Havre de Grace City Council adopts 2025 comprehensive plan with key amendments

The Havre de Grace City Council convened on May 5, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on amendments to the comprehensive plan and upcoming community events.

The meeting began with Councilman Boyer presenting a motion regarding updates to the comprehensive plan, which included recommendations from recent public meetings. Key changes discussed included adjusting parking requirements to one space per bedroom, emphasizing the city’s identity as a "bird city," and addressing the concept of "aging in place." The council also decided to update the plan's title from the 2024 to the 2025 Envision Havre de Grace Comprehensive Plan, reflecting the new timeline and incorporating feedback from community sessions.

Councilman Boyer highlighted the importance of these amendments, particularly the aging in place initiative, which aims to make living in the city more accessible for older residents. The council unanimously approved Boyer's amendments with a 6-0 vote.

Further discussions included the removal of references to the Mark Station from the comprehensive plan, as it was deemed unrealistic. The council also voted to repeal and replace Chapter 11 of the transportation section of the plan, reorganizing content to prioritize sidewalks over bikeways, thereby enhancing the city’s walkability.

In new business, the council approved two upcoming events: the Havre de Grace High School Music Boosters 5K on May 10 and a concert by the 229th Maryland National Guard Band on July 6, both to be held at Tidings Park.

Director Ritchie provided updates on community recognition efforts for fallen police officer Lawrence Leroy Butch Ringgold and addressed concerns regarding the cancellation of fireworks during recent events. He explained that safety and financial considerations led to the decision to cancel, emphasizing the risks associated with staging fireworks on a metal barge during inclement weather.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the municipal election scheduled for May 6, where eight candidates are vying for three city council seats. The council expressed gratitude for the community's engagement and the hard work of city employees in preparing the comprehensive plan and organizing events.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing community living standards and ensuring public safety while fostering civic engagement through local events.