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Minutes for General Membership Meeting, November 29 2023

Location: Accokeek VFD Hall

Call to Order: 7:35 PM by GACA President Dan Donohue

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Minutes from September 27, 2023 meeting. Approved and seconded as presented, passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report:  Treasurer Roger Midgette reported the treasury has $1,617.14

Community Police Report District VII                                               Corporal Stephen Rannacher

Corporal Rannacher reported car thefts are up in Accokeek and residents to use steering wheel locks or other protective devices. Midnight to 4 AM is the prime time for theft.

He talked about the “Tik Tok” challenge: thieves are stealing Hyundais and Kias by inserting a USB drive into a port below the steering column to start and steal cars.  He noted that some dealers may be able to reprogram the cars to eliminate the problem and again urged the use of steering wheel locks.

He reported on a group of 5 teens who had been caught stealing cars and released to their parents without further action. This is county policy. He reported an armed carjacking on Swan Creek Road.

One attendee suggested using air tags (GPS) in their cars to help locate them if they’re stolen. He also urged residents not to leave keys, packages, and valuables apparent in their cars.

He also warned  residents about an uptick in “porch pirate” incidents and suggested residents look for ways to lessen the threat of stolen deliveries.

Residents raised concerns about illegally parked tractor trailers and trucks on access roads. He notes that the county typically does not tow such vehicles, lacking adequate space to impound them. Corporal Rannacher does ticket such vehicles but noted that the fines are small ($50 or $100).

He noted two upcoming holiday programs: 1) “Shop with a Cop” on Dec 13. District officers will confer with the schools and select 10 students to take shopping at Target with a $100 gift card; an officer will accompany each student. 2) The district will select two (possibly 3) families in need and provide them with groceries and gift cards to help them through the holidays. The district is sponsoring a popcorn drive to raise money for the purchase of toys, clothes, food etc. for the needy families.

 

Special Guest

Adam Jiroun, Chief, Road Construction Division, Department of Public Works and Transportation, Prince George’s County Government

At the request of District 9 Council Member Harrison, Mr Jiroun came prepared to answer questions on road maintenance. GACA sent a list of questions in advance about maintenance issues on 210, Livingston Rd/MD 373 (specifically from Keller’s Market to the Post Office), Livingston and Farmington Road near Accokeek Academy, and various access roads. Attendees also raised concerns about other roads. Mr Jiroun asked GACA to provide a complete list of exact locations and promised to look into them. It was also suggested that he drive the roads with the council member and the GACA president to locate problems more directly.

Highway 210 Litter Pick Up                                    Dan Donohue

GACA and the Alice Ferguson Foundation sponsored a successful highway litter pickup on  October 14, 2023.  Conducted litter pickup along MD 210 from Farmington RD intersection south to MD 228/Berry Rd intersection and surrounding areas.

There were 24 volunteers, including 7 students from Accokeek Academy & 1 from Friendly High School earning 2 “Service Hour Credits,” and 27 large trash bags were collected. Largest turn out of volunteers and trash collected in recent memory.

Roadway Advisory Committee-South County (RACS) team report                        Judy Allen-Leventhal

RACS continues to be an advocate for our roadways, working with MDOT, DPWT, county and state political leaders, and other local organizations (e.g., the MD 210 Safety Committee) to address various community concerns about local roadways.

Accokeek Heritage Tourism Study             Judy Allen-Leventhal

Planning for GACA, to meet with National Colonial Farm and Alice Ferguson Foundation (AFF) representatives to begin work on using the Accokeek Heritage Tourism Study. Tourism Study. The group will plan next steps URL: https://www.mncppcapps.org/planning/publications/BookDetail.cfm?item_id=424&Category_id=2

 

New Business:

Residents asked to help decorate the Accokeek Christmas tree (donated by Mr Barry, owner of B&J’s carryout) on Dec 9 (starting at 10 AM).

Planning underway for next National Night Out Against Crime (August 6, 2024).

Motion to adjourn made and seconded. Meeting adjourned 8:56 PM.

Next meeting: February 28, 2024 & April 24, 2024 (election of officers). Meetings start at 7:30 p.m.

Membership Dues: Individual $15.00; Family $25.00; & Corporate $25.00, please send checks payable to GACA, PO Box 176, Accokeek, MD 20607.

​

Minutes for General Membership Meeting, September 27, 2023

 

Location: Accokeek VFD Hall

Call to Order: 7:35 PM by GACA President Dan Donohue

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Minutes from June 28, 2023 meeting. Approved and seconded as presented, passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report:  Treasurer Roger Midgette reported the treasury has $1,463.03

Community Police Report District VII                                                

Corporal Rannacher could not attend. Attendees heard review of the weekly crime reports sent out through GACA.

Roadway Advisory Committee-South County (RACS) team report                        Judy Allen-Leventhal

RACS continues to be an advocate for our roadways, working with MDOT, DPWT, county and state political leaders, and other local organizations (e.g., the MD 210 Safety Committee) to address various community concerns about local roadways.

Accokeek Heritage Tourism Study             Judy Allen-Leventhal

Planning for GACA, to meet with National Colonial Farm and Alice Ferguson Foundation (AFF) representatives to begin work on using the Accokeek Heritage Tourism Study. Tourism Study URL: https://www.mncppcapps.org/planning/publications/BookDetail.cfm?item_id=424&Category_id=2

 

Highway 210 Litter Pick Up                                    Dan Donohue

Plan for Litter Pickup, October 14, 2023.  

The AFF  received a grant from Prince George’s County Storm-Water Stewardship Program to address litter pickup in the Accokeek and Fort Washington areas. Completion deadline is June 1, 2024. We need to publicize this activity for high school students as a way for them to earn “Service Hours” credits. Michelle Hickerson from AFF explained the grant and the support they would provide to GACA. The plan will  include the County's compost program. 

National Night Out Against Crime                         Dan Donohue

National Night Out Against Crime, August 1, 2023: Thank you to the approximately 400 people who attended. Special thanks to the Accokeek Volunteer Fire Department.

 

Special Guests

  •  Jasmine Hall, Chief of Staff from Sen C. Anthony Muse's office reviewed the questions that GACA had submitted and indicated that she would be back for the Nov 29 GACA meeting to provide more detailed response to those questions.

  • Delegate Jamila Woods, District 26, and Carol Colbeth, Aide to Delegate Valderrama, Dist. 26, attended and spoke to issue with the vendor for the “speed cameras” on MD 210 & fact the County is not collecting all the fine revenue it is due. Del Woods stated there will be a public hearing in Annapolis on the speed issue and she will inform us of the date.

  • Questions regarding traffic safety submitted to Ms Hall for follow-up:

 

Maryland Rte 210:  

1. Status of traffic enforcement by police.  Memorandum of Understanding in place between Prince George's County Police and Maryland State Police (MSP) that limits assistance of MSP.

2. Status of placement of 3 additional speed cameras on Maryland 210 through the new 2023 legislation. 

3. Status of citations given by speed cameras; how effective are they and are fines being paid?

4. Status of new legislation for 2024 legislative session to increase accountability of speeders and reckless drivers (e.g., speed camera fine is $40 for all offenses regardless of speed or repeat offenses).

(NOTE: Maryland 210 is the most dangerous road in the state of Maryland: 89 fatalities since 2007 along just 14 miles of roadway.)

 

Maryland 373/Livingston Road (Accokeek’s main business corridor: from Keller’s Market to U.S. Post Office).

1. Resurfacing is needed, especially in the Prince George’s County/Department of Public Works and Transportation area of responsibility.

2. Enhanced pedestrian safety is desperately needed along this roadway to accommodate people who walk and bicycle to destinations along this road: the Accokeek library, the shopping center, the Park & Ride, etc.

 

Farmington Road and Livingston Road Intersection

1. Need for enhanced safety (e.g., police presence, crossing guards, flashing lights, sidewalks) for pedestrians, especially children, to accommodate traffic around Accokeek Academy. This is a busy intersection with a 4-way stop sign. According to the central PGCPS office not that many students at Accokeek Academy are walkers. A member of the audience who has children at Accokeek Academy spoke of how bad traffic can be there and need for traffic direction to insure drivers behave in orderly manner, that means need a police officer presence for public order.

 

New Business: None

Motion to adjourn made and seconded. Meeting adjourned 8:40 PM.

Next meeting: November 29. Meetings start at 7:30 p.m.

Membership Dues: Individual $15.00; Family $25.00; & Corporate $25.00, please send checks payable to GACA, PO Box 176, Accokeek, MD 20607.

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Minutes for General Membership Meeting, April 26, 2023

 

Location: Accokeek VFD Hall

Call to Order: 7:30 PM by GACA President Dan Donohue

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Minutes from February 22, 2023 meeting. Approved and seconded as presented, passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report:  Treasurer Roger Midgette reported the treasury has $1,393.

Community police report District VII  --    Cpl Stephen Rannacher

  • National Night Out Against Crime. First Tues in August at the Accokeek Firehouse (new location this year).

  • Package thefts are on the rise, often stolen off porches; in one case a UPS driver was followed and a package was stolen after he made a delivery and left the area.

  • Home invasion in Moyaone Reserve off Sanford Lane is being investigated. The perpetrator was in possession of a possibly stolen car and tested positive for PCP.

  • (3) more speed cameras approved for MD 210. They will go into effect in June. A new vendor for cameras will be pursued.

  • Tractor trailers parked across from Weis are being ticketed for illegal parking.

  • Residents are reminded not to leave valuables in unlocked cars.

Roadway Advisory Committee-South County (RACS) team report    --   Judy Allen-Leventhal

  • $30 million approved to MDOT for road improvements, trash collection, mowing, etc.

  • District 25 Delegate Nick Charles has been involved in pushing for area improvements.

  • Overall, the response from MDOT has been amped up and is very positive.

  • The condition of Livingston Road will be the focus of next RACS meeting.

Accokeek Heritage Tourism Study   --    Judy Allen-Leventhal

The final report is expected to be presented at the end of May.

Highway 210 Litter Pick Up   --     Joan Smuck

  • GACA is involved in a trash pickup activity and asking for volunteers, but is no longer a part of the formal Adopt-A-Highway program due to onerous new regulations.

  • Next clean-up is Friday May 5, 9-11:30 AM. Meet behind the Gas N Go.

Accokeek Volunteer Fire Dept   --  Alex Nair

  • AFVD wants to build an ongoing relationship with GACA. AFVD was founded in 1932. Currently 15 operational people (EMTs) and 30 administrators. 10 of the EMT’s are full time PGFD firefighters.

  • BINGO are the biggest money-maker (Thursdays)

  • Hall rentals also generate income.

  • Grants for new equipment have been successful.

  • FEMA funding has been approved for a new engine coming in 2025 once built.

  • Water tanker truck funding is also approved by the County.

  • Firehouse handles an average of 2,500 calls per year.

  • Other activities include the Annual Santa Run and a community “Trunk or Treat.”

Accokeek Development Review Committee (ADRC) Report   --    Cliff Woods

  • Two homes approved to be built at 16511 Boot Hill Road and 490 Bryan Point Road.

  • Proposed car wash at 210 and Livingston on a half-acre is being proposed by Flagship Corporation. This corporation will have a meeting with ADRC on May 17 to discuss.

Election of Officers

Slate is presented as follows. See handout for contact details.

  • President: Dan Donohue

  • VP: Lee Puterbaugh

  • Treasurer: Roger Midgette

  • Secretary: Neil Tillman

  • Members at large: Kenney Miles (1st year); Judy Allen-Leventhal (2nd year); Frank Kahan (2nd year); Gaye Walker (2nd year); William Ceneno

  • Special Assistant: Trey Thomas

No nominations from the floor. Motion made and seconded to accept the slate.  All yays, no nays, no abstentions. Motion passed unanimously.

New Business

  • None

Accokeek Citizen of the Year Award         presented by Roger Midgette

  • 2023 Recipient: Phil VanWiltenburg          Plaque presented and accepted.

50/50 Raffle Drawing

  • Winner- Stevenson McIlvane, who donated proceeds back to GACA fund for a total of $108.

Motion to adjourn made by Cliff Woods 9:12 PM.  Motion seconded. Meeting adjourned.

Next meeting dates: June 28, September 27, November 29. Meetings start at 7:30 p.m.

Membership Dues: Individual $15.00; Family $25.00; & Corporate $25.00, please send checks payable to GACA, PO Box 176, Accokeek, MD 20607.

 

 

Minutes for General Membership Meeting, February 22, 2023

 

Location: Accokeek VFD Hall
Call to Order: 7:30 PM by GACA President Dan Donohue
Pledge of Allegiance
Approval of Minutes from February 22, 2022 meeting. Approved and seconded as presented, passed unanimously.
Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Roger Midgette reported the treasury has $1,081.76. Attendees were remined to send in their current dues if they have not yet done so.
Guest Attendees
Public officials (or their representatives) present at the meeting and recognized were as follows.

  • Eric Bowman, Chief of Staff, Council Member Sidney Harrison; retired PGC Police dept. employee

  • Liz Chambers, Director of Community Services/Community Liaison, representative for State Delegate Veronica Turner and State Senator Anthony Muse

  • Thomasine Mitchell, representative for Delegate Jamilia Woods

  • Suzanne Tawes (sp?) representative for Delegate VeronicaTurner

  • Former Delegate Susie Proctor

  • TeQuilla Taylor, legislative aide for Senator Anthony Muse

Community police report District VII
Cpl Stephen Rannacher covered several key topics:

  • Illegal trash dumping in and around Simmons Acres development. some progress has been made with trash collection.

  • Illegal parking of commercial vehicles including tractor trailers still an issue opposite Weis shopping center among other locations. A couple vehicles have been ticketed and are awaiting responsive action from tow company.

  • Residents are reminded to lock their vehicles and do not leave a running vehicle unattended as it is a target for theft.

  • P.G.P.D. traffic Enforcement unit is down to one unit from two on Rte 210.

  • Mobile speed cameras on 210. It has been a tedious battle with the Automated Division to get the speed cameras moved. There is also an ongoing issue that could be software or program-related, where “super-speeders” who go over 85 mph are not able to be fined.

  • Dr Rev Robert Screen and Ron Weis spoke about the ongoing 210 traffic safety issues and how their committee works to address that.

  • Current proposed legislation seeks to increase the total number of cameras to 10 total from current 3. Proposed to increase fines to match more serious speeding violations.

  • Cpl Rannecher urged community support for Christmas in April which will be held April 29th and the National Night out against crime held August 1 at P.G.P.D. district VII.

Roadway Advisory Committee-South County (RACS) team report RACS report by Joan Smuck:

  • The RACS group meets quarterly with MDOT to discuss ongoing issues including mowing and trash collection along 210.

  • A new focus with MDOT is to have smaller contracts approved more quickly for debris collection with larger road signs.

  • There is also an effort underway to investigate pedestrian safety at 210 and 373.

  • 210 Spring Highway Clean up date is forthcoming.

Property Tax Credit 2023 for PG County Residents by Gaye
Prince George’s County Lynching Memorial Project (PGLMP)

  • Judy Allen-Leventhal introduced two guest speakers from PGLMP. The organization is working to tell the story of four lynchings in PG County, including that of Thomas Juricks of Piscataway on Oct 12, 1869. The group plans a remembrance for him to take place on April 15, 2023 at Harmony Hall Community Center in Ft. Washington.

  • They also distributed handouts on “What is the Prince George’s County Lynching Memorial Project?”

New Business: None
Motion to Adjourn: Motion made and seconded. Adjourned at 8:29 PM.
Next meeting dates: April 26, 2023 (Annual Meeting) June 28, September 27, November 29
Meetings start at 7:30 p.m.
Membership Dues: Individual $15.00; Family $25.00; & Corporate $25.00, please send checks payable to GACA, PO Box 176, Accokeek, MD 20607.

 

 

Minutes for General Membership Meeting, November 30, 2022

 

Accokeek VFD Hall

Call to Order: 7:33PM by GACA President Dan Donohue

Attendees:

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Minutes from September 28, 2022 meeting. Submitted by Secretary Neil Tillman. Approved and seconded as presented, passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report and Annual Audit:  Treasurer Roger Midgette reported the treasury has $1,005.31.

Community Police Report, District VII:

Cpl Steven Rannacher urged residents to be cautious about potential “jump-ins” – vehicles left running that are stolen. He noted that thefts of catalytic converters have increased especially in Fort Washington.

He urged residents to avoid leaving packages and other valuable visible in their cars. In December, he and Cpl Blackwell will go to local shopping centers and look into cars to see if drivers have left valuables visible and post a notice on the cars alerting the drivers about the hazard of theft. These notices are for info only – they are NOT TICKETS.

The police have a canned food drive to collect canned foods for three local food banks and a holiday drive to provide food and toys for families in need.

Residents again voiced the need for higher ticket fees to deter serious speeding violations on Rte 210. They also voiced concern about the need for MD state police to help enforce traffic regulations along 210 – as they do in Charles County.

Roadway Advisory Committee-South County (RACS) team report: Judy Allen-Leventhal reported on RACS news.

RACS members attend District 25 meetings with MD Transportation officials (M-DOT) sponsored by Delegate Nick Charles. These meetings have been very productive in airing issues and fostering improvements.

The October meeting focused on several issues, notably the need for a sidewalk along Livingston Rd (Rte 373) from roughly 15600 to 16400 Livingston Rd. Many crucial organizations (library, fire hall, several churches, et al.) are along this road and pedestrian traffic is considerable. Both state and county jurisdictions are involved and RACS has asked what we can do to support improvements.

RACS has submitted service requests through MDOT’s “Know Your Roads” program and the county’s “Click 311” program and urges residents to use these tools to report roadside problems (needed road repairs, abandoned vehicles, long-term parking violations, downed light poles, trash, etc.). RACS has found that these submissions have proved successful in getting responsive action. One example has been the improved lighting along Bealle Hill Rd near Rte 228.

Accokeek Heritage Tourism Study (AHTS): Judy Allen-Leventhal noted that the final report on this project is due at the end of the year. Results will be presented at a future GACA General Meeting.

Presentation and Q&A with WSSC Officials Regarding Piscataway Bioenergy Project at Farmington Road and Rte 210

At GACA’s request, the Water Team from the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission attended the meeting and discussed the Bioenergy Project. The officials were:

 

The officials gave a thorough discussion of the program and provided copies of the presentation to GACA officials. [NOTE: Will we post this PPT or a link to it on the GACA website?]

 

The Piscataway Water Resource Recovery Facility processes “sludge” or human waste from four WSSC sites in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties. Currently, the Piscataway WRRF processes sludge from its incoming wastewater.  In 2024, the Bioenergy Facility is expected to process “sludge” or human waste from four other WSSC sites in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties in addition to the Piscataway sludge. 

The current process produces Class B sludge. WSSC is renovating the site to improve its performance in efficiently and safely producing Class A sludge.

In their presentation to GACA, the WSSC team used aerial maps to show progress on the site from 2019 to today and to 2024 when it will be fully functional. The plant is 65 to 75 percent constructed.

The team stressed that this process has numerous benefits – reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reducing nutrient load to the Chesapeake Bay, developing pathogen-free biosolids for beneficial use (e.g., fertilizer), capturing biogas (methane) for energy use. The facility is becoming more efficient in processing waste.

Truck deliveries (many overnight) will be strategically coordinated as to avoid creating backups-  will deliver a daily load of (approximately) 140 tons of sludge from the other WRRF sites and they will transport the processed Class A sludge elsewhere for commercial use. The trucks can carry up to 20 tons each. On average they will carry approximately 23 tons. Residents expressed concerns about the flow of new trucks on the already busy and dangerous Rte 210.

Some of the water is reused in the plant, reducing our need for potable water, but in the end all of it eventually makes its way into the plant effluent, which is discharged directly into the Potomac.

Much of the discussion focused on “PFAS” – per- and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals (“forever chemicals”) in our water. The team said WSSC monitors drinking water carefully and has found no PFAS contamination upstream of their water intakes. There are PFAS in our water but not a levels currently deemed hazardous.

The team said EPA is reviewing proposed PFAS regulations and will issue a determination in 2023. Over time WSSC has increased the number of chemical compounds it monitors and PFAS are in our water at very low levels.

More Information:

 

Announcements: None

New Business: None

Motion to Adjourn: Motion made and seconded. Adjourned at 9:00 PM.

Next meeting dates: Feb 22, 2023 & April 26, 2023- Annual Meeting. Meetings start at 7:30 p.m.

Membership Dues: Individual $15.00; Family $25.00; & Corporate $25.00, please send checks payable to GACA, PO Box 176, Accokeek, MD 20607. Thank you.

​

 

 

Minutes for General Membership Meeting, September 28, 2022

 

Accokeek VFD Hall

Call to Order: 7:33PM by Dan Donohue

Attendees: 21

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Minutes from June 29, 2022 meeting. Submitted by Neil Tillman. Approved and seconded as presented, passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report and Annual Audit:  Roger Midgette reported the treasury has $1,134.48.

Community Police Report, District VII: Community police officer had another commitment, so President Dan Donohue summarized the police report. He noted that there was a theft of cigarettes at the 7-11 on Manning Road East, a car stolen in Oxon Hill, a catalytic converter stolen on Bach Road, and a robbery from the register at the 7-11 on Old Fort Road.

Speed continues to be a concern. A vehicle was recorded doing 161.89 southbound on 210. The speed cameras have recorded over 1,000 moving violations.

There is legislation to increase fines for serious speeding violations. The current $40 fine for any violation regardless of speed is too lenient to deter serious speeders.

Dan reported on the August 2 “Night Against Crime” at the District VII station house and called attention to two upcoming events:

  • October 8 10 AM, ribbon-cutting for the new 210/Kirby Hill overpass

  • October 9 2-5 PM, Faith in Blue

 

Roadway Advisory Committee-South County (RACS) team report: Judy Allen-Leventhal and Gaye Walker reported on RACS news.

  • No Parking Signs on Service Road. The service road on the northeast side of the intersection of 210 and 373 now has “No Parking” signs; some commercial vehicles continue to park there, necessitating improved enforcement.

  • Farmington Road Improvements: Yellow lines have been added to the intersection of 210 and Farmington Road in hopes of giving motorists better guidance in navigating this confusing intersection.

  • Service Requests with MDOT: Road Name Change: GACA found out that the service road on west side of 210 to Farmington Woods has a new name. It is no longer Hickory Knolls Road and is now named Frank’s Way. In 2016 a resident followed procedures to have the road renamed; no changes can be made to this until 2026. The Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) approved this change. GACA is seeking more information on how this change came about with so very little input from the community.

Accokeek Heritage Tourism Study (AHTS): Judy Allen-Leventhal noted that the final report on this project is due at the end of the year. The AHTS draft final report is expected to be distributed to the steering committee in October 2022. Results will be presented at a future GACA General Meeting.

Adopt A Highway Cleanup: For many years, GACA has coordinated the 210 highway cleanup twice a year, typically in April and October. The state transportation department has imposed new, more onerous requirements for participating in this program, and GACA has decided to withdraw from the program and seek other alternatives for cleanup. (See M-DOT discussion below.)

Judy Allen-Leventhal observed that County Executive Angela Alsobrook’s “Going Green” program may offer an alternative means for the community to continue cleanup efforts.

Q&A With Maryland Department of Transportation Representatives

GACA welcomed M-DOT representatives for a Q&A on community concerns about local transportation issues:

Mr Campanedes explained the process involved in the Hickory Knolls name change and commented on the planned improvements to the intersection of 210 and Farmington Road (both, see above).

Mr Sosobee discussed many of the issues concerning mowing and trash pickup on 210. Issues with contractors, he said, have impeded the performance of these tasks.

  • The state schedules 4-5 mowing cycles a year, about 6 weeks apart. Residents challenged whether that has been the case. Mr Sosobee noted that the rules call for mowing a 10’ swath along the right shoulder, not to the trees. Medians under 30’ in width are mowed on 10’ strips along each side; the middle is left a meadow. Medians under 30’ in width are mowed completely.  Ideally grass should be mowed when it reaches 12’” to 18” but residents noted that frequently this is not the case.

 

Joan Smuck noted that 210 maintenance in Charles County is better and more regular and thorough. Mr Sosobee stated that the problems on this section of 210 (in PG County) are worse than in other areas of the state and that M-DOT’s resources are limited and cannot keep up with the problem. In short, it costs more here to provide required maintenance than elsewhere.

 

Problems with contractors, he said, have been a major headache and a new contract is in process and expected to be in place next March or April.

 

Judy Allen-Leventhal asked about ways the community could assist M-DOT in dealing with maintenance problems. The M-DOT representatives and residents believed that the monthly meetings sponsored by Del Nicholas Charles III on 210 maintenance offered hope for improved maintenance along the highway.

 

  • Other Maintenance Issues: Residents noted trash bags at the intersection of Frank’s Way and Bryant Point Road. Also, when new poles are installed for traffic lights at intersections, the old poles have simply been left on the side of the road for long periods. Mr Sosobee said he would resolve these problems. He also said his office would help GACA with the requirements to participate in the Adopt A Road program (see above).

 

Again, in this meeting, a resident commented on the trash-strewn limousine parked on private property on 373. Dan Donohue offered to help the resident report this problem.

 Accokeek Development Review District Commission (ADRDC): Phil VanWiltenburg reported that there is a proposal to build 78 more new townhomes at 228 and Manning Road East (across 228 from the Manokeek Shopping Center). Residents wishing to become a “person of record” to comment on this proposal should access the MNCPPC website and look for proposal 4-20015.

Announcements: None

New Business: Dan Donohue said the next GACA meeting (November 30) would focus on the Piscataway Bioenergy Project near Farmington Road.

Motion to Adjourn: Motion made and seconded. Adjourned at 9:00 PM.

Next meeting dates: Nov 30, Feb 22, 2023 & April 26, 2023- Annual Meeting. Meetings start at 7:30 p.m.

Membership Dues: Individual $15.00; Family $25.00; & Corporate $25.00, please send checks payable to GACA, PO Box 176, Accokeek, MD 20607. Thank you.

 

Minutes for General Membership Meeting, June 29, 2022, 7:30 PM

Location: Accokeek VFD Hall

Call to Order: 7:30 PM by Dan Donohue

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Minutes from April 27, 2022 meeting. Submitted by Neil Tillman. Approved and seconded as presented, passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report and Annual Audit:  Roger Midgette reported the treasury has $1,134.48

Community Police Report, District VII: Community Officer Corporal Stephen Rannacher distributed flyers providing information on home and auto safety tips. He also called attention to several upcoming events designed to give residents an opportunity to know their police officers, ask questions, and report problems:

July 5. “Community Conversations with a Cop.” Location: Weis Grocery Store parking lot.

July 6. “District VII Kids Play.” Location: District VII Station (11108 Fort Washington Rd). This is the first in a series. There will be food, giveaways, line dancing, face-painting, etc.

August 2. 6-9 PM. ‘Night Out Against Crime.” Location: District VII Station (1108 Fort Washington Rd)

Cpl Rannacher urged residents to use the PGC311 app to report problems of all sorts (dumping, potholes, road hazards, etc). The app allows you to take pictures, and Cpl Rannacher encouraged residents to safely and discretely video or photograph illegal activities in progress.

‘It makes it much easier for us to find the culprits,” he said.

He reported on his efforts to deal with resident complaints about trucks parked for long periods on Jennifer Rd, the access road parallel to 210 next to the Exxon at 210 and 373. He ticketed one repeat offender several times and arranged for the truck to be towed.

He and his partner provided assistance to a homeless man living in a car parked in the Manokeek Shopping Center. They are trying to find him a more suitable residence and other social assistance.

He noted that car shows are back at the shopping center and described police efforts to discourage disruptive behavior and regulate these events.

He also reported on efforts to get the fines increased for excessive speeding on 210. Residents suggested that the fines be graduated for serious repeat offenders who have multiple tickets.

Accokeek Heritage Study: Judy Allen-Leventhal reported on the progress of the exploring Accokeek Heritage Tourism study. The project looks at resources (archaeological, cultural, and natural) recommended by the PGC Maryland National-Capital Parks and Planning Commission. The application was submitted by GACA, the Accokeek Foundation, and the Alice B. Ferguson Foundation.

The main purpose is to identify and analyze heritage resources, the pressures they face, and ways to make them better known.  This study looks at emphasizing Accokeek’s uniqueness while recognizing it as a part of the “Destination Southern Maryland” program, which includes Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s Counties.

 The study should wrap up in late summer 2022. Results will be presented at a future GACA General Meeting.

Report on Highway 210 Cleanup:

Highway 210 Cleanup plan for a Saturday in October 2022, usually first Saturday of month, and in April 2023

Roadway Advisory Committee-South County (RACS) team report: Judy Allen-Leventhal noted a ceremony held June 25 on “The Dignity of Human Life” in remembrance of the more than 80 lives lost on Rte 210.

She reported on a response from the MD Department of Transportation on a request for more frequent mowing on Rte 210. The State Highway Administration over time has reduced mowing. Roadsides and medians are mowed when the grass reaches 18”, but SHA will mow more often in areas where visibility is reduced.

SHA also explained how to respond to roadside litter problems and to request beautification of traffic islands.

SHA is studying the intersection of Rte 210 and Farmington Rd to see how clearer markings can make turns safer at this intersection.

Accokeek Development Review District Commission (ADRDC) Report: Cliff Woods reported no new developments to report on the project to build apartments by Manning Road and 373.

WSSC Water: Piscataway Bioenergy Project:

“WSSC Water is transforming the way the Piscataway Water Resource Recovery Facility will handle waste from five existing water resource recovery facilities. The Piscataway Bioenergy Project - the largest and most technically advanced project ever constructed by WSSC Water - will use innovative technology to recover resources and produce green energy. In the coming years, the Piscataway plant will evolve into a bioenergy production facility that uses efficiency, technology and sustainability to enhance the region's environmental and financial health. This $271 million project is expected to serve our customers for the next 100 years.”

Completion of facility expected by late 2024.Source: WSSC Website

Announcements: None

New Business: None

Motion to Adjourn: Motion made and seconded. Adjourned at 8:30 PM.

Next meeting dates: Sept 28, Nov 30, Feb 22, 2023 & April 26, 2023- Annual Meeting, meetings start at 7:30 p.m.

Membership Dues are due for 2022: Individual $15.00; Family $25.00; & Corporate $25.00, please send checks payable to GACA, PO Box 176, Accokeek, MD 20607. Thank you.

 

 

 

Minutes for General Membership Meeting, April 27, 2022, 7:30 PM

Location: Accokeek VFD Hall

Call to Order: 7:40 PM by Phil VanWiltenburg

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Minutes from February 23, 2022 meeting, via Zoom. Submitted by Lee Puterbaugh. Approved and seconded as presented, passed unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report and Annual Audit:  Erica Barry reported a balance of $819.45, a low balance since no dues were collected in the past year. Dan Donohue performed the audit and reported no issues.

Community Police Report, District VII: Community Officer Corporal Stephen Rannacher distributed flyers providing information on home and auto safety tips and a form for listing serial numbers.

Cpl Rannacher further reported:

  • Trash dumping is becoming a serious problem

  • Rise in thefts from autos and “jump-in’s” (thefts of autos left running). Thieves stealing catalytic converters.

  • Increased police presence on 210 and back roads to deter speeding.

  • Drug abuse a serious problem. He noted a fatal drug overdose on Biddle Road and said police were monitoring several suspected drug houses.

  • Multiple law enforcement groups were involved in the recovery of a body in the Moyaone Reserve, but he had little information on this incident.

In commenting on reckless behavior by ATV drivers, he urged residents to identify themselves to the police in reporting problems. Residents will not be identified publicly, but police need as much info as possible on location in order to respond effectively to specific incidents.

Cpl Rannacher also introduced Detective Cpl Dale Sollars who is involved in special operations in the area, in particular dealing with drug crimes.

Cpl Sollars urged residents to “say something if they see something,” which may help lead to removal and recovery. Safely taking a picture or video of criminal activity helps too.

In response to a question on whether police look at drug treatment instead of incarceration, officers responded that they do try to deal with root problems such as homelessness or mental health. They said the county has a new mental health unit that assists police in coping with such cases. In response to another question, they said the county has no facility for housing drug addicts.

Cpl Rannacher discussed the new 311.com application to submit various issues to the county.  This application has a list of topics that allows submission including attaching photos.  It gives an incident number and estimated time for resolution. 

Accokeek Heritage Tourism Study: Text report submitted by Judy Allen-Leventhal:

“The consulting partner for the Accokeek Heritage Tourism Study (AHTS), the Neighborhood Design Center, will be arranging the next AHTS steering committee meeting in mid-June. Carolyn Brackett, the primary AHTS consultant from Cultural Heritage Works, has completed stakeholder interviews for the project and will be compiling information from those to then incorporate with information from the Accokeek November 2019 site visit. The consultant anticipates completion of the study by the end of August.”

Report on Highway 210 Cleanup: Joan Smuck reported our latest cleanup in the “Adopt a Highway” program, held April 23, collected 33 bags of trash with the help of 20 volunteers, including Council Member Sidney Harrison and five of his staff.

Roadway Advisory Committee-South County (RACS) team report: Joan Smuck reported that they meet via Zoom regularly with engineers from the state Department of Transportation and PG County Public Works to discuss problems such as grass cutting, trash, repaving, street lighting, illegal signs, and other matters.

Highway 210 Safety Committee: Dan Donohue reported that the committee meets with police at the District 7 Police Station every 3rd Monday of the month. He noted that there have been 81 pedestrian fatalities on 210 since 2007.

There have been 700 traffic stops on 210 since January 1. In 2020, a vehicle was recorded by the cameras going 161 mph. This year’s highest so far is 140 mph. Dan further reported that there is legislation under consideration to raise the fines for excessive speeding recorded by cameras.

Election of Officers and Board Members At Large: The nominating committee of Marilyn Randall, Erica Barry and Joan Smuck presented a proposed slate of new officers and invited anyone else wanting to run for office to come forward. The proposed slate was seconded and approved unanimously. The new officers are:

President: Dan Donohue

Vice President: Stevenson McIlvaine

Treasurer: Roger Midgette

Secretary: Neil Tillman

Members At Large: Trey Thomas, Judy Allen-Leventhal, Frank Kahan, Gaye Walker, Lee Puterbaugh.

 

The group thanked the outgoing officers for their service.

 

Announcements:

Moyaone May Day Event to be held May 1st from 2-6 PM at the Wagner Center. This free event will feature music, art, games, and food. Potluck and donations appreciated.

Accokeek Development Review District Commission (ADRDC) Report: Cliff Woods reported plans to build a solar farm on Livingston Road near the Old Parker Farm to supply energy to residents. He also reported on new apartment building scheduled to be built off 228 near Manning Road East.

Legislative News: Delegate Susie Proctor (D-27A) reported on recent legislation. Bills passed included a voting rights bill (requiring the same number of voting options in 2022 as existed in 2018) and a climate solutions bill. She reported that all future vehicle purchases will be electric. The bill also establishes a 3-year electric school bus pilot program.  The General Assembly has banned ghost guns. Proposed legislation looks at establishing charging stations statewide and applying newer, more scientific methods in tracking missing persons.

New Business: None

Motion to Adjourn: Motion made and seconded. Adjourned at 8:50 PM.

Next Meeting Dates: June 29, Sept 28, Nov 30, Feb 22, 2023 & April 26, 2023- Annual Meeting, meetings start at 7:30 p.m.

Membership Dues are due for 2022: Individual $15.00; Family $25.00; & Corporate $25.00, please send checks payable to GACA, PO Box 176, Accokeek, MD 20607. Thank you.

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Holiday Tree Decorating 2021

The tree is up and looking good. Thanks for everyone’s help, especially Roger, William and his nephew Mario! The weather was great, and fun was had by all.
Happy Holidays!
Judy

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30 OCTOBER 2021

On behalf of the Greater Accokeek Civic Association (GACA) and our roadway advocacy ad hoc committee RACS, our sincere thanks for the invaluable assistance Ernie Johnson and Jamal Craven and the MDOT team provided this past Saturday (30 Oct) as GACA participated in the Prince George’s County “Growing Green with Pride” program.  The project site along the Maryland 210 frontage road here in Accokeek was begun as a coordinated “Planting Partnership" about 15 years ago as a collaborative effort with MDOT and Prince George’s County, and it was truly heart warming to see that continue Saturday. Both planting and litter pick up were planned for the project. Our local volunteers simply did not have the necessary resources to remove dead tree stumps that were to be replaced with new planting material provided by the County; MDOT stepped up and helped remove those and then went the "extra mile” to help with some other very heavy lifting to prepare the site for infill plants — 10 in all (5 Southern Magnolia trees and 5 Fragrant Sumac shrubs). We are so very grateful for the dedication demonstrated by the MDOT Upper Marlboro shop team.  They were on site bright and early Saturday morning, ahead of the GACA volunteers who arrived about 9 a.m. The MDOT litter pick-up contractors helped us throughout the morning as we filled bags and worked to clear litter from north- and southbound frontage roads along Maryland Route 210, removing the trash bags even before we could count them.  Below are a couple photographs to illustrate.  Our thanks to the team!

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Again, we are so very grateful for the important role that MDOT played in this weekend’s planting and litter pick up Growing Green with Pride project. The Accokeek community looks forward to continuing to work with you to improve our roadways in South County.  Please let us know what we can do to help going forward.

Thank you!

Judy

Judith Allen-Leventhal

President, Greater Accokeek Civic Association

 

 

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News from GACA:  10 October 2021

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GACA’S Fall Maryland 210 Highway Clean-Up Maryland Adopt-a-Highway  Clean-Up

was held Saturday, October 2, 9:00-11:30 a.m. Eighteen volunteers met in the Accokeek Gas ‘n Go rear parking lot; picked up vests, gloves, and bags provided by the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT); and set out to pick up trash along GACA’s designated MDOT Adopt-a-Highway area which includes both sides of M210 north from Farmington Road south to Pine Lane as well as the service roads.  This year, MDOT crews were on-hand to collect the filled litter bags as the volunteers finished up (bags were collected even before the bag count could be totaled).  Thanks to all the volunteers, with special appreciation to project chair, Joan Smuck!

 

GACA’s ad hoc committee called “RACS” (Roadway Advocacy Committee for South County) has continued working with MDOT and Prince George’s Councilmanic District 9 leaders to address improving regular mowing and maintenance along Maryland State Highway 210. Progress has continued throughout the covid-19 pandemic.  Recently, Colleen (Walter) Puterbaugh joined the committee.

 

GACA’s application to the Prince George’s Growing Green with Pride program has been approved.  The project is county-wide; here in Accokeek it will include picking up litter on both the north- and southbound frontage roads along Maryland State Highway 210 (Jennifer Drive and Hickory Knolls/Whistling Oak Way/Frank’s Way) and planting new materials within GACA’s original Planting Partnership near the entry to the Farmington Woods development originally planted about 15 years ago. Now there are some dead trees, which  MDOT has agreed to remove, and Prince George’s County will provide new planting materials.  Please join volunteers the morning of Saturday, October 30 any time between 9 and 11:30 a.m. to help with the planting infill or with the trash pick-up. Gloves, vests, bags, and tools will be provided through Growing Green with Pride. Volunteers are asked to park along the frontage road in front of the Farmington Woods development. For questions, call Judy Allen-Leventhal (301-642-6744).

 

The first virtual meeting of the Accokeek Heritage Tourism Study (AHTS) steering committee is scheduled for October 12. GACA, the Accokeek Foundation, and the Alice Ferguson Foundation applied for the AHTS through the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s Planning Assistance to Municipalities and Communities program. The AHTS will identify and analyze Accokeek heritage resources and the pressures they face; determine how best to make those known – or better known; identify common threads of all stakeholders for enhanced connectivity and accessibility to resources; and improve public access (whether virtual or actual). The project consultant, the Neighborhood Design Center, began work on the two-year project in mid-August. The project webpage provides more details: https://www.mncppc.org/5133/Accokeek-Heritage-Tourism-Study.

 

GACA’s next general membership meeting will be announced once plans are formalized. Meantime, please stay safe.

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Cliff and Beverly Woods, seated on their porch are Accokeek Citizens of 2020 Year. The award was made on September 16, 2020 by Greater Accokeek Civic Association President, Judy Allen-Leventhal (far right) and Board Treasurer Roger Midgette, who holds the GACA plaque. The framed certificate given to Cliff and Beverly reads: “With this certificate, the Greater Accokeek Civic Association acknowledges the many contributions made to the community by Cliff and Beverly Woods. Mr. Woods has served many years on the GACA Board in a variety of positions; he also has served, and continues to serve, on the Accokeek Development Review Design Commission (ADRDC) and the Friends of the Accokeek Library with distinction. He brings his calm presence, diligence, sense of process, fairness, and inclusiveness to everything he does, whether chairing the ADRDC, serving on the Boards of GACA or the Friends of the Accokeek Library, or contributing his musical skills to the GACA-sponsored Christmas caroling at the Fort Washington Nursing Care Home. Cliff and Beverly were regular volunteers for the National Night Out Against Crime (their granddaughter helped as well with face painting). Mrs. Woods is an accomplished speaker on Genealogy and a life member of the Afro American Historical and Genealogy Society, Prince George’s County. A skilled and published writer, Beverly Woods has co-authored two books documenting black history in Fort Washington and Prince George’s County, Maryland (Black America); she is also an active member of the Accokeek Women’s Writers Group. Beverly also volunteered on the Simmons Acres Homeowners Association Board and in both public and private schools reading about genealogy for many years; and she served as an Election Judge in Prince George’s County. Both Cliff and Beverly are active members in the St. Mary’s Piscataway Catholic Church. With our deep gratitude the Greater Accokeek Civic Association and its members recognize Cliff and Beverly Woods as Accokeek Citizens of the Year for 2020.

 

 

Greater Accokeek Civic Association (GACA) virtual meeting 30 September @ 7pm

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GACA will host a virtual general membership meeting on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. We hope you will join us; detailed instructions for how to join us on Zoom are attached to an email sent by philvanwilt on 14 September and will be sent again on 28 September.  This email also included the link for computer connection or dial in information.  Minutes of the last GACA membership meeting on February 26, 2020 and the Nominating Committee’s Proposed Slate of Officers for the GACA Board were also attached and are pasted as pdf files below. Voting instructions were emailed separately to GACA members-in-good-standing, we are voting via Survey Monkey.  

 

Meeting Agenda September 30, 2020, 7:00-8:00 p.m.  Hosted “Virtually” Via Zoom* 

 

  • Welcome and Call to Order: Judy Allen-Leventhal, President.

  • Moment of Silence to acknowledge the many sacrifices made by first responders, health care workers, and essential workers that we all depend on; to remember the loved ones lost these last months; and to reflect on the multiple impacts the Covid-19 Pandemic has had on our community.

  • Pledge of Allegiance.

  • President’s Report: Judy Allen-Leventhal.

  • Approval of February 26, 2020 Meeting Minutes: Dan Donohue, Secretary.  

  • Treasurer’s Report: Roger Midgette, Treasurer.

  • Prince George’s Police Department District VII Community Officer:   Cpl. Stephen Rannacher 

  • Report on Annual Audit of GACA 2019 Financial Records: Erica Barry.

  • Election of Officers for the remainder of the GACA Year (ending April 2021).

  • Award of 2020 Accokeek Citizens of the Year.

  • New Business.

  • Announcements.

  • Adjournment. 

 

*The virtual meeting will be made possible through the Alice Ferguson Zoom platform, for which GACA is very grateful. 

 

We hope you and your families are well, and we look forward to “seeing you” virtually via Zoom at 7 p.m.September 30.  

 

 

GACA Meeting for June 24 Cancelled

GACA Members and Friends, 

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We hope you are well and safe. 

 

 

The GACA Board is continuing to do the best we can to carry on the tradition established in our 1985 By-Laws, specifically “to promote interest and friendship among the residents. . . dedicate[d] to the civic and social betterment of the community . . . [offering] activities selected and conducted on a nonpartisan and nonsectarian basis.” The farsighted founding GACA members were also very practical -- even though they could not have predicted the troubled pandemic times of 2020 -- to provide the following very practical guidelines: “Any business to be conducted at a meeting canceled for lack of a quorum shall be taken up at the next regular or special meeting. In the case of the annual meeting not having a quorum, the officers’ terms shall be extended until a meeting at which an election can be held.” As you know, the pandemic caused GACA’s regular April Annual Meeting to be canceled, and it is the GACA Board’s judgment that the regularly scheduled June meeting also must be postponed, given continuing safety concerns and the likelihood that the Accokeek Volunteer Fire Hall will not be open until a later date.

 

 

To the future, GACA will meet again; the current Board will continue in-place until then. Planning is underway for the next meeting; continuing health safety concerns make a “face to face” meeting unlikely in the near future. The GACA Board is working on holding the next meeting via Zoom, and in that case timely and detailed instructions will be emailed to you to help you participate. Meanwhile, we will continue to email information, and we will continue to do our best to further the mission of the Greater Accokeek Civic Association.

 

 

Thank you for your understanding. Be safe. Be kind. 

 

 

On behalf of the GACA Board members

Judy Allen-Leventhal, President

 

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Due to Covid-19/Coronavirus, the recommendations from the Center for Disease Control, and Governor Larry Hogan’s request that group meetings be cancelled, for everyone’s health and safety we are postponing the Greater Accokeek Civic Association’s Regular Annual Membership Meeting in April (scheduled for April 29). An email will be sent to you once the new date has been scheduled.  We are sorry for this inconvenience.  Please be safe.

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The regular membership meeting of the Greater Accokeek Civic Association on Wednesday, February 26, 2020, 7:30 p.m. at the Accokeek Volunteer Fire Hall, 16111 Livingston Road, Accokeek, MD. 20607 had a special guest speaker from the WSSC. 

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The regular membership meeting of the Greater Accokeek Civic Association was held on Wednesday, November 20, 2019, 7:30 p.m. at the Accokeek Volunteer Fire Hall, 16111 Livingston Road, Accokeek, MD. 20607. The special guest speaker was Maryland State District 27 Delegate Kris Valderrama.  Prince George’s District VII Police Department “COPS” officer Cpl. Rannacher provided a report. The Learn about the Committee to Restore Term Limits provided information on reinstituting term limits in PG County and other issues of community interest.

 

 

 

 

Special Meeting of the Greater Accokeek Civic Association (GACA) about Royal Farms #220 Accokeek Project to be Held on August 28

 

The Greater Accokeek Civic Association (GACA) will hold a special meeting about the Royal Farms #220 Accokeek Project, on Wednesday, August 28, 2019, 7:30 p.m. at the Accokeek Volunteer Fire Hall, 16111 Livingston Road, Accokeek 20607. This Royal Farms project was the topic of the regular June 2019 GACA membership meeting, and because of the considerable community interest, this special meeting is being called to further explore Traffic, Community/Local, and Environmental impacts of the project. A panel presentation format will be used to help inform the community about the Royal Farms Convenience Store/Gas Station project, a “food or beverage store in combination with a gas station” on 2.94 acres on the southwest quadrant of Indian Head Highway and Livingston Road. The project would include a 4,600 square foot “store,” eight gas pumps, and parking for 69 vehicles. The project is currently going through the various steps of review required by Prince George’s County/Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission; the Zoning Hearing Examiner has not yet scheduled the Special Exception (#4816) for the gas station component.

Anyone interested in the project is encouraged to become a person of record; go to the Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning Commission website: http://www.mncppcapps.org/planning/Person_of_Record/default.cfm and scroll down the list in "application number" to SE-4816: Royal Farms #220, then fill in your contact information.

 

Also attached as a pdf is a list of some questions GACA posed to Royal Farms and their responses. 

 

If you would like to read the documents the county has on SE-4816, the below three links open adobe pdfs with the county's staff report, drawing of the proposed Royal Farms station, and other correspondence the county has documented.

 

4D. SE-4816 ROYAL FARMS #220 ACCOKEEK

a. Staff Report

b. Power Point

c. Backup

 

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Meeting Reminders

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When

The last Wednesday of February, April, June, September and November 



Where

Accokeek Vol. Fire Dept. #24 Meeting Hall, 16111 Livingston Road



Schedule of events:

​Start @ 7:30 PM

 

Accokeek is home to beautiful Piscataway Park on the shores of the Potomac River.

Center of town during hurricane Sandy

Around Town

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