MINUTES

WALKERSVILLE BURGESS & COMMISSIONERS TOWN MEETING

March 23, 2005

The Town meeting of the Walkersville Burgess & Commissioners was called to order on Wednesday, March 23, 2005, at 7:30 p.m. Those in attendance included Burgess Ralph Whitmore, Commissioners Sam Eyler, Chad Weddle, Donald Schildt, and Debbie Zimmerman, Town Manager Gloria Long Rollins, Public Works Director Bob DePaola, Public Works Supervisor Dennis Miller, Brian Lopez and Lydia Clark of Osprey Property Company, 8 citizens, and 1 press. Commissioner Joe Magluilo was away on business.

The meeting was called to order with the Pledge of Allegiance.

1. MINUTES

2. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE 2005-02 RESIDENTIAL PROPANE TANKS

Commissioner Don Schildt made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Chad Weddle, to introduce Ordinance 2005-02, which establishes a six-foot property line setback for residential propane tanks. The motion passed by a vote of 4-0.

3. CITIZENS QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS

Coach Ryan Hines, brand new football coach at Walkersville High School, introduced himself to commissioners and thanked the town for past support of school athletics.

4. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE 2005-03 INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIES

Brian Lopez of Osprey Property Company, Annapolis, presented a review of the proposed project, services, and amenities for an independent senior community for the property at Sandstone Drive and Rt. 194. The building will contain 80-90 units for seniors aged 62 and older. Osprey Property Company presented an ordinance to amend the zoning text for the B2, including a definition of "Independent Senior Living Community" and permitted uses for the B2 District.

Mr. Lopez explained that the project will need the introduction and passage of Ordinance 2005-03, support from the town in the form of a resolution of support, and town’s support for application of grants and financing mechanisms for the project. Commissioner Schildt asked the data be supplied disclosing the effects of such a project on emergency services in the town.

From here the ordinance goes to the Planning and Zoning Commission for input and a hearing.

5. CONSTANT YIELD TAX RATE DISCUSSION

After discussion of the possibility of a reduction in the town’s tax rate, Commissioner Chad Weddle made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Don Schildt, to advertise the current tax rate as required by the constant yield laws. The motion passed by a vote of 4-0.

Further discussion will ensue during the upcoming budget discussions.

6. VACANT COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL STRUCTURE TAX CREDIT

Commissioner Chad Weddle made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Sam Eyler, not to participate in any action to bring about a vacant commercial property tax credit. The motion passed by a vote of 4-0.

7. PROGRAM OPEN SPACE

Commissioners agreed to Commissioner Zimmerman’s proposal to reapply for Program Open Space projects previously submitted but not received. This includes the Creamery Park Bathroom building.

8. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

9. COMMISSIONERS’ CONCERNS

Commissioner Don Schildt made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Sam Eyler, to include the word "War" on the Vietnam War Memorial. The motion passed by a vote of 4-0.

Thom Beckley, GVAA, noted that he had checked out the parking conflict for Opening Day and the Tour de Walkersville, and counted 92 parking spaces at Glade Elementary. There will be no conflict on April 2.

Ms. Rollins suggested a "Scoop the Poop" day for Heritage Farm Park, as it seems many inconsiderate dog owners have been using the park for their pet’s bathroom without cleaning up after it. She will be looking for volunteers and setting a date for the event. Coach Ryan Hines suggested that this could be a community service activity for the football team.

Burgess Whitmore called for a Closed Personnel meeting to discuss the actions of an individual employee.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m.

Sincerely,

Gloria Long Rollins

Town Manager