Mayor Davis started the meeting at 7:50 p.m. It was held in the Dining Room of the Green Ridge House.

PRESENT WERE: Councilmembers Konrad E. Herling, Leta M. Mach, Edward V.J. Putens, Rodney M. Roberts and Mayor Judith F. Davis.

STAFF PRESENT WERE: Michael P. McLaughlin, City Manager and David E. Moran, Assistant to the City Manager.

There was a tour of the facility for Council and City Staff given by Green Ridge House management staff prior to the meeting.

Council introduced themselves. Mr. McLaughlin reviewed the Proposed FY 2005 Budget pages. He summarized the accomplishments for FY 2004. It was noted the June 13th was the 25th Anniversary Party for Green Ridge House. Mr. McLaughlin also reported that Christal Batey would become the new Green Ridge House liaison.

Mayor Davis asked about the health of the reserves. Mr. McLaughlin responded that the reserves had been drawn down to make improvements, but they were still healthy.

Mr. Cassels stated that the City had made a mistake by removing some Bradford Pear trees in the rear yard and thought they should have been replaced by now. Mayor Davis noted that these particular trees have a history of breaking and often must be removed for safety reasons. Mr. Cassels also expressed concern about the Reserve for Replacement. He suggested there be a study of bathtub alternatives, since some residents were having problems using the tubs. Mr. McLaughlin responded that this might fit in with a proposed adaptive equipment program and he would refer this matter to Christal Batey.

A resident expressed concern about not being allowed to eat or drink in common areas, due to her (and other residents’) health problems that require frequent fluids. She suggested water fountains or coolers on each floor. She also requested umbrellas for the outdoor picnic tables.

Mr. Bowles reported that drinking in common areas was allowed as long as the drink container had a lid. He requested that an industrial or large capacity washer & dryer be installed that could accommodate rugs and bedspreads.

Ms. Evans asked about the chairs and tables near the elevators that had been removed. Mayor Davis responded that this furniture would be replaced.

Another resident expressed concern about landscaping (pampas grass) that was blocking her window. Green Ridge House management responded that it would be removed.

Several residents complimented the Greenbelt Connection bus driver and expressed support for this service. There were several complaints from residents about the mulch used in landscaping beds and the odor it caused. In response to a question from Mr. Herling, several residents indicated there was not enough bus service evenings and weekends.

The meeting ended at 8:54 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