All posts by Ryan Kelly

News, Takoma Park Newsletter

Takoma Park Newsletter: City Manager Presents Proposed FY25 Budget

 

On April 3, Takoma Park City Manager Robert DiSpirito presented his proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY2025), which begins on July 1, 2024.

No Tax Rate Increase Proposed

The proposed budget keeps the real property tax rate at 55.22 cents per assessed valuation, despite a drop in revenue from other key sources. Throughout April, the City Council has been reviewing and discussing the budget, holding work sessions, and listening to public comment.

The council is expected to vote on the budget on May 8 and 15.

Once the budget is adopted, it can only be changed through the budget amendment process. This is sometimes necessary to reflect changes that occur throughout the fiscal year.

Transitions and Challenges

Manager DiSpirito has titled the draft budget “A Bridge Forward,” stating that Takoma Park faces several realities that will reduce city revenue and increase expenses. Proposed expenditures for FY2025 are $32,245,760 versus projected revenues of $30,586,928. This is a difference of approximately $1.6 million. The proposed budget intends to cover the deficit by assigning $206,997 in interest from the Library Bond Reserve and about $1.4 million from the Unassigned Reserve Fund.

Manager DiSpirito is identifying this as a one-year measure to fill the gap, while maintaining city services, fully funding reserves at the council policy level of 17%, and holding the line on the real property tax rate. DiSpirito has voiced his commitment to developing strategies over the next year to begin to return the city to a more solid and sustainable fi nancial footing.

Manager DiSpirito cites the following financial challenges that the city will face in FY2025:

  • The ongoing impact of unavoidable higher inflationary expenses on capital improvement projects and the procurement of necessary equipment, commodities, and services
  • The dwindling balance remaining in the city’s account containing the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) fund
  • The increased cost of employee compensation (salaries, wages, and benefits) resulting from the implementation of two new multi-year employee collective bargaining agreements (AFSCME and UFCW Local #400) as well as needed adjustments for non-represented employees, for both the new FY2025 budget and retroactively for FY2024
  • The announced reduction in tax duplication funds from Montgomery County
  • The continued decline in cable TV revenues
  • The continued decline in speed camera revenues
  • Possible reduction by the State of Maryland for shared Highway User Revenue funds.
General Fund Reserve Balance Policy Goal Restored

Despite the financial pinch, the proposed FY2025 budget returns the General Fund’s Unassigned Reserve Balance to 17%, which is the financial policy goal previously set by the mayor and council, based on recommendations from the Government Finance Officers Association. The Unassigned Reserve balance of the current FY2024 Budget was approximately 14%.

Personnel Level Is Stable

For the General Fund, no additional full-time positions are proposed. While there is not a universal hiring freeze in place, some currently vacant positions are proposed to be strategically re-purposed for other positions in FY2025. A minor net reduction of 1.98 in overall full-time positions is forecast based on an adjustment of hours for some current seasonal and part-time positions.

Red Light Camera Fund

DiSpirito expects to raise approximately $1.3 million in FY2025 through red light cameras that will document and fine traffic violators. These funds are proposed to go to a special revenue reserve fund in the Police Department, not the General Fund, since the purpose of this revenue is to address public safety. The Red Light Camera fund will supplement declining revenues from the current and ongoing Speed Camera fund. DiSpirito proposes that some amount of new revenue from the Red Light Camera fund be earmarked for a transit planner, who will be tasked with improving pedestrian and traffic safety.

Federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds

Many ARPA funds—which the federal government disbursed to Takoma Park in 2021 in the amount of $17.5 million to address pandemic challenges—have been already allocated. DiSpirito proposes that the remaining funds address ongoing mayor and council priorities—while phasing out the city’s reliance on this revenue source. The draft budget proposes putting $6,980,140 in ARPA funds toward the following priorities:

  • Additional funds for street rehabilitation
  • Additional funds for sidewalk design and construction
  • Continuing support for library construction
  • The community center atrium renovation project, including
  • Mental health crisis counselors
  • Expanded public safety critical police dispatch
  • A food insecurity program
  • A community connectors program
  • Community engagement software
  • A document management platform program

The General Fund will continue to address the following priorities specified by the mayor and council:

  • Continued funding for emergency rental assistance
  • Continued funding for small business grants
  • Increased funding of the Equipment Replacement Reserve by $900,000 (compared to $550,000 in FY2024)
  • Continued funding of $142,000 for the City’s local supplement to State Homeowner Property Tax Credit Program
  • Contribution of $600,000 to fund the Library Construction Contingency Reserve
  • Contribution for Community Events Grants of $60,000
  • Funding for various Quality of Life grants
  • Funding for Recreational scholarships
  • Contribution to the Housing Reserve Fund of $100,000
  • Funding for Emergency Tree Removal, Summer Enrichment program, Community Play, and Farmers Market grants
  • Stormwater Capital Improvement expenditures of $230,000 for the construction, maintenance, and repair of storm drains, inlets, channels, and ditches
  • Increased funding for traffic calming and pedestrian safety projects
  • Police funding for bike patrol unit equipment, field radio equipment, mobile computers, and overtime for designated and additional patrols
  • Funding for a traffic study,
  • Funding for a consultant to assist staff with developing and implementing a Performance Measurement Program, resulting in useful and meaningful metrics for the FY2026 Budget
  • Funding in the amount of $4.2 million in Special Revenue Fund projects has been allocated for
    • City TV equipment, lighting, auditorium repairs, and temporary relocation of employees due to the library construction activity.
    • Grants for the New Hampshire Ave. Bikeway ($350,000), the Maple Ave. Connectivity Project ($240,000), the Met Branch Trail Project ($425,000), Program Open Space to add to the Capital Acquisition Fund ($60,000), and CDBG Neighborhood Improvements for Houston Court Biofiltration Project ($91,000).
    • Grants awarded from both State Library and Digital Inclusion, totaling $200,000, plus a $2.5 million transfer from the Cable Fund allocated to library construction
  • Funding for street light upgrades and maintenance
  • Funding towards the initial high-priority recommendations in the Public Space Management Plan
  • Funding for patron-friendly library user software

“Despite the fiscal restraints that we face, this FY2025 proposed budget intends to continue programs and services that help renters, small business owners, immigrants, young people, and seniors as we strive to create a livable community for all,” stated DiSpirito.

The entire 300-page proposed budget can be found at takomaparkmd.gov, with further details about revenue and expenses, by department and division. The city council page provides up-to-date information about engaging with the city council as well as as information about council actions on the budget and other city matters.

This article was featured in the Takoma Park Newsletter May 2024 Edition.

News, Public Notices

Message From Code Enforcement: Tips to Rid Your Community of Mosquitos

 

During the summer months, mosquitos can become a major nuisance in our area. In order to cut down on the number of mosquitos in your yard, the main thing to do is eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. Here are some tips to help you rid the community of Mosquitos:

  1. All mosquitos require standing water in which to breed, so it is important to remove containers that will allow water to pool, like tires, buckets, and barrels. They do not need much water to breed, so even overturned garbage lids and children’s toys can become a mosquito haven.
  2. It also helps to turn canoes or boats over and empty any water that collects on tarps or covers or arrange them so that the water will drain off.
  3. It is also recommended that you empty your bird bath and pet dishes once a week, and flush water from the bottom of plant holders once or twice a week.
  4. Standing water in gutters can also become a problem, so ensure that your gutters are clear.

By following these steps, you can help rid your community of mosquito breeding grounds and enjoy your yard without having to deal with those pesky mosquitos.

News Alert, Public Notices

May is Bike Month in TKPK! Celebrate with a Variety of Bike-related Activities

 

Get ready to dust off your bikes and join us as we pedal our way through the month of May! This month-long celebration is packed with exciting activities and events aimed at promoting cycling as a fun, healthy, and sustainable mode of transportation:

  1. National Ride A Bike Day is the first Sunday in May on May 5th! It’s a great day to join up with family and friends for a bike ride.
  2. Bike to School Day – On May 8th, students and parents are encouraged to ride to school together and learn about proper helmet fitting and basic bike safety. Check with your school administration or PTA for details about your school’s Bike to School Day celebrations. How many items can you spot from the scavenger hunt?
  3. Learn to Ride Bike Classes for Adults – It may be too late to sign up for our May 11th Class, but please join the waitlist so we can know how many people are interested in classes to schedule for next year: waba.org/learntoride/
  4. Bike to Work Day – On May 17th, we encourage everyone to ditch their cars and pedal to work. It’s a great way to reduce traffic congestion, get some exercise, and start the day on a positive note. Stop by one of the three (3) pit stops this year! Takoma/Langley Crossroads, Downtown/Old Takoma and Sligo Trail on New Hampshire Ave. For more information and to register, visit biketoworkmetrodc.com
  5. On-going Bike Repairs – Be sure to stop by and get your bicycle in top shape for the season. Bike Werks will be onsite to perform minor repairs, parts will be available to buy onsite, and installation of those parts is covered by the City of Takoma Park! Get dates and more information here: https://bit.ly/bikerepairTKPK.

Share your bike month experiences on social media using the hashtag #BikeTKPK. Let’s showcase the power of pedal power!

News Alert, Public Notices

TKPK Launches Balancing Act: Budget Simulation Tool

You are invited and encouraged to provide feedback on the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget for the City of Takoma Park!
Try out our new budgeting tool: Balancing Act

This budget simulation is a way for you to learn more about the City’s spending and revenues.

  • The module starts with a snapshot of revenues and expenditures for the Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Budget.
  • As you work through the module, you have the ability to adjust various expenditures and revenues by using the Plus and Minus symbols.
  • Real-time updates will show the impact of your funding choices at the top of the screen.
  • Before submitting, please provide comments as you adjust the budget so we can understand your reason for adjusting each item.
News, Public Notices

(Message From Code Enforcement) Lead Poisoning Prevention: What Every Parent Should Know!

 

Who can get lead poisoning?

Children from 6 months to 6 years old are the main victims of lead poisoning. But anyone who eats, drinks, or breathes something that has too much lead can get lead poisoning.

Lead tends to build up in the body over time. So someone who takes in only small amounts of lead can gradually develop lead poisoning.

A pregnant woman should also know that lead carried in her blood can pass to her unborn child.

How does lead affect health?

A child who consumes a dangerous amount of lead may seem to be well. However, lead can affect the brain, causing learning disabilities and behavior problems. Lead can also affect the blood, kidneys, and other parts of the body.

As lead poisoning becomes serious, some children have stomach aches, loss of appetite, or loss of interest in play. Some children may also become overly active or fussy and irritable.

A blood lead test can help find out if someone has taken in too much lead before there are any outward signs of illness. Ask your doctor or clinic about this test.

What causes lead poisoning?

Lead-based house paint was used in most homes before l950. Lead was still used in some house paints until 1978. Paint on your window frames and on porches is very likely to present a risk for children.

Small children put things in their mouths. They chew on window sills, they eat paint chips, and they suck on their hands. Lead from crumbling paint gets into household dust, and anything that gets dusty (like toys, pets, and fingers) can then become a source of lead poisoning.

Older furniture (cribs, play pens, chairs, etc.) and painted toys may have lead paint.

Old or imported ceramic dishes may be decorated with lead glazes. Food that comes in contact with a lead glaze will pick up some of the lead.

Many children will eat almost anything. Dirt, including soil from flower pots, plaster, ashes, and charcoal all may have lead.

Caution: Only trained workers may remove or work with lead paint. Everyone else, including pets, must keep out of the work area until the job is complete and the area is carefully cleaned. Dust and fumes from lead paint removal can be dangerous.

Food and Lead Poisoning

A well balanced diet contributes to good health in many ways. Foods that are high in calcium, iron, and vitamin C can help protect your children from lead poisoning. Your children should eat less of the foods which are high in fat and oil, since these foods make it easier for the body to absorb lead.

Iron-rich foods

  • Liver, kidneys, heart
  • Lean meats, eggs
  • Beans, peas, lentils
  • Prunes, raisins, watermelon
  • Spinach and greens
  • Enriched cereals (hot or cold)

Calcium-rich foods

  • Milk and cheese
  • Cottage cheese and yogurt
  • Ice milk

Vitamin C-rich foods

  • Fruits and fruit juices
  • Bell peppers and tomatoes
  • Potatoes, sweet potatoes (cooked in skins)
  • Broccoli

Foods that should be limited

  • Butter, oil, lard, margarine
  • Potato chips, corn chips, French fries
  • Fried foods (Remove skin from chicken and fat from meats)

To protect against lead dust, be sure that your children wash their hands before eating. Food that falls on the floor should be thrown away.

Making Your Home Lead-Safe

Care of Walls, Windows, and Trim–Maryland regulations do not allow dry scraping, sanding, or burning of lead paint, because these methods create health hazards. Do replace old windows and wood trim that have deteriorated. Do use only safe methods for removing old paint. Carefully contain and dispose of the hazardous debris and dust from lead paint removal.

Dust Control-In older houses, lead from old paint can mix with household dust. Special cleaning will lower this hazard. Clean rugs each week with a vacuum. Damp mop floors with a high-phosphate cleaner, such as automatic dishwashing detergent. Mix one tablespoon of detergent with a gallon of hot water. Dust furniture and other surfaces with a damp cloth and high-phosphate cleaner.

Use of Toys, Furniture, and Containers-Older items, such as a crib or toy, which may have been painted with lead paint should be removed from your home. Metal containers, such as pewter or brass pitchers, may have lead and should not be used for food or beverages. Old or imported ceramic containers or dishes which have been coated with lead glazes should not be used.

Testing for Lead Poisoning

All children between 6 months and 6 years of age should be checked for lead. Many children have blood lead tests as part of their regular care by a doctor or clinic. These tests are very important for children who live, or who spend time, in older buildings which may have lead paint. Be sure to ask your doctor or clinic about testing for your child.

If a test for lead is high, more tests and a doctor’s exam will be necessary. Be sure to follow directions carefully. You can help limit the effects of lead poisoning by getting good medical care for your child and by keeping things which have lead away from your child.

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.