City Council

160 Duke Of Gloucester City of Annapolis Street Annapolis, MD 21401 Regular Meeting Minutes - Final City Council Monday, June 9, 2025 7:00 PM Mayor John T. Chambers, Jr. City Council Chambers Regular Meeting Call To Order Mayor Buckley called the Regular Meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Invocation Given by Alderman Arnett. Pledge of Allegiance Led by Mayor Buckley. Roll Call Tonight's roll call began with Alderman Schandelmeier. Present: 9- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay, Alderman Savidge and Alderman Arnett Approval of Agenda Alderman Gay moved to APPROVE the AGENDA as AMENDED TO ADD O-30-24 Fence Permit Requirements Related to Use and Development Standards in the City Zoning Code Title 21 on second reader. Seconded. CARRIED on voice vote. Ceremonial Items ID-111-25 Gun Violence Awareness Month This Ceremonial Item was presented. PETITIONS, REPORTS & COMMUNICATIONS City of Annapolis Page 1 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 Update from Mayor Good evening! Summer doesn’t officially start for 11 days, but in Annapolis, summer is already underway and there is a little something for everyone. While last night’s City Dock Concert with Bayside Big Band got canceled due to rain, we’ve got City Dock Tango this Friday from 7 to 9 pm. On Sunday the 15th, the Carr’s Beach Dance Club will perform. The City Dock Concert performances are Sunday evenings at Susan Campbell Park. They’re free and fun for the whole family. We thank the Arts in Public Places Commission for coordinating this VERY Annapolis tradition of free summer concerts with a beautiful waterfront backdrop. Over in Eastport, the Annapolis Maritime Museum hosts “Tides and Tunes” a summer concert series on Thursday nights. Parking is limited to street parking, which can be tight, so carpool, walk, bike, or ride-share. They’ve got food trucks onsite, but you can always bring a nibble from home - along with a chair or blanket to sit on! On Wednesdays, Inner West Street has Dinner Under the Stars with musical performances from 6 to 10 p.m. alongside Pickleball Under the Stars starting at 5 p.m. Starting next month, the South Forest Business Association will launch their summer drive-in movies series. == I want to thank everyone who organized, set up and attended weekend events including the grand opening of Overflow Skate Park at Truxtun and the Gun Violence Prevention fair. Later tonight, we’ll share a City Proclamation for Gun 1 Violence Prevention month and you’ll notice outside City Hall the orange lights in the window. Two other events this weekend were big hits. The World Oceans Day beach cleanup at Elktonia Carrs on Saturday, where volunteers, including Ald. Savidge and his son picked up trash along the waterfront - in the pouring rain no less; and the Stanton Center Kiddie Prom presented by Annapolis Rec and Parks with support from Annapolis Police community relations. We thank our City teams for working to present and support these events! Rec and Parks Director Ros Johnson and her team carried this off seamlessly this weekend - three back to back big events - and I thank her and Chief Jackson for their collaborations. == Tomorrow night at the Pip Moyer Recreation Center, folks from our Planning & City of Annapolis Page 2 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 Zoning Department will host another Tyler Avenue Complete Community Workshop, a chance to improve community safety and neighborhood character by drafting recommendations for a safer streetscape, and more community green space and housing. We want to hear from you, so please come out at 6 p.m. on June 10th at the Rec Center. == Also tomorrow, from 5 to 8 p.m., the Caucus of African American Leaders is hosting a Mayoral Forum between the two current candidates for Mayor of Annapolis. That will be at the Wiley H. Bates Legacy Center on Smithville Street. As a reminder, our City of Annapolis municipal Primary Election will be held on September 16; the General Election will be on November 4. Candidates have until July 28 to file the paperwork to get on the ballot for all eight council seats and the office of Mayor. The elections team would like me to remind everyone to check and, if necessary, update their mailing address with the State Board of Elections at elections.Maryland.gov. In August, everyone will receive, by US Mail, a ballot 2 request form. If you would like to use mail-in, also known as absentee, voting, you’ll need to fill out and return the application by the deadline. In-person voting will be an option for both the Primary and General, but there will be NO early voting or same-day voter registration for municipal elections. == The Arts Council of Anne Arundel will launch the inaugural Annapolis PorchFest on Saturday, June 14 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with musicians playing on porches, stoops and in driveways in the Germantown-Homewood neighborhood. You’re encouraged to walk from porch-to-porch throughout Porchfest to listen to music and connect with neighbors and both old and new friends. == Lastly, I want to highlight next week’s Juneteenth Reunion at Carr’s Beach. Annapolis Recreation and Parks will host a concert at Elktonia/Carr’s and the Annapolis Maritime Museum’s Edgewood Road campus from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 19. It’s free and open to the public with food trucks, vendors and beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay. As part of the 160th Juneteenth celebration, also known as America’s Second Independence Day, the concert will feature the James Brown Experience, Stony Ellis and Phaze II, Voices of Motown Philly, and Clones of Funk. Carpool and park at the Pip Moyer Center, where a shuttle will run throughout the day. Bring a chair or blanket - but no umbrellas please. City of Annapolis Page 3 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 Then on Saturday the 21st, the Annapolis Juneteenth parade will take place along West Street with the festival taking place at the Anne Arundel County fairgrounds in Crownsville. 3 And to get you excited about the concert, here is a one-minute look at what to expect! == We hope to see you at these events - and now let’s get on with our meeting! Reports by Committees No Standing Committee Meeting Scheduled for the upcoming week. Comments by the General Public Comments from the General Public Speakers: Godfrey Phelps, 701 Glenwood Street, Apartment # 412, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. Harold Lloyd, 99 Clay Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. Leslie and Deborah Johnson, 100 Clay Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. Tonya Watson, 136 Clay Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. Jacqueline Green, 70 Clay Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. Jonathan McCopp, 1309 Poplar Avenue, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. Erin McCopp, 1309 Poplar Avenue, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. Townsend McNitt, 26 Franklin Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. Sveinn Storm, 123 Prince George Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. Mayor Buckley declared comments from the general public closed. CONSENT CALENDAR Approval of the Consent Calendar A motion was made by Alderman Arnett to approve the Consent Calendar. The motion carried:unanimously Approval of Journal Proceedings CCM 5.12.25 Regular Meeting Minutes Alderman Arnett moved to approve.CCM 5.12.25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED CCM 5.27.25 Special Meeting Minutes Alderman Arnett moved to approve CCM 5.27.25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED City of Annapolis Page 4 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 Supplemental Appropriations Under $50,000 SA-33-25 State Grant Revenue - Mayor’s Office - State of Maryland - Maryland Energy Administration Alderman Arnett moved to approve SA-33-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED Appointments AP-11-25 Re-Appointment - Ms.Linda Mundy - Human Relations Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-11-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-12-25 Re-Appointment - Mr. Joshua Hatch - Human Relations Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-12-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-13-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Janet Norman - Education Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-13-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-14-25 Re-Appointment - Mr. Fortney “Fish” Stark - Education Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-14-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-15-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Cori Mackall - Education Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-15-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-16-25 Re-Appointment - Ms.Jayme Weaver - Education Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve.AP-16-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-17-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Enid Collison-Lee - Education Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-17-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-18-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Lillie Odessa Ellis - Education Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-18-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-19-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Jessica Pachler - Education Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-19-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED City of Annapolis Page 5 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 AP-20-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Pamela Bukowski - Education Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve.AP-20-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-21-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Laura Graham Booth - Education Commisison Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-21-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-22-25 Re-Appointment - Mr. Elisha Haring-Blaine - Affordable Housing and Community Equity Development Committee Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-22-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-23-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Nancy Lisbon - Affordable Housing and Community Equity Development Committee Alderman Arnett moved to approve. AP-23-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-24-25 Re-Appointment - Mr. Arthur “Jib” Edwards - Housing Authority of the City of Annapolis Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-24-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-25-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Theresa Von Adelung Bond - Affordable Housing and Community Equity Development Committee Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-25-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-37-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Kathie Sulick - Police & Retirement Plan Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve. AP-37-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-38-25 Re-Appointment - Mr. Chambers - Ethics Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve.AP-38-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-39-25 Re-Appointment - Mr.Dolezal - Ethics Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-39-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-40-25 Re-Appointment - Mr. Jim Martin - Arts and Public Places Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-40-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED City of Annapolis Page 6 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 AP-41-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Lyn Farrow - Arts in Public Places Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-41-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-42-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Cynthia Towle-Krewson - Arts in Public Places Alderman Arnett moved to approve. AP-42-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-43-25 Re-Appointment - Mr.David Arthur - Arts in Public Places Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-43-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-44-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Jennifer Beard - Civil Service Board Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-44-25 Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED AP-45-25 Re-Appointment - Ms. Diane Butler - Planning Commission Alderman Arnett moved to approve AP-45-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED End of Consent Calendar BUSINESS & MISCELLANEOUS Fund Transfers FT-11-25 Grant - Transportation - Salaries and Benefits/Contractual Services Alderman Arnett moved to approve FT-11-25. Seconded. CARRIED on voice vote. Supplemental Appropriations $50,000 & Above SA-32-25 Planning & Zoning - Housing Assistance Fund Balance - Contractual Services Alderman Arnett moved to approve SA-32-25. Seconded. CARRIED on voice vote. PUBLIC HEARINGS Ordinances City of Annapolis Page 7 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 O-9-25 Expanding Waterfront Uses in R4 General Residence (Zoning) Districts For the purpose of changing the residential table of uses to allow for limited commercial waterfront activities, such as boat rentals, charters, and charter services, in R4 General Residence Districts; and requiring a special exception use reviewed and approved by the city's Board of Appeals. Sponsors: Arnett and Savidge No Speakers. Mayor Buckley accepted into the record the Planning Commission Findings dated May 8, 2025 for O-9-25. Mayor Buckley declared the public hearing on O-9-25 closed LEGISLATIVE ACTION BUDGET-RELATED SECOND READERS Resolutions R-20-25 FY 2026 Annual Fees Schedule - For the purpose of specifying fees that will be charged for the use of City services for Fiscal Year 2026; and providing an effective date. Sponsors: Buckley Alderman Schandelmeier moved to adopt R-20-25 on second reader. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED by the following vote: Aye: 9- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay, Alderman Savidge and Alderman Arnett R-21-25 FY 2026 Fines Schedule - For the purpose of specifying fines that will be charged for Fiscal Year 2026; and providing an effective date. Sponsors: Buckley Alderman Schandelmeier moved to adopt on second reader. Seconded. Alderman Arnett moved to reconsider Amendment #1 to R-21-25. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED by the following vote: Aye: 9- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay, Alderman Savidge and Alderman Arnett Alderman Arnett moved to adopt R-21-25 as amended on second reder. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED by the following vote: City of Annapolis Page 8 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 Aye: 9- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay, Alderman Savidge and Alderman Arnett Ordinance City of Annapolis Page 9 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 O-10-25 Annual Budget and Appropriation and Property Tax Levy - For the purpose of adopting the City Budget, comprising the Annual Operating Budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, the Capital Budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, the Capital Improvement Program for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2027, June 30, 2028, June 30, 2029, June 30, 2030, and June 30, 2031; appropriating funds for all expenditures for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026; levying and imposing a property tax for the use of the City of Annapolis for the taxable year beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026; and fixing the rate of the City property tax for the taxable year. Sponsors: Buckley Alderman Savidge moved to amend O-10-25 as follows: AMENDMENT NO. 61: On page 1, in line 38, strike “122,291,400” and substitute “123,832,670”, and on page 4, in line 9, strike “6,646,100” and substitute “6,886,100”, in line 15, strike “333,300” and substitute “573,300”, on page 2, after line 36, add SECTION 8: AND BE IT FURTHER ESTABLISHED AND ORDAINED BY THE ANNAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL THAT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $387,100 ARE APPROPRIATED FOR THE SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY FUND DURING THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2025 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 FOR THE FOLLOWING PURPOSES A. SUPPLIES AND OTHER COSTS $25,800, B. INTERFUND TRANSFERS $361,300, and renumber the proceeding sections, and on pages 5 and 6, renumber items listed in Section 22 from numbers “1 through 56” to numbers “1 through 59” and on page 7, in line 35, strike “417,500” and substitute “418,500”, and on page 5, in line 43, strike “797,500” and substitute “797,500”, and in line 44, strike “7,100” and substitute “7,100”; and on page 6, in line 2, strike “262,500” and substitute “262,500”, in line 4, strike “700,000” and substitute “700,000”, and in line 11, strike “157,500” and substitute “157,500”, and in line 16, strike “600,000” and substitute “596,000”, and in line 21, strike “131,250 and substitute “131,250”, and in line 28, strike “1,625,000” and substitute “1,625,000”, and in line 29, strike “120,750” and substitute “120,750”, and in line 30, strike “136,500”, and substitute “136,500”, and in line 39, strike “105,000” and substitute “105,000”, and in line 45, strike “89,250” and substitute “89,250”; and In Appendix A, in line 8, strike “328,000” and substitute “368,100”, in line 9, strike “328,000” and substitute “368,100”, and in line 15, strike “1,987,400” and substitute City of Annapolis Page 10 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 “2,073,800”, and in line 16, “1,987,400” and substitute “2,073,800”, and in line 22, strike “2,162,000” and substitute “2,062,000”, and in line 23, strike “2,162,000” and substitute “2,062,000”, and in line 29, strike “312,100” and substitute “512,100” and in line 30, strike “312,100” and substitute “512,100”, and in line 35, strike “208,200” and substitute “313,200”, and in line 37, strike “1,670,800” and substitute “1,752,800”, and in line 42, strike “36,000” and substitute “197,000”, and in line 43, strike “544,200” and substitute “705,200”; and in line 44, strike “2,215,000” and substitute “3,431,300”; and in line 78, strike “3,605,600” and substitute “3,705,600” and in line 79, strike “3,605,600” and substitute “3,705,600”, and in line 87, strike “3,685,800” and substitute “3,725,800”, and in line 88, strike “3,685,800” and substitute “3,725,800”, and in line 92, strike “417,500” and substitute “418,500”, and in line 95, strike “300,000” and substitute “311,100”, and in line 96, strike “5,245,100” and substitute “5,478,570” and in line 99, strike “20,925,700” and substitute “21,171,270” and in line 100, strike “20,925,700” and substitute “21,171,270”, and in line 105, strike “226,800” and substitute “526,800” and in line 106, strike “6,109,400” and substitute “ 6,414,400”, and in line 107, strike “6,109,400” and substitute “ 6,414,400”, and in line 110, strike “26,546,600” and substitute “26,912,900”, and in line 114, strike “30,748,400” and substitute “31,114,700”, and in line 115, strike “30,748,400” and substitute “31,114,700”, and in line 143, strike “1,558,550” and substitute “1,558,550”, and in line 164, strike “7,297,900” and substitute “7,297,900”, and in line 179, strike “1,691,000” and substitute “1,698,500”, and in line 198, strike “688,600” and substitute “696,100”, and in line 204, strike “400,500” and substitute “400,500”, and in line 230, strike “8,517,500” and substitute “7,559,200”, and in line 232, strike “122,291,400” and substitute “123,832,670”; and In Appendix C, in line 8, strike “484,000”, and substitute “289,000”; in line 12, strike “6,419,800” and substitute “6,781,100”, and in line 14, strike “4,227,100” and substitute “4,220,570”, in line 15, strike “3,089,300”, and substitute “4,470,800” in line 16, strike “122,291,400” and substitute “123,832,670”, and after line 40, add Sustainable Mobility Fund, Revenues $387,100, Fund Balance Appropriated $0, and Total Revenues and Fund Balance Appropriated $387,100 and renumber the proceeding sections, and in line 82, City of Annapolis Page 11 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 strike “6,646,100” and substitute “6,886,100” and in line 83 strike “6,646,100” and substitute “6,886,100”; In Appendix D, insert the revised project sheet for page 17 and 19; and In Appendix E, insert the revised community grants listing. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED by the following vote: Aye: 9- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay, Alderman Savidge and Alderman Arnett Alderman Arnett moved to adopt O-10-25 as amended on second reader. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED by the following vote: Aye: 9- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay, Alderman Savidge and Alderman Arnett Alderman Savidge moved to adopt O-10-25 on third reader. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED by the following vote: Aye: 9- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay, Alderman Savidge and Alderman Arnett SECOND READERS Ordinances O-33-24 Appeals Process for Property Development in Annapolis - For the purpose of eliminating the temporary stop on development, construction or other project work, called a "stay," while a Department of Planning and Zoning or Department of Public Works decision regarding building and construction developments is being challenged in Circuit Court; and generally dealing with the appeals process in Titles 17 and 21 of the City Code. Sponsors: Finlayson, Buckley, Schandelmeier and Gay Alderman Schandelmeier moved to adopt O-33-24 on second reader. Seconded. Alderwoman Finlayson moved to amend O-33-24 as follows: Amendment #1: On page 5, in line 7, after "the" insert "last". DEFEATED on voice vote. Alderman Schandelmeier moved to amend O-33-24 as follows: AMENDMENT #2: On page 4, in line 22, strike "in person". Seconded. CARRIED on voice vote. Alderman Schandelmeier moved to adopt O-33-24 as amended on second reader. Seconded. CARRIED on voice vote. City of Annapolis Page 12 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 Alderman Schandelmeier moved to adopt O-33-24 on third reader. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED by the following vote: Aye: 8- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay and Alderman Savidge Nay: 1- Alderman Arnett O-11-25 Arts in Public Places Commission Update and Revisions For the purpose of moving the Arts in Public Places Commission from Title 6, the revenue and finance Title of the City Code, to Title 2, Chapter 2.48 dealing with boards, commissions, and committees; placing oversight of the Arts in Places Commission under the Planning and Zoning Director instead of the Recreation and Parks Director; and generally dealing with the Arts in Public Places Commission duties and responsibilities. Sponsors: O'Neill and Huntley Alderman Arnett moved to adopt O-11-25 on second reader. Seconded. CARRIED on voice vote. Alderman Savidge moved to adopt O-11-25 on third reader. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED by the following vote: Aye: 9- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay, Alderman Savidge and Alderman Arnett O-30-24 Fence Permit Requirements Related to Use and Development Standards in the City Zoning Code Title 21 - For the purpose of creating additional standards related to home fencing along forests and open spaces; clarifying undue obstructions related to fencing; stating Council preference for extra consideration regarding fences on an up-slope; and generally related to fence regulation in Title 21. Sponsors: Savidge Alderman Savidge moved to adopt O-30-24 on second reader. Seconded. City of Annapolis Page 13 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 Alderman Savidge moved to amend O-30-24 as follows: Amendment #1: 1) ON PAGES 1 THROUGH 2 OF O-30-24, STRIKE IN THEIR ENTIRETY THE LINES BEGINNING WITH 36 ON PAGE 1 AND THROUGH LINE 11 ON PAGE 2. 2) ON PAGE 1, STARTING ON LINE 36, INSERT THE FOLLOWING: STRIKE "Title 21 - PLANNING AND ZONING Division V - Regulation of General Applicability Section 21.60.070 - Fences and walls. Fences and walls as defined by this Title may be erected, placed, maintained, altered or replaced pursuant to a permit issued in accordance with Section 17.34.010 of the Annapolis City Code. The following additional standards apply: A. If located within the historic district as defined in this Title, all proposed new fences and walls, and all proposed alterations to existing fences and walls, require the review and approval of the Historic Preservation Commission. The Historic Preservation Commission has the authority to grant a waiver or exemption, if necessary, in order to comply with the Historic Preservation Commission Design Guidelines and the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. B. Fences and walls may be installed up to, but not over the property line. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that the proposed fence or wall is not installed on the property of others. All property line disputes are between abutting property owners, and they shall not seek or have any remedy against the City. C. Within required bufferyards adjacent to public streets, to the extent practical in order to achieve proper screening, fences and walls shall be located towards the interior edge of the landscape buffer, rather than at the edge of the public right-of-way. D. Except as permitted by this Title, fences and walls shall not obstruct view cones or sight visibility triangles. E. Fences and walls shall not be located to unduly obstruct light and air from neighboring properties or public ways. F. The overall design and materials used for fences and walls shall be in keeping with the character and purpose for which the fence or wall is intended, and shall be compatible with other similar structures in the neighborhood. G. All fences and walls shall be installed with the finished side facing out, so that posts and lateral supports are not on the side of the fence or wall which faces an adjacent property or public right-ofway, unless such supporting members are exposed City of Annapolis Page 14 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 on both sides due to the specific design of the fence or wall. Where there are practical difficulties, such as the particular physical surroundings, shape, or topographical conditions of the specific property or other existing conditions where strict compliance with the standard is unreasonable, the Director of Planning and Zoning may waive this requirement. H. Except in connection with penal and correctional institutions and public utility and service uses, no fence or wall shall consist, in whole or in part, of barbed wire or similar materials designed or customarily utilized to inflict injury upon persons or animals. I. Standard Maximum Height. 1. A. On properties within the R2-NC, R3-NC and R3-NC2 Residential Neighborhood Conservation Districts, the maximum height of a fence or wall shall be six feet, unless the fence or wall is located along a public street, in which case the maximum height of the fence or wall shall not exceed four feet. B. The height limits in Subsection (I)(1) of this section shall also apply to properties within the WME and WMM Maritime Districts as well as the OCD Overlay District, only when a fence or wall is located along a lot line or public street that is contiguous with an adjacent property in the R2-NC District. 2. Fences and walls shall not be considered as being located along a public street if they otherwise meet the same minimum front and corner-side yard setbacks that would be required for the principal structure on the subject property in the zoning district in which the fence or wall is located. J. Allowance for Additional Height. 1. Up to two additional feet of height is allowed for decorative gates which do not exceed twentyfive feet in width for vehicular gates, or eight feet in width for pedestrian gates. 2. In accordance with the procedures for Administrative Adjustments set forth in Chapter 21.18, the Planning and Zoning Director may permit certain fences and walls an additional height allowance of up to four feet above the standard maximum height limit established by this section. 3. In addition to the review criteria in Section 21.18.040, the Director of Planning and Zoning shall make additional written findings based on the following: a. The subject fence or wall will be compatible with other similar structures in the neighborhood and is required to mitigate impacts from adjacent land uses, the subject property's proximity to public rights-of-way, or safety concerns. b. Within the intent and purpose of this Zoning Code, the proposed additional fence or wall height, if granted, is the minimum adjustment necessary to afford relief. City of Annapolis Page 15 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 K. Notwithstanding the height limitations in this section, temporary fences and walls, incidental to construction on or development of the premises on which the temporary fences and walls are located, shall be permitted during the time construction or development is actively underway. L. Lawfully existing fences and walls that do not conform to the bulk or other development or design standards for the district in which the fence or wall is located may be continued, if properly repaired and maintained as provided in Chapter 21.68, Nonconforming Uses and Structures. Nonconforming fences and walls which are structurally altered, relocated, or replaced shall comply immediately with all provisions of this Title." Section 21.60.070 - Fences and walls. A. Generally. Fences and walls as defined by this Title may be erected, placed, maintained, altered or replaced pursuant to a permit issued in accordance with § 17.34.010, Fence and Wall Permit Requirements. B. Additional Standards. The following additional standards apply: 1. Historic District. a. If located within the historic district as defined in this Title, all proposed new fences and walls and all proposed alterations to existing fences and walls require the review and approval of the Historic Preservation Commission. b. The Historic Preservation Commission has the authority to grant a waiver or exemption, if necessary, to comply with the Historic Preservation Commission Design Guidelines and the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. 2. Property Lines. a. Fences and walls may be installed up to, but not over, the property line. b. It is the property owner's responsibility to ensure that the proposed fence or wall is not installed on the property of others. c. All property line disputes are between abutting property owners, and they shall not seek or have any remedy against the City. 3. Buffer Areas. Within required bufferyards adjacent to public streets, to the extent practical to achieve proper screening, fences and walls shall be located towards the interior edge of the landscape buffer rather than at the edge of the public right-ofway. 4. Sight Visibility. Except as permitted by this Title, fences and walls shall not obstruct view cones or sight visibility triangles. 5. Light and Air Obstruction. Fences and walls shall not unduly obstruct light and air from neighboring properties or public ways. a. Fencing Along Forests or Open Spaces. i. Fencing installed along areas adjacent to forests or open spaces, with no homes within 50 feet on the applicant's side must have gaps at or equal to at least 50% of the fence's surface area. ii. Other types of fences are allowed by special exception. City of Annapolis Page 16 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 b. Fences on Steep Slopes. Fences located on rising steep slopes greater than 15% on rear or side yard of adjoining residential property may be reduced in height, by the director, to no less than four feet, to alleviate potential obstruction of light and air, especially when there are no homes on the applicant’s side of the fence. 6. Fence Design to Match the Surrounding Neighborhood. The overall design and materials used for fences and walls shall keep with the character and purpose for which the fence or wall is intended and be compatible with similar structures in the neighborhood. 7. Placement of the Finished Side of the Fence. a. All fences and walls shall be installed with the finished side facing out so that posts and lateral supports are not on the side of the fence or wall that faces an adjacent property or public right-of-way unless such supporting members are exposed on both sides due to the specific design of the fence or wall. b. Where there are practical difficulties, such as the particular physical surroundings, shape, or topographical conditions of the specific property or other existing conditions where strict compliance with the standard is unreasonable, the Director of Planning and Zoning may waive this requirement. 8. Barbed Wire. Except in connection with penal and correctional institutions and public utility and service uses, no fence or wall shall consist, in whole or in part, of barbed wire or similar materials designed or customarily utilized to inflict injury upon persons or animals. 9. Standard Maximum Height. a. On properties within the R2-NC, R3-NC and R3-NC2 Residential Neighborhood Conservation Districts, if the fence or wall is located along a public street, the maximum height of the fence or wall shall not exceed four feet. b. On properties within the WME and WMM Maritime Districts as well as the OCD Overlay Districts, the height limits in this section shall apply only when a fence or wall is located along a lot line or public street contiguous with an adjacent property in the R2-NC District. c. Fences and walls shall not be considered as being located along a public street if they otherwise meet the same minimum front and corner-side yard setbacks that would be required for the principal structure on the subject property in the zoning district in which the fence or wall is located. 10. Allowance for Additional Height. a. Up to two additional feet of height is allowed for decorative gates that do not exceed 25 feet in width for vehicular gates or eight feet in width for pedestrian City of Annapolis Page 17 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 gates. b. In accordance with the procedures for Administrative Adjustments set forth in Chapter 21.18, the Director of Planning and Zoning may permit certain fences and walls an additional height allowance of up to four feet above the standard maximum height limit established by this section. c. In addition to the review criteria in § 21.18.040, the Director of Planning and Zoning shall make additional written findings based on the following: i. The subject fence or wall will be compatible with similar structures in the neighborhood and is required to mitigate impacts from adjacent land uses, the subject property's proximity to public rights-of-way, or safety concerns. ii. Within the intent and purpose of this Zoning Code, the proposed additional fence or wall height, if granted, is the minimum adjustment necessary to afford relief. 11. Temporary Fences. Notwithstanding the height limitations in this section, temporary fences and walls, incidental to construction on or development of the premises on which the temporary fences and walls are located, shall be permitted during the time construction or development is actively underway. 12. Unconventional Fences. a. Lawfully existing fences and walls that do not conform to the bulk or other development or design standards for the district in which the fence or wall is located may be continued if adequately repaired and maintained as provided in Chapter 21.68, Nonconforming Uses and Structures. b. Nonconforming fences and walls that are structurally altered, relocated, or replaced shall comply immediately with all provisions of this Title. City Code Title 21 - PLANNING AND ZONING Division VI - General Terms and Rules of Measurement Chapter 21.72 - Terms and Definitions Section 21.72.020 - Terms Strike the definition for "Forest" and insert the following: "Forest" means a biological community dominated by trees and other woody plants, and that has at least one hundred live trees per acre, with at least 50% of those trees having a two-inch or greater diameter at four and one-half feet above the ground and larger. Seconded. CARRIED on voice vote. Alderman Schandelmeier moved to adopt O-30-24 as amended on second reader. Seconded. CARRIED on voice vote. Alderman Gay moved to adopt O-30-24 on third reader. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED by the following vote: Aye: 9- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay, Alderman Savidge and Alderman Arnett Resolutions City of Annapolis Page 18 Printed on 7/17/2025 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes - Final June 9, 2025 R-12-25 Street-end Park on Annapolis Street For the purpose of designating certain City of Annapolis-owned property as a street-end park; naming the street-end park at the northwest end of Annapolis Street on Weems Creek the “Annapolis Street Park”; and generally relating to park amenities. Sponsors: O'Neill and Savidge Alderman Arnett moved to adopt R-12-25 on second reader. Seconded. A roll call vote was taken. The motion CARRIED by the following vote: Aye: 9- Mayor Buckley, Alderman Huntley, Alderwoman O'Neill, Alderwoman Pindell Charles, Alderwoman Finlayson, Alderman Schandelmeier, Alderman Gay, Alderman Savidge and Alderman Arnett R-17-25 2025 Transit Development Plan for the City of Annapolis For the purpose of approving the City of Annapolis Transit Development Plan that is updated every five years. Sponsors: Buckley Alderman Savidge moved to postpone R-17-25 until Monday, June 16, 2025.. Seconded. CARRIED on voice vote. ADJOURNMENT Upon motion duly made, seconded and adopted, the Regular Meeting was adjourned at 8:41 pm. Regina C. Watkins-Eldridge, MMC City Clerk City of Annapolis Page 19 Printed on 7/17/2025