5 October 2011 | Approved: 2 November 2011
Chairman Challstrom called to order at 7:35 p.m. In attendance were commissioners Samantha Beres, Peter Nagrod and Steve Werts.
Approval of Agenda
Chairman Challstrom asked to add a review of fence rules in the #4 spot and a clarification of the PC roster with #7.
Samantha Beres moved to approve the agenda with the additions. Peter Nagrod seconded the motion. Approved: 4-0.
Approval of the Minutes
Samantha Beres moved to approve the minutes from September 7, 2011. Peter Nagrod seconded the motion. Approved: 4-0.
Public Appearances
Ed Roberts came to observe the meeting. Gail Littlefield came representing the Historic Preservation Commission.
Building Permit Applications
- 330 Ridge Road – Samantha Beres explained the Lottes’ observatory project. She further explained that she and Charlie were able to locate the boundary markers for the property. Because of this action, the resident will be allowed to use the plat (No.2149) for Washington Grove Hills in place of a survey for his property. Plat No. 2149 clearly shows the front property markers and the observatory will be located 50 feet from the front property line. The HPC waived a review of this project. One resident expressed the opinion that an approval of the observatory would set a bad precedent. That resident received an e-mail response. The structure does not violate any rules. Ed Roberts stated that the HPC should not have waived a review because all homes in Town have an historic view and should be noted as such. This home is not in the historic area.
Samantha Beres moved to approve the building permit application. Peter Nagrod seconded the motion. Vote: 4-0.
Samantha Beres wanted to discuss her need for further clarification concerning the house location survey and/or boundary survey requirements. A discussion ensued which resulted in the idea that the language currently given to residents needs to be reviewed in order to help with the on-going effort of equal treatment and clarity.
Samantha Beres reported that a resident had asked her for help with the Town fence requirements. There was a discussion about height and setbacks at the property (121 Chestnut Ave.) in question. Samantha will report back to the resident.
Deer Park Bridge
Charlie Challstrom reported that the Bridge Advisory Group has developed a set of questions to ask representatives from Montgomery County DOT at a meeting which will be held on Monday, October 10, 2011. CSX has yet to submit any official plans to the Town for review. A Special Town Meeting about this could happen in November.
Driveway Permits – Discussion
This discussion centered on the need for Town government to have more control over the public rights-of-way. The subjects of proper drainage, protecting trees from root compaction and the protection of the public land were discussed. These three items will be the initial focus for assessments and future plans to address the driveway permit issue. Documenting certain areas of concern was also included in the discussion.
Report from the Town Council
- Woodward Park: Charlie Challstrom reported that although the problems with parking at the Woodward Park lot are an on-going issue, they will soon be a non-issue as the field will close on November 1, 2011.
- 300 Ridge Road: Charlie had nothing new to report on this issue. He did give a brief history and explained the current status.
- Meadow Conservation Park Committee: This Committee has been meeting and hammering out details for a maintenance agreement to be jointly formed and agreed upon by M-NCPPC and the Town.
- PC Roster Clarification: Charlie Challstrom explained how the terms of the PC are done, citing the Maryland State Article 66B and Town code that govern this.
Other Business
Peter Nagrod brought up the sidewalk along Washington Grove Lane again and offered to contact the County about the much needed repairs. The Clerk will try to find contact information for Peter. He also mentioned the pile of brush at 215 Washington Grove Lane and asked how this was being handled in terms of removal. A discussion about enforcement methods ensued. Peter asked again about enforcement of the sign ordinance, noting the sign about spaying & neutering at 405 Chestnut Avenue.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:18 p.m.