The Public Meeting Index

The Board of Public Works met on October 22, 2026, at 7:45 PM to approve routine items, including minutes, contracts, and right-of-way permits. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the October 15, 2026, Board of Public Works meeting. - Approved bills and payrolls. Discussion Items - Change Order No. 6 for Danco Construction (Admin Renovations): Jonathan C. B. King, Director of METS, explained the final change order adds $13,175 to the contract, bringing the total to $731,966.15. The funds cover roof repairs at the Greyhound (due to an HVAC leak damaging the ceiling), additional ductwork at the admin building, and data lines for a new office. The board approved the motion. - Acceptance of Street Improvements – Orchard North Subdivision: Brian Mundy (City Engineering) stated these streets were not originally constructed properly and a letter of credit was called. A new developer fixed them, and the improvements are now ready for acceptance. Linear footage: Cameo Drive Section 1 – 815 ft, Cameo Court Section 2 – 302 ft, Section 3 – 348 ft, Cameo Drive Section 4 – 791 ft, plus adjacent storm sewers. The board approved the acceptance. - Right-of-Way Dedication – Lynch Road: Brian Mundy explained the dedication clarifies an existing right-of-way west of Garrison Avenue (east of US 41) that was not formally recorded. The property owner agreed to the formal dedication. Approved. - Right-of-Way Permits: The City Engineer’s office recommended approval of applications 3270–3277 and 3279–3281 as submitted; exception was taken on application 2436 (insufficient information/civil issue); application 3255 was tabled pending additional information; and application 3278 was pending a meeting with APC requirements. The board approved the recommendation with the condition that maintenance of traffic procedures follow the Indiana MUTCD and that Board of Public Safety approval may be required for lane restrictions or street closures. Key Outcomes - All motions passed unanimously (all ayes). - Change order No. 6 approved with a new total contract amount of $731,966.15. - Street improvements in Orchard North Subdivision accepted. - Right-of-way dedication for Lynch Road approved. - Right-of-way permits approved with noted exceptions. - Meeting adjourned.

The Kansas City, Missouri City Council convened on October 22, 2026, for a business session. Council members approved the October 8 business session minutes, heard staff recommendations on the 2024 building code adoption process under Ordinance 260137, and received the citywide business plan and five-year forecast. The meeting then moved toward legislative session. Consent Calendar - Approved, by unanimous voice vote, the minutes of the October 8, 2026 business session. Building Code Process and Recommendations (Ordinance 260137) - City staff, including ACM Binkley, Deputy Director Uraimana Pali, and Deputy Building Official Heath Perkins, presented on Ordinance 260137, adopted in February 2026, which directed City Planning and Development to review the 2024 building code package with robust public engagement and return recommendations within nine months. - Staff reviewed 13 jurisdictions around Kansas City; most are currently on 2012 or 2018 codes and moving toward 2024, with many deferring or amending energy code provisions. - Engagement included three initial public meetings at NNI, Mohat Center, and South Patrol, outreach through the Neighborhoods Department, meetings with HBA, AGC, and other agencies, and a final meeting at NNI where proposed amendments were shared. - Staff recommended adopting the 2024 code with amendments to support housing affordability and attainability, including options for houses smaller than 2,500 square feet, energy code modifications, and pre-adoption of the 2027 single-stair, four-story apartment provisions. Energy-specific recommendations: - On the prescriptive energy path, staff proposed reducing wall insulation to R15 to allow conventional insulation in standard stud walls; an R19 and foam option could avoid blower door testing. - Added an exception for homes under 2,500 square feet of conditioned space, allowing a straight HERS score of 70 or less, consistent with Kansas state law for homes under 2,500 square feet and previous city amendments. - Maximum Energy Rating Index set at HERS 70 for homes under 2,500 square feet and 63 for homes over 2,500 square feet, up from 54 in the 2024 code; lower scores are more efficient but costlier to build. - An electrical amendment would eliminate kitchen island outlet requirements for small homes to reduce costs. Commercial and trade recommendations: - Introduce a commercial contractor license, a requirement staff said Kansas City is the only big city in the metro lacking. - Clarify exterior wall projection definitions, create a process for common walls on shared properties, and adopt 2027 IBC exit requirements allowing four-story single-stair apartment buildings instead of three. - Switch plumbing code from the Uniform Plumbing Code toward the International Plumbing Code using IPC/UPC combination amendments. - Modify International Mechanical Code sections to align with state boiler law, adding an exception for state compliance; amend commercial electrical code for kitchen outlet clarity. - No council questions were recorded on this item. Citywide Business Plan and Five-Year Forecast - Finance Director Bretton Siverley and Deputy Director Teresa Danielson presented the citywide business plan, required by charter to be adopted by November 1, and the five-year forecast. - The forecast includes Resolution 26086, adopted earlier that week, limiting debt service paid for public safety sales tax initiatives and saving about $5 million. - The general fund operating deficit is projected at $140.8 million for FY28, including $21 million in support for the public mass transportation fund, primarily with one-time sources, and $6.4 million for the street maintenance fund, maintaining an additional $6 million per year for resurfacing. Revenue assumptions: - FY26 earnings tax collections came in below budget, revising FY27 estimates down by an estimated $10 million; a 3% growth rate is projected over the forecast. - Local use tax revenue includes a $12.7 million refund to the state in FY27 for prior-year exempt purchases, with 6.4% moderate growth projected. - FY27 service charges include $14 million in new Medicaid reimbursement for ground emergency medical transportation (GEMT). Expenditure assumptions: - Wages assumed at 3% annually; FY28 includes a 27th pay period for all except police at an estimated $9 million cost. - Pension costs forecast at 12.5%; health care at 5.5% in FY28 and 5.25% thereafter. - Personnel costs make up 70% of general fund expenditures. - Transfers to special revenue funds rise from $12.1 million to $67.6 million by FY32 because those funds face inflationary pressure and rely on the general fund. - FY26 is the first operating deficit since FY21. - Fund balance is projected at 24.7% in FY27 against the 25% target, then below target from FY28 through FY32. Councilman Duncan asked about the story behind the revenue changes. The finance director explained that earnings tax collections were slightly below estimates, use tax was reduced by a state refund plus an artificially inflated prior-year base, and GEMT reimbursement was an additional positive: the state now allows Medicaid managed-care reimbursement, adding $14 million to the existing roughly $8 million GEMT revenue. Discussion of Ordinances, Resolutions, and Communications - The final agenda item was discussion of ordinances, resolutions, and communications for floor introduction. The mayor stated the hearing would stand adjourned to legislative session; a brief exchange indicated time constraints, with one speaker noting 20 minutes remained. Key Outcomes - Approved the October 8, 2026 business session minutes unanimously. - Received and discussed the building code recommendations and five-year forecast; no formal vote was recorded on either presentation. - The business plan and forecast will guide the submitted budget due in February 2027. - The meeting moved to adjourn to legislative session after the final agenda item was announced.

The Alexandria Transportation Commission convened on October 22, 2026, to receive updates on the Duke Street Land Use Plan’s mobility chapter, deliberate on fiscal 2028 budget priorities, and share updates from various city boards and commissions. The meeting featured discussions on regional transit funding, traffic management, and long-term planning for the Duke Street corridor. Consent Calendar - The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from its September 2026 meeting by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present in the room or online. No public comment was received. Discussion Items Duke Street Land Use Plan Mobility Chapter - Staff from the Neighborhood Planning division (Christian Brandt, Michael) and Transportation Department (Sarah Brantbro) presented the draft mobility chapter of the Duke Street Land Use Plan. The plan area stretches from Alexandria Union Station to Van Dorn Street. - Community Engagement: Over 70 pop-ups were held, along with contact with 250 businesses, over 4,000 residents, and roughly 100 ACPS students. - Traffic Analysis: The corridor sees 30–40% regional through traffic between Quaker and Telegraph Roads. The 20-year traffic study found the planned density would not significantly increase traffic, drawing a comparison to Potomac Yard where added development coincided with reduced traffic on Richmond Highway. - Transitway: The Duke Street Transitway is in the design phase, with construction anticipated around 2028. The plan concentrates density around planned transit stops. - Safety and Infrastructure: The plan proposes a future street grid for redeveloped sites with wider sidewalks, on-street bike lanes, and multi-use paths. Areas identified for future safety study include the intersections of Holmes Run and Van Dorn, and Cambridge and Roth, and multimodal improvements along Wheeler Avenue. - Shade as an Equity Issue: Commissioner Melissa McMahon argued that shade along Duke Street is an equity issue rather than an amenity, urging that cross sections include sufficiently large soil volumes to support mature tree canopies to mitigate the heat island effect. - Regional Connectivity: Staff noted the transitway could connect with future BRT systems, such as the Fairfax County Route 7 BRT. Commissioner Dan inquired about coordination with the 395 interchange project and VDOT to address local traffic impacts on the corridor. - Process and Next Steps: Chair Dan noted the item should have been a public hearing and was not properly noticed; thus, no vote was taken. A letter endorsing the plan will be brought forward for a vote at the November 2026 meeting. The public comment period remains open until November 13, 2026. - Date Discrepancy: The public notice read at the start of the meeting referred to the “October 21st, 2026 meeting of the Transportation Commission,” while definitive meeting documentation provided to the AI specifies October 22, 2026. Fiscal 2028 Budget Priorities - Commissioners reviewed the City Manager’s stated focus areas for the FY2028 budget: employee retention, youth and education, public safety, eliminating community disparities, stable affordable housing, CIP debt, and diversifying the tax base. - Top Priorities Identified: 1. Sustainable, ongoing funding for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) and regional transit support. 2. Maintaining funding for DASH transit services; a recent accounting error demonstrates the system requires higher investment than previously allocated to maintain current service levels. 3. Sustained investment in Complete Streets and Safe Routes to School programs as essential alternatives to driving amid economic pressures and high fuel prices. - Funding Solutions: Commissioners discussed several avenues to support priorities, including the state-permitted penny sales tax option and automated traffic enforcement revenue. Councilman Chapman advised against specifying a tax increase in the November letter, recommending it instead encourage the city to “look at all the available tools on the table.” - Advocacy Role: Commissioners expressed interest in having the Transportation Commission directly advocate for these priorities with state and regional bodies, coordinating with city council’s legislative agenda. - Next Steps: Staff will draft a letter for the November 2026 meeting summarizing these priorities and the call to explore all funding tools. The letter is due to the City Manager by November 20, 2026. Key Outcomes - September Minutes Approved: The minutes were approved by voice vote. - Duke Street Endorsement Deferred: The vote on an endorsement letter was deferred to the November meeting to allow for proper noticing. Staff will update the draft letter to reflect the meeting’s discussion. - Budget Letter in Development: A letter outlining FY2028 budget priorities (WMATA, DASH, Complete Streets/Safe Routes to School, funding flexibility) will be drafted and presented at the November meeting for approval before the November 20 submission deadline. - Meeting Format Change: The Commission agreed in principle to conduct the December 16, 2026 meeting fully virtually due to the holiday season. - Future Advocacy: Commissioners sought to formalize the Transportation Commission’s ability to advocate for city transportation priorities at the state and regional level with city council support. Commissioner Updates & Other Business - Environmental Policy Commission (EPC): Commissioner Dan met with EPC Chair Mark Deshans to discuss potential joint letters on EV sidewalk charging, the flood resilience plan, and the NOVA hospital construction engagement. - Youth Recruitment: The Commission discussed challenges in filling its young adult (18–30) seat. Suggestions included outreach to ACPS government teachers, NOVA’s student body, the Chamber’s Young Leaders Network, and city council-hosted youth forums. - DASH Service Survey: Commissioner Dan noted an open public input survey on potential DASH service reductions (closes November 10) ahead of a November public hearing. - Traffic Violence Remembrance: Commissioner Kristen Phelps announced the Northern Virginia Families for Safe Streets World Day of Remembrance for Victims of Traffic Violence on November 15, 2026, at Woodson High School. - West End Open House: An upcoming city open house will highlight street and infrastructure projects on the West End, with 34 staff members available to answer public questions.

The Honolulu City Council Committee on Zoning and Planning met in person on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 9:04 a.m. Chair Kia Aina presided. Remote verbal testimony was permitted, with each speaker limited to one minute per item. The committee took action on Resolution 26-236 (Bellows Air Force Station land return), three Special Management Area major permits, Resolution 26-230 (Kapolei Parkway affordable housing), and Bill 55 (2026) (YMCA downzone). Resolution 26-233 was canceled and not considered. Public Comments & Testimony - On Resolution 26-236, testifiers strongly supported returning Bellows lands to the people of Hawaii. Kuike Kamakea Ohelo (Restoration Advisory Board co-chair) called the taking Aihue, said the land was Crown Land, and urged adoption of amendments for parcel-by-parcel review, cleanup without delaying return, and return to the public land trust. Keoni DeFranco cited community restoration efforts and urged co-management, federally funded cleanup, and a timeline. Puohonua Dennis Kanahele (Nation of Hawaii) framed the return as reconciliation following the 1993 Apology Resolution. Lena Ala Le (Office of Hawaiian Affairs chief advocate) said OHA supports return and reexamination of all military-held lands. Brandon Maka Ava (Nation of Hawaii vice president) spoke of Aina readiness and the community's restoration record. Other testifiers, including Leslie Keating, Karen O'Mahony, Pohono Coleman, Isis Osborne, and Kimio Nakane (Waimanalo Neighborhood Board chair), supported return and cleanup. Jodi Mao Kelly, a Bellows employee, asked that employee protections, priority hiring, and continuing jobs be included in any transition plan. - On Resolution 26-230, Sam Kim and Mark Anthony Clemente of the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters supported the project and the requested fee waivers, citing the need for affordable homes for local workers. Leslie Keating opposed the park and storm sewer fee waivers, saying the surrounding community already has strains and no recreational space was planned for more than 1,100 total units in the area. Discussion Items Resolution 26-236 – Bellows Air Force Station Land Return Chair Kia Aina introduced a hand-carried CD1 that urges the United States to return lands used by Bellows Air Force Station to the people of Hawaii in consultation with the Native Hawaiian community, the Waimanalo community, and the State of Hawaii Department of Hawaiian Homelands. The CD1 also states that the United States shall bear the costs of unexploded munitions cleanup and chemical contamination remediation. Noelani Kalipi, Senior Advisor with the Hawaii Coordination Cell in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of War for Energy Installations and Environment, attended; she said her office exists to collaborate and that she could not make decisions for the military services. She agreed with the resolution's historical accounting and said there is a pathway for deciding which portions could be returned. The resolution recites that 1,510 acres were set aside by executive order in March 1917, the runways closed in 1958, and in 2000 about 1,049 acres were transferred for Marine Corps training. Testifiers and members noted the land is currently used for recreation rather than the original military purpose. Councilmember Tupola referenced a 1996 federal record of decision identifying 170 acres along the southern boundary for return and a 2021 legislative resolution; she called co-management a first step, citing Makua as a roadmap. Resolutions 26-218, 26-220, and 26-221 – Special Management Area Major Permits - Resolution 26-218 grants an SMA major permit to the Smith Trust for a 14,269-square-foot R-10 shoreline lot at 47-347 Lulani Street in Kaneohe. Laura Ayers of White Space Architects said the proposed home replaces a 1962 house, remains outside the 130-foot SMA setback, and is not expected to be affected by coastal erosion or 3.2 feet of sea level rise by 2100. - Resolution 26-220 grants an SMA major permit to Nicholas and Chris Krista Baum for a 28,392-square-foot R-10 lot at 60 Kaapuni Drive in Kailua. Jim Hayes of Planning Solutions said the development includes two single-family dwellings totaling about 7,000 square feet and a swimming pool, is outside the sea level rise exposure area, and that Kailua Beach is accreting in that area. The CD1 requires submittal of the State Historic Preservation Division's acceptance of the archaeological inventory survey and any needed mitigation commitments. - Resolution 26-221 grants an SMA major permit to Randall and Irene Wong for a 12,754-square-foot R-10 lot at 84-253 Farrington Highway in Waianae. Jim Hayes said the undeveloped coral-substrate parcel would receive a roughly 3,000-square-foot single-family house and a detached garage with an 800-square-foot ADU, with no pool and no variances required. No public testimony was offered on these three items. Department of Planning and Permitting staff supported all three. The committee amended each to its posted CD1 and reported them out for adoption. The verbal amendments revised landowner acknowledgment conditions B2/C2 to retain the first sentence and delete the last two sentences. Resolution 26-230 – Kapolei Parkway Lots 2-5 Affordable Rental Housing Isaiah Sato and Alana Kobayashi Pakala (Kobayashi Group) presented the project for KP 52 LLC. The proposal is approximately 737 affordable rental units and 8 manager units in 16 three- and four-story buildings on a 15.192-acre portion of a city-owned BMX-3 zoning lot in Kapolei. Units would serve households earning 30%, 60%, or 80% of AMI, with an income-averaging approach keeping the overall average at or below 60% AMI; rents remain affordable for at least 73 years. At 60% AMI, a one-bedroom was estimated at about $1,700 and a four-bedroom at about $2,680, including utilities. The CD1 grants fee exemptions and deferrals and relief from joint development and bicycle parking requirements. The developers said a development agreement with the Department of Housing and Land Management is still being negotiated; councilmembers urged DHLM to appear and coordinate. Discussion also covered lessons learned from the adjacent Parkway Village, including larger family units, daycare spaces, and traffic improvements. Bill 55 (2026) – YMCA Central Property Downzone Walter Thames III (YMCA of Honolulu president and CEO) and Alec Harrington presented the request to rezone the 1.77-acre YMCA property at 401 Atkinson Drive from AMX-3 with a 350-foot height limit to A2 with a 150-foot height limit, and to rezone the fronting portion of Atkinson Drive from BMX-3 to A2. The bill also terminates the unilateral agreement recorded under Ordinance 13-34, which was tied to a 128-unit residential tower project approved in 2013 but never built. The current buildings date to 1951 and include a 113-room dormitory operating at about 75% occupancy. Thames said the agreement is an obstacle to future opportunities and that any future redevelopment would need separate approvals. The property is within the Ala Moana TOD plan area. DPP chief of planning Dina Wong said DPP supported the CD1. No public testimony was offered. Key Outcomes - Resolution 26-236 CD1 was reported out for adoption; Councilmember Okimoto noted reservations. - Resolution 26-218 CD1 was reported out for adoption. - Resolution 26-220 CD1 was reported out for adoption. - Resolution 26-221 CD1 was reported out for adoption. - Resolution 26-230 CD1 was reported out for adoption. - Bill 55 (2026) CD1 was reported out for passage on second reading with a public hearing scheduled; a 90-day extension was granted under Miscellaneous Communication 447 (2026). - Resolution 26-233 was canceled and not considered.

The Evansville Vanderburgh County Building Commission held a hearing on October 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM, presided by Pro Tem Hearing Officer Michael DiRienzo. The hearing addressed over 40 cases regarding unsafe buildings, including both evidentiary cases (requiring sworn testimony) and routine matters. Key actions included affirming repair, vacate, and raze orders, and imposing civil penalties for non-compliance. Consent Calendar (Routine Approvals) - 3926 N. Fourth Ave. (Land Trust): Released to voluntary compliance after substantial renovation. - 1674 S. Elliott St. (KJ Realty LLC): Released to voluntary compliance; all repairs completed. - 3412 Yale Dr. (Whitt): Released to allow civil court action for fence encroachment. - 1621 Jackson Ave. (Pendergrass): Order upgraded from repair to raze due to fire damage. - 1424 W. Maryland St. (Gibson): Order upgraded to raze. Public Comments & Testimony - 303 Chandler Ave. (apartment building): Multiple neighbors expressed safety concerns. Sam Forrest questioned the scope of repairs and suggested engineering oversight. Philip Hooper (Riverside Neighborhood Association president) criticized prolonged inaction and safety hazards. Sarah Rodriguez highlighted school buses stopping near the unstable wall. - 823 E. Chandler Ave.: Angie Bullock (realtor and neighborhood board member) informed the commission the property is under contract with a buyer who plans historic restoration, with closing expected by October 30. - 2911 W. Franklin St.: The inspector read a neighbor complaint about debris blocking the sidewalk. - 2575-2579 Stanley Ct.: Owner Frankie Ray Needhammer described difficulty finding contractors and health issues. Evidentiary Cases and Key Discussions - 2911 W. Franklin St. (retaining wall): Inspector Allen testified the wall remained incomplete and debris littered the sidewalk. Owner CJ Funkey cited contractor equipment failures and previous engineering plan rejections. The Hearing Officer imposed a $1,000 civil penalty, finding the safety hazard and months of non-compliance justified the penalty as previously ordered. Matter returned December 17, 2026. - 303 Chandler Ave. (SK Homes LLC): Inspector Lukey recommended the $5,000 maximum civil penalty for failure to submit a detailed plan and signed contract. Neighbors testified to the building's dangerous condition (collapsed brick wall, unsafe balcony, mold). The Hearing Officer imposed the $5,000 penalty, requiring a signed contract, detailed timeline, and active permits by November 6, with a progress hearing November 19. - 823 E. Chandler Ave.: Inspector documented roof holes, exposed structure, and animal entry. Realtor Angie Bullock confirmed the sale pending to a restoration buyer. Repair order affirmed; matter returned November 19. - 1205 Edgar St.: Masrani Global LLC representative Darren Brewer disputed the water service status, claiming water was supplied from an adjoining property. The Hearing Officer affirmed the emergency vacate order based on evidence of inactive water service. - 1107 Lodge Ave.: Emergency vacate affirmed for house and garage; camper had been removed. Separate repair order for garage also affirmed. - Other evidentiary cases: Emergency vacate orders were affirmed for 1308 Fountain Ave. (deplorable conditions), 901 N. Fourth Ave. (roof, foundation issues, vagrancy), 1014 N. Third Ave. (fire damage, foundation collapse), 1728 E. Riverside Dr., and 2600 W. Illinois St. (owners deceased). Civil Penalties and Compliance Orders - $5,000 penalty: 303 Chandler Ave. - $1,000 penalties: 2911 W. Franklin St. and 1612-1614 S. Linwood Ave. (non-compliance, refused access). - $500 penalties imposed: 722 E. Gum St., 1263 Madison Ave., 1117 W. Iowa St., and 2575-2579 Stanley Ct. (willful non-compliance). - Civil penalties held under advisement: 1931 Hathaway Ave., 312 E. Florida St., 1343 E. Franklin St. (receivership issue), 221 W. Columbia St., and others. - Referral: 2600 W. Illinois St. repair case referred to Housing Court for enforcement. Key Outcomes and Next Steps - Numerous vacate, repair, and raze orders were affirmed. - Most matters were continued to November 19, 2026 or December 17, 2026 for progress updates. - The next hearing dates were set for compliance reviews. - The hearing officer emphasized that substantial completion or clear progress must be shown by those dates to avoid further penalties.

The St. Charles Parish Council held the second of three public hearings on Ordinance 2026-0173, which adopts the FY2027 Consolidated Operating and Capital Budget. The hearing took place on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Department heads and agency representatives presented their proposed budgets, and the council considered multiple amendments to the 2026 and 2027 budgets. No public comments were offered. The final public hearing and adoption are scheduled for Monday, October 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing portion of the meeting. Discussion Items - District Attorney’s Office: Representative Joel Shassall presented a budget with minimal changes from the prior year; no questions were raised. - Registrar of Voters: Brian Champagne noted a $1,900 increase in postage (from $8,000 to $10,000) due to a supplemental voter canvass by the state. He also updated that the state is still reviewing voting machine vendors, with a decision expected by year-end; local costs for new machines would be billed to the parish. - Sheriff’s Office: Sheriff Greg Champagne reported that the per-diem inmate contract rate ($30/day) remains unchanged but may need an increase next fall. Crime and inmate numbers have dropped significantly—50% fewer than 10–15 years ago. The FY2027 budget proposal is $1.168 million for inmate per diem, down from the FY2026 projection of $1.3 million; actual FY2026 spending may be just over $1 million. - Coroner’s Office: Barry Minick presented a stable budget with salary adjustments. Councilmember O’Daniels asked about a $25,000 line item for food and clothing; Minick explained it was for hazmat suits and protective gear for investigators. - LSU Ag Center: Tracy Adams requested a standstill budget and thanked the council for support. - Council District 2 Amendment: Councilmember Skiba moved to reduce the 2026 District 2 budget by $39,000 across various line items (e.g., printing, postage, travel) and to add $10,000 to the Fortified Roof Program and $29,000 to tutoring services at community service centers. The motion passed unanimously. - Agency Presentations: - Ark of St. Charles: Noted cost increases for gas and insurance; progress on new property construction is delayed by elevation and tax issues. - Library: Leanne Benedict presented a budget reflecting the ongoing Hahnville construction project; insurance costs for retirees increased due to recent retirements. - Council on Aging: April Keller introduced new finance manager Destiny Brown; the only change is adding a canopy to the building. - St. Charles Housing Authority: Jedi Jackson reported that HUD has accepted the budget; it is fiscally prudent and based on past trends. - St. Charles Community Health Center: Chia Hurton stated that millage revenue supports clinics in Luling and Norco, which serve about 30,000 encounters and 8,500 unique patients annually (56% parish residents). - 911 Communications: Director Zinner reported a healthy fund balance ($5.5M) but plans to spend about $2 million on a new cloud-based ESInet system (AT&T) for call-taking, video, and photo reception. Text-to-911 is now operational. - St. Charles Parish Hospital: Brianna Sparnak presented the adopted FY2026 budget; the FY2027 budget will be considered by the hospital board on December 2. - Council District 1 Amendment: Councilmember Wilson moved to reduce the 2026 District 1 budget by $27,000 and reallocate $9,000 each to health and safety rehabilitation, emergency food assistance, and tutoring at the Colonna Community Center. The motion passed unanimously. - Drainage Project Amendment: Councilmember Wilson also moved to transfer $75,000 from the general fund to the drainage fund for the Bamboo Street/LaPlace drainage improvements project. Councilmember Fisher clarified that the funds came from a $100,000 reduction in Economic Development professional services approved previously. The motion passed unanimously. - Grant Amendment: Finance Director Grant Dussom moved to increase FY2027 Fund 112 revenues and expenditures by $137,200 for a hazard mitigation grant for the Ormond Oaks Channel Improvement Project. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All amendments (Districts 2 and 1, drainage transfer, hazard mitigation grant) were approved unanimously by the council members present (Councilmember Comardelle was absent for one vote; Councilmember Fonseca absent for several; Councilmember Skiba absent for earlier votes but present for her own amendment). - The FY2027 budget ordinance (2026-0173) was advanced to final public hearing and adoption on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM. - No further council discussion or public comment was received; the meeting was adjourned.

The Jacksonville Waterways Commission met on 2026-10-22 at 11:02 AM in the Council Chamber at City Hall. Chair Rahman K. Johnson presided. The meeting included a presentation from the Jax Riverfront Alliance, subcommittee reports on FIND grant projects, the Fort George River Sandbar Task Force, and the George Crady Bridge, as well as a water quality and manatee status update from Jacksonville University. The commission approved a set of four FIND grant project proposals and took note of future business items to be addressed in November. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the September 17, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - John Nooney, a Jacksonville resident, expressed full support for the Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) and the subcommittee's recommendations. He also highlighted that public access to waterways in Duval County is "the worst ever" and urged the commission to address this issue. Discussion Items - Jax Riverfront Alliance Presentation: Linzee Ott, Interim Director, presented the organization's mission to activate, enhance, and create partnerships for a world-class destination riverfront. The phased approach includes focusing on programming at Riverfront Plaza and Music Garden in Phase 1, then expanding to operations and maintenance, and eventually caring for a larger system of connected parks. In response to commissioner questions, Ott noted that parking access is being coordinated with the Downtown Investment Authority and that the organization is beginning private fundraising after receiving initial city funding. - FIND Subcommittee Report: Brian Burkett of the Parks Department presented four grant applications for 2027: 1. Sisters Creek Transient Facilities – $2 million ask (total $4.4 million) for 500 feet of transient docks. 2. Wayne B. Stevens Boat Ramp Improvements – conversion to a kayak launch and fishing pier (design phase previously funded). 3. St. Johns Marina Boat Ramp Replacement – replacement and lengthening of the only downtown boat ramp, to be completed during a two-year construction closure ($1.3 million). 4. Stinson Park Bulkhead Replacement – 325 feet of deteriorated wooden bulkhead to be replaced with vinyl ($275,000). The subcommittee supported all four projects, and the commission voted to move them forward. - Fort George River Sandbar Vessel Speed Regulation Task Force: Commissioner Matt Jones reported that the task force requested an extension to December 1, 2026, to ensure a thorough report focused on public safety. The extension was approved. - George Crady Bridge Update: Vice Chair Gay and others discussed the challenge of the bridge being state-owned, which limits city grant eligibility. Brian Burkett identified a Cooperative Assistance Program (CAP) through FIND that could fund a study and design, with a potential cap of $3-4 million per year, but the state must apply. Representative Dean Black and Senator Davis are working with the Duval delegation to advance the issue. - Artificial Reef Subcommittee: The formal update is scheduled for the November 19, 2026 meeting. Commissioner Hardesty announced via Jim Suber that a cargo ship from South Florida will be sunk as an artificial reef in one of the city's permit locations in mid-November. - St. Johns River Status Report: Dr. Gerard Pinto reported that recent heavy rains have lowered salinities and temperatures. Salinities at Mayport were 22–29 ppt (normally 35 ppt) and at Buckman 3–10 ppt (normally <1 ppt). Algae blooms (blue-green algae) are present in the southern river but no toxins have been detected as of October 12. Manatee deaths are unchanged, with very few manatees spotted. Commissioner Thomas inquired about a manatee death in Little Pottsburg Creek and potential links to nearby construction; Dr. Pinto noted the difficulty of determining causation without a necropsy. Key Outcomes - The commission voted unanimously to approve the four FIND grant projects (Sisters Creek, Wayne B. Stevens, St. Johns Marina, Stinson Park) to proceed with city council authorization for grant applications. - The Fort George Sandbar Task Force report deadline was extended to December 1, 2026. - Future business items (land use ordinances and rezoning) were clarified as either deferred to November or outside the commission's authority and will be discharged. - Meeting adjourned at 11:51 AM.

The St. Charles Parish Council held a final budget hearing on Thursday, October 22, 2026, beginning at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers at the Parish Courthouse in Hahnville, Louisiana. The hearing addressed Ordinance 2026-0173, the appropriation for the FY2027 Consolidated Operating and Capital Budget, and included presentations from parish departments, boards, and agencies. Councilmembers adopted additional budget amendments, and the ordinance was announced for public hearing at the October 26, 2026, 6:00 PM council meeting. No written minutes were available; this summary draws from the agenda and transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - The public hearing was opened twice during the meeting; no members of the public came forward to speak, and the hearings were closed. Department and Agency Budget Presentations - District Attorney’s Office: Joel Shassell reported very little change from the prior year other than minimal insurance increases and offered his CPA to answer technical questions. - Clerk of Court: Lance Marino said the budget was a standstill compared with the prior year, except for a $1,900 postage increase to $10,000, driven by rising postage rates and an anticipated state supplemental voter canvass mailing. - Registrar of Voters: Mr. Champagne said election-day voting machines are aging and that the state is still negotiating with vendors; a final decision is hoped for by the end of the year. He noted the parish receives the bill for election costs, including machines, labor, warehousing, and movement of equipment. - Sheriff’s Office: Sheriff Greg Champagne said the parish pays a per diem of about $30 per day for parish inmates under a 20-year contract. He reported that 2025 per diem costs totaled $839,000, 2026 was projected to end just over $1 million, and the 2027 proposal is $1,168,000. He said the inmate population is about 50% lower than 10–15 years ago and did not request an increase now, but warned one may be needed next fall. - Coroner’s Office: Barry Minnick presented a mostly stable budget with salary/classification adjustments for administrative staff. In response to a question from Councilmember O’Daniels, he said a $25,000 food and clothing line would buy hazmat and reusable protective gear for investigators; the office was down from six to five investigators. - LSU Ag Center: Tracy Adams, administrative coordinator, presented a budget standstill and thanked the Council for its continued support. - Ark of St. Charles: Victoria Bryant cited increases in gas, transportation, and insurance costs and introduced new CFO Ashley Jordan. She said the new property project had not yet broken ground because of elevation concerns and tax issues with the contractor; she hoped construction would begin within the next month. - Library: Leanne Benedict said the proposed 2027 budget will go to the Library Board of Control in November, with increases tied mainly to the Hahnville construction project. She also cited retiree insurance costs, driven by three retirements this year and a number of employees eligible for retirement. - Council on Aging: April Keller introduced finance manager Destiny Brown and said the main new item was adding a canopy to the building. - St. Charles Housing Authority: Executive Director Jedadiah Jackson said the FY26–27 operating and HCV budgets are fiscally prudent, were approved unanimously by the Board of Commissioners on September 22, 2026, have been accepted by HUD, and an operating fund grant was submitted to ensure funding on January 1, 2027. - St. Charles Community Health Center: Access Health Louisiana representatives presented a budget reflecting parish millage revenue used exclusively at Luling and Norco clinics. They reported about 30,000 encounters per year, approximately 8,500 unique patients, and about 56% of patients residing in the parish; the budget was prepared on a calendar-year basis even though their fiscal year runs March through February. - 911 Communications: The presenter said increases were mainly for personnel and intergovernmental expenses because sheriff’s raises affect the shared-personnel budget. He said text-to-911 is now operational after seven years, voice calls are still preferred, and a planned public-information blitz will follow the new year. The office is researching a new ESInet (AT&T) 911 call-taking/infrastructure system costing about $2 million; the $5.5 million fund balance would drop to about $3 million. The system is used by about 2,000 agencies and would support video/photo transmissions to patrol cars, fire, and EMS. - Hospital Service District: Brianna Sparnak presented the adopted FY2026 budget, saying the hospital is on target to meet budget this year. The FY2027 budget will be presented to the hospital board on December 2. Amendments - The agenda’s legislative history included 12 amendments recorded at the October 20, 2026 public hearing. Those amendments shifted funding among district/office accounts and toward drainage improvements, Fortified Roof grants, rental assistance, Summer Feeding, relocation of the Des Allemands Veterans Memorial, and projects such as the Ormond Canal articulating block mat and Fairfield/Oakland micro-drainage study. All listed recorded votes were unanimous or near-unanimous, with Councilmember Skiba absent for some votes and Councilmember Fonseca absent for later votes. - Additional amendments were adopted during the October 22 hearing: - District 2 (Skiba): Reduce the District 2 2026 budget by $39,000 and add $10,000 to Fortified Roof Program grants and $29,000 to tutoring services at community service centers. The amendment passed; Councilmember Comardelle was absent. - Division A (Mobley): Reduce the Division A 2026 budget by $41,000 and transfer $41,000 to Fund 113 Recreation: $20,500 to Prime Time Seniors educational recreation and culture and $20,500 to food and clothing. Passed unanimously with members present. - District 1 (Wilson): Reduce the District 1 2026 budget by $27,000 and add $9,000 to Health and Safety Rehab maintenance, $9,000 to community services emergency food assistance, and $9,000 to tutoring at the Killona Community Center. Passed unanimously. - Bamboo Street drainage (Wilson): Transfer $75,000 from the General Fund to Fund 112-420260 for Bamboo Street/Low Plantation drainage improvements. Councilmember Jewell and Councilmember Fisher clarified the funding came from $100,000 removed from the economic development budget and placed in the General Fund. Passed unanimously. - Ormond Oaks hazard mitigation grant (Dussom): Increase Fund 112 roads and drainage revenues by a $137,200 hazard mitigation grant and increase the Ormond Oaks Channel Improvement Project architectural/engineering appropriation by $137,200 for 2027. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - The public hearing on Ordinance 2026-0173 was opened and closed with no public comments. - All amendments offered during the hearing were adopted, with no recorded no votes. - Ordinance 2026-0173 was announced for publication and public hearing at the Council meeting on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers, Hahnville. - The hearing was adjourned by a unanimous vote.

The Boston City Council Committee on Planning, Development, and Transportation, chaired by Councilor Sharon Durkin (District 8), held a hearing on Docket 1543 regarding traffic enforcement of blocked bike lanes and crosswalks on October 22, 2026, at 2:05 PM. The hearing focused on enforcement data, physical infrastructure, state law barriers, and accountability. The administration panel included Chief of Streets Chris Osgood, Deputy Chief Goad, Director of Operations John Romano, and Director of Parking and Curb Management Mia Capone. Public Comments & Testimony - Tiffany Cogell (Boston Cyclist Union) called for automated enforcement (safety cameras) to protect parking enforcement officers and demanded that city vehicles stop setting a bad example by blocking bike lanes. - Councillor Patricia Nolan (Cambridge) testified about Cambridge's successful home rule petition to allow automated parking enforcement and urged Boston to pursue a similar path. - Jonathan (The Bike Bureau) presented data showing roughly 1,500 documented blocked bike lane reports in September 2026, arguing that physical separation is the only reliable long-term solution. - Gregory Maynard (Pioneer Institute) criticized the committee for prioritizing this narrow docket over broader street safety reviews. Chair Durkin defended the scheduling, citing constituent priorities and the collaborative process with councilors and the administration. - Alex (Dorchester) and John Wendenborn (Brighton/Alston) documented thousands of violations, proposed a BPD bike patrol unit and increased staffing, and criticized city vehicles for setting a poor example. - Erica Shearer (Roxbury) and Mikaiah Shearer framed the issue as a disability access crisis, describing how blocked bike lanes and crosswalks force disabled people and families into danger, and noting that 311 responses are often circular and ineffective. - Resident Matthias Iris (Boston College) detailed being physically assaulted by a driver after an interaction over a blocked bike lane, highlighting the failure of police response to such incidents. - Maha (Livable Streets Alliance) shared data from Somerville where automated enforcement reduced violations at monitored locations from 10 per day to less than 1. - Multiple residents from West Roxbury, Jamaica Plain, Beacon Hill, and the South End testified about daily near-misses, overwhelmingly advocating for physical barriers and automated enforcement. Discussion Items - Enforcement Data & Capacity: Chief Osgood reported BTD issued over 1.1 million parking tickets in FY26 (trending 9% higher in FY27). In September 2026, 100,000 tickets were issued, including 1,000 for bike/bus lane violations and 200 for crosswalk violations. A new 311 system (live for one week) now allows better categorization of safety vs. non-safety violations. - State Law Restrictions: A key topic was Massachusetts General Law Chapter 90, Section 28 1/2, which uniquely restricts Boston from using automated parking enforcement. Cambridge passed a home rule petition signed into law in July 2026. Chair Durkin and Councillor Pepin announced their intent to file a similar home rule petition for Boston. - Physical Infrastructure vs. Enforcement: Councilors discussed replacing eroded bollards (Cambridge Street) and moving towards durable protections (cast-in-place concrete for bike lanes on Hyde Park Ave and Washington Street). BTD committed to restoring flex posts on Western Ave. Chair Durkin read the top nine blocked corridors, identifying Kenmore Square (148 incidents) and Longwood/Fenway (132 incidents) as the worst hotspots. - Curb Management: The administration highlighted ongoing work to adjust curb rules (loading zones, short-term drop-off) to reduce the demand for illegal parking and blocking of crosswalks. - Councilor Priorities: Councilor Flynn advocated for lowering the citywide speed limit to 20 mph and immediate towing for hydrant blocking. Councilor Fitzgerald cautioned about the equitable deployment of expanded enforcement resources. Councilor Weber emphasized the lack of enforcement for moving violations by BPD. Key Outcomes - Hearing Held in Committee: Docket 1543 was kept in committee. A formal committee report with answers to councilors' outstanding written questions will be published. - Home Rule Petition Commitment: Chair Durkin and Councillor Pepin committed to drafting and filing a home rule petition with the state legislature to authorize automated parking enforcement in Boston. - Infrastructure Commitments: BTD confirmed plans to install more durable bike lane protection (cast-in-place concrete) on Hyde Park Avenue and Washington Street, and to restore flex posts on Western Avenue. - Future Hearings: Chair Durkin stated she would schedule hearings on other related street safety dockets (Vision Zero, bike network plan) and requested that the administration meet formally with advocacy groups like the Bike Bureau to leverage their data for enforcement and design improvements.