December 5, 2023 Council meetings.

24-G-09 Approve the purchase and installation of License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology on a fourth City vehicle in the amount of $48,757.40 funded from CIP #162002 – Jim Miller, Parking Enforcement Manager

ACTION ITEMS

23-G-189 Follow up on the Petition request for permit parking on Gettysburg Lane (Agenda item 23-G-189) – Jim Miller, Parking Enforcement Supervisor

Mr. Miller introduced this item, which comes back to council after a public hearing on 12/12. On 12/21, District 4 councilmembers met with city staff to discuss the situation and determine if the situation could be resolved without instituting permit parking.  

Councilmember Mitchell said the meeting with city staff was productive and moved to postpone discussion until the March 5 Council meeting. Seconded by Mackie.

Councilmember Riggs asked for the reason for postponement. Councilmember Mitchell said they would be going through legal matters and would not want to divulge anything further. 

24-G-08 Consideration of requests for funding from the Business Assistance and Façade Improvement Grant, and the Business Retention Assistance Fund – Michael Williams, Director of Economic Development

Mr. Williams thanked the Council for making Iron Rooster a reality, he said it is a popular place. He said of late much of his work has focused on displacement due to development. To date, they have helped Laser Essentials, UPS Store and Taqueria Habanero. Some of our neighboring cities have been trying to poach our vendors. Jidong Tea remains open at Campus Village, and they have sought counsel to obtain what they think they deserve. Mr. Williams looks forward to helping businesses remain in College Park. 

Hanami is requesting funds for buildout. The owner was at Campus Village for 18 years. Taqueria Habanero would like to build out the old Jimmy John’s space as a sit-down restaurant. Krazi Kebob seeks funding for a kitchen expansion to offer short-term space to restaurants displaced from Campus Village and ventures new to the city. They would also like to do vocational training for those who are interested in the culinary industry.   

 The Mayor asked for Mr. Williams to share the total amount of money that is currently available to this program. Mr. Williams said that the total amount added to tax revenue as a result of the additional 3 cent tax on commercial properties was $585,000, but he said it was up to Council to determine how much of those funds would go to business attraction and retention. He said  $53,000 remains of the amount formally dedicated to the program in the FY24 budget. The Mayor asked for a review of recommendations from staff.  

Prime Time already has a restaurant in Arundel Mills and one in New York City. This would be a new College Park business that will offer breakfast, lunch and dinner. Mr. Williams suggested we not fund this business given the support that has been given the Cambria.  

Hanami – There are no plans available for the Campus Village site. Although plans have yet to be submitted to the City or the County, LV Collective has maintained good communication with the County, the City Manager and Mr. Williams. . LV Collective has been fair to Hanami with severance. Since Hanami has not entered into an agreement with LV Collective to return and has not identified plans for an new site, staff does not recommend awarding a grant at this time.

The Krazi Kebob proposal for a vocational program is modeled after Jose Andres’ World Central Kitchen. Mr. Williams suggested $175 thousand for the additional kitchens and the vocational program.

Taqueria Habanero – Great food, great staff, and we would like to see them stay. Mr. Williams recommends $50 thousand in assistance.

Councilmember Hernandez- asked for clarification for the use of funding for retention and attraction.  Asked whether or not there is a requirement for commitment to stay in the city.  Mr. Williams said there would be an agreement in place to ensure the city is protected and referenced a fall 2023 meeting of economic leaders who spoke about the city losing 15 businesses in one swoop.  

Questions/comments from Council included a question about support of Hanami, the need for fiscal responsibility, a request for a breakdown of funds for Krazi Kebob in case something does not occur and funds need to be returned, clarification about the totality of funds available from the Prince George’s County EDC, the need for structure for the city’s program, inquiry about what we can offer to Prime Time, the use of funds for other vendors beyond restaurants, the consideration of using existing vacant spaces rather than funding buildouts, concerns about being able to fund additional requests that may come through for the remainder of the fiscal year. 

Councilmember Esters made a motion to approve funding for Krazi Kebob ($125,000, Taqueria Habanero ($75,000) and Primetime ($25,000). Seconded by Councilmember Adams. The motion passed 7 -1.

24-G-02 Approval of the purchase of the Hitachi Visualization Suite software and professional services to integrate access and control of 28 cellular sites into a central dashboard control screen, in the amount of $56,670.84, subject to contract approval by the City Attorney – Kenneth A. Young, City Manager

Councilmember Whitney asked if this technology is what would be needed if Council chose at some point to implement live monitoring. Mr. Young said it would not be; we would need live surveillance technology. He said both UMPD and PGPS have opportunity to view the cameras live if need be, but it is often done after the fact. Councilmember Hew asked if we will use AI to enhance the system. Mr. Young said in the future we will look at the use of AI, but right now we are looking to improving efficiencies.  

Councilmember Whitney made the motion to approve purchase, seconded by Councilmember Esters. The motion passed unanimously.

WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS 

A. Discussion of consolidating the functions and members of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Committee, and the Veterans Memorial Committee in the City Events Advisory Board and to formally dissolve the two committees – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

 Mr. Gardiner said the city is looking to consolidate events into the work of one committee. We are hopeful that we can actually do more for the events. We would like to continue the existing partnerships and maintain support for the intent and the event. The city has the Events Advisory Board and has added capacity to the staff side of events. We currently have 17 committees which require staff time and effort. We think we can engage residents and increase participation. Ryna Quiñones, Communications & Events Manager, said the city has added an event planner and a volunteer specialist who have made a great difference in the way events and activities are planned and executed.  

Questions/Comments from Council – advisory committee help residents give back and contribute to the community; acknowledgement of the work to date; we should not dissolve the Veteran’s Committee; the MLK Committee should be dissolved but not right now; there’s an opportunity to be more efficient and make changes that can be positive; not much change to the events over the years; suggestion to  create subcommittees to ensure the input of those with experience/background; we are not talking about dissolving events but building efficiencies; the need to improve the way we communicate changes to committees. 

B. Discussion of Mayor and Council Rules and Procedures – Stephanie Anderson, City Attorney and Janeen Miller, City Clerk

Given time constraints, moved to a future agenda. 

REQUESTS FOR / STATUS OF FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

Councilmember Adams  

• Vacant and blighted property tax 
• Student housing subsidy subcommittee is ready to come to council.
• Social Sports Grants – we should do this in order to put something in place by summer, if possible

Councilmember Mackie

• Student safety task force committee / crossing  guards 

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

SGA Liaison Sprinkle acknowledged Dhruvak Mirani was online in Oxford at 3:30am to attend the council meeting.

ADJOURN

Closed Session Notice

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 for the following purposes: 1) to discuss the appointment, employment, assignment, promotion, discipline, demotion, compensation, removal, resignation, or performance evaluation of an appointee, employee, or official over whom it has jurisdiction; 2) to consult with Counsel to obtain legal advice, and 3) to discuss a matter of potential or pending litigation. They will not return to open session.

Click here to see the agenda for the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid meeting on January 16. Tune in, show up or share your thoughts/concerns about the following Consent Agenda and Action Items, and Workshop discussions that may interest District 2 residents:

Action item(s):

• Approval of the Declaration of Covenants by ZS 4629, LLC in favor of the City of College Park, for 4619 College Avenue- Suellen Ferguson, Attorney for the City

Worksession Discussions

• 2023 Election debrief – Board of Election Supervisors
• Review advisory board annual reports and workplans – Janeen S. Miller, City Clerk
• Discussion of an incentive program to eliminate gas-powered leaf blower equipment – Robert Marsili, Director of Public Works
• Discussion of Mayor and Council Rules and Procedures
• Agenda items for January 25 Four Cities Meeting hosted by College Park

The Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is a time set aside each year, where we as a country, work together, serving others, to make our communities more equitable. We annually observe this day each year on the third Monday in January. As the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service, MLK Day encourages all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities. Join us in January for:

PERFORMANCES FOR YOUTH | JAN 15*

*Space is limited. Register for FREE at mlkday2024.Eventbrite.com.

 • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, (9am & 10am) is a one-man production, will introduce you to the modern civil rights advocate and how this American hero helped to transform our society. This timely program explores the life of Dr. King, beginning with his childhood, to the peak of this career and ultimately to his untimely demise.

 • The Spirit to Overcome (1pm & 2pm) is a show that follows the first female slave stepping ashore from a slave ship to Michelle Obama, the first African American First Lady. All women of color have faced daily

challenges and struggles in the fight against prejudice, bias, social and political limitations. They shared

“The Spirit To Overcome.”

FLEE! Stories of flight: Maryland in Black and White Exhibit | JANUARY 24 – March 7 | City Hall

The Underground Railroad touched all parts of society, enslaved and free, black and white. This exhibit explores previously unknown stories of slave owners, fugitives and accomplices to show how slavery and the flight to freedom shapes the lives of all Marylanders. The Maryland State Archives produced this exhibit as part of its ongoing effort to study the legacy of slavery in Maryland.

BOOK GIVEAWAY | JANUARY 1-31

As part of our tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the month of January, the City is also hosting a

book giveaway! Students in grades K – 6 can receive free copies of three books that educate and inform about Dr. King’s life and his work towards Civil Rights on January 15, 2024.

FOOD DRIVE | JANUARY 2-31

Throughout the month of January, the City of College Park will honor the life and legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. with a canned food drive starting Tuesday, January 2nd through Wednesday, Jan. 31. A collection box will be established at the City Hall Building (7401 Baltimore Ave.), Davis Hall (9217 51st Ave.), and at Youth & Family Services (4912 Nantucket Rd). 

The City will gladly accept your donations of non-perishable, clean, non-dented canned and boxed food items, not past their expiration date (no homemade items) to support the College Park Community Food Bank.

Youth Aviators: Mechanics and Maintenance

Youth Aviators: Mechanics and Maintenance Age: 7th – 12th grades Date: January 6, 13, 20, and 27* Time: 10am – 12pm Price: FREE! Location: College Park Airport1909 Corporal Frank Scott Dr, College Park, MD 20740 What you’ll do: Learn the basics: With this introduction to the field of aviation mechanics and maintenance, participants will dive into topics like circuits and engine design/function. Hands-On Experiences: Along with lessons, this module will include many hands-on learning experiences like experiments and airplane rib building. Learn from Experts: We will be joined by experts from Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and the Experimental Aircraft Association. Click here to register: tinyurl.com/yamechanics For any questions: Call or email Kimberly Schwartz, Education Manager at301-864-5312 or kimberly.schwartz@pgparks.com *Participants must be able to commit to all four Saturdays of the program