Showing posts with label Westminster File PA Ave Comm. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Westminster File PA Ave Comm. Show all posts

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Westminster MD appoints Arts and Culture Task Force

Westminster MD appoints Arts and Culture Task Force http://tinyurl.com/yfnr6yr #art

Click here for a larger image: http://twitpic.com/nct5s or here: http://kevindayhoff.tumblr.com/post/226636303/westminster-md-appoints-arts-and-culture-task
At the October 26, 2009 meeting of the Westminster mayor and Common Council, the council approved the recommendations of mayor Kevin Utz to appoint councilwoman Suzanne Albert; Sandy Oxx, from the Carroll County Arts Council; Beth Gerl and Sue Bloom, from McDaniel College; Jackie Finch and Lyndi McNulty, from the Tri-Street Area Advisory Committee; property Owners Ed Maiello, Lou Chang, Lloyd Helt; artists Sarah DeLuca and Bob Coffey; to the new committee. Pamela Zappardino will serve as the Chairperson of the Task Force.

Pictured are left to right: Westminster councilwoman Suzanne Albert, Lyndi McNulty, Westminster mayor Kevin Utz, Sandy Oxx, Jackie Finch, and committee chair Dr. Pam Zappardino. October 26, 2009 by Kevin Dayhoff [20091026 CowMCC Mtg (10)]

Keep them in your prayers…
Art Carroll Co Arts Council, Dayhoff Daily Photoblog, Dayhoff photos, Dayhoff photos Wster gov't, People McNulty-Lyndi, People Zappardino-Pam, Westminster Council Albert S, Dayhoff Daily Photoblog, Dayhoff photos Wster gov't, Westminster Art Culture Artists, Westminster File PA Ave, Westminster File PA Ave Comm, Westminster Mayor 2009 Utz Kevin, Art Artists Culture Carroll Co,

Related: “The Journalist and the snallygaster” http://tinyurl.com/yhnjnb6 Witches politicians journalists too http://twitpic.com/n4dt9 & http://twitpic.com/n4k7r - - “Journalist may have been startled by snallygaster at city meeting - The snallygasters of Westminster’s Emerald Hill” - The Westminster city council report by Kevin Dayhoff October 26, 2009 Read the entire story here: http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2009/10/journalist-and-snallygaster.html http://tinyurl.com/yhnjnb6

Also related: Nancy Hernandez gives a presentation about upcoming services and programs from the Community Media Center to a friendly witch and the Westminster mayor and Common Council at their meeting at Westminster City Hall last Monday, October 26, 2009 http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2009/10/hernandez-gives-presentation-to.html http://tinyurl.com/yzsdexq http://tinyurl.com/yzsdexq or here: http://kevindayhoff.tumblr.com/post/226357461/hernandez-gives-presentation-2-friendly-witch

For more information, please see: Dayhoff literature of the absurd, Dayhoff writing essays, Journalists Schutt-Bryan Schutt, People Zappardino-Pam, Westminster Annual Halloween, Westminster Council Mtgs, Westminster PW Dir Jeff Glass, Annual Halloween, Dayhoff erratum reductio ad absurdum, Dayhoff writing essays people, Dayhoff writing essays politics, People Glass-Jeff, Westminster Council Meeting Notes, Westminster Council Albert S, Westminster Council Chiavacci Tony, Westminster Council Pres Halstad Damian, Westminster Council Wack, Westminster Mayor 2009 Utz Kevin, Community Media Center, Dayhoff Daily Photoblog, Dayhoff photos, Dayhoff photos people,

The press release from the city of Westminster is pasted below:

CITY OF WESTMINSTER
56 West Main Street
Westminster, MD 21157
Phone 410-848-9000
Fax 410-857-7476

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Thomas Beyard
October 26, 2009 Phone: 410-848-9000

ARTS AND CULTURE TASK FORCE APPOINTED

Tri-Street Area Advisory Committee selects members for important group

Westminster, MD - Mayor Kevin Utz appointed the newly formed "Arts and Culture Task Force" as part of the Tri-Street Area Advisory Committee Task Force activities. The Mayor and Common Council created the Tri-Street Area Advisory Committee ('Tri-Street Committee") in 2008 to address neighborhood issues and concerns in the area of Pennsylvania Avenue, Union Street and West Main Street, with the objective of creating an action plan for improvement. The Task Force was chaired by Councilman Greg Pecoraro and Councilwoman Suzanne Albert served as the vice chair. The twenty member committee met five times and presented its final report on March 9, 2009. That report was unanimously accepted by the Mayor and Common Council and implementation of its recommendations has begun.

Under the goal of building economic vitality, the report recommended the creation of a task force of representatives from the City, Carroll County Arts Council, Tri-Street Area Advisory Committee, property owners, artisans and others, to be called the "Arts and Culture Task Force", to develop an "arts, culture and small business overlay zone" for the Tri-Street neighborhood. The report urged the task force to focus on the Carroll Arts Center as a critical anchor in the Tri-Street neighborhood and to work to generate public support for the efforts of the Carroll County Arts Council to enhance this important facility and its programs.

Mayor Utz offered the following appointments to the newly formed "Arts and Culture Task Force."

"Arts and Culture Task Force"

Mayor and Council: Councilwoman Suzanne Albert

Carroll County Arts Council: Sandy Oxx and Councilwoman Suzanne Albert (Council Liaison to the Carroll County Arts Council)

McDaniel College: Beth Gerl and Sue Bloom

Tri-Street Area Advisory Committee: Jackie Finch and Lyndi McNulty

Property Owners Ed Maiello, Lou Chang, Lloyd Helt

Artisans Sarah DeLuca and Bob Coffey

Pamela Zappardino will serve as the Chairperson of the Task Force.

The date, time, and location for the first meeting has not been finalized, but the group will hold the meetings at the Carroll County Arts Center.

For questions or further information, please contact Tom Beyard at 410-848-9000.

# # #

The City of Westminster Administration Department is located at 56 West Main Street. This department oversees all of the departments in the General Government and is the central location for the City. For more information, call 410-848-9000 or visit www.westmmstermd.gov.

*****

Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: http://www.kevindayhoff.net/ Kevin Dayhoff Art: http://www.kevindayhoffart.com/ Kevin Dayhoff Westminster: http://www.westgov.net/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevindayhoff Twitpic: http://twitpic.com/photos/kevindayhoff Kevin Dayhoff's The New Bedford Herald: http://kbetrue.livejournal.com/

*****
Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: http://www.kevindayhoff.net/ Kevin Dayhoff Art: http://www.kevindayhoffart.com/
My http://www.explorecarroll.com/ columns appear in the copy of the Baltimore Sunday Sun that is distributed in Carroll County: https://subscribe.baltsun.com/Circulation/

Monday, October 26, 2009

Westminster Mayor and Common Council Meeting agenda

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND

Mayor and Common Council Meeting of October 26, 2009

1. CALL TO ORDER

Recognition of Barbara Rodbell for service on Parks & Recreation Board
Appointment of Kevin Wagman to Historic District Commission
Re-appointment of Kristin McMasters to Historic District Commission
Community Media Center Presentation – Nancy Hernandez

2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE MEETING September 24, 2009

3. CONSENT CALENDAR

Approval of Acting City Clerk
Update the City Code
September 2009 Departmental Operating Reports

4. REPORT FROM THE MAYOR

5. BIDS:

Bids for water meter replacement installation project – Jeff Glass

6. ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS:

Resolution 09-9 – Revised Debt Management Policy to meet the requirements of the State of Maryland Chapter 693 of the Laws of 2009, to be filed with the State Treasurer – Gary Ehlers

7. REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES

8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

a. None as of October 23, 2009

9. NEW BUSINESS

Presentation of the Tri-Street Six Month Status Report
Appointment of “Arts and Culture Task Force”

10. DEPARTMENT REPORTS

11. CITIZEN COMMENTS

12. ADJOURN

20091026 sdsom Westminster MCC Mtg agenda
*****
Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: http://www.kevindayhoff.net/ Kevin Dayhoff Art: http://www.kevindayhoffart.com/ Kevin Dayhoff Westminster: http://www.westgov.net/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevindayhoff Twitpic: http://twitpic.com/photos/kevindayhoff Kevin Dayhoff's The New Bedford Herald: http://kbetrue.livejournal.com/
*****
Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: http://www.kevindayhoff.net/ Kevin Dayhoff Art: http://www.kevindayhoffart.com/
My http://www.explorecarroll.com/ columns appear in the copy of the Baltimore Sunday Sun that is distributed in Carroll County: https://subscribe.baltsun.com/Circulation/

Monday, March 9, 2009

Westminster Mayor and Council Meeting Agenda for March 9, 2009


Westminster Mayor and Council Meeting Agenda for March 9, 2009

City Council

City Council Members Minutes of City Council Meetings

AGENDA

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND

Mayor and Common Council Meeting of March 9, 2009

1. CALL TO ORDER – 7:00 P.M.

Mayor’s Proclamation – Historic Belle Grove Square Neighborhood Association

Mayor’s Proclamation – Tri-Street Community Association

Appointment of New Recreation and Parks Advisory Board Member, Mr. Matt Purkins

2. MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF FEBRUARY 23, 2009

3. PUBLIC HEARING:

Revised Capital Improvement Program (CIP) F.Y. 2009 - 2014

4. CONSENT CALENDAR:

License Agreement – Exploratory Well Drilling – Union Mills

5. REPORTS FROM THE MAYOR

6. REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES

Tri-Street Area Advisory Committee Report

7. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS:

Resolution No. R09-2 – Solid Waste Rules

8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

a. Adoption of Revised Capital Improvement Program (CIP) F.Y. 2009 – 2014

9. NEW BUSINESS:

a. None as of March 5, 2009

10. DEPARTMENT REPORTS

11. CITIZEN COMMENTS

12. ADJOURN

20090309 Westminster Mayor and Council Meeting Agenda
Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/
Kevin Dayhoff: www.westgov.net Westminster Maryland Online www.westminstermarylandonline.net http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.com/

Monday, January 5, 2009

Police: Speeding, truck traffic not a problem on Pennsylvania Avenue By Mary Scott

January 5th, 2009

I’m just catching up on my reading after the hectic holidays and being away for the last week and I came across this article in the Carroll County Times.

Oh my. I can only be sure that this report from the Westminster Police Department did not sit well with some of the folks up on Pennsylvania Avenue in Westminster who like to sustain attention to themselves by keeping a steady drumbeat of doom and gloom and therefore stay relevant by maintaining an air of crisis.

Police: Speeding, truck traffic not a problem on Pennsylvania Avenue By Mary Scott, Landmark News Service

Saturday, December 27, 2008

Despite resident concerns about truck traffic and speeding vehicles on Pennsylvania Avenue, data compiled by the Westminster Police Department shows that the two issues are not major safety risks.

Although truck traffic on Pennsylvania Avenue is 2.4 times higher than the average amount of truck traffic on other roadways of its type, Westminster Police Chief Jeffrey Spaulding said there’s no objective evidence that the trucks have contributed a significant level of collisions, property damage or injuries, according to data he presented at a recent meeting of the Tri-Street Area Advisory Committee, which centered on various traffic issues.

Read the entire article here: Police: Speeding, truck traffic not a problem on Pennsylvania Avenue By Mary Scott, Landmark News Service

http://www.carrollcountytimes.com/articles/2008/12/27/news/local_news/newsstory5.txt

20081227 Speeding truck traffic not a problem on PA Ave by Mary Scott


Kevin Dayhoff: www.westgov.net Westminster Maryland Online www.westminstermarylandonline.net http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.com/

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Westminster Council meeting minutes for August 11 2008

Westminster Council meeting minutes for August 11 2008

http://www.westgov.com/citygovernment/minutes/081108.asp

Approved August 25, 2008

City Council

Minutes of City Council Meetings Agenda for next City Council Meeting

Minutes of City of Westminster Council Meeting

August 11, 2008

QUORUM:

A meeting of The Mayor and Common Council was held in the John Street Quarters of the Westminster Fire Company, 28 John Street, on the evening of August 11, 2008 at 7:00 P.M. Mayor Ferguson; Council President Chiavacci; Council Members Albert, Wack, Utz, and Pecoraro; City Administrator Wolf; Chief Spaulding; Director of Public Works Glass; Director of Recreation and Parks Schroers; City Attorney Walsh; and City Clerk Taylor were present. Director of Planning, Zoning and Development Beyard and City Treasurer Unger were excused from attending.

Robin Ford, the developer of the King’s Overlook subdivision, presented the City with a check in the amount of $35,000 for renovation and expansion of the tot lot at King’s Park.

Mayor Ferguson presented a Proclamation to William Ehmann commending him for the award of his Eagle Scout Badge after some fifty years of lost paperwork establishing that he had completed the requirements was found through the efforts of his family. The Mayor next presented Mr. Ehmann with a full-sized flag of the City.

SPECIAL PRESENTATION:

Mr. Schroers introduced the Ad Hoc Committee for renovations to the Westminster Skate Park: Steve Vogel, Bob Lloyd, Jim Marks, Brice Foxwell, Bryan Vana, and Kate Engel. Mr. Schroers added that several of the students and staff at the Career and Vocational Technology had been actively and enthusiastically involved in the planning and design of the center. Mr. Marks and Mr. Vogel summarized the history of the Skate Park and presented the plan for its renovation. They further thanked the students and staffl. Ms. Engel, Principal of the Center, thanked the Mayor and Common Council for the giving students the opportunity to help with the planning and renovations. She noted that they were quite eager to return to school in the fall and resume work on the project. Council President Chiavacci thanked everyone for their involvement and added that he looked forward to the ribbon cutting in the spring. He commended the Committee members for their expertise and dedication.

MINUTES:

Mrs. Albert moved to approve the minutes of the meeting of July 28, 2008. Mr. Utz seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES:

Council President Chiavacci announced that he requested Mr. Pecoraro and Mrs. Albert to serve as the chair and vice-chair, respectively, of the recently re-formed Pennsylvania Avenue Committee. Mr. Pecoraro indicated he would meet with Ms. Wolf the following week to discuss the Committee’s schedule. He remarked that he was pleased by the number of people interested in participating.

Mrs. Albert thanked Mr. Glass for working to resolve the security lighting problems at the Westminster Cemetery.

Mr. Utz thanked Chief Spaulding and his staff for the National Night Out the preceding Tuesday.

ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS:

Ms. Wolf summarized Resolution No. R08-9, which would approve submission of an application to the Department of Housing and Community Development of the State of Maryland for funding under the Main Street Improvement Program and the Maple Street Initiative. The funding would consist of $12,000 Main Street Improvement funds for new trash receptacles and $15,000 in Maple Street Initiative funds for a “Paint Up, Fix Up” residential façade improvement program. Dr. Wack moved to adopt the Resolution. Mr. Pecoraro seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS:

Council President Chiavacci asked Ms. Wolf to convey the congratulations of the Mayor and Common Council to Mr. Beyard for receiving his Master’s Degree in Business Administration.

Ms. Wolf reported that a meeting with the auditors for the annual audit would take place the next morning.

Chief Spaulding announced that the police would be conducting their first sobriety checkpoint in the City.

Mr. Schroers noted that Fallfest would take place between September 24 and September 28.

Mr. Glass announced that well drilling on the Gesell property began the preceding Wednesday. So far, one well is yielding 250 gallons per minute.

With regard to the road repaving contract, Mr. Glass noted that the bid opening had been rescheduled for September in the hopes that the price of asphalt would improve.

President and C.E.O. of the Westminster Fire Company gave a report on the number of calls responded to in July.

CITIZEN COMMENTS:

City resident Gerald Sheeler spoke in favor of imposing a curfew on minors. He also expressed concern about the expense of obtaining peace orders.

City resident Debbie Hawke asked that consideration be given to increasing the fine for illegal parking in handicapped spaces. Council President Chiavacci responded that the Police Chief and the Public Works Committee would make a recommendation at the next regular meeting.

Council President Chiavacci adjourned the meeting at 8:03 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,
Laurell E. Taylor
City Clerk


20080811 Westminster Council meeting minutes for August 11 2008

Thursday, September 19, 2002

20020918 Pennsylvania Ave Advisory Task Force Sept. 18, 2002 Committee Report

Westminster Scrapbook Pennsylvania Ave Advisory Task Force Sept. 18, 2002 Committee Report

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND

Report and Recommendations

September 18, 2002

Advisory Task Force Committee

On

Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Initiative

City of Westminster

P.O. Box 710 – City Hall
Westminster, Maryland 21158

I. Introduction

At it’s May 13, 2002 meeting, The Mayor and Common Council of Westminster unanimously established the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Committee. Thereafter, on Wednesday, June 12, 2002, Council President Damian Halstad convened the Advisory Task Force (“Committee”) consisting of clergy, residents and business owners which was charged with reviewing and making preliminary recommendations to The Mayor and Common Council under a venture titled the “Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Initiative.” The area of the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Initiative is highlighted in Attachment 1. The following persons were appointed to the Committee.

Lower Pennsylvania Advisory Task Force Committee

The Honorable Jerry Barnes
Pastor Howard Hinson
Thomas B. Beyard
Darlyn Horgos
Jim Billingslea
Eric Horgos
Councilman Roy Chiavacci
Chief Roger Joneckis
Carter Clews
Jonathan Mawhinney
Nancy Ensor
Rebecca Orenstein
Debbie Finch
Nancy Palmer
Jackie Finch
Councilman Greg Pecoraro
Monica Gomez
Mark Pohlhaus
Lori Graham
Tonia Pope
Thomas Hallman
Dr. Phil Sayre
Council Pres. Damian Halstad
Dr. Ethan Seidel
Darcel Harris
Andrew Shaw
Edith Haschert
Deborah Sims
Pastor David Helfrich
Thomas Smith


State Resource Team

Governor’s Office of Smart Growth
Maryland Department of Planning
Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
Maryland Department of Transportation
Carroll County Office of the State’s Attorney

Prior to its initial meeting, Council President Halstad sent the Committee a series of questions designed to provide state and local officials with an assessment of the current condition of the neighborhood as well as the Committee’s vision for the future of the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue area. The questions posed were:

1. What things would you preserve in the lower Pennsylvania Avenue Neighborhood?

2, What things would you change in the lower Pennsylvania Avenue neighborhood if you could? What would you do to make those changes possible?

3. What new things would you do in the lower Pennsylvania Avenue neighborhood that is not being done to make things better?

The responses to those questions highlighted strengths and weaknesses of the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Area. As a result, officials from the City and State developed the following five topics which would be discussed by the Committee.

1. June 27, 2002 - Municipal Code Enforcement

2. July 10, 2002 – Crime Prevention

3. July 24, 2002 - Landlord Accountability

4. August 21, 2002 - Local Zoning Code/Smart Codes

5. September 5, 2002 - Homeownership Initiative/Neighborhood Aesthetics

These general topics were identified as possible areas whereby the City could address the current condition of the neighborhood as well as accommodating the Committee’s vision for the future of the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue area. Attachment 2 includes an agenda from each meeting.

Prior to each Committee meeting, City and State officials worked cooperatively on developing a list of “Best Practices” which are currently being used throughout the State. State Officials who had thorough knowledge of each topic then presented the “Best Practices”. At the conclusion of each meeting the Committee was given an opportunity to discuss the proposed “Best Practices” and was able to develop a list of policies and implementation schedule it would forward to The Mayor and Common Council for its review. Many of those “Best Practices” involved had previously been undertaken by the City.

II. Municipal Code Enforcement

On June 27, 2002, the Committee focused on the City’s Municipal Code Enforcement. The “Best Practices” that were presented to the Committee are as follows:

· Landlord Licensing
· Fire Code Discussion
· Habitual Offending Homes Padlock Policy
· Registration of All Rental Properties
· Expansion of Current Property Maintenance Regulations to include the facades Commercial and Owner Occupied Properties
· Registration of Agents
· Streamlined Violation Decision Making Process

A. Landlord Licensing

Overview

Implement a landlord licensing pilot program which would use the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Initiative area as a model. The licensing program would require that owners of rental occupied housing obtain a license from the City of Westminster. Licenses would only be issued to property owners that successfully pass an annual inspection of the entire property including interior inspections. The license process would also require the landlord or an agent of the landlord to provide contact information which would be used by City staff. The objective of this program is to reverse the physical decline of the neighborhood and provide a safe and healthy community for its residents.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this program.

Timeline for Consideration

6 months - Department of Planning and Public Works staff and City Attorney to draft an ordinance for consideration by The Mayor and Common Council.

Licensing fees may need to be imposed to cover additional staff considerations.

City Staff Contact: Thomas B. Beyard

B. Habitual Offending Homes Padlock Policy

Overview

Implement a Habitual Offending Homes Padlock policy which would allow the City to place a padlock on rental properties which house habitual drug offenses. This policy pertains to drug dealing and drug possession. A similar policy has been in effect for some time in Baltimore City. Once a property is discovered to have two drug offenses within a year, the City would have the ability to place a padlock on the property which would then physically bar the property owner from renting the property. This program is designed to encourage better cooperation between the City’s Code Enforcement Officials and the City’s Police Department, as well as encourage better tenant screening by landlords.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to consideration of this program.

Timeline for Consideration

12-18 months - Westminster Police Department, City Code Officials and City Attorney to develop ordinance and program for implementation.

This program will create additional workload for the abovementioned parties. The City will have to create an extensive database in order to track drug offenses.

City Staff Contact: Chief Roger Joneckis

C. Abatement of Nuisance Actions

Overview

Initiate a cooperative effort with the Office of the State’s Attorney to enforce Section 14-120 of the Real Property Code of the State of Maryland. This statute addresses repeat offenses or repeat nuisances in a particular location. Action against a landlord or a tenant under this provision may be brought either by the City of Westminster, State’s Attorney’s Office or a Civic Organization. This approach offers progressively stronger sanctions against a particularly troubled property if there is no effort to rid the property of the nuisance or the offenses. The ultimate sanction against a landlord is demolition of the property.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this initiative.

Timeline for Consideration

0-6 months – City staff and City Attorney must coordinate with Office of State’s Attorney to devise a work plan which would assist in the development and implementation of this program.

City Staff Contact: Thomas B. Beyard

D. Streamlined Violation Decision Making Process

Overview

Investigate whether or not the City should establish an administrative judge which would consider Municipal Code violations. This official would be appointed by The Mayor and Common Council and could potentially streamline the decision making process.

Encourage cooperation between local District Court Judges and the City of Westminster pertaining to Municipal Code Violations. This program would investigate the ability of the City to secure a date in court on a monthly basis which solely consists of the City’s Property Maintenance Code Violations.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this initiative.


Timeline for Consideration

12 – 24 months - City Code Officials and City Attorney investigate and make a recommendation to The Mayor and Common Council regarding the appointment of an administrative judge to consider Municipal Code Violations.

6-12 months – City Code Enforcement Officials contact the Administrative Judge of the State of Maryland Carroll County District Court. This action will determine whether or not the City has enough Municipal Code Infractions to secure a set date and time on a monthly basis in which the entire docket during that time frame would be allocated to the City’s Municipal Code Violations.

City Staff Contact: Thomas B. Beyard

E. Registration of All Rental Properties and Registration of Agents

Overview

Investigate whether or not all rental properties should be required to register with the City of Westminster as well as the registration of the agents of all properties within the City. Based upon the findings of the Property Maintenance Code Annual Report, City staff has recommended that a registered agent must live within twenty-five miles of the City of Westminster. This facilitates locating a contact person if the need arises.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

The Mayor and Common Council introduced an ordinance on July 22, 2002 which was adopted on August 12, 2002, implementing implement these two programs.

City Staff Contact: Thomas B. Beyard

F. Expansion of Property Maintenance Code to Include the facades of Commercial & Owner Occupied Properties

Overview

Investigate whether or not the City should expand the Property Maintenance Code Regulations to include all owner occupied units as well as commercial units.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

The Mayor and Common Council introduced an ordinance on July 22, 2002 which was adopted on August 12, 2002, implementing implement these two programs.

City Staff Contact: Thomas B. Beyard

III. Crime prevention program

On July 10, 2002, the Committee focused on the City’s Crime Prevention Program. The “Best Practices” that were presented to the Committee are as follows:

· Arrest Inventory
· Citizen Block Watch
· Community Policing Initiative
· Economic Subsidies for Police Housing in the Lower PA Avenue Area

A. Arrest Inventory

Overview

Investigate whether the Westminster Police Department should consider establishing a database which inventories the arrest activity in the Lower PA Avenue Initiative area. This program would give City Police an accurate assessment of the type and location of criminal activity. With this information, the Westminster Police Department would have the opportunity to focus its efforts in an appropriate manner. The Westminster Police Department will coordinate with appropriate agencies to assist in the development of the inventory.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

6- 12 months to establish procedures for implementation of this procedure. Due to the administrative nature of this practice, no legislative action would be required of The Mayor and Common Council. However, support of this program by The Mayor and Common Council would be critical due to the increased workload of Westminster Police Officers and possible expense of creating such an inventory.

City Staff Contact: Chief Roger Joneckis

B. Citizen Block Watch

Overview

This effort would provide residents of the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue area training in detecting criminal activity and how to properly report criminal activity. This program would also team the Westminster Police Department with the local media sources to promote programs that the Westminster Police Department Offers. This would be an exhaustive effort to market all programs which are managed by the Westminster Police Department. This effort would also provide the patrol officer with a mobile phone in which residents would have the officer’s contact number. As a result of this discussion, the Committee recommended that additional street lighting be placed in the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue area to make pedestrians feel more secure at night.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

0-6 months to consider equipping patrol officers with a mobile phone that the residents of the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue area would have access to. The City of Westminster will apply for grants through the State of Maryland to fund street lighting in the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue area. Additional street lighting for Pennsylvania Avenue is included in the FY 02-03 – FY 07-08 Capital Improvements Program if no grant funding is available to the City to expedite the installation. The Westminster Police Department currently has an active program in place for resident training. Through the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Advisory Task Force the Westminster Police Department is encouraging more residents to become involved with citizen policing. The Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention has offered staff assistance for program development.

City Staff Contact: Chief Roger Joneckis

C. Community Policing Initiative

Overview

This effort would require extensive coordination on the part of The Mayor and Common Council, Westminster Police Department, State’s Attorney’s Office, Office of Juvenile Justice, Office of Parole and Probation, City of Westminster Code Enforcement and McDaniel College. The focus of this initiative is to develop two teams which would coordinate the community policing effort. Initially, the Police Probation Team would consist of a patrol officer and caseworkers from the Office of Parole and Probation and Office of Juvenile Justice. The Police Probation Team would be responsible for the day to day monitoring of criminal activity.

The Community Police Community Supervision Team would consist of representatives from the Westminster Police Department, State’s Attorney’s Office, Office of Juvenile Justice, Office of Parole and Probation, City of Westminster Code Enforcement and McDaniel College. This team would utilize the resources offered by local drug rehabilitation centers, vocational training centers, local Chamber of Commerce, Board of Education and other parties which could assist the Police Probation Team in developing and locating programs which assist in the rehabilitation of offenders.

As a result of this discussion, the Committee also recommended that the report include the opening of a Police Probation Team Office in the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Area. Due to the “hands on” nature of this initiative, the Committee has indicated its desire to have a substation in the area.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

12-36 months to receive support from the necessary parties to implement this strategy. Due to the extensive cooperation that is required from this effort, it will be critical to have the support of all the aforementioned parties prior to implementing this program. There will be extensive consideration given to the staffing of the Police Probation Team which may require shifting duties of various employees that are employed by different government entities. The Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention has committed staff resources to assist in developing this program.

City Staff Contact: Chief Roger Joneckis

D. Economic Subsidies for Police Housing in the Lower PA Avenue Area

Overview

To provide an economic subsidy to Westminster Police Officers who choose to live in the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Area. The City currently funds the Live Near Your Work Program which is in part funded through the City and the State of Maryland. The Police Department will also consider partnering with owners of rental property that may be in a position to provide rental subsidies to police officers that live in a rental unit. The Westminster Police Department also has a “take home” vehicle policy which allows officers to take their vehicles home provided they live within the City of Westminster.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

6 – 12 months - for the Westminster Police Department to attempt to establish a relationship with a property owner(s) in the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue area which may have the financial ability to provide rental-housing subsidies to Westminster Police Officers.

City Staff Contact: Chief Roger Joneckis

E. Designated Emergency Telephone Booths

Overview

Investigate whether or not the City should establish one or more “Emergency Telephone Booths” along the street in the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Initiative Target Area. Individuals in distress would press a call button on the station, automatically alerting the dispatcher to the individual’s position in addition to providing an audio connection. College campuses across the Country, including McDaniel College, employ similar “Blue Light Phones” that flash a light when the call button is pressed, alerting anyone in the area to the emergency. The high visibility, ease of use, and accessible design of the proposed stations seek to deter crime through faster reporting and response times.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

12 – 36 months – for the Westminster Police Department to determine potential sites and cost estimates/funding sources for the station(s). The appropriate technology would then have to be purchased and installed. A plan to mitigate potential abuse of the telephones should also be developed.

City Staff Contact: Chief Roger Joneckis

F. Police Substation on Pennsylvania Avenue

Overview

Investigate whether the Westminster Police Department should establish a police substation on Pennsylvania Avenue. The substation would provide a constant police presence in the neighborhood and create a local “safe haven” for residents. Officers would complete administrative duties during shifts in the substation as well as be available to respond to calls for emergency assistance.

The proposed substation differs from the Police Probation Team Office introduced in Section C above. The team office would provide meeting space in the community for Community Policing activities, while the substation would house a uniformed officer on duty to respond to incidents as they occur.

Committee Recommendation

Committee formed a subcommittee with the direction to study the costs and benefits of a police substation. The subcommittee returned an un-favorable recommendation on this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

12 – 36 months – to consider whether or not the City has the available staffing and financial resources for a police substation in the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue area. Officials must also determine if a substation would represent the most effective use of these resources. Support of this program by The Mayor and Common Council would be critical due to the significant expense of establishing a field office and the increased workload of Westminster Police Officers.

City Staff Contact: Chief Roger Joneckis

G. Youth Curfew

Overview

A curfew on Pennsylvania Avenue would require persons under the age of 18 to be accompanied by an adult between specified hours at night. The curfew would apply to public spaces in the target area. The Committee recommended that City staff review Union Bridge’s Municipal Curfew policy which could be used as a model. The implementation of a curfew would be designed to reduce crime through the increased supervision of youth on the Avenue.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to the consideration of this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration:

12 – 36 months – to establish procedures for implementation as well as determine legality of such a proposal.

City Staff Contact: Chief Roger Joneckis.

H. Emergency Cellular Phone Program

Overview

To develop a program in which residents within the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Target Area would be able to receive a free cellular phone which would be deactivated, yet, retains the ability to dial 911 for emergencies.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to the consideration of this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration:

0 – 6 months – to establish a program for Westminster Police Department to collect used cellular phones that have been deactivated.

City Staff Contact: Chief Roger Joneckis.

IV. LANDLORD OUTREACH PROGRAM

On July 24, 2002, the Committee focused on the City’s Landlord Outreach Program. The “Best Practices” that were presented to the Committee are as follows:

· Landlord Education Partnership
· Financial Assistance for Landlords

A. Landlord Education Partnership

Overview

This effort would provide landlords an opportunity to attend training sessions sponsored by the City of Westminster which specifically focus on establishing a successful rental program. The programs offered by the City would be a series of quarterly workshops with experts from the surrounding area which can offer technical assistance to local landlords. The Carroll County Landlords Association currently offers a landlord-mentoring program which provides technical assistance to landlords within its association.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

12-24 months for the City of Westminster’s Office of Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization to establish a quarterly training series designed to provide technical assistance to local landlords. Due to the publications and speaking fees required for this type of program, participants would have to pay a fee in order to attend.

City Staff Contact: Karen K. Blandford and the Carroll County Landlords Association

V. LOCAL ZONING CODE/SMART CODES

On July 24, 2002, the Committee focused on the City’s Local Zoning Code/Smart Codes. The “Best Practices” that were presented to the Committee are as follows:

· Principles of Infill Redevelopment and Design Considerations
· Appropriate Land Use Ordinances
· Administrative Variances

A. Appropriate Land Use Ordinances

Overview

The City of Westminster has received a $10,000 grant from the Maryland Department of Planning to review its zoning code and determine areas which may be suitable for the implementation of more flexible zoning codes. This includes adopting procedures which facilitate infill development and redevelopment. The first of these was to review the land use designations within the Lower PA Avenue Target Area. Investigate whether or not certain commercial uses should be allowed as a special exception use within the Lower PA Avenue Target Area. The uses discussed by the Committee in addition to the underlying residential uses were Bed and Breakfast, Coffee Shop (with hour limitations) and an artist live/work gallery/studio.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

0 – 6 months for the Department of Planning and Public Works to meet with a subcommittee of the Lower PA Avenue Committee and formulate recommendations. At that point, City staff would develop a Zoning Text Amendment which would implement the findings of the subcommittee.

City Staff Contact: Thomas B. Beyard

B. Administrative Variances

Overview

The second procedure outlined in facilitating infill development and redevelopment is to develop an administrative variance process which would be administered by the Director of Planning and Public Works. The enabling legislation is provided to municipalities in Article 66B of the Annotated Code of Maryland. This procedure would authorize the Director of Planning and Public Works to grant administrative variances with respect to building height, size and setbacks without an applicant being required to apply to the Board of Zoning Appeals. This process saves applicants time and expense and providing a more efficient method to consider their requests.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

0 – 6 months for the Department of Planning and Public Works to develop an administrative variance procedure which would be presented to The Mayor and Common Council for its consideration.

City Staff Contact: Thomas B. Beyard

VI. HOMEOWNERSHIP INITIATIVE/NEIGHBORHOOD aESTHETICS

On September 5, 2002, the Committee focused on the City’s Homeownership Initiative/Neighborhood Aesthetics. The “Best Practices” that were presented to the Committee are as follows:

· Community Legacy Overview
· Homeownership Initiatives
· Neighborhood Aesthetics/Streetscape Improvements
· Impact of Limited Transportation – Opportunities for Change?

A. Community Legacy Overview

Overview

The Committee was given a presentation of the Community Legacy Application which was submitted to the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. The projects which were submitted for funding under the Community Legacy Application were:

1. Union Street Community Center: The City has requested $450,000 to help fund construction of a Community Youth Center.

2. Pennsylvania Avenue Street Lights: The City has requested $116,000 to help fund installation of street lighting on Pennsylvania Avenue. Residents will have the opportunity to assist in light selection.

3. Multiple-family Façade Revolving Loan Program: The City has requested $160,000 which would fund a revolving loan program for multiple-family housing units with five (5) or greater units that are not eligible for other funding through other State programs. This program would provide loans for exterior renovations at reduced interest rates.

4. Homeownership Program: The City has requested $10,000 in continuation funds to maintain a homeownership incentive that targets moderate to upper income homebuyers to locate in the “Old Town Westminster Area.”


Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration
0 – 36 months depending on availability of funding from the State.

City Staff Contact: Karen K. Blandford

B. Homeownership Initiatives

Overview

To initiate an Acquisition Rehabilitation Program in which the City would partner with a non profit organization or a neighborhood policy service. This program is in addition to the Affordable Housing Program which offers help for home repair purchase. The second program is to initiate a lease/purchase program which would require a partnership with willing landlords that would be agreeable to this arrangement.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this proposal.

Timeline for Consideration

0 – 36 months depending on availability of funding from the State.

City Staff Contact: Karen K. Blandford

C. Neighborhood Aesthetics/Streetscape Improvements

Overview

To develop a series of streetscape improvements that would reduce the speed of traffic on Pennsylvania Avenue as well as making improvements to the overall appearance of the Avenue. This would include, but is not limited, to the possible narrowing of the travel lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue, creating curb bump outs and installing varied pavement at pedestrian crosswalks. This program would also develop a series of environmental improvements which would enhance the safety of the neighborhood through better design. New and enhanced lighting will be critical to the success of improving the aesthetics of the neighborhood as well as creating a safer environment for pedestrians. Interested Pennsylvania Avenue Residents will have an opportunity to comment on proposed changes prior to the City’s selection.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this program

Timeline for Consideration

0 – 6 months for City staff to incorporate into the streetscape improvements into the City’s Capital Improvement Program. Due to funding constraints, the City will seek financial assistance from Federal funding mechanisms such as the TEA-21 program.

City Staff Contact: Thomas B. Beyard

D. Limited Transportation Opportunities

Overview

To develop a partnership with a local transit agency that would offer transit service to Westminster residents on a regular schedule within the Westminster and Environs area. This proposal would provide residents without personal transportation the opportunity to reach employers and providers of services which may otherwise be limited due to the lack of transportation.

Committee Recommendation

Committee gave a favorable recommendation to this program

Timeline for Consideration

24 – 36 months to develop a partnership with a local transit service which may result in regularly scheduled transit services for all residents. Due to funding considerations, the City will need to seek Federal and State financial assistance to develop a program of this nature.

City Staff Contact: Karen K. Blandford

VII. SUMMARY

The Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Committee proudly submits these recommendations to The Mayor and Common Council of Westminster.

While in the last three years Pennsylvania Avenue has begun the long process of transitioning from a declining neighborhood to a resurgent neighborhood, the Lower Pennsylvania Avenue Area needs additional assistance from The Mayor and Common Council.

The Committee feels these recommendations represent a substantial step in the right direction to establishing Pennsylvania Avenue as one of the premiere neighborhoods in the City of Westminster.