Mayor & Common Council Meetings

MINUTES CITY OF WESTMINSTER Mayor and Common Council Meeting November 22, 2021 at 7 pm City Hall, 1838 Emerald Hill Lane, Westminster, MD 21157 YouTube Channel Link CALL TO ORDER Elected Officials Present: Mayor Becker, Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, Councilmember Hoff, and President Pecoraro. Staff Present: Director of Housing Services Brown (via Zoom), Director of Finance Colston, Director of Community Planning and Development Depo, Deputy Director of Public Works Department Dick, Director of Recreation and Parks Gruber, City Administrator Imhulse, Chief of Police Ledwell, and City Attorney Levan. Guests: Eric Simon, Vice President of Administration and Finance at McDaniel College. President Pecoraro welcomed Mr. Simon to the meeting. APPROVAL OF MINUTES President Pecoraro requested a motion to approve the minutes of the Mayor and Common Council Meeting of November 9, 2021. Councilmember Gilbert moved, seconded by Councilmember Hoff, to approve the minutes of November 8, 2021. VOTE AYES: Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. PRESENTATIONS Mayor Becker read a Mayoral Proclamation for November as Municipal Government Works Month in the City of Westminster. CONSENT CALENDAR President Pecoraro requested a motion to approve the Consent Calendar, which consisted of Approval of the October 2021 Departmental Operating Reports and Approval of the City of Westminster Step Plans for Sworn Officers. Councilmember Chiavacci moved, seconded by Councilmember Gilbert, to approve the Consent Calendar. VOTE AYES: Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. 1 REPORT FROM MAYOR Mayor Becker was happy to return to her role after being out sick, and thanked everyone for reaching out while she was ill. Mayor Becker reported on a productive breakfast with McDaniel College President Dr. Julia Jasken on November 16, at which future plans and initiatives were discussed. REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES There were no reports from the following Standing Committees: Finance Committee, Arts Council, Recreation and Parks, Personnel, and Technology. Councilmember Hoff, on behalf of the Economic and Community Development Committee, stated that although the Committee had not yet met again, two text amendments were sent to the Planning and Zoning Commission for recommendation at a future Mayor and Common Council meeting. Councilmember Chiavacci, on behalf of the Public Safety Committee, commented that the pay plan approved under the Consent Calendar was part of the overall budget amendment previously adopted by the Mayor and Common Council. The pay plan provides a separate pay structure for the police department to address recruitment and salary needs so incoming officers know what to expect. Approving the pay plan further shows how much value the City places in its police force. Finally, the police department is looking into pedestrian crosswalks for safety and enforcement. Councilmember Chiavacci, on behalf of the Public Works Committee, reported that the Public Works Department recently assisted a neighboring municipality with a water issue. He appreciated the technical guidance and expertise, as well as the water that was sent to the neighboring municipality. COUNCIL COMMENTS AND DISCUSSION Councilmember Gilbert wished her colleagues a happy Thanksgiving. She announced the Holiday Farmers’ Market at 29 West Main Street will open on Friday, November 26 at 9 am and will continue every Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm until December 19. On December 4 and 5, there would also be a food drive for non-perishable items at the Market; perishable items would also be accepted. Councilmember Gilbert reminded everyone about the Miracle on Main Street Holiday Event on November 27. On December 4, the Historical Society of Carroll County will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for an historical marker dedication at the Shellman House. Finally, Councilmember Gilbert thanked McDaniel College President Jasken for hosting the Mayor and Common Council at their recent breakfast meeting. Councilmember Dayhoff recognized and thanked the Public Works Department for their hard work on the tree in Locust Lane, as well as the other holiday decorations around downtown. President Pecoraro reported that the last day of the summer Farmers’ Market was very successful and he looked forward to the holiday market. He added that there will be a ribbon-cutting for the Holiday Market on Friday, November 26 at 8:45 am. BIDS Approval of Renovation of Municipal Pool Design-Build Ms. Imhulse stated that there were three components included in the bid, which expires on December 15. Staff requested the Mayor and Common Council approve the base bid, as well as consider Alternatives 2 and 3 for additional features. Ms. Gruber provided additional information as previously requested by the Mayor and Common Council to support staff recommendation of project approval for the renovation of the pool, as well as the addition of the splash pad and lap learning pool. Staff confirmed the price discrepancy included changing the project from construction to design-build; the construction cost was close to the initial estimate. 2 Ms. Gruber also provided a report on the water loss over the previous seven years of the pool’s operation, as well as census data and crime statistics supporting the need for the project’s approval. She confirmed that if no action was taken, the pool could not continue to operate. Mr. Dick stated that staff believed the bid to be realistic with current market rates. Ms. Imhulse added that the facility needs repaired, but the project also offers the opportunity to expand the facility and the City’s programming options. The City can utilize ARPA funds to cover the additional costs. With unanimous consent, President Pecoraro ordered to take staff recommendation to accept the base bid and two alternates and then divide the question and vote separately on each part. After voting on the project, there would be a vote on how to fund it. Mayor Becker thanked Ms. Imhulse, Ms. Gruber, Mr. Dick, Chief Ledwell, Ms. Colston, and City staff for their research. ARPA funds could be used for this type of project. The pool, like a park, is difficult to measure economically, but provides a quality of life to the community and a cultural service that is community-driven and intrinsically valuable to residents. She strongly urged her colleagues to approve of the entire project. Councilmember Hoff asked if any future major repairs were anticipated after the renovation. Ms. Gruber stated that scheduled preventative maintenance can be easily forecasted and budgeted as regular expenses. Councilmember Hoff asked if the design-build included any additional costs. Mr. Dick clarified that because all work was to be completed by the same company, there was less chance of change orders and additional costs, and construction could begin immediately after the design is completed. Councilmember Dayhoff stated that renovating the pool would provide a critical return on investment as an enhancement of family and family values. He believed there would be cost efficiencies realized to save on future operational costs and the pool would be a resource enjoyed by future generations. Councilmember Gilbert stated that there were many benefits to a community pool, and residents were effected in a myriad of ways. She expressed her surprise at the crime statistics and how the facility was reducing crime in the area. She believed the project to be an appropriate use of the space that can capture a wealth of programming. Councilmember Hoff expressed his appreciation for staff accounting for the differences in the estimate and bid. He supported the pool as a park facility as part of the City’s park system. Councilmember Chiavacci also thanked staff for providing the additional information. He was in favor of the pool renovation, but neither of the alternative options due to the size of the area it serves. He believed the pool renovation would fulfill the purpose and need for the facility without incurring additional costs for optional features. The November 8, 2021 motion by Councilmember Gilbert, seconded by Councilmember Dayhoff carried over to accept the base bid to repair or reconstruct the main pool structure, restrooms, and filter room facility. VOTE AYES: Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. 3 President Pecoraro then opened discussion to approve the addition to the project to design and install a splash pad. Councilmember Gilbert provided her input regarding small children using the splash pad since the wading pool was no longer going to be at the facility. The splash pad was also ADA-accessible and would allow more visitors to enjoy. Additional programming and rental opportunities would be available for the splash pad and lap learning pool, both of which would add to the system of parks for the community to use in different ways. Councilmember Dayhoff viewed the splash pad as an expanded family opportunity for children, as well as disabled community members. Mayor Becker stated that the addition of a splash pad would provide opportunities for visitors from in and out of the City who cannot access to a normal aquatic environment, such as The Arc of Carroll County and Target Community and Educational Services. In addition, the splash pad did not require a lifeguard, so no additional staff were necessary. President Pecoraro requested a vote for the approval of the addition to the project of the design and installation of the splash pad. VOTE AYES: Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: Councilmember Chiavacci. President Pecoraro then opened discussion to approve the addition to the project of the design and installation of a lap learning pool. Councilmember Hoff asked how the lap learning pool was different and what could be gained by having it at the facility. Ms. Gruber stated that the lap learning pool is designed with safety in mind to provide an area for children and adults who want to learn to swim. It would add programmatic value and more opportunities to utilize as a private rental space, without impacting the regular pool, to generate additional revenue. Councilmember Dayhoff described it as a cost-effective and critical to programmatic City services. President Pecoraro requested a vote for the approval of the addition to the project of the design and installation of a lap learning pool. VOTE AYES: Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: Councilmember Chiavacci. President Pecoraro stated the options to provide funding were to withdraw from the City reserves or utilize ARPA funds. Staff recommended the use of ARPA funds and guidance on the use of those funds indicated that investment in parks, public plazas, and other outdoor recreation spaces may be responsive to the needs of disproportionately-impacted communities by promoting healthier living environments and outdoor recreation and socialization to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Furthermore, President Pecoraro believed that the health of the residents of the City’s neighborhoods and qualified Census-tracked areas would be benefitted by the project. 4 Councilmember Chiavacci requested the specific financial impact of the project and that staff outline the different project funding methods. Ms. Colston confirmed the project total cost was $3,569,739, with $1,186,800 bonded through a CDA loan and $2,382,939 provided through ARPA funds. President Pecoraro requested a vote to approve staff recommendation to fund the amount of $2,382,939 for the project using ARPA funds. VOTE AYES: Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. Approval – Purchase of Replacement Leaf Vacuum Trailer Mr. Dick provided information regarding the bid, which was also included in the Council Packet. Councilmember Gilbert motioned, seconded by Councilmember Dayhoff, to approve the bid from Atlantic Machinery Inc. for the purchase of a replacement leaf vacuum system in the amount of $105,941. Councilmember Hoff asked if City staff was satisfied with having received only one bid. Mr. Dick responded that the equipment was uncommon, and both local companies which carried it were notified of the bid. Staff believed the cost to be within an acceptable range. VOTE AYES: Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS Adoption of Resolution No. 21-07 President Pecoraro read Resolution No. 21-07 recognizing Dr. Mona Becker as the first female mayor elected to serve the City of Westminster. The Resolution was approved with unanimous consent. Mayor Becker expressed her appreciation and thanked her colleagues for the resolution. She was surprised by the invitation from the Baltimore Sun and thanked Councilmember Hoff and his wife for attending the ceremony, which provided an opportunity for her to talk more about the City and share initiatives. President Pecoraro added that it was a great chance to showcase the City and congratulated Dr. Becker. Councilmember Chiavacci thanked Dr. Becker’s wife for supporting the Mayor during her election campaign. Councilmember Hoff commented that the ceremony was a great event and it was nice for the City to be recognized. Mayor Becker added that the keynote speaker presented on cybersecurity. NEW BUSINESS Motion to waive parking meter fees on Main Street from November 28 through December 25 Councilmember Chiavacci motioned, seconded by Councilmember Hoff to approve waiving parking meter fees on Main Street from November 28 through December 25. 5 VOTE AYES: Councilmember Chiavacci, Councilmember Dayhoff, Councilmember Gilbert, and Councilmember Hoff. NAYS: None. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS City Administrator Ms. Imhulse reported that staff from multiple departments attended a walking tour of Main Street from Pennsylvania Avenue to Longwell Avenue to review parcel by parcel and identify areas of improvement and applications for infrastructure funding. Topics of discussion included decorating vacant storefronts for the holidays, issues with crosswalks and traffic intersections, and how public safety is influenced by environmental factors. City staff will recommend solutions for the Common Council to consider in the upcoming budget year. Ms. Imhulse stated that City Administrative offices will be closed on Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26 for the Thanksgiving holiday. The Westminster Family Center will be open on Friday, November 26 from 8 AM to 1 PM. Finally, Ms. Imhulse recognized Ms. Colston for her service to the City since her last day was prior to the next meeting. Recreation and Parks Department Ms. Gruber reported a record number of registrations for the Jingle Bell Run as well as floats and entries into the upcoming Miracle on Main Street Holiday Parade. She wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving and expressed her thanks for the discussion surrounding the pool bid. Community Planning & Development Department Mr. Depo reported that the Small Business Saturday Shopping Passport program begins on November 27 and runs through December 5. He thanked Comprehensive Planner Andrea Gerhard for coordinating with other county municipalities to distribute 5,000 passports, and WPD Officer Victoria Ash for assisting with the distribution throughout Downtown Westminster. The last day to register for the Mayor’s Cup and Holiday Storefront Window Decorating Contest was November 22 and the City had received 11 entries. Mr. Depo reported that the Planning and Zoning Commission met on November 11 to review a site plan for Raising Cane Chicken. The Commission also forwarded a recommendations for approval of Ordinances 938 and 939. Westminster Police Department (WPD) Chief Ledwell thanked the Mayor and Common Council for approving the step pay plan earlier in the meeting. He reported that the department is undergoing a comprehensive review of crosswalk and pedestrian safety issues to leverage technology and low-cost solutions through enforcement and education. The department also continued to support the Opioid Coalition and its goal to reduce drug overdoses. Chief Ledwell reported that the department recently acquired the necessary software to crack cell phone passwords cases of fatal overdose to try and locate dealers, as well as grant funding for a case manager position to coordinate with agency partners. The Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion Program already showed evidence of success. The Department also recently acquired and rolled-out the High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area ODMap software application. 6 The department continues to analyze workload to determine potential realignment of patrol sectors to maintain a balance of calls for service and geographic area of each sector to ensure similar patrol visibility and crime deterrence. Chief Ledwell attended the recent Carroll County Drug Court graduation on November 9. He and Captain Nikki Heuer assisted with serving food at the Westminster Boys and Girls Club Thanksgiving celebration. Finally, Chief Ledwell reminded everyone about his participation in the annual Westminster Boys and Girls Club Polar Dunk fundraiser on November 30 at 2:30 PM. Ms. Imhulse added that the City is also discussing pedestrian safety with McDaniel College and the ways that the City and the College can improve the pedestrian experience. Housing Department Mr. Brown wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving. Finance Department Ms. Colston reported that the City received the Government Finance Officers Association’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for Fiscal Year 2021. She commended the hard work of the Finance Department and City department heads for their cooperative effort. Technology Department Mr. Davidson wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving and extended his best wishes for Ms. Colston on her departure from the City. Public Works Department Mr. Dick reported that it was a busy time as the Streets Department works to prepare the City for the upcoming holiday season, continuation of curbside leaf vacuum services, and preparation for the Holiday Electric Parade on November 27. Mr. Dick reported that the Westminster Fiber Network was installed at the Westminster Way apartment complex and each unit has Ting service available. He wished everyone a happy holiday. Ms. Imhulse thanked the department for the decorated tree at 45 West Main Street and the downtown decorations, and expressed her excitement for the parade. She also announced that the City will display a Hanukkah menorah that will be lit each night in conjunction with the holiday President Pecoraro wished Ms. Colston success in her future endeavors. CITIZEN COMMENTS None. ADJOURNMENT President Pecoraro announced that the next meeting would be on December 13 and that would be the final meeting for the calendar year. He adjourned the meeting at 9:03 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Samantha Schlitzer, Executive Assistant Full audio version is available on www.westminstermd.gov 7