Housing, Mental Health, and Election Reform on June 16 Council Agenda
The next Rockville Mayor and Council meeting on Monday, June 16, 2025, will tackle several important topics that could shape life in the city—from how affordable housing is preserved, to how the police handle mental health calls, to how future city elections are run. Residents and businesses alike may want to tune in or weigh in on these wide-ranging proposals.
Affordable Housing Preservation
What’s on the Agenda
The Council will hear a presentation on strategies to preserve affordable housing in Rockville, especially older apartment buildings that may otherwise be lost to redevelopment or rising rents. The report recommends creating a database to track at-risk properties, reviving a rehabilitation loan program, and building a coalition of local partners to protect long-term affordability. However, the report does not fully address the challenges faced by property owners and developers, such as rising construction costs, regulatory burdens, and limited access to financing—all of which make it increasingly difficult to preserve or create affordable units.
Why It Matters
Housing affordability is a growing concern in Rockville. These strategies could help longtime residents stay in their homes, keep neighborhoods stable, and ensure a mix of incomes across the city.
Mental Health Specialist for Rockville Police
What’s on the Agenda
The Council will vote to renew an agreement with Montgomery County to embed a licensed mental health professional in the Rockville Police Department for $160,000 per year. This specialist assists officers on mental health calls and helps connect residents to support services. The role also includes training officers on crisis response.
Why It Matters
While mental health calls only represent 3% of police activity (742 out of 26,047 calls in 2024), they require a set of skills that few police officers are trained to handle. This program is a way to improve public safety responses, reduce emergency room visits, and support residents in crisis more effectively.
City Election Reform
What’s on the Agenda
As part of an ongoing review, the Council will hold a worksession on proposed changes to Rockville’s election system. The discussion will focus on four main areas: rewriting the election code, updating campaign finance rules, rethinking the structure and independence of the Board of Supervisors of Elections, and improving public education and enforcement. Potentially off-the-table issues are ranked-choice voting and public funding of campaigns. A Charter Review Commission presented recommendations in late 2022, voters responded to advisory referendum questions in the 2023 election, and the Mayor and Council is revisiting everything again (except increasing the size of Council) in 2025. Seems there’s little traction on this issue and I wonder if they’ll consider what voters and Charter Review Commission said previously (they’re not mentioned in the staff report).
Why It Matters
Rockville’s election rules haven’t kept up with modern expectations. These updates could make local elections fairer, more transparent, and easier to understand for voters, candidates, and campaign volunteers alike.
The meeting will be broadcast live on Rockville 11 and streamed on the city’s website.
Residents can send comments to the Mayor and Council by email or speak during Community Forum, which begins at 6:50 p.m. You can sign up to speak online at rockvillemd.gov before 10 a.m. the day of the meeting.
Rockville Residents Rally Along Rockville Pike in “No Kings” Protest
Today thousands of residents lined Rockville Pike from north to south in a spirited “No Kings” protest, drawing attention to growing concerns about government overreach. The demonstration, marked by homemade signs, upside down crowns, American flags, and spontaneous cheers, brought together neighbors, friends, and families united by a shared sense that President Trump is exceeding his authority.
Support came not only from the sidewalks but also the street—drivers honked in solidarity, though Tesla drivers, notably, were less enthusiastic. The strong turnout and shared energy reflected a deep undercurrent of concern and frustration with the direction of the nation.
The protest evoked memories of a similar moment in Rockville’s history, when then-Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio controversially claimed the title of chief executive—despite the city code reserving that role for the city manager. In that instance, the city council remained silent just as Congress is today, leaving it to residents to voice their objections.
This latest demonstration is a reminder that citizen vigilance remains essential. Elected officials, both national and local, are far too tempted by power. The message from Rockville is clear: no one person should be above the law or the people.
Big Changes Coming? Rockville Zoning Rewrite Targets Downtown and Twinbrook
Rockville is rethinking the rules that shape how our neighborhoods and business districts grow—and major zoning changes are on the table for both downtown Rockville and the Twinbrook neighborhood.
The city is updating its zoning ordinance for the first time since 2009 to reflect how people live and work today. This rewrite will bring Rockville’s zoning in line with the Rockville 2040 Comprehensive Plan and could pave the way for new housing options, business models, and construction types—especially in areas identified for growth and change.
If you live, work, or own property in Twinbrook or downtown Rockville, this is the time to get involved.
Key dates to watch:
- Tuesday, June 17 at 7:00 p.m. – Twinbrook Community Association meeting at the Twinbrook Recreation Center (residents especially encouraged to attend)
- Monday, June 24 and Wednesday, June 26 – Two virtual citywide zoning update meetings. Register for the virtual meetings at www.engagerockville.com/zoningrewrite
These meetings will explore how zoning changes could shape the future of your neighborhood—from building heights to business uses and green space requirements.
Understanding Rockville’s Zoning: A Guide for Residents and Businesses
As Rockville updates its zoning ordinance, it’s helpful to understand what the current zones mean—especially if you live, work, or plan to develop in the city. Here’s a breakdown of five key zones under consideration, explained for non-specialists:
Continue reading →Child Care, Green Buildings, and City Reorganization on June 2 Council Agenda
At its June 2, 2025 meeting, the Rockville Mayor and Council will issue several proclamations, including ones recognizing Men’s Health Week, Juneteenth, and LGBTQ+ Pride Month. They’ll vote on community arts agreements (Rockville Little Theatre, Rockville Musical Theatre, and Victorian Lyric Opera Company) and a FY25 budget amendment. The agenda also includes potential revisions to the city’s personnel code. A worksession will focus on green building regulations and exploring child care solutions. The public is invited to speak during the 6:45 p.m. Community Forum or send comments to MayorandCouncil@RockvilleMD.gov.
Reorganization of City Government
What’s on the Agenda:
The Mayor and Council will vote on a series of ordinances and resolutions to formally establish two new city departments: Procurement and Communications & Community Engagement. These functions were previously divisions within the City Manager’s Office. The Council will also update the city’s personnel code and pension plan to reflect the new structure and clarify employment policies.
Why It Matters:
Overall, this reorganization has strong potential to improve services, particularly in procurement transparency and public engagement. It reflects a maturing city government structure and a recognition that Rockville’s growth and complexity require more robust administrative capacity.
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Rethinking Rockville’s Proclamation Parade
At the City Council meeting on May 12, 2025, the Rockville Mayor and Council are set to issue seventeen proclamations—yes, seventeen—covering everything from public service and health awareness to historic preservation and cultural celebrations.
Here’s what’s being recognized:
- National Public Service Recognition Week (May 4–10)
- National Police Week (May 11–17)
- Women’s Health Week (May 11–17)
- Taiwanese American Heritage Week (May 11–18)
- National Public Works Week (May 19–23)
- National Kids to Parks Day (May 17)
- Greek Genocide Remembrance Day (May 19)
- ALS Awareness Month
- Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
- Building Safety Month
- National Bicycle Awareness Month
- Jewish American Heritage Month
- Lyme Disease Awareness Month
- Mental Health Awareness Month
- Older Americans Month
- National Preservation Month
- Stroke Awareness Month
Each of these proclamations represents a worthwhile cause or celebration—some with deep relevance to our city. From recognizing the contributions of older adults and public works employees, to celebrating heritage communities and raising awareness for health issues, the topics are both timely and important.
But when so many proclamations are issued in a single night, it’s hard for any one to stand out. And for Rockville’s residents and businesses, the question becomes: how does this affect me?
Continue reading →May 12 Rockville Council Preview: State Legislative Updates and Shady Grove Metro Annexation
The Rockville Mayor and Council meet Monday, May 12, 2025, to review state legislative updates, consider a major consulting contract to design N. Stonestreet Avenue, and discuss the potential annexation of properties near the Shady Grove Metro. Residents and businesses will want to tune in for insight into how these decisions could affect city priorities, planning, and future development.
State Legislative Wrap-Up
What’s on the Agenda
The meeting opens with a presentation reviewing the outcomes of the 2025 Maryland General Assembly session, with a focus on new laws and budget items that directly affect Rockville.
Why It Matters
This session wrap-up helps residents understand how state-level decisions influence local funding, planning, and services—from infrastructure to public safety.
$686K Consulting Agreement for City Project
What’s on the Agenda
The Council will vote on a contract with Mead & Hunt, Inc., a professional services firm, for work through 2026 for the design of street and sidewalk improvements along Park Road and N. Stonestreet Avenue near the Rockville Metro Station. The agreement totals nearly $687,000 and includes the option for two additional years.
Why It Matters
Large consulting contracts often support major planning, design, or infrastructure projects. This investment signals a multi-year commitment that could shape the city’s built environment or operations.
Shady Grove Annexation Worksession
What’s on the Agenda
Councilmembers will review the Planning Commission–approved preliminary annexation plan for 108 acres near the Shady Grove Metro Station, including WMATA and CSX properties. During the work session, they will examine potential land use, fiscal impacts (e.g., six additional police officers), and infrastructure needs associated with the annexation. Councilmembers are expected to discuss three annexation options and provide direction to staff. The proposal supports long-term goals for transit-oriented growth and expanded city boundaries.
Why It Matters
Annexing land near Metro stations can bring new tax revenue, development opportunities, expand city services, and influence long-term growth. This is a key early step in a significant land use decision. Annexation would officially add a third Metro station within Rockville. FYI: Maryland state law limits the size of cities to a “maximum expansion area.”
The meeting will be broadcast live on Rockville 11 and streamed on the city’s website.
Rockville Council Meeting Preview: May 5, 2025
The Rockville Mayor and Council will meet on Monday, May 6, 2025, with a packed agenda that could reshape the city’s future. Key items include a proposal to convert an office building on Rockville Pike into housing, final adoption of the city’s FY26 budget, and a continued work session on the comprehensive rewrite of Rockville’s zoning ordinance. These decisions will shape the look, feel, and function of Rockville’s neighborhoods for years to come.
1. Proposed Redevelopment at 255 Rockville Pike
What’s on the Agenda
The Mayor and Council will receive a briefing on a proposed Project Plan Amendment that would allow up to 550 residential or commercial units at 255 Rockville Pike. The plan seeks to convert an existing office building in the Planned Development–Rockville Center, Inc. (PD-RCI) zone into housing or mixed-use development.
Why It Matters
This project would significantly increase housing in the heart of Rockville Town Center, potentially bringing new energy and residents to the area. It also reflects broader trends of adapting underused office buildings for residential use. However, such a large redevelopment raises important questions about traffic, infrastructure, and neighborhood impact, such as how will it effectively manage Amazon deliveries and Uber drivers, which have created traffic hazards in other mixed-use developments?
2. Adoption of the FY26 Budget and Tax Rates
What’s on the Agenda
The Mayor and Council are scheduled to formally adopt the city’s FY 2026 budget, including appropriations and the levy of property taxes for the coming fiscal year. The property tax rate remains unchanged from 1995 (but the county’s rate keeps going up!) and is expected to generate about 44% of the city’s revenues in FY 2026. It includes “expanded housing assistance programs; the development of a Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) strategic plan; the addition of a 0.5 FTE ADA Coordinator; expanded access to free nature and swim programs for students attending Title 1 schools within Rockville; and the advancement of the development of the Talbott Street Park (RB25) project which is located in a park deficient area of the city.”
Why It Matters
The budget determines how city funds will be spent on everything from public safety and parks to infrastructure and economic development. Final adoption sets the city’s financial plan and tax rates for the year ahead, directly affecting residents and business owners.
3. Zoning Ordinance Rewrite Work Session #3
What’s on the Agenda
This work session continues the Council’s review of a full-scale Zoning Ordinance Rewrite. Topics include proposed new zones (such as Town Center zones), revisions to existing zoning standards, height transition rules, and a comprehensive zoning map amendment.
Why It Matters
This is one of the most sweeping changes to Rockville’s land use policy in decades. Zoning determines what can be built and where, influencing everything from housing availability to neighborhood character. Residents and developers alike will want to follow these changes closely, as they may affect property uses and future development across the city.
The full agenda and supporting materials are available at rockvillemd.gov. The meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. and will be broadcast live on Rockville 11 (cable channel 11) and streamed on the city’s website. Residents are encouraged to watch, attend, or submit public comments to stay involved in decisions that shape Rockville’s future.
Budget, Community Grants, and Sustainability on the March 24 Council Meeting
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.
Residents Invited to Weigh in on FY 2026 Budget
The Rockville City Council meeting on March 17, 2025, includes a Compensation and Classification Study presentation, updates on the FY 2026 budget, and a public hearing on the budget proposal. The Council will also discuss rent increase guidelines and approve state grant agreements for David Scull Park improvements. The session includes a budget work session on strategic initiatives, reorganization, and revenues, followed by general business updates.
This meeting is an important opportunity for you to stay informed and engaged with the decisions that shape our community.
Key Agenda Items:
Compensation and Classification Study Presentation. The Council will review findings from a citywide study evaluating employee salaries, benefits, and job classifications. The study, conducted by Bolton Partners, assesses whether city pay is competitive within the region and aligns with Rockville’s compensation philosophy. Recommendations include pay structure adjustments, improved job classification processes, and potential salary increases for underpaid positions. The discussion will help shape future budget and policy decisions to ensure fair compensation for city employees.
Continue reading →Garage Design Flaws May Spark Parking Policy Changes in Rockville
At its Monday, March 3, 2025 meeting, the Rockville Mayor and Council will discuss parking policy changes in the Tower Oaks development and federal earmark requests for FY26. The Mayor and Council will also hold work sessions on the “Results Rockville” dashboard and revising the zoning ordinance to speed approvals.
This meeting is an important opportunity for you to stay informed and engaged with the decisions that shape our community.
Key Agenda Items:
Continue reading →
Max for Rockville 