Mayor & Common Council Meetings

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND MAYOR AND COMMON COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 10, 2012 QUORUM: A meeting of the Mayor and Common Council was held in the John Street Quarters of the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Company, 28 John Street, Westminster, Maryland, on the evening of December 10, 2012, at 7:00 P.M. Mayor Utz; Council President Halstad; Council Members Whitson, Chiavacci, Wack and Frazier; City Administrator and Acting City Clerk Wolf, City Treasurer Palmer, Chief of Police Spaulding, Director of Public Works Glass, Director of Planning, Zoning, and Development Beyard, Interim Director of Planning, Zoning, and Development Horn, and City Attorney Levan were present. Director of Recreation and Parks Schroers was excused from attending. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Utz conducted the public hearing on Zoning Text Amendment No. 12-02, amending Chapter 164 “Zoning; Article XVII; “Signs”; Section 164-121; “On-premises business signs”. Mayor Utz explained that Chapter 164-121 F. in the City’s Zoning Code currently allows for the placement of one on–premises business sign within the ”N-C” Zone. The subject of the hearing is to accept comment on the proposal to allow one additional on-premises business sign upon any “N-C” zoned land meeting specific geographic and physical characteristics. To be eligible for the additional sign, the property must exceed 14 acres in size and have least 1,000 linear feet of frontage along a dual highway. Properties not meeting the specific site requirements would not be eligible for the additional signage. The Westminster Planning and Zoning Commission, during meetings on September 13, 2012, and October 11, 2012, reviewed and debated this proposal. They forwarded the Text Amendment to the Mayor and Common Council with a favorable recommendation. The Public hearing was advertised in the Carroll County Times on Wednesday, November 21, 2012, and Monday, December 3, 2012. Mr. Horn explained that the Planning and Zoning Commission (the Commission) considered the amendment on two occasions this past fall. The request came about because a shopping center location in the City has a particular challenge in terms of its location. Mr. Horn explained that there is a substantial berm that prevents good visibility at the site. The request is to help improve the visibility and make it a more attractive destination for commercial development. He shared that the Commission, after its debate, determined that a strictly defined Amendment like this would be acceptable. The Commission decided to forward the Amendment to the Council for a hearing with a favorable recommendation. Dr. Wack shared that, as the Council’s representative on the Commission, they analyzed and debated the concept exhaustively and there were some fairly divergent opinions about whether this was a good idea and how this would be implemented. The Commission also discussed the history of the zone and finally came to a consensus after very long deliberations. Dr. Wack commented that it came down to a tradeoff between trying to stay true to the intent of the zone, limiting the impact on adjacent neighborhoods, and creating the proper framework for the commercial element of this project to succeed. Dr. Wack explained that the developer is facing some unforeseen challenges in completing the project as originally formulated. He added that the proposal is a reasonable compromise that resolves the issue as presented. Mr. Frazier commented that he was on the Commission when the N-C Zone was first introduced and it was constructed to be compatible with the neighborhood. The homes that were purchased in the neighborhood were bought with prior knowledge of the Shopping Center being developed and that the plans were not going to get changed. Mr. Frazier commented that he does not like the idea of changing the plans when the home owners already have an investment in the neighborhood. Mr. Frazier questioned if anyone approached the neighborhood and asked what they thought about having an additional sign. Mr. Horn replied that he was not aware that the homeowners had been approached, but that it was advertised twice as part of the Commission’s agenda. Mr. Frazier questioned whether it would be possible to move the original sign to a more effective placement. Mr. Horn replied that the relocation of the original sign was one of the items discussed by the Commission, but it was determined that it would not have the desired effect. Mr. Horn commented that because the environment for commercial growth has changed with the downturn in the economy, the Commission concluded that this was a minor change to the Code that could have a beneficial impact on the balance of the commercial development of the site. Mr. Chiavacci commented that he agreed with Mr. Frazier in terms of having a change in rules before a site is fully developed. He shared that because he felt similarly, he drove up on Saturday, December 8, to inspect the proposed new sign location. He shared that the existing sign cannot be seen until you are literally in the intersection. He added that he then drove around back, behind the Shopping Center, and in his opinion the new sign will not disrupt the view of residents. Mr. Frazier agreed that the sign is not going to have a big impact on the neighborhood. However, he questioned what is next. Mr. Chiavacci replied that was a good point and that the Council will need to be careful in terms of future changes. Dr. Wack explained that, with regard to the view from the neighborhood, it was debated extensively during the Commission meetings. The developer’s consultant did some tests with a balloon that would be at the height of the sign, and when factoring in where the additional buildings would go, few if any residents would be likely to see the proposed sign. He commented that this is a fairly minor tweak to this zoning language and that we should not let perfection be the enemy of good. Mr. Whitson commented that he agrees with Councilman Frazier’s concern, and he would like to understand any local concerns before the proposal is voted on by Council. President Halstad explained that tonight is just a public hearing and that the Council is only introducing the Ordinance. He understands Councilman Frazier’s concern with amending regulations that result in fundamental changes to the original intent of a zone. However, he stated that it is difficult to see the original sign, and it is unlikely the proposed sign would be intrusive to the neighborhood. President Halstad agrees with the Commission and their favorable recommendation but added that there will be some time to confirm neighborhood participation. Mr. Chiavacci inquired about having the public record remain open for some time so interested parties can have input beyond this evening. Mayor Utz replied that the public record will stay open until January 14, 2013. Clark Shaffer, attorney representing Meadow Creek, indicated that the developer did not individually notify the neighborhood. He explained that he did go through the process of the Planning Commission agenda on two occasions and that tonight’s public hearing was advertised twice in the Carroll County Times. Mr. Shaffer shared that the developer notified Mr. Howard Koontz (one of the original owners of the parcel who lives nearest to, and therefore most directly impacted by, the proposed sign location). Mr. Shaffer pointed out that the development of the N-C zone started in about 1998, it was a well vetted, and had many public hearings. The property was consequently rezoned and it was master planned in accord with the parameters set forth in the City’s Code. He explained that the recession hit at the same time the commercial element began construction. The developer met his obligations irrespective of the economic downturn, including over seven figures worth of Maryland Route 140 improvements, all of which have since been completed. Mr. Shaffer noted that the developer has experienced some delays and challenges in marketing the commercial side of Meadow Creek. Because of the unique characteristics of the site, increased visibility is needed to improve the marketability of the remaining pad sites. The Ordinance is narrowly crafted so that it only applies to certain specific properties. Mr. Shaffer commented that Meadow Creek competes with the Safeway Shopping Center and Best Western. He appreciates the fact that the Planning Commission, after two meetings and extensive deliberation, unanimously recommended in favor of this and asks Council to approve this text amendment. Mayor Utz closed the public hearing and voted that the public record will remain open for additional comment until January 14, 2013. Ken Horak began by introducing sponsors of Fallfest, explaining that without them, this would be a lot harder. Mr. Horak announced the sponsors of the 2012 FallFest: Carroll Eagle, 100.7 The Bay, Carroll County Times, Buffalo Wild Wings, WTTR Radio, WestminsterPatch.com, Quantum Internet Services, Team Utz Real Estate, Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley, M&T Bank, Carroll Community Bank, the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce, BB&T Bank, Brian Wagner Web Design, and Pets in Need. He then acknowledged that the major sponsors are the City of Westminster and the elected officials. Mr. Horak thanked all of the volunteers who were apart of Fallfest. He then recognized Brian Kasik and Roberta Kasik, sharing that they were previous volunteers who were around when Fallfest began and were instrumental in getting Fallfest where it is today. He explained that they have retired from Fallfest. Mr. Horak thanked Mr. and Mrs. Kasik for their service to City of Westminster and to Fallfest for leadership and selfless acts of time and dedication. He shared that their attention to detail and outstanding work ethics has driven this organization to a level that has prospered. Mr. Horak then recognized current members Jamie Green, Sue Horak, Todd Tracy, Lori Graham and Mel Mills. He shared that this year’s Fallfest is giving a $34,450.00. Mr. Horak presented a check to: Tony Roman from Girl Scouts of Maryland as part of the Fallfest mile run for $450; Carroll County Special Olympics, Taneytown Lions Club; Carroll Hospice; and the Stacy Davis breast cancer fund each received checks for $8500. Mr. Horak announced charities for 2013: Westminster Lion’s Club, Special Olympics of Carroll County, Good News Jail and Prison Ministry, and Stacy Davis Breast Cancer Fund. On behalf of the City, Mayor and Common Council Mayor Utz thanked Fallfest Board for all of the outstanding work they have done. He explained that they appreciate Fallfest because it brings thousands of people to downtown Westminster. Mayor Utz then presented the Mayor’s Cup Award for best storefront decoration in Downtown Westminster to Sturgill and Associates, LLP. He thanked the Good Time Gals for judging 15 different businesses before selecting Sturgill and Associates as the winner. MINUTES: Upon motion of Mr. Chiavacci, seconded by Mr. Whitson and unanimously passed, the minutes of the Council meeting of November 26, 2012, were approved. REPORT FROM THE MAYOR: Mayor Utz reported that he and HR Director Darlene Childs attended LGIT’s anniversary celebration. During the celebration, he received a pewter bowl from LGIT signifying the City’s 25 year membership. He shared that Ms. Childs won an award of excellence in claims reporting. Mayor Utz was very proud that she professionally represented the City through the reporting of claims accurately, quickly and responsibly. Mayor Utz announced that the Mayor and Common Council is giving their employees a $1,000 bonus for their hard work and labor this year. He added that he and the Council were giving City employees Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve off. He thanked all employees for their hard work and dedication while wishing them a happy holiday season. REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITEES: Dr. Wack reported that there will be an upcoming Finance Committee meeting to begin preparation for the release of year-end financial reports. He explained that he has seen the preliminary draft of the financial results and commented that it is very good news for the City. Dr. Wack shared that the City has reduced costs considerably and thanked the staff, Ms. Wolf and the Department Heads for their hard work and continued efforts to save money. He shared that the City’s finances came in under budget last year despite the decrease in tax revenue and property assessments. Dr. Wack congratulated Ms. Wolf and gave considerable amount of credit to Mr. Ehlers, past Finance Director, as well as the Department Heads. He shared that there will be more details available at the January meeting once the Committee has reviewed the final results. Mr. Chiavacci reported that, in his opinion, the City Open House was a tremendous success. He characterized the event as a good opportunity for citizens, local businesses and staff to spend time with Council Members, the Mayor and other elected officials. He thanked Ms. Missie Wilcox for her hard work in making the event a success. Mayor Utz thanked the Historic District Commission, and all committees who volunteer their time for the City, for their participation and hard work. Mr. Whitson encouraged everyone to go to the Gallery of Gifts at the Arts Council. He reported that he also attended the VIP Holiday Party last week and thought it was a great success. President Halstad shared that he enjoyed the event as well. He complimented Ms. Wilcox for a wonderful job. He noted that City Hall was a house and home before it was a municipal office. He shared that it was a nice evening, the food was fantastic and he enjoyed the ornaments. BIDS: Mr. Glass explained that FY-12-13 General Budget contains funds for replacement of a vertical wheelchair list located in the Armory building. This project replaces an existing lift that can no longer be certified by the State approving authority (DLLR) and aids in ADA compliance for activities conducted in the structure. Mr. Glass explained that the bids were received and opened on November 30 with the lowest submitted price from Bedco Mobility Inc. in the amount of $24,995.00. He added that Bedco Mobility has extensive installations in nearby health care facilities with references that meet or exceed requirements identified in the bid documents. Mr. Glass recommended that the Mayor and Council accept the proposal of Bedco Mobility Inc. Upon motion of Mr. Whitson, seconded by Dr. Wack, the Council unanimously approved the bid of Bedco Mobility, Inc. Ms. Wolf explained that the software package for Recreation and Parks Department activities was originally bid in the spring, and the City received only one bid in response to the RFP which required an on-line hosted solution. The Active Network, Inc. is a major provider of recreational software services including activity registrations, day care registrations, facility registrations, memberships and league registrations. Ms. Wolf commented that all of these activities are currently handled manually at the Department. She explained that this new software will allow customers to self-serve their transactions over the internet and pay with a credit card. Ms. Wolf shared that the total cost will be $20,000.00 which includes a three year contract with set-up and training. This software will electronically interface with the Eden System. She added that the software has been reviewed by IT and the City’s attorney. Ms. Wolf explained that the Mayor and Council are requested to approve the contract with The Active Network, Inc. President Halstad inquired if this software will allow people to go online and pay with a credit card. Ms. Wolf answered yes. Mr. Chiavacci explained that he noticed in the agreement it is broken down into different modules, and one of the modules he noticed is for league management. He questioned if the City managed any leagues. Ms. Wolf replied leagues are managed by the County but play on the City’s fields. President Halstad inquired if the City will lose the tech support and training after the three years. Ms. Wolf replied that it is renewable. President Halstad then questioned if it was renewable each year. Ms. Wolf answered yes. Mr. Chiavacci commented that it is helpful that the software can interface with the Eden system. Mr. Whitson questioned if the $20,000 was within the first year. Ms. Wolf replied that it is for all three years unless something goes wrong with our system. Mr. Frazier inquired about the proposed software’s compatibility with other systems in case the City decided to switch operating systems. Ms. Wolf replied that she cannot speculate but does not foresee the City switching operating systems any time in the near future. Upon motion of Mr. Chiavacci, seconded by Dr. Wack, the Council unanimously approved the bid of The Active Network, Inc. ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS: Ms. Wolf summarized from the Council meeting held on November 26 explaining that the Historic District Commission has a number of factors to consider for membership in addition to residency in the City. The Commission has difficulty finding members who meet this criteria. The Commission asked that the City bring forth Ordinance No. 836 to allow a minority number of the members to be just property owners of the City. Ms. Wolf explained that currently the Commission has members who have properties that are on the national register and that they are commercial properties. President Halstad inquired if the Commission will be allowed up to three non-residents. Ms. Wolf replied in the affirmative but noted they must be City property owners. Mr. Whitson motioned to approve Ordinance No. 836. Dr. Wack seconded and the motion unanimously passed. Ms. Levan explained that Ordinance No. 837 alters section 29-4 of the Code to make clear that the City’s Department Heads serve at the pleasure of the Mayor and Council. The City government can be reorganized and staff can be resigned and given alternate assignments without the somewhat onerous requirements that previously existed in that section. Ms. Levan explained that it brings the section in line with the rules the Council previously believed they were operating under. Ms. Levan noted that enactment of the change would make the City’s Code more typical of general practice found in other municipalities. Mr. Whitson questioned if this changes the power of the City Administrator in any way. Ms. Levan replied it does not, except if Council were to eliminate a department entirely and those functions needed to be placed in the City Administrators office. President Halstad explained to Mr. Whitson that the City Administrator, like other Department Heads, still serves at the pleasure of the Mayor and Council. However, if the City government wanted to get rid of a position, like City Attorney, City Clerk, etc., the City would have to introduce a special ordinance to do so. Dr. Wack motioned to approve Ordinance No. 837. Mr. Frazier seconded and the motion unanimously passed. Mr. Horn explained that the Planning and Zoning Commission (the Commission) considered the Zoning Text Amendment No. 12-02 on two occasions this past fall. The request came about because a shopping center location in the City has a particular challenge in terms of its location. Mr. Horn explained that there is a substantial berm that prevents good visibility of the site. The request is to help improve visibility and make it a more attractive destination for commercial development. He shared that the Commission, after debate, determined that a strictly defined and limited Amendment would be acceptable. The Commission decided to forward the Amendment to the Council with a favorable recommendation. The Mayor and Common Council of Westminster have held the required public hearing related to Zoning Text Amendment No. 12-02. Mr. Chiavacci motioned to introduce Ordinance No. 838. Dr. Wack seconded and the motion unanimously passed. NEW BUSINESS: Ms. Wolf explained that the City of Westminster was awarded $318,875 in Community Development Block Grant funds to reconstruct or install curb ramps throughout the City to comply with the requirements of the American Disabilities Act. She shared that the project meets the Community Development Block Grant objective to benefit low and moderate income persons. She shared that sixty eight (68) ramps will be modified along with the installation of one hundred forty six (146) new ramps within the Sustainable Community area. Ms. Wolf explained that this project will be implemented by formal agreement with the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services for the use of correctional inmates during the construction. Romano Concrete construction, Inc. is an approved sole source contractor with the State of Maryland. Ms. Wolf added that the funds were not competitively awarded to the city for the Handicap ramp project. Ms. Wolf added that a document will be presented for Council consideration at the next meeting. Mr. Chiavacci asked Ms. Wolf if there were any matching funds required by the City. Ms. Wolf replied no. Mr. Chiavacci complimented Ms. Wolf on receiving this grant. Mr. Whitson questioned what the requirements were for the criteria for the sustainable development area within the City. Ms. Wolf replied that the City had identified a sustainable community in an application the City did several years ago. She explained that the City combined the Historic District, Main Street Area, Maple Street, and the Community Development Block Grant area and created the sustainable community. Mayor Utz explained that the funds would not be available to the City if we weren’t within a designated sustainable community. Mr. Whitson questioned if this was Federal money that was passed through the state. Ms. Wolf replied yes. Mr. Whitson inquired if Romano will be over seeing the work of the inmates. Mr. Glass replied that Romano will be providing the supervision of the inmates. Mr. Whitson questioned if they will have a problem getting the work done by the deadline of 2014. Mr. Glass replied no, he does not anticipate that. Upon motion of Mr. Frazier, seconded by Dr. Wack, the Council unanimously approved the execution of the grant Agreement for ADA Curb Ramps. Ms. Palmer explained that the City currently has an existing Letter of Credit with BB & T Bank. The letter is up for renewal. This letter of credit allows the City to borrow up to $1,000,000 for cash flow purposes. Ms. Palmer added that the letter does not currently have a balance. She explained that it does not cost the City anything to have it as long as there is no withdrawal. She commented that the letter of credit acts as a safety net in and would be helpful in the event it’s needed. Ms. Palmer suggested a motion to renew the letter of credit. President Halstad questioned how often it is renewed. Ms. Palmer replied every two years. Mr. Chiavacci questioned if we’re able to take advantage of lower rates. Ms. Palmer replied that it is at prime. She explained that is for a short term. Upon motion of Dr. Wack, seconded by Mr. Chiavacci, the Council unanimously approved the renewal of the line of credit. President Halstad requested a motion to cancel the December 24, 2012, meeting of the Mayor and Common Council due to the Christmas Eve holiday. Upon motion of Mr. Whitson, seconded by Mr. Frazier, the cancellation of the December 24, 2012, meeting of the Mayor and Common Council was approved. DEPARTMENT REPORTS: Ms. Wolf thanked the Mayor and Council for the bonus and days off given to City employees. She commented that it is going to very deserving employees and she knows that they will appreciate it. She shared that the employees have worked very hard this year on a variety of different levels. Ms. Wolf wished Mayor and Council a Happy Holiday season from the City staff. Mr. Chiavacci commented to Ms. Wolf that the bonus and days off are as a result of Ms. Wolf’s efforts, and he appreciates her advocacy on behalf of all City employees. Dr. Wack added that the Mayor and Council have consistently challenged staff to achieve new heights of excellence, to keep raising the bar, and staff keeps exceeding expectations. Dr. Wack commented that he wished they could do more for the employees. He explained that the Council is appreciative of the employee’s excellent work led by the Department Heads and City Administrator. Dr. Wack thanked Ms. Wolf for her efforts on behalf of the City’s staff. President and C.E.O. of the Westminster Fire and Hose Company No. 1 Mr. Bob Cumberland reported that for the month of November, the department responded to 111 fire calls; 50 in the City, 47 in the County, and 14 Mutual Aids. He shared there is an average of 10 responders per call. He stated for 2012, the department has 1,355 calls compared to 2011, when they had 1,356. He also reported that EMS ran 429 calls, averaging 14 calls a day. The department’s total for 2012 is 4,408 compared to 2011 at 4,404. He pointed out that the department is down 4 calls from last year. He stated that 198 calls were in the City, 198 calls were in the first due area, and 12 were mutual aid calls. He shared the total fire loss for 2012 was $1,315,000.00. He explained EMS transported 290 patients to Carroll Hospital Center, 3 patients to University of Maryland Shock Trauma, 1 patient to Sinai Hospital, 1 patient to Union Memorial Hospital and patients refused transport 39 times. Mr. Cumberland reported that the elections were the week of December 3rd and he was reelected President for one more year. He announced that the first Vice President is Danny Plunkert and new second Vice President is Jason Tyler. He shared that the Chief stayed the same, James Bankert, as well as Assistant Chief, Jim Starry. He also announced Jared Davis is EMS Captain and Brian Van Fossen is Fire Captain. Mr. Cumberland shared that all other officers will be appointed by the Chief and the Board at the next meeting the end of this month. Mr. Cumberland thanked the City for its support and cooperation over the last year. He hopes to continue the relationship in the future and maybe enhance it as we move forward. On behalf of himself and the rest of the department, he wished a Happy Holiday to Council. Mayor Utz congratulated two members of the Fire Department that finished their paramedic class and passed: John Bankert and Laura Tyler. He explained that they are volunteers who have taken thousands of hours of training. Mr. Cumberland added that they have to take their oral/ written test by the end of this month, and if they successfully pass their exams they will be nationally registered paramedics. He commented that they were two of the eight students who successfully completed the first paramedic class held at Carroll Community College. Mr. Cumberland also shared that one of the full time employees was also in the same class, and if he successfully passes his test he will be promoted to paramedic. Dr. Wack added that he recently started a new position with the Maryland Institute of Emergency Medical Services. As he learns more about the extensive training requirements that volunteers need, he is astonished that they manage to get it all done. Mr. Cumberland commented that the extensive requirements have made it difficult to keep volunteers. Mr. Glass reported that annual overlay projects have stopped for the year due to the season ending and the cold weather. He commented that the Street Department will begin again in the spring time. Mr. Glass thanked Mayor and Council for their bonus and time off and wished everyone a happy holiday. Mr. Horn reported that he is waiting for a report from the engineer regarding Colonial Avenue. He is hoping to receive the report by the end of the week. Mr. Horn shared that he will be back to Mayor and Council with that report and a menu of options in January. Mr. Beyard reported an update on the Rental Licensing Task Force. He shared that the Task Force has had two meetings since the Mayor and Council deliberation. They had a recent meeting on Dec 4 and have another meeting planned for January 8 with the intent to present that to the Council on January 14. Mr. Beyard covered some of the highlights so that Mayor and Council know what is coming. Specifically, the Task force will be recommending the following: $20.00 fee targeted to program administration and expenses only; a complaint driven process; a three (3) year sunset provision; and, a three (3) member Board of Housing Appeals. He noted that the Task Force heard the Mayor and Council loud and clear that good landlords are not the problem. Mr. Beyard shared that there was discussion about progressively increasing fines for non- compliance. He closed by wishing everyone a Happy Holiday season and thanked the Mayor and Council for everything that they have done for him and the staff. Mr. Chiavacci questioned whether passing an ordinance with a sunset provision would bind the action of future Councils. Ms. Levan indicated the sunset provision is an allowable action by legislative bodies that would not limit the ability of a future council to eliminate, extend or modify the approved Ordinance. Mr. Chiavacci supported the sunset idea. Mr. Whitson questioned if the Task Force has looked at any other municipalities. Mr. Beyard explained that what he has spoken with other jurisdictions with regard to forms and inspection checklists, thereby taking advantage of the best available information. Ms. Palmer thanked the Mayor and Council for the bonus as well as for the days off, wishing them a Happy Holiday. Chief Spaulding reported that the Shop-with-a-Cop program, held on Saturday, December 8, was very successful. He noted that twenty-one (21) local children from eight families participated. He shared that there were 300 gifts donated through the Angel Tree Program at Wal Mart, and ninety (90) local businesses supported the cause by donating services, gift cards or cash. Chief Spaulding thanked the community for their assistance with the event. CITIZEN COMMENTS: Marsha Martin of Kemper Avenue shared that she has spoken to Mr. Glass every year for the past three years since she first moved to the City. She explained that Winters Street, between James Street and Dutterer’s is filled with pot holes. She shared that from Dutterer’s to Hersh Avenue is okay, but Hersh to Ward is worse. Ms. Martin shared that she travels these streets three times a week and has not seen any improvement. She noted that Mr. Glass has explained to her on how the City operates when paving the City’s roads. Mr. Glass explained that Ms. Martin is correct and that he has spoken to her on the phone before. He explained that due to the width of the streets to which Ms. Martin is referring, the City will be unable to use the large equipment typically employed for this kind of paving project. This limitation makes the necessary improvements very challenging to complete. Dr. Wack commented that Winters Street is not a unique road that is in desperate need of work. He explained that lots of alleys are in similar condition and that the road overlay program in place is designed to systematically move through the City. Mr. Glass commented that Dr. Wack is correct, adding that there will be some stretches where larger equipment will fit. He noted that the particular area that Ms. Martin is speaking of is more limited and explained that a temporary patch overlay can be done. However, Mr. Glass said this is a waste because the patching will have to be torn up when paving the road. Ms. Martin replied that something was better than nothing. Mr. Glass commented that he does not disagree. Mr. Frazier questioned if it is on the list to be patched. Mr. Glass replied that it is on the list and that the timing of the improvement depends on funding. Missie Wilcox shared that there were ten (10) restaurants who donated food for the Holiday Open House at City Hall. She added that six (6) local businesses decorated City Hall at no cost to the City. Ms. Wilcox thanked the City for their efforts with regard to Star Light Shopping. She commented that it was a great night shopping downtown and the businesses were happy. Mr. Chiavacci shared that Sideways Café also opened up that evening. Nick Wagman of 153 East Greet Street thanked Westminster Police for responding to pranks resulting in vandalism within his neighborhood. He also inquired if the City could increase lighting on Green Street as they recently done on Pennsylvania Avenue. Mayor Utz replied that it takes grant money to do the lighting project, but the City could take a look at that. Mr. Chiavacci commented that is was good for Mr. Wagman to bring this concern to the Mayor and Council’s attention. ADJOURN: President Halstad adjourned the meeting at 8:38 PM. Respectfully Submitted, Shannon Visocsky