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

Click here to watch the video of the City of College Park Mayor & Council Meeting held on May 21, 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 said the Hollywood Merchants Meeting would be held on Wednesday, May 29 at Proteus Bicycles. The rescheduled Building Safety Month event will be held on Friday, May 31 at City Hall. The annual Memorial Day event will be held on Monday, May 27 at 11 am at the Veteran’s Memorial located at Baltimore Ave and Greenbelt Road. 

Councilmember Rigg offered a heartful goodbye to our SGA liaisons and asked if there was any further action needed to appoint the incoming liaisons. Ms. Miller informed Council there was no further action to be taken. She explained that Council helped to interview candidates, but SGA finalized the selection. 

Councilmember Whitney asked for updates regarding repeated reports of rabid raccoons in District 1. Mr. Young said he and other members of staff had a recent meeting with Prince George’s County and State staff who will be reviewing protocol and making sure it is followed appropriately. He said there were missteps related to protocol. Usually, a press release would only have occurred if someone had been bitten by a raccoon. The State would not have reported these recent incidents. In other words, the number of rabies incidents is not abnormal; it just seems so because the county has been reporting cases that should not have been reported.

Ms. Quiñones said we will be working with the state and the county to develop an informational video to help reassure the community. She said spring and summer are normally when there are more rabies cases. The county wants to be cautious and make sure the community is safe.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Former District 2 Councilmember Maxine Gross and Bob Catlin 

PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS

Presentation of ceremonial grant checks to local public schools – Kiaisha Barber, Director of Youth, Family and Senior Services

Ms. Barber recognized the EAC members for their work.  Representatives from University Park Elementary School, College Park Academy and Cherokee Lane Elementary accepted grants in person and shared aspects of the programs the city grant will support. Buck Lodge Elementary was not present so the grant was accepted on their behalf. 

Recognition of “If I Were Mayor, I Would….” outstanding essayists – Kiaisha Barber, Director of Youth, Family and Senior Services

Noah Heffler from Hollywood Elementary presented his essay which focused on his desire to ensure community safety, make bigger and better schools, pay teachers more, and build more community centers. 

Proclamation for Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week (June 1-9)

Farewell to Student Liaison Dhruvak Mirani and Deputy Student Liaison Gannon Sprinkle

Mayor Kabir recognized the SGA liaisons for their work and contribution over the past year. Mr. Mirani thanked Mr. Sprinkle for their partnership and friendship. He said they sought to make the position more substantive. He asked the council to consider providing SGA Liaisons with the same information given to Council. Mr. Sprinkle acknowledged Mr. Mirani and their work over the past year. He said he looked forward to serving as the Vice President of the SGA and said he would still be around. 

Incoming SGA Liaison Erica Otte and Deputy SGA Liaison John Fahmy were welcomed. 

PUBLIC COMMENT ON CONSENT AGENDA AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS

Jericho, resident – commented on the community center in College Park Woods. He said the center had two tiny meeting rooms and bathroom and needed more space. He asked for picnic tables to be added outside of the center. 

Veronica, resident  – asked for more space for the community center and said she would like to see more things added for kids to have fun, so they are not bored.

CONSENT AGENDA 

24-R-02 Resolution to dissolve the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Committee and consolidate the functions under the City Events Advisory Board – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

24-G-83 Approval to exercise Option Year One of the Current Miscellaneous Concrete Maintenance and Asphalt Resurfacing Contract CP-24-01 with NZI Construction Corporation in the amount of $800,000 -Steve Halpern, City Engineer

24-G-85 Approval of FY 2024 ARPA grants of $75,000 each to Berwyn Heights Volunteer Fire Department & Rescue Squad, Branchville Volunteer Fire Company (pending receipt of application) and College Park Volunteer Fire Department – Gary Fields, Director of Finance

24-G-86 Approval of minutes from the May 14, 2024, meeting.

Motion to accept Consent Agenda made by Councilmember Esters, seconded by Councilmember Rigg. 

PUBLIC HEARING AND POSSIBLE ACTION:

24-G-84 Petition request for Traffic Calming in the 4900 Block of Iroquois Street

Mr. Halpern, City Engineer presented the agenda item. In fall 2023 a petition was submitted and then validated. The traffic study was conducted in April 2024. Neither warrant was met to install traffic calming, but there is nothing the precludes the installation of traffic calming.

Councilmember Hew asked why the straightaway wasn’t chose as the location for the traffic study. Jacob Vassalotti, GIS Coordinator, said there are a number of factors that must be considered when choosing locations, including the ability to secure the equipment.

Councilmember Rigg asked if the right-of-way allows for the installation of a sidewalk. (Adequate, but not sure if in street or behind curb)

Councilmember Hernandez asked if a traffic study does not warrant the installation does that mean calming cannot be done. He shared his understating of other areas where studies did not warrant installation, but traffic calming measures were put in place. Ms. Vassalotti agreed,. 

Ashwin Bhouraskar, resident-  it is a narrow single-block street and residents fear an accident involving an adult, child or wildlife. He saidpeople may use it as a speedway since it is one of the few streets without speed bumps. It is also a blind corner. He feels that if the traffic study cable had been placed toward the middle of the street, they would have gathered a more accurate reading. Many residents work from home, so they witness speeding on the road. They fear they are waiting for an accident to happen. He asked that the data be triangulated with input from residents.

Jim French, resident – opposed to putting a speed bump in the area. He has lived there for 30 years, but speeding has not been an issue. There is on-street parking, but speeding has rarely been an issue. He said speed humps creates more wear and tear on your car and more noise. 

Councilmember Hew motioned to delay this item until the June 11 Council meeting, seconded by Councilmember Rigg. Hew said many residents could not attend the Council meeting but would be back by June 11^th. 

ACTION ITEMS:

24-O-02 Adoption of FY 2025 Budget – Gary Fields, Director of Finance

Mr. Fields asked Council to adopt the ordinance as amended. He said the current ordinance reflects the discussions and an amendment which reduced the residential and commercial tax rate. He confirmed that the City has complied with city and state policies. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell made the motion to adopt the budget, seconded by Councilmember Whitney. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell thanked the city manager, Mr. Fields, and staff for their work on the budget. 

Councilmember Rigg said it was a tough budget year and thanked everyone for their work, saying we got to a place of compromise.  

Mayor Kabir thanked staff for their work and input and said our services have gone up in price. 

Councilmember Esters acknowledged all for their work, but thanked Mr. Field for his responsiveness and providing Council with all they needed. 

Councilmember Mackie thanked colleagues and acknowledged Councilmembers Adams, Mitchell, Hernandez, and Whitney for their efforts to bring us to a compromise.  

Councilmember Hew thanked colleagues for working to lower the tax rate. He also thanked the staff and Mr. Fields for their work. He acknowledged this as the first time taxes have been raised in 10 years. 

WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS

Discussion of Rhode Island Avenue between 193 and Edgewood Road: follow up to prior traffic study (bike lanes, speed limit, driver behavior) – Steve Halpern, City Engineer

Mr. Halpern acknowledged Lenhart Traffic Consulting for their assistance. He said the Complete and Green Streets project was adopted in 2016. From 2018-2021, the city entered into negotiations with County to acquire Rhode Island Ave.  In November 2021, the agreement was executed that transferred Rhode Island Ave to the city. Improvements to date include authorized construction of the Bike Lane Project (September 2022); speed and volume study (October 2022); Speed Limit Reduction and Crosswalk Compliance Study to determine if speed limit could be lowered; Council authorizing the speed limit on Rhode Island Ave between Paducah and University be lowered from 35 mph to 30 mph (June 2023); completion of the Bike Lane Project (December 2023); the city conducting a public survey for community feedback regarding the Protected Bike Lane Project (March 2024); and the city conducting a follow-up Speed Limit Reduction and Crosswalk Compliance Study (April 2024).

Based upon survey results, additional improvements residents would like to see include fully protected bike lanes, flexpost removal, police and camera enforcement, roundabouts, and raised crosswalks. Mr. Halpern said the costs of additional improvements are estimated from $500,000 to $1 million. He said that roundabouts and raised crosswalks are an option. 

Brian Swick, Lenhart Traffic Consulting, – The follow-up study was for the city to continue to monitor the speed limit until there is crash study data available. The FHA has moved away from previous guidance and encouraged engineers to consider pedestrian safety and other necessary factors. 

Councilmember Whitney said the improvement in yield rates at RRFBs was promising but was still significantly less than 100%. That combined with a consistent, yet low # of extreme speeders is concerning. She also expressed the need for more protection for cyclists, suggesting a continuation of bollards away between intersections, saying she still sees motorists stopped in the bike lane. She also commented on the need for additional enforcement, saying she often sees motorcycles and mopeds using the bike lane.

Councilmember Adams agreed about more protection for cyclists and asked that the Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee consider safety along this roadway. He also asked for additional consideration of the right turn at the bottom of Rhode Island onto University. 

Councilmember Esters said she appreciated the roadway changes that have improved driver behavior. She asked for data to be gathered for the pedestrian beacon across from Attick Towers. 

Councilmember Mackie asked about bollards and whether people would drive over them. She travels on this road often and finds that people are still speeding.

Councilmember Hernandez said there has been a huge difference from 35-30. However, there is difficulty when making a left.  He asked about ways to improve the flow of traffic on Rhode Island. 

Councilmember Hew – Thanked Engineering for the improvements. He shared a resident concern about crossing east to west on Rhode Island Ave since hedges that impair sightlines. He said the first bollard when making a right causes drivers to veer into oncoming traffic. Mr. Halpern said the bollards were set to encourage drivers to reduce their speed to 5 miles per hour. They can adjust some of the flexposts. Mr. Hew asked if it would be possible to put up a stop light that only operates during rush hour. Mr. Halpern said he would look at the state requirements for installing such devices. 

Councilmember Esters said she disagreed with her colleagues about making left turns on Rhode Island being more difficult. It has always been difficult to make a left. Since the speed limit has been lowered, it is a bit easier. She said she anticipates ongoing issues related to traffic, as we only have two roadways to travel north and south in the city. 

Councilmember Rigg said he read the report and believes things are good. He’s not sure we should dig so deep as inexperienced council members. He cautioned that any changes we make could impact Baltimore Avenue. 

Review of College Park Parade – Ryna Quiñones, Communications and Events Manager

Ms. Quiñones said the parade was two weeks ago. The date was chosen to allow for participation and held earlier in the day as not to conflict with Berwyn Heights Day. The city paid bands to participate in the event. The weather caused no-shows and attendance was down to 1500. The cost for the parade was about $70,000 (this includes staff time both during and after work hours) Promotion began in January. The event is challenging both in terms of volunteers and participants. We hold it during the school year to encourage participation. We would like to do events that build community and engage residents. 

Councilmember Hew expressed disappointment with the cancellation of the Farmers Market on the day of the parade and suggested holding the Farmers Market in another area of the Hollywood Shopping Center. Ms. Quiñones said the parade staging is challenging as people are still utilizing the shopping center and we need to make sure they are safe. She said it would be difficult to plan two events on the same day. 

Councilmember Hernandez thanked city staff for making the parade work. Outreach is hard no matter what you are doing. It is even harder to get folks to participate in the parade. Appreciates the use of social media but felt the parade signs were small and put out too close to the event. He asked about placing a banner across Rhode Island Ave. How many attendees were present in previous years? Should we have volunteers dedicated to the planning process? Ms. Quiñones said the numbers of participants were similar to last year and the year it was introduced on July 4. She said this year there were 500 participants. Mr. Hernandez said he hopes we can continue this and that he appreciated the Latino groups that were involved this year.   

Councilmember Adams said he agreed with much that was said and appreciated the great work done by the staff. He said he recognized holding the parade is tough. He mentioned a major fundraising event held on the same date that District 3 residents attended. He said we need to consider the outcomes desired from this event and if we should look at other ways to engage residents. 

Councilmember Esters said the parade was nostalgic for many people, but we have not seen the participation we would like to see. She asked how the cost compared to other events like Friday Night Live. Ms. Quiñones said Friday Night Live cost $25,000 for 5 events where there are 500-850 in attendance. She suggested consideration of an alternative program in North College Park to engage residents.

Mayor Kabir suggested we identify ways to get the community more involved with the planning and suggested a parade committee. 

Councilmember Whitney said there is already an events advisory committee. She mentioned the involvement of Eleanor Roosevelt students in planning events in Greenbelt and asked if we have help from students at College Park Academy and University of Maryland. Ms. Quiñones said we do outreach to various schools, and we do get their participation. Councilmember Whitney suggested Friday Night Live North.  

Councilmember Rigg suggested that we get out of the Parade business. He can’t think of any way to justify that. With all due respect to residents, it seems it is not worth pulling this off. Things are different these days. It would be pragmatic to find another way to serve the residents of that part of the city. Staff are worn out afterwards. 

Councilmember Mackie said she does not want to micromanage because staff are much more adept to determining what we do. If something is not working, we need to reconsider what we are doing. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell asked us to consider the goal Community engagement looks different in each area. We need to decide what we want to do moving forward. It needs to be intentional and definitive. 

Councilmember Hew said he was talking to residents about what the parade was like before. A resident shared the photos from 1978. It would be nice to see a challenge of the before and now to drum up interest. Saw a lot of teens in the pictures. He asked if we are asking schools to include bands and teams. Ms. Quiñones said the request was made to a number of schools as far DC and Montgomery County. Kevin went to Comic-Con, but they struggled to get participants. 

Councilmember Hernandez said after hearing the body, he is open to discussing how we move forward. Recommends keeping any alternative options in this part of the city. 

Mr. Young said we need to be cautious of mission creep; things that are not built into the budget. He also said we do not have many places for a banner on Rhode Island. He concluded by saying we need to give staff more credit for what they have considered and let them be the professionals they are. 

Councilmember Adams asked about the timeline for the completion of Duvall Field. Mr. Young said we will not know until we have had an opportunity to complete the RFP process. Councilmember Adams would like any cost savings we may see from the parade added to Duvall field, if possible.

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell asked Ms. Quiñones to give an update of what things would look like in September. Ms. Quiñones said it would be difficult to provide an update by that time. Mr. Gardiner said we can have an update about Duvall Field by the end of the calendar year. 

Strategic Plan quarterly review and FY 2025 Annual objectives – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager Mr. Gardiner gave an overview of the City’s Five-Year Strategic plan with annual objectives. 

He mentioned various accomplishments, including the implementation of GoGov, setup of Davis Hall to allow for hybrid meetings, the consideration of live-streaming council meetings on social media, and work on the Lakeland Neighborhood plan. Mr. Gardiner asked that thoughts and comment on annual objectives that should be included be shared during the meeting or via email. He said the Strategic Planning process will begin again next year. The council will be asked to review and follow up on objectives that will be brought to council in June for next year. 

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

Councilmembers commented on recent Washington Council of Government Meetings, attending the second event in the Restorative Justice Series, and Bike to Work Day.

SGA Liaison Mirani thanks Council and staff for the opportunity to serve, and SGA Deputy Liaison Sprinkle said he will be working for Councilmember Olson over the summer.

City Manager cautioned Councilmember to be mindful of emails that appear to be legitimate. He encouraged Councilmember to inform staff of anything they may see that may seem out of the ordinary. 

MEETING ADJOURNED

Click here to see the full agenda for the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid Meeting on June 3, 2024 once it is available. Tune in, show up or share your thoughts/concerns about the following anticipated 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:

DISCUSSION:

Discussion of Detailed Site Plan application for LV Collective Project Turtle

Discussion of Economic Development

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

Click here to watch the video of the City of College Park Mayor & Council Meeting held on May 14, 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 said the City’s Building Safety Month event had been rescheduled and would be held on Friday, May 31 in the Community Room at City Hall from 3pm -7pm. The last spring cleanup Saturday will be on May 18 at Davis Hall from 7:30am – 12pm. Bulk trash items will be accepted at no charge. Mr. Young reminded attendees that the City will host the annual International Town and Gown Association (ITGA) conference from June 5-7. A networking event will be held at City Hall on June 4. To date, 380 are registered for the conference and 140 are slated to attend the reception. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell asked if students could call Public Works for a pickup of bulk items if they did not attend the clean up Saturday, May 18, and Mr. Young confirmed that was an option. 

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Former County Councilmember Danielle Glaros and former District 2 Councilmember Maxine Gross were in attendance. 

PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS

1. Bike to Work Day Proclamation
2. National Cities, Towns and Villages Month

AMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

Councilmember Rigg made a motion to add a letter of support for a ceasefire in Gaza and return of Israeli hostages (24-R-04) to the agenda as an action item. Seconded by Councilmember Whitney. 

PUBLIC COMMENTS 

David Dorsch, resident – reviewed the video from a recent Council meeting and watched Council agree to pay people for living in apartments. All who were for this action were students and everyone against it were residents, who vote for you. What are you doing here? Do you listen to residents?

Maxine Gross, resident – extended a personal invitation in the 2^nd  event in the Restorative Justice program series. The panel discussion entitled, Restorative Justice: What Does Repair Look Like will be held at Embry AME Church at 4pm on Saturday, May 18. She went on to make a personal comment about information she has seen online regarding Lakeland and restorative justice, and said it is an important discussion to have. The information in the online article is factual, and well researched but some of the conclusions were not true. She said she was reminded that Winston Churchill said history would be kind to him because he was going to write it. Then said it was often the victors who write history, and facts are sometimes purposely managed in ways that offer conclusions that are not quite reality. She invited everyone to attend and have a conversation together rather than taking bits and pieces of truth. She concluded by saying that during her time on Council she appreciated the work of the National League of Cities (NLC) and that it made a real impact on her work then and today.  

CONSENT AGENDA 

24-G-79 Approval of City comments on the Mandatory Referral for the Leonardtown graduate student housing redevelopment – Miriam Bader, Director of Planning

24-G-80 Approval of a letter to the Department of Transportation supporting our grant request and approval to submit the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant application to the U.S. Department of Transportation, including the allocation of the required twenty percent cost-share match of $135,000.00 from the City’s budget for FY26 if the grant is awarded – Rakhmel Rafi, Grants Coordinator

24-G-82 Approval of support for UMD Bikeways Grant Application – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

24-G-81 Approval of minutes from the April 16, 2024, April 23, 2024, and May 7, 2024, Council meetings.

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda,  second by Councilmember Hernandez

ACTION ITEMS: 

24-R-04  Resolution for Gaza Peace and a Return of Israeli Hostages, Councilmember Rigg

Councilmember Rigg said this came up a few weeks ago when residents approached him to ask the City to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. He did not bring it up during the discussion for student subsidy due to the controversy of that issue but wanted to bring it up tonight. Councilmember Rigg made the motion and read the resolution, second by Councilmember Whitney. 

Councilmember Rigg said he suspected this resolution will get a lot of attention and that it will not be a unanimous vote, and that is ok. His purpose is to respond to the voices of those who come to express their concern on this issue.  

Josie Skinner, resident – Here in support of the resolution. This is a humanitarian crisis that goes beyond politics. Ceasefire resolutions send a message that all lives are equally valued. 

Jesse Lupin, resident – It is unfortunate that this was done during finals. He believes that the resolution is nice, but it is not enough and will not lead to peace. It will lead to more violence in the future. 

Yoanni Amani – respectfully disagrees with Councilmember Rigg. Hamas is the result of 70+ years of oppression and unsatisfactory behavior by the oppressor. Yesterday humanitarians and the civilized settlers decided to sabotage the truck and prevent aid to reach human beings. People are digging in the trash for food. Israel is an oppressive state.

Patrica Conner, resident – proud Council is taking up this issue. It is important to provide leadership on the issue. This is something we can do.  ATU local 689 passed a resolution in November.  Thank you. 

Jamila Malik, resident – the oldest living US President visited Palestine in 1978 before social media. Her father was a federal worker with President Carter. Cannot believe we have come to this ugliness. Can’t believe that people can flip with all the atrocities they went through to do the same thing to others. 

Aniah Sanders, resident – supports the ceasefire resolution. It is our job to put an end to injustice. 

Andrea Alvarez, resident – a student at UMD. Tired of seeing the images of the violence, tired of seeing mothers giving birth to babies who do not survive. If she is tired, Palestinians must be exhausted.

Maxine Gross, resident – Right is right, and wrong is just wrong. Evil is being done to human beings and no other human should stand by silently and watch it happen. Will it make a difference for the city council to say this is wrong? Maybe not, but I encourage you to try. 

Richard Burch, UMD student – supports the ceasefire resolution. It is an easy thing to do. It is easy to say we do not support killing people. However, we can only deal with this problem by getting to the root of it. 

Casia Pasigone –  thank you to any of the Councilmembers who vote for it. As a neighbor, believes it is good for this to be done. Encouraged people to be courageous.

Ruth Murphy, resident – Wants us to be on record for putting forth a ceasefire resolution. Hopefully, we can encourage others to do the same.

Ali Batali – her daughter has asked why children and women are dying. She has lost over 100 members of her family through this genocide. Why is food an issue of national security?  Our voices need to rise up. Maryland sends $800,000 to Israel each year. A ceasefire is needed. Another holocaust is happening, but the world is silent. 

Janan – graduate student at UMD. It is hard to see blatant violation of international law. It should not be controversial. We should be calling for a cease fire.

Lasair Chochlain, resident – supports the ceasefire resolution, but wished it went further. No one should be claiming divine right on land that people live on. If violence makes you feel safe, you are an oppressor. 

Aurangzeb Nisar, resident – does not believe the resolution is controversial. This resolution should be put forth to put pressure on President Biden. 

Phillip CP –   This has been genocide.  Survivors of the Holocaust have called this genocide. Our tax dollars are being used to exterminate human beings. Our federal, state and county leaders are failing us. We do not want to see genocide. Please support this.  

Abel Amene – UMD student, housing insecurity is caused by under investment, but funding is being used to support genocide. That money could be used for housing and food insecurities. It is one of the reasons we should call for a ceasefire. 

Talya – supports the ceasefire. It is our responsibility to speak out for what is right. 

Huda Said, resident – it is clear that everyone is in support of the resolution. Hopes we understand what the people want. They look to use to be their voice and help to make an impact. 

Shahnaz – Children graduated from UMD. Works with refugees who come to the states, families who are shattered. 

Samir Kabir, resident – The urgency of this moment cannot be understated. 35,133 people have been killed. Maryland is not immune to this conflict. Our tax dollars are funneled to maintain this conflict. The funding that is being used can be used to support local initiatives. 

Councilmember Mackie – the City of College Park does not have purview over international matters. She hopes and prays for peace but does not believe she was elected by district 4 to put forth this resolution. She may stand alone, but that is alright. 

Councilmember Esters – thanked those who came out to make statements. She said people often turn a blind eye to issues they don’t believe directly impact them. We can agree that innocent people should not continue to die. She said she would support the resolution. 

Councilmember Jacob Hernandez – explained his interest in peace but said he had to abstain from voting on this matter given his job. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell – thanked those who came out and made statements. She said this resolution is about humanity. We should support those who do not have the voice. 

Councilmember Hew – he cannot find any reason people should be killing one another. 

Mayor Kabir – As Mayor he will not have a chance to vote. We rarely take on international issues but there are local impacts from this situation. 

The resolution passed with 6 yes votes, 1 no (Mackie), and 1 abstain (Hernandez).

WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS 

Discussion of reducing the number of Campaign Yard Signs in City elections -Janeen S.Miller, City Clerk

Ms. Miller introduced the item which was brought up by Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell. Ms. Miller shared how campaign signs are managed in other nearby municipalities. In Greenbelt poles are set up in various areas and candidates draw for pole position. There are also signs seen in yards. Neither Bowie nor Hyattsville allow signs in the public rights of way. 

Councilmember Esters – suggested that we consider restricting the allowance of signs in the ROW but allowing for signs in yard where we receive permission to do so.  We see sign sprawl during elections, and we can change that. Signs do not elect candidates. 

Councilmember Hernandez – we should be very careful when considering such a  proposal. He understands what it is like to be a non-incumbent in a competitive race. Such restrictions can take away voice. 

Councilmember Adams – we should restrict signs in ROW but not on private property. 

Councilmember Whitney – agreed with CM Adams. The signs on private property are much more impactful. Suggested a two-week window to post signs. 

Councilmember Rigg – if it is not broken, don’t fix it. There have been candidates who need a way to get their name out there. 

Councilmember Mackie- Election Commission was told not the quash people’s rights. There was a lot of heated conversation. Environmentally, signs are better than stuffing people’s doors. Ask for someone to explain the Supreme Court decision on the matter at some point. 

Councilmember Hew – the signs are a celebration of our democracy. We have such little voter turnout. He views the signs as an icebreaker. Maybe we impose a limit on the number of signs posted. 

Councilmember Esters – suggested designated areas for signs throughout the city, a limit on the number of signs posted, and a standard size for all signs. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell – mentioned residents feeling forced to have everyone’s sign in their yard. 

Councilmember Hernandez- signs communicate to a broader range of voters. Sorry to hear that residents feel forced to take signs, but it is their decision. The state, county, and federal government have not regulated this. 

SGA Liaison Mirani – understands that rationale in wanting to restrict signs. He was once a first-time candidate who faced challenges during a campaign. He liked the idea of designated areas for signs as suggested by Councilmember Esters. 

Councilmember Hew – We could limit the number of signs in the right of way. 

Councilmember Mitchell suggested 30 days in the public right of ways. 

Councilmember Mackie said we should treat each other with respect. 

Councilmember Hew said he was indifferent to change on this matter.

Councilmember Hernadez said he advocated for no change. 

Councilmember Adams – asked for City to take this issue to the Elections Commission 

Ms. Miller – noted there was not consensus among councilmembers to move this issue forward. She expressed concern with the work that would need to be done to take this item to commission without consensus from Council. 

The Council agreed not to move forward with any changes. 

 REQUESTS FOR / STATUS OF FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

Councilmember Esters said she would like to put forth a discussion about National Night Out and whether or not the City moves toward holding one event versus events in various neighborhoods. She said she had spoken to Council colleagues but had not completed the request form. She will do so. 

Councilmember Esters asked to put forth the formation of the taskforce on affordable housing but was told it was already slated to come back to Council for discussion. 

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

Councilmember Adams – Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG) held its kickoff of the Visualize 2050 long-range transportation plan. He mentioned working with Councilmember Weaver of Greenbelt and County Councilmember Eric Olson to ensure that tollways in our region will not be pursued. 

Mayor Kabir – attended a recent event at the State house where the Governor signed one of Delegate Lehman’s bills introduced during session. 

Councilmember Hew – recently attended the White House initiative on Asian American, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. 

Councilmember Hernandez – was former Councilmember Kate Kennedy’s guest at the Latin American Youth Center Gala hosted by District 1 resident Lupi Quinteros-Gradi.

Mr. Young said the Vacant and Blighted Property Taskforce were scheduled to hold their first meeting on 5/15. 

MEETING ADJOURNED

Click here to see the full agenda for the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid Meeting on May 21, 2024. Tune in, show up or share your thoughts/concerns about the following anticipated 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:

CONSENT

Resolution to dissolve the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Committee and consolidate the functions under the City Events Advisory Board

Approval of FY 2024 ARPA grants of $75,000 each to Berwyn Heights Volunteer Fire Department & Rescue Squad, Branchville Volunteer Fire Company (pending receipt of application) and College Park, Volunteer Fire Department

ACTION ITEMS

Adoption of FY’2025 Budget

WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS

Discussion of Rhode Island Ave Between 193 and Edgewood Road: Follow up to prior traffic study (bike lanes, speed limit, driver behavior)

Review of College Park Parade

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

Click here to watch the video of the City of College Park Mayor & Council Meeting held on May 7, 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 REPORT

Quarterly Public Safety Meetings will return, and the first will be held on Monday, May 13. The meeting will be hosted by Major Keleti and Mr. Jatinder Khokhar, Director of Public Services. There will be a discussion of the Go Gov system. The City’s last cleanup event will be held on Saturday, May 18 from 7:30am – 12pm. This event will include shredding and is only open to College Park residents. The City’s Friday Night Live series will begin on Friday, May 10 at City Hall Plaza (Due to inclement weather, the May 10^th event was cancelled and will be rescheduled). May is building safety month. 

Councilmember Whitney mentioned safety concerns related to the construction of the new median on Route 1 causing people to make U-turns after the light has turned red. She suggested a dedicated U-turn signal. Mr. Young said that there will be follow-up with SHA. Mayor Kabir asked when construction would be completed. Mr. Young said he anticipated completion by June 1. He hopes that is the case since the City will host the International Town and Gown Association (ITGA) conference during the first week of June. 

PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS

Building Safety Month

Kids to Park Day 

AMMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

Motion to approve the agenda made by Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell and seconded by Councilmember Adams

PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CONSENT AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS

Dan Blasberg, resident – Thanked Public Works for picking up yard waste after NO MOW APRIL. He mentioned concerns with Parking Enforcement staff parking in the No Parking zones. He asked why it took parking enforcement 40 minutes to respond to a call when someone was parked illegally in front of his home. He reiterated Councilmember Whitney’s concern about U-turns and said jaywalkers crossing the middle of the street is also a safety issue. He asked the SGA Liaisons to encourage students to stop this behavior. 

CONSENT AGENDA

24-G-73 Approval of free summer parking in the downtown parking garage on summer weeknights after 5:00 p.m. and free all-day Saturday parking in the City’s downtown parking garage from May 25 to August 17, 2024. – Jim Miller, Parking Enforcement Manager

24-G-74 Approve the City’s Legislative Request to the Maryland Municipal League to support State legislation in 2025 that would increase the maximum fine municipalities may impose for civil violations from $1,000 to $5,000. – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

24-G-76 Approval to grant Prince George’s County a floodplain easement at Duvall Field as part of the redevelopment – Rakhmel Rafi, Grants Coordinator

24-G-77 Approval of a contract amendment in the amount of $54,802 to NZI

Construction Corporation for construction of micro-mobility parking hubs throughout the City, as approved by Council on August 3, 2023. – Erik Valentine, Community Development Planner

Motion to accept the Consent Agenda made by Councilmember Esters and seconded by Councilmember Adams. 

PUBLIC HEARING:

A. Public Hearing on the (1) FY 2025 Proposed Budget & Capital Improvement Plan; (2) Proposed Property Tax Rate Increase – Gary Fields, Director of Finance

Mr. Fields said the public hearing is for the proposed FY’25 budget including the capital improvement plan and the proposed property tax rate increase which has been considered as part of a 5-month process. The budget ordinance was introduced at the City Council meeting held on April 23 and included changes made at work sessions held on March 23 and April 2. The proposed budget includes a property tax increase to 34.18 cents and a commercial tax increase to 40 cents. 

James Garvin, resident – Unable to afford increase. He will need to move because he will not be able to retire here. He said this is outrageous. He asked that we consider reducing spending. 

Dan Blasberg, resident – he said he came to a City Council meeting in 2020 to speak against the decrease of property taxes out of concern we would be having this discussion, and now here we are with an increase. A 13% increase is too much for people to afford. He would encourage the Council to find another way to replace those funds. 

Brian Roan – resident –  He has heard that a lot of people are looking to leave College Park. A couple recently told him they needed to go. A lot of people leave due to the schools. He said we are looking at a massive drain of residents. Some of the things in the budget reflect the direction the City is going in. 

Richard Biffl, non-resident – He is against the proposal to raise the cost for his student residents. The City benefits from the valuation of properties. He said the comparison to other municipalities was not comparable since those cities have their own police departments.  We all have to adjust our budgets without ARPA money.   

ACTION ITEMS

24-G-75 Discussion related to possible budget amendments for the FY2025 Proposed Budget

Mr. Young introduced this action item as a discussion regarding possible budget amendments to the FY 2025 proposed budget. The City Manager said there have been several comments on the budget and recognized this is a daunting task. He listed many fiscal challenges facing the city, including union negotiations. We are also bringing 75 of our 130 employees to the 50^th percentile of compensation rates. He wants to bring our workers to a level that is commensurate with their work. We also need to look at our Public Works facilities since we are running out of space. We are bringing the College Park Woods facilities online; the renovation of Duvall Field is on the horizon. He hopes we come in under budget but is not sure we can. He must also consider programming to be done at Duvall Field. We are looking at sustainability and council priorities. Buildings that will generate tax revenue in the future include Union on Knox, Campus Village, The Flats, and Discovery Zone, but many of these projects will not come online until 2027. We need to have emergency funds on hand for more than 3 months. 

Mr. Fields clarified that this item should have been listed as a worksession discussion, not an action item. He is looking for a straw poll on tax rates and any amendments. We have received two amendments to the budget to allow for cuts. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell asked about the City’s reserves and whether or not we would have been wiped out if we had not received ARPA funding. Mr. Young said we would have been wiped out during the pandemic had it not been for ARPA funds. 

Councilmember Adams Amendment – reductions of approximately $500,000 that would bring the residential property tax rate to 33.50 and commercial/industrial/apartment tax rate to 37.00.

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell asked Mr. Young and Mr. Fields to share input about the Adams amendment. Mr. Young expressed some concerns about the reduction of monies to Neighbors Helping Neighbors, which many rely upon. He also had concerns about the reduction of racial equity training for staff. Mr. Field said that they do not have any specific analysis, but they will make things work. Any reduction would require cuts. Mr. Young said that the developments slated to come online bring with them more residents that need to be served. 

Councilmember Whitney Amendment – reductions of approximately $250,000 that bring the residential property tax rate to 33.50 and the commercial/industrial/apartment tax rate to 38.50.

Councilmember Riggs said he appreciated the Whitney proposal and would likely vote for it. 

Councilmember Hew asked how we move forward. 

Councilmember Esters said we cannot rely upon what is not in front of us. It would be irresponsible for us to think of only of this year. We do not want to be in this situation next year. 

Councilmember Mackie- We do not know what the future holds. She does not want to raise taxes.

Straw poll results – vote 6 to 2 in favor of the Whitney amendment.

Councilmember Hernandez did not put forth a motion to consider his amendment, but said his amendment included reductions of approximately $245,000 that would bring the residential property tax rate to 32.50 and the commercial/industrial/apartment tax rate to 39.00.

Councilmember Adams said that the ARPA recalibration has the potential to unlock funding and when that occurs he will reflect on this evening when we could have lowered taxes.

The straw poll vote was to provide staff direction for how to proceed. 

WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS 

A. Discussion on the mandatory referral plans for Leonardtown redevelopment. 

Ms. Bader, Director of Planning, introduced this item. She said the University of Maryland (UMD) was requesting a Mandatory Referral Review to redevelop a former undergraduate housing development known as Leonardtown and an existing parking lot into new graduate housing. She explained the Mandatory Referral Review as a process implemented for all federal, state, and local government projects, which are tax exempt entities. The property is adjacent to the Old Town College Park Historic District, and the Local Advisory Committee (LAC) approved the request with two recommendations which were also included in the City staff recommendations:

1. Consider redesigning the south facade by visually breaking up the massing to reduce the effect of the monolithic street wall; and increase accessibility by allowing pedestrian pass-throughs at ground level, such as through the courtyards.  

2.  Consider enhancing the landscape buffer on the south side of the project between the parking lots and the residential area of Old Town and incorporate landscape features within the parking lots themselves; include trees and shrubs as a landscape buffer along Norwich Road and trees along Graduate Row and Campus Drive to soften the building’s appearance; and retain the existing trees on the site wherever possible.

Ms. Bader said the connection of Rhode Island Ave is not part of this review but may be reconsidered at a later date. 

Councilmember Rigg asked about the definition of the referral review. Ms. Bader explained the County cannot regulate the State because UMD is exempt from zoning. Mr. Riggs asked if this item would come before Council again (It will not.).

Councilmember Hew asked if the slated parking would be enough. Mr. Maginnis assured Mr. Hew UMD has enough parking to accommodate the residents of this new development, as many of them will not have vehicles and the property is close to Metro. 

Mr. Ed Maginnis said UMD has over 10,000 graduate students and currently has only 750 beds. This development is an opportunity to more than double graduate housing. It is an opportunity to provide quality, below-market-rate housing for students. 

Greg Reese – Mosaic Development Partners, a Philadelphia-based company, was selected by UMD through an RFP process. Leonardtown buildings were in bad condition. The new development will provide a high-quality experience with a big statement building. They met with the leaders of the graduate student association who expressed their excitement about it. 

Jordan Goldstein – Co-CEO of Gensler. An alum and former Leonardtown resident. He hopes to build connectivity between this development and UMD.  

Councilmember Adams thanked the developers for their work and the focus on student housing. He asked about stormwater management and whether a traffic study had been done. Mr. Goldstein said the building would be LEED Silver. Mr. Reese said a preliminary traffic study was done and then explained the time constraint as the project is to be completed by 2026.  Adams spoke of the possibilities of delivery and rideshare vehicles impeding traffic on Campus Drive. The developer spoke about the creation of a roundabout. Adams inquired about Princeton to Yale, which is currently pedestrian traffic only, and asked if there has been discussion about opening up the roadways to vehicular traffic. Ed Maginnis said he would like that to happen. 

Councilmember Rigg said he was skeptical about cut-through traffic concerns. He inquired about drop-offs and for consideration of lane for drops offs. Mr. Goldstein said that the Purple line presents a challenge for flow. 

Mr. Maginnis shared the address – 4646 Graduate Way.

Councilmember Rigg asked about pedestrian streetlights. Mr. Goldstein said that they are working to find the right lighting balance. Rigg also asked about the surface parking lot.  Maginnis said UMD’s master plan includes a future parking garage at the site. 

SGA Liaison Mironi asked about access to the building. Mr. Reese said that the majority of the building will be accessible by key fob. 

Major Kabir asked about affordability. (Maginnis – The majority of the units are studios expected to start at $1,300/month.)

Councilmember Hew asked the developer to consider spectrum lighting. He also asked if the parking lot would be permeable (it will not). He expressed concern about parking issues in Old Town. Hew suggested development of pollinator and a permaculture garden as part of the landscape. 

Councilmember Mackie asked about including a playground. Mr. Maginnis said the Graduate Hills community is set up for families. Given its format, this development will be harder to gear toward families. Mackie asked about guest parking. Maginnis said logically there should be guest parking. Councilmember Mackie also suggested the use of solar panels. 

Councilmember Esters asked about the square footage of the units. Mr. Reese said there would be studio apartments and 5-bedroom units. There was focus on ensuring bathroom parity. 

Councilmember Hernandez asked if the developers would make payment in lieu of taxes. Their tax-exempt status was reiterated. Hernandez asked about the impound lot. Mr. Maginnis said it would be moved. Hernandez suggested that emergency blue lights be added. He asked about scooter hubs for the building and mentioned his appreciation for the common space. 

Councilmember Whitney asked if the building would offer 8-month or 1-year leases. Mr. Maginnis said the building will be owned by MEDCO and the leases are currently 12 months. He said he would inquire about 2-year leases, saying that makes sense. 

SGA Liaison Sprinkle said students appreciate the new development. He asked about the future of the Leonardtown community Center. Mr. Maginnis said the community center will not be removed. Spring asked whether the number of proposed parking spaces was necessary, saying less parking might allow for more community space. 

B. Discussion on utilizing the Safe Streets and Roadways for All Grant and the City’s strategy upon award – Rakhmel Rafi, Grants Coordinator

Mr. Rafi introduced the initiative, saying that College Park has become a more pedestrian and bike-friendly community. The federal grant from the US Department of Transportation is offered in two phases, planning/demonstration, and implementation. 

City staff have identified 19 locations where demonstration funding can be used. Roadway safety alterations can be made that include speed reduction markings, roundabouts, lane narrowing, wrong-way prevention, directing traffic, and pedestrian refuge Islands. The city is looking for a project total of $675,000, which will require a matching contribution of $135,000. 

C. Revitalization Tax Credit – proposed application and ordinance – Michael Williams, Director of Economic Development. 

Mr. Williams said he was happy to guide us on projects we want to attract to the city. In some areas, we will need to be more aggressive. The updated application was in response to requests for additional information from those seeking revitalization tax credits. 

Councilmembers asked about provisions for limiting rent increases by the Consumer Price Index (CPI); why completed projects would be incentives (they’re not – the question is for information gathering); the inclusion of condos for seniors, not just rentals; including a level 1 criteria for purpose-built senior housing, listing a maker space as a public-benefit use, daycare for children, adults, and trainings other than a college degree; protecting trees on site; and a suggestion that we not constrain what is eligible for grants.

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

Councilmember Rigg mentioned the recent Four Cities discussion on Pepco’s street lighting program. Upfront cost, but long-term benefit. It would not be economical for the city to go into the streetlighting business alone. 

Councilmember Mackie said she and Councilmember Rigg attended the last CMAST of the semester. Lots of things happening on campus, including graduation and an incentive for repurposing moveout items. She mentioned the nice Arbor Day event in District 3. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell- Thanked Councilmembers Hew, Mackie, and Rigg for attending the CMAST meeting. She said she will continue the discussion about the need for a North County animal shelter. She said the county is having discussions about tax differentials, and College Park may be able to get additional money. 

Councilmember Hew said the Month of May is Asian Pacific Islander Month. 

Councilmember Hernandez announced that the NCPCA meeting will be Thursday, May 9. He invited residents to attend Friday Night Live, on Friday, May 10. 

SGA Liaison Mirani wished UMD students’ good luck on finals.  He also encouraged people to vote. 

MEETING ADJOURNED

Click here to see the full agenda for the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid Meeting on May 14, 2024. Tune in, show up or share your thoughts/concerns about the following anticipated 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:

CONSENT AGENDA

• Approval of City comments on the Mandatory Referral for the Leonardtown graduate student housing redevelopment. 
• Approval of a letter to the Department of Transportation supporting our grant request and approval to submit the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant application to the U.S. Department of Transportation, including the allocation of the required twenty percent cost-share match of $135,000.00 from the City’s budget for FY26 if the grant is awarded. 
• Approval of support for UMD Bikeways Grant Application.

WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS 

A. Discussion of reducing the number of Campaign Yard Signs in City elections 

On Monday, May 13, join the Anacostia Trails Heritage Area, Hyattsville CDC and the College Park City-University Partnership at Franklin’s Restaurant, Brewery and General Store for a fundraiser to support Trolley Trail Day 2024!

20 percent of your dine-in, take-out, or general store purchases will be donated to support #TrolleyTrailDay 2024.

Here’s how it works!
1. Stop by Franklins Restaurant, Brewery and General Store any time between 11:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on Monday, May 13.
2. Purchase a meal or something from the general store.
*3. Bring your receipt to the host stand and mention that your purchase was in support of Trolley Trail Day.
4. Feel satisfied that 20 percent of your purchase will be donated in support of a really good initiative.
5. Tell everyone you know to do the same!

Their goal is to raise at least $500!

Hello, neighbors! We hope you enjoyed the Celebrating College Park Parade. We were truly feeling The Force (of community) and hope you were, too! If you haven’t visited the Hollywood Farmers Market this season, there’s a new produce vendor and a new baked good vendor called Sugar Plug, as well as established favorites like Blue Berwyn, Schmidt Spirits and Amity Kitchen. It’s a delicious way to mingle and support small businesses.

With No Mow April in the rear view and yard work ahead, consider using the City’s Lawn Care Equipment Rebate program to retire your gas-powered leaf blowers or mowers and replace them with electric or manual equipment. Keep those receipts, and apply at https://www.collegeparkmd.gov/402/Lawn-Care-Equipment-Rebate. 

The 2024 Friday Night LIVE! concert series launches May 10^th with The Dead Flowers, an outlaw country group. Don’t worry. No citations will be issued for enjoying the performance. The events feature children’s performers, a bounce house, and arts and crafts. All concerts will be held at City Hall Plaza (7401 Baltimore Avenue) with free parking at the Downtown College Park parking garage at the corner of Yale and Knox, and local food and beer available for purchase.

If you haven’t already, please visit the redesigned city website, which features a new navigation and menu system; How Do I? section; more above-the-fold content; and improved accessibility like a dedicated translation button by the search bar. Please email feedback to cpcommunications@collegeparkmd.gov. 

We want to thank the BDCA and Lakeland Civic Association (LCA) for hosting a joint community clean-up on Saturday, June 1 from 10 am – noon (Rain Date, 6/2). If you can’t make June 1st, join us on Saturday, May 25 for a clean-up in Branchville, Oak Springs and Daniels Park from 10 am to noon. We’ll meet in front of Attick Towers at 9014 Rhode Island Avenue.

The City’s final spring cleanup will be May 18 from 7:30am – 12:00pm. Drop off bulky trash, white goods, electronic recycling, brush, and yard trim. Shredding services will be available from 8 am to noon. You must bring proof of City residency to participate.

Please be aware that three racoons captured in North College Park have tested positive for rabies in recent weeks. College Park’s Animal Control Officer reports that the County health department is working with Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources and the State Veterinarian to identify the next best steps to address the issue. As for foxes, the City shared tips and information for residents, including not approaching or feeding wildlife; securing trash on your property; keeping wildlife fearful of humans by making loud noises; and not allowing pets to interact with wildlife. Finally, please report wildlife with obvious signs of sickness to the City’s Animal Control Officer or DNR.

In short, be safe, have fun, and we hope to see you on Trolley Trail Day on Saturday, June 8^th.