Annapolis City Council approves $1.1M sidewalk funding split for general and brick projects

The Annapolis City Council meeting on June 2, 2025, focused on several key budget amendments, particularly concerning sidewalk funding and community services.

A significant discussion revolved around the allocation of funds for sidewalk projects. Alderman Huntley proposed an amendment to split the sidewalk budget, maintaining $600,000 for general concrete sidewalks while allocating approximately $500,000 for a new brick sidewalk fund. This amendment followed earlier approvals that increased the total sidewalk budget to $1.1 million for fiscal year 2026. The council debated the implications of this split, with concerns raised about the safety and cost-effectiveness of brick sidewalks compared to concrete. Alderman Savage expressed worries that the funding shift might hinder sidewalk improvements in other areas of the city.

In addition to sidewalk funding, the council approved amendments to enhance community services. A $10,000 allocation was made for a summer reach program targeting teens in the Clay Street area, and another $7,500 was added to extend operating hours at the Stanton Center, a community recreation facility. These amendments aim to address community needs, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The council also discussed the reallocation of funds for lobbying efforts, moving $73,000 for a federal lobbyist and $50,000 for a state lobbyist from the city manager's office to the mayor's office. This change sparked debate about the appropriateness of political functions being managed by the mayor versus the city manager.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's ongoing efforts to balance budgetary constraints with community needs, particularly in infrastructure and social services. The approved amendments reflect a commitment to enhancing public safety and community engagement while navigating the complexities of municipal budgeting.