City of Annapolis

The Transportation Committee discussed updates regarding the free electric trolley pilot program, including route changes to prioritize connecting garages with local businesses and city dock areas. The committee reviewed ridership data, discussed the limitations of the current fleet, and explored future growth potential for additional carts. Additionally, the committee received updates on the installation of EV charging infrastructure for the transit fleet, the upcoming bidding process for an automatic vehicle locator system, and plans for FY26 transportation enhancements in collaboration with transportation planners.

The City Council held a special meeting to conduct a closed session for the purpose of meeting and greeting potential candidates for the city manager position. Following the closed session, the council reconvened in an open session and subsequently adjourned the meeting.

The City Council conducted a special meeting which included a closed session regarding potential litigation involving the Housing Authority. During the open session, the council approved the meeting agenda as amended, issued a proclamation declaring April 2026 as Earth Month in Annapolis, and received updates from the Mayor regarding the city's 100-day plan accomplishments, including permit processing times and affordable housing initiatives. Additionally, committee reports were provided on environmental matters, specifically flood barrier technology and stormwater fee structures, as well as an update on the fire department's operations and the upcoming budget process.

The committee discussed a fund transfer of $75,000 from enterprise funds to the capital projects budget for updating city construction standards and specifications. The committee also reviewed and amended the upcoming budget schedule, including the addition of a transportation department presentation and the scheduling of a joint session with the Financial Advisory Commission to discuss debt affordability and the capital improvement program. Additionally, the committee received updates from the finance department regarding the status of the budget development phase, ongoing leadership recruitment, and the forthcoming submission of quarterly budget versus actuals reports.

The committee meeting covered budget presentations for the city manager's office and the harbor master's office. Key topics included the city's transition between administrations, the hiring of key positions, and reliance on grants for resilience and sustainability projects such as climate action planning and greenhouse gas emission updates. The harbor master's team discussed houseboat task force accomplishments, harbor maintenance, and ongoing construction projects. Additionally, the committee addressed the electric leaf blower rebate program, enforcement concerns, and various personnel and non-personnel budget enhancements for the upcoming fiscal year.