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Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting *this* Sat, Dec 6

The holiday season is now in full swing, and with it: Laurel’s holiday parade and Armory illumination! 🎄🎅

  • The Parade kicks-off at 3:45 p.m. from the Municipal Center and will wind down Sandy Spring Road onto Montgomery Street, ending at Fourth Street.

  • And the Armory Illumination will take place as it gets dark, around 5:15 p.m.

The parade is sure to feature certain North Pole guests – There’ll be music, games, and fun inside the Armory – Of course, the magic of the lighting ceremony will be on display ❄️ – And more.

So get yourself some Laurel holiday spirit while you join with friends, neighbors, and family – See you there! 😀

Auto-generated description: A festive holiday event poster advertises a parade and armory illumination on December 6, featuring Santa Claus, a snowman, and various activities at the Laurel Armory and Community Center.
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Info for City Council Work Session - 3 Dec 2025

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

  1. Call to Order – Brencis D. Smith, Council President

  2. 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

  3. Resolution No. 12-2025- A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland, to Alter the Membership of the City of Laurel Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration Planning Executive Committee

  4. Adjournment

Auto-generated description: Official seal and logo of the City of Laurel, Maryland, featuring a coat of arms and the city's name.
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Small Business Saturday *tomorrow*, Nov 29

A reminder to “think small”. 😀

While tomorrow is “Small Business Saturday”, the small businesses of Laurel appreciate and rely on your patronage all year round – But as you go about your holiday shopping, an encouragement to “think small” as you identify ways share your thoughtfulness with family & friends this holiday season.

Whether it’s a box of specialty coffee from Ragamuffins, an IOU to take a friend to Gigi’s for waffles, a gift certificate to Caribe Express, a new board game from 3 Gear Games, a bottle of wine from Clyopatra’s, and the list goes on …

There’s all types of experiences, goodies, and fun/ novelty items right at our fingertips around town to share while supporting your neighborhood economy! :)

And if you happen by the Quill Lot on 378 Main Street between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. on Saturday, you’ll also get some free swag and a free warm drink! ☕️

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My Reflections from Swearing-In Ceremony on "Being Laurel"

I was pleased Monday to renew my oath to serve Laurel as a Councilmember for this coming term, and to join with my colleagues, their friends, and family.

Following the swearing-in, I also had an opportunity to share a brief reflection, which I invite you watch in the queued-up video linked below:

If helpful, here also is a transcript, edited for some tidiness. :)

Thank you President Smith.

I did want to share a little bit of a reflection tonight. You know, in some ways tonight’s the conclusion of the election with the swearing-in, and there were a couple thoughts that I shared with supporters following the election, that I thought might be good to share tonight at large.

One of the things that struck me as I was standing on the sidelines on Election Day – and it is sort of interesting in an election that as candidates you’re standing on the sidelines. and that’s appropriate because the voters are the ones that who are the actors during the election, who are the movers – and as I watched the residents stream in and out of the polling place, I was struck by the fact that this thing we call “community”, it doesn’t just “happen” all by itself.

It takes people willing to take time out of their day to come out and to vote and to be a part. It takes people who want to take time out of their day to walk down the street to take the package that was misdelivered at your door to your next door neighbor. It takes people who take time out of the day to volunteer to coach their kid’s sports teams. It takes people to take time out of their day to stay after and join their church choir. Or also to collect and distribute food to those in need. And to come out and vote on Election Day.

A community is not just one person. It’s not even just five people. These few up here cannot carry what it means to be a community. It’s a vibrant ecosystem of people at all levels that make a community strong. The teachers, the shop owners, the bus drivers, the seniors, the pastors, the families, the artists, the architects, and the list goes on. If that ecosystem is strong, a community will carry itself regardless.

And so my encouragement is this: To “be Laurel”, to be proud to be Laurel, to be part and parcel of our life and our space here in our town, finding a way to connect to those around you. Laurel is richer and stronger for what you bring to it.

So, thank you to the witness to everyone who came out on election day to vote, to the testament of your belief in Laurel – And I’ll do my best to keep making decisions to best support you so that together we can be Laurel and to help it flourish. 🙂

Thank you, Mr. President.

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PSA: Thu/Fri trash pickup on *Wed* instead this week

Quick public service announcement: If your trash pickup is usually on a Thursday or a Friday, the crews will be around on Wednesday instead this week (so they can be at home celebrating Thanksgiving with their fam'). 🙂

Auto-generated description: A schedule shows changes to waste collection during Thanksgiving week, with the city closed on Thursday and Friday, and next bulky pickup on December 3.
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LARS Turkey Trot - Race Against Hunger this Thu, Nov 27

A perennial tradition here in the Laurel, the Laurel Advocacy & Referral Services (LARS) annual “Turkey Trot” a.k.a. “Race Against Hunger & Homelessness” is set for this Thursday, November 27 with race time starting at 8 a.m. at McCullough Park.

If you haven’t participated before, this is a great year to start. And if this is already part of your annual Thanksgiving tradition, it’s also a great year to continue. :)

More information can be found on the event page for those ready to get in motion for the cause, and even if that’s not your thing but you’d still like to lend a hand, they’re also in need of volunteers to help the event go smoothly.

There’s always great energy and fun at this event – I guarantee no regrets to those coming out! 😀 🦃 🏃‍➡️

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Info for City Council Meetings - 24 Nov 2025

Next Monday, November 24, the City will be holding two Council meetings – the first at 6 p.m. as the last meeting of the old Council year, and the second at 7:30 p.m. as the first meeting of the new Council year. And in between the two meetings, the new Council will be officially sworn into office.

Although there’ll be plenty of pomp and circumstance, that isn’t to say that there isn’t also some City business to attend to as described in the 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.

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 for 6 p.m. Council Meeting

  1. Call to Order - Council President Kyla M Clark

  2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America- Keith R. Sydnor, Mayor

  3. Roll Call - Sara A. Green, CPM, MMC, Clerk

  4. Approval of Minutes: November 6, 2025 Special Meeting; November 10, 2025 Work Session; November 10, 2025 Regular Meeting

  5. Laurel University Graduation Ceremony

  6. Report of the Mayor and City Council

  7. General Public Hearing

  8. Mayoral Appointment- Jay Meashey, Director, Department of Economic and Community Development

  9. Adjourn Sine Die

AGENDA for 7:30 p.m. Council Meeting

  1. Call to Order - Sara A. Green, CPM, MMC, City Clerk

  2. Roll Call - Sara A. Green, CPM, MMC, City Clerk

  3. Mayor Keith Sydnor administers the Oath of Office for the new term: Brencis D. Smith, Councilmember At-Large; James Kole, Councilmember, Ward 1; Adrian G. Simmons, Councilmember Ward 1; Kyla M. Clark, Councilmember Ward 2; Jeffrey W. Mills, Councilmember Ward 2

  4. Nomination and Election of Council President; Selection of President Pro-tem

  5. Remarks of the Mayor and City Council

  6. Adjournment

Auto-generated description: Official seal and logo of the City of Laurel, Maryland, featuring a coat of arms and the city's name.
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Annual Towne Centre Tree Lighting *Today*, Nov 20

Okay, so we may not be to Thanksgiving just yet, but perhaps you’re in the mood for some holiday cheer. :)

Pop on over to Towne Centre at Laurel starting at 6 p.m. for:

  • Tree Lighting with Santa Claus

  • Performance by the Laurel High School Chorus

  • Live Ice Carving Demonstration

  • Hot Chocolate & Cookies

  • Crafts & Holiday Activities

Admission is free, but registration helps the organizers ensure adequate supplies are on hand. And you’re also encouraged to bring a donation for the LARS holiday food baskets of cake or brownie mix along with a can of frosting (which you can drop off at their marked tent).

Here’s the event page to RSVP!

(And note: The City’s annual parade and tree lighting at the Laurel Armory will be on Saturday, Dec 6 – so be sure to mark your calendars and enjoy with the family as well!)

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Ivy Hill Veterans Flags // Ethics Course Completion // LMSC Visit -- Highlights & Pics

»Veterans Day Flag Placement at Ivy Hill Cemetary«

One of the annual Veterans Day traditions here in the City is the placement of American flags at the gravestones of veterans laid to rest in the historic Ivy Hill Cemetery on Sandy Spring Road. The cemetery dates to around the 1850s and there are veterans from the many generations of Americans who have served since that time. Thank you to Lisa and Christa for organizing, and I was glad to bring my family to join with community volunteers, a group of Air Force JROTC students, and a Cub Scout Pack to honor our veterans and know that that we remember and value their service.

Auto-generated description: A person wearing a baseball cap is taking a selfie in a cemetery next to a gravestone with an American flag placed beside it.

»Completion of Municipal Ethics Training Course«

Last week, I went to Annapolis for a Municipal Ethics training course that provides an overview of the unique requirements for elected officials. It outlined the 11 main ethical areas to be alert to in order to maintain the highest level of integrity in office, including: (a) conflict of interest, (b) use of public resources, (c) use of prestige of office, (d) soliciting/ accepting gifts, and (e) use of confidential information. For those curious, the State of Maryland has a state-level ethics code and each municipality can adopt a code that is no less stringent than the State’s. In Laurel’s case, we also have the Laurel Ethics Commission comprised of appointed volunteers that oversee ethics rules as they apply to the City, including things like collecting and review the required financial disclosure forms from elected officials, members of Commissions, and other bodies. Holding ourselves to high ethical standards is what enables public confidence in our work, and educating and revisiting these guardrails is a critical part of serving the public well.

Auto-generated description: A presenter stands at a podium in front of a screen displaying a slide titled Objectives during a seminar.

»Laurel Multiservice Center Visit«

There was originally a gathering scheduled for Nov 15, and although plans had to change last-minute, I appreciated the opportunity to connect with the two of the Partner organizations that are a part of making our Laurel Multiservice Center a success. The first was Wanda Fisher of Jobs Have Priority who serves as part of the Center’s transitional housing program – We have around 18 units that can serve as a helping hand and bridge for individuals who need to get back up on their feet and that program went live this year with more to come. The second was Susan and Thomas of Taking Care of Our Neighbors, a program to house those needing shelter overnight during the cold winter months. This will be the second year the program (previously known as “Winter Haven”) will be held at the LMSC and volunteer are still needed for check-in or overnight timeslots starting January and running into March. To sign up, you can reach out to staff at the LMSC at 301-947-3010 or email [email protected].

Auto-generated description: A logo features a house with a heart and mittens inside, surrounded by the words Taking Care of Our Neighbors and Winter Shelter.
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Laurel Blessing Baskets returns next Wed, Nov 19

Now in its third year, the Laurel Blessing Baskets Thanksgiving tradition started by Mike Mondy of Keller Williams Realty is hoping to continue and even widen its impact in 2025. From the event description:

After successfully donating 140 baskets in 2023 and 220 in 2024, the effort returns with the goal of helping even more families across 7 local elementary schools. Each Blessing Basket is filled with essential items and distributed directly to families in need by local volunteers.

Community members are encouraged to participate by pledging baskets through a sign-up form containing items such as laundry basket to hold the goodies; $30+ grocery card for turkey; cans of corn, green beans, & cranberries; boxes of stuffing; and more (see link for helpful list).

Baskets can be dropped off this coming Wednesday, Nov 19 at KB Karnival Hall at 555 Main Street (behind ‘Olivers Old Town Tavern’). And if you want to help but are unable to attend in person, you can use the event GoFundMe link.

Thank you Laurel for your generosity for our neighbors this Thanksgiving, both through this program, and ones through Laurel churches, schools, and others – These acts help build a strong Laurel so that we can all offer our gratefulness this November!

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Info for Work Session + City Council Meeting - 10 Nov 2025

Monday, November 10 will hold a double-header for City Council, containing a Work Session at 5 p.m. and regular Council Meeting at 6 p.m. — both virtual.

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. You can also 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 generally don’t have a Public Hearing component, but you can still send me your thoughts as they are always helpful as I approach the meeting. For the Council Meeting, if you’d like to register to speak, 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 Work Session

  1. Call to Order – Kyla M. Clark, President

  2. 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.

  3. Adjournment

AGENDA for Council Meeting

  1. Call to Order - Council President Kyla M. Clark

  2. Roll Call - Sara A. Green, CPM, MMC, Clerk

  3. Approval of Minutes: October 27, 2025 Special Work Session; October 27, 2025 Regular Meeting

  4. Report of the Mayor and City Council

  5. Appointment: Abdul Ruknudin CAC for Senior Residents and Persons with Disabilities 11/10/25-11/10/27 Reappointment: Roy P. Gilmore Emergency Services Commission 11/10/25-11/10/30

  6. General Public Hearing

  7. Second Public Hearing with Possible Action on Ordinance No. 2051- 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

  8. Second Public Hearing with Possible Action on Resolution No. 9-2025- A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland Approving and Authorizing the Purchase of 114 and 122 Lafayette Avenue, Laurel, Maryland 20707, for the Purpose of Acquiring Real Property for City Operations

  9. 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.

  10. Adjournment

(UPDATE: Agenda item 9 was not advanced from the Work Session in order to allow time for additional work on the legislation.)

Auto-generated description: Official seal and logo of the City of Laurel, Maryland, featuring a coat of arms and the city's name.
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Reader’s Theater Performance / LVFD 123rd Banquet / Robbins Mural Dedication -- Highlights & Pics

»Reader’s Theater performance at Selbourne House«

I thoroughly enjoyed the Readers Theater performance at the Selbourne House on Main Street back on October 24. Performers were drawn from among the senior residents at Selbourne House and members of the wider Laurel community and they delivered short stories, poetry recitations, spoken biographies of African American trailblazers, and songs. The group is led and coached by talented actor Charles Clyburn about whom every member shared how he had helped them come out of their shell, professionally embody the emotion of their part, and project their voice with confidence. It was stellar performance and a testament to the talent of the members and Mr. Clyburn. I heartily encourage anyone who has an interest in joining to reach out and I’m happy to make the connection, and to of course keep a lookout for their next performance! (UPDATE: LaurelTV released a video spot providing highlights from the performance.)

Auto-generated description: A group of people is gathered around tables with fall-themed decorations, while a woman stands and appears to be speaking.

»Laurel Volunteer Fire Department’s 123rd Awards Banquet«

Also in October, I joined with Council colleagues and the Mayor to help celebrate our LVFD’s 123rd annual awards banquet – I’m still astounded at the long legacy of volunteer firefighters here in Laurel, and it included a special night recognizing 50 years of service (that’s 50 years!) for Vic Whipple. Many other awards were presented, including Firefighter of the Year to Simone McCumber and awards to volunteers for the number of calls and hours they served this past year. Thank you to all our volunteers for helping keep Laurel safe, and it was also encouraging to see a great new class of volunteers being trained: be sure to check out their website if you’re interested to learn more about how you might become a part as well.

Auto-generated description: A group of people is sitting and conversing at a long table during a formal gathering or event.

(Photo credit: LFVD)

»Chandler Robbins Mural Dedication on Main Street«

Readers here have seen me share about the amazing new mural on Main Street that was worked on this fall, and on October 25 it was officially dedicated with a host of guests and guest speakers making for a special (perhaps even historic) afternoon. Included among the presenters were the artist himself Jeff Huntington, Chandler Robbins’ daughter who shared touching and insightful anecdotes about her father’s love of birds, co-workers who recounted the many significant achievements Robbins made to the world of bird study and nature preservation, and more. One thing I found fascinating was how Robbins was one of the main pioneers of using sound alone to identify birds, even publishing sonograms within the bird guides he wrote and teaching others to recognize their unique tunes. Thanks again to Laurel for the Patuxent for spearheading this public art beautification and all who contributed: it also stands as a great testament to people coming together to build community!

Auto-generated description: People are standing and seated at an outdoor event, some taking photos with their phones.

(Photo credit: City of Laurel)

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Official Election Results Certified Tonight at 6p

The Laurel Board of Elections has finalized the tabulation of this year’s General Election results, illustrated in the graphic below.

Tonight at 6 p.m., the results will be presented and certified in a public meeting at the Municipal Center — You can attend in-person at 8103 Sandy Spring Road and also watch from home via LaurelTV website, LaurelTV YouTube channel, Comcast (71/SD, 996/HD), or Verizon (Channel 12).

The official meeting record can be found on the City’s meeting page and below is the planned agenda.

Thank you to everyone for your participation in our local elections!

AGENDA

  1. Call to Order - Council President Kyla M. Clark

  2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America- Keith R. Sydnor, Mayor

  3. Roll Call - Sara A. Green, CPM, MMC, Clerk

  4. Introduction, public hearing and possible action on Resolution No. 10-2025- A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland to Receive the Returns of the 2025 General Election from the City of Laurel Board of Election Supervisors

  5. Introduction, public hearing and possible action on Resolution No. 11-2025- A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland to Authorize the Director of the Department of Budget and Personnel Services to Pay the Election Officials for the 2025 General Election

  6. Adjournment

(UPDATE 7 Nov 2025: The final count was updated from the graphic below in this City Press Release — Those elected did not change, but the final totals reflected additional updates.)

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Laurel resources for those impacted by SNAP Benefits shutdown

One of the many federal funding sources affected by the current federal government shutdown is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – The reserve funding will expire by tomorrow, Saturday, November 1.

The City has put together a list of Laurel food resources that residents can avail of to help them bridge through this time, including:

  • Laurel Multiservice Center
  • Laurel Advocacy and Referral Services (LARS)
  • Elizabeth House / Laurel’s “FISH” House
  • St. Mary of the Mills Catholic Church
  • Prayer Tower Church Community Food Pantry
  • Smiling Souls Food Bank
  • Laurel Church of Christ Food Pantry, and
  • Royalhouse Church, Grace2Grace Center

For times and locations, be sure to check out the Press Release and updates may also become available on the related City News Flash page.

Thank you to all Laurelites for the care you are showing to help our neighbors in need!

UPDATE: Additional food distribution list from PG County Councilmember Jolene Ivey.

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Info for Special Work Session - 27 Oct 2025

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 generally don’t have a Public Hearing component, but you can still send me your thoughts as they are always helpful as I approach the meeting.)

AGENDA

  1. Call to Order - Kyla M. Clark, Council President

  2. Ordinance No. 2051- 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

  3. Resolution No. 9-2025- A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland Approving and Authorizing the Purchase of 114 and 122 Lafayette Avenue, Laurel, Maryland 20707, for the Purpose of Acquiring Real Property for City Operations

Auto-generated description: Official seal and logo of the City of Laurel, Maryland, featuring a coat of arms and the city's name.
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Info for City Council Meeting - 27 Oct 2025

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

  1. Call to Order - Council President Kyla M. Clark

  2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America

  3. Roll Call - Sara A. Green, CPM, MMC, Clerk

  4. Approval of Minutes: September 22, 2025 Regular Meeting; September 22, 2025 Closed Session; October 1, 2025 Work Session; October 15, 2025 Regular Meeting; October 15, 2025 Closed Session

  5. Report of the Mayor and City Council

  6. Mayoral Reappointments: Jennifer Shannon, Arts Council, 10/27/25-10/27/27; Don Gavelek, Public Safety and Transportation Committee, 10/27/25-10/2727

  7. General Public Hearing

  8. Second Public Hearing with Possible Action on Ordinance No. 2046- An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland to Modify the Operation of the City of Laurel Employees Retirement Plan to Document a Cost-of-Living Adjustment for Retirees of January 1, 1994 to December 31, 2014.

  9. Second Public Hearing with Possible Action on Ordinance No. 2047- An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland to Modify the Operation of the City of Laurel Police Retirement Plan to Document a Cost-of-Living Adjustment for Retirees of January 1, 1994 to December 31, 2014.

  10. Second Public Hearing with Possible Action on Ordinance No. 2048- 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, 2024 through June 30, 2025 and to Provide an Effective Date.

  11. Second Public Hearing with Possible Action on Ordinance No. 2049- 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.

  12. Bid Recommendation- IT- LPD Dispatch Furniture Replacement

  13. Introduction and First Public Hearing on Ordinance No. 2051- 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

  14. Introduction and First Public Hearing on Resolution No. 9-2025- A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland Approving and Authorizing the Purchase of 114 and 122 Lafayette Avenue, Laurel, Maryland 20707, for the Purpose of Acquiring Real Property for City Operations

  15. Adjournment

Auto-generated description: Official seal and logo of the City of Laurel, Maryland, featuring a coat of arms and the city's name.
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Municipal Leaders Conference / Laurel Citizens University / Eagle Court - Highlights & pics

» Maryland Municipal League Excellence in Leadership Conference «

The first three days of last week I was at a Fall Conference of municipal leaders from across the state held out in western Maryland near Deep Creek. Courses I took included Municipal Budgeting and Effective Meetings and I’ve now completed all 14 classes to be certified in municipal governance save one, which I’ll complete on Nov 13. Not only is it helpful to have collected this knowledge to enhance my ability to serve, but it was also invaluable to connect with municipal leaders around the state to share information and form helpful relationships for Laurel as well.

Auto-generated description: A smiling man wearing a cap takes a selfie next to a sign for a Maryland Municipal League leadership event. Auto-generated description: A large conference hall is filled with attendees seated at tables, listening to a presentation with promotional banners visible in the foreground.

» Laurel Citizens University «

Laurel Citizens University kicked off on Thursday, Oct 2 and it was a pleasure to be there to help welcome participants and to help provide insights about the City’s legislative process – One thing I emphasized with those present is the preeminent importance their voice holds in the Council’s deliberations and to never feel shy or afraid to come and participate at Council Meetings. You can learn more about this program on the LCU dedicated page, and perhaps we’ll see you in a future class!

(Photo credit: City of Laurel)

» Troop 1250 Eagle Court of Honor for Noah Eng «

On October 11, I represented the City at the Eagle Court of Honor for Noah Eng of Troop 1250 based on Laurel. It was among the most beautiful settings I’ve been in for an Eagle Court, and it was a true honor to be present to help witness this important moment in his and his family’s Scouting experience as well as share reflections. One of the items I shared was that the path to Eagle is one of collecting experiences and developing skills like placing tools in a hiking pack – And now that he’d reached his Eagle, he’ll be able to pull from that pack to serve those he encounters along his life journey ahead. Congratulations Noah and thanks for the invitation to your special day!

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Resources for Federal Workers affected by the Shutdown

As the federal government shutdown lengthens, its effects unfortunately widen.

Below, I’ve compiled a list of resources as a support to those impacted. Please also feel free to forward me any that come to your attention and I’m happy to add them to the list here.

FOOD:

HOUSING:

  • Laurel Advoacy & Referral Services (LARS) — Financial assistance is available for mortgage, rent, utilities, and food; 311 Laurel Avenue; 301-776-0442

  • Eviction/ Foreclosure Protection — Involuntarily furloughed federal employees may request Maryland courts to pause eviction or foreclosure proceedings during the shutdown.

  • Gas & Electric Protections — Utility companies cannot cut off service for unpaid bills starting on the 8th day of the shutdown and continuing 7 days after the shutdown ends. Contact your provider to verify eligibility and set up a payment plan.

  • Utility Assistance — PG County has assembled various utility assistance programs such as those through BGE and WSSC.

Read More →

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Laurel Elections Candidate Forum *this* Wed, Oct 22 hosted by LBOT

We’re essentially two weeks away from the 2025 Laurel General Elections and here’s a perfect way to get familiar with and hear from the candidates running for office —>

The Laurel Board of Trade (LBOT) will be hosting their Candidates Forum this Wednesday, October 22 from 6 - 9 p.m. in the Council Chambers at the Laurel Municipal Center.

You can come in-person; watch live online via LaurelTV or the MyLaurel app, or watch live on your TV via Comcast Channel 996 (HD)/ 71 (SD) or Verizon FiOS Channel 12.

LBOT is also collecting questions to distill down into the list posed to candidates over the course of the evening — So if you have any questions you’d like to see asked, they’ve asked if you can submit them via ‘direct message’ on their Facebook page.

More details below and hope you can make it!

Auto-generated description: A promotional graphic for a Candidates Forum event hosted by the Laurel Board of Trade provides details of date, time, and location.
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Seeking Your Input into AirBnB Rental Law for Laurel

During Council’s Work Session held October 1, there was an update proposed to Laurel’s Code for “tourist homes” – these are essentially short-term rentals often facilitated via platforms like AirBnB, VRBO, and the like.

Right now, Laurel’s Code reads that:

  1. There can only be one tourist home per street, and
  2. The rental period must be for three days or more

The change proposed is that:

  1. There is no limit on the number of tourist homes
  2. There is no minimum number of days for the rental period

Following the Work Session, the Ordinance was temporarily removed from the legislative calendar to allow more time for review and conversation – And I’d like to ask you, the residents of Laurel, to reach out to me with any feedback or thoughts you have on the topic so it can be incorporated into the conversation.

Thank you as your input is critical toward helping shape legislation for our City!

(Note: A proposed change was also to disallow tourist homes in multi-family units, like apartments.)