September 8, 1998

The Town Council of the Town of Easton met today at 6:30 P.M. The meeting was called to order by the President, Mr. Willey, with the following members present: Mr. Ford, Mr. Mayer and Mr. Heinmuller. Also attending the meeting were the Mayor C. Eugene Butler and the Town Attorney Mr. Kehoe. Members of the County Council that were present were: General Anderson, Mr. Higgins, Mr. Andrews, Mr. Bradley as well as the County Manager Ms. Armistead.

Mr. Bradley stated that they have tried for twelve to eighteen months to resolve the ALS problems with the various fire departments. He stated that they have not come to a final agreement with Easton. He stated that they are present to respond to the August 17 correspondence from the Town. He read a letter to the County Council to the Town Council suggesting the allocation of various of the boxes which would essentially have County ALS service the south end of Town and Easton Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., service the north and in Town. He stated that the only thing they are looking for is the County response to be the first ALS unit to the scene as quick as possible. He discussed a time lag of approximately one to two minutes in the south end of Town for the Easton Volunteer Fire Department to respond.

The Mayor stated that he thought it was more feasible to put the ALS in Trappe or Oxford and let Easton Volunteer Fire Department handle those calls in their natural service area. He stated that he did not agree with the assumption.

Ms. Armistead stated that the Town of Easton sits in the center of the response area and the ALS being stationed in Cordova, etc., would be worse off.

The President of the Council questioned the placement of units in Easton and St. Michaels. Mr. Bradley stated that St. Michaels does have daytime coverage on weekends and weeknights. St. Michaels Volunteer Fire Department responds with non-paid personnel.

Mrs. Armistead pointed out that this is different during the peak tourism season.

Mr. Willey questioned whether there was anything planned for north or east of Easton. Ms. Armistead stated that there was not.

Mr. Ford stated that he believes that they are sincere in their mission to best accomplish the ALS. He referred to the first sentence of the second paragraph and questioned why the County departments cannot reach consensus.

Mr. Bradley stated that he is hearing this second hand but he believes it has to be centrally located. He felt that the County ALS could cover the south end of Town more quickly and thinks that that is a County responsibility.

Mr. Heinmuller questioned whether this would also include a basic life support function. Mr. Bradley stated that they are not talking about basic life support.

Mr. Higgins stated that an adjustment was made during the 911 call to determine which unit would be sent. He discussed critical care and the immediate needs.

Mr. Heinmuller questioned whether there was a charge by the County. Mr. Bradley stated that there was not.

Ms. Armistead stated that there would only be a charge if involving an out-of-county resident on the theory that they are not paying taxes and supporting the service.

General Anderson stated that Talbot County ALS currently sits at the critical point surrounded by a large elderly population with a critical need for immediate service. He stated that the numbers of calls in the southern end of Town are well split with the northern end of Town. He questioned why people would have to wait.

Mr. Mayer questioned whether the County had bought a transport and the reason for that transport unit.

Mr. Bradley stated that they have for when the County’s Fire Departments cannot respond. He stated that the County should have probably bought transport units in the beginning of ALS for that necessity. He stated that they are not anxious to get into the transport business.

The Mayor questioned whether St. Michaels had commented on the 24-hour ALS proposal. Mr. Bradley stated that he did not think so but he has not asked. The Mayor stated that he thought it was common sense that the County ALS would be better in another area of the County if and when the Easton Volunteer Fire Department goes to 24-hour.

Mr. Bradley discussed no charges for ALS in the County for the residents. He stated that he did not think that we will get away from having ALS in Easton since it is the hub geographically. Mr. Bradley stated that he thinks that the time is approaching when paid ALS and some paid fire departments will be needed. He discussed the difficult time recruiting people in some areas. He stated that the County’s only interest is to get ALS in the County as soon as they could and that this is not an intent to transport except in extreme emergencies.

Mr. Higgins discussed the geographic area probably requiring approximately 2.3 units statistically but when they look at the call volume in and around Easton, that is where the bulk occurred. He discussed running calls to Cordova from Trappe, etc. He stated that he hopes that the mutual aid remains in place and that this would become an enhanced service tool to all in the County.

The Mayor stated that he felt that there should be one unit in Cordova and one in Trappe. He stated that Easton is already covered.

Ms. Armistead discussed each unit costing $50,000 to $100,000 dollars and stated that the staffing would be costly especially for 24 hours.

Mr. Higgins stated that people have to practice the skills they have developed in order to maintain their proficiency and discussed the calls outside the areas and not allowing such practice. He stated that there was absolutely no effort to take away from any area and that the County’s intent is to enhance the service.

The Mayor stated that he understands that the Fire Departments cannot agree. Mr. Bradley stated that was correct. He reiterated the objection was to get ALS service where it is needed quickly. The Mayor questioned whether St. Michaels was covering Tilghman. Mr. Bradley said that was correct and discussed the arrangement.

Mr. Higgins stated that they are trying to get the pieces set to provide the best care.

Mr. Heinmuller discussed living on Hanson and seeing ambulances run down the bypass quite frequently which he observes from his office. He asked for the number of calls in Talbot County as well as for ambulance and ALS. Ms. Armistead stated that she does not have with her but she believes approximately 50% or in this vicinity. Mr. Andrews stated that they are only talking about ALS. Mr. Heinmuller questioned whether the County is asking for 100% of what they now provide plus half of what Easton provides. Mr. Andrews stated that no; they were only looking at the ALS.

The President of the Council stated that the Fire Department has a special meeting on Monday night and he would like the Council to talk to the Fire Department for their reasoning and would like to get back with the County Council subsequently.

There being no further discussion, the meeting was recessed at 6:57 P.M.

The President of the Council called the meeting back to order at 7:00 P.M.

Also attending the meeting were the Chief of Police, the Town Engineer, Mr. Tim Glass the Assistant Town Engineer, and Mr. Jim Silvius Assistant General Manager.

The meeting was opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance; both led by Mr. Mayer.

Upon motion by Mr. Mayer, seconded by Mr. Ford and carried, minutes of the August 17 meeting were approved as written.

The Mayor presented a Proclamation to Andi Lawrence-Pupke for her efforts in the community garden at the corner of South Street and Thorogood Lane. Ms. Pupke was accompanied by children from the East End Association who are active in that effort.

Mr. Mark Walsh was present representing the County Tourism Task Force to discuss the history of the 1994 – 95 decline in growth for merchants and hotels. He stated that they are becoming very concerned about the effort related to tourism. He discussed the hotels approaching the County Council about their concern and stated that growth was not what it should be. He stated that Mr. Bradley and the Council had appointed a Task Force. He discussed an effort to build a consensus of how to manage the tourism efforts. He stated that they have Mr. Bill Miles, Mr. Ray White and Mr. Ed Turner present. He stated that they have been meeting for four to five months and they have been planning a five-year strategic plan by December. He stated that he believes that the implementation will be most difficult. He discussed meetings, efforts and inputs. He stated that he is here tonight to put faces to the names. He is here to seek input since only consensus can build a strong plan to address tourism. He discussed the Comprehensive Plan and tourism being critical. Mr. Walsh stated that tourism cannot survive without a strong marketing plan and that changes are needed. He stated that the biggest concern is maintaining the quality of life and they want to protect the tax base and the quality of life. He stated that the Task Force is working closely with the office of Tourism at the state. He stated that they are developing a performance plan, they need input, and hopefully, they would be coming for approval in December. He stated that they are also meeting with Oxford and St. Michaels. He asked for questions and concerns anytime. He stated that input is needed and that they will need participation from the Town.

The President of the Council stated that he thinks that Mrs. Clem has attended some of those meetings.

Mr. Walsh stated that she has as has the Mayor.

The President of the Council stated that he is not sure that the time of the day scheduled for the meeting is good. He stated that it is near and dear to the Council to bring tourists to Easton. He stated that they need to determine how to get there.

Mr. Walsh discussed Talbot County’s identity and development of that identity. He stated they are working with Debbie Dodson at the Chamber of Commerce and that all are pulling together for the best.

The President of the Council stated that he agreed that there is a need to have a unified approach.

Mr. Mayer stated that funding will be a major question and whether a direct approach will be the best way.

Mr. Walsh discussed the accommodation rate increase decreasing in 1995 and that they did not want to see that again. He stated that business growth is accommodation tax growth and apportionment and handling has to be addressed on the long-term basis.

The President of the Council asked if there was anyone else. There was none.

He thanked Mr. Walsh for his presentation.

Mr. Tim Dills was present with Ms. Judann Culver who is the Chairman of the Main Street Board. Ms. Culver stated that the Main Street Program was designed to revitalize the downtown. She discussed the makeup of the effort. She stated that the focus is education and revitalization and that her main objection is to retain and attract new businesses to the downtown. She asked the support of the Council for the movie theatre concept to be located where the Cooke’s TV and the Easton Utilities Business Office currently is on North Harrison Street. She displayed drawings. Mr. Dills explained that this would involve the present Utilities Commission’s building as well as the Cooke’s TV building as well as a portion of the parking lot. He stated that there are two proposals currently. One is for a six-theatre complex with 1,600 seats and the other proposal that he is aware of is for a four complex theatre with 1,100 seats as well as some retail. He discussed the location.

Ms. Culver discussed the reasoning involved for a family oriented downtown entertainment area, which would also create a lot of foot traffic. She discussed possible impacts, which are expected. She stated that one reason for the location is the tie-in to the Comprehensive Plan and the LDR Study. She stated that the triangle is ideal for a theatre and that the area is the only area with the greatest available parking lot. She discussed the Main Street Board asking for support in the form of a motion. She passed out a requested motion, which she read. Ms. Culver asked for Council support with the idea and stated that the Main Street Board will help to facilitate this concept. She stated that she realizes that the owners have a need for reasonable return on their investment as well as providing benefits to the downtown. She stated that next week; principals would be coming to Easton to look at this sight for this purpose.

Mr. Dills discussed the business aspects being reinforced. He stated that this is Town owned property and was Easton Utilities funded. He stated that he is not looking for any subsidy but Town cooperation. He discussed the principals being contacted and their looking at the financial compatibility as well as their desire to break even. He stated that they view this as a unique opportunity. He discussed the Economical Restructuring Committee. Mr. Dills stated that he has no financial interest in this project and he is strictly present as a member of the Main Street Board. He stated that this would be a mixed blessing for Talbottown. He stated that this is a unique opportunity to put 300 to 500 people in the downtown. Mr. Dills stated that he wanted to introduce the parties and then step aside. He offered information and input and stated that he was acting as a facilitator.

The President of the Council questioned whether both Theatres’ option were viewed as viable. Mr. Dills discussed what the principal would be looking at. The President of the Council asked for Council comments.

Mr. Ford questioned whether the Town owns all of the property. Mr. Dills discussed the Town owning the property.

Mr. Mayer added comments on the plans for the new Utilities’ building. Mr. Dills recognized the value of the property which is proposed for use.

The President of the Council asked the Council’s pleasure on the motion. Mr. Ford questioned where the paving would fit into the equation. Mr. Dills stated that he believes parking lots are too expensive for a single purpose. He discussed the proposed parking lot to be paved as well as additional use of that lot. He understood that this would be a public parking area.

Ms. Culver also noted that a lot was not shown which already exists adjacent to the lot in question.

Mr. Dills discussed parking which had not yet been used.

Mr. Mayer questioned the Town Attorney whether he saw anything wrong with the proposal. The Town Attorney stated that he felt that the Council should avoid an implication that the Council has made a decision, which has not been made. He discussed a change in the wording from "encouraged" to "is interested in." Mr. Dills stated that he had no problem with that change.

Mr. Mayer moved the following motion, seconded by Mr. Ford that the Easton Town Council is interested in the development of the land owned currently by the Town of Easton and utilized by Easton Utilities Commission as well as the adjacent land formerly known as Cooke’s TV for the purpose of establishing a multiple screen movie complex on the property.

The President of the Council asked for any questions on the motion. There were none. The motion passed.

Mr. Ed Turner was present to discuss the Autumn Fest, which is proposed for Saturday, October 3 from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. He asked permission to bag the poles in front of the Courthouse and decorate the four corners of the downtown block as well as blocking part of Harrison Street for an entertainment area. He stated that they would block the area from 10:00 A.M. until 7:00 P.M.

Mr. Mayer questioned whether this had been shown to the Chief. The Chief discussed the rules concerning alcoholic beverages and stated that this was no problem and that the Police Department can handle it.

There being no further discussion, upon motion by Mr. Mayer, seconded by Mr. Heinmuller and carried, permission was granted.

Mr. Ed Turner introduced Mr. Lou Carlisle, Board Member of EBMA and stated that they will have a member at each meeting.

The President of the Council stated that as many Council members as possible will attend the Executive meetings of EBMA. Mr. Turner stated that the next meeting was September 17, 7:30 A.M. at Eagle Spirits.

The President of the Council stated that he had invited Ms. Tobias, a reporter for the Star Democrat since this could be considered an Open Meeting.

Resolution No. 5630 authorizing the town Clerk to abate and/or refund taxes totaling $1,491.20 was moved for passage by Mr. Ford, seconded by Mr. Mayer and carried unanimously following a roll call vote of those members present.

Resolution No. 5632 authorizing the Town Clerk to make necessary budget transfers and the Town Engineer to proceed with the placement of requested lights in the vicinity of the Waterfowl Festival and the Academy of the Arts was moved for passage by Mr. Mayer, seconded by Mr. Heinmuller and carried unanimously following a roll call vote of those members present.

Resolution No. 5633 authorizing the Town Clerk to make budget transfers and the Town Engineer to make improvements to the Brewer’s Lane parking lot was brought to the floor by the President. He asked for any questions. There were none. Resolution No. 5633 was moved for passage by Mr. Mayer seconded by Mr. Ford and carried unanimously following a roll call vote.

A memo was received from the Assistant Town Engineer regarding 11 S. Harrison Street renovations and the bid tabulations. Mr. Glass discussed looking at the building and where the bids came from. He did not think there was a funding source identified at this point. The President of the Council questioned whether these improvements needed to be made whether this was a Welcome Center or not. Mr. Glass stated that there should be some done now regardless of the ultimate use. He discussed painting and other maintenance efforts.

Mr. Heinmuller questioned whether the previous tenant had returned the building to standard. Mr. Glass stated that he was not aware of the agreement but he thought it was left in a reasonable condition.

The President of the Council asked the Town Clerk to attempt to find available funding. Mr. Mayer asked that the matter be held off until the next meeting.

A letter was received from the Town Attorney regarding the bid canvass for Asbury Place 1999-2000 Management Contract with Budgets Proposed. The President of the Council also reminded everyone that regardless who the Council approves, there must be additional approval by the Department of Housing and Community Development. He asked for the Council’s pleasure.

Mr. Heinmuller questioned the Town Attorney about the spreadsheet and the lack of project reserve on one bidder. The Town Attorney discussed the agreement between the Town and ART which requires certain maintenance and capital reserves fund. He stated that Mayor Murphy was insistent that the project fund itself and he discussed the state requirements that the Town cannot make money on this project. He stated that the current Management Company has not set aside money. The Town Clerk discussed the project reserve issue. Mr. Heinmuller questioned whether any funding would be rolled into the management. The Town Attorney stated that it would be if it was there.

The President of the Council asked if there were any questions. Mr. Ford stated that he would like the Easton Housing Authority to have the opportunity and that there is no reflection on ART and their performance, which has been fine according to Mr. Ford. Mr. Ford made a motion to submit Easton Housing Authority for approval to DHCD. Mr. Ford’s motion was seconded by Mr. Mayer and carried.

A letter was received from the President of Chapel Farms Homeowner’s Association, Inc., requesting permission to hold a community picnic and hold the island area on Laurel Street from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on September 17. The Chief stated that he had no problem with this. Mr. Mayer stated that this occurs every year and it has been great. He would like to see permission granted. Mr. Mayer made a motion to authorize this, seconded by Mr. Ford and carried.

A letter was received from the Executive Director of the United Fund requesting permission to place various signs in regard to their fundraising activities this year. The President of the Council asked if anyone was present from the United Fund. There was no one. He stated that this year’s request is different from previous year’s requests. There being no further discussion, upon motion by Mr. Mayer, seconded by Mr. Ford and carried, permission was granted.

The President of the Council asked the Town Attorney to discuss the draft agreement between the Friends of North Easton Sports Complex, Inc., and the Town of Easton. The Town Attorney highlighted the changes. He stated that the changes were mostly fill-in the-blank issues. He stated that they had sat down with the Mayor and worked these matters out. He stated that other changes concern language prohibiting advertising such as alcohol or cigarette ads, etc. The Town Attorney stated that he thinks the changes address Mrs. Clem’s concerns, which were raised at the last meeting. He stated that if this is agreeable, he will forward it to Mr. Rauch. He stated that approval of the resolution at the last meeting allows discussion on this matter.

The President of the Council asked if there was any reason not to proceed. None was raised. The President of the Council asked if there were any audience comments. None were raised.

The Mayor advised that the Peach Blossom Bridge Dedication will take place on September 11.

The Chief discussed a previous approval granted for America’s Walk and stated that he will work out the location prior to the next meeting. He stated that he had received a request for Heritage Week at the Historical Society to put on October 2 through 4. He discussed the waiver request for the two-hour parking limit on October 1 and 2 but there is no request for leniency regarding pickup. He stated that there will be no problem if the Council agrees to this. He asked that a placard be developed so that the Police Department can identify which vehicles are appropriately involved.

The President of the Council asked if there was any problem with that.

Mr. Mayer stated that he thought this was fine.

The Chief discussed enforcement efforts relative to the "roll the bowl" area. He stated that some of the things that did not appear in the newspaper were the six weeks notice prior to enforcement of the "No Trespassing." He discussed citing twenty-two the first weekend and then citing eight subsequently. He stated that there has been no more activity since that occurred. He discussed letters and calls in favor of being able to go shopping into the lots. He discussed consideration of what the kids should do and noted that there are very few Easton children involved. He stated that he cannot guarantee the safety with the numbers of people, which were congregating in that area if fights and other activities broke out. He stated that on Labor Day and the Sunday proceeding, there was no activity in those parking lots. The Chief discussed problems, which had been occurring and stated, that he had personally observed a fifteen-year old female urinating on the lot. He discussed garbage problems and other problems due to the congregation in the areas which are currently marked "No Trespassing."

Mr. Heinmuller discussed the tragedy on Friday where a pedestrian was hit and killed. He believes that there were no marked crosswalk but the gentleman was out of the general crosswalk area. He talked about crossing near the Rails-to-Trails. He discussed crosswalks down Goldsborough and Brookletts where drivers do not slow and asked for stepped up enforcement.

The Chief stated that it was a tragedy. He stated that the point of impact was approximately 25 yards away. He stated that this was truly an accident and that he has already instructed his officers to step enforcement with no warnings. He discussed signs going up reminding drivers. He stated that the Police Department is going to adopt a no warning policy on this issue.

Mr. Heinmuller discussed rigorous enforcement of speeds in towns nearby.

Ms. Libby Dawkins discussed walking the streets and the darkness of the Dover and Aurora intersections. She discussed sight impairment and the aging population. She stated that elderly people want to walk and she had noticed the new crosswalk at the Post Office. Ms. Dawkins discussed accidents in Town and the welfare of the people who live in the Town. Mrs. Dawkins stated that she sees what the Chief has done in the shopping centers as a giant step. She discussed the need for lighting and lower speed limits.

Mr. Dills thanked the Chief for his efforts, especially the action in the shopping centers. The Chief stated that Talbottown is now more comfortable. He discussed an endowment for Spring Hill, which will be able to be created to assist in lighting the headstones since funds have been freed up due to the enforcement and savings to Talbottown Shopping Center for private security.

Ms. Rosemary Garrett asked for a way to solve exactly the same problem as the "roll the bowl" except when it occurs on a public street. She referred to the South Street and Port Street area. The Chief stated that since they started their efforts, they have received letters from owners and business managers authorizing the Police Department to act as agents to enforce trespassing laws. He discussed reductions in signs and people not hanging where they were hanging before. Ms. Rosemary Garrett discussed a previous traffic survey.

Ms. Carolyn Jaffee stated that she did a traffic survey last week. She stated that two years ago, there were 732 cars per hour in the vicinity of South Street and Aurora Street. She stated that last Friday, there were 421. She discussed the reduction in traffic and the noise level also being reduced. She stated that the patterns remain consistent.

Ms. Libby Dawkins discussed the history of traffic on South Street and stated that she would like people to be free to come and go but that the Town cannot tolerate behavior which infringes on the rights of others.

Ms. Joyce DeLaurentis thanked the Chief for his policy and stated that he has seen definite reduction in the problems. She appreciated the quick police response and discussed the Traffic Commission.

The Town Engineer reported that the Hanson Street project is drawing to a close. He discussed the northwest utilities extension which is underway. He discussed the reconstruction of traffic signals at Dover and Aurora as well as bringing up the stoplights to a more current standard. He stated that the same will be at Brookletts and Aurora. The Town Engineer discussed the North Easton Park screening issue and developed four scenarios, which he will provide at the next meeting.

The Town Engineer discussed the Public Service Rate Case and believes that there is an agreement. He discussed the October 6 hearing in Easton and hopes that this can be concluded by December or early 1999.

The Town Engineer stated that Mr. Jim Silvius is present and will participate with the tax implication issues. He discussed the assessment of taxes on for profits utilities, etc. He stated that Easton is leading the role to develop a position paper, which has been drafted. He stated that there will be a tax burden shifting and many interests are involved. He stated that this will actively eat up as legislature comes into session. He discussed this matter with Governor Glendening.

Regarding the consolidated office building, he stated that the plans are complete and that the bids are due October 6. He stated that this will be brought before the Council for an update and he discussed improving the north end of Town.

The Town Engineer asked an Executive Session to discuss real estate.

The President of the Council commented on the red lights and discussed the white strobe light, which is imbedded in the red lights at an intersection at Route 301. The Town Engineer discussed this matter.

Mr. Mayer questioned whether the new building inspector had been hired. The Town Engineer stated that the position was not filled but there was another interview scheduled tomorrow.

The President of the Council referred to a letter received from the Planning Commission concerning the Park’s annexation. He stated that a Public Hearing needed to be scheduled. The Town Attorney stated that this needs to be approximately six weeks out due to the lead-time required by advertising. The President of the council set the Public Hearing for November 16.

Mr. Ford asked for an update on Easton On Line. The Town Engineer discussed revisions and progress to bring this to the level desired. He discussed contingency plans.

The Town Attorney stated that Ms. Johnson had appeared before the last meeting concerning annexation. He stated that he met with her on Friday and will have a memo for the next meeting. He discussed the situation and differences from the norm.

The Town Attorney asked for an Executive Session for advice of Counsel.

Mr. Mayer thanked everyone for the care given to the people of the Chapel Road regarding the parks. He appreciated the Mayor’s special efforts regarding the sports complex. He stated that this can work and will and have a good result.

Mr. Heinmuller thanked everyone who came tonight and offered their input.

The President of the Council reviewed the calendar for important matters.

Upon motion by Mr. Mayer, seconded by Mr. Ford and carried unanimously following a roll call vote of those members present, the Town Council went into Executive Session at 8:28 P.M.

The President of the Council declared the Executive Session closed at 8:50 P.M.

The President of the Council asked if a response had been received from Mr. Steckman regarding the MML Eastern Shore Chapter dinner meeting. He asked that Mr. Steckman be re-contacted.

The President of the Council passed out Business Growth and Retention Committee minutes for distribution to the Council.

There being no further business, upon motion by Mr. Mayer, seconded by Mr. Heinmuller and carried, the meeting was adjourned at 8:51 P.M.

Town Clerk