La Plata Ward 4 Update: Recent Episodes
David Jenkins
This is an update to my September 23 video and September 25 podcast about The Housing Shortage - Charles County.
The monthly Charles County Strong Towns Local Conversation on September 26th discussed affordable housing in Charles County, providing additional information about the County’s work for affordable housing.
Please note the town has or will shortly post the new Town Ward Map, adopted by the Council at our September 10 meeting. According to the Town Code, the Town’s Election Board will recommend ward map changes to the Council every odd year, based on population change and development/growth patterns. Town Council review and approval is required.
The ward maps were approved in advance of the May 2025 Town elections. The election schedule will be posted shortly on the Town website and other social media. I will post a podcast/video about the ward maps and the 2025 election schedule.
Links:
YouTube Video
Charles County Affordable Housing Work Group
Charles County Affordable Housing Workgroup Housing Survey
The Town needs to improve our citizen outreach and information sharing. This is a critical need, as seen from feedback from our FY 25 budget process. There were many negative comments about the lack of budget information, other than the minimal and required two-week public hearing notices and materials included on Town Council agendas.
**Let’s look at a better way from Strong Towns (Community Engagement That Works).
Now here are examples from different communities, including Charles County.
Upcoming podcasts/videos: 2025 La Plata Election schedule, MDOT 2025 Transporation Consolidated Transporation Program (CTP), and La Plata Priorities.*YouTube Video Link* References:**
- Holly Springs, NC - Strategic Plan/Dashboard
- Chapel Hill, NC - 2024-2025 Budget Development
- Charles County, MD Stay Engaged
- Frederick County, MD - Budget Portal
The first podcast/video in this series (posted August 19, 2024) was about the housing shortage from the Maryland perspective.
This podcast/video episode now focuses on Charles County.
YouTube Video Link
References:
- Charles County Planning Commission 2022 Annual Report - Pages 3,4
- Maryland Department of Planning 2022 American Community Survey Pages 5,6,7
- Charles County Comprehensive Plan, 2026, Page 8
- Charles County Housing Initiative Project: Inclusion, Affordability, and Diversity, Final Report May 2018, Pages 9, 10, 11
- Charles County Housing Authority, Pages 12, 13
- HAND Housing Indicator Tool, Charles County
This is the first in a series of episodes about the housing shortage in Maryland, and La Plata/Charles County.
This first episode provides Maryland housing information, from Municipal League’s (MML) August 1, 2024, Housing Symposium.
The second episode will provide Charles County housing data and needs.
YouTube Video
Turning the Key: Unlocking Maryland’s Potential
Maryland Municipal Leagues Housing Symposium, August 1, 2024
Hi and welcome again to this latest episode of La Plata Ward 4 Update Podcast.
This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast and videos, now available on YouTube, and YouTube Music.
This episode is about speed and traffic, and the continuing deaths on our highways.
First, facts from a US perspective, then Maryland, and finally Charles County show the increased death rate and crashes across and country and here locally in Charles County.
This is personal, with two brothers surviving bad crashes, and my recent close call almost hit by a car, in my neighborhood, walking my dog. The car ran a stop sign. I cycle and also walk, so this is a passion.
I hope we can perhaps pay more attention when we drive, and have consideration for others.
References:
Zero Deaths Maryland, Crash Data
Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities by State: 2023 Preliminary Date
Dangerous by Design, 2024 Smart Growth America
This episode is a further discussion/follow-up from my June 27th podcast – Event Attendance – Lesson Learned about how Westminster Maryland was proactive in obtaining a sustainable water supply.
References:
- YouTube Video link
- County-Town of La Plata Water Supply Agreement February 2022
- Securing Sustainable Water for the Future, Westminster, Maryland, June 2024
- House Bill 1378 Task Force on Washington County Regional Water and Wastewater Governance
I recently attended two conferences that have important lessons learned for La Plata – Maryland Municipal League annual summer conference in June, and the 2024 Maryland Smart Growth (SG) Conference (May)
References:
- Maryland Municipal League - Securing Sustainable Water for the Future, presented by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and the City of Westminster, Maryland (2020 population 19,960).
- PUREWater Westminster
- Maryland Department of Transporation Model Complete Streets Initiative
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
The recently adopted fiscal year (FY) 2025 budget, (starts July 1, 2024, ends June 30, 2025) was a tumultuous process.
I want to provide my views on this process - specifically the Town’s outreach and community engagement/reactions.
My Asks:
- This is YOUR town, your neighborhood - get engaged, ask questions, attend meetings – in person, online, or watch later on the La Plata YouTube channel. I know you are busy with your family, work, and other daily activities. I also know this stuff is at times boring, and takes time to understand. But this is YOUR TOWN!
- Research the facts! There was a lot of misinformation in the community. I was then very disappointed not only by the lack of information but also unintended harm to town staff, framing the tax increase, as us versus them. This will have a demoralizing impact on our workforce.
- We all need to have skin in the game. Again, this is your community. This lack of engagement is reflected in the dismal turnout at Town Elections! I will confirm, but the 2021 voter turnout (-+ 1,000?) was below 10% of registered voters!
- So, participate and vote! The next election is May 2025, with filing of applications due in late March 2025, if needed a primary (if 2 or more candidates file to the same ward), then our general election for Mayor and Council seats (4) in early May 2025. A detailed process is under development and will be released in early 2025.
Outreach examples provided to the Town Council:
- Morrisville, NC Budget Connection Portal
- Charles County YouTube Let's Get Fiscal
- Davis, CA Budget Brief
- Charles County Budget Dollar
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
In this episode, I review the third year of my 4-year term, elected May 10, 2021. My term ends in May 2025.
Please know that I am one of five (5) Council members, and differentiate our accomplishments as a Town Council, versus my activities.
References:
- La Plata Bikeway
- Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO)
- Development Capacity Analysis
- What is Complete Streets and Why?!
- Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Budget Process
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is an update to my February 6, 2024, podcast – FY 25 Budget Process My Ask:
- Review the draft FY 2024
- Attend our Council meetings – in person, virtually (Microsoft Teams), or watch on YouTube. Links are in the Notes.
- Email me at djenkins@townoflaplata.org with your questions and comments.
Thanks again for listening and for your interest and engagement with your Town!
Town Council Meeting Agendas
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
Hi and welcome again to this latest episode of La Plata Ward 4 Update Podcast.
This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast, and my companion La Plata Ward 4 Video Update on YouTube.
A pause to update you about recent Council meetings/ activities, and related issues.
References:
- Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Budget Process
- Polls says Marylanders want more homes, in more places, to fit budgets
- Greater Greater Washington Poll Results Presentation
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
There are many concerns and comments about growth in La Plata and Charles County, including if recent construction on MD 488 in the town or the county. This is outside the Town boundary, beyond and further east of Kings Grant. This construction is the last St. Charles neighborhoods – Piney Reach and Wooded Glen. The St. Charles Master Plan link is provided.
This episode is a comparison of development in La Plata and Charles County.
**The source for this episode is the Maryland Department’s planning annual reports from La Plata and Charles County planning commissions. The most recent and published reports are from 2022. Links are provided below.
References:**
- St. Charles Master Plan
- Charles County Planning Commission 2022 Annual Report
- La Plata Planning Commission 2022 Annual Report
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This episode is a follow-up to my podcast, La Plata’s Infrastructure – Water, posted in July 2023. That provided background and detailed information about the Town’s water supply system and current status.
The intent here is to provide facts and context in response to myths and rumors about La Plata’s ability to provide water to existing and new developments.
La Plata Ward 4 Video Update - Development Capacity Analysis, April 2023
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
Consistent with the Town’s 2020 Comprehensive Plan GOAL #16: Continue to make La Plata a very walkable community (Page 16), The Town of La Plata was awarded two grants for the construction of the La Plata Bikeway running from Walter J. Mitchell Elementary School on Willow Lane, along MD 6 Charles Street, adjacent to the Agricopia subdivision, adjacent to MD 488, to Radio Station Road to Laurel Springs Regional Park.
The two grants:
- $1.44 million from the MDOT Transportation Alternatives Program
- $385,500 from the MDOT Bikeways Program.
The link to my La Plata Ward 4 Video Update of this project.
MY ASK/CALL TO ARMS:
There will be a follow-up podcast/episode on the Town’s FY B25 budget process following our April 09, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on General Funds, and April 16, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on Enterprise Funds.
I ask for your participation and engagement in the budget process and other important Town issues. Your input is important, from the bottom-up for change.
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is the first of a series of podcast episodes following the development of the Town’s FY 2025 budget. FY 25 year starts July 1, 2024, and ends June 30, 2025.
The process started with a Town Council Budget Work Session, on Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
The January 30, 2024, session outcomes were
- Understanding of the Town’s current financial standing
- The long-term budget outlook for the Town
- Department Directors communicate department priorities
- Elected officials establish priorities and communicate budget goals
Meeting agenda:
Presentation by Town Treasurer:
- FY23 Financial Overview
- FY24 mid-year budget review
Presentations by the Department Directors.
This January 30th budget work session will be followed by additional Town Council work sessions and public hearings.
Calendar of events for the preparation of the Town's Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Budget. FY 25 starts July 1, 2024, ending June 30, 2025.
DATE EVENT
Tuesday, January 30, 2024 - Budget work session
Wednesday, February 07, 2024 - Budget worksheet available to Department Directors.
Friday, February 23, 2024 - Deadline for all Department Directors to complete FY 2025 budget worksheet(s) for review by the Town Manager and Treasurer.
Monday, March 04, 2024 – Thursday, March 14, 2024, The Town Manager and Treasurer meet with Department Directors to align
their budgets with service priorities and available resources.
Friday, March 22, 2024 - The Town Manager transmits the Proposed Budget for FY 2025 to the Council.
Tuesday, April 09, 2024 - Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on General Funds.
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 - Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on Enterprise Funds (Water, Sewer, Stormwater Management, Trash/Recycling)
Friday, April 12, 2024 -
1. Publication of notice of public hearing on Constant Yield Tax
Rate scheduled for April 23, 2024
2. Publication of notice of public hearing on Fee Schedule
3. Publication of notice of public hearing on Financial Plan
Budget
Tuesday, April 23, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting -
1. Public Hearing and Public Comment on Constant Yield Tax.
2. Discussion of fee schedule.
3. Discussion of any outstanding budget items.
4. Introduction of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax Rates.
Tuesday, May 14, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting -
1. Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 Fee
Schedule.
2. Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 Financial
Plan Budget
3. Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Fee Schedule.
4. Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Financial Plan
Budget.
5. Adoption of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax Rates
Tuesday, May 21, 2024 Town Council Regular Meeting - Adoption of Ordinances for FY 2025 Fee Schedule and Financial Plan Budget.
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
I have talked about fiscal impacts from development in a previous Oct 22, 2023, podcast The Need for Fiscal Analysis, and La Plata Ward 4 Video Update, Fiscal Impact Analysis Examples, February 2023.
I want to talk about this again, given the ongoing development of Pinegrove, which includes two commercial/office development areas, both located on the north side of Roswick Road. One site is 22 acres (Parcel P), while Parcel Q is 82 acres, proposing retail/office space, and residential units.
This is an opportunity to diversify our tax base, reducing dependency on residential growth for needed tax revenues. This is a goal from our 2022 Strategic Plan: “Strategically grow the geographic property and economic tax base with a balance of residential, commercial, and industrial growth.”
References:
- Podcast - The Need for Fiscal Analysis
- Video - Fiscal Impact Analysis Examples
DATE EVENT
Tuesday, January 30, 2024 - Budget work session
Wednesday, February 07, 2024 - Budget worksheet available to Department Directors.
Friday, February 23, 2024 - Deadline for all Department Directors to complete FY 2025 budget worksheet(s) for review by the Town Manager and Treasurer.
Monday, March 04, 2024 – Thursday, March 14, 2024, The Town Manager and Treasurer meet with Department Directors to align
their budgets with service priorities and available resources.
Friday, March 22, 2024 - The Town Manager transmits the Proposed Budget for FY 2025 to the Council.
Tuesday, April 09, 2024 - Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on General Funds.
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 - Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on Enterprise Funds (Water, Sewer, Stormwater Management, Trash/Recycling)
Friday, April 12, 2024 -
- Publication of notice of public hearing on Constant Yield Tax
Rate scheduled for April 23, 2024
-
Publication of notice of public hearing on Fee Schedule
-
Publication of notice of public hearing on Financial Plan
Budget
Tuesday, April 23, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting -
-
Public Hearing and Public Comment on Constant Yield Tax.
-
Discussion of fee schedule.
-
Discussion of any outstanding budget items.
-
Introduction of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax Rates.
Tuesday, May 14, 2024, Town Council Regular Meeting -
- Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 Fee
Schedule.
- Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 Financial
Plan Budget
-
Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Fee Schedule.
-
Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Financial Plan
Budget.
- Adoption of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax Rates
Tuesday, May 21, 2024 Town Council Regular Meeting - Adoption of Ordinances for FY 2025 Fee Schedule and Financial Plan Budget.
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
In this episode, I want to talk about my hopes for what Pinegrove can be. See my previous two videos on La Plata Ward 4 Video Update on YouTube, the first dated March 14, 2022, an overview of the project, followed by Pinegrove Update, December 3, 2023, a summary of construction to date.
The following discussion is based on the developer’s approved Master Site Development Plan (MSDP) and attached project narrative. Please note: “This Master Site Development Plan depicts the generalized nature of the development. Future refinements and revisions may occur at the time of preliminary subdivision/ final site plan, subject to review and approval” by the Town of La Plata.” Approval is by the Town Planning Commission.
**I highlight specific elements from the MSDP/ narrative and provide my comments. These don’t reflect the view of the Town of La Plata.
References:**
La Plata Ward 4 Video Update:
Pinegrove Update, December 2023Pinegrove aka Heritage Green Update, March 2022 An example: Greenleigh
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast and the companion La Plata Ward 4 Video Update on YouTube.
This episode is about recent Town staff and Council actions.
I hope all enjoyed the Christmas season and look forward to 2024!
Welcome to David Winkler, new Ward 1 Council member, who took office on November 28, 2023, to complete the term of the late Council member James Goldsmith. Jim will be missed.
I thank the Town staff for their continuing and steady effort behind the scenes to keep the town infrastructure running and keeping us safe!
DATE EVENT
Tuesday, January 30, 2024 - Budget work session
Wednesday, February 07, 2024 - Budget worksheet available to Department Directors.
Friday, February 23, 2024 - Deadline for all Department Directors to complete FY 2025 budget worksheet(s) for review by the Town Manager and Treasurer.
Monday, March 04, 2024 – Thursday, March 14, 2024, Town Manager and Treasurer meet with Department Directors to align
their budgets with service priorities and available resources.
Friday, March 22, 2024 - The Town Manager transmits Proposed Budget for FY 2025 to the Council.
Tuesday, April 09, 2024 - Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on General Funds.
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 - Town Council Regular Meeting - Budget discussion focusing on Enterprise Funds (Water, Sewer, Stormwater Management, Trash/Recycling)
Friday, April 12, 2024 -
1. Publication of notice of public hearing on Constant Yield Tax
Rate scheduled for April 23, 2024
2. Publication of notice of public hearing on Fee Schedule
3. Publication of notice of public hearing on Financial Plan
Budget
Tuesday, April 23, 2024 Town Council Regular Meeting -
1. Public Hearing and Public Comment on Constant Yield Tax.
2. Discussion of fee schedule.
3. Discussion of any outstanding budget items.
4. Introduction of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax Rates.
Tuesday, May 14, 2024 Town Council Regular Meeting -
1. Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 Fee
Schedule.
2. Public Hearing and Public Comment on FY 2025 Financial
Plan Budget
3. Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Fee Schedule.
4. Introduction of Ordinance adopting the FY 2025 Financial Plan
Budget.
5. Adoption of Ordinance for FY 2025 Tax Rates
Tuesday, May 21, 2024 Town Council Regular Meeting - Adoption of Ordinances for FY 2025 Fee Schedule and Financial Plan Budget.
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
The source of this episode is a podcast called Go Cultivate!, produced by Verdunity, consultants in community planning, civil engineering, and engagement. This August 2023 podcast focuses on their work in Texas and around the country with observations about suburban growth and its consequences. La Plata and Charles County are experiencing this growth now, so I believe it's a relevant and important issue.
References:
- Go Cultivate!
- The Need for Fiscal Impact, October 2023
- Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO) Continued: The Need for Fiscal Impact Analysis
- National Association of REALTORS 2023 Community & Transportation Preferences Survey
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
Hi and welcome again to this latest episode of La Plata Ward 4 Update Podcast.
This is David Jenkins, La Plata Town Council member from Ward 4 and your host for this podcast and the companion La Plata Ward 4 Video Update on YouTube.
**I want to talk about the Navy Facility in Indian Head and its implications for La Plata.
At the November 14, 2023, County Commissioner meeting, representatives from IH, County EDC, the Chamber of Commerce’s Military Alliance, the Town of Indian Head, and the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) discussed pending expansion at IH due to their unique capabilities to produce needed explosive resulting from the demands of world events – Ukraine, Middle East.**
There is a possible initial expansion of 200-400 employees in the next 5 years, with the potential for additional growth. All the partners stressed the need for continued collaboration. There is and will be significant economic impact on the Town of Indian Head, the County, and La Plata.
**This is really about placemaking, a key element of economic development. It’s not just attracting businesses and jobs. This means having a walkable community, with diverse housing, shopping, recreation/parks, and other community amenities, to attract and retain employment! Work where you live is smart growth and reduces out commuting and traffic, and keeping and spending money here in La Plata, and the County.
References:*Downtown La Plata DevelopmentLa Plata Town Plans - 2020 Comprehensive Plan*Town 2022 Strategic Plan
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
**Over the years, La Plata has developed many plans and studies/analysis to improve the downtown and adjacent areas. Selected policies and action items are highlighted from the studies.
With all these plans, what progress has been made? What else can or should the Town do?**
My view: Some progress has been made, due to re-building from the tornado – La Grange Avenue, Centennial Street extension to US 301, and Talbot Street extension from US 301 to Washington Avenue.
But we can do more – YES!
- Be a full Main Street member?
- Business incentives? Façade improvement program (like Leonardtown)
- Need more civic infrastructure – full engagement by the town, business community and residents.
We have the plans (more than enough), but now need incremental projects, events, to build success and progress to then fully engage our community to make La Plata a place to live, visit, and shop, not just to drive through.
I will be posting a video on YouTube (La Plata Ward 4 Video Update **) showing the status of downtown La Plata projects, recommended from these studies.
Thanks again for listening. Email me at djenkins@townoflaplata.org with your questions and comments.**
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
La Plata’s development pattern does not generate enough revenue/taxes to pay for services and infrastructure. There’s a gap between tax revenues needed to provide Town services and amenities, and the actual maintenance and other costs to pay for these services now and in the future, as town growth continues.
There is a need to be fiscally sustainable so that service costs align with what citizens and businesses are willing and able to pay for now and in the future.
There is also a need to re-evaluate the town’s dependency on residential development to fund infrastructure. We need to diversify our tax base, despite limited land area. The right kind of commercial and industrial (do we really need another gas station/car wash, storage?!) development demands fewer services than residential housing.
References:
La Plata Town Council October 10, 2023 Meeting /Discussion 23:54 - 39:15
YouTube Video
Verdunity Fiscal Analysis Background/Examples
Tate Texas:
Strong Towns Article
Fiscal Analysis/Fiscal Sustainability Policy
La Plata Ward 1 Vacancy Process
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is podcast number 50! WOW – hard to believe!
So, I will do a modified AAR - what went right, what went wrong, and how to improve my podcast review of my podcast. I used this process during my Army career (38 years, USA, MD/VA NG). I will modify this and discuss What Went Right and How to improve.
**Email your know your comments and ideas to djenkins@townoflaplata.org.
Thanks!**La Plata Ward 4 Video Update
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
As you know I have been a member of Strong Towns for several years. I’ve talked about Strong Towns on this podcast, the most recent posted August 24, 2023 – Strong Towns – Local Conversations, The Next Step, and the first Strong Towns – New Thinking about La Plata’s Growth posted May 22, 2022.
Please again note that the views expressed here are mine and do not represent the view of the Town.
This discussion is from a September 8, 2023, Strong Town blog post 10 Things Every Elected Leader Should Know About Building Strong Towns
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is another podcast about the Town’s infrastructure, what they do, and their future planning. This episode is about public safety - the La Plata Police Department, a critical component of any community.
The source of this podcast is from the Police Chief and their 2022 accreditation report by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).
A reminder that at the Town Council’s last meeting (the last Tuesday) each month, each department (Operations, Planning, Finance, Human Resources, Legislative Affairs, and Police Department) all provide a monthly update of their respective activities. These monthly reports are available from each meeting agenda. A link is provided in the podcast notes.
References:
- La Plata Police Department; CALEA Assessments Reports
- New La Plata website
- Town Council Meetings
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This episode is about the Town Planning Commission and Ex parte communications. The Town Council representative to the Planning Commission is Councilwoman Bryant-Ward, Ward 3.
Source: Planning Ethics & Ex Parte Communications, Maryland Planning Commission Association (MPCA) **Conference, November 7, 2019, Presentation by: Robert McCord, Esq. Secretary, Maryland Department of Planning; Town Planning Department.
References:**
- Maryland Planning Commissioners Association (MPCA)
- Planning Commission Education Course
- Town of La Plata Planning Commission
- Town of La Plata Board of Appeals
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is a follow-up to my August 13, 2022, podcast – Strong Towns – A New Thinking About La Plata’s Growth. This update is timely, given the continued development in and adjacent to La Plata during the past year.
Full disclosure: I’ve been a Strong Town member for two years, following their blog and podcasts. Strong Town provides what I believe is a needed nuanced perspective about growth!
**Also, the views and opinions are mine, as one Town Council member, and do not reflect to views and opinions of the Town.
Reference Links:**
- Strong Towns
- Local Conversations
- Strong Towns Academy
- History Teacher Steps Up and Starts the Conversation for Change in Bloomington, Illinois
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is the next podcast in the series about growth in and adjacent to La Plata, and its impact on our infrastructure.
The first in this series, La Plata Development, was posted on July 6.
The Town’s water system followed this, posted on July 17, followed by the sewer system on July 26,
The source of these podcasts is La Plata’s Director of Operations, and the staff, who operate these services. These are enterprise services, funded through user fees and state/Federal grants and loans.
This podcast is about La Plata’s stormwater management system.
References:
La Plata Code of Ordinances - Chapter 167-Stormwater Management
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
**I want to interrupt the infrastructure podcast series and provide facts in response to recent misleading statements about the County having approval authority for projects within the Town limits.
References:**
- Maryland Manual On-Line - Local Government/Municipalities
- La Plata, Maryland - Code of Ordinances
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is the next podcast in the series about growth in and adjacent to La Plata, and its impact on our infrastructure. It’s important to understand all the planning and work behind the scenes to maintain, operate and expand the Town’s infrastructure. The water is there when you turn the faucet and the toilet flushes.
The first in this series, La Plata Development, was posted on July 6.
This was followed by an overview of the Town’s water system, posted July 17.
The information source of these podcasts is from La Plata’s Director of Operations, and the staff, who operate these services. These are enterprise services, funded through user fees and state/Federal grants and loans.
**This podcast is about La Plata’s public sewer system.
The next podcast in the series is stormwater management.
Reference: La Plata's WaterSmart Customer Portal :
to Review and Pay water bills, track daily water usage, compare usage to previous time periods, receive leak alerts, and get tips on how to save water and money.**
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is the next podcast in the series about growth in and adjacent to La Plata, and its impact on our infrastructure.
The first in this series, La Plata Development, was posted on July 6.
Subsequent podcasts will talk about La Plata’s infrastructure (water, sewer, stormwater management), and ongoing actions to improve and expand these services.
The source of these podcasts is La Plata’s Director of Operations, and the staff, who operate these services. These are enterprise services, funded through user fees and state/Federal grants and loans.
This podcast is about La Plata’s public water system.
Reference:
La Plata Town Services - Potable Water; 2022 Drinking Water Quality Report
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is the first of a series of podcasts about the growth in and adjacent to La Plata. I want to provide information on how La Plata is responding to this growth and my individual perspective as a Town Council member and professional planner.
Podcast Links:
- Feb 5, 2023– Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance Continued
- Jan 17, 2023- Annexations – My perspectives
- January 11, 2023 – APFO
- December 12, 2022 – The HUB and Hawthorne Yards annexations – What's Next
- December 7, 2022 – Annexations – My Vote and Why
- October 25, 2022 - Fact Vs Myth: La Plata/Charles County Growth
- September 28, 2022 - Steeplechase – What Happened!?
- July 11, 2022 – La Plata Planning Department 2021 Annual Report
- June 12, 2022 – La Plata’s Comprehensive Plan
- May 31, 2022 – La Plata’s Planning Department – What do they do!?
- May 22, 2022 – Strong Towns – New Thinking About La Plata’s Growth
- September 13, 2021 – Annexation Process
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
There are many concerns and criticisms about the growth and building in and adjacent to La Plata.
In response, I am preparing a series of podcasts beginning with La Plata Development Revisited - an update about development projects in the Town. My June 13 podcast, La Plata Planning Department’s 2022 Annual Report, provides context about recent development trends.
**This will then be followed by separate podcast episodes about La Plata’s infrastructure – water, sewer, and stormwater management, and how the town has planned for growth. The information source is from the Town’s Director of Operations. I will note my opinion when appropriate as one of five Town Council members.
References:*La Plata Planning Department 2022 Annual ReportCharles County Parks and Recreation, La Plata Farm Park draft plan*
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is a summary of La Plata’s Planning Department’s 2022 Annual Report, required annually by the Maryland Department of Planning. This was reviewed and approved by the Town Planning Commission at their June 6, 2022, meeting.
This report is available from the La Plata Planning Department Website - https://townoflaplata.org/index.asp?SEC=5AA8D8E3-4091-4775-A098-3942F5984801&Type=B_BASIC
References:
Podcasts:
December 8, 2022, Podcast – My Vote and Why – The Hub/Hawthorne Yards.
Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO)
La Plata Ward 4 Update Video (YouTube):
Development Capacity Analysis
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
In this episode, I review the second year of my 4-year term, elected on May 10, 2021. My term ends in May 2025.
Please know that I am one of five (5) Council members, and I will differentiate our accomplishments as a Town Council, versus my individual activities.
**Shortly after I was sworn in on May 10, 2021. I wrote my goals for my 4- year term, based on the specific goals and actions from the September 2020 Town Comprehensive Plan.
Please know that FY 24 budget preparation (starting July 1, 2023, ends June 30, 2024) started this past February and continues with Town Council work sessions, then public hears later in May. See my La Plata Budget Summary video.**
As always, I welcome your comments and questions. My email djenkins@townoflaplata.org Podcasts:La Plata’s 2023 Maryland Department of Transporation (MDOT )Transporation PrioritiesAdequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO)Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO) Continued: The Need for Fiscal Impact Analysis La Plata Ward 4 Video Update - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO4zG4O4Z_rP1Ot80whLPkQ
- Development Capacity Analysis
- Complete Streets
- La Plata's 2020 Comprehensive Plan
- La Plata Budget Fiscal Year (FY Status)
- Radio Station Road Pathway
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
As a planning concept, the goal tries to help people to get around without need of a car.
A recent article (The 15-Minute City, Deconstructed, March 8, 2023) talks about what a 15-minute city is and what it includes.
“It's measure is simply this: how far can you walk or bike in 15 minutes? So, the 15-Minute City of one of your neighbors a couple blocks away is slightly different from your 15-Minute City. And it’s not a question of how far you’re able to travel, but rather of how far you’re willing to travel on foot or bike based on risks.”
The article lists important “destinations” for a 15-minute neighborhood, using your front door as the starting point. Each “neighborhood” in then unique, dependent on where is your "front door.”
As an experiment, I used Google Maps to locate the following destinations from my front door, then used the Get Directions function to determine the distance (miles) and then the time to walk and bike to each destination.
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
Each year the Maryland Department of Transporation (MDOT) prepares its Consolidated Transportation Plan (CTP), Maryland's six-year capital budget for transportation projects and programs across all MDOT agencies, including the State Highway Administration (SHA), Mass Transit Administration (MTA), all affecting La Plata. The current CTP is for FY 23 through FY 28.
La Plata, in coordination with Charles County, provides our respective transportation priorities to MDOT each April as input to the CTP.
La Plata’s transportation priorities were discussed and approved at the March 7, 2023, County Commissioner meeting.
The following projects/priorities of the Town of La Plata that the Charles County Commissioners support, are listed by roadway:
Charles Street (MD 6):
- Pedestrian Safety –Restriping crosswalks and consideration of adding electronic warning signs. UPDATE: two warning signs (beacons) will be installed by the State Highway Administration (SHA) in early June, at two existing pedestrian crossings – the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center, and N. Oak Avenue/Port Tobacco Players
- Request for a Comprehensive Study Rt. 301 (Crain Hwy) to Rt. 488 (La Plata Rd.) Request for review of safety upgrades to the intersection with Hickory Lane
- Stormwater structure deterioration and related road conditions
- Left turn signal to Garrett Avenue (hospital and library entrances)
Tweak the timing of Garrett Avenue and La Plata Road/488 Light (try to sync)
Crain Highway (US 301):
- Standing water in front of 6720 (in the vicinity of Burger King) creates a potential hazard
- Hawthorne Road (MD 225) intersection –Poor visibility, light timing, and traffic pattern review are needed
Request to plant thorny bushes in the median on 301 to deter pedestrians from crossing there to get to Deluxe Inn and to Patuxent Inn
La Plata Road (MD 488):
- Request for consideration of installation of Hiker/Biker trail
- Request for review of the crosswalk to the neighboring pedestrian path to Tilghman Lake Park
- Request for review of safety issues at Kings Grant entrance
The Town appreciates SHA’s commitment to working on the Southwest Access Management Plan along US 301 between MD 6 and Old Stagecoach Road, led by the Town’s consultant, Mead & Hunt. The Town looks forward to implementing solutions to address traffic operations and safety in concert with development plans in the area.
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
Here is an update of recent Town Council actions:
- Fiscal Year (FY )24 Budget Prep:
- February 20, 2023, Town Council Budget Retreat
- Planning Department:
- Development Capacity Study
- Draft Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO
- Planning Commission January 3, 2023
- Planning Commission January 18, 2023
- Wills Park improvement plans are underway, including an amphitheater, and trails, with a connection to the proposed Charles County La Plata Farm Park,a new County Park (50 acres) adjacent to and north of Wills Park.
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is a follow-up to my earlier APFP podcast on January 11, 2023.
The Town Planning Commission started the APFO discussion at their January 3, 2023, meeting, followed by a special work session on January 18, 2023.
I attended online or watched the YouTube video of both meetings. I also provided my comments and observations to the Planning Commission Chair, through email on January 6 and January 23, 2023.
My initial comments urged that Fiscal impact should also be part of APFO. Development affects the Town's fiscal sustainability to fund needed infrastructure and maintenance costs once facilities are turned over to the Town.
Rationale for Smart Growth Fiscal Impact Analysis and Model Fiscal Impact Assessment Ordinance
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is what the Army calls an After-Action Review of the recent (3) annexations (Villages at Rosewick, The HUB, and Hawthorne Yards) eventually approved by the Town Council.
This review is my opinion as one member of the 5-member Town Council.
I believe reviewing and seeing how we can improve the process is important.Maryland Municipal League (MML) Annexation Handbook Videos:Hawthorne YardsThe HUB Villages at Rosewick
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
The La Plata Planning Commission, at their January 3, 2023, meeting, discussed an initial draft of an Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO).Town Planning Commission January 3, 2023 Meeting Agenda
Town Planning Commission January 3, 2023, recorded video
Rationale for Smart Growth Fiscal Impact Analysis and Model Impact Assessment Ordinance
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This is a follow-up to my last podcast, posted December 7, Annexations – My Vote and Why - my NO vote in opposition to The HUB and Hawthorne Yards annexations, approved at the November 22, 2022, Town Council meeting, by a 3-1 vote.
The HUB, TDX, Master Site Development Plan: Town Zoning Ordinance Section 191-11 – Site plans and master site development plan. https://library.municode.com/md/la_plata/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH191ZO_ARTIIPLRESURE_S191-11SIPLMASIDEPL
Hawthorne Yards, NCX, Master Site Development Plan: Town Zoning Ordinance Section 191-34 - Site plans and master site development planhttps://library.municode.com/md/la_plata/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH191ZO_ARTIVZORE_S191-34NECOMIUSZONC
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
At the November 22, 2022, Town Council meeting, I voted in opposition (NO) for both The HUB (+- 1,500 units) and the Hawthorne Yards Annexations (148 SF and 48 TH units).
I believe both annexations ARE NOT CONSISTENT with the Town Comp Plan Goals.
Previous videos:
- The HUB Annexation
- Hawthorne Yards
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
This episode highlights information and issues from recent Town Council meetings, since August 2022.
Agricopia - Our community mourns the tragic loss of life from Friday's event. Our thoughts, prayers, and condolences to the family. Our thanks to the first responders. We attended a candlelight vigil on Sunday, November 6 at the community.Steeplechase -What HappenedLa Plata's Strategic Plan
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
There is a lot of discussion, questions, and concerns about growth in La Plata. At the same time, comments and criticisms have been made that La Plata’s growth has and is contributing to the lack of water and school overcrowding.
The purpose of this episode is to provide some facts and context about this growth and criticism.
La Plata Develoment Video
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update. I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think. I look forward to your questions and comments.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.org
Talk to you soon!
Reference: Blue Zone
This concludes this latest La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update.I hope you find this podcast informative and useful.
Let me know what you think.I look forward to speaking to you again and listening to your questions and concerns.
My email address is djenkins@townoflaplata.orgMy cell phone number is (301) 263-3471
Talk to you soon!
This episode is about the PC/TC Joint October 4, 2022, Joint Meeting - An update on transportation Projects, Initiatives to implement the Town’s Comprehensive Plan, Goal 16 – Continue to make La Plata a very walkable community.
Ocotober 4, 2022 Meeting Agenda - https://laplata.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Org=Cal&Id=2554
YouTube Town of La Plata Video October 4, 2022Radio Station Road Pathway video
This episode is a summary of the Town Council’s September 27, 2020, Meeting and the results of the Steeplechase Amended Master Site Development Plan public hearing.
The video of this meeting is available on the Town of La Plata YouTube channel (https://youtu.be/3rQjkfBlz3E.) The Steeplechase public hearing starts at minute 38:25.
**Closing Public Hearing - Time 1:53-35 Town of La Plata YouTube meeting video.
Resolution 22-29, Approving the Steeplechase revied Master Site Development Plan was introduced - Meeting time 2:12:40**
Sources:
What is Traffic Calming? What is Complete Street and why?!Radio Station Road Pathway Project
This episode is a summary of the Town Council Strategic Plan, adopted at our August 23, 2022, Business Meeting.
**In this episode, in response to recent resident comments about the Town Council’s lack of community outreach and engagement, I provide comments and perspective as one of five Council members. I don’t speak for the Mayor and Council, and they don’t speak for me.
La Plata Planning Department links:**
- Development Updates
- Development Review
Maryland Open Meetings ActTown of La Plata YouTube
This episode is a follow-up to recent Town Council/Planning Commission public hearing comments, to provide additional information including:
- More about Smart Growth
- La Plata Planning Commission education requirements
- La Plata Planning Commission/Town Council responsibilities
What is Smart Growth? - Smart Growth Online: https://smartgrowth.org/what-is-smart-growth/?fbclid=IwAR0leief_dL1-pT-Lc_ThOYvMYpxdlXECE_gVj4t9TQcaqZ6Btb-tTCSqTY
Maryland Department of Planning, Planning Commission Education Course: https://planning.maryland.gov/Pages/YourPart/PlanCommCourseMaterials.aspx
This episode is about two Town Council annexation public hearings – May 24th, The HUB, and July 18th for the Hawthorne Yards annexation request, and the August 3 Planning Commission public hearing about an amendment to the Steeplechase Master Site Development Plan.
Previous podcasts about growth and development:
Annexations – May 15
Strong Towns – A New Thinking About La Plata’s Growth – May 22
La Plata’s Planning Department – May 31
La Plata’s Comprehensive Plan – June 12
La Plata 2021 Annual Planning Report – July 11
Strong Towns
La Plata Planning Department
This episode is a follow-up to my April 23, 2022, podcast – Show Me the Money La Plata’s Draft FY 23 Budget. – Please note - the FY (Fiscal Year) starts July 1, 2022, and ends June 30, 2023.
All budget information is available on the Town website – www.townoflpata.org
This is episode is a brief summary of La Plata’s Planning Department’s 2021 Annual Report, required annually by the Maryland Department of Planning. This was reviewed and approved by the Town Planning Commission at their June 7, 2022, meeting.
This report is available from the La Plata Planning Department website www.townoflaplta.org>Town Government> Planning Department>Annual Reports
Key items tracked annually are permits, School seat allocations and development capacity analysis.
Town Council Work Sessions/Business Meeting Recap
Work Sessions: April 12, April 19, May 10, May 17, June 10
Business Meetings: April 26, May 24, June 21
Link to access all meeting agendas: https://laplata.civicweb.net/Portal/
Then click a specific meeting date on the calendar.
The Compete Streets program has a direct connection to one of my Town Council priorities, based on the 2020 Town Comprehensive Plan – GOAL #16: Continue to make La Plata a very walkable community.
This is also personal for me - I am a walker and cyclist, so I have firsthand experience with speeding in our neighborhoods and around La Plata. This includes several close calls being hit by a car, even practicing safe behavior – walking and riding on the correct side of the road (no sidewalks!) when riding wearing a helmet, reflective clothing, bike lights, front and rear, and obeying rules of the road.
Links to the following in this podcast:
Complete Streets https://smartgrowthamerica.org/what-are-complete-streets/
Maryland Department of Transporation/State Highway Administration - https://www.roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/Index.aspx?PageId=332
This is a follow-up to an episode of my May 31, 2022) podcast - La Plata’s Planning Department and What do they do!
This episode is about the Town’s 2020 Comprehensive Plan, adopted on September 28, 2020.
The Plan is a policy guide for both the Town Council and Planning Commission.
The Plan’s goals and objectives are implemented over time through the decisions related to annexations, rezoning, the subdivision of land, and the location and construction of public improvements.
There are 31 Goals, each with specific Action items for implementation. Again, the Comp Plan is a policy guide to how La Plata grows.
I will follow up with Comp Plan a video, with visuals.
Thanks again for listening!
With the development under construction and with three annexation proposals, it's appropriate to provide an overview of the Town of Plata’s Planning Department, a subject near and dear to my heart, given my education and job experience (public and private sectors) as a certified planner.
All the information about the Town Planning Department is available at their website – go to www.townoflplata.org>Town Government>Departments>Planning
Planning Department’s Mission:
• maintain and improve the character of our residential and commercial communities by making them more livable, walkable, accessible, and sustainable.
• Focus on customer service and the development process.
• Balance infrastructure needs and growth as the Town’s population increases.
• Provide planning analysis and recommendations that enable the best planning and development decisions and recommendations to the Planning Commission and Town Council.
The Planning Department Coordinates all of the development-related functions across the Town and oversees planning, development, and permitting activities, and Zoning Code enforcement. The department works to implement the 2020 Comprehensive Plan.
Let me finish this episode with an update about the first of three annexation requests - The Villages at Rosewick of three annexation requests under review the Town Council. I posted a video of this annexation request on March 23 on my Facebook Page and Next Door
• This annexation is located at the Southeast corner of the Rosewick Road, Washington Avenue intersection, 20 acres, proposing 232 apartments in 4 buildings, with supporting office and commercial space in each building.
•Planning Commission met March 1, 2022 – Public Hearing, no speakers signed up to testify
• As required, the Planning Commission recommended Neighborhood Commercial Mixed-Use zoning and annexation consistent with the 2020 Comprehensive Plan, forwarded to the Town Council
•Town Council public hearing May 10, 2022; no public testimony, in person or written
• This annexation was approved; I voted Yes for the following reasons:
oWater/sewer service adjacent and available, included within the Town’s water/sewer projections
oTraffic impact limited to access to Rosewick Road, subject to County’s Road standards and Rosewick Road access management plan
oI consider this an “infill project, rounds out town boundary, not sprawl, access to Rosewick Road hiker/biker trail and will provide additional sidewalks along Washington Avenue.
•The next annexation update is about the HUB:
oPlanning Commission met on March 1, 2022, and then again on April 5, 2022
oOpposition letters were provided
oPlanning Commission as required recommended Traditional Development Mixed-Use zoning, and consistency with the 2020 Comprehensive Plan
oTown Council Public Hearing was on May 24. The record for public comment is open until June 16, 2022.
oSend an email to this address (legislative@townoflaplata.org) as you already have, and request that it be forwarded to the Town Council for consideration.
oSend letters to the Town Council addressed to 305 Queen Anne St Box 2268, La Plata MD 20646.
•Hawthorne Yards:
oPlanning Commission meeting, March 1, 2022, recommended Neighborhood Commercial Mixed-Use
oTown Council Public Hearing to be scheduled in late June.
There will be two follow-up podcasts and videos, first about the Town’s 2020 Comprehensive Plan, and the second about the required 2021 Annual Report, to be released in July. providing an overview of La Plata’s development trends
Given La Plata’s present growth pressures, I want to talk about Strong Towns, established in 2009, this is a national non-profit organization, promoting a new way of thinking about how towns grow, to be sustainable and resilient communities.
Their website -https://www.strongtowns.org/
Strong Town Principles:
· Strong cities, towns, and neighborhoods need strong citizens working together to improve the community.
· Local government is not the lowest level of government, but the highest level of collaboration for strong citizens working to build a prosperous place.
· For local government, financial solvency is a prerequisite for long-term prosperity. Land is the base resource from which community prosperity is built and sustained. It must not be squandered.
· A transportation system is one of many means of creating prosperity in a community, but never an end unto itself.
· Job creation and economic growth are the results of a healthy local economy, not substitutes for one.
The Strong Town Approach:
· Relies on incremental investments ("little bets") instead of large, transformative projects.
· Favors resiliency of result over the efficiency of execution. Is designed to adapt to feedback, to evolve over time to meet the changing needs of the community.
· Is inspired by bottom-up action ("chaotic but smart") and not top-down systems ("orderly but dumb").
· Seeks to conduct as much of life as possible at a human scale.
Is obsessive about accounting for its revenues, expenses, assets, and long-term liabilities ("do the math
https://www.strongtowns.org/journal/2019/10/9/we-need-growth-but-only-if-it-generates-real-wealth
In this episode, I will review my first year (May 10, 2021) as a Town Council member.
Please know that I am one of five (5) Council members, and will differentiate our accomplishments as a Town Council, versus my individual activities.
Shortly after I was sworn in on May 10, 2021. I wrote my goals for my 4- year term. These goals are based on the following goals/actions from the September 2020 Town Comprehensive Plan:
But first, my Civic Responsibility as an elected official - The Athenian Oath, recited by the citizens of Athens, Greece, more than 2,000 years ago. (Source: A Guide for Local Elected Leaders, International City/County Management Association (ICMA), National League of Cities (NLC))
Advocate for a safe and walkable La Plata :
- Active member, Parks and Recreation Commission
- Promote Complete Street and Zero Death policies to Town Council, La Plata Police, Parks, and Recreation Commission
- Support La Plata Walkway project now under design. Refer to the LP Update Ward Video, posted April 4, 2022
- Member Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland’s Bicycle- Pedestrian Infrastructure Committee
- Member MDOT Pedestrian Advisory Committee
Strive for innovation and continual improvement in all town processes:
- The previous Council funded and now completed Staffing and Organizational Study, Salary and Benefits Study, Actuarial Analysis - retirement options for town employees
- Developed Town Strategic Plan
- These may not seem important or germane, but collectively are processes ensuring open, orderly, and consistent effective meetings:
- Developed and use Town Council Rules of Procedures
- Developed and use the process how to placing items on Council Work sessions and business meetings
Restart La Plata Town Center Corporation (LPTCC):
- Two LPTCC meetings; limited progress, need to resolve their purpose, focus area, funding, and staff support
- Staffing and Organizational Study discusses the possible need for separate economic development functions, and the potential to consolidate related functions – Main Street, Arts District, Keep La Plata Beautiful
- Planning Department developing form-base zoning for the downtown area, more opportunities for mixed uses, and a more collaborative development process for existing and new businesses
Track Comprehensive Plan implementation :
- Planning staff developing Implementation tracking process/ document
- Comp Plan basis for FY 23 operating/capital improvement plan (CIP) and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Spending Plan
A brief overview of the annexation process, a summary of the Town's 2020 Comprehensive Plan, followed with an update about two annexation requests – Villages at Rosewick, and The Hub, now both scheduled for Town Council public hearings.
**Villages of Rosewick Town Council Public Hearing – May 10, 2022, 6:00 PM
The Hub - Town Council Public Hearing – May 24, 2022, 6:00 PM**
La Plata's draft FY 23 Budget - a brief overview of how the budget is prepared, budget highlights, and the review process.
The fiscal Year 2023 starts July 1, 2022, and ends June 30, 2023.
Highlights:
- General Fund Budget for FY 2023 equals $14,735,365 which represents an increase over the FY 2022 budget of$4,302,770 or 41%.
- Enterprise Funds Budget for FY 2023 equals $15,786,620 which represents an increase over the FY 2022 budget of $4,977,965 or 46%.
- The proposed budget reflects no increase in the property tax rate as it remains constant at $0.32 per $100 of assessed value.
- The Radio Station Road Pathway Project – is an exciting project for your town.
- Follow-up information about the Villages of Rosewick annexation request
- Upcoming events:
- April 2 – Opening Day, La Plata Farmers Market – a short video was posted on NextDoor and my Facebook Page
- Tuesday, April 5 - National Arbor Day, 10:00 AM, Wills Park
- Celebrate La Plata, Saturday, April 30th, from 12 PM to 4 PM - with craft and business vendors, local food vendors, live music, and the annual La Plata Bed Races event that kicks off at 3 p.m. on La Grange Avenue. Celebrate La Plata began following the 2002 tornado as a way to celebrate the rebuilding of the Town of La Plata. In honor of this year’s 20th anniversary, former Mayor Bill Eckman, who served in 2002, will recount the Town’s response managing the aftereffects of the natural disaster.
https://townoflaplata.org/index.asp?SEC=D763E969-7A24-434C-AC1D-C4500B9AE7C2&Type=B_BASIC
Update Town Council February Work Sessions and Business Meeting
Since COVID, all meetings have been virtual, using the Microsoft Teams platform. The first hybrid meeting (option to attend in person or virtually through Teams) started with the Town Council on February 22, 2022, a Business meeting.
Each meeting and agenda have the following guidance: “In accordance with the Open Meetings Act, the public has the right to view/listen to the discussion only. The Town Council at their discretion may let participants voice questions or provide comments on the topics under discussion. Written comments may be submitted via email to mminer@townoflaplata.org.”
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
At the February 15, 2020, Town Council Work Session, Town staff presented a draft spending plan from funds (initial allocation of $4.7 million of a total of $9.4 million) received through The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This is still a work in progress. Please contact me or the Town Manager with your ideas and suggestions to make the best investment of these funds for your community.
Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget
Town Budget preparation began with a February 19, 2022, budget retreat with Town staff to review current budget status by department, discuss future issues, and recommended operating and capital improvement requests.
The draft budget will be forwarded to the Town Council on April 1, 2022. This will be followed by Town Council Work Session, public comment, and hearing in April and May, with adoption by June 14.
March 1, 2022, Planning Commission Annexation Public Hearings:
The HUB Annexation - Recommendation to keep the comment record open for 30 days. The topic will be scheduled for April 5, 2022, Planning Commission Meeting
The Villages of Rosewick Annexation - PC Recommended the NCX zoning.
Hawthorne Yards Annexation - Removed from the agenda. To be rescheduled at a future meeting date.
Development Projects
Heritage Green-Construction has started for the initial phases of this large project, annexed in 1990. This includes the construction of a new entrance road on Charles Street (MD 6) opposite Willow Lane, installation of SMECO electric facilities, and installation of the trunk sewer line. The preliminary plan for the first phase (Neighborhood K) was reviewed and approved on August 4, 2021, Planning Commission meeting. Construction must comply with the Town Noise Ordinance, work between 7 am and 6 pm weekdays, 8 am to 6 pm Saturdays.
Magnolia Gardens
3.75 acres, The property is located along Washington Avenue at the intersection of Heritage Green Parkway, proposing seventy-two (72) apartment units. and a clubhouse
Upcoming Events:
Community Meeting La Plata Bikeway from Somers MS to Laurel Springs Regional Park, March 9, 5:00 – 7:30 PM, drop in any time
Tree Inventory – conducted by Davey Resource Group, selected by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay – assessment of estimated 2,000 trees on public streets in La Plata.
Thanks again for listening and your interest in La Plata. I look forward to your comments and questions.
djenkins@townoflaplata.org
- American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
- La Plata Road/Radio Station Road Pedestrian Pathway/Bikeway
- Latest annexation requests:
- The HUB:
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Hawthorne Yards – MD 225, American Legion ballfield site, 53 acres, 48 TH, 135 SF, clubhouse, pickleball courts, small commercial area (on MD 225
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Villages at RosewickTown Strategic Plan and Organizational Development5. Upcoming Events:
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Joint TC/County Commissioner meeting Tuesday, February 8 to discuss water and our state groundwater appropriate permit (GAP)
- February 19 – TC FY 23 budget retreat with Town Manager, Treasurer, Department heads
Highlights from the December 14 Town Council Work Session and December 21 Town Council Business Meeting
- Latest Annex Request - The HUB - https://laplata.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Org=Cal&Id=2431
- Town Pedestrian/ Bikeways Projects/Studies
- American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)Under ARPA, the Town of La Plata will receive $9,489,034 over two payments from the Federal Government through the State of Maryland. Click the link below to read more about ARPA and how funds can be used.
https://townoflaplata.org/vertical/sites/%7BC5944482-8A4A-48D0-B56C-BE347B799FF3%7D/uploads/Town_of_La_Plata_-_ARPA_-_website_-_information(2).pdf
- Town Notes Newsletter - January/February/March 2022 Issue
https://townoflaplata.org/vertical/sites/%7BC5944482-8A4A-48D0-B56C-BE347B799FF3%7D/uploads/196267_TOLP_V02.pdf
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds:
- I have an ask - we are seeking your input on how to spend funds the Town has received from The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), signed into law in March 2021. This is an economic stimulus bill designed to help communities recover from the economic and health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- La Plata has received an initial allocation of $4.7 million of a total of $9.4 million. The remaining funds will be received by July 2022. All funds must be spent by December 2026.
Additional clarification about the annexation process:
- There have been recent discussions during the Public Forum at recent work sessions and business meetings about the annexation process.
I‘d like to again explain the annexation process and emphasize two public hearings are required, one by the Town Planning Commission and then a second by the Town Council.
The latest issues and activities from October 12 and October 19 Town Council Work Sessions and the October 25 Town Council Business Meeting.
Topics:
•Heritage Green update
•American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds
• FY 22 Town road paving list
•Annexation Request Update – Hawthorne Yards
•La Plata 2020 Census
This episode of the La Plata Town Council Ward 4 Update podcast discusses issues and items from Council's August/September work sessions and business meetings.
Works Session - we review, discuss issues, providing direction to staff, and reach consensus, before moving them to the monthly Business meetings as resolution or legislation.
Business Meetings are formal meetings, that approve resolutions, proclamations, introduce/approve legislation (ordinances) conduct public hearings.
Public forums are on the agenda for Work Sessions and Business Meetings, where residents can ask questions, and provide their comments.
There is concern about recent development activities and annexations. This episode provides a brief overview of the annexation process.
Information is also provided why the Town is replacing faulty water meters.
Update about La Plata Town Council meetings, information for residents, and related activities.