Mount Rainier public meetings in 2025

Committees

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

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

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

City Council

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

City Council

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

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

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

City Council

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

City Council

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

City Council

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

City Council

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

Committees

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

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

Committees

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

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

City Council

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

Committees

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

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

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

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

Committees

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

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

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

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

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will hold a virtual meeting to discuss several first-reading resolutions and a committee appointment. The body will also review a summary of a previous closed session and vote on meeting minutes.

• Appointment of Ms. Tracy Meserve to the Recreation Committee for a two-year term
• Resolution 05-2025: Appointing Kourosh Kamali as Resident Agent
• Resolution 06-2025: Appointing Melissa Sam as Public Information Act Representative
• Resolution 07-2025: Establishing a Vice Mayor rotation for Councilmembers Carter, Jakuta, and Hoffpauir
• Resolution 08-2025: Proclaiming November 14 as Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day

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

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

Committees

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

• Public hearing regarding an ethics complaint against an elected official

Committees

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is meeting to plan public safety events and training sessions. The body is discussing the potential hiring of an instructor for AAA Basic CERT training and reviewing by-law revisions.

• Public Safety Night scheduled for September 26
• Narcan Training scheduled for October 18
• Airplane crash simulation training on November 1 requiring 150 volunteers
• Proposed hiring of Brandon from AAA CERT at a previous rate of $65 per person
• Proposed revisions to by-laws

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission will meet to review past meeting minutes, welcome a new city council liaison, interview an applicant for an open arts commission position, and begin planning for the FY26 public art plan. The meeting is procedural with no major decisions expected.

• Interview Kelenna James for open arts commission position
• Groundwork and assignments for FY26 public art plan

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

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

Committees

The Ethics Commission will meet to approve its rules and procedures and appoint a Vice Chairman. The body also proposes to enter a closed session to obtain legal advice from the City Attorney.

• Approval of Rules and Procedures for the Commission
• Appointment of the Vice Chairman
• Closed session to consult with the City Attorney for legal advice

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

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

Committees

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will meet to review reports on PG County CERT and the 'Sound the alarm' update. The group will also discuss plans for CERTCON, fall events, and the budget.

• PG County CERT report
• Sound the alarm update
• CERTCON planning
• Fall events planning
• Budget discussion

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission will meet to plan a ceremony for a mural at 3510 Rhode Island Ave. The commission also intends to begin creating a handbook for future commissioners.

• Planning for 3510 Rhode Island Ave Mural Ceremony
• Creation of MRAC Handbook for future commissioners

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

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

Committees

The Ethics Commission will review 2024 Financial Disclosure Statements and discuss the approval of rules and procedures for the commission. The body also proposes a closed session to obtain legal advice from the City Attorney.

• Review of Financial Disclosure Statements for 2024
• Discussion and approval of Commission rules and procedures
• Proposed closed session for legal advice from the City Attorney

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

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

City Council

The Mayor and City Council are meeting for a special legislative session. The primary purpose is a proposal to enter a closed session to discuss personnel matters and obtain legal advice from the City Attorney.

• Proposal to enter closed session under Annotated Code of Maryland article 3-305b (1) and (7)

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

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

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will vote on nominations for the Legacy Mixed-Use Town Center Design Review Committee and the appointment of a member to the Ethics Commission. The body will also consider a resolution proclaiming May as Jewish American Heritage Month.

• Resolution No. 03-2025: Nominating seven members to the Legacy Mixed-Use Town Center (LMUTC) Design Review Committee for two-year terms starting July 6, 2025
• Resolution No. 04-2025: Proclaiming May as Jewish American Heritage Month
• Appointment of Ms. Morgan Pinnell to the Ethics Commission
• Vote on approval of May 20, 2025, Work Session minutes

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

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

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission is meeting to discuss progress on local art installations and community events. The body will review project timelines and plan for the next fiscal year.

• Next steps for the 3510 Rhode Island Ave Mural Project
• Planning for the next Artists Social
• Timeline for banner project and repair of a banner on 36th Street
• Discussion of projects for the next fiscal year

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

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

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will consider a budget amendment to transfer grant funds and approve the legislative calendar for FY2026. The body will also vote on a summer recess and nominate members to the City’s Design Review Committee.

• Ordinance No. 03-2025: Budget Amendment #2 to transfer funds, including $1.5 million adjustment for Potts Hall/Welcome Center
• Resolution No. 02-2025: Proclaiming April as Arab American Heritage Month
• Resolution No. 03-2025: Nominating members to the Design Review Committee for a two-year term starting July 6, 2025
• Resolution No. 04-2025: Proclaiming May as Jewish American Heritage Month
• Vote on Council recess for July and August 2025

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

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

Committees

The Police Review & Advisory Board will meet to review crime updates and discuss the FY 2026 budget request and FY 2025 spending. The board will also work on its year-end report and schedule an annual meeting with the City Manager.

• FY 2026 PRAB Budget Request and FY 2025 spending allocation
• Crime Update by Police Dept.
• Camera Partnership Program
• PG Animal Control
• Year End Report preparation

City Council

The Mount Rainier City Council will hold a virtual work session to review a building application for 4030 34th Street and discuss a potential recess for July and August 2025. They will also receive an introduction to the Neighborhood Design Center and its upcoming placemaking conference.

• Building application review for 4030 34th Street, Mount Rainier
• Discussion on Council recess for July and August 2025
• Presentation on Neighborhood Design Center and placemaking conference

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

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

Committees

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

• Declared meeting official CERT meeting (3-1)

Committees

The Recreation Committee will vote on April meeting minutes and discuss upcoming events, including the Pride Parade and Mount Rainier Day tabling. Key decisions include finalizing performers, task assignments, and approving funds for the Pride Parade.

• Approval of April meeting minutes (committee vote)
• Pride Parade: collaboration with GFM, finalize list of groups/performers/speakers, task assignments, approve funds
• Mount Rainier Day on May 24th – tabling discussion
• New business

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will certify the May 5, 2025 election results, swear in Celina Benitez as Mayor, Jenny Hoffpauir as Ward 1 Councilmember, and Joseph Jakuta as Ward 2 Councilmember, then discuss and vote on adopting updated Council Rules and Procedures.

• Certification of May 5, 2025 election results by Elections Supervisor Nichole Logan
• Swearing-in of Celina Benitez as Mayor, Jenny Hoffpauir as Ward 1, Joseph Jakuta as Ward 2
• Discussion and vote on Council Rules and Procedures (document updated 6.5.18, last adopted May 8, 2023)

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

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

Committees

The Tree Commission will discuss watering logistics including water truck repair and gator bag orders, maintenance of trees (pruning, removal, county levee replantings), and a summer tree inventory (AUTI). The commission will also address whether 27th St is city or private property and receive city updates on large tree projects, Tree City USA certification, and sidewalk conditions. No votes or budget items are on the agenda.

• Status of water truck repair and gator bag order for watering
• Map of vulnerable trees for targeted watering
• Maintenance discussion on pruning, dead tree removal, and County Levee Re-Plantings
• Joe's Greenworks 2025 communication item
• Summer tree inventory (AUTI) and 27th St property boundary question

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

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

City Council

The Council will hold a first reading of Ordinance 03-2025, a budget amendment transferring $1.5 million for Potts Hall and adding over $2 million in new grants. They will also vote on second reading to adopt Resolution 01-2025 establishing the Mount Rainier Community Garden Committee. Additionally, there will be discussions on a building application for 4505 30th Street and funding $1,000 for Teacher Appreciation Week at two elementary schools.

• First reading of Budget Amendment #2: shifts $1.5M to Potts Hall, adds $750K state grant for Potts Hall, $422K for solar panels, $300K for police basement, and other grant funds
• Second reading and adoption of Resolution 01-2025 establishing the Mount Rainier Community Garden Committee
• Presentation and discussion on a building application for 4505 30th Street
• Discussion on $500 each for Mount Rainier Elementary and Thomas S Stone Elementary (total $1,000) from line item 5550 for Teacher Appreciation Week
• First reading of Resolution 02-2025 proclaiming April as Arab American Heritage Month

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

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

Committees

This is a routine committee meeting of the Mount Rainier Board of Elections. The board will review and approve meeting minutes, address questions from the public and via email, discuss updates to absentee ballot applications, and handle any old or new business. No votes on ordinances, contracts, or financial matters are listed.

• Application for Absentee Ballot Updates

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

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

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission will choose a final artist for the 3510 Rhode Island Ave. project based on public and stakeholder feedback. The body will also discuss the contract, public announcement, and building preparation for the project.

• Selection of final artist for 3510 Rhode Island Ave. project
• Discussion of contract and timeline for 3510 Rhode Island Ave. project
• Review of 04/08/2025 meeting minutes

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

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

Committees

The meeting was scheduled to review financial disclosure statements from elected officials and discuss rules and procedures. However, the meeting did not have a quorum.

• Review of Financial Disclosure Statements from Elected Officials
• Discussion and Approval of Rules and Procedures

Committees

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will approve March minutes and discuss upcoming events and training. A discussion with the Mount Rainier Social Services Coordinator is scheduled. The committee will also consider its budget and hold an open discussion.

• Approval of March meeting minutes
• Discussion with Mount Rainier Social Services Coordinator
• Upcoming event and training plans
• Budget discussion
• Open discussion period

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

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

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections will meet virtually to review minutes and address questions from the elections email inbox. The board is scheduled to discuss updates regarding applications for absentee ballots.

• Application for Absentee Ballot Updates

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

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

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections will hold a virtual committee meeting to review and approve previous meeting minutes, address questions from the public and email inbox, discuss old business, and consider updates to the absentee ballot application process. The agenda consists largely of procedural items with no major policy decisions or financial actions on the table.

• Vote to approve meeting minutes from prior session
• Q&A session from elections email inbox and public comment
• Discussion of old business items
• Updates to the application for absentee ballot
• New business discussion

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

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

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will discuss Ordinance No. 03-2025 to transfer grant funds within the Fiscal Year 2025 budget. The session also includes proclamations for Arbor Day and Arab American Heritage Month.

• Ordinance No. 03-2025: Budget Amendment #2 to move grant funds between line items
• Proposed $1.5 million increase for Potts Hall/Welcome Center budget
• Proposed $750,000 State of MD Capital Grant for Potts Hall
• Proposed $422,000 MEA Solar Panels for City Buildings grant
• Proposed $300,000 State of MD Capital Grant for Police Basement

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

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

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections will hold a virtual meeting to discuss election-related business. The agenda includes updates on absentee ballot applications and volunteer status.

• Application for Absentee Ballot updates
• Volunteers update from City Clerk Melissa Sam
• Scholarship Recipients update

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

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

Committees

The Recreation Committee will consider approving March meeting minutes, receive updates on grant applications and yard sale follow-up, and discuss planning for the upcoming Pride Parade including collaboration with the Farmers' Market and compiling a list of activities, tabling, and performers. New business will also be taken up.

• Approval of March meeting minutes (committee vote)
• Updates on grant applications
• Follow-up on yard sale
• Plan Pride Parade collaboration with Farmers' Market (activities, tabling, performers list)
• New business

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

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

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission will meet to discuss support for local artists and review a previous artist social. The body is also scheduled to determine next steps for a mural project at 3510 Rhode Island Ave.

• Next steps for the 3510 Rhode Island Ave Mural Project
• Discussion with Derek Reynolds regarding support for local artists
• Review of the previous month's artist social and public meeting

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

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

City Council

The Mount Rainier Mayor and City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget, followed by a discussion of the budget. The agenda includes consideration of budget changes, such as adjustments to funding for Gateway Community Development Corp and other department expenses. Public comment will be accepted during the meeting.

• Public hearing on proposed FY2026 budget
• Gateway Community Dev Corp funding reduced from $30,000 to $25,000 in 2nd revised budget
• Gateway CDC - Arts District Management added $5,000 in 2nd revised budget
• Unemployment insurance expense reduced from $31,764 to $11,245.50
• City Hall proposed wage increase of 5% for regular pay

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

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

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will hold a first reading of Resolution No. 01-2025 to formally establish the Mount Rainier Community Garden Committee. The body will also vote on the approval of meeting minutes from February and March 2025.

• First reading of Resolution No. 01-2025 to establish the Mount Rainier Community Garden Committee
• Proposed requirement for the City Manager's annual budget to include funding for the garden committee
• Vote on approval of February 18, 2025, Work Session minutes
• Vote on approval of March 4, 2025, Legislative Meeting minutes

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

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

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections will meet virtually to review pending business and election preparations. The body will discuss board appointments, the election calendar, and candidate package submissions.

• MRBOE Appointments and Confirmation
• Election Calendar Updates
• Candidate Package Submission promotion
• Volunteer update from City Clerk Melissa Sam

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

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

Committees

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will meet to approve January minutes and discuss budget matters. The agenda includes a discussion with the Mount Rainier Social Services Coordinator and a review of upcoming events and trainings.

• Discussion with Mount Rainier Social Services Coordinator
• Budget review
• Upcoming event and trainings planning

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

• Approved February meeting notes (unanimous)

City Council

The Mount Rainier City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed real property tax rates for FY2026, which remain unchanged from the current rates. Following the hearing, a work session will review the entire proposed FY2026 budget, including tax rates, fee schedules, and departmental expenses. No changes to tax rates are proposed for residential, commercial, industrial, or other property classes.

• Public hearing on proposed real property tax rates for FY2026 with no changes (residential $0.75/$100, apartments $0.86/$100, commercial $0.79/$100, industrial $0.79/$100, townhouse $0.75/$100)
• Work session to review proposed FY2026 budget covering all city departments and capital improvement plan
• Fee schedule for code compliance permits and penalties, including building permits, business licenses, and vacant building registration
• Business personal property tax rate unchanged at $0.99/$100, and railroad/public utility tax at $2.75/$100
• Vacant developed property tax rate remains $2.50/$100 of assessed value

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

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

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections holds a routine committee meeting to review and approve minutes, discuss candidate package submissions, and update the election calendar. A volunteer update from City Clerk Melissa Sam will include a possible scholarship recipients update. Public comment is governed by the rules in Exhibit A.

• Review and approval of meeting minutes from prior session
• Candidate Q&A session on package submission (Exhibit A provides public comment rules)
• Election calendar updates and candidate package submission discussion
• Volunteer update from City Clerk Melissa Sam, with possible scholarship recipient update
• Old business and new business discussions

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

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

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will hold a virtual work session to discuss property updates and community events. The body will consider a resolution to formally establish the Mount Rainier Community Garden Committee.

• Resolution No. 01-2025 to establish the Mount Rainier Community Garden Committee
• Update on 3200 Rhode Island Avenue property
• Building application presentation for 3405 Eastern Avenue
• Funding from line item 5505 for Richardson Park community meeting and ribbon cutting
• Proclamation for Kids to Park Day on May 17, 2025

The council received an update on the 3200 Rhode Island Avenue property, where the developer is awaiting county approval of a floodplain permit, which is delaying construction. The council discussed the timeline and risks, and requested monthly updates and assistance from city staff. No formal decisions were made on this item.

• Motion to add 10 minutes passed (5-0)
• Motion to add 10 minutes passed (5-0)
• Motion to add 5 minutes passed (5-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (5-0)

Committees

The Recreation Committee will consider approving February meeting minutes and discuss revamping grant application review timelines. They will also review event planning for the Community Yard Sale and begin planning for the Pride Parade. New business may be introduced.

• Approval of February meeting minutes (Committee Vote)
• Discussion on revamping grant application review timelines
• Update on Community Yard Sale registrations and promotional action items
• Start planning discussions for the Pride Parade

The Recreation Committee approved the February meeting minutes, the Mount Rainier Elementary School Carnival grant application for recommendation to the City Manager, and up to $500 for Community Yard Sale promotional activities. The committee also discussed upcoming events, including moving the Pride Parade to June 7 and using MapMe software for a digital yard sale map.

• Approved February meeting minutes
• Approved Mount Rainier Elementary School Carnival grant application for recommendation to City Manager
• Approved up to $500 for Community Yard Sale promotional activities
• Approved use and expense of MapMe software for digital yard sale map

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections will meet virtually to review and approve previous meeting minutes, discuss candidate package submission questions, and receive updates on the election calendar and volunteer efforts. The board will also address promoting the election and candidate package submission. The meeting includes a public comment period with time limits.

• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Candidate Q&A about package submission (Exhibit A with public comment rules)
• Election calendar updates
• Volunteers update including scholarship recipients
• Promoting election and candidate package submission

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections (MRBOE) held a virtual meeting and discussed election preparations, including cancelling the March 22 voter registration drive at MIXT Food Hall and planning a candidate meet-and-greet event. The board approved the meeting minutes and took action on several items, such as ordering privacy screens and reviewing a Spanish flyer. No formal votes on policy or budget items were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Cancelled March 22 voter registration drive at MIXT Food Hall
• Selected design #1 for election T-shirts
• Action item: Nichole to order privacy screens
• Action item: Mario to review Spanish version of flyer
• Action item: Tara to notify farmer's market of cancellation
• Action item: Melissa/Pink to check Nature Center and Fire Station availability for candidate meet-and-greet
• Action item: Nichole to check on election judge training date

Committees

The Tree Commission will meet to discuss updates on tree pruning, inventory using AUTI, city tree work by Bartlett and Pepco, and the Tree City USA certification. The meeting also covers follow-up on action items such as tree hanger code, water truck repairs, and Gator bags, as well as Joe's Greenworks 2025. No major decisions or financial items are on the agenda.

• Tree inventory update via AUTI
• Update on Bartlett and Pepco tree work
• Tree City USA certification and 22-year sticker for signs
• Discussion on city plats without sidewalks
• Follow-up on Greenworks street trees and Joe's Greenworks 2025

The Tree Commission approved the previous meeting's minutes with no changes. They discussed ongoing pruning efforts, a new laptop and software for tree inventory, and follow-ups on pending items like door hangers and water truck repairs. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to keep non-City trees in inventory for now
• Scheduled next meeting for May 12

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections is holding a virtual committee meeting to review and approve prior meeting minutes, discuss old business including board appointments and confirmation, receive updates on the election calendar, candidate package submissions, and volunteer coordination from the City Clerk. No new business items are listed. The meeting is largely procedural, focusing on administrative preparations for upcoming elections.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Discussion of MRBOE appointments and confirmation
• Election calendar updates
• Candidate package submission and election promotion
• Volunteer updates from City Clerk Melissa Sam

The board approved the meeting minutes and discussed upcoming voter registration events, including a March 8 event at MIXT Food Hall. They also reviewed candidate package submissions, with one correction needed, and planned to place banners in government buildings. No public comments were received.

• Approved the meeting minutes.
• Scheduled a voter registration event for March 8 at MIXT Food Hall.
• Action item: Melissa will print 10 candidate packages and bring tablecloth and pens for the March 8 event.
• Action item: Nichole will send possible dates for a Glut event via email.
• Action item: Nichole will drop off absentee ballots at the Senior Center on Tuesday.
• Action item: Melissa will ask Public Works about additional banner placement locations.
• Action item: Melissa will order privacy screens.
• Action item: Melissa will send her phone number to Brooke regarding the candidate forum.

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will consider a grant application for a local business and review a building application for a 29th Street property. The body will also appoint two members to the Board of Elections.

• Vote on $25,000 application from Mount Rainier Million Dollar Incentive Fund Program for Best Barbers LLC
• Presentation on building application for 4121 29th Street
• Appointment of Nathan Gately and Monica Savoy to the Mount Rainier Board of Elections
• Review of closed session summary from February 18, 2025

The Mount Rainier City Council approved a $25,000 grant from the Million Dollar Incentive Fund Program for Best Barbers LLC, following a recommendation from FSC First. The council also appointed Nathan Gately and Monica Savoy to the Board of Elections and approved minutes from prior meetings. No public comment was made, and the meeting adjourned at 8:02 pm.

• Approved $25,000 incentive for Best Barbers LLC (4-0)
• Appointed Nathan Gately and Monica Savoy to Board of Elections (5-0)
• Approved minutes for Jan 21 work session and Feb 4 legislative meeting (5-0)

Committees

The Police Review & Advisory Board (PRAB) will meet to review a draft letter to the City Manager and Council about the board's function and hosting community conversations. They also plan to discuss resident concerns from Facebook about policing and city management, parking enforcement on 32nd St, Arundel, and Windom, and the FY2026 budget request. However, the meeting did not have a quorum, so no official action can be taken.

• Crime update by Police Dept.
• Review of draft PRAB letter to City Manager and Council regarding board function and community conversations
• Discussion of resident concerns on Facebook related to policing and city management
• Discussion of parking regulations enforcement on 32nd St, Arundel, and Windom
• FY 2026 PRAB budget request and review of FY 2025 spending

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections will hold a virtual meeting to address questions from candidates running for Mayor and Council Member for Ward 1 and Ward 2. The board will also review the election calendar and promote candidate package submissions.

• Public comment period for candidates regarding candidate package submissions
• Review of election calendar updates
• Discussion on promoting the election and candidate package submission
• Update on volunteers and scholarship recipients from City Clerk Melissa Sam
• Reminder of appointments and confirmation on March 4th

The Mount Rainier Election Board met and approved the meeting minutes. They discussed upcoming appointments for Monica and Nathan on March 4, voter registration events at various locations, and updates to banners, yard signs, and buttons for the election. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy matters.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled March 4 appointments for Monica and Nathan at 5pm and 7pm
• Planned voter registration events for March 8 and March 22
• Updated banner and yard sign designs (ward numbers, times)
• Ordered 300 'I Love MR' buttons
• Scheduled election judge training for Monday at 7pm

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission will review and sort entries for the Station 3510 Mural project, planning to present a manageable number at a public meeting. They will also approve minutes from February 5 and discuss an upcoming Artist Social and Public Meeting on March 6. Public comment is invited under specific rules.

• Review and sort entries for Station 3510 Mural project (50 minutes)
• Approve minutes from February 5, 2025 meeting
• Plan for Artist Social and Public Meeting on March 6, 2025
• Scheduling of next meeting

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission approved the minutes from the 02/05/2025 meeting and narrowed the applicant pool for the 3510 Rhode Island Ave mural project to 20 qualified applicants. The commission also planned a public meeting on March 6 to present the finalists and gather community feedback. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from 02/05/2025 meeting
• Narrowed mural applicants to 20 for 3510 Rhode Island Ave project
• Scheduled public meeting for March 6 to present finalists

Committees

The Mount Rainier Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will meet to approve January minutes, discuss a naloxone training debrief, a storage space update, and the 'Sound the Alarm' program. They will also consider upcoming training opportunities in CPR/First Aid and Mental Health, and review the budget. This is a routine committee meeting with no binding votes noted on the agenda.

• Naloxone training debrief
• Securing storage space update
• Sound the Alarm program discussion
• Upcoming CPR/First Aid and Mental Health training
• Budget review

The CERT committee approved the January minutes and discussed ongoing community training efforts. Danielle is still working to contact the Red Cross about the Sound the Alarm program, while the city social worker completed Narcan trainer certification. The committee discussed low attendance at a February Narcan training and is exploring a Mental Health First Aid course. No new expenses were incurred.

• Approved January meeting minutes (motion by Karen, second by Linda)
• Reserved police community room for remaining 2025 meetings
• Scheduled next CERT meeting for March 24

Committees

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections will meet virtually to review election preparations. The body will discuss voter registration events, candidate package submissions, and training schedules for election judges.

• Confirmation and appointments scheduled for March 4th at 7PM
• Voter registration events at Mixt Hall
• Candidate package submission promotion
• County voter registration training schedule
• Election judge training schedule

The Mount Rainier Election Board met and made several decisions to prepare for the upcoming election. They approved the meeting minutes and scheduled appointments for two board members. They confirmed a voter registration drive at MIXT Food Hall on Feb. 22nd and planned other outreach events, while also updating banners, yard signs, and other election materials.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Scheduled March 4th appointments for Monica and Nathan
• Confirmed Feb. 22nd voter registration drive at MIXT Food Hall (9am-noon)
• Planned voter registration drives at Thomas Stone Elementary (Feb. 27th) and tentative March 8th and 22nd
• Updated banner design: change ward numbers to '1 & 2', add times 7am-8pm
• Ordered 300 'I Love MR' buttons
• Scheduled election judge training coordination
• Set deadline for voter registration form review by Feb. 21st

City Council

The Mount Rainier City Council will hold a work session to discuss several items, including a report from the Recreation Committee, a presentation from Gateway CDC, a proposed amendment to Section 13.101 of the city code regarding driveway blocking, and the proposed FY26 budget with a discussion on tax rates. The council will also consider going into closed session for legal advice. No final decisions are expected at this work session.

• Proposed amendment to Section 13.101 to alter allowance for blocking driveways by residents
• Presentation and discussion on the proposed FY26 budget and tax rate
• Report from the Recreation Committee on events and grants
• Report from Gateway CDC on economic development and arts district initiatives
• Proposal to enter closed session for legal advice

The council heard presentations from the Recreation Committee and Gateway CDC, discussed a proposed amendment to allow residents to block their own driveways with a permit, and reviewed the proposed FY26 budget with unchanged tax rates. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only motions were to extend the meeting by 5 minutes and to enter closed session, both passing 5-0.

• Motion to add 5 minutes to meeting passed (5-0)
• Motion to enter closed session for legal advice passed (5-0)
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed (5-0)

Committees

The Board of Elections will hold a virtual meeting to address questions from candidates for Mayor and City Council. The body will also discuss election calendar updates, voter registration events at Mixt Hall, and the confirmation of new board members.

• Public comment period for candidates regarding candidate package submissions
• Confirmation of new MRBOE members Nathan Gately and Monica Savoy
• Planning for voter registration events at Mixt Hall
• Review of English and Spanish City Voter Registration Forms
• Discussion of candidate meet and greet and candidate forum dates

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections met and made several administrative decisions, including keeping voter registration forms without specific dates (only 30 days prior to election), planning voter registration events at Mixt Hall on Feb. 22, March 8, and March 22, and updating absentee ballot language. No public comment was received. The board also welcomed new members Nathan and Monica, with Monica needing to submit an application.

• Approved minutes (unanimous)
• Kept voter registration forms without specific dates, only 30 days prior to election
• Scheduled voter registration events at Mixt Hall on Feb. 22, March 8, March 22, 9am-noon
• Updated absentee ballot language to clarify reapplication requirement
• Welcomed Nathan and Monica as new MRBOE members
• Monica to submit application to join MRBOE
• Planned to order 4 banners and 30 yard signs
• Agreed to update website with voter registration dates

Committees

This meeting covers approval of January minutes, a discussion on revamping grant application review timelines, and planning for upcoming events including confirming city calendar dates and forming sub-teams. The committee will also prepare for a presentation to the City Council.

• Vote on approval of January meeting minutes
• Discussion on revamping grant application review timelines
• Confirm event dates on City Calendar
• Plan sub-teams for each event
• Prepare for upcoming City Council presentation

The Recreation Committee approved the January meeting minutes. They discussed revamping the grant application review process with two submission deadlines and more City Manager integration, and will submit recommended updates to the City Manager. They also planned upcoming events, assigning leads for the Community Yard Sale, Pride Parade, Porchfest, and Sweaty Sweater, and decided not to host a separate Earth Day Clean Up but to support other groups' activities.

• Approved January meeting minutes
• Recommended grant application process updates (two deadlines, City Manager integration) to be submitted to City Manager
• Assigned event leads: Community Yard Sale (Jenny, Stephanie), Pride Parade (Bethany, Emily), Porchfest (Jenny, Megan), Sweaty Sweater (Megan, Stephanie)
• Decided not to host separate Earth Day Clean Up, will support other groups' events
• Scheduled City Council presentation for 2/18 at 7:00 pm

Committees

The Tree Commission will hear a resident's objection to the removal of an elm tree at 3100 Taylor St. They will review the city arborist's assessment and the relevant city code (12B-20). The Commission will then make a recommendation to the City Manager and Council.

• Introduction of Tree Commissioners and consulting arborist
• Reading of city code section 12B-20 regarding tree removal
• City arborist presents assessment of elm at 3100 Taylor St
• Resident objection to removing the elm tree at 3100 Taylor St
• Tree Commission discussion and recommendation to City Manager and Council

The Tree Commission unanimously recommended that a 35-inch Siberian elm at 3100 Taylor Street not be removed this winter, and that the City Consulting Arborist conduct another assessment in April to determine if pruning dead wood is sufficient or if additional hazards justify removal. The recommendation was made at a public hearing on February 6, 2025, following an objection to the proposed removal. The City Manager will make the final decision.

• Recommended against removing the Siberian elm at 3100 Taylor Street this winter (unanimous)
• Recommended a follow-up assessment by the City Consulting Arborist in April

Committees

The Arts Commission will discuss the departure of Torie Partridge and the process for identifying a new member. They will receive updates on the Station 3510 Mural and plan next stages. The meeting also includes review of minutes, check-in on ongoing projects, and planning for an artist social.

• Torie Partridge's departure and identifying new member
• Station 3510 Mural updates and planning next stages
• Approval of 01/08/2025 meeting minutes
• Check-in on ongoing and proposed projects
• Planning next artist social

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission met virtually and approved the minutes from the 01/08/2024 meeting. They discussed the Station 3510 Mural Project, noting the application process closes 2/24 with finalists notified March 10, and planned next steps including applicant review, a public meeting, and jury presentations. No formal votes were taken on substantive items beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved minutes from 01/08/2024 meeting (moved by John Deamond, seconded by Torie Partridge)
• Approved agenda as read
• Set application deadline for Station 3510 Mural Project as 2/24, finalists notified March 10
• Scheduled next meeting for 2/26/2025 to review applicants

City Council

The Mayor and City Council will hold a virtual meeting to adopt a budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2025. The body will also vote on the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Ordinance No. 01-2025: Transfer of $23,000 from Contingency to Arts Commission
• Ordinance No. 01-2025: Transfer of $11,000 from Contingency to Mayor & Council Conferences/Convention Expenses
• Vote on approval of December 17, 2024, and January 7, 2025, meeting minutes

The Mount Rainier City Council adopted Ordinance No. 01-2025, Budget Amendment #1, by a 5-0 vote. The council also approved the minutes from the December 17, 2024 special legislative meeting and work session, and the January 7, 2025 legislative meeting. No public comment was received, and the meeting adjourned at 7:24 pm.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 01-2025, Budget Amendment #1 (5-0)
• Approved minutes for December 17, 2024 special legislative meeting and work session (5-0)
• Approved minutes for January 7, 2025 legislative meeting (5-0)

Committees

The Mount Rainier CERT Committee will review planning for the Sound the Alarm program and storage space, prepare for the February 4 Naloxone training, and discuss and vote on purchasing snacks and water. The meeting also includes approval of December minutes, a budget discussion, and open discussion.

• Approval of December meeting minutes
• Sound the Alarm planning update
• Securing storage space update
• Preparation for Naloxone training on February 4
• Discussion and vote on purchasing snacks and water

The CERT committee approved the December 16 minutes unanimously with no revisions. Members discussed upcoming trainings, including a Naloxone training rescheduled to Feb. 6 and an airport emergency exercise on April 5. No expenditures were made since the last meeting, and potential future budget items were noted. The meeting was procedural with no substantive decisions beyond approving minutes.

• Approved December 16 minutes unanimously with no revisions
• Rescheduled Naloxone Training to Feb. 6 at 6 pm
• Noted no expenditures since last meeting
• Identified potential budget items: training fees, first aid supplies

City Council

The Mayor and City Council are reviewing a presentation on proposed locations for automated stop sign and speed enforcement cameras. The discussion includes legal requirements under Maryland and Prince George’s County law and alignment with the Vision Zero Plan and SS4A Grant.

• Proposed stop sign camera locations including 34th & Rainier, 34th & Tilden, and 35th & Bunker Hill
• Proposed speed camera locations including 2200 block Varnum St and 3200 block Otis St
• SS4A Grant allocation of $500,000 total ($400,000 Federal, $100,000 match) for automated speed enforcement
• Estimated red light camera costs of $75,000–$85,000 to install and $5,000 monthly operating cost per camera
• Review of January 7, 2025, Legislative Meeting minutes

The council heard a presentation from Toole Design on proposed locations for automated stop sign and speed safety cameras, discussing technical details and county requirements. No formal decisions were made on camera locations. The council approved adding 6 minutes to the meeting and adjourned.

• Agenda accepted with removal of item 4 (Recreation Committee report)
• Motion to add 6 minutes passed (5-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (5-0)

Committees

The Mount Rainier Tree Commission will meet to approve previous minutes, revisit the chairperson role, receive updates on pruning and tree removal from DPW, discuss water truck repair, and hear planting plans from Greenworks and Casey Trees. They will also discuss the door hanger project and Arundel Rd and Newton St projects.

• Pruning/Tree removal updates from Tree Commission and DPW
• Water truck repair in preparation for 2025 watering
• Update on Greenworks tree planting plans
• Update on Casey Trees fall planting and future planting plans
• Arundel Rd and Newton St projects

The Mount Rainier Tree Commission elected MaryLee Haughwout as chair, approved time and resources to repair the water truck, and discussed winter pruning, tree removals, and planting projects. No formal votes were taken on policy items; decisions were administrative and operational.

• MaryLee Haughwout elected chair unanimously
• Approved time and resources to repair water truck
• Approved minutes of November 4, 2024 meeting
• Agreed to allocate money for additional gator bags (pending count)
• Agreed to create lists of trees to remove or transplant (action items)

Committees

The Recreation Committee will meet to vote on grant applications and discuss upcoming events. The committee is also preparing for a presentation to the City Council on January 21.

• Grant application for Thomas Stone Elementary PTO
• Grant application for Senior Social Group of Mount Rainier
• Preparation for City Council presentation on 1/21

The Mount Rainier Recreation Committee voted to approve the Joe's Movement Emporium grant application, while declining to recommend funding for the Thomas Stone Elementary PTO and Senior Social Group of Mount Rainier applications. The committee will invite the PTO to resubmit with more details and share feedback with the Senior Social Group. December meeting minutes were approved.

• Approved December meeting minutes
• Approved Joe's Movement Emporium grant application
• Did not recommend Thomas Stone Elementary PTO application for funding
• Did not recommend Senior Social Group of Mount Rainier application for funding

Committees

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission will discuss and review the request for qualifications (RFQ) for the Station 3510 Mural, approve minutes from December 3, 2025, and check on ongoing projects including the Mount Rainier Skatepark mural and Barking Lot mural restoration.

• Review RFQ draft for Station 3510 Mural
• Approve minutes from 12/03/2025 meeting
• Check-in on Mount Rainier Skatepark M-NCPPC project
• Barking Lot mural restoration update
• Plan next Artist Social event

The Mount Rainier Arts Commission approved the minutes from 12/03/2024 and discussed edits to the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a mural project, aligning it with goals. They decided to send the RFQ to the city manager, check posting options, and consider a presentation to MUTC. No final artist decision was made, and the next meeting is scheduled for February 5, 2025.

• Approved minutes from 12/03/2024 (moved by John Deamond, seconded by Torie Partridge)
• Approved agenda as read
• Decided to send RFQ to city manager
• Decided to check posting options and start with free publicartist.org listing
• Tabled artist social until next meeting
• Scheduled next meeting for 2/5/2025 at 8 p.m.

City Council

The council will hold the first reading of Ordinance 01-2025, which transfers $23,000 from the contingency fund to the Arts Commission and $11,000 to Mayor and Council conference expenses. They will also vote on approving the December 4 legislative meeting minutes and receive the December 17 special meeting minutes. The meeting is largely procedural, with the budget amendment being the sole substantive item.

• First reading of Ordinance 01-2025 transferring $23,000 to Arts Commission (Line Item 5555) and $11,000 to Mayor & Council conferences (Line Item 5530) from Contingency (Line Item 5598)
• Vote on approval of minutes from December 4, 2024 legislative meeting
• Presentation of minutes from December 17, 2024 special legislative meeting and work session
• Public comment period (3-minute limit per speaker)
• Mayor and councilmember event announcements

The Mount Rainier City Council held the first reading of Ordinance No. 01-2025, a budget amendment, but took no final action on it. The council approved the minutes from the December 4, 2024, legislative meeting by a 3-0 vote. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural, including announcements and a presentation of minutes from a December 17 special meeting.

• Held first reading of Ordinance No. 01-2025, Budget Amendment #1 (no vote)
• Approved minutes of December 4, 2024, Legislative Meeting (3-0)