Kemp Mill Civic Association

Wednesday, 14 October 2009

Kemp Mill Elementary School All-purpose Room

7:30 pm

President Rebekah Rasooly opened the meeting. She reminded members that the Civic Association’s newsletter now is available only on the website. This change was made to save on printing and mailing expenses.

University of Maryland Student Danielle Goodwin distributed a survey tp collect information about residents’ attitudes toward recycling efforts by businesses in the Wheaton Triangle area.

Selena Snow, Parks Committee Chair, reported on a recent county meeting to discuss plans for the Kemp Mill Urban Park (located next to the shopping center). Options include keeping the park layout as it is now, reducing the pond into a series of smaller pools and expanding the playground area; and replacing the pond with a “water feature” and having more space for picnic tables. Maintenance of the pond, upkeep of the playground and management of the geese have been ongoing issues.

Henry Davis, Chair of the newly-formed Library Committee, reported on a meeting he had with a staff member from Councilmember Nancy Navarro’s office. Ms. Navarro supports keeping the library in place. Mr. Davis is developing contacts with other community associations served by the Wheaton Library and will continue to monitor the relocation v. renovation issue.

Chris Harrell requested community support for a Boy Scout project to put labels on storm drains reminding residents that storms drains ultimately connect with local streams and the Chesapeake Bay. A motion in support was made and seconded, and was carried by voice vote.

State Delegates Ben Kramer and Roger Manno discussed legislation on which they were working. County Councilwoman Nancy Navarro also discussed issues of interest to residents. All three officials stated that they are interested in hearing from their constituents.

Other Business

USPS – Mailboxes still are located by the Magruder’s and by each of the apartment buildings at the corner of University and Arcola. The Wheaton post office is NOT on the list of facilities that the USPS may close.
Residents were reminded not to sweep leaves into the street, and to keep storm drains clear of debris.
An update was requested about the work being performed by WSSC.
A suggestion was made for the county to review the effectiveness of the traffic-calming efforts made along Arcola Avenue, and to assess the need for a traffic light at Arcola and Kenbrook.

Respectfully submitted,

Cynthia D. Brandt Campagna