Baltimore County Council Agenda – WS October 9, 2018 | LS October 15, 2018

BALTIMORE COUNTY COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE AGENDA

LEGISLATIVE SESSION 2018

 

Issued:        October 4, 2018

Work Session:       October 9, 2018

Legislative Day No.   17  :     October 15, 2018

 

The accompanying notes are

compiled from unaudited

information provided by

the Administration and

other sources.

 

OFFICE OF THE COUNTY AUDITOR

BALTIMORE COUNTY COUNCIL

October 15, 2018

NOTES TO THE AGENDA

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PAGE

LEGISLATIVE SESSION

 

Witnesses………………………………………………………………… ii

 

BILLS – FINAL READING

 

Bill 71-18…………………………………………………………………… 1

Bill 73-18…………………………………………………………………… 4

Bill 74-18…………………………………………………………………… 7

Bill 75-18…………………………………………………………………. 10

Bill 76-18…………………………………………………………………. 13

 

 

FISCAL MATTERS

 

FM-1……………………………………………………………………….. 15

FM-2……………………………………………………………………….. 18

FM-3……………………………………………………………………….. 21

FM-4……………………………………………………………………….. 25

FM-5……………………………………………………………………….. 29

FM-6……………………………………………………………………….. 32

FM-7……………………………………………………………………….. 35

FM-8………………………………………………………………………….. *

 

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS

 

MB-2 (Res. 106-18)………………………………………………… 38

 

 

APPENDIX

 

Correspondence (1) (a)……………………………………………. 40

 

 

 

* Addendum

 

i

BALTIMORE COUNTY COUNCIL AGENDA

LEGISLATIVE SESSION 2018,  LEGISLATIVE DAY NO.  17

OCTOBER 15, 2018     6:00 P.M.

 

CEB = CURRENT EXPENSE BUDGET

BY REQ. = AT REQUEST OF COUNTY EXECUTIVE

 

Page

 

CALL OF BILLS FOR FINAL READING AND VOTE

 

 

KEVIN REED, DEPARMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

1             Bill 71-18 – Mr. Jones(By Req.) – CEB – Babies Born Healthy

WITHDRAWN  Bill 72-18 – Mr. Jones(By Req.) – Baltimore County Behavioral Advisory Council

4             Bill 73-18 – Mr. Jones(By Req.) – CEB – Community Based Programs to Test and Cure Hepatitis C

7             Bill 74-18 – Mr. Jones(By Req.) – CEB – Housing Counselor Program

10             Bill 75-18 – Mr. Jones(By Req.) – CEB – MIECHV Enhanced Families Project

 

COUNCIL

13             Bill 76-18 – Mrs. Bevins – Tax on Mobile Homes – Repeal

 

 

APPROVAL OF FISCAL MATTERS/CONTRACTS

 

                 ANDREA VAN ARSDALE, DIRECTOR, DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING

15             1.  BAT #19-02 – Department of Planning – DP

 

                 KEITH DORSEY, DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF BUDGET AND FINANCE

18             2.  Contracts – (2) – On-call roofing services – OBF

 

STEVE WALSH, DIRECTOR, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

21             3.  Contracts – (4) (3) – Snow removal and deicing services – DPW

 

KEVIN REED, DEPARMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

25             4.  Contract – Frederick Ellis, Inc., t/a Atwater Cab – Taxi services – HHS

 

AMY GROSSI, REAL ESTATE COMPLIANCE

29             5.  Easement Agreement – State of Maryland – DNR – Conveyance of easement area-Patapsco

Valley State Park-REC

32             6.  Contract of Sale – Teddy W. Bell, II – 1700 Lenore Court, Gwynn Oak, 21207-REC

35             7.  Contract of Sale – William & Mary Groff – Utility access/const. easement-Tax Map 58,

Parcel 866-Reisterstown-REC

*              8.  Agreement – Mayor & City of Baltimore – Transfer of ownership – 15 Beaver Run Lane &

10919 York Rd., Cockeysville-REC

 

 

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS

 

COUNCIL

40             1.  Correspondence – (a)(3) – Non-Competitive Awards (September 7, 2018)

38             2.  Res. 106-18 – Mr Marks – Planning Board – Loading/Unloading of freight – Downtown Towson District

  1. Res. 108-18 – Mrs. Bevins – Property Tax Exemption – DAV – Mark W. Shinn, Sr.
  2. Res. 109-18 – Mr. Marks – Property Tax Exemption – DAV – Albert W. White

 

 

* Addendum

 

 

ii

Kevin Reed                                                 Fiscal Note                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

Bill 71-18 (Supplemental Appropriation)                                                Council District(s) _All_

 

 

Mr. Jones (By Req.)

 

 

Department of Health and Human Services

 

Babies Born Healthy

 

 

The Administration is requesting a supplemental appropriation of State funds totaling $47,780 to the Babies Born Healthy Gifts and Grants Fund program to increase the amount appropriated to the actual amount of the grant award.  The funds will be used for the salaries and fringe benefits of two part-time Public Health Nurses (one 14 hours-per-week, one 20 hours-per-week) and one part-time Community Health Worker (34 hours-per-week) to provide navigation and other services to high-risk pregnant women in Owings Mills and Cockeysville in order to improve pregnancy outcomes.  See Exhibit A.

 

                                                                      Fiscal Summary

 

Funding

Source

  Supplemental Appropriation   Current

Appropriation

  Total

Appropriation

 

County

State (1)

$           47,780 $         152,220 $            200,000

Federal

   

Other

   

Total

$           47,780 $         152,220 $            200,000
 

(1) Maryland Department of Health funds.  No County matching funds are required.

 

Analysis

 

The Department advised that the Babies Born Healthy program is a State-funded program that substantially has changed its focus for the next three years to concentrate on pregnancy navigation and home visiting services to high-risk pregnant women in order to reduce the current disparity  in  pregnancy  outcomes.  The  State  awarded  grants to  seven counties where it had

Bill 71-18 (Supplemental Appropriation)                                                             October 15, 2018

 

 

concerns about the impact of health disparities on birth outcomes. The Department advised that it will use the grant funds to improve birth outcomes for high-risk pregnant women primarily in the Owings Mills and Cockeysville areas where services are not easily accessed.

 

The proposed $47,780 supplemental appropriation will be used to support the salary and fringe benefits ($45,245) of two part-time Public Health Nurses (one 14 hours-per-week, one 20 hours-per-week) and one part-time Community Health Worker (34 hours-per-week) and miscellaneous program (e.g., supplies, travel) expenses ($2,535). The Public Health Nurses and Community Health Worker will identify problems that impact pregnancy outcomes in the targeted areas, assist women with navigating and accessing resources to address the identified problems, provide education regarding strategies to improve pregnancy outcomes, and provide support to women during their pregnancies. The Department estimates the program will serve 30 women during FY 2019.

 

The FY 2019 Adopted Operating Budget included a $152,220 appropriation to the Department’s Babies Born Healthy program based on the estimated amount of the grant award at the time the Department submitted its budget request to the Office of Budget and Finance.  Accordingly, this bill appropriates the additional $47,780 to the program, increasing the total appropriation to the actual $200,000 grant award.

 

The grant period is FY 2019.  No County matching funds are required.

 

With the affirmative vote of five members of the County Council, Bill 71-18 will take effect October 28, 2018.

 

 

 

 

Kevin Reed                                                 Fiscal Note                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

Bill 73-18 (Supplemental Appropriation)                                                Council District(s) _All_

 

 

Mr. Jones (By Req.)

 

 

Department of Health and Human Services

 

Community-Based Programs to Test and Cure Hepatitis C

 

 

The Administration is requesting a supplemental appropriation of federal funds totaling $33,226 to the Community-Based Programs to Test and Cure Hepatitis C Gifts and Grants Fund program to increase the amount appropriated to the actual amount of the grant award. The funds will be used to hire 4 part-time program staff to provide linkage and care engagement services to County residents diagnosed with Hepatitis C. See Exhibit A.

 

                                                                      Fiscal Summary

 

Funding

Source

  Supplemental Appropriation   Current

Appropriation

  Total

Appropriation

 

County

State

Federal (1)

$           33,226   $           50,000   $           83,226

Other

   

Total

$           33,226 $           50,000 $           83,226
 

(1) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention funds passed through the Maryland Department of Health, Prevention and Health Promotion Administration.  No County matching funds are required.

 

Analysis

 

The purpose of the Community-Based Programs to Test and Cure Hepatitis C program is to reduce Hepatitis C-related morbidity and mortality by reviewing individuals’ laboratory reports and providing linkages to care. The Department advised that all County residents are eligible for services, and the program serves approximately 400 County residents annually.

Bill 73-18 (Supplemental Appropriation)                                                             October 15, 2018

 

 

The proposed $33,226 supplemental appropriation will be used to hire one part-time (20 hours-per-week) outreach worker and 3 part-time (20 hours-per-week) human services associates to identify individuals with Hepatitis C and link them to appropriate treatment and related services.  Specifically, the additional funding will support the salary and benefits ($21,135) for the new positions, overtime for current program staff ($9,298), and supplies and administrative program costs ($2,793).

 

The FY 2019 Adopted Operating Budget included a $50,000 appropriation to the Community-Based Programs to Test and Cure Hepatitis C Gifts and Grants Fund program based on the estimated amount of the grant award at the time the Department submitted its budget request to the Office of Budget and Finance. Accordingly, this bill appropriates the additional $33,226 to the program, increasing the total appropriation to the actual $83,226 grant award.

 

The grant period is FY 2019.  No County matching funds are required.

 

With the affirmative vote of five members of the County Council, Bill 73-18 will take effect October 28, 2018.

 

 

 

 

Kevin Reed                                                 Fiscal Note                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

Bill 74-18 (Supplemental Appropriation)                                                Council District(s) _All_

 

 

Mr. Jones (By Req.)

 

 

Department of Health and Human Services

 

Housing Counselor Program

 

 

The Administration is requesting a supplemental appropriation of federal funds totaling $190,953* to the Housing Counselor Program Gifts and Grants Fund program to increase the amount appropriated to the actual amount of the grant award.  The funds will be used to provide additional rent payments to help prevent homelessness for a minimum of 125 households.  See Exhibit A.

 

* The bill, as introduced, reflects an appropriation amount of $101,446; however, the Department advised that the Administration plans to request an amendment that will reflect an appropriation of $190,953.

 

                                                                      Fiscal Summary

 

Funding

Source

  Supplemental Appropriation   Current

Appropriation

  Total

Appropriation

 

County (1)

$           75,550 $              75,550

State

                        —

Federal (2)

$         190,953                73,833                 264,786

Other

                            —

Total

$         190,953 $         149,383 $            340,336
 

(1) The Department advised that a 25% County match ($66,197) is required, which will be provided from the General Fund Operating Budget – Local Share Program.

(2) U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funds passed through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development.

 

Analysis

 

The Housing Counselor program provides financial assistance, case management, and housing

Bill 74-18 (Supplemental Appropriation)                                                             October 15, 2018

 

 

connection services to County residents who are at risk of homelessness.  Financial assistance up to $1,500 is offered to households-in-need to prevent evictions, secure affordable permanent housing, and provide an opportunity to increase savings.  The Department’s Housing Counselors provide individual case management services through home visitation and community connections and offer group services for peer support and skill development.  In addition, housing location services and support to landlords are provided through a team approach with the Department’s Housing Office.  The Department advised that specialized populations served include homeless youth, victims fleeing domestic violence, those identified for shelter diversion, youth who are aging out of the foster care system, and young parents with children at risk for child welfare intervention.  The Department further advised that clients may receive services up to six months after the final assistance payment with a maximum time in service of nine months.

 

The proposed $190,953 supplemental appropriation will be used to provide additional rent payments to help prevent homelessness for a minimum of 125 households.

 

The FY 2019 Adopted Operating Budget included a $73,833 appropriation of federal funds to the Department’s Housing Counselor program based on the estimated amount of the grant award at the time the Department submitted its budget request to the Office of Budget and Finance.  Accordingly, this bill appropriates the additional $190,953 to the program, increasing the total federal funds portion of the appropriation to the actual amount of the $264,786 grant award.

 

The grant period is FY 2019.  The Department advised that a 25% County match ($66,197) is required for this grant, which will be provided from the Local Share program.

 

With the affirmative vote of five members of the County Council, Bill 74-18 will take effect October 28, 2018.

 

 

 

Kevin Reed                                                 Fiscal Note                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

Bill 75-18 (Supplemental Appropriation)                                                Council District(s) _All_

 

 

Mr. Jones (By Req.)

 

 

Department of Health and Human Services

 

MIECHV Enhanced Families Project

 

 

The Administration is requesting a supplemental appropriation of federal funds totaling $14,960 to the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Enhanced Families Project Gifts and Grants Fund program to increase the amount appropriated to the actual amount of the grant award.  The funds will be used to provide additional training and database support to enhance the program’s continuous quality improvement efforts and for other resources such as educational materials for families enrolling in the program.  See Exhibit A.

 

                                                                      Fiscal Summary

 

Funding

Source

  Supplemental Appropriation   Current

Appropriation

  Total

Appropriation

 

County

State

Federal (1)

$           14,960   $         486,417    $           501,377

Other

   

Total

$           14,960 $         486,417 $           501,377
 

(1) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration funds passed through the Maryland Department of Health.  No County matching funds are required.

 

 

Analysis

 

The goal of the MIECHV Enhanced Families Project is to improve pregnancy outcomes, improve parenting skills and child development outcomes, and address maternal mental health.  The program provides evidence-based home visiting services  to  high-risk pregnant women and their

Bill 75-18 (Supplemental Appropriation)                                                             October 15, 2018

 

 

families (through the children turning age five).  The Department advised that its public health nurses work with family support workers from Abilities Network, Inc., the Department’s Healthy Families program provider, to provide assessment, education, linkages to services, and on-going support during pregnancy and the first five years of the child’s life.  The Healthy Families program provides intensive support and education to parents in order to enhance parent-child interaction and to prevent child abuse and neglect.

 

The proposed $14,960 supplemental appropriation will be provided to Abilities Network, Inc. for additional training and database support to enhance the program’s continuous quality improvement efforts and for other resources such as educational materials for families enrolling in the program. The Department advised that the program serves 145 families annually.

 

The FY 2019 Adopted Operating Budget included a $486,417 appropriation to the Department’s MIECHV Enhanced Families Project based on the estimated amount of the grant award at the time the Department submitted its budget request to the Office of Budget and Finance.  Accordingly, this bill appropriates the additional $14,960 to the program, increasing the total appropriation to the actual $501,377 grant award.

 

The grant period is FY 2019.  No County matching funds are required.

 

With the affirmative vote of five members of the County Council, Bill 75-18 will take effect October 28, 2018.

 

Council                                                           Fiscal Note                                            October 15, 2018

 

 

Bill 76-18                                                                                                     Council District(s) __All__

 

 

Mrs. Bevins

 

 

Tax on Mobile Homes – Repeal

 

 

Bill 76-18 repeals the current tax on mobile homes.

 

The tax on mobile homes has been levied in Baltimore County since at least 1954.  The rate was set at $3 per month per pad in 1957 and raised to $5 per month in 1960.  The rate was set at 10% of the monthly rent per pad in July 1987.  In July 2000, the rate was lowered to the current rate of 7% of the monthly rent per pad with a cap of $20 per month, for the rental, lease, or use of any space occupied by a trailer, mobile home, manufactured home, or other similar structure for use as a dwelling.  Current law requires the licensed operator of the mobile home park to collect the tax on mobile homes from each renter or lessee.  The operator is then required to file a report or return with the County and pay to the County the total mobile home tax shown on the report or return.

 

When the tax was originally imposed, and for a number of years thereafter, the rationale for the tax on mobile homes was for mobile home owners – like all other County residents – to pay a fair share of taxes for County services, such as police and fire services, well-maintained roadways, trash removal, libraries, senior centers, community colleges, and public schools.

 

The sponsor of the Bill believes a rationale for repealing the tax is that the land on which the mobile homes are situated is already taxed and the mobile home park owner/operator pays property taxes on the tract of land which comprises the individual leased or rented pad sites.  By imposing a separate tax on the mobile home pad sites themselves, it is argued that the County is, in effect, “double dipping.”

 

The Director of the Office of Budget and Finance has indicated that a repeal of the mobile home tax would result in the loss of approximately $600,000 in General Fund revenue each year.  A similar tax was repealed last year in Anne Arundel County.

 

 

Bill 76-18                                                                                                                      October 15, 2018

 

 

With the affirmative vote of five members of the County Council, Bill 76-18 will take effect on October 29, 2018.

 

 

 

 

 

Andrea Van Arsdale                                  Fiscal Note                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

FM-1 (BAT 19-02) (Appropriation Transfer)                                          Council District(s)   All_

 

 

Department of Planning

 

 

BAT #19-02

 

 

The Administration is requesting approval of a budget appropriation transfer totaling $62,565 to properly reflect the Department’s staff time and effort on FY 2018 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)-funded planning activities as required by federal regulations.  See Exhibit A.

 

 

                                                                      Fiscal Summary

 

From
 
Program
  Current Appropriation   Transfer Amount

Adjusted

Appropriation

067-1021 General Administration $           834,969 $                  (36) $           834,933
067-1221 General Administration 733,023 (1,297) 731,726
067-1421 General Administration 655,542 (17,071) 638,471
067-1521 General Administration 720,803 (33,063) 687,740
067-1649 CDBG Planning 258,765 (11,098) 247,667
$           (62,565)
To
067-1849 CDBG Planning $           324,279 $             62,565 $          386,844

 

 

Analysis

 

Source of Funds

The Department advised that funds are available from multiple prior-year CDBG-funded budget programs.

 

Use of Funds

The funds will be used for personnel expenses associated with FY 2018 CDBG-funded planning activities.  The Department advised that federal regulations require its federally-funded staff to account for time and effort spent in various categories throughout the fiscal year.  The Department

FM-1 (BAT 19-02) (Appropriation Transfer)                                                        October 15, 2018

 

 

explained that in FY 2018, its personnel dedicated more time than originally anticipated to certain planning activities funded by CDBG dollars, including work associated with several complicated federal reports and other strategic planning type efforts.  The proposed BAT will reconcile federal funds among various programs in order to reflect properly the associated staff time and effort.

 

 

 

Keith Dorsey                                               Fiscal Note                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

FM-2 (2 Contracts)                                                                                    Council District(s)    All  _

 

 

Office of Budget and Finance

 

On-Call Roofing Services

 

 

The Administration is requesting approval of two contracts to provide on-call roofing services at various County-owned and/or operated buildings.  The two contractors are CitiRoof Corporation and Bollinger Roofing Company, Inc.  Each contract commences upon Council approval, continues for 1 year, and will automatically renew for four additional 1-year periods with the option to further extend the initial term or any renewal term an additional 120 days.  The contracts do not specify a maximum compensation for the initial 1-year term.  Compensation may not exceed $4,386,478 for the entire 5-year and 4-month term, including the renewal and extension periods, for all contractors awarded a contract pursuant to the Request for Bid.

 

                                                                      Fiscal Summary

 

Funding Source

Combined

Maximum Compensation

Notes

County (1)

  $        4,386,478 (1)  General Fund Operating Budget and/or Capital Projects Fund, depending on the nature of the work.

(2) Maximum compensation for all contractors awarded a contract pursuant to the Request for Bid for the entire 5-year and 4-month term, including the renewal and extension periods. The contracts do not specify a maximum compensation for the initial 1-year term.

State

Federal

Other

Total

$        4,386,478 (2)

 

Analysis

The contractors will furnish all labor, materials, tools, equipment, and supervision to perform on-call roofing services at various County-owned and/or operated buildings as needed.  The contractors will provide services for all types of low-and steep-slope roofing, including gutters and downspouts; vents; drains; skylights; insulation; and roof decking.  The Office advised that there are no County buildings slated for roof replacement/repairs at this time.

FM-2 (2 Contracts)                                                                                                     October 15, 2018

 

 

The hourly labor rates range from $65.63 to $116.10 for Bollinger Roofing Company, Inc. and $50.00 to $97.50 for CitiRoof Corporation, depending on the worker’s skill level and time status (regular or overtime); the mark-up for materials is 10% for CitiRoof Corporation and 37% for Bollinger Roofing Company, Inc.  The County does not guarantee a minimum amount of work to either contractor; the assignment of work is at the County’s sole discretion.

 

Each contract commences upon Council approval, continues for 1 year, and will automatically renew for four additional 1-year periods with the option to further extend the initial term or any renewal term an additional 120 days on the same terms and conditions, unless the County provides notice of non-renewal. The contracts do not specify a maximum compensation for the initial 1-year term.  Compensation may not exceed $4,386,478 for the entire 5-year and 4-month term, including the renewal and extension periods, for all contractors awarded a contract pursuant to the Request for Bid.

 

Prior to the commencement of each renewal period, the County may entertain a request for an escalation in unit prices in accordance with the Consumer Price Index – All Urban Consumers – United States Average – All Items (CPI-U), as published by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics at the time of the request, or up to a maximum 5% increase on the current pricing, whichever is lower.  The County may terminate the agreements by providing 30 days prior written notice.

 

The County awarded the contracts through a competitive procurement process based on negotiated bids from nine bids received.  The County implemented a new “tier” process in awarding the contracts; tier 1 projects are less than $25,000 and tier 2 projects are greater than $25,000 and require a 20% MBE/WBE subcontracting goal.  The Office advised that the two proposed contracts are considered tier 1.

 

On June 4, 2018, the Council approved two 5-year and 4-month “tier 2” roofing contracts pursuant to the Request for Bid with J & K Contracting, Inc. and Phoenix Contracting Services, Inc. with combined compensation not to exceed $2,835,201.  Additionally, compensation is limited to $2,834,566 for J & K Contracting, Inc. and $2,835,201 for Phoenix Contracting Services, Inc.  The County’s financial system indicated that as of September 26, 2018, $151,090 has been encumbered under the Phoenix Contracting Services, Inc. contract.

 

 

 

FM-2 (2 Contracts)                                                                                                     October 15, 2018

 

 

County Charter, Section 715, requires that “any contract must be approved by the County Council before it is executed if the contract is…for services for a term in excess of two years or involving the expenditure of more than $25,000 per year….”

 

 

 

 

 

Steve Walsh                                                Fiscal Note                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

FM-3 (3 Contracts)                                                                                        Council District(s)   All_

 

 

Department of Public Works

 

Snow Removal and Deicing Services

 

 

The Administration is requesting approval of three contracts to provide on-call snow removal and salt application services.  The three contractors are Benjer, Inc., Carl W. Neutzel Landscape Service, Inc., and Gray & Son, Inc.  Each contract commences November 1, 2018, continues through April 30, 2019, and will automatically renew for nine additional years. (November 1 through April 30 constitutes a snow season.)  Compensation for these contracts, together with all other contracts for these services, may not exceed the amount appropriated for snow removal and salt application services during the entire 9-year and 6-month term, including the renewals.  The contract amounts are not reasonably estimable at this time.

 

Fiscal Summary

 

Funding Source

Initial Term
 

Combined

Maximum Compensation

County (1)

*   *  

State

Federal

Other

Total

* (2) * (3)
 

(1)   General Fund Operating Budget.

(2)  The hourly rates for these contractors range between $80 and $220, depending on the type of equipment provided, with no specified maximum compensation.  The contracts, together with all other contracts for these services, are limited in the aggregate to the amount appropriated for snow removal and salt application services.  The contract amounts are not reasonably estimable at this time.

(3)  Maximum compensation, together with all other contracts for these services for the entire 9-year and 6-month term, including renewals, may not exceed the amount appropriated for snow removal and salt application services each year.  The amounts are not reasonably estimable at this time.

 

 

 

 

FM-3 (3 Contracts)                                                                                                     October 15, 2018

 

Analysis

 

In accordance with the Department’s snow removal plan, responsibility for most Priority 1 routes (i.e., roads with traffic volumes of at least 10,000 vehicles per day) will be assigned to contractors, allowing the County to focus its efforts on subdivision streets more quickly.

 

The three requested contracts are with the following contractors: Benjer, Inc., Carl W. Neutzel Landscape Service, Inc., and Gray & Son, Inc.  Each contract commences November 1, 2018, continues through April 30, 2019, and will automatically renew for nine additional years on the same terms and conditions, unless the County provides notice of non-renewal.  A snow season begins November 1 and ends April 30.  Compensation for these contracts, together with all other contracts for these services, may not exceed the amount appropriated for snow removal and salt application services during the entire 9-year and 6-month term, including the renewals.  The Department advised that an estimated amount for each contract is undeterminable due to the unpredictable nature and timing of snowfalls (i.e., density and depth of snow falls, number of snowfalls occurring during the season).  The County may terminate the agreements by providing 30 days prior written notice.

 

The FY 2019 budget for the Storm Emergencies Program totals approximately $9.0 million, including $1.1 million for contractual snow removal services.  The County’s financial system indicated that FY 2018 snow removal expenditures totaled approximately $10.7 million, including approximately $4.5 million for contractual services.

 

The 3 contractors will provide a total of 33 pieces of equipment at hourly rates ranging from $80 to $220, as follows:

 

 

FM-3 (3 Contracts)                                                                                                     October 15, 2018

 

 

Contractor                                         Equipment                                        Hourly Rate

Benjer, Inc.                                        8 tri-axle dump trucks                      $160                                                                                                   with plows and spreaders

 

4 one-ton single axle trucks           $110

with plows and spreaders

 

3 one-ton pick-up trucks with         $80

plows only

 

10 single-axle dump trucks            $145

with plows and spreaders

 

Carl W. Neutzel Landscape           2 single-axle dump trucks with      $145

Service, Inc.                                      plows and spreaders

 

1 one-ton pick-up truck with           $110

plow and spreader

 

1 large loader with snow blower    $220

 

Gray & Son, Inc.                               4 tandem-axle dump trucks            $155

with plows and spreaders

 

Each contractor will be paid based on the actual hours the equipment is in service, including up to 2 hours for travel time (1 hour each to and from the County highway shop).  Additionally, the minimum work shift for any dispatched truck is 4 hours.  The County will provide all rock salt for spreading on road surfaces.

 

The Office of Budget and Finance, Purchasing Division advised that the pricing and contract terms are based on similar contracts established by the State of Maryland.  However, hourly rates may be changed at the time of each annual renewal based on the State rates in effect at that time.  The State contract includes an additional incentive payment to the contractor after the snow season ends in the amount of $500 per truck if the contractor was available and present for all snow events.  The County’s contracts also include this incentive payment.

 

In procuring these services, the Department requested and received a waiver of a sealed bid process from the Administrative Officer due to the competition with surrounding jurisdictions.  Accordingly, the contractors were selected on a non-competitive basis.

 

 

FM-3 (3 Contracts)                                                                                                     October 15, 2018

 

 

For the 2018/2019 snow season, the Department advised that approximately 423 pieces of snow removal equipment (e.g., trucks, loaders, backhoes, and graders) are available from its Bureau of Highways and Equipment Maintenance and Bureau of Utilities, the Department of Recreation and Parks, the Department of Education, and the Office of Budget and Finance – Property Management Division.  The Purchasing Division advised that the County has contracts with 44 contractors, excluding these contractors, which provide approximately 266 pieces of equipment.

 

County Charter, Section 715, requires that “any contract must be approved by the County Council before it is executed if the contract is…for services for a term in excess of two years or involving the expenditure of more than $25,000 per year….”

 

 

 

Kevin Reed                                                 Fiscal Note                                         October 15, 2018

 

 

FM-4 (Contract)                                                                                                Council District(s) All_

 

 

Department of Health and Human Services

 

Taxi Services

The Administration is requesting approval of a contract with Frederick Ellis, Inc. T/A Atwater Cab to provide eligible County residents with taxi services to medical and social services appointments. The contract commenced July 1, 2018, continues through December 31, 2018, and may not exceed $25,000 unless approved by the Council.  If approved, the contract will continue through July 31, 2019 and will automatically renew for two additional 1-year periods with the option to further extend the initial term or any renewal term an additional 90 days.  The contract does not specify a maximum compensation for the initial 1-year and 1-month term or for the entire 3-year and 4-month term, including the renewal and extension periods.  Compensation may not exceed the amount appropriated for these services during the entire contract term.  Estimated compensation totals $500,000 for the entire 3-year and 4-month term, including the renewal and extension periods.  See Exhibit A.

 

                                                                      Fiscal Summary

 

Funding Source

Total

Compensation

Notes

County

                          —  (1) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources & Services Administration funds.  The Department advised that although this is a County-wide contract, the Department will be the primary user of the contract.

(2) Estimated compensation for the entire 3-year and 4-month term, including the renewal and extension periods.  The contract does not specify a maximum compensation for the initial 1-year and 1-month term or for the entire 3-year and 4-month term.  Compensation may not exceed the amount appropriated for these services during the entire contract term.

State

                        —

Federal (1)

$            500,000

Other

                         —

$            500,000

Total

(2)

 

 

 

 

FM-4 (Contract)                                                                                                          October 15, 2018

 

Analysis

 

The Department advised that public transportation services are not easily accessible to all clients and that it uses taxi cab services to improve adherence to necessary medical and social services appointments.  The contractor will provide door-to-door taxi services to eligible County residents to and from medical appointments, visits with case managers, and other supportive services.  The Department advised that although this is a County-wide contract, the Department will be the primary user of the contract.  Eligibility for services includes clients in the Department’s Healthcare Access programs (e.g., HIV Case Management) who show that this service is a “last resort option.”  The majority of trips will occur Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.  The Department advised that approximately 300 clients throughout the County receive transportation services annually.

 

Taxi rates to be charged must reflect the current metered rates approved by the Maryland Public Service Commission (MPSC); the MPSC must approve any price increase in metered rates.

 

The contract commenced July 1, 2018, continues through December 31, 2018, and may not exceed $25,000 unless approved by the Council.  If approved, the contract will continue through July 31, 2019 and will automatically renew for two additional 1-year periods with the option to further extend the initial term or any renewal term an additional 90 days on the same terms and conditions, unless the County provides notice of non-renewal.  The contract does not specify a maximum compensation for the initial 1-year and 1-month term or for the entire 3-year and 4-month term, including the renewal and extension periods.  Compensation may not exceed the amount appropriated for these services during the entire contract term.  Estimated compensation totals $500,000 for the entire 3-year and 4-month term, including the renewal and extension periods.  The County’s financial system indicated that as of October 2, 2018, $1,809 has been expended under the contract.  The County may terminate the agreement by providing 30 days prior written notice.

 

The County awarded the contract on a non-competitive basis based on the contractor’s location and ability to provide taxi services on the County’s east-side; the Department advised that of the County’s two current taxi service contractors, one is based on the County’s west-side and it is not cost-effective for providing east-side transportation, and the other is unable to meet the demand for services on the east-side.  The Department is requesting that the contract be designated as a 902(f) proprietary contract secured in the best interest of the County.

 

FM-4 (Contract)                                                                                                          October 15, 2018

 

On January 17, 2017, the Council approved two similar 5-year and 3-month contracts (effective August 1, 2016) estimated to total $500,000 with Jimmy’s II, LLC and Independent Taxi of Baltimore County, LLC. According to the County’s financial system, as of September 25, 2018, expenditures under these contracts totaled $309,169: $287,419 to Jimmy’s II, LLC, and $21,750 to Independent Taxi of Baltimore County, LLC.

 

County Charter, Section 715, requires that “any contract must be approved by the County Council before it is executed if the contract is…for services for a term in excess of two years or involving the expenditure of more than $25,000 per year….”

 

 

Amy Grossi                                                 Fiscal Note                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

FM-5 (Agreement)                                                                                       Council District(s) __1__

 

 

Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections

 

Conveyance of Easement Area – Patapsco Valley State Park

 

The Administration is requesting approval of a contract to acquire easements across approximately 4.65 acres for $8,815 for the construction of the Patapsco Basin 33 relief sewer.  The State of Maryland, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), currently owns the two parcels across which the proposed easements extend.  Both parcels are located in Patapsco Valley State Park and are zoned RC-2 (Agricultural).  The easements will be used for drainage and utility purposes and temporary construction areas.  See Exhibit A.

 

Fiscal Summary

 

Funding Source

Purchase Price
 

Notes

County (1)

$         8,815   (1) Capital Projects Fund (Metropolitan District).  

State

Federal

Other

 

Total

$         8,815

 

 

Analysis

 

Robert W. Kline, staff appraiser, completed appraisals of the parcels in May 2017, recommending a value of $8,215.  After review and analysis, S. David Nantz, review appraiser, concurred with the appraisals, recommending the respective amounts as just compensation for the acquisitions.  The Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections – Real Estate Compliance Division advised that the State countered at the agreed-upon price of $8,815.

 

The property to be acquired consists of easements across 4.65 acres of unimproved wooded parkland located within the boundaries of Patapsco Valley State Park.   The 1.05-acre portion of

FM-5 (Agreement)                                                                                                      October 15, 2018

 

 

the acquisition is part of a 63.72-acre property and the 3.60-acre portion of the acquisition is part of a 174.19-acre property.  According to the appraisals, the 1.05-acre easements were valued at $2,504 and the 3.6-acre easements were valued at $5,711.

 

The Patapsco Basin 33 relief sewer project will run from Interstate 70 to the Patapsco River.  The Department advised that four acquisitions are needed for this project; these two are the only acquisitions that require Council approval.

 

Estimated project costs total $6.8 million, including $6.3 million for construction.  As of September 14, 2018, $1,351,343 has been expended/encumbered for this project, excluding the cost of these acquisitions.  A specific construction date is not currently available.

 

County Charter, Section 715, requires Council approval of real property acquisitions where the purchase price exceeds $5,000.

 

 

 

 

Amy Grossi                                                 Fiscal Note                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

FM-6 (Contract)                                                                                                Council District(s) _1_

 

 

Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections

 

1700 Lenore Court, Gwynn Oak, 21207

 

The Administration is requesting approval of a contract to acquire a repetitively-flooded property totaling approximately 0.18-acre for $152,000 in order to demolish the structures and to remove the impervious surface to mitigate future flooding.  Teddy W. Bell, II currently owns the property, which is located at 1700 Lenore Court in Gwynn Oak.  The property is zoned DR-5.5 (Density Residential – 5.5 units/acre).  See Exhibit A.

 

Fiscal Summary

 

Funding Source

Purchase Price
 

Notes

County (1)

$            38,000   (1)  Capital Projects Fund.  Reflects a 25% required match of the total project costs.

(2)  U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds passed through the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).

 

State

Federal (2)

114,000

Other

 

Total

$          152,000

 

 

Analysis

 

In an effort to mitigate future flooding and the flood insurance claims filed with and paid out by the federal government, the Department intends to acquire six repetitively-flooded properties, located on Lenore Court (#1700-1705), adjacent to Dead Run in the Gwynn Oak area, demolish their structures, and remove the impervious surface.  The Department advised that all six property acquisitions require Council approval; the proposed acquisition of 1700 Lenore Court is the second acquisition to be presented.  On October 1, 2018, the Council approved the first acquisition related to this project, at 1701 Lenore Court, with a purchase price of $146,000.  The Department further advised that it is in the negotiation process with the remaining four property owners and expects to finalize the transactions within the coming year.

FM-6 (Contract)                                                                                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

David B. Johns, staff appraiser, completed an appraisal of the property located at 1700 Lenore Court in February 2018, recommending a value of $152,000.  Teddy W. Bell, II owns the 0.18-acre property, which is residentially improved with a 1,000 square-foot ranch-style dwelling and an attached storage shed.  After review and analysis, S. David Nantz, review appraiser, concurred with the appraisal, recommending the respective amount as just compensation for the acquisition.  The Department advised that the property owner accepted the County’s offer.

 

The Department advised that the Lenore Court properties are located in a 100-year floodplain area.  The Department further advised that the County has a policy to purchase floodplain properties at the fair market value, as calculated without consideration that the property is located in a floodplain.

 

The Department advised that the acquisition is governed by FEMA policy and grant requirements.  A 25% match of the total project cost, or $38,000, is required, which the County is funding from the Acquisition of Flooded Homes capital project; project funds provide for the purchase of homes that are subject to flooding whenever this option is less costly than repairing or replacing the associated storm drains or in the event repair or replacement is impractical or not possible.  In accordance with the grant requirements, the contract also states that the proposed property acquisition shall be dedicated and maintained in perpetuity as open space for the conservation of natural floodplain functions.

 

County Charter, Section 715, requires Council approval of real property acquisitions where the purchase price exceeds $5,000.

 

 

 

Amy Grossi                                                 Fiscal Note                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

FM-7 (Contract)                                                                                            Council District(s) __2__

 

 

Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections

 

Utility Access/Construction Easement – Tax Map 58, Parcel 866 – Reisterstown

 

The Administration is requesting approval of a contract to acquire easements across approximately 0.69 acre for $26,990 for the construction of the Reisterstown 36” Water Transmission Main.  William D. Groff, III and Mary J. Groff currently own the property, which is located at the intersection of Reisterstown Road and Groff Lane in Owings Mills.  The property is zoned BL-AS (Business Local, Automotive Service).  The easements will be used for drainage and utility purposes and temporary construction areas.  See Exhibit A.

 

Fiscal Summary

 

Funding Source

Purchase Price
 

Notes

County (1)

$       26,990   (1) Capital Projects Fund (Metropolitan District).  

State

Federal

Other

 

Total

$       26,990

 

 

Analysis

 

David B. Johns, staff appraiser, completed an appraisal of the easements in August 2017, recommending a value of $26,990.  After review and analysis, S. David Nantz, review appraiser, concurred with the appraisal, recommending the respective amount as just compensation for the acquisition.

 

The property to be acquired consists of easements across 0.69 acre of a 6.0-acre unimproved parcel.

FM-7 (Contract)                                                                                                          October 15, 2018

 

 

The Reisterstown 36” Water Transmission Main project will run from East Pleasant Hill Road to Painters Mill Road.  The Department advised that two acquisitions are needed for this project; this is the only acquisition that requires Council approval.

 

Estimated project costs total $11.7 million, including $8.8 million for construction.  As of September 11, 2018, $10,947,591 has been expended/encumbered for this project, excluding the cost of this acquisition.  The Department of Public Works advised that construction is expected to begin in March 2019 and be completed in March 2021.

 

County Charter, Section 715, requires Council approval of real property acquisitions where the purchase price exceeds $5,000.

 

 

 

 

 

Council                                                           Fiscal Note                                            October 15, 2018

 

 

MB-2 (Res. 106-18)                                                                                     Council District(s) __5__

 

 

Mr. Marks

 

 

Loading/Unloading of Freight – Downtown Towson District

 

 

Resolution 106-18 asks the Planning Board to review the laws and regulations applicable to the loading and unloading of freight and other materials in the Downtown Towson District and to recommend to the County Council measures to better regulate or to minimize the number of freight unloading areas in the District on or before April 1, 2019.

 

The Resolution recites that County law authorizes the creation of “no parking” spaces in front of shipping or receiving entrances to businesses (BCC §18-2-205) and requires any commercial or industrial building to provide adequate space for parking to accommodate the loading and unloading of materials (BCZR §409.11). However, as the Downtown Towson District becomes more densely developed, the proliferation of freight unloading areas along streets in the District may create massive impediments to the movement of traffic and otherwise disrupt commercial activity in the District, and it may be necessary to designate freight unloading areas in the Downtown Towson District.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BALTIMORE COUNTY COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE AGENDA

APPENDIX A