TOWN OF EASTON, MARYLAND
July 21, 2003
Acting President John F. Ford Councilmember Leonard E. Wendowski, Sr.
Councilmember Moonyene Jackson-Amis
Town Clerk Robert F. Karge, Town Attorney Christopher B. Kehoe, Town Engineer Tim Glass, Assistant Town Engineer Joe Gruber, Town Planner Tom Hamilton, Assistant Town Planner Matt Davis, Chief of Police George Harvey, Economic Development Coordinator Al Bond and interested citizens and members of the press.
Ms. Jackson-Amis led the audience in prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.
ELM STREET PUBLIC HEARING POSTPONEMENT
The Acting President of the Council, Mr. Ford, stated that due to scheduling conflicts the County had, the Elm Street Public Hearing will be postponed until August 11 at 7:00 p.m. at the Easton High School auditorium. Mr. Ford stated that the hearing will begin at 6:00 p.m. with an informal opportunity for the public to address the county and town staff and the applicant. He encouraged all interested citizens to appear.
OATH OF OFFICE FOR PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL-ELECT, JOHN F. FORD FOR THE REMAINDER OF A FOUR-YEAR TERM EXPIRING MAY 2005
Mayor Willey administered the oath of office for President of the Council to John F. Ford for the remainder of a four-year term.
Mr. Ford stated that they look forward to having a full Council with the upcoming election to be August 25 for the Ward 1 seat.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JUNE 26 AND JULY 7, 2003 MEETING
Ms. Jackson-Amis submitted the following corrections to the workshop minutes of June 26.
Page 2, 10 lines down, methods of slowing down traffic should be included.
Mr. Atwood stated should be inadequacies of roads not adequacies.
Her suggestion about round-a-bouts at five corners was a specific statement that it should not be done as opposed to asking why.
Mr. Wendowski stated that he was present at that meeting and he wanted the minutes to reflect that he presented Mr. Hamilton with suggested text for affordable housing which was put forth by the affordable housing committee.
Upon motion by Mr. Jensen seconded by Mr. Wendowski and carried unanimously, minutes of the June 26 meeting as amended and minutes of the July 7 meeting were approved.
CHILDREN OF TALBOT PARTNERSHIP TO ADDRESS COUNCIL IN APPRECIATION OF SUPPORT
Miss Kendall Patterson from the Partnership of Talbot County for Wi-Cats, the youth coalition against tobacco, an organization that discourages teenagers from using tobacco were present to thank the Council for their support. She stated that throughout their endeavors, they put out a newspaper every two weeks in the Sunday Star and put commercials in the Easton Movies to advocate their purpose. Also present was Miss Kristie Towers.
RESOLUTION NO. 5810, ABATEMENT OF TAXES FOR TALBOT HOSPICE FOUNDATION, INC. FOR DONATED UNIMPROVED LOT
Upon motion by Mr. Jensen seconded by Ms. Jackson-Amis, Resolution No. 5810 was approved with Mr. Wendowski voting no.
REPORT FROM THE EASTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT, INC.
There was no report at this time. Mr. Ford discussed concerns related to the burning at the
St. Peter & Paul Church project. He asked whose responsibility it is to make sure someone is present during the burning. The Town Clerk stated that it is a condition imposed by the Town of Easton.
PROPOSED COUNCIL CHAMBERS LAYOUT
Mayor Willey stated that the suggestion to re-design the layout was offered by Mr. Hamilton in an effort to set the room up to have everyone look at the speaker. Mayor Willey also suggested an upgrade in the sound system.
Mr. Wendowski suggested going ahead with the changes now.
Mr. Ford agreed and suggested conferring with MCTV.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that the concept is good but recommended looking at the associated costs.
DRAFT ORDINANCE NO. 460, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF EASTON GRANTING THE APPLICATION OF COOKES HOPE, LLC, TRIPPES CREEK, LLC, AND CHESTON LIMITED PARTNERSHIP FOR AN AMENDMENT TO A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT UNDER THE PROVISION OF THE EASTON ZONING ORDINANCE”
The Town Attorney stated that this has been prepared by the Assistant Town Attorney. He asked that comments or suggestions be forwarded to him for incorporation into the final draft to be included for the next Council meeting.
DISCUSSION OF SIDEWALK ALCOHOL SERVICE IN DOWNTOWN EASTON
Mayor Willey discussed information enclosed in the Council’s packet. He stated that a small group had met on June 27 to discuss the pros and cons of the drinking and serving of alcoholic beverages on the sidewalk. He stated that he was not looking for a recommendation but an educational viewpoint to understand what was involved on both sides of the issue. Mayor Willey discussed items that were included in tonight’s packet. He suggested public comment prior to process before going forward.
Mr. Jensen asked what Talbot County’s Liquor Board’s jurisdiction is if the Town was interested in adopting a sidewalk café ordinance.
The Town Attorney discussed the regulations within Talbot County. He stated that Talbot County has its own County Liquor Code. He stated that the county would have the ability if the County Council saw fit to do so, to amend the Liquor Code to specifically prohibit or to specifically permit the sale of alcohol beverages in this particular context. He stated that he believes the County Liquor Code is silent in the matter. Mr. Kehoe stated that in the Town of Easton, there is a prohibition against the consumption of alcoholic beverages on public property such as streets, sidewalks and parks. He stated that the County is free to impose restrictions if the County Council chooses to as it sees fit.
Mr. Jensen stated that he felt the matter warrants a public workshop.
President Ford stated that a date for the workshop will be set at the next meeting.
LETTER FROM DUVALL BROTHERS REQUESTING PERMISSION TO BURN BRUSH AND TREES AT THE ST. PETER AND PAUL CHURCH PROJECT
Mr. Ford reiterated the importance of monitoring that burn.
Mr. Jensen made a motion to approve the burn permit with continuous monitoring.
Mr. Wendowski stated that the letter does not specify Fire Department supervision.
The motion was carried unanimously with a second from Mr. Wendowski.
LETTER FROM MS. JOAN F. SETTINA, 113 N. HANSON STREET, REGARDING TREE ISSUE AND TRAFFIC SAFETY CONCERNS
Ms. Settina was present and addressed the Council regarding trees adjacent to her property. She discussed trees that were planted by the previous owner. Ms. Settina stated that she asked Public Works to prune the trees away from the roof and was told that this could not be done conservatively and unfortunately there was no recourse other than to cut the trees down. Ms. Settina stated that she has noticed a significant loss of cooling affect from the loss of the trees.
Ms. Settina asked the Council to consider asking Public Works if they would replace those trees with something more conservative to offer more shade in lieu of loosing these trees.
She stated that she had spoken with Eastern Shore Nurseries and they recommended Crepe Myrtle trees which would not grow and interfere with the power lines and would offer some shade.
Mr. Jensen asked what the lines were for and why they could not be buried.
The Town Engineer, Mr. Glass stated that the trees were too large for the space they were in as they were into the roof, the house and into the power lines. He stated that the wires that run through there are a feeder and to put it underground would involve putting the entire feeder underground which is no small task and would not be cost feasible.
Mr. Glass stated that he reviewed the Public Works budget and the Operating Capital Funds do not have do not have any funds this year for street tree plantings.
Mr. Ford stated that the Town should consider replacing trees in the same location that are removed.
Ms. Jackson-Amis discussed pruning of a tree and the subsequent removal of it on her property by Public Works. She stated that she thinks the Town of Easton should have some kind of consistent program or a consistent way of handling this problem.
Ms. Settina discussed the safety reasons Mr. Hause cited for removing the Bradford Pear trees.
Discussion occurred on obtaining the Tree City USA status which the Town of Easton does not have.
The President of the Council stated that there is no current money in the budget to help with the purchase of trees. He stated that this will be kept on the front burner and as the budget allows, attempt to help.
Ms. Settina discussed the large truck traffic on North Street. She stated when she moved here, she telephoned the Chief of Police. Ms. Settina stated that the trucks are using North Street for a shortcut to Talbottown and Rustic Inn. She suggested No Truck signs on North Street. She discussed the safety issue and stated that there have been numerous accidents at the location.
Mr. Jensen stated that there was no reason for trucks to be there.
Chief Harvey discussed a commercial route for trucks to come into town. He stated that he would like to meet with the Town Engineer and take some time and look at the entire town and find a way that trucks could be brought into town to make their deliveries with a limited intrusion upon residential communities.
Timeframes were discussed for signs, permits and delivery times.
Mr. Wendowski asked if North Street could be one-way.
Chief Harvey stated that anything is a possibility.
A recommendation will be forthcoming from Chief Harvey and the Town Engineer.
RESIGNATION OF MS. JANE A. WARD FROM THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
The President of the Council brought the letter of resignation to the floor from Ms. Jane Ward. Mr. Ford stated that the Mayor has asked for recommendations for the position. Mayor Willey stated that a letter will be sent to the applicants with the details of the appointment, asking that they contact the Mayor’s office for an interview should they be interested.
Mr. Wendowski stated that he had the pleasure of serving with Ms. Ward on the Board of Zoning Appeals and she was an asset and make his job as chairman that much easier. He thanked Ms. Ward for a job well done.
Mr. Wendowski made a motion to accept Ms. Ward’s resignation seconded by Mr. Jensen and carried unanimously.
CONSIDERATION FOR LA LECHE LEAGUE PROCLAMATION
Mayor Willey stated that this was for the Council’s information. It was the consensus of the Council to issue the proclamation.
APPROVAL OF INVOICES TOTALING $357,863.82
Upon motion by Mr. Jensen seconded by Ms. Jackson-Amis and carried unanimously, invoices totaling $357,863.82 were approved for payment.
COMMENTS FROM MAYOR WILLEY
Mayor Willey discussed possible changes in the Oath of Office. He stated that the Town Attorney notified him that the oath is following a format set in the State Constitution and the only text that could be deleted in the Oath is the last sentence. He asked for the Council’s permission to delete that text.
Mr. Kehoe stated that it requires an amendment to the Charter as the oath is set forth in the Town Charter with numerous advertisements. He stated that the process is costly.
Mayor Willey discussed extending the Planned Redevelopment District boundary lines on Dover Street out as far as Tred Avon Avenue. He asked for the Council’s consent to extend the District.
The President of the Council stated that the process should have a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Mayor Willey stated that the Assistant Town Planner will start the process.
COMMENTS FROM CHIEF OF POLICE
Chief Harvey had a request from Spring & Associates to close Federal Street between Washington and West Street for a day, Thursday, July 24 between 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to install a water main in the County Courthouse. He stated the Department recommended approval.
Upon motion by Ms. Jackson-Amis seconded by Mr. Jensen, permission to close Federal Street was unanimously approved.
Chief Harvey had a request from Ms. Carolyn Jaffe, Passport of the Arts, Town Center Concert for Saturday, July 26 from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for the US Navy Country Current. He stated that the request is for North Harrison Street beside the Tidewater to be closed prior to the event from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked if the businesses in the area had been contacted. Chief Harvey stated that it is noted on the permit application.
Upon motion by Mr. Wendowski seconded by Mr. Jensen, permission was granted to close the street.
Chief Harvey reported that Passport to the Arts, through Ms. Carolyn Jaffe, Saturday, August 9 between 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., US Navy Cruisers on Goldsborough Street between Washington Street and Harrison Street. Chief Harvey stated that they have requested No Parking on N. Harrison Street prior to the event with set-up from 5:30 p.m.
Upon motion by Mr. Wendowski seconded by Mr. Jensen, Chief Harvey’s request was unanimously carried.
Chief Harvey stated that they have received from Ms. Beth Sanderson for the Performing Arts, a permit request to allow a dinner theatre to put on a musical production at the Easton Club Pavilion on August 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 22 and 23 between 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Chief Harvey stated that they have notified them that the department has no standing on private property except a call for service but asked them to be concerned with noise levels.
Chief Harvey reported that Easton Apostolic Church are asking for the grass lot between Glenwood Avenue and the rear of the Easton Police Department for a street service ministry outreach to the community on August 23, 2003 between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. He stated that the Police Department recommends approval.
Approval for the ministry outreach was moved by Mr. Jensen seconded by Mr. Wendowski and unanimously carried.
Chief Harvey reported that the La Leche League is asking for approval for a walk-a-thon on September 6, 2003 between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. with a rain date on September 13 for a public awareness of breastfeeding babies and to celebrate world breastfeeding. Chief Harvey discussed the route and recommended approval.
Mr. Jensen made a motion to approve the walk-a-thon seconded by Mr. Wendowski and carried unanimously.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she had been expecting community members to be present this evening. She discussed the Condominium Association on Port Street and stated that No Trespassing signs have been erected and the Association does not have a singular position with respect to the No Trespassing signs. She stated that her concern is that the signs as she reads them are No Trespassing after business hours and technically there is a soda machine out there 24 hours a day that is an ongoing business. Ms. Jackson-Amis discussed the citation that was issued. Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that as a councilmember, a tenant in that area and trying to have good will in the community and she does not have a problem with it. Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she is concerned with the numbers of people just being or going to the soda machine and questioned how it is an offense to do business. Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she cannot go out at night and listen to the citizens’ complaints about what they deem to be undo harassment.
Chief Harvey discussed the event and the No Trespassing signs. He stated that he has a letter from the Condo Association to enforce the signs.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that if someone is going to the soda machine they should not be stopped and that is her concern. She stated that this is generating a lot of tension. She stated that there has to be some adjustment.
TOWN ENGINEER’S COMMENTS
The Town Engineer stated that they are in the final stages of scheduling paving for the Town and will be starting Monday.
Mr. Glass stated that he is drafting a letter to the West Kennedy Street neighborhood residents stating that they may need to be about collecting data and field surveying in order to locate wells and septic tanks for eventual hookup and engineering plans.
Mr. Jensen stated that he received a call regarding Hawkes Hill Road where it meets Route 50. He stated that there is a sign that says Don’t Block and it is being blocked. He asked for ideas so residents of Hawkes Hill can get out.
The Town Engineer stated that it is an enforcement issue. Mr. Glass stated that he could contact SHA and see if they have pavement marking suggestions or signs.
Chief Harvey stated that he will look at the area for selective enforcement.
Mr. Wendowski asked the status of painting the curb at the YMCA. The Town Engineer stated that it is to be on the schedule shortly.
Mr. Wendowski stated that South Beechwood is being swarmed with mosquitoes. The Town Engineer reported that the other machine is fixed and the entire town was sprayed last week.
Mr. Wendowski asked if the ponds at South Beechwood are temporary. The Town Engineer stated that they are temporary.
Mr. Wendowski asked for an update on the intersection at Route 50 and Dutchman’s Lane. The Town Engineer stated that the improvement plans from the developer are still being passed back and forth and they will have to get a permit from the State Highway Administration and Talbot County. He stated that the developer needs to decide when to begin work.
Mayor Willey reminded everyone that there is a meeting tomorrow night between the municipalities and the county council and this is on the agenda.
Mr. Jensen asked if the contract for Mr. Delaporte had been drafted. The Town Attorney stated that the Assistant Town Attorney is working on that and should be done in the next day or so.
COMMENTS FROM THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
Mr. Bond gave an update on the marketing and feasibility plan. He stated that they have started on that process and very shortly a large survey will go out to the businesses in the downtown area as well as property owners. He encouraged everyone to complete the survey.
COMMENTS FROM THE COUNCIL
The President of the Council reviewed the Council’s calendar.
Mr. Jensen discussed the Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing on August 21. He encouraged all the citizens to attend.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she has been contacted by PBS to gather actors in our community. She stated that if there is any interest, call 410-820-0105 and indicate that you have an interest.
Ms. Jackson-Amis thanked Kelly Gibson for identifying Be A Star as her favorite charity.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that Kwanza Brooks in conjunction with Sharon Ellis and Ronnie Stanford of the Talbot County Recreation Department are putting together a program to take place at the YMCA that will allow children to engage in basketball tournaments. She stated that the deadline will be July 25. Ms. Jackson-Amis suggested those interested, call Be A Star for more information.
Ms. Jackson-Amis thanked an anonymous donor for ten tickets for individuals to attend who would not be able to participate and attend the dinner at the Tidewater Inn to honor the former Moton teachers.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, upon motion by Jensen, seconded by Mr. Wendowski and carried unanimously, the President of the Council adjourned the regularly scheduled meeting at 8:31 P.M.
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Town Clerk