MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
Held Wednesday, May 5 , 1999
For the purpose of discussing the Green Ridge House budget.

The meeting began at 7:40 p.m. It was held in the Cafeteria Room of the Green Ridge House.

PRESENT WERE: Council members Edward V.J. Putens, Rodney M. Roberts and Thomas X. White and Mayor Judith F. Davis.

STAFF PRESENT WERE: Michael P. McLaughlin, City Manager; David E. Moran, City Clerk and W. Bowman Ferguson, Senior Management Analyst

Mayor Davis welcomed everybody.

Joyce Jones, Community Realty, announced the availability of a Needs Assessment Analysis in the Library. She noted this report would be available for residents to review.

Mr. Ferguson reviewed the Green Ridge House section of the budget. He summarized the accomplishments. Mr. Ferguson noted that new parking signs would be installed early next week. He also stated that staff was developing a car sharing program.

Mr. Ferguson provided an overview of the Capital Renovations Projects budget. This included kitchen renovations, window replacement, landscape enhancements, antenna upgrades, security enhancements, interior painting and water valve installation.

Mayor Davis stated that the social activities budget had been increased. She also noted under maintenance: heating and A/C service contract costs and carpet costs were increasing.

Mr. White asked about Cable Television in the building. Ms. Jones responded that the building was cable accessible, and individual residents can get cable. She also noted that cable TV was available in the lounge.

Mr. Putens asked about carpet installation procedures. Ms. Jones noted that carpeting was placed on top of concrete and sometimes the old carpet is used as padding. Mr. Putens suggested that the floor be cleaned when carpets are removed. Mayor Davis suggested that management consider installing padding. Mr. Putens stressed the cleaning/disinfectant aspect during carpet replacement.

One resident asked about implementing parking management before constructing additional spaces. Mayor Davis responded that the management plan was being implemented first and the construction plan had also been approved. Mr. White asked that residents keep an open mind about the car sharing program.

Marion Evans asked about how the car sharing program might work. Mayor Davis responded that staff was still working on the plan and once the specifics were worked out, resident’s input would be sought. Mr. Roberts also asked residents to keep an open mind and noted that this program might help those who can’t afford to own and maintain a car.

One resident asked about the size of the stoves. Ms. Jones responded that the constraints of the kitchen and the ventilation limited the size to a 24" stove. Council requested an evaluation of the stove situation. Several residents expressed concern about oven performance.

Jim Cassels made three comments. First, he stated it would be beneficial for Council to review their parking decision. He suggested the alternatives for expanding the parking lot. Mayor Davis responded that Mr. Cassel’s concerns had already been addressed and that Council had already approved a plan. Second, Mr. Cassels asked if the carpets could be sprayed to reduce static electricity. Mayor Davis asked that this be looked at. Third, Mr. Cassels suggested that the City take over the management of Green Ridge House. Mr. Roberts asked Mr. Cassels if there were problems that the City was not being told about. Mr. Cassels believed this could be a creative opportunity.

Mr. Ferguson stressed that parking along the roundabout should be avoided, because it could make it difficult for the fire department and emergency responses.

Another resident asked if the facility’s pipes could tolerate a dishwasher. Ms. Jones agreed to check into this.

Mayor Davis thanked the residents for their input and wonderful hospitality.

The meeting ended at 8:45 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