All posts by Ryan Kelly

News Alert, Public Notices

Get your bike ready for the season: Free Bike Repair Pop-Ups Spring 2024

Bike Werks will be onsite to perform brake adjustments, derailleur adjustments, lubrication and tire inflation  at no charge.

If parts are needed (brake pads, cables, tubes, chains, etc…), they will be available to buy onsite, and installation of those parts is covered by your home town City of Takoma Park!

Where will we be?
  • The Crossroads Farmers Market
    April: 24, May: 1, 8 & 15, between 10:30AM to 2:30PM
  • The Takoma Park Farmers Market
    (by the bike rack closest to the entrance)
    May: 5 & 12, between 10:00AM to 2:00PM
You can also stop by on Bike to Work Day!

Bike Werks will also be out on Bike to Work Day on May 17 at two pit stops:

  • Sligo Creek Trail & New Hampshire Avenue crossing – East Side     7:00AM to 9:30AM
  • Takoma/Langley Crossroads – 7676 New Hampshire Ave
    6:30AM to 9:00AM

Hope to see you there!

News Alert, Public Notices

Community Quality of Life Grant Program Now Accepting Applications

 

The City of Takoma Park’s Community Quality of Life Grants Program provides financial support for specific programs, projects, and events that improve the quality of life for City residents by providing greater access and opportunities for participation in the arts and sciences.

Nonprofit organizations serving residents of Takoma Park are encouraged to apply for funding to support Arts, STEM, or STEAM programs that will take place between July 1. 2024 and June 30, 2025. 

Grant Details
  • Awards will range from $5,000 to $10,000, with a total of $50,000 available in the grant pool.
  • The deadline for applications is 11:59 pm, Friday, May 10, 2024. Grantees will be announced prior to July 1, 2024.
  • Visit the Community Quality of Life Grant Program page for more details on eligibility and to apply.

Questions? Email the City’s grants coordinator at grants@takomaparkmd.gov or call 301-891-7235.

News Alert, Public Notices

Montgomery County Council approves Takoma Park Minor Master Plan Amendment

From Montgomery Planning (M-NCPPC)

On April 2, the Montgomery County Council voted to approve the Takoma Park Minor Master Plan Amendment!

The plan preserves and expands affordable housing and advances economic development and employment opportunities in a section of the City of Takoma Park from the Takoma Park Community Center in the west to the Erie Center and Washington Adventist University and the former Washington Adventist Hospital site in the east.

Read Montgomery Planning’s press release about the plan’s approval for more information. Read the Takoma Park City Council’s March 22, 2024, letter of support for the plan.

Watch the Council Vote
Montgomery County Council video thumbnail
Highlights of the plan’s recommendations
Land Use, Zoning and Housing
  • For compatible future development flexibility, recommend residential and commercial mixed-use zoning for properties on and around Washington Adventist campus and along Maple Avenue.
  • Highlight new and existing strategies for compatibility of new development with the surrounding communities.
Improved Connectivity
  • Incorporate a well-lit, walkable Green Promenade from Town Hall to the Washington Adventist campus.
  • Seek opportunities for a micro-mobility hub for better multi-modal access.
Environmental Resiliency
  • Support the city’s Stormwater Management Program to improve Sligo Creek water quality and reduce untreated runoff and flooding.
  • Provide methods to reduce impervious surfaces.
  • Minimize urban heat islands by incorporating cooling elements like street trees and shaded seating areas into the streetscape.
Parks and Open Space
  • Provide for significant new public open space on the Washington Adventist campus.
  • Enhance the ecological health and performance of Sligo Creek Stream Valley Park.
Historic Preservation
  • List the Heffner Park Community Center, Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church, and Krestview sites on the Master Plan for Historic Preservation.
  • Study Takoma Park’s historic African American neighborhoods for potential future listing on the Master Plan for Historic Preservation and/or the National Register of Historic Places.
The plan also focuses on racial equity and social justice
Advancing racial equity and social justice is woven into the plan with specific recommendations to:
  • Prioritize no net loss of affordable housing by prioritizing existing residents, recommending a diversity of unit type, preserving the number of existing affordable units, and upgrading existing affordable units.
  • Propose the development of new housing with inclusive affordability.
  • Increase access to parks, open space, community gardens, and local healthy food production.
  • Promote cultural heritage and diversity of the community and further explore its past.
  • Connect the community through increased mobility options.
  • Support the creation of new diverse and welcoming public spaces.
  • Provide ways to combat environmental inequities.
  • Increase access to the existing transit network to help reduce reliance on single occupancy vehicles and provide all residents, regardless of car ownership, access to employment and other destinations.

 

Public Notices, Takoma Park Newsletter

Acting Deputy Managers Named to Permanent Roles

by Sean Gossard

New Takoma Park City Manager Robert DiSpirito announced a slate of promotions last month, moving two acting deputy city managers into permanent positions and naming a director of Housing & Community Development.

David Eubanks will serve as permanent deputy city manager for external operations—including overseeing the Housing & Community Development, Public Works, Library, and Recreation departments—while also being the first go-to to serve as acting city manager during any of DiSpirito’s temporary absences.

“I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to continue supporting the City of Takoma Park as deputy city manager,” Eubanks said. “I have had the privilege of serving in a number of roles during my three-year tenure, including deputy director of Public Works, director of Housing & Community Development, and acting city manager. In each instance, I have been able to expand my understanding of the city’s operations and work collaboratively with our knowledgeable and hardworking staff. I believe my experience thus far will be beneficial  in my new role overseeing the City’s primarily external facing departments.”

DiSpirito also announced that Andrew  Bolduc will serve as the city’s deputy city manager for internal operations—Human Resources, Information Technology, Communications, and staff liaison to the city attorney and labor attorney.

“It has been a great honor to serve Takoma Park as its acting deputy city man-ager over the past several months,” Bolduc said.  “I am thrilled at the opportunity to continue to work with Robert, David, [Executive Assistant to the City Manager] Christine [Heidebrecht], and the exceptional senior leadership team on the many critical projects and innovative initiatives that will help bring this organization and community forward.”

Bolduc will also serve as acting city manager in the event that DiSpirito and Eubanks are unavailable.

“David and Andrew, as you well know, work closely and very well, productively and professionally together,” DiSpirito said in an email announcing the news. “This structure of two deputies provides parity and is one that both David and Andrew favor as well. I believe that the three of us will serve as a strong administrative team. David and Andrew will have the authority to make decisions on behalf of departments when requested or needed by the departments. They will consult with me when a matter has financial or policy implications or is particularly complex, or should it be their desire to speak with me.  I have great confidence in their professional judgment and abilities.”

The moves are expected to be cost-neutral, according to DiSpirito, as two other open positions—policy analyst and ARPA manager—won’t need to be filled.

DiSpirito also announced that Ira Kowler will take on the role of permanent director of Housing & Community Development after serving as the acting director for the past year and will report directly to Eubanks.

“Ira has performed very well this past year in the acting HCD director role while still covering his economic development duties,” said DiSpirito. “He has the enthusiastic support of his department staff, works quite well with the senior leadership team, and has earned this opportunity. His knowledge of planning, housing, and eco-nomic development, in particular, coupled with his productivity, will continue to serve us well.”

This article appeared in the April Edition of the Takoma Park Newsletter. Check out this article and more on the City webpage.

News, Takoma Park Newsletter

Roll into Spring, Safely and Sustainably

by Kaysi-Ann Webley, Special Projects Coordinator

As the vibrant colors of spring blossom around us, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the joys of walking and cycling to school or work and for leisure. Spring is an ideal season for embracing sustainable and active commuting options. Let’s review the importance of seasonal safety checks and how we can collectively contribute to a greener future during Earth Month.

1. Embrace the Spring Advantage: Spring brings longer days, milder temperatures, and refreshing breezes that beckon us outdoors. It’s an opportune time to encourage our students and remind ourselves to walk or cycle to school or work, reaping the benefi ts of increased physical activity and getting a positive start to the day.

2. Seasonal Safety Checks for Safer Routes: Just as we prepare our homes for the changing seasons, it’s essential to conduct safety checks for bicycles and pedestrian pathways. Ensure that bikes are in good condition by inspecting the ABC’s: Air in tires is sufficient; Brakes are not worn; Chains and cranks are not loose, rusted, or gunked up. In addition, make sure that your bike has functioning lights and bells. Pedestrians should be sure to use sidewalks, pathways, and crosswalks. Please report issues to 311 or online using MY-TKPK so that issues can be addressed to create and maintain safer routes throughout our city.

3. Navigating Changing Weather Conditions: As temperatures fluctuate during spring, it’s crucial to be prepared for changing weather conditions. Dress in layers, wear refl ective gear, and carry rain gear on cloudy days. Remember to be mindful of wet surfaces, especially after rain, and to always follow traffi c rules. By instilling and adopting good habits, we will be ready to navigate safely through any weather.

4. Earth Day and Eco-Friendly Commuting: As Earth Day approaches on April 22, let’s refl ect on the environmental impact of our daily choices. Walking and cycling to school and work contrib-ute signifi cantly to reducing our carbon footprint. These sustainable modes of transportation not only improve air quality but also foster a sense of envi-ronmental responsibility among our youth. This Earth Day, let’s commit to making a positive impact by embracing eco-friendly commuting initiatives.

5. Call to Action: Implementing Eco-Friendly Commuting: We urge resi-dents, schools, and businesses to come together to support eco-friendly commuting initiatives. Consider organizing walking or cycling events, establishing bike-sharing programs, or promoting carpooling among families. By collectively adopting these initiatives, we can create a culture of sustainability that benefits our environment and enhances the well-being of our community.

6. Get Ready for Bike Month in May: May is Bike Month! Check the City web-page for more bike information. Below are some of the programs we have planned.

  • Bike to School Day is May 8. Please contact your school to get more in-formation.
  •  Adult Learn-to-Ride Bike Class is May 11th at the Takoma Junc-tion parking lot. Class registration is sold out but we encourage you to sign-up for the waitlist to help us determine the need for future classes.
  • Bike to Work Day is May 17. We have three stops this year: Takoma/Langley Crossroads, Downtown/Old Takoma, and Sligo Creek Trail on New Hampshire Avenue. For more information and to register, visit biketoworkmetrodc.com/
  • Free pop-up bike repairs. More in-formation on dates and locations will be available at waba.org/learn-toride/.
  • Check out the 2019 Takoma Park Bike Map to plan your route. It is available for free from public buildings and bike shops in the city or online here.

Takoma Park Bikeways Projects
We want YOUR feedback on new bike-way projects! The City of Takoma Park is actively working on the designs for multiple bikeway projects, including the New Ave Bikeway on New Hampshire Avenue, an upgrade to the Metropolitan Branch Trail, and a redesign of Maple Avenue. Follow along with each project on the City’s website where you can learn about public events and opportunities to participate in the planning process! Visit bit.ly/TKPK-Bikeways

Spring is a time of renewal and growth, and by embracing sustainable commuting options, we sow the seeds for a healthier, happier, and greener future. Let’s roll into spring.

This article appeared in the April Edition of the Takoma Park Newsletter. Check out this article and more on the City webpage.

News Alert, Public Notices

Give the Gift of Life: Takoma Park Police Hosts a Blood Drive on June 1, 2024 from 11:30am-4:30pm

Event Details

Takoma Park Police and Inova Blood Donor Services are once again teaming up to host a Takoma Park Community Blood Drive! Your selfless act of donating blood can help save lives, and it only takes a short amount of time.  Let’s come together as a community to positively impact the health and well-being of those in need. Register today!

News, Public Notices

Give Back to the Earth this April: Earth Month Volunteer Opportunities

 

This Earth Month, there are still opportunities for youth and adults alike to give back to our earth and local community.

The Earth Day Celebration- April 20

We are seeking volunteers to support a few of our upcoming events, including the Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 20th! Student Service Learning (SSL) sign-offs for students are available, and volunteers get a free t-shirt!

  • When: Saturday, April 20, 2024 10am-2pm
  • Where: Sligo Creek Steam Valley Park (Houston and Kennebec Ave)

Learn more and register on the Sustainable Takoma Park signup form.

News, Public Notices

Message from Code Enforcement: Why Flaking & Peeling Paint on Your Home Could be a Problem

I recently received a Courtesy Notice from Code Enforcement alerting me to flaking and peeling paint on my house. Why is this a problem?
This information from the Environmental Protection Agency might be helpful:
Older Homes and Buildings

If your home was built before 1978, it is more likely to have lead-based paint. In 1978, the federal government banned consumer use of lead-based paint, but some states banned it even earlier.

Lead-based paint is still present in millions of homes, normally under layers of newer paint. If the paint is in good shape, the lead-based paint is usually not a problem. Deteriorating lead-based paint (peeling, chipping, chalking, cracking, damaged, or damp) is a hazard and needs immediate attention.

Lead-based paint may also be a hazard when found on surfaces that children can chew or that get a lot of wear-and-tear, such as:

  • Windows and window sills;
  • Doors and door frames; and
  • Stairs, railings, banisters, and porches.

A few tips to reduce sources of lead exposure in older homes and buildings:

  • Inspect and keep all painted surfaces in excellent shape and clean up dust frequently with a wet cloth or paper towel.
  • Consult a certified lead professional before beginning renovation, repair or painting projects. Renovation, repair or painting activities can create toxic lead dust when painted surfaces are disturbed or demolished.
  • Avoid tracking lead dust into the home by wiping and removing shoes before entering the home and placing dust mats both inside and outside of entryways.
  • Learn if you have a lead service line. Contact your water utility or a licensed plumber to determine if the pipe that connects your home to the water main (called a service line) is made from lead.
Soil, Yards and Playgrounds

Soil, yards and playgrounds can become contaminated when exterior lead-based paint from houses or buildings flakes or peels and gets into the soil. Soil may also be contaminated from past use of leaded gasoline in cars, from industrial sources, or even from contaminated sites, including former lead smelters. Lead is also naturally occurring and it can be found in high concentrations in some areas.

Lead in soil can be ingested as a result of hand-to-mouth activity that is common for young children and from eating vegetables that may have taken up lead from soil in the garden. Lead in soil may also be inhaled if resuspended in the air or tracked into your house thereby spreading the contamination.

Older playground equipment can still contain old lead-based paint, and artificial turf and playground surfaces made from shredded rubber can contain lead. Take precautions to ensure young children do not eat shredded rubber or put their hands in their mouth before washing them.

To reduce exposures to lead from soils, yards and playgrounds:

  • Check the exterior of your home, including porches and fences, for flaking or deteriorating lead-based paint that may contaminate soil in your yard or be tracked into your house.
  • Put doormats outside and inside all entryways and remove your shoes before entering to avoid tracking contaminated soil into your house.
  • Wash hands several times a day using soap and water, especially after playing or working outside.
  • Plant bushes close to the house to keep children from playing in soil near your home.

In addition to the lead-based paint concerns, please remember that paint is a protective coating. Without it, wood can rot and metal can rust. Rotted wood and rusted metal can cause structural safety issues.

Learn more about Code Enforcement Initiatives on the City webpage.

News Alert, Public Notices

Join the Waitlist: Adult Learn to Ride a Bike Class on Saturday, May 11 from 10am – 1pm

 

Registration is SOLD OUT for the Adult Learn to Ride a Bike Class at the Takoma Park Food Co-op! However, we encourage you to sign-up for the waitlist to help us determine the need for future classes.

WABA’s Adult Learn to Ride class is for participants 18 and older. Our experienced Instructors break the skills down step by step to get you on a bike and rolling in no time. Participants learn to start and stop, balance, glide, pedal and steer a bike and progress at their own pace.  Although registration spots are limited,  we encourage you to sign up for the waitlist if space runs out to help determine the need for future classes!

  • When: Saturday, May 11 · 10am – 1pm
  • Where: Takoma Park Food Co-op (201 Ethan Allen Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912)

 Learn more and join the waitlist on the official event posting: https://bit.ly/adultlearntoride

 

News, Public Notices, Takoma Park Newsletter

Celebrate 10 Years of Safe Grow: Yard Signs Available!

by Rick Baravechia, Code Enforcement Manager

Avoid the Chemical Romance

Harmful chemicals are not necessary to beautify our surroundings. This is the reasoning behind the creation of the Safe Grow Act that the City enacted in 2014. This law was created to protect ourselves and our environment from harmful pesticides and herbicides.

The Safe Grow Act places restrictions on the use of cosmetic pesticides for lawn care on public and private property. The list of restricted pesticides includes products that are known to cause cancer, endocrine disruption, and are identifi ed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as having other toxicity characteristics.

Of the 30 most commonly used lawn pesticides, 17 are possible and/or known carcinogens, 18 have the potential to disrupt the endocrine (hormonal) system, 19 are linked to reproductive effects and sexual dysfunction, 11 have been linked to birth defects, 14 are neurotoxic, 24 can cause kidney or liver damage, and 25 are sensitizers and/or irritants.

Children are especially sensitive to pesticide exposure, as they take in more pesticides relative to their body weight than adults and have developing organ systems that are more vulnerable and less able to detoxify toxic chemicals.

In 2019, Montgomery County enacted the Healthy Lawns Act, which mirrors our Safe Grow legislation, so that all Montgom-ery County residents can reduce their ex-posure to the unhealthy effects of harmful lawn care pesticides.

Organic lawn care isn’t diffi cult— in fact, it can save time and money, while protecting you, your family, your pets and the environment. Find a list of restricted chemicals at takomaparkmd.gov/safegrow. On that page, you will fi nd other resourc-es about maintaining a healthy lawn and yard, including a series of videos about natural landscape management.

Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy lawn, as we transition to spring: remove winter debris, test soils, dethatch your lawn, overseed thin areas, and apply corn gluten for inhibiting germinating weeds. Also, consider aerating your lawn and applying lime, if needed, for pH ad-justment. Overwhelmed? Don’t be. Reach out with any questions to Rick Baravechia, Takoma Park code enforcement manager, at Duaneb@takomaparkmd.gov or 301-891-7113

Let the World Know that Your Yard Is Safe

Is your lawn, apartment, and/or patio garden free of synthetic pesticides (including herbicides and fungicides) and safe for wildlife, pets, and people? If so, let us and your neighbors know! Free yard signs are available. Celebrate 10 years of Safe Grow today!

Safe Grow