Minutes of Special Meeting on July 12, 2013

9909 Baltimore Avenue

This meeting was requested to discuss possible purchase of 9909 Baltimore Avenue, which has been vacant for many years. A handout prepared by City staff with background information about the property and its zoning was distributed

The meeting began at 7:30 pm. Ilya Zusin presented the status of the development project, and the unlikely prospects for development under existing zoning for the foreseeable future. Considerable discussion, questions and answers followed about the feasibility and appropriateness of the City to purchase the property using program open space money.

The acquisition cost of the property would be determined by appraisals, but is now assessed at $635,900. The City does not have that sum in Program Open Space funds at this time. Acquisition using Program Open Space funds could prevent any possibility of commercial or residential development.

Several motions were made by NCPCA members regarding the purchase of the property with Open Space funds, but none were approved. Councilmembers Wojahn and Kabir will continue to monitor this property, and pursue ideas to develop or acquire it.

Connector Highway and U.M. Golf Course

A letter of U.M. President Loh to a prospective developer of the U.M. Golf Course and construction of a new bypass highway from I-495 to U.M. was discussed. NCPCA has previously opposed a bypass, since it would draw focus and funding away from plans to reconstruct US 1. No motions regarding NCPCA position were considered. Jackie-Pearce Garrett will serve as liaison to a group of concerned civic groups to monitor this issue.

Crime Statistics

Major Brewer and Officer Lubin of P.G. County Police presented information about crime statistics, recent thefts from automobiles in North College park, and warnings about scams involving house parties in nearby areas.

Minutes of June were not approved. Jackie Pearce Garrett provided a Treasurer’s report.

Submitted by John Krouse