Commissioner Christopher Staiger, President of the Board of
Commissioners, called the July 21, 2008 Town Meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Approval of Minutes The Minutes of the July 7, 2008 Town Meeting approved as presented.
Commissioner Comments
Commissioner Etris announced the upcoming concert in the park.
Mayor’s Comments
Reported that the first pool party went well and that FEMA will restore guards at entrance.
Town Manager Report -Administrative Business
Detailed report on the public works department monthly activities to include a water production and consumption analysis at Exhibit A.
Mr. Haller pointed out that the beautification of the earthmound at East Main Street/Emmit Gardens has been completed and that water levels are good at Rainbow Lake. In
discussion upon Commissioner Staiger’s inquiry regarding water and sewer status, it was reported that smoke tests were successful and identified several locations to
address.
Commissioner Sweeney commented that the completed median at Silo Hill Road looks great and also requested a grill to be installed in Silo Hill Park.
Town Planner Sue Cipperly fielded questions re Flat Run and tree trimming.
Commissioner Etris expressed concern about the trash dumpster in Community Park being too close to handicapped parking and broken glass bottles around the tennis courts.
Commissioner Sweeney issued thanks to the sheriff’s department’s activity on the junior deputy academy and parades, community events, etc. this past month.
Reports:
Police Report - Corporal Grunwell. Announced that DFC Sutton will be the temporary fill-in for serving reservist DFC
Gast. Detailed report at Exhibit B.
Agenda Items
Dedicated Parking Meter
Emmitsburg Osteopathic Primary Care Center requested a special annual parking permit for meter #197 at 121-123 West Main Street. No
opposition to removing the required $10 fee as was done years ago in the same situation.
Motion: To approve the request for a dedicated parking space at 121-123 West Main Street with no annual fee and with
conditions as outlined by the town manager in his presentation.
Motion by Commissioner Staiger, second by Commissioner Etris
Vote: 3-0 in favor
Ordinance 08-07 – Sidewalk Obstruction
As a means to support local business, it has been requested to incorporate a Code section regulating allowed sidewalk usage. The town manager
stated that staff and attorney have reviewed existing uses and other requested uses, and support those of a reasonable use not abusive to the Town. This also addresses
placing a canopy over stoops, both applications enhancing business and residents in town. Commissioner Staiger expressed concern that barriers would limit space
Motion - To change section 12.10.030 item B, #1 to read "The sidewalk café shall consist solely of tables,
chairs, and/or umbrellas." – strike everything after umbrellas.
Motion by Commissioner Staiger, second by Commissioner Etris.
Vote: 3-0 in favor
Motion - to strike full text of item #2, section 12.10.030 B re daily removal of items.
Motion by Commissioner Staiger, second by Commissioner Sweeney.
Vote: 3-0 in favor
Re 12.10.040 permit required – need to define "such required fees": $20 was discussed as Motion - to set the annual permit fee for sidewalk cafes and
displays at $20.
Motion by Commissioner Sweeney, second by Commissioner Etris.
Vote: 3-0 in favor
Motion – to approve proposed ordinance 08-07 adding Section 12.10 Obstruction and Use of Sidewalks to Title 12 of the Code of
Emmitsburg, as amended.
Motion by Commissioner Sweeney, second by Commissioner Etris.
Vote: 3-0 in favor
Discussion of Possible Sign Ordinance Revisions
Sue Cipperly stated that the sign ordinance is a work in progress and asked Council if there were any particular items to address.
Mayor Hoover addressed umbrellas and Clifford Sweeney inquired about awnings. Commissioner Staiger commented that, in the village zone, there needs to be balance so one
particular use doesn’t overwhelm the other uses.
Set Agenda Items for next Meeting
- Annexation application-Brookfield Irishtown Road parcel, 7 foot opening connecting town property.
Public Comments
Tim O’Donnell, 4105 Carrick Court - thanks to town manager for firm hand with the pool company, and to the Sheriff’s
department for the bike rodeo and junior deputy event. Informed town of bike event –Cycle across Maryland to include different rides, different events on multiple days.
Would like to have them include Emmitsburg as a point of interest and would like to offer town support and participation. July 24, 25, 26, 27.
Adjournment
