Chevy Chase public meetings in 2023

Town Council

The Chevy Chase Town Council will hold a public hearing on Ordinance 23-02, which clarifies that certain building, sign, and drainage regulations apply primarily to residential lots, exempting institutional properties like schools and the senior housing project. The council will also discuss a possible ordinance to ban gasoline-powered blowers, review election procedures, and receive updates on county legislation and local projects.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 23-02 to amend Chapters 4, 5, and 28 of the Town Code to clarify applicability to residential vs. institutional lots
• Discussion of ordinance to prohibit gasoline-powered blowers (Chapter 16, Noise Control)
• Discussion of revised Town election procedures and possible ordinance to amend Chapter 8 (Elections)
• Supplemental appropriation for household organic waste collection
• Updates on Rosemary Triangle Park, Corso Chevy Chase, Bethesda Market Park, and Bethesda Downtown Plan

Community Relations Committee

The Community Relations Committee is meeting to discuss general business, including the use of a shared Google Calendar, a mid-year report-out scheduled for January 8, and a process for non-committee members to propose events. They will also review upcoming events such as the Holiday Bazaar, Holiday Sing-Along, and Book Club, and consider possible future events like a backyard nature talk and a concert series. The agenda is largely procedural and event-planning focused, with no major policy decisions or financial items.

• Mid-Year Report-Out scheduled for Monday, January 8, 7-8:30 pm
• Holiday Bazaar on Sunday, December 10, 2-4 pm at Acton Academy
• Holiday Sing-Along on Sunday, December 17, 4:45-6:30 pm
• Book Club on Monday, December 18, 7 pm, discussing 'In the Distance' by Herman Diaz
• New Neighbor Mixer on Sunday, January 21, 3 pm

Climate & Environment Committee

The Climate and Environment Committee will discuss the upcoming formal vote on a gas-powered leaf blower ban before the Town Council on Dec. 13, along with website updates, town tips, meeting timing, and plans for a spring Eco-Fest focused on home electrification.

• Gas-powered leaf blower ban formal vote before Town Council on Dec. 13
• Town website revision to highlight CEC priorities
• Plans for Spring Eco-Fest featuring home electrification opportunities and subsidies

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee is meeting to discuss and review multiple intersection improvement projects, traffic safety concerns, and the status of the Slow Down and Stop campaign. They will also receive updates from the Mayor on the Corso Chevy Chase parking and signal analysis, Purple Line construction, and East West Highway crossing progress.

• Valley Place near CCES intersection improvements
• Leland and East intersection improvements
• Bradley and Maple intersection traffic and safety concerns
• Walsh one-way update
• Corso Chevy Chase Parking and Signal Analysis update

Long-Range Planning Committee

The Long-Range Planning Committee will review minutes, discuss old business regarding the Farm Women's Market, and receive a presentation from Montgomery Planning on growth and infrastructure policy. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is primarily informational.

• Presentation on Growth and Infrastructure Policy by Montgomery Planning (Lisa Govoni and Darcy Buckley)
• Discussion of Farm Women's Market as old business

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a work session with the Elections Board to discuss proposed amendments to the Town Charter and Code regarding election regulations and procedures. They will also review changes to uncodified election procedures to ensure they reflect current practices.

• Proposed amendments to Town Charter and Code on election practices
• Review of uncodified election procedures
• Discussion of potential changes to election format

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public forum on a proposed full-year ban on gas-powered leaf blowers starting in 2024, then conduct a public hearing on an appeal of a denied tree removal permit for three hemlock trees at 4119 Rosemary Street. The council will also discuss the Corso Chevy Chase project, possible ordinance amendments, and the Purple Line.

• Public forum on gas-powered leaf blower ban (6 p.m.)
• Public hearing: Keating appeal of denied tree removal permit for 3 hemlocks at 4119 Rosemary Street
• Discussion of Corso Chevy Chase
• Discussion and possible introduction of ordinance to amend Chapters 4, 5, 28 of Town Code
• Discussion of Purple Line

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee will meet to discuss the project schedule and a development cap for Bethesda. The agenda also includes discussions regarding micro-bioretention planters and changes to the building code.

• Bethesda development cap
• Micro-bioretention planters
• Building code changes
• LUC project schedule

Community Relations Committee

The Community Relations Committee is meeting to plan upcoming community events, including a Holiday Bazaar, sing-along, and Chili Dinner. They will also discuss the mid-year report to the Town Council, a process for non-committee members to propose events, and updates on the Town Teens program. The agenda includes public comments and introductions.

• Mid-year report to Town Council, invitation sent by Mayor Irene Lane
• Process for non-committee members to recommend events
• Town Teens: two teens to co-lead, update list, assemble Welcome Bags
• Upcoming events: Holiday Bazaar Dec 2/3/9/10, Holiday Sing-Along Dec 10 or 17, Chili Dinner Feb 4 or 25
• Possible future event: addressing antisemitism, following County resolution

Town Council

The Town Council is holding a work session to discuss the Land Use Committee's tasks, priorities, and support. This is a discussion-only session with no formal decisions or votes scheduled.

• Discussion of Land Use Committee tasks, priorities, and support

Long-Range Planning Committee

The Long-Range Planning Committee is meeting to approve minutes and discuss old business items, including the Farm Women's Market and the Bethesda Overlay Zone. No new business is listed. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with the next meeting scheduled for November 16.

• Review of Farm Women's Market
• Discussion of Bethesda Overlay Zone
• Approval of meeting minutes

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee is meeting to discuss town intersection improvements, a traffic safety campaign, and updates from the mayor. They will review specific intersection projects and plan next steps for the Slow Down and Stop Campaign.

• Intersection improvements at Valley Place near CCES, Leland and East, and Bradley and Maple
• Slow Down and Stop Campaign: review resident feedback, plan newsletter article, and consider awareness table at Trash to Treasures or Fall Festival
• Update on Corso Chevy Chase Parking and Signal Analysis
• Purple Line Construction and Coquelin Run updates
• East West Highway Crossing progress

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to review the September 2023 financial report and the Town Manager's report. Discussions include development regulations for Corso Chevy Chase, Bethesda Market Park, and the Bethesda Overlay Zone.

• September 2023 Financial Report
• Corso Chevy Chase discussion
• Bethesda Market Park discussion
• Bethesda Overlay Zone (BOZ) discussion
• Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Ban/Enforcement discussion

Land Use Committee

The committee will hold discussions regarding a development cap in Bethesda, stormwater regulations, and changes to the building code. The meeting also includes a period for public comment and the approval of September minutes.

• Bethesda development cap discussion
• Stormwater issues and regulations review
• Building code changes discussion

Ethics Commission

The Town Ethics Commission is meeting to approve minutes, discuss unfinished business, and handle new business, including appointing an Open Meetings Act designee and reviewing roles and responsibilities. The agenda is largely procedural, with no substantive policy decisions listed.

• Appointment of Open Meetings Act Designee
• Overview of Roles and Responsibilities
• Approval of Minutes
• Set Agenda for Next Meeting

Long-Range Planning Committee

The Long-Range Planning Committee will review minutes, continue discussion on the Farm Women's Market, and look ahead to topics including the TOCC sign, vehicle access, and pedestrian routes. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Farm Women's Market discussion
• TOCC sign, vehicle access, pedestrian routes

Town Council

The Chevy Chase Town Council will hold public hearings on three variance requests: a speed hump on Thornapple Street, a front-yard fence at 4100 Aspen Street, and a retaining wall/driveway width variance at 6812 Meadow Lane. The Council will also discuss the Corso Chevy Chase development, including site access and stormwater management, plus a potential gas-powered leaf blower ban and other business.

• Public hearing on third speed hump for 3900/4000 Thornapple Street; traffic study did not meet thresholds but Council may approve with mitigating factors
• Front yard fence variance for Ed and Sandra Laycox at 4100 Aspen Street; 5-foot metal picket fence proposed
• Front yard retaining wall and driveway width variance for Nagi Ayad and Mona Zaki at 6812 Meadow Lane; driveway up to 13.5 feet and wall up to 4.4 feet proposed
• Discussion of Corso Chevy Chase site access and stormwater management concept plan
• Discussion of gas-powered leaf blower ban/enforcement

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will review updates on several transportation and infrastructure projects, including the Bradley Lane assessment, Corso Chevy Chase parking and signal analysis, Purple Line construction, and East West Highway crossing progress. They will also discuss the Slow Down and Stop campaign, including resident feedback, a newsletter article, and a possible awareness table at community events.

• Bradley Lane assessment update
• Corso Chevy Chase Parking and Signal Analysis update
• Purple Line Construction/Coquelin Run updates
• East West Highway Crossing progress
• Slow Down and Stop campaign next steps

Town Council

The Town Council is taking a site tour of an interactive water feature ("Sprayground") at Virginia Highlands Park in Arlington, VA. This is an informational visit, not a decision-making session, and no formal action is scheduled.

• Tour of Sprayground at Virginia Highlands Park, 1600 S Hayes Street, Arlington, VA

The Town Council met to tour "Spraygrounds" interactive water features at Virginia Highlands Park. No substantive legislative or administrative decisions were recorded.

Town Council

The Town Council is meeting in open session solely to vote on entering a closed session. The closed session would be to consult with counsel for legal advice on Town development regulations, as permitted under the Maryland Open Meetings Act. No other business is on the agenda.

• Vote to enter closed session for legal advice on development regulations

The Town Council entered a closed session to consult with counsel regarding Town development regulations. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for legal advice on development regulations (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a work session to discuss the Bethesda Market Park Project, followed by an open vote to enter a closed session to consult with counsel on Town development regulations.

• Discussion of Bethesda Market Park Project
• Vote to enter closed session for legal advice on development regulations

The Town Council held a work session to discuss the Bethesda Market Park project. The Council also entered a closed session to obtain legal advice regarding Town development regulations.

• Voted unanimously to enter closed session for legal advice on development regulations

Town Council

The Town Council held a work session to discuss a proposed complete ban on the use of gas-powered leaf blowers within the Town. No formal decisions or votes were recorded during this session.

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will review findings from the 'Slow Down and Stop' campaign, discuss a newsletter article, and revisit action items. They will also receive updates on the Corso Chevy Chase parking and signal analysis and Purple Line construction near Coquelin Run. The meeting includes routine approval of minutes and planning for the next meeting.

• Approval of June meeting minutes
• Slow Down and Stop Campaign: summary of findings and next steps
• Corso Chevy Chase Parking and Signal Analysis
• Purple Line Construction/Coquelin Run updates
• Discussion of September newsletter article

The Committee approved the June 20 meeting minutes and expressed support for the Town Manager's recommendation to install zebra striped crosswalks. Members discussed traffic safety on Bradley Lane and the Slow Down and Stop Campaign. The group also reviewed the Corso Chevy Chase Parking and Signal Analysis.

• Approved June 20, 2023 meeting minutes
• Supported installation of zebra striped crosswalks
• Agreed to maintain monthly meeting cadence for FY23-24 session

Town Council

The Chevy Chase Town Council is meeting on July 12, 2023, starting with a session with the State District 18 delegation, followed by general business including the June 2023 financial report and town manager's report. The main item is a variance hearing for a retaining wall at 4004 Underwood Street, continued from June 12. The council will also discuss Corso Chevy Chase, Bethesda Market Park, and an antisemitism resolution.

• Variance hearing for retaining wall at 4004 Underwood Street (height 2.8 feet, setback less than 2 feet)
• June 2023 Financial Report
• Discussion of Corso Chevy Chase
• Discussion of Bethesda Market Park
• Discussion of antisemitism resolution

The Council approved a variance for retaining wall setbacks at one residential address. Members also agreed to finalize an Antisemitism Awareness Resolution and coordinate with the State District 18 delegation regarding the Purple Line and Coquelin Run water flow.

• Approved variance for rear and side yard retaining wall setbacks at 4004 Underwood Street (4-0)
• Agreed to finalize and publicize Antisemitism Awareness Resolution
• Agreed to provide Coquelin Run water flow information to State District 18 delegation

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee is meeting to discuss stormwater issues and regulations. The agenda also includes public comment and approval of the June minutes. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of stormwater issues and regulations

The Committee agreed to a three-year inspection cycle for stormwater systems and the creation of a system database. Members discussed aligning drywell setbacks with County standards, with a vote scheduled for September. The June 5 meeting minutes were approved.

• Approved June 5 meeting minutes
• Agreed to a three-year stormwater system inspection cycle
• Agreed to create a database of stormwater system locations, installation dates, and inspections
• Agreed that stormwater inspections must be comprehensive, including downspout connections

Public Services Committee

The committee approved the installation of stop lights at two intersections on East/West Highway. Members discussed one-way traffic on 46th Street and the drying of Coquelin Run. The committee also reviewed sidewalk installation requirements and resident comments regarding the Safe Streets Community Project.

• Approved stop lights for East/West Highway at Chatham Road and Edgevale Road
• Approved May 16, 2023 meeting minutes

Long-Range Planning Committee

The Long-Range Planning Committee is meeting to approve minutes and discuss the Farm Women's Market under old business. No new business items are listed. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with adjournment and scheduling of the next meeting.

• Review of Farm Women's Market

The committee discussed cost reductions for the Farm Women's Market project and the potential use of ARPA reserves to cover inflation gaps. No formal votes were taken; the committee reviewed site plan timelines and potential cost-cutting measures such as avoiding undergrounding wires.

Town Council

The Town Council will hold public hearings on two variance requests for retaining walls that exceed the town's setback rules, then discuss crosswalk safety on East West Highway, a traffic proposal for 46th Street, and a meeting with the state delegation. The agenda also includes routine items like the May financial report and the town manager's report.

• Variance hearing: Gerlach, 4004 Underwood Street, rear/side yard retaining wall (2.5 ft max height) — modify prior variance
• Variance hearing: Love, 7011 Hillcrest Place, side yard retaining wall (4.5 ft max height)
• Discussion: East West Highway Corridor/Crosswalk Safety
• Discussion: 46th Street (between Leland Street and Walsh Street) traffic proposal
• Discussion: Meeting with State Delegation on July 12

The Council approved a side yard retaining wall variance for 7011 Hillcrest Place. It selected a specific traffic signal design for the East West Highway corridor and agreed to seek resident feedback on a proposed traffic change at 46th and Leland Streets.

• Approved side yard retaining wall setback variance at 7011 Hillcrest Place (unanimous)
• Continued variance hearing for rear yard retaining wall at 4004 Underwood Street
• Selected full-color traffic signal and marked crossing option for East West Highway corridor
• Agreed to solicit resident feedback on removing entry restriction from Leland Street to southbound 46th Street

Community Relations Committee

The Community Relations Committee is meeting to approve May minutes, hear public comments, and review past events. They will discuss upcoming events including a gun violence discussion, a concert, and the Fourth of July parade, plus potential future activities like a cooking competition and film series.

• Discussion & Desserts on the State of Gun Violence on June 8
• Rockville Concert Band Concert on June 11
• Fourth of July Parade and Celebration on July 4
• Possible future events: Happy Hour, Round House Theatre outings, compost/recycling workshop, cobbler competition, climate film series, gin-tasting, Lego event, talent show
• Strategy meeting scheduled for March 5 (noted for September meeting)

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee is holding a regular meeting with public comment, approval of May minutes, and a discussion of stormwater issues and regulations. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Public comment period
• Approval of May meeting minutes
• Discussion of stormwater issues and regulations

The Committee voted to recommend the Town rely on County soil typing tests instead of the Town's soil infiltration test to reduce costs for residents. Members also agreed to align Town dry well setback requirements with County standards, with potential exceptions for neighbor foundations. The Committee reached a consensus to maintain Town water drainage regulations rather than abandoning them in favor of County rules.

• Approved May 1 meeting minutes
• Voted to recommend replacing Town soil infiltration tests with County soil typing tests
• Agreed to align Town dry well setback requirements with County requirements
• Reached consensus to continue having Town water drainage regulations with revisions

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee is meeting to discuss traffic safety initiatives, including the Slow Down and Stop Campaign and safety concerns at CCES. They will also review a feasibility study for the 46th Street one-way section near Walsh St., and receive updates on Purple Line construction and the East-West Highway crosswalk.

• Slow Down and Stop Campaign updates and June newsletter article
• CCES safety concerns
• Feasibility study of 46th Street one-way section near Walsh St.
• Purple Line Construction/Coquelin Run updates
• East-West Highway Crosswalk updates

The Public Services Committee recommended a temporary pilot to reverse the one-way section of 46th Street near Walsh Street for 6 to 12 months. The committee also reviewed updates on the Slow Down and Stop Campaign and the East-West Highway Crosswalk design.

• Approved April 17, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended temporary one-way reversal pilot for 46th Street near Walsh St
• Confirmed installation of a red light at the East-West Highway Crosswalk

Town Council

The Council appointed its officers and committee liaisons and approved a National Gun Violence Awareness Proclamation. The body also held a closed session to obtain legal advice on Town development regulations.

• Appointed Council officers (unanimous)
• Appointed Council liaisons to Town committees (unanimous)
• Approved National Gun Violence Awareness Proclamation (unanimous)
• Voted to enter closed session for legal advice on development regulations (unanimous)

Community Relations Committee

The Chevy Chase Community Relations Committee is meeting to approve April 2023 minutes, hear public comments, and review past and upcoming community events. They will discuss planned activities including a book club, live music, a garden celebration, and a June discussion on gun violence. Possible future events such as a gin-tasting, Lego event, talent show, and Fourth of July celebration are also on the agenda.

• Approval of April 2023 minutes
• Review of April events: CPR training, theatre performance, town coffee, spring festival
• Upcoming events: Book Club (May 8), Live Music (May 11), Dennison Garden Celebration (May 13), The Great Zucchini (May 21)
• Discussion & Desserts on the State of Gun Violence (June 8)
• Possible future events: gin-tasting, Lego event, talent show, cooking competition, Fourth of July, climate film series

Town Council

The Chevy Chase Town Council is holding its annual meeting to discuss and potentially adopt the FY24 budget and tax rates. The agenda includes a State of the Town address by Mayor Barney Rush, a budget presentation by Councilmember and Treasurer Irene Lane, and a public hearing on the budget and tax rates. No specific dollar amounts or tax rate figures are listed in the agenda.

• State of the Town address by Mayor Barney Rush
• FY24 Budget Presentation by Councilmember & Treasurer Irene Lane
• Public Hearing on FY24 Budget and Tax Rates
• Discussion and Possible Adoption of FY24 Budget and Tax Rates

The Town Council held a public hearing and voted to adopt the proposed FY24 budget and tax rates. Delegate Jared Solomon provided a summary of the 2023 state legislative session.

• Adopted FY24 budget ordinance (unanimous)

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee is meeting virtually to discuss stormwater issues and regulations with a CAS consultant. The agenda also includes public comment and approval of the April minutes. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of stormwater issues and regulations with CAS consultant
• Public comment period
• Approval of April meeting minutes

The Committee met with consultant Jeff Robertson to discuss potential modifications to the Town’s water drainage regulations. No changes were decided; the Committee will review written recommendations at the June meeting.

• Approved April meeting minutes

Long-Range Planning Committee

The Long-Range Planning Committee is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and discussing the Farm Women's Market as old business. Members are expected to vote on an unspecified matter by May 2nd, and the committee will also prepare for the Town's Annual Meeting on May 2nd at 7pm. The agenda is mostly procedural with limited detail on the items under discussion.

• Vote on an unspecified item due by May 2nd
• Annual Meeting of the Town on May 2nd at 7pm
• Discussion of Farm Women's Market
• Next meeting scheduled for June 15, 2023 at 6:45pm in Town Hall

The committee discussed resident feedback regarding FWM Park, including dog parks and green space. They decided to identify the top 10 most frequent comments to include in a one-page memo to the Town Council by May 10.

• Adopted meeting minutes
• Decided to create a one-page memo of top 10 frequent comments for Town Council by May 10

Town Council

The Town Council will vote to enter closed session to discuss personnel matters, then hold a regular meeting covering general business and several council discussions. Key items include a proposal from the Climate and Environment Committee to extend the current 9.5-month ban on gas-powered leaf blowers to a full year, with new fines of $100 and $200 for repeat violations. Other discussions include the Corso Chevy Chase rezoning/redevelopment, Bethesda Market Park development and survey, naming a new Zimmerman Park path, water flow in Coquelin Run, and an antisemitism awareness resolution.

• Proposal to ban gas-powered leaf blowers year-round, with fines of $100 (second offense) and $200 (third offense)
• Corso Chevy Chase rezoning/redevelopment discussion
• Bethesda Market Park development and park amenities survey
• Naming new Zimmerman Park path for Scott Fosler
• Antisemitism awareness resolution

The Council unanimously voted to name a new pathway in Zimmerman Park to honor Scott Fosler. Other actions included agreeing to finalize rezoning documents for Corso Chevy Chase and planning a meeting regarding water flow in Coquelin Run.

• Voted unanimously to name the new Zimmerman Park pathway for Scott Fosler
• Agreed to finalize and submit rezoning documents to Corso Chevy Chase for ratification
• Agreed to send redacted resident survey comments on park amenities to the Parks Department
• Agreed to host a meeting with residents and County/State officials regarding Coquelin Run water flow
• Agreed to continue discussion on gas-powered leaf blower ban in May
• Agreed to encourage other municipalities to sign the Antisemitism Awareness Resolution

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will review March minutes, discuss the Slow Down and Stop campaign including a May newsletter article, and consider a feasibility study for the 46th Street one-way section near Walsh St. They will also receive updates on Purple Line construction/Coquelin Run and East-West Highway crosswalk improvements. Most items are discussion topics, with no final decisions listed on the agenda.

• Approval of March meeting minutes
• Slow Down and Stop Campaign updates and May newsletter article
• Feasibility study of 46th Street one-way section near Walsh St.
• Purple Line Construction/Coquelin Run updates
• East-West Highway Crosswalk updates

The Public Services Committee discussed the 46th Street one way section and recommended it remain one way, though they requested an assessment of reversing the direction as a temporary pilot. The committee also reviewed the Slow Down and Stop Campaign and received an update on the Coquelin Run water flow assessment.

• Approved March 21, 2023 meeting minutes with amendments
• Recommended 46th Street section near Walsh St. remain one way
• Requested Town assess impacts of reversing one way direction on 46th Street
• Recommended any 46th Street direction changes be implemented as a 6-12 month temporary pilot

Community Relations Committee

The Chevy Chase Community Relations Committee is meeting to approve March minutes, hear public comments, and review past and upcoming community events. They will discuss planning for spring activities including a CPR training, a spring festival, and possible future events like a gin-tasting and a program on gun violence.

• Approval of March 2023 minutes
• CPR Training & Certification by American Red Cross on April 16
• Spring Festival in Partnership with Lawton Center on April 30
• Dennison Garden Celebration on May 13
• Discussion on possible future events including gun violence program

The Committee approved a singer-songwriter event for May 11 with a $650 guarantee. Members also coordinated logistics for the April 30 Spring Festival and several upcoming community events.

• Approved March 2023 minutes
• Approved singer-songwriter event for May 11 with $650 guarantee
• Decided against having a TOCC table at the April 30 Spring Festival
• Approved $300 for BCC Jazz Band for Spring Festival
• Approved $150 for Clayboys for Spring Festival
• Approved $200 for cups for Spring Festival
• Scheduled Kentucky Derby event for May 6
• Scheduled Rockville Concert Band for June 11

Town Council

The Town Council will vote to enter a closed session to discuss personnel matters, then hold a work session to introduce an ordinance adopting the FY24 budget and tax rates. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for May 2, 2023.

• Vote to enter closed session for personnel discussions
• Introduction of ordinance to adopt FY24 budget and tax rates
• Public hearing on budget and tax rates on May 2, 2023

The Town Council voted to introduce an ordinance adopting the FY24 budget and tax rates. A public hearing on these items is scheduled for May 2, 2023. The Council also held a closed session to discuss personnel matters.

• Voted 4-0 to introduce ordinance adopting FY24 budget and tax rates
• Voted unanimously to enter closed session to discuss personnel matters

Land Use Committee

The Committee reviewed points from consultant Jeff Robertson and drafted questions for him to answer at the May 1 meeting. Members discussed potential methods to increase resident awareness of drainage system maintenance. The minutes from the March meeting were approved.

• Approved March meeting minutes as edited
• Drafted questions for consultant Jeff Robertson

Town Council

The Chevy Chase Town Council is meeting solely to vote on entering a closed session. The closed session is authorized under Maryland's Open Meetings Act to discuss personnel matters, including appointment, employment, compensation, or performance evaluation of town officials and employees. The agenda contains no other business items.

• Vote to enter closed session under Maryland Open Meetings Act Section 3-305(b)(1)
• Closed session topic: personnel matters (appointment, employment, compensation, evaluation)
• Meeting held via Zoom and phone; Meeting ID 301 654 7144

The Town Council met in a closed session to discuss personnel matters, including the Town Manager's employment agreement. No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session other than the vote to enter the closed session.

• Approved motion to enter closed session to discuss personnel matters (unanimous)

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee will review February minutes, discuss the Slow Down and Stop Campaign including a newsletter article, and receive updates on Purple Line construction and East-West Highway crosswalk improvements.

• Approval of February meeting minutes
• Slow Down and Stop Campaign updates and newsletter article
• Purple Line Construction/Coquelin Run updates
• East-West Highway Crosswalk updates

The committee approved the minutes from the February 21, 2023 meeting. Members discussed updates on the Montgomery County Safe Streets Act, a feasibility study for 46th Street, and the installation of a red light at the East West crossing. The committee also finalized the launch of the Slow Down and Stop Campaign for the April newsletter.

• Approved February 21, 2023 meeting minutes

Town Council

The Town Council is holding a work session to discuss the proposed FY24 budget. This is a discussion item, not a final decision, and no other business is listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of proposed FY24 budget

Town Council

The Chevy Chase Town Council is meeting solely to vote on entering a closed session to discuss personnel matters, including the appointment, employment, compensation, or performance evaluation of town officials or employees. The meeting is procedural and contains no other agenda items.

• Vote to enter closed session under Maryland Open Meetings Act Section 3-305(b)(1) for personnel discussions

The Town Council voted unanimously to enter a closed session to discuss personnel matters, including the Town Manager's employment agreement. No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (unanimous)

Town Council

The Chevy Chase Town Council will hold a regular meeting that includes a discussion with Montgomery County Council President Evan Glass, a public comment period on FY24 budget priorities, and two variance hearings for residential additions. The Council will also discuss several development projects and consider a resolution on antisemitism awareness for county municipalities.

• Variance hearing: Sindall, 4312 Stanford Street, rear yard setback
• Variance hearing: Candler, 3911 Virgilia Street, wall plane length and side yard setback
• Discussion: Corso Chevy Chase Redevelopment
• Discussion: Farm Women's Market Parks Development
• Discussion: Antisemitism Awareness Resolution

The Council approved two property variance requests and a draft Antisemitism Awareness Resolution. Members also discussed a potential $1 million grant for the Bethesda Market Park project and a proposal to name a park pathway after former Mayor Scott Fosler.

• Approved rear yard setback variance at 4312 Stanford Street (unanimous)
• Approved wall plane length and side yard setback variances at 3911 Virgilia Street (unanimous)
• Approved draft Antisemitism Awareness Resolution for distribution to County municipalities
• Requested engineer review feasibility of converting 46th Street to two-way traffic between Leland Street and Walsh Street

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee is meeting to hear public comment, approve February minutes, and discuss stormwater issues and regulations. The agenda is brief and contains no specific proposals or decisions.

• Public comment
• Approval of February minutes
• Discussion of stormwater issues and regulations

The Committee reviewed a draft proposal to hire an engineering company to consult on water issues and drainage ordinances. Members agreed to add language seeking consultant suggestions on reducing applicant burdens and aligning regulations with County requirements.

• Approved February 6 meeting minutes
• Agreed to modify draft proposal for engineering consultant to include input on drainage ordinance burdens and County alignment
• Approved revised template for tabulating water engineer report information

Community Relations Committee

The Community Relations Committee met to approve the February 2023 minutes and accept public comments. The agenda focused on reviewing events held in February, such as the Town Coffee and Tiki Party, and outlining upcoming activities for March, April, and May. No binding decisions, contracts, or ordinances were listed on the agenda.

• Approval of February 2023 minutes
• Upcoming event: Chili Dinner on March 12
• Upcoming event: CPR Training by American Red Cross on April 16
• Upcoming event: Spring Festival in partnership with the Lawton Center on April 30
• Discussion of Welcome Bags contents and Winter Clothing Drive updates

Public Services Committee

The Public Services Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the 5G Telecom Working Group, the Slow Down and Stop Campaign, Purple Line construction, crosswalk updates, and bicycle topics. They will also consider resident concerns about traffic backups and prohibited entry on Connecticut Ave. streets, and discuss recruitment strategies for new members.

• Slow Down and Stop Campaign implementation and radar speed board/LED stop sign procedure
• Planned bike lane on 47th Street and access to Purple Line
• Consider adding Do Not Enter sign at Elm Street Park for wrong-way bikers
• Traffic backup on Bradley at Wisconsin intersection
• Prohibited entry to Connecticut Ave. streets in the morning

The committee approved the December 13, 2022 meeting minutes. Members discussed the 'Slow Down and Stop Campaign' and the impact of radar speed boards on West St. The committee also reviewed updates on Purple Line construction and East-West Highway crosswalk safety.

• Approved December 13, 2022 meeting minutes
• Town Council approved purchase of 4 additional LED stop signs
• Town Council modified resident request procedure to include LED stop signs or radar speed boards
• PSC to draft response memorandum to residents of Ridge, Stanford, and West regarding traffic complaints
• PSC to start a 'Slow Down and Stop Campaign' column in the Forecast in April
• PSC to provide a feedback form on the Town website for residents

Town Council

The Chevy Chase Town Council will hold a work session to review Zimmerman Park construction plans, followed by a regular meeting that includes a public hearing on a variance request for a retaining wall at 4004 Underwood Street. The Council will also discuss the Corso Chevy Chase redevelopment, Farm Women's Market parks development, Purple Line updates, Capital Crescent Trail Tunnel, a radar speed board/LED stop sign policy, and an antisemitism statement.

• Variance hearing for Kristin Gerlach, 4004 Underwood Street, for a 2-foot retaining wall on the rear property line (code allows max 1 foot within 2 feet of rear lot line)
• Discussion of Corso Chevy Chase redevelopment, including building height reductions, parking analysis, and traffic study
• Review of proposed radar speed board/LED stop sign installation and removal policy
• Discussion of Farm Women's Market parks development and Purple Line update
• Review of Zimmerman Park improvement construction plans

The Council approved the final design for Zimmerman Park improvements and a new Radar Speed Board/LED Stop Sign Policy. A variance for a retaining wall at 4004 Underwood Street was also approved. The Council agreed to support the rezoning application for 7100 Connecticut Avenue.

• Approved final design for Zimmerman Park improvements
• Approved variance for rear yard retaining wall setback at 4004 Underwood Street (unanimous)
• Approved Radar Speed Board/LED Stop Sign Policy (unanimous)
• Approved sending letter of support for House Bill 459 (unanimous)
• Agreed to support rezoning application for 7100 Connecticut Avenue
• Agreed to send letter of support for County's federal grant request for CCT Tunnel
• Declined to engage in selection of new Planning Board members
• Postponed discussion on Antisemitism statement

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee is meeting virtually to discuss stormwater issues and regulations. The agenda also includes public comment and approval of the January minutes. No specific decisions or proposals are listed.

• Public comment period
• Approval of January minutes
• Discussion of stormwater issues and regulations

The committee decided to request funds from the Town Council to hire a consultant to align Town stormwater regulations with county requirements. Members also agreed to continue analyzing water engineer reports, focusing on construction impacts and the efficacy of drainage plans.

• Approved January 9, 2023 meeting minutes
• Decided to request Town Council funds for a stormwater regulation consultant
• Decided to continue analyzing water engineer reports with a focus on construction and drainage plan failures

Community Relations Committee

The Community Relations Committee is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comments, and review past and upcoming community events. They will also discuss possible future events, including a proposed discussion on decarbonization and ideas for the community to address recent antisemitism.

• Approval of January 2023 minutes
• Upcoming events: Groundhog Day Family Fun (Feb 3), Monthly Town Coffee (Feb 7), Scavenger Hunt and Playdate in the Park (Feb 19), Tiki Party (Feb 24), Book Group (Feb 27)
• CPR Training and Certification by American Red Cross (March 5)
• Possible future events: Chili Dinner, Spring Festival with Lawton Center, Dennison Garden Celebration, Discussion & Desserts with Mayor Barney Rush on decarbonization
• Discussion of ideas for community to address recent antisemitism

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public forum to hear residents' comments on the final rezoning plan for 7100 Connecticut Avenue and its binding elements. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for public input only.

• Public forum on final rezoning plan for 7100 Connecticut Avenue
• Discussion of binding elements related to the rezoning plan

Long-Range Planning Committee

The Long-Range Planning Committee will meet to adopt minutes, receive an update on the Farm Women's Market, and discuss new business including Little Falls Parkway changes, Planning Board nominees, and a Countering Anti-Semitism Pilot Program. The meeting is scheduled for January 26, 2023.

• Update on Farm Women's Market
• Little Falls Parkway changes (pilot project)
• Planning Board nominees (two who resigned in fall try to regain seats)
• Countering Anti-Semitism Pilot Program

The committee unanimously decided to support advocating for the return of Capital Improvement Program funds for a tunnel. The committee also recommended that the town council support the termination of the Little Falls Parkway park project.

• Unanimously decided to support advocating for money to be returned to CIP for the tunnel
• Recommended supporting the termination of the Little Falls Parkway park

Town Council

The Town Council will hold discussions on several items, including the Corso Chevy Chase redevelopment, Farm Women's Market parks development, Zimmerman Park improvements, a proposed Rosemary Garden native garden at Rosemary Triangle, and a Slow Down and Stop campaign. The Council will also review the utility work and street resurfacing schedule, which includes WSSC water main replacements and paving plans for 2023-2024. Public comments and the December 2022 financial report are also on the agenda.

• Rosemary Garden concept paper proposes renovating Rosemary Triangle with native plants, benches, pathways, and possible sculpture
• WSSC water main replacement scheduled for Leland, Thornapple, and part of Meadow Lane in summer/fall 2023
• Aspen and Woodbine Streets to be resurfaced in 2023 due to poor condition
• Oakridge Avenue resurfacing planned but may be delayed by County storm drain work
• Corso Chevy Chase redevelopment and Farm Women's Market parks development discussions

The Council approved a supplemental appropriation for LED stop signs and agreed to implement a Slow Down and Stop Campaign. Members discussed the rezoning application for 7100 Connecticut Avenue and scheduled a resident forum for January 30. The Council also reviewed updates on the Farm Women’s Market parks project and Zimmerman Park renovations.

• Approved $10K supplemental appropriation for four LED stop signs (Unanimous)
• Agreed to implement Slow Down and Stop Campaign
• Agreed to schedule Town forum on January 30 regarding 7100 Connecticut Avenue rezoning
• Agreed to request cost estimates for utility undergrounding options at Farm Women’s Market project
• Agreed to preliminary survey work for Rosemary Garden renovation
• Accepted financial report

Land Use Committee

The Land Use Committee is holding a virtual meeting to discuss stormwater issues and regulations. The agenda also includes public comment and approval of the December minutes.

• Discussion of stormwater issues and regulations

The committee reviewed differences between Town and County stormwater ordinances and discussed difficulties in enforcing drainage system maintenance. Members explored potential solutions for notifying new homeowners of drainage plans and adjusting inspection frequencies.

• Approved December meeting minutes

Climate & Environment Committee

The Climate & Environment Committee is meeting to approve minutes, discuss a February forecast tip, and focus on priorities and transition planning for the coming year. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals detailed.

• Call to Order & Minutes Approval
• Forecast Tip for February 2023
• Priorities & Transition Planning
• Reminders, Comments & Questions

The committee approved the previous month's minutes and agreed to move to bi-monthly full meetings. Members established three sub-teams to handle specific priorities: Rosemary Garden, Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers, and Electrification.

• Approved previous month's meeting minutes
• Decided to hold full committee meetings every other month
• Formed Gas-Powered Leaf Blower sub-team led by Chris Files
• Formed Electrification sub-team led by Alice Horowitz
• Formed Rosemary Garden sub-committee

Community Relations Committee

The Community Relations Committee is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comments, and review past and upcoming community events. They will discuss December events, plan January activities, and consider possible future events. The committee will also receive updates on welcome bags and the holiday gift drive.

• Approval of December 2022 minutes
• Review of December events including Theatre Night and Holiday Sing-along
• Planning for January events including Book Club and Monthly Town Coffee
• Discussion of possible future events like wine-tasting, Chili Dinner, and Progressive Dinner
• Updates on Welcome Bags and Holiday Gift Drive

The committee approved the December 2022 minutes and coordinated a schedule of community events for January and February. Members decided to cancel a planned Chili Dinner and defer the Progressive Dinner and adult movie nights.

• Approved December 2022 minutes
• Decided not to pursue Chili Dinner due to attendance and staffing concerns
• Deferred Progressive Dinner to the Fall
• Deferred Movie Night for Adults pending a lead
• Decided not to pursue Chevy Chase @ Home Programming
• Agreed to repeat group purchases for theatre shows