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Council backs filing Safe Sidewalk Day motion for September and asks attorney about damaged sidewalk repair options
Summary
Councilors agreed to introduce a Safe Sidewalk Day motion in September to clear vegetation before school and discussed costs and aesthetics; they also raised separate concerns about a contractor‑damaged sidewalk and asked the town attorney to advise on enforcement and potential stop‑work actions.
Councilors debated a multi‑committee proposal to establish a recurring ‘Safe Sidewalk Day’—a time for the town to clear vegetation and ensure sidewalks are passable before the school year begins. Speaker 4 described the proposal’s intent to provide outreach and set a clear deadline (the week before MCPS starts school) so residents have notice and the town can act on remaining obstructions; some council members argued for October timing to align with growing season and to reduce wasted spending on repeat work.
Speakers discussed whether the town should pay to clear private vegetation if residents do not comply, weighing safety against aesthetics and resident objections. Councilors agreed to introduce the motion at the September council meeting for public input.
Separately, councilors expressed frustration about a damaged sidewalk (discussed earlier in the meeting) where a contractor demolished the sidewalk but left the apron intact; Speaker 4 called it unsafe and urged the town attorney to explore stop‑work orders and holding the contractor to the bond obligations. Staff confirmed a bond is in place and the attorney was asked to review the contract and correspondence.
Next steps: the Safe Sidewalk Day motion will be introduced in September for public comment; the town attorney will review the sidewalk damage case and advise on enforcement options.
