Eric C. Brown

The commission conducted discussions regarding several development projects, including Zonal Map Amendment ZMA 24-01 for The Willows, involving architectural elevation reviews and recommendations to the Mayor and Common Council. Additional business included the review of the Wakefield Valley Development Plan Amendment, a briefing from the Carroll County Planning Department, the approval of a Final Resubdivision Plat for Chick-fil-A, and the issuance of a sign permit for Boot Barn. The commission also addressed procedural rules for alternate member voting and authorized the City's annual planning reporting information certification.

The Commission conducted work sessions regarding two development proposals. The first involved a Zonal Map Amendment to reclassify land from a residential zone to a planned development zone for a 40-unit dwelling project, which will require architectural revisions from the applicant. The second session reviewed a Development Plan Amendment for the Wakefield Valley project to add 35 single-family density rights and dedicate open space, with the Commission requiring the submission of a traffic impact study and the inclusion of additional infrastructure like sidewalks. Finally, the Commission requested an update regarding the status of the Water Reuse Project.

The commission authorized the chair to sign the 2025 City of Westminster Planning Annual Reporting Information Certification. Approval was granted for a final resubdivision plat regarding a proposed Chick-fil-A site. A sign permit for Boot Barn was approved with specific conditions regarding the illumination and mounting of the building signs. Furthermore, the commission reviewed and voted to forward two architectural elevation options for Zonal Map Amendment ZMA 24-01, The Willows project, to the Mayor and Common Council for consideration. A briefing was also provided by the Carroll County Planning Department.

The meeting commenced with standard procedural elements, including the Pledge of Allegiance. A representative from McDaniel College provided updates on campus activities, including the opening of a new School of Business and Technology slated for Fall 2027, and announced upcoming events like Alumni Weekend and the Academic Symposium. Committee reports covered several topics: Public Safety reported on the identification and pursuit of charges against suspects involved in organized retail theft at Ulta Beauty. The Finance Committee confirmed budget preparations are on track and noted the completion of the water and sewer study. Public Works reported on the installation of solar crosswalk warning systems near the library and elementary school, ongoing pothole repairs following the snow event, and scheduled resurfacing of the Sherwood and Albian parking lots starting March 16th. The council adopted Resolution 2609, establishing snow emergency streets, which was praised for its effectiveness during the recent snowfall. The Recreation and Parks department provided details regarding the upcoming Celtic Caner and Irish Festival, including race times and trolley service.

The agenda for the meeting includes the approval of minutes from the February 23, 2026, session. Key items for discussion involve the consent calendar, specifically the approval of a Professional Services Agreement with SB & Company, LLC, for financial statement audits for FYs 2026 through 2028. The meeting also lists reports from various committees, including Arts Council, Finance Committee, and Public Safety Committee. A significant ordinance item is the adoption of Resolution 26-09, which establishes Snow Emergency Streets.