Laurel Development News
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Mayor and City Council Meeting
Published: Jun 22, 2026
Resident Expresses Concerns Over Armory Use by Boys and Girls Club, Citing Funding and Program Transparency Issues
Jennifer Laskin, a West Laurel resident, attorney, and legal advisor to the West Laurel Civic Association, spoke about the proposed use of the armory for the Boys and Girls Club of America. She raised concerns about potential displacement of senior programs currently housed in the armory and accessible by walking. Laskin noted critiques of the National Boys and Girls Club regarding inconsistent practices, lack of transparency in local programming and funding, and reports of unsafe or poorly run local branches. She questioned how the organization would fund its daily operations, especially given the potential 15-year lease at $1 per year, and worried about the sustainability of federal funding for after-school programs, which are facing cuts. Laskin suggested that any such partnership should involve a city council discussion and community input, possibly through a request for proposals (RFP) process to ensure the most beneficial outcome for the community.
Councilwoman Clark Proposes Options for Selorn House Resident Rent Relief and Community Grant Program
Councilwoman Clark presented two options for addressing the rent increase faced by Selorn House residents due to a change in ownership. Option one proposes the city cover the entire 7.5% rent increase for all 126 eligible residents for 12 months, totaling $130,410, ensuring residents pay their original rent. Option two suggests the city cover 4% of the increase for 24 months, with residents paying a more manageable $40 increase per month, totaling $139,140. Under either option, Clark recommended using the remaining funds to launch a trial city of Laurel resident grant program, managed by the city in collaboration with the multi-service center and economic development office, offering 100 residents a one-time $150 grant for essential expenses. She emphasized direct payment to the developer by the city's Department of Budget and Personnel Services (BAPS) for efficiency and accountability. Clark stressed the importance of supporting these neighbors and urged the council to approve a path forward that provides immediate and meaningful relief.
Laurel City Council Approves Budget Amendments, Including Selorn House Rental Assistance and Debt Payoff
The city council discussed and ultimately voted to approve Ordinance Number 2056, which amends the general operating budget and capital improvement program for the fiscal year July 1st, 2025, through June 30th, 2026. The ordinance includes adding $151,800 of ARPA interest for rental assistance to Selorn House residents facing a rent increase, and allocates $500,000 in real estate tax revenue, $20,920 in police account receipts from speed camera net revenue, funds from the unassigned fund balance, $20,000 from snow removal, $170,000 from the interest budget, and $75,000 from property insurance savings. These additions result in a net increase of $1,521,696 to the budget, bringing the total budget to $53,727,770. The primary purpose of these funds is to pay off two PNC loans early, saving interest in the long run. Councilwoman Clark proposed two options for the Selorn House rental assistance: Option one providing full immediate relief by covering the entire 7.5% increase for 12 months ($130,410 total), and Option two offering sustained transitional support by covering 4% of the increase for 24 months, with residents taking on a more manageable increase ($139,140 total). She also recommended using remaining funds for a city resident grant program. Councilman Simmons expressed concerns about approving funds without defined recipients and amounts. The city solicitor clarified that the council approves the transfer of funds, while the mayor sets up the grant program. Ultimately, the ordinance was approved with a vote of yes from Councilman Cole, Councilwoman Clark, and Mayor Sidnor, and no votes from Councilman Simmons and President Smith.
Local Boys and Girls Club Representative Raises Concerns Over Funding and Armory Use
Wilbur Nicholson voiced concerns regarding the Boys and Girls Club and its potential involvement with city facilities, particularly the armory. He stated that the Laurel Boys and Girls Club had previously declined offers from the 'previous mayor Mo' and 'Mayor Keith' to take over their entire facility. Nicholson recounted a negative experience with snow removal assistance from the city, resulting in a citation, despite assurances of help. He argued that the local Boys and Girls Club, established in 1965, should benefit from funding rather than an 'outdoor entity' being placed in front of them. He specifically mentioned Bill Bailey, formerly the president of the Boys and Girls Club and now involved with the proposed program, as having a 'beef' with the club. Nicholson questioned how the city could allocate a million dollars to an outside entity while not providing any funding to the Boys and Girls Club. He emphasized that his organization works with children seven days a week, does not turn children away, and hosts numerous community events, citing a back-to-school drive with law enforcement involvement as an example of their positive community impact.
Councilwoman Clark Offers Options for Rent Relief to Selorn House Residents and Proposes Community Grant Pilot
Councilwoman Clark proposed two options for providing rental assistance to Selorn House residents facing a significant rent increase following a change in property ownership. Option 1 involves the city covering the full 7.5% rent increase for all 126 eligible residents for 12 months, costing $130,410, ensuring residents pay their original amount. Option 2 suggests the city cover 4% of the increase for 24 months, with residents paying a more manageable $40 monthly increase, totaling $139,140. Clark also recommended allocating remaining funds to pilot a resident grant program for essential household expenses and emphasized that the city's Department of Budget and Personnel Services (BAPS) should handle direct payments to the developer for efficiency and accountability. She highlighted the financial strain on residents living on fixed incomes and urged the council to support a solution that provides timely and equitable relief.
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