The Public Meeting Index

The PAL Committee convened to receive federal and state legislative updates and to consider recommended positions on several November 2026 ballot propositions and a regional transportation measure. After public testimony and committee discussion, the committee voted on support/oppose positions for Propositions 1, 40, 43, and the Regional Transportation Measure, and advanced Proposition 44 to the full Board without a recommendation. Federal Legislative Update - Emily DeSilva and Curtis Erdman of the Picard Group reported that Congress is largely adjourned ahead of the midterms. The White House announced a pocket rescission of $810 million in unspent FY26 funds, including $567 million from HHS Office of Refugee Resettlement. The move is deemed unlawful by Senate appropriations leaders, and Congress may address it in the next continuing resolution. The Office of Management and Budget’s proposed changes (CFR 200) were delayed in the CR through December 11. Senate will hold a procedural vote on the Ratepayer Protection Act. State Legislative Update - Amy Costa of Full Moon Strategies reported that Governor has until September 30 to act on bills. He signed SB 1400 on AHS governance. The Governor declared a state of emergency for El Niño preparedness. California is linking its cap-and-trade market with Washington state. 14 statewide ballot measures are on the November ballot, and the incoming governor will have a compressed timeline for the FY27 budget due to revenue impacts from several measures. Public Comments & Testimony - Tony Panetta (Chief Impact Officer, Alameda Health Consortium) supported opposing Proposition 44, warning of disproportionate harm to Alameda County’s FQHCs due to HR1 and compounding effects. - Doug Jones (SEIU UHW) supported Proposition 40, noting growing union support (California Federation of Teachers, UTLA). Regarding Proposition 44, he argued the initiative would not reduce clinic services and urged a neutral position. - Declan Walsh (SEIU UHW policy analyst) offered corrections to the legislative position request form for Proposition 44, stating that clinics can apply for waivers, penalties are reimbursable, and county costs are none. He disputed the $1.7 billion figure as from an opposition-funded study. - Araf Aziz (California Primary Care Association) opposed Proposition 44, citing opposition from 300+ organizations and a $1.7 billion first-year cost to health centers. He argued Form 990s are unreliable for setting mission-spend ratios. - Meg Stern (East Bay Leadership Council) opposed Proposition 44, warning it could force clinic closures and increase hospital burden. - Joe Greaves (Alameda Contra Costa Medical Association) opposed Proposition 44, calling it ill-conceived. Later, he opposed Proposition 40, saying it is a one-time fix that could harm state revenues and was developed without broader healthcare coalition input. - Araf Aziz (CPCA) also opposed Proposition 40, citing temporary nature and potential to reduce general fund revenue without guaranteeing funds reach clinics. Discussion Items Proposition 1: Veterans and Affordable Housing Bond Act of 2026 - Supervisor Fortunato Bas recommended support. The measure would authorize $11.25 billion in general obligation bonds to preserve 5,500 affordable homes and assist 40,000 households with home purchases. Alameda County Health and Housing agencies support it. The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) also supports. - Motion to support passed unanimously (Supervisors Fortunato Bas and Tam voting aye). Proposition 40: One-Time Wealth Tax (Billionaire Tax Act of 2026) - Supervisor Fortunato Bas recommended support as a response to HR1 cuts. She cited county data: 120,000 expected Medi-Cal losses, $250 million safety net loss, 15,000 CalFresh losses. The tax is one-time, up to 5% on assets over $1 billion, with 90% for healthcare and 10% for food assistance/education. - Public comment: Doug Jones (SEIU UHW) argued opposition from CTA is crumbling and that labor supports. Joe Greaves (ACCMA) opposed, citing one-time nature and lack of coalition. Araf Aziz (CPCA) opposed, stating it lacks sustainable funding and does not guarantee funds to clinics. - Supervisor Tam seconded the motion, acknowledging it is a short-term fix. Motion passed unanimously. Proposition 43: Two-Thirds Vote for Local Special Taxes - Supervisor Fortunato Bas recommended oppose. The measure would require a two-thirds vote for voter-initiated special taxes and prohibit new local ad valorem property taxes. She argued it threatens local decision-making, citing Measure C and Measure B. AC Health and CSAC oppose. - Motion to oppose passed unanimously. Proposition 44: Clinic Funding Accountability and Transparency Act - Supervisor Fortunato Bas recommended oppose. She stated that if applied to Alameda County FQHCs, based on UHW-provided Form 990 data, penalties would total $75 million over two years, potentially closing clinics. She cited specific figures: Davis Street $455k, Burst of Vasquez $8M, Asian Health Services $13.9M, La Clinica $2.2M (2025). The measure would also create state enforcement costs. - Supervisor Tam noted she appreciated the information but mentioned support from California Labor Federation and Alameda Labor Council. She preferred to advance to full Board without a recommendation. - Motion to advance with an oppose position failed for lack of a second. The committee agreed to advance Proposition 44 to the full Board without a recommended position. Regional Transportation Measure (RTM) - Supervisor Fortunato Bas recommended support. RTM is a 14-year half-cent sales tax in five Bay Area counties, raising $980M–$1B annually for transit operations. Failure could mean AC Transit route cuts, BART frequency reductions, station closures at 9 PM, and up to 15 station closures. - Motion to support passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Proposition 1: Supported unanimously. To be sent to full Board with recommendation to support. - Proposition 40: Supported unanimously. To be sent to full Board with recommendation to support. - Proposition 43: Opposed unanimously. To be sent to full Board with recommendation to oppose. - Proposition 44: No committee recommendation. To be sent to full Board without a position. - Regional Transportation Measure: Supported unanimously. To be sent to full Board with recommendation to support. - No further public comments on non-agenda items. Meeting adjourned.

The Anchorage Board of Ethics met on October 9, 2026, at 3:32 p.m. (per the user-provided date; the raw transcript records the meeting as occurring on October 1, 2026). The meeting was called to order by the Chair with a quorum present. The board approved prior meeting minutes, addressed public agenda items, and then entered closed session to deliberate on confidential ethics complaints and advisory opinion requests. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board unanimously approved the minutes of the September 23, 2026 and August 19, 2026 meetings. Motion carried without opposition. - Public Agenda Items 6A1 (1-10): Approved as a block without separate consideration. Motion carried unanimously. - Public Agenda Items 6A2 (1-2) (Notice of Intent to Respond to Public Solicitation): Approved without discussion. Motion carried unanimously. Discussion Items - Disclosures: One board member indicated a potential conflict related to confidential items but deferred disclosure to the closed session as advised by legal counsel (Paul/Chrissa). - Order of Business: The board agreed to take up non-confidential Item 5B (Request for Advisory Opinion 2026-02) before entering closed session, and then address public Items 6A1 and 6A2 before moving to confidential items. Motion carried unanimously. - Advisory Opinion 2026-02 (Non-Confidential): The board reviewed and adopted the draft response prepared by Paul. Members praised the draft. Motion to approve and distribute carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Advisory Opinion 2026-04: The board directed Paul to draft an advisory opinion in response to Request for Advisory Opinion 2026-04. Motion carried unanimously. - Ethics Complaint 2026-01: The board approved and directed the dissemination of a response to Ethics Complaint for Potential Violation 2026-01. Motion carried unanimously. - Ethics Complaint 2026-05: The board voted to reject the complaint on the grounds that the allegations, if taken as true, do not constitute a violation of the Code of Ethics, and provided explanation of other avenues of relief available to the complainant. Motion carried unanimously. (During closed session, the board noted that a member had an existing relationship with a party to this complaint but determined it did not require recusal.) - Advisory Opinion 2026-06: The board directed Paul to draft an advisory opinion responsive to Request for Advisory Opinion 2026-06. Motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned at an unspecified time following the motions. No public comments were received.

The Municipality of Anchorage Zoning Board of Examiners and Appeals met on October 9, 2026, to consider variance requests for a property in Girdwood (Case 2026-0125, petitioner Elliaska Serendipity LLC). The board also approved prior meeting minutes and a consent agenda with two resolutions. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from September 10, 2026, by unanimous consent. - The consent agenda, containing two resolutions, was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Derek Brewer (adjacent property owner) objected to the variances, arguing the hardships were self-imposed and the applicant sought to maximize density on a constrained lot. He expressed concerns about impacts to drainage, utility easements, and the watershed. - Nancy Elrod (civil engineer, downstream neighbor) argued the application fails to satisfy standards D, F, and H, noting that proposed sheet piling and vegetation removal would constrict stream flow and increase runoff. She stated the design does not comply with Title 20 runoff requirements. - Will Brennan (across-street neighbor) opposed the variances, stating the proposed 4,700 sq ft of living space is not the minimum reasonable use and is out of scale with the neighborhood. He asserted that the hardship was self-imposed because the structural deficiencies were apparent at purchase. - Mike Edgington (former Girdwood Board of Supervisors member) commented that stream-crossed lots are common in Girdwood and that the scale of the project far exceeds what is typical. He expressed concern that the variance would not result in a net benefit to the stream setback. The board also acknowledged written comments from the Girdwood Board of Supervisors and other individuals. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Staff described the three requested variances, noted that the existing structure had non-conforming rights, and explained that the department recommended denial for variances 1 and 2 (because standard H was only partially met) and recommended approval for variance 3. - Applicant Presentation: The applicants (Todd and Wendy Moe, with architect Marco Zaccaro) described their goal of creating a generational family home providing workforce housing, detailed the site constraints (stream bisecting the lot, steep slopes, utility easements), and explained their efforts to minimize impacts through thoughtful design and coordination with watershed management. - Board Deliberation: - Procedural Motions: A motion to consider all three variances together failed (2-4). A subsequent motion to split variance one into two parts (house addition and garage/ADU) passed (6-0). - Variance 1, Part 1 (house addition encroaching 4.5 ft into stream setback): The board found that all eight criteria were satisfied, and the variance was approved (6-0). - Variance 1, Part 2 (garage/ADU encroaching 14 ft into stream setback): Board members expressed concerns about self-imposed hardship and whether criteria C and H were satisfied. The variance was denied (2-4). - Variance 2 (footbridge crossing the stream): The board agreed that all criteria were met, and the variance was approved (6-0). Several members noted the footbridge was necessary to provide access to the home. - Variance 3 (garage/ADU encroaching 5 ft into front and side setbacks): The department recommended approval, but after discussion about the appropriateness of the ADU under Girdwood-specific code and the linkage to the denied stream-setback component, the variance was denied (3-3; five votes required). Key Outcomes - Approved: Variance for existing structure with addition to encroach 4.5 ft into the stream setback (6-0). - Approved: Variance to allow a footbridge across the stream (6-0). - Denied: Variance for detached garage with ADU to encroach 14 ft into the stream setback (2-4). - Denied: Variance for detached garage with ADU to encroach 5 ft into front and side setbacks (3-3, insufficient votes). - The board took no further action on the case; the applicant may revise and resubmit for the denied components. The meeting concluded with board member comments thanking staff and participants for a complex discussion.

Note: The meeting transcript records the date as October 7, 2026, but the provided context specifies the meeting occurred on October 9, 2026. The summary below uses the specified date. The meeting was called to order by Hearing Officer John 2, acting on behalf of the Director of Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement. After handling a deferral request for the sole consent calendar item, the hearing was adjourned without any additional agenda items. Consent Calendar - Item 3A (PD 25-004 / ER25-042): A request for a development permit to install an 80-foot-tall monopole with 15 antennas, a 30 kW standby generator, ground-level cabinets, and other equipment within a fenced enclosure on an approximately 90-acre site at 8790 Village Drive. Staff requested a two-week deferral. The public was invited to comment on the deferral only. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Dando (public speaker) spoke on the matter of deferral. He requested that the item be moved from the consent calendar to a separate discussion before the hearing officer when it returns in two weeks. Discussion Items - Deferral Request: Staff (Jacqueline Guerrero, project manager) requested a two-week deferral for Item 3A. The hearing officer noted that the item would return as a public hearing item on the next agenda. No other items were on the agenda for deferral. Key Outcomes - Item 3A Deferred: The hearing officer granted the two-week deferral, scheduling the item to return to the Director's Hearing on October 21, 2026 (transcript states "October 24st 21st," corrected to October 21 based on context). The item will be considered a public hearing item at that time. - Meeting Adjourned: With no remaining items, the hearing was adjourned at 9:07 AM.

The Civil Service Commission met on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 11:15 a.m. to consider classification and compensation matters for the Fire Department, approve examination announcements, receive a report on disciplinary training, and handle routine approvals. The meeting included public testimony and extensive discussion on a proposed special rate of pay for firefighters working out of class. Public Comments & Testimony - John Gallagher (Orleans Firefighters Association, Local 632) spoke in support of Item 3A, an amendment to the dual assignment special rate of pay, and asked for clarification on the effective date. On Item 3B, a proposed new special rate of pay for working out of class, he requested that the commission defer the item, arguing it conflicts with Civil Service Rule 5.2 (requiring minimum qualifications for dual assignments) and that the legality of compelling firefighters to work out of class is currently before a civil court. He expressed that employees would prefer not to have the rate increase now to avoid prejudicing future rule‑enforcement investigations. - William Ghost (public commenter) provided information on the fire department’s staffing model, noting that the special rate would apply whether firefighters volunteer or are compelled. He cautioned against setting policy based on a single disciplinary case (the Pierre case) and argued that the pay decision is distinct from the legal question of compulsion. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (July 10, 2026 and September 9, 2026): The commission approved the September 9, 2026 minutes with one abstention. The July 10, 2026 minutes were listed on the agenda but were not addressed in the provided transcript. - Ratification of Public Integrity Bureau (PIB) Extension Requests: Approved unanimously. - Item 3A – Fire Department Dual Assignment Special Rate of Pay Amendment: The commission approved a revision reducing the minimum eligibility threshold from 12 hours to 1 hour, allowing partial‑shift eligibility. Commissioner Monaverty was recused. The amendment was supported by the firefighters’ union. - Item 3B – New Special Rate of Pay for Firefighters Working in a Higher Classification: This proposal would provide a 5% special rate for firefighters assigned driving/apparatus operator duties who do not meet all minimum qualifications, and a 7.5% rate for firefighters or operators acting as captains who meet some but not all qualifications. - Commissioner Monteverdi opposed the proposal, arguing that the reduced rate is insufficient given the full liability and risks, and criticized the department’s disciplinary practices (citing the Austin Pierre case). He voted against the motion. - Commissioner Corn supported approval, reasoning that if the court permits such assignments, pay should be provided; if the court prohibits them, the rate would be moot. - Other commissioners debated the tension between classification rules and fairness. The motion to defer failed for lack of a second. The motion to approve carried with one “no” vote (Commissioner Monteverdi), effective immediately. - Item 4A – Approval of Examination Announcements (Nos. 11631–11662): Approved unanimously. These announcements cover non‑general‑fund positions at various agencies. - Item 5 – Report on Disciplinary Training for City Leadership: Staff reported on a training held in August 2026 titled “Performance Improvement through Constructive Discipline.” The training emphasized just cause, progressive discipline, and proper documentation. Pre‑ and post‑training surveys showed increases in confidence: administering discipline (87% to 96%), creating performance improvement plans (70% to 96%), and distinguishing progressive from accelerated discipline (62% to 100%). About 50 people attended two sessions. Commissioners discussed expanding the training to first‑level managers and including restorative practices. The report was received. Key Outcomes - Minutes of September 9, 2026, approved (one abstention). - PIB extension requests ratified. - Item 3A (dual assignment pay amendment) approved (Commissioner Monaverty recused). - Item 3B (new special rate of pay for out‑of‑class work) approved, effective today, with Commissioner Monteverdi voting against. - Examination announcements (Items 4A) approved. - Disciplinary training report received; no formal action taken. - Meeting adjourned.

On October 9, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., the Financial Audit and Oversight (FAO) Select Committee of the Jacksonville City Council convened in Council Chambers to review the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA). Chair Chris Miller led the meeting, joined by Council President Nick Howland, Vice President Joe Carlucci, Past President Ron Salem, and other members. JTA Interim CEO Cleveland Ferguson, along with CFO Randall Barnes, SVP Jessica Shepler, and Chief Data Officer Jason Montgomery, presented an overview of the agency's history, structure, and financial challenges. The committee's charge, issued September 30, 2026, directs it to complement the Florida Attorney General's investigation and JTA's independent forensic audit by focusing on financial stability, governance, operational performance, and transportation priorities. No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Committee Charge and Focus: Council President Howland explained the committee was re-established (effective October 5, 2026) to examine JTA's financial crisis, governance, whistleblower concerns, and local option gas tax (LOGT) projects. The committee must deliver a final report by December 4, 2026, with a possible extension. Chair Miller emphasized understanding "the basics" to prevent recurrence, noting the pain caused by recent cuts, including approximately 200 employees laid off. - JTA Overview and Financial Situation: Interim CEO Ferguson provided a 90-minute presentation on JTA's 60-year history, statutory authority under Florida Statutes Chapter 349, organizational structure (four gubernatorial appointees and three mayoral appointees), and regulatory framework (FDOT, FTA, Coast Guard, TSA). JTA serves 874.3 square miles in Duval County and over 1,800 square miles regionally, with 7.5 million riders annually (up 7.5% year-over-year). The St. Johns River Ferry expects 480,000 riders. JTA has 560 employees (400 union, 160 administrative) after cuts. Ferguson noted that when the scale of financial reporting issues became clear, the leadership acted immediately to right-size the organization. JTA has secured more than $380 million in state and federal grants, and achieves a 4:1 return on every JTA dollar invested. - Forensic Audit and Financial Oversight: Past President Salem asked about the forensic audit. Ferguson confirmed JTA's board chairs directed the general counsel to procure an external auditor; a workshop on October 28, 2026, will consider an RFQ for a management review and forensic audit. Council Auditor Brian Parks stated his office will provide the committee with historical quarterly summary reports from 2023 forward to identify when financial issues first surfaced. - Connection Plus Service: Vice President Carlucci raised concerns about the sustainability of Connection Plus paratransit service. Ferguson said JTA proposed eliminating it in January, but the board chose to continue. An RFP for new providers will be issued later in 2026. Council President Howland noted a potential $2 million in assistance, which Ferguson said would be used to pay contracts. - Fiduciary Responsibilities: Chair Miller asked whether board members and executives sign documents acknowledging fiduciary duties. Ferguson indicated that while no standalone oath exists, board Rule 0000 identifies committee responsibilities, and ethics forms are required. Miller requested exploration of creating such documents to codify expectations. Key Outcomes - The committee confirmed its scope: review JTA's financial projections collapse, governance failures, whistleblower protections, and LOGT project alignment. - Upcoming tentative meetings were announced: October 15 (9:30-11 a.m.), October 23 (9:30-11 a.m.), November 2 (10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.), November 10 (1:30-3 p.m.), and November 17 (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.). - Council Auditor's office will prepare a report on historical quarterly financial data starting from 2023. - JTA board will consider an external forensic audit RFQ at its October 28 workshop. - The committee will continue questioning JTA leadership at its next meeting, beginning with remaining questions from this session.

The City Council held a regularly scheduled meeting on Friday, October 9, 2026, beginning at approximately 9:00 AM (local time). The agenda included approval of prior minutes, commendatory resolutions, several ceremonial recognitions, public comment on a single agenda item (Item 5), and a vote on that item. The meeting also featured extended presentations honoring Hangul Day, Indigenous Peoples Day, Russell Westbrook, Union de Vecinos, and the Panorama City Chamber of Commerce. Public comment included calls for heat protections, concerns about Skid Row events, and criticism of a professional services agreement. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes of October 7, 2026, moved by Councilmember Rodriguez and seconded by Councilmember Raman. - Commendatory resolutions (Honorary Hangul Day, Indigenous Peoples Day, Russell Westbrook, Union de Vecinos 30th Anniversary, Panorama City Chamber of Commerce 10th Anniversary) moved by Councilmember Padilla and seconded by Councilmember Lee. Public Comments & Testimony - Grace Hutt (Sage) urged the council to expedite an indoor maximum temperature threshold ordinance, noting that the previous week was the longest consecutive stretch of 100°F days in October on record, and said residents suffered without cooling. - Smoking Scan (in person) used profanity to criticize the council and LAPD over the Skid Row raid, and expressed support for a budget that brings “limp biscuit” to LA. - Jason (virtual) complained about the city’s contract approval process and referenced the Al Ron Hubbard Way name change as an example of problematic contract oversight. - Audit the Government.org (virtual) argued that Item 5’s contract is tied to Israel and criticized the council for not taking a stance on connections to Israel. - Caller 3784 (virtual) condemned the Skid Row raid and called for the firing of LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell, calling him “MAGA McDonnell.” - Brennan Leonard (Venice Chamber of Commerce) invited the council to the Dia de los Muertos 5K and Turkey Trot LA. - Sarah Zapata Mijares requested a proclamation for Dia de la Guayavera del Trovador y la Gastronomía Yucateca during the Feria Yucatán in LA. - Caller 1403 (virtual) alleged that LSC (the contract company) is “bunch of criminals” and complained about conflicts in contract awards. Discussion Items - Councilmember Park (CD 11) acknowledged a visiting delegation from the Venice Chamber of Commerce, praising their work in economic development, education committees, and the Wave Awards for teachers and Jackets of Excellence program. - Councilmember Jurado (CD 14) delivered an extended speech about the Skid Row neighborhood following a federal law enforcement operation the day before. She described the origins of Skid Row as a “containment zone” created by the city in 1976, outlined the neighborhood’s density of seniors, disabled, and Black residents, and decried the lack of basic city services such as trash cans and public bathrooms. She stated, “Living in a neighborhood society wrote off does not make you a criminal or unworthy.” - Councilmember Hernandez (CD 1) led the Indigenous Peoples Day recognition, with a land acknowledgment from the Gabrielino Tongva people, and remarks from representatives of the LA City/County Native American Indian Commission, United American Indian Involvement (UAII), and Comunidades Indígenas en Liderazgo (CIELO). Speakers emphasized the need for language access, an end to human trafficking of Native people, and recognition of Indigenous rights in policy and budget. - Councilmember Hutt (CD 10) honored NBA star Russell Westbrook with a certificate of recognition, highlighting his community investments: a reading room at 75th Street Elementary, a tech lab at the Crenshaw YMCA, annual Thanksgiving meals at Jesse Owens Park, the Westbrook Academy (now 600+ students), and the Evermont development (180 affordable homes, new school, local businesses). Other councilmembers added remarks praising his commitment to youth, education, and South LA redevelopment. - Councilmember Jurado also presented a resolution recognizing Union de Vecinos on its 30th anniversary, praising the tenant advocacy organization’s work in Boyle Heights. Leonardo Vilchis, Elizabeth Laney, and Kenya Alcocer spoke about the fight against public housing demolition, the need for truly affordable housing, and called on the city to protect communities during the promised 45 days of federal immigration enforcement. - Councilmember Padilla (CD 7) presented a certificate to the Panorama City Chamber of Commerce for its 10th anniversary. Executive Director Saul Mejia and President Danilo Guerra noted the chamber’s founding during a period of little elected support, and thanked Councilmembers Rodriguez and Padilla for attending cleanups. - Councilmember Soto (CD 13) gave an update on the morning’s Continuum of Care board meeting regarding a proposed county takeover of the LA Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). He reported that the city mobilized 1,500 participants, exceeding the meeting’s capacity, causing the meeting to be shut down; he said the vote was postponed. Key Outcomes - Item 5 (amended/restated professional services agreement) was approved with 12 votes in favor; no votes against or absent noted. - Proclamations issued: October 12, 2026 declared Indigenous Peoples Day; certificates of recognition presented to Russell Westbrook, Westbrook Academy, LA Promise Fund, and the Crenshaw YMCA; a resolution marked Union de Vecinos’ 30th anniversary; and the Panorama City Chamber of Commerce received a 10-year anniversary recognition. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned in memory of Maria de la Carmen Abascal (Mari Carmen), 87, of Madrid, Spain, who died weeks after being evicted from her home of 70 years, sparking housing protests across Spain. - Referral: Councilmember Soto noted that the Continuum of Care board vote on LAHSA oversight will be rescheduled; council offices will continue monitoring.

The Tourism Committee met to review discretionary room tax spending and gather recommendations for the 2027 Visit Manitowoc budget. Chair Paul Hoffman led the meeting; Courtney of Visit Manitowoc presented the budget context and took suggestions. Attendees included Amy Meyer, Haley Remel, Chad Harrington, and Kevin Cullen. Jackie Salazo, Samantha Hamill, and the mayor were absent. Sue Keppi, the new admin, was introduced. The committee had a quorum. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes by voice vote, with no opposition. Room Tax and 2027 Budget Context - Courtney explained that the committee's role is to recommend discretionary room tax expenditures to the Room Tax Commission, which oversees the tourism budget. Visit Manitowoc's budget is due to the mayor and finance department on August 21, and the Room Tax Commission will act on it the first Tuesday of October. - Room tax revenues have averaged about $725,000 per year, while the city budgets conservatively at $700,000. 2026 collections are currently trending above 2025, with each month a few thousand dollars ahead; the new Hampton hotel is adding to overall collections rather than merely shifting business. - The room tax reserve is roughly in the $800,000 range, and council has committed that all room tax revenue must be spent on tourism, unlike municipalities where 30% can go elsewhere. - Historical discretionary or miscellaneous spending ranged from about $5,000 to $12,000 per year for opportunities such as the Milwaukee Morning Blend; some of those items have since become regular budget line items. - The 2027 budget will look different: salaries are lower, visitor guides are being split with Two Rivers into a more Manitowoc-centric guide planned for two to three years, and the department is still determining the long-term home for Visit Manitowoc. Office Space and Future Home - Courtney said the current location is a great spot but no longer fits the team: two full-time staff, the new admin, a seasonal employee, another seasonal job description not yet filled, and the farmers market manager and supplies. She is setting up an additional workstation before Erica returns from maternity leave. - The Room Tax Commission previously approved about $12,000–$13,000 for Abacus plans and a survey for green space between Shipbuilders and the city parking lot next to the Maritime Museum. Courtney is waiting for direction on whether to continue that project, pursue another downtown purchase, or consider financing; the city prefers owning over renting. Marketing, Sales, and Group Business Recommendations - Committee members emphasized investing in sales capacity and face-to-face conference recruitment, especially after staffing gaps this year. Courtney said she is exploring Circle Wisconsin sponsorships, the NTA Exchange in Madison next year, CRM lead follow-up, and pre- and post-fam tours. - On fam tours, Courtney said 2026 had many cancellations, especially in late spring and early summer; the department is shifting to smaller, customized tours instead of large general tours to reduce last-minute cancellations. - Members suggested creating conference or group-tourism support grants—not necessarily bid fees—to attract groups such as a 250-person conference. Kevin noted that multi-day conferences often generate museum-to-museum touring and other local spending, and he supported looking closely at this idea. - Haley Remel suggested the city support or join MPI, Meeting Planners International, Wisconsin chapter; Farm Wisconsin has applied to host an MPI event. Courtney said MPI membership was discontinued when underutilized but is something to add for 2027. - A member proposed a hop-on/hop-off trolley on peak days connecting outlying attractions, similar to Sheboygan or Fox Cities. Courtney said Hilbert Trolleys has been a good partner and the idea is fun and visual. Photography, Video, and Paid Media - Members asked for marketing assets showcasing attractions beyond downtown. Courtney said photography and video are likely the largest recurring marketing increase for 2027; after a major investment in 2023, this year included an eight-hour shoot plus farmers market and sand-sculpting shoots. She is waiting on quotes. - Courtney reported paid media success: the Milwaukee Morning Blend, Travel Wisconsin co-op marketing averaging about $15,000 per year, out-of-state broadcast co-ops in Minneapolis this year and Chicago and Des Moines in prior years, and WTMJ radio segments. Several visitors said the Minneapolis segment prompted their July trip. Discover Manitowoc Grants - The Discover Manitowoc grant pool has been $40,000 per year, and requests have been roughly double the available amount. Members discussed adding a separate meetings or conference grant, expanding the existing grant, or adding an enhancement or sustainability category for established events such as 15-year-old Civil War reenactments and anniversary events drawing visitors from 10 states. - In old business, grant recipients appreciated the funds, while some non-recipients continued to express need; one member credited Discover funding and Facebook ads with increased food truck rally attendance. A member suggested recommending an increase in the grant program, possibly to $50,000, and Courtney said she would add that to her notes. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - The committee will forward its 2027 recommendations to the Room Tax Commission, including conference and group support, MPI membership, trolley and attraction connectivity, photography and video investment, and Discover Manitowoc grant changes or an increase. - No formal vote was taken on budget recommendations; the discussion will inform Courtney's budget submission due August 21, with Room Tax Commission action scheduled for the first Tuesday in October. - The next committee meeting is set for December 9 at noon in the hearing room, focused on 2027 goals and visioning. - A member volunteered to help refine the grant process; Courtney noted the grants typically launch in January. - The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

The Public Transportation, Utility and Waterways Review Board met on October 9, 2026, chaired by Alderman Bob Bauman. The committee received detailed presentations on the Milwaukee County Transit System's (MCTS) financial restructuring plan, Amtrak's Hiawatha West extension, and the Milwaukee-Racine-Kenosha (Mark) Rail passenger study. MCTS Forward Service Concepts & Public Engagement - Presenters: Steve Fuentes (President/CEO, MCTS) and Jesus Ochoa (Director of Service Development). - Fiscal Crisis Context: MCTS has largely exhausted a $192 million federal ARPA fund used to sustain service for five years. The Milwaukee County Comptroller projects a $15.7 million deficit in 2027, growing to $37 million by 2031. - Root Cause: State transit aids were cut by 10% in 2011 (under Act 10) and have remained flat. Adjusted for inflation, MCTS estimates it is losing $58 million annually compared to 2011-level funding ($174 million vs. the current $116 million). - Plan Overview: MCTS Forward is a three-year plan requiring a 25% reduction in service hours to achieve financial stability. - Ridership Concept: Concentrates high-frequency service in the dense urban core, preserving ridership and convenience but eliminating geographic coverage in the county's northern and southern extremes. - Coverage Concept: Preserves the service footprint but drastically reduces frequency (many routes moving from 20 to 60 minutes), risking a loss of discretionary riders. - Timeline: Public engagement runs until October 26, 2026. A draft plan is expected in winter 2026-27, with a final plan by fall 2027. Implementation is unlikely before 2028/2029. - Discussion: Aldermen Bauman and Brower criticized the presentation of the two concepts as a false binary choice. Bauman argued the coverage model would turn transit into a social welfare program and lose political support. Bauman urged MCTS to plan robust Summerfest shuttle service and to emphasize aspirational growth models in public outreach. Amtrak Hiawatha West & State Rail Update - Presenters: Lisa Stern (Chief of Railroads & Harbors, WisDOT) and an Amtrak representative. - Booming Services: The Chicago-Twin Cities Borealis service has exceeded expectations, carrying half a million riders by September 2026. A fourth coach car is being added. - Hiawatha West Proposal: An incremental, conventional-speed (59 mph) extension of two daily Amtrak round trips from Milwaukee to Madison via Pewaukee and downtown Madison. - Infrastructure & Cost: The $273 million capital project includes track upgrades and 33 grade crossing improvements. It initially requires a Positive Train Control (PTC) exemption permitted for low-frequency service on low-freight corridors. - State Funding Request: A $55 million state match has been requested in the upcoming biennial budget. - Discussion: Committee members expressed concern that limiting service to two round trips could stifle ridership growth, citing the Capitol Corridor's experience. A strong case was made for a west-side Milwaukee County station to improve access and avoid backtracking. Milwaukee-Racine-Kenosha (Mark) Passenger Rail Study - Presenter: Clayton Johansen (DB Echo North America, consultant to the Mark Rail Commission). - Project Scope: A full-service vision for passenger rail service connecting Kenosha, Racine, and Milwaukee, acting as a local complement to Amtrak's Hiawatha service. - Governance: The Mark Passenger Rail Commission emphasized the project would be a Wisconsin-controlled entity, not joining an Illinois transit body. - Funding Status: The initial study is complete. The project is seeking entry into the FRA's Corridor ID program for continued development and is not yet ready for a state budget appropriation. - Discussion: Alderman Bauman questioned how cost estimates for the Milwaukee-Kenosha segment compare to Hiawatha West given similar existing track conditions. Clear branding differentiation from Amtrak was strongly recommended. Key Outcomes - Information Received: The committee took no formal votes but gathered significant information on the region's transit and rail fiscal challenges. - Directives: MCTS was urged to frame public engagement around possibilities beyond the 25% cut scenarios. Alderman Bauman directed MCTS to prioritize planning for robust Summerfest transit service. - Next Steps: MCTS public engagement closes October 26, 2026. WisDOT awaits state budget decisions. The Mark Rail Commission continues pursuing federal corridor designation.