Mount Rainier public meetings in 2025

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission will review meeting minutes and begin building a budget proposal for fiscal year 2027. The group will also continue planning a presentation for the City Council and schedule the next meeting.

• Review of November 2025 minutes for approval
• FY27 Budget Request planning session
• City Council Presentation planning session
• Next meeting scheduling
• Public comment period available

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission met on December 22, 2025. The agenda items included review of the previous minutes, discussion of the FY27 budget request, planning a presentation to City Council, and scheduling the next meeting. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled during the meeting.

City Council

The Mount Rainier City Council will hear a presentation on the FY2025 audit report and the Police Department first‑quarter report. Council members will consider Resolution No. 01‑2026, which would authorize participation in the Prince George’s County Planning Assistance for Municipalities and Communities (PAMC) Strategic Action Plan Project. The meeting also includes a review of the agenda, the December 2, 2025 public hearing minutes, and routine procedural items.

• Presentation and discussion of the FY2025 audit report
• Presentation and discussion of the Police Department first‑quarter report
• Resolution No. 01‑2026 authorizing participation in the PAMC Strategic Action Plan Project
• Presentation of the December 2, 2025 public hearing and legislative meeting minutes
• Review and approval of the meeting agenda

The council approved the FY2025 audit report. Motions to add five minutes and four minutes to the meeting were each passed unanimously (5-0-0). The agenda was accepted with the removal of item 7, and the meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote (5-0-0).

• Approved FY2025 Audit Report (effective Feb 3, 2026)
• Agenda accepted with removal of item 7 (closed session)
• Motion to add 5 minutes passed (5-0-0)
• Motion to add 4 minutes passed (5-0-0)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (5-0-0)

Committees

The Recreation Committee voted YES to recommend $1,250 for the GAT Learning Series and $2,500 for the Link Wray Community Day. The committee will notify the applicants and keep the remaining grant allocation for the next submission cycle. FY 2027 budget updates were discussed but no decision was made. No new business was presented.

• Recommend $1,250 funding for GAT Learning Series (approved)
• Recommend $2,500 funding for Link Wray Community Day (approved)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings and vote on ordinances regarding the repeal of the Police Review and Advisory Board and a budget amendment for public works vehicles. The meeting also includes a presentation on the Planning Assistance for Municipalities and Communities Program.

• Ordinance No. 06-2025: Budget Amendment #1 for $627,500 MDOT grant, $185,087.07 fund balance for EV Trash Trucks, and $30,000 for a street sweeper
• Ordinance No. 04-2025: Proposal to repeal the Police Review and Advisory Board
• Ordinance No. 05-2025: Codifying the Mount Rainier Green Team and disbanding the Environment Protection Board
• Resolution No. 07-2025: Vice Mayor Rotation
• Resolution No. 10-2025: Proclaiming December 10th as Human Rights Day

The council adopted Ordinance No. 05‑2025, which codifies the Mount Rainier Green Team and disbands the Environment Protection Board, with a 4‑0‑0 vote. It also adopted Ordinance No. 06‑2025, a budget amendment, by a 4‑0‑0 vote. A resolution to schedule the upcoming Vice Mayor rotation failed to pass, tying 2‑2‑0. The council approved the November 4 and November 18 meeting minutes and adjourned the session.

• Adopt Ordinance No. 05‑2025 (Green Team, dissolve Environment Board) – vote 4‑0‑0, passed
• Adopt Ordinance No. 06‑2025 (Budget Amendment #1) – vote 4‑0‑0, passed
• Adopt Resolution No. 07‑2025 (Upcoming Vice Mayor Rotation) – vote 2‑2‑0, failed (tie)
• Approve November 4, 2025 Legislative Meeting minutes – vote 4‑0‑0, passed
• Adjourn meeting (first motion) – vote 5‑0‑0, passed
• Adjourn meeting (second motion) – vote 4‑0‑0, passed

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission will review the status of the Pizza D’Oro mural and outline expectations for its involvement. Commissioners will begin developing the FY27 budget request and plan an end‑of‑year report presentation for the City Council. The meeting will also include a summary of the recent Gateway CDC meeting and set the date for the next commission session.

• Discuss current status and expectations for the Pizza D’Oro mural
• Begin building the FY27 budget request
• Plan the end‑of‑year report presentation for the City Council
• Summarize items from the recent Gateway CDC meeting
• Schedule the next Arts Commission meeting

The commission approved the agenda with no changes and adopted the minutes from the October 16 meeting after a motion by John Deamond and a second by Rebecca Solow. The board also scheduled its next meeting for December 18, 2025 at 8 p.m. No other actions were formally decided.

• Approved agenda (no changes)
• Approved 10/16/2025 minutes (motion moved by John Deamond, seconded by Rebecca Solow)
• Scheduled next meeting for 12/18/2025 at 8 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 9:30 p.m.

Committees

The Tree Commission is meeting to review the tree inventory and plan winter street tree maintenance and pruning. The body will also discuss city staff training and the status of several local planting projects.

• 2025/2026 Winter Street Tree Maintenance
• 2025/2026 Winter Pruning Planning and city staff training
• Arundel Road green street project status
• Greenworks planting and door hanger project status
• Hazardous tree notifications and permit/waiver tracker

The commission approved the September 4, 2025 minutes without changes. Barry agreed to investigate a tree‑tag system and will conduct pruning training for PW staff and a January workshop for commissioners. Lester will provide a pruning Google Map, MaryLee will request a letter from PW for approved pruners, and Jackie will serve as keeper of the commission vests. The invasive tree‑removal discussion was postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (no changes)
• Barry agreed to look into a tree‑tag system
• Barry will conduct pruning training for PW staff and a January workshop for commissioners
• Lester will provide a pruning Google Map for commissioners
• MaryLee will ask PW for a letter for approved pruners
• Jackie designated as keeper of the Tree Commission vests
• Invasive tree removal topic postponed to next meeting

City Council

The City Council will vote to approve the minutes from the October 21, 2025 work session. It will then conduct the first reading of Ordinance No. 06‑2025, a budget amendment that moves funds for electric‑trash‑truck and street‑sweeper purchases in the FY 2026 budget. The meeting also includes a public‑comment period and routine procedural items.

• Vote to approve October 21, 2025 work‑session minutes
• First reading of Ordinance No. 06‑2025, Budget Amendment #1 transferring funds for EV trash trucks and a street sweeper
• Public comment segment (up to 3 minutes per speaker)
• Call to Order and agenda review

The council voted 5-0-0 to approve the minutes from the October 21, 2025 work session. No formal votes were taken on the budget amendment for electric vehicles, lighting projects, compost program, or the Human Rights Day proclamation. The meeting was adjourned twice by unanimous motions.

• Approved October 21, 2025 work session minutes (5-0-0)
• Adjourned first session at 7:19 pm (5-0-0)
• Adjourned second session at 7:53 pm (5-0-0)

Committees

The CERT Committee will approve the October meeting minutes and welcome new members. It will review the recent Narcan training, the Emergency Operations Plan, and the Sound the Alarm program. The committee will also discuss the town's budget before open discussion.

• Approve October meeting minutes
• Welcome new committee members
• Debrief recent Narcan training
• Review Emergency Operations Plan
• Discuss town budget

City Council

The Mount Rainier City Council will hold a virtual meeting on November 4, 2025. Items include a second‑reading vote to repeal the Police Review and Advisory Board (Ordinance No. 04‑2025) and a second‑reading vote to adopt the FY2027 Budget Calendar (Resolution No. 09‑2025). The council will also hear a presentation on a building application for 4221 31st Street and conduct a first‑reading of an ordinance to codify the Green Team while disbanding the Environment Protection Board. Additional items are proclamations for Municipal Government Works Month and Human Rights Day.

• Second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 04‑2025 repealing the Police Review and Advisory Board
• Second reading and adoption of Resolution No. 09‑2025 FY2027 Budget Calendar
• Presentation of building application for 4221 31st Street, Mount Rainier
• First reading of Ordinance No. 05‑2025 codifying the Mount Rainier Green Team and disbanding the Environment Protection Board
• Proclamation for Human Rights Day (December 10)

The council removed Resolution No. 07‑2025 from the agenda (4‑1‑0). It adopted Ordinance No. 04‑2025, repealing the Police Review and Advisory Board (4‑0‑1). It also adopted Resolution No. 09‑2025 establishing the FY2027 budget calendar (5‑0‑0) and approved the September and October meeting minutes (5‑0‑0). The meeting was adjourned at 8:49 p.m.

• Removed Resolution No. 07‑2025 from agenda (4‑1‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 04‑2025 repealing Police Review and Advisory Board (4‑0‑1)
• Adopted Resolution No. 09‑2025 FY2027 Budget Calendar (5‑0‑0)
• Approved September 16 and October 7 meeting minutes (5‑0‑0)
• Added 5 minutes to agenda (motion by Danielle Carter, 5‑0‑0)
• Added 5 minutes to Ordinance No. 04‑2025 reading (motion by Mayor Benitez, 5‑0‑0)
• Added 2 minutes to Ordinance No. 04‑2025 adoption (motion by Mayor Benitez, 5‑0‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Joseph Jakuta, 5‑0‑0)

Committees

The meeting will approve the September meeting minutes and welcome new members. It will discuss public safety topics including a debrief of Public Safety Night, a plan for Narcan distribution, and updates to the Emergency Operations Plan and the Sound the Alarm program. The council will also review the town's budget and hold an open discussion before adjourning.

• Approve September meeting minutes
• Debrief Public Safety Night
• Plan for Narcan distribution
• Review Emergency Operations Plan
• Budget review

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will hold a virtual work session to review first quarter reports from the Code Compliance and Economic Development departments. The council will also discuss a proposed ordinance regarding the city's environmental boards.

• Proposed ordinance to codify the Mount Rainier Green Team and disband the Mount Rainier Environment Protection Board
• Code Compliance first quarter report showing $194,391 in quarterly revenue
• Economic Development report on $150,000 applied for the Central Shopping District Façade Improvement Program
• Economic Development report on $10,000 awarded for the 34th Street Mural Program
• Review of potential occupants for 3503 Perry Street

The council voted to add five minutes to the agenda after amending an initial ten‑minute request; the motion passed 4‑0‑0. A motion to adjourn the meeting was also introduced and passed unanimously with a 4‑0‑0 vote. No other actions were formally decided during the session.

• Added 5 minutes to agenda (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0-0)

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission will review and approve the minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting, discuss ongoing projects with Allie O’Neill of Gateway CDC, and begin identifying potential FY27 budget items while assigning research topics. The commission will also plan the end‑of‑year report presentation to the City Council, update research on the FY26 Plinths Rhode Island Avenue Circle large banner project, and discuss building a relationship with the Economic Development Office before scheduling the next meeting.

• Approve minutes from the 09/15/2025 Arts Commission meeting
• Discussion with Allie O’Neill, Gateway CDC on Arts District Management Team projects and priorities
• FY27 budget request: identify potential budget items and assign research topics
• Plan end‑of‑year report for City Council and choose presentation date
• Update research on FY26 project: Plinths Rhode Island Avenue Circle large banner

The commission approved the meeting agenda, but tabled the Budget Planning and Building Relationship with Economic Development Office items for future meetings. Minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting were approved after a motion by Rebecca Solow and a second by John Deamond. The remainder of the meeting consisted of discussion of project ideas, budget updates, and action items, with no further formal decisions recorded.

• Approved agenda; Budget Planning and Building Relationship with Economic Development Office items tabled
• Approved 9/15/2025 minutes (motion by Rebecca Solow, seconded by John Deamond)

Committees

The Recreation Committee approved buying apples, up to $300, to support the Halloween Trunk‑or‑Treat event. Members also agreed on the Sweaty Sweater Run course, starting at Memorial Park and finishing on Perry Street. The committee noted a grant deadline in November and will schedule a December meeting to discuss applications.

• Approved purchase of apples up to $300 for Halloween Trunk‑or‑Treat (committee approved)
• Approved Sweaty Sweater Run course from Memorial Park to Perry Street (committee agreed)

City Council

The Mount Rainier City Council will vote to appoint a new resident agent and a Public Information Act representative. The body will also hold first readings on repealing the Police Review and Advisory Board and adopting the FY2027 budget calendar.

• Appointment of Ms. Kelenna James and Mr. Nathan Kreoger to the Arts Commission
• Second reading and adoption of Resolution No. 05-2025 (appointing resident agent)
• Second reading and adoption of Resolution No. 06-2025 (designating PIA representative)
• First reading of Ordinance No. 04-2025 (repealing Police Review and Advisory Board)
• First reading of Resolution No. 09-2025 (FY2027 Budget Calendar)

The City Council appointed two members to the Arts Commission and adopted three resolutions: appointing a new resident agent, designating a Public Information Act representative, and proclaiming November 14 as Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. The Council also approved minutes from three prior meetings and conducted first readings of an ordinance and a FY2027 budget calendar resolution. All actions were passed unanimously.

• Appointed Ms. Kelenna James and Mr. Nathan Kreoger to the Arts Commission (5-0-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 05-2025 appointing a new resident agent (5-0-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 06-2025 designating a Public Information Act representative (5-0-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 08-2025 proclaiming November 14 as Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes for June 17, June 19, and September 2, 2025 meetings (5-0-0)
• Conducted first reading of Ordinance No. 04-2025 repealing the Police Review and Advisory Board (no vote recorded)
• Conducted first reading of Resolution No. 09-2025 FY2027 Budget Calendar (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned the meeting (5-0-0)

Committees

The Mount Rainier Ethics Commission will hold a remote meeting on Oct. 6, 2025. The commission will move to a closed session to evaluate a motion to dismiss a complaint alleging a violation of the city’s Ethics Code. If the dismissal is not approved, the commission will review the evidence and seek legal counsel. The meeting will then return to open session before adjourning.

• Motion to enter closed session to consider a motion to dismiss an ethics‑code complaint
• Review of substantive evidence if dismissal is not granted
• Consultation with legal counsel for advice on the alleged violation
• Motion to adjourn the closed session and resume open session
• Adjournment of the meeting

Committees

The Mount Rainier Ethics Commission will consider a motion to enter a closed session to consult counsel for legal advice on process and procedure related to contested cases. If approved, the commission will later vote to adjourn the closed session and return to the open session. The meeting also includes routine items such as call to order, roll call, and approval of the agenda and prior minutes.

• Motion to go into closed session to consult counsel on contested cases
• Motion to adjourn the closed session and return to the open session
• Approval of the agenda
• Approval of minutes from a previous meeting
• Call to order and roll call

Committees

The Mount Rainier CERT meeting will cover training reports, public safety initiatives, and the budget. The agenda includes a review of the Emergency Operations Plan and open discussion.

• Approval of August minutes
• Report on Teex training
• Plan for Public Safety Night
• Plan for Narcan administration
• Review of Emergency Operations Plan

City Council

The Council will discuss Ordinance No. 04-2025 to repeal the Police Review and Advisory Board. They will also review the proposed FY2027 Budget Calendar under Resolution No. 09-2025. A presentation on the Bunker Hill Mural Project by the Neighborhood Design Center will be given. The Council will consider hosting an All‑Committee Chairs Roundtable in January 2026, budgeted at $500.

• Ordinance No. 04-2025 – repeal of Police Review and Advisory Board
• Resolution No. 09-2025 – discussion of FY2027 Budget Calendar
• Presentation on Bunker Hill Mural Project by Neighborhood Design Center
• Proposal to host All‑Committee Chairs Roundtable in January 2026 ($500 budget)
• Presentation of September 2, 2025 Legislative Minutes

The Council approved the Bunker Hill Mural Project, with implementation slated for October 2025 and formal approval dated November 4, 2025. The Council unanimously passed motions to add two‑minute and ten‑minute extensions to the agenda. A motion to adjourn the meeting also passed unanimously.

• Approved Bunker Hill Mural Project (effective Nov 4, 2025)
• Motion to add 2 minutes (Mayor Benitez) passed 5-0-0
• Motion to add 10 minutes (Councilmember Jakuta) passed 5-0-0
• Motion to add 2 minutes (Councilmember Carter) passed 5-0-0
• Motion to adjourn passed 5-0-0

Committees

The Arts Commission will review and approve the minutes from the 08/21/2025 meeting, welcome new provisional member Kelenna James, and receive updates on FY26 arts projects, including the Plinths Rhode Island Avenue Circle large banner. The commission will discuss building a relationship with the Economic Development Office and prepare a report for the City Council on its plans and schedule. It will also set the date for the next meeting.

• Review and approval of the 08/21/2025 meeting minutes
• Welcome of new provisional member Kelenna James
• Update on FY26 project research: Plinths Rhode Island Avenue Circle large banner
• Discussion of partnership with the Economic Development Office
• Preparation of a report to the City Council on commission plans and scheduling

The Arts Commission approved the meeting agenda with one amendment. The item on building a relationship with the Economic Development Office was tabled for a future meeting. The minutes from the August 21, 2025 meeting were approved after a motion by John Deamond and a second by Tessla Thompson. The next commission meeting was scheduled for October 16, 2025 at 8 p.m.

• Approved agenda with one change
• Tabled Building relationship with Economic Development Office item for future meeting
• Approved minutes from 8/21/2025 (motion by John Deamond, seconded by Tessla Thompson)
• Scheduled next meeting for 10/16/2025 at 8 p.m.

Committees

The Police Review & Advisory Board will hear a crime update from the department. Members will discuss a revised draft letter to the City Manager and Council about the board’s functions and community conversations. The board will consider its FY 2026 budget request and plan the date for its annual meeting with the City Manager. The agenda also includes old and new business, public comment, and setting the next meeting date.

• Crime update presentation by the Police Department
• Review of updated draft letter to City Manager & Council on PRAB functions and community conversations
• FY 2026 PRAB budget request and review of FY 2025 allocation and spending
• Scheduling the annual meeting with the City Manager and planning the year‑end report
• Public comment period (3‑minute limit per speaker)

Committees

The Recreation Committee will discuss logistics for Porchfest and the Sweaty Sweater event. The body will vote on expenses for Porchfest and review grant deadlines.

• Vote on Porchfest expenses
• Porchfest performer and location updates
• Sweaty Sweater logistics overview
• Grant deadline announcement

The Recreation Committee lacked a quorum at its September 11 meeting, so it voted by email on urgent items. The committee approved up to $500 for Porchfest promotion and up to $2,000 for Sweaty Sweater promotion, covering medals, signage, food, beverage, route signs, and banners.

• Approved Porchfest promotional expenses up to $500 (email vote)
• Approved Sweaty Sweater promotional expenses up to $2,000 (email vote)

Committees

The Tree Commission is meeting to discuss local tree projects and administrative updates. The body will review a guest presentation from Joe’s Greenworks 2025 and discuss specific sites including Newton Street and 27th St.

• Presentation by Joe’s Greenworks 2025 guest Aster Sanders
• Discussion regarding Newton Street
• Review of summer tree inventory by AUTI
• Status of permit/waiver communications
• Tree City USA Certification and signage

The Tree Commission approved the previous meeting minutes without objection. Gabe was assigned to obtain a Spanish translation and to revise the door hanger text, with distribution planned for late winter or early spring 2026. Barry and Jackie volunteered to coordinate street tree plantings. MaryLee was tasked with determining ownership and liability for trees on 27th Street, and Tree City USA stickers were applied this week.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (no objection)
• Assigned Gabe to obtain Spanish translation for door hanger project
• Assigned Gabe to revise door hanger text
• Planned distribution of door hangers in late winter/early spring 2026
• Barry and Jackie volunteered to coordinate street tree plantings
• MaryLee tasked with determining ownership and liability for 27th St trees
• Victor applied Tree City USA certification stickers this week
• Andy announced stepping down from the commission

City Council

The council voted to appoint Ms. Tracy Meserve to the Recreation Committee. They also approved the minutes from the June 3, 2025 Legislative Meeting. The agenda was accepted with the removal of item 7, which concerned Community Garden Committee appointments. No public comment was received.

• Appointed Ms. Tracy Meserve to the Recreation Committee (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes for June 3, 2025 Legislative Meeting (5-0-0)
• Removed agenda item 7 (Community Garden Committee appointments) during agenda acceptance

Committees

The City of Mount Rainier Ethics Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a complaint. The complaint concerns the use of office for private gain by an elected official.

• Public hearing regarding an ethics complaint against an elected official

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission approved the meeting agenda with one change. It also approved the minutes from the June 10 and July 15, 2025 meetings, with motions moved by John Deamond and seconded by Tessla Thompson. The next commission meeting was scheduled for September 15, 2025.

• Approved agenda with one change (motion moved by John Deamond, seconded by Tessla Thompson)
• Approved minutes for 6/10/2025 and 7/15/2025 (motion moved by John Deamond, seconded by Tessla Thompson)
• Scheduled next meeting for 9/15/2025

Committees

The commission approved its agenda and the minutes from previous meetings. It adopted the proposed rules and procedures for the commission. Morgan Pinnell was appointed Vice Chairman. Motions to enter and then adjourn a closed session were also approved.

• Agenda approved (2-0-0)
• Minutes for Aug 14, 2024 and July 14, 2025 approved (2-0-0)
• Rules and procedures adopted (2-0-0)
• Morgan Pinnell appointed Vice Chairman (2-0-0)
• Motion to enter closed session approved (2-0-0)
• Motion to adjourn closed session approved (2-0-0)

Committees

The commission read the agenda and approved it. The minutes from the December 3, 2024 Arts Commission meeting were also approved on August 21, 2025. No other actions were decided.

• Agenda approved
• Minutes from 12/03/2024 meeting approved (08/21/2025)

Committees

The commission accepted all 2024 financial disclosure submissions and directed City Attorney Karen Ruff to check recent state legislation for any needed ethics code changes before the October 1 certification. It approved a unified set of rules and procedures for the ethics code complaints process, including a detailed oath‑bearing complaint form and flexible hearing formats. Motions to enter a closed session and to adjourn the meeting both passed unanimously.

• Accepted all 2024 financial disclosure statements
• Directed Attorney Karen Ruff to review recent General Assembly actions for required ethics code amendments
• Approved revised rules of procedure and unified complaints process (approved July 29, 2025)
• Adopted clarification that complaints must include oath language and will use a detailed complaint form
• Authorized hearings to be conducted either in person or virtually
• Granted authority to recess a hearing to review large or complex documents
• Motion to go into closed session passed (2-0-0)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (2-0-0)

City Council

The council approved a motion to go into closed session to discuss personnel matters and consult with the city attorney, with a 5-0-0 vote. The council then approved a motion to adjourn the meeting, also by a 5-0-0 vote.

• Closed session motion approved (5-0-0)
• Meeting adjourned (5-0-0)

City Council

The City Council adopted Resolution 03‑2025, naming members to the Legacy Mixed‑Use Town Center Design Review Committee for a two‑year term starting July 6, 2025. It also passed Resolution 04‑2025 proclaiming May as Jewish American Heritage Month. In addition, the council approved the May 20, 2025 work‑session minutes, appointed Ms. Morgan Pinnell to the Ethics Commission, and authorized an extra 10 minutes for discussion of the West Hyattsville‑Queens Chapel sector plan. All motions were unanimous.

• Adopted Resolution 03‑2025 appointing LMUTC Design Review Committee members (5‑0‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 04‑2025 proclaiming May as Jewish American Heritage Month (5‑0‑0)
• Approved May 20, 2025 work‑session minutes (5‑0‑0)
• Appointed Ms. Morgan Pinnell to the Ethics Commission (5‑0‑0)
• Added 10 minutes to discussion of West Hyattsville‑Queens Chapel sector plan (5‑0‑0)
• Adjourned the special legislative meeting (5‑0‑0)
• Adjourned the public hearing meeting (5‑0‑0)
• Adjourned the work‑session meeting (5‑0‑0)

Committees

The commission approved the meeting agenda, adding a discussion about seeking a new member. They also approved the minutes from the May 1, 2025 meeting after a motion was moved by Deanna Noel and seconded by John Deamond. No other formal votes or approvals were recorded.

• Agenda approved with addition of new‑member discussion
• Minutes for 05/01/2025 approved (motion moved by Deanna Noel, seconded by John Deamond)

City Council

The council unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 03‑2025, a budget amendment, with a 5‑0‑0 vote. It also passed Resolution No. 02‑2025 proclaiming April as Arab American Heritage Month, and approved the FY2026 legislative meeting calendar and the July‑August council recess, each by 5‑0‑0 votes. Minutes for three prior meetings were approved, and the council conducted first readings of two heritage‑month resolutions and a design‑review committee nomination. The meeting was adjourned at 8:16 p.m.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 03‑2025, Budget Amendment #2 (5-0-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 02‑2025, April Arab American Heritage Month (5-0-0)
• Approved Legislative Meeting Calendar for FY2026 (5-0-0)
• Approved Council Recess for July and August 2025 (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes for April 15, May 6, and May 12 2025 meetings (5-0-0)
• First reading of Resolution No. 03‑2025, Design Review Committee nominations (read)
• First reading of Resolution No. 04‑2025, May Jewish American Heritage Month (read)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

City Council

The council accepted the agenda as presented. A motion to add ten minutes to the agenda was moved by Mayor Celina Benitez, seconded by Councilmember Danielle Carter, and passed unanimously (5-0-0). The meeting was then adjourned by a motion moved by Vice Mayor Valerie Woodall, seconded by Councilmember Danielle Carter, and also passed unanimously (5-0-0).

• Agenda accepted as presented
• Added 10 minutes to agenda (5-0-0)
• Meeting adjourned (5-0-0)

Committees

The council voted to recognize the gathering as an official CERT meeting even though the agenda was not posted four days in advance. The motion was made by Mark Grisar, seconded by Melissa Barringer, and passed with a 3‑1 vote. No other formal actions were taken.

• Declared meeting official CERT meeting (3-1)

Committees

The Tree Commission approved the minutes from the prior meeting, noting edits. Commissioners assigned multiple follow‑up actions, including water‑bag distribution, communication with the City on tree maintenance, and addressing issues with the county levee replanting. Additional tasks include inspecting the 3100 Taylor elm, reposting the Joe’s Greenworks 2025 opportunity, and seeking a new council liaison.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (with edits)
• Assigned MaryLee to pick up extra gator bags and coordinate placement with Judy and Jackie
• Assigned Jackie to follow up with the City on how to communicate tree maintenance needs
• Assigned MaryLee to follow up with Empire about levee replanting issues
• Commissioners to inspect the 3100 Taylor elm by 5/20 and MaryLee to poll recommendations
• MaryLee to repost the Joe’s Greenworks 2025 opportunity on Facebook and Listserve
• Jackie to email Luke to request a council liaison recommendation
• MaryLee to ask Rocio/Victor about moving meetings to Thursday

City Council

The council voted to adopt the Council Rules and Procedures as presented, with a 4‑0‑0 vote. The motion was moved by Councilmember Jenny Hoffpauir and seconded by Councilmember Danielle Carter. After the adoption, the council voted to adjourn the meeting, also by a 4‑0‑0 vote.

• Adopt Council Rules and Procedures as presented (4-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting (4-0-0)

City Council

The council approved a resolution establishing the Mount Rainier Community Garden Committee. It also passed several procedural motions—adding extra minutes to the agenda, approving prior meeting minutes, and adjourning the meeting—each with a unanimous 5-0-0 vote.

• Motion to add four minutes (moved by Vice Mayor Valerie Woodall, seconded by Councilmember Danielle Carter) passed 5-0-0
• Motion to add six minutes (moved by Councilmember Danielle Carter, seconded by Councilmember Luke Chesek) passed 5-0-0
• Adopt Resolution No. 01-2025, establishing the Mount Rainier Community Garden Committee (moved by Councilmember Danielle Carter, seconded by Councilmember Luke Chesek) passed 5-0-0
• Approve minutes for prior meetings (moved by Councilmember Luke Chesek, seconded by Vice Mayor Valerie Woodall) passed 5-0-0
• Motion to adjourn the meeting (moved by Councilmember Luke Chesek, seconded by Councilmember Jarrett Stoltzfus) passed 5-0-0

Committees

The commission chose the blue mural design as the final artist for the 3510 Rhode Island Ave. project after reviewing feedback, noting only minor suggestions for improvement. Mayor Benitez expressed a strong preference for the blue design, which was recorded as the clear winner in the vote. The commission will notify the building occupants, confirm with the artist and owners, and schedule installation steps. The meeting minutes were approved on 06/10/2025.

• Selected blue mural design as final artist for 3510 Rhode Island Ave. project (no vote tally provided)
• Approved the meeting minutes on 06/10/2025

Committees

The Board of Elections approved the meeting minutes and a bake sale to be held at the candidate tent, with proceeds benefiting two schools. It adopted a plan for daily election reminders on the city website and social media. The Board also established Election Day do‑as‑and‑don’t‑list guidelines and assigned staff responsibilities for ballot handling and counting.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bake sale at candidate tent (funds for two schools)
• Adopted daily election reminder plan on website and social media
• Established Election Day do’s and don’ts guidelines
• Assigned staff tasks for ballot handling and counting
• Scheduled Nature Center set‑up at 6 p.m. Sunday
• Public Works to drop supplies at Nature Center Sunday 6 p.m.
• Nichole to verify counting rules and email candidates

Committees

The committee unanimously approved the March meeting notes. It also unanimously approved buying six first‑aid kits‑in‑a‑backpack at about $191 each. Members agreed to review the City’s Emergency Operations Plan at the next meeting. Melissa will contact Rasheed to start the MOU process with neighboring towns.

• Approved March meeting notes (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of six first‑aid kits (unanimous)
• Agreed to review the City’s Emergency Operations Plan at next meeting
• Melissa to contact Rasheed to initiate MOU process with nearby localities

Committees

The Board of Elections approved the meeting minutes by a unanimous vote. It confirmed a candidate forum for April 29, 6:30‑8:30 pm and assigned city staff to provide supplies, catering, and bilingual notifications. Additional election logistics, including ballot binders and site setup, were also planned. The next board meeting will be held on May 1 to review election‑day procedures.

• Approved meeting minutes (1‑0)
• Confirmed candidate forum for April 29, 6:30‑8:30 pm
• City to provide pens, table tents, and note cards for forum
• City to coordinate catering (drinks and food) for forum
• City to issue English and Spanish reminders about forum and election day
• Melissa to create ballot binders; Nichole to email binder information
• MRBOE to set up election site at 6 pm Sunday and arrive at Nature Center by 6 am
• Next meeting scheduled for May 1 to discuss election‑day do’s and don’ts

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections approved the meeting minutes. It confirmed a League of Women Voters candidate forum for April 29, 2025, 6:30‑8:30 pm at Joe’s Movement Emporium. The board also assigned follow‑up tasks for interpretation, media coverage, security, refreshments, supplies, and absentee‑ballot handling.

• Approved meeting minutes (yes vote)
• Confirmed League of Women Voters candidate forum for April 29, 2025, 6:30‑8:30 pm at Joe’s Movement Emporium
• Mario tasked to ask Joe’s if a microphone can be used
• Tara tasked to ask LWV about city televising and photos
• Melissa tasked to discuss officer presence with the Chief
• Melissa tasked to recommend Corner Bakery sandwiches for refreshments
• Melissa tasked to request public works assistance for early set‑up and to print 2‑3 binders of election procedures
• Monica tasked to inventory election supply bin; Nichole tasked to obtain KC’s financial disclosure form and absentee ballot

City Council

The council adopted Ordinance No. 02‑2025, establishing the tax rate, adopting the FY2026 budget, and appropriating funds, with a unanimous 5‑0‑0 vote. Earlier, Budget Amendment #2 items for FY2025 were approved, though no vote tally was recorded. Several procedural motions, including adding ten minutes and adjournments, also passed unanimously.

• Adopted FY2026 budget ordinance (5-0-0 vote)
• Approved Budget Amendment #2 items (no vote recorded)
• Motion to add 10 minutes passed (5-0-0 vote)
• First session adjournment motion passed (5-0-0 vote)
• Second session adjournment motion passed (5-0-0 vote)

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections approved the prior meeting minutes with a unanimous YES vote. The board then discussed logistics for a candidate forum, voter registration training, and the printing and distribution of absentee ballots, assigning various staff to handle tasks. No other formal votes or decisions were recorded before adjournment.

• Approved meeting minutes (YES vote)
• No formal votes on candidate forum logistics
• No formal votes on absentee ballot printing
• No formal votes on voter registration training

Committees

The Recreation Committee approved the March meeting minutes. It agreed to create a post‑yard‑sale survey, with Jenny drafting questions and Pink posting the form online. The Pride Parade was confirmed for Saturday, June 7 at 10 am, running from Thomas Stone Elementary to the Gateway Farmers Market, and several staff assignments were made to support the event. The committee will vote on additional supply spending for the parade at its next meeting.

• Approved March meeting minutes (committee approval)
• Agreed to create a yard‑sale feedback survey; Jenny to draft questions with Stephanie and have Pink post it on the city website
• Confirmed Pride Parade for Saturday June 7 at 10 am, route from Thomas Stone Elementary to Gateway Farmers Market
• Bethany to confirm market green‑space use and Drag Queen performer availability
• Emily to contact community organizations and Pink for parade flyer and promotions
• Tracy to lead children’s art project; committee to cover material costs and explore partnership with Becca Solow
• Valerie to request city pride flags and tables and to confirm Mount Rainier Day table participation
• Committee will vote on additional supply spending for the Pride Parade at the next meeting

Committees

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the February 26 2025 meeting. The motion was made by John Deamond and seconded by Deanna Noel. No other formal actions or votes were recorded in this meeting.

• Approved minutes for 02/26/2025 (motion by John Deamond, seconded by Deanna Noel)

City Council

The City Council accepted the agenda as presented. The council approved the City Manager’s proposed FY2026 budget change, reducing line item 5558 for Community Development Corp‑Gateway to $25,000 and creating sub‑line item 5558A for Gateway CDC – Arts District Management at $5,000. The council unanimously passed a motion to adjourn the meeting (5‑0‑0 vote).

• Approved reduction of line item 5558 to $25,000
• Approved creation of sub‑line item 5558A for $5,000 (Arts District Management)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed 5-0-0

City Council

The council approved the March 18 and March 22 meeting minutes (5‑0‑0) and then voted to allocate $25,000 to the Community Development Corp – Gateway, creating a $5,000 sub‑line for the Arts District Management. The meeting was adjourned twice, each time with a 5‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved March 18 and March 22 minutes (5-0-0)
• Allocated $25,000 to Community Development Corp – Gateway and created $5,000 sub‑line for Arts District Management
• Adjourned first part of meeting (5-0-0)
• Adjourned second part of meeting (5-0-0)

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections approved the meeting minutes. It decided not to hold a joint voter registration event with Brentwood. City Hall will issue weekly election‑deadline updates and the absentee ballot form was revised. The Board scheduled a Candidate Meet‑and‑Greet for April 12, 12‑2 p.m., ordered snacks, and assigned staff to prepare supplies and signage.

• Approved meeting minutes (yes vote)
• Decided not to hold joint voter registration event with Brentwood
• City Hall will provide weekly election‑deadline updates
• Revised absentee ballot form (one word change)
• Scheduled Candidate Meet‑and‑Greet for April 12, 12‑2 p.m.
• City Hill will order snacks and water for the meet‑and‑greet
• Declined sorority moderation request for candidate forum
• Nichole will consolidate supplies list this week

Committees

The committee approved the February meeting notes by unanimous vote. No other actions were decided, and the meeting adjourned at 8:28 p.m. without resolutions on future plans or organizational changes.

• Approved February meeting notes (unanimous)

City Council

The council voted to adopt the FY2026 real‑property tax rates, setting residential single‑family at $0.75 per $100 of assessed value and commercial at $0.79 per $100, among other rates. The motion to adjourn the meeting was passed unanimously (5‑0‑0). No public comment was received and the meeting was adjourned at 9:42 am.

• Approved FY2026 residential single‑family tax rate $0.75 per $100 assessed value
• Approved FY2026 apartment/multi‑family tax rate $0.86 per $100 assessed value
• Approved FY2026 commercial tax rate $0.79 per $100 assessed value
• Approved FY2026 industrial tax rate $0.79 per $100 assessed value
• Approved FY2026 townhouse tax rate $0.75 per $100 assessed value
• Approved FY2026 business personal property tax rate $0.99 per $100 assessed value
• Approved FY2026 railroad and public utility tax rate $2.75 per $100 assessed value
• Motion to adjourn passed 5‑0‑0

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections approved the meeting minutes with a yes vote. The board decided not to hold a joint voter registration event with Brentwood. It confirmed the March 22 Glut event and the April 5 community garage sale, and set the candidate‑packet deadline for March 24 at 4 p.m. Several action items were assigned, including sign repairs and reminder blasts.

• Approved meeting minutes (Yes: X)
• Decided not to have joint voter registration event with Brentwood (denied)
• Confirmed Glut event on March 22, 10 a.m.–noon
• Confirmed community garage sale on April 5
• Set candidate‑packet deadline for March 24 at 4 p.m.
• Melissa to ask Public Works to fix sign on Arundel Road and circle on Rhode Island
• Melissa to send reminder blasts about candidate packets and voter registration
• Nichole to consolidate supply list and order election box for City Hall