Public Meetings - Albany, New York

The Albany Common Council convened a combined caucus, work session, and regular meeting on November 17, 2025, to address the 2026 budget, public safety incidents, housing policy, and several ordinances. The meeting opened with a Housing and Community Development Committee session focusing on housing set-asides, followed by a report from the Police Chief regarding an internal investigation into officer conduct at the library, and a presentation from the Citizens Police Review Board (CPRB) on its operational status. The bulk of the meeting focused on the contentious 2026 budget adoption, public hearings on various ordinances, and a heated discussion regarding the amendment of the inclusionary zoning law to allow opt-outs for developers. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approval of the November 3, 2025 meeting minutes was approved unanimously. - Local Law C (Salary Amendments): An amendment to include salary lines for the President Pro Tem and Majority Leader was passed, though it requires aging and a future vote. - Local Law D (Curbside Fee): The amendment to double the curbside waste collection fee was approved (12-3), with Councilman Johnson and others expressing concern over the 'one-size-fits-all' nature of the fee. Public Comments & Testimony - Julia Long (Alternative to Economic and Housing Displacement Inc.): Expressed strong support for allocating the existing housing budget set-aside to tenants and small landlords facing eviction. She stated her organization saves tax dollars by keeping people housed. She argued that federal cuts to DEI, HUD, and SNAP have devastated her ability to serve low-income Black women and seniors. - Kenyon Ryan (United Tenants of Albany): Echoed Long's position, stating the organization has lost $120,000 to HUD and faces further $100,000 in hold-ups. He expressed that the city has a responsibility to directly invest in organizations supporting tenants displaced by federal neglect. He requested funds be distributed widely rather than to a single entity. - Tim Sarber (United Tenants of Albany): Expressed agreement that funding must be directed to organizations and tenants needing assistance due to rising rents and federal cuts. - Carl Yurick (Citizen): Expressed concern that the budget relies on speculative revenue and unsustainable debt. He argued the city must cut expenditures by four to six million dollars in general expenditures to avoid financial stress within two years. - Maureen Macaulay: Expressed opposition to the full-time funded Deputy Mayor position, citing a potential conflict with the City Charter, and noted that the Corporation Council office was the only department with a flat budget despite increased workload. - Keith Irish: Expressed that the trash fee increase was not accompanied by sufficient waste reduction incentives, such as clear bags or mandatory recycling bins. He argued that the administration's proposal to cut property taxes from 3% to 2.5% required budget cuts that could have been found elsewhere, such as in the Mayor's office staff. - Isabella Kakushko (Attorney for Simon Family): Expressed opposition to the eminent domain process for the Rap Road property, stating the urgency is self-imposed by the city and that fair valuation requires an independent appraisal and more time. She urged the council to table the resolution until the appraisals are complete. - Kimberly McCoy (Retired Councilwoman): Expressed deep concern regarding the near-total failure of the CPRB, calling for the recruitment of new members to restore its teeth and authority. She also expressed concern about the use of speed camera revenue as a tax trap rather than a safety measure. - Andrea Williamson (Property Owner): Expressed that her property taxes doubled, placing her in a position where she must pay them or face foreclosure. She expressed strong opposition to the lack of services in the South End and demanded the city address drug infestation and sanitation issues there. - Gary Price (National Union of the Homeless): Representing the National Union of the Homeless, he expressed that homelessness is worsening and called for a designated point person on the subject for the next administration. - James Gio Cologne: Expressed strong opposition to repealing inclusionary zoning, arguing it will shift costs to low-income renters to subsidize middle-class homebuyers and increase overall housing costs. - Krista Edroy: Expressed that tenants cannot afford luxury apartments without regulation, stating that inclusionary zoning is the only way to protect residents from price gouging and prevent homelessness. - Tandra LeGrone (Inner Own Voices): Expressed support for the Transgender Day of Remembrance resolution and highlighted the safety crisis for the LGBTQ+ community in the current political climate. - Ms. Love (Unidentified speaker): Raised concerns about the zoning classification of 540 Morris Street and the lack of beneficial ownership disclosure for LLCs holding residential property. Discussion Items - Budget & Tax Levy: Councilmember Frederick (Finance Chair) proposed a compromise to reduce the property tax levy by 0.5% (from 3% to 2.5%) to avoid a veto. This required specific cuts: $100k in street light utilities, $100k in DGS hourly wages, $50k in motor vehicle repairs, $40k in county elections, and $28k in equipment. Councilmember Keegan opposed any revenue reduction, while Councilmember Farrell supported the 0.5% cut due to its impact on elderly homeowners, though she preferred a 2% levy. - Inclusionary Zoning Amendment: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to amending Ordinance 24-101-25 to allow developers to opt-out of inclusionary zoning requirements by paying a fee ($5,000 per unit) rather than building affordable units. Councilman Ballorin and Councilman Adams urged a 'No' vote on the amendment, expressing concern over the lack of public process and the low fee amount. Councilwoman Zamer and Councilman Johnson opposed the rushed process and the potential for developers to shift costs to tenants. Conversely, Councilman Adams and Councilman Robinson argued the amendment provided a necessary, tangible step forward to generate housing funds. - Eminent Domain & Rap Road: The Council debated the resolution to authorize a public hearing for the eminent domain taking of the Simon family's property for a solid waste transfer station. Councilman McGee explained that negotiations had stalled and the city needed to maintain leverage. Despite opposition from property representatives regarding the timeline and valuation, the Council proceeded with the resolution. - CPRB Operations: Chief Brendan Cox reiterated that an internal investigation regarding a November 4th police incident was underway. Mr. Shaff stated the CPRB is operational, accepting complaints, and interviewing prospective members despite a lack of full membership. Key Outcomes - Budget Adoption: Ordinance 27-101-25 (2026 Budget) was approved 14-1 (Councilman Johnson voted No). The budget includes a 0.5% reduction to the property tax levy (total 2.5% increase) and a $315,000 reduction in general fund expenditures as agreed upon with the administration. - Curbside Collection Fee: Local Law D (doubling the curbside fee) was passed 12-3, with Councilmen Johnson, Howell, and Anani dissenting. - Inclusionary Zoning Amendment: The amendment to Ordinance 24-101-25 (allowing opt-outs) was passed 9-6, allowing the bill to proceed to the Albany County Planning Board for review in December. - Eminent Domain Hearing: Resolution 121-101-25R authorizing a public hearing on the Rap Road eminent domain was passed 13-2. - Street Renamings: Resolutions to rename portions of North Pearl Street (Maggie Massinelli Cahill) and Washington Avenue (Dennis Lee Edney) were passed unanimously. - Transgender Day of Remembrance: Resolution 131-112-25R recognizing Transgender Day of Remembrance passed unanimously. - CPRB Appointments: The Public Safety Committee recommends two new members for the CPRB to help establish a quorum. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned after the adoption of the budget and other ordinances.

The Albany Common Council convened on October 20, 2025, to address the Residential Parking Permit System, conduct a public hearing on the proposed 2026 City Budget, and consider various legislative items. The meeting featured extensive public comment highlighting concerns regarding budget transparency, tax increases, neighborhood distress in West Hill, housing issues, and the need for youth services and police accountability. Council members proceeded with legislative votes on the creation of the Commission on Disabilities and the designation of specific awareness weeks. Consent Calendar - Residential Parking Ordinance: The committee recommended and voted unanimously to move forward with the amended ordinance expanding the residential parking permit system. Councilmember Hoey and Staff confirmed that the written "meets and bounds" in the draft legislation reflect the proposed map additions (purple streets) in Zones A, B, and C, with a plan to verify accuracy before the public hearing. - Motion Status: Councilmember Hoey moved to pass the amended ordinance with a positive recommendation; the motion passed with unanimous consent pending the required public hearing per Vehicle and Transportation Law § 1640-m. Public Comments & Testimony - Carl Urich: Expressed strong concern regarding the 2026 budget, stating that revenue/expense projections lack supporting information and that department goals lack connection to specific resource requirements. He urged the council to implement risk management strategies and questioned the necessity of adding four new "communications" positions. - M. McCauley: Opposed the proposed budget, characterizing it as an interim budget containing a "wish list" that unjustifiably increases taxes on property owners. She specifically cited a $1 million increase for new hires in the Mayor's, Auditor's, and Treasurer's offices, noting the lack of justification for a Deputy Mayor position and concerns over redundant legal staffing. - Judy Doshate (née Doshey): Described the budget as "irresponsible and unsustainable," opposing the 7.3% to 15% property tax increases. She argued the borrowing plan violates the 10% debt limit policy and warned that debt service will nearly double by 2030 if current borrowing levels continue. - Keith Irish: Criticized the administration's transparency, calling the budget "grade A pork." He opposed specific new positions (Communications Coordinator, Director of Digital/Community Communications) and called for increased funding for Channel Albany (community media) rather than internal department spending. - Cheryl DuCosta: Expressed opposition to the planned wind development project at Philip Livingston Middle School apartments, citing existing unresolved maintenance issues, lack of handicapped accessibility, and safety concerns regarding veterans with PTSD in a neighborhood experiencing rising violence. - Tabora Marcus: Representing the West Hill community, expressed concern that adding at-risk housing to an already distressed neighborhood without addressing transportation issues (specifically the lack of bus services for KIP High School students) will exacerbate safety and violence problems. - Sharon Davis: On behalf of a 91-year-old woman, expressed urgent distress and opposition to the current housing situation, stating the woman is now homeless with no place to go and facing over $120,000 in uncovered medical bills. - Kathleen Bisner Smalls: Expressed frustration regarding the city's neglect of West Hill, specifically noting vacant buildings occupied by squatters, frequent illegal burning, lack of safety officers, and the absence of speed bumps on renovated streets. - Cleanna Lightbourne: Expressed disappointment in the lack of progress on the Community Police Review Board (CPRB) and the failure to address stalled complaints. She also opposed the lack of after-school programs for youth, linking the issue to juvenile crime and the need for transportation options for students living under 1.5 miles from school. - Don Hewitt: Expressed deep concern and opposition to the safety and sanitation conditions in West Hill, citing "duck bullets" (stray gunfire), homeless individuals discarding needles, missed trash collection, and neglected vacant homes. Discussion Items - Residential Parking System: Staff presented a map showing 749 of the 750 additional parking spaces allocated to new streets. Councilmember Hoey raised questions about the zone boundary alignment between the map and the legal text. Staff clarified that the written "meets and bounds" reflect the map, though some zone boundaries rely on adjacent lot rules from the code. Councilmember Hoey suggested Zone C might need adjustment if it includes disjointed areas, but staff noted maintaining four zones would create excessive work. The committee decided to proceed with the current draft, noting that adjustments could be made later. - 2026 Budget Public Hearing: The council held a formal public hearing where the Chair outlined the procedure for comments and subsequent questions. The budget was scrutinized for projected revenue growth, staff expansion in the Mayor's office, and debt limits. - Legislation Introductions: - Ordinance 59-10-25R: Introduced for the sale of properties at 37-41 Cherry Hill Street to Mount Zion Baptist Church. Councilmember Kimbrough noted a referral to the Finance Committee. - Ordinance 60-10-25R: Introduced to amend a previous sale ordinance to correct/add addresses. Councilmember Farrell noted potential issues regarding the Albany County Land Bank, prompting a check by staff. - Local Law A of 2025: Introduced by Councilmember Keegan to create the City of Albany Commission on Disabilities. Keegan emphasized the equity and racial justice components, supported by intern Maggie McCallum. - Resolutions 124 & 125-10-25R: Introduced to declare October 20-26 as "Free Speech Week" and October 20 as "Community Media Day." Councilmember Love noted hesitation regarding the hypocrisy of passing free speech legislation while criticizing the administration's lack of funding for community media channels during a prior discussion. Key Outcomes - Local Law A of 2025 (Commission on Disabilities): Passed with a roll call vote of 14 in favor. The law amends Chapter 42 of the City Code to create a new Part 43, establishing the commission to advise on equity and access for residents with disabilities. - Resolutions: - Free Speech Week: Passed via voice vote. - Community Media Day: Passed via voice vote. - Residential Parking System: The amended ordinance was moved forward unanimously by the committee, scheduling it for a public hearing before full council passage. - Ordinances 59 & 60: Referred to the Finance Committee for review. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned following the completion of regular business and miscellaneous questions regarding youth transportation and community policing.

The Albany Common Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, October 9, 2025, preceded by a Workforce Ethics and Culture Committee meeting and a caucus/work session. The committee meeting provided updates on a workforce audit and training investments. The full council meeting included a public hearing, public comment period, introductions of local laws and ordinances, and votes on multiple resolutions and ordinances. Key topics included homelessness, tenant safety, budget proposals, and appointments to city boards. Workforce Ethics and Culture Committee Update - The committee met at 6:00 PM to review progress on a workforce audit funded with $75,000 from Fiscal Year 2025. The audit will evaluate fairness, consistency, and transparency of city workforce management practices (including promotions, discipline, and workplace culture) from January 2019 through December 2024. - The audit plan is under review by Corporation Counsel. Once approved, a Request for Proposals will be issued, and a firm selected to conduct the audit. - The city invested in sending labor relations staff from the Department of General Services, Albany Water Department, and Admin Services to certification training with Cornell's School of International Labor Relations to improve union negotiations and relationships with ASME. Public Hearing - Ordinance 341-25 (amending cabaret licensing provisions): No members of the public spoke; the hearing was closed. Public Comments & Testimony - Lisa Johnson (Albany resident): Described her family's homelessness and medical displacement, criticizing the county's system and praising Deborah Marcus's organization. Asked the council to partner with her organization, pass medical hardship eviction protections, and create a rapid response eviction prevention unit. - Benzi Johnson (Albany resident): Supported his wife's testimony and proposed using vacant land bank buildings to address homelessness. - Jesse Summer (Ward 6 resident): Criticized the city's vision, the $150 million state museum renovation, and the mayor's budget increases. Announced his candidacy for Common Council President and proposed a "revitalization czar" to facilitate development. - Chris Francisco (Tivoli Park Apartments tenant): Described declining conditions under Opus management, including pest infestations, neglect, and retaliation against tenants after a fire. Asked the city to hold Opus accountable. - Bebin Francis (tenant organizer): Updated on Ida Yarbrough tenant union's progress and highlighted severe fire hazards at Amstel apartments (Amsdell), including boarded exits, exposed wiring, and non-functional sprinklers. Asked for council support for safety improvements. - Bridget Savage Spees (Albany resident): Emphasized the danger of code violations and the need for strict enforcement, citing historical fire tragedies. - Marjani Aronson (Tivoli Park resident): Described unsafe conditions and feeling dehumanized by management and code enforcement. - John Cutrow (Albany resident): Called for community mutual aid networks and council support for non-governmental responses to housing crises. - Kyra Bruno (Amstel resident): Detailed loss of heat, frequent fire alarms, and sprinkler tabs left installed. Announced a tenant union with 80% supermajority and a press conference planned for October 11. - Helen Cleason (Albany resident): Described the Albany Community Response Team's work and asked the council to fund emergency housing resources, especially as federal funding for nonprofits declines. - Keith Irish (9th Ward resident): Criticized the mayor's FY2026 budget for salary increases and new positions, requested a printed copy, and addressed resolutions on Clara Phillips, digital inclusion, and television censorship. Criticized underfunding of Channel Albany. - Ian Butler (Albany resident): Defended the inclusionary zoning ordinance against the mayor's criticism, arguing it is essential for equitable development amid state investment. Highlighted high renter costs and the need to address vacant buildings. Discussion Items - Local Laws Introduced: - Local Law B-2025 (Civic Inclusion and Rights Protection) – referred to Human Resources/Human Rights Committee. - Local Law C-2025 (elective officer salaries) and Local Law D-2025 (curbside waste collection fee) – both referred to Finance. - Ordinances Introduced: - 27-101-25 through 58-101-25 (FY2026 budget and bond authorizations) – all referred to Finance. - Ordinance 24-101-25 (returning affordable housing requirement to original level) – referred to Planning. - Ordinance 25-101-25 (zoning change for 540 Myrtle Ave) – referred to Planning. - Ordinance 26-101-25 (LLC beneficial owner disclosure) – referred to Law and Code. - Resolutions Introduced and Voted: - Resolution 113-101-25R (Domestic Violence Awareness Month) – adopted. - Resolution 114-101-25R (Italian American Heritage Month) – adopted. - Resolution 115-101-25R (Indigenous People's Day) – adopted. - Resolution 116-101-25R (Digital Inclusion Week) – adopted. - Resolution 117-101-25R (Honoring Clara Phillips) – adopted. - Resolution 118-101-25R (Appointing Michaela Robinson to Commission on Human Rights) – adopted, roll call 11-0. - Resolution 119-101-25R (Opposing censorship on television media) – adopted. - Resolution 120-101-25R (Appointing Warren Hamilton to Community Police Review Board) – adopted, roll call 11-0. - Resolution 121-101-25R (Public hearing on eminent domain for 502-506 rab Road) – introduced and referred to Finance. - Resolution 122-101-25R (Declaring council as lead agency for SEQR on the rab Road acquisition) – passed 9-1-1 (Councilmember Howie opposed, one present). - Resolution 123-101-25R (Property tax base proportions) – introduced and referred to Finance. - Ordinances Voted: - Ordinance 217-124 (truck parking restrictions) – passed unanimously. - Ordinance 552-25 (heavy commercial vehicles on Madison Avenue) – passed 9-2 (two present). - Reports of Committees: - Law, Buildings and Code Committee reported positive recommendations for ordinances 217-124 and 552-25, and continued discussion on Ordinance 209-125 (renaming Columbus Day). - Workforce Ethics and Culture Committee reported on the audit update. Key Outcomes - Minutes of September 15, 2025 were approved. - Appointments: Michaela Robinson to Human Rights Commission; Warren Hamilton to Community Police Review Board. - Audit Process: The workforce audit plan is under legal review; RFP to follow. $75,000 allocated from FY2025 budget. - Budget Introductions: FY2026 budget ordinances and bond authorizations were introduced and referred to Finance for committee review. - Executive Session: The council entered executive session to discuss a personnel issue after the regular meeting. - Councilmember Remarks: Several members expressed frustration with housing conditions, enforcement, and the budget process. Councilmember Johnson highlighted the need for stronger tenant protections and criticized the mayor's attacks on inclusionary zoning.

The meeting began with a public safety committee meeting to interview two candidates for the Community Police Review Board (CPRB), followed by a common council caucus and regular meeting where multiple ordinances, resolutions, and public comments were addressed. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from September 4, 2025, was passed unanimously. - Ordinance authorizing the sale of 27 Alexander Street to Rosemary Courtney was introduced and referred to the finance committee. - Ordinance amending the sale of Ash Grove Place Common Alley passed 14-0. - Ordinance amending garbage collection (862-25) passed 14-0. - Ordinance amending the plumbing examining board membership (148125) passed 14-0. - Ordinance repealing chapter 303 on sidewalk cafes passed 14-0. - Resolution honoring Dennis Lee Edney and renaming a portion of Washington Avenue was introduced and referred to General Services. - Resolution recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month passed by voice vote with all council members as co-sponsors. - Resolution honoring Sherry Archie Jr. (street renaming) passed 14-0. - Resolution honoring Destiny Green (street renaming) passed 14-0. - Resolution honoring Vella Madeir Nelson (street renaming) passed 14-0. - Resolution appointing Malik Dare to the CPRB passed 14-0 after being added to the agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Marlon Anderson (community advocate, Albany resident) spoke against the proposed youth curfew, arguing it would introduce youth to institutionalized control and urged the council to remove curfew from the legislation. He stated that without the curfew, the rest of the proposed plan would be positive. - Jay Coltaire (director of sales for Discover Albany) reported that the CrossFit Games held August 1-3, 2025, generated over $5 million in direct visitor spending for Albany County, including $1 million in lodging. The city's support (Pearl Street closure, banner hanging) was critical in securing the event. - Alexis Brown (Clinton Avenue resident) complained about noise disturbances from the SEC community and asked what steps the city is taking to enforce noise regulations and quality of life issues. - Julia Long (executive director of Alternative to Economic and Housing Displacement Inc.) requested funding for her organization, which provides legal assistance to small landlords and tenants in housing court. She noted that 84% of those with legal representation remained housed, and that federal cuts to DEI and HUD have hurt her services. - Fidelia Rodriguez (grandmother of Destiny Green) thanked the council for the resolution to rename Wilbur Street in honor of her granddaughter and mentioned a scholarship fund established in her memory. - Warren Hamilton (Albany resident) discussed a $20 million federal grant for climate resiliency that was rescinded by the Trump administration. He urged the council to fill the gap, noting the projects are shovel-ready and would benefit underserved communities. - Adam (speaker name not fully given, Albany resident) presented an analysis of the school speed camera contract with Gatso, claiming the city is losing $10 million over five years. He stated that Gatso receives 66% of gross citation revenue, while peer cities pay 23-42%, and the contract lacks a termination-for-convenience clause. Discussion Items - Public Safety Committee (CPRB interviews): The committee interviewed two candidates for the Community Police Review Board. - Jacqueline Cheryl Richards (15 years nonprofit public service, former Human Rights Commission appointee) expressed interest in the board's autonomy. She answered questions on confidentiality, holding APD accountable, and handling public scrutiny. She asked about community engagement, mentorship for new members, and the board's strategic vision. Chair Howe noted the board has a backlog of about 60 cases, some going back four years, and that the board is getting back to hearing cases after a hiatus. - Warren Hamilton (Albany resident, 34 years in area, previously served on the board) emphasized a policy-over-politics approach. He criticized the creation of a separate investigative process, arguing it delays resolution and wastes resources. He advocated fixing the complaint form to improve police investigations. He defined independence as having integrity and not being influenced by appointing authorities. He noted his previous resignation was due to perceived dysfunction. - Inclusionary Zoning: Councilman Ballorin disputed claims that affordable housing production dropped 50% under the new policy. He cited planning department data showing an average of 167 units built per year between 2018 and 2022, compared to 99 units in the first full year of the new policy (2023), and argued the drop was less than one unit per year on average. He urged using accurate data for ongoing discussions. - Speed Camera Contract: Multiple council members expressed concern over the contract terms. Councilman Howie emphasized the cameras' safety purpose. Councilman Johnson questioned inflated fines and high costs to residents. Councilman Anani called for transparency in future agreements. Council member Frederick recommended questioning the treasurer's office at the upcoming budget meeting. Key Outcomes - The public safety committee interviewed two CPRB candidates but took no vote; later in the regular meeting, the council appointed Malik Dare to the CPRB via resolution (14-0). - All ordinances and resolutions on the agenda were passed as noted in the consent calendar. - The council will consider a proposed inclusionary zoning ordinance at its next meeting. - Council members agreed to investigate the speed camera contract, with the treasurer's office invited to discuss it during budget season. - Councilman Ballorin pledged to provide written data on inclusionary zoning for comparison. - Councilwoman Love announced the street renaming ceremony for Vella Madeir Nelson will take place on October 3 at noon.

The Albany Common Council met on Thursday, September 4, 2025, in a caucus and work session followed by a regular meeting. The council addressed a range of items including appointments to city boards, introduction of ordinances, housing policy amendments, and a resolution to install a mural on the West Hill Community Center. Public comment included concerns about a proposed youth curfew, water fluoridation, and PEG access board processes. Key debates centered on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and the appointment process for the Community Police Review Board (CPRB). Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from August 4 and August 18, 2025, by voice vote. - Passed a block of appointments to the Active Transportation Planning Commission (Benjamin Macrow, Edward Brennan, Alicia Bacon) and the Task Force on the Municipal Flag (James Sotile, Jennifer Richardson), each with 14 affirmative votes. - Appointed OMani ka Akinyemi to the PEG Access Oversight Board (14 affirmative). - Appointed commissioners of deeds by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Marlon Anderson (Albany resident): Opposed a proposed youth curfew, calling it a "police state mentality" and a "pipeline to prison." He argued that the city should instead examine the root causes of youth incidents, such as the July 4th flare gun incident, and focus on funding police patrols rather than creating "hubs" for youth. He pledged to lead opposition if the curfew moves forward. - Rick North (Wellesley, MA, member of Safewater Albany): Urged the council not to fluoridate the water, citing studies showing minimal cavity reduction and risks of reduced IQ in children. He referenced a federal court ruling and noted that over 60 cities have ended fluoridation since the ruling. He expressed concern for low-income families who cannot afford to avoid fluoridated water. - Keith Irish (9th Ward resident): Criticized the PEG Access Oversight Board's ad hoc committee meeting on August 19, 2025, alleging it lacked the required 10 working days' notice. He opposed the reappointment process, claiming the person appointed over him did not want to renew, and that no call for applications was issued. He also criticized the studio coordinator for not promoting Channel Albany at a community event. He urged the council to remove related items from the agenda and reschedule with proper notice. Discussion Items - Resolution 69-71-25R (Installation of Mural on West Hill Community Center): Sponsored by Councilmember Joyce Love, the resolution originally honored four individuals but was amended in committee to include five: Henry Johnson, Brother Youssef, Dr. Alice Green, Edwin O'Neill, and Sarah Curry Cobbs. Councilmember Love explained she requested adding Sarah Curry Cobbs to recognize her civil rights work. The resolution passed with 14 affirmative votes after being moved out of committee. Councilmember Love noted it does not preclude adding Nebraska Brace's name in the future. - Ordinance 68-121-24 (Accessory Dwelling Units): Sponsored by Councilmember Anani, this legislation permits ADUs on single-family lots (max 800 sq ft, 30% of backyard, height not exceeding 24 ft or principal structure). Owner must occupy one unit. Proponents (Anani, Keegan, Johnson, Zamer) argued it expands housing supply, helps homeowners with income, and provides flexible housing options. Opponents (Howie, Clark): raised concerns about fire/police safety, parking, tax impacts on neighbors, and lack of community input. Howie proposed a pilot program, but it was not adopted. The ordinance passed 11-2 (with one present). Keegan noted single-family zoning historically excluded Black residents. - Ordinance 238-124 (Permitting Single, Two, and Three-Unit Detached Dwellings in MUCI District): Passed with 13 affirmative votes after brief discussion. - PEG Board Composition (Ordinance 241-25): Replaces St. Rose with University at Albany on the PEG Access Oversight Board. Passed unanimously (14-0). - Youth Safety and Support Hours: Referenced as future legislation, with council members Robinson and Johnson describing it as a prevention-focused approach (safe spaces, mentors, outreach) rather than a traditional curfew. It remains in development with community input. - CPRB Appointment (Resolution 102-91-25R): The appointment of Malik Dare to fill the remainder of Dr. V Harden's term (expiring October 26, 2027) was tabled after debate. Councilmembers Anani and Johnson opposed removing a dedicated board member; Councilmember Ballorin noted the request to replace a different member than the longest holdover. The vote to table passed 9-4-1. Councilmember Howie reported the mayor has not filled three of nine CPRB slots. - Emergency Legal Services (Resolution 110-91-25R): Approves a limited-scope agreement with Michael L. Goldstein to represent the council in three active cases. Passed 13-0-1 (Keegan present). Councilmember Howie expressed concern about the process, noting the council had been aware for "two-plus months" and felt the CPRB was put in a poor position. - SEQR Resolutions (108-91-25R and 109-91-25R): Declared the council lead agency and issued negative declarations for the ADU and MUCI ordinances. Both passed with some opposition. Councilmember Clark questioned whether the full environmental assessment form was completed and warned of potential legal challenges. Key Outcomes - Passed: Ordinance 68-121-24 (accessory dwelling units) with 11-2 vote. - Passed: Ordinance 238-124 (permitting single, two, three-unit dwellings in MUCI) with 13-0. - Passed: Ordinance 241-25 (PEG board composition change) with 14-0. - Passed: Resolution 69-71-25R (West Hill mural) with 14-0. - Passed: Resolution 110-91-25R (emergency legal services) with 13-0-1. - Tabled: Resolution 102-91-25R (CPRB appointment of Malik Dare) by 9-4-1. - Introduced: Ordinances renaming Columbus Day to Cabrini Day, amending sidewalk cafe rules, and repealing the policy document repository, referred to committees. - Referred: Resolution to rename a portion of North Pearl Street after Maggie Massanelli Cahill to the General Services Committee. - Upcoming: Finance committee schedule for budget season to be shared by September 8; Youth Safety and Support Hours legislation to be introduced after community feedback.

The Albany Common Council met on Monday, August 18, 2025, after a delayed start due to quorum issues. The meeting featured a detailed presentation on the city's violence prevention framework by community advocate Mr. Thompson, followed by extensive public comment on various issues including youth violence, water fluoridation, and concerns from the Community Police Review Board (CPRB). The council passed several resolutions and discussed ongoing challenges with the CPRB’s independence and staffing. Public Comments & Testimony - Jessica Saxon (civil rights advocate from Washington, D.C.) provided public notice arguing that New York's practice of charging by information rather than grand jury indictment violates the Fifth Amendment. She cited Roberts v. United States (1984) on parental rights and warned of emolument violations if the city funds unconstitutional arrests. - Tam Badalin (civil rights litigator from Washington, D.C.) elaborated, claiming over 56,000 criminal affidavits from New York for unconstitutional arrests under 18 U.S.C. §§ 241-242. He urged the council to stop funding such practices or face criminal complaints. - Jeff Wilkin (Albany resident) criticized misleading school zone speed limit signs on Hackett Boulevard, noting they are enforced even on non-school days. He also suggested senior hours at the new Lincoln Avenue pool. - Karen Kaniffician (Albany resident) opposed ordinances introducing accessory dwelling units (ADUs), citing insufficient public notice. She also opposed ordinance 1682-25 for eliminating public notice on non-conforming property determinations, calling it undemocratic. - Zariah Anderson (youth advocate) presented a safety plan emphasizing community centers tailored to youth passions (gaming, art), victim services, and restorative justice. She highlighted adverse childhood experiences and lack of resources in low-income areas. - Tom Ellis (Albany resident) criticized the council's decision to fluoridate water, citing new studies linking it to lower IQ, forced medication concerns, and Western Europe's avoidance of the practice. He submitted a letter to the Water Board for the record. - CPRB Members (Vanelia Harden, Emily Sowick, Victor Person, and written statements from John Lewandowski and Paul Collins Hackett) expressed concerns about the board's program director, alleging lack of communication, mishandling of confidential data, and erosion of the board's independence. They urged the council to restore trust and respect the board's recommendations. Discussion Items - Violence Prevention Task Force Presentation: Mr. Thompson presented a comprehensive framework for violence prevention, covering root causes (gun violence, domestic violence, elder abuse), community engagement, equity-focused strategies, and seven pillars: healing, youth, coordination, environment, awareness, education, and opportunity. He highlighted national models like Baltimore’s curfew (which he called "youth safety hours") and emphasized the need for resources, mentorship, youth entrepreneurship, and transforming trauma sites into green spaces. - Councilmember Keegan asked for feedback on Baltimore's curfew model, noting it connects kids to services. Mr. Thompson agreed that with proper supports it could be therapeutic and time-limited. - Councilmember Love stated that Baltimore's success is due to proactive youth programming, not just curfew, and urged the city to fund such programs instead of only police. - Councilmembers thanked Mr. Thompson and acknowledged task force members present. Key Outcomes - Resolutions Passed (all roll call, 12-0): - Resolution 9582-25R (in honor of Albany Latin Fest 2025) - Resolution 9.12.24R (reaffirming commitment to addressing violence and calling for a gun violence hotline) - Resolution 6362-25R (adopting 2025 Albany County Hazard Mitigation Plan update) - Resolution 8872-25R (consenting to appointment of Paige Barnum to Planning Board) - Resolution 8972-25R (consenting to appointment of Celeste Roller Harp to Board of Zoning Appeals) - Amendments: Ordinance 341.25 was amended and held. Resolution 69.71.25R was amended and held. - Ordinances Introduced (sent to Planning Committee): - 1682-25 (non-conformity determination process) - 1782-25 (exceptions for vehicle fueling stations) - 1882-25 (repealing chapter 303 on sidewalk/cafe regulations) - CPRB Concerns: Multiple councilmembers (Johnson, Conti, Farrell, Ballorin) spoke in support of the CPRB members' concerns and called for an executive session to address the board's dissatisfaction with the program director and the loss of independent counsel. No formal vote was taken, but the council expressed intent to follow up.

The Albany Common Council met on August 4, 2025, to consider a range of legislation including bond authorizations, property sales, tax exemptions, and an amendment to the cabaret ordinance regarding outdoor sound. Public comment covered tobacco-free parks, water fluoridation opposition, the Community Police Review Board's legal counsel, and concerns about uneven enforcement of city ordinances. Public Comments & Testimony - Tobacco-Free Parks: Simona Fish (Capital District Tobacco Free Communities) and youth members Milo Evans, Amara, and Ashida Mizra presented findings of cigarette and vape litter in Swinburne Park, advocating for stronger signage and enforcement of existing tobacco-free policies. They collected over 400 pieces of tobacco litter in 15 minutes. - Homelessness and Quality of Life: Marlon Anderson, a mayoral candidate, criticized the city for failing to address homeless encampments, vagrancy, and drug issues, stating the city has become a "giant version of Perry Shelter." - Tenant Advocacy: Frederick Tibbetts Jr. (United Tenants Association) raised concerns about the management of Danker Village (Kass Hill company), alleging profit prioritization over repairs and compassion for immigrant tenants. - Water Fluoridation Opposition: Multiple speakers (Alexa Bontempo, Patricia Pierce, Brian Borton, Tom Ellis, Rick North) opposed the city's fluoridation project, citing recent federal court rulings and NTP studies linking fluoride to lower IQ, and accusing the council of relying on outdated science and breaking promises to allow opposition presentations. - Community Police Review Board: Tom Ellis urged restoration of outside legal counsel for the CPRB, alleging the city government attempted to remove it. He noted Councilman Hoey's support for restoration. - Enforcement Disparities: County Legislator Charles Robinson and Mark Robinson spoke about the legacy of a family fruit stand on Northern Boulevard, arguing that police and code enforcement unfairly targeted the family's descendants while allowing others to operate, and called for fair enforcement. Discussion Items - Cabaret Ordinance Amendment (Ordinance 34125): Councilmember Conte moved to amend the ordinance to allow accessory entertainment (e.g., background music) at outdoor cafes. Councilmembers expressed concerns about defining "ambient level" and enforcement difficulties. Councilmember Anane noted potential issues with noise complaints from residential neighbors, while Councilmember Love argued that businesses should be allowed to operate with speakers. The amendment passed without objection. A separate resolution (948125) declaring the city as lead agency for SEQR was also passed. - Executive Session on Personnel: The council agreed to hold an executive session at the end of the meeting to discuss personnel matters, with a planned follow-up meeting on August 13 to include Councilmember Kimbrough (who was ill) for an update on the CPRB. Key Outcomes - Local Law Introduced: A local law creating a City of Albany Commission on Disabilities (sponsored by Keegan) was introduced and referred to Human Rights/Human Resources Committee. - Ordinances Passed (all by 10-0 votes): - Ordinance 158125: Easement for power supply to Albany West Community Center. - Ordinance 44125: Easement for pipeline replacement at 5 Mill Road. - Ordinance 66125: Sale of Ashgrove Place alley to Community Builders Inc. - Ordinance 76125: Bond authorization of $9,468,000 for city roadway improvements. - Ordinance 97125: Sale of 34 Cherry Street to Albany Housing Authority. - Ordinance 107125: Sale of various city-owned properties to Albany County Land Bank. - Ordinance 117225: Aerial easement to CIDC Albany Center LLC. - Ordinance 127225: Easement to Center Square LLC. - Resolutions Passed (all by 10-0 votes): - Resolution 948125: Declaring lead agency for SEQR of the cabaret ordinance. - Resolution 153225: Authorizing retroactive tax exemption for Praise Tabernacle Church of God (2021-2023). - Resolution 626225 (as amended): Authorizing Albany Parking Authority leases. - Resolution 646225: Retroactive tax exemption for Congregation Ohav Shalom. - Resolution 687125: Approving budget fund transfer and position changes for APD and DGS. - Resolution Introduced: Resolution 938125 honoring Vella May Dear Nelson and renaming a portion of Sheridan Avenue (referred to General Services). - Minutes Approved: Minutes from July 21, 2025 meeting approved. - Next Steps: Staff to poll council members for a meeting time to continue CPRB discussion with Councilmember Kimbrough.