Mayor & Common Council Meetings

MINUTES CITY OF WESTMINSTER Mayor and Common Council Meeting October 11, 2021 at 7 pm City Hall, 1838 Emerald Hill Lane, Westminster, MD 21157 https://www.facebook.com/westminstermd/ CALL TO ORDER Elected Officials Present: Mayor Becker, Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, Councilmember Hoff, and President Pecoraro. Staff Present: Director of Finance Colston, Director of Community Planning and Development Depo, Director of Public Works Department Glass, Director of Recreation and Parks Gruber, City Administrator Imhulse, and Chief of Police Ledwell. Guests: Matthew Grove, Jay Lunze, Alicia McCormick, and Scott Grove, all from Grove & Dall’Olio Architects pllc. APPROVAL OF MINUTES President Pecoraro requested a motion to approve the minutes of the Mayor and Common Council Meeting of September 27, 2021. Councilmember Dayhoff moved, seconded by Councilmember Hoff, to approve the minutes of September 27, 2021. VOTE AYES: President Pecoraro, Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. PRESENTATIONS Matthew Grove, on behalf of Grove & Dall’Olio Architects pllc, presented the Historic Structure Assessment Final Report for the Durbin House. A copy of the presentation is attached to these minutes and incorporated herein. The presentation included the history of the property and buildings, geology and archaeology, history of ownership, salvageability, and potential futures uses for the site. President Pecoraro inquired about the most immediate concerns, how to mitigate them, and the cost. Mr. Groves responded that those items are addressed in the report and the costs for most are covered by a grant that was recently obtained by Ms. Gruber. CONSENT CALENDAR President Pecoraro requested a motion to approve the Consent Calendar, which consisted of Approval of the August 2021 Departmental Operating Reports. Councilmember Hoff moved, seconded by Councilmember Chiavacci, to approve the Consent Calendar. 1 VOTE AYES: President Pecoraro, Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. REPORT FROM THE MAYOR Mayor Becker reported that she was joined by Councilmember Hoff and Councilmember Gilbert for a recent presentation to the delegation in order to receive feedback to provide to Governor Hogan. She noted that the Oyster Stroll was a fantastic event and many Downtown merchants thrived during it. Mayor Becker thanked Chief Ledwell and his department for keeping the community safe in the wake of the recent bank robberies. Mayor Becker stated that she will meet with McDaniel College staff to discuss how incoming freshman students could become more involved with City events and initiatives. In conclusion, Mayor Becker announced that trick-or-treating in Westminster City limits would occur on Sunday, October 31, 2021 from 6 pm to 8 pm. Residents wishing to hand out candy should indicate by turning on their porch lights. REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES There were no reports from the following Standing Committees: Arts Council, Personnel, Recreation and Parks, and Technology. Councilmember Hoff, on behalf of the Economic and Community Development Committee, reported that the Committee held a meeting on October 6, 2021 to discuss items which were coming before his colleagues later in the meeting. The Committee continues to work on long term projects. President Pecoraro, on behalf of the Finance Committee, reported that the Committee had rescheduled its meeting to October 19. Councilmember Chiavacci, on behalf of the Public Safety Committee, commended Chief Ledwell and his department for their exemplary work in arresting the bank robbery suspects. He added that they had worked hard during the Oyster Stroll. Finally, Councilmember Chiavacci reported that Chief Ledwell had been instrumental in developing an opioid response protocol project, which brought in over $300,000 to the community to address the issue. Councilmember Chiavacci, on behalf of the Public Works Committee, complimented the Public Works Department for their work during the Oyster Stroll. He also reported that the PUREWater project continued to advance. COUNCIL COMMENTS AND DISCUSSION Councilmember Dayhoff reported on his attendance at a reception for the mural by Shannon Scott on the outdoor dining area wall at Johansson’s. He also attended opening sessions of the Maryland Municipal League (MML) Fall Conference for Legislative Actions Requests. Councilmember Gilbert reported on her attendance during the MML Fall Conference as well. She then thanked all departments for their work during the Oyster Stroll. Councilmember Chiavacci complimented Ms. Imhulse on her hard work during her first month with the City. 2 Councilmember Hoff reported that legislative priorities will be voted on during the General Membership session on October 12. Items include the long term restoration of the Highway User Revenue funds, and police accountability boards for municipalities. He continues to be impressed with staff collaboration for City events. President Pecoraro complimented all departments for their role to make the Oyster Stroll a success. He congratulated Chief Ledwell for his efforts to improve community policing. He reported on his recent attendance to a Historic District Commission meeting on October 6. Finally, President Pecoraro thanked everyone for their condolences on the recent loss of his mother. ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS Adoption of Resolution No. 21-05 Mr. Depo provided background on Resolution No. 21-05 – Amending the adopted Water and Sewer Allocation Policy for 2018-2024 and accompanying Master Distribution Chart. He stated that the Board of Carroll County Commissioners submitted a Water and Sewer Allocation Application and a Site Development Plan Application (S-21-0003) for a new Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office project. Currently, there is not enough water allocated for such a public use project. On July 27, 2021, he introduced to the Mayor and the Common Council’s Economic and Community Development Committee (ECDC) proposed amendments to the adopted Water and Sewer Allocation Policy for 2018-2024 and accompanying Master Distribution Chart (Resolution 21-05) for their review and guidance. City staff briefed the ECDC on the following amendment topics: 1) Water and Sewer Allocation Policy Amendment – allowing the ability to transfer water from one property to another for public projects only, and 2) Master Distribution Chart Amendment – reallocating water for public use projects. The ECDC supported the proposed amendments and subsequent draft text to amend the Water and Sewer Allocation Policy and Master Distribution Chart. Resolution No. 21-05 reflects the policy direction of the ECDC. President Pecoraro thanked Mr. Depo for his presentation of proposed Resolution No. 21-05. He stated that the lack of parking on the site was an issue discussed by ECDC. Mr. Depo replied that parking issues will be addressed once a site plan is submitted for review by the Planning and Zoning Commission. The applicant plans to use parking on its owned area, and City staff has requested a parking study to show where that parking would be located. President Pecoraro then mentioned the significant amount of water being transferred to an entity which does not pay City taxes. He was concerned about taking opportunities away from future potential applicants which may increase economic development. Mr. Depo replied that the water would be moved from the commercial/industrial use category, but future potential use still remains and impacts to future businesses would be discussed should any come forward. John Bowers, Bureau Chief of the Carroll County Department of Public Works, spoke about actively working on the parking evaluation study, the completion of which is anticipated before the end of October. The State’s Attorney’s Office request for a new location was pressing due to maxing out the space at its current location. Allan Cullver, State’s Attorney’s Office of Carroll County, thanked the Mayor and Common Council for considering the application. He reiterated that the current location exceeds the needs of its evidence review unit expansion, specifically for the new body-worn camera program. President Pecoraro asked about the timeline for the project’s completion. Mr. Cullver responded that they were hopeful to advertise the project in January, break ground in the second to third quarter of 2022, and then complete the project within 18 months once it starts. 3 Councilmember Chiavacci expressed his concern about moving water from commercial enterprise which the City was trying to encourage. He suggested tabling the application until more information could be obtained. President Pecoraro stated that he and his colleagues would need more time to deliberate the issues, and requested staff work with the County to bring forth the application again in the future. BIDS Locker Room Renovations, Family Fitness Center Ms. Gruber stated that the Fiscal Year 2022 Capital Projects budget provides funding for Family Center upgrades, specifically renovation to the men’s and women’s locker rooms. Last fiscal year the city invested in Phase I of locker room renovations through providing new shower rooms in both the men’s and women’s locker rooms. To complete the renovation process, the remainder of the locker room facilities, including the changing area and the restrooms in the men’s and women’s locker rooms, will be upgraded with this project. After reviewing submissions, staff determined that the lowest bid in the amount of $42,185, submitted by Boulevard Contractors Corporation from Owings Mills, Maryland, will meet the City’s needs. Boulevard Contractors submitted a thorough proposal; references were checked, and staff received a favorable response regarding the company’s timeliness, quality, and integrity of work performed. Councilmember Hoff moved, seconded by Councilmember Gilbert to approve the bid proposal from Boulevard Contractors Corporation in the amount of $42,185. Councilmember Hoff expressed his appreciation for staff’s thorough review of the bid and contractor’s qualifications. President Pecoraro asked about the project budgeted amount. Ms. Gruber replied the Capital Fund budget amount was $65,000. VOTE AYES: President Pecoraro, Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. City Hall Roof Replacement Mr. Glass stated that the current Capital Projects Fund includes funding for the replacement of the roof at City Hall. The project includes removal and replacement of the slate and shingled areas of the roof, including final clean up and debris removal. All work will need to be completed in the spring of 2022 to meet the fiscal year end date of June 30, 2022. After reviewing and evaluating references and proposals, staff recommended the acceptance of the bid from A.K.J. Inc in the total amount of $99,650. The total budget for the project is $140,000. Councilmember Chiavacci moved, seconded by Councilmember Dayhoff, to accept the bid of A.K.J. Inc in the amount of $99,650. Councilmember Hoff asked about the age of the current roof. Mr. Glass responded that it appeared to be original to the building’s construction in 1838. President Pecoraro asked when work was anticipated to begin. Mr. Glass stated before the cold weather sets in later this year. 4 VOTE AYES: President Pecoraro, Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS (continued) Introduction of Ordinance No. 938 Mr. Depo provided background information on Ordinance No. 938 – An Ordinance Amending Chapter 164, “Zoning and Subdivision of Land”, of the Westminster City Code, to Amend Article I, “General Provisions”, Section 164-3, “Definitions and Word Usage”, to Add a New Definition Of “Satellite Automobile Storage”; to Amend Article X, “I-R Restricted Industrial Zone”, Section 164-54, “Special Exceptions”, to Provide for “Satellite Automobile Storage, Excluding Car Washing Facilities”, as a Special Exception Use; to Amend Article XX, “Special Provisions”, to Add Section 164-155.5, “Satellite Automobile Storage”, to Provide New Standards for the Grant of Satellite Automobile Storage in Certain Zones; and to Amend Article XXII, “Board Of Zoning Appeals”, Section 164- 166, “Action Prior to Hearing” to Repeal Section 164-166.F. Councilmember Hoff moved, seconded by Councilmember Chiavacci to approve introduction of Ordinance No. 938. President Pecoraro thanked Mr. Depo for the work and discussion in committee on this item. Councilmember Hoff commended staff on keeping the language consistent from draft to final form, adding that it was well put together. Councilmember Gilbert asked what prompted the creation of the ordinance. Mr. Depo stated that vehicle dealerships in the City were currently allowed temporary storage locations around the City, but now need to find new locations due to that allowance expiring soon. Councilmember Dayhoff expressed his concern about the proposed use being the best use of the I-R Zone. Councilmember Hoff stated that it was a way to support local businesses so that they stay in the City instead of moving to find a larger space. Mr. Depo added that there were only two dealerships inside the City limits and a third was looking to annex in and take advantage of the proposed opportunity. The utilized I-R Zone parcels would have opportunity for redevelopment in the future. VOTE AYES: President Pecoraro, Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-06 Ms. Levan stated that state law required the adoption of Resolution No. 21-06 – Appointing a Resident Agent for All Purposes for Which Such Agent is Required by the Provisions of the Maryland Annotated Code, Local Government Article §1-1301. Ms. Imhulse was the named contact for receiving any documentation subject to that requirement, and she agreed to serve in that capacity. Councilmember Chiavacci moved, seconded by Councilmember Dayhoff, to approve Resolution No. 21-06. 5 VOTE AYES: President Pecoraro, Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS City Administrator Ms. Imhulse reported on her attendance to the Oyster Stroll, stating that it was well attended. She thanked the many volunteers who were necessary to make it a success and commented on the immense amount of staff work involved. Ms. Imhulse then stated that the opioid response protocol project was significant due to the required leadership from Chief Ledwell. He coordinated with area entities to assist with harm reduction, and the cooperation and execution of the protocol was a prime example of Chief Ledwell’s leadership ability. The secured grant was an opportunity for measurable results. Westminster Police Department (WPD) Chief Ledwell stated that the opioid response protocol project group had secured a $309,000 grant to fund a software system that will effectively coordinate and address issues throughout the area. The grant will also fund a 24/7 staff person for the recovery unit and also a full-time social worker for WPD. Overtime for officers providing quick response and targeted efforts will also be covered under the grant funding. Additionally funded are software for cracking cell phone passwords in the event of an overdose, following a search warrant request, and standardized training for first responders to help combat compassion fatigue and build a best protocol model. Chief Ledwell reported on recent legislation that would affect WPD policies and procedures for search warrants and police officer records, as well as certain requirements for reporting to the governor’s office. WPD was currently evaluating its existing patrol areas to improve response, and training supervisors on the NCIC database system. For current projects, the department was working with Public Works to evaluate the generator bid submissions; the mobile radio replacement project was underway; and, the body-worn camera project was still under review. Chief Ledwell reported that the department identified and charged juveniles for spray paint vandalism, but they are still looking for an additional suspect for another incident. Finally, he reported on an upcoming Maryland Chiefs Professional Development Conference in Ocean City, Maryland the following week, which he would attend with Major Gibson. Public Works Department Ms. Imhulse noted that a resolution for water allocation difficulties was in the PUREWater project, created by Mr. Glass. Community Planning & Development Department Mr. Depo reported that the Historic District Commission recently approved Historic Tax Credit and Façade Improvement Program applications for 116-118-120 East Main Street. They also approved a Façade Improvement Program application for 121 East Main Street. The Demolition Permit for 288 East Main Street was reviewed and the Commission requested the applicant to provide archiving information for the structure proposed to be demolished. They made no decision on approving or denying the permit at this time. 6 Mr. Depo reported that staff was finalizing the Sustainable Communities application in cooperation with the Public Works, WPD, and Housing departments. He stated that Main Street Maryland was partnering with Maryland Tourism for a social media campaign to highlight a different Main Street every Monday over 33 weeks; Westminster was chosen for October 18. CITIZEN COMMENTS None. ADJOURNMENT President Pecoraro adjourned the meeting at 9:10 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Samantha Schlitzer, Executive Assistant Full audio version is available on www.westminstermd.gov 7