TOWN OF EASTON, MARYLAND
April 4, 2005
Councilmember Maureen Scott-Taylor Councilmember Moonyene Jackson-Amis
Also in attendance were the Town Attorney Mr. Kehoe, Chief Blue, Town Engineer Mr. Glass, Town Planner Mr. Hamilton and Mr. Karge, the Town Clerk.
At 7:00 p.m., the President of the Council called the meeting to order. Mr. Jensen opened the meeting with prayer and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MARCH 21, 2005 MEETING
Upon motion by Mr. Jensen seconded by Mr. Wendowski and carried unanimously, minutes of the March 21, 2005 meeting was approved as written.
EASTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT
Mr. Drew Jensen presented the monthly report for the Easton Volunteer Fire Department’s activities. Mr. Jensen stated that they have a new incident command unit which will come on line in a few weeks. He stated that they are working on new gear purchases. He stated that the new substation is progressing.
PRESENTATION OF EMPLOYEE SERVICE AWARDS
Mayor Willey presented Town of Easton Employee Service Awards to:
Robert K. Burris, Fire Department, 10 Years
Clarence A. Gould, Public Works Department, 30 Years
Beverly A. Williamson, Town Administration, 10 Years
PRESENTATION OF ARBOR DAY PROCLAMATION
Councilmember Maureen Scott-Taylor read the Arbor Day Proclamation.
ITEMS BY MAYOR WILLEY
Mayor Willey discussed collaborative efforts with the County Council regarding the Parks and Recreation program. He stated that there will be recruits as part of an advisory board to help develop the programs that will be looked at in the future. Mayor Willey stated that the High School Principal will be making the selection for participants on this board.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked that someone from Be a Star be included on this Board.
Mayor Willey stated that the 13 to 17 age group will be the targeted group as they seem to be the ones with the least amount of activity.
Mayor Willey stated that Mr. Lynn Thomas will begin his transition today to the Planning and Zoning Department.
Mayor Willey discussed a parking situation at Easton High School where it has been proposed to let Easton High School students park on the east side of Mecklenburg Avenue. Mayor Willey stated that he has also discussed a parking situation on West Street where residents need parking permits in front of their residence. He stated that he has not heard anything from the council adverse to those suggestions so he is asking the Town Attorney to draft legislation to address these situations.
Mayor Willey stated that he will be meeting with the Department heads to discuss the upcoming fiscal year budget. He stated that the Council will have a draft of the budget by the end of the month.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she hopes that the Town of Easton will do some recruiting as positions open up so that there will be some opportunities for jobs for African American.
Mr. Wendowski discussed Easton High School parking and stated that through discussions with Easton Police Department and Dr. Thurber, it was recommended that the east side be permit parking only controlled by the school. He stated that the times for permit parking would be 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Ms. Scott-Taylor stated that she has worked with Mr. Thomas for many years as Assistant Town Planner and she is delighted to have him back in the Planning office. She stated that he is a true asset to the Town.
ITEMS BY THE CHIEF OF POLICE
Chief Blue had one request.
Upon motion by Mr. Jensen seconded by Mrs. Scott-Taylor and carried unanimously, approval was granted for the two-hour parking restriction.
Chief Blue thanked Mayor Willey and members of the Council for their attendance at their promotion and awards ceremony at the Avalon Theatre.
ITEMS BY THE TOWN ENGINEER
The Town Engineer, Mr. Glass discussed project updates. He stated that they will be doing a lot more paving around town this week. Mr. Glass stated that work is continuing at North Easton Park. He stated that we have heard back from Cadmus with regards to Rails-to-Trails and we are close to having a signed license agreement which will allow the construction along Idlewild Avenue to Dutchman’s Lane. He stated that curb and gutter for the Hammond Street construction project is underway. Mr. Glass reported on the Firehouse substation and stated that they are working on the interior. He stated that there is one final issue with State Highway Administration to get the entrance permitted there with a signal.
Mr. Glass stated that he will be setting up a meeting with traffic consultants regarding traffic projections.
On the Utilities front, Mr. Glass reported that the wastewater treatment facility is moving ahead.
The Town Engineer stated that stormwater management analyses are continuing.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked the status of the handicapped ramp on West Street and at the Talbot County Courthouse.
Mr. Glass stated that it is on the upcoming schedule and will be completed by the end of this fiscal year.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she is on the Governor’s Task Force that deals with environmental justice and sustainable communities and one of the areas where funds are sometimes given. She asked the Town Engineer to forward to her an outline of what would be needed particularly a cost breakdown. She stated that they are accepting some projects for assistance.
Mr. Glass stated that the preliminary costs are $180,000 to $200,000.
Ms. Jackson-Amis thanked Mr. Glass for getting to Hammond Town.
Mayor Willey stated that we are waiting on Maryland Department of the Environment for information regarding funding for the Dover Road project.
Mr. Jensen asked the Town Engineer if he had been able to visit Brettridge.
Mr. Glass stated that the real solution to the drainage issue in that area is to get the street paved with the finish course on top. He stated that we are holding a bond on the whole project so they can be encouraged.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked when we will be notified about the loan.
Mayor Willey stated that we should get the notice in June.
Mr. Wendowski asked if the paperwork had been completed to satisfy the County for Dutchman’s Lane.
Mr. Glass stated that he heard from Mr. Clark today and it will be discussed at the County Council’s meeting Tuesday.
Mr. Wendowski asked if the traffic study done by Lowe’s can be piggybacked onto.
Mr. Glass stated that they do use those numbers.
ITEMS BY THE TOWN PLANNER
The Town Planner stated that he has received and distributed to the Council a request for a special event from the Talbot County Humane Society to post banners at Talbottown and one at the Humane Society advertising their fundraiser.
Upon motion by Mr. Jensen seconded by Ms. Scott-Taylor and carried unanimously, permission was granted to place the banners at Talbottown and the Humane Society April 8 until the day after the event.
Mr. Hamilton stated that the Planning Commission meets April 21 with one item on the agenda. He stated that the project is an Elm Street project along the rail-trail. He stated that they want to take down those warehouses and place 38 townhomes which are similar to the townhomes approved for Locust Commons.
Mr. Ford asked when the Council may see the Zoning Ordinance.
Mr. Hamilton stated that it is on the agenda for the meeting April 21.
Mr. Wendowski discussed the request for proposal for the architectural standards.
Mr. Hamilton stated that they are working with a contractor and he is due to send the first product to review in the next couple of weeks.
LETTER FROM THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF TALBOT COUNTY REQUESTING AUTHORITY FOR TEMPORARY USE OF VACANT LOT ON SOUTH WASHINGTON STREET DURING THEIR HERITAGE WEEKEND SEPTEMBER 29 THROUGH OCTOBER 3
Upon motion by Mr. Jensen seconded by Ms. Scott-Taylor and carried unanimously, permission was granted to use the vacant lot on South Washington Street during their Heritage weekend.
LETTER FROM MS. CHRISTINA MILLS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION REQUESTING PERMISSION TO DISPLAY BANNER AT TALBOTTOWN PROMOTING 12TH ANNUAL CHARITY ANTIQUES SHOW AND SALE
Ms. Christina Mills was present to discuss their charity event.
Upon motion by Mr. Jensen seconded by Mr. Wendowski and carried unanimously permission was granted to hang their banner at Talbottown.
Ms. Mills discussed the Talbot County Historical Trust Preservation Symposium on Saturday, April 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. She invited the Council and public to attend.
PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN LANDS; 30.192 ACRES OF LAND, MORE OR LESS, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS WEST GLENWOOD, TO THE TOWN OF EASTON AND ASSIGNMENT OF ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF R-7A (RESIDENTIAL) AND CRITICAL AREA ZONING OF LDA TO THE LAND SUBJECT TO THE ANNEXATION RESOLUTION. ALSO RESOLUTION NO. 5849 TO ESTABLISH A SPECIAL TAX DISTRICT TO THE AREA TO BE ANNEXED TO REIMBURSE THE TOWN FOR THE COSTS OF INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDING THE EXTENSION OF WATER AND SEWER, STREET SIDEWALK, STREET LIGHTS, CURB AND GUTTER AND OTHER RELATED IMPROVEMENTS
At approximately 7:45 p.m., the President of the Council opened the public hearing.
The Town Attorney briefed on the annexation proposal. He stated that the purpose of the annexation proposal is to enable the Town of Easton to extend water and sewer services to the residents who live on Glenwood Avenue. Mr. Kehoe discussed block grant funding for infrastructure improvements and necessary water and sewer improvements. He discussed the zoning classification for the properties. Mr. Kehoe discussed setting up a special district to cover the expenses of the water and sewer and road project if the expense of those infrastructure improvements exceeds the amount of the block grant from the state.
Ms. Bertha Wilson, 46 Johnson Street, was present on behalf of the residents of West Glenwood Avenue community in support of Resolution 5848, 5849 and Ordinance No. 480 for the most part. She stated that she has worked on this project for a quarter of a century. Ms. Wilson discussed the history of the annexation from the residents’ perspective. She stated that they had been informed that there would be no need for a special tax district due to the award of the $450,000 grant. Ms. Wilson stated that on behalf of the residents of West Glenwood Avenue, she asked the Council to vote favorably to move this process forward.
Mr. Webster Dorsey, 59 Wayman Avenue, voiced his support for the annexation resolution and ordinance and partially supported the special taxing district resolution with reservations. Mr. Dorsey discussed the problems that occur during heavy rainfall. He discussed his concern over the special taxing district. Mr. Dorsey asked the Council to consider the special tax district when considering this annexation.
Mr. Roscoe Fields, 639 W. Glenwood Avenue, stated that he is present to support Resolution No. 5848, the annexation resolution. He stated that the residents of the community are elderly and would like to enjoy some of the amenities of their neighbors such as street lights, garbage collection, street improvements, snow removal, town sewer and town water which would enhance the rural character and quality of life. He discussed speaking in favor of the grant at the CDBG hearing in Crownsville. Mr. Fields asked if the town intends to complete this project in accordance with the grant specifications. He asked what effect it would have if the project is completed partially by the town and partially by contractors. Mr. Fields questioned the completion timeline.
Ms. Jackson-Amis questioned how we plan to address the timetable that the grant specifies and in the event we are unable to do that, what would happen.
The Town Engineer stated that they are fully aware that the project deadline is in September. He stated that they plan to have the project ready to bid, awarded and ready to go to construction and completed prior to that date. He stated that there could possibly be an extension granted from CDBG.
Mr. Wendowski asked when the timetable for when the bids will go out. He asked what is built in to absorb the delays.
Mr. Glass stated that they plan to have plans ready for bidding in April.
Ms. Jackson-Amis discussed the additional burden of the special taxing district for the residents.
Ms. Jackson-Amis applauded the community and the Town Attorney for their efforts to bring this project to fruition.
Mr. Jensen asked if some of the work could be done in house to avoid cost overruns.
Mr. Glass stated that they could look at that situation but would probably have to defer some other projects.
Mr. Ford thanked the Town staff, County staff and the residents for their hard work and perseverance.
The President of the Council stated that the public record would be left open until the end of business on Friday.
At 8:15 p.m., the President of the Council closed the public hearing.
RECESS
The President of the Council recessed the regularly scheduled meeting.
RECONVENE
At 8:21 p.m., the President of the Council reconvened the regularly scheduled meeting.
MS. LINDA SCHWARTEN EVANS, NATIONAL MEDICAL IMAGING
Ms. Evans invited the Council to come and meet their staff of nine and get a chance to know them. She stated that they are located on Cynwood Drive next to Aquacare. Ms. Evans stated that they do MRIs and ultrasounds. She stated that every month a doctor gives a talk to the community.
Ms. Jackson-Amis rejoined the meeting at 8:23 p.m.
INTRODUCTION OF WEST GLENWOOD ANNEXATION LEGISLATION
The President of the Council introduced the following resolutions and ordinance in reference to the annexation:
Amended Ordinance No. 480, “AN AMENDED ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF EASTON AMENDING THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE TOWN OF EASTON TO APPLY AN ORIGINAL ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF R-7A (RESIDENTIAL) AND CRITICAL AREA ZONING OF LDA (LIMITED DEVELOPMENT AREA) TO A PARCEL OF LAND ANNEXED TO THE TOWN OF EASTON LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF MARYLAND ROUTE 322 CONSISTING OF 30.192 ACRES OF LAND, MORE OR LESS.”
Resolution No. 5848, “A RESOLUTION TO ANNEX CERTAIN LANDS TO THE TOWN OF EASTON LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF MARYLAND ROUTE 322 AND CONSISTING OF 30.192 ACRES OF LAND, MORE OR LESS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE ANNEXATION.”
Resolution No. 5849, “A RESOLUTION TO CREATE A SPECIAL TAXING DISTRICT ENCOMPASSING CERTAIN LANDS IN THE TOWN OF EASTON LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF MARYLAND ROUTE 322 AND CONSISTING OF 30.192 ACRES OF LAND, MORE OR LESS, FOR THE FINANCING OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS TO THE AREA.”
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER COMMENTS ON ORDINANCE NO. 482, DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES
The President of the Council introduced Ordinance no. 482 for a first reading, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF EASTON AMENDING THE TOWN OF EASTON CODE TO ADD ARTICLE TWENTY NINE TO PROVIDE FOR THE IMPOSITION AND COLLECTION OF DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES WITHIN THE TOWN.”
At 8:25, the President of the Council opened the public hearing on Ordinance No. 482.
The Town Attorney briefed on the impact fee proposal. He stated that impact fees are a device used by municipalities to shift or partially shift the cost of new development required by new improvements made by local governments, such as roads, parks, schools, streets, stormwater facilities, etc. He stated that the role of an impact fee is a mechanism to try shifting some of the cost of that project from the existing tax base of the local government directly to the purchasers or occupants of newly developed property. Mr. Kehoe stated that the revenues generated from impact fees in Maryland can only be used to fund capital projects. He stated that impact fees help communities fund infrastructure improvements in the future. Mr. Kehoe discussed the timeframe for impact fees. He stated that the capital projects must be identified and then put in the capital program which means we are committing to getting the funding through tax revenues, grants, whatever is available and partially through impact fees in order to construct the projects. He stated that the Town of Easton hired Tischler and Associates to help us prepare the ordinance.
Mr. Kehoe discussed the identification of five separate classes of capital projects which impact fees can contribute to assist the town in the future in constructing them. He stated that they are parks and recreation, municipal facilities of the general government of the town, transportation element, proposed expansion to Easton Police Department, and proposed improvements to the Easton Fire Department buildings.
Mr. Kehoe stated that the ordinance has been written by him so that it tracks as closely as possible the way the county ordinance operates so it will be easier for property owners to use one set of calculations and one process to deal with the county and town.
Mr. Kehoe stated that the ordinance exempts governmental projects.
The Town Attorney stated that the impact fee is triggered when the project is permitted. He stated that it applies to all new residential construction that adds an additional dwelling unit to the town of Easton. He stated that the fees can assist the town in portions of the funding that we need for future projects; it’s not going to shift all the costs of infrastructure to new development. Mr. Kehoe stated that impact fees do not have much effect on the rate of growth.
Mr. Kehoe displayed an overview showing the maximum allowable impact fee for various types of development which was based on analysis done by Mr. Tischler. He stated that for a single family detached home, the maximum total impact fee that the Town of Easton could charge at the current time is $3,184; single family attached or townhouse could charge is $2,523; the maximum multi-family or other residential charge is $2,225.
Mr. Kehoe discussed the county’s impact fees and the overall impact.
Ms. Scott-Taylor asked for clarification regarding the concept of exemption and deferring in regard to affordable housing.
The Town Attorney stated that in the county’s ordinance, there are certain kinds of affordable housing units which are exempt from the fee. He stated that the county also has a process of deferring impact fees.
Mr. Al Silverstein, Talbot County Chamber of Commerce, 29459 Hemlock Lane, Easton; asked for impact fee clarification for commercial development. He asked the Council to keep in mind that commercial property pays more in taxes on a per square foot basis than the residential property.
The President of the Council stated that the public record would remain open until the close of business on Friday. Mr. Ford stated that he is reserving the right to re-open this public hearing if he so chooses at 7:45 p.m., on April 18 based upon public comments. He stated that the full Tischler report is available by contacting the Town Office.
The President of the Council introduced Ordinance No. 482, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF EASTON AMENDING THE TOWN OF EASTON CODE TO ADD ARTICLE TWENTY NINE TO PROVIDE FOR THE IMPOSITION AND COLLECTION OF DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES WITHIN THE TOWN.”
The President of the Council closed the public hearing at 8:51 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 5850 ADOPTING THE TALBOT COUNTY HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
Upon motion by Ms. Jackson-Amis seconded by Mr. Wendowski and carried; Resolution No. 5850 was passed unanimously following a roll call vote.
ORDINANCE NO. 483, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF EASTON AMENDING CHAPTER 13 OF THE TOWN OF EASTON CODE TO ADD ARTICLE TWO TO ESTABLISH AN AFFORDABLE HOUSING FUND
The Town Attorney stated that he has incorporated the changes and this Ordinance is ready for introduction tonight and passage at a subsequent meeting.
Ms. Jackson-Amis questioned Section 13-15, page 3; the provision of social and community services. She stated that she is concerned about that language. She stated that we would use those organizations as resources but preferred that they not be part of the board.
Mr. Jensen stated that flexibility is needed to get the best persons for the board we can find.
Mr. Ford suggested striking so that the section reads, “membership of the board shall reflect the economic and ethnic composition of the town and shall include persons with specific expertise with regard to housing issues (striking: and the provision of social and community services) for persons to low to moderate income. Mr. Ford asked that the Council keep in mind that these would be Mayoral appointments and Council approval so this doesn’t prevent anyone from being considered regardless of their agency they are associated with.
Ms. Jackson-Amis moved Ordinance No. 483, as Amended for a first reading, seconded by Mr. Jensen and carried unanimously following a roll call vote.
LETTER FROM MR. FREDERICK SMYTH, TALBOT COUNTY MARYLAND OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REQUESTING SUPPORT FOR PILOT TELEVISION SHOW
The President of the Council stated that Mr. Smyth is requesting $5,000 from the Town of Easton to help produce one episode of an economic development series.
Mr. Bond discussed the series of programs Mr. Smyth is working on highlighting on the local economy.
Mayor Willey stated that if the Council concedes that this is the way to go, then we will look into possible funding methods and report back.
Mr. Wendowski suggested having Mr. Smyth make a presentation to make sure it is worth the money.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked how the program would be beneficial.
Mr. Bond stated that it is a marketing program for Talbot County and Easton.
Ms. Scott-Taylor stated that Easton Cable may be a mechanism for additional funding.
CONSENSUS ON THE EXPANSION OF THE HISTORIC DISTRICT
Mr. Ford stated at the last meeting, he made the suggestion to expand the historic district to match the National Register district lines.
Ms. Jackson-Amis discussed efforts and issues of the community. She stated that everyone wants to preserve the history but a major issue still remains regarding how to handle the finances. Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she shared that there are individuals that can help explain materials and challenge the requirements of the Commission.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked that the Council vote on the non-contiguous properties individually.
Ms. Jackson-Amis commended the Historic District Commission on their thoroughness and research.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she hopes that there will be funds available from the Affordable Housing Trust fund for people that need to have money to fix up or maintain their properties due to the possible imposition.
Mr. Wendowski discussed his research efforts. He stated that there is a National Registry checklist available to see if your property qualifies to go into the National Registry. He stated that there are some changes that need to be made to the existing Historic District. Mr. Wendowski stated that he is not in favor of the total expansion due to benefits to those in the National Registry right now. He stated that he does not view this as a way to get landlords to upgrade their properties. Mr. Wendowski stated that we need to go east but he is not comfortable going all the way out on Goldsborough. He doesn’t think Aurora should be included. Mr. Wendowski stated that Richards Cemetery is a great concern that should be addressed quickly.
Mr. Ford asked that Ms. Jackson-Amis clarify specifically what she wanted included in the non-contiguous properties.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked that the Richards Cemetery be included and Ms. Morris’ house, 702 South Street.
Ms. Scott-Taylor stated that with regard to the non-contiguous properties, if people want to be included and we don’t vote on that tonight, is there another way for them to be included.
Mr. Ford discussed having a specific property owner that would like to come into the Historic District and not being included in this evenings’ vote. Mr. Ford stated that on the advice of the attorney, they would ask the Historic District to recommend their inclusion and the Council would vote on it. He stated that this could be done at a later time.
Ms. Jackson-Amis asked Mr. Bollman, Chairman of the Historic District, from West Street, down Port Street past the church, if the church and the house beside it is included.
RECESS
The President of the Council recessed the regularly scheduled meeting until the Town Planner returned with necessary maps.
RECONVENE
The President of the Council reconvened the regularly scheduled meeting.
HISTORIC DISTRICT EXPANSION (cont’d)
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she wanted everyone to know in Hammondtown to know that this excludes their property.
Ms. Jackson-Amis made a motion to include the two non-contiguous properties; 702 South Street and the Richards Cemetery and we expand the Town of Easton’s Historic District to the National Registry. Ms. Jackson-Amis’ motion was seconded by Mr. Jensen and carried 4 – 1 following a roll call vote with Mr. Wendowski voting no.
Mr. Ford thanked the Historic District Commission and Mr. Bollman the Chairman for all their hard work.
Mayor Willey stated that the first meeting of the Historic District Commission in May at 6:00 p.m., there will be a short workshop on tax credits and grants.
ADVICE FROM LEGAL COUNSEL REGARDING LOWE’S PUBLIC HEARING
Mr. Ford stated that during the last meeting, the Council wanted more information regarding Lowe’s application. He stated that the response was received tonight as well as additional information. Mr. Ford asked that with the information dispensed at the close of the public hearing, how is the Council required to digest this material.
The Town Attorney stated that the public record was closed Friday after the public hearing. He stated that both the submission from Talbot Preservation Alliance and Lowe’s came after the close of the hearing. Mr. Kehoe stated that the best and fairest way to handle this matter is to re-open the public hearing and allow the applicant and Mr. Alspach and any other public parties to come forward with the additional information. The Town Attorney recommended the President of the Council reopen the Lowe’s public hearing at the next Council meeting.
Mr. Jensen stated that he hasn’t had the opportunity to look at the additional information but he thought that the issues were clear.
Mr. Ford stated that the major issues that were raised during the public hearing were: the issues of stormwater management, the reuse of the current Lowe’s building as well as the road proposed to go between the new Lowe’s store and Food Lion and it’s connection through the new Artery development to Glebe Road; the grade changes, the rear setback, the calculation of open space and the outdoor display of merchandise along the sidewalks and parking areas. Mr. Ford stated that he would like to digest the material received from Lowe’s and suggested that we re-open this meeting at the next regularly scheduled Council meeting.
The Town Attorney advised that the advertisement to re-open the public hearing would have to be in the newspaper tomorrow in order to have the hearing next week.
Ms. Scott-Taylor asked if the Council reviews the additional material and is prepared to vote at the next meeting, is there a need for another public hearing.
The Town Attorney advised that if you want to take additional information after the close of the public hearing, you have to do it in the context of a public hearing.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that she does not know why we don’t give direction to the developer.
Mr. Wendowski stated that he has concerns regarding the questions that have been raised and if they have been addressed. He stated that he will be prepared to vote on it at the next meeting. Mr. Wendowski discussed the traffic study.
Mayor Willey suggested reviewing the material over the next two weeks and asking the staff to ask any questions.
The President of the Council scheduled the Lowe’s public hearing reopening for April 18 at 7:15 p.m.
ITEMS BY MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL
Ms. Scott-Taylor thanked Character Counts for inviting them to Easton Middle School to give out awards last month.
Ms. Scott-Taylor thanked Talbot County’s Office of Tourism for hosting a group of meeting planners that were recently here around the county.
Ms. Scott-Taylor asked for clarification on rails-to-trails and dogs. She stated that she thought she could walk her dog on rails-to-trails but has recently been told that she cannot.
The Town Engineer stated that there are two conflicting signs.
Ms. Scott-Taylor made a motion to allow dogs on rails-to-trails, seconded by Mr. Jensen and carried unanimously.
Mayor asked if they are allowed on the rails-to-trails but not in the parks. He stated that there needs to be clarification.
Ms. Scott-Taylor stated that she does not think dogs should be allowed in parks but should be allowed on rails-to-trails if leashed.
Ms. Scott-Taylor stated that she will lead a fundraising activity to purchase dog dropping bags to be placed on the rails-to-trails.
Ms. Jackson-Amis invited those listening to a new restaurant in Ward IV on West Street; Mr. B’s Soul Food Carry Out on April 18.
Ms. Jackson-Amis raised a concern regarding a property that was sold on Dover Street and Hanson Street. She stated that the tenants received notification of eviction on March 24 and were required to vacate by March 31. She stated that there needs to be some attention for emergency housing or precautionary language for residents living in establishments. Ms. Jackson-Amis asked Mayor Willey to consider appointments for the Housing Trust Fund.
Ms. Jackson-Amis stated that Fred’s Army was successful in obtaining the State of Maryland bond for $100,000. She stated that Fred’s Army was complimented by the delegation for their presentation. Ms. Jackson-Amis discussed the support of the legislation and the participation from friends.
The President of the Council reviewed the Council’s calendar.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, upon motion by Mr. Jensen seconded by Ms. Scott-Taylor and carried unanimously, the President of the Council adjourned the regularly scheduled meeting at 10:01 p.m.
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Town Clerk