The Laurel Historical Society will host a presentation next Thursday, February 19 at 6 p.m. via Zoom to provide residents an update on the work being done on the City’s new Master Plan – The Master Plan is a document updated every ten years that guides the City’s decisions around commercial development, housing, transportation, environment, historic preservation, public facilities, and more. The Master Plan Committee was formed in January 2025 and has been working with staff and consultants since then to pull together data points, talk through considerations, and distill down decisions into a final document. Once completed later this year, it will be presented to the City Council for consideration and a vote on adoption. For the presentation, Director Jay Meashey of the Laurel Department of Economic & Community Development will share work completed by the Master Plan Committee thus far and also welcome any questions during the Q&A portion. You can learn more about the Master Plan on the dedicated Master Plan Update page of the City’s website where you can also find a copy of the 2016 Master Plan, the presentation slides from the kick-off meeting last January providing an overview of the process, meeting lists and resources, and more. Advanced registration is required, so be sure to sign-up using LHS' meeting link! (Photo: Laurel Historical Society)

See the City of Laurel’s meeting page for the official record, and if any agenda item holds interest for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me as your voice helps me shape legislation and decisions. Watch live online via LaurelTV or the MyLaurel app, or on your TV via Comcast Channel 996 (HD)/ 71 (SD) or Verizon FiOS Channel 12. And if you’d like to register to speak for the regular Council Meeting, you can sign-up by reaching out to the City Clerk’s office by 2 p.m. of the meeting day. (See my post for how to share your voice at Council Meetings.) --- AGENDA * Call to Order - Council President Brencis D. Smith * Roll Call - Sara A. Green, CPM, MMC, City Clerk * Report of the Mayor and City Council * Appointments: Jonathan Plater, Board of Trustees, 02/09/26-02/09/28; Jennifer Bronson, Pride Committee, N/A // Reappointments: Vicki Rambow, Public Safety and Transportation Committee, 02/09/26-02/09/28; Mary-Eileen Leszcz, Historic District Commission, 02/09/26-02/09/29; Michael Maxwell, Environmental Affairs Committee, 02/09/26-02/09/28; Gavin Brown, Clergy Advisory Council, 02/09/26-02/09/28; Douglas Redd, Emergency Services Commission, 02/09/26-02/09/29 * General Public Hearing * Bid Recommendation- City of Laurel Comprehensive Safety Action Plan – SS4A (Safe Streets for All) Federal Grant Program- Department of Public Works * Bid Recommendation- Staggers Road Improvement Project- Engineering and Design Services- Department of Public Works * Introduction and First Public Hearing on Resolution No. 1-206- A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland to Establish a City of Laurel Advisory Committee Relating to the Redistricting of City Ward Boundaries * Introduction and First Public Hearing on Ordinance No. 2053- An Ordinance Amending the General Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland, for the Fiscal Year July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 and to Provide an Effective Date * Adjournment

One item discussed at this week’s Work Session was upgrades to Staggers Road, including changes to integrate into the City’s Bikeway Master Plan. If you’re curious, the image below is of the City’s Bike Map (v2018-02) which shows shared use roadways, on-street bike lanes, hiker biker trails, and bike racks. (PDF version) It can be a great way to discover sites you may have not known exist around town. And there are improvements coming to the City’s cycling and pedestrian trails – Some helpful references include: * The Bikeway Master Plan (v2016-03) * The Bikeway Master Plan webpage * Cherry Lane Bikeway Concept Study (v2023) This last one is our City’s most recent advancement of bike and pedestrian trails – This past year the Bicycle & Pedestrian Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) voted for “Alternative 2” presented in the study (page 14) for a on-road bicycle lane on Cherry Lane with physical separators for cyclist safety. Speaking of which, if cycling and walking around town gets your blood pumping, 😉 please consider joining the Bicycle & Pedestrian CAC 🚴‍♀️🚶‍♂️ – your voice will strengthen the development of this critical part of our City’s features and help make Laurel a walkable, cyclable, enjoyable community!

Every participant I’ve talked with has shared how much they enjoyed and appreciated this program, even those who entered with doubts. The Laurel Police Citizen’s Academy is a 10-week program that shows you the behind-the-scenes of Laurel Police work, including classes on: * Patrol operations * K9 units * Evidence collection * Crisis negotiations * Emergency response * And much more It’s definitely a hands-on experience taking you to all parts of the City and all parts of the Department, an experience and perspective you literally have to see and be a part of to believe. Applications are open through February 10 and classes begin February 12 – See the below graphic and reach out to LPD if you’re interested: I can guarantee you’ll truly appreciate being part of this class!

I’ve seen & heard of so many residents reaching out a helping hand to neighbors to dig out of our snow & ice, especially our seniors and those with limited mobility – A huge thank you! I’ve also heard there are many who are still in need and I wanted to help create a simple, entirely voluntary, method to connect snow-shoveling angels with seniors & limited mobility residents. Important note: This is not an official program of the City – It is entirely a volunteer effort of neighbors-helping-neighbors. For that reason, there are no liability protections, no vettings, etc. and everybody should exercise their own personal judgement throughout as they would for anything else. It is premised on the honesty and kindness of our town’s residents – thank you! * Here is an online Snow Shovel Request Form for Laurel seniors and those with limited mobility to submit a request (or have someone submit on your behalf). Note: Only your street address and shovel request description are made publicly available – however, do not submit if this would make you uncomfortable. * Here is an online Volunteer Claim table where generous ‘snow angels’ in town can ‘claim’ a request and head out with a shovel to provide a little miracle for a senior or mobility-limited resident in need. Thank you again neighbors and volunteers! – pulling together will help us get to the other side of this in strong shape!

At this Wednesday’s Council Work Session, Council will consider a Resolution from the Administration to form an advisory committee that will make recommendations around redistricting the City Ward boundaries. The Resolution can be read in full as part of the Work Session packet found on the City’s meeting page, but the gist is that normally Ward boundaries are revisited around every census, and while the 2022 Redistricting Advisory Committee recommended no change, the continued development in Ward 2 has subsequently added 500 additional residences further expanding the 2.8k resident delta between Ward 2 and Ward 1. As currently proposed, the Redistricting Committee would be comprised of five persons, four of which would be appointed by the Mayor with Council’s confirmation, and one of which would be appointed by the Council President. They would make their report within six months of appointment and any redistricting changes would be in place prior to the November 2027 General Election. As always, please reach out to me with any thoughts or questions as your input helps me to shape legislation and decisions!

See the City of Laurel’s meeting page for the official record, and if any agenda item holds interest for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me as your voice helps me shape legislation and decisions. Watch live online via LaurelTV or the MyLaurel app, or on your TV via Comcast Channel 996 (HD)/ 71 (SD) or Verizon FiOS Channel 12. (Note: Work Sessions don’t generally have a Public Hearing component, but you can still send me your thoughts as they are always helpful as I approach the meeting.) AGENDA * Call to Order - Brencis D. Smith, Council President * Bid Recommendation- City of Laurel Comprehensive Safety Action Plan – SS4A (Safe Streets for All) Federal Grant Program- Department of Public Works * Bid Recommendation- Staggers Road Improvement Project- Engineering and Design Services- Department of Public Works * Resolution No. 1-206- A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland to Establish a City of Laurel Advisory Committee Relating to the Redistricting of City Ward Boundaries * Ordinance No. 2053- An Ordinance Amending the General Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland, for the Fiscal Year July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 and to Provide an Effective Date * Adjournment

The end of last year, I was re-appointed by the Mayor as Chair of the City’s Citizens Advisory Committee for Senior Residents & Persons with Disabilities. It was one I chaired when I first joined Council in 2024, and it’s an honor to help serve residents in this way. The Committee’s mission is to give voice to persons with disabilities and seniors who live in our community – Whether it’s policies and legislation adopted, amenities and programs around town, or resources available. We are need of one more member to reach the required ‘quorum’ – If you or someone you know may be interested, please reach out to me and happy to share more about what we do and invite you to join us for a meeting. My thanks to the existing Committee members for your service and I look forward to helping serve the related resident groups in the work of our City!

Originally scheduled for earlier this week, the Laurel Board of Trade has rescheduled their annual Business Roundtable with the City of Laurel for this coming Tuesday, February 3 from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Municipal Center. Not only is this a great opportunity to connect with other small businesses owners to share, learn, and fellowship, it’s also a great opportunity to connect with City officials to discuss how best to support small businesses in our town and to get your practical questions answered. Confirmed attendees include Mayor Sydnor, Economic & Community Development Director Meashey, Police Chief Hammil, IT Director Cornwell-Shiel, and more. And I’ll be there as well! – please come up to say “hi”, share about your small business, help swap ideas on continuing to cultivate a strong small business community here in Laurel!

»Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Wreath Placement« This past week included great recognitions of the impact and remembrances of Dr. King’s legacy. I was honored to join with the City in placing a wreath at Dr. King’s memorial at the Municipal Center and to share some brief remarks. In this year also celebrating 250 years since America’s founding, I recalled Dr. King’s words that he came to ‘cash the check’ written in the Declaration of Independence that ‘all men are created equal’, calling us to live up to that promise. And while we still strive to fulfill Dr. King’s dream, and the dream of America, we are encouraged and strengthened by his words and example propelling us in the right direction. (Photo: City of Laurel) --- »MLK Day Celebration« And what a celebration we had on MLK Day! The award-winning Laurel High School choir sang three pieces over the course of the program, talented spoken word and dance artists contributed their art, and the address of Mr. Cortland Jones reflected on Dr. King’s deep impact on his own personal life and trajectory. I was particularly touched by his stories illustrating the degree to which Dr. King, and those joining with him, had to suffer to advance the cause each step of the way, and Dr. King paying the ultimate price. Following the program, everyone chipped in to assemble care packages for seniors as part of Dr. King’s legacy of service. Thank you to Ms. Carreen Koubek from the City team for coordinating, for all those sharing their talents in the program, and our community for coming out to honor and serve. (Photo: City of Laurel)

I shared during my report last night about seeing …

Che City of Laurel offices will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026.

From the City’s Press Release: Mayor Keith R. Sydnor has declared a State of Emergency for the City of Laurel effective 6 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, ahead of a winter storm expected to arrive as early as Saturday evening, bringing up to 9 to 15 inches of snow. Residents are urged to prepare now and follow all safety and parking regulations to ensure efficient snow removal and public safety. Snow Emergency Parking Restrictions – Under Section 17-78 of the City Code, parking is prohibited on the even-numbered side of all designated snow emergency streets. Sidewalk Snow and Ice Removal – Under Sections 14-7 and 18-181.2 of the City Code, property owners and occupants must clear snow and ice from sidewalks within 12 hours after snowfall has ended. Some winter safety tips shared: * Pace yourself when shoveling snow; dress in layers; bring pets indoors. * Check on family, friends, and neighbors who may need help. * Avoid unnecessary travel; drive slowly and clear snow from your vehicle. * Use generators safely—never indoors or in garages. * Keep food safe during extended power outages and call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies. See the press release for additional information, including the ability to register for the City’s emergency alerts. Be safe out there folks – And enjoy the snow! 😀❄️☃️🛷

In the latest zig-zag of an almost decade of changes to the fate of Laurel Park, it’s now expected to be converted into a racehorse training facility after the Preakness returns to the renovated Pimlico, anticipated in 2027. From the Maryland Stadium Authority’s press release on Wednesday this week: The Maryland Stadium Authority announced that it has reached a tentative agreement with The Stronach Group to acquire Laurel Park for the purposes of redevelopment into a premier hub for thoroughbred training in Maryland. With approximately 1,100 horse stalls available for use at Laurel Park, day-to-day racing and training operations will be consolidated at the new statewide training center, while the Pimlico Race Course will transition to a “ship-in” racing model where horses and trainers will travel from other facilities to the venue on racing days. The strategic pivot will save the State an estimated $26.3 million in construction costs toward hundreds of new stalls at Pimlico, support about 500 jobs in Laurel, and preserve roughly 1,000 parking spaces around the race course. Moreover, by concentrating all overnight racing staff at Laurel Park, the Maryland Jockey Club expects to save $2.5 million annually in operating expenses. And an interesting factoid on the history of horses in Maryland: Maryland’s equine ecosystem represents approximately $3 billion in economic activity and over 25 percent of all agricultural land statewide. With more horses per square mile than any other state, Maryland’s horse industry supports over 28,000 jobs and $1.2 billion in wages. And don’t forget that this year: The 151st Preakness Stakes will run at Laurel Park on May 16, 2026!

See the City of Laurel’s meeting page for the official record, and if any agenda item holds interest for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me as your voice helps me shape legislation and decisions. Join in-person, watch live online via LaurelTV or the MyLaurel app, or on your TV via Comcast Channel 996 (HD)/ 71 (SD) or Verizon FiOS Channel 12. And if you’d like to register to speak, simply sign-up when you arrive in person or reach out to the City Clerk’s office. (See my post for how to share your voice at Council Meetings.) --- AGENDA * Call to Order - Council President Brencis D. Smith * Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America led by Keith R. Sydnor, Mayor * Roll Call - Sara A. Green, CPM, MMC, Clerk * Presentation by Anacostia Trails Heritage Area (ATHA) Megan Baco and Grace Harness * Approval of Minutes: December 15, 2026 Closed Session; January 12, 2026 Special Work Session ; January 12, 2026 Regular Meeting * Report of the Mayor and City Council * General Public Hearing * Second Public Hearing with Possible Action on Ordinance No. 2052- An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland to Amend Laurel City Code, Chapter 11, “Planning and Development, “Article III, “Affordable Housing Program,” Section 11-53, “For Sale Affordable Housing” to Update and Supplement the For Sale Housing Requirements and Providing for an Effective Date * Adjournment

»Homeless Person’s Memorial Day« The end of December marks the longest night of the year, and has consequently been chosen as a particular time to remember those who are homeless and who have sadly passed away while out in the elements. It was a distinct privilege to join with Department of Human Services Director Marchelle LeBlanc, Taking Care of Our Neighbors Director Phillip Ott, Patrons for Peace Director Ruth Walls, and others gathered to bring remembrance and honor to those who have passed, to dedicate a new memorial near the Center’s entrance, and to renew commitment to serving those in our midst. I was honored to share a few thought as well and to thank on behalf of the City all of those who carry this important banner. (Photo: City of Laurel) --- »Troop 1250 Eagle Court of Honor« Congratulations to new Eagle Scout Bowen Ghrist of Troop 1250 for reaching Scouting’s highest rank! And it was my pleasure to present a citation on behalf of the Mayor recognizing his efforts and service. During my comments, I also shared some reflections on the hallmarks of good leadership, including the difference between leadership and power – ‘leadership is the exercise of power within the guardrails of human virtue’. Within Scouting, those virtues are embodied in the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. I charged Bowen to hold to these guide posts in his service to others in the future, and congratulations again! --- »City Ethics Training« I wasn’t able to attend live, but completed watching the recording of the Laurel Ethics Commission’s presentation on January 6 covering the Financial Disclosure Statements required to be completed annually by all elected officials, appointed officials, and senior City staff. The purpose is to disclose any financial interests (whether through employment, family relationship, governing relationship, or other) that could give rise to actual or appearance of a conflict of interest. The Laurel Ethics Commission is also charged with overseeing the administration of the City’s Ethics Ordinance to ensure the highest degree of public integrity is maintained by our City. You can read more about the Commission on their information page and if you’re curious, feel free also to check out the video of the training posted below:

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is coming up next Monday, January 19 and the City will be marking in two special ways: * With a wreath placement at the City’s memorial outside the Municipal Center this Friday at 4 p.m., and * With a day of service on Monday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Multiservice Center. The event will open with meaningful program at the start, then be followed by the assembly of care packages for seniors. More information below and see you there!

For all you live Christmas tree lovers out there (our family included) 😀, don’t forget the City will do free pickups of your trees every Wednesday during the month of January. No scheduling necessary as long as you place at your curb , but if possible, you’re encouraged to call 301-725-0088 to log your address.

This Monday will be a double-header for Council, featuring a Special Work Session at 5 p.m., followed by a regular Council Meeting at 6 p.m. (both virtual). The Special Work Session will be primarily to finalize last tweaks to the affordable housing legislation worked on extensively these last few months, and the regular Council Meeting is expected to feature its First Hearing, among other business. (See full agendas below.) See the City of Laurel’s meeting page for the official record, and if any agenda item holds interest for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me as your voice helps me shape legislation and decisions. Watch live online via LaurelTV or the MyLaurel app, or on your TV via Comcast Channel 996 (HD)/ 71 (SD) or Verizon FiOS Channel 12. And if you’d like to register to speak for the regular Council Meeting, you can sign-up by reaching out to the City Clerk’s office by 2 p.m. of the meeting day. (See my post for how to share your voice at Council Meetings.) --- AGENDA for SPECIAL WORK SESSION at 5 p.m. * Call to Order - Brencis D. Smith, Council President * Bid Recommendation- 10 Additional Axon Fleet 3 Systems for Police Vehicles- Department of Information Technology * Ordinance No. 2052- An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland to Amend Laurel City Code, Chapter 11, “Planning and Development, “Article III, “Affordable Housing Program,” Section 11-53, “For Sale Affordable Housing” to Update and Supplement the For Sale Housing Requirements and Providing for an Effective Date * Adjournment --- AGENDA for COUNCIL MEETING at 6 p.m. * Call to Order - Council President Brencis D. Smith * Roll Call - Sara A. Green, CPM, MMC, City Clerk * Approval of Minutes: December 15, 2025 Regular Meeting; January 7, 2026 Special Meeting; January 7, 2026 Work Session * Report of the Mayor and City Council * Appointments: Francesca Valencia, Arts Council, 01/12/26-01/12/28; Matthew Nabinger, Arts Council, 01/12/26-01/12/29; Melissa Mawyer, Arts Council, 01/12/26-01/12/29; The Honorable Christine M. Johnson, CAC for Seniors Residents and Persons with Disabilities, 01/12/26-01/12/28; Reappointments: Inka Patel, Arts Council, 01/12/26-01/12/29; Davonia Bryant, Education Advisory Committee 01/12/26-01/12/28 * General Public Hearing * Bid Recommendation- 10 Additional Axon Fleet 3 Systems for Police Vehicles- Department of Information Technology * Introduction and First Public Hearing on Ordinance No. 2052- An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland to Amend Laurel City Code, Chapter 11, “Planning and Development, “Article III, “Affordable Housing Program,” Section 11-53, “For Sale Affordable Housing” to Update and Supplement the For Sale Housing Requirements and Providing for an Effective Date * Adjournment

Christmas and the holiday season has so many joys, and so many events. :) As we turn the page into to 2026, it’s nice to reflect back at some of the ones celebrated with the City last month. »Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting« The holiday parade is always a lot of fun, especially since there’s the big guy in red providing the tail, but also because it ends at a wonderful event hosted by Parks & Rec at the Laurel Armory and the magic of tree lighting once the sky starts turning dark. I went through a whole bag of candy canes by the time I got to the crowd near the armory, but thankfully was able to find an extra bag and circle back to be sure everyone got some peppermint fun. :) And it was beautiful to see special guest Gabe “throw the switch” and light up the grounds while all the kids “from 1 to 92” admired the beauty. Thank you to the City team for putting on such a great event helping mark this special time of year! (Photo: City of Laurel) »City Committee & Commission Holiday Reception« Each year around Christmas, the Mayor also invites members of the City Committees and Commissions to a holiday reception, this year held at Partnership Hall. There were tasty foods, mingling, and a chance to catch up and share Christmas wishes with folks. I was also happy to take a moment to recognize and thank all the residents gathered for volunteering their time, energy, and expertise to help make Laurel what it is. They are truly a gift for our community! (Photo: City of Laurel) »City Employee Holiday Party« I also always try to make an effort to be at the City Employee holiday party to express thanks and spend time as a team. Seeing members from all of the City’s eleven departments is a neat experience, and I shared appreciation for each of them helping to create the ‘magic and wonder’ of Laurel in all the small and big ways they help residents day-to-day. A little added bonus: after the afternoon holiday party, everyone gets a little extra time off! (I headed back to the ‘day job’ to get some last bits of work done.) 🙂 »Las Posadas Celebration« New this year, I also took the kiddos to the Las Posadas celebration at the House of Restoration church on Prince George Street which serves a primarily Spanish-speaking congregation. I was able to connect with Pastor Jorge Smith who also shared that their services are translated for any English-speaking individuals who’d like to come as well. And while there, the kiddos and I got to sample Ponche Navideño (a traditional Christmas punch with fruits and spices) and a wonderful spread from Salsa Brava, a Mexican restaurant located right here in Laurel. Without question, the biggest highlight for the kiddos was the piñata – All the kids took a number of swings at the particularly sturdy piñata (formed in the shape of a nativity star), and when the candy burst, they went scrambling! :) Thank you to Danielle Delgado for organizing and helping share this tradition with our community, and all those who helped host and make possible!