The Public Meeting Index

The Blacksburg Town Council held a regular meeting on October 13, 2026, at the Blacksburg Municipal Building. The meeting featured unanimous approval of a consent agenda, three public hearings on code amendments, citizen comments regarding a denied sewer backup insurance claim, appointments to a town board, and various council reports and community announcements. Consent Calendar - Town Council Minutes: Approved minutes from the September 1, 8, and 15, 2026 meetings. - Resolution 10-B-26: Approved a resolution supporting the town's participation in the Virginia Main Street Program. - Resolution 10-C-26: Approved a resolution re-referring proposed zoning ordinance amendments to regulate the retail sales of marijuana, tobacco, and hemp products to the Planning Commission. - Charter Amendment: Scheduled a public hearing for October 27, 2026, on a resolution to amend the town's corporate boundaries (Town Charter Section 1.02). - Ordinance 2123 (Water Tank Lease): Introduced an ordinance authorizing a lease of space on the Alleghany Street Water Tank to Virginia Tech and scheduled a public hearing for November 10, 2026. The consent agenda was approved unanimously (7-0). Public Hearings - Ordinance 2073 (Homestay Update): Town Attorney Lawrence Spencer presented housekeeping updates to align the town code with state law. Changes included revised ownership and registration requirements and a reduction of the penalty from a $1,000 criminal fine to a $500 civil penalty. No public comment was offered. The council approved the ordinance unanimously (7-0). - Ordinance 2117 (Meals Tax Update): Town Attorney Lawrence Spencer presented amendments to update definitions (e.g., including food trucks, breweries, and caterers), align exemptions with state law, and establish an escalating penalty for late payments (up to 25%). No public comment was offered. The council approved the ordinance unanimously (7-0). - Ordinance 2121 (Utility Easement): Town Attorney Lawrence Spencer presented an ordinance authorizing a 40-year utility easement over town property to Appalachian Power Company (AEP) to connect solar panels installed at Blacksburg Transit to the grid. It was reported the solar panel installation was approximately 50% complete. No public comment was offered. The council approved the ordinance unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Five members of the Blacksburg Church of Christ (BCOC) at 610 Palmer Drive addressed the council regarding a sewage backup on July 4, 2026, following a heavy rain. - Randall Burch (trustee/elder) presented evidence, including a check from the town for a similar 2017 backup, arguing the town had prior knowledge of root issues in the sewer main. He requested the council appoint a committee to review the claim, which was denied by the town's insurer (VRSA), detailing over $40,000 in damages. - Paul and Sandy Leichner, and Drew Taylor described the financial burden on the modest congregation, the extensive damage from raw sewage (including in the finished basement and nursery), and the church's community outreach programs. Drew Taylor described the scene as "hundreds of gallons of sewage" backing up into the building. - Mayor Sutphin acknowledged the severity of the situation and committed to reviewing the submitted materials with town staff. Appointments - The council unanimously approved appointments to the reconstituted Police Towing Advisory Board: Captain J. Teubert (Blacksburg Police Department), Buddy Mason (All Call Towing), Arthur Balarzs (Auto Repair), Johnnie Self (Campus Automotive), and Arthur Shaheen (Citizen Advisor). Council Reports & Announcements - Councilmember Goodhart reported the Blacksburg Farmers Market achieved 200,000 social media views, hosted 262 participants at an apple tasting, and announced upcoming events (garden-themed book swap, author talk with Diane Flint, Double SNAP match on October 17). - Councilmember Campbell promoted the grand opening of "The Local" retail incubator on October 14. - Vice Mayor Anderson reported on the Virginia Municipal League Annual Conference, the Montgomery County Liaison Committee meeting (September 23), the New River Valley Regional Commission meeting (September 24), and the inaugural Virginia Tech Student Summit (September 25), expressing hope it becomes an annual event. - Mayor Sutphin reviewed recent proclamations for Welcoming Week, Hispanic Heritage Month, and National Service Dog Month. - Councilmember Colliver reminded the public that early voting is active, including Sunday hours on October 18, 2026, and noted the voter registration deadline is October 23, 2026. - Vice Mayor Anderson alerted the public to three Virginia constitutional amendments on the ballot covering reproductive justice, marriage equality, and restoring voting rights for felons, directing attendees to informational pamphlets in the lobby. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda (minutes, Main Street program, marijuana/tobacco zoning referral, charter amendment public hearing, water tank lease public hearing) unanimously (7-0). - Adopted Ordinance 2073 (Homestay updates and $500 civil penalty) unanimously (7-0). - Adopted Ordinance 2117 (Meals tax definitions and escalating late penalty up to 25%) unanimously (7-0). - Adopted Ordinance 2121 (Utility easement for AEP solar connection) unanimously (7-0). - Agreed to review the sewer backup claim from Blacksburg Church of Christ with town staff. - Approved appointments to the Police Towing Advisory Board unanimously (7-0).

The Hollywood Planning and Development Board met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall. The board considered five quasi-judicial applications: a rezoning, a park design/site plan, a self-storage facility with a variance, and two multifamily developments. A special presentation on the Resilient Broward plan was delivered by a city commissioner. The board approved all items, with the rezoning passing 6–2 and the park improvements receiving unanimous support after public speakers urged a deferral. Board members also discussed procedural concerns regarding a prior joint meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes (September 8, 2026): Moved and seconded; approved unanimously without discussion. Special Presentation - Resilient Broward Countywide Resilience Plan: Commissioner presented the plan, which outlines a $28 billion, 50-year investment in climate adaptation, including $9 billion for public infrastructure. The plan relies on private property improvements and strategic land use planning. The commissioner urged the board to consider the plan when evaluating future projects to support funding and insurance goals. The board asked about formal adoption; the commissioner noted the city has not formally adopted it but participates in resilience initiatives. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 – Harry Berry Park (25‑DP‑73b): Three speakers commented: - Cat (speaker): Requested deferral until litigation on the adjacent 1301 S Ocean Drive tower is resolved. She noted the park is under federal Land and Water Conservation Fund restrictions and suggested a coordinated redevelopment of the entire area. - Doug: Supported deferral for similar reasons, citing the need for a symbiotic relationship between the park and any future tower. - Terry Cantrell (President, Hollywood Lakes Civic Association): Stated the park (subject to pending litigation) should not be approved until the legal situation is clarified; questioned whether the city had held a design charrette with beach users. - Item 1 – Rezoning 2326 Thomas Street: A comment card from Patricia Antrican (North Central Civic Association) was read by the chair, asking why the zoning was changed from RAC to GU, how it benefits the city, and what future development could occur. Staff and the county applicant responded. - Item 3 – Self-Storage Facility (24‑DPV‑91): No public comment cards; staff noted two public meetings were held with no questions from attendees. - Items 4 & 5 (Multifamily Developments): No public comment cards. Discussion Items Old Business 1. Rezoning – 2326 Thomas Street (26‑Z‑32) - Staff Presentation (Umar Javid): The applicant (Broward County) seeks to rezone 0.77 acres from DH-1 (Dixie Highway Low Intensity Multifamily) to GU (Government Use). The property has been used for 53 years as a storage/staging facility for Broward County Transit; the current DH‑1 zoning is non‑conforming. No development plans are before the board; rezoning is required by state law and city code for government-owned properties. Staff found the application met all criteria and recommended approval. - Applicant Presentation (Arethia Douglas, Premier Design Solutions; Daniel Selayas, Broward County): County confirmed the site will continue as a transit shelter storage/staging yard. A three-phase plan: rezoning, funding acquisition, and future site plan redevelopment. No intention for housing. - Board Discussion: Concerns about the site's dilapidated condition; fencing should be opaque. Motion to forward a recommendation of approval to city commission. Passed 6–2 (Christine Corbo and Bob Glickman voted no). 2. Harry Berry Park Improvements – 1301 S Ocean Drive / 301 Azalea Terrace (25‑DP‑73b) - Note: Applicant did not waive quasi‑judicial procedures due to pending litigation on the adjacent 1301 tower parcel. Formal hearing conducted. - Staff Presentation (Cameron Palmer): The request is for a standalone design and site plan for a 1-story restroom, parking, and improved open space at Harry Berry Park. No changes to the 1301 property or Live Local Act issues are included. The park is zoned GU; staff found compliance with zoning and comprehensive plan. Recommended approval with conditions. - Applicant Presentation (Keith Polakoff, PRH 1301 S Ocean Drive LLC): Emphasized that the park site plan is independent of the tower litigation. Additional parking (128 spaces) will be provided along the right-of-way, and 44 spaces on site (including 6 within the park). Open space increases by 73%. Shade will be provided through trees and structures; a state grant (≈$296,000) for park improvements exists, and the developer has agreed to repay it if needed. The applicant argued the park design was directed by the city’s Parks Department. - Board Questions: Board members inquired about separation from the 1301 project; the park can be built regardless of tower outcome. Staff confirmed no court injunction stays this review. - Public Comments: Three speakers asked for deferral (see Public Comments above). - Board Deliberation: The board attorney advised that delaying due to pending litigation is not a valid criterion; the board must rule on the application. Board members expressed support for the park design. Motion to approve the design and site plan with conditions passed unanimously (7‑0). 3. Self‑Storage Facility with Variance – 1109 N 21st Avenue (24‑DPV‑91) - Staff Presentation (Adrian Montoya): Applicant proposes a 4‑story, 50,472 sq. ft. self‑storage facility with one residential unit on a currently‑used self‑storage site. Variance requested to reduce the required 10‑foot setback to 0 feet for the new building corner due to a mandatory 30'×30' corner‑cut dedication at 21st Avenue and Garfield Street. Staff found the variance justified (not self‑imposed) and recommended approval. - Applicant Presentation (Fernando Silva, Kenneth R. Carlson Architects): The new building will be shifted toward the street to activate the corridor; existing trees will be preserved. No public opposition. - Board Questions: Clarified the variance pertains only to the setback reduction. Public participation meetings were held but no comments. Board approved the variance, design, and site plan all unanimously. 4. Multifamily Development – 1504‑1510 N Dixie Highway & 2112 Roosevelt Street (25‑DP‑53) - Staff Presentation (Umar Javid): 4‑story, 33‑unit rental building (7 studios, 19 one‑bedroom, 7 two‑bedroom) in DH‑3 district. Ground floor includes parking, lobby, fitness, bike storage. Accessory parking lot across alley. Design exceeds active‑use glazing (70% vs. 60% requirement), provides 33 parking spaces (exceeds 32 required), and includes public art. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Presentation (Joseph Kahler, Kahler Architecture): Building height 51 ft. (max 140 ft.), no variances required. Client chose a lower scale. Worked closely with staff. No public comments. - Board Questions: Entrance/exit via alley clarified as pedestrian only; crosswalks will be installed. Board discussed timing but approved design and site plan unanimously. 5. Multifamily Development – 1118‑1126 N 17th Avenue (24‑DP‑83) - Staff Presentation (Umar Javid): 4‑story, 27‑unit residential building in FH‑1 district. Setbacks exceed requirements, height 44 ft., 33 parking spaces (exceeds 32 required), 5 bicycle spaces, one EV space. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Presentation (Louis La Rosa): Noted extra effort on finish and articulation. No public comments. - Board Questions: Board member Bob Glickman asked about delays; the applicant cited right-of-way and fire exit requirements. Board approved design and site plan unanimously. New Business - Review of DRC Projects: No agenda items for the last two DRC meetings; projects are moving administratively. - Summary of City Commission Actions: Staff reported on recent commission approvals: variance at 1980 Grand Street (approved with conditions), beach comprehensive plan amendments, and the Hollywood Beach Overlay District (first and second readings). - 2027‑2028 Board Calendar Review: Presented by the board clerk, maintaining second Tuesday of each month, including a placeholder July meeting (potential need). Board member Bob Glickman suggested a June date instead to preserve July recess; staff explained the need for July is determined in late June. The calendar was approved by consensus. Procedural Discussion – Joint Meeting (June 29, 2026) - Board member Bob Glickman raised a concern that only five planning board members were allowed to attend and vote at a joint meeting with the Historic Preservation Board, due to staff guidance. He argued all board members should have been invited. The board attorney noted the meeting was valid under the code, and the issue has been addressed by moving to separate board meetings going forward. Other board members commented on the confusion. The board attorney agreed to share a written memo on the matter. No further action was taken. Key Outcomes - Rezoning 2326 Thomas Street (26‑Z‑32): Motion to recommend approval to city commission; passed 6–2. - Harry Berry Park (25‑DP‑73b): Unanimous approval of design and site plan with conditions (7‑0). - Self‑Storage Facility (24‑DPV‑91): Unanimous approval of variance, design, and site plan. - Multifamily Development – 1504 N Dixie (25‑DP‑53): Unanimous approval of design and site plan. - Multifamily Development – 1118 N 17th Ave (24‑DP‑83): Unanimous approval of design and site plan. - Board Calendar: Proposed 2027‑2028 meeting dates approved (no formal vote).

The Common Council held a combined work session and regular meeting on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Common Council Chamber. The work session featured budget presentations from the Police Department and the City Clerk’s Office, followed by the council meeting which included a Domestic Violence Awareness Month proclamation, unanimous approval of 11 resolutions, department head reports, and public comments addressing traffic safety at the intersection of Maple and Hudson. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session. Domestic Violence Awareness Month Recognition - The Council recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and issued a proclamation in memory of Conchetta Cheddar Morton, a 27‑year‑old Peekskill native who died in September 2023 as a result of intimate partner violence. Assemblywoman Dana Levenberg spoke about the pervasiveness of domestic violence and the importance of resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Members of Ms. Morton’s family accepted the proclamation and urged the community to recognize warning signs and support survivors. Consent Calendar – Resolutions and Local Law All resolutions and the local law were approved unanimously: - Local Law 4 of 2026 – Amends City Code Chapter 182 (Bicycles and In‑line Skates). - Resolution J1 – Appoints Timothy Warn to the Historic and Landmarks Preservation Board. - Resolution J2 – Authorizes the 2027 MTA Parking Management Plan. - Resolution J3 – Authorizes use of real property transfer tax funds for general fund purposes. - Resolution J4 – Schedules a public hearing to override the NYS tax cap for the 2027 budget. - Resolution J5 – Schedules a public hearing on the 2027 budget for October 26, 2026. - Resolution J6 – Determines the Depew Park Improvement Project is exempt from SEQRA (Type II action). - Resolution J7 – Accepts a grant of up to $675,000 from NYS Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation for Depew Park improvements. - Resolution J8 – Authorizes solicitation of construction bids for Depew Park improvements. - Resolution J9 – Authorizes an affordable housing consultant contract with Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress. - Resolution J10 – Awards the police locker room plumbing contract to Castle Plumbing at a cost of $25,875. - Resolution J11 – Authorizes solicitation of bids for locker room framing work (separate bid due to partial funding). Public Comments & Testimony - Chuck Grimmett (300 Montrose Ave.) described the intersection of Maple and Hudson as extremely dangerous, with drivers routinely running stop signs. He requested immediate traffic calming measures such as speed bumps or a traffic light, noting that a child was recently struck there. - Jen Zawacki (608 Nelson Ave.) supported the call for expedited pedestrian safety improvements and asked about short‑term measures (e.g., flashing stop signs, speed humps) while a traffic study is conducted. - Farah and Lauren (parents of the 14‑year‑old victim, Destiny Miller) expressed gratitude for the city’s response but stressed the ongoing trauma and the need for effective, visible changes. The child’s backpack absorbed most of the impact, and she remains anxious walking that route. - Evan mentioned the long‑awaited opening of Kurzall’s Coffee on Division Street and asked the city to expedite its opening. Discussion Items Police Department Budget Presentation (Chief Renwick) - The proposed 2027 budget is $11.958 million, a $10,602 increase (0.09%) over the 2026 adopted budget, while maintaining current staffing and adding a captain position. - Current staffing: 54 sworn officers (6 vacancies), 9 civilian staff (2 vacancies: dispatcher and records management). Goal is to fill vacancies and eventually reach 63 sworn officers. - Crime statistics: IBR (Index‑Based Reporting) offenses from January through August dropped 24.5% from 2025 to 2026, attributed in part to increased downtown walking patrols (expanded from 2 to 4 officers on weekends in 2025). - Use of force incidents decreased 20.4% (from 54 to 43 year‑to‑date), linked to new reality‑based training. - Overtime: Proposed to break out predictable overtime lines (e.g., walking post overtime from Memorial Day to Halloween, weekend arraignment transports) for better tracking. - Captain position rationale: Provide an additional management level to handle internal affairs, accreditation, FOIL/discovery tracking, and command continuity. The position is funded within the proposed budget through existing vacancy savings. - Grant‑funded projects: Pending $250,000 LE‑TECH grant for radio system improvements. - Animal control: Officer ACL Whisker has issued 2,174 parking tickets year‑to‑date, generating $165,905 in assessed fees ($108,048 collected). Requested increase in SPCA contract from $10,000 to $15,000. City Clerk’s Office Budget Presentation (Cassandra) - The clerk’s office (affectionately called the “Google of Peekskill”) is requesting a minimal budget increase to continue operations. Highlights: - Personnel: Deputy clerk Jeannette Moore and permit clerk Ruth Urgelis (the “dynamic duo”). - Operations: Records, FOIL requests, vital statistics, parking permits, elections coordination. - Accomplishments (2026): Renewals made predictable; Nelson Garage Level C reconciliation; improved parking; security enhancements; online forms; website updates. - Future goals: Bi‑annual Nelson Garage inspections; credit card/tap‑tap‑payment; reduce paper packets; continuing election coordination; continue FOIL tracking system research. - Budget adjustments recommended: Move clerk stipend to elections category (grant‑funded); add $35,000 part‑time salary (add $35,000 grant revenue, and increase $550,000 in transfers to capital (Depewark grant). Key Outcomes - Police budget will proceed as proposed with council expressing unanimous support for the police and clerk presentations. The council lauded the clarity and transparency of the police budget. - Traffic Safety at Maple/Hudson: Immediate actions include increased enforcement (drones undercover), evaluation of no‑parking restrictions at Montrose & Maple, and expedited traffic engineering study. Public hearings for 2027 budget and tax cap override scheduled for October 26, 2026. - License Plate Reader (LPR) Information: Chief Renwick reported that, per Westchester County, no federal agencies have direct access to the current LPR system for civil immigration enforcement. Limited access exists only for criminal task‑force personnel assigned to the Real Time Crime Center. Peekskill policy prohibits use for immigration enforcement. - Executive Session: The council voted to enter executive session to discuss personnel matters.

The Chapel Hill Historic District Commission convened on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Room 110 of the Council Chamber at 405 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Only three members were present, short of the four-member quorum required to conduct business. After a brief discussion and a wait of approximately 10 additional minutes, the Chair announced that the meeting could not proceed as a quasi-judicial body. Chair Don Tise was absent despite having indicated earlier that he intended to attend. The meeting was effectively adjourned without acting on any agenda items. Quorum Status - Only three commission members were present; four were required for a quorum. - The commission could not conduct a lawful meeting or vote on any agenda items. - Agenda items were to be continued to the next regular meeting unless a special meeting could be scheduled. Discussion Items - Brian Daniels noted that consent agenda items (21 Cobb Terrace, 100 S. Columbia Street, and 132 S. Columbia Street) could potentially be approved through a virtual special meeting, which is typically allowed for consent items. - Town staff indicated they would discuss with Chair Don Tise whether to pursue a virtual special meeting to expedite those approvals. - Town attorney Kevin explained that because the commission lacked a quorum, it could not schedule a special meeting on the record during this session; therefore, any special meeting would require public notice, likely 48 hours for a special meeting, though additional postcard notice might be required for new public hearings on certificates of appropriateness. - The Section 106 items and the 204 Glenburnie Street old business item would require in-person quasi-judicial hearings and would likely be scheduled for the next regular meeting. - Commissioners encouraged members of the public living in the historic district to consider serving on the commission, noting recent resignations and occasional difficulties reaching quorum. Key Outcomes - No agenda items were approved or voted upon due to lack of quorum. - Approval of consent agenda items was deferred; town staff planned to explore a virtual special meeting to accelerate those approvals, with timing subject to public notice requirements. - All other agenda items, including 204 Glenburnie Street and Section 106 updates, were continued to a future meeting. - The meeting was adjourned without formal action.

The Knoxville City Council held its regular meeting on October 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included approval of minutes, consent agenda, public hearings, resolutions, and public forum. Key actions included granting an appeal to overturn a planning commission decision on a South Waterfront development, approving a health center contract, and denying a rezoning on Vance Road. Public comments addressed police funding, cemetery restoration, homeless services, and police accountability. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the September 29, 2026 regular meeting. - Approved the consent agenda as amended (removing resolution 12-J): including Proposed Ordinance 10D (amending audit committee rules) and Resolutions 12K, 12L, and 12M (certificates of compliance for liquor licenses – Hall of Fame Wine & Spirits, GARMO, and Casey's 4211). Elections and Confirmations - 9B: Unanimously confirmed the reappointment of John Heins to the Board of Environmental Appeals. - 9C: Unanimously approved the appointment of members and chair of City Council's Audit Committee. Hearing on Zoning Matters – Appeal 11E (315 Kerbela Avenue) - Appellant (Rachel Craig) case: Presented by Janice Toker and Suzanne Taravella. They argued the proposed 55+ housing development violates the South Waterfront form-based code and vision plan. Seven deviations were identified (block size doubled to 3,000 ft, lot size 5.7 acres vs. 3-acre max, insufficient ground-floor transparency, blank parking garage walls, etc.). They contended the “breezeway” does not meet the intent of public connectivity and the project as a whole fails to create a human-scaled, integrated urban form. They requested the council overturn the Planning Commission's 7-6 approval. - Appellee (CR Endeavors) case: Presented by Nick Kitsos (local barbershop owner, supporting the project), Alex Dominguez (Kern's Bakery developer), and Ryan Robertson (developer representative). They highlighted the difficult topography (only 3.2 of 5.7 acres buildable, steep slopes, rock at 0.8 inches). The project has been redesigned over several months with community input (SWAG, neighborhood meetings), including splitting the building into two, adding a public breezeway/art gallery/viewing platform, preserving historic stairs, adding an arts plaza, and improving sidewalks. They argued the alternative compliance process is part of the code and that the project meets the intent of the vision plan. The developer noted over 50 inquiries from prospective residents. - Council Debate: Councilmember Adams, DeBart-Leban, Thomas, and Honeycutt expressed concerns about the scale (double block size, lot size) and precedent. Councilmember Helsley supported the project, citing improvements and the 55+ use. A motion to approve the appeal (i.e., overturn Planning Commission) was made and seconded. - Vote: Motion to approve the appeal carried 5-4 (Adams, DeBart-Leban, Honeycutt, Thomas, and [one additional] in favor; Fugit, Grant, Helsley, Lloyd opposed – actual count from transcript: five in favor, opposed unspecified number). Resolutions - 12F (Premise Health): Approved a three-year agreement with two one-year renewal options for operation of the city's employee health center at an estimated annual cost of $2,800,000. Unanimous. - 12G (Conley Building easement): Approved amendment to allow features to encroach into South Gay Street right-of-way. Unanimous. - 12H (Tazewell Pike Corridor Study): Approved agreement with Gresham Smith for professional engineering services not to exceed $248,023. Unanimous. - 12I (Ice rink lease): Approved five-year agreement with IRA Rinks East for equipment and services for Holidays on Ice, initial year not to exceed $103,000. Unanimous. - 12J (JAG Grant): Approved application for $158,586 from the U.S. Department of Justice (no match) jointly with Knox County for criminal justice system improvements. Passed 8-1 after public comments. Two speakers opposed, citing lack of alternative response program and transparency. Chief Noel explained funds would be used for mobile radios, mounted unit, training, and supplies. Councilmember Grant raised an anonymous letter about KPD but still voted for the grant. Vice Mayor Fugit requested future summary of grant applications and success rates. Proposed Ordinances on First Reading - 13N (Fire Marshal classification): Approved amendment to add the Fire Marshal position to the city's classification and compensation plan. Unanimous. - 13O (6531 Vance Road rezoning): Motion to deny the change from RN-1 to RN-2 passed on a voice vote. Councilmembers Lloyd, Thomas, and others cited concerns about density, narrow road safety, and precedent from adjacent rezoning. Planning staff had recommended approval, but council found the road infrastructure inadequate for additional lots. - Items 13P, 13Q, and 13R (additional rezonings) were not discussed or voted on during the meeting. Public Forum - Gabrielle LaFleur and Beth da Silvera: Represented the Friends of Longview Cemetery. Described severe overgrowth and neglect at the historic African American cemetery and nearby Westview cemeteries. Requested city support for ongoing maintenance, clearing, and headstone restoration. Noted a veteran's gravestone was buried under brush. They asked for a strategic plan for regular mowing and brush clearing. - Carl Lanson: Local developer. Spoke about challenges developing a blighted site on Chapman Highway (under contract since February). Shared that a potential student housing partner withdrew after a council member indicated distrust. Urged council to support development rather than create obstacles. - Yvonne Yates: Homeless advocate. Reported that the city has only 267 warming shelter beds for winter, far below need. Suggested calculating per-person costs and billing other jurisdictions that transport homeless individuals to Knoxville. Called for a larger warehouse for a warming center. - Rick Roach (Community Defense of East Tennessee): Played audio recordings of the final moments of Lisa Edwards and Patrick Allen, who died during police encounters. Urged council to fund alternative response programs for mental health and medical crises. Stated “two too many” and implored council to do better. Key Outcomes - Appeal granted (11E): Planning Commission decision to approve the Kerbela Avenue development overturned by 5-4 vote. - Rezoning denied (13O) for 6531 Vance Road. - Most remaining resolutions and ordinances approved as described. - Public forum provided extensive input on cemeteries, development, homelessness, and police reform. - Meeting adjourned after public forum.

The City of Monroe Finance and Taxation Committee met on October 13, 2026, in City Hall Council Chambers. Members present were Alder Truehart, Alder Tolman, Alder Schaefer, and Alder McGuire. The committee recommended approval of the 2027 fee schedule and the 2027 budget to the Common Council, entered closed session on four property and development matters, and returned to open session to forward the North Industrial Park site investigation proposal to the Common Council. No public comments were heard. Minutes - The committee reviewed the September 28, 2026 minutes. No corrections were offered, and the minutes stood as written. 2027 Fee Schedule - Administrator Rindy presented the annual fee schedule review. Department heads and organizations such as the airport board were asked to review fees and report changes. Increases are not automatic every year; the city tries to keep increases fair and equal over time, and some license and permit fees are adjusted every couple of years. - Historic preservation: the city is combining sign permits and certificates of appropriateness in the historic district into one application and one fee to reduce confusion and duplication. - After-school program: the program was split into two sessions, each costing $600. Registering for both would cost $1,150, compared with $975 when it was offered as one session this year, so the apparent decrease is actually an increase. Fees can fluctuate based on program actuals and enrollment. - Sanitation fees, including garbage cart fees, were increased to build the sanitation fund. - Fire department service fees: increases were proposed for fire suppression system inspections and fire/smoke alarm system testing. Per-hour charges apply only to additional or separate responses, not to every emergency call. False alarm charges were changed so the first three false alarms in a calendar year are free, with charges beginning on the fourth or more, to avoid penalizing new system installations. - A committee member praised the parks department’s thorough review, saying it avoids waiting and then making larger increases later. 2027 Budget Update - Administrator Rindy provided an updated budget presentation reflecting recent direction from Finance and Salary/Personnel. - Debt service increased by a little over $58,000. TID 12, the newest tax incremental district on the east side, does not yet generate enough increment to cover its full principal and interest payment in its first year of increment. The general tax levy will cover the shortfall, and the general fund could be reimbursed later if the TID generates enough increment. TID values are as of January 1, 2026, and additional value is expected by January 1, 2027. - The total budget remains $14.3 million, with a little more added by the debt service increase. - Expenditure Restraint Program: the city is eligible for a little over $200,000 in state revenue if expenditures stay within the state’s inflation-based limit. The city has an additional cushion of over $300,000, but cannot increase expenditures by that amount because of the levy limit, illustrating a gap between the LEMI levy limit formula and inflation. - Staff COLA was increased from 2.5% to 2.8%, plus step increases, not reaching the requested 3%. - Organization funding requests were accommodated: GCDC received an increase of around $8,000, Main Street Monroe was increased from $35,000 to $40,000, the Chamber stayed the same, and the cemetery increase to 55 was included. - Main Street Monroe’s funding will be shifted to TID 7 funding because TID 7’s project plan allows support for general Main Street operations. TID 7 has a positive balance and increment available, and the shift frees $35,000 in general levy funding for other requests and COLA. A future resolution will formalize funding Main Street through TID 7; when the TID closes, funding would return to the general levy. If TID 7 closed today, the city could add around $116,000 to the levy, enough to absorb the $40,000 Main Street payment. - Transit/shared ride service: SSM is willing to contribute based on ridership. An alliance community grant was attempted without success. The Administrator plans to present a shared-ride program summary, including usage and revenues, before the end of the year; monthly data shows pick-up and drop-off locations. - Special event fee structure had been incorporated into the fee schedule; Public Safety recommended keeping it the same this year, and the committee discussed revisiting it next year with a cost breakdown of events before deciding on fees. - The Administrator also noted the building permit threshold is $2,000 or more and that another increase will be proposed through the Judiciary & Ordinance process. Closed Session - The committee moved into closed session under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(e) to discuss four items: a potential offer to purchase or lease city-owned downtown property; the North Industrial Park site investigation proposal and potential sale of property; a residential development request for a developer’s incentive in TID 7; and a letter of intent for potential city property acquisition for residential development in TID 9. Post-Closed Session Action - After returning to open session, the committee voted to recommend the North Industrial Park site investigation proposal to the Common Council. Key Outcomes - Recommended the 2027 fee schedule to the Common Council; motion passed. - Recommended the 2027 budget to the Common Council; roll call vote passed with Alder Tolman, Alder Schaefer, Alder McGuire, and Alder Truehart voting aye. - Voted to forward the North Industrial Park site investigation proposal to the Common Council; motion passed. - No votes were taken in open session on the downtown property, TID 7 developer incentive, or TID 9 acquisition discussion items.

The Board of Public Works met on October 13, 2026, at 4:45 PM in Council Chambers to consider the approval of a fall 2026 yard waste and leaf grinding contract. Discussion Items - C.1 Review and Approval of Quote for Fall 2026 Yard Waste and Leaf Grinding: Streets Supervisor Lucas Neuenschwander presented the sole quote received from Urban Forest Services, the company used in previous years. The hourly rate for the grinder and Cat 299 skid loader with grapple bucket increased by approximately $10 per hour, while mobilization costs decreased by about $50 compared to prior years. The total cost for last year's service was approximately $11,000, which included extra charges for damaged cutting teeth and fabrication work. The supervisor anticipated a similar total for this year, potentially lower if no incidental costs arise. The service involves grinding all leaves collected from residents via the VAC system, as well as yard waste from the drop-off site and storm debris, all stored at the airport site on Greenbush Road. The board discussed the logistics of storing material and the shift from two grindings per year to one combined grinding, which produces a better compost product for residents. Alder Tolman made a motion to approve, seconded by Alder True Hart. Key Outcomes - Approval of Quote: The board unanimously approved the quote from Urban Forest Services for fall 2026 yard waste and leaf grinding. The motion passed with ayes from all four aldermen present: Tolman, True Hart, Schaefer, and Frankie. The meeting then adjourned.

The Santa Rosa City Council met on October 13, 2026, starting at 3:00 p.m. with a study session on municipal bond issuance and federal securities law responsibilities. The regular session began at 4:00 p.m. and included proclamations, presentations, a consent agenda, public comment on non-agenda matters, and two public hearings. Key actions included approval of an application for up to $3,046,056 in Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) funds, and a 6-1 vote (with one abstention) to grant an appeal and approve a Conditional Use Permit for a drive-through at Del Valle Mexican Restaurant, reversing the Planning Commission's denial. Several members of the public spoke in opposition to the city's use of Flock cameras, and Councilmember Alvarez moved to agenda a study session on automatic license plate readers before any contract renewal. Consent Calendar - 13.1: Approved Third Amendment to Purchase Order 170609 with PlanetBids, Inc., extending the term one year and adding $24,122 for a total not to exceed $110,303.46. (Unanimous) - 13.2: Adopted Resolution RES-2026-113 authorizing purchase of six 2019 Gillig hybrid transit buses from the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District, with a federal interest not exceeding $1,894,566 and appropriation of $381,102 from the Transit Capital Fund. (Unanimous) - 13.3: Adopted Resolution RES-2026-114 authorizing a request for $471,417 in Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) funds for Fiscal Year 2025-26 Cycles A and B to support the UR Free youth fare program. (Unanimous) - 13.4: Adopted Resolution RES-2026-115 authorizing application for $1,467,000 in One Bay Area Grant Cycle 4 funding for the Zero-Emission Bus Rollout Plan Implementation: Bus Fleet Resiliency Project, with required nonfederal match from Transit Development Act Article IV funds. (Unanimous) - 13.5: Adopted Resolution RES-2026-116 authorizing applications for Federal Transit Administration Formula and Surface Transportation Program funds for Federal Fiscal Years 2027–2031, committing approximately $12,701,317 in local matching funds. (Unanimous) Public Comments & Testimony - Study Session (4.1): Duane De Witt suggested board and commission members receive similar training on bond disclosure. - Recology Presentation (7.2): Michael Hilber raised concerns about fines for overfilled cans, noting that homeless individuals may add trash without permission. Duane De Witt advocated for textile recycling and praised the reuse bazaar (41,000 pounds diverted in 2026). - Economic Development Update (8.1): Duane De Witt urged the council to look beyond downtown and include Roseland businesses; Michael Hilber criticized the proposed sales tax increase to 10.5%; Fred Allebach urged consideration of a triple bottom line (economy, environment, society). - Community Empowerment Plan (8.2): Duane De Witt promoted the upcoming Make a Difference Day on October 24 and highlighted a new Roseland Rotary Club. - Public Comment on Non-Agenda Matters (14): A dozen speakers—including members of the North Bay Organizing Project—spoke in opposition to Flock cameras, citing privacy violations, civil liberties, and a federal judge's ruling on warrantless location data searches. Speaker Camille noted a community event where a Flock representative evaded a question from a Black and Latina former official, which she called anti-black. Duane De Witt suggested the council place the issue on a future agenda. - Public Hearing 16.2 (Del Valle Drive-Thru): - Opponents: Colleen O'Neal (44-year Kenmore Lane resident) cited lack of sidewalks and safety; Kathy Pooler (47-year resident) argued the studies ignored Kenmore Lane impacts; Scott Robinson noted dangerous U-turns and inadequate street lighting; Howard Leyton described hazardous left turns onto Sebastopol Road; Ken Davis argued the project violates zoning codes (sections 20-52F and 20-20.10) and would dump hundreds of cars onto a narrow residential street; Samantha Chance Colton (owner of three Kenmore Lane properties) stated her disabled veteran father would be directly affected by headlights, noise, and exhaust. - Supporters: Nahom, Ana Diaz, Hector Velasquez, Raul Barragan (President, Roseland Business Association), Jesus Martinez, Alan Martinez, Diana Martinez, Roy Cabrera, Anthony, and an unidentified speaker expressed support for the locally owned family business, citing job creation, tax revenue, and the opportunity for a small business to compete with nearby corporate chains. Roy Cabrera asked the council to find a way to approve the project. Jim Fain (civil engineer) clarified Kenmore Lane would only be used for egress, not ingress. - Final Public Comment (18): Betty Andrews spoke about flood risk from aging downtown culverts, citing FEMA studies; Jacob Gill urged approval of the ALPR study session, quoting a federal judge's opinion against dragnet surveillance; Jason Newman (author of "Deflock the Country") stated the song had over 10,000 streams and asserted community opposition to mass surveillance. Discussion Items - 4.1 Study Session – Municipal Bond Issuance and Disclosure: Scott Wagner (CFO), Chris Lynch (Jones Hall), and Craig Hill (NHA Advisors) presented training on federal securities laws, disclosure obligations, and the city's debt policy. Council Members Fleming, Bañuelos, and MacDonald discussed timing, interest rates (approx. 4% for general obligation), and the city's upgraded Moody's rating. Fleming asked why bonds were not issued sooner; MacDonald queried about capacity for additional debt. The session was informational with no action taken. - 7.1 Proclamation – Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Council Member Bañuelos read the proclamation. Madeline Keegan O'Connell (CEO, YWCA Sonoma County) noted the organization operates the county's only confidential safe house and 24/7 crisis hotline, receiving over 3,000 calls last year; 80% of clients are female, over 50% Hispanic/Latinx, 13% children, 7% seniors. Police Chief John Cregan reported a five-year average of 724 domestic violence incidents per year reported to SRPD. - 7.2 Recology 2026 Update: Andy Fulton (Interim GM) and Celia Furber (Community Relations Manager) presented operational improvements, including a bike lane sweeper and new recycling/compost routes. Furber reported 1,300 accounts worked with, 847 site visits, 2,500 audits, 125 presentations, and a 99% SB 1383 compliance rate. The reuse bazaar in September 2026 collected 41,000 pounds of material with 84% landfill diversion. Their Trash Art program and children's museum exhibit were highlighted. Santa Rosa's landfill tons decreased from 90,000 in 2019 to 81,000 in 2025 (10% reduction). - 8.1 Economic Development Update: Scott Adair (Chief Economic Officer) listed numerous completed initiatives, including gap analyses, broker forums, a new economic dashboard, and a one-stop shop business portal. Dr. Robert Eyler (Sonoma State) presented on national and local economic conditions: national real GDP growth forecast modulated, unemployment near 4-5%, inflation at 3.3% (core PCE) in 2026 with recession probability at 15-20%. Santa Rosa's hotel occupancy was around 62% (12-month moving average through July 2026). Key growth sectors: healthcare, hospitality, construction; agriculture and manufacturing forecasted to fall. Dr. Eyler noted lower to middle income households face persistent pressure from inflation. - 8.2 Community Empowerment Plan Update: Ana Horta (Community Engagement Manager) highlighted upcoming events: October 14 municipal election education meeting, October 15 and 22 e-bike safety meetings, and October 29 trunk-or-treat. - 11.2.1 Council Reports: Council Member Rogers suggested including a Roseland School Board representative on the Violence Prevention Partnership. Council Member Alvarez moved to agenda a study session on automatic license plate readers (ALPR) before any contract renewal, seconded by Council Member Fleming; the motion will be voted on at the next meeting (October 27). Council Member MacDonald requested a future item reviewing the city's farm animal ordinance; staff will review. Council Member Okrepkie reported on community town hall and subcommittee meetings. Mayor Stapp reported on a gun buyback that brought in nearly 600 firearms, a joint city council-school board meeting (first since 2019), and the fifth annual Faith and Blue outreach reaching 5,000 people across 36 congregations. - Appointment to Zero Waste Sonoma: Council voted unanimously to appoint Council Member MacDonald as the primary representative to the Zero Waste Sonoma Agency Board of Directors. Key Outcomes - Consent Items (13.1–13.5): All approved unanimously. - Public Hearing 16.1 – PLHA Funds: Council adopted Resolution RES-2026-117 authorizing submittal of an application to the California Department of Housing and Community Development for formula allocations of $487,369 (2024) and $522,044 (2025), as part of a potential five-year allocation of up to $3,046,056, and adopting the 2024–2028 PLHA Plan. The motion carried 7-0. - Public Hearing 16.2 – Del Valle Drive-Thru Appeal: Council adopted Resolution RES-2026-118 granting the appeal, reversing the Planning Commission's denial, and approving a Conditional Use Permit for a drive-through at 2000 Sebastopol Road. The vote was 6-1 (Council Member Fleming abstained). The resolution includes condition 10 for operating hours 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and requires a queue management plan that keeps queuing off public streets; the CUP can be revoked if conditions are not met. - Flock Camera Study Session: Councilmember Alvarez's motion to schedule a study session on ALPR will be voted on at the October 27, 2026 meeting. - Farm Animal Ordinance: Council directed staff to review the existing ordinance. - Minutes of September 29, 2026: Approved as submitted, with Council Member Rogers abstaining. - Next Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 27, 2026.