The Public Meeting Index

The El Paso City Council convened on October 13, 2026, to consider a consent agenda, several regular agenda items, and public comments. Key actions included approval of consent items, adoption of an ordinance amending zoning for correctional facilities and halfway houses, adjustments to fee schedules for animal services and code enforcement, amendments to the 2026 Public Art Plan, and a resolution reaffirming a moratorium on automated license plate reader (ALPR) technology. A motion for a city-initiated rezoning study in the Rio Grande neighborhood failed in a tied vote broken by the Mayor. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the September 28–29, 2026 meetings. - Excused absent council members. - Authorized participation in the Rio Grande Council of Governments’ FY2027 Solid Waste Program for scrap tire disposal reimbursement. - Exempted parking meter fees north of I-10 on November 21, 2026 for WinterFest. - Approved temporary closure of rights-of-way for WinterFest 2026 Opening Day and Lights Parade. - Approved the 2026 tax roll. - Renamed March 31st as Farmworkers Appreciation Day. - Confirmed appointments and reappointments to various boards and committees. - Accepted a $3,000 donation from Saratoga Homes for District 5 Movies at the Park. - Noted campaign contribution filings. - Awarded Solicitation 2026-0436 (veterinary narcotic medication) to Midwest Veterinary Supply, Inc., for a three-year initial term ($360,727.77) with a two-year option ($240,485.18), total estimated $601,212.95. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Olgeen (District 1): Requested city assistance for elderly homeowners facing liens due to yard upkeep; proposed undercover DWI task force in bars; expressed concern about lack of police presence on I-10 at night; reported no follow-up from El Paso Water on manhole concerns raised at prior meeting. - Ron Como: Criticized Animal Services management, stating the shelter is ranked 5 worst in Texas; called for a qualified director and funding to complete the Moorhead facility. - JD Martinez (by phone): Described near-miss traffic accidents on eight of nine outings after 7 p.m., urging improved traffic safety enforcement. - Patricia Osman: Raised transparency concerns, alleging misuse of tax dollars for a political consulting firm; criticized city officials for hindering ethics complaints and FOIA requests; opposed consent agenda campaign contributions from vendors. - Lisa Turner: Criticized council for starting late, high food insecurity (40% in El Paso vs. 17% statewide), and lack of action; proposed a food drive at WinterFest; opposed campaign contributions from police and fire unions during contract negotiations. - John Muniz: Linked rising non-emergency EMS runs to financial strain; criticized former city manager DiAgostino’s oversight; called for accountability regarding public health department workforce and food insecurity data. - Michael Ramirez: Questioned El Paso Water’s infrastructure expansion from Dell City given claims of sufficient water; asked about incentives for water usage and use of extra funds for home renovation assistance instead of low-income housing. - Sam Armijo: Opposed public art spending ($8.348 million in 2026), urging diversion to street repairs; argued council can overturn the 2006 public art ordinance. - Patricia Osman (on item 26): Argued citizens should not incur debt via certificates of obligation for art; alleged art funds were diverted to districts with candidates running for office; linked water wall project changes to data center water concerns. - Lisa Turner (on item 27): Described ALPR technology (Flock) as a national security risk due to El Paso’s proximity to Fort Bliss and White Sands; noted Flock’s priority access to cell towers; claimed usage was terminated but cameras still operate. - Bianca Arriaga (El Paso Water): Presented MOU for $6.5 million DEAAG grant for desalination plant expansion; no city cost. - Final public comment on item 27: Patricia Osman noted a Texas court ruling that Flock was unconstitutional; urged including Police Chief in the resolution. Discussion Items - Item 23: Zoning Ordinance for Correctional Facilities and Halfway Houses (Second Reading): Kevin Smith (Planning) explained amendments clarifying definitions, requiring a special permit (not by right), imposing a half-mile distance requirement from residential districts/parks/schools/ churches, and removing a two-year limitation for half wayhouses. Council approved unanimously. - Item 24: City-Initiated Rezoning Study for Rio Grande Neighborhood (District 8): Representative Canales proposed directing staff to analyze alignment of zoning with existing development; 83% of 799 parcels are nonconforming. Debate centered on cost, precedent, and outreach. The motion failed 4-4 (Mayor broke tie, voting no). - Item 25: Fee Schedule Amendments for Animal Services and Code Enforcement: Staff presented consolidated food establishment fees and new adoption fee ranges (up to $198 for dogs). Representative Chavez expressed concern about 49% increase for small restaurants; staff noted last adjustment was 2019. Council approved 6-2 (Acevedo and Nino dissented). - Item 26: 2026 Public Art Plan Amendment: Ben Fyffe (Museums) proposed reallocating $225,000 in savings from Arts Festival Plaza water wall improvements to four other projects: Eastside Regional Park ($25,000 increase for materials), railroad reconstruction storage ($10,000), a graffiti abatement pilot at Dicknati Skate Park ($40,000), and a new trailhead project in District 1 ($150,000). Debate included concerns over scope reduction and equity. Council approved 5-2-3 (Chavez, Rocha, Trejo, Nino, Pierro aye; Acevedo, Limor, Canales no). - Item 27: Resolution to Refrain from ALPR (Flock Safety) Contracts: Repeated prior council direction; passed unanimously. - Item 28: MOU with Texas Military Preparedness Commission for Desalination Plant Expansion: El Paso Water’s application for $6.5 million DEAAG grant; passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda and Farmworkers Appreciation Day: Approved unanimously. - Zoning Ordinance for Correctional Facilities/ Halfway Houses: Adopted unanimously. - Rio Grande Rezoning Study: Motion failed (4-4, mayor voting no). - Fee Schedule Amendments (Item 25): Approved 6-2 (Acevedo, Nino dissenting); later reconsidered and re-approved 5-3 (Chavez, Acevedo, Nino dissenting). - Public Art Plan Amendment (Item 26): Approved 5-2-3. - ALPR Moratorium (Item 27): Approved unanimously. - MOU for Desal Grant (Item 28): Approved unanimously.

The Miami-Dade Aviation and Seaport Committee convened on October 13, 2026, with Chairwoman Danielle Cohen Higgins presiding and Vice Chairman Roberto J. Gonzalez, Commissioners Oliver G. Gilbert III, Keon Hardeman, and Natalie Milian Orbis present. Two add-on items, 3B and 3C, were announced at the outset. The committee discussed the county's reliance on proprietary software, considered the future of the Miami Heat/Airball Sports concession at Miami International Airport (MIA), and approved the balance of the agenda by voice vote. Consent Calendar - Approved the remainder of the agenda, including: - Resolution 261599: first amendment to the professional services agreement with GPI Geospatial, Inc., increasing the agreement by $5,954,850 to a new not-to-exceed amount of $14,253,043.75 for photogrammetric mapping, topographic, planimetric, and light detection and ranging (LiDAR) services. - Resolution 261771: additional expenditure authority of $6,665,500 for Contract RFP-01258, Baggage Handling System Operation and Maintenance, modifying the contract amount to $100,904,735. - Approval of the Clerk's summary of minutes for the September 8, 2026, Aviation and Seaport Committee meeting; the October 2026 Aviation Capital Program Report; and the FIRST CARE-MIA Advisory Board report for July and August 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments are reflected in the transcript during the public comment opportunity. Discussion Items Item 3C - PropWorks System Software - Commissioner Gilbert questioned the county's pattern of purchasing proprietary software that locks the county into a single vendor, arguing these should be treated as lifetime contracts and should require steep upfront discounts or the use of agnostic/plug-and-play systems. He said he would support the item but wanted procurement decisions to build in the future cost of switching. - Commissioner Orbis asked when the county would receive information on full contract life costs and requested a countywide report on sole-source/proprietary contracts, including contract length, vendor performance, and replacement plans. Staff agreed to bring the data to the November committee cycle. - Commissioner Gonzalez said the county is “enslaved” to proprietary software, citing a district splash pad that was closed for four years because only a Canadian company could service it. He called for innovation and warned against a “Blockbuster mentality.” - Chairwoman Cohen Higgins asked whether legacy renewal items could include written due diligence showing alternatives were considered and why the existing vendor was recommended. Staff said that research was normally done and could be “beefed up” in future memos. - Commissioner Hardeman criticized the timing, saying the board was being forced to make a last-minute decision with only one vendor option. Staff said replacing PropWorks would cost an estimated $3.2 million and require an 18-month implementation cycle, making the requested extension with $420,091 in additional expenditure authority more fiscally responsible, for a total modified contract amount of $1,070,158. - The committee deferred item 3C to the November Aviation and Seaport Committee meeting, with a written report on the due diligence performed and evidence of competition. The motion passed by voice vote with no recorded opposition. Item 2A - Airball Sports II LLC / Miami Heat at MIA - Chairwoman Cohen Higgins sponsored Resolution 261773, which would have directed the county to stop negotiating a concession extension with Airball Sports II LLC and instead solicit open competitive proposals for the location at MIA. - Commissioner Gonzalez asked why the matter took two years and why the prime space was not addressed sooner through a competitive process. - George Lopez, representing Airball Sports/Miami Heat basketball properties, said the lease extension had previously been before the committee, that the required labor peace agreement took longer than expected, and that the agreement was now in place. Wendy Walsh, general vice president of Unite Here International Union, said the labor peace agreement with Airball Sports was executed the day before the meeting. The transcript contains a discrepancy: Lopez also suggested the companion affidavit had been executed for months. - Commissioner Hardeman strongly opposed ejecting the Miami Heat from MIA, saying the airport should have a prime retail space for hometown teams. Commissioner Gilbert agreed the Heat should remain, while stressing that labor peace is important and that business should move “at the speed of business.” - Chairwoman Cohen Higgins explained that the Airball/Miami Heat agreement expired on November 28, 2024, and that MIA sent multiple notices to stop negotiations for lack of response, leaving the vendor as a two-year holdover tenant. She said she learned of the execution only that morning. The newly executed agreements cleared the way for a lease renewal; MIA staff stated the new lease would be a 10-year agreement generating millions of dollars in revenue. - The committee voted to defer item 2A to no date certain so the completed lease extension/renewal could be brought back. Commissioner Orbis was the only recorded no vote. Key Outcomes - Item 3C deferred to the November committee cycle, contingent on a written due-diligence and competition report; no recorded opposition. - Item 2A deferred to no date certain; Commissioner Orbis recorded no. The pending resolution to solicit competitive proposals for the Airball Sports location was not adopted. - The administration agreed to provide a countywide report on sole-source/proprietary software contracts at the November committee cycle. - The remaining agenda items and reports were approved by voice vote.

The Mass Transit Department (Sun Metro) Board met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. Board Chair Johnson presided with Board members Chavez, Rocha, Trejo, Nino, Fierro, Limon, Canales, and Acevedo (virtual) present. The transcript records the meeting convening at 10:37 a.m., although the agenda listed an 11:30 a.m. start; the meeting adjourned at 11:50 a.m. The board unanimously approved the consent agenda and heard an informational update on the September 20, 2026 Sun Metro Rising service modifications. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the Regular Mass Transit Department Board Meeting of September 1, 2026 (Item 26-1089). - Approved the request to excuse absent Mass Transit Department Board members (Item 26-1090). - Awarded Solicitation 2026-0118, Grounds Maintenance – Sun Metro, to Mario A. Gonzalez dba MG Evergreen (El Paso, TX) as the highest-ranked bidder under a Best Value procurement. The initial three-year term is estimated at $289,213.65, with a two-year option estimated at $192,811.10, for a total five-year estimated award of $482,024.75. The agenda’s item detail lists the total as $482,027.75, a source discrepancy. Funding is from Sun Metro Operating Funds. - Awarded Solicitation 2026-0407, Lubricants and Oil Sampling (Re-Bid), to Lab One, Inc. (Phoenix, AZ) as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder under a Low Bid procurement. The initial three-year term is estimated at $161,550.00, with a two-year option estimated at $107,700.00, for a total five-year estimated award of $269,250.00. The agenda also lists the company as One Lab, Inc. in its address line, a source discrepancy. Funding is from Sun Metro Operating Funds. - Authorized the City Manager to establish funding sources, make necessary budget transfers, execute contract documents, and exercise future options for both awards. - The consent agenda was approved by one motion made by Board member Fierro and seconded by Board member Limon; the vote passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak, and no public comments were made. Discussion Items - Staff presented an update on Sun Metro Rising service modifications implemented September 20, 2026, in response to community feedback received after the June 2026 Sun Metro Rising system restructuring. The stated goal of the adjustments was to improve accessibility, reliability, and efficiency across the system. - Route changes were made to Routes 2 and 65. Route 2 was adjusted to maintain service to the La Faye Clinic and a nearby senior center; Route 65 addressed concerns about service along Paisano serving the Chairman Apartments and the Ill de Plata Senior Center. - Seven routes that were consistently running behind Sun Metro’s minimum 90% on-time performance target received minor schedule adjustments. These routes were in the central, northeast, far east, and downtown areas; adjustments also addressed construction delays, heavy congestion, and Fort Bliss gate congestion by adding peak-hour service. - Staff explained that contracted service with Project Amistad was realigned because some routes formerly considered low-ridership had grown, raising capacity concerns with Project Amistad’s smaller vehicles. Three such routes were moved back to Sun Metro’s larger in-house buses, while three lower-ridership routes—Edgmir, Pebble Hills, and Route 62 in the Mission Valley area—were moved to Project Amistad. - The changes were made outside Sun Metro’s normal six-month evaluation framework because urgent fixes were needed. Staff will continue to evaluate ridership trends, on-time performance, operator/customer service/supervisor input, and direct rider feedback. The next round of public engagement for additional service modifications is planned for early spring 2027. - Board member Nino asked about Sun Metro’s District 5 microtransit pilot ridership. Staff responded that ridership grew from roughly two to four passengers to 70 or 80 passengers, with Nino noting the previous month’s numbers appeared to exceed 400 riders. Nino expressed strong support for the pilot and for public transportation access to jobs, health care, and groceries. - Board member Chavez asked for any community feedback on the recent route changes to be sent to her office. Staff cited a service request for a new subdivision/reserve area and another area under review. Chavez raised a concern about Route 14; staff clarified that Route 19 was the route serving that community, and Chavez said she would follow up. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda, including both contract awards, was approved unanimously. - Item 5 was an informational presentation; the board took no action on it. - Staff will provide the requested route feedback to Board member Chavez’s office and will continue studying ridership and on-time performance before returning for public input around early spring 2027. - The board voted unanimously to adjourn at 11:50 a.m.; the meeting was followed by a motion to reconvene for a separate meeting.

The West Linn Redevelopment Agency met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The sole business item was a resolution making minor amendments to the Willamette Riverfront Tax Increment Finance (TIF) Area Plan to add a specific property for potential acquisition. The Agency heard public testimony, unanimously adopted the resolution, and directed staff to begin due diligence and negotiations for the property. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: The agenda for the October 13, 2026 meeting was approved unanimously by a vote of 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Rebecca Hollenbeck (Executive Director, Historic Willamette Main Street): Expressed strong support for the proposed minor amendment and recommended the Agency acquire the property sooner rather than later, stating property prices continue to rise. - Dwight Reid (Adjacent property owner, chiropractor): Expressed support for the acquisition, stating it would be a community asset and money well spent that could serve generations. - Jody Carson (Chair, Design Committee, Historic Willamette Main Street): Voiced strong support for the resolution and moving forward with bond monies to acquire the property. She noted the community has long seen the site as an ideal location for a community center, public restrooms, markets, and events, and stated the organization would partner with the City and bring resources to the table. Discussion Items - Resolution URA-2026-01: Minor Amendments to the TIF Plan: Executive Director John Williams explained the Redevelopment Agency’s distinct role from the City Council. Community Development Director Steve Koper presented the minor amendments, which corrected the property address (1793 8th Avenue) and added a 6–18 month timeline for acquisition and disposition for public use. The accumulated TIF fund balance is $300,000, but actual revenue collections came in at $167,000, lower than projected. Financing a $1 million property would cost approximately $107,000 per year for 15 years, leaving roughly $45,000 in annual increment in the initial years. Staff assumed a 4% growth rate to account for modest growth above the Oregon standard of 3%. Council members universally expressed support. Chair Bialostosky reported encouraging conversations with Metro Councilor Christine Lewis about potential funding, the Rotary Club foundation, and Historic Willamette Main Street regarding partnership and grant opportunities. - Directing Staff on Next Steps: A discussion followed on whether to authorize the full acquisition immediately or begin with preliminary steps. Chair Bialostosky favored starting with negotiations and an appraisal. City Attorney Klein clarified that any final purchase would require a subsequent resolution and vote. Finance Director Breithaupt confirmed the City cannot issue debt without formal Council adoption. Staff committed to hitting the pause button and returning for additional Agency guidance before any binding commitments. Member Groner noted the risk of the seller leaving the market if the Agency delayed. Key Outcomes - Resolution URA-2026-01 adopted 5-0. The Agency approved the minor amendments to the West Linn Willamette Riverfront TIF Area Plan, officially adding the property at 1793 8th Avenue to the plan and authorizing its potential acquisition. - Motion to direct staff passed 5-0. The Agency directed staff to proceed with negotiations and due diligence for the potential acquisition of the property located at 1793 8th Avenue, including obtaining an appraisal, conducting necessary inspections, title review, and other appropriate legal and financial due diligence. No specific timeline was set, and staff will return to the Agency before any final purchase or issuance of debt.

The Common Council of Milwaukee met in the Common Council Chamber at City Hall on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. The meeting was scheduled for 9:00 AM, called to order at 9:21 AM, and adjourned at 10:28 AM. According to the official minutes, 13 members were present and 2 were excused (Alds. Bauman and Zamarripa). The raw transcript's opening roll call states 12 present and 3 excused, but every recorded vote in the minutes and transcript shows 13 ayes and 2 excused. The Council approved the previous minutes without objection and then received presentations before acting on committee reports and four immediate-adoption matters. Presentations - Alderwoman Dimitrijevic moved the Council into Committee of the Whole for presentations. - Jason Rae of the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce was recognized during LGBTQ History Month. Ald. Burgelis noted the Chamber was named the 2026 NGLCC Affiliate Chamber of the Year in August, an honor it has now received twice among more than 50 affiliate chambers nationwide. - Brian Kaufman, a 39-year City of Milwaukee employee and manager of the Neighborhood Improvement Program, was recognized for his service, along with his wife Julie on their 42nd wedding anniversary. Kaufman said he began with the City in August 1987 and had served as a construction inspector, code enforcement supervisor, and NIP manager. Public Comments & Testimony - Jennifer Antunez-Martinez addressed the Council regarding the Licenses Committee recommendation for her Food Peddler License. She said she was not objecting to the suspension itself but asked the Council to lower it from 20 days to 10 days. She stated she had misunderstood the compliance dates, had already closed for 10 days, had proof her truck was not in her possession, and was concerned about the impact on her five employees. - Assistant City Attorney Travis Gresham appeared on behalf of the City Attorney's Office and presented the findings and recommendations. Ald. Burgelis clarified that the progressive discipline reflected frequent violations and additional health department reports. The Council ultimately approved the committee's recommendations. - No other members of the public testified. Discussion Items - Severe weather protocols (File 260807): Alds. Pratt and Coggs sponsored a substitute resolution directing the Department of Public Works to establish severe weather protocols for flood-prone areas. Several aldermen, including Alds. Jackson, Stamper, Chambers, Moore, Westmoreland, Brower, and Burgelis, added themselves as co-sponsors. Ald. Chambers described constituents feeling "the runaround" after flooding and stressed the need for coordinated systems. Ald. Brower argued that climate change is caused by carbon pollution, that the City needs massive infrastructure investment, and that the State should provide Milwaukee its fair share. He also called for public ownership of We Energies. The resolution was adopted. - We Energies easement (File 260742): Ald. Brower advocated for passage of the easement at 3921 West Lincoln Avenue, noting that We Energies will pay $0 for the easement and arguing that the company's position that its easement has zero value should be used against it in future acquisition litigation. The resolution was adopted. - Data center pause (File 251924): Ald. Dimitrijevic requested unanimous consent for a substitute ordinance establishing a temporary pause in the establishment and development of data centers. She read from a letter by Milwaukee residents Dr. Michael Rosen and Dr. Summer, who argued that data center construction can harm the economy and environment, could displace up to 10 million jobs, and that a moratorium is the "sensible way forward." Ald. Brower supported the pause, praised the Council for leading on the issue, and called for some of the nation's most stringent data center regulations. Unanimous consent was granted, and the ordinance was later passed as part of the Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee report. Committee Reports and Consent Actions - Licenses Committee (File 260737) - Approved 13-0: The Council approved nonrenewal of Paulo Bosque's Class D Operator's License based on second nonappearance; nonrenewal of Lamonte Whitehead Sr.'s Home Improvement Contractor License for BERM CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT GROUP LLC based on second nonappearance; renewal with a 20-day suspension of the Food Peddler License of Jennifer Antunez-Martinez and Miguel A. Antunez-Jimenez for El Pastorcito Mixe at 4101 W. Greenfield Ave. in the 8th district based on a threat to health, safety, or welfare of the public; renewal with a 10-day suspension of Odean H. Taylor's Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises and Food Dealer Licenses for Prime Social Restaurant & Bar at 7225 N. 76th St. in the 9th district; and nonrenewal of Shawn L. Devooght's Rooming House License for DeVoe Rentals Rooming Houses LLC at 837 S. 19th St. in the 12th district based on third nonappearance. - Public Works Committee: File 260810, a substitute ordinance relating to responsibility for removing litter in the tree border, was not acted on because the City Attorney requested more time; Ald. Westmoreland's motion to send it back to committee was ruled not in order. The Council adopted File 260736 (accepting control of six gateway sign locations from MMSD), File 260742 (We Energies easement), File 260752 (WisDOT land agreements), File 260756 (assessable improvements with a total estimated cost of $8,100), File 260757 (assessable improvements with an estimated City engineering cost of $80,000 and total estimated cost of $1,025,000), File 260758 (nonassessable improvements with an estimated City construction cost of $7,769,319.36 and total estimated cost of $13,382,478.70), File 260759 (nonassessable improvements with an estimated engineering cost of $204,000 and total estimated cost of $3,185,000), File 260807 (severe weather protocols), File 260732 (Public Works license recommendations), and File 260798 (Milwaukee County Transit System bus stop locations). File 260773 was placed on file. - Finance and Personnel Committee: Adopted File 260751 (CLTF special fund transfer and carryover of 2026 funds into 2027), File 260776 (increased reimbursable expenditure authority), File 260789 (travel authorization), and File 260812 (reserving and appropriating up to $500,000 from the 2026 Common Council Contingent Fund to the Damages and Claims Fund for settling claims). - Judiciary and Legislation Committee: Adopted File 251433 (urging the Chief Court Administrator to report program metrics) and File 260813 (authorizing settlement of claims in Corday Alexander Linton v. City of Milwaukee et al., 2:26-cv-00258-SCD). Placed on file Files 200024, 200751, 210103, 210373, 211565, 212041, 220542, 230004, and 230105. Disallowed and indefinitely postponed six claims: Files 251913, 260267, 260283, 260565, 260568, and 260755. - Public Safety and Health Committee: Passed File 260551 (fireworks), File 260727 (parking controls), and File 260728 (traffic controls). Adopted File 260531 (intergovernmental agreement with Milwaukee County for residential lead abatement referrals), File 260815 (acceptance of the Wisconsin Emergency Management Homeland Security Grant for the Community Mass Notification and Public Safety Alert System), confirmed the reappointment of Tahira Malik to the Board of Health, and placed on file File 260793 (Milwaukee Police Department policies on swatting incidents). - Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee: Passed File 251924 (temporary data center pause), File 260532 (5th Amendment to Southgate Marketplace Phase 1 allowing a bank with drive-through ATM at 3473 South 27th Street in the 11th district), File 260534 (zoning change from Two-Family Residential, RT4, to Neighborhood Shopping, NS2, at 2841 South Howell Avenue in the 14th district), and File 260642 (zoning regulations for family day care homes). Adopted File 260608 (permanent historic designation for the English Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Incarnation at 3509 N. 15th Street, excluding the parsonage at 1510 W. Keefe Avenue), File 260740 (conveyance of the vacant lot at 2948-A North 30th Street from the Anna Rohmann Revocable Trust to the City), and File 260741 (acceptance of unsolicited offers to purchase City-owned vacant lots for construction of 95 new single-family homes within Tax Incremental District No. 136, the Amani Homeownership Initiative, in the 6th, 7th, and 15th districts). Confirmed reappointments of Baboonie Tatum and Anthony D. Smith to the Bronzeville Advisory Committee, and placed on file File 260657 (2025 Annual Report of Tax Incremental Districts). - Community and Economic Development Committee: Adopted File 260738 (Year 2027 Operating Plans for Business Improvement Districts and Neighborhood Improvement Districts), File 260808 (authorizing the City Clerk to expend up to $100,000 to support the MKE Community Impact Committee), and File 260829 (designating August 7-14, 2027, as Bronzeville Week). Confirmed appointments to BID 13, five appointments/reappointments to BID 11 and BID 27, and placed on file File 260655 (2025 Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative accomplishments). Communications and Matters for Immediate Adoption - The Council ordered on file several communications, including the appointment of Steve Rackie to the Wisconsin Center District, a communication relating to service of papers, official notices and reports, and the appointment of Robert Walker as Health Department Commissioner Designee to the Emerging Youth Achievement Advisory Council. - All four matters for immediate adoption were adopted: File 260832 (declaring the Fifth District Thanksgiving Giveaway an official city event and authorizing acceptance of funds), File 260863 (approving final certified survey maps), File 260870 (releasing deed restrictions for properties at 2474 North 21st Street, 2566-68 North 21st Street, 2543-45 North 20th Street, 2634 North 21st Street, and 2635 North 21st Street in the 15th district), and File 260880 (conditionally approving final certified survey maps). Key Outcomes - All recorded roll-call votes on committee reports and immediate-adoption items passed 13-0, with Alds. Bauman and Zamarripa excused. - File 260810 remained pending because the City Attorney requested additional review time. - The Council directed DPW to establish severe weather protocols to prevent flooding in known flood-prone areas. - A one-year temporary pause on data center establishment and development was approved by unanimous consent, with aldermen signaling intent to craft permanent regulations. - The Amani Homeownership Initiative advanced, authorizing the sale of City-owned lots for 95 new single-family homes within TID No. 136. - The Council upheld the Licenses Committee's recommended suspensions and nonrenewals and disallowed six claims against the City. - Aldermen announced upcoming district events and budget town halls, including a Council budget hearing later on October 13, 2026, and a Common Council community meeting on October 17, 2026, at the Mitchell Street Library.

The Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners and the Drainage Board met on October 13, 2026. The agenda listed a 9:30 A.M. start; the provided meeting timestamp was 2026-10-13T15:30:00+00:00. Commissioners Justin Elpers (President, District 2), Amy Canterbury (Vice President, District 3), and Mike Goebel (District 1; rendered as 'Gable' in the raw transcript) were present. No separate minutes were provided. All votes were unanimous (3-0) unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Approved the September 29, 2026, Board of Commissioners meeting minutes. - Approved employment changes. - Approved Auditor claims voucher reports for Sept 28-Oct 2, 2026, and Oct 5-Oct 9, 2026. - Approved the Clerk’s September 2026 monthly report. - Approved the Engineer’s report and claims. - Approved the Treasurer’s August 2026 Innkeeper’s Tax report and September 2026 monthly report. - Approved quit claim deeds transferring county-owned properties to the Evansville Land Bank Corp. - Approved the Evansville Land Bank Corp. 2026 Tax Sale no-sales property selection. Public Comments & Testimony - A representative of the Old Farm development, Chip, testified in support of the requested sidewalk/trail width waiver. He stated the request was not about saving money and argued a 6.5-foot trail would allow about four feet of green space between the trail and curb, improving safety and appearance; he said an 8-foot trail would leave little or no buffer and could result in paving directly to the back of the curb. - County Engineer John said the county has no written trail-width standard, but INDOT/Federal Highway guidance identifies 8 feet as the recommended minimum, and separation from the roadway is safer. He noted the county generally follows state guidelines when no local standard exists. - No public comments were made during the formal public comment period. Discussion Items - Sidewalk Waiver - Old Farm Subdivision: Area Plan Commission staff recommended approval of the waiver only with a condition to build the trail at a minimum of 8 feet. The developer requested 6.5 feet. Commissioner Goebel said he was torn and concerned about setting a precedent, but the Board voted 3-0 to waive the condition and allow the 6.5-foot walking trail/bike path. - Street Plan Approval - Old Farm Subdivision: Approved the internal street plan unanimously. - Eagle Point Subdivision Street Improvements: Accepted completed streets totaling approximately 0.2 miles, three short streets off Volkman Road east of Highway 41. - Change Order 1 - Milling and Resurfacing of County Roads: Approved a net increase of $60,139.74 for additional asphalt leveling, increased asphalt quantities for proper crowns/drainage, and reduced patching. - Change Order 3 - Oak Hill Road Reconstruction: Approved an $8,292.50 increase to remove a large tree near the new sanitary sewer installation and avoid future fall damage. - Temporary Speed Limit Reduction - Clover Drive: Approved continuing the 15 mph temporary speed limit on Clover Drive between Elmridge Drive and Bergdolt Road for an additional 30 days. - Bids - Demolition at 4612 Detroy Road (listed as 'Detroit' in transcript): Two bids were opened: Stemley Excavating, $5,006, and Hydehorn Excavating, $4,090. The bids were taken under advisement; no award was made. - Professional Services Agreement: Approved the agreement with Bartlett & Associates, Inc. for appraisal services at the old County Coroner’s Office. - Workers’ Compensation Claim Settlement: Approved a settlement for an injured employee, reviewed by the workers’ compensation attorney and third-party administrator Davies. - Animal Holding Period Ordinance (CO.10-26-016): Missy, Director of Evansville Animal Care and Control, explained the change aligns county animal holding periods with the city’s four-day stray hold to free kennel space and encourage faster owner pickup. The Board voted 3-0 to waive the second reading and approved the ordinance on first and final reading after no public objections. - Veterans Services Quarterly Report: Tanya Weber, VSO, reported 33 out-of-county claims, 16 out-of-state claims from Kentucky, and 2 from Illinois; Vanderburgh County saw nearly $13 million in claims increases. She noted 61% of county veterans are Vietnam veterans. She highlighted The Wall That Heals at USI (opening Oct 29, closing ceremony Nov 1 at 1:45 p.m.) and Veterans Day ceremonies at Oak Hill (11 a.m.) and Locust Hill (10 a.m.) on Nov 11. - Announcement: Commissioners promoted the Veterans Coliseum Gala on October 24. Drainage Board - Approved minutes from the prior drainage board meeting. - Approved Morley’s application to affect Nurnburn Ditch at 1919 Enterprise Park Drive for a driveway and garage within the right-of-entry; the county surveyor’s office concurred. - Approved the amended final drainage plan for Old Farm (presented by Cash Wagner), originally approved May 12, 2026, adding an apartment complex on Lot 172 and changes to swales, basins, and storm sewers. The county surveyor and engineer reviewed the plan. A separate variance request for the project was received after the agenda was set and will be presented at the next meeting. - Approved 11 ditch maintenance claims totaling $22,045.29 since the Sept 29, 2026 meeting, as requested for retroactive approval; all claims were for contracted work completed in 2026. - Informational updates: Pigeon Creek Watershed Development Commission meeting on Oct 26 at 10 a.m., with a public input session at 11 a.m.; a new Pigeon Creek stream gauge installed with USGS/EPA/IDEM cooperation, the first since a gauge was decommissioned in July 1987; no response yet from the lawyer or Mr. Murphy regarding the Ivy Meadows storm sewer repairs; and the Daniel Haas obstruction hearing notice mailed Oct 5, with a hearing scheduled for the Oct 26/27, 2026 drainage board meeting. Key Outcomes - Sidewalk/trail width waiver approved for Old Farm (6.5 feet instead of 8 feet) unanimously. - Old Farm street plan, Eagle Point street acceptance, two county road construction change orders, and the Clover Drive speed limit extension all approved unanimously. - Demolition bids received and taken under advisement. - Professional services agreement, workers’ compensation settlement, and the four-day animal holding ordinance approved. - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Drainage Board approved the Nurnburn Ditch encroachment, Old Farm amended drainage plan, and $22,045.29 in ditch claims. - No public comments received during the formal public comment period.

The New Albany Board of Public Works & Safety met on October 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Room 100 of City Hall. The Board addressed resident concerns about alley speeding, approved a geotechnical investigation for a road reconstruction project, and approved multiple items for the pageant development site. City officials also reported on ongoing infrastructure projects. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Claims: No claims were presented this week. - Approval of Minutes: The regular meeting minutes from October 6, 2026, were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Tyler Bryant (2108 Reno Avenue) requested speed bumps, a stop sign, and "Children at Play" and autism awareness signs for the alley adjacent to his property. He described speeding vehicles (notably a red truck) endangering children, including his autistic child. He stated that police reports had not resolved the issue. The Board noted that speed bumps are not city policy due to emergency response and snowplow concerns. - Camille Hessen (Heritage Engineering) representing Spurgler Company, presented three requests for the pageant development site: dedication of a sanitary sewer easement, approval of curb cuts, and a road closure on Bank Street. She answered questions about detours, safety, and construction timeline. Discussion Items - Tyler Bryant Request: The Board discussed options. A motion was made and seconded to approve placement of "Children at Play" and an autism awareness sign at the alley, and to have the city engineer conduct a site visit and report back on additional speed control measures. The motion passed unanimously. - Geotechnical Investigation (Prime AE Group): Brandon Frazier requested a permit for 10 borings and 4 pavement cores along Slate Run Road (Lockwood to Eakin) from November 2–4, 8 AM–5 PM. The Board added conditions: notifications to affected residents (copy to Board) and working hours limited to 9 AM–3 PM to avoid school traffic. The motion passed unanimously. - SoIN Tourism Road Closure Request: The agenda listed a closure request for Culbertson Avenue on October 13. No representative appeared, so the item was tabled. - Pageant Development Site (Heritage Engineering): The Board considered three items together: - Sanitary Sewer Easement Dedication: Approved contingent on legal review. - Curb Cuts: Three on Bank Street approved; one on Culbertson Avenue tentatively approved subject to final review by the city engineer due to safety concerns about left-turn conflicts near the intersection of Pearl and Culbertson. - Road Closure: Bank Street from Oak to Culbertson closed from October 27 to December 28, 2026. The Board required a revised maintenance of traffic plan: one phase while Oak Street remains closed, and a second phase after Oak reopens (with two-way traffic). The motion passed unanimously. - Master Services Agreement (Prime AE): The Board approved a new annual evergreen contract with Prime AE (formerly JTL) for engineering services up to $30,000 per year, with work orders for emergency items. Legal review had been completed. Motion passed unanimously. - Emergency Gas Repair Permit: A permit for emergency gas repair at 1220 Charles Street (Point Energy) was approved. - City Officials Reports: City Engineer Larry reported on road paving (Wellington Drive, Chadwood concrete, salt barn lot), trail project (Hawk signal installation delay at Main & 4th, concrete work on Elm-Oak), signal issues (4th & Spring detection, Slate Run signal head orientation), and Oak Street sewer work. Key Outcomes - Speed Bumps: Not approved; city policy prohibits them. Signs approved; city engineer to evaluate alley. - Geotechnical Permit: Approved with conditions (resident notification, 9 AM–3 PM work hours). - Pageant Site Approvals: Sewer easement dedicated; Bank Street closure approved with revised traffic plans; Bank Street curb cuts approved; Culbertson curb cut approved subject to engineer review. - Master Services Agreement: Approved. - Emergency Permit: Approved. - SoIN Tourism Item: Tabled. - All motions carried with three ayes and none opposed.

The Redmond City Council held a study session on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, beginning at 7:07 PM. All council members were present; Mayor Angela Birney was not in attendance. Council President Melissa Stuart presided. The council discussed five agenda items: preparation for the 2027 legislative session, fire impact fee updates, the creation of a new development services department, 2027 regional board appointments, and council talk time items. Discussion Items 1. Preparation for the 2027 Legislative Session Amy Sai, Chief Policy Advisor, along with lobbyists Kyle Schroeder and Brianna Murray from Gordon Thomas Honeywell, presented the latest draft of the 2027 State Legislative Agenda. The draft incorporated feedback from the council's September study session, focusing on streamlining the document and adjusting policy language. Key changes included the removal of a standalone MFTE item (deemed addressable during the session), the inclusion of specific language on condominium liability reform (Councilmember Forsythe), the reframing of "excessive administrative fees" to "unpredictable fees" (Council President Stuart), and the addition of a section on immigrant, refugee, and asylum seeker support. Council supported adding youth crisis response and counseling language to the public safety section, as well as incorporating references to the legislative agendas of the Eastside Transportation Partnership and the RIA 8 Salmon Recovery Council. The agenda is scheduled for adoption on the November 2nd consent calendar. 2. Redmond Fire Impact Fee Update Deputy Fire Chief Ami Varrrell and consultant Nicole Kissum (NBS) presented a comprehensive update to the fire impact fee schedule, the first since 1999. The update was mandated by the new Fire Functional Plan (2025-2050) and state law requiring proportionally lower fees for smaller residential units. The proposal was based on a system plan approach analyzing $131 million in capital costs and a projected 54% increase in call volume by 2050, resulting in a cost of $6,882.15 per call. The staff recommended schedule included a significantly reduced fee for assisted living/nursing care facilities ($3,000/licensed bed) to mitigate potential negative impacts on development, lowering projected total revenue from $37.3 million to $33.5 million over 25 years. Councilmember Parsi expressed comfort with the full staff recommendation. Councilmembers Kritzer, Forsythe, Soni, and Stewart advocated for a phased implementation to avoid a sudden cost increase for developers. Finance Director Cochran advised against a 10-year phase-in, recommending a maximum of 4 years. The council agreed to have staff bring back linear projection models for 2, 3, and 4-year phase-in scenarios for discussion at an upcoming committee meeting. 3. Creation of a New Department to Support Improved Development Services Acting Director Jason Lynch, alongside Director Cochran, Chief Shepherd, and Acting Director Stinger, presented a proposal to consolidate multiple city functions into a new department aimed at streamlining permitting, plan review, and inspections. The proposed structure merges the Capital Division from Public Works into this new department. Multiple councilmembers (Parsi, Vice President, Soni) worried the department was "too big, too soon," noting the six-level deep organizational chart and the inclusion of the Capital Division. Councilmember Prakriya requested a clear workflow comparison for a specific project (e.g., a duplex permit) and questioned the direct inclusion of IT/TIS given the focus on AI tools. Council President Stuart expressed the council was "kept in the dark" during the process and requested robust quarterly reporting. Councilmember Soni emphasized the need for a detailed change management plan. Councilmember Kritzer noted the significant commitment of adding 8 new FTEs and sought clarification on cost recovery models. The council decided to hold a special meeting the following week to continue deliberations, with the goal of informing the upcoming budget process. 4. 2027 Regional Boards and Committees Council President Stuart reviewed the Sound Cities Association (SCA) call for nominations for regional boards. Council President Stuart indicated she would re-apply for the Growth Management Planning Council and apply for the Regional Policy Committee. Mayor Birney expressed interest in the Puget Sound Regional Council Transportation Policy Board. Councilmember Kritzer recommended the Regional Transit Committee and the Affordable Housing Committee as high-impact opportunities. The application deadline for SCA appointments is November 6th. 5. Council Talk Time The Tenant Protection Subcommittee (Councilmembers Prakriya, Kritzer, and Forsythe) proposed a full-time Housing Navigator/Administrator position focused on tenant stability policy and programs, and a pilot program with the Eviction Legal Advocacy Project (ELAP) for renters above current income limits. Councilmember Forsythe proposed bringing forward a resolution in opposition to Washington State Initiatives 001 and 638, which she stated overwhelmingly harm the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Council President Stuart noted the logistical challenges of noticing a public hearing within the tight timeline but committed to working with leadership to explore feasibility. Councilmember Soni requested a regular quarterly report on development activity blending city permit data with qualitative developer feedback. Key Outcomes Legislative Agenda: Staff was directed to integrate agreed-upon amendments (condominium language, youth crisis counseling, unpredictable fees, CHIP support, regional partner references). Final adoption is scheduled for November 2nd. Fire Impact Fees: Staff was directed to prepare linear phase-in scenarios (2, 3, and 4-year options) for further council evaluation. Full adoption is expected in November. New Department: The council decided to continue the discussion at a special meeting next week to address outstanding questions on structure, staffing, and implementation. Regional Boards: Councilmembers submitted initial expressions of interest for regional boards. Formal SCA applications are due November 6th. Council Talk Time: The Tenant Protection subcommittee will refine the FTE proposal for budget deliberations. Council leadership will investigate the feasibility of holding a public hearing on a resolution regarding the statewide ballot initiatives. Staff was asked to plan for a quarterly development activity report.

The Wynwood Design Review Committee (WDRC) met on October 13, 2026, to review four signage applications and to hold a working discussion of the draft Wynwood Vision Plan and Design Guidelines. All four signage applications were approved, with no opposition noted. The committee also approved an absent waiver and the September 2026 meeting minutes. Only the raw transcript was provided; no agenda or minutes were available to cross-reference. Consent Calendar - A quorum was present, including Chair Dunlap. - An absent waiver for Miguel Omar was moved, seconded, and approved unanimously. - The September 2026 meeting minutes were moved, seconded, and approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No online public comments were pending as of 8:10 a.m., and the chair closed the public comment period. - No members of the public spoke during the designated public comment portion of the meeting. Signage Approvals - The Doris, 153 NW 25th Street (Item 1): The presenter, speaking for the tenant, described a proposed non-illuminated wall sign using individual channel letters. The client chose not to illuminate the sign to avoid adding a raceway and electrical elements behind the letters. The Doris is a co-working building used mainly during daytime hours, so nighttime identification was not considered necessary. Board members responded positively to the sign. The approval motion passed. - SMACT, 170 NW 24th Street (Item 2): Jason Boone of Southeast Sign Company proposed a flush-mounted illuminated channel-letter sign with faux neon and halo backlighting. The sign was proposed at 23.8 square feet against the 24-square-foot maximum. Boone described SMACT as a fast-growing chain and said the design used cues from nearby signs including Temple Craft Beer and Burgers and Throw Social. The approval motion passed. - Wynwood Works, 2035 North Miami Avenue (Item 3): The presenter described Wynwood Works as a 120-unit affordable housing project developed with the Miami CRA, the Dade County Housing Finance Authority, the Wynwood BID, and a housing venture partner, with set-asides for people transitioning out of homelessness and for artists. The proposed sign was the project's original logo, reflecting Wynwood's working and warehouse history. The project had been a finalist for ULI's Vision Awards for Project of the Year. The building has been fully occupied since receiving its certificate of occupancy. Board members strongly praised the logo and the project's values. The approval motion passed. - Biocube, 53 NW 26th Street (Item 4): A representative of Soul Signs, a Miami sign company with 45 years of experience, proposed a reverse channel-letter illuminated sign with backlit LED at a 3,000K color temperature for the wellness center. Board members had no comments or questions. The approval motion passed. Discussion Items: Wynwood Vision Plan - City planner Andrea reviewed the WDRC's role: reviewing design, architectural treatments, pedestrian access, the Wynwood Streetscape Master Plan, and signage, with the ability to recommend amendments to Appendix J (NRD-1). The finalized Vision Plan would become the support for project reviews and would replace the existing design regulations on the city website, while text amendments to the zoning code would require a City Commission ordinance with two readings. - Staff mentioned SB 180, a state law that may restrict new zoning restrictions because of hurricane proximity to Miami-Dade within roughly 100 miles over the past three years. Existing NRD-1 public-benefit incentives include bonus floor area or height for parks, civic spaces, and cross-block connectivity; an open-to-sky cross-block connection earns five times the floor-area bonus of a roofed connection, up to the bonus height, but few developers use these programs. - Andrea reported that the CMU Special Area Plan amendment, formerly known as Mana Wynwood, was submitted to the city that morning. It was preliminary and had not gone through the first review cycle. A board member requested a copy of the five-page submission, and staff agreed to send it. Community outreach is required for a new SAP designation but not for an SAP amendment, though outreach can be encouraged. - Gensler's Moriel summarized work completed since June, including interviews with developers and community leaders, stakeholder workshops, an artist round table with about ten artists, neighborhood walks in Wynwood and the Design District, and review of existing codes. The team found that Wynwood is at an inflection point, the creative ecosystem is under pressure, pedestrian experience is the top concern, and projects need to think beyond their property boundaries. The draft guidelines are organized around built form, street life interface, public realm, and creative identity and activation. Gensler clarified that the document is primarily design guidelines, not a full neighborhood plan. - Board members said the WDRC should focus on design rather than code compliance and asked to hear from architects rather than lawyers. Several described Wynwood as a walkable outdoor museum and said buildings themselves should be works of art. - Several board members stressed connecting Wynwood to adjacent neighborhoods, including Wynwood Norte, the Design District, North Miami Avenue, and Fifth Avenue, and argued that art, streetscape, and pedestrian experience should not stop at district borders. Ideas included sculptural landmarks or a grid of follies for wayfinding, linear parks, and using underpasses as galleries or community spaces. - Board members discussed preserving the organic, artist-driven character of Wynwood and ensuring art is at pedestrian scale. They suggested a Wynwood-specific public art or mural program, curated artist resources, and measures to ensure promised art is actually implemented rather than left as a placeholder. - David Lerner of the Wynwood BID, speaking personally, said the final document should produce a realistic list of enforceable requirements. He suggested increasing the required front-facade art from 20 percent to 25 percent, bringing art down to ground level, and reducing first-floor glazing to a 70 percent maximum. A separate board member floated reducing the glazing limit on the lower 10 feet from 70 percent to 50 percent, while another cautioned that such limits could hurt small retail and restaurant sites that need transparent storefronts. One board member warned that forced art can produce bad art and urged art in public infrastructure such as bus stops, benches, crosswalks, and street signs. - Multiple board members recommended an earlier conceptual design or pre-application step so the committee could discuss design before full code review and legal presentations. One proposal was a condition-precedent pre-application review similar to the county RTZ process. Staff responded that current rules usually require an active building permit or entitlement application and a city review cycle before a project is referred to the WDRC. - Staff noted that expedited review is difficult because affordable housing and Live Local projects are citywide priorities, and the urban design review division has only two or three reviewers. Citywide, there were about 98 Live Local applications but only five building permits had been issued. Key Outcomes - All four signage applications were approved: The Doris, SMACT, Wynwood Works, and Biocube. - The absent waiver for Miguel Omar and the September 2026 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - Gensler will continue accepting feedback on the draft Vision Plan. The finalized plan is expected to be used by planning staff and to replace existing design guidance online; any code-text changes will need City Commission approval through two readings. - Staff agreed to send the CMU SAP submission to board members. The committee will continue discussing possible pre-application review, public-art programs, and NRD-1 incentive changes.