May 21, 2001

The Town Council of the Town of Easton met today at 7:00 P.M. The meeting was called to order by the President of the Council, Mr. Willey, with the following members present: Mr. Ford, Mr. Mayer, Mr. Reed, Mr. Heinmuller, Councilmember Elect Jensen, and Councilmember Elect Jackson-Amis. Also attending the meeting were Mayor C. Eugene Butler, Chief of Police G. Harvey, Town Engineer Mr. Glass, Assistant Town Engineer Mr. Gruber, Town Planner Mr. Hamilton, and Assistant Town Planner Mr. Thomas.

Mr. Reed opened the meeting with prayer. He led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mr. Mayer made a motion to approve the minutes of the May 7, 2001 meeting as written, seconded by Mr. Heinmuller, and carried unanimously.

Mr. Mayer presented a Citation of Excellence in Historic Preservation to the Inn at Easton, Mason’s, and Lacaze Realty. Mr. Matt Mason accepted his citation and the other two on behalf of the recipients in their absences.

The President of the Council introduced Resolution No. 5730 "A RESOLUTION TO ANNEX TO THE TOWN OF EASTON APPROXIMATELY 1036.67 FEET OF MATTHEWSTOWN ROAD, MD. RT. 328 AND CERTAIN LANDS LYING TO THE SOUTH OF SAID ROAD OWNED BY SWANN HAVEN LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, LYING EAST OF AND ADJOINING THE TOWN OF EASTON BOUNDARY SHOWN ON THE "SWANN FARM ANNEXATION PLAT" DATED OCTOBER, 2000, TAX MAP 26, BLOCK 20, PARCEL 45, LYING EAST OF THE SUBDIVISION KNOWN AS MATTHEWSTOWN RUN, PHASE 1V, CONSISTING OF SEVENTY-NINE AND 14/1000 ACRES OF LAND, MORE OR LESS AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF ANNEXATION." He also introduced Ordinance No. 424 "AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF EASTON ASSIGNING THE MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (R-10A) CLASSIFICATION TO CERTAIN PROPERTY OWNED BY SWANN HAVEN LTD. UPON THE ANNEXATION OF THE PROPERTY BY THE TOWN OF EASTON."

Mr. Ford suggested a continuance to the annexation. He stated that the sketch plan that was presented at the last meeting be tied to the annexation and the developers proceed with the concept plan as part of the annexation agreement.

Mr. Ford motioned for approval of the addition of Mr. Ford’s comments to the resolution request, seconded by Mr. Mayer and carried unanimously.

Town Attorney Mr. Kehoe stated that the public hearing would have to be reopened. He went on to say that Mr. Pullen, who is the attorney for the applicants, wishes to allow Ms. Jackson-Amis and Mr. Jensen the opportunity to review the records and allow them to ask any questions that they may have.

The President of the Council scheduled the public hearing to be reopened on June 18, 2001 at 7:45 P.M. He opened the floor to the council for questions.

There were none.

The President of the Council then introduced Resolution No. 5734, "A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF EASTON APPROVING AND CONSENTING TO THE SEVENTH AMENDED AND RESTATED LOCAL GOVERNMENT INSURANCE TRUST AGREEMENT, AUTHORIZING TOWN OFFICIALS TO EXECUTE AND DELIVER APPROPRIATE EVIDENCES OF THE TOWN’S CONSENT AND RATIFYING AND CONFIRMING ACTIONS TAKEN BY THE TOWN WITH REGARD TO THE SEVENTH AMENDED AND RESTATED LOCAL GOVERNMENT INSURANCE TRUST AGREEMENT."

Mr. Ford counseled the incoming council members that the executive summary was not very long.

Mr. Mayer motioned for approval of Resolution No. 5734, seconded by Mr. Heinmuller and carried following a roll call vote.

The President of the Council brought Ordinance No. 429 "AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF EASTON REPEALING AND REENACTING WITH AMENDMENTS CHAPTER 6A OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF EASTON ENTITLED "STORMWATER MANAGEMENT" to the floor for approval

Mr. Mayer moved Ordinance No. 429 for passage, seconded by Mr. Heinmuller and carried unanimously following a roll call vote.

Mr. Larry Smith, South Beechwood stated that he wanted to thank Mr. Mayer and Mr. Heinmuller for their dedication and faithful services to the Town of Easton.

At 7:12 P.M., The President of the Council recessed the council meeting to prepare for the swearing in of the new councilmembers.

Mayor Butler administered the Oath of Office to Mr. Willey, President of the Council, Mr. Scott R. Jensen, Councilmember for Ward II and Ms. Moonyene S. Jackson-Amis, Councilmember for Ward IV.

Mayor Butler introduced the new members of the council.

At 7:16 P.M., The President of the Council reconvened the regularly scheduled council meeting for new business.

The President of the Council thanked Mr. Mayer and Mr. Heinmuller for their efforts on the council for the last four years. He also welcomed Mr. Jensen and Ms. Jackson-Amis on the council.

Ms. Ellen General discussed the upcoming concert series in the Town Center. Ms. General stated that there would be at least two concerts at Idewild Park, nine concerts at Thompson Park on Friday afternoons, two concerts at Moton Park. Ms. General discussed her main focus, which were the concerts that are planned for Town Center. She stated that on June 2, 2001 at 7:00 P.M., there would be a concert at the Avalon Theatre. The main idea is to bring everyone together for a town celebration. All of the concerts that are planned are advertised in the Star Democrat for those who would like to attend. Ms. General stated that if there were any questions or comments, there were two members of the Avalon Foundation Board, President Mr. Philip Webster and Mr. John General, founder of the Avalon Theatre present to help answer any questions. Also present were Mr. Ed Slavinski of the Tidewater Inn and Ms. Carloyn Jaffe, who works with the Avalon Foundation and helps coordinate most of the events held at the Avalon itself and is also the Assistant for the Hotspots Coordination.

Mr. Jensen had a concern about the weather.

Ms. General discussed a possible rain plan for concerts held outside.

Ms. Jackson-Amis asked if there would be other vendors besides the merchants that already exist in the downtown area.

Ms. General stated that the first concert would have an effect on how the others will be organized to explore all possibilities.

The President of the Council thanked Ms. General for the update.

Ms. Debbie Dodson, Talbot County Tourism was present to update the council. Mr. Chris Bronawell, Mr. Ed Carroll, Mr. Al Silversteen, and Mr. Steve Moore, most of who were members of the Talbot County Tourism Board were also present. Ms. Dodson discussed various topics related to tourism in Talbot County.

Mr. Ed Carroll, President of the Easton Antique Dealer’s Association discussed his role in contributing to the economy of the town. He stated that if there were any questions from the council he would be glad to answer them.

Mr. Jensen asked what could the town do to help the antique dealers.

Mr. Carroll stated that he thought there were two items that were significant to the residents in the community. The downtown development, providing for additional directional signage for people when they arrive in town; as well as parking, because it has always been a problem within the downtown area. The other item was more promotion, and bringing more people into the town of Easton.

Mr. Ford asked what the size of the staff was within the Talbot County Tourism office.

Ms. Dodson gave a description of the staff size.

Mr. Bronawell, Executive Director of the Academy of the Arts Museum and member of the tourism board commented on how hard Ms. Dodson and her staff has worked in presenting Easton nationwide in various magazines.

Mr. Alan Silverstein, CEO & President of the Talbot County Chamber of Commerce also commended Ms. Dodson on promoting the town of Easton. He discussed the relationship that exists between the Chamber of Commerce and the Tourism office in Talbot County.

Mr. Steve Moore discussed the roles of the organizations that are involved in presenting and working together to promote the town of Easton, as well as Talbot County. He discussed the market levels at which they would like see when tourists visit.

Ms. Dodson thanked the council for the opportunity to update them on tourism.

The President of the Council stated that two excellent reports had been given from the Avalon Theatre and the Talbot County Tourism group, and the projects that were undertaken turned out to be success stories.

The President of the Council brought forth a memo from Mayor Butler regarding the Fire Board and Police Board appointments for the next two years. He stated that according to the Charter, Mr. Jensen and Mr. Reed will be on the Police Board and Mr. Ford and Ms. Jackson-Amis will be on the Fire Board for the next two years.

Assistant Town Planner Mr. Thomas was present to discuss a memo regarding Community Legacy. Mr. Thomas stated that Community Legacy is a new program signed into law by Governor Glendening. The program implements the Governor’s overall Smart Growth Program, which is a wide ranging grant program to fund a number of projects, a lot of which have not been able to be funded through traditional programs such as block grants. He asked if the council was interested in proceeding to submit an application on behalf of Easton for Community Legacy. However, Mr. Thomas stated that the applications are due by July 24, 2001 and it must be accompanied by a resolution from the council. Mr. Thomas gave a description of the training sessions and locations. The amount available this year is $10,000,000 statewide, which is more money than the Community Development Block Grant Program receives. He went on to say that multiple projects are encouraged from jurisdictions, as well as creative ideas. There are three organizations that represent areas in compass as to what community legacy describes as it applies to Easton, which would be the East End, West End, and the downtown area. Mr. Thomas suggested that an adhoc Committee be formed if the council would like to go forward with the program. One organization that should be included is the Housing Authority and Redevelopment Corporation along with Mr. Don Bibb because they would have a key role in the program. Mr. Thomas stated that he had spoken with Mr. Bibb prior to the meeting, and Mr. Bibb agreed that he would like to become involved.

The President of the Council asked if there were any questions for Mr. Thomas.

Mr. Ford stated that he supported the submission of the application. He also stated that in the Maryland Municipal League’s program, there is a workshop on Community Legacy and it would be worthwhile if the council members attended.

Mr. Thomas stated that for anyone interested in participating in the program, Gordon Outlaw is the representative from the Department of Housing and Community Development. The town has worked with Mr. Outlaw in the past dealing with general block grants.

Mr. Jensen asked what exactly the Community Legacy plan was.

Mr. Thomas stated that if planning were the concern, it would be to tie the legacy area together, the town center as well as the east and west ends. Basically, the legacy plan is a revitalization strategy. The current revitalization strategy is approximately seven years old. If planning money were to be included for a legacy plan, it would be used to update the two current plans, adding the area that is not covered and tying the three areas together as a whole. Mr. Thomas stated that in addition to the town’s Comprehensive Plan, projects could be reviewed and identified from the plans that are recommended and fundable under the community legacy program.

Mr. Jensen asked if that was what Mr. Thomas would recommend.

Mr. Thomas suggested looking at what is needed now in conjunction with a general brainstorming session to see what others in the community would like to see. Overall, the Community Legacy Program is anticipated to be an ongoing project; the staff at DHCD anticipates fairly substantial increased funding in future years.

Ms. Jackson-Amis asked if Mr. Thomas was asking if the council would like to participate by suggesting individuals of groups to work with the plan or to identify how the funds should be used to map out the legacy.

Mr. Thomas stated that the purpose is to identify the projects to ask for in this year’s request.

Ms. Jackson-Amis suggested that the council work with Mayor Butler and suggest names of individuals in the target areas stated, and when should this be done.

Mr. Thomas stated that it is not urgent that that a plan be thought of, but it should not be put off too long. In terms of selecting what will be asked for money to fund, recommendations need to be submitted.

Mr. Willey asked if the application would be a problem for the Planning & Zoning Department to come up with.

Mr. Thomas stated that he did not think that would be a problem. He went on to say that he had looked at the application and it is fairly straight forward, due to the fact that the paperwork had been supplied.

Mr. Willey stated that it would not take the council very long to provide the resolution that is needed if everyone is willing to support the program. He went on to say that names of groups in the targeted area would be given at the next council meeting.

The President of the Council brought invoices to the floor in the amount of $465,468.77 for approval for payment.

Mr. Reed moved approval of invoices seconded by Mr. Ford and carried unanimously.

There was no representative present at this time from the Easton Volunteer Fire Department.

Mayor Butler stated that the Easton Volunteer Fire Department was interested in putting a substation of the East Side of Rt. 50. He went on to say that the fire department’s concern was that their volunteers could not get across Rt. 50 and to the fire house to get the emergency equipment they may need, then report to the emergency. At the time, the Fire Board had recommended that the council authorize the award of a contract to an architectural firm for preliminary work. Mayor Butler went on to discuss the need for a substation.

Mr. Ford stated that for those who attended the public hearing concerning the Swann Haven Annexation, it was proposed to donate land on Matthewstown Road and to help with the design of the substation. He stated that he would like to explore those ideas before authorizing the expenditures on an architectural firm.

Mayor Butler stated that different locations have been explored, and the area that was chosen was near the water tower, due to the town owning that property leading to the tower itself.

Mr. Ford asked if one of the sites being considered is the one offered by the Passyns.

Mayor Butler stated that the Fire Department felt that the location was a bit too far down Matthewstown Road.

Mr. Kehoe suggested that the council should consider soliciting proposals from architectural firms for consideration.

Mr. Reed moved to have at least three architectural firms look at the location to see what is needed, seconded by Mr. Jensen and carried unanimously.

Mayor Butler stated that Mr. Lynn Thomas would be the town’s Economic Development Coordinator as of July 1, 2001.

Mr. Willey asked how Mr. Thomas would work with the county EDC.

Mayor Butler stated hand-in-hand.

Mr. Ford stated that the Downtown Economic Development’s gain is the planning office’s loss and soon a replacement for Mr. Thomas would be needed.

Mayor Butler stated that a replacement for Mr. Thomas will be sought.

Mr. Tim Dills stated that would be a good idea to find out what the downtown businesses think. He stated that the downtown merchants have a right to be involved in the process.

Mayor Butler stated that the process would be put on hold and discussed in an open meeting.

Ms. Jackson-Amis asked if there was a normal procedure for filling vacancies within the town.

Mayor Butler stated that he had spoken to the old council members about the idea and they felt that there was no problem.

Mr. Jensen asked if there was a formal process to hire new employees.

Mayor Butler stated that there was.

Mr. Ford suggested that the process be followed due to the issues being raised.

Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that a public hearing was not needed. She suggested that proper notice be given that there is a vacancy for those who wish to apply using the current procedures and hiring a replacement.

Mr. Jack Mason suggested that it was important position and the support of the business community is shown and all sides are represented.

Mr. Jensen stated that he would like to echo Mr. Mason’s comments. The issue needs to be preceeded by the council discussion.

Mayor Butler stated that the position would be advertised.

Mr. Dills stated that the decisions were being made without the proper procedures. He suggested that open discussions should be held to talk about the process itself.

Mr. Ed Miller, Director of EBMA stated that the process is not being short-circuited. He went on to say that it was not a process to hire a new Executive Director for EBMA, it was a process to decide what organizational structure would be appropriate and in the best interest of the town in order to encourage economical revitalization. He asked that the process be continued.

Mr. Jensen asked what dialogue was Mr. Miller talking about.

Mr. Miller stated that a draft report of a consultant has been prepared and reviewed by the EBMA Board and suggestions for revisions have been made. As soon as the final report is prepared, it will be submitted to the town council for review and comment. In conclusion, he stated that no decision has been made as far as the future management structure of EBMA.

Mr. Jensen asked how the proposed job for Mr. Thomas will coincide with the funding for the EBMA and where does the money come from for the Economic Development Coordinator.

Mayor Butler stated that EMBA has their own budget and the town will be creating funds for the job.

Mr. Jensen asked as far as the procedure, how could the council get more input.

Mr. Kehoe stated that when the EBMA’s recommendation is finalized, a public document will be received and a decision will be made.

Mr. Willey stated that he would like to see a report and a job description.

Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that two different issues were being discussed. She asked what the procedure is to handle that. Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she felt the issues raised by Mr. Dills and Mr. Mason were proper, but there has to be something generated and brought before the council. She stated that all she understood was that a recommendation was being given for the position to be filled.

Mr. Kehoe stated that the issue is not filling a vacancy, but creating a position.

Mr. Willey stated that each council member should submit a list of priorities that he or she thought the council should be working on for the course of the year so that the council did not stray off the track and also keep everything in order. He asked the council members to submit their lists sometime in the next few weeks.

Chief Harvey stated that he had submitted the impact study that was requested. He went on to say that he had several requests from Ms. General and Ms. Jaffe. They were requesting a passport to the arts for the USAF Aviator Band to come in and close some streets for June 2, 2001 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Also for the Safe Night Easton program scheduled to take place in the parking lot within a closed off area. He stated that the police department recommends approval for both events, which will be held on June 2, 2001. The third application represents lunchtime concerts at Thompson Park. He recommended for immediate future that the request be put on hold so that businesses in the area could be addressed.

Mr. Reed moved for approval of both events to be held on June 2, 2001, seconded by Mr. Ford and carried unanimously.

Mr. Ford asked what the concerns of the businesses were regarding the lunchtime concerts.

Chief Harvey stated that the concerns were the loud music disturbing the workplace; because of the time of the year with windows being open, the music takes away the concentration of the people inside the workplace.

Ms. Ellen General stated that the reason why the concerts take place during lunchtime was so that people come out to the park with their lunches to enjoy the music as a revitalization strategy.

Mr. Kehoe stated that the concern was not the acoustic music, but the amplified music.

Chief Harvey stated that there were approximately 128 people who attended the Third Annual Police Department Golf Tournament.

Town Engineer Mr. Glass congratulated Ms. Jackson-Amis and Mr. Jensen on their recent election to the Town Council. He discussed the governor’s smart growth plan. He stated that due to the holiday closing, garbage collection would be delayed one day. Mr. Glass announced that the Supervisor of Public Works Mr. Brian Hause passed the Certified Arborist exam earlier this month. Mr. Glass stated that there is a Maryland 2001 Pesticide Container Recycling Program being held on June 15, July 13, August 10, and September 7 at the Landfill from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P M. for those who would like to recycle.

Mr. Kehoe echoed Mr. Glass in congratulating Ms. Jackson-Amis and Mr. Jensen for winning the election, and Mr. Willey for his re-election. He went on to discuss the Stormwater Management Ordinance. He stated that the new regulations have strengthened the town’s hand very much in terms of providing for improvements to the equality of surface water runoff from construction projects within the town as well as the quantity.

Mr. Willey asked for a brief rundown on the North Kennedy Street project.

Mr. Kehoe stated that he was still waiting to hear from Department of Agriculture, about the amount of the grant that will be provided for the water and sewer extension. Once that information is known, there will be a special tax assessment from the residents, which they will be able to pay the town back over time.

Mr. Willey asked whether or not there was a time schedule.

Mr. Kehoe stated that he would give a report at the next meeting.

Mr. Willey discussed the events on the upcoming calendar.

Mr. Ford welcomed Ms. Jackson-Amis and Mr. Jensen to the council and stated that he looked forward to working with them. He stated that he appreciated Mr. Mayer and Mr. Heinmuller for the guidance they gave him when he first became a member of the council. He went on to discuss Bill 808, which is a county bill.

Mr. Jensen thanked everyone for the opportunity to work with everyone on the town council and those who supported him in the election. He discussed the possible problems and challenges the council may face.

Mr. Reed thanked Mr. Ford for his comments on Bill 808. He also stated that anyone who would like to sign the petition could see him. He welcomed Mr. Jensen and Ms. Jackson-Amis to the council.

Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she was very proud to represent the community in the Fourth Ward. She went on to say that she wanted to identify the issues that concern her, but most importantly she would like to present herself to work with the other councilmembers and work with the community. Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that her focus was the community, and working to get its issues to the council. She stated that she was appreciative of the voters who voted for her to carry out the best interests of the town. She stated that she will vote on issues in a proactive way so that she can help to bring about change. Ms. Jackson-Amis thanked the Town Clerk Mr. Karge for the orientation because he was very helpful. Ms. Jackson-Amis thanked the other councilmembers and stated that she looked forward to working with everyone.

Mr. Willey reminded the audience that everyone needs to be courteous to everyone else when they speak, if not, they will be asked to leave the meeting room.

There being no further business, upon motion by Ms. Jackson-Amis, seconded by Mr. Jensen, the President of the Council adjourned the regularly scheduled meeting at 9:00 P.M.