May 19, 1997

The Town Council of the Town of Easton met today at 7:06 P.M. The meeting was called to order by the President, Mr. Willey, with the following members present: Mr. Mayer, Mrs. Clem and Mr. Heinmuller. The Ward I seat is vacant. Also attending the meeting were the Town Attorney, Chief of Police, Assistant Town Planner, Town Planner, Town Engineer and Assistant Town Engineer.

Mr. Heinmuller opened the meeting with prayer. Upon motion by Mr. Mayer, seconded by Mr. Heinmuller and carried, minutes of the May 5 and May 12, 1997 meetings were approved as written.

Mayor Butler then swore in Mr. Willey as President of the Town Council, Mr. Mayer as Council member from Ward II and Mr. Heinmuller as Council member from Ward IV for a new four year term following the May 5 General Election.

Mayor Butler read a Proclamation and presented it to Talbot Hospice honoring Talbot County Hospice for their 15 years of service.

Mr. Ed Turner of EBMA was present and asked permission to use the parking lot for the Farmer's Market from June 21 to November 1. He stated that the last year was their most successful year. Mr. Heinmuller stated that he could hardly wait for the Farmer's Market to open and made a motion to allow the Farmer's Market in the lot and the placement of the box. Mr. Heinmuller's motion was seconded by Mrs. Clem and carried. Mr. Turner invited the Council to the EBMA membership meeting tomorrow evening. He discussed their sponsoring of a Candidates' Forum on Wednesday, May 28.

The President of the Council brought Resolution No. 5580, A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF EASTON IN HONOR OF THE SERVICE AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF KATHERINE M. JONES to the floor. He read the Resolution. Upon motion by Mr. Mayer, seconded by Mrs. Clem, Resolution No. 5580 passed unanimously following a roll call vote of those members currently seated.

The President of the Council brought Resolution No. 5581, A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF EASTON AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE TOWN OF EASTON FOR THE OPERATION OF A POLICE SUBSTATION ON PORT STREET to the floor. The town Attorney stated that Ms. Ketterman's memo covers the issue and Col. Chase would like to have an extended term beyond what is called for in the lease as presented. Mr. Mayer moved approval of Resolution No. 5581 subject to the changes for the length of time desired by the Chief of Police, seconded by Mrs. Clem and carried unanimously following a roll call vote of the current Council.

A memo was received from the Assistant Town Planner, Mr. Lynn Thomas, regarding the Family Support Center. Mr. Thomas discussed his memo. He stated that they need action on approval of the contract with the construction bid. He asked for any questions. He stated that there are two other items which Ms. Kathy Foster is here to discuss. Mrs. Clem made a motion to accept the low bid from Willow Construction for a total of $518,000, seconded by Mr. Heinmuller and carried.

The President of the Council asked for elaboration on the rental agreement issue. The Assistant Town Planner discussed the history and charges. Ms. Foster requested two items. The first was to agree to allow the $7,500 administrative costs to be included with construction costs as a contingency. The second is to allow all money raised to be credited towards the rent including the Community Development Block Grant Funds. The President of the Council asked if there were any questions. Mr. Mayer questioned the specifics on the agreement. The Town Attorney stated that the value added to the upper floor is to be used to offset the rent payments. He discussed the cap of $200,000 at the time. This would be changed to $530,000 under this request by Mrs. Foster. Mrs. Foster asked to sign a 10 year lease. The Town Attorney estimated that this change would allow the Family Support Center to operate at that location for 15 to 17 years rent free.

Mr. Heinmuller questioned who would be responsible for upkeep maintenance on the parcel for the 17 years and questioned whether as landlords, is the Town required for secondary maintenance. The Town Attorney stated that he believes that all of this would be borne by the tenants.

The President of the Council asked if there were any other comments. There were none. A motion was made by Mr. Heinmuller, seconded by Mr. Mayer and carried to change the $7,500 administrative Block Grant allowance to possible construction funding if needed.

The President of the Council asked for a motion regarding the rental agreement to accept the $530,000 raised to be credited towards the rent which would include the Block Grant. The Town Attorney asked for a consensus and stated that he would prepare the amendment. Mr. Mayer stated that it was okay. Mr. Heinmuller questioned whether the Town is opening ourselves up for long term maintenance. He stated that he has no problem with the concept.

A letter was received from Mr. Daniel J. Bridges, Operations Manager/Race Coordinator of the Delmarva Cable Advertising regarding the progress of The Delmarva 500 Mini Grand Prix. The President of the Council discussed a letter which included their desire to have balloons and banners. He stated that this was a new item. The Town Planner stated that this would have to be approved by the Town Council. He stated that he will allow it unless the Council objects. Mr. Mayer questioned whether the Town Planner and the Chief of Police feel okay with this. The Town Planner stated that they do. Mr. Mayer moved to allow the requested banners and balloons during the event time only; seconded by Mr. Heinmuller. Mr. Willey questioned what a sponsor balloon was. The Town Planner discussed this. There being no further discussion, the motion was approved.

The President of the Council brought the Planning Commission's recommendation for amendment to CM Site Plan for Eastern Shore Retirement Community to the floor. The Town Planner discussed his letter which he passed out tonight. He displayed an overhead with the location in the vicinity of William Hill Manor. He discussed a request for a building permit. He discussed the previous changes regarding the physical therapy area and the wing over the parking spots which added approximately ten beds. The Town Planner stated that he can approve minor amendments, but to be safe, he took the matter to the Planning Commission who indicated their approval. The Town Planner stated that this change will allow the facility to come out nine additional parking spaces ahead. He stated that it is the Council's choice and if it is deemed a significant change and would impact the neighborhood, a hearing could be scheduled. The President of the Council questioned whether construction on the property is no more that was done for the auditorium. The Town Planner discussed the previous approval by himself of the auditorium. He stated that this is approximately the same square footage. Mr. Heinmuller questioned whether a portion of this was pharmacy parking. The Town Planner stated that it is not. He discussed parking on this spot and the pharmacy site. Mr. Heinmuller questioned location of the bridge. Ms. Donna Taylor, Administrator of William Hill Manor was present and discussed this location. It was the consensus of the Town Council that there was no need to hold a public hearing on this matter.

Ms. Rose Miles was present on behalf of the Easton Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. and stated that she had no report.

Mr. Heinmuller questioned whether the Fire Department was busy this weekend due to the western shore traffic. Ms. Miles stated that she did not think that there was a large amount of change in activity levels by the department.

The Mayor questioned whether the Town Council needs to go back into Executive Session. The President of the Council stated that he believes everything has been answered.

The Mayor stated that he was glad to see the number of stops on Wrightson Avenue on the Chief's report. He stated that he was glad tickets were being issued and not warnings.

Col. Chase requested permission for the Unity Steppers to parade on Glenwood Avenue and in the vicinity on June 7 between 2:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. He stated that he saw no problem. Upon motion by Mrs. Clem, seconded by Mr. Heinmuller and carried, permission was granted. Mr. Heinmuller stated that he was glad to see that organization getting back together. He discussed the benefits provided. Col. Chase discussed the fact that there were 75 kids involved now.

Col. Chase stated that he had received a fax from the State that the HotSpot Grant was great but that they will need more information. He stated that he see that the Mayor and Council receive copies of this information. Col. Chase discussed a search warrant which was executed at 101 Port Street with one arrest concerning drugs. He stated that he expects more arrests.

The Town Engineer stated that the annual paving is underway. He discussed the streets scheduled and efforts to notify residents. He discussed tall grass complaints and asked that either the Town Planner or his office be called. The Town Engineer discussed absentee landlords.

The Town Engineer stated that the Rails-to-Trails from Tanyard south was underway. He discussed this and stated that he hopes to have it completed by the end of July.

Concerning the Easton Utilities Commission, he stated that the same rate cases are proceeding including the Eastern Shore Natural Gas case and the FERC PJM restructuring meetings. The Town Engineer briefly discussed the Delmarva interconnect agreement and efforts to finalize that.

The President of the Council reported Vine Street lights which are out near the hospital parking lot which need to be replaced. The Town Engineer stated that this would be handled.

Mrs. Clem discussed the end of Lee Terrace and property which adjoins a house. The Town Engineer stated that he was aware of this and discussed the cutting near the barricade by the Town of Easton. Mrs. Clem questioned whether there had been action on the request by Mr. Ross concerning the traffic issue in Thread Haven. The Town Engineer stated that he has not come up with a recommendation. He discussed concepts considered and other areas that could benefit with a similar sort of treatment. Mrs. Clem suggested using the area as a pilot. The Town Engineer stated that this could be done.

Mr. Heinmuller discussed absentee landlords and alleys and streets which need to be looked at. The Town Engineer stated that he would handle that. Mr. Heinmuller stated that on the Rails-to- Trails, he understands that the East End Neighborhood Association is going to have a dedication ceremony and asked that this be added to the Town Calendar.

Mr. Mayer discussed the last couple of budgets and questioned set asides for parking. He discussed demand which would be required due to the District Court building. The Town Engineer stated that this has been discussed with the Mayor this morning. Mr. Mayer questioned whether the Brewer's Lane upgrades were scheduled for this year. The Town Engineer stated that there is nothing budgeted for this time. Mr. Lineberry stated that this was included last year and removed. Mr. Mayer questioned whether Brewer's Lane was included in the upcoming year's budget. Mr. Lineberry stated that it was not included in the budget request.

Mr. Heinmuller stated that EBMA would like to discuss signage on Goldsbrough and Harrison to direct people to parking lots at various areas. He asked that the signs referring people to Oxford and St. Michaels be removed.

The President of the Council asked the Town Attorney on an update on the zoning and liquor law issues. The Town Attorney stated that at the request of the Council members, he has been looking at these issues. He discussed the State liquor law and the complexity involved. He stated that under most circumstances, municipalities control over sale of alcohol is prohibited. The Town Attorney discussed the statewide regulations and the differences with Talbot County provisions where by Talbot County is given the authority to control their own liquor laws. This matter is now being looked at by the County Council. The Town Attorney discussed contacts with the County and issues involved and stated that the Town will receive a copy of the proposed ordinance. The President of the Council questioned whether the meeting with the County Council had been set. The Town Clerk advised that no word has been received from the County.

The President of the Council asked for audience comments. There were none. The President of the Council recognized Mr. Dave Stavely and Mr. John Ford both of whom were present as candidates for the Ward I seat. Both were invited to familiarize themselves with Council procedures. The President of the Council discussed the budget workshop schedule. The President of the Council reminded everyone that at 7:05 P.M. on June 2, the Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing would occur and at 7:20 P.M., the Town of Easton Budget Public Hearing would occur.

Mr. Mayer stated that he appreciated having another chance to serve and thanked everyone who voted for him.

Mr. Heinmuller stated that he was thankful for the opportunity to serve another four years and that he was happy to serve the Town of Easton. He encouraged public service and discussed the pleasures received from it.

The President of the Council stated that it was an honor to be back for four more years and that with the help of the Council, the audience and the staff, he hoped it would be a good four years.

There being no further business, upon motion by Mr. Mayer, seconded by Mrs. Clem and carried, the meeting was adjourned at 8:05 P.M.

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Town Clerk