Greenbelt · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Greenbelt, MD public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Delinquent waste collection accounts and tax liens
After a pause during COVID, the city is placing tax liens on properties with unpaid waste collection bills — homeowners then pay through their county property tax bill. A resident asked how the process works.
Street Sweeper Replacement Engine Purchase
The city's street sweeper broke down, and staff sought authorization to buy a replacement engine and parts for up to $16,054.52 to get it back in service.
Bond bill and legislative priorities for 2027
Council's top state priorities are data center guardrails, municipal zoning authority, and fiscal capacity; top bond projects are Pepco street light upgrades, wayfinding, and Indian Creek Park. These go to Annapolis with District 22 municipalities.
Save-As-You-Throw (SAYT) Program Fees
Trash fee decisions loom. The proposed 2027 base rate dropped from $2.60 to $2.40, which Councilmember Knesel says puts the whole financial burden on families. Expect a resolution at the next meeting with new financial scenarios.
Maryland FAMLI — State vs. Private Plan Options
The city enrolled in the state's family leave insurance program after private alternatives fell through. Employees will see a payroll contribution; Councilmembers Knesel and McKinney want affected employees to have input on the final choice.
Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Consulting Services RFP
Greenbelt is moving from isolated DEI programs to a citywide effort and plans to hire a consultant to assess where it stands, define roles, and set measurable goals. Council wants the work to measure both internal culture and community impact, and is considering a resident advisory committee on DEI and accessibility.
Ranked choice voting next steps
Council moved forward with drafting a charter amendment adding ranked choice voting, as voters backed in a 2025 referendum. Pope wants a test run and cost analysis first; the election is about a year away.
Temporary working groups (subcommittees)
Council created three new working groups and tabled a fourth. Longtime resident Bill Orleans argued small-group meetings shut the public out of council deliberations; Fritz defended the practice as compliant with the Open Meetings Act.
Bond Bill and Federal Earmark Projects
Indian Creek Park, PEPCO streetlight LED conversions, Armory demolition, and citywide wayfinding top the draft bond bill list. Staff will survey council to rank projects before submitting requests.
County Funding for Greenbelt Priorities
County Council Member Tim Adams announced more than $1.65 million secured in the FY2027 county budget for Greenbelt — parks, museum, lighting, and aquatic center maintenance.