-
Takoma Park Adopts Housing, Economic Development Plan
The Takoma Park City Council has adopted a long-term housing and economic development strategic plan, city officials announced. The 2019-2030 Housing and Economic Development Strategic Plan is designed to be a “coordinated approach needed to move Takoma Park towards a ‘Livable Community for All’ for this and future generations,” according to the introduction.
-
Upcoming Events, Oct. 25–Nov. 1
Halloween is Thursday, one week from today, and there are numerous event planned over the next week to celebrate (including the annual Zombie Walk). If your favorite venue isn’t listed, check directly with them. In the meantime, there’s an adoption event with the Humane Rescue Alliance at the Go Brent offices on Saturday, which is…
-
Glass Bill Would Tax New Home Construction After Demolition
Councilmember Evan Glass (D-At Large) has introduced the Housing Impact Fairness Tax (Bill 34-19) that would, under certain conditions, tax new home construction following the demolition of an existing single-family home. Co-sponsored by Councilmember Will Jawando (D-At Large), the bill would earmark the new revenue for school construction and affordable housing initiatives.
-
Building at 900 Spring Not Historic, Planning Board Decides
The Planning Board yesterday declined to place a building at 900 Spring St. on the Locational Atlas and List of Historic Sites. The 5-0 vote rejected a staff recommendation to list the former headquarters of the National Sand & Gravel Association and National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, which opened in 1964.
-
Weeklong Festival Begins Tomorrow in Long Branch
The first Long Branch Festival begins Friday night, Sept. 20, for a weeklong celebration of the neighborhoods, businesses and culture of the area, according to organizers. “The purpose of the Long Branch Festival is to celebrate the dynamic neighborhood, businesses and culture of Long Branch,” according to the festival website. “Our goal is to bring…
-
School Boundaries: Subdivision Staging Policy
As yet, the school board and MCPS officials are not free of political pressures. As of early August 2019, the school board had delayed consideration and award of the consulting contract intended to investigate the boundary issue.
-
School Boundaries: Focusing on Process
While boundary change is likely to remain emotive however it is pursued, focusing on the process over the outcome could address the most trenchant opposition: a) periodic review and adjustment of boundaries, and b) an independent and binding review commission in charge of the process.
-
Council Passes Zoning Changes for Accessory Dwelling Units
The County Council yesterday unanimously passed a zoning text amendment to make it easier for homeowners to add accessory dwelling units to their property. An ADU is a separate dwelling unit that is on the same lot as a single dwelling unit with its own entrance, full kitchen and bathroom. The ADU tenant does not…
-
Program Offers Home Buyers Down Payment Assistance
County residents interested in buying a home may qualify for a no-interest loan to assist with the down payment or closing costs under a county-administered program. Applicants must be 18, first-time home buyers (with one exception) and meet income eligibility limits, which vary by location and household size.