MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
Held Wednesday, March 10, 1999,
For the purpose of meeting with the Greenbelt Volunteer Fire Department.

The meeting began at 8:20 p.m. It was held in the Multi-Purpose Room of the Community Center.

PRESENT WERE: Council members Edward V.J. Putens, Rodney M. Roberts and Alan Turnbull, and Mayor Judith F. Davis.

STAFF PRESENT WERE: Michael P. McLaughlin, City Manager and David E. Moran, City Clerk

Council met with representatives of GVFD to discuss use of city funds for selection of an architect and purchase of a new pumper. Jay Remenick, President of the Greenbelt Volunteer Fire Department (GVFD), introduced an architect, Herbert Heiserman with the Heiserman Group. Mr. Remenick read a letter requesting that the city approve the selection of the Heiserman Group as the architect for the bunk room renovation project at the Greenbelt Fire House.

Mayor Davis asked about the scope of the project. Mr. Szachnowicz, a member, stated it was a space reallocation and modernization program. Mr. Putens asked if Council approval was necessary. Mr. McLaughlin responded that it was not required, but staff and GVFD believed it was needed to advise Council of their status. Council agreed to add the item to the next Council agenda as a consent item.

Next, the issue of equipment was discussed. Mr. Remenick presented a proposal to purchase a new fire truck using State 508 grant funds, the city’s replacement funds and the proceeds from the sale of the 1989 pumper. Council also agreed to add this item to the next Council agenda as a consent item.

There was discussion about the ambulance and its condition. GVFD requested that the city assist them in trying to persuade the County to fund a new ambulance.

There was some discussion regarding fundraising issues by West Lanham Hills Fire Department. Mr. Putens noted that concerns had been expressed from some Greenbelt East residents about city funding going only to GVFD and shouldn’t the city be funding other departments that provide the 1st response to some Greenbelt neighborhoods. Gene Davis, GVFD Fire Chief, agreed to provide Council with a map showing service areas. Mr. Putens suggested that GVFD make a presentation to GEAC at an upcoming meeting.

The work session ended at 9:17 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,
David E. Moran, CMC
City Clerk

City of Greenbelt, Maryland
City Offices, 25 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD 20770
Phone: 301-474-8000 FAX: 301-441-8248