The Public Meeting Index

The Finance and Taxation Committee of the City of Monroe met on October 26, 2026, to discuss a Fire Department equipment purchase, a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) resolution for the Water Utility, and a community grant funding resolution for Main Street Monroe. The committee also moved into a closed session to discuss a property matter. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the October 13, 2026 meeting were approved as presented. Discussion Items - Fire Department Training System Purchase: Fire Chief Rufer requested committee approval to purchase a LION BullsEye V3 Pro Digital Fire Extinguisher Training System. Chief Rufer expressed strong support for the system, stating that the current training setup is costly, weather-dependent, and presents environmental and safety issues due to the use of dry chemical extinguishers. The proposed system uses a digital sensor and compressed air to simulate fire extinguisher operation safely without chemicals. The department has sufficient funds in its current budget, secured through expenditure prioritization, requiring no additional city money. The committee voted unanimously to approve the purchase. - Water Utility PILOT Payment: City Administrator Rindy presented a resolution to ratify the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) due from the Monroe Water Utility. The resolution increases the payment to the maximum amount allowable by the Public Service Commission, addressing an under-collection of approximately $12,000 annually. The committee voted unanimously to recommend the resolution to the Common Council. - Community Grant to Main Street Monroe: Administrator Rindy presented a resolution authorizing an annual $40,000 community grant to Main Street Monroe from Tax Incremental District (TID) No. 7 for the remaining life of the district (2027–2032). This shifts the funding source from the general tax levy. Administrator Rindy noted that the grant is fixed at $40,000 for five years, fulfilling the organization's request for a $5,000 increase over the previous $35,000 allocation. Future increases would require a new resolution or funding from the general tax levy. The committee voted unanimously to recommend the resolution to the Common Council. Key Outcomes - Vote (C.1): Motion to approve the Fire Department's purchase of the digital training system passed unanimously (Ayes: Treuthardt, Thoman, Sheaffer, McGuire). - Vote (C.2): Motion to recommend the Water Utility PILOT resolution to Common Council passed unanimously. - Vote (C.3): Motion to recommend the Main Street Monroe TID 7 community grant resolution to Common Council passed unanimously. - Closed Session: The committee voted to enter a closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e) to discuss a land contract and the sale of city property on 21st Street.

The North Richland Hills City Council met in a work session at 5:30 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7:15 p.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026. The work session included updates on legislative tracking software, EMS billing and fee schedule proposals, an Emergify fire-response insurance reimbursement proposal, lift-assist data, and a Code of Ethics review. The regular meeting opened with invocation and Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilmember Mitchell, approved the consent agenda 6-0, heard one citizen presentation, and approved two executive session action items, both 6-0. The regular meeting adjourned at 7:26 p.m. Legislative Tracking Software Update - Staff presented an update on Quorum, an AI-based legislative tracking platform replacing spreadsheets and an old Access database. In the Texas legislature, more than 7,000 bills are introduced each session, about 2,000 could impact city operations, and Texas Municipal League anticipates as many as 3,500 bills this year that could affect municipalities. - Quorum will provide real-time bill alerts, categorize bills as support, oppose, or watch, and launch a public dashboard in January. The internal go-live is November 9, when bill filing begins. Residents can already sign up as legislative ambassadors. - Staff noted that city ordinances were not uploaded into Quorum, but internal AI tools could be used to analyze local ordinance impacts. The legislative task force will also have access to the platform. EMS Billing Provider and Fee Schedule Update - Chief Tenny said the city has used its current EMS billing provider since 2014, moved to bundle billing in 2024, and is currently on a month-to-month contract. Staff recommended switching to Emergicon, described as the largest EMS biller in Texas, serving nearly 200 Texas cities and 12 of the 12 NEFTA cities that provide EMS transports beyond North Richland Hills. - The proposed commission rate would increase from 5 percent to 6.5 percent. Staff said they expect no decrease in revenue and likely an overall increase. Two nearby cities using Emergicon reported year-to-date average collection per transport increases of 45 percent or greater. - Proposed EMS rate changes include increases of $100 for ALS1, $150 for ALS2, and $100 for BLS, with a $30 decrease in oxygen charges. Staff said rates would generally remain below regional averages. The proposal also would eliminate the resident and non-resident rate difference because non-resident collections average about 21 percent lower than resident collections. - Chief Cook presented a separate Emergify proposal to bill insurance providers for non-EMS fire department responses. There would be no balance billing and no bill to individuals. Emergify would charge 15 percent of collected reimbursements, or 18 percent if not bundled with Emergicon. Residential structure fire fees are generally capped by insurers at $500 per incident, and level two and level three hazmat reimbursements would largely go to NEFTA. - Staff estimated that Emergify could offset more than $150,000 in expenses annually, based on 2025 incident responses and 2026 year-to-date responses. The contract and fee schedule changes are planned for November. - Chief Tenny also reviewed lift-assist data from the last 18 months across 14 senior facilities: 3 skilled nursing, 3 Type A assisted living, 3 Type B assisted living, and 6 independent living. Those facilities generated 2,878 calls, of which 105 were lift assists; 69 were transported, 26 refused transport after a medical assessment, and 10 required no medical assessment. Chief Tenny recommended against a lift-assist fee, saying the city does not have a lift-assist abuse problem and fees could discourage calls or be passed on to residents. Code of Ethics Policy Review - Bradley reviewed the Code of Ethics adopted on April 13, 2026, and identified two areas for improvement: ethics complaint procedures and clarification of the meaning of ethical standards. Proposed issues included rules for clarifications or supplements to complaints, notification requirements, timeline impacts, and the difficulty of requesting an extension under the current public notice schedule. - Council discussed creating a subcommittee to review the code. A councilmember asked that the subcommittee also consider preventing multiple council members from filing identical ethics complaints in a way that could weaponize the process and cost the city resources. Staff will bring back an action item in November to establish the subcommittee. City Manager Report - Paulette outlined upcoming items: the November 9 work session will include proposed updates to the animal ordinance, utility billing study efficiency recommendations, a proposed Kemper Sports contract amendment for Iron Horse Golf Course, and the NRH legislative program. December meetings will include facilities efficiency study recommendations, the City Point TIF annual report, the 2027 city council schedule, and presiding judge applications. Consent Calendar - No items were removed from the consent agenda. The consent agenda passed 6-0 and included: - Approval of the October 12, 2026 city council meeting minutes. - Resolution No. 2026-055 authorizing submission of a Bureau of Justice Assistance Bulletproof Vest Partnership grant application and acceptance of up to $16,000 if awarded. - Casting a ballot for Mike Browning in the Texas Municipal League Region 8 Director Election. - Purchase of mobile device computers from GTS Technology Solutions, Inc., up to $391,950, using DIR Cooperative Contract No. DIR-CPO-5225. - Purchase of Absolute Secure Access software maintenance and cloud subscription services from GTS Technology Solutions, Inc., up to $147,000 through July 17, 2031, using DIR Cooperative Contract No. DIR-CPO-5859. - Purchase of four 2027 Hino XL 8 dump trucks from Rush Truck Centers of Texas, LP, in the amount of $773,800.76, using BuyBoard Contract No. 723-23, and approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Cooperative Purchase Customer Agreement. - Amendment to the cooperative purchasing agreement with Blagg Tire through BuyBoard Contract No. 729-24, increasing the tire purchase ceiling to $175,000. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers signed up for the public comments portion of the regular meeting. - During citizens presentation, Brett Boone, a Shriner from Fort Worth, asked the council to allow elephant rides for three days, November 6-8, during the Shrine Circus at NYTEX. He said the elephant provider would not bring elephants without rides and referenced ordinance 14-167 as the obstacle. He requested any ordinance exemption, exception, interpretation, variance, or clarification. City Manager Paulette responded that staff had already discussed the matter and that Stephanie Martinez would speak with him. Executive Session and Action Items - The council entered executive session at 6:32 p.m. under Texas Government Code Sections 551.071, 551.074, and 551.087 for pending litigation, city manager personnel matters, and economic development negotiations at 7656 Boulevard 26. - After reconvening, the council voted 6-0 to authorize the city manager to negotiate and execute an economic development agreement with M3 Hospitality LLC or assigns for the property at 7656 Boulevard 26. - The council voted 6-0 to approve amendments to the city manager's base compensation and deferred compensation. Announcements - Councilmember Delaney announced early voting for the November 4 election continues through October 30 at North Richland Hills City Hall and the Northeast Tarrant County Courthouse. - The Senior Center Craft Fair will be held October 28-29 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Grand Hall at the NRH Centre. - A free outdoor movie night featuring The Big Green will be held November 6 at Green Valley Park, with seating at 6 p.m. and the movie starting around 7 p.m. - Kudos Corner recognized Tammy Lopez in the water office for exceptional customer service. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved 6-0. - The council authorized the city manager to execute an economic development agreement with M3 Hospitality LLC for 7656 Boulevard 26 by a 6-0 vote. - The council approved amendments to the city manager's base compensation and deferred compensation by a 6-0 vote. - Council directed staff to bring back an action item in November to establish a Code of Ethics subcommittee. - Staff will bring the Emergicon EMS billing contract, related EMS fee schedule changes, and the Emergify fire-response billing ordinance to council in November. - Quorum legislative tracking goes live internally November 9, with the public dashboard launching in January. - No action was taken on Brett Boone's elephant ride request because it was made during citizens presentation.

The Deltona City Commission met in regular session on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Deltona Commission Chambers. The agenda scheduled Public Forum from 6:00 to 6:30 PM, followed by the business meeting. Mayor Avila presided. The commission recognized students and fire personnel, heard a regional stormwater update, and acted on consent items, a code enforcement fine reduction, a Dairy Queen proportionate share agreement, employee health benefits, the firefighter collective bargaining agreement, a right-of-way vacation, a P&Z board removal, and the data center moratorium. Presentations & Reports - Super Star Student Awards for the first grading period of the 2026/2027 school year were presented to students from several Deltona elementary and middle schools. - Fire Chief Stephen Cousins swore in seven new fire personnel: Deputy Chief Dan Ruth and firefighters Skylar Carn, Nathan Galloway, Ethan Gresham, John Mulholland, Nathan Quartier, and Kale Zinninger. Existing personnel were promoted and pinned, including Adam Clatterbuck to Deputy Chief, Alexander Griffith to Lieutenant, and Lopiccolo-Hawkins and Flores to Engineer. - Mayor Nancy Miller of Daytona Beach Shores, co-chair of the Volusia County Elected Officials Roundtable Stormwater Mitigation & Flooding Subcommittee, presented an update. She said 28 infrastructure projects and 28 basin studies are underway across the county, Transform 386 has funded more than 25 stormwater projects and 30 studies totaling over $110 million, and a new stormwater resilience dashboard is available at Volusia.gov. She highlighted Deltona projects including the El Cam Boulevard at Lake Helen Osteen Road intersection and the Lake Sweet Gum stormwater drop-down project. Consent Calendar - The commission approved, 7-0, consent items A, B, D, E, and F after items C, G, H, and I were pulled for separate consideration: A approved the minutes of the October 5 and October 19, 2026 meetings; B proclaimed Small Business Saturday on November 28; D approved Resolution 2026-97, the Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation Cooperative Agreement for 2026-2027; E updated the city’s representatives to the Opioid Funding Advisory Board (Clatterbuck primary, Dan Ruth alternate); and F approved Resolution 2026-100, pre-qualifying Architects Design Group, Bentley Group, Inc., Borrelli & Partners, CPH, and PQH Group Design for facilities architectural and engineering services. Public Comments & Testimony - Kathy Bryan questioned the reduction of a $54,450 code-enforcement fine to $8,500, objected to the Dairy Queen agreement, and asked why the firefighter collective bargaining agreement was not available to the public before the vote. - Jason Voles, property manager for 271 Fort Smith Boulevard, asked the commission to reduce all fines in the foreclosure matter to zero, dismiss the foreclosure by October 28, and provide dismissal documents by October 29. He said the owners and tenants had suffered losses and called the situation a “black eye” for the city. - Mohammad Mollah, the property owner, said he did not know about the fine until later and asked the commission to consider the hardship to both the landlord and the new tenant. - On the Planning and Zoning Board removal, Matthew Borgins and Kathy Bryan opposed acting without reviewing both sides of the dispute; Courtney Krausberg said there should be some consequence or censure; Virgil Ford alleged preferential treatment and political motivation; and Pat Blodgett defended her husband’s record. Tim Blodgett defended his comments, saying they came in response to harassment, but he was escorted out after interrupting the meeting. - Albert Bryan opposed the Sullivan Street right-of-way vacation, saying the city should not give away property. - Matthew Borgins spoke against the data center moratorium, supporting a reasonable path for data centers in Deltona because of potential tax-base diversity, technology investment, and jobs. Discussion Items - Code enforcement fine reduction (Item C): Staff reported the case began in 2019, went to the Special Magistrate on January 22, 2020, and took 978 days to reach compliance; notices were sent to the property address. Staff noted the agenda listed the fine as $54,450 but said the recalculated fine total was $49,400. The Special Magistrate recommended reducing the fine to a single payment of $8,500, including $3,901.25 in case-enforcement costs. The commission approved the reduction 7-0. - Dairy Queen proportionate fair share (Item G): City staff and the City Attorney explained that the $113,637.32 proportionate fair share payment is owed to Volusia County for impacted county-maintained roadway (Howland Boulevard), while the developer still owes the city $37,544.59 in transportation impact fees. The commission approved the agreement 7-0. - Employee health benefits (Item H): The commission approved, 7-0, authorizing the City Manager to bind health coverage recommended by the Gehring Group for Plan Year 2027. The city will move medical/prescription coverage from UnitedHealthcare to Florida Health Care Plans/Florida Blue, dental and vision to MetLife, and the Employee Assistance Program to Bree Health after UnitedHealthcare’s renewal showed an average 29.5% increase. HSA, life/AD&D, and short-term disability carriers remain unchanged. - Firefighter collective bargaining agreement (Item I): A motion to table the IAFF Local 2913 contract to the first November meeting failed 2-5. The commission then approved Resolution 2026-102, the October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2029 collective bargaining agreement, by 6-1. Discussion noted the union ratified the contract 48-9, it is within the adopted budget, the final draft was delivered about 50 minutes before the meeting, and the agreement could be revisited if Amendment 3 changes the city’s finances. - Public hearing on vacation of right-of-way (Resolution 2026-86): The commission heard testimony under oath on the request by HYR Properties, LLC to vacate 0.180 acres of platted alley right-of-way associated with 468 Sullivan Street, including 25-foot and 15-foot alleyways in Block 20 of the Beauty Spot Orange City Plat, to consolidate property for a future single-family residence. Staff reported three utility non-objection letters and recommended approval. The resolution passed 5-2, with Vice Mayor Avila-Vasquez voting no because a previous resident with a similar request had to pay. - Removal of Planning and Zoning Board member: Commissioner Santiago moved to remove Tim Blodgett from the Planning and Zoning Board, citing disrespectful comments toward a female resident. The City Attorney said P&Z members serve at the pleasure of the commission and that Florida Statutes Section 112.501 is informative but not mandatory for this board. After public comment and discussion, the removal motion passed 4-3. - Data center moratorium revisions: The City Attorney presented red-line revisions to Ordinance 19-2026, the temporary moratorium on data centers, to coordinate with Volusia County’s adoption. The commission voted 7-0 to move the revised ordinance to second reading. City Manager and Commission Comments - The City Manager complimented the State of the City video and said Deltona University would be held the next evening; 37 residents had signed up, with three openings. - The City Attorney said an executive session in Dunice Magliati v. City of Deltona would be scheduled before the next commission meeting. The Mayor asked that it be scheduled early enough, such as 4:30 PM. - Commissioner Howington raised resident questions about cable companies working in the city, underground utilities, and the possible use of the city-owned house next to the Eastern Plant for cold-weather shelter. - Commissioner Heriot requested, and received consensus, for staff to develop a code of conduct for all appointed board members and representatives. Key Outcomes - Approved consent items A, B, D, E, and F (7-0). - Reduced the code-enforcement fine to $8,500 (7-0). - Approved the Dairy Queen proportionate fair share agreement (7-0). - Approved the employee health benefits carrier transition for Plan Year 2027 (7-0). - Rejected tabling the firefighter CBA (2-5) and then approved it (6-1). - Approved the Sullivan Street right-of-way vacation (5-2). - Removed Tim Blodgett from the Planning and Zoning Board (4-3). - Approved moving the revised data center moratorium ordinance to second reading (7-0). - Directed staff to draft a code of conduct for appointed board members and representatives. - Scheduled an executive session in Dunice Magliati v. City of Deltona before the next commission meeting; Mayor Avila said he would not serve as a “shadow mayor” after the November 9 gavel exchange and urged residents to vote.

The Peekskill Common Council held a work session/committee-of-the-whole followed by a regular meeting on Monday, October 26, 2026, in the Common Council Chamber. The council unanimously adopted 18 resolutions, approved Local Law No. 5 of 2026 overriding the New York State tax cap, and closed public hearings on the tax cap override and the proposed 2027 city budget. The agenda also listed an Italian American Heritage Recognition item, but the transcribed portion of the meeting does not include discussion of that item. Work Session / Committee of the Whole - Police Chief Renwick requested council permission to solicit competitive bids for the next phase of the police department locker room renovation: electrical work at 2 Nelson Avenue. Council members expressed support, and the request later became Resolution J-12. - The City Attorney recommended canceling the continued public hearing on proposed amendments to Chapter 416 (bikes and parks) because the city is still investigating the status of the waterfront bike path and bicycle access to DePew Park. Council agreed; discussion is expected to resume on November 2, 2026, with a future hearing to be rescheduled. - City Manager discussed a letter of support for CEEP/Civic Roots Westchester New York Community Trust application, a NY BRICKS grant application of up to $15 million for the old library/neighborhood center/bathrooms, a professional services agreement with Joseph Thompson Architect, and acceptance of a $50,000 Empire State Development incentive for the Community Hub. In response to a council question, the City Manager said the BRICKS grant would be very competitive but the city's scoring was strong; matching funds, if needed, would be factored into the following year's budget. - Liaison reports included Parks Advisory Board concerns about litter and ongoing bikes-in-parks analysis, holiday park events, and interest in having Sloyd students repair damaged wooden park items; Youth Bureau news of a co-drive and Oct. 30 Girl Scouts Halloween event; a BID board meeting scheduled for Nov. 4; and library board updates including a slight circulation drop, Feb. 3 library advocacy day, reduced staff computers from 34 to 30, and preparations for the new 41 North Division space. Public Comments & Testimony - For public comments on agenda items, no one spoke in person or online; two emailed comments were entered into the record. - During Citizens Desiring to Be Heard, one resident expressed concern that pedestrians do not have the right of way in Peekskill, described a recent near-miss at Washington and Hudson, questioned the safety of right turns on red there, and opposed allowing bikes in parks due to concerns for pedestrians and quiet enjoyment of DePew Park. Officials responded that the Chapter 416 matter will be discussed at the Nov. 2 committee-of-the-whole workshop, a report is planned for Nov. 9, and a public hearing would likely occur on the second Monday in December; residents may also email comments or submit letters to the City Clerk. Regular Meeting Proceedings and Special Recognition - The pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence were held. Roll call showed all council members and the Mayor present. - The council dispensed with the reading of the minutes of October 13, 2026, and accepted them as written. - Police Chief presented a special recognition: Sergeant Evan Patterson was promoted to Lieutenant. Patterson began with NYPD, later served the Town of Newburgh Police Department, joined Peekskill in 2015, and had served as Emergency Response Team commander for more than three years. He will continue in that role and will also command the Patrol Division. He took the oath of office with family present. Department Head and City Manager Reports - Quality-of-life enforcement: store owner litter-related violations rose from 6 to 16; overgrowth violations fell from 6 to 3; overcrowding tickets were zero; fire violations fell from 3 to 0; and nuisance violations rose from 9 to 12. - Police enforcement over the previous two weeks included 9 quality-of-life arrests, 6 DWI arrests, 13 other traffic arrests, 11 warrant arrests, 226 traffic summonses, and 1,255 parking tickets. At Maple and Hudson, targeted enforcement produced 64 details, 62 stops, and 70 summonses. A stabbing assault on Oct. 17 led to an arrest on Oct. 19. - DPW is winterizing buildings, procuring downtown holiday lighting, and planning November paving. Under the Momentum Fund, a contract was awarded for structural repairs to James Street and Nelson Avenue garages; DRI construction work includes new crosswalks, and the outside reopening date for Division and Central is Friday, Nov. 6, barring unforeseen issues. - The Peekskill Plan community visioning survey remains open through early November. The lower South Street sewer line design is 90% complete for the $11.5 million project; Hollow Brook Dam work is on hold for winter; 15 hydrants have been replaced; and the riverfront pump station project is at 90% design. Public Hearings - Public Hearing No. 2: Proposed local law to override the NYS tax cap for the 2027 budget. Comptroller Toni Tracy presented the budget at a glance: the 2027 general fund total is $59,551,965, a 3.75% increase over 2026, with a 3.5% tax rate increase and a 3.92% tax levy increase. For a single-family home assessed at $9,732, that is about $107.68 per year, or $8.97 per month. Pension, health insurance, and benefit costs increased by $2.5 million; New York State retirement alone rose 20%; and police/fire retirement is projected at about $5 million, or 8.6% of the general fund, up from 5.8% ten years ago and up 108% since 2020. Tracy noted that 45% of New York cities, 35.5% of villages, and 28.6% of towns are planning tax cap overrides. Scenarios showed that not using $600,000 of restricted firehouse fund balance would raise the levy increase to 6.82%, with a 6.38% rate increase and a $16.37 monthly impact; losing $380,000 due to the prior transfer tax budgeting method would raise the levy increase to 8.63%, with an 8.19% rate increase and a $21 monthly impact. The city is also pursuing PILOT agreements, receiving $3.8 million from a new PILOT in 2026. One emailed comment was entered; no one spoke in the chamber. The hearing was closed. - Public Hearing No. 3: The 2027 proposed budget. Tracy summarized the same general fund total of $59,551,965, 3.5% tax increase, 3.92% levy increase, and $107.68 annual impact for the average assessed home. One emailed comment was entered; no one spoke in the chamber. The hearing was closed. Resolutions Adopted All resolutions passed unanimously. - J-1: Cancelled the continued Oct. 26 public hearing on Chapter 416 (bikes and parks). - J-2: Authorized free four-hour holiday parking in downtown garages from Nov. 27, 2026 through Jan. 2, 2027. - J-3: Authorized Turkey Trot street closures on Nov. 21, 2026, 8:00-9:30 a.m., on Park Street, North Broad Street, Crompond Road, and South Division Street. - J-4: Authorized a professional services agreement with Joseph Thompson Architect for an economic development plan for the Peekskill Hub and reuse of the Neighborhood Center at 4 Nelson Avenue. - J-5: Declared certain Fire Department equipment surplus and authorized auction. - J-6: Authorized Trunk or Treat street closure on Broad Street from Park Street to Sparrow Lane on Oct. 30, 2026, 5:30-8:30 p.m. - J-7: Accepted an Assistance to Firefighters grant of approximately $206,767.27 for new self-contained breathing apparatus. - J-8: Authorized sale of the surplus 1996 Pierce Engine to Westchester County for $15,000. - J-9: Authorized advertising bids for downtown intersection improvements under the Mid-Hudson Momentum Fund Award. - J-10: Adopted the 2027 consolidated fee schedule. - J-11: Established a handicapped parking space at 1778 Lincoln Terrace. - J-12: Authorized soliciting bids for police locker room electrical work at 2 Nelson Avenue. - J-13: Authorized submission of a New York BRICKS program grant application. - J-14: Authorized the City Manager to sign a letter of support for CEEP's New York Community Trust application, with no financial obligation to the city. - J-15: Appointed Beth Laschever (listed in the agenda; the resolution text read Beth Lechevre) to the Conservation Advisory Council. - J-16: Established a no-parking restriction on the southeast side of Montrose Avenue (the agenda spelled it Montross Avenue), 50 feet from its intersection with Maple Avenue. - J-17: Authorized an agreement with Sloyd for use of city property at 828 Main Street for youth woodworking, boat building, and community maker space. - J-18: Authorized acceptance of an Empire State Development incentive proposal for a comprehensive development plan to design the adaptive reuse of the vacated Field Library space at 4 Nelson Avenue. Key Outcomes - The 2027 budget hearings were closed, and Local Law No. 5 of 2026 was adopted to override the NYS tax cap for the 2027 budget. - All 18 resolutions on the agenda were adopted unanimously. - The Chapter 416 bikes-and-parks amendment remains under investigation; the council will discuss it on Nov. 2, 2026, with a future public hearing expected in December. - The council recognized Lt. Evan Patterson's promotion and accepted the October 13, 2026 minutes. - The council moved into executive session after the public meeting for discussion of personnel matters.

On October 26, 2026, the Manitowoc Common Council held a special meeting at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers and via Zoom to receive the 2027 Executive Budget presentation from Mayor Nickels. Eight alderpersons were present (Dunbar, Beeman, Cummings, Schlei, Sitkiewitz, Reckelberg, Brey, Benzinger); two were absent (Anderson, Norell). The only action item was a call for a public hearing on the budget. 2027 Executive Budget Presentation Mayor Nickels presented the 2027 budget, emphasizing public safety as the top priority. Key proposals include: - Tax Levy: A 2.78% increase in the assessed tax rate. For an average home valued at $250,000, city taxes would rise by $41.27 annually ($3.44/month). - Fund Balance & Borrowing: $3.5 million from fund balance and $7.84 million in new borrowing. The mayor noted this is the first budget in his tenure where new borrowing exceeds debt repayment, calling it a difficult but necessary decision to fund critical infrastructure and equipment. - New Positions: Six new positions: three firefighter/paramedics, one police detective focused on internet crimes against children, an IT supervisor, and an IT help desk support staff. - Employee Compensation: 3.5% wage increase for non-represented employees; a 13% increase in health insurance premiums (both employer and employee shares). $50,000 allocated for management training, $20,000 for an engineering reorganization consultant. - IT Services: Transition from fully contracted IT (via MPU) to two in-house positions; elimination of remaining virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) with migration to cloud-based PCs. - Police Equipment: Phase-in replacement of Tasers (est. $80,000/year), with no funding for Flock license plate readers in this budget. - Infrastructure Projects: Major road projects (Franklin Street, North 10th Street, Marshall Street, Orchard Lane, North 18th Street); replacement of DPW salt shed; CP Armory roof; various equipment purchases; purchase of 13-passenger buses for transit to move toward on-demand service. - Downtown Funding: Reduced from $250,000 to $50,000, with the mayor noting that major downtown projects (River Point District) are nearing completion and priority shifted to public safety. - Visitor Center: Proposed purchase of the current Visit Manitowoc building funded by room tax, to be converted into a 24/7 visitor center with public restrooms and storage. The mayor stated that the budget reflects feedback to "take care of what we have" and acknowledged difficult trade-offs. No council questions were recorded during the meeting. Key Outcomes - Motion to Call Public Hearing: Alderperson Sitkiewitz moved, seconded by Schlei, to set a public hearing on the 2027 General City Budget for Monday, November 16, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The motion passed unanimously (8-0). The council also has the option of a November 23 meeting if needed. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 5:57 PM.

The Joplin City Council held a special meeting on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the fifth floor council chamber at 602 South Main Street. The sole agenda item was the second and third reading of Council Bill 2026-528, an ordinance adopting new step pay plans for city employees, including police and fire, and setting annual salaries for fiscal year 2026-2027. After discussion, the council approved the ordinance by a vote of 6 to 2, with one member absent. Call to Order and Roll Call - The meeting was called to order, and the city clerk read the public notice. Mayor O'Brien presided. - Present: Mr. Bard, Mr. Coppel, Mr. Cortez, Mr. Cals, Mr. Ditar, Mr. Moran, Ms. Price, and Mayor O'Brien. Mr. Jackson was absent. - Mr. Bard moved to excuse Mr. Jackson; Ms. Price seconded. The motion passed 8 to 0, with one absent. Discussion Items - City Manager Edwards presented Council Bill 2026-528. He explained that the ordinance approves the salary administration plan, enables a 2% cost-of-living adjustment beginning November 1, and allows step increases upon satisfactory performance evaluations. - Under the proposed pay plan, police and fire employees would receive a 23.03% wage increase and general employees would receive a 12% increase. Edwards stated that the 12% and 23% increases would not be implemented until the pension plan reaches 120% funding, and the city had budgeted for roughly 10 months of that expenditure. - Councilmember Price stated she was not opposed to the 2% COLA, the 2.5% step increase for city employees, or the 3% step increase for police and fire. She expressed concern about how the 12% figure was determined and about the finance director's response that funding was uncertain if a future compression study identified larger or smaller needed increases. She also noted Councilmember Koppel's point that the 12% figure was discussed in a closed meeting, raising transparency concerns. Price said she would vote no because approving the 12% across-the-board raise could leave insufficient funds to fix pay compression after the study; she said she could support 2%, 2.5%, and perhaps 4–5% raises while preserving money to address compression. She also said a possible data center would provide only short-term revenue for a long-term problem. - Councilmember Koppel asked why the cook position in Exhibit A started at step 4 instead of step 1 and why some pay plans went only to step 17 rather than 18. City Manager Edwards and staff responded that Exhibit A reflects only the 2% COLA; the return to step 1 for beginning grades would occur with the 12% increase, and the step 17/18 structure has been in place for an extended period. - Councilmember Cows asked whether this was the first formal council approval of the 12% increase. Edwards confirmed it was, explaining that a January memo was a tacit agreement and that the increases followed collective bargaining in advance of Proposition Police and Fire. The 23% increase for police and fire was the agreed-upon amount, which supported the 12% increase for general employees; the pay plans were included in a February 9 council work session before the election. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Cortez moved to approve Council Bill 2026-528 on second and third reading; Councilmember Bard seconded. - The ordinance passed 6 to 2, with one absent. Councilmember Price was among the opposing votes; the other opposing vote was not identified in the transcript. - The meeting was adjourned immediately after the vote.

The Board of Public Works met on Monday, October 26, 2026 at 5:00 PM in Council Chambers. The board approved routine bills and awarded a snow removal contract for the upcoming winter season. All actions were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Whitney Tree Service Invoice: Approved payment of $3,41.50 for stump grinding and pruning services. Approved by voice vote with all members in favor. - Pay Request 1 – Lead Service Line Replacement Program: Approved payment of $133,733.46 to E&N Hughes Co Inc. for the first phase of the lead service line replacement program. The work on 15th and 17th Streets reviewed 36 service lines and replaced 17 lead or galvanized services. Average cost per replacement was $8,740, under the budgeted $10,000. The project is funded by a $1 million congressional directed spending grant from Senator Tammy Baldwin's office. Approved by roll call vote: Ayes – Alder True Hart, Alder Schaefer, Alder Tolman (Thoman); Noes – None. Discussion Items - Snow Removal Contract Award for 2026-2027 Season: Streets Supervisor Lucas Neuenschwander presented the annual bid process. Nine quotes were solicited and six received. Carrousel Excavating submitted the lowest quote for both truck-only and truck-with-loader options. The board has previously worked with Carrousel and found them reliable. Board members noted the crew's local knowledge and expressed support for awarding the contract. Key Outcomes - Approval of Snow Removal Contract: Motion to award the contract to Carrousel Excavating passed unanimously. Roll call vote: Ayes – Alder Schaefer, Alder Tolman (Thoman), Alder True Hart; Noes – None. The contract does not require further council approval. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned by voice vote with no opposition. Note: No public comments were received. The minutes from the previous meeting (October 13, 2026) were accepted without correction. There is a minor discrepancy in the transcript: board member Richard Thoman is referred to as "Alder Tolman" during the meeting.

The Delaware City Council held a regular meeting on October 26, 2026, at 7:01 PM in Council Chambers, following a 6:00 PM executive session. The meeting included public comments, a presentation on EMS billing, multiple public hearings, and votes on zoning, annexation, tax incentives, and budget-related resolutions. Key outcomes included approval of the Flats at Boulder Park development, a zoning map amendment for Trailhead Crossing, a residential PUD tabled to third reading, annexation of Vernon Avenue right-of-way, and referral of the 2027 budget to the Finance Committee. A resolution authorizing an impact fee agreement with Olentangy Local School District failed to pass the emergency clause. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the October 5, 2026 Joint School Board/City Council meeting, the October 5, 2026 Special City Council meeting, and the September 28, 2026 regular meeting (McClellan abstained on the September 28 minutes). - Approved consent agenda as amended (striking duplicate item E) which included: - Acceptance of Civil Service meeting minutes (October 2, 2026) and Planning Commission meeting minutes (September 2, 2026). - Setting dates for public hearings and readings for the 2027 budget (Ordinance 26-61), EMS billing contract (Resolution 26-75, Ordinance 26-62), Curtis Street TIF (Ordinance 26-62, second reading), and Curtis Street TIF reimbursement agreement (Ordinance 26-63). Public Comments & Testimony - Deborah Giebert (265 W Fountain Ave) expressed concern about PJM Interconnection’s emergency order request (October 11, 2026) regarding electric reliability, citing that fossil fuel plants are being closed prematurely, threatening energy supply. - Leslie Joyner (14 Noble St) reported a recurrence of racial slurs painted on pavement near a Chinese restaurant and a hostile encounter at the Board of Elections; asked what safety measures the city has for voters. - Andy Mitchell (390 W Williams St) criticized council for ignoring his emails, questioned protections against overspending by officials, alleged constitutional violations in water shutoffs without notice, and complained about lack of response from the city attorney. Presentation: EMS Billing RFP and Transition City staff (Attorney Mosier, Procurement Specialist Cindy Collins, Fire Chief Pyle, Assistant Chief Needing) presented the transition to an EMS billing program after Delaware County ended the decades-old reimbursement contract (ending December 31, 2026). Key points: - The county reimbursement averaged over $1 million per year (5–7% of Fire/EMS revenue). - An RFP for third-party EMS billing services received seven responses; staff expects to recommend a vendor on November 9, 2026. - Three billing models were outlined: insurance-only (no out-of-pocket for residents), soft billing, and hard billing. Staff recommends insurance-only for city residents and soft billing for non-residents. - The estimated 2027 shortfall is $1.1–1.2 million; conservative billing revenue projections are $1.3 million. - The goal is to have the billing program operational by January 1, 2027, contingent on council approval. Public Hearing: Resolution No. 26-71 – Flats at Boulder Park Development Plan - Applicant: TNR Properties (RJ Sabatino) for 252 multifamily units in seven three-story buildings, with clubhouse and amenities, located in the Donovan Farms Planned Mixed Use Overlay. - Discussion: Councilman Haynes questioned density (252 of 280 permitted units) and screening from future single-family homes. Staff noted the site abuts industrial use and three stories are appropriate; additional landscaping will be added. - Outcome: Approved 4–2 (Griffith, McClellan, Fraser, Riggle yes; Haynes, Bogan no). Public Hearing & Second Reading: Ordinance No. 26-55 – Trailhead Crossing PUD Expansion - Request: Expand existing Commercial PUD by 11.746 acres east of Skyview Lane on Sunbury Road; add daycare and hotel as permitted/conditional uses. - Action: Motion to suspend rules for third reading failed 4–2 (needed 5; Griffith and Bogan voted no). The ordinance will return for third reading on November 9, 2026. Public Hearing & Second Reading: Ordinance No. 26-56 – Bowtown Road Residential PUD - Request: Rezone 12.417 acres from A-1 (Agricultural) to R-PUD for up to 252 residential units (multifamily and attached dwellings). - Discussion: Councilman Bogan expressed concerns about density (30.1 units/acre) and traffic infrastructure timing. Staff noted a TIS is underway; Bixby Parkway extension (county project scheduled for 2027) and other road improvements will be conditioned at development plan stage. - Action: Moved to third reading (due to Councilman Ryder’s absence and ward issues). Public Hearing & Second Reading: Ordinance No. 26-53 (as amended) – Northwood TIF Districts - Establishes 13 non-school residential TIF districts for the Northwood area to fund Bixby Parkway improvements (estimated $5.2 million). The TIFs are 30-year, trigger at $2 million assessed value, and keep school districts whole. - Action: Public hearing held; no public comments. Will proceed to third reading on December 14, 2026 (required 30-day wait). Annexation: Ordinance No. 26-59 – Vernon Avenue Right-of-Way - Annexation of 0.427 acres (southern half of Vernon Avenue) to align corporate boundaries with a previously approved development. - Outcome: Suspended rules and approved unanimously (6-0). Third Reading: Ordinance No. 26-52 – Community Reinvestment Area Expansion - Expanded CRA boundaries to include newly annexed territories, maintaining existing terms. Approved unanimously. Budget and Finance Actions - Ordinance 26-61 (2027 appropriations) – Referred to the Finance Committee without a vote. - Resolution 26-73 – Authorized the Finance Committee to review the 2027 budget. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 26-74 – Accepted tax levy rates for 2027 and certified to the County Auditor. Emergency clause and resolution approved unanimously. Consideration of Ordinance No. 26-62 and 26-63 – Curtis Street TIF and Agreement - Presented but no vote taken; these items will likely be addressed at a future meeting. Resolution No. 26-76 – Olentangy Hyatts High School Impact Fee Agreement - Proposal: Allow Olentangy Local School District to pay 50% of impact fees upfront and defer the remaining 50% pending appeal, to avoid construction delays. - Discussion: Councilman Bogan opposed the arrangement, arguing the district should pay in full and seek refund if appeal succeeds. City staff noted the agreement allows for a bond or letter of credit. - Outcome: Motion to approve the emergency clause failed 4–2 (Griffith, McClellan, Fraser, Riggle yes; Haynes, Bogan no). The resolution did not pass; the City Manager indicated the agreement will likely not proceed. Reports and Comments - Finance Director’s Report: Revenues through September were $157.3 million (2.3% decrease due to property tax settlement delays). Fire fund revenues down due to lack of county reimbursement. Progress on parking kiosk contract, paperless billing launch by year-end, and a new sweeper broom for the airport. - City Manager’s Report: Attended ICMA conference; paving operations ongoing; ribbon cutting for the Point bridge postponed. - Council Comments: Announcements about Veterans Day parade (Sunday, 3 PM), early voting reminder, and Halloween safety. Executive Session Council reconvened into executive session at the end of the meeting (ORC 121.22(G)(1)) to consider the appointment and employment of a public employee or official. The meeting then adjourned.

The Duluth City Council convened on Monday, October 26, 2026, following a Finance Committee session. The main meeting featured a robust discussion on a resolution supporting the 148th Fighter Wing's F-35 bid, public comments on various local issues, and the unanimous approval of the consent agenda. Council also received updates on the 2027 budget and tourism tax distribution. Consent Calendar - Approved Unanimously: The consent agenda included resolutions for vacating certain rights-of-way, authorizing a contamination cleanup grant application for the Duluth Heritage Sports Center, approving an engineering services agreement for Hillside Culvert Repair Phase 3 (not to exceed $166,382.50), authorizing a utility invoice mailing services agreement with Infosend, Inc. for 2027 ($215,550), ordering a sanitary sewer extension on Roslyn Avenue, accepting a Towards Zero Deaths grant ($53,850), and amending a grant agreement for the Cross City Trail. Public Comments & Testimony - F-35 Resolution Support: Tom Warner, Executive Director of the Duluth Airport Authority, strongly urged support for the 148th Fighter Wing, highlighting its $107.5 million annual economic impact and its critical 24-hour firefighting support at the airport. Tiffany Hughes, Chair of the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce, also voiced strong support, noting the 148th is one of the region's largest employers with over 1,000 local employees. - Community Issues (Non-Agenda): - Roy Hamlin criticized the city administration's handling of a vape shop licensing issue near a school, calling for stronger protections. - Shiloh Johnson and Babette Salmon (Streetwise) urged the council to address homelessness with dignity and invest in housing and mental health. - Abby Vicklin (Animal Allies) advocated for a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) ordinance for managing community cats. - Lauren Martell expressed concerns about the school district's operating levy referendum and its long-term financial impact on homeowners. - Genka Tarnowski criticized the conduct of Councilors Klana and Durlachter and expressed support for a proposed code of conduct resolution. Discussion Items - Finance Committee (Pre-Council): - Visit Duluth Presentation: Executive Director Haley Headstrom presented the FY2027 process for allocating discretionary tourism funds ($695,000 total). The application scoring rubric uses a maximum of 80 points. Council members discussed the timeline, the independence of the allocation decisions, the Madden Media contract, and metrics for measuring return on investment. - Budget Update: Budget Manager Missy Harold provided the 2027 budget timeline. Notable changes included a $198,000 increase in medical insurance costs (9% renewal vs. 7.5% budgeted) and a $196,700 increase from the Minnesota Power franchise fee. - F-35 Resolution (26-0918R): - Councilor Klana moved to postpone the vote until after the November 3rd election, citing concerns over current federal foreign policy and the politicization of military spending. - Councilor Durlachter seconded the motion, raising additional concerns about potential federal mandates involving the military. - Councilors Nephew, Johnson, Forsman, Randorf, and Tomanek spoke against postponement, stressing the October 29th deadline, the economic importance of the base ($107.5M / 1,000 jobs), and the potential loss of critical firefighting services. - The motion to postpone failed 2-7. Key Outcomes - F-35 Resolution Passes: The resolution supporting the 148th Fighter Wing was approved with 7 votes in favor and 2 abstentions (Councilors Klana and Durlachter). President Kennedy confirmed the city will submit a letter of support by the October 29th deadline. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously by roll call vote. - Zoning Ordinance (First Reading): An ordinance to reclassify parcels within the Lester Park Golf Course was read for the first time. - Budget Schedule: The council outlined the path to the final budget, including the tourism tax resolution on November 9th and final budget approval on December 14th.