MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION held Monday, May 7, 2001, for the purpose of reviewing the Public Works Budget.

The meeting began at 8:12 p.m. It was held in the Senior Classroom of the Community Center.

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

STAFF PRESENT WERE: Michael P. McLaughlin, City Manager; Kenny Hall, Director of Public Works; Bill Phelan, Superintendent of Public Works; Jeff Williams, City Treasurer and David E. Moran, Assistant to the City Manager

ALSO PRESENT WERE: Sheldon Goldberg, Citizen; Betsy Likowski, News Review and Amy Boyes, The Gazette

Mr. Hall reviewed the accomplishments for FY 2001 and thanked Council for the opportunity to present the budget. Mr. Hall explained the proposed reorganization for the Department.

Mr. Turnbull suggested that the City consider assuming responsibility for landscaping maintenance in certain areas. He suggested the Library, the old side of the pool and the Greenbriar side of the overpass as areas to consider. Mr. Hall asked for the opportunity to study these areas and noted that the landscaping crew was stretched too thin already. Mr. Putens noted that Public Works might need to request additional staff for the landscaping crew.

Mr. Phelan reported an increased focus on field maintenance, particularly noting weed control.

Mr. Roberts asked about the City’s graffiti removal procedures. Mr. Hall indicated that the City inspects areas that are frequently targeted with graffiti and noted that the City removes the graffiti even on State and County property. Mr. Roberts suggested that the City bill the County or State for this work.

Mr. Turnbull asked about the status of the City doing its own composting. Mr. Hall responded that the department was still considering this, but had difficulty identifying a location. He indicated that they had occasionally borrowed College Park’s old tub grinder. Mr. Putens suggested partnering with other cities. Mr. Roberts suggested renting industrial space in Beltsville for the composting operation.

Mayor Davis noted the decrease in landfill tonnage and increase in recycling. Mr. Hall indicated that he planned to try and increase recycling. Mayor Davis asked about recycling in the schools. Mr. McLaughlin stated that he had directed Public Works to focus on increasing residential recycling because it both increased recycling tonnages and decreased landfill amounts.

Mr. Phelan updated Council on the retrofits for the playground equipment. He noted that the slides which were removed had been replaced.

Mr. Moran briefed Council on the Energy Performance Contracting proposal. He indicated it would be raised on an upcoming agenda for Council action.

Mr. McLaughlin presented an updated unmet needs list.

The meeting ended at 10:35 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

David E. Moran

Assistant to the City Manager

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