all one college park. Thank you. Good evening College Park.
It is twist at 7:30 P.m.
march 19 I am calling to the order of the Mayor and Council regular meeting of the city of College Park City Council College Park, Maryland.
I
Park City Council College Park, Maryland. I'll begin the meeting with a moment of silent meditation, followed by a pledge of allegiance to tonight.
This will be led by council member Reg Colleagues.
Do.
You want to add anything to the meditation?
Recording in progress.
Saying.
No, Please join me in a moment of silent meditation.
Council.
To.
The flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God.
And, indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
Thank you.
Well.
Let
with liberty and justice for all. Thank you. Well. Let's start with the roll call the Council member Hernandez president present Doctor esters, Miss Whitney present, Amir put, Mitchell had to step out to attend a meeting, but she
Mitchell had to step out to attend a meeting, but she'll be back in.
I believe at eight o
back in. I believe at eight o'clock Councilor R Mackie.
And Council member.
Adams also couldn
Council member. Adams also couldn't come because of the family.
Um, issue Uh, Councilor Re I will start again with District one for announcements.
Hernandez Works at, uh, tomorrow we
Hernandez Works at, uh, tomorrow we're going to be hosting our second District one discussion and Davis Hall.
Uh, It
discussion and Davis Hall. Uh, It's going to be from 7 to 930.
I.
Wanna.
Thank Mayor Kabir, Uh, the city manager and council member, Hugh for, uh, for attending.
We
member, Hugh for, uh, for attending. We're gonna be tackling some some heart issues and and just kind of forecasting some of the city business to include the upcoming budget work session, uh, putting our heads together to think about how we,
uh how we revitalize and engage the Hollywood farmers market and discussing any other topics.
Uh, At top of mind of our residents looking forward to seeing, uh, those that can attend, Uh, a zoom link is out.
Uh, and it is also on the city website.
Thank you.
City staff.
Thank you?
I
also on the city website. Thank you. City staff. Thank you? I'm looking forward to tending because Hill Uh, thank you.
I
looking forward to tending because Hill Uh, thank you. I'd like to, um, send out a thank you to everybody who attended the, uh, Sunset celebration.
Acknowledging, Ramadan and Easter this, uh, last week.
Uh, it was a really nice community turnout and, uh, expression of, uh, diversity and and acceptance amongst all those who attended Thank you And.
Thanks for organizing it and customer doctor esters.
The Berwin District Civic Association will hold its monthly meeting this Thursday, uh, March 21st at 730.
It will be in person at vital traditions.
Uh, wellness Center, uh, located at 4912 Berwyn Road.
Thank you.
Thank you and council member Whitney.
Thank you?
I Want to encourage, Um Berwyn residents and others to express their preferences for uses for the Roanoke Pocket Park in Berwyn.
You can find, uh, the rank choice survey at my berwin.org also, uh, we
uh, the rank choice survey at my berwin.org also, uh, we're excited about the ribbon cutting at 5:30 P.m.
on Thursday at Lakeland Playground.
Thank you?
I look forward to attending that one as well.
Uh, customer, Mackie.
I
attending that one as well. Uh, customer, Mackie. I'd like to remind residents that the opportunities to sign your Children up for summer camps are on the city website.
This is a great opportunity that we get from our educational, um, advisory Committee to, um, send your kids to summer camp.
I
advisory Committee to, um, send your kids to summer camp. I'd also like to remind you to look into the imagine.
Learn tutoring program.
Uh, A fact that many people don
tutoring program. Uh, A fact that many people don't know is that there is opportunities for, um SAT prep.
And, I Think AC T prep.
So.
Um please look into we still have 19 slots for the imagine.
Learn tutoring program that the city sponsored this year, So.
Please take advantage of these two opportunities.
Thank you.
Thank you, UH, Councilor Mare.
Uh, thank you and just a quick announcement tomorrow night from 7 to 9 P.m.
on an online platform, um, that begins with Z and ends with, um there will be the Calvert Hill Civic Association meeting.
Um, like that The link can be obtained by, uh, by going to the Calvert Hills website.
Calvert hills dot Thanks so much.
Thank you.
All.
Right, Uh, liaison, Mr Mirani.
Thank you an update on the recruitment timeline for the next student liaison, Deputy student liaison.
So applications went out this week and have been shared with SG a members and we
week and have been shared with SG a members and we're also going to be putting it out on some other channels as well.
Applications are due Friday.
April 12th, So.
We
Applications are due Friday. April 12th, So. We're expecting to hold interviews the week of April 15th and hopefully a final SG a appointment The week of the 22nd.
Thanks Thank you and Mr Sprinkle Thank you our second College Park Tenants Union meeting is on March 26 1 Week From.
Now.
It
Union meeting is on March 26 1 Week From. Now. It's at 7 P.m.
Check with us If.
You
Week From. Now. It's at 7 P.m. Check with us If. You're looking for the location and we will be out later this week.
Additionally the, uh, ice cream day for the Student Government Association has been pushed back to next Wednesday march 27th.
It will be an all day event on Lawyers Mall in Annapolis with the student government will, uh, explain their legislative priorities to the members of the General Thank you.
As go to city Manager
Thank you. As go to city Manager's report, Mr Yang.
Uh, good evening, Uh, Mayor and Council and residence of college Park.
Uh, just a couple of quick announcements this evening.
Uh, one is in regard to no M.
April, Uh, the City College Park and B City USA Committee encouraged residents to refrain from mowing their lawns during the month of April to support local pollinators participating in No.
Uh, April, um, is a small and easy step we can take to help early season pollinators that are foraging for food sources and habitat.
Um, there is no registration, uh, no longer is required to participate in this event if you have any questions, you can always contact our department of public works at 2404873590.
We also would like to invite the public out to our fiscal year 2025 budget listening session which will be held, um this, uh on March 30th so two Saturdays from now at 11 A.m.
in the city Hall Council Chambers.
Uh, you can also watch this, uh via TV as well as zoom and if you have any questions, you can, uh, go to our website.
That
questions, you can, uh, go to our website. That's all I have for this evening.
Thank you, Mr Young.
Any question for Mr Yang.
Miss Mackay.
Um we have some clean up times coming.
Could you remind me of the in April Clean up, clean up spring clean ups.
Um I have I have to pull that up and get that for you.
You bet.
Thank you any other questions, Miss Whitney?
Yes.
We received a letter um from a resident who is concerned about the new medians coming in on, um Route one up across from the tempo, um, and the the middle of the city, and, um, just concerns about, um, you know, jaywalking people.
Um, you know, SI gotta get to the LA right now.
And I
SI gotta get to the LA right now. And I'm trying to cross Route one and I wonder if we could request extra enforcement.
Um, once those are completely in place to ensure we don
Um, once those are completely in place to ensure we don't have that issue.
I
in place to ensure we don't have that issue. I'll.
I
in place to ensure we don't have that issue. I'll. I'll work with, Um uh, Major Colletti on on that particular issue once they get those in, uh, I know there are particular concern was, uh uh regarding, uh, having to do gates similar to what
we have done in the old car, old town area.
So.
Um I would definitely will take a look at that and make sure that we have a game plan in place for enforcement.
Thank you.
Any other questions.
Saying none.
Um, let
Thank you. Any other questions. Saying none. Um, let's go to the acknowledgement I can see former District one council member, Mr Marks is in the house.
Thank you, Mr Swar, Thanks for coming and joining.
Let me see anyone online?
I want to be in trouble?
Um, I, don
want to be in trouble? Um, I, don't see anyone.
All, right?
Um, let
don't see anyone. All, right? Um, let's move to Uh, proclamation hour.
We do not have any tonight and next.
Or a business will be amendments to the agenda.
I believe there are a couple of maybe two of them, right?
Miss Whitney.
Yes.
I would like to, um, amend the agenda to, um add item 24 G 53 to consent.
This is, um, approval of a letter substantially.
It
approval of a letter substantially. It's attached requesting that HB 538 SB 484 be amended to exempt the Lakeland community designated historic districts and areas more than one half mile from transit facilities second Um, we need a foot on
that all in favor.
Say.
I opposed any abstentions.
So, these item has been added more, Mr Rick.
Uh, yes, I
been added more, Mr Rick. Uh, yes, I'd like to remove item.
24 G Dash 52 approval of minutes from the consent agenda to the regular agenda for correction.
Thank you, Um Any, um, any second.
There
correction. Thank you, Um Any, um, any second. There's no vote.
Yeah.
We don
um, any second. There's no vote. Yeah. We don't need a vote because it
Yeah. We don't need a vote because it's going other way.
Alright, um, I now need a vote to approve the agenda as amended.
I moved to approve the agenda as amended.
Not by Hernandez seconded by council re all in favor, So, I, any opposed any abstention?
The agenda has been approved.
And now we go to the audience of anyone wants to speak on.
Non agenda items or any, um, consent item.
Yeah.
I see?
Yeah, please come forward.
To the podium, please state your name And if you western of college Park Yeah start with the stating your name.
Hi.
My name is Pedro Morales.
Uh, I have been a resident of college Park for the past three years.
Uh, I go to book Lodge Middle School.
I Am 13 years old and in eighth grade.
My GPA is 3.8.
I have no unexcused abscesses and have no disciplinary issues.
I come before you to ask for your help.
I applied to College Park Academy during the open application window and when and was recently Waitlisted.
I do not know how to make my application more competitive, and I
application more competitive, and I'm having a hard time trying to get accepted into a good high school.
I do not know.
My.
My dream is to be a software engineer so I can help government systems.
I want to go to College Park Academy because I believe C Park Academy.
Will prepare me for the next level of education One day, I hope One Day.
I hope to be attended to the University of Maryland.
I think Kash Park Academy will prepare me to be successful there.
I
Academy will prepare me to be successful there. I'm, the oldest of my siblings, and I want to be a role model for my six year old sister so she can follow in my footsteps.
My parents came to this country to give me the best possible education and now I
give me the best possible education and now I'm asking you.
For help to achieve that here at home in college Park.
I know there are people here who can help me.
Please help.
I came today because my parents read that you all will be discussing education.
Please Tell me what I or my parents can do to help me achieve my dreams.
Thank you for your time.
Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for coming and thank you for everything you have done can be in touch with the this resident, the young resident and try to help Thank you.
Theres, a stadium name, and if you
Theres, a stadium name, and if you're a resident of college Park Good.
Good Evening America be and Council member of college Park.
My name is Martha Martinez.
I Am, a resident of college park like my classmate.
I also attend book L Middle school Prior to that I attended paint Branch Elementary school as I was promoted to Greenbelt middle School.
However, now I will be attending high school.
A new journey has also a new beginning to end.
My mother has applied to a few programs that have come to her path.
However the only feedback that I
have come to her path. However the only feedback that I've received is that It was the night.
No.
No explanation on how I could improve to be in fit for the school next year.
There is another school that I
There is another school that I've applied to and have been wait.
Listed in a school that I am registered to go to is park, though, however, my brother attends Park, and he says there is many bad influences I would like to attend a better high school such as the W for engineering or Northwestern for their
art program.
I
engineering or Northwestern for their art program. I've tried to ask Help.
I
their art program. I've tried to ask Help. I've tried to ask my counselors and teachers for help.
But however, they Never have time and always say to take responsibility in my own hands.
That
take responsibility in my own hands. That's why I am here and being a responsible scholar to ask for your help to clarify the process, So I and other scholars like me can pursue our goals and to better our education and to be prepared to step
foot in our society as we receive our diploma on that graduation day, because we were given the opportunity to get a higher education.
Thank you for your time and hope you can help me.
My goals.
Thank you?
Thank you so much for coming.
Um again, it staff if Mr Gardiner or someone if you could please in touch with the rest.
Yeah, we
in touch with the rest. Yeah, we're we
in touch with the rest. Yeah, we're we're gathering their information now and we
we're we're gathering their information now and we'll definitely reach out.
Thank you so much.
All right, um Anyone who wants to speak on consent or non agenda items.
Anything that is not on the agenda.
And I.
You have three minutes.
Can.
You speak on anything?
All right?
Uh, I do not see any virtual hands.
So.
Let
right? Uh, I do not see any virtual hands. So. Let's move to the approval of the consent agenda.
We have We have seven items.
Let me read them out, then I will entertain a motion.
The.
First one is the approval of the renewal of the contract with Streetcar.
Streetcar Suburbs Inc for the four page College Park Post.
Insert In the college part here and now newspaper for the period of March.
Sorry April 1st to June 30th.
April 1st 24th of June 30th 27 in an amount not to exceed $195,000 subject to the review and approval as to form by the city attorney.
Next is 24 G 49 a word and renewal of insurance contracts with Cigna for health insurance.
In the budgeted amounts of $1 million 666, 1,000,606, 106 and 675 606,006 $75 dental insurance In The budgeted amount of 65,800.
$30 Chesapeake.
Insurance for workers compensation in the budgeted amount of 207,707 $101.
And local government insurance Trust for the property and liability insurance in the budget amount of $200,599.
For.
The.
Total budgeted cost of FY 25 being 2 million $79,805 The.
Third.
One is 24 G 50 approval.
To bypass the formal bid process procedures to approve 12 months contract with Volta Inc for the period of 5124 to 4 30 25 for IT infrastructure.
Managed services in an amount not to exceed $344,250 subject to the city attorney
not to exceed $344,250 subject to the city attorney's approval as outlined in the attached proposal and contract.
Number four is 24 G 36 approval of a contract amendment with Haggerty Consulting Inc for an additional amount not to exceed $200,000 for the term 3 26 24 to 1231 26 for assistance with the administration and compliance requirements of the coronavirus
Local fiscal recovery fund received under ARPA, subject to the approval of the city attorney and authorize the city manager to And An extra majority vote is required.
And 24 G 51 authorized the mayor to sign a letter to support of the application that Laurel Cats Inc.
Is submitting in partnership with Belleville Community Cats.
We, Citizens for local animal welfare and outlaw K for funding.
Under, the mainland Department of agriculture, Espe and neuter Program for fiscal year 2025.
Number six is approve 24 G 46, which is approval of the mayoral appointments of our list.
Perez and Franci Wesser to the vacant and blighted property tax community, And.
Finally.
We have number 7 24 G 53, which is the approval of letter substantially as attached, requesting that HB 538 SB 484 B amendment amended to exempt the Lakeland community designated historic districts and areas more than one half mile from transit.
Facilities to adopt the consent agenda.
Doctor ether seconded by, uh, Councilor Whitney all in favor.
Say, I.
I and the post in the abstention.
So the consent agenda.
I is.
Approved.
We do not have a public hearing and don
We do not have a public hearing and don't have any action item we go.
Oh, there is one actually IM which came from you
actually IM which came from you're right.
Thank you for correcting me?
I always came from The agenda, which is 24 G 52.
Who is going to take me.
Please go ahead.
Yeah.
I can cover it there.
There was a a remark attributed to me that was inaccurate.
Um, specifically on page 47 of the packet from the march 5th minutes.
It
packet from the march 5th minutes. It's it, Uh, Noted that I shared concern about eligibility for the the student.
Uh Housing Affordability pilot program and said that I have two ways of becoming eligible and one of those ways and then it attributed Pell grants.
Uh, probably two thirds of the student residents of the city would qualify for that
student residents of the city would qualify for that's.
That
would qualify for that's. That's not what I said.
What, I said was, um the income eligibility.
Probably two thirds of student residents would qualify for so, um, it was it was actually the opposite.
So.
You.
I would propose that we strike Pell grants and would, uh, insert income eligibility.
Thank you Thanks for inspiring that, Uh, it
Thanks for inspiring that, Uh, it's Miss Whitney.
Um as usual, the eagle eyed Miss Whitney.
Really.
I have an eye.
Thank you miss.
So?
That
Really. I have an eye. Thank you miss. So? That's that
Really. I have an eye. Thank you miss. So? That's that's my motion.
Thank you.
That was misattributed to me.
Make further commitments.
Sorry F further, please go ahead.
Your Microphone is not on I, just a tiny one in the march 12th meeting.
It says that I, uh, invited folks to the celebration for the end of Ramadan.
Uh, it
celebration for the end of Ramadan. Uh, it's Ramadan and a little bit later.
Uh, so it was just For the end of a fast, but it
just For the end of a fast, but it's not the end of Ramadan.
Oh, thank you.
All right any any further comments on the No, so I would I would move that my remarks.
Reflect what I just stated and that, uh, take one motion to go to the changes.
Do.
You want me to make a motion?
Ok?
Um so motion that the my remark on Page 47 of March of the march 5th minutes reflect, um, that the remark was about the income eligibility and instead of the Pell grant eligibility criteria and, uh, that the That.
The minutes further reflected on March 12th.
Mr.
Hernandez was speaking about the the um ending of that day
about the the um ending of that day's fast and not the end of Ramadan.
Is that right, Mr Right?
Thank you.
They have a second.
OK any further comment.
Mr.
Um I am required to go to the audience if anyone else to speak on the item, I don
the audience if anyone else to speak on the item, I don't think anyone needs to.
Um I don
think anyone needs to. Um I don't say any virtual hands.
Um, coming back any further comments from the council, saying none all in favor.
Say, I, any opposed any abstention?
So, the 24 G 52 is adopted.
All right.
Now.
We go to the wax sessions.
And.
We have four work session item.
The.
First.
One is the discussion with the PC PS.
Representatives about the school transportation issues, Water quality issues.
Bus locations is called Safety Guards and Dora Kennedy.
French Martian Eco.
I have some guest guess if you could please come forward and take seats at the front desk and the chair.
Um, there are mics.
Can.
Can more chairs be Yeah, added.
Thank you so much for coming and joining us.
I know you so much for coming and joining us. I know you're all busy.
Yeah.
I will, uh, I probably start with, uh, if you could please start introducing yourself.
Mhm.
Um, is that is AM on.
Uh, there we go, OK?
All, Right.
Good evening.
Uh, thank you so much for this opportunity to join you this evening, Uh, Mayor Kabir and members of the council.
Uh, my name is Sharaa Coleman.
I have the privilege of serving as chief operating officer for the Prince George
chief operating officer for the Prince George's County public school system.
And.
We have several members of our team here with us as well and we
several members of our team here with us as well and we'll allow them to introduce themselves.
Good evening.
Uh, my name is Sean.
Matlock.
I
themselves. Good evening. Uh, my name is Sean. Matlock. I'm the director of the Office of alternative infrastructure planning and development.
Thank you.
And if we could Good Evening I
you. And if we could Good Evening I'm Sam ST Nelli, director of building Services for county schools.
If he if he could repeat your name one more time, and I
could repeat your name one more time, and I've got a request.
I
time, and I've got a request. I'm Sam Stefanelli, director of building services for Prince George County schools.
Thank you so much So, two more guests and good evening.
My na me is kba Baldwin.
I
and good evening. My na me is kba Baldwin. I'm, the director of transportation.
Thank you so much.
And finally.
Good evening.
I
much. And finally. Good evening. I'm Alex Beller environmental program specialist for Prince George
program specialist for Prince George's County public schools.
Thank you?
Um Does, The staff have any, um Introduction from the city side.
Thank you mayor just very quickly.
Um, as you all know, uh, we solicited questions in advance for you to, um provide to, uh, printer, Prince George
um provide to, uh, printer, Prince George's County public school staff, and they
Prince George's County public school staff, and they've received those questions.
Uh, they
received those questions. Uh, they're in your packet.
I also have them up here on the screen.
Um, some of the staff this evening here will be able to respond to the questions and for some of the questions they
for some of the questions they'll need to, uh Contact our colleagues out of the departments to provide a more complete response.
I think, um, Doctor Coleman is going to kind of kick it off.
And Go from there.
Thank you, Mr Coleman.
So.
Thank you so much, Uh, again.
We received the questions in advance.
So, we thank you for that, Um, opportunity to, um, research and and understand the questions that were being asked.
We stand ready to respond to those questions.
Um And.
We stand ready to respond to those questions. Um And. We're ready to begin.
Alright.
Um Dr.
Ester, Do I start?
No.
Certainly thank you for being here this evening.
Um, uh, we in district two have the, um Privilege of having the first question regarding paint Branch Elementary school.
So, Um, paint branch is located in the historic Lakeland community, and we have had the pleasure of working with members of that community along with, um Mr hinder shot who is the principal as well as members of the community Center to help
address traffic issues that were there and I have to say they did an outstanding job with that, Um, so they were able to work together.
To make that happen.
However the issue that is on the agenda this evening has to do with dumpsters.
So.
There are residents who live on Pierce Avenue right across from these dumpsters, and, um there had been a request to, um, remove the dumpsters put them in the back of the building and what we were told is that that could not happen.
Um, so because that cannot happen.
Um, we asked for the area to be fenced off because if you have ever seen them the Dumpsters do Sit within the fenced area.
Um, they
within the fenced area. Um, they're actually sort of strewn in there.
And if there
they're actually sort of strewn in there. And if there's any debris or garbage that is left, it just sits and it isn
debris or garbage that is left, it just sits and it isn't the most.
It is the most unsightly thing.
If.
You
most. It is the most unsightly thing. If. You're living across the street from Dumpsters in that way.
Um, And.
In fact we
that way. Um, And. In fact we've made that argument that no one wants to live across from that so As of last summer.
Uh, we had been talking with Mr Hendershot and, um, he indicated to us that he submitted a request for fencing.
Uh, to be, uh, put up, but in in subsequent requests, um, he has not been able to share with us when that will happen, And, I think the concern for us and the members of the community is that it would be helpful to have a timeline.
Understand what?
This when this will happen, Uh, because just to say, you know, I don
happen, Uh, because just to say, you know, I don't know.
Just feels as though um there isn
you know, I don't know. Just feels as though um there isn't much consideration given.
I
feels as though um there isn't much consideration given. I'm not saying that that is, you know what he is thinking, but that
know what he is thinking, but that's what it feels like to the residents who live there and who must see this.
The other, um, part of the question also dealt with, uh, trash and debris that had been left over the winter break.
So, um after the ho well before the holidays, Uh, there was trash that was left that residents had to deal with as they had friends and family coming over and again, it was unsightly.
And a problem for the community.
Thank you.
All right.
Thank you so much for that context around the question.
It
for that context around the question. It's always helpful to hear it verbally, uh, because it gives a different sense of urgency around what
because it gives a different sense of urgency around what's going on.
I
sense of urgency around what's going on. I'm gonna turn it over to director Stefanelli.
I know he
over to director Stefanelli. I know he's been working on this issue.
Yes and I apologize for how long it
issue. Yes and I apologize for how long it's taken.
Um, the issue is, uh, with paper was designed.
We had one dumpster.
We only had a little bit of trash.
Now we have that dumpster.
We have recycling dumpster and we
dumpster. We have recycling dumpster and we're making plans for a, um For all her dumpsters and we
for a, um For all her dumpsters and we're working on contracting out trash, so it
and we're working on contracting out trash, so it's a little bit more complicated than just putting up a fence.
Um, originally, we thought that what we were being asked was to close in the Dumpsters and lock them, but we don
close in the Dumpsters and lock them, but we don't do that.
Because of that reason over Christmas break is a lot of people use our dumpsters over Christmas break to put their Christmas trash and it over Thanksgiving and we found it.
If we lock them, Then they just serve it on the ground next to the dumpster.
So.
We decided we weren
the dumpster. So. We decided we weren't gonna We weren
the dumpster. So. We decided we weren't gonna We weren't gonna, uh, lock in the gate.
Uh Then.
We talked about this fence, but I think where they
We talked about this fence, but I think where they're sitting.
We can
I think where they're sitting. We can't accommodate everything within a fenced area, So.
We can't accommodate everything within a fenced area, So. We're probably gonna have to adjust where they
probably gonna have to adjust where they're sitting.
We were supposed to meet.
At the school last week and with with some members of the community to discuss what their issues were, and to get a resolution before we put any funds towards it, and that meeting was canceled as soon as we had that meeting, and we come up with
a plan, we
and we come up with a plan, we'll expedite that plan and get that taken care of for the residents.
I understand what they
residents. I understand what they're going through.
We
residents. I understand what they're going through. We're we
they're going through. We're we're working towards a solution.
Uh, may I ask that myself and council member Whitney also be invited to attend if we can Are.
You sure, meaning that you have with the community.
Yeah.
It
meaning that you have with the community. Yeah. It's step can give the contact Thank you take the second one.
School bus stops and working hours.
I think this one
stops and working hours. I think this one's me.
Okay.
Miss Maggie, please, Um So.
I was just wondering if you could explain to us what the, um safety standards are for the bus stops like choosing the places are of the bus stops like what are the criteria that are being used?
And what?
What measures are put in place to ensure that Children as Children are walking to bus stops that they have safe paths and as Children are waiting At the bus stop that It
and as Children are waiting At the bus stop that It's had a safe location.
Um You can read I.
I don
safe location. Um You can read I. I don't need to to to reiterate it.
But.
Um, just so like you said that it helps you to know.
So.
The.
Big.
Concern is that um not only, uh, do we want to make sure that our Children are safe walking to schools but also to their bus stops and making sure that their bus stops are safe and we wanna work collaboratively with you as a city to make sure
that we
you as a city to make sure that we're doing what we can do to, um ensure that our students are safe as they wait for the bus and Walk to school.
Very good.
Thank you so much for that.
Um, I think the word that really jumps out is collaboration.
Uh, because that
jumps out is collaboration. Uh, because that's what it takes, Uh, when we
because that's what it takes, Uh, when we're talking about safe passage for our students to and from school, Uh, we work very hard as a school district between our Department of transportation, our Department of safety and security services
and the police department, Uh, Prince George
and the police department, Uh, Prince George's County Police department to reinforce and provide safe passage for students for to and from school.
Uh, we have a board of education.
Sub-committee, uh, called our Oba committee.
Business fiscal affairs.
Uh, that is a sub-committee that meets monthly, uh, and the actually next meeting is tomorrow night, uh, from 5 to 7 P.m..
We have members of the Police department actually attending tomorrow
Police department actually attending tomorrow's meeting and presenting on safe passage.
Uh, because that is an area that they manage with input from us.
And.
So.
I say that to say, um it
from us. And. So. I say that to say, um it's bigger than the school district when we think about safe passage of Children walking to and from school.
Uh, it
walking to and from school. Uh, it's important that we collaborate and partner with our, uh um uh, police department, uh, to ensure that we
department, uh, to ensure that we're providing those provisions and specifically when I
provisions and specifically when I'm thinking about, um, placement of crossing guards as an example is something that is under the purview of the police department and not the school district.
Uh, we certainly give input, uh into, um, where we believe they should be placed.
Uh, but it
believe they should be placed. Uh, but it's a finite resource and we don
Uh, but it's a finite resource and we don't Uh, ultimately make make the call of where they are.
Uh uh.
Placed, Uh, I
they are. Uh uh. Placed, Uh, I'm gonna turn it over to director Baldwin because he
I'm gonna turn it over to director Baldwin because he's going to talk a little bit more about, uh, bus stops and and some of the processes that are in place around selection of bus stops and and how we move through that work.
Thank you, um always a great question because I get that a lot when it comes to the safety.
Uh, clearly, the safety standards for our routes, uh, to our bus stops include factors such as the clear visibility, um, minimizing traffic congestion.
Um, but our bus stops are typically located in the safe, accessible area.
Now.
There are times where We have to go back out and reassess, uh, for unexpected outcomes or intended where there
unexpected outcomes or intended where there's a new subdivision, or there
where there's a new subdivision, or there's construction that may pop up that may deviate the bus route or bus locations.
Um, and we do our best to stay on top of it.
But, Um, as Dr Coleman mentioned, the collaboration is there we have, uh, information line that our citizens can use to share information that we may not always get.
Um And once that information is received through my team we can investigate.
And, then move to, um, a better resolution.
Um then from base what has been presented, so we really try to work, um as a constant review about our bus stops, um, because there
constant review about our bus stops, um, because there's always some unintended consequences that are occurring across the county, um, from from the north to the south that we are currently are constantly reviewing in that respect.
Thank you.
Mayor Mitchell has a follow up question.
Then.
I can go back to you.
No.
Thank you, Mr Mayor and thank you to my colleague, Ms Mackie for, um, submitting on the question.
So, Doctor Baldwin.
Um, we recently had someone from transportation come out to our community specifically, um in college Park Woods is one way in and one way out.
Um and and and, I Think also to extend my colleague
Think also to extend my colleague's question.
The concern is that I understand that you try to put placement where it
that you try to put placement where it's safe for the Children and for us to pick them up and let them um um be departed on but Stops that you
departed on but Stops that you're selecting Do not Coincide with the traffic patterns newer, it presents more of a hindrance to the owners and their property.
Um Because.
The streets are narrow and some of the bus drivers are making three point turns.
And so It
making three point turns. And so It's a concern, so I know before we started I, I would appreciate it would be nice to see if you could come out before school starts to look at all the at the perspective stops and look at if it
all the at the perspective stops and look at if it's possible to do one specific location, depending on the community.
But specifically for us in our community.
It
community. But specifically for us in our community. It's been a very big problem.
Um, that
us in our community. It's been a very big problem. Um, that's been ongoing.
Um, residence cars have been Uh, Damaged damaged for a lack of a better word.
Um And.
So.
It just it is a real big concern because the streets are very narrow, and it
streets are very narrow, and it's a very quaint community One way in one way out, So if we could These address that So that
we could These address that So that's all I have to say.
Not a problem at all.
Um, I would just ask for some street identifications so I can share those with my team, and, um, we will be more than happy to come out and and look at this before the end of the school year.
Um, I would be remiss if I would not say that, uh, we
I would be remiss if I would not say that, uh, we've gone through a transportation audit.
With, Um, Superintendent house coming on board That was one of the first priorities that he, um made mention is for transportation audit.
Uh, we
um made mention is for transportation audit. Uh, we've gone through that audit.
We received our results, Uh, in the end of January, we presented some initial findings last month.
Um, and Thursday.
We will be presenting a action plan on how we are going to address that, Um the reason why we say that is because it involves change and a lot of that change is Bus stop consolidations and where we are looking to, um, optimize our routes.
In that manner we want to be more efficient.
We want to be more safe in terms of locating our buses into neighborhoods that are tight fit, Um, at the same time, providing a a safe stop.
Uh, for our students and and again with safe passage.
So within that audit, we will be We investigating or re reviewing all of our bus stops, um, with some defined criteria so that we will be able to be a little transparent about how and why we are creating stops where we are creating them.
So that is something that is, um, on the list to do and we
something that is, um, on the list to do and we're hoping that we will be able to provide much more insight as to how we again assign our bus stops.
And no pro and I
again assign our bus stops. And no pro and I'm sorry, Mr Mayor.
Um Is it possible you can share that once you actually gave the briefing about your plan to share it with us as well, because I know many of our, um residents slash parents would look forward to looking at that.
Overall.
Thank you may I appreciate it.
Absolutely we look forward to doing that, for our first obligation is gonna be to presenting to our board and and following that, we certainly uh uh, look forward to sharing the message far and wide and staff.
I
to sharing the message far and wide and staff. I'm sure you
to sharing the message far and wide and staff. I'm sure you'll be giving the street locations and colours Parks neighborhood.
Yeah.
Thank you.
It
and colours Parks neighborhood. Yeah. Thank you. It's.
It
and colours Parks neighborhood. Yeah. Thank you. It's. It's probably in other neighborhoods as well.
Could you share that phone number that citizens can use to report issues.
It
phone number that citizens can use to report issues. It's actually a Web address.
Um, makes it very simple if you want to do TRS dot P GCP s.org.
It takes you to an online inquiry system.
Where.
You can log your, um your concern.
Um, it will give you a ticket number for reference and we will be following up with you sometimes more likely by email.
But At times.
It does result or, um, excuse me result in a phone call as well.
Thank you follow up question.
Follow up.
Question.
Um, can you share?
Um how long it will take for someone to hear back once.
They, uh, reach out to this system.
Typically within the 48 hours.
We like to give a response to say that we have received your concern and if it goes past those 48 hours, we like to reach out to let you know that we received it and we
reach out to let you know that we received it and we're still investigating.
So.
Um, we should get that either by an email or a phone call.
Mhm.
Thank you.
Miss Manky.
So I.
I.
Thank you that that we will get your report after you
that we will get your report after you've you
that we will get your report after you've you've given it to your board.
I think that you
after you've you've given it to your board. I think that you've you
your board. I think that you've you've answered a lot of our questions.
Um And that, um, we can get to you like some of the concerns.
I just encourage my colleagues to also be looking around in and get that information to city staff about about that.
And.
Um, I just wanted to make sure that, um, the issue of flashing lights and crossing guards are police issues and not OK, just wanted to make sure I was clear on that.
Thank you so much.
Thank you question is mine, too.
So do you want me to go ahead?
Please Go ahead.
So Happily.
I was I have heard that Cherokee Lane now does have a school but we had a a concerned citizen in our district whose father was a POWN and, um World War two and he was a receiver of Purples.
From her heart.
I think something else So.
He was even He even got a Citation from President Obama so and she was very concerned that when she drove up to the school, there was no flag.
Um, hanging, you know?
Unopposed and then in the classrooms.
There were no plugs, so she did an investigation and found that there are many schools in PG County that don
found that there are many schools in PG County that don't have a flags.
Um, so I was wondering how you would be able to address that.
I wanna thank you for whoever, Um, uh, took care of getting the flag at Cherokee Lane, but, uh, she I spoke to her today and, she says, As of today there were.
There are no flags in the classrooms.
So if that could be addressed.
And.
I and I know that Turkey Lane is a new, beautiful school and I.
I know that sometimes when we have new things, you know things get overlooked, but I was wondering what the process was going to be so I can assure her that there will be flags in the classrooms and at schools.
Thank you.
Sure thank you so much, so typically, uh, the purchase of flags is not something that
purchase of flags is not something that's covered under our capital budget.
Uh which is what we utilize the funding source that was utilized to build the new Cherokee Lane.
Uh, we have a, uh, an a process called student based budgeting, uh, where each school receives an allocation of funding to provide the instructional resources.
Staffing, uh, that
provide the instructional resources. Staffing, uh, that's needed to adequately implement the instructional program.
Uh, so that I would consider that a material.
Supply that typically the principal of that particular institution would then purchase.
Uh, whatever they would need.
Uh, so what we can do, is it It isn
they would need. Uh, so what we can do, is it It isn't my division, but I can certainly take the message back the broader message back OK, um, Director Stephano.
You Wanna provide an update?
Yes.
So.
My staff met with the principal.
We provided the flag for out front the flags for the classroom and and what happened was we moved Cherokee Lane into the new building and put a dolphin in their old building, so the flags stayed at the old building so and the principal didn
building so and the principal didn't realize he had to order a new flag.
So it was oversight and I
a new flag. So it was oversight and I'm glad that the pair of Bo to our potential because flags are one of my pet peeves.
So.
Um the flags have been ordered for the classroom and the flags out front are now flying.
And, we we We apologize, but we Appreciate you bringing it to our attention.
Thank you?
I was like a misunderstanding.
Uh, can you scroll down a little bit?
Lead pipes and safe water in school.
Who
little bit? Lead pipes and safe water in school. Who's going to take it.
Mr Hu, please.
Um, thank you.
So.
Why hasn
take it. Mr Hu, please. Um, thank you. So. Why hasn't the lead pipes issue at the, uh, print ridges?
Schools been addressed, especially Hollywood elementary school.
Given that these older schools are there.
Concerns for, uh, lead in or other calamine.
Um, what are the plans for active maintenance to avoid having the entirety?
Uh, shut down our water system shut down in the future, such as what has happened at Hollywood Elementary School.
Thank you It
Elementary School. Thank you It's going to take it?
Thank you for that?
So?
That
It's going to take it? Thank you for that? So? That's just That
you for that? So? That's just That's a complex question.
We certainly do appreciate it.
I think we are gonna need to have kind of multiple responses.
Uh, one that
kind of multiple responses. Uh, one that's gonna talk about the state of our infrastructure.
Another that talks about, um, kind of how we mitigate and provide quality drinking water for our staff and students.
Uh, when we don
for our staff and students. Uh, when we don't, uh, when we don
when we don't, uh, when we don't have confidence that the piping can provide it, Uh so why don
piping can provide it, Uh so why don't we start with, um, Director Matlock, uh, to talk about, um Our infrastructure management piece.
So what we try to do so most of our buildings are over 50 years old.
Now.
Most of them, uh, have lead pipe in the buildings.
Um, what we
lead pipe in the buildings. Um, what we're trying to do is we
what we're trying to do is we're the first thing we
what we're trying to do is we're the first thing we're doing is we
we're the first thing we're doing is we're in our new schools.
Of course they
doing is we're in our new schools. Of course they're gonna be piping.
Uh, if we
schools. Of course they're gonna be piping. Uh, if we're having a major replacement school, and then they get new piping and if we do stage renovations, uh then they get new piping.
But the reason why we don
new piping. But the reason why we don't do it.
All.
The schools is that once you start that work It triggers a number of things in the building code requirements, and then we have to make a major upgrades to the building that have nothing to do with piping or water or anything else, and it
do with piping or water or anything else, and it's just it
anything else, and it's just it's too expensive to do it and in in one throw and then in a lot of cases, the work is so extensive.
You
lot of cases, the work is so extensive. You'd have to swing that is move the school to another location in order to do all that work in a in a reasonable amount of time, and and that
reasonable amount of time, and and that's difficult to do as well since we don
and that's difficult to do as well since we don't really have very much swing space left.
So and and what?
We
very much swing space left. So and and what? We're What we
very much swing space left. So and and what? We're What we're doing is again It
and and what? We're What we're doing is again It's replacement schools are getting them.
New schools are getting them and they
schools are getting them and they're major renovations when we go in and do a major renovation, then we upgrade the piping.
Otherwise.
Um, we just do the environmental mitigations which, uh, Mr Baylor can talk about.
So Is there no possibilities of installing filtration.
Uh, yes, there There is possibility of, uh, doing filtration.
But, we We really don
uh, doing filtration. But, we We really don't wanna go that route because it is a super expensive endeavor.
Um, if anyone here has a filter within their, uh, refrigerator, you know how much that cost And if you think about how many fountains we have throughout the system, it would be in it would be a financial burden to attempt to.
Um Other schools have systems have attempted and the financial burden is Great.
So.
We
the financial burden is Great. So. We're trying, you know not to go to that extent of filtering everything.
Um I Wanna start with, um All of our schools.
Water systems were shut down because of Covid.
They weren
shut down because of Covid. They weren't shut down because of lead or anything else.
They were shut down because of Covid.
And as we came back, we started to turn things on and because of the Komar regulation, we were in our three year cycle to begin to test again.
And.
So once we started doing that we found some issues and some problems and we turned anything that was above the state of Maryland action level.
We turned it off.
Until.
We could repair the bubbler or replace the bubbler, and then we
repair the bubbler or replace the bubbler, and then we're going to resample so and everyone has bottled water until that happens until we
everyone has bottled water until that happens until we're ensured that we have enough.
Potable drinking water fountains within our schools for our for our Children, so no school will go without at least bottled water.
Now.
We have put at least one filtered battlefield, one water station and every single one of our schools, so we we usually put it either at the front door area or multi-purpose room or high traffic areas.
If we have, like a high school of auditorium or gym is usually where we stick those battlefield.
Uh, filtered water stations.
We have a phase three where we
stations. We have a phase three where we're going to do some additional, but we do not want to go the route of filtering, uh, entire buildings it it
to go the route of filtering, uh, entire buildings it it's just super duper, uh, endeavor.
Filtering.
The whole building may not be necessary.
It
Filtering. The whole building may not be necessary. It's water fountains and the cafeteria kitchen.
Yeah, We
water fountains and the cafeteria kitchen. Yeah, We're not talking the whole building because you know, toilets and sinks.
Don
because you know, toilets and sinks. Don't need No.
We would we wouldn
sinks. Don't need No. We would we wouldn't only drinkable fountains would is what would even be thought of, uh to filter we went out with filter sinks or toilets or anything like that.
It
sinks or toilets or anything like that. It's just a It
sinks or toilets or anything like that. It's just a It's.
It
like that. It's just a It's. It's a lot when you start talking about the school system our size.
There are a lot of plastic water bottles being used.
Yes it is and it
plastic water bottles being used. Yes it is and it's creating litters and in environmental disaster.
So I.
I don
environmental disaster. So I. I don't understand why other counties can address this.
And not our county.
No.
We are addressing it.
We We
not our county. No. We are addressing it. We We're definitely addressing it and we
definitely addressing it and we're moving actually away from the bottles to the five gallon, uh, drinking water stations within the schools away from the singular bottles until we get everything.
Do you know when Hollywood will be getting those five gallon water system.
Um not right here in front of me, but we can say what
Um not right here in front of me, but we can say what's in the next week or two?
OK this I, I think I believe this, uh, this system is Going on for I even before Covid.
I mean for a while, and From a maintenance standpoint.
Um, you know, this is something that you and I didn
is something that you and I didn't cause this was done.
30 years 40 years ago, Um The issue and we have now is we went in and we put one drinking fountain in every school And when we did that, we opened up the walls, but the pipes are so old, that it
the walls, but the pipes are so old, that it's tough to find a good piece of pipe to reconnect to.
Once.
We start doing that plumbing and you end up having to go to 300 ft to before you can find a find a piece of pipe that you can reconnect the new so it becomes very expensive.
Sometimes.
It
so it becomes very expensive. Sometimes. It's $1500 to put that sink in.
Sometimes.
It
Sometimes. It's $1500 to put that sink in. Sometimes. It's $8000 it really On the the structure of the the Agent facility.
There
structure of the the Agent facility. There's a lot of, um things that go into this, but we are spending.
I believe our budget is $200,000 a year and we
budget is $200,000 a year and we're chipping away of it.
But.
In the meantime, what Mr Baylor is responsible for is making sure the kids are safe.
And.
I understand about the drinking the the bottled water and and the plastic bottles.
I would like to get rid of them, but our responsibility to make sure the kids are safe first.
And once we do that, then we, uh then we will do what we can to reduce the, uh, the use of those bottles, But, we have a recycling program a very vigorous recycling program to recycle those bottles.
Every, one of our schools has a has a single stream recycling and we are and and we
single stream recycling and we are and and we're moving to composting.
We?
We
are and and we're moving to composting. We? We're doing a lot for the environment.
But.
In the meantime, we cannot stop using the bottled water.
The, I we have to make sure the kids are safe first, and I apologize for the amount of water we use.
But.
That
for the amount of water we use. But. That's just the the nature of of where we are.
We have to make sure the kids are safe until we can get through.
And.
Like.
I said I with a budget of $200,000 a year is gonna take a long time to fix this problem.
It really is.
Any follow up questions on what?
Let OK?
All, right.
Who
questions on what? Let OK? All, right. Who's going to take these fifth question.
Parent teacher.
OK, my name.
Um Yeah.
So.
I
teacher. OK, my name. Um Yeah. So. I'm wondering what does the school system do to facilitate the formation of, uh PTAS and PT OS at various schools that don
PT OS at various schools that don't have them?
Um, for instance.
Um how and we also would like to know how the city could best support.
Um, the efforts at Parkdale High School, Um there
efforts at Parkdale High School, Um there's a group that
efforts at Parkdale High School, Um there's a group that's trying to form a PT, A at Parkdale High school, Um, to advocate for the the students and teachers there, um residents informed of Committee to bring that to pass.
Um and supporting PT OS is a key goal of the Mar and council so that that
of the Mar and council so that that's my first question.
I
of the Mar and council so that that's my first question. I'll have a follow up after you answer that.
Oh.
Yes.
Please, Please Go ahead.
Yeah.
I believe it was either tonight or last night was the the foundational meeting for Northwestern high schools, PTO, Um and they They, uh, really struggled for a number of years to to foster the type of parent parent and teacher engagement to
even even run a APTO.
So you know, as Miss Whitney pointed out with this this council has been very interested in trying to to foster the development and, uh, and foundation of those Okay?
So we
and, uh, and foundation of those Okay? So we're gonna have to take this question back.
Um, right now.
You have before you the division of operations.
Uh, we don
the division of operations. Uh, we don't manage, uh, the parent teacher, student organizations or that side of the house, Uh, that would be under doctor Sheila Jackson and, um, the community engagement director, Uh, in that department.
Uh so we
Uh, in that department. Uh so we'll take those questions back and and certainly they
we'll take those questions back and and certainly they'll provide a response to, uh, your question as well as the follow up.
Thank you.
Yeah just, um just to put a fighter point on it.
We.
We have heard reports that park Dale
it. We. We have heard reports that park Dale's principal is not receptive to the creation of a PT, a So.
Um, another question we would have is, um Uh, maybe if P GCP S might encourage principals to permit a PT a and further to further foster parent teacher engagement in the school.
I do have to say, um I wanna say about five years ago?
I was actually her supervisor.
Uh, Doctor.
Graves Henderson.
Um, that
Doctor. Graves Henderson. Um, that's not the person that I know.
Um, she fosters engagement with families with parents with students, Uh and is a veteran principal who is is, uh, have very highly regarded.
Um so I would I don
is, uh, have very highly regarded. Um so I would I don't feel uncomfortable saying that she invites parent community, uh into her building.
Um, to collaborate around how best to meet the needs of students.
Um, we just have to make sure that that connection is made, but that connection is made, but that's that connection is made, but that's that's, uh, that connection is made, but that's that's, uh, that's not accurate.
OK, thank you.
Right and follow up questions on PTOPTIS.
None.
Can, I Just add.
Oh.
Yeah, Uh, I recognizing that all all parents are are are busy.
Uh In.
In addition, if we could just have, uh, tag along the, uh, the efforts the targeted efforts being taken to help those Spanish speaking families, uh, who already have challenges?
Uh, threatening themselves into the community, Uh, wondering what sort of efforts are being taken to engage them in PT, OS, and just so everyone knows we
engage them in PT, OS, and just so everyone knows we're we
engage them in PT, OS, and just so everyone knows we're we're big fans of PT OS, PTAS.
We, uh, awarded grants recently to several PTOPTAS, uh from the city directly.
So, uh, just trying to be helpful.
I would ask if if we could receive those follow up questions in writing, Uh and we
those follow up questions in writing, Uh and we'll be certain to provide responses back staff will be Definitely helpful.
All right?
Who is going to take number six.
Undocumented.
Certainly.
Is there a point person or department at P GCP S to help onboard Children who are new arrivals to the country without documentation?
Um, it it happens throughout the year, and we
happens throughout the year, and we've had some parents who
and we've had some parents who've been Very active spending a lot of time and resources, um, trying to get, uh, Children, you know, vaccinated, um and getting them registered.
There
vaccinated, um and getting them registered. There's been a lot of challenges with proving residency so that they can get, um, enrolled in their local school.
So.
Um, what are the best steps to streamline that?
Thank you for that question?
Um, again.
That is not an operations.
Uh, level question.
However.
I do have, uh, written responses that were provided to me, uh, from the office that manages that, And I
me, uh, from the office that manages that, And I'd like to just read it aloud.
Uh, if that
just read it aloud. Uh, if that's OK.
Thank you, Uh yes, the office in the county that does that is the international student admissions and enrollment office, or ISA EO, Patricia.
She and Coe CHIANCONE is the ISA EO specialist, So I believe that
is the ISA EO specialist, So I believe that's the representative that you are, uh, seeking.
ISA EO has assisted the families of almost 6000 students coming from outside the country to register in the Prince George
the country to register in the Prince George's county public school system this year and has a process in place to enroll families with many kinds of documentation.
The ISA EO office has bilingual staff and works with families with in person appointments or through the online registration system, depending upon their needs.
OK?
Thank you and is there any discussion of I know at the beginning of the school year?
There are, um, vaccination clinics?
Um, is there any possibility of having, um, vaccination clinics like that happen more frequently, maybe once a month and move kind of around the, um county So the answer to that is yes.
Um, I know that the note I have here is for the 2023 24 School year.
That is this year?
Uh, the Office of school health has held clinics in.
Uh uh, one week in August 2 weeks in September and three days a week in October, November and December So it is done on a rolling basis.
Excellent.
Thank you very much, and where would people find that information was the best like one They reach out to the office of school Health, the director is Dr Tracy Jones.
Thank you.
You
Dr Tracy Jones. Thank you. You're welcome.
Any follow up questions number six.
Probably not, uh, can I scroll down number seven Internet safety and computer years.
That probably came from a Pattern and she thought that question to me.
So what you
and she thought that question to me. So what you're saying, uh, her voice come from school and What.
She
uh, her voice come from school and What. She's learning.
The students are not taught about Internet safety that they can browse anything they want.
And with all the Different concerns about the, uh, Internet Internet safety, especially for the miners.
She is very concerned.
Um, I don
the miners. She is very concerned. Um, I don't know if you have anyone on the panel.
To talk about it, so no, we do not, uh, that
To talk about it, so no, we do not, uh, that's the division of information technology.
They don
information technology. They don't happen to be here this evening.
Uh, but certainly we can take that question back as well and prepare a written response.
Absolutely.
Thank you.
Um, can you please scroll down?
Number eight maintenance and quality of school.
I think the remaining ones are, uh Thanks, gentlemen for coming up here, uh, and and meeting with us.
It
uh, and and meeting with us. It's We want We?
Wanna try to build be good partners, But.
I
build be good partners, But. I'm Just gonna go down a list of questions that, uh, have just come for the mind.
Uh, I
just come for the mind. Uh, I'll start off with the first one.
What
I'll start off with the first one. What's the process for schools, parents or the city to request and submit, uh, maintenance facility Request or updates.
Uh, I know you touched on it for a moment there, sir.
Uh, when?
When answering the Parkland questions by many of the schools are experiencing, uh, a Uh, lack of signage on the properties.
There
uh, a Uh, lack of signage on the properties. There's standing water, pilings of trash and surrounding areas and Often that falls on the PT A or PTO or some of the school grounds were always trying.
We
grounds were always trying. We're always willing to help whether through community service projects or whatever, but, uh, we wanna we wanna be able to to work with you.
So.
How?
How.
Can we do that?
Our Communications about management schools comes through the principles.
Uh, we have three area supervisors, one of the north one in the south.
One Southern in in one of the Middle County.
Um, I would suggest the Paris talk directly to the principals.
The principal can put them in touch with the coordinator for that area, and they will.
They will take care of these issues for him because when you
take care of these issues for him because when you're talking about like signage, some of the signage is done by the county.
Some is done by us, so it it
signage is done by the county. Some is done by us, so it it's a It
Some is done by us, so it it's a It's a Effort between all of us to solve a lot of these problems.
And that just kind of brings up a follow up question.
I think the principles are quite tax like quite taxed with a lot of different responsibilities is do they have the ability to delegate that responsibility?
Well When I say, talk to the principal.
Typically, it
I say, talk to the principal. Typically, it's gonna be somebody in the in the main office, somebody in the administrative office.
They all have the, uh, the our contact information and their coordinators in their facility on a regular basis, so they will funnel that information to us, so make sure it gets to the right person.
Um, that that
us, so make sure it gets to the right person. Um, that that's the best way to handle it.
That.
Sometimes.
They
the best way to handle it. That. Sometimes. They'll Just email me directly.
Um, but we have to make sure it gets to the right person in the right area or else we
person in the right area or else we'll have what we had to pay Branch where it takes us three months to talk about offense, so I wanna get it, uh, focused to the right person?
Yeah.
Council members and and just as a follow up to that, you know, I had the privilege of being a principal in our district for 14 years and three of our schools and I would want to be a part of those discussions.
Uh, as busy as it is, I, do definitely agree with you.
It
is, I, do definitely agree with you. It's a.
It
is, I, do definitely agree with you. It's a. It's A.
It
is, I, do definitely agree with you. It's a. It's A. It's a very taxing position.
Uh, but I would wanna know.
Uh what the conversation is with my parent community.
Uh, because what I wouldn
community. Uh, because what I wouldn't want to have happen is their advocating for changes on the facility.
And I
their advocating for changes on the facility. And I'm not aware of it and I
the facility. And I'm not aware of it and I'm not necessarily in agreement, or I would prioritize it differently.
And so it it
prioritize it differently. And so it it's just important that there
so it it's just important that there's that first level of collaboration at the school site.
So, then we can, uh, advocate together to the system for changes in a prioritized order, and just one quick second, uh and just to make sure that I fully understand there is no vice principal or assistant principal, or is there when I say principle?
I
assistant principal, or is there when I say principle? I'm talking about the administration, So yes, there is a principle but typically unless it
is a principle but typically unless it's a small Elementary school, where they might only be a principal and then, uh, teaching staff most of our other schools have at least one assistant principal supporting the principal.
On that topic.
Um Understanding that, um, some of our parents and others may not be, um, readily available to connect with the principal or connect with the administration.
I wonder if there
administration. I wonder if there's some type of system reporting system.
Um, where, uh, they can go online make a call to share something to begin that process.
So I understand the the importance of of talking and building collaboration.
But reporting is probably the biggest Thing for many, and, um, I would suspect that many of them will become frustrated if there
that many of them will become frustrated if there's no way to do that, Besides picking up a phone and calling a principal that they can
phone and calling a principal that they can't reach because they
that they can't reach because they're working.
Sure sure it really does depend on like you said that person
really does depend on like you said that person's um kind of, uh, What they desire is and how they want to connect.
I think that
they want to connect. I think that's also a great commercial for the importance of a PT A.
Uh, because we utilize our I had regular meetings with my PT a on a monthly basis, and we discussed the instructional aspects of the building.
But we also discussed the facilities management components of the building and everything else around it.
Uh And so it might be advocacy through that body.
It might be an email if I can
be advocacy through that body. It might be an email if I can't make a phone call.
It might be a phone call.
It might be a stop past the school.
Uh uh, it I mean there.
There are many ways to kind of have your voice heard?
Um, but I appreciate it when it came through my PT A because that was a structured opportunity that I knew we could meet and best.
Still, there were opportunities for follow up.
If if I if I
there were opportunities for follow up. If if I if I'm in trouble, Just the next question.
Uh, I think the rest of the questions I sent in.
Um but please Anybody, who wants to jump in And can I also just add in regards to, um this great to hear about the idea about the possible formation of a PT A or PTO in some schools, but, uh, as a former educator, sometimes it
as a former educator, sometimes it's just the personality of the principal feeling that they are making sure they are making the, uh the family feel welcome to make the suggestion if that
to make the suggestion if that's not part of their, um, persona, then they will always be a disconnect.
And.
So, I.
Think sometimes, uh, people As, though they had the position But don
though they had the position But don't understand You still about working with family, So I.
Just.
Wanna add that too?
Turn on this.
It
Just. Wanna add that too? Turn on this. It's a taxing role right like it
on this. It's a taxing role right like it's obviously super hard.
I mean so you you you haven
hard. I mean so you you you haven't been a principal in your past lives like, uh, I
haven't been a principal in your past lives like, uh, I'm sure you fully understand.
We
sure you fully understand. We're just trying to find a better way to bridge some of those disconnects that we continue to hear.
And I know we
continue to hear. And I know we're not gonna do that tonight or overnight, So just really appreciate your patience.
Hearing our concerns out.
Uh, I think we talked a lot about the maintenance?
Uh, in previous questions, So I
maintenance? Uh, in previous questions, So I'm just gonna kind of just take a step back.
Uh, and approach this a little more strategically.
Does.
The current budget process allow for for Effective planning for some of those major renovations and I.
I asked that because you said 200,000 is your guys' budget.
Uh, I
said 200,000 is your guys' budget. Uh, I'm Not good with numbers, but I
budget. Uh, I'm Not good with numbers, but I'm pretty sure it
numbers, but I'm pretty sure it's not a lot of money.
Uh, so to to do those Excuse me $200,000 is our budget for the lead remediation for lead remediation lead remediation.
I
remediation lead remediation. I'm concerned about Hollywood Hollywood
I'm concerned about Hollywood Hollywood's in our school.
It
I'm concerned about Hollywood Hollywood's in our school. It's part of a bigger plan.
Uh, how, uh, how you learned elementary.
Obviously, we
uh, how you learned elementary. Obviously, we've We
uh, how you learned elementary. Obviously, we've We've all we
Obviously, we've We've all we've all shared our concerns.
Uh, it
we've all shared our concerns. Uh, it's it
we've all shared our concerns. Uh, it's it's been Uh, I.
Guess.
Just.
Constant review Uh, do you need more money?
Is it a timing situation.
I would love to try to fix this problem, whether if it
to try to fix this problem, whether if it's not me, it
to try to fix this problem, whether if it's not me, it's the next council.
But, like, help us understand what you all need to to make that happen.
Do you need us to advocate to someone.
So.
When.
I took over.
I.
I
someone. So. When. I took over. I. I'm no longer director of capital programs, but I was for about six years.
I just recently transitioned.
And when I took the job.
Um I was told that we did a study.
We did multiple studies.
We did three separate, um, facilities evaluations that were done by outside groups.
Not internally uh, and the the what they concluded, was in order to modernize our portfolio of schools.
We need to spend roughly about $8.5 billion over 20 years.
So.
I said.
Oh, great because I was first.
That was the first thing I saw.
I saw him getting $425 million a year.
Uh, No, You
him getting $425 million a year. Uh, No, You're not so I said.
Well.
How much do I got and they said, Well you you get about somewhere between 100 and 20, 100 and 60, then about 40% of that goes to just stabilization maintenance stabilization that we do projects to just keep things going.
You know it
projects to just keep things going. You know it's 200 schools and and and I can
going. You know it's 200 schools and and and I can't stress that more.
It
schools and and and I can't stress that more. It's 200 schools, so one of the things that we
schools, so one of the things that we're trying to do, as you can see through our modernization plan.
If, you look at our educational facilities Master plan, which is online.
Uh, first thing we
is online. Uh, first thing we're trying to do is in places where it
we're trying to do is in places where it's possible where it makes sense.
We
where it's possible where it makes sense. We're trying to consolidate schools so that we reduce the number of school buildings that we have to do.
Um, that we have to maintain.
So.
The idea is to make the the inventory a little smaller, build some bigger schools but make the inventory itself smaller, so we can advocate do more in in that regard.
The other thing you have to understand is It used to be.
We used to do these little projects and do a little bit here you do a little bit there.
So.
You do a piping system into an old HV AC system, and it ruins the HV AC system.
Or you try to use a new system with the old piping in it crumbles and then you have to go back in and do that, so we stopped doing that.
What we now do is more what I would call, um, holistic projects.
Um which, if we do an HV AC system, we swing the school.
Um, we do the windows.
We do the roof.
We do the piping.
We do the HV AC system put new boiler in with new flooring, new lighting and whatever else we need to do that
whatever else we need to do that's required that
whatever else we need to do that's required that's needed to deal while the walls are open.
Plus we do AD a upgrades and we do a a fire alarm.
You can imagine.
That
and we do a a fire alarm. You can imagine. That's not an inexpensive process.
But.
It
can imagine. That's not an inexpensive process. But. It's the only way to really address a building when you have those kind of problems, so between doing small projects, which Sam
doing small projects, which Sam's team handles and some of my people handle, um, to keep the buildings going, Um, that is replacing, uh, systems in kind where it
is replacing, uh, systems in kind where it's possible.
Um and doing those sorts of things.
Uh, we
and doing those sorts of things. Uh, we're also trying to to, you know, renovate or replace and when we do, renovate or replace it like it requires a, um A swing, uh, moving the students around and we only have about four or five buildings that
we can do that with and that
buildings that we can do that with and that's throughout the entire county.
And, so that
with and that's throughout the entire county. And, so that's not easy to do.
Um, And.
So.
We
not easy to do. Um, And. So. We're we
not easy to do. Um, And. So. We're we're constantly trying to make, uh, moves to make that impossible in cases like do Kennedy, which was in the question That
Kennedy, which was in the question That's not going to be a temporary move when we moved in, that will be a permanent move.
Um we
in, that will be a permanent move. Um we'll then use their space as a swing space temporarily, and then we will Do something else with the building.
But.
It
Do something else with the building. But. It's too expensive to maintain that building in its current condition.
There
building in its current condition. There's just some of the equipment is so old in there that you actually have to send out and have it machined parts machined in order to keep the the in order to replace parked.
You can
the the in order to replace parked. You can't buy them so Those are the types of things we
Those are the types of things we're trying to make sure that we
we're trying to make sure that we're we
we're trying to make sure that we're we're focusing our money on things that can be fixed and when they can
on things that can be fixed and when they can't, then we
on things that can be fixed and when they can't, then we're we
when they can't, then we're we're shifting away from them and trying to consolidate in other locations.
Thank you?
Um Can, You take a follow up question from Mayor Putem.
Thank you, Mr Mayor and this court and this is not a statement to put you under the bus or I Got you whatever you in school bus, not school, but I
in school bus, not school, but I'm not trying, But I hear that 82% of the county
I'm not trying, But I hear that 82% of the county's budget.
I could be wrong.
It
82% of the county's budget. I could be wrong. It's dedicated to The schools.
Board of Education funding.
So going to my colleague
Education funding. So going to my colleague's question, Councilor Hernandez.
It
my colleague's question, Councilor Hernandez. It's frustratin.
As.
We sit here on a dais.
And.
We have parents with their Children in their schools that are old schools with old pipes and 82% of the budget.
And yet we
with old pipes and 82% of the budget. And yet we're still at the same junction where we are right now.
So I
the same junction where we are right now. So I'm.
I
the same junction where we are right now. So I'm. I'm saying this in a way that again talk about collaboration.
People.
Forget about the local like the officials that we can help support the voice of messaging.
So.
How.
Do, We support you to articulate The messaging because That
articulate The messaging because That's.
It
articulate The messaging because That's. It's important It
because That's. It's important It's important to understand that all the budgets are different.
So Capital budget is a slice of the overall budget, right, the B and so our As I said before our budget is roughly about it, Maybe.
We
said before our budget is roughly about it, Maybe. We're like 1% or something like that.
The total budget and we
like 1% or something like that. The total budget and we're funded differently.
We don
The total budget and we're funded differently. We don't come out of the operating budget at all.
So the money of the vast majority of the money you
the vast majority of the money you're talking about is actually in the classrooms.
We
actually in the classrooms. We're talking teachers materials, e.
Chromebooks for 1 to 1 tutoring.
Uh, the international office all the other round surrounding services, Mental health services all those things.
That
services all those things. That's What that funds when they go out and sell bonds.
For capital programs for the county.
That
capital programs for the county. That's where we are, and that requires them to actually go into debt with a bond sale that then has to be used over time.
That
then has to be used over time. That's a different Bucket of money that comes out and they handle that differently.
And so they they can only give us so much out of that bucket for capital expenditures, and it
much out of that bucket for capital expenditures, and it's you know, there
capital expenditures, and it's you know, there's some there how it
you know, there's some there how it's used, and so the county itself has done some things.
So one of the things he did was, well.
The pro program I Run is the the UM, Pub public private partnership programs right, and that
private partnership programs right, and that's helped us accelerate some construction by using a little bit of money from the operating a little bit of hair, the pay and availability payment for construction schoo.
And.
That
construction schoo. And. That's been very helpful that allowed us to build six new schools very quickly.
We
allowed us to build six new schools very quickly. We're working on eight more, which will be done very quickly and then the other thing behind that is, um they they enable to leverage some money from the state that we would not otherwise have
gotten because of it.
So there are a lot of things that are that they
of it. So there are a lot of things that are that they're trying to do.
We
things that are that they're trying to do. We're working with the county government to try and figure out more and more creative ways.
In order to use the money and and to get the money, But the reality is That.
Um, there
the money, But the reality is That. Um, there's only so much, um, water in the in in the bucket and I.
I can prom.
I can tell you that since I
bucket and I. I can prom. I can tell you that since I've taken over the job, um, when I was capital director, we doubled our expenditures, our annual expenditures and like roughly $85 million a year to 100 and 55, you know, million dollars a
year, so we
55, you know, million dollars a year, so we're spending it as fast as we can get it.
But the problem is, there
fast as we can get it. But the problem is, there's only so much that the county can bond and unless they decide unless there
and unless they decide unless there's an Ready for them to do more, and we
there's an Ready for them to do more, and we're I
there's an Ready for them to do more, and we're I'm I
there's an Ready for them to do more, and we're I'm I'm.
I
there's an Ready for them to do more, and we're I'm I'm. I'm Sorry.
That
more, and we're I'm I'm. I'm Sorry. That's an opaque process.
I I
Sorry. That's an opaque process. I I'm not really part of that part of it.
Thank you.
Continue all right.
Uh, just quick question on the, uh, bus routes.
I have a a resident who, uh, is of special needs.
Uh, they have a bus stop in the middle of the street That obviously produces challenges.
Uh, and I.
Just.
Wanna make sure that there is a way for them to maybe through the TRS ticketing program.
Uh, And.
If that
ticketing program. Uh, And. If that's the answer.
Then.
I
ticketing program. Uh, And. If that's the answer. Then. I've learned something today so That is a a quick way.
Um another way, if you wouldn
is a a quick way. Um another way, if you wouldn't mind sharing the school in the bus stop location.
Um This meeting.
That
stop location. Um This meeting. That's one thing that we can address immediately will do.
Thank you.
Um, there is a question to the I think in the that falls of the previous category, Miss Mackay.
It
that falls of the previous category, Miss Mackay. It's good, So.
This is one of my questions, but it got put into with, um my co my colleague, but, um, I was wondering if you could share with us the plans for the door Kennedy School.
Like, just like what
for the door Kennedy School. Like, just like what's going on.
We.
We have, um we sent a letter to you a while back and and we just would like to know what the status is today.
Sure Thank you so much for that question.
Um, So, As.
You know we
question. Um, So, As. You know we've had, um Uh, I.
Wanna say four engagements with the door Kennedy community, uh, within the last, uh month.
Uh, where I had an opportunity to meet with not only the principals, the PTAS the PT, A, Uh, Executive board and then the full, uh, in a full town hall format, the community, uh, the initial plan that was, uh uh, introduced to do.
Kennedy was to move as a permanent swing or a permanent placement to Kenmore Middle School, uh, in the Landover area, uh, that was met with real resistance.
Um, um, uh, to a degree that, um You know it it it Encouraged us to revisit that plan, uh, and to take into account the feedback that we received from the community, So.
We did just that, Uh, at the last town hall meeting.
That was I want to say a week ago or a week and a half?
Uh, we shared an alternative option.
Uh, that is being vetted.
Now, uh, for instead of moving to Kenmore middle school that the permanent placement for the door Kennedy French immersion program would be colation at Robert Goddard.
Sorry school.
Uh, which is where the school was located about.
1514 15 years ago.
Um and so, uh, we did share.
Uh, the specifics around that possibility at that town hall meeting, uh, about a week and a half ago.
Um, we took feedback from the community in that session.
Uh, we actually shifted from presenting to just kind of listening.
Uh, we wanted to hear their feedback, uh, with respect to, uh what Their reactions were to that as a possibility.
Uh, we also Pointed out the, uh, major renovations that were recently completed at the Robert Goddard, uh, facility we talked about, uh, plans that we were, Uh uh, moving forward.
With expanding the capacity of that facility to house students.
Uh and so that
to house students. Uh and so that's where it sits.
Uh, we are still looking at that as a draft possibility.
Uh, we are working through the many different specifics, uh, related to that because it would require us to, uh, swing the Hydesville elementary school community to, uh, another location.
Saint Mark
school community to, uh, another location. Saint Mark's church, which is close to, um Uh, Northwestern High school and in the shadow of University of Maryland.
Uh, we
and in the shadow of University of Maryland. Uh, we've used that site.
I think you all are familiar with it?
That site. I think you all are familiar with it? That's where Cherokee Lane was located for a year.
Uh so we know it is a viable location for a one of our school communities.
Um, so we
our school communities. Um, so we're working through the process, uh, with the archdiocese to to determine if that is something that we can, uh solidify, Uh, once that is taken care of, Um, uh then we
taken care of, Um, uh then we'll feel more confident, uh, that we can take this.
A draft plan to an actual plan.
And, so that
plan to an actual plan. And, so that's pretty much where we are, Uh, we shared this this updated.
Uh uh, swing plan.
Uh, with the, uh do Kennedy community and we actually shared it with the Hydesville elementary school community as well.
Uh, because we want everyone to be aware of.
What of the pivot, uh, that we
What of the pivot, uh, that we're looking to make.
Uh, but we will certainly inform, uh, the community once we have been, we feel confident that all those steps the variables that are are Uh, needed.
Uh uh, before we can solidify it Well.
We will notify the community once that
We will notify the community once that's done.
Thank you for listening to the community.
Thank you appreciated that any follow up questions?
Go ahead.
Turn on this.
I.
I just want to shift over to safety.
Uh, one more time and so some parents have shared with me that there are some pretty, uh, grotesque incidents that, uh, they
are some pretty, uh, grotesque incidents that, uh, they've been made aware of, and this could be the rumors or obviously through factuality.
But if there is any potential, uh Incident that occurs, uh, where the schools are impacted.
What is the notification process to the students.
All, Right?
Zoom me to the parents.
So, depending upon what the situation is, we have a robust notification process to families where we send written notification home.
Uh, regarding the if it
notification home. Uh, regarding the if it's an egregious incident, Um um it would be sent home in a letter.
Um and and maybe even a robocall.
We work with our communications department to ensure that communication is streamlined and clear.
Thank you?
Thank you Who is going to take number 10.
Um Revenge.
A.
Follow up question, Mr me, please go ahead.
Thank you, um back in October, The Diamondback, Our student newspaper ran a piece on bus driver safety in the school system.
Um, and in the piece, they quoted a bus driver who was talking about how when a school goes on lockdown, The buses are sitting outside.
Um, and the school doesn
buses are sitting outside. Um, and the school doesn't take the drivers off the buses and they advocated for an emergency plan for bus drivers.
I was wondering if you could speak on that at all.
Thank you for that.
And situations where they are lockdowns.
Um, notifications were sent, um basically from our security and safety division and then shared with our transportation department and drivers.
It is kind of on an individual basis and care the situation on how our drivers are dealt with for any lockdown situation, and so we have to be cognizant of location.
Um and it severity of what the lockdown may entail and make the best decision from there.
So even though um, there may be a lockdown for a situation in a bus is at the school, then security takes the necessary approaches to, um Validate the situation and make a decision from there.
So.
There is an an emergency plan.
Uh, for our drivers and our staff for any emergency.
But like anything that happens, Um There
like anything that happens, Um There's always something that, um may go Astri, and then we have to make a best judgment from that standpoint.
Thanks And.
One more question if I can, um, the same article said that as of October, the school system was working on phasing in security screen devices at high schools and some middle schools.
Could You tell us about that.
Yes, sir.
Thank you so much for that question.
Uh, we did actually move forward with the security enhancement devices being installed in all of our high schools, Uh, and nine of our middle schools and one of our K eight pre K eight academies.
Uh so, tho the the, um We
academies. Uh so, tho the the, um We're at the point now where we are assessing, uh, the implementation we are assessing, uh, the implementation we're looking at data around impact of the devices being in place, but they
devices being in place, but they're all in, uh, staffs have been trained.
Students have been, um Uh, oriented to to to how the devices work and and we
how the devices work and and we're excited about, uh, them making our buildings and our communities safer.
Sorry.
What are the devices consist of It
communities safer. Sorry. What are the devices consist of It's a metal detection device.
So, uh, similar to if you were to go through.
Uh, if you
uh, similar to if you were to go through. Uh, if you've been to a sports game and you walk through the device to get into the stadium, it
through the device to get into the stadium, it's very similar to that.
I went to the, uh, Washington Nationals game and I.
I was tickled that the very same device that we installed in our schools is what I walked through to get into the to the to the stadium.
Thank you?
I look forward to hearing more about how the results play out.
Absolutely thank you.
Uh, Mr Hall.
Yeah.
Just.
Sorry Excuse me.
Um I just think 11 more question is a along the lines of our safety.
And, Uh, school buses.
Um, we received a number of, um, complaints from the residents, at least in our district, um, that they
residents, at least in our district, um, that they've witnessed school buses running stop signs on quite a regular basis.
I don
stop signs on quite a regular basis. I don't know about the other communities if you
basis. I don't know about the other communities if you're having that issue two days ago, someone texted me.
He was he was yelling at me.
Bus driver cameras on You can audit drivers and for this kind of behavior.
Thank you for sharing that, Um our buses do have cameras.
Um all we would need to know is a time and location and we can do a check to ensure that, um, our buses are actually following the road safety.
Good to know.
Thank you.
All.
Right.
Mr Hernandez continue.
Yep, Uh, buses are late.
Buses are on time because everybody
buses are late. Buses are on time because everybody's going fast.
I think that you know no one wins.
Uh, but, uh, understanding that there is, uh, some shifting a little bit, uh to financial and academic transparency.
Uh, I understand that the Hollywood Elementary experience the failed audit.
At some point maybe about, uh, in 2018 and not to put anybody on the spot here, but I
2018 and not to put anybody on the spot here, but I'm just trying to, I guess, improve an element.
Trust, uh, citizens have with P GCP S, Uh, the and now I understand, Uh, how budgets work and that all those funds don
budgets work and that all those funds don't necessarily trickle down to the schools.
Uh, where?
Municipality, Uh, we don
down to the schools. Uh, where? Municipality, Uh, we don't get funds directly from the federal government.
Uh, Unless you
funds directly from the federal government. Uh, Unless you're thinking arpa.
So II.
I fully understand that, But Uh, I.
I
understand that, But Uh, I. I've I
understand that, But Uh, I. I've I've experienced, uh Hearing some of the residents tell me, you know I can
Hearing some of the residents tell me, you know I can't spend $40.
I can
tell me, you know I can't spend $40. I can't I can
tell me, you know I can't spend $40. I can't I can't give any, my my child $40 so that they can go to the Baltimore Aquarium I.
I can go to the Baltimore Aquarium I. I can't, uh I can go to the Baltimore Aquarium I. I can't, uh I can't help.
You know I can
Aquarium I. I can't, uh I can't help. You know I can't There
Aquarium I. I can't, uh I can't help. You know I can't There's just always more out of pocket Now.
I understand this happens for for larger programs, But can you help me better understand what?
Uh, who
can you help me better understand what? Uh, who's in charge of the of the overall budget at a particular school?
Uh and and why those expenses are being rolled over to the families?
So.
I don
are being rolled over to the families? So. I don't want to sound like a broken record.
But.
This is the operations team.
Uh, so this is not, uh, an area that
so this is not, uh, an area that's under our purview.
Uh, but certainly we can take that question back to our, uh, office of school leadership, uh, to provide a response regarding, um How.
The expenses of expanding the educational program are sometimes passed along to families or not, Um, and then they can provide that response to you.
Thank you, Uh, I asking the next question with the with the tumor, right modernization is that you are going to say Are.
You going to ask.
I Yes.
Yes.
Uh so just wanna touch on and I
ask. I Yes. Yes. Uh so just wanna touch on and I'm sure this is gonna be towards, uh, not towards you all.
But, uh, much like the the residents who spoke today I think there is a difficulty understanding How, uh, Schools are students can get accepted into some of the charter schools or some of the magnet programs that are out there.
Uh, this is particularly obviously challenging for those who do not have parents who can actively, uh, advocate for their for their particular students.
I
their for their particular students. I'm wondering.
Is there a system a process in place that parents can can, uh, can go to that would help them navigate and follow up on those particular applications and how to make their applications more competit.
Yeah.
Absolutely.
We have a specialty programs office that is underneath the division of academics.
Uh so they can provide additional information regarding specialty program offerings at our different, uh, school locations that is separate from our charter school
that is separate from our charter school's office.
So charter schools I would put in a separate bucket and we have a separate office that supports charter schools that would be able to respond to questions around charters.
And what are the What?
Are?
The officers names like I
the What? Are? The officers names like I'm sorry.
One more time just as I
names like I'm sorry. One more time just as I'm typing out, should they under the division of academics it there
should they under the division of academics it there's a specialty program office.
The director is, Uh uh Dean Manzano Lee.
D at DESANN.
Manzano MA NZANO.
Uh, hyphen Lee LEE.
And.
Then.
The Charter is what office?
There
Then. The Charter is what office? There's a charter school office charter school office and, uh, Doctor.
Uh uh, Liz, Excuse me.
Uh, Elizabeth Saunders Saunders, OK, Thank you.
You
Saunders Saunders, OK, Thank you. You're welcome.
Is that who is going to take the you You're welcome. Is that who is going to take the you're done.
Please go ahead.
We
who is going to take the you're done. Please go ahead. We're pushing through the modernization.
I have a lot of questions.
Obviously.
I
modernization. I have a lot of questions. Obviously. I'm getting up to speed.
So what efforts are being taken to introduce, Uh, Internet learning advocacy for parents, So I Recently Heard of school, Max.
Uh and I know that that program probably has existed since I
program probably has existed since I've gotten here.
Uh, but I.
I also know that I
since I've gotten here. Uh, but I. I also know that I'm.
I
since I've gotten here. Uh, but I. I also know that I'm. I'm struggling to get people to just, uh, get familiar with our city app.
Uh, what without like effective training or one on one training.
Is there.
Training available for parents to to to register for a school, Max account and and, uh, get more familiar with the program like this.
Can I understand It
like this. Can I understand It's a great resource Once you got once you
It's a great resource Once you got once you're up to speed.
The answer is Yes, we
got once you're up to speed. The answer is Yes, we'll we
got once you're up to speed. The answer is Yes, we'll we'll We
The answer is Yes, we'll we'll We'll have the office of, uh, information technology as well as the, uh uh, community engagement office collaborate to provide you with a robust answer around that, Uh one thing that I will add, Um, is that you
thing that I will add, Um, is that you're right school.
Max has been around, uh, a very long time and we
has been around, uh, a very long time and we're actually going to be transitioning this summer into a new student information system called Synergy.
Um Um, you know, I know that that that can create some hand wringing, but it is a a very robust system that from what I
a very robust system that from what I'm understanding is going to be very user friendly.
Um, uh, and almost like a one stop shop, So.
We
uh, and almost like a one stop shop, So. We're really excited about shifting to synergy.
Um, um to support our families, our teachers as far as their great books, um, interfacing with respect to the family portal for for, Um, Um uh and for even even transportation.
Interface.
So.
Uh, it
even transportation. Interface. So. Uh, it's gonna be very helpful.
Thank you and there will be training provided for families around, uh, that transition into that system.
That
transition into that system. That's That
transition into that system. That's That's amazing.
And I.
I hope to look forward to connecting with the IT and community engagement office.
Uh, it
community engagement office. Uh, it's always super challenging and these are contracts, right?
So.
They
and these are contracts, right? So. They're they
and these are contracts, right? So. They're they're not in.
They
So. They're they're not in. They're not built in housing systems.
These are Now.
That
They're not built in housing systems. These are Now. That's a third party vendor.
OK, Um, moving on to that question.
Uh, how are we working with, uh, families with limited resources time?
Money, uh, access to laptops, uh, to ensure that they are active in the education of their students, ensuring no one falls through the crack.
The anecdote that comes to mind is when I first got here, and I was helping a sibling out.
Uh, someone was very blunt with me and said, you know if the parents don
very blunt with me and said, you know if the parents don't advocate it it it
you know if the parents don't advocate it it it's on them.
Uh, And.
Obviously, she was just trying to be real with me.
Uh, but it it
trying to be real with me. Uh, but it it's really challenging because I know a lot of people don
because I know a lot of people don't know or even willing to go, Uh, against some of these systems.
I any advice we could share with some of those residents.
I would defer that to doctor Sheila Jackson, our director of community engagement, She will certainly be able to provide a wealth of advice.
Guidance information, uh, to support families in navigating the school district.
Thank you so it
navigating the school district. Thank you so it's a follow up questions.
Um do you wanna go to the very last one in the community Trust Band management.
It
community Trust Band management. It's a brand management.
Oh.
Yeah.
Brand management.
Uh Well.
I.
Uh II.
I don
Yeah. Brand management. Uh Well. I. Uh II. I don't think Like.
I said from the very beginning that we
said from the very beginning that we're gonna be able to fix a lot.
Many of the issues that exist.
Uh, a lot of a lot of my residents will actively Tell me and it always breaks my heart that they
and it always breaks my heart that they're gonna send their students They prefer to send their students to Montgomery Uh or Montgomery County or they or one of the parents needs to stay home, so they do They do home schooling or They
stay home, so they do They do home schooling or They're looking for some sort of private option.
Uh I
looking for some sort of private option. Uh I'm trying to help you all and and and as a as a child of public school education, build trust with the community.
So.
Uh, what are some trust building measures that are currently in place.
Be it events, Uh, meet and greet, Uh, Or organizing or collaborating with the PT OS, uh, to to to build that sort of trust.
I think every office could respond to this question, but I
could respond to this question, but I'll respond from the operations perspective, Um, in that transparency is important.
Um and and really, uh, communicating clearly and consistently, uh, our challenges.
Um, communicating very clearly the successes that we are achieving, um and and really extending a hand to a partner.
Uh uh, together, uh, to meet the challenges that are before us, Uh, it
to meet the challenges that are before us, Uh, it's a challenging time in education.
Uh around staffing around.
Uh, you know, uh, you talked about security incidents that occur now we have, uh um, security enhancement devices in our schools like these are things that We wouldn
schools like these are things that We wouldn't have thought of 2030 years ago.
But.
Now.
It
of 2030 years ago. But. Now. It's a reality for us right?
And so it
It's a reality for us right? And so it's putting a strain on everyone, uh, to work together, uh, to provide the type of education for Children that we can be proud of.
Um, I know personally, I live in this county.
I decided to move here from Montgomery County.
I decided to move here from Montgomery County. I've decided to raise my family here in this county.
I put my Children in our schools purposefully and I
Children in our schools purposefully and I've worked in this district for almost 30 years all on purpose because it
years all on purpose because it's a beautiful place to be and to raise a family.
And, So I.
Just think extending a hand continuing to be transparent, continuing to be earnest in our work continuing to, uh, look for opportunities to collaborate.
All of that matters and just communicating over and over and over again.
For people to get engaged opportunities to to really be a part.
I really appreciated the the comment, Uh, that I heard from our Councilwoman around, you know?
How, do you?
How?
Do?
We make people feel Right, like if a principal make, uh or or our chief operating officer makes you feel like you can be a part, then maybe I
makes you feel like you can be a part, then maybe I'll be a part.
But if it feels like there
part. But if it feels like there's this wall, that
part. But if it feels like there's this wall, that's up.
Well, then that makes it difficult for people to engage.
Um And, So.
I just think extending a hand and really working, really earnestly trying to work together is how we try to start rebuilding trust.
It happens one relationship at a time.
Thank you So, Can.
I just to respond Really quickly.
Uh, sir.
Thank you, uh and consider, Consider this and extremely extended.
I
this and extremely extended. I'm sure Many of my colleagues would do the same, uh, to try to partner to build that trust really appreciate your passion and everyone
really appreciate your passion and everyone's answers today.
All, Right Mayor Port.
Uh, you next time?
Oh I.
My question is a question that you can send me to answer another day or next week.
I.
Appreciate it, You know, uh, we talked about before we started P three.
So I would just like to get an update in regards to the P three construction.
Where.
Are.
We currently having schools have been built.
How, many schools are tending to be built, and you talked about the swing space schools if you could send us information that would be greatly appreciated.
So.
Yeah.
Um we have six schools have been constructed.
They
Um we have six schools have been constructed. They're all been delivered.
They
been constructed. They're all been delivered. They're not all in operation.
We
been delivered. They're not all in operation. We've now moved from the construction phase into the operation phase.
There
into the operation phase. There's still a few things going on in some of the sites, But that
going on in some of the sites, But that's by design, but there are substantially complete.
Um, the other, uh, the next eight are gonna be, uh, six elementary schools and two K.
Three eights.
Um and, uh, we are.
We
Three eights. Um and, uh, we are. We've already started the permitting process on, um, three of the schools.
Um, we actually had a meeting with deep high today.
Over all the things right now.
And, Um so we
things right now. And, Um so we're moving forward with the developer has been selected.
We
developer has been selected. We're in the EN a period which is, um, a we did a modified progressive the second time around, so we
progressive the second time around, so we're working with them to develop their GMP, which is a guaranteed maximum price that they will then go out and price for financing.
So we
out and price for financing. So we're working.
We
out and price for financing. So we're working. We're in that process.
Now the expectation is it will close at the end of, uh by statute that will close at the end of June on the on the whole deal.
And, then once we do that, uh, construction expected to start Our early fall on three of our sites.
I appreciate that.
But if you can send it to me in writing, I because I have many residents who are interested about the pre, um, process, So.
That
who are interested about the pre, um, process, So. That's Thank Thank you thank you all I know you spent more than an hour.
Thank you so much for coming 1155.
Maybe the final one.
I
coming 1155. Maybe the final one. I'm Just Gonna close out.
Um I was the council member that asked for you all to come tonight, and I just want to say thank you.
I know everyone up here wants to say thank you that, um And I hope that you didn
that, um And I hope that you didn't think that we grilled you too hard, but, um, I would your answers and and your engagement was really helpful tonight and we really appreciate the work that you
tonight and we really appreciate the work that you're doing.
And.
Uh, we want you to know that the city wants to work with you.
Absolutely.
And.
You know that that just let us know.
You know how we can work with you and, uh please stay engaged with us.
We
with you and, uh please stay engaged with us. We're we have a website?
You can find our our contact information and and stay engaged with us.
But.
Thank you so much for coming.
I appreciate the partnership.
Thank you so much.
Any final words.
Yes.
We appreciate the opportunity to come before you and again we
opportunity to come before you and again we'll provide those follow up responses as we receive those questions.
I
follow up responses as we receive those questions. I'm Sure there are many.
Thank you You had a very good discussion.
Thank you so much.
All, right?
Can I give a The bus.
So.
Thank you I.
I See that two group of our residents waiting for the next, uh to work sessions.
Um, the first one would be a conversation with our members of the Advisory Planning Commission, A PC.
You.
That for Please go ahead.
All right.
Good, Evening Mayor and council.
Uh, I
Good, Evening Mayor and council. Uh, I'm here tonight to introduce and discuss the advisory Planning Commission
introduce and discuss the advisory Planning Commission's year end, uh, recommendations that were submitted to you in December.
At, the end of 2023, Can you please come to the mic a little bit.
Is this better.
I have a problem with that, Don
a little bit. Is this better. I have a problem with that, Don't I every time um so with me here tonight, I have the chair of the A PC M.
Stephanie, Stoick.
Uh, the co-chair Mike Mark Meadow Uh and Malika Um and G Kerber, uh, is with us, too.
Great.
They already made their way to the podium.
Um so I
Great. They already made their way to the podium. Um so I'm just gonna briefly sort of go over the points that were in the handout, uh, in your packet and Afterwards.
I will open it up for members of the A PC to add on to what, uh, I
up for members of the A PC to add on to what, uh, I've talked about in for any questions as well.
Uh, so in the A P C
about in for any questions as well. Uh, so in the A P C's year end report, The commission identified four main areas of concern, uh, that they would like to bring to the attention of the council.
Uh, so they are the city
of the council. Uh, so they are the city's fence Ordinance the prohibited vehicles parking ordinance, uh, communicating the requirement for a city permit after a county permit has been obtained, uh, and informational presentations on proposed
development projects.
So first is the fence Ordinance.
One topic that the A PC would like to raise to the council.
Uh, that you all consider clarifying ambiguities in the variance criteria for approving a chain link fences, uh, particularly the language concerning whether the fence would be consistent with the surrounding neighborhood, uh, to clarify the
city
surrounding neighborhood, uh, to clarify the city's fence Ordinance prohibits new chain link fence.
Uh, but certain variant criteria allow an applica applicant to request an exception to this The content of this is the main concern, Uh, surrounding point number one.
Uh, the second point regarding the fence ordinance is to consider whether current requirements regarding corner lots are overly restrictive.
Uh and I
lots are overly restrictive. Uh and I'm just going to pause here and say that on this point, uh, there is some difference of opinion between the A PC and the council.
Uh, and they probably go beyond the scope.
Staff my bad, uh, the a PC and staff.
Uh, they probably go beyond the scope of this discussion and what was presented in the handout.
Uh and I
presented in the handout. Uh and I've spoken with Mr young about this.
I
and I've spoken with Mr young about this. I'm prepared to discuss it tonight, but, uh, at your discretion it it
discuss it tonight, but, uh, at your discretion it it's been a long meeting.
I
your discretion it it's been a long meeting. I'm also more than willing to come back at a future date, uh, and go into staff
future date, uh, and go into staff's recommendation on this, So, uh, up to you.
Moving forward.
We also have the prohibited vehicles parking ordinance uh or section 1 84 8.
The.
A PC recommends that the council considers revising the ordinance to clarify that cases may be referred, uh to the A PC for section 1 84-8 a as well as 1 84-8 B.
Uh, also consider amending the good clause criteria to indicate that criterion B applies to vehicles and trailers.
Uh, and to add criterion for trailers that do not exceed the size restrictions under vehicles or for vehicles under 184 8 B one a document with track changes to the curtain ordinance was supplied in your Red folder recently.
Uh and this certainly goes beyond my scope of understanding, so I would welcome the stoic to, uh, come up after this and and add on to that if you have any questions Um Third.
The A PC would like to raise concerns regarding the communication that a city permit, uh, is also required after an applicant receives a county permit.
Uh, sometimes the county will approve a permit and fail to notify the applicant that the city also requires a permit, uh, which can lead to stop work orders and frustrated residents.
Uh, so a suggestion for this would be to consider developing a brief one page handout to give to people who come to the city asking questions about permits.
Um, that would include a brief description of the permit requirements and process.
Um so also, we could consider formally elevating this issue with deep high uh so that they can better train their staff to alert applicants that a city permit, uh, may be required in some projects.
And.
Then finally, Uh, the city is sometimes asked the A PC, uh, to host informational meetings to provide an opportunity for a community members, Uh, to learn the details of a proposed development project, uh, giving them a forum to voice their
suggestions and concerns.
Uh, for example, this happened recently with the Terrapin house in December 2020 Children
house in December 2020 Children's Guild preschool in February, 2021.
Uh, the vacant city on land on Rhode Island Avenue between Calvert and Knox roads in March 2021 and for the Icarus property at 7131 Baltimore Avenue, uh, in June, 2022 Uh, so the recommendation here is to consider adding this new role to the
A P C
here is to consider adding this new role to the A P C's official charge, uh, incorporating it further in the future.
So.
That
incorporating it further in the future. So. That's my Brief introduction to this.
Um, and at this point I
introduction to this. Um, and at this point I'd like to invite Miss stole up and add anything else or Questions and answers sta.
Welcome, Thanks for your patience.
Here.
Yes.
Absolutely I to your mic on, please.
The, uh Right.
Is this working now?
Oh?
Yes.
OK, thank you.
Um So In.
I believe that most of the, um Suggestions that we had were particularly items.
23 and four are relatively, uh, straightforward.
Um and probably don
relatively, uh, straightforward. Um and probably don't need a lot of discussion.
Actually, I would like to say a little bit about Item three.
The requirement for a city permit.
Um, whether you want to change the a P CS charge, I think is is up to your judgment.
Just.
The suggestion on our part and, um, the prohibited vehicles parking ordinance.
We Try to, um, track changes.
Uh, some potential revisions to the ordinance that we think might handle it, Although.
Of course we would defer to your counsel.
Um and you know if they agree, or would do it in a different way.
Um, so I don
or would do it in a different way. Um, so I don't think we really need to discuss items two and four on the fence ordinance.
Um That has been an area where I think the A PC has found it, Uh, somewhat challenging at times, um I looked over the cases that we had during 2023.
We had five cases for for, um, variances from the fence ordinance.
Um, all five of those cases involved variances for height.
One case was for chain link as well as height.
Um, and the chain link case.
You probably recall it was not that long ago.
Uh, we That was, uh, that was the only one of the five cases where we did not approve.
Um, and it was appealed to you and you all approved it.
Um During that appeal hearing.
Um The, uh So.
Mr.
Valentine referred to where, uh, staff and I think that A PC members have some disagreement.
Um, one is with the suggestion to do away with the city
the suggestion to do away with the city's fence ordinance.
Um And, uh, The, um Sorry.
This.
The county ordinance is Has come closer to the city ordinance in some ways, particularly with the with the ban on chain link fences, although somebody still could appeal that, um and with front yard fences, it
appeal that, um and with front yard fences, it's a fairly small difference of the we our fence Ordinance, says.
3 FT.
The County, says 4 Ft, Um And in two of the five cases that we had last year.
Um, we we reached a compromise with the applicant to go to instead of the 6 ft.
They were requesting to go to 4 ft, or, in another case, it was to go to 4.5 to 5 ft, but to but to set back that front yard fence at some distance from the property line.
Um So I wouldn
distance from the property line. Um So I wouldn't necessarily Speaking for myself have a problem with the 4.
FT versus 3 ft issue.
I feel like that
problem with the 4. FT versus 3 ft issue. I feel like that's a relatively small issue.
I think the biggest difference between the county ordinance and the city ordinance has to do with the definition of front yard.
Um, for fences, and this particularly, is an issue for corner lots.
I believe all of the five cases that we heard on fences in 2023 were corner lots.
And.
The problem is, is that for a corner lot the property owner may feel like, um, the The Street.
That is not the street of their address.
The that that is not the street at the front door, but what is to them a side Side yard.
Um That can look that can feel like, um, a friend that is a considered a front yard under the city Fence Ordinance, and also it can feel like a front yard to the neighbors who are across the street.
And.
I.
Guess I
neighbors who are across the street. And. I. Guess I'm particularly sensitive to that, because before the city created its fence ordinance, our neighbor across the street put up a 6 ft stockade fence and, you know, right up to the property line,
and and we thought that was Uh, You know not a good look for the neighborhood it it reduces the degree of openness that I think this city fence ordinance is trying to Trying to encourage.
Um and, uh So To me the issue.
The question is, I.
Guess I would encourage you to think about not doing away with the city fence ordinance, possibly considering whether you want to change from 3 ft to 4 ft, or, you know, allow the a PC to You know, make that compromise when applicants ask for
it, Um, but also The corner Lot issue is a challenging one.
And.
Are there additional criteria that could be added to the fence ordinance that would allow for better decisions.
Um or allow for more compromise.
Um, such as if the The property is very close to a an industrial area.
That was an issue for two of the five cases where the property owner felt But.
Uh, you know that there was a safety issue because of a lot of People who are not neighborhood people were, you know, walking around and potentially into their property.
Um, another issue may be whether the street is a real street or a paper street or whether it
street or a paper street or whether it's an alley.
Um That, you know, may not deserve the same protection as as an actual, You know Ma Main Street.
Uh, Main neighborhood Street.
Um Whether.
There is anybody that is any any other neighbors who have homes across the street from where the fence would be?
Um again.
I think if it
from where the fence would be? Um again. I think if it's a 4 ft fence we
Um again. I think if it's a 4 ft fence we're talking about that
ft fence we're talking about that's maybe not as big a deal, but if it
that's maybe not as big a deal, but if it's a 6 ft stockade fence.
You know having that across the street from your property what somebody else considers their backyard or their side yard.
But to you?
It
their side yard. But to you? It's the street.
That your house is on.
Um So.
Those are just some ideas.
Um For you all to consider, but it it seems like if if you If.
You do decide to keep the city fence ordinance.
Um then it feels like it when it would be helpful to consider some additional criteria that Could that we could apply as the A PC.
Um And two Some communication with deep eye to try to get them to Uh, And.
It
with deep eye to try to get them to Uh, And. It's not just an issue for fence ordinances, the the DP problem of granting permits without notifying applicants that there is a city permit requirement or that there may be one Um I
permit requirement or that there may be one Um I've talked for a long time.
Um, I
there may be one Um I've talked for a long time. Um, I'd like to talk a little bit more about Item three about the DP issue, but maybe I should stop and Yeah.
It might be.
Yeah.
Good idea to go one item A T a time.
Um, any comment on the Defense Ordinance amendment or changes?
Uh, I see, Mr Reg, Why.
Don
Ordinance amendment or changes? Uh, I see, Mr Reg, Why. Don't.
I Go this way I started with Mr Reagan, then Thanks and I.
I, uh, served on a number of years on the advisory Planning commission.
So I.
I.
Remember the long conversations about fences and front and, uh, front front yards on corner lots and so forth.
Um, you know, I, I would generally lean in favor of retaining the city
would generally lean in favor of retaining the city's fence ordinance.
Um, however, I also lean in favor and I.
I believe I
lean in favor and I. I believe I'm in a minority on this council, perhaps, uh, like against chain link fences.
I
council, perhaps, uh, like against chain link fences. I'm pleased that the that the county has, um, you know, Struck out relatively straitly in that direction.
Um, I just think that chain link fences, you know, don
think that chain link fences, you know, don't present the best image of of of our community and many years ago long before I was on council, this, uh, the city started moving down the road of of generally prohibiting them.
So so the biggest Argument for striking the city
so the biggest Argument for striking the city's fence ordinance and moving to the counties is that the county seems to be a little bit more rigid against chain link fences.
Although.
The city also generally prohibits them.
Um but, uh, apparently, we permit them when it
but, uh, apparently, we permit them when it's appealed.
So with the with going to the counties, Uh, ordinance.
Allow us to, um more consistently sort of prohibit building new chain link fences or replacing segments of chain link fences.
Uh, that are appended to existing Segments of channeling pencils, which is what I think The appeal was most recently.
Is that the advantage or are there any or would there be any other deferred to to your co?
If if we didn
other deferred to to your co? If if we didn't have a city ordinance, then if somebody if a property owner wanted to appeal the prohibition against a chain link with that Then go to some county body Or would it come to the a PC?
Or?
Would it not be a possibility to appeal.
Without Um, I
not be a possibility to appeal. Without Um, I'm Gonna make a guess, Um in terms of, uh but it
guess, Um in terms of, uh but it's gonna be a reasonable um Guess is that if the city did not have an ordinance, then the county ordinance would be the applicable.
Um The County, um, code and then whatever the requirements regarding appeal under county law.
Would be what I think would apply.
Right, But.
I.
Guess.
I think would apply. Right, But. I. Guess. I'm wondering because the we also hear cases for variances of, for example, Setback requirements.
Um and I think that
Setback requirements. Um and I think that's county code, not city.
Um, but it still comes to us the A PC.
But is that requirement listed in the county law itself.
Setbacks?
Yes, Yes, Mr Valentine.
So, I, I think I know a little bit into this, Um It is the county ordinance for things like Setback and and lot coverage and all that, But, um Or some some code when I think the the ABC was was formed, Uh, the county gave us the power of, uh,
review and variance.
Um I
county gave us the power of, uh, review and variance. Um I'm not sure exactly how that worked.
But even though like the setbacks like our a county code, and not a city code, um through some charter legislation that was that was given to us, Um, so one ovarian is required.
The county um Let
so one ovarian is required. The county um Let's marry him, and I know that, uh, this application needs a variance and that goes to us at our discretion.
So So.
Potentially a similar arrangement could be made if the city wanted to and wanted to request that Well.
You
wanted to request that Well. You'd have to explore that.
You know outside of this meeting I.
I.
Guess.
I would see benefits to aligning the fence height of the county versus the city.
I
to aligning the fence height of the county versus the city. I'm Not sure, you know that.
I see much benefit for city residents to have to to go before the A PC for a four versus a A 3 ft High fence.
You know, I think, probably aligning.
Those would make sense.
But.
That
probably aligning. Those would make sense. But. That's agnostic about whether you know we could simply just amend the the city
we could simply just amend the the city's code section relative to fence heights and then have that area of alignment we wouldn
then have that area of alignment we wouldn't necessarily havh Do away with it entirely.
So.
So I.
Guess you know, Based on this discussion.
It
Guess you know, Based on this discussion. It's I.
I.
Guess.
I
discussion. It's I. I. Guess. I'm sort of agnostic about whether to retain the city
I'm sort of agnostic about whether to retain the city's fence Ordinance.
I would generally lean in favor of it, because that permits this body to be able to make, um, sort of other other modifications as we see fit in the future, much more easily, rather than sort of establishing a new, well, an old then new again,
Uh, body of the city code.
Um With regards to, uh Front yard fences on corner lots.
This is a really tricky one.
I.
I think you know, Miss Deli, you pointed out.
One particular instance in which the ABC heard evidence recently about a front yard fence.
Um, that was related to It sounds like pedestrian traffic from an adjoining business or from an joining industrial area.
Um I, I.
Guess you know it, it would be difficult for me even as a foreign, Uh, council member who is a former ABC official to really sort of blue sky circumstances in which I would find it acceptable and not acceptable, um, for a front yard fence on
Uh, at a house, which has two front yards, which is how the code sees corner.
Lots.
Um I could imagine situations in which we we would want to be permissive of them, But.
Um I.
I guess I, would I would appreciate a little bit more staff work about instances you know, in which we might consider modifications there rather than just sort of, uh, guessing at them.
So if I
just sort of, uh, guessing at them. So if I'm if I, um I.
I think you
them. So if I'm if I, um I. I think you're kind of touching on on the main issue that staff wants to raise with this, Um Is the definition of of considering any yard that abuts a street as a front yard.
Um If I
a street as a front yard. Um If I'm Being, perfectly honest I.
I kind of view that as a little bit Problematic.
Um II.
I think we can sort of walk in our neighborhoods and Um Kind of See that not every yard that butts a street is, is a front yard.
There are backyards and and side yards and, um so I.
That
and side yards and, um so I. That's where staff is is kind of being thrown by this and and what we kind of want to, um Talk about like we are now to me.
It seems like the easiest modification to make would be to simply, um Change the city code to as Mr ASIC suggests sort of Make those corner lots where one of the two streets is a paper street or a public right of way.
That is not a not generally regarded as a street such as an alley.
Um, you know, not subject to the two front yard.
Perception which is again.
How.
How the city kind of sees, um Corner lots, but I guess you know, I
um Corner lots, but I guess you know, I'm also sensitive to you know my stoics.
Um suggestion that that the idea of Of having you know prohibitions for offenses in front yards, even on car lots is to keep kind of an an open feel to the neighborhood.
And, and that is something that is AAA feature that sort of dominates in our in our neighborhoods and I.
I would be reluctant to make there
would be reluctant to make there's a lot of corner lots and it would be reluctant to make AAA large policy change that would kind of open the door for for shutting that down without, um Really having a a better public process for for for doing
that, because I would imagine that if if if a lot of people were asked Hey on on your block, Would you be OK with a lot more fences, sort of being in sight lines as you go around corners, people would say no and generally I would not be in favor
of that.
I I, There
not be in favor of that. I I, There's a strong status quo bias.
Right.
Um, I have a couple Points along that line.
Um I think openness is is great.
Um, certainly for those who do not want 6 ft tall fences on their own property they wouldn
their own property they wouldn't have to do that.
They could keep it to three or to four.
Um, I think I think the core question here is Uh, the property owner
core question here is Uh, the property owner's right to have privacy in their in their backyard.
I think as written right now, the the ordinance kind of puts that in jeopardy.
Um The neighborhood.
Yeah.
Maybe we can do it by different, uh, Different neighborhoods.
There
uh, Different neighborhoods. There's criteria that could be had rather than just getting away from the entire ordinance in general, But I.
I spoke to our some of our code officers today.
And.
Certainly if we continue this conversation Um, we would do a more formalized process, but I have spoken with them.
You know some of our code officers that have been here for many years.
Uh, they
officers that have been here for many years. Uh, they're hearing on the ground every day that a lot of residents are not satisfied.
Uh, with the current fence ordinance, um, feeling it
fence ordinance, um, feeling it's restricted, um, restrictive and gets in the way of some of the things they want to do on their yard.
Um The other thing I was going to say to that.
I have an example.
I kind of made this up.
Today.
It
kind of made this up. Today. It's.
It
kind of made this up. Today. It's. It's a generic example.
This is Avenue a avenue B.
Here
This is Avenue a avenue B. Here's the front of the House.
Um The Purple represents what the city would allow.
At 6 FT.
Uh, so in the back, not along the street and then this is not to scale but pretend This is a 25 ft setback.
Uh, the green is what the county allows at 6 FT.
And.
The yellow is what the city would have at 3 ft.
Um But I?
Oh, did you have a question?
Please go ahead continue under the current definition of the city
the current definition of the city's ordinance of having a front yard being any yard that abuts a street and the house being so Maybe this goes along to the question of we can put in more provisions about the orientation of the house and the
placement on the lot.
But I just struggle to define outside of our ordinance.
Whoops my screen went away.
Defining this area as a front Front yard.
Um But because it
area as a front Front yard. Um But because it's a Long Avenue B.
It
But because it's a Long Avenue B. It's classified as a front yard.
Thank you just the green yellow area.
Correct, but if we are restricting residents to only putting a fence right here that
only putting a fence right here that's taking away this portion of what they could use as their front and I believe this clearly gives a sight line for cars turning corners.
That
clearly gives a sight line for cars turning corners. That's plenty of space.
So the county definition.
Uh Allows you to put up to a 6 ft fence behind the front plane of the principal building.
Um, that
the front plane of the principal building. Um, that's what they
principal building. Um, that's what they've been doing now.
I think that that
what they've been doing now. I think that that's a reasonable step to take given your Discussion.
Thank you?
Um this is Malika and I.
Just want to add to the points being made here?
That.
I would advocate you know, putting into the ordinance the orientation of the house as well because in my neighborhood, uh, as Maria and Denise could attest to there are houses that have that are current lots, but they
are houses that have that are current lots, but they're angled in a man in a way that does not give the homeowner a true backyard and that impacts how they can enjoy their property.
Um, it impacts their ability to have privacy, especially if you have young Children and you
especially if you have young Children and you're worried about them running into Street because in our neighborhood, there are no sidewalks and that is a big concern for those with toddlers and, you know early walkers, um as well as just Plain
old Children who are playing and don
Plain old Children who are playing and don't pay attention to traffic.
Uh but I do think that having a fence Uh, amending the ordinance so that these homeowners can be able to get that approved faster, easier is needed.
Whether or not, we decide to align exactly to the wording of the county is up to you all.
But I Believe that we do need to Create a situation where these situations can be easier to deal with, and decisions can be made faster, and I think it would help the PC to be able to discuss them and take less time to do so if we have some
wording that guides us.
Thank you, Valentine.
Do.
You agree on that, Uh, what
you, Valentine. Do. You agree on that, Uh, what's your comment about?
I?
Do yeah, and something that
comment about? I? Do yeah, and something that's been told to me in my time here is When you get a lot of variants applications for a specific ordinance.
That might mean it is time to make some tweaks to the ordinance and I.
I think we
the ordinance and I. I think we're approaching that time here, Um, I like that we are on the same page make a comment on that.
I.
Guess.
The.
Question is what is a lot of variance requests?
Um, because we had Five.
Um last year, so I don
requests? Um, because we had Five. Um last year, so I don't know that That
Five. Um last year, so I don't know that That's a huge number and it was I think less than the number of cases we we.
We had other kinds of cases set back and lot coverage and parking.
Um I don
back and lot coverage and parking. Um I don't think the fence variance case is dominated our agendas.
Yeah.
Thankfully.
It didn
dominated our agendas. Yeah. Thankfully. It didn't come, but you know, you can guarantee that it may not come right.
I mean it may Well.
The question is whether we
mean it may Well. The question is whether we're approaching a point where we
is whether we're approaching a point where we're getting so many of these fence variants requests Yeah.
Good point.
So.
So I.
Think I.
I can, um, wrap up at least my preferences on on these four as being in specific to to to number three.
I think I
specific to to to number three. I think I'm.
I
specific to to to number three. I think I'm. I'm interested in aligning the fence height requirements of the county
aligning the fence height requirements of the county's site requirements.
Retaining the city
site requirements. Retaining the city's, uh, fence.
I
site requirements. Retaining the city's, uh, fence. I'm sorry.
One, aligning that the fence height requirement with the county
fence height requirement with the county's pen he requirement.
Um I
the county's pen he requirement. Um I'm.
I would be interested in hearing.
Uh, recommendations from staff and or from a PC, Uh, about Corner lots because you know, I, I think, um Mr Valentine presented, you know a a fairly compelling hypothetical that that I feel like I
hypothetical that that I feel like I've seen and I
hypothetical that that I feel like I've seen and I've heard from and people in the in district three as well.
So.
I think my feeling is that there
think my feeling is that there's probably a compromise to be had here and perhaps orientation, uh of the house towards the street might might point us in a in a direction that would be, um, that would be helpful, uh, in that specific regard
again, it
be helpful, uh, in that specific regard again, it's It
specific regard again, it's It's hard for me as as a as an economist, not as a as an architect to really imagine what those might be, but, you know We had some options posed to us to to be able to react to that were specific to to to corner
lots.
I think that that could be very helpful, um, with regards to number three I.
I completely agree with the A PC that advertising and I.
I bet that something were to have consensus on and, um with regards to number four I.
I agree that that should probably be added to the A B C
agree that that should probably be added to the A B C's charge because I think that that
be added to the A B C's charge because I think that that's AAA valuable tool tool for this this body to have, you know, um as A resource for us.
Uh, I didn
as A resource for us. Uh, I didn't hear any discussion of of two and looking at the code, maybe just said it
of two and looking at the code, maybe just said it's late is causing me to cross my eyes a little bit on that, so I might need a little bit more discussion and thought before I
discussion and thought before I'm really into a pie on too.
So.
Those are thank you my feedback.
Thank You.
Um, Miss Mackie.
I
feedback. Thank You. Um, Miss Mackie. I'll Just be really quick.
II.
I thank you for bringing this to us.
I think it
bringing this to us. I think it's really important that we hear from the residents to, um and engage them in this, Um I like my colleague.
Um think if we can streamline the height You know be OK with, uh, doing the county and the city the same.
Um, I
the county and the city the same. Um, I'm, not a fan of Chang Link F.
I removed one from my backyard.
Um they have evolved to be a little bit nicer than they once were.
But I.
I, don
nicer than they once were. But I. I, don't I don
nicer than they once were. But I. I, don't I don't really prefer for a chain link fence.
Um so I
prefer for a chain link fence. Um so I'm I I don
prefer for a chain link fence. Um so I'm I I don't really care for that, but I think it
Um so I'm I I don't really care for that, but I think it's really important as my like a shared.
I live across the street from two corner lots and the one lady she really wanted to put a fence up.
But.
The County wouldn
to put a fence up. But. The County wouldn't let her because of the the visibility, so she she didn
of the the visibility, so she she didn't and I think it
of the the visibility, so she she didn't and I think it's just really important that our our fence ordinance in the city is really meeting the needs of our people.
And so we might really need to tweak it.
Um and, um And.
It
really need to tweak it. Um and, um And. It's probably not a conversation for tonight, but I do appreciate, um, the a PC and them serving and and I know that a lot of times, um When.
You get variances it, You know it
You get variances it, You know it's a lot of back and forth.
I didn
it's a lot of back and forth. I didn't have the pleasure of serving on that committee.
But, um I.
You know, I just wanted to say that, um I think that it
to say that, um I think that it's really important that we listen to the residents to and our staff and and, um, our a PC committee because this is why we have committees so that they can give us good information, too.
Thank you.
Um Me.
I
too. Thank you. Thank you. Um Me. I'm not going to be labor.
Everyone has made excellent points.
Thank you for your leadership on the committee.
Um I, too, served on a PC many years ago.
Um I concur with my colleague Councilman rig on his comments and are just four representative LA for hers.
And at this thing I look forward to you bringing back for some information that we can do make a true consideration about how we
a true consideration about how we're gonna move forward so that looks like it needs more a little bit more work.
Thank you, Doctor.
Thank you, Mr Mayor And and thank you.
Um I have also served on the A PC and, um, wanted to just say that I agree with a number of things that have been said I.
Think that, Um, uh, working to, uh, bring our, uh, ordinance into, um Closely into what the, uh county ordinances regarding fence height is important.
Um, as far as the the chain link fence.
Um, I do I have asked for that to come back to council for a discussion after, uh, the discussion of the last case that came to us because I do believe that there?
Um uh, there needs to be some discussion about the, uh, the purpose of that.
The the the, um the idea of individuals having to replace fences that they already have.
Uh versus putting up new fences, I.
I, do not think that we should be putting up new Qing link fences.
However, I think there are some variations that need further discussion.
Um like was brought to us.
Um, Last time We had a discussion.
Um, I do believe that, um the information presentations are important.
Um, for the A PC to help host and coordinate.
I think that there is great opportunity for residents to work through that committee, um, to learn about things that are happening.
Give input.
I think that that is a A the most appropriate committee for that to happen with, um, requirements for permits through DP.
I think having those discussions is very important.
Um, the communication is not happening.
Permits are, um people are getting permits, not talking with the city.
Um, I think that, um, that is important, too.
So.
Thank you thank you.
Anyone else?
Mr Hernandez?
So I.
Just wanna start off by saying that I
wanna start off by saying that I've never been a fan of any criteria that, uh, matches close to whether it fits the look of the neighborhood.
I think it
look of the neighborhood. I think it's a very largely subjective criteria.
And who
think it's a very largely subjective criteria. And who's to say that the look of a neighborhood can
to say that the look of a neighborhood can't change.
That being said, Uh, having spoken to residents, colleagues.
Uh I.
I
to residents, colleagues. Uh I. I'm in favor of supporting what the county has put out.
Uh, I I, recognizing that chain link fences are not approved by the county.
It definitely wouldn
fences are not approved by the county. It definitely wouldn't want, uh, approve them here, but, uh, it makes sense, uh, for the resources that we have right now, en forcing code, uh, at the city level to Enforcing what?
A and I.
Just.
Think of the applicants right if they go through the trouble of, uh, attempting to get a county permit, uh and and they get a a 4 ft fence approved, Then.
They come and they build it and they get cited when they
come and they build it and they get cited when they're here.
I.
Just.
Think of just the Hours of work and frustration that they had to go through.
Uh and if we can make the lives of residents easier, I definitely would.
Push for that, Um I.
I just don
would. Push for that, Um I. I just don't recognize your point, ma
just don't recognize your point, ma'am.
Uh, I understand that there
ma'am. Uh, I understand that there's only been 55 cases brought forward.
I think the fact that there is a very variance.
Uh, process in general is a, uh, is a deterrence process.
Uh, for anyone to, uh I Think.
We should just consider that it could be seen as a deterrence process.
Excuse me, because if I knew that I had to go through that entire process, Uh, it
I knew that I had to go through that entire process, Uh, it's very likely that Me personally, I.
I would just not do it.
Uh I.
I don
I. I would just not do it. Uh I. I don't have a front, uh, facing fence, Um, but just trying to put myself in the, uh, in other people
trying to put myself in the, uh, in other people's footsteps with regard to the corner lot if, uh, if I
with regard to the corner lot if, uh, if I'm understanding this correctly, uh If, the 6 ft fence as it stands right now, uh, would be the purple.
What?
What happens to the space.
The surface area of the green and yellow So, the the service area of the green and yellow, Um So the Green represents where a county would would the where the county would allow the 6 FT fence to go so it would encompass that whole back space.
Uh, the yellow is where the city would require a 3 ft fence.
Um And, then that purple line going through the middle is is where the 6 ft fence could stop at a 25 ft setback.
But.
Theoretically.
Those folks would lose that space of usage correct for a for a rear yard.
Exactly, right?
Yeah?
Um, it it becomes sort of this awkward space in the front side yard that Couldn
space in the front side yard that Couldn't be used to its full potential.
So.
I walked around this weekend, uh, and looked at the various so obviously Hollywood Daniel Park, uh, has a lot of, uh, a lot of street corners, right?
Uh and I can certainly understand that the privacy concern of the, uh, of the fact that if you
the privacy concern of the, uh, of the fact that if you're on a corner lot you can
of the fact that if you're on a corner lot you can't build.
You can
corner lot you can't build. You can't really do much.
In a private.
I mean everyone
can't really do much. In a private. I mean everyone's entitled to their privacy.
So.
That was a concern.
But now understanding this a little bit better and seeing that they lose more space.
I definitely would fall back towards once we determine what the front facing side of a house is, Uh, I would support uh, The, green and yellow.
I
support uh, The, green and yellow. I'm Sorry.
I
support uh, The, green and yellow. I'm Sorry. I'm not saying this is eloquently as I want and for those houses that are orientated and a unique space as though they have acres.
Uh, in a just, You know a corner.
Uh III I defer to to the folks with a lot more experience in this.
It
the folks with a lot more experience in this. It's not an eloquent drawing.
So.
That
experience in this. It's not an eloquent drawing. So. That's OK.
Yes, but the ones that you know where they
Yes, but the ones that you know where they're rotating.
Yeah II.
I think we
where they're rotating. Yeah II. I think we've touched on a lot of compromise here and just to summarize that I think something we could consider rather than, uh, moving.
From.
The Audience ordinance is considering the orientation of the house.
This House is oriented towards Avenue.
A.
That
oriented towards Avenue. A. That's clearly the front yard.
The backyard is is clearly what
The backyard is is clearly what's Highlighted, uh, if the house were flipped and oriented towards Avenue B, the situation is different.
So maybe we can coordinate that.
And.
I just like for my comments to be taken for whenever staff goes and revisits this, uh, hopefully for a further discussion as a council member Esters had asked for, uh, It.
We wanna make it as easy as if somebody wants to go through this.
It shouldn
somebody wants to go through this. It shouldn't be a laborious, burdensome to to build a fence.
It
laborious, burdensome to to build a fence. It's a.
It
laborious, burdensome to to build a fence. It's a. It's a deliberate decision to do this, uh, on behalf of whomever lives there, the resident Uh and I just personally think that just this is just me, uh, like adding additional requirements.
Council member.
Esther has always asked me to say why.
Why would we want to do this?
If?
We add an additional requirement.
What is the purpose.
Uh and I just I can
requirement. What is the purpose. Uh and I just I can't see.
Uh I can
purpose. Uh and I just I can't see. Uh I can't see myself supporting an additional requirement for, uh, pulling it back to the purple right?
And and that reminds me of of another point, I wanted to say, and I and I
another point, I wanted to say, and I and I'll be quick with this is in our variance criteria, one of one of the points is that, uh, Not allowing the variants would lead to like an exceptional uh or extraordinary circumstance.
Um And In.
The.
Past conversations we
Um And In. The. Past conversations we've had with these cases when they come up is that we are not calling a corner lot, an extraordinary or exceptional circumstance, but at the same time we are subjecting those property owners to extraordinary
and exceptional.
Restrictions.
And that doesn
exceptional. Restrictions. And that doesn't that doesn
exceptional. Restrictions. And that doesn't that doesn't quite seem to add up.
Um and it makes it a harder Real conflicting, right.
Thank you let me say you Yeah as I.
I
right. Thank you let me say you Yeah as I. I'm just wondering how deep is that yellow green space.
So it.
It
how deep is that yellow green space. So it. It's certainly not to scale but it represents 25.
Ft 25.
Ft.
Wow.
Yes.
Um I mean, I.
I I, I.
I
25. Ft 25. Ft. Wow. Yes. Um I mean, I. I I, I. I'm not I
25. Ft 25. Ft. Wow. Yes. Um I mean, I. I I, I. I'm not I'm not agreeing with that.
So.
Um I mean I can see having the fence.
Maybe, um, up to a certain right away space so that people park on that side of the street can get in and out of the cars, the car doors, But Beyond that, um, I.
I just don
But Beyond that, um, I. I just don't see the necessity for that, unless it hinders the site of line for for safety for traffic.
Um, but, yeah, yeah.
Thank you, Ms.
Stale.
Thank you.
Um, so I have a few points.
I
Um, so I have a few points. I'll also try to be quick.
Um, one is, um for you to consider that there are many, many corner lots in our neighborhoods, and so if you change the requirement with regard to a corner lot that potentially has Essentially large impact on potentially allowing a lot of 6
ft.
High fences, Um, where they are not currently allowed.
And, um What I do to my property doesn
currently allowed. And, um What I do to my property doesn't just affect me, right?
It it it it affects you if you live across the street from me or next to me.
And.
Um, so that
across the street from me or next to me. And. Um, so that's why we have zoning.
That
next to me. And. Um, so that's why we have zoning. That's Why.
We have requirements.
Um, because otherwise we just let everybody do whatever they want.
Um, So although freedom is a really important value, I think we also have restrictions on our freedom as property owners that are designed to serve the good of the community and where to draw those lines and how to define those restrictions
are, of course, what?
What makes it difficult.
That
of course, what? What makes it difficult. That's Why you guys get paid the big bucks.
Um but, uh Um I.
I just wanted to emphasize that Changing changing that could potentially have really a big impact on how much openness there is in our neighborhoods and how many tall fences I grew up in a town in California, where pretty much everybody had
6 ft fences.
And.
I really loved it when I came back east and found there was more of this feeling of openness and you could see and it just felt so much nicer to me so much better.
Um On, uh, a couple other things on Eric
me so much better. Um On, uh, a couple other things on Eric's diagram.
I think Um You know, I, I believe under the county ordinance, they could build that 6 ft fence, actually, all the way to the front plane of the house so it could have been.
You know it could be Um, you know, a more extensive So.
The.
The Green line could come further down right?
So.
The ordinance is saying behind the front plane of the building and I suppose you could you could put it in the middle.
Sure you could bring it all the way down to the front plane.
Behind the front plane, so not not flush with the front.
So.
We
front plane, so not not flush with the front. So. We've allowed it.
I think other cases.
Well.
Maybe.
Maybe then our requirement could be Something like this.
Just as a compromise.
Good.
Um do you think, uh, I?
I know there
Good. Um do you think, uh, I? I know there's more discussion needs to happen right?
And looks like looks like you got quite a few ideas.
Mr Mayor.
Yes, please.
Oh.
I didn
quite a few ideas. Mr Mayor. Yes, please. Oh. I didn't say that
Yes, please. Oh. I didn't say that's OK.
Um whatever way.
Clearly, yes, more discussion, I think is needed.
But.
Whatever Way we go.
I think the it
Whatever Way we go. I think the it's imperative that the result be very clear like the language be very clear.
Because, Um I.
Um I love getting into detailed documents and some of the stuff just makes my eyes cross and I
just makes my eyes cross and I'm like like, Wait a minute.
What?
Wait, They said, you have to do it this way, but only if it
to do it this way, but only if it's Or this way And, you know, I think it needs to be very straightforward and as much as we can coincide with the county, um, ordinance, I think that would would streamline things as well?
Because, Then that
would would streamline things as well? Because, Then that's another layer of complication.
Um, for residents, and, um, it
Um, for residents, and, um, it's frustrating people get really people are already frustrated when they
really people are already frustrated when they're told they can
frustrated when they're told they can't do something that they have in their mind that they wanna do.
And.
Then if they find that one set of of rules tells them to do it one way and the other tells them It another way.
It
way and the other tells them It another way. It's It
way and the other tells them It another way. It's It's just frustrating.
I.
Think so the more we can streamline things and make it Clearly.
Understandable what the rules are, I think the better off will be as far as the fence ordinance and, um and I am inclined to, um if if people have existing, um, chain link fence on their property and need to connect it to like, create an enclosure.
I I
need to connect it to like, create an enclosure. I I'm inclined to allow them to do that.
And.
If the problem, You know we we did hear complaints about you know, I don
know we we did hear complaints about you know, I don't like the looks of chain link fences.
They, get rusty.
They get, you know yucky.
They.
Don
They, get rusty. They get, you know yucky. They. Don't look good.
Um, if we don
know yucky. They. Don't look good. Um, if we don't have, um, rules in place that require people to, you know, keep them well maintained, you know, paint them silver if they start to look bad, you know, certainly we could implement some of that
in cases such as that where people have Chain link fence to make it, you know, less bothersome to others.
Um, and then I
less bothersome to others. Um, and then I'm.
I
less bothersome to others. Um, and then I'm. I'm in line with everyone else with the other comments.
Thank you speaking of the clarity, I think it might be a good idea if we if we could put out something something like that where you have created, you know, in a more formal way and in our website somewhere, II, I don
more formal way and in our website somewhere, II, I don't I understand?
It can be put in that code, but, uh, we could probably you don
that code, but, uh, we could probably you don't like my drawing skills.
It it, it can make it even better.
I.
It
drawing skills. It it, it can make it even better. I. It's I actually like the colours.
I went to school for that.
Thank you?
It
went to school for that. Thank you? It's a complicated issue, and, um, you know, there
you? It's a complicated issue, and, um, you know, there's more I could say, but we
and, um, you know, there's more I could say, but we've taken a lot of the council
I could say, but we've taken a lot of the council's time tonight already.
I think, um, the E PC would appreciate being included in in future discussions that
included in in future discussions that's acceptable to you, Um You know they the the is one of the issues in in our, uh, in our Recommendations.
Document had, uh, referred to consistent with the neighborhood.
And.
How.
Do, you define neighborhood.
And.
How.
Do.
You.
Define consistent.
Um I won
Do. You. Define consistent. Um I won't even try to open that one up tonight because it
I won't even try to open that one up tonight because it's a complicated one, too.
Um uh, So In short.
Thank you very much for your for allowing this opportunity.
Thank you everything you do, and I
opportunity. Thank you everything you do, and I'm sure staff will be in touch with you as you bring it forward.
I think we will be Thank you.
Here.
Just.
One small comment.
Uh, can we get a copy of that Because it
comment. Uh, can we get a copy of that Because it's very hard to read from here.
Thank you that that you wanted because you like the colors and and I can sign it, too, with your autograph.
Thank you so much.
Thank you all for everything you do.
Thank you.
All.
Right, So we have another Uh, group.
Uh, the noise control world.
Advisory group.
Thank you, Mr Stroller.
And.
Thank you, Mr Coker.
I think I.
Think.
We.
Have a copy copy.
All of us Have a copy?
Yes.
Yeah.
The.
Same thing there.
Yeah.
Mister Cocker.
Thank you.
Good Evening Mayor Mayor Pro TEM and the City Council members.
Uh I
Mayor Mayor Pro TEM and the City Council members. Uh I'm Jitendra Kukar Public Services Director, I
Jitendra Kukar Public Services Director, I'm here today.
To discuss about the noise control board, and we do have our new chair Mark Schroeder.
Here as well as the Co-chair Matthew saw here and I
well as the Co-chair Matthew saw here and I'm not sure who the other members are if they are joining by virtual means.
I
are joining by virtual means. I'm not sure about it.
But, we We are here to fulfill.
Uh So.
Yeah, Miss.
Miss Bela is that, uh, Susie ball?
Yeah.
Welcome, Suzie.
If.
You are there joining us virtually Uh uh.
We, uh We are here tonight to meet the task, which was given to us I believe in the month of January to come back to the council, and, uh, we were invited to join today here and see if we could discuss the charges that the board has in the present
ordinance, which is 138 of the city code, and, uh, The Board also would like to present their report, a copy of which has already been provided in the package.
Uh, we met recently on March 14 last week Thursday and, uh, the purpose of that meeting was to prep the board as well as us to present our point of view to the council, and, uh, The attachments provided or the annual reports from 2017 through
2023, and we have also provided a standard operating procedures for unruly gathering and nuisance.
Uh uh, Ordinance requirements.
Having said that I I think I would like to give the opportunity to the board chair and co-chair to express their point of view, and they can provide more details that may directly concerns the question that the mayor Through time May or the
council members may have of them or of me being the staff liaison for this particular board.
Thank you, Mr.
So, Can you please turn on the mic.
The.
Uh, the right button?
Yeah.
The right one.
That one.
Welcome.
Thank you, Mayor, Mayor Kabir Members of council.
Good evening.
My name is Mark Schroeder.
I live at 4909 Muskogee Street.
And.
I am the new chairman of the Noise Control board, which may be a surprise to you.
Um, at our last meeting, Alan Stillwell resigned as chair because he has moved out of college park.
Alan served the city on the noise control board for 27 years.
Wow.
These comments reflect the consensus of the board members before his resignation, Um Alan warned us not to assume that all members of the council would be familiar with the noise ordinance.
Chapter 138 of the city code.
Uh, for brevity.
Residents of the city who are affected by noise may have recourse to two different sources of redress.
First in real time they can call the public service department.
And a noise officer.
If one is on duty.
Can come measure any noise and decibels from the property in question.
An issue of violation of the noise exceeds the objective standard in the code.
Second After the fact.
They can ask the public services director to call a hearing of the Noise control board.
To make an inherently subjective determination.
About whether the owners and occupants of the property in question have violated the complainant
question have violated the complainant's right to quiet enjoyment of their own property.
To begin with the positives.
We, the members of the board believe there is very good compliance with the noise ordinance by respondents.
After the hearing.
Respondents do not want to come before the board.
They do not want to pay the fines levied by the board.
They do not want to hear complaints about their allegedly irresponsible and harmful behavior from their neighbors.
Once is enough.
Unfortunately, We believe that the cases that come to us may be the tip of the iceberg.
And there a RE five reasons for this.
One noise is not covered by the ordinance.
The city, and therefore the board has no jurisdiction over noise created by state entities.
Is.
This may include the university.
And the contractors working on Route, one for the highway authority.
These are above our pay grade.
Two.
Noises from a moving vehicle not registered to a college park address.
The ordinance only pertains to noise from a fixed address within the city.
Modified mufflers and loud radios are not covered.
The city staff inform us that the contract police have begun issuing repair orders in quantity.
Modified mufflers.
If they can be induced to keep that up.
We should hear less about that type of problem.
Three.
This is the one we
type of problem. Three. This is the one we'll probably be talking about the most.
Noises caused by tenants whose identities are masked by landlords.
And noises in which the landlord has shown other negligence.
At our last meeting, city staff informed us of the following patterns of behavior.
You have to remember.
This is what they told us.
We didn
You have to remember. This is what they told us. We didn't we didn
what they told us. We didn't we didn't hear about it at the hearing at any hearing, but We have we have heard suggestions that these may be true?
A Large parties with lookouts who warn of approaching city vehicles, ensuring that the decibel count is below the ordinance standard while the officer is present.
B.
Parties were.
Nobody will admit to being one of the tenants and giving a name.
See landlords refusing to give names of tenants at the properties to city staff.
Paying the negligible $75 fine for that refusal instead of the much more consequential No, it
refusal instead of the much more consequential No, it's fine.
Note that the public services director can
fine. Note that the public services director can't demand that the tenant attend a noise control board hearing if he doesn
control board hearing if he doesn't know who the tenant is.
There are several potential remedies for these patterns of behavior.
Since.
The.
Evidence and experience are with the city staff rather than the board.
We have told the staff that we will support whatever proposal they bring to council.
Among these remedies would be toughing the fine for not furnishing tenant ventures names.
Holding the landlord directly responsible for noise caused by anonymous renters.
Finding the landlord for being on a unable to prove that the anonymous renters were informed of the provisions of Chapter 138.
And asking, says the housing boardroom informed that it
housing boardroom informed that it's the actually the A PC.
To revoke the use and occupancy permit for the property in question.
To.
Repeat.
We are deferring to the council, the city staff and the city attorney.
For the most efficient solution.
And.
We support whatever that solution might be.
Four.
Noises that two people won
might be. Four. Noises that two people won't complain about.
The ordinance requires two complainants and sometimes a person who wants to complain.
Can
person who wants to complain. Can't get another neighbor to sign on.
We do not have consensus on the board about changing this rule.
Five.
Cases where the potential complainants don
where the potential complainants don't know about the noise Control board or how to get a hearing.
I wanna emphasize the first one?
The city website could lay out how to complain to the board.
I can
to complain to the board. I can't find anything on the city website about how to complain to the board or even that there is a board.
Maybe it
to the board or even that there is a board. Maybe it's an It
to the board or even that there is a board. Maybe it's an It's probably in the ordinance, but I can
probably in the ordinance, but I can't find anywhere else on the website about how to complain to the board.
Number two The City newsletter could mention the board.
Would probably make a big difference if once or twice the diamondback would cover a noise board hearing.
Number three City Council members could discuss the availability of the Board Civic Association meetings.
To sum up.
We, the members of the Noise Control board would like the council to know that although we are comfortable With the resolution of the noise problems that have come before us.
We cannot say that we are comfortable with the overall noise situation in college Park.
Because we do not know the frequency or severity of the five kinds of noise problems.
That.
I have just listed Thank you.
Thank you.
Um, add anything.
Not in particular I.
I will say just as a clarification.
I didn
I. I will say just as a clarification. I didn't get a promotion.
I
clarification. I didn't get a promotion. I'm vice chair, so I
promotion. I'm vice chair, so I'm not co chair.
Um, the the the Mr.
Schroeder made a a point that I think for me, um, as a property owner in Calvert Hills.
Uh, Close to old town.
You
Hills. Uh, Close to old town. You'd see these houses that were frequent.
Um, repeat offenders.
For, large parties and large gatherings.
I didn
offenders. For, large parties and large gatherings. I didn't know about the noise control board until I was on the noise control board.
So.
I do think that dissemination of information to the various neighbors, um to the to the entire city would be Really important and if that could be Something on the website where you basically just clicking a link filling out Uh, you know, you
know Fillable PDF or some fillable form or something like that.
I think something like that would be Really helpful.
Don
that would be Really helpful. Don't know that we were discussing the various, Um And fines and the and the various sanctions that that are involved.
It
sanctions that that are involved. It's me you know you get you get a few folks in front of noise Control board.
They
front of noise Control board. They're they
front of noise Control board. They're they're having to deal with this.
They
They're they're having to deal with this. They're being hailed in front of their neighbors and everything else.
It
in front of their neighbors and everything else. It's not a pleasant experience for a lot of people.
I don
pleasant experience for a lot of people. I don't even know how much the The.
Fine, certainly as a landlord myself, Um you know, UN, O and fines would would eventually affect you.
But Um, for these larger houses where there are 10 people in one floor or something like that.
Uh, I don
something like that. Uh, I don't know that they
something like that. Uh, I don't know that they're really going to be affected so much by by fines, but again, hailing them in front of the noise Control board, uh and and potentially affected their UN O.
I think I think could have a uh um A a good effect on the on the noise.
So that
um A a good effect on the on the noise. So that's Basically all I have to say, but, um I think that there
all I have to say, but, um I think that there's I think there
think that there's I think there's room for improvement for for how we disseminate that information.
Thank you.
It
for for how we disseminate that information. Thank you. It's very helpful.
Um Want to take questions, Mr.
Please go ahead.
So did you raise fast?
Please Go ahead.
Okay, I guess I
So did you raise fast? Please Go ahead. Okay, I guess I'm in the hot seat tonight.
So as as far as the the so I guess I, I.
A.
I
far as the the so I guess I, I. A. I'm A.
I would agree with the the recommendations included in in five.
You know, I think I recently, uh, referred some residents in the, uh, College Park Estates neighborhood to the noise control board.
And.
I believe that that resulted in AAA positive outcome.
Um, although perhaps not necessarily You know through the the, uh, the process that the residents expected, but it resulted in a positive outcome.
Um I.
I also really believe that the the presence of the noise control board or referrals to noise control border are a deterrent in of themselves.
Um, and that that needs to be easier to do, Uh, with regards to the two I.
I recognize that you all don
Uh, with regards to the two I. I recognize that you all don't have, uh, any internal consensus on the on the Requirement that at least two people complain about it.
And I Guess I.
I feel somewhat strongly that that needs to retain and remain in place.
Um, because there are a lot of solo cranks in the city, um, with with no disrespect to solo cranks, and but I
with no disrespect to solo cranks, and but I'm not sure that would be appropriate to have, um, you know, just simply one person who could who could spin up?
You know a noise control hearing and and create a lot of stir, um, just on their own without getting at least one other, uh, sober minded resident to to to agree to to So present in front of the board, and that actually raises you know what
I see is maybe the largest barrier to the noise control board because I actually have talked up the noise control board to our residents in old town and Calver hills for for on several occasions over the years, residents are very in my in my
view, residents are reluctant to engage in that process because it because it establishes a quasi judicial in confrontational.
Um, certainly adversarial, Uh, hearing, um and and many residents, you know, don
and and many residents, you know, don't necessarily want To have that relationship with with their neighbors.
I, don
have that relationship with with their neighbors. I, don't I.
I.
Don
with their neighbors. I, don't I. I. Don't And.
So I.
I think all the rest of this stuff will help, But.
I don
all the rest of this stuff will help, But. I don't know how you overcome You know?
That barrier and and maybe you don
overcome You know? That barrier and and maybe you don't need to overcome that barrier.
May.
Maybe.
The answer is people then will only avail themselves of the noise Control board, if if they
of the noise Control board, if if they're advised that it exists when they
if they're advised that it exists when they're really just at wits end And.
I think that that was the case in college Park Estates, by the way, um, the issue in college Park estates for my colleagues was that there was a resident who was driving a very loud vehicle into the car or into the neighborhood at all hours
of days and nights, and, uh, waking up Children and waking up, you know residents, and apparently, they kept very odd hours.
Um, The upshot was they had sold it by the time the nose control board hearing occurred, so it it the problem kind of solved itself.
But.
Um it took a lot of pep talking for me to convince our residents to actually go to that gather the evidence needed and actually go to that adversarial sort of, um Hearing to to even make it happen.
A.
Couple of other reflections are, um I.
I absolutely think that we need to create every incentive for landlords to, uh, especially when there is AAA Code enforcement action or or or especially something like that that
or especially something like that that's criminal or potentially criminal provide the names of the of of the people who exist on the on the, um On the lease I.
I can
people who exist on the on the, um On the lease I. I can't think of any Reasonable reason why, in the presence of a code violation or a law violation that that information should be withheld from code of law enforcement, Uh, officials.
So if if there
enforcement, Uh, officials. So if if there's a a need to raise a fine or look at other enforcement practices, that would be something that that I would definitely encourage.
And, I
would definitely encourage. And, I've heard, um, both from uh, from your predecessor on many occasions that that was, you know, sort of something that that that many landlords have kind of, you know, baked into the cost of doing business, so
You know anything that we can do to disrupt That dynamic is something that I would be in favor of, um, that
something that I would be in favor of, um, that's those are my reflections.
Thank you.
Absolutely thank you.
I.
We have someone from the board.
Actually Miss Bellamy.
She wants to speak, Please unmute yourself.
And.
I
wants to speak, Please unmute yourself. And. I've been on the noise board about 10 years.
I live in District four.
And, um From my experience with the neighbors.
It is, um They don
From my experience with the neighbors. It is, um They don't know about the noise board and I think the city needs to make it much more available to, um to the residents.
What What.
Their tools are in solving some of these problems.
And, um I.
I think it would make life a lot better in the neighborhood and my experience on the board is usually when Someone makes a complaint and the, um One that causes that they end up shaking hands at the end of the meeting and agree to work together.
So it.
It does have a positive outcome.
And.
Also.
I think that the Landlords need to be made more accountable.
I mean it.
The fine structure from the way it is.
I It doesn
it. The fine structure from the way it is. I It doesn't have any effect, Whatever and and maybe they should do like they do in Ocean City they have besides the rental permit.
Have a noise permit.
And this would, um When they sign off on that they would have to be aware of the noise loss and make sure that their tenants are aware of the law.
And I think we would have much easier way of enforcing the issue.
Thank you.
Um you, Miss Bellamy!
Thank you so much.
I was actually going to ask a question around that line.
Did you or any any any of the, uh, of the, uh, noise control boat, IN General As a body you get a chance to look into the practices, the other towns.
Like, the similar, uh, advisory Committee, actually, does we We have we have we have not as a board looked at the at at the at the, uh, ordinances from other cities.
And if you would like us to do that, Uh, you should Tell us Yeah, it as a council you can tell us to do that.
You pay you pay us every time we meet, but go ahead.
Thank you.
I
time we meet, but go ahead. Thank you. I'll.
Definitely to my colleagues.
Thank you, Mr Mayor and thank you both for your leadership and Miss Bellamy on the committee.
So.
Yes, I will say Please look at other municipalities, Ocean City, Um Salisbury.
Um there
other municipalities, Ocean City, Um Salisbury. Um there's some other ones on the Eastern Shore area that have much stricter ordinance And.
I think that might help support some of the things that you
that might help support some of the things that you're saying tonight?
I do, uh, appreciate my colleague Councilor Rick and regarding to point number five about getting information out about what is noise board the responsibilities who are the members and actually, also again, I like to point about bringing the
noise board members to Civic Association meetings to talk about what
members to Civic Association meetings to talk about what's going on in the city.
How.
You can report I think that will elevate, Um, the members of the committee but also elevate the, uh about the fact that we take this seriously collaboratively, the UM, Committee as well as the council.
I
the UM, Committee as well as the council. I'm going to Point number through.
Where
the council. I'm going to Point number through. Where's the one about the person did not the look at Well, that
about the person did not the look at Well, that's what we experiencing in district four, so I would like to see if there
so I would like to see if there's any way to how we could combat that.
I know when some municipalities the actual landlord has to register the names of the actual tenants in their homes, So when the code enforcement officer goes out to inspect, it
enforcement officer goes out to inspect, it's supposed to match up and if it
inspect, it's supposed to match up and if it's different, then there is a question that needs to be brought to bear to the property owner.
So if there
to be brought to bear to the property owner. So if there's a possibility that we can look at that, because I know many, many years ago in District four, there was a Propose party at the pool, and that was, um brought to us through social media.
Um, to, uh, as a deterrent.
We found out in time and worked with a contract and finish county police.
Um and we
finish county police. Um and we're able to alleviate that party from occurring so regards to that.
I appreciate that, Um, in regards to Landlords needing to, um Revoke the you know.
I think we need to look at that in regards to if they
think we need to look at that in regards to if they're not doing their responsibility and their job.
Then.
We need to dangle that as some the character set in order to do business and college park.
You need to adhere to the rules and regulations.
And if you don
need to adhere to the rules and regulations. And if you don't your you know will be right.
You will be taken from you.
Now.
There
You will be taken from you. Now. There's some other cases where On off campus.
There are students who live in the off campus housing that are not from University of Maryland but are from other universities.
Um, I know the city College Park has done the code of conduct with the students.
I think we need to go to the table and talk to these other other universities and do the same thing with them.
So.
They understand that when you live in college park, there are responsibilities that you bear to the I
responsibilities that you bear to the I'm not only to the quality of life for the residents in the community but to your colleagues, so that
residents in the community but to your colleagues, so that's what Have for right now.
Thank you thank you.
I wanna add about the number one?
The noises that are not covered by the city ordinance.
So.
You probably know, um, the council We have been advocating our state delegations, um, on at least about three bills for the past two or three years.
Um, um In the past years, they did not come out the committees.
Um, but this year, at least two bills.
I think there is very good chance that they will be Becoming law.
The.
One is the noise camera bill and the other one is the exhibition driving.
Um, we
one is the exhibition driving. Um, we'll be talking, actually, right after this.
Uh so if you if you have any other ideas of any legislation that the state can actually take, Please let us know.
Sometimes.
They actually ask us that What What do you really want and we can advocate for you?
Yeah, thank you.
All right?
I like the hands.
Gonna go with the over this order.
Uh, Miss Whitney.
I have a question for, um, our city attorney, Um What I?
What rights.
Do.
We have to, um, require the landlord to give us a copy of the lease if there
require the landlord to give us a copy of the lease if there's been a complaint.
Um, to get the names of the people.
Who live in the home.
What rights Do you have, um If.
There
live in the home. What rights Do you have, um If. There's not a legal If there
Do you have, um If. There's not a legal If there's not a Legal process that
a legal If there's not a Legal process that's requiring that I
process that's requiring that I'm not sure if the landlord has to comply with the request.
Can I we could explore.
Can.
I help.
Uh, if that rental property is registered with the city, Can, we actually give that information.
Are you?
Can.
You.
Repeat that question for me.
I guess what?
I
You. Repeat that question for me. I guess what? I'm, trying to figure out is if there
me. I guess what? I'm, trying to figure out is if there's a way to, um, force the well, actually, this is kind of a bigger question.
I have generally about the fact that we have houses with more than five people living in them.
Um, which isn
five people living in them. Um, which isn't allowed, Um I.
Just wonder if we
which isn't allowed, Um I. Just wonder if we're allowed to require, um, submission of a current lease whenever people get a use in occupancy curve permit.
I.
I think the best way to to approach it is to look at Um, our regulatory scheme on what we require.
I know we require, um, licensing when you rent property and so we need to take a look at that and see what the actual provisions are and what we require of landlords and see if there
and what we require of landlords and see if there's an opportunity to strengthen that.
Thank you, Um Two.
More questions one Could there be some way that that residents could actually, um, measure noise happening at a party when they hear it And?
Could there be a device that might record that and have a point in time and maybe they can take a camera picture and, like, do can I speak to that so So As.
I said.
Residents have two sorts of recourse.
Alright.
The one is The noise officer who has who already has that device.
Um, and your code does not give residents any Authority in that sense, and the other is through the noise board and we sometimes do have residents.
The complainants coming to us and say, I, I.
Have.
I had this device and it measured, you know, 100 and two decibels.
Well, guess what we are not making.
We are not We are not finding objectively that that that annoys standard an objective noise standard has been has been exceeded.
Therefore, it doesn
been has been exceeded. Therefore, it doesn't make any difference.
We have we?
A RE we a RE making a subject to determination, based on the preponderance of the evidence.
Thank you and my last question would be, um, How.
Do.
You think we could better apply?
Um, our noise.
Ordinance to businesses in in the community.
We have an ongoing problem with the H vac system at let, um not being well maintained and screeching and bothering nearby residents.
Um, I think we II.
I believe that it has come before you and it
believe that it has come before you and it's happening again.
Well.
They got fined.
Um so I I
Well. They got fined. Um so I I'm.
I
Well. They got fined. Um so I I'm. I'm sorry to hear that, the that the problem continues, Um Uh, They can get the the fine.
The fine doubles right?
Thank you?
Thanks for your action.
Um do es.
And.
Thank you both for your work?
Um and I won
you both for your work? Um and I won't repeat a number of things that have already been said.
I.
Do want to go to the point of, um two people not reporting, Um, a noise issue?
Um, and the challenges that we
Um, and the challenges that we've had, and even communicating that to residents.
So, you know, I
communicating that to residents. So, you know, I've I
communicating that to residents. So, you know, I've I've often communicated that to residents who have two people living in a home and being able to say, you know, there are two people living at home can actually each one of you Complain that
that is possible.
It
each one of you Complain that that is possible. It's not having to go to a neighbor or go elsewhere to get a second person to do this often times people.
What I
person to do this often times people. What I've experienced is that after it
people. What I've experienced is that after it's done, and they
is that after it's done, and they've said something about it, they don
they've said something about it, they don't want to do anything else until it happens again.
Um, so then the the complaints continue, but they don
so then the the complaints continue, but they don't always follow through with what needs to be done to go to a hearing, so we
to be done to go to a hearing, so we'll I mean we
to be done to go to a hearing, so we'll I mean we've continued to do that and shared that with people.
Um, the other thing I wanted To share is that, um, when you go online and you go under report, there is information there that is about what to do during a noise violation, as well as pointing to, um, a flyer that speaks specifically of the
noise control board.
So.
Um and I
specifically of the noise control board. So. Um and I've used that, um especially when I first got on council.
What I
used that, um especially when I first got on council. What I'm thinking is that that needs to be refreshed and, um, it can be used in various ways.
Be it our Facebook page.
Um uh, Social media as well as other, um, items that we share out with with members of the community because I don
with members of the community because I don't think that that
because I don't think that that's been refreshed and shared consistently.
So.
I think that that could also help.
Thank you.
Mr Hill.
Thank you very much, um I
Thank you. Thank you. Mr Hill. Thank you very much, um I'm looking at, uh, number one, and I think that there
looking at, uh, number one, and I think that there's another, um, noise that, um, I.
Wanna verify with staff.
Um, that Could be added to that is construction noise outside of the, um, allotted hours because we
the, um, allotted hours because we've been receiving complaints about, um, construction sites on the RST, starting at 630 in the morning.
Yeah, and then when we get those kind of cases we actually do follow up with enforcement.
Uh uh, pretty pretty quickly, actually, usually the same day that we receive that complaint.
There are some exceptions.
Uh, one being, uh, construction activity That
being, uh, construction activity That's on Route one.
As.
You All know we
activity That's on Route one. As. You All know we've, um that
As. You All know we've, um that's been a very difficult one.
Uh, to deal with.
Um, but the most ones are, uh that we that we deal with currently are are construction.
Um Uh, Mr Halpern usually is out there pretty much the next the the next day, and, uh, trying to get those resolved, so we haven
get those resolved, so we haven't had Many issues with that lately.
Thank you as a resident of District one.
I should point out that some some of the entities that are not mentioned in my statement.
That are also above our pay grade.
Our Be way.
The Metro The CS X.
Yeah can avoid them, right.
So?
Um as for communicating with other, um entities about this, Um I got a contact for you from the universe.
Um, for the, um, Minnesota.
They have, uh, three universities in their town, and, um they really exercise this ordinance very, very similar one and they they are claimed to not have issues anymore.
So I will give you that contact to follow up with lucky people.
Yes and then um, as for needing the two people to complain when, um our, um Code enforcement officers been alerted to a noise complaint could that be considered one of the complaints as long as it
considered one of the complaints as long as it's not the same person who reported it?
There
the same person who reported it? There's been the second complaint.
As long as he
There's been the second complaint. As long as he's witnessing it.
He has to be there witness while while it
witnessing it. He has to be there witness while while it's taking place, let let let me let me let me try and speak to it in terms of the ordinance, you have Mhm.
Do you noise officer is only going to be able to speak to whether or not they they
able to speak to whether or not they they've exceeded the the de the decibel limit.
Um, and if they have exceeded the decibel limit, um You know then, then the officer can issue a violation right there.
Um so and the officer is not.
I mean the officer can only tell you Well.
I
the officer can only tell you Well. I've been called out to that address.
Whatever number of times, um and have but I have not observed any Violation, uh, any violation above The limit in in In the, uh, in the ordinance, so They can
limit in in In the, uh, in the ordinance, so They can't help at the hearing.
In my view they they cannot help the way that this ordinance is written now to really we, we and we on the board can take that That officer
board can take that That officer's You know information that officers evidence is part of the context of our of our decision making right?
But.
They are not a complainant.
It really goes back to the um two or more residents complaining.
OK and, um last 10, and this is another one more for staff about procedures again.
Um, I know that when we have, um code enforcement issues, noise or what have you In the evenings Um we are required our our code enforcement officers required to have a police backup.
Are we utilizing university, please for this as well.
Uh, not not normally, Uh, university police is usually only patrolling on campus.
Um they
is usually only patrolling on campus. Um they're they
is usually only patrolling on campus. Um they're they're not usually, uh, in the neighborhoods very there
usually, uh, in the neighborhoods very there's occasionally times.
Uh, it has to be a pretty large party for them to A company us.
Um, but this is a student issue.
You face this still an so if it
this is a student issue. You face this still an so if it's a certain issue, they they should be part of this to witness this and on camp issue for them.
If.
It
and on camp issue for them. If. It's off campus.
It
and on camp issue for them. If. It's off campus. It's really not The.
They
It's off campus. It's really not The. They'll say differently.
But, I, I
not The. They'll say differently. But, I, I'm just telling you from just my short experience here, they they have not really, Um Uh, taking that as serious as something that would happen on campus.
OK?
Well, we need to open up that communication.
Thank you, Um Um, before I.
Take your question.
Can.
I go to Miss Mackay because she raised hand before Um Mr Schroder.
I want to ask you about, um in your second paragraph, where you say second?
After the fact.
They can ask the public service director to call a hearing of the noise control board to make an OK that That part.
So if you have An issue, but you can
that That part. So if you have An issue, but you can't get a reading and noise reading.
For various reasons.
Um The.
The residents can come to the noise board with They really don
residents can come to the noise board with They really don't have any proof because there
board with They really don't have any proof because there's no that that they can.
They can so the the noise officer is not there.
More than a few minutes.
All right.
They can they can testify to to what it was whatever they observed in the course of four hours or five hours, or whatever it was OK.
I just wanted to make sure I know Mrs Bellamy has been telling me about this, and I need to get some of my residents.
Both of us need to work on them.
And in addition to the unreleased social gathering, because I think We need to bring out the big guns here.
So.
Uh, thank you for clarifying that, and I want to thank all of you for serving on this committee very important, and we
serving on this committee very important, and we're and we do great work for our city.
Thank you.
Thank you?
I know it
great work for our city. Thank you. Thank you? I know it's a quality of life fishes and probably health issue.
Um, Mr Hernandez.
OK?
Alright.
Uh Mr Schroder.
Thank you so much for coming to the, uh, North College Park community Association, uh, to introduce yourself and and familiarize the the members a little bit more about, uh, the board.
Mr Hernandez.
I think we need a motion to extend the motion to extend the meeting?
All in favor say and the opposed to the extension.
Made an next time Please go ahead continue.
No one wants to be here as late as this, But.
Here.
We are, um my frame of reference is all remind everyone is 1230, but, uh, Mr Schroder, the only question I have and it
uh, Mr Schroder, the only question I have and it's gonna It
question I have and it's gonna It's gonna kind of defer.
It
question I have and it's gonna It's gonna kind of defer. It's gonna be a little bit not contentious, but certainly not not to everyone
contentious, but certainly not not to everyone's, uh, typical approach to noise, but let
not to everyone's, uh, typical approach to noise, but let's say a resident when it gets warmer, uh, wants to have some sort of host some sort of party.
Uh uh, some sort of gathering.
Uh, Backyard, uh, is there a process for them to to to to speak to their neighbors about trying to not get sighted?
Uh, I
trying to not get sighted? Uh, I'm just thinking off the top of my head that there are there.
There are families that live in my district that maybe they have good relationships with their neighbors and want to ask them.
Hey, you know, we we wanna throw a little event.
Is there a process for for them to be able to do that.
So Let
there a process for for them to be able to do that. So Let's get real OK.
Um, but the the the The the complaints.
Are brought by human beings.
Before Noise board.
They
brought by human beings. Before Noise board. They're also consists of human beings, Um If you have If.
You have a social gathering without amplified music.
In your backyard.
It is quite possible that the that the decibels of conversation will cross the decibels.
In the ordinance.
That does not mean anybody is going to be calling the the the noise, the noise officer And it doesn
the the the noise, the noise officer And it doesn't mean that they
officer And it doesn't mean that they're going to to bring it to to Board.
And if it does come to the board.
We were, we might well, listen and say Oh, People were talking to each other and and and and it was kind of bothersome after about 930.
Um, but was it unreasonable?
Um And so We get complaints that we that That.
We Decide are, you know not reasonable.
Um, even if They
We Decide are, you know not reasonable. Um, even if They're technically within bounds, OK?
It is a subjective decision.
Um I
It is a subjective decision. Um I'll have to say that so we have I mean we we have Decided not to find violations for barking dogs.
We
not to find violations for barking dogs. We've decided not to find violations for for construction.
Uh, well, actually, we
construction. Uh, well, actually, we've never had a complaint about construction and your own house during regular day daytime hours.
Um, we have we have.
There was a case where?
Where is where a school had had, Uh or, uh, educational organization had kids that went outdoors and the kids made noise when they went outdoors.
We, didn
kids made noise when they went outdoors. We, didn't we did not find a violation, All right?
This is a re this is this is what the law calls a reasonable man situation.
The woman.
I.
I greatly appreciate that, And.
That
greatly appreciate that, And. That's really That
greatly appreciate that, And. That's really That's really a relief to hear, uh that it
That's really That's really a relief to hear, uh that it's subjective when I went to NC PC a.
I said I.
I have advice for you.
If.
You don
a. I said I. I have advice for you. If. You don't want to get to get excited for a noise violation.
You can you can crank your music up as loud as you want to.
If you keep all if you keep it all indoors and the doors and windows are closed.
Nobody
doors and windows are closed. Nobody's gonna complain.
It doesn
Nobody's gonna complain. It doesn't matter how high the decibel level is.
Thank you?
It has to be at the property line right that this will allow.
Alright.
Um, let
right that this will allow. Alright. Um, let's just start the second by.
Let
Alright. Um, let's just start the second by. Let's Let
Alright. Um, let's just start the second by. Let's Let's do quick because two council you your question about, um U MD.
I just asked the the city manager because I know I wasn
just asked the the city manager because I know I wasn't going a little bit crazy, but maybe sometimes, but, um We do have, um MD police to help us with concurrent jurisdiction, But I guess we haven
concurrent jurisdiction, But I guess we haven't brought him back to the table to talk and discuss about what our expectations are, so I think that
expectations are, so I think that's something we need to bring them back to the table to manage the expectation.
Because.
This is the issue and and we can
This is the issue and and we can't have the noise board trying to do their work and contract.
Please try to do their work if we don
contract. Please try to do their work if we don't have you MD police here at the table as well, So it takes all four entities to work together if we
entities to work together if we're gonna achieve success.
So.
Thank you, um was the second bit.
It
Thank you, um was the second bit. It's not a second bite.
It
bit. It's not a second bite. It's building on, uh, MM what Miss Mitchell just said sorry.
But.
I was just gonna say I
Miss Mitchell just said sorry. But. I was just gonna say I'll say a second, but go ahead.
I was going to say just very briefly.
You know, I Think University of Maryland Police were guards their primary jurisdiction is just that the primary jurisdiction on campus and their concurrent jurisdiction as like.
A.
Distant distant second.
Um In fact you know, I as somebody who lives in the concurrent jurisdiction and we really only see them off campus during spring Break Winter break and sometimes during the summer, So I.
I think that that
sometimes during the summer, So I. I think that that's probably why what Mr Young is saying is true is I mean they
why what Mr Young is saying is true is I mean they're busy on campus, and they
true is I mean they're busy on campus, and they're shorthanded, too.
So, um, I suspect Even with 99 Sony officers.
You think they
with 99 Sony officers. You think they're short?
Alright, Um what was the second bias?
Doctor Esther, right.
Yes.
I wanted to ask a question.
I see how many hearings have been held within a certain period of time?
How.
Many complaints would you say, um, are received in a in a year.
I was just thinking about that, I would say maybe five.
OK we?
We get maybe five, but that so As I said the tip of the iceberg We