How Much Should The Mayor And Council Be Paid?

Currently, the annual monetary compensation for the Mayor is $25,750 while Councilmembers receive $20,600. Every two years the Compensation Commission meets to recommend changes to the Mayor and Council’s compensation and they would like to hear from you.

The Compensation Commission met on January 31, 2011 and discussed its mission of recommending possible changes to the salaries of the mayor and council members. But before making a recommendation, the Commission wants to hear residents’ opinions on various aspects of compensating the Mayor and Council including:

• how the Mayor and Council compensation should be determined
• the frequency of Mayor and Council compensation
• who should determine the compensation of the Mayor and Council members
• other matters related in general to the compensation of the Mayor and Council members.

The current Compensation Commission will be making decisions for the Calendar Year 2012 (which includes the tail end of FY 2012) and Calendar Year 2013 (FY 2013 and FY 2014).

When asked about how the decision was made in the past and how people could be involved, Compensation Commission Chairman Tom Moore explained:

Two years ago when the Commission last met, we came to consensus that the mayor and councilmembers’ stipends stood at an appropriate level. We recommended that in future years they increase by the positive change, if any, in the Washington-Baltimore metropolitan area CPI for urban consumers, a formula that many neighboring jurisdictions use. We think we’ve arrived at a pretty good method of keeping our officeholders’ compensation current, but we want to hear from anyone who thinks otherwise, or who has questions or comments about our process or results.

The Mayor and Council can decline the recommendation, or part of the recommendation, when the Commission makes its report. They can also decline to fund raises at budget time even though they previously approved the salary increases.

In 2009, the Commission suggested the salaries could be raised for FY 2010, and a bit more in the future. The Mayor and Council turned down the 2010 raise, but approved the raises for the following years. During the FY11 budget process, they declined to fund that year’s salary increases.

The next meetings of the Compensation Commission will be on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at 7 PM and Tuesday, March 8, 2011 at 9 AM at City Hall. The meetings are open to the public and you can comment during the meetings.

Residents who would like to submit written comments can email the City Clerk:
[email protected] or by mail to the City Clerk’s Office, Rockville City Hall, 111 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850. Written comments will be accepted until 5 PM on Monday, March 7.

Would you like to be on the Compensation Commission?

One more commissioner is still needed to join Tom Moore, James Coyle, Steve Edwards, and Jim Marrinan, since five members are expected to serve on this appointed panel.

Residents who would like to apply for the open position on the commission can write to the Mayor and Council, c/o City Clerk, Rockville City Hall, 111 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850, or call the City Clerk’s Office at 240-314-8281 for information or to fill out and submit an Expression of Interest form. Forms are available online.

Redgate Management, School Portables and Business Relations At The Mayor And Council Meeting 2/17/11

The Mayor and Council Meeting was officially over at 9:54 PM last night which is actually very early. Here are some highlights to keep you informed.

Socially-Responsible Investments

At the request of the Human Rights Commission, the City will be pursuing more socially responsible investments. HRC asked the City to look into a divestment policy pertaining to Sudan. City Manager Scout Ullery reported that staff reviewed State law and County ordinances but they only address actively-managed accounts which does not present an issue for the City. The Retirement Board will consider the issue at their February 18th meeting and come forward with recommendation.

The Rockville Chamber of Commerce gave a quick update including:

• Rockville Rewards Card has over 70 businesses participating for weekly and daily specials to help 15 nonprofits in the City. You can still purchase one.
• Sign Ordinance met with City Staff about recommendations for changes, gathering comments from members and working with Sign Review Committee.
• They have already started to plan the Taste of Rockville for Hometown Holidays.

Compensation Commission

Former Mayor James Coyle was reappointment as member until 2014 and Tom Moore was appointed as Chair until 2012. Congratulations to them both!

Guess What? We Need More Salt!

I’m sure it is not a surprise but all the ice means we’re using a lot of salt this year. The Mayor and Council approved a purchase up to $86,500 from the Eastern Salt Company, Inc. under a cooperative contract with Montgomery County. International Salt was unable to respond quickly enough to help meet the demand which would have been within the City Manager’s approval authority. It’s been that kind of winter.

Portable Classrooms Policy With MCPS

The City Manager asked the Mayor and Council to approve the policy on the placement of portables by Montgomery County Public Schools so it can be finalized. The policy was sent to MCPS and James Song, Director of Department of Facilities Management, commented.

The three points made by Mr. Song were:

1. MCPS doesn’t want to produce traffic reports for more than six portables so traffic reports would not be required no matter how many portables are added.
2. MCPS needed clarification of what the term “significant trees” meant.
3. MCPS emphasized that they can, through the mandatory referral process, chose not to comply with any part of the zoning ordinance.

During the discussion, Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio seemed dismayed that Mr. Song believed it would be premature to drop the proposed State bill MC11-11 even though MCPS and the City have been positively working together on a process for the placement of portable classrooms in the City limits.

The Staff recommended adjusting the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO) in respect to the fire response standard and move forward to develop an agreement for new school construction, additions and remodeling.

The Mayor and Council unanimously agreed to direct the City Staff to proceed as requested by Mr. Ullery.

Hopefully MCPS officials and City staff will continue to develop a better working relationship as we go forward with all the projects necessary to alleviate our school overcrowding.

Community—Business Communication

Councilmember John Britton encouraged ongoing communication through an annual gathering or summit. REDI and the Chamber have agreed to participate in a forum to discuss ideas and he hopes at least 150 people representing a cross-section of the community would participate. About 15 years ago, the City had a half-day business summit and this is an idea to “come around again”.

The Mayor and Council directed the City Staff to identify the core planners, which should not just be Staff but also REDI, Chamber, and Councilmember Britton to begin planning the event. Staff will return to the Mayor and Council with a proposed plan for the Summit in order to secure feedback and support before implementation.

Redgate Golf Course

With two motions, the Mayor and Council voted to keep all their options open, which means they did not make a decision as to the exact course of action involving the management of the Redgate Golf Course.

The NGF recommendation was to outsource the golf course operation, which is the prevalent type of arrangement in the golf industry at this time and this is estimated to be approximately $120,000 per year.

The motion eventually passed by the Mayor and Council was made by Councilmember Bridget Newton and it followed the staff’s recommendation and contract with NGF for consulting services to development an RFP. The RFP will include a management services option but it also included an option to lease the Redgate Golf Course which was not supported by NGF. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Britton and passed unanimously. The fee to the NGF to develop the RFP would be approximately $6,000.

Councilmember Newton also made a motion to engage NGF for advice on establishing a new director of golf staff position, which was seconded by Councilmember Britton. The motion passed 3 to 2. Councilmember Mark Pierzchala disagreed because if you go with a management company then you don’t need a director of golf. Councilmember Piotr Gajewski could not support the motion without knowing the cost involved.

With these votes, the Mayor and Council could receive many proposals for outsourcing management, leasing the course, and hiring a new director. A decision still needs to be made.

The next meeting of the Mayor and Council is Monday, February 14, 2011.

Comic Strip: ROCK’burb 1-29-11

The consultants, ROI/CRC did not work to improve their lackluster, wordy, and unoriginal logo & tagline ideas for the City’s branding effort after the survey results were tabulated. As a matter of fact, as Brad Rourke pointed out in his opinion piece this week, when they first came up the their ideas, they “simply pointed out that there was little consensus among people and that they had seemingly false impressions of where they live.” We paid them $75,000 to ignore us. We don’t know where we live? Anyway, at the Mayor and Council meeting a majority voted for the least favorite choice from the survey results. The rest of the DC area is having a good time ridiculing the options and our choice.

About ROCK’burb: Last year we were tossing around ideas for new features on Rockville Central. We thought Saturday morning comics would be fun. Since I’ve always wanted to draw a comic strip, I decided to give it a try. Sometimes an idea pops up in my head and sometimes my whole family thinks up a panel about our lives here in Rockville.

Do you like to draw? We’re hoping we have other cartoonists who would be interested in submitting comic strips. If you have one about life in Rockville, please send it along! We’d love to see it and may even publish it. Remember, be nice! Email us: [email protected].

Elections, Budget, Annexations And A Councilmember’s Allegation

Since last year, we’ve strived to let our readers know what happened at the Mayor and Council meetings. Here’s what caught my attention last night.

A moment of silence was observed for former Mayor Bill Hanna.

City Manager’s Report
Scott Ullery urged businesses and residents to take a questionnaire from County Executive Ike Leggett on PEPCO’s reliability which are at the links provided.

Another quick link from Citizens Forum
Have you met the Rockville Bike 150 Challenge for 2010? Then email [email protected] and let the Bike Advisory Committee know, so you can be recognized at a future Mayor and Council meeting. Forty people have already reported that they met the 150 mile challenge but there must be plenty of others out there. Do you bike to school or work? Add up your miles!

The Consent Agenda items were passed unanimously.

• Rockville Pedestrian Access Project went to the sole bidder, Midasco, LLC to install compliant sidewalk ramps for $185,555 with non-visual formats (audible tones, verbal messages, tactile surfaces on pushbuttons, and vibrating pushbuttons) at three (3) City owned traffic signals: East Jefferson Street at Halpine Road, Redland Boulevard and Gaither Road, and West Gude Drive and Research Boulevard. These three are in addition to the eleven already approved in the City this fiscal year.
• Authorized the change in zoning at 540 Beall Avenue. The Historic District Commission voted unanimously to recommend the change, and the property owner nominated the property and supports the designation for the home built by Henry Copp which sits across from the High Style Victorian home that he built for himself. Together, these two homes on opposite sides of Beall Avenue provide a snapshot of early and late Victorian homes in Rockville.

Elections
The Worksession with the City of Rockville Board of Supervisors of Elections brings no change to the campaign finance reporting for the City elections. After discussing the 2009 election process with candidates and their treasurers, the Board suggested amending Chapter 8 to make clear that only the candidate or the treasurer need to sign the Report, not both. Councilmembers Pierzchala, Britton, and Gajewski were concerned that a candidate would claim they did not know what was in a report. Councilmember Newton explained the origins of the concern since she was unaware of the filing date and her treasurer was out of the country during the last election and could not submit the documents in person. Electronic signatures would be cost prohibitive. After consideration, the Mayor and Council decided not to implement a change.

Corridor City Transitway (CCT)
During both Citizens Forum and the meeting, the CCT discussion was lengthy as our elected officials attempted to decide on their current position during the approval process for this major transit initiative.

Budget Preview PART III
The very long list of principles were read. These were developed based on the budget priorities and preferences that the Mayor and Council communicated to the City Manager at the first two budget previews, and through the FY 2012 budget surveys. The survey tool was based on requests made by the Mayor and Council and the Finance and Budget Task Force to “provide the Mayor and Council with more information during the process, display more options and choices, better articulate what is discretionary versus nondiscretionary spending, and ensure that the Mayor and Council are solely responsible for setting policy.”

During this review the Mayor and Council were to notify staff of any suggestions or changes they would like to see to the budget process or the proposed budget calendar.

After the review, Mayor Marcuccio stated she would not be voting for the principles. She expressed concern that when the budget figures came out, she would be told that since she supported the principles then she should support the budget. She added that she thought her colleagues would approve them.

Councilmember Gajewski said that he wanted to agree with her, so could she propose a different way of giving the staff direction. She offered no suggestion.

Councilmember Newton then asked if the principals could be looked at as guidelines.

Councilmember Pierzchala explained that this should be a starting point. Councilmember Gajewski stated that we could refer to them as guidelines and as a great starting point, but he didn’t agree with every item on the list as well.

A motion was unanimously approved changing the name to guidelines, then the guidelines were unanimously approved.

Rockville Might Be Getting Larger

During the 2009 Maryland Legislative Session, new legislation was passed (Senate Bill 350 and House Bill 220) that allows a city to annex properties which straddle city boundaries by being partially within and partially outside of a city. Cities may initiate annexation without needing to follow all of the normal provisions regarding obtaining the consent from property owners.

So are there any properties the City can take without the consent of the owners?

Eleven residential parcels in the Twinbrook neighborhood straddle the City boundary:
5703 and 5611 Halpine Road
12900, 12902, 12904 and 12906 Twinbrook Parkway
5629, 5627, 5624, 5622, and 5620 Pier Drive.

City’s primary incentives for annexation of the Twinbrook parcels is “housekeeping” because it would allow the City boundary line to follow established property lines. There would be long-term fiscal benefits to annexation because currently they do not pay City property taxes. City would be responsible for all surveying costs which would come out of the City Manager’s discretionary fund. Staff anticipates that the additional property taxes will repay these costs within 3-4 years.

1300 East Gude Drive also straddles the City/County boundary. The address actually consists of two parcels, both of which straddle the City/County boundary (and have the same owner) and a third parcel, 14803 Southlawn Lane, is also part of this ownership and business, but is entirely in the County. For multiple reasons staff does not recommend annexing 1300 East Gude Drive using the 2009 State legislation but especially because BP Associates, the ownership group for these parcels, has approached City staff about its interest in submitting a request for all of the properties to be annexed in accordance with the standard annexation procedures, including the property that is entirely outside of Rockville boundaries.

Staff would explain to property owners that the City intends to use its authority to annex the properties then provide a description of benefits of being in the City limits such as voting in city elections, a reduced rate for recreation program, etc. If the City pursues annexation, there would be hearings and owners might not want to come into the City.

Councilmember Gajewski made a motion to give staff direction to move forward with pursuit of annexation then Councilmember Pierzchala seconded and it passed unanimously.

Future Agendas

Councilmember Gajewski asked that the serious allegation against the City Manager made in an email exchange by Councilmember Newton to be put on next week’s Agenda. Councilmember Britton stated he was fine with putting it on the Agenda. Mayor Marcuccio did not think it needed to be on the Agenda and it should be forgotten. Councilmember Pierzchala said having a councilmember use such language is of concern to him.

Councilmember Gajewski said a dart was thrown at the City Manager and the Mayor and Council supervise the City Manager. The Mayor then said “I wish we did.” Mayor Marcuccio then expressed a desire to raise it in an executive session.

Councilmember Pierzchala explained that when they have discussions at meetings it demoralizes city staff because their job is to take notes and they can’t respond.

Councilmember Gajewski appealed to Councilmember Newton to apologize to the City Manager. Councilmember Newton said nothing during the discussion. The item was added to next week’s Agenda.

The meeting was then adjourned at 11:20.

CCT, King Farm, Metro And Montgomery College

At last night’s Mayor and Council Meeting, people brought forward both concerns and support of the Corridor Cities Transitway (CCT).

City staff had a meeting with Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) representatives who committed to working with the City on the number and exact location of the King Farm stations and mitigating noise impacts to the neighborhood from the CCT with traffic signals and “quiet zones”. MTA would work with the City on which intersections would remain open in King Farm and they stated there is flexibility in this regard. When presented with the Coalition for the Preservation of King Farm’s petition (signed by several hundred residents) requesting a study to evaluate alternative alignments that do not use King Farm Boulevard, MTA representatives stated that given the concerns of King Farm residents, they “likely would not move forward to select the locally preferred alternative until the King Farm issues are resolved.”

Craig Simoneau, Director of Public Works, went over the options the Mayor and Council could propose which have not been studied by the MTA. He noted the comment period closes on February 1st.

Currently, because of the King Farm annexation, a shuttle is required to be operated and the three routes have a ridership of 19,200 per month (a rider would be counted both ways). These routes could disappear when the annexation agreement ends.

Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio expressed concern about the growth of Montgomery College because these additional students will be driving through Rockville. She thinks an alternative route including Montgomery College could provide public transportation for the students and should be explored. She stated the City had right-of-ways for a Metro stop at Montgomery College. Councilmember Bridget Newton is also concerned about the traffic to and from Montgomery College and supports alternative routes for the CCT and a Metro stop for Montgomery College.

Councilmember Piotr Gajewski said the CCT alignment gives no benefits to King Farm over what they already have, but it will be incredibly disruptive. He recommends looking at various alignments. The most intriguing is I-370. Looking at the mode, he unequivocally opposes light rail because it is only possible if it goes down the median of King Farm Boulevard.

When Councilmember John Britton asked the staff to explain if the MTA would be flexible in regards to which intersections are closed, Mr. Simoneau said MTA could keep them all open if they were all signalized. Councilmember Britton then observed that this downplays the concern of connectivity that there would be a “wall” in King Farm since connectivity could be exactly the same as it is today. As for noise concern, bells could be used instead of horns and if signalized they could control the signals and create “quiet zones”.

Councilmember Mark Pierzchala spoke as a civic association president who understands that when you look at plans, the details are tough, and in this case it’s not only a Rockville decision because the Governor ultimately makes the decision. The whole idea is to move people over a great distance. He supports bus rapid transit over light rail and thinks I-370 of all the alignments is the one that might work.

Then Councilmember Britton expressed his opinion. He doesn’t find the bus rapid transit option compelling enough to throw out the light rail option. Looking at the bigger picture, this is a planning process that will take 25-30 years and he disagrees that it will give the community zero benefit. Those living in King Farm people will go to jobs in Science Center, Rio, and the developments in Gaithersburg. People will want to move to King Farm and take the CCT to stops north. Metro is still struggling with the north-south corridor and the CCT might succeed more than Metro. The light rail transit provides more of a guaranteed transportation system. Bus rapid transits work but they get manipulated and encroached upon for vehicle traffic by the engineers, as he has seen in Virginia. He’s afraid that if we commit to the bus rapid transit we will lose guaranteed transit-oriented development around stations. Building along the I-370 highway loses this development option. There are light rail in other cities such as in New Orleans, Portland, Camden where they successfully go through residential towns and get people out of their cars. In the past they has recommended light rail transit and he does not think we should make this switch now against their colleagues.

Councilmember Pierzchala made a motion to oppose light rail which was seconded by Councilmember Gajewski but the motion was opposed by Mayor Marcuccio, and Councilmembers Newton and Britton. During the discussion, Councilmember Gajewski said rapid bus is being looked at by County for White Flint and it’s incredibly less expensive and more likely to go forward. Mayor Marcuccio added that if they are going to suggest other routes then we should stay open to both modes of transportation and not take away options. Councilmember Pierzchala added that all the alternatives are for bus rapid transit and right now the most likely route is through King Farm so he’s opposing the light rail and its impact.

Councilmember Pierzchala made a motion that the City recommend the MTA study the alternative I-370 alignment which was seconded by Gajewski and passed 4 to1 with Councilmember Britton opposed.

Councilmember Gajewski made a motion to study Shady Grove alignment which was seconded by Councilmember Pierzchala and passed 4 to1 with Councilmember Britton opposed.

A motion to remain silent on whether it is bus rapid transit or light rail rapid transit passed 4 to1 with Councilmember Britton opposed.

City staff will prepare these recommendations for submittal on behalf of the Mayor and Council.

Pumphrey Lot, CCT And A Lack Of Consent At The Mayor and Council Meeting 12-13-10

Artwork model from Deirdre Saunder

In addition to providing information on the proposed ice rink’s demise and possible new grocery store in Town Square, Monday’s Mayor and Council meeting included discussions about other changes in Rockville and we’ll try to give you the rundown here on Rockville Central.

Death Ray
First of all, we all need to know that the General Services Department is working on a solution for the “death ray” reflection from the new District Courthouse and they will let the City know as soon as they have something solid!

New Courthouse Square Park Plaza Artwork (Say that one a few times quick!)
When the warm weather hits next summer, watch where you’re walking. This new artwork will be installed on the walking surface of the circular plaza area surrounding the “Spirit of Rockville” fountain-sculpture in front of the Redbrick Court House. This new endeavor, which is kid-proof and skateboard safe, will combine the work of two different artists into one. By unanimous decision, the Mayor and Council approved the award of $35,000 to Deirdre Saunder of Potomac for her porcelain and glass tile artwork and the new walkway will be installed April or May of next year.

Pumphrey Funeral Home Can Build A Parking Lot
By a split 3-2 decision, the Mayor and Council approved the proposed Zoning Text Amendment from Applicant William A. Pumphrey. The proposed ordinance was first introduced at the meeting on December6 and it allows Pumphrey’s to add parking on the empty lot which they own next to their building. Councilmembers Pierzchala, Gajewski and Britton in favor and Mayor Marcuccio and Councilmember Newton opposed.

Corridor City Transitway
Although the City’s official stance has been to support light rail rather than bus rapid transit for the CCT, City Manager Scott Ullery pointed out that light rail would entail intersection closures and a lot of horn blowing as the trains go through. The King Farm community has started to respond. At this point, the MD Transit CCT Coalition endorses light rail and the Smart Growth Advisory Group endorses rapid bus transit. The City will continue to support the CCT but will reconsider whether to endorse a rail or bus option as more information becomes available. Most of the right of way has been obtained for the planned route through Rockville. Based on presentation a few weeks ago, Councilmember Piotr Gajewski commented that they were not able to articulate any advantages for the light rail other than it somehow makes the transit more permanent.

The Growth And Water Elements
For months the Mayor and Council have been working on the two Elements required by the State of Maryland which needed to be amended into our Comprehensive Master Plan (CMP). After all the discussion and testimony (especially on school growth and capacity) both the Municipal Growth Element (MGE) and Water Resources Element (WRE) were officially and unanimously approved with very little fanfare.

Consent Agenda

Although items can be removed from the Consent Agenda for discussion and a separate vote, all the items remained on the Consent Agenda. Councilmembers Britton, Gajewski, and Peirzchala voted in favor, while Mayor Marcuccio and Councilmember Newton voted against. (3-2 for approval).

Here are the items:

A. The removal of three Art in Public Places sculptures recommended by the Cultural Arts Commission: “Ballgame,” the painted aluminum and steel sculpture located at Dogwood Park; “Eleven Triangles”, the wood sculpture located at Rockmead Park; and “Four Piece Construction/Variations on a Triangle” the painted muslin sculpture located in the Social Hall. All had deteriorated and been restored in the past but the condition of the sculptures merited their disposal.

B. Contract award to the sole bidder, AshBritt, Inc. of Pompano Beach, Florida (which came to our assistance last year) for emergency snow/debris related equipment rental and manpower for an amount not to exceed $2,000,000.00 per fiscal year. This company has the manpower and also equipment (such as generators) to get the City through storm emergencies and disasters. Orders only need to be placed as an emergency need arises and there is no obligation on the part of the City to procure any minimum dollar amount of services. Approval of this contract to puts a system in place in case we need it.

C. Contract award to the lowest, responsive and responsible bidder, CFI Construction Corporation of Rockville in the amount of $4,757,000 for the construction of improvements to the Gude Drive Maintenance Complex. The Gude Drive Maintenance Complex houses the Operations Divisions of the Departments of Public Works and Recreation and Parks. The facility was originally built in 1972 and has not been significantly upgraded over the past 38 years. It is greatly in need of renovation and modernization. The facilities, maintenance buildings, offices, parking areas, at the complex support the staff and equipment that provide many of the most important City services to Rockville residents, including streets and sidewalk maintenance, water/sewer systems maintenance, refuse collection, stormwater maintenance, motor vehicle maintenance, snow plowing, parks maintenance, athletic field maintenance, facility maintenance, forestry, horticulture, right-of-way maintenance, and emergency response.

D. Contract award for the Glenora Tributary Middle Stream Restoration Design Services Bid to Charles P. Johnson and Associates, Inc. (CPJ) in the amount of $205,162 to enhance the Watts Branch Watershed through stream restoration, wetland enhancement, reforestation, and protection of adjacent utilities. This project was recommended in the 2001 Watts Branch Watershed Study as a crucial component to the long-term health of the watershed. This study was recommended by the Watts Branch Partnership and adopted by the Mayor and Council on August 6, 2001.

E. Architectural/Engineering Design Contract Award to WGM of Annapolis for the Phase II Construction Administration of the Gude Drive Maintenance Facility Improvements Project in the amount of $115,300. The Gude Drive Maintenance Facility Improvement Project funds the modernization and expansion of the City’s maintenance facility. The existing facility is in need of expansion, structural rehabilitation and modernization, and requires many improvements to bring the facilities fully into compliance with current building, life safety, accessibility and other applicable codes and standards. Having been originally constructed almost forty years ago, the facility is far too small for the current size of the staff, amount of City vehicles and equipment, storage needs, etc.

F. Contract extension to Specialized Engineering in the amount not to exceed $150,000 through June 30, 2011 for supplemental inspection services. Public Works continues to utilize consultant inspection services from Specialized Engineering as a supplement to City staff. This extension simply approves additional spending authority through the remainder of FY11 in the amount not to exceed $150,000 for a total FY11 authorization of $240,000. The funding for this contract extension will be from the following CIP projects: Asphalt Maintenance 0A11 $110,000; Concrete Maintenance 0C11 $10,000; Cabin John Sewer Rehab 4A45 $10,000; Watts Branch Sewer Rehab 7B45 $10,000; and Sidewalks 6B21 $10,000.

Near the end of the meeting during Old and New Business, Councilmember Mark Pierzchala noted the vote for the Consent Agenda was 3 to 2. He asked for clarity on this matter because if an item should be taken away from the Consent Agenda then it can be removed.

Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio responded that she was voted against the Consent Agenda because it was “a lump” then added she was voting against 8c and 8e about the Gude Drive Maintenance Facility. Both were part of the bond issue.

Councilmember Pierchala continued the discussion by noting that Mayor Marcuccio and Councilmember Newton also voted against all of the bonds in a recent decision and he didn’t comment at the time because he was just so stunned. There were six components on bond issue and it would have been useful to know which projects were voted against. Heading into the next meeting when Councilmember Gajewski was away and they had to vote on the senior center expansion contract, he thought it would die 2-2 but it passed 4-0. There were six items on the bond issue and Councilmember Pierzchala would like to know which were not acceptable. One was on refinancing and it saved the City money. The dissenting votes must not have been about the Senior Center because it passed. Another part of the bonds was the new police station. His sentiment was that the Mayor should be clearer.

Mayor Marcuccio responded that she couldn’t recall exactly what he was talking about and she would need a list. As for the senior center, it received considerable funding from the Department of Aging so that at least that picked up some of the funds. The Mayor indicated she would be happy to go back and look at the vote concerning the bonds. Councilmember Pierzchala said that for clarity it should happen.

During the discussion Mayor Marcuccio then added that she doesn’t want to borrow money. Councilmember Pierzchala pointed out the City of Rockville is still AAA and not over borrowing. Borrowing money is a very appropriate way to pay for the improvements. If the Gude Drive facility is renovated, it will last another 40-50 years. Referring to the public work employees he noted, “These are the people who dug us out of 60 inches of snow last year. They deserve good working conditions.” If we’re not going to use bonds then we need to find another way to pay for the improvements because that facility has to be updated. That’s what we owe our employees:

Four of us attended the awards ceremony last week and we had people in safety boots and overalls coming up for awards. They are on the streets everyday and they need good working conditions.

Mayor Marcuccio responded that we are in an economic decline in our country and we need to be careful about how we spend our money, “I am thinking of the fiscal responsibility of the City.” She has heard the argument that we should borrow when the interest rate is low but “maybe we put it off for a year.” The City should not be pressured by low interest rates. She said she is not going to change her mind.

Councilmember Pierzchala believes, “The City can handle it” especially since we heard tonight that the Gude Drive bid came in half a million dollars under the amount expected.

Councilmember Bridget Newton commented that the City could maybe do something else.

Councilmember Pierzchala countered that he has not heard any other suggestions. He wanted to know how long we allow the facilities to continue in disrepair. Although the Mayor said she was being “financially responsible” to not borrow at this point and time, he did not agree:

The City is in strong financial condition. To not take advantage of low construction costs at this moment. To not put our employees in safe working conditions just doesn’t compute. I’m sorry I just find it very cynical.

Budget Hearing Draws Testimony (Mayor and Council Recap, December 6, 2010)

As always, when Rockville’s Mayor and Council meet, we try our best to provide a useful recap of the key points.

This week’s meeting (December 6) featured the introduction of next year’s budget . . . and a public hearing on same.

We don’t cover every last blow-by-blow, we just try to hit the highlights. If we omit something you think should be included, please consider writing up a quick note about and submit it to [email protected].

The meeting began with a brief foray into executive session to discuss the annual performance evaluation of City Manager Scott Ullery. Really and truly, it was brief: about 6 minutes.

City Manager’s Report

• Last week we learned that Moody’s and S&P reaffirmed City’s AAA bond rating. The rating agencies cited strong local economic base. Formal financial management policies and conservative principles, and the financial reserve.
• The city has received notice today that Beall Elementary capacity feasibility study is being launched by the school district. There will be a series of four meetings upcoming starting on December 16 at 7pm. (the next meetings will be on 1/6, 1/20, 2/10). The City will publicize the information as it comes in from the school board.
• Noted that there has been recent interest in the issue of traffic and transportation commission’s decision on permit parking at King Farm – the right time would be to take this issue up and act within 30 business days (by January 18, which would mean it could be taken up at the January 10 meeting). Evidently, Ingleside had requested a permit parking area, but the commission denied it.

Appointments

• Board of Appeals: Stephen Ravas (Appointment as member through December 1, 2013)
• Board of Supervisors of Elections: David Celeste (Reappointment as Chair through December 1, 2011)
• Cable Communications Advisory Committee: Theola Poole (Appointment as member until November 30, 2012)
• Environment Commission: Kris Dighe (Reappointment as Chair until December 1, 2011)

Citizens Forum

Anyone can speak at Citizens Forum. The best way is to call ahead at 240-314-8280, but typically if you just show up you can speak too. If you speak, please consider sharing your remarks with Rockville Central so we can consider publishing them in full.

• Jeremy Martin: Speaking on behalf of Traffic and Transportation Commission. Three recent fatalities on Rockville Pike make it clear pedestrian safety is a life or death issue. Commission feels these acutely. Many factors contributed to the fatalities, and many have been improved. But we need to avoid the next fatality. Motorists should keep an eye out and report problems. Also need to ensure pedestrian safety projects are adequately funded. Second issue is neighborhood connectivity. Unfortunately have not been successful in this area. Commission offers its assistance in addressing this issue.
• Steve Koeppler: Speak in support of green tax incentives for commercial buildings.
• Carrie Clabunde: On behalf of Rockville Advisory Bike Committee, spomke about plans for a 2011 Carl Henn Memorial Bike Ride. A community garden loop route that starts and ends at farmer’s market, 10-12 miles in length. July 23 or July 30.
• Spencer Isko: Spoke on behalf of the Bicycle Advisory Committee about bicyclist and motorist education.
• David Berrigan: Spoke in favor of a full time pedestrian and bicycle coordinator being funded in the FY 2012 budget.
• Carl Harger: Spoke about shifting funds to better help people who are struggling economically.
• Susan Prince: Spoke on the subject of Pumphrey’s parking lot. She is personally opposed to the text amendment allowing the parking lot, because she feels it will not alleviate the problems it claims to. She feels that little has been done to date to sincerely seek alternative solutions or to bring all the parties together to seek consensus.

First budget public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2012 Operating Budget and Capital Improvements Program

In October and November, the Mayor and Council got a preview of the FY2012 budget proposal. (Part I and Part II.) Tonight was the public’s chance to weigh in. The public record for the budget will stay open through May 20, 2011.

• Eric Siegal: On behalf of Rockville Chamber of Commerce. Spoke in favor of tax incentives for green and sustainable building practices. There is also a considerable need for incentives that go beyond just energy retrofits.
• John Moser: President of the Scholarship Foundation of the City of Rockville. Wishes for the City to increase its contribution to $10,000 (from $5,000) because the need has gone up considerably.
• David Borchard: Spoke in favor of the incentive property tax credit. 85% of the buildings that will be in existence in 2020 have already been built. “We can’t build our way to a sustainable future,” he said.
• Reeve Brenner: Speaking on behalf of the Rockville Association for Recreational Equality – thank you for the Bank Shot court in Mattie Stepanek Park. (Brenner is the inventor of Bankshot Basketball.)
• Nancy Breen: Chair of the Rockville Bicycle Advisory Committee. A full time bike and pedestrian coordinator is needed for the City of Rockville.
• Chris Noonan Stern: Speaking on behalf of people who use the Swim and Fitness Center, as the chair of its advisory committee. 300,000 people use the facility every year. The outdoor bathhouse must be upgraded and maintained. It is used by over 700 people each day.
• Tom Weco: Expressed enthusiastic support for the staff position fo pedestrian and bicycle safety.
• Jim Vitale: Spoke about a more macro perspective. Social Security and other public benefit programs have been frozen for two years. Suggested Rockville do the same – freeze its budget. (A conceptual discussion on principles ensued.)

Review & Comment - First Quarter FY 2011 Financial Report

The Mayor and Council received the Q1 financial report. There was limited discussion.

(At this time Mayor Marcuccio left to give testimony on a Montgomery County bill. Those remaining chose as their Mayor Pro Tem Councilmember John Britton.)

Introduction of Ordinance to Approve Zoning Text Amendment TXT2010-00228

Yes, this is the Pumphrey’s Amendment. (Will allow the funeral home to build a parking lot on adjacent land.) This vote is for introduction of the amendment – the actual vote will come next week. That said, the vote was in favor of introduction.

The next Mayor and Council meeting is December 13. See you!

Trucks, Traffic And China At The Mayor And Council Meeting 11-22-10

This week’s Mayor and Council meeting was so short, it might have been a record when it ended at 9:25 PM. We provide this brief summary of each meeting to keep you informed.

Present: Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio, Councilmembers John Britton, Bridget Newton, and Mark Pierzchala.

City Manager’s Report

Scott Ullery passed along timely and encouraging information from the Maryland Chief of Police Association. Through 2009 the number of people injured in automobile accidents has declined and fatalities are fewer than last year and the year before in Maryland.

The brand new Chamber of Commerce “Rockville Rewards” program launched and we are all encouraged to purchase a card to help 15 area nonprofits. Marketing consultant, Jane Meyer explained the membership cards will offer two types of deals for either everyday savings or more substantive weekly offers from local businesses. Each card is $25 and the details are now available at RockvilleRewards.com.

Appointments

The Mayor and Council appointed Don Hadley to the Planning Commission and John Beins and Marcia L. Rehm to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board.

Construction and Cars

The expansion of the fitness facilities at the Rockville Senior Center can begin since the Mayor and Council awarded a contract to CFI Construction Corporation of Rockville for $1,917,000.00 for the work. Also eight 2011 Crown Victorias will be purchased for use as police cars at an estimated cost of $24,960 each for a total acquisition of about $199,680.

Rockville Sister City Corporation’s Report from Trip to Jiaxing, China

Former Mayor Jim Coyle, Sister City delegate to Jiaxing, presented the report and recommendations. Jiaxing seems more interested in development and business rather than cultural exchanges. During the discussion, everyone hoped the cultural exchanges would eventually follow so the relationship was worth pursuing. The Sister City Board will draft a letter to be sent to Jiaxing officials asking them to evaluate the current relationship and the steps they would like to take to move the process forward.

Draft Municipal Growth Element (MGE) To Amend the City’s Comprehensive Master Plan

Staff presented the revised document and received final direction on the draft document which will be returned to the Mayor and Council for adoption at the December 6, 2010 meeting. Mayor Marcuccio asked for an explanation because she wanted to make sure that when the Comprehensive Master Plan is reviewed, that this document could be changed. It was explained that this document will become part of the City’s Comprehensive Master Plan. If the Mayor and Council want to amend the City’s Comprehensive Master Plan in the future, they can.

Community Block Grant Application

The Mayor and Council approved allocating grants from the City of Rockville’s Federal CDBG funds through Montgomery County in the anticipated amount of $304,000, including the allowable 15% of the fund amount for public service agencies which is $45,600. Nine different programs at seven agencies applied with grant requests totaled $160,000 but only three could be chosen for the $45,600 possible:

• Rockville Community Ministries, Elderly and Disabilities Ministries $15,600
• Rockville Presbyterian Church, Rainbow Place $15,000
• Stepping Stones Shelter, Evening Case Management Services $15,000

The rest of the funds would be designated as follows:

• Rockville Housing Enterprises (RHE) for public housing improvements at David Scull Court $111,202
• Rockville’s Single-Family Rehabilitation Program and administration $97,198
• Rehabilitation program staffing $50,000

Truck And Neighborhood Traffic Management

The Mayor and Council discussed the Neighborhood Traffic Management and Truck Traffic on Residential Streets. Excessive traffic volumes on residential streets are undesirable and contribute to increased noise, vibration, and air pollution, in addition to possible deterioration of the streets themselves.

Since the Traffic and Transportation Commission has not reviewed the existing Guidelines for Neighborhood Traffic Management since 2005 when they unanimously agreed that they are adequate and follow national standards, the Mayor and Council decided to have the Traffic and Transportation Commission take another look at the policy.
Councilmember Pierzchala asked for an explanation on the authority of the Mayor and Council with regards to traffic restrictions. They can put truck restrictions on any road.

Councilmember Newton believes there is a right to review the truck use on Great Falls Road regardless of any decisions made when the road went from State to City control. She also believes truck restrictions should be placed on West Montgomery and Redland. Truck traffic on Maryland Avenue makes more sense since far fewer houses face the street, although she is not suggesting Maryland Avenue get truck traffic. She wants all the street traffic in the City reviewed.

Surprisingly, on the map used for the meeting, a section of Great Falls Road was shown to restrict trucks already, so this map designation will be investigated.

Mayor Marcuccio expressed concerns about traffic on Park Road.

City Staff Emad Elshafei pointed out that if truck restrictions were placed on Redland, Great Falls, Maryland, and West Montgomery, we would not be allowing trucks in the City. Councilmember Newton said trucks could use Gude Drive or Key West and go around to Rt. 355.

Councilmember Pierzchala pointed out Gude Drive is abutted by three neighborhoods even though you can’t see them from the street. Residents experience the noise. With the Great Seneca development, Gude will be receiving more traffic in the future. Councilmember Newton said homes don’t front Gude as they do on other streets where they need to enter the street. Councilmember Pierzchala reemphasized that even so, Gude has its own considerations.

City Manager Ullery reviewed the four decisions made during the discussion:

(1.) The Traffic and Transportation Commission will take a look at the Guidelines since it has been five years. (2.) Since traffic issues involve enforcement, the Chief of Police will be contacted to determine areas to target for enforcement. (3.) Additional streets will be tested to determine their current thresholds for traffic. (4.) The agreement and requirements on Great Falls Road will be investigated.

The November 29th meeting has been cancelled so the next Mayor and Council Meeting is Monday, December 6, 2010 at 7 PM with a Public Hearing on the FY 12 Budget.

Mayor And Council Meeting’s About Schools, The Budget, And A Few Other Issues 11/8/10

We always try to keep readers informed about the decisions at the Mayor and Council meetings and this week is no exception!

City Manager’s Report time was turned over to MTA Project Manager, Rick Kiegel about the CCT
People are throwing around the “CCT” acronym but some of the candidates for County Council didn’t even know what it means. It’s the Corridor Cities Transitway for either light rail or rapid bus planned along the I-270 corridor north of Rockville. The CCT route starts at Shady Grove Metro, goes to the Gaithersburg MARC Station, then up I-270 to the Comsat facility though the final alignment has not been decided. Two of the stations would be in the City limits on King Farm Boulevard. Plans for the transitway were in place before King Farm was built. The light rail option would involve warning “honks” at intersections. The CCT study is part of the larger I-270/US 15 Multi-Modal Corridor Study which studies the Corridor all the way past Frederick. These projects involve possible improvements to 30 miles of I-270. If you ever use the I-270 stretch directly north of our City or live in King Farm, you need to pay attention. A public hearing on secondary environmental impact will be held at the Bohrer Park Community Center in Gaithersburg on December 15, 2010 from 4-8 PM.

Recycle!
During the Proclamations, the Mayor and Council proclaimed November 15th as America Recycles Day so let’s make sure we take advantage of Rockville’s extensive recycling program and think about other ways to participate.

Montgomery County Heritage Area
Should Rockville Join the Montgomery County Heritage Area? The Mayor and Council unanimously approved a motion to instruct the staff to explore the City’s participation. No expenses are expected with membership and other jurisdictions such as Poolesville and Brookville are part of the program. The general consensus was that the the investment was sound and would help in our efforts to make Rockville a destination. Councilmember Pierzchala in particular felt it was “Well worth it, in my opinion.” Since minor changes must be made to the Master Plan indicating the goals of the Heritage Area are parallel to the Master Plan, public hearings would be required which, as Councilmember Britton stated, could take five months.

Three Different Documents Concerning the Schools:

Board budget and CIP

The letter to be used as Testimony to the Montgomery County Board of Education (BOE) regarding the Superintendent’s Recommended FY 2012 Capital Budget and Amendments to the FY 2011-2016 Capital Improvements Program was discussed. The Council included wording to emphasize the need for Twinbrook Elementary’s addition process to go forward. Councilmember Britton noted all the schools in Rockville are over capacity yet a school like Cold Spring on the City’s border is not. Since 100 students at Beall Elementary have waivers, he wants to understand the reasons why these students have been granted waivers. Mayor Marcuccio wanted language indicating the cottages were taking up space used for recess and the additional load to the school is an impact on the entire operation of the school. Councilmember Gajewski warned against including arguments that are common to the whole system believing that the Council should present a unique argument for Rockville. The letter will be broken down into bulleted talking points for the Mayor and Councilmembers Britton and Pierzchala to use when testifying before the Board of Education next this week.

Changes and discussion to two other letters regarding the schools were also discussed: (1.) Response to Dr. Weast’s Letter about “Relocatable Classrooms” which will ask MCPS to work with City officials about issuing the permits for portables. Dr. Weast’s letter states they will not comply with mandatory referral process but State law requires it. (2.) Another letter was drafted to the Montgomery County State delegation regarding their recent Bill proposed to grant the County government exclusive ability to issue permits so the school board would not need to come through the City process at all.

FY 2012 Budget Preview

Mr. Ullery began the process by commenting that the results of the survey of the Mayor and Council are instructive. The Mayor and Council embarked on a lengthy discussion of the budget principles and provided instruction where disagreement existed. A public hearing on the budget will be held on December 6th. January 10th has been scheduled for the budget decision. Councilmembers commented that they reserve the right to change their survey answers as the process goes forward.

• A 1% increase in employee compensation, which was part of the negotiated agreement for the union, will also automatically go to all the staff which has been the long-standing and sound practice in Rockville. In case you aren’t aware, four major categories of staff include 107 American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), 56 Fraternal Order of the Police, 12 Executive Staff, and 325 General Administration staff. Although the Council would like to maintain current Health, Pension and Retired Health Employee Benefits, Mr. Ullery agreed that modifications might be needed.
• A majority of Mayor and Council do not agree that the City provide funding for previously approved programs and services at the current levels. Councilmember Britton would like to review this area. Councilmember Newton commented that she reserves the right to change her answer which was “No Opinion” on the survey. Councilmember Gajewski explained that he “Strongly Disagrees” because it looks like the City is facing fiscal austerity and some programs might need to be changed to go forward, such as under-used recreation programs.
• A majority of the Council were not willing to increase the funding for Caregiver Agencies, even by 1% ($5,000). Councilmember Britton wants to increase funding but not a particular amount. Councilmember Pierzchala and Mayor Marcuccio disagree. Councilmember Newton was “No Opinion”. Councilmember Gajewski believes that many are vulnerable and an increase is justified since the need presented each year has been greater than what the City funded and the need is growing. Mayor Marcuccio wants to look at who the City serves and what they will need, but doesn’t want to make a blanket increase to programs. Councilmember Gajewski disagreed that the City doesn’t look at programs because it does every year. Mayor Marcuccio then admitted that these funds are a drop in the bucket to which Councilmember Gajewski agreed and stated again that the City should do more. Councilmember Britton agrees that the City does go through the program needs on an annual basis and can’t imagine any group coming in without a greater need and it needs to be accommodated. Councilmember Pierzchala might agree when sees how funds come out. Mayor Marcuccio again stated she doesn’t know what people will be requesting. The survey results of 2-2 with one “No Opinion” means nothing would be done, though this could be considered again later in the process. As I chair the Human Services Advisory Commission, this principle is of interest to me, hence the long description.
• The Parking Garage situation is headed for even harder times. The planned FY 2012 budget includes a $1.2 million transfer from the General Fund to the Parking Fund to support the parking enterprise. Councilmember Newton doesn’t want to raise parking garage fees. Councilmember Pierzchala wants to keep the transfer at $1 million and if this means an increase he would support it. Councilmember Britton does not support an increase in rates either. Mr. Ullery made mention of future fund concerns and when Councilmember Gajewski pursued an explanation, an estimate of a $1.7 million loss in 2014 and a $2.4 million loss in 2015 were revealed. A gap between revenue and expenditures has always been expected for the parking garages which were to be a catalyst to build out the entire Town Center and the garages were not intended to be self-supporting.
• On the revenue side, the Council agrees the Property Tax Rates will be maintained at $0.292 for Real Property and $0.805 for Personal Property. However, the $100 Income Tax Offset Property Tax Credit may be removed. Councilmember Gajewski described withdrawing it to be equivalent to a tax increase of $100 per household. He clearly stated he would not raise taxes in this manner to maintain the golf course, if that is what we are raising taxes to support. If that is the reason, he will withdraw his support because he believes taxes should fund increases that are absolutely necessary at this time. The Council also discussed bringing the Redgate Golf Course into the General Fund.

All of these issues will continue to be considered during the budget process. All of our elected officials have indicated the City cannot do everything without raising funds.

Year End Finances Look Good But Confusion Over Reserve Persists, Mayor and Council Meeting 10/18/10

As usual, the Mayor and Council meeting on Monday provided information on a wide range of topics and issues. Here’s a quick review to keep you informed.

Restaurant Week. As you know, Rockville Central was supportive of Rockville Restaurant Week and it appears many others were too! Andrea Jolly, Director of the Rockville Chamber of Commerce, reported 17,578 hits on the website with over 8,000 unique visitors. Although only 7 of the 30 participating restaurants had returned their surveys, they all said they had very successful weeks and will do it again.

Rockville Rewards. If you want to help local nonprofits, keep a look out for the new Rockville rewards program from the Chamber of Commerce. Nonprofit organizations will be selling these cards and keep the profit. Meanwhile businesses will participate by offering everyday or one-time deals. The big kickoff will be held in November to sell cards for the holidays. Also businesses can partner with nonprofits and sell the cards for them.

HHS in King Farm. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services plans on consolidating four leased locations in Suburban Maryland into one location to improve functional efficiency and the City would like it to be at the Irvington Centre site in King Farm. The Mayor and Council approved the City’s Draft Environmental Assessment letter to the General Service Administration which has received multiple offers for potential locations, so we’re in the competition.

Let’s Move City. Rockville will also be applying to participate in the “Let’s Move Cities and Towns” Initiative and join First Lady Michelle Obama’s fight against childhood obesity. We’ll apply and specify actions for the next year, then the Department of Health and Human Services will review our reports, and if approved, designate the City as an official “Let’s Move City.”

Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan

Did you know that funds are collected from new commercial, retail and multi-family developments for ten years and that the City has $1.8 million in the TDM Funds from these contributions? In next five years Rockville can expect an average of $204,000 per year in additional revenue. The City doesn’t have a plan on how to spend it and wants to identify the types of projects for the funds such as maintaining bus shelters, providing transportation info and services, physical improvements, and unfunded CIP projects. Staff sought comments from the Mayor and Council and wanted direction on conducting a public hearing.

As for bus shelter maintenance, the City will need to maintain them in the future because the County does not. If the City is willing to do advertising on bus shelters, it could save some money. The current plan is to pay a contractor $160,000 to repair shelters. The City could enter into an agreement for the shelters to be installed for free if there was advertising, then the City would continue to receive some revenue but it would not completely pay for maintenance. What do you think about advertising on bus shelters?

Finances

At Monday’s meeting, the Unaudited Fourth Quarter FY 2010 Financial Report was reviewed. Each fund has a positive year-end balance except for the Sewer Fund with a negative balance of approximately $86,000 (which will be addressed by a rate hike) and the Redgate Golf Course Fund with an estimated negative $1.7 million balance (which will be addressed by a transfer from the General Fund).

The City of Rockville has a policy to maintain the general fund balance at or above 15%. The balance in the General Fund is often referred to as the reserve. The good news is that the estimated FY10 fund balance of $15,224,325 is $5,911,937 higher than the target minimum balance. Having $5,911,937 above the minimum requirement, the City used $1,019,625 to balance the budget, $2,390,645 for RedGate, and $450,389 for Purchase Orders that carried over from FY10. Even with these adjustments, the FY11 estimated reserve of $11,363,666 is 18.3%, which is $2,048,266 above the required 15% reserve level.

Councilmember Bridget Newton wanted a clarification as to what reserve means. Councilmember Mark Pierzchala explained. The fund balance at the end of the year is what we call reserve. Any money left at the end of the year could have been used for other things, such as reducing the City’s borrowing costs.

Later during Old Business, the discussion of the reserve issue continued. Councilmember Newton wanted to talk about the Rockville Report article concerning the spending on Redgate. She wants another article to explain. She also stated that going forward with the Golf Foundation study she wants people to think that there are no preconceived notions as to what the answers will be.

Councilmember Pierzchala wanted to know what changes she is asking for in the article. The only change he thought could be added was that we managed to stay above the 15% reserve after having spent the money to pay down the Redgate debt. The rest of it was accurate. Surplus can be defined differently. One way is that it is just sitting around and there is no use for it, but the fact is that anytime there is “extra monies” (and there often is) it has a use and that use is to pay down CIP and reduce borrowing costs.

Councilmember Newton said she was specifically asking for clarification that the motion made by the Mayor and Council was to use surplus funds for Redgate and that the funds used were new money/found money. She thought the Rockville Report article was very one-sided and the use of the word reserves means the City took it out of reserves. Then she added that the use of term got a lot of comments. She didn’t know who wrote the article or who has oversight but the article raised an awful lot of questions that didn’t need to be raised because of the use of the term reserves.

Councilmember Pierzchala stated you could just as easily characterize the article in a totally different direction. There are trade offs inherent in every spending decision. There are trade offs not mentioned in the article and they could debate it forever. But what he really didn’t want to see is City Staff caught in the middle of this. Councilmember Newton responded that she would have put in his explanation.

Councilmember Piotr Gajewski agreed that way the article was written was fine and it represents his approach to what they did. He believes the reaction from the public was not about the term reserves, it was about spending $2.4 million on the golf course.

Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio hoped they could concentrate on tomorrow. The first meeting with the National Golf Foundation will be held and the City should go forward in a fair way. Councilmember Pierzchala asked about the purpose of the kickoff meeting. He wanted to know why elected people and Redgate advisory group would be involved. Mayor Marcuccio stated that she wants to give them her point of view. Councilmember Gajewski asked if he could go and give them his view as well. Councilmember Pierzchala stated that direction was given to City Staff and when a contractor is involved, the City Staff should be the ones involved. He was concerned that people with one position might be overrepresented when the City wants an unbiased report. Mayor Marcuccio asked how that can be. Councilmember Newton thought the Redgate Advisory might have a couple of people. The Mayor thought the Golf Foundation’s job would be to pick out what’s objective and what’s unbiased. Councilmember Newton said all stakeholders should be involved at this meeting then back off. Councilmember Pierzchala wanted to know who a stakeholder was, and Councilmember Newton responded that anyone in the community is a stakeholder. Councilmember Gajewski said tax payers weren’t coming.

The Mayor then asked if they should end the Mayor and Council Meeting. Councilmember Newton made the motion, Councilmember Britton seconded it, and the Mayor adjourned the meeting without a vote.

Artwork Decision Brings Out The Differences, Mayor and Council Recap 10/11/10 [UPDATED]

Ending soon after 11 PM, last night’s Mayor and Council meeting was over quite early compared to recent weeks. Here’s what you need to know.

A Few Quick Town Center Updates

• This Wednesday the Planning Commission will review the Tri-State Ice Management application to build a real ice rink in Rockville Town Square, and if approved operation will begin by mid-November.
• The interactive fountain closed on October 1st and will reopen on May 1, 2011. The arrangement with Lebanese Taverna to use the restaurant’s restrooms saved the City funds.
• The new District Courthouse will begin operations in March 2011 and staff is working with the County on improved signage.
• Even with the additional evening and weekend parking fees, the average occupancy rate in the Town Center Parking Garages continues to be higher in 2010 than in 2009, and the monthly tag use is also higher due to the 101 tags leased to library employees.
• County Department of Health will require restaurants with outdoor seating to screen the openings to the outdoors to prevent flies and bugs from entering the restaurants, so look for this change at restaurants next Spring.

Appointments Unanimously Approved by the Mayor and Council

With many vacancies for Rockville’s Boards and Commissions, we continue to highlight the volunteers who step forward to serve:

Rockville Economic Development Board: Scot Browning, Susan Prince, Gauroy Dayal [UPDATED: We are being told that although the City Appointment document spelled the first name "Gauroy", it is "Gaurov".]

Traffic and Transportation Commission: Eric Palakovich Carr

Historic District: Commission Jessica Reynolds

Two New Art Installations

The Mayor and Council approved two new pieces of art to enhance our City. John Moser, Cultural Arts Commission Chairperson, presented the recommendations of the Artist Nomination Committee and the Cultural Arts Commission.

After comments from residents “across the board” with no clear support any of the three final sculptures, the $30,000 award for the East Rockville Public Art Project, to be located at the corner of Park Road and South Stonestreet Avenue next to East Rockville sign, went to Wayne Healy of Los Angeles, California for his steel and tile sculpture. The Cultural Arts Commission worked very closely with three neighborhood associations to make the recommendation. East Rockville neighbors were supportive. The artist has expressed his delight at working with residents to put their ideas about East Rockville on the tiles of his piece. This has developed into a community project with the tiles being designed by the residents. Mayor Marcuccio stated it was art but didn’t represent the community, only Lincoln Park. Councilmember Gajewski is satisfied with the process we have for choosing art in our City. Gajewski made the motion and Pierzchala seconded.

Councilmember Newton then started a discussion with someone in attendance because she wanted to talk with someone from East Rockville. When Councilmember Gajewski asked if they were having a public hearing because the body has gotten into trouble in the past for hearing testimony without announcing to everyone, the Mayor said this vote was similar to a public hearing where you have an opportunity to express yourself. The woman who Councilmember Newton engaged then proceeded to walk around and look at the artwork, stating she was from East Rockville and had lived there six years then she suggested the artist needs to get with people who have lived here for many years.

The Mayor then stated that the East Rockville Citizens Association has been meeting at the Glenview Mansion because the Pump House is not in use and therefore only 3-4 people were represented on this matter. Mr. Moser responded that when three association presidents come before the Cultural Arts Commission, they can only believe they represent their communities. He doesn’t know their processes. If he goes beyond his jurisdiction in this matter, he would be accused of meddling.

The Motion passed 4-1 with the Mayor opposed.

Mr. Moser asked that the Mayor use her influence in East Rockville to get people to work together, to which she responded that they do work together but sometimes they are just not heard.

The Rockville Swim and Fitness Center Meeting Room Public Art Project $15,000 Award went to Eileen Doughtyof Vienna, Virginia for her hand-painted quilts and acoustic baffles. Satellite images of Rockville will be depicted on the baffles. Although, this artwork was designed for acoustic reasons to absorb sound, it is primarily artwork. Sound-absorption tiles could be installed separately. Pierzchala made the motion, Gajewski seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.

Councilmember Pierzchala commented “I think it looks pretty good myself” to which the Mayor responded “I wish we had something as good”. Despite this remark, residents seem willing to work with Mr. Healy to create an appropriate tribute in East Rockville.

The Consent Agenda Items all passed so we can expect to see:

• A new Aerial Bucket Forestry Truck
• Two antennaes for T-Mobile and Cricket at the City’s water tank on Glen Mill Road, and
• The bidding for construction to begin for the conversion of the Old Rockville Post Office into the new home for the Rockville Police Department.

New Program Will Highlight Quality Businesses: Friends of Rockville Seniors (FORS)

If you have mobility or other concerns, the Rockville Senior Citizens Commission has developed a new “Friends of Rockville Seniors” (FORS) Program which will help seniors decide where to dine, shop and do business. This program will be like a “Zagat rating” with the intention of rewarding businesses which go above and beyond when delivering services to seniors. This is not a new idea but it is new to Rockville. A committee will decide on businesses which must meet 85 of 105 different criteria points to receive a decal indicating they are part of the FORS program.

Extreme Need For Affordable Housing Forces Long Waits

[UPDATED] “The demand[s] for our units are just unbelievable.” reported Ruth O’Sullivan, Executive Director of Rockville Housing Enterprises (RHE), during the Public Hearing on Rockville’s upcoming application for Community Development Block Grant funds. When RHE opened the waiting list because of the newly renovated three-and-four bedroom units at the David Scull Courts following renovations, 2,000 applications were received in three days. About 1,000 were for one- and-two bedroom units which they do not have available. About half were Rockville residents (those who live and work in Rockville) who will get first priority. They open the list whenever it runs low so there are now plenty for the next couple of years. Well over a thousand are also on the list for Housing Choice Vouchers. Turnover is very low. Altogether there are 105 public housing units and eight are vacant right now.

It’s Still About School Overcrowding During the Worksession

The process to draft the Municipal Growth Element (MGE) of the City’s Comprehensive Master Plan continued to be dominated by a discussion about school overcrowding. Bruce Crispel was on hand to represent the Montgomery County Public Schools.

He contended that it would be too difficult to be constrained by the City’s boundaries when setting school districts. Councilmember Gajewski stated that it is really only two small slivers, the north part of King Farm and a small section in South. He doesn’t care if kids from outside Rockville go to a Rockville school but all kids who live in Rockville should go to a Rockville school. The Councilmember didn’t understand why it can’t be addressed by MCPS. It’s dismissive in a way it doesn’t need to be.

The CIP will be announced on October 28th and there will be more capacity for the Richard Montgomery Cluster although the details will not be known until this date. Mr. Crispel explained that MCPS does not intend to halt development in Rockville. However, there is a mismatch between the City’s APFO with a two-year timeframe and the reality of the situation when it takes 3-5 years to build after a school capacity need is identified.

Councilmember Pierzchala expressed concern about Julius West Middle School overcrowding since we know full well it will be overcrowded. Mr. Crispel explained there must be a four-room deficit in a six-year period to get County Council to fund additional school capacity. MCPS must prove the enrollment is here to stay. Clusters with only one middle school such as Richard Montgomery, make it more difficult to address.

The next Mayor and Council Meeting is Monday, October 18, 2010.

Note: We can’t cover every decision and discussion but we’d like to provide enough information so readers know what’s happening in our City. We invite the community to let us know when we leave something out. We also invite anyone speaking during Citizens Forum to send their remarks to us for consideration as Contributor Opinions. Email to: [email protected]. If we miss a vote or leave out a bit of information you think is important, we’d like to know in comments!

German Students Are Enjoying Their Rockville Visit

Robert Lucke at Mayor and Council Meeting Photo by Cindy Cotte Griffiths

Teacher Robert Lucke excitedly stated “It’s a wonderful experience for all of us!” when Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio gave certificates of welcome to visitors from our Sister City, Pinneberg, Germany, at Monday’s Mayor and Council Meeting.

Pinnenberg Student and Teacher Picture by Brigitta Mullican

Twelve students and two teachers from the Theodor-Heuss Schule in Pinneberg are visiting Rockville from September 24th through October 11th, 2010. Most of the students are in their 11th or 12th year of school (16-17 years old) and are preparing to go on to the University in Germany.

Jerol Briggs from Rockville’s Sister City Corporation Board explains why they are having such a terrific time:

Their visit will include several days with their host students at Wootton High School, attending classes and learning about American education. They group will also travel to New York City for a few days, and visit several museums, including the Udvar Hazy Center, and other activities in the Washington DC area. They have also enjoyed a pizza party, a visit to Great Falls, and will also go on a shopping excursion to a local outlet mall next week. So far, all the students are having a great time getting to know their host families and exploring a large American high school.

Families in the Wootton school district are hosting the visitors so they can learn about family life and school in our country. In addition to Mr. Lucke, the group is accompanied by another teacher, Mrs. Geeske John. Tony DeRosa, foreign language teacher at Wootton High School, is coordinating the visit along with members of the Rockville Sister City Corporation.

City Issues Updated At The Town Hall Meeting

First Speaker At the Town Hall Meeting

Last night’s Town Hall Meeting was held in the Mayor and Council Chambers due to rain. The planned interaction at Rockville Town Square might have brought some new voices to the podium but the event attracted the usual speakers to City Hall. However, the low turnout and unlimited speaking time allowed for more direct interaction between residents and the Mayor and Council who were able to respond to each person individually while they were at the podium.

Present: Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio, Councilmembers John Britton, Piotr Gajewski, Mark Pierzchala, and Bridget Donnell Newton.

Only two people signed up in advance to speak. Elvie Moore from the Musical Theater Center asked the Mayor and Council to support this “Treasure of the City” to make a permanent home in Rockville and to attend the upcoming performance of Guys and Dolls. One of the MTC’s performers, Max, then proficiently sung Out There from the Hunchback of Notre Dame.

Tom Doerr, from the Bicycle Advisory Committee asked for extra time and was jokingly told he could have it if he would sing. He responded that it would be off key since he’s tone deaf. But then it was explained that there were no time limits for speaking during the Town Hall meeting. Usually people are held to a maximum of 3 minutes (5 if for an entity) during Citizen’s Forums at Mayor and Council Meetings.

Being able to speak to the Mayor, Council, and City Staff without any time limits was a rare offer, but only seven people took advantage of the opportunity.

Biking

Mr. Doerr said “Ride With A Friend On the Carl Henn” had popped into his head. On behalf of the Rockville Bike Advisory Committee, he explained that the entire length of Rt. 355 is a barrier to biking and he hoped the City would incorporate the Bike Master Plan into the Master Plan for the City by adding the necessary transportation options. Nancy Breen also spoke about the upcoming city-wide bike safety program planned for next year.

College Garden Neighborhood Access To Montgomery College

Ms. Breen then asked if there had been any progress on opening the gate between the College Gardens neighborhood and Montgomery College. The situation was still described as a stalemate. However, Mark Pierzchala explained the Board of Trustees was meeting with homeowners and College Gardens Civic Association on Monday night. They were presenting a plan to open the fence so the College will have to react.

Town Center Grocery Store

An update on the grocery store situation was also requested by Ms. Breen. City Manager Scott Ullery periodically checks in with Federal Realty and they are still pursuing a grocery store and talking to a few.

The Municipal Growth Element and Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance

Susan Donohue explained she was nervous since she had never previously been to a meeting but she wanted an explanation about why the Municipal Growth Element (MGE) didn’t take the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO) into account. The explanation included “It didn’t take it into account and it didn’t not take it into account.” The MGE exercise required by the State will give a synopsis of future trends, so the City can plan appropriately.

Theresa Defino requested that the Mayor and Council agree to put on their October 4th agenda a discussion of an amendment that would exempt affordable housing from the APFO. Brigitta Mullican said she always had a problem with the APFO and it needs to be more compatible with Montgomery County. As for traffic, it comes from outside Rockville and goes right through, so the City’s APFO will not correct the problem. The main solution will be to ask the County to work with the City.

Charter Commission

Joe Jordon asked the Mayor and Council for their opinions on forming a Charter Commission. Councilmember Britton thought it would be great to have a Commission discuss the issues of the number of council members and length of term as well as whether officials should be elected at-large or from specific areas of the City. Councilmember Pierzchala wondered what the timing should be since they are nine months into the term. Mayor Marcuccio ran on the platform that she would like to see a Charter Commission and mentioned an interest in expanding the council and terms. Councilmember Gajewski said that the Mayor was on the 2002 Charter Commission. Shouldn’t we give it more than 8 years? Now there is efficiency. Seven would be more time consuming. Ms. Mullican joined in the discussion summing up the issues from a financial viewpoint. Longer terms would “be better money-wise”. Financially she would say “no” to the expense of more council members but if people can give more input then she would say “yes”.

Citizen Participation

After everyone had spoke, Mayor Marcuccio wondered if participation was down in all the different neighborhood associations in the City. Was it a perception or a reality? A couple of citizens and council members spoke about their neighborhoods of Twinbrook, the West End, New Mark Commons, King Farm, and College Gardens, especially to compare this year’s National Night Out participation. Mr. Jordon suggested they call in all the leaders and find out if it’s true. Councilmember Gajewski didn’t know if the government should be reaching out when people would rather be riding their bicycles or playing with their kids. Perhaps they should handle the issues as elected officials and represent people. Mayor Marcuccio decided that if people see a value in pulling together then they should let the Mayor and Council know.

So, will the Mayor and Council get a response from leaders wanting to discuss involving more of their neighbors?

Would the Town Square location have attracted more participation at this Town Hall? Many ideas for the format were discussed, yet it resembled a typical Citizen’s Forum. Would a more innovative approach have brought people out for a Town Hall meeting? If people are content to have their elected officials make the decisions, is that enough? When people disagree we often see an outcry, so was the low turnout a sign of contentment with our local government or a lack of interest?

Carl Henn Honored Twice By The City

Carl Henn was honored for his lifelong, dedicated public service at last night’s Mayor and Council Town Hall Meeting. Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio described him as the embodiment of “Think Globally. Act Locally.” He loved Rockville and blazed a trail we all strive to follow.

As we know, Carl died in July following a lightning strike. He was our leading environmental advocate and had served on the City’s Bicycle Advisory Committee and led the Environment Commission in addition to running for Rockville City Council.

Wanting to properly honor all of Carl’s volunteer work, the City officially renamed our 10-mile bicycle beltway, the Carl Henn Rockville Millennium Trail. One of the new signs was presented to his family. A plaque recognizing his work will be posted on the Trail. Future signage and maps will reflect the new name of the Trail.

When Carl testified at April’s Budget Work Session in support of adding directional signage around the Millennium Trail, he was excited about the project. Many people did not realize you could ride all the way around the City to reach landmarks. He thought if people knew how easy it would be to bike on the Trail and reach their destination, they would be more likely to choose their bike as a means of transportation. He described the nation’s energy and transportation problems as causing our economic problems due to the draining cost of peak oil. When he researched bicycle beltways, he found that Rockville was the only jurisdiction to complete such a beltway. He felt it rivaled the Capital Cresent Trail but people didn’t know about it. Also, sections were not properly marked to guide riders. He spent many hours working on the signage placement for the Trail to save consultant fees.

When Carl’s wife, Carol Henn, spoke, most in attendance unsuccessfully attempted to hold back tears. She explained that it wasn’t in Carl to let others do things. He would get up and do it himself. When they had their two daughters and he would wade through streams and walk through the woods, he wanted to ensure that his daughters would also be able to do these things. He dedicated himself to finding ways to get around without burning fossil fuels.

The Mayor and Council also renamed the City’s environmental award as the Carl Henn Outstanding Individual Environmental Achievement Award then made Carl the first recipient posthumously. Environment Commission members Kris Dighe and Beri Kravitz helped present the award to Carol and Allison Henn while explaining that Carl was “more dedicated than anybody to the environment.” The Award will continue to recognize “those whose efforts have improved the health or quality of Rockville’s environment or have increased public understanding or participation in environmental issues.”

During the Meeting, everyone asked “Who will fill Carl’s shoes?” in reference to the question made by Carl’s friend, Art Stigile, earlier this summer. All of us must do our part.

Carl was our most frequent and popular Contributor at Rockville Central. My small bit today is to guide you to Carl’s writing. Maybe someday we’ll have discounted solar options for our homes. Hopefully the Redgate property will never be developed.

Personally, I have looked at new cars. When I think of Carl, I can’t buy one. I’ll wait for better, affordable green technology and we’ll continue to use our bicycles more around town. I don’t think Carl would want us to put up these signs and think we are done. Rather he’d want us to evaluate our lives, make better choices for the environment, and work to change policies for the better.

What will you do to fill his shoes?

Town Hall Meeting Moved To City Hall

With the pouring rain, it’s no surprise that today’s Town Hall meeting will be held in the Mayor and Council Chambers at Rockville City Hall at 7 PM instead of outside in Rockville Town Square.

The agenda will remain the same. Everyone is still encouraged to attend and share “any issues, concerns or suggestions, or to ask questions of the Mayor and Council.” An open mic will allow people to speak to the Mayor and Council who will address each speaker individually.

In addition to hearing from and responding to citizens, Rockville resident and civic activist Carl Henn, who died tragically in July will be honored; Rockville resident Bonnie Olchea, who wrote a song about Rockville, will be recognized; and high school students and teachers from Pinneberg, Germany who are visiting Wootton High School, will receive a presentation.

The meeting will be televised live on Rockville 11 and streamed live on the City’s website. Beginning on Tuesday, September 28th, the Town Hall meeting will be on the schedule and available through video on demand.