MEMORANDUM

TO: City Council

FROM: David J. Deutsch, City Manager

SUBJECT: Status Report/Council Poll

DATE: April 17, 2008

Status Report

1. Diversity Committee

The Diversity Committee met last night. One of the items on their agenda was a discussion about how the City awards contracts. Members of the Committee will review information about the City's process and will examine how other governments handle the subject, especially with regard to minority businesses. At the completion of their research and evaluation, they expect to make a report to Council.

The following data was shared with the Committee:

2. New Traffic Signal at US 301/Amber Ridge

Today, the City was advised of the Maryland State Highway Administration’s approval of a traffic half-signal on US 301 at the Amber Ridge development. Installation of a signal at the site entrance from US 301 will keep unwanted traffic off of Pointer Ridge Drive and Pointer Ridge Place and was supported by the Citizens Association of South Bowie. Last September, Council requested the assistance of Senator Douglas Peters in helping to resolve the issue. The attached letter of appreciation was sent to Senator Peters thanking him for his leadership in achieving this success.