University Park public meetings in 2025

Development Overview Committee (DOC)

The Development Overview Committee will hold a discussion on the Western Gateway Development project (reference NRI-2025-0111). The committee will also discuss Maryland Senate Bill 891. No decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Discussion of Western Gateway Development (NRI-2025-0111)
• Discussion of Senate Bill 891

Helping Hands Committee

The Helping Hands Committee will review and vote on the minutes from the October meeting. It will also discuss a draft user manual for a Chromebook lending program and a ChatGPT‑generated outreach plan and script. Upcoming community events and activity ideas for 2026 will be presented for comment.

• Vote on October meeting minutes
• Review draft Chromebook Lending User’s Manual
• Discuss ChatGPT‑produced outreach plan and schedule
• Review ChatGPT‑generated volunteer outreach script
• Present recap of recent events and ideas for 2026 excursions

The Helping Hands Committee approved the October meeting minutes. It also approved buying teal QR code stickers from Vistaprint at $1 each for yard signs. A docent‑led tour of Riverdale Mansion was tentatively scheduled for May. Committee members will each contact at least four members for feedback by the January meeting.

• Approved October meeting minutes
• Approved purchase of teal QR code stickers ($1 each) from Vistaprint
• Tentatively decided to schedule a docent‑led Riverdale Mansion tour in May
• Committee members to contact at least four members for feedback by January meeting

Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee

The Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee will first approve the minutes from the November 5, 2025 meeting. It will then hold a discussion led by Chief Coleman on the duty cell phone policy. Finally, the committee will discuss AMT concepts.

• Approval of November 5, 2025 minutes
• Discussion of duty cell phone policy
• Discussion of AMT concepts

The committee approved the minutes from the November 5, 2025 meeting. Chief Coleman reported that the duty cell phone system is ineffective and suggested an after‑hours email for officers to check; the chief agreed to explore this option and will report back at the next meeting. No other actions were decided.

• Approved November 5, 2025 meeting minutes (no vote tally provided)
• Chief to explore after‑hours email option (pending)

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will take roll, approve the previous meeting’s minutes, and hear updates on the Right Light UP project. It will then consider any new or other business items before adjourning. No specific actions, contracts, or ordinances are listed on the agenda.

• Right Light UP project updates (report)

The Sustainability Committee approved the minutes from the November 4 meeting, passing the motion 8‑0. No other agenda items were formally approved; the committee discussed plans for a meadow walking path, a lighting communication campaign, and 2026 sustainability activities. Action items were assigned to the town council liaison for further coordination.

• Approved 11/4 meeting minutes (8-0)

Council

The University Park Mayor and Common Council will consider amending the FY26 budget to reestablish a $454,047 designated reserve for Town Hall construction and design, and to establish a stormwater management design expense line item. The body will also approve a contract with ADP for payroll services.

• Reestablish Town Hall construction budget line item ($454,047)
• Approve contract with ADP for payroll services
• Consider ordinance to amend FY26 budget
• Approve $500 holiday bonus for town employees
• Approve ordinance to expand tree ordinance responsibilities

The council unanimously reestablished a reserve line item for Town Hall construction and design, transferring $454,047 from unreserved funds, and created a new stormwater management design line item. It also unanimously approved a payroll and human‑resource services agreement with ADP, pending town‑attorney review. Both agenda and minutes were approved without dissent.

• Approved reestablishing Town Hall Construction Design budget line item and transferred $454,047 (unanimous)
• Approved creation of Stormwater Management Design and Engineering line item (unanimous)
• Approved contract with ADP for payroll and HR services, subject to attorney review (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Nov 17 meeting with correction to item 5C (unanimous)

Policy, Rules & Municipal Structure Committee

The Policy, Rules & Municipal Structure Committee will continue its discussion of the draft Rules of Procedure, focusing on Article 2. The committee will also review the town’s audit process. No other agenda items involve decisions or contracts.

• Discussion of draft Rules of Procedure, Article 2 (continued)
• Review of town audit process

Public Facilities & Services Committee

The committee will hear a staff report on Town Hall construction costs, including current financing needs, proposal options, and projected impacts on future budgets. An update on storm‑water management will be provided by the town attorney. A resident request concerning a tennis‑court pathway and signage will also be considered.

• Town Hall construction – staff report on cost updates and financing proposals
• Storm water management – update from town attorney
• Resident request – tennis‑court pathway and signage

Council

The Mayor and Common Council will consider readopting ordinances regarding tree maintenance and FY26 budget adjustments. The body will also discuss changing how the town newsletter is managed and the appointment of its editor.

• Readoption of Ordinance LR-25-O-07 to amend tree maintenance rules, including increased fines and a new reforestation reserve fund
• Readoption of Ordinance LR-25-O-08 to amend FY26 budget for traffic calming and stormwater management
• Proposal to authorize town staff to manage and publish the town newsletter
• Proposed amendment to Town Charter Section 618(B) regarding the appointment of the newsletter editor
• Consideration of staff holiday bonuses

The council unanimously adopted Ordinance LR25-O-07, expanding the Committee on Trees, Parks, and Environment’s duties and creating a reserve fund for private tree reforestation. They also unanimously approved Ordinance LR-25-O-08, amending the FY26 budget to restore stormwater and traffic‑calming funds and add a $10,000 environmental stewardship grant line. The council authorized town staff to manage the town newsletter and approved a charter amendment removing the mayor’s appointment requirement for the editor. Additionally, a $500 net special holiday bonus for all town employees was approved unanimously.

• Adopted Ordinance LR25-O-07 (Tree Ordinance) – unanimous
• Adopted Ordinance LR-25-O-08 (FY26 budget amendment) – unanimous
• Authorized town staff to manage newsletter and appoint editor – unanimous
• Introduced charter amendment to delete mayor’s newsletter editor appointment requirement – unanimous
• Approved $500 net special holiday bonus for all town employees – unanimous
• Approved agenda – unanimous
• Approved minutes of November 3 meeting – unanimous

Development Overview Committee (DOC)

The Development Overview Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and discuss Senate Bill 891. This is a hybrid meeting involving committee members and staff.

• Discussion of Senate Bill 891

Trees, Parks & Environment Committee

The Trees, Parks, and Environment Committee will approve the November agenda and October minutes. Members will report on recent volunteer tree planting and plan a November 22 Ivy League event. The committee will receive an ordinance update that includes a new flow‑chart approval process. Finally, they will discuss options for replacing trees affected by the WSSC sewer project.

• Approve November agenda and October meeting minutes
• Report on volunteer tree planting event
• Plan Ivy League community event on Nov. 22 at 10 am
• Ordinance update: new flow‑chart approval process
• Discuss replacement tree options for WSSC sewer project

Policy, Rules & Municipal Structure Committee

The Policy, Rules & Municipal Structure Committee will meet to discuss the draft Rules of Procedure, Article 2. The body will also review the Town Newsletter and the Town audit process.

• Discussion of draft Rules of Procedure, Article 2
• Discussion of Town Newsletter
• Town Audit process

The committee approved the August 11 meeting minutes unanimously (4‑0). It also voted unanimously (4‑0) to eliminate the Town newsletter editor from the professional services listed in Charter § 618‑B. Discussion of Article 2 of the draft Rules of Procedure was suspended and will continue at the next meeting. No other decisions were made.

• Approved August 11 meeting minutes (4‑0)
• Recommended eliminating Town newsletter editor from Charter § 618‑B (4‑0)
• Suspended discussion of Article 2 of draft Rules of Procedure to next meeting

Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee

The Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee will approve the October 1, 2025 meeting notes, discuss adding signage for trucks over a certain weight on specific streets, and consider a request to seek Council approval to present Obvio equipment for comparison with existing red‑light and speed cameras. A traffic mitigation report by A. Morton Thomas will also be reviewed.

• Approval of October 1, 2025 meeting notes
• Discussion of adding signage for heavy trucks on certain streets
• Request for committee approval to present Obvio equipment for camera functionality comparison at the next Council meeting
• Traffic mitigation report by A. Morton Thomas

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will review several updates, including a compost bin rollout, the October 25 Service Day, and recent grant activity. They will also receive a report on PFS and lighting updates. In new business, the committee will discuss a Sustainable Maryland Grant Application. No formal decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Compost bin rollout report
• October 25 Service Day report
• Grants (Meadow, Sustainability Maryland)
• PFS/Lighting update
• Sustainable Maryland Grant Application

The committee approved the October 7 meeting minutes with an 8‑0 vote. It also voted 8‑0 to support the Sustainable Maryland Action Grant and allow the PTA to work with the town on the application. The Right Light UP communication campaign will be further refined, with the committee coordinating with the mayor and police chief in December. No other items were denied or tabled.

• Approved 10/7 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved support for Sustainable Maryland grant and PTA collaboration (8-0)
• Committee will continue refining Right Light UP campaign and work with mayor and police chief in December

Council

Council will vote on adopting Ordinance LR-25-O-07 to amend Chapter 16, "Tree Maintenance" of the Town Code. They will also adopt Ordinance LR-25-O-08 to amend the FY26 budget by reinstating a traffic‑calming study line‑item, adding a storm‑water design and engineering reserve (6655-08), and creating income and expenditure line‑items for a $10,000 Sustainable Action Grant. Additional actions include authorizing a temporary rental self‑checklist for license compliance, increasing the FY26 police overtime budget by $12,315, and approving a resolution to reimburse Town Hall design and construction expenses with bond proceeds.

• Adoption of Ordinance LR-25-O-07 amending Tree Maintenance chapter
• Adoption of Ordinance LR-25-O-08 amending FY26 budget: traffic‑calming, storm‑water reserve (6655-08), $10,000 Sustainable Action Grant
• Increase FY26 police overtime budget by $12,315 (line‑item 6346-03)
• Authorization of temporary rental self‑checklist for inspection compliance
• Resolution to reimburse Town Hall design, construction, improvement costs with bond proceeds

The council adopted amendments to Ordinance LR25-O-07, adding an alternative tree measurement provision and setting fines for unauthorized tree removal. It also adopted Ordinance LR-25-O-08, restoring reserve budget items and adding a grant line for the Meadow project. The agenda, October 20 minutes, and the 2026 council meeting schedule were approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 20, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted Tree Ordinance LR25-O-07 amendments, including measurement provision and fines (unanimous)
• Adopted Budget Amendment Ordinance LR-25-O-08 restoring reserve line items and adding grant funding (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Council meeting schedule (unanimous)

Helping Hands Committee

The Helping Hands Committee will review September meeting minutes and discuss administrative updates. The body is coordinating outreach for the Chromebook Lending Program and planning several upcoming community lunches and service events.

• Review and vote on September meeting minutes
• Outreach ideas for Chromebook Lending Program and TAF
• Planning for November 19 and December 17 lunches
• UP Service Day scheduled for October 25
• White Christmas event in November at Goddard

The committee approved the September meeting minutes. Volunteers were assigned new tasks, including Linda drafting a mailing schedule, Casey posting a new TAF page and adding QR‑code stickers, Lynne preparing a Chromebook user manual, and Peg handling birthday and thank‑you cards. Casey was added as an administrator on the HHUP website. Upcoming events such as the December holiday lunch and UP Service Day were confirmed.

• Approved September meeting minutes
• Linda to draft mailing schedule for outreach
• Casey to post new TAF page and obtain QR‑code stickers
• Lynne to create Chromebook user manual
• Peg to write birthday and thank‑you cards
• Casey added as administrator on HHUP website

Council

The University Park Council will consider a temporary change to the rental inspection process to allow self-checklists while the town searches for a new Code Compliance Officer. The body will also discuss amendments to the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, including a police overtime increase and stormwater management funding.

• Temporary change to rental inspection process
• FY26 budget amendment for police overtime ($12,315)
• FY26 budget amendment for stormwater management
• Presentation on Anacostia Trails Heritage Area
• FY2025 Audit presentation

The council unanimously adopted Ordinance LR-25-O-08, amending the FY 2026 budget to reestablish a traffic‑calming study line‑item, reinstate the stormwater management design reserve (6655‑08), and add income and expenditure line‑items for a $10,000 sustainable‑action grant. It also authorized a temporary rental self‑checklist for inspection compliance, increased the police overtime budget by $12,315, and approved a resolution to reimburse Town Hall design and construction costs with bond proceeds.

• Authorized temporary rental self‑checklist for inspection compliance (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance LR-25-O-08 amending FY 2026 budget – traffic‑calming study, stormwater reserve, sustainable‑action grant line‑items (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to reimburse Town Hall design, construction and improvement expenses with bond proceeds (unanimous)
• Increased FY 2026 Police Overtime line‑item by $12,315 (unanimous)

Development Overview Committee (DOC)

The Development Overview Committee will first approve the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting. It will then discuss Maryland Senate Bill 891, which pertains to state legislation affecting development. Finally, the committee will discuss the proposed redevelopment of the Beth Torah property.

• Approve minutes from September 16, 2025 meeting
• Discussion of Maryland Senate Bill 891
• Discussion of Beth Torah redevelopment proposal

Trees, Parks & Environment Committee

The Committee on Trees, Parks, and Environment will meet to plan the October annual planting event. Members will also discuss an ordinance update and committee interim leadership.

• October Annual Planting event planning and signup
• Ordinance update
• Ward survey check-in
• Discussion of committee interim leadership

The Trees, Parks & Environment Committee formally approved the agenda for the October meeting and the minutes from the September meeting. The remainder of the session involved reports on past events, planning for the October planting event, updates on an ordinance and subcommittee leadership, and discussion of reforestation fund criteria.

• Approved October agenda and September minutes

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will hear updates on the town’s compost bin rollout, the Meadow Project grant, the upcoming October 25 Service Day, and the PFS/lighting project. No formal actions or votes are listed on the agenda. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Compost bin rollout update
• Meadow Project grant update
• October 25 Service Day planning
• PFS/lighting project update

The University Park Sustainability Committee approved the minutes from the September 9 meeting with a 10‑0 vote. The committee assigned tasks to gather compost‑bin opt‑out data, confirmed volunteers for the October 25 Service Day, and will seek more information before deciding on a wildlife‑friendly outdoor lighting communication campaign. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved September 9 meeting minutes (10-0)

Council

The University Park Mayor and Common Council will meet to approve personnel policies, authorize budget transfers for stormwater and garage renovations, and consider amendments to the tree maintenance chapter and FY26 budget.

• Adoption of personnel policies (LR-25-O-05)
• Transfer of $175,000 for SWM design and $250,000 for garage renovations
• Amendment of tree maintenance chapter (LR-25-O-07)
• Re-establishment of traffic calming study budget line-item
• Increase of $12,315 for police overtime in FY26 budget

The council unanimously adopted Ordinance LR-25-O-05 to adopt town personnel policies. It also approved Ordinance LR-25-O-06 transferring $175,000 and $250,000 for storm‑water design and garage roof renovations. A new tree‑maintenance ordinance (LR-25-O-07) was introduced and adopted, increasing fines and expanding committee responsibilities. Additional unanimous actions restored $42,639.85 to the FY26 traffic‑calming study budget and added $12,315 to the police overtime line item.

• Adopted Ordinance LR-25-O-05 Personnel Policies (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance LR-25-O-06 transferring $175,000 and $250,000 for storm‑water design and garage roof renovations (unanimous)
• Introduced and adopted Ordinance LR-25-O-07 amending Tree Maintenance, expanding duties and raising fines (unanimous)
• Authorized drafting of ordinance to restore FY26 Traffic Calming study budget, adding $42,639.85 (unanimous)
• Approved increase of $12,315 to FY26 Police Overtime line item (unanimous)
• Playground bathroom request tabled
• Bridge recognition dedication tabled

Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee

The Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee will approve the August 6, 2025 minutes, receive the Chief's report—including a request for a Do Not Enter sign at Van Buren on Adelphi Road, an update on the Blue Lights Initiative scheduled for September 26‑27, 2025, and VMS Board matters—and listen to a presentation of traffic‑calming recommendations by A. Morton Thomas.

• Approval of the August 6, 2025 meeting minutes
• Consideration of a Do Not Enter sign for Van Buren at Adelphi Road
• Update on the Blue Lights Initiative (Sept 26‑27, 2025)
• Presentation of traffic‑calming recommendations by A. Morton Thomas
• Discussion of VMS Board items (details not specified)

The committee approved the minutes from the August 6, 2025 meeting. It decided to table the residents' request for a Do Not Enter sign on Van Buren Street until the town receives its traffic mitigation plan. The chief will ask Obvio to monitor the Van Buren/Route 1 area to collect data for the state. No other actions were finalized.

• Approved August 6, 2025 meeting minutes
• Tabled Van Buren Street Do Not Enter sign request (pending traffic mitigation plan)
• Chief to ask Obvio to monitor Van Buren/Route 1 area for data collection

Helping Hands Committee

The Helping Hands Committee will review meeting minutes, update the member directory, and discuss the Chromebook Lending Program. The group will also plan upcoming service events and lunches.

• Review and vote on August meeting minutes
• Chromebook Lending Program status update
• Review revised TAF info for HHUP website
• October Lunch at TGI Fridays (Greenbelt)
• UP Service Day on October 25

The Helping Hands Committee approved the August meeting minutes and the borrower contract for the Chromebook Lending Program. It also approved the final version of the revised TAF information for the HHUP website. The committee decided to drop the Iron Rooster lunch from the monthly rotation and schedule the October lunch at TGI Fridays. The planned Fall Party at the chair’s home was cancelled.

• Approved August meeting minutes
• Approved Chromebook Lending Program borrower contract
• Approved final version of revised TAF info for HHUP website
• Removed Iron Rooster lunch from monthly rotation
• Scheduled October lunch at TGI Fridays in Greenbelt
• Cancelled Fall Party at Linda’s home

Policy, Rules & Municipal Structure Committee

The Policy, Rules & Municipal Structure Committee will meet on September 22, 2025 at Town Hall and via Zoom. The agenda includes reviewing the minutes from the August 11 meeting. The committee will discuss the draft Rules of Procedure covering Articles 3 through 6. The meeting will also allow any other business before adjourning.

• Review August 11 meeting minutes
• Discuss draft Rules of Procedure (Articles 3‑6)
• Consider any other business

The committee postponed consideration of the August 11 meeting minutes to the next meeting. Members discussed Articles 3‑6 of the draft Rules of Procedure, focusing on enforcement, recusal, suspension, amendment, and roll‑call processes. No formal actions or votes were taken.

Public Facilities & Services Committee

The committee will review updated design fees and funding for Town Hall construction, along with a storm water management memorandum of understanding. The meeting is a hybrid session open to virtual public participation only.

• Town Hall construction: updated FWA design and administration fees
• Town Hall construction: bonding funding updates
• Storm Water Management: MOU update
• Future topics for reference: Park Plan, Car Charger permitting, Playground bathroom
• Future topics for reference: Street light purchase from PEPCO, Bridge recognition/ dedication

Development Overview Committee (DOC)

The Development Overview Committee will first approve the minutes from the August 14, 2025 meeting. It will then discuss Maryland Senate Bill 891, consider creating a data commons for the committee, and receive a tutorial on the PG Atlas system.

• Approve minutes from August 14, 2025
• Discussion of Maryland Senate Bill 891
• Consideration of a data commons for the Development Overview Committee
• PG Atlas tutorial for committee members

Council

The University Park Common Council will review a special‑exception request to install a six‑foot fence at 4415 Beechwood Road and a related variance for a two‑foot side‑yard setback and fence‑height exemption. It will also consider two ordinances (LR‑25‑O‑06) that move $175,000 for storm‑water design and $250,000 for garage roof and safety renovations from reserve funds. Continuing business includes discussion of the Axon body‑camera contract renewal, which has risen from $30,000 in 2020 to $112,000 in 2025. These items are on the agenda for the September 15 regular session.

• Special‑exception request for a six‑foot fence in the front and side yard of 4415 Beechwood Road (Ward 5)
• Council position on County Board of Appeals case No. 45‑25 for a two‑foot side‑yard setback variance and a two‑foot fence‑height exemption at 4415 Beechwood Road
• Ordinance LR‑25‑O‑06 to create a new line item funding approved storm‑water design and engineering, transferring $175,000 from reserves
• Ordinance LR‑25‑O‑06 to create a new line item funding approved garage roof and building‑safety renovations, transferring $250,000 from reserves
• Continuing business: consideration of the Axon contract renewal (cost increase from $30,000 in 2020 to $112,000 in 2025)

The council approved a special exception for a six‑foot fence at 4415 Beechwood Road, contingent on neighbor consent. It also adopted Ordinance LR‑25‑O‑06 to move $175,000 and $250,000 from reserves to new public‑works line items. Finally, the town approved a 63‑month Axon contract worth $112,499.94. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved special exception for a 6‑foot fence at 4415 Beechwood Road (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $175,000 from Designated Reserves to FY26 Public Works Capital Outlay line item 7135‑00 (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $250,000 ($175,000 from Unreserved/Designated and $75,000 from Undesignated/Unreserved) to FY26 Garage Roof and Building Renovation line item 6536‑05 (unanimous)
• Approved Axon contract renewal for 63 months at $112,499.94, payable yearly (unanimous)

Trees, Parks & Environment Committee

The Trees, Parks, and Environment Committee will discuss maintenance for Tennyson and Woodberry bioretention and plan for an annual planting event on October 25. The body will also review a tree planting list and provide updates on an ordinance.

• Annual Planting event scheduled for October 25 at 9 am
• Tennyson & Woodberry bioretention maintenance report
• Review of tree planting list
• Ordinance update

The Trees, Parks, and Environment Committee approved the September agenda and the July meeting minutes. The committee voted to send an ordinance amendment, which has cleared attorney review, to the mayor for inclusion on a future agenda. Members also agreed to distribute a new paper data sheet for the ward survey, with the goal of completing the surveys by the October meeting.

• Approved September agenda and July minutes (vote not recorded)
• Voted to send ordinance amendment to mayor for future agenda (vote not recorded)
• Decided to circulate new paper data sheet for ward survey, aiming completion by October meeting

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will review updates on the planned compost bin rollout for October and consider guidance on town lighting. The meeting also includes approval of minutes, new business, and other business items.

• Compost bin rollout for October
• Lighting guidance

The committee provided updates on the compost bin rollout and planning for the October 25 service day. Members identified communication tasks and volunteer needs, including attendance at the upcoming Town Council meeting and bringing UMD students to a meadow event. No votes were taken and no formal actions were approved by the Town Council liaison.

Council

The council introduced and adopted Ordinance LR-25-O-05 to authorize the town personnel manual and approved the administrator’s authority to recommend amendments. It also approved a fee‑waived food‑truck permit for the Arts in the Park event and confirmed Stacy Aguilera‑Peterson’s appointment to the Sustainability Committee. All motions passed unanimously, and the August 18 minutes were approved 5‑0.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 18 minutes (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance LR-25-O-05 for personnel manual (unanimous)
• Authorized Town Administrator to recommend manual amendments (unanimous)
• Issued fee‑waived food‑truck permit for Arts in the Park (unanimous)
• Approved nomination of Stacy Aguilera‑Peterson to Sustainability Committee (unanimous)

Helping Hands Committee

The Helping Hands Committee approved the July 2025 meeting minutes. No other formal approvals, denials, or tablings were recorded. The remainder of the meeting covered upcoming events, administrative updates, and planning activities.

• Approved July meeting minutes

Council

The council voted unanimously to allow the mayor and staff to extend the Axon storage agreement by up to $2,000 to cover the period until September 15, 2025. The discussion and decision on the full Axon contract renewal were postponed until that date.

• Authorized up to $2,000 extension of Axon storage agreement (unanimous)
• Postponed further discussion of Axon contract renewal until September 15, 2025 (unanimous)

Council

The Mayor and Common Council will meet to discuss personnel manual changes and term changes for elected officials. The body will also consider a resolution to amend a master lease purchase agreement for a 2026 Kenworth T480 packer body truck.

• Resolution 25-R-05: Amendment of Master Lease Purchase Agreement for a 2026 Kenworth T480 packer body
• Consideration of process for personnel manual changes
• Consideration of term changes for elected officials

The council approved a resolution authorizing the town to lease a 2026 Kenworth T480 trash truck with a 25‑yard packer body for up to $258,900, waiving the bid process. It also approved a change to allow personnel‑manual amendments by resolution instead of ordinance. No decision was made on changing elected officials' term lengths; the matter will be revisited later.

• Approved resolution to lease a 2026 Kenworth T480 trash truck (up to $258,900) – unanimous
• Approved motion to let personnel manual changes be adopted by resolution – unanimous
• Approved agenda as presented – unanimous
• Approved minutes of July 21, 2025 meeting with amendment – unanimous
• Approved Treasurer's Report for period ending July 2025 – unanimous
• Deferred decision on changing elected officials' term lengths – no vote

Development Overview Committee (DOC)

The committee reviewed House Bill 538 and agreed its zoning change would not affect University Park because the bill protects existing SF65 zones. Senate Bill 891, which would require permitting accessory dwelling units in SF65 zones, was also discussed. The committee will continue to examine the bill's impact and plans to present its findings at a future town council meeting.

Policy, Rules & Municipal Structure Committee

The committee approved the May 20 meeting minutes by a 3‑0 vote (Councilmember Mowery abstaining). It then voted 4‑0 to recommend that the council discuss charter amendments such as four‑year terms for mayor and council, term limits, recall provisions, and meeting‑schedule changes. The committee also recommended adopting an ordinance to allow personnel policy changes by resolution. A resident‑donated holiday bonus policy was discussed but no action was taken.

• Approved May 20 minutes (3-0, Mowery abstaining)
• Committee recommended council discuss charter amendments (4-0)
• Committee recommended ordinance to permit personnel policy changes by resolution
• Discussed resident‑donated holiday bonus policy (no decision)
• Meeting adjourned by consent at 9:05

Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the July 2, 2025 meeting. A resident’s request for a speed hump on Calverton Drive was tabled while the town awaits traffic‑calming recommendations. No other actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of July 2, 2025 meeting
• Tabled resident request for speed hump on Calverton Drive

Helping Hands Committee

The committee approved the June regular and July Ad Hoc meeting minutes. The planned meeting to introduce new executive committee member Kristen Norton‑Zell was postponed. The member directory will be reformatted by Casey and the final copy will be sent to members by email or USPS. The private Google group for the committee was set up and will be used for member sign‑in.

• Approved June regular and July Ad Hoc meeting minutes
• Postponed meeting to introduce new executive committee member Kristen Norton‑Zell
• Approved update and reformat of member directory; final copy to be emailed or mailed
• Completed set‑up of private Google group email for committee members

Council

Council members approved several items, including adding a committee budget line to the FY 2026 budget and referring the new Town Hall project back to the Public Facilities and Services Committee. They also approved the mayor’s appointment of a mayor pro tem and a contract to replace the public works garage roof, waiving the bid process. Uncontested election proposals were sent to the Policy Rules and Municipal Structure Committee for drafting, and permits for PEPCO tree pruning and additional traffic cameras were approved. All motions were adopted with the vote counts noted in the minutes.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• July 7 minutes approved 6-1 (one abstention); June 16 minutes approved unanimously
• Adopted Ordinance 25-O-04 adding committee budget line-item to FY26 budget (unanimous)
• Referred new Town Hall development to Public Facilities and Services Committee (unanimous)
• Mayor Pro Tem appointment of Councilmember Godfrey approved 6-1
• Public Works garage roof replacement contract approved 6-1 (bid process waived)
• PEPCO tree pruning permit approved unanimously
• Jenoptik traffic camera placement approved unanimously

Development Overview Committee (DOC)

The committee discussed the West Hyattsville/Queens Chapel Sector Plan but did not recommend any action. Members expressed interest in learning more about the Housing Expansion and Affordability Act (HB538) at a future meeting. They asked Committee Member McGaughey to follow up with County Committee Member Olson about possible upcoming sector plan changes affecting University Park. A brief discussion of The Mark at College Park also occurred with no action items.

Trees, Parks & Environment Committee

The Trees, Parks & Environment Committee met on July 9, 2025, and reviewed the July agenda and June meeting minutes. Members reported on June events, upcoming Ivy League events, and an ordinance update to be sent to the town attorney. The committee also discussed ward survey logistics, tree‑planting survey timing and targets, and planned a Tennyson Bioretention maintenance day. No motions were recorded as approved, denied, or voted on.

Council

The council unanimously approved the agenda with a correction to replace Council member Nathaniel Morgan’s name with Council member Cynthia Mowery. They unanimously voted to close the open session for a closed‑session discussion on personnel matters and then returned to open session. The council authorized the hiring of Carrina Bucknor as Town Treasurer at an annual salary of $75,000, with benefits and pending a background check. The meeting was adjourned by consent.

• Approved agenda amendment (replace Nathaniel Morgan with Cynthia Mowery) – unanimous
• Closed open session for closed‑session personnel discussion – unanimous
• Returned to open session – unanimous
• Authorized hiring of Carrina Bucknor as Town Treasurer at $75,000 salary, pending background check – unanimous
• Adjourned meeting by consent – unanimous

Helping Hands Committee

The Helping Hands Committee reviewed a draft proposal for a Chromebook Lending Program aimed at reducing the digital divide. The committee unanimously approved implementation of the program. Casey Kelby was assigned to check the cost of asset tags and insurance coverage, and Linda Verrill will edit and distribute the revised proposal.

• Implementation of Chromebook Lending Program approved (unanimous)
• Casey Kelby assigned to check asset tag cost and insurance coverage
• Linda Verrill tasked with editing and distributing revised proposal

Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the June 4 meeting. It unanimously approved Chief Coleman’s request to bring a Jenoptik equipment proposal to the July 21 Council meeting. Members were asked to email Debi Sandlin with any concerns about the Spring 2025 traffic study so she can forward them to the presenter. No other actions were decided.

• Approved June 4 meeting minutes
• Unanimously approved request to present Jenoptik equipment plan at July 21 Council meeting

Helping Hands Committee

The committee approved the May 2025 meeting minutes. Carol Bourne’s resignation was noted. An ad‑hoc meeting to discuss the Chromebook Lending Program is tentatively set for July 2, 2025. The next regular Helping Hands Committee meeting is scheduled for July 23, 2025.

• Approved May 2025 meeting minutes
• Scheduled ad‑hoc Chromebook Lending Program discussion for July 2, 2025
• Scheduled next regular committee meeting for July 23, 2025

Council

The council approved the agenda and the minutes from the June 2 and May 19, 2025 meetings. Councilmembers approved Resolution 25‑R‑05 honoring Councilmember Morgan’s service, with a unanimous vote. The council unanimously approved a sole‑source purchase of a 2026 Kenworth T480 trash truck (up to $258,900) and a 10‑year lease of about $330,000, waiving the bid process.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved June 2, 2025 minutes (6-1) and May 19, 2025 closed‑session minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 25‑R‑05 recognizing Councilmember Morgan (unanimous)
• Approved sole‑source contract for 2026 Kenworth T480 trash truck (up to $258,900) and 10‑year lease (~$330,000) (unanimous)

Trees, Parks & Environment Committee

The committee unanimously approved the May meeting minutes. The committee also voted unanimously to send the prepared letter on invasive species to the appropriate parties. No other actions were formally adopted.

• Approved May meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved sending invasive‑species letter (unanimous)

Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee

The Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee approved the minutes from the April 8, 2025 special meeting. A Jenoptik representative presented on automated enforcement technology, and the Town Attorney asked for clarification on violation pricing. The town's stop‑sign camera bill was noted as having been introduced to the Prince George's County Council and is expected to be voted on before July 9. The Chief expressed interest in testing Jenoptik equipment near existing traffic cameras.

• Approved minutes of the April 8, 2025 special meeting

Council

The council unanimously approved a two‑year renewal of the consulting arborist contract with Feather & Associates. It also authorized Mayor Morrissey to send a letter opposing the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s proposed extension of invasive plant sales. A motion to allow extended tree‑removal work hours at 4310A Underwood Street passed 5‑1, and an ordinance adding a committee budget line‑item to the FY 2026 budget was adopted unanimously.

• Approved renewal of consulting arborist contract with Feather & Associates for two years, with one‑year extension option (unanimous)
• Authorized Mayor Morrissey to submit a letter opposing the extension of invasive plant sale period (unanimous)
• Approved extended work hours for tree removal at 4310A Underwood Street, 8 a.m.–7 p.m. for one day, with resident notification requirement (5‑1)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑O‑04 to add a Town Committee budget line‑item to the FY 2026 budget (unanimous)

Helping Hands Committee

The committee approved the April meeting minutes. It postponed the planned June cooking demonstration to a later date. Members agreed to investigate whether a community grant is available for receptions after performances.

• Approved April meeting minutes
• Postponed June cooking demonstration (on hold)
• Agreed to investigate community grant for post‑performance receptions

Policy, Rules & Municipal Structure Committee

The committee approved the April 14 meeting minutes by a 3‑0 vote. It decided to schedule a dedicated work session at the start of each meeting to ensure consistent progress. The committee directed the Town Administrator to ask the Town Attorney to review or draft employee‑handbook language that would let the Administrator and Council adjust employment policies by resolution. It also asked the Mayor and Administrator to explore scheduling an organizational meeting with other council members.

• Approved April 14 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Decided to schedule a dedicated work session at the start of each meeting
• Directed Administrator to request Town Attorney to review/draft employee handbook language
• Asked Mayor and Administrator to inquire about scheduling an organizational meeting

Council

The council approved the transition of the town's health plan to LGIT, authorized staff to solicit bids and explore funding for a new town hall, and approved a personnel placement services agreement for the treasurer position. It also renewed the Veo Mobility contract through 2027 and authorized an amendment to the FY26 budget to fund committee activities. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved previous minutes (April 30, 2025) (unanimous)
• Approved previous minutes (May 5, 2025) (unanimous)
• Approved transition to LGIT health plan (unanimous)
• Authorized staff to solicit bids for new town hall and explore funding (unanimous)
• Approved personnel placement services agreement with Robert Half for treasurer (unanimous)
• Approved Veo Mobility contract renewal 2025‑2027 (unanimous)
• Authorized draft ordinance to amend FY26 budget for committee line item (unanimous)

Trees, Parks & Environment Committee

The committee approved the April minutes unanimously, and the chair will forward them to the Town Clerk. A report was given on the April Ivy League event, noting meadow shrubs were caged and mulched and that invasive species management will be addressed in future park planning. Members discussed upcoming TPE events, including a Meadow Day booth and an Ivy League raingarden planting, and received updates from subcommittees on flowchart drafts and bioretention maintenance. Len and Joe volunteered to draft language for the Reforestation Fund procedure.

• Approved April minutes (unanimous)

Council

The Town Council approved a $75,000 transfer within the Police budget, adopted property and personal property tax rates for FY 2026, and adopted the FY 2026 budget with a $14,300 increase for employee benefits and salary adjustments. The Council also approved amendments to garage electrical and emissions‑exhaust service contracts, waiving bid requirements for safety reasons. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved $75,000 transfer from Police Salaries to Police Cruiser (unanimous)
• Adopted property tax rate of $0.4763 per $100 full value assessment (unanimous)
• Adopted personal property tax rate of $2.25 per $100 full value assessment (unanimous)
• Approved $14,300 budget amendment for employee healthcare fund and salary increases (unanimous)
• Adopted FY 2026 budget and Ordinance 25‑O‑03 (unanimous)
• Amended and approved garage electrical service repair procurement, waiving bid requirements (unanimous)
• Amended and approved garage emissions exhaust system procurement, waiving bid requirements (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Council

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It voted to raise the FY26 budget by 4%, adding $13,524 for public works crew, police patrol officers, two administrative assistants, the code enforcement officer, and crossing guards. The $40,000 Tree Reserve line-item was removed from the FY26 budget, and the FY26 tax rate was kept at .4763 cents.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved 4% FY26 budget increase ($13,524) for staff and police
• Removed $40,000 Tree Reserve line-item from FY26 budget
• Kept FY26 tax rate at .4763 cents

Helping Hands Committee

The Helping Hands Committee approved the March meeting minutes. It adopted a new member‑directory format and will email members with an April 30 opt‑out deadline. The committee also approved purchasing inexpensive lid openers with the HHUP logo for the University Park Meadow Day table. No other motions were denied or tabled.

• Approved March meeting minutes
• Approved new member directory format; Linda to email members with April 30 opt‑out deadline
• Approved purchase of lid openers with HHUP logo for Meadow Day giveaway
• Peg and Linda will begin revisions to the Assistance Fund website, including name change

Council

The council voted 4‑3 to approve a modified special‑exemption fence request for 4323 Clagett Road. It also unanimously approved a letter of support for the rezoning of 4330 Hartwick Road and 4313 Knox Road (The Mark). Additional routine actions included unanimous approval of the agenda, prior meeting minutes, and a motion to move an agenda item.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 26, 2025 Budget Worksession minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April 7, 2025 Council minutes (unanimous)
• Approved modified special‑exemption fence request for 4323 Clagett Road (4‑3)
• Approved letter of support for rezoning of 4330 Hartwick Rd and 4313 Knox Rd (unanimous)
• Motion to move item 8e up on agenda (unanimous)

Trees, Parks & Environment Committee

The committee voted unanimously to approve the March meeting minutes. It also voted unanimously to have the chair send the proposed new ordinance language to the town council after the flowchart update is completed. No other actions were formally decided at this meeting.

• Approved March meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding new ordinance language to council after flowchart update (unanimous)

Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee

The Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee approved the minutes from the April 2, 2025 meeting. Morton Thomas attended to review traffic locations identified by committee members, but no action was taken on that review.

• Approved April 2, 2025 meeting notes

Council

The council unanimously approved David Coleman as the new Chief of Police effective May 5, 2025. It also adopted the FY25 mid‑year budget adjustment ordinance and designated April as “No‑Mow Month.” Additional actions included transferring $75,000 for a police cruiser, authorizing purchase of a Silverado police vehicle, and declaring two public‑works trucks surplus.

• Approved appointment of David Coleman as Police Chief (unanimously)
• Adopted Ordinance 25‑O‑02 FY25 Mid‑Year Budget Adjustment Reconciliation (unanimously)
• Designated April as “No‑Mow Month” to support pollinator habitat (unanimously)
• Authorized transfer of $75,000 from police salaries to police cruiser budget line (unanimously)
• Authorized purchase of one fully equipped Silverado 250 HD police vehicle up to $75,000 (unanimously)
• Declared public works vehicle #14 (1993 Chevy 2500) and #18 (2006 Ford F750) surplus and authorized disposal (unanimously)
• Introduced Ordinance 25‑O‑03 FY26 Budget for consideration (unanimously)
• Moved to adjourn open session and enter closed session for personnel and legal matters (unanimously)

Police, Traffic & Public Safety Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the March 5, 2025 meeting. A presentation from Obvio reported stop‑sign camera pilot data and noted reductions in violations elsewhere, while citing local violation rates. The town administrator said a final Obvio report is expected by the end of July and suggested a special meeting to discuss identified locations, but no vote was taken on that suggestion.

• Approved March 5, 2025 meeting minutes

Helping Hands Committee

The committee approved the February 26 minutes. All website updates were postponed until the June meeting. Linda Verrill will email members about the directory opt‑out and follow up with non‑email members, with a review scheduled for September. Casey Kelby and Peg Smith volunteered to staff a table for the Temporary Assistance Fund at the University Park Meadow Day.

• Approved February 26 minutes
• Deferred all website updates (Spanish version, calendar) until June meeting
• Directed Linda to send directory opt‑out email and contact non‑email members; agenda item set for September review
• Casey Kelby and Peg Smith volunteered to represent HHUP at University Park Meadow Day
• Confirmed March lunch at The Green Turtle will remain on regular rotation
• Set Planet Word Museum excursion for April 25
• Linda to continue coordinating May cooking demonstration with Chef Kim

Council

The council approved the agenda as presented with a unanimous vote. No other motions were adopted; budget items were discussed but not decided. The meeting was adjourned by consent.

• Agenda approved unanimously