City Council Meeting Minutes 6/1/2020 1

June 1, 2020

Council Meeting Proceedings

The regular meeting of the Mayor and City Council was called to order on June 1, 2020 at 7:01 pm

with Mayor Martin presiding.

Council members present- CP Glenn, CM Robertson, CM Ringsaker, CM Zinner and CM Boyer

with CM Martin absent.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and opening prayer was given by CP Glenn in Proxy for Reverend

Gene Proud of Proud Evangelistic Association.

Approval of Minutes:

CP Glenn moved to approve the Council Meeting minutes of May 18, 2020. Seconded by CM Boyer. Motion carries

5-0

CM Zinner moved to approve Closed Session minutes of May 18, 2020. Seconded by CM Ringsaker. Motion carries

5-0.

Comments from Mayor Martin: Mayor Martin remarked on the evening's meeting and how it will work in its

modified fashion to comply with the Governor’s directive.

Comments from Citizens on Agenda items: Kirk Smith of 120 S. Washington Street. Offered his support for

Resolution 2020-15 Bee City USA Designation.

Curtin Coon of 230 Spectacular Bid Drive. Suggested City Signs be relocated to match new City boundaries.

HDG Girl Scout Troop 228 shared a letter in support of Resolution 2020-15.

Morgan Jones of 950 Chesapeake Dr. Offered letter of support for Resolution 2020-15.

Resolution: 2020-15

A RESOLUTION BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF HAVRE DE GRACE, MARYLAND,

PURSUANT TO MARYLAND CONSTITUTION ARTICLE XI-E, THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT

ARTICLE OF THE ANNOTATED CODE OF MARYLAND, AND CITY CHARTER SECTIONS 33

AND 34, TO AUTHORIZE THE HAVRE DE GRACE GREEN TEAM LTD, TO APPLY FOR BEE

CITY USA DESIGNATION ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF HAVRE DE GRACE.

A motion to introduce was made by Boyer with a second by Ringsaker. Motion carries 5-0. CM Boyer

explained that the City would be the first Maryland City in the Northeast region to receive such a designation.

A motion to adopt on first reading was made by Boyer with a second by Robertson. Motion carries 5-0.

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Annexation Resolution: 288

A RESOLUTION BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF HAVRE DE GRACE, MARYLAND, ADOPTED PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF ARTICLE XI-E OF THE MARYLAND CONSTITUTION, TITLE 4 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ARTICLE OF THE MARYLAND ANNOTATED CODE, SECTIONS 3, 33 AND 34 OF THE CITY CHARTER, AND SECTION 20 OF THE CITY CODE AUTHORIZING THE CITY COUNCIL, AS THE LEGISLATIVE BODY OF A MUNICIPALITY, TO ANNEX PROPERTY EXTENDING THE BOUNDARIES OF THE MUNICIPALITY AND AMENDING THE CITY CHARTER, SPECIFICALLY APPENDIX A BY ADDING “SUBSECTION A.34 THE FIRST 2020 ADDITION TO THE CITY BOUNDARIES” ALONG WITH THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF THE ACRES OF LAND WHICH WILL ENLARGE THE BOUNDARIES OF THE CITY OF HAVRE DE GRACE TO INCLUDE THE LANDS OF PULASKI PARCEL LLC LOCATED AT 1531 PULASKI HIGHWAY NEAR THE NORTHWEST INTERSECTION OF PULASKI HIGHWAY AND OLD POST ROAD/STATE ROUTE 7, CONSISTING OF THREE PROPERTIES IN THE SIXTH ELECTION DISTRICT TOGETHER WITH A DRAINAGE AND UTILITY EASEMENT AND PART OF THE ADJOINING CSX RAILROAD RIGHT OF WAY CONSISTING OF A TOTAL OF 3.613 ACRES MORE OR LESS.

A motion to introduce was made by Ringsaker with a second by Zinner. Motion carries 5-0.

A motion to adopt on first reading was made by Ringsaker with a second by Zinner. Motion carries 5-0.

Public Hearing set for July 6th at 7 pm in Council Chambers.

Ordinance: 1035

AN ORDINANCE BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF HAVRE DE GRACE BY THE AUTHORITY OF ARTICLE XI-E OF THE MARYLAND CONSTITUTION, THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ARTICLE OF THE ANNOTATED CODE OF MARYLAND AND SECTION 37 OF THE HAVRE DE GRACE CITY CHARTER FOR THE PURPOSE OF ESTABLISHING THE CITY BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021, BY DESIGNATING THE ANNUAL PROJECTION OF ANTICIPATED REVENUES AND PROPOSED AUTHORIZED EXPENSES FOR THE CITY OF HAVRE DE GRACE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021

A motion to introduce on first reading was made by CM Robertson with a second by CP Glenn. Motion carries 5-0.

A motion to adopt on first reading was made by CM Robertson with a second by CM Ringsaker. Motion carries 5-0.

Public Hearing to be held on June 8th at 6PM in Council Chambers.

Ordinance: 1036

AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF HAVRE DE GRACE, A MUNICIPAL CORPORATION OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND (THE “ISSUER”) ADOPTED PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF ARTICLE XI-E OF THE MARYLAND CONSTITUTION, THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ARTICLE OF THE ANNOTATED CODE OF MARYLAND, AND SECTIONS 33 AND 34 OF THE CHARTER OF THE ISSUER, PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED FIFTEEN MILLION DOLLARS ($15,000,000.00) OF BONDS OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF HAVRE DE GRACE, TO BE KNOWN AS “MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF HAVRE DE GRACE, INFRASTRUCTURE BONDS, 20__ SERIES ___” (AS SUCH DESIGNATION MAY BE MODIFIED BY THE ADMINISTRATION TO REFLECT THE APPROPRIATE YEAR AND SERIES DESIGNATION AS PROVIDED FOR HEREIN) (THE “BONDS”), TO BE ISSUED AND SOLD PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF SECTIONS 4-101 THROUGH 4-255 OF THE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ARTICLE OF THE ANNOTATED CODE OF

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MARYLAND, AS AMENDED, AND SECTION 39 OF THE CHARTER OF THE ISSUER, WHICH SUCH BONDS MAY BE ISSUED IN ONE OR MORE SERIES AND THROUGH ONE OR MORE ISSUES OVER EACH OF THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, FOR THE PURPOSE OF (I) PROVIDING ALL OR A PORTION OF THE FUNDS NECESSARY FOR FINANCING AND/OR REFINANCING CERTAIN CAPITAL PROJECTS, AS MORE SPECIFICALLY PROVIDED HEREIN; (II) FUNDING A PORTION OF A CAPITAL RESERVE FUND AND (III) PAYING ISSUANCE AND OTHER COSTS RELATED TO THE BONDS; PROVIDING THAT THE BONDS SHALL BE ISSUED UPON THE FULL FAITH AND CREDIT OF THE ISSUER; PROVIDING FOR THE DISBURSEMENT OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF THE BONDS AND FOR THE LEVY OF ANNUAL TAXES UPON ALL ASSESSABLE PROPERTY WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE ISSUER FOR THE PAYMENT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF AND INTEREST ON THE BONDS AS THEY SHALL RESPECTIVELY MATURE; PROVIDING FOR THE FORM, TENOR, DENOMINATION, MATURITY DATE OR DATES AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF THE BONDS; PROVIDING FOR THE SALE OF THE BONDS; AND PROVIDING FOR RELATED PURPOSES, INCLUDING (WITHOUT LIMITATION) THE METHOD OF FIXING THE INTEREST RATE OR RATES TO BE BORNE BY THE BONDS, THE APPROVAL, EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF DOCUMENTS, AGREEMENTS, CERTIFICATES AND INSTRUMENTS AND THE MAKING OF OR PROVIDING FOR THE MAKING OF REPRESENTATIONS AND COVENANTS CONCERNING THE TAX STATUS OF INTEREST ON THE BONDS.

A motion to introduce on first reading was made by CM Robertson with a second by CM Zinner. Motion carries 5-0. CM Robertson explained that this ordinance is a follow up to the referendum approved by the voters at the special election in February and will allow the City to proceed with the issuance of bonds.

A motion to adopt on first reading was made by CM Robertson with a second by CM Ringsaker. Motion carries 5-0.

Public Hearing to be held on June 15th at 7 PM

Old Business: None

New Business: Mayor Martin announced the City Election will be held on June 23rd. By act of Executive Order 2020-07 the City of Havre de Grace Election will be held here in Council Chambers from 7 AM to 8 PM. CP Glenn also added that there will be an OPAC meeting here in Council Chambers on June 9th at 6:30 PM. It will be live streamed. Mr. Sypolt added that absentee ballots are available from the Board of Elections located at 133 Industry Lane Forest Hill, MD or by special appointment from City Hall.

Directors Report:

Patrick Sypolt, Director of Administration: Mr. Sypolt shared the City’s upcoming events as follows. The

Mayor and City Council will conduct a public hearing in the City Council Chambers, on Monday, June 8th at 6:00

p.m. The purpose of this hearing is to allow for the Council to receive public comment from citizens concerning

the proposed budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020 and continuing until June 30, 2021.

On Tuesday, June 9th beginning at 6:30 p.m. OPAC (Ontario-Otsego Positive Action Committee) is hosting their

annual candidates’ forum. This forum allows citizens to ask questions and hear the candidates’ responses on topics

most important to them. You may submit your questions to hdgOPAC@gmail.com. For more information on

how you can submit your question(s) for consideration, please visit our website: havredegracemd.gov

On Tuesday, June 23rd, the City will be holding its annual election which was originally scheduled for May 5th, but

was postponed due to emergency orders in place as a result of COVID-19. The election will occur at 711

City Council Meeting Minutes 6/1/2020 4

Pennington Avenue, similarly in the way and manner that our most recent election concerning the bond

referendum, but with CDC practices in place to insure a safe polling venue. The polls will open at 7:00 a.m. and

close at 8:00 p.m.

The Farmers Market had another great Saturday with many of the merchants recording high sales volumes. As a

reminder the market opens at 8:30 a.m. for seniors and those with underlying health conditions. The market will be

open every Saturday from May until mid-November.

During these unprecedented times please stay informed and “connected” with our websites: havredegracemd.gov ;

explorehavredegrace.com and hdgoperahouse.org.

Shane Grimm, Director of Planning: Demolition of portions of the former Sherwin-Williams building at 1354 Old Post Road have been completed. The new owner is proposing significant improvements to the remaining building and surrounding grounds. This will be an improvement to this corridor that will hopefully be replicated on other properties. The proposed Blenheim Run mixed use project consisting of 123 apartment units and a 7,000 square foot commercial building is scheduled to be reviewed by the Planning Commission on June 29th at 6:30pm in the City Council Chambers. We will continue to monitor guidance from the Government to determine the appropriate protocols for the meeting. As we get closer to the meeting, we will post those protocols on the City's webpage.

Erika Quesenbery-Sturgill, Director of Economic Development: With the newly Instituted Outdoor Dining

per the Mayor's Executive Order Ms. Quesenbery-Sturgill stated it was met with much success. She thanked the

Mayor, Admin, Planning and especially the Department of Public Works.

The National Guard has demolished the former Havre de Grace Racetrack Clubhouse built in 1924 and used as an armory since 1955 for their new $16.5 million facility. She shared that work has actively begun on renovating Abbey Burger at 226 N. Washington Street using local contractors. She also mentioned that Bocamexa Taqueria at 109 N. Washington Street opened during the lockdown pandemic for carry out and is now offering curbside pickup and will add outdoor dining in the coming days. The Teal Antler Boutique has signage up and is stocking their women and children's clothing boutique and gift shop at 119 N. Washington Street. Also extensive work is being done on the 200 block of North Washington Street, from 200 to 226 where every single structure in that span is undergoing improvements at present.

George DeHority, Director of Finance: The current financial condition of General Fund 1, Water/Sewer Fund 9 and Marina Fund 8 were presented by Mr. DeHority.

Tim Whittie, Director of Public Works: An update on all city projects was presented by Mr. Whittie.

Chief Teresa Walter, Havre de Grace Police Department: Chief Walter thanked various restaurants for participating in and following the Mayor’s Executive Order with the Outdoor Dining Plan. There were very few problems and it looked like folks were enjoying getting out and having a nice meal in the wonderful weather. The Chief also thanked those in the community who came out and supported those establishments. Chief Walter advised the Mayor and council that normally during this time of the year, Law Enforcement works hard to raise money for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Maryland. One of the many ways police raise money for this great cause is by selling Torch Run T-Shirts. This year with the Covid-19 pandemic and people being laid off or now unemployed, we did not want to make anyone feel obligated to purchase a T-Shirt or hat. However, many people purchase the shirts every year and now have a collection. Chief suggested that if anyone would like to purchase a 2020 Torch Run shirt, they are $15.00 and you can contact our Police Department and we will make arrangements to get the shirt to you.

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Business from Mayor Martin: Mayor Martin announced the cancellation of the 57th Annual Art Show due to COVID-19. June 5th Concerts in the Park are cancelled on that date along with First Friday’s on June 5th. Governor Hogan opened up outdoor dining and we have implemented our new City policy to address this in Executive Order 2020- 05. Mayor Martin spoke on the use of Playground equipment as it stands currently. We are following the numbers locally and how it’s affecting our community. As soon as we feel it is safe we will open the Playground back up. Mayor Martin urged citizens to continue to be mindful of the current Pandemic and its dangers.

Business from Council:

Council Member Zinner: CM Zinner announced that the Soroptomist puts together several scholarships that are

usually funded by the annual Art Show which is now cancelled. Please feel free to help with this cause. CM Zinner

thanked the Green Team for their help with the Resolution 2020-15 Bee City USA Designation.

Council Member Robertson: CM Robertson shared that the Budget and Finance Committee will meet tomorrow

at 5:15 PM. The Youth Commission made and gave certificates for graduating seniors. This past Monday the

Legion’s ceremony was successful and held in a safe social distancing manner.

Council Member Ringsaker: CM Ringsaker wished CM Martin a speedy recovery.

Council Member Boyer: CM Boyer wished CM Martin a Speedy recovery. CM Boyer thanked everyone for their

vote on Resolution 2020-15 Bee City Designation. We are looking for volunteers now to help with the Thanksgiving

Dinner this year. On behalf of the Green Team the Pilot Composting Project is starting. The Green Team will be

at the Farmers Market on June the 15th to answer any questions.

Council President Glenn: Council President paid tribute to the Senior Class and wished them nothing but the

best in all future endeavors.

Council President reported that he had been in contact with the Project Engineer and reported that the long

awaited replacement school will be ready for students when they return.

Council President recognized all those fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters who paid the ultimate

sacrifice in service to our nation. He stated that the national holiday, Memorial Day, reinforces that freedom is

truly not free and took the opportunity to personally thank all veterans, past or current for their service.

CP Glenn made a motion to adjourn at 8:28 PM with a second by CM Ringsaker. Motion carries 5-0.

Video recording of the City Council Meeting may be viewed online through Harford Cable Network.

Respectfully Submitted by, Resa Laird

June 10, 2020

TO: Steve Gamatoria

DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING

MEMORANDUM

Chief of Staff

FROM: Shane P. Grimm, AICP

Deputy Director of Planning

Re: 322 S. Union Avenue - License Agreement

Fence in Right-of-Way

Permit No. 20200312

The Department of Planning has received a permit application for the construction of a fence in the front of 322

S. Union Avenue. The fence is an approximately 3-foot tall black metal “no dig” decorative fence that is

located adjacent to the sidewalk. The fence is attractive and easily removable if necessary. Therefore, the

Department has no objection to the approval of a License Agreement for the property owner to keep the fence.

A copy of the site plan is attached to this memo. The Department recommends the following conditions of

approval:

1. The fence shall be maintained and repaired as necessary.

2. The grass and/or garden shall be maintained in the area of the right-of-way and no debris or materials

shall be permitted to accumulate within the right-of-way.

3. If it is necessary for City staff to access the right-of-way in this area for any reason, the property owner

shall remove the fence at their expense upon request of the City.

711 PENNINGTON AVENUE, HAVRE DE GRACE, MARYLAND 21078

WWW.HAVREDEGRACEMD.COM

410- 939-1800

City of Havre de Grace