Date: July 15, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: Town Hall
Present
Chair Dr. Donna Flaggs, Mayor Gary Lucks, Donna Badgett, Marc Bramble, Kenny Gauen, Michelle Jackson, Edwin Ramos, Town Attorney Zach Smith, property owner Robert Zeller, contractor John Duffy, and members of the public.
Call to Order
Chair Dr. Donna Flaggs called the meeting to order at 3:00 PM.
Approval of Previous
Minutes The Commission corrected the start time in the previous meeting minutes from 6:00 PM to 3:00 PM. A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously approved to accept the corrected minutes.
Buildings 5 & 7 Academy Street
Mr. Robert Zeller introduced contractor John Duffy and updated the Commission on Buildings 5 and 7. Discussion centered on drainage problems affecting Building 7. Mr. Zeller reported meeting with representatives of the Maryland State Highway Administration regarding runoff created by the streetscape project. The Commission agreed that ownership of the drainage ditch must be determined before permanent repairs can proceed. Members also discussed Building 5, expressing concern over the lack of progress. Mr. Zeller stated he intends to remove the front section to evaluate the structure and provide drawings before the next meeting. The Commission emphasized that any reconstruction or exterior alterations within the Historic District require Commission approval.
House of Hinges
Edwin Ramos reported that the owner of the House of Hinges remains out of compliance with Historic District requirements. The Commission directed staff to proceed with District Court action and continue enforcement until compliance is achieved.
Buckland Property
The Commission received an update regarding the Buckland property. The bank’s attorneys continue working to transfer the property. Outstanding municipal charges total approximately $7,000. Members discussed the historical significance of the property and its importance to the Town.
Building Permits
The Commission reviewed a permit application submitted by CSSS Property Holdings for replacement of a garage roof. The proposal was found acceptable with no changes to the structure, and any future exterior modifications will require additional Historic District approval. Updates were also provided on new homes under construction on Buckland Parkway and other code enforcement matters. Community Legacy Grant Mayor Lucks reviewed plans to pursue a Maryland
Community Legacy Grant
for acquisition of the Buckland property. Valerie Mann will prepare the application, with supporting information due by July 23. Members discussed developing the property as a community center and living history museum capable of generating revenue through educational programming and events. A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously approved to proceed with the grant application.
Adjournment
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.