Rockville’s Mayor and Council will hold its regular meeting on Monday, March 24, 2025. Topics range from citywide budget priorities to neighborhood services, affordable housing, economic development, and the future of sustainability. Here’s what’s on the agenda—and why it matters.

Town Center Master Plan: Zoning Changes Under Review
The Council will hold a public hearing on proposed zoning changes related to the Rockville Town Center Master Plan. This initiative introduces three character areas—MD-355 Corridor, Core, and Edge—each with specific development standards. Notably, the proposal allows increased building heights to 235′ for projects that include at least 20% affordable housing units. These changes aim to support economic vitality, encourage housing development, and improve the pedestrian experience in the city’s core. The hearing gives residents and businesses an opportunity to weigh in on how the plan’s goals—such as better connectivity, mixed-use development, and revitalized public spaces—should be implemented through zoning updates.

Sustainability and Electric Vehicles on the Move
As part of the city’s climate action goals, the Council may approve its Electric Vehicle Readiness Plan. This includes preparing infrastructure to support EVs and integrating low-emission technology into city operations. It’s one step in a broader environmental strategy that includes green space planning and expanded use of electric landscaping equipment.

Big Picture: FY 2026 Budget in Focus
The Council will continue work on the proposed FY 2026 operating budget totaling $173 million, a 4.5% increase over last year. Rising personnel costs, inflation, and key investments in public safety, community services, and infrastructure are shaping this year’s spending plan. While costs are going up, the city is not planning to issue new debt this year and maintains a healthy reserve to ensure financial stability. An online budget priorities survey—available in English, Spanish, and Chinese—is also open for feedback. Visit rockvillemd.gov/budget to submit comments, take the survey, or view meeting materials.

Housing and Community Services Get a Boost
The proposed budget calls for a 22.3% increase in community grants, consolidating two former programs into a streamlined Community Services and Enrichment Grants initiative. More than $1.5 million will support local nonprofits providing housing assistance, food security, healthcare access, youth programming, and more. An additional $250,000 is earmarked for a new emergency vehicle for the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department.

Supporting Local Business and Economic Growth
Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is set to receive a $1.6 million investment to support small business grants, life sciences marketing, and workforce development through the Maryland Women’s Business Center. A new Business Development Associate will help expand outreach and build a stronger local economy.

City Workforce and New Departments
Thirteen new full-time positions are proposed across departments, including housing, communications, public safety, and ADA compliance. Two new departments—Communications and Community Engagement and Procurement—will enhance transparency and efficiency in city operations.

Reserve Funds Used Wisely
With reserves projected to exceed policy targets, the city proposes using $2.08 million for one-time projects such as a Senior Center entrance upgrade, the Green Space Management Plan, and the Housing Opportunities Fund. These investments reflect community priorities while keeping the city prepared for economic uncertainty.

How to Participate:

• Attend in Person: The meeting will be held at City Hall, 111 Maryland Avenue (downtown, behind the Maryland District Courthouse). We encourage residents to attend and voice their opinions during Community Forum.
• Watch Online: If you can’t make it in person, you can watch the live stream on the city’s website at https://www.rockvillemd.gov/157/Rockville-11.
• Submit Comments: You can submit your comments or questions in advance by emailing MayorAndCouncil@RockvilleMD.gov by no later than 10:00 a.m. on the date of the meeting.

Your participation is crucial in shaping the future of our city. Whether you have specific concerns or just want to stay informed, we hope to see you at the meeting.

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Thank you for being an active and engaged member of our community. More details in the 648-page, 38-Mb agenda packet are available at https://www.rockvillemd.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03242025-7445.