Sykesville public meetings in 2023

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will consider applications for exterior modifications at two properties. The meeting also includes a review of previous minutes and the setting of 2024 meeting dates.

• Replacement roof and siding at 7412 Springfield Avenue (#2023-16)
• Applied wall signs and a hanging business sign at 7568 Main Street (#2023-17)
• Approval of 2024 meeting dates

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will consider and possibly act on curbside solid waste and recyclable collection services for the Raincliffe community, including reviewing a staff report, RFP, and bid sheet. They will also discuss a rebate for Parkside community solid waste and recyclable collection services. The meeting includes public comments, consent agenda items, and a closed session for pending litigation related to Warfield lawsuits.

• Curbside solid waste and recyclable collection services for Raincliffe community (RFP and bid sheet)
• Rebate for Parkside community solid waste and recyclable collection services
• Public hearing date for zoning amendment request at 7306 Springfield Avenue
• Closed session for pending litigation – Warfield lawsuits
• 2024 meeting dates and holidays

Planning Commission

The Sykesville Planning Commission will consider a recommendation on a zoning petition for 7306 Springfield Ave, review the county update, approve the November minutes, and adopt the 2024 meeting schedule. The meeting is open to the public and streamed online.

• Rezone petition recommendation for 7306 Springfield Ave
• Approval of November 6, 2023 meeting minutes
• County update staff report
• 2024 meeting schedule approval

Historic District Commission

The Sykesville Historic District Commission is meeting to consider a request for an applied wall sign at 7524 Main Street, Suite 102, and to discuss draft guidelines. The meeting includes staff and commission reports before adjournment.

• Application #2023-14 for an applied wall sign at 7524 Main Street, Suite 102
• Discussion on draft guidelines
• Staff Liaison Report
• Commission Chair Report

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will consider and possibly act on a contract for the rehabilitation of the Millard Cooper Park pedestrian bridge, based on a staff report and request for proposals. They will also receive an update on Station progress from Stazione, Inc., and handle routine consent agenda items.

• Millard Cooper Park Pedestrian Bridge Rehabilitation Contract
• Update on Station Progress by Dante Liberatore of Stazione, Inc.
• Approval of minutes from November 13, 2023

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC) board is meeting to approve October minutes and discuss upcoming events, including the Sykesville Skate Jam and Santa's Arrival, as well as set the 2024 meeting schedule. The agenda is mostly routine business with no major policy or budget items.

• Approval of October 26 minutes
• Discussion of Sykesville Skate Jam
• Discussion of Santa's Arrival
• Setting 2024 meeting schedule

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, appointing Daniel Gilbert to the Parks and Recreation Commission, and receiving a presentation on the FY2023 audit. The council will also hear staff reports and may enter a closed session to discuss pending litigation related to Warfield lawsuits.

• Appointment of Daniel Gilbert to Parks and Recreation Commission for 3-year term ending November 2026
• Presentation of FY2023 Audit by Eva Webb, LSWG, CPA
• Closed session to discuss pending litigation – Warfield Lawsuits
• Volunteer opportunities on Historic District Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, and Police Auxiliary

Planning Commission

The Sykesville Planning Commission will consider a rezone petition for 7306 Springfield Ave, with a staff report and zoning petition provided. The meeting also includes approval of the August 7, 2023 minutes and a county update.

• Rezone petition recommendation for 7306 Springfield Ave
• Staff report on the rezone petition
• Approval of August 7, 2023 minutes
• County update from staff

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The Sykesville Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve the September minutes and discuss upcoming community events, including the Sykesville Skate Jam, Trick or Treat on Main, and Santa's Arrival. The agenda is mostly routine business with no major policy decisions or financial items listed.

• Approval of September 28 minutes
• Discussion of Sykesville Skate Jam
• Discussion of Trick or Treat on Main
• Discussion of Santa's Arrival

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council is meeting to consider and act on several items, including a resolution proclaiming Community Media Day, police officer promotions, and capital purchases for a new town data server and a dump truck bed. The meeting also includes public comments, a consent agenda with minutes and a proclamation, and various reports.

• Resolution No. 2023-06 proclaiming October 20, 2023, as Community Media Day
• Sykesville Police Department officer promotions
• Replacement of the Town Data Server (staff report and proposal)
• Capital purchase for a new Dump Truck Bed (staff report and quote)

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The Sykesville Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes and discuss upcoming events, including an Eagle Scout presentation, the Sykesville Skate Jam, Music in the Park, Fall Cleanup, and Sykesville Cinema. The agenda is mostly routine business with no major decisions or financial items listed.

• Eagle Scout Presentation
• Sykesville Skate Jam
• Music in the Park September 30
• Fall Cleanup September 30
• Sykesville Cinema October 14

Historic District Commission

The Sykesville Historic District Commission will consider three applications: a hanging sign at 7540 Main Street, a public art project in the MacElroy Parking Lot, and porch work on buildings D and L in Parcel D of the Warfield Complex. The commission will also discuss draft guidelines and hear staff and chair reports. The meeting is open to the public and streamed online.

• Application #2023-12 for a hanging sign at 7540 Main Street
• Application #2023-13 for a public art project in the MacElroy Parking Lot
• Application #2023-14 for porch work on buildings D and L, Parcel D, Warfield Complex
• Discussion on draft guidelines
• Approval of minutes from June 28 and July 26, 2023

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will consider and possibly act on two contracts: one for repaving the linear trail between Oklahoma Avenue and Norris Avenue, and another for Michael Baker International's work on the B.F. Shriver Cannery Reuse Master Plan. The meeting begins with a workshop on tax rates at 6:00 PM, followed by the regular session at 7:00 PM, which includes public comments and approval of the September 11 minutes.

• Contract award for Linear Trail repaving between Oklahoma Avenue and Norris Avenue
• Michael Baker International Work Order No. 2 for B.F. Shriver Cannery Reuse Master Plan and construction documents
• Workshop on tax rates at 6:00 PM
• Public comments limited to three minutes per person
• Volunteer opportunities on Historic District Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Police Auxiliary

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will consider creating a new administrative assistant position and discuss a zoning map amendment for 7306 Springfield Avenue. The meeting also includes public comments, approval of prior minutes, and a closed session for legal and business matters.

• New job description and position for administrative assistant
• Referral of zoning map amendment request for 7306 Springfield Avenue
• Closed session to consult legal counsel on Warfield Contract
• Closed session to discuss businesses on town-owned property
• Volunteer opportunities on Historic District Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Police Auxiliary

The Council approved a new full-time, entry-level Administrative Assistant position to be funded by transferring a circuit rider consultant fee. A rezoning request for 7306 Springfield Avenue was referred to the Planning Commission for further review.

• Approved new Administrative Assistant job description and recruitment (unanimous)
• Referred zoning map amendment for 7306 Springfield Avenue to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 14, 2023 (unanimous)

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The Sykesville Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to approve the July minutes and discuss upcoming events, including a skateboard contest on October 7, summer events, and a fall cleanup on September 23. The agenda is mostly routine business with no major decisions or public hearings.

• Skateboard Contest scheduled for October 7
• Fall Cleanup scheduled for September 23
• Approval of July 27, 2023 minutes

The commission approved the July 27 minutes and organized volunteer roles and signage for the Concerts in the Park and Sykesville Cinema events. Members discussed planning for an October 7 skateboard contest and a September 23 fall cleanup.

• Approved July 27 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to sell local cookies in the Snack Shack pending Health Department requirements

Town Council Meetings

The Town Council approved the Planning Commission's finding that public facilities are adequate for a 47-townhome development. The Council also entered into a 24-month green energy contract. Some members expressed concerns regarding school capacity and traffic related to the new development.

• Approved Planning Commission findings that public facilities for Enclave at Parkside are adequate (5-2)
• Approved 24-month green energy contract at $0.09676 per kilowatt hour (6-1)
• Approved July 10, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Sykesville Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the preliminary plan and pattern book for The Enclave at Parkside, a proposed development. They will also consider a certification of adequacy of public facilities for the project. The meeting includes approval of minutes and updates from the county and town.

• Public hearing on The Enclave at Parkside Preliminary Plan and Pattern Book
• Certification of Adequacy of Public Facilities for The Enclave at Parkside
• Approval of minutes from July 5, 2023
• County update

The Commission approved a recommendation letter regarding the adequacy of public facilities for The Enclave at Parkside. A public hearing for the project's preliminary plan and pattern book was held, but public comment will remain open for 30 days.

• Approved July 5, 2023 meeting minutes
• Opened public hearing for The Enclave at Parkside Preliminary Plan and Pattern Book
• Approved keeping public comment open for 30 days for The Enclave at Parkside
• Ratified the adequate public facilities recommendation letter for The Enclave at Parkside

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The Sykesville Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve the June minutes and discuss business items including a skateboard contest, summer events, and snack shack menu prices. The agenda is routine and contains no major policy decisions.

• Approval of June 22, 2023 minutes
• Skateboard contest discussion
• Summer events discussion
• Snack Shack menu prices discussion

The commission approved the June 22 minutes and coordinated logistics for a skateboard contest and summer cinema event. Members discussed a proposed historic sites scavenger hunt and a request for a Little Library installation.

• Approved June 22 Minutes (unanimous)
• Maintained current Snack Shack menu prices
• Agreed to sell local baker's cookies in the Snack Shack pending Health Department confirmation

Historic District Commission

The Sykesville Historic District Commission is meeting to consider a request for a liquor board compliant barrier for an outdoor seating area at 7556 Main Street, and to discuss draft guidelines with revisions. The meeting includes staff and commission reports, and is open to the public via live stream.

• Consider/Discuss/Act on #2023-11 for a liquor board compliant barrier for outdoor seating area at 7556 Main Street
• Discussion on Draft Guidelines (with revisions and PDF original version)

The Commission approved a liquor board compliant barrier for outdoor seating at 7556 Main Street, contingent on a review of the stanchions. Members also discussed revisions to draft guidelines and requested a meeting with staff regarding local tax credits for Historic District projects.

• Approved application #2023-11 for outdoor seating barrier at 7556 Main Street (unanimous)

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will consider and possibly act on a Memorandum of Understanding with the Downtown Sykesville Connection. The agenda also includes approval of the June 12 minutes, public comments, and a closed session to consult legal counsel on the Warfield Contract.

• Memorandum of Understanding with Downtown Sykesville Connection
• Approval of minutes from June 12, 2023
• Closed session for legal advice on Warfield Contract

The Council approved the annual Memorandum of Understanding with the Downtown Sykesville Connection, including updates to monetary advance terms. The meeting also included staff updates on water and sewer work on Springfield Avenue and Main Street.

• Approved June 12, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Memorandum of Understanding between Town of Sykesville and Downtown Sykesville Connection (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Sykesville Planning Commission is reviewing the preliminary plan for The Enclave at Parkside, a residential development. They will consider staff reports, the plan, pattern book, traffic impact analysis, and market assessment, and will make an adequate public facilities recommendation.

• The Enclave at Parkside preliminary plan presentation
• Adequate Public Facilities Recommendation for The Enclave at Parkside
• Traffic Impact Analysis for The Enclave at Parkside
• Preliminary Market Assessment for The Enclave at Parkside

The Planning Commission reviewed a preliminary plan for the Enclave at Parkside subdivision, which proposes 47 townhomes on 23.68 acres. The Commission voted to recommend that the Town Council find the public facilities serving the property to be adequate.

• Approved June 5, 2023 meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Recommended that Town Council find public facilities for Enclave at Parkside to be adequate
• Requested legal advisor draft a formal recommendation letter for ratification on August 7

Historic District Commission

The Sykesville Historic District Commission will meet to consider two applications: a fence at 7337 Springfield Avenue and an exterior renovation at 7611 Main Street. They will also discuss draft guidelines and hear reports from staff and commission members.

• Application #2023-09 for a fence at 7337 Springfield Avenue
• Application #2023-10 for exterior renovation at 7611 Main Street
• Discussion on draft guidelines
• Approval of minutes from February 22 and May 24, 2023

The Sykesville Historic District Commission approved two property applications and the minutes from two previous meetings. The commission also coordinated a review process for draft guidelines.

• Approved application #2023-09 for a fence at 7337 Springfield Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved application #2023-10 for exterior renovations at 7611 Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from February 22, 2023 and May 24, 2023 (unanimous)

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The Sykesville Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve May minutes and discuss summer events, Snack Shack menu prices, the July 4th parade float, and a logo design. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of May 25 minutes
• Summer events discussion
• Snack Shack menu prices
• July 4th parade float
• Logo design

The Commission coordinated volunteer roles and schedules for the Skateboard Contest, Sykesville Cinema, and Music in the Park. Logistics for the July 4 parade float were established. The Commission deferred the discussion of Snack Shack menu prices to the July meeting.

• Approved May 25 minutes (All in favor)
• Confirmed Liberty Road for August 26 and Here Till Sunday for September 30 Music in the Park events
• Confirmed Girl Scout Troop 2324 for the July 4 parade float
• Tabled Snack Shack menu prices discussion until July meeting

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will hold a public hearing and consider a revision to the FY2023 budget, and will also consider an agreement with Michael Baker International to create a Unified Development Ordinance. The agenda includes reappointments to two commissions and routine reports.

• Public hearing on Ordinance No. 2023-03 – FY2023 Budget Revision
• Consider agreement with Michael Baker International for Unified Development Ordinance creation
• Reappointment of Alex Ries to Parks and Recreation Commission (term to April 2026)
• Appointment of Brian Ball to Historic District Commission (term to June 2026)
• Approval of minutes from May 22, 2023

The Town Council approved a budget revision resulting in a 6.99% overall decrease for FY2023. Council also authorized a professional services agreement for the creation of a Unified Development Ordinance. Additionally, two commission appointments were confirmed.

• Approved Ordinance NO. 2023-03 FY2023 Budget Revision (unanimous)
• Approved $162,856 contract with Michael Baker International for Unified Development Ordinance (unanimous)
• Reappointed Alex Ries to the Parks and Recreation Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Brian Ball to the Historic District Commission (unanimous)
• Approved May 22, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Sykesville Planning Commission is meeting to approve the April 3, 2023 minutes, receive a county update, and discuss the Planned Employment Center (PEC) preliminary plan review process. The meeting is open to the public and streamed online.

• Approval of April 3, 2023 minutes
• County update
• Discussion of Planned Employment Center (PEC) preliminary plan review process

The Commission approved the minutes from the April 3, 2023 meeting. The body discussed the preliminary plan review process for The Enclave at Parkside, a 47-unit townhome subdivision, with a presentation expected at the July 5 meeting.

• Approved April 3, 2023 meeting minutes (All in favor)

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The Sykesville Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve April minutes and discuss summer events and banner/sign design and purchase updates. The agenda is mostly routine business with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of April 27 minutes
• Summer events discussion
• Banner and sign design/purchase updates

The Commission approved the April 27 meeting minutes and coordinated logistics for Sykesville Cinema, Music in the Park, and the July 4 parade. One banner design was selected for printing via Shannon-Baum. The Commission also received updates on the splash pad opening and zipline repairs.

• Approved April 27 Minutes (3-0, 2 abstentions)
• Selected one banner design for printing from Shannon-Baum

Historic District Commission

The Sykesville Historic District Commission is meeting to consider two applications: a tree removal and landscaping project at 7344 Springfield Avenue, and a business sign at 7526 Main Street, suite 101. The meeting includes public comment and staff reports, and is streamed live.

• Application #2023-07: tree removal and landscaping at 7344 Springfield Avenue
• Application #2023-08: business sign at 7526 Main Street, suite 101
• Public comment limited to three minutes per person

The Sykesville Historic District Commission approved two applications for property modifications. The board also approved the minutes from the April 26, 2023 meeting.

• Approved application #2023-07 for removal of two trees at 7344 Springfield Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved application #2023-08 for an applied wall sign at 7526 Main Street, Suite 101 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 26, 2023 (unanimous)

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will consider appointing a Council President and introduce Ordinance No. 2023-03, a FY2023 budget revision. The meeting also includes public comments, consent agenda items, and reports from the Treasurer and Public Safety, including an Auxiliary Police presentation. A closed session is proposed to discuss a personnel re-employment request and legal advice on the Warfield Contract.

• Appointment of Council President
• Introduction of Ordinance No. 2023-03 – FY2023 Budget Revision
• Auxiliary Police Presentation by Auxiliary Lt. Jeff Queen
• Closed session: personnel re-employment request and Warfield Contract legal consultation

The Town Council appointed Anna Carter as Council President and introduced a budget revision ordinance. A public hearing for the budget changes is scheduled for June 12, 2023.

• Appointed Council Member Anna Carter as Council President (Unanimous)
• Introduced Ordinance NO. 2023-03 for FY 2023 Budget Revision (Unanimous)
• Approved May 8 and May 15, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Scheduled budget revision public hearing for June 12, 2023 (Unanimous)

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will hold public hearings and consider adopting the FY2024 budget and setting the property tax rate, which is proposed to be higher than the constant yield rate. The council will also vote on Ordinance 2023-02 to approve the budget and tax rates. Other items include approving minutes from the April 24 meeting and receiving staff updates on election results and public safety.

• Public hearing on FY2024 tax rate (proposed higher than constant yield)
• Ordinance 2023-02 to adopt FY2023-2024 budget and set tax rates
• Closed session to consult legal counsel on Warfield Contract
• Volunteer opportunities on Historic District Commission and Police Auxiliary

The council unanimously adopted Ordinance 2023-02, approving the FY2023-2024 budget and setting the tax rate at $0.33 per $100 of assessed value, unchanged from prior years. A public hearing was held with no public comments. The council also approved the consent agenda and held a closed session to consult legal counsel on the Warfield Contract, taking no action.

• Adopted FY2024 budget and tax rate at $0.33 per $100 assessed value (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including April 24, 2023 minutes (unanimous, Schofield abstained)
• Held closed session for legal advice on Warfield Contract, no action taken

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The Sykesville Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve the minutes from March 23 and discuss business items including banner and sign design/purchase and summer events. The agenda is brief and contains no major decisions or public hearings.

• Approval of March 23 minutes
• Banner and sign design/purchase
• Summer events planning

The Commission approved spending up to $500 for signs and banners. Members coordinated tasks for upcoming summer events, including Sykesville Cinema and Concerts in the Park. Staff reported that trees were planted at Millard Cooper Park.

• Approved up to $500 for design and purchase of signs (Unanimous)
• Approved March 23 Minutes (Unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Sykesville Historic District Commission is meeting to consider three applications: a porch ceiling renovation at 7319 Springfield Avenue and two sidewalk seating areas at 7540 and 7556 Main Street. The commission will discuss and vote on these applications, take public comments (limited to three minutes per person), and hear staff and chair reports.

• Application #2023-04: porch ceiling renovation at 7319 Springfield Avenue
• Application #2023-05: sidewalk seating area at 7540 Main Street
• Application #2023-05: sidewalk seating area at 7556 Main Street
• Public comment period (3 minutes per person)
• Staff Liaison and Commission Chair reports

The Sykesville Historic District Commission approved applications for a porch renovation and two sidewalk seating areas on Main Street. The board also discussed potential guidelines for window lighting and the status of the Warfield Complex.

• Approved porch ceiling renovation at 7319 Springfield Avenue using wood and no high-sheen paint (Unanimous)
• Approved sidewalk seating area at 7540 Main Street provided plastic chains are replaced with metal or rope (Unanimous)
• Approved sidewalk seating area at 7556 Main Street as presented (Unanimous)

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will vote on a resolution supporting the allocation of space at the old Robert Moton High School site for a museum, and will discuss and act on multiple documents for the Circuit Rider program. The meeting also includes public comments, approval of the April 10 minutes, and updates from staff and committees.

• Resolution No. 2023-04 supporting a museum at the old Robert Moton High School site
• Multiple documents for the Circuit Rider program
• Approval of minutes from April 10, 2023
• Election Day is May 2
• Volunteer opportunities on Historic District Commission and Police Auxiliary

The Town Council unanimously approved a resolution supporting the allocation of space for a museum at the site of the old Robert Moton High School. The Council also approved documents to continue the Town's participation in the Circuit Rider program.

• Approved Resolution NO. 2023-04 supporting museum space at old Robert Moton High School (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution NO. 2023-05 and authorized Mayor to sign documents for continued Circuit Rider program participation (unanimous)
• Approved April 10, 2023 meeting minutes with email corrections (unanimous)

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will consider introducing the annual budget and tax rate ordinance for fiscal year 2023-2024, and a resolution to advance funds to the Downtown Sykesville Connection for a building purchase. The meeting also includes public comments, consent agenda items (approving minutes and a Historic District Commission appointment), and routine reports.

• Introduction of Ordinance 2023-02 adopting the FY2023-2024 budget and setting tax rates
• Resolution 2023-03 establishing parameters for a one-time annual contribution advance to Downtown Sykesville Connection for a building purchase
• Appointment of Michael Marsden to the Historic District Commission for a 3-year term expiring April 2026
• Approval of minutes from March 13, 2023
• Spring Cleanup Day on April 15; Election Day on May 2

The Council introduced the annual budget and tax rates for the next fiscal year, scheduling a public hearing for May 8. They also approved a one-time funding advance to the Downtown Sykesville Connection for a building purchase.

• Approved March 13, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Michael Marsden to the Historic District Commission for a 3-year term (unanimous)
• Introduced Ordinance NO. 2023-02 to adopt annual budget and set tax rates; public hearing set for May 8 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution NO. 2023-03 for a one-time annual contribution advance to the Downtown Sykesville Connection for a building purchase (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Sykesville Planning Commission will meet to approve the minutes from March 6, 2023, and receive a county update. The main business is reviewing concept plans for properties at 7452 Springfield Avenue and The Enclave at Parkside. The meeting will also include town updates before adjournment.

• Concept Plan – 7452 Springfield Avenue
• Concept Plan – The Enclave at Parkside
• Approval of minutes from March 6, 2023
• County update
• Town updates

The Commission approved concept plans for 7452 Springfield Avenue and The Enclave at Parkside, both subject to specific conditions. The meeting also included updates on water, sewer, and paving projects along Springfield Avenue, Main Street, and Route 851.

• Approved February 6, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted 7452 Springfield Avenue Concept Plan with conditions regarding traffic flow, parking dimensions, and residential square footage
• Approved The Enclave at Parkside Concept Plan with conditions requiring traffic and market studies, turning radius exhibits, and a pattern book (unanimous)

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The Sykesville Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve February minutes and discuss planning for the Easter Egg Hunt & Scavenger Hunt, spring park cleanup, banner and sign design/purchase, and summer events. The agenda is mostly planning and discussion items with no specific dollar amounts or ordinances listed.

• Easter Egg Hunt & Scavenger Hunt planning
• Spring Park Cleanup
• Banner and Sign Design/Purchase
• Summer Events planning

The Commission coordinated logistics for the April 7 Easter Egg Hunt and April 22 Spring Park Cleanup. It was noted that movie licensing for Sykesville Cinema is complete at a cost of $1,800.

• Approved February 23 Minutes (unanimous)
• Confirmed Easter Egg Hunt and Scavenger Hunt for April 7
• Scheduled Spring Park Cleanup for April 22
• Confirmed $1,800 cost for Sykesville Cinema movie licensing

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will hold its regular meeting, including public comments, a consent agenda, and a presentation. New business includes a vote on cancelling the March 27 meeting. The council will also enter a closed session to discuss acquiring property for the Downtown Sykesville Connection proposal.

• Appointment of Eric Manas to the Historic District Commission for a 3-year term expiring March 2026
• Consider/Discuss/Act on cancelling the March 27 meeting
• Closed session to consider acquisition of real property for Downtown Sykesville Connection proposal
• Public comments limited to three minutes per person
• Candidacy filing deadline March 27; Election Day May 2

The Town Council unanimously approved the cancellation of the March 27 meeting and appointed Eric Manas to the Historic District Commission. The Council also held a closed session to discuss the acquisition of real property for the Downtown Sykesville Connection Proposal.

• Approved appointment of Eric Manas to the Historic District Commission for a 3-year term (unanimous)
• Approved February 13, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Cancelled March 27 meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Sykesville Planning Commission is meeting to approve minutes from February 6, 2023, and to approve the 2022 Annual Report. The agenda also includes a county update and town updates, but no other substantive items are listed.

• Approve the 2022 Annual Report
• Approve minutes from February 6, 2023

The Planning Commission approved the 2022 Annual Report and Certification Letter for submission to the Maryland Department of Planning via Carroll County. The commission also received updates on county master plans and potential local development projects.

• Approved February 6, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Annual Report and Certification Letter (unanimous)

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will consider appointing members and alternates to the Board of Election Supervisors, setting their pay at $15 per hour worked on Election Day, and appointing the Town Clerk as Assistant Election Secretary. The council will also receive a report on strategic planning and may enter a closed session to consult with legal counsel regarding the Warfield Contract.

• Appoint Trefor Evans, Aften Johnson, Carmen McEvoy to Board of Election Supervisors (term to Feb 2025)
• Appoint Dana Alonzi, Lauren Hanratty, Isaac Nogueron as alternates to Board of Election Supervisors (term to Feb 2025)
• Set Board of Election Supervisors and alternates pay at $15 per hour on Election Day
• Appoint Kerry Kavaloski, Town Clerk, as Assistant Election Secretary
• Closed session to consult with legal counsel on Warfield Contract

The Council appointed members and alternates to the Board of Election Supervisors and designated the Town Clerk as Assistant Election Secretary. The Council also established a pay rate for election officials. Mayor Link issued a public statement disagreeing with an Open Meetings Act compliance opinion.

• Approved appointment of Trefor Evans, Aften Johnson, and Carmen McEvoy to Board of Election Supervisors (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Lauren Hanratty and Isaac Nogueron as Alternates to the Board of Election Supervisors (Unanimous)
• Set pay rate for Board of Election Supervisors and Alternates to $15 per hour worked on Election Day (Unanimous)
• Appointed Town Clerk Kerry Kavaloski as Assistant Election Secretary (Unanimous)
• Approved February 13, 2023 meeting minutes with corrections (Unanimous)

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The commission approved the 2023 SPARC Event Schedule, including a skateboard competition on October 7 and a series of cinema movies. The board also authorized the purchase of an Easter Bunny costume. Various budget requests for park improvements were discussed.

• Approved addition of Skateboard Competition to 2023 schedule for October 7 (All in favor)
• Approved selected movies for Sykesville Cinema (All in favor)
• Approved 2023 SPARC Event Schedule (All in favor)
• Approved purchase of Easter Bunny Costume for $384.00 (All in favor)
• Approved January 26 Minutes (All in favor, 1 abstention)

Historic District Commission

The Sykesville Historic District Commission will consider two applications: a hanging business sign at 7550 Main Street and a replacement deck at 7533 Main Street. The commission will also introduce Brennan and Associates for an update to the Historic District Commission Guidelines. Public comments are limited to three minutes per person.

• Application #2023-02 for a hanging business sign at 7550 Main Street
• Application #2023-03 for a replacement deck at 7533 Main Street
• Introduction of Brennan and Associates for the update to the Historic District Commission Guidelines

The Sykesville Historic District Commission approved two property applications on Main Street. One application received a height clearance waiver for a business sign, and another was approved for a replacement deck with a roof.

• Approved minutes from January 25, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved application #2023-02 for a hanging business sign at 7550 Main Street with a height clearance waiver (Unanimous)
• Approved application #2023-03 for a replacement deck at 7533 Main Street with a stipulation for non-reflective materials (Unanimous)

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on Ordinance 2023-01, a FY2023 budget revision, and consider approving night work on Main Street. They will also discuss appointing Brennan & Company Architects to update Historic District Commission guidelines and hear a Downtown Sykesville Connection update. The meeting includes a consent agenda with minutes and a commission reappointment, plus a closed session for legal advice and a business location matter.

• Public hearing and action on Ordinance 2023-01 for FY2023 budget revision
• Consider approval of night work on Main Street
• Consider approval of Brennan & Company Architects to update Historic District Commission Guidelines
• Reappointment of Chad Bederka to the Historic District Commission for a three-year term expiring February 2026
• Closed session for legal advice and a business location proposal on town-owned property

The Town Council approved a budget revision for FY2023, including funds for a used dump truck. Council also authorized night work for sewer pipe lining on Main Street and hired an architecture firm to update Historic District guidelines.

• Approved Ordinance NO. 2023-01 for FY2023 Budget Revision (Unanimous)
• Approved two sets of night work on Main Street for sewer pipe lining (Unanimous)
• Approved Brennan & Company Architects to update Historic District Commission Guidelines (Unanimous)
• Approved January 23, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved reappointment of Chad Bederka to the Historic District Commission (Unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Sykesville Planning Commission is meeting to approve its 2023 meeting schedule and to nominate and elect a chair and vice-chair. The agenda also includes approval of the November 7, 2022 minutes and updates from the county and town. No substantive land-use or policy decisions are listed.

• Approve 2023 meeting schedule
• Nomination and election of chair and vice-chair
• Approval of November 7, 2022 minutes

The Planning Commission approved the 2022 Annual Report and Certification Letter for submittal to the County. The board also received updates on county master plans and potential town development projects.

• Approved February 6, 2023 meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Approved 2022 Annual Report and Certification Letter (All in favor)

Sykesville Parks & Recreation (SPARC)

The Sykesville Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to approve the November 17 meeting minutes, adopt the 2023 meeting schedule, and finalize the 2023 event schedule, including selecting concert dates. The agenda is largely procedural and planning-focused.

• Approval of November 17 meeting minutes
• 2023 meeting schedule approval
• 2023 event schedule with concert date selection

The Commission approved the 2023 meeting schedule. A 2023 event schedule was completed for approval at the February meeting, and the Commission decided to hold the Scavenager Hunt the same weekend as the Easter Egg Hunt.

• Approved November 17 Minutes (All in favor)
• Approved 2023 Meeting Schedule (All in favor)
• Decided to hold Scavenager Hunt same weekend as Easter Egg Hunt
• Proposed June 24 for new Skateboard Contest
• Completed 2023 Event Schedule (pending February approval)

Historic District Commission

The Sykesville Historic District Commission will meet to continue reviewing Application #2022-22 for siding, window, and shutter replacements at 7318 Springfield Avenue, and to consider and possibly act on Application #2023-01 for a deck and pool at 7617 Mellor Avenue. The agenda also includes approval of the November 30, 2022 minutes, public comment, and staff and commission reports.

• Continuation of Application #2022-22 for siding, window, and shutter replacements at 7318 Springfield Avenue
• Consideration of Application #2023-01 for a deck and pool at 7617 Mellor Avenue
• Approval of minutes from November 30, 2022
• Public comment limited to three minutes per person

The Sykesville Historic District Commission approved two applications for residential property modifications. One approval covers shutters, porch posts, and a door, while the other approves a pool and deck contingent on a zoning variance.

• Approved shutters, bead board, porch posts, and front door for 7318 Springfield Avenue (Unanimous)
• Approved deck and pool for 7617 Mellor Avenue, contingent on a zoning variance from the Board of Zoning Appeals (Unanimous)

Town Council Meetings

The Council introduced a mid-year budget revision to increase the FY2023 budget by $246,279. The Council also approved the consent agenda, including a resolution allowing alcohol at Downtown Sykesville Connection events.

• Introduced Ordinance NO. 2023-01 for FY2023 Budget Revision (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution NO. 2023-02 allowing alcohol at DSC events (Unanimous)
• Approved January 9, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Town Council Meetings

The Sykesville Town Council will hold a public hearing and consider adopting Ordinance 2022-09 to update allowable trash and recycle container sizes, and will consider a resolution to amend reservation fees for park pavilions and the Tower Room. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from December 12, 2022, and an audit presentation.

• Public hearing and vote on Ordinance 2022-09 amending Chapter 129 (Solid Waste) for trash/recycle container sizes
• Resolution 2023-01 to amend reservation fee schedule for park pavilions and Tower Room
• Audit presentation by Eva Webb, LSWG, P.A.
• Approval of minutes from December 12, 2022

The Town Council approved an ordinance updating allowable sizes for trash and recycling containers. The Council also passed a resolution to amend the reservation fee schedule for the Tower Room and park pavilions.

• Approved Ordinance NO. 2022-09 updating allowable trash and recycling container sizes (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution NO. 2023-01 amending park pavilion and Tower Room reservation fees (6-1)
• Approved December 12, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous, 1 abstention)
• Swore in new police officer Andrew Jacobs