Development News for Hyattsville, Maryland

Hyattsville Introduces FY27 Budget Ordinance with Increased Operating Tax and COLA Adjustment

The City Council introduced and read for the first time the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Ordinance (Ordinance 2026-01). The proposed budget totals $34.5 million in revenues and $36.35 million in expenditures for the general fund. Key changes in the budget include an increase in operating tax from $3 to $3.50 per $100 of assessed value, reimbursement of speed camera and red light camera revenues back to the general fund over five years, and a bump in highway user revenues and state aid. Expenditure increases are attributed to council motions, including establishing a day of youth leadership, enhancing council access to information, creating a heritage tree program, a volunteer shoveling program, environmental committee outreach, relief funding for immigrant families, a community services caseworker, and a COLA adjustment from 2% to 2.5%. The budget also details expenditures for legislative, general government, public works, community services, and community development. Capital budget items include $20,000 in general government, $1.67 million in police, and $1.99 million in public works, largely for vehicle replacements. Special revenue funds total $1.5 million, including grants, PEG fund, and fines/forfeitures. The proposed budget has a general fund gap of approximately $1.8 million, with a goal to achieve a balanced budget without using fund balance in future years. A 10-year forecast will be attached to the final budget ordinance.

Hyattsville City Attorney Authorized to Draft Vacant Property Registry Ordinance

The City Council discussed and voted to authorize the City Attorney to draft an ordinance establishing rules for vacant properties. The proposal includes requiring owners to register vacant properties, designate an agent for emergencies, adhere to maintenance and security standards, and pay a registration fee. The council aims to address safety concerns, blight, and activate underused spaces. The discussion covered potential impacts on residential vs. commercial properties, crime qualifiers for vacancy, and the number of vacant commercial units by ward. Ultimately, the council decided to move forward with drafting the ordinance to include both residential and commercial properties.

Hyattsville Council Advances Vacant Property Registry Proposal

The City Council discussed a proposal to establish rules for a vacant property registry. Research identified approximately 90 vacant commercial units in Hyattsville. The proposal aims to address safety concerns, activate underused spaces for community use, and combat blight and disinvestment. Key components of the proposed registry include owner registration within 30 days of vacancy, designation of an agent for emergencies, maintenance and security requirements, and a registration fee. The equity analysis highlighted potential unintended consequences for residential property owners but also pro-equity impacts from addressing blight. Recommendations include outreach, feedback collection, and consideration of exceptions or incentives. The council voted to authorize the city attorney to draft an ordinance for a vacant property registry, covering both commercial and residential properties, with a focus on safety, security, and maintenance standards.