Demetri Protos

The Board of Managers meeting included an appeal for tree removal at 15 West Lenox Street, a Treasurer's report, and a public hearing regarding the draft budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Key actions included the authorization of a contract extension for janitorial services, approval of funding for community forums, and a grant agreement with Montgomery Municipal Cable, Inc. The Board also reviewed and passed a budget amendment ordinance involving transfers between capital projects and operating budget line items. Additionally, members were appointed to the Building Facilities Commission and the Tree Ordinance Board, followed by reports from the police and the village manager.

The agenda for the annual meeting includes a state of the village address, reports from the village manager and the police chief regarding public safety, and a financial overview from the board treasurer. Additionally, the meeting will cover updates from various board-appointed and open membership commissions and committees, a report from the election supervisors, a public discussion period, and board action on the adoption of the fiscal year 2027 budget and the tax levy ordinance.

The Board approved a variance request regarding a second-story addition at 138 Hesketh Street. The meeting included a presentation of the draft audited financial statements for FY2025 and updates regarding the Friendship Heights Sector Plan, including discussions on potential active play spaces. Additionally, the Board discussed pending state legislation (HB 239/SB 36) and authorized a new three-year contract for street maintenance services with Espina Paving, Inc.

The board conducted a work session to review and discuss the first draft of the Fiscal Year 2027 operating and capital budgets. The session included an analysis of revenue projections, including income and property taxes, cable franchise fees, and various operational income sources. Discussions covered operating expenses such as cost-of-living adjustments, new personnel policies, health insurance increases, and department-specific operational costs. Additionally, the board reviewed the proposed Capital Improvements Program, which includes projects for sidewalk maintenance, street lighting upgrades, stormwater management, and necessary equipment purchases for police and public works departments.

The Committee members provided updates following discussions with current and former Montgomery County Planning Board staff. Key discussion points included exploring the potential for a joint meeting, workshop, or work session with Montgomery County Planning Board staff and the Chevy Chase Land Company (CCLC) to identify common areas of agreement for the Sector Plan. Furthermore, the committee revisited the possibility of consulting with planning specialists, architects, and zoning attorneys concerning their recommendations to the Board of Managers.