MEMORANDUM

TO: City Council

FROM: David J. Deutsch, City Manager

SUBJECT: Status Report/Council Poll

DATE: March 27, 2008

Status Report

1. Jericho Park and Nash Public Safety Towers

Prince George's County has installed the two public safety communication towers that were planned for the Bowie area. These two towers are part of a network of the County’s public safety and emergency communication system. Construction of this network will allow for compatibility with other jurisdictions in the Metropolitan Washington area concerning public safety and emergency communication. This compatibility does not currently exist.

The County is constructing a communication system that involves the installation of 21 towers throughout Prince George’s County. One of the critical aspects in establishing a communication system of this magnitude is to ensure in-building coverage for first responders and public safety personnel. These towers will provide a high level of in-building coverage in the City of Bowie and for Bowie State University as well.

The City entered into an agreement with the County to install the Jericho Park tower on City property. The Nash tower is located on M-NCPPC property. Both properties are located outside the City's jurisdiction. Both towers are permitted by right on these properties. Public hearings were held on December 4, 2006 on the Jericho Park tower and on March 28, 2007 on the Nash tower.

2. Bowie Advisory Planning Board Results

On Tuesday, March 25th, the Bowie Advisory Planning Board (BAPB) conducted a public hearing on an application for a Departure from Design Standards and a Detailed Site Plan (DSP) application for the proposed Harmony Place development. (The City Council reviewed and approved the Preliminary Subdivision Plan for this project in August, 2007. The subject property contains 15.44 acres and is located on the north side of Health Center Drive.) The applicant, Harmony Place Associates, LLC, requested a Departure from the number and dimensions of on-site parking spaces. The DSP proposes the construction of 286 apartment units in two buildings, a multi-level parking structure and on-site recreational amenities for the residents. At the conclusion of its public hearing, the BAPB voted, in separate motions, to approve the Departure and to recommend approval of the DSP with amended staff conditions. In each case, the Board's vote was 3-2. Council's public hearing on the DSP is scheduled for April 7th.

3. Rebates to BGE Customers

Attached is a press release from BGE regarding the proposed agreement between the State and BGE that would include a potential rebate to BGE customers. This agreement will require the approval of the General Assembly prior to their adjournment on April 7th. Much of the details regarding the amount and timing of rebates will be dependent upon the legislation.

Attachment: BGE Press Release