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 March 4, 2025. By going to this link, you can 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 College Park Woods Clubhouse ribbon cutting will be held on Thursday, March 6 from 4:30pm – 5:30pm. He said the Duvall Field Phase 2 ribbon cutting will occur Friday, March 14 at 8:30am. He announced College Park Day will be on Saturday, October 18 from 12 – 6pm. A Women’s History Month event will be held on Saturday, March 15 at 1pm – “Meet” Eleanore Roosevelt through a living history performance. For more information, visit https://www.collegeparkmd.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=8596.

Mayor Kabir announced a Town Hall with College Park County Council representatives Eric Olson and Tom Dernoga on March 22 at 10:30am in City Hall. 

AMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

Councilmember Whitney made a motion to approve the agenda, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell.

PUBLIC COMMENT ON CONSENT AGENDA AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS

Stuart Katzenberg, non-resident union represent for city of College Park employees – Thanked the Council, City Manager Kenny Young and Teresa Way-Pezzutti, Director of Human Resources, for the union agreement that recognizes Indigenous Peoples Day, and health and safety. 

Craig Johnson, resident, student at UMD – commented on the construction noise in Lot 7 which starts at 7am each morning. He said there is also noise on Saturdays. He said the noise is disruptive and maddening and he recently called to lodge a complaint. He said there is an apartment complex and houses close by. He said he moved to College Park to be a student and asked if this situation is fair to residents. Mr. Young said the property is on university property and there is a different way it needs to be handled. Mr. Young said he would reach out to university administration. 

Dave Dorsch, resident – the city should sell the house at 4704 Calvert Road. He is asking the Council to seriously consider selling the house. He asked if we know how many people have lived in the community for 50 years or more and how many are eighty and over. He said these individuals should be recognized and celebrated. Mayor Kabir said the Senior Committee has looked into that data and can provide it. 

Husain, non-resident – working with advanced technology center. The majority whip David Moon has agreed to send information about the project. He mentioned talking to a reporter from Maryland Matters about results from a survey. He has sent a message to all council members and staff and would like to know how this can benefit College Park. He said he would like to know what economic efficiencies are needed. 

CONSENT AGENDA

25-G-28 Ratification of a new three-year Agreement between the City of College Park, Maryland and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 1209C, AFL-CIO, and authorization for the City Manager to sign the new Agreement – Teresa Way-Pezzuti, Director of Human Resources 

25-G-31 Approval of a letter in support of Prince George’s County Department of Public Works and Transportation’s (DPW&T) application to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments’ Transit Land-Use Connections (TLC) Grant Program for the Northern Prince George’s East-West Bikeway Planning Study – Miriam Bader, Director of Planning 

Councilmember Esters made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda, seconded by Councilmember Mackie. It was unanimously approved.

PRESENTATIONS:

Signing of the Agreement between the City of College Park, Maryland and the American 

Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 1209C, AFL-CIO. 

The mayor invited the director of Human resources and members of the union to sign their contract agreement. 

AFSCME Local 3 represents the Department of Public Works field employees. The current three-year contract expires on June 30, 2025. The City Manager, Director of Human Resources, and the Director of Public works have been negotiating with the Union since December of 2024. The City Manager and Director of Human Resources met with Council in a closed session to discuss the terms of the contract. 

The Agreement stipulates a 4.5% COLA on July 1, 2025 (estimated cost of $183,507 for the bargaining unit employees): a 3.0% COLA on July 1, 2026 (estimated cost of $154,069 for the bargaining unit employees), and a 3.0% COLA on July 1, 2027 (estimated cost of $162,658 for the bargaining unit employees). However, it has been the City’s practice to extend the COLA to all employees. The City Manager will include a recommendation for other employees in his FY2026 Proposed Budget for Council consideration.

The Union representative, union staff members, City Manager, Director of Human Resources and Director of Public works joined the council meeting to sign the new three-year agreement. 

Mayor Kabir to present the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Proclamation to Ellen Tappin. 

Councilmember Hew recognized Ms. Ellen Tappin, District 1 resident, for suggesting a proclamation to recognize Colorectal Cancer. He said it is preventable. He said it is estimated there will be 2,620 people who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer in Maryland this year, and 950 will perish. The screening age has changed from 55 to 45. Councilmember Hew said people in a high-risk category should get tested every five years.

ACTION ITEMS 

25-G-29 Approval of a Signage and Parking Enforcement Agreement with the University of Maryland to enforce parking along the portion of Lehigh Road located west of Baltimore Avenue – Steve Halpern, City Engineer and Stephanie Anderson, City Attorney

Mr. Halpern, City Engineer, introduced the action item and said many years ago parking enforcement used to oversee parking at what was once Sterling Place, but as owners have changed hands that site is now Union at Knox and the city was relieved of those duties. Lehigh Road is the location of the entrance and exit for the Union at Knox garage. Cars park in front of the businesses in this location, blocking cars exiting the garage. The University has asked the city to enforce parking in this area. 

Councilmember Rigg said there is an interest among the business owners in parallel parking on Lehigh Road, and they have been using parking for their patrons. Mr. Halpern confirmed there is not enough parking on the roadway. Riggs said he was open to accepting the motion but would like to make sure there are solutions for the businesses and their patrons. 

Councilmember Esters said there were many examples of garages in proximity that provide parking for retail patrons, including Riverdale Park and Mix It Food Hall in Mount Rainier. Mr. Young said that the difference in the garages mentioned by Councilmember Esters is that the spaces were created to accommodate patrons on their property; the businesses near Union at Knox are not part of their property. Mr. Jim Miller, Parking Enforcement Manager, said the Union at Knox does have parking available for retail patrons for a fee.

Councilmember Whitney asked if the city would retain any money from ticketing. Mr. Halpern confirmed that would be the case. 

Councilmember Hew asked why the university is coming to the city to patrol the area. Mr. Young said they approached UMD about the problem because the complaints were coming to the city. We do not want to take away from the University’s responsibility but would like to make sure there are solutions. 

Councilmember Rigg made the motion to approve signage and parking enforcement, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell. 

25-G-30 Approval of the November 2025 General Election Date – Yvette Allen, City Clerk and Susan Huemmrich, Chief Board of Election Supervisors 

Ms. Huemmrich introduced the item by saying that the Board of Elections Supervisors (BOES) considered what would serve as greater incentive for their work and although money is not insulting, it is not the main driver. They want to help increase voter engagement. She discussed three recommendations BOES brought to Council including Vote 16, rank choice voting and moving to an entirely mail-in vote. She said the city has considered Vote 16 and rank choice voting but has had difficulty with mail-in voting. She said that voting by mail increased the number of voters significantly in 2021. The BOES would like to keep this recommendation alive for many reasons. For the upcoming elections, they would like to mail ballots to all who registered for mail-in voting and those who make the request.

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell thanks Ms. Huemmrich and the BOES for consideration of another voting day, and for the voting drop box in College Park Woods. She said residents have asked about provisional ballots and how they are counted. There is concern that provisional ballots are not counted at all. Ms. Huemmrich said the canvas of the votes are televised so residents can watch to see that all votes are counted. Ms. Allen said the city needs to verify that provisional voters are registered, and they may not be counted if someone moved from one district to another. Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell asked about a rumor of votes not being counted and being trashed. Ms. Huemmrich reiterated that it does not happen and spoke of the integrity of BOES volunteers. 

Councilmember Esters thanked the BOES for their work, including the Sunday early voting day. She asked if any consideration was given to other locations discussed. Ms. Huemmrich said churches would not work on Sunday and there was reluctance to use the VFW since they serve alcohol. 

Councilmember Hew asked if the polling hours at Davis Hall could be changed from 10am – 5pm. Ms. Allend said it was a council decision but asked for council to consider that volunteers will be there 2 hours before and 2 hours after. 

Councilmember Hernandez said previously it was not possible to use Davis Hall. Ms. Allen said it was not that it was impossible, but BOES wanted to move toward one day of voting. Ms. Huemmrich said what drove Davis Hall was an urge to compromise. 

Councilmember Whitney thanked Ms. Huemmrich for spirit of compromise and listening to the request from residents. She said the city is 5-square miles and that residents are asked to make the effort once every 2 years. She said it is not hard to vote in College Park and she would not support extending the hours.

Ms. Allen said we need to move forward in setting the time now. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell made the motion to approve Tuesday, November 4, 2025, as General Election Day at City Hall and Sunday, November 1 from 11 am to 4 pm as Early Voting Day at Davis Hall, seconded Councilmember Mackie. The motion passed with a vote of 6-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell said it is incumbent upon us to set the tone. 

Councilmember Rigg said the special election is going on now and the city is getting this process down to a science. He said he wants us to come to terms with moving toward a completely mail-in election. 

Councilmember Mackie mentioned the great work of the BOES and the judges and spoke of the integrity of the vote. College Park is a leader in the county as it relates to the vote. College Park has been a pioneer in this area. Residents are encouraged to vote and to trust our BOES. Ms. Huemmrich recognized the 200 hours Ms. Allen put into the special election. 

25-O-01 Introduction of an Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of College Park amending City Code Chapters 125-10, “Housing Regulations”; “Chapter 141-6 “Refuse Toter and Recycling Containers; and Chapter 110 Fees and Penalties – Jatinder Khokhar, Director of Public Services and Stephanie Anderson, City Attorney 

Mr. Khokhar said there was a discussion of language for the ordinance at the February 11 Mayor and Council meeting that would be brought back to Council. 

Council Mackie asked about language on page 61 there is language regarding carts and if it would cover people who are on a hill who may have difficulty moving items. Ms. Anderson, City Attorney, said yes, there was discussion with the city staff who said there is a process to address this situation. 

Councilmember Hew asked about the $50 fine and asked if there was an escalation in the fee. Ms. Anderson there is no escalation but each day it is violated, it is $50. Ms. Anderson said that judges also read a reasonable standard for fees and may reduce it. 

Councilmember Rigg made the motion to approve, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez. The motion was approved unanimously.

WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS

ZMA-2024-002, The Mark rezoning from RTO-L-E to RTO-PD for the re-development of a student housing facilities (involving the razing of College Park Towers and the construction of new student housing) located at 4330 Harwick Road and 4313 Knox Road. Planning Board Hearing tentatively scheduled for March 27, 2025- Miriam Bader, Director of Planning and Community Development and Carlos Nunes, Senior Planner. 

Carlos Nunes, Senior Planner, introduced the items and said the applicant (The Mark) is requesting to rezone their property from RTO-L-E (Regional Transit-Oriented, Low-Intensity-Edge) to RTO-PD (Regional Transit-Oriented, Planned Development) to accommodate their plan for future development. The 4.62-acre property is located at 4330 Hartwick Road and 4313 Knox Road, west of Baltimore Avenue, and is developed with two multi-family condominium buildings known as College Park Towers. The condominiums are owned by several individuals and leased primarily to students who attend the University of Maryland. The Developer plans to tear down the current structures and replace them with two new high density student apartment buildings. This meeting is to discuss the rezoning request. This item is scheduled to come back as an action item on March 18th. The location is approximately one block from campus. The Pre-Application Neighborhood meeting was held on September 19, 2024, in the College Park Council Chambers. 

Mr. Nunes said there were three parts to the rezoning process:

1. The Rezoning Review 
2. Preliminary Plan
3. Detailed site plan

Councilmember Whitney appreciated the feedback from the BPAC but said she would prefer to also see information shared with councilmembers from the district where the development is occurring. Ms. Bader said that was the intent, and that we are early enough in the process for councilmembers to provide feedback 

Councilmember Hew asked for a green statement, an ordinance passed at the county level about EV parking and asked for a percentage of affordable housing. 

Councilmember Hernandez asked for the difference between the existing zoning to the new zoning. He also asked if developers would be allowed to charge by the room. Ms. Bader said they would be allowed to charge by room. The condominiums are primarily occupied by students. Councilmember Hernandez asked how many condominiums we have in College Park versus student housing developments. Ms. Bader said we have three condominiums and fifteen student housing developments. Councilmember Hernandez said he is encouraged to see investment in our community but is discouraged by this project. 

Councilmember Mackie asked about the planting of trees and asked about what is being done to protect Guilford Run. She also asked about the needs of the Orthodox Jewish community who live in the current development. Ms. Bader said she did talk to members of the Jewish faith and was informed by the developer there would be a manual key to access the building on the Sabbath. 

Councilmember Esters reiterated the focus on affordable housing and said the developer had a chance to do something different with this project. She also asked about the point at which a traffic study will be done given the development density and proximity to Route 1. Ms. Bader said it will be done during the next phase, the preliminary plan.

SGA Liaison Otte said as a student representative there to too many luxury apartments in College Park. Tearing down affordable housing overrides the plan to focus on affordable housing. She emphasized the needs of the Jewish students and does not want the city to sacrifice affordability. 

Attorney Chris Hatcher, representative for Landmark Properties, said that Landmark developed the Standard at College Park, which is completed and fully leased. He said many of the questions raised by the Council and from residents are associated with preliminary site plans. He said the developer is seeking relief from the loading areas since the space is fully furnished. He mentioned the benefits of the proposed North and South Plazas. He said they learned about the importance of Ancestors Lane to the city and wanted to respond, although this came up late in the process. 

Bob Keen – WDG Architecture (Union on Knox, Atworth, Terrapin Row) gave an overview of the Pedestrian Promenade/Greenway which will be ADA accessible and bike-friendly; the space will be a linear park. There is a staircase and series of ramps. He said the space will accommodate bikes in an artful way. He anticipates there will be about fifty trees in the area and there will be pocket park. They are looking to do a project that activates the street and works withing the scope and the materials. 

Mr. Hatcher said EV parking will be provided at this building as they have provided parking at other buildings. He said that the new county ordinance green building standards will be met. 

Mayor Kabir mentioned the questions from Councilmember Hernandez about the saturation of student housing. Hatcher indicated that the city has always said they wanted student housing in a specific area, which is where this housing will go. 

Mr. Hamilton Reynolds said he worked on the development of The Standard and has been tracking the project. He said they would not build if the demand were not there. 

Councilmember Rigg asked for the current density of the College Park Towers. Currently there are 202 units, and the new development is slated for 600-690 units. The current development has close to one hundred owners in the building and there are not many owner-occupied units. Councilmember Rigg asked if rezoning is not achieved what would be done. They do not know yet. He asked if there would be enough light to accommodate the proposed trees. Mr. Keen said there would be, since the exposure is north to south and not east to west. Councilmember Rigg asked for a definition of vehicle stacking. Ms. Bader explained vehicle stacking as how many cars can line up in an area before it backs up into the roadway. 

Councilmember Rigg said he was pushing back on Mr. Hatcher’s comments about the city not wanting more student housing. Councilmember Rigg said he brought up his concerns given the question about saturation. Councilmember Rigg asked about stormwater management. Mr. Hatcher said there is currently no stormwater management on the site, and the new development would provide such management. 

Councilmember Hernandez asked the developer to work with the city to meet its strategic goals. 

SGA Liaison Otte said parking is an issue at these buildings, amenities that are provided often garner higher prices and asked about the difference in these apartments from the others. 

Mr. Hatcher said the developer would decouple parking from the units to help discourage more cars from coming into the city.   

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell said we pivoted from the focus of 20 years ago for affordable housing. The price point for housing is high for students. 

SGA Liaison McDonald asked if the developer would commit to some form of affordability. Mr. Hatcher said they do not have prices yet. Mr. Reynolds said their rents normally include internet and utilities. Rigg suggested price points comparable to the cost of on-campus housing. Mr. Hamilton said they would be open to talking about it. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell said there is a tentative preliminary planning date for March 27. She asked if the developer would you be willing to consider the comments from the council. Mr. Hatcher said he was not clear about the request for affordable student housing.

Councilmember Hernandez asked if the developer had affordable student housing in their portfolio and Mr. Reynolds said yes, they do. Hernandez said you must have knowledge about what we are asking for. Mr. Reynolds said inclusionary zoning is typically known from the start. They have been working on the project for 18 months. 

Councilmember Hew acknowledged working with Mr. Hatcher when he we previously on the council and said he hoped Mr. Hatcher heard the council loud and clear.  

Legislative Review (there is a possibility that action will be taken on time-sensitive bills) -Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

Mr. Gardiner provided an overview of the legislative session and the progress bills that are of interest to the city.

 There has been a request to MML to make legislation to allow all municipalities to increase infractions a priority (HB1506). A hearing on this legislation was held on Tuesday, March 4. Senator Rosapepe is on the committee. 

We will see where the bill we pushed to get land use authority goes. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell had questions about a Childcare bill, HB859/SB611. According to Mr. Gardiner, Mr. Lucchi said that the legislation has a chance of passing to help childcare entities qualify their staff for health insurance. Mitchell asked the council to send a letter of support.

Councilmember Mackie said the AARP livability workgroup is interested in HB20 regarding affordable housing near transit zones. Mr. Gardiner said he would look into it.

Councilmember Whitney said building on Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell’s mention of a childcare bill for insurance, is it possible to hear from the Childcare taskforce on the other childcare bills? Mr. Gardiner said there is still time for them to review and make comments. He said he believes the lobbyist will be helpful and mentioned the committee will meet on Thursday. Whitney also asked about the bill regarding short-term rentals and if the council needs to send information about our position. Mr. Gardiner said we do not need to send anything. 

Councilmember Hernandez expressed concerns about HB718 (the establishment of Maryland Health Insurance Coverage Protection Commission), HB1045 (updating references to federal law related to family planning services), and HB936 (requiring notice for health Insurance cancellation and nonrenewal of coverage) and the range of services it would impact. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell asked for clarification on HB859 (access to health insurance for childcare professionals). She asked if we had to wait before sending a letter or if we should move forward. Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell made a motion to send a letter of support, seconded by Councilmember Whitney, and Council voted to send a letter of support.

COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE

Husain, non-resident –asked if the developers for the student housing development took renewable energy into consideration. He said there was no need to answer now, but something to discuss later as new applicants come before the council. 

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

Councilmember Mackie said she and Councilmember Hernandez attended a recent meeting at High Point High School to hear about their three-prong plan to raze it. They met the principal and students and were impressed. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell attended the recent Mayors Alliance on Hunger. She said there is a true threat to cutting SNAP. There is a letter of support for maintaining the SNAP program. 

Mayor Kabir said he attended Hollywood and Paint Branch Elementary Schools to see the “If I Were Mayor” presentations. He said he also attended the recent Four Cities meeting hosted by College Park, and said he will be attending the Mayors Municipal Association (MMA) Conference and will meet the governor. He said he looked forward to attending the upcoming ribbon cutting ceremony at College Park Woods Clubhouse.

Councilmember Hew attended JTCC facility and represented the city. He said he is proud to have it in our city and acknowledged their work with people with disabilities which allows them to play tennis in a recognized tournament. 

Councilmember Hernandez said he was impressed and pleasantly surprised by the administration at High Point High School. He mentioned his upcoming community meeting scheduled for Wednesday, March 5. He is also excited about Duvall Field and thanked staff for their work. 

Mr. Young mentioned the Special Election for District 3 to be held on Tuesday, March 11 from 8am – 8pm. 

MEETING ADJOURNED

Click here to see the full agenda for the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid Meeting on March 18, 2025, when 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:

Presentation: 

Pepco – High Utility Bills, Ronnie McTier, Senior External Affairs Specialist Annual Economic Development Report 

Consent: 

Award of a Contract for Municipal Mowing – Robert Marsili, Director of Public Works 

Renewal of Insurance Contracts – Teresa Way-Pezzuti, Director of Human Resources 

Action Item: 

ZMA-2024-002, The Mark rezoning from RTO-L-E to RTO-PD for the re-development of a student housing facilities (involving the razing of College Park Towers and the construction of new student housing) located at 4330 Harwick Road and 4313 Knox Road. Planning Board Hearing tentatively scheduled for March 27, 2025-Miriam Bader, Director of Planning and Community Development and Carlos Nunes, Senior Planner. 

Legislative Review (there is a possibility that action will be taken on time-sensitive bills) – Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

Annual Summer Camp Scholarships are Back!

The City of College Park’s summer camp scholarship applications are now open! Youth (rising K-12) who reside in the City of College Park are eligible to apply. Scholarships are granted up to a maximum of $400 per student. Students are eligible to receive a scholarship for one camp session only. Priority is given to youth who did not receive a City of College Park scholarship in previous years.

The scholarship can be used for camps hosted by:

• The University of Maryland (Go to search, type in “2025 Summer Camps”)
• Prince George’s County Department of Parks & Recreation
• Prince George’s Community College

To apply: collegeparkmd.gov/summercamp2025

For updated information and details on camps offered by each organization, please visit their individual websites. Please note that updated summer camp information may not be available yet. Some camps are still finalizing their plans for the summer. Please check the websites frequently for updates!

A message form the City of College Park Department of Public Works :

This week, Concrete General Inc. will be working on repairs on the south side of Greenbelt Road just east of 49^th Avenue. The bike lane and thru lane may be closed during daytime hours but the left turn lane remains open for all eastbound traffic.

Dear District 2 Residents,

Please join Councilmembers Esters and Whitney on March 15, 2025, from 11:00am – 12:30pm for a virtual community meeting.  We would like to share updates and hear from community members.  Click here to join (passcode: 15Mar25).

We look forward to seeing you then.

Her office is launching a new way to submit requests to streamline the response process and ensure a prompt response. Please click this “submit a request” link if you have specific requests of her office. This includes constituent concerns, policy feedback, invitations or requests for meetings, proclamations, and other types of support. Her office needs your consent/authorization to ensure that they are advocating properly on your behalf and able to be efficient in their response.

Sharing this from the City of College Park:

WGL’s paving contractor Resurface Inc. is working on getting back on schedule with street restoration projects that were delayed due to inclement weather and cold temperatures.

Over the next two weeks, they are expected to work at the following locations:

• Rhode Island Avenue (West Side) at Seminole Street
• Seminole Street just east of Rhode Island Avenue
• 9700-Block of 51^st Avenue
• 9700-Block of Wichita Avenue

Parking restriction signage has been posted, and exact dates may change due to weather. We’ll continue to post relevant updates in the weekly bulletin.

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 February 18, 2025. By going to this link, you can 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 he was pleased to announce the City of College Park has received the Government Finance Association award for the presentation of its budget. He said the award represents a significant achievement by the city and reflects commitment by the governing body and staff to the highest principles of government budgeting. To receive the award, the city had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for budget presentation to assess how well an entity’s budget document serves as a policy document, financial plan, and a communications and operations tool.  Mr. Young thanked members of council and residents who participated in the process. He mentioned we will start the budgeting process again in the next few weeks. 

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Former District 2 Councilmember, Bob Catlin 

PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS

• Women’s History Month 

• Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month 

 AMENDMENTS TO AND APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

There were no amendments to the agenda. Motion to approve agenda made by Mayor Pro Tem, Mitchell, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez. 

PUBLIC COMMENT ON CONSENT AGENDA AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS

Bob Catlin, resident, former City Councilmember – said the Board of Directors for the Berwyn District Civic Association (BDCA decided to reduce the number of meetings from 9 to 6. Meetings were not held in December, January, and February. Mr. Catlin provided an accounting of the history of homicides in College Park, concluding by saying that the Prince George’s County Police Department has not been able to solve murders that were not committed by a relative or friend of the victim. 

Husain Waheed, non- resident – provided information about work with the University of Maryland Research Center. 

Oran Shareef, resident – said he sent an email about affordable housing. He works for a company called BOXABL. He said he would like to make a presentation to the city about the home offered by his company. The homes are about $50,000 and would help with the affordable housing issue. 

CONSENT AGENDA

25-G-23 Approval to submit the Terms and Conditions Form to participate in the EmPower Maryland rebate program, in partnership with Pepco, for the Duvall Field Renovation Project – Rakhmel Rafi, Grants Coordinator 

25-G-27 Approval of a Property Use Agreement (PUA) for a new Class B, Beer, and Wine alcoholic beverage license for the use of Shake Shack Maryland LLC, t/a Shake Shack, 4394 Knox Road, College Park, Maryland 20740 – Jatinder Khokhar, Director of Public Services (BOLC agenda on February 25, 2025)

Motion to accept the consent agenda made by Councilmember Hernandez, seconded by Councilmember Esters.

PRESENTATIONS: 

Proposed Pedestrian Crossing at Greenbelt Road and Rhode Island Avenue – Steve Halpern, City Engineer, Masakatsu (Mas) Fukui, P.E., Consultant Project Manager, SHA Office of Traffic and Safety, Dean Randolph, Chief, SHA Office of Traffic and Safety and Erich Florence, SHA Deputy District 3 Engineer

Mr. Halpern introduced the design team to discuss the work to be done at the intersection of Greenbelt Road and Rhode Island Ave. 

Mr. Fukui said the corridor is well-traveled, and the goal is to improve accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists. The main point of the project is the installation of flashing beacons (RRFBs). He said they will reconstruct all the ramps on the southwest corner, and the equipment will be solar-powered. 

Councilmember Esters thanked Mr. Halpern and SHA and said this project was a long time coming. She mentioned concern with moving the median as expressed by residents and asked why that is proposed and how changes would improve safety.  

Mr. Fukui said the median is being moved because it is too narrow. He said standard signs will not work, and it is not ADA accessible. 

Councilmember Whitney asked if the median could be widened. SHA’s Eric Florence said they could consider widening the median, but that would mean decreasing the lanes. Ms. Whitney said that narrowing the lanes could be a good thing since doing so is commonly considered a traffic-calming measure. 

Councilmember Hernandez thanked SHA and the District 2 Councilmembers. He asked if there was a way the refuge island could be maintained. He mentioned the flashing beacon near his home that has been malfunctioning and said he wants to make sure there is a plan to maintain the fixtures in the future. SHA staff mentioned that the beacon was low on battery and said SHA has the ability and the facility to maintain the devices. While batteries are one of the issues, it is not the only issue. 

Mayor Kabir asked if the beacons will be the same as others along Rhode Island Ave. Mr. Fukui said they would be, but they would be solar-powered. 

Councilmember Hew – asked if the lights would ever turn red. He was told that will not turn red. Councilmember Hew said that people know red means stop. He asked about widening and lengthening the refuge island. 

Mr. Fukui said bumping out the corner should help with pedestrians passing. Mr. Florence said SHA would consider a hawk signal at this intersection, which would turn red. 

Councilmember Mackie asked if there will be a raised crosswalk or flat; it will be flat. She asked what type of warning there will be for drivers prior to the intersection. Mr. Fukui said the signage will be refreshed. Councilmember Mackie asked about extending the time allotted for crossing. Mr. Florence said SHA would look into it. 

Councilmember Esters asked how long it would take for SHA to look into the matter discussed, Mr. Florence said approximately two weeks. 

Creating a Vacant Property Registry – Miriam Bader, Director of Planning and Community Development; Bob Catlin, Chair of the Vacant and Blighted Properties Tax Committee (VBPTC); Darrin Sharp-Vice-Chair of the VBPTC.

Ms. Bader introduced the agenda item. She said Mayor and Council adopted a resolution on March 5, 2024, to create a Vacant and Blighted Property Tax Committee to make recommendations to Mayor and Council on a vacant and blighted tax proposal in College Park. The Phase 1 charge of the committee was to:  Develop and reach consensus on a clear definition of vacant and blighted property in the city; utilize best practices from other jurisdictions that have implemented similar tax program to establish definitions; make recommendations on combining or separating vacant and blighted, and on which properties/occupancy types a vacant and blighted property tax should apply to; and report findings to the Mayor and Council withing 4 months.  The committee reported their findings to the Council on September 10 and the Council added a Phase 2 charge for the committee to investigate the feasibility of creating a Vacant Property Registry. 

Councilmember Esters thanked the committee for their work and asked if exceptions included those individuals/households seeking permits. She also asked about renewal of registration and whether a restriction would be placed on how many times a home could be placed on the registry because for some, it may just amount to the price of maintaining a vacant property when our goal should be to improve the property. Mr. Sharp said exceptions did include those seeking permits. Mr. Catlin reminded Councilmember Esters of the purpose of this discussion was the creation of the registry. Penalties would need to be discussed during another phase of their work. 

Councilmember Whitney asked about the exception related to individual dwelling units in multifamily residential buildings that consist of two or more dwelling units shall not be considered vacant for purposes of this Ordinance.  She asked why that decision was made, as it may be helpful to have that data. She acknowledged where the report did not want to consider vacancy over the summer months in order to make it reasonable for student apartments in the city. She said it seemed to contradict the sentence at the bottom of page 45 that said “The Council should consider differentiating penalties among residential properties, commercial, and mixed-use properties. 

City Attorney Nate Foreman said he added the language at the end of page 45 and would look at it again. He said their focus was mainly on creating a registry. The creation of the registry was to figure out how to consider what was vacant and blighted, how we can assist Public Services in addressing properties that were habitually vacant and help if the council were interested in imposing a differential tax on these properties. This phase is not the end goal, it is the start. When you have large multifamily properties that have some vacancy but not complete vacancy, it seems unfair to consider them as vacant as their occupancy changes often. This was a recommendation that Council will need to decide; the committee is willing to make changes. He said the additional exception was added after the committee reviewed the document and it may not have been properly vetted. 

Councilmember Whitney said in addition to the consideration Mr. Foreman outlined, we are also talking about affordable housing, and if we have vacancy throughout the city because they can hold on to the property and drive prices up, it would be helpful to have that information. She suggested it could be crafted in a way so as not to be overly burdensome. She referenced the Applicability section of the document that says…” whether or not the real property is improved with a building or other structure—that has not been used or legally occupied for more that 90 days is considered vacant.” She did not like the inclusion of “used or”, as it may allow property owners to use property in an unintended manner. She suggested removing that language. 

Councilmember Rigg thanked the committee for their work. He asked about active violation stop work orders, saying we would not want people to get a stop work order, then walk away, versus those who are working to obtain proper permits. He asked how we can differentiate. He suggested they can include a timeline.

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell asked about the term “agent” and whether that person was required to be on nearby. 

Mr. Sharp said the thought was that if the agent were out of town, they would have an agent who was in town. He said it would be updated to “local agent.” Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell felt that would be helpful as we often have issues with owners and agents who are overseas. She said she agreed with Dr. Esters about placing limitations on vacancies. She suggested that after a certain amount of time there be an infraction for non-use. 

Mr. Catlin reiterated that the second phase of the committee’s work would be to consider a tax on vacant properties. He said it would be important to gather the data before taxing individuals. 

Councilmember Rigg thanked the committee for the inclusion of the table outlining the registration and penalty fees. He said he believes that registration fee should be nominal and the penalty fees should be healthy.  

Councilmember Whitney agreed with Councilmember Rigg that the registration fee should be nominal, and the penalty should be healthy. She asked if the city could share the administrative costs. Mr. Young said a fee study could be done. 

Councilmember Mackie asked for what happens when there is a death or health issue. Mr. Sharp said it is an exception. Ms. Bader said they did consult with code officers regarding how such issues are handled. 

Councilmember Hernandez said he trusted those with residential property, but he is interested in the commercial properties. He asked for a sneak peek into how we address commercial properties. It is not only blighted but does not allow for occupancy. Mr. Sharp said there are a lot of different dynamics that may be in play regarding occupancy, sometime vacant properties are collecting rent. 

Councilmember Esters said there should be a differentiation between vacant and blighted commercial properties given the various dynamics that can be associated with vacancy. Ms. Bader said the committee discussed this issue and thought issues of vacancy and blight should be considered separately. 

WORKSESSION DISCUSSIONS:

Legislative Review (there is a possibility that action will be taken on time-sensitive bills) -Bill Gardiner, Assistant City Manager

Mr. Gardiner said there had been discussion with the county committee on the land use vote. He said the issue was taken up this week, but we should find out the fate of the bill next week. Mr. Gardiner said there have been over 3,000 bills introduced in session, and it has been very busy. He said the bill to increase infraction fines is looking good for us and shared that council-approved letters were forwarded to the appropriate committees.

Councilmember Whitney asked for clarity on HB330 (Improvements to Property Adjacent to Rail Stations). She said she would like to make sure Lakeland is protected given the language we moved forward last year. She asked about HB705 (Real Property -Short-Term Rentals) and if we should write against it. Mr. Gardiner will be looking into the bill. 

Mayor Protem Mitchell asked for updates on HB707 (Notation of Nonapparent Disability -Eric’s law) and said that Delegate Wilkins is seeking support. She also asked how HB372 will impact us and if we should weigh in. 

Mr. Gardiner said there have been rumblings about reducing the amount of money coming to municipalities from the A&A tax (MML priority bill). Mr. Young said there are many things the state is doing to reduce its costs and impose the burden on localities (i.e., streetlights)

REQUESTS FOR / STATUS OF FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

Councilmember Whitney asked about the residential overoccupancy and when it will come to the council. Mr. Young said it would not happen any time soon as staff are working on currently working on numerous issues. 

Councilmember Rigg made a motion to bring the issue of RealPage to Council as brought to us by tenants union. He said he spoke to Mr. Young, and, although there is an affordable housing task force, this issue is time sensitive. Mr. Young disclosed we are a client of RealPage and use data, but we don’t use it to set rent. He noted there are issues as identified by the States Attorney General.

Councilmember Rigg noted that the request references SB609, and Council may want to consider supporting that. Rigg moved for a work session on the item, and Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell seconded. Council unanimously voted to add it as a future agenda item. 

COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE

Husain Waheed, non-resident – mentioned his work with the UMD research center and the proposal he has put forth. 

VJ, resident – would like to thank the Mayor & Council and SHA for the discussion about improvements slated to be made at Rhode Island Ave and Greenbelt Road. He is a bike commuter, and this is a path he takes each day. He said the city should consider improving the bike path to bring it closer to the sidewalk. He would also like the council to include barriers that will make the lane safer. 

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

Councilmember Mackie attended the recent CMAST meeting. She described it as a great collaboration between the city, the university, and the county,  

Mayor Pro Tem Mitchell attended CMAST. She talked about new hazing reports and traffic during games. She mentioned an upcoming game on Thursday, February 20 with USC. 

Mayor Kabir attended a local officials meetings with CASA and a Bi-County Community Meeting on the land use authority bill. Based upon the discussion, there is a belief that the bill should have  abetter chance this session because more cities are involved. The current bill provides for zoning authority if cities have a certified planner. 

Councilmember Whitney said her heart goes out to the many federal employees living in the city and the region. There are so many fired who were high performers. 

Councilmember Hernandez attended the recent CASA Know Your Rights session. He is working to determine what can be shared with the council. He has heard from the Food bank where there are concerns. He mentioned the County Executive election starting the end of February. Heart goes out to fellow federal elected officials. He encouraged them to reach out to Congressional representatives. He said Governor Wes Moore has created a website for fired federal workers that should be a resource. 

SGA Liaison Otte recognized Black history Month and Women’s History month. 

SGA Liaison McDonald – encouraged more people to attend UMD Sporting events. She also mentioned a UMD class that offers naturalization and the Naturalization Clinic. 

Mr. Young said city staff recently had follow up with RecWell Staff that resulted in a good conversation. There will be a roll out of programs the city will help publicize to our residents. We have reached an agreement with the Union negotiation. He will forward information to Council shortly.

ADJOURN

Click here to see the full agenda for the City of College Park Mayor & Council Hybrid Meeting on March 4, 2025, when 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:

Action

• Approval of Pay Stations Contract
• Resolution establishing an Affordable Housing Task Force

Discussion 

• The Mark rezoning from RTO-L-E to RTO-PD for the re-development of a student housing facility (involving the razing of the College Park Towers and the construction of new student housing) located at 4330 Harwick Road and 4313 Knox Road.

To further assist customers, Pepco wants to ensure they understand the factors impacting their bills, the available payment options, and steps they can take to save energy and money, as well as access assistance programs. Customers can visit pepco.com/BillSupport for tools to equip them with additional information on understanding their energy bill, rates and more.

Bill Drivers:

• Colder than average temperatures and changes in rates and the cost of electricity have led to fluctuations in recent electric bills
  • November was an unseasonably warm month, with the average temperature of almost 60 degrees.  December and January saw extreme cold with the average temperature being 40 degrees for December and January 32 degrees.  Based on Heating Degree Days data from the National Weather Service, heating systems had to run 117 percent  more in December 2024 versus November 2024, and 34 percent more in January 2025.
• Additionally, the cost adjustments beginning January 2025 that have led rates include:
  • 1% supply increase (+$1.18 on average)
  • 4% surcharges increase (+$6.34 on average)
    • Main driver: Legislative changes to EmPOWER Maryland surcharge

Pepco is taking the following steps to help customers: 

• No late payments fees for January and February and longer periods for repayment, up to 24 months.
• Suspending disconnections for nonpayment in February.
• Waiving deposits for disconnected customers who are seeking to restore service

Enroll today in Energy Assistance and Programs:

• If you need support with bill payment options, financial assistance, or energy savings, look to Pepco’s new, comprehensive webpage. pepco.com/BillSupport  Customers can also continue to reach out to our Customer Care team directly by calling 202-833-7500.
• Pepco has launched a new Assistance Finder tool to help customers discover the best programs that fit their needs, including financial assistance, bill management, and energy efficiency and savings information.
  
  • Eligible Maryland customers can receive assistance through the Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP), which helps customers pay for a portion of their current electric bill. The Arrearage Retirement Assistance (ARA) program helps customers with large, past due electric bills. If eligible, customers may receive forgiveness of up to $2,000 toward their past due bill. The Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) is designed to help limited income families during the heating season. Information regarding these programs can be found on the Maryland Department of Human Services Office of Home Energy Programs website or by calling 1-800-332-6347.
    
  • Bill payment options and financial assistance, including an assistance finder, budget billing, payment arrangements to help pay off a large balance, or extended payment date plans.
    
  • Ways to save energy and money, including tools to monitor your usage and project your monthly bills, energy savings tips and energy efficiency programs. Pepco.com/saveenergy

Congressman Glenn Ivey’s office (MD-04) is sharing this Privacy Release Form (PRF) for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This PRF is specifically for ICE. Constituents that are worried about ICE can fill out this form, sign it, and keep it on hand in case they are ever detained by ICE. If someone is picked up, our office needs this form, and the name of the person picked up in order to reach out to ICE and get more information about their detention location. Without this form, that task is a lot more difficult.

Please call Congressman Ivey’s district office at (202) 225-8699 if you all have any questions.