Kelly's work for Frederick

Policy Focus and Legislative Action Highlights

Environmental & Sustainability Leadership

Founded and institutionalized the City’s Green Team as a permanent Sustainability Committee.
Helped Frederick achieve Sustainable Maryland Certification (2013).
Appointed to the Maryland Commission on Climate Change (2014); contributed to state emissions strategy.
Advocated for renewable energy investments (e.g., solar canopies at police HQ).

Transportation & Active Mobility

Established Bicycle Advisory Committee; transitioned to Active Mobility Advisory Committee.
Sponsored Complete Streets Policy resolution (2017).
Advocated for Rails-with-Trails project; supported city-state infrastructure matching funds for trails.
Chaired the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board (2020) — first City of Frederick official in this position.
Advanced regional transportation goals, including road safety and multi-modal access.
Championed the City’s Vision Zero commitment to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries.

Public Safety & Policing Policy

Sponsored 2019 “Safety in the Parks” Ordinance allowing police to exclude repeat offenders.
Advocated and voted to fund new Frederick Police Headquarters (opening 2025).
Championed FPD’s adoption of the 30×30 Pledge, which supports more women in policing.
Backed crisis response pilot with mental health professionals (2021).
Voted for funding of body-worn cameras and police diversity training.

Housing & Development

Supported annexations with conditions for parks, infrastructure, and school sites (e.g., Keller & Crum Farms).
Voted to fund $2M toward “The Junction” affordable housing project (2023).
Opposed 2023 MPDU ordinance amendment, citing concern that costs would be passed on to residents.
Sponsored tax credit expansions for seniors and veterans (2024).
Supported infrastructure-linked economic development (e.g., hotel/conference center, Butterfly Lane realignment).

Equity & Inclusion

Authored and sponsored 2020 “Equity as a Fundamental Value” resolution, integrating equity into all aspects of city governance.
Promoted inclusive language in city codes and policies, including expansion of protections in the city’s Fair Housing laws.

Governance & Voting Policy

Opposed the 2024 Charter Amendment to allow non-citizen municipal voting, citing her immigrant father’s journey to naturalization.
Served as President Pro Tem for two consecutive terms, creating the system for joint meetings of the councils of the city and county.

Select Sponsored & Co-Sponsored Legislation