The Public Meeting Index

The Fort Smith Board of Directors met at 6:00 p.m. on November 2, 2026, at the Blue Lion, 101 North 2nd Street. All seven directors were present: Rego, Good, Kemp, George Catsavis, Christina Catsavis, Settle, and Martin. Mayor George B. McGill presided. The board approved the October 20 minutes, advanced several zoning ordinances, approved a 13.7% average fire pay increase, tabled a Parrot Island appropriation, approved a revised Arcadis consent-decree program-management contract, approved wastewater consent-decree contracts and seven capital improvement plans, and handled a four-item consent agenda. Consent Calendar - Approved the October 20, 2026 regular meeting minutes. - Approved consent agenda items 12A–12D: final payment of $79,318.99 to Steve Beam Construction for Creekmore Park Tennis Courts Improvements; Change Order No. 1 with Langford Roofing and Construction for $36,157 and 42 additional days at Massard Wastewater Treatment Plant; final payment of $187,685 to Westbrook's Concrete Construction for the Miss Laura's Brothel Museum parking lot replacement; and acceptance of Van Horn Construction's $168,076 quote for the Lee Creek Water Treatment Plant clarifier drive mechanism. Item 12A carried 6-0 with Director Christina Catsavis abstaining; the remaining consent items carried 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Methodist Village items 2A and 2B: Joey McCutcheon opposed the rezoning and reverter removal, arguing the property was being given away after about a year, questioning whether it had actually been used as a daycare, saying the reverter should remain until that use was established, citing Article 12, Section 5, and threatening litigation. - Fire pay: Shane McKinney, Samuel Schleif, Crystal Cadelli, Chris Cadelli, Jason Skirbitz, Joey McCutcheon, and Casey Millspaw spoke in support of the raise. Several urged making it effective January 1 rather than April; Chris Cadelli specifically asked for a January 1 effective date. - Parrot Island: Gary Podgarski, Shane McKinney, Crystal Cadelli, Chris Cadelli, Jason Skirbitz, Joey McCutcheon, and Casey Millspaw opposed or urged delay. They sought a forensic audit, questioned ARM's management and missing funds, opposed paying before county action or legal review, and raised contract notification and reporting provisions. Shane McKinney relayed a resident's suggestion to sell or privatize the park and suggested a private resort developer. - Arcadis: Shane McKinney supported professional program management. Crystal Cadelli raised concerns about audit exclusions, the discretionary budget, reporting, and city oversight. Jason Skirbitz raised similar concerns. Joey McCutcheon supported item 8B and opposed item 8A. - Goodwin & Goodwin: Gary Podgarski praised Todd Mittge and suggested a dedicated city contracting division. Shane McKinney, Crystal Cadelli, Jason Skirbitz, and Joey McCutcheon generally supported the negotiated approach while urging better bidding procedures. - Capital improvement plans: Crystal Cadelli opposed item 11C, the parks CIP, and urged halting capital projects until water and sewer obligations were clearer. Jason Skirbitz said he was a solid no on 11C and a solid yes on 11E, the transit plan. - Miss Laura's: Shane McKinney and Joey McCutcheon praised the Miss Laura's parking lot project and the museum. Zoning & Land Use Ordinances - Item 1: Rezoned 1406 and 1408 South 11th Street, 0.32 acres, from Office, Research and Light Industrial to Mixed Use Residential and from Industrial Light (I-1) to Transitional (T) to facilitate two duplexes on individual lots. The Planning Commission recommended approval 8-0. The board approved with suspension of the rules 7-0 and adopted the emergency clause 7-0. - Item 2A: Rezoned the approximately 26.85-acre Methodist Village campus at 1801 South 74th Street and 7425, 7811, and 7815 Euper Lane from Commercial Light Special (C-2-SPL) and Transitional (T) to a Planned Zoning District. The Planning Commission recommended approval 8-0. Four neighboring owners attended the October 5 neighborhood meeting and one email was received. The board approved 7-0 and adopted the emergency clause 7-0. George Catsavis asked whether the property had already been deeded to Methodist Village; staff clarified the transfer had occurred and this ordinance rezoned the whole campus, while item 2B removed the reverter. Christina Catsavis expressed support for the childcare use. Neal Martin asked Melissa Curry about the TAP-funded connector trail to Carol Ann Cross Park; Curry said the project was waiting on engineers and bat-season timing and had no firm timeline, and said the daycare planned to take children to the park. - Item 2B: Approved removal of the reversionary clause for 1801 South 74th Street 7-0. - Item 3: Rezoned 8501 Chad Colley Boulevard, 2.06 acres, from not zoned to a Planned Zoning District. The Planning Commission recommended approval 8-0. No neighbors attended the September 24 meeting. The board approved 7-0 and adopted the emergency clause 7-0. Neal Martin asked what would be built; staff said no specific use was known and the zoning was intended to make the property more marketable. - Item 4: Rezoned 2908 Xavier Street and 5401 South 29th Street, 0.16 acres, from Commercial Heavy (C-5) to Residential Single Family High Density (RS-4) to make the two existing single-family homes conforming and allow subdivision into two lots. The Planning Commission recommended approval 8-0. One neighbor attended the September 30 meeting with no concerns; adjacent owner Justin Wisdom opposed by phone and email, saying the change would decrease his property value. The board approved 7-0 and adopted the emergency clause 7-0. - Item 5: Rezoned 6812 Phoenix Avenue, 0.77 acres, from Commercial Light (C-2) to Commercial Heavy (C-5) to allow an auto quick lube in the existing building. The Planning Commission recommended approval 8-0. No neighbors attended the September 29 meeting. The board approved 7-0 and adopted the emergency clause 7-0. Fire Department Pay Ordinance - Approved an ordinance establishing 2027 pay rates for uniformed Fire Department employees with an average 13.7% increase over the 2026 schedule. The prior scale increase was in 2025. The board first amended the ordinance to make the pay effective January 1, 2027, instead of April 11, 2027, by a 7-0 vote, then adopted the ordinance as amended 7-0. Directors praised the union's preparation and said the city must continue addressing competitiveness and cost-of-living adjustments rather than waiting another four or five years. Parrot Island Water Park - Considered an ordinance appropriating $144,000 from General Fund balance for the city's half of an estimated $287,936.11 in 2026 Parrot Island operating obligations. Staff said about $230,000 was accounts payable, the management fee was about 5% of gross revenues, and sales tax owed to the city and utilities was also outstanding. Sebastian County was expected to consider a matching contribution on November 17. The City Attorney outlined possible civil claims against ARM if facts showed breach, fraud, or negligent supervision, and discussed statute-of-limitations windows; Chief Baker discussed the criminal statute of limitations. The board tabled the item to its first December meeting for further due diligence and prioritization of expenses by a 7-0 vote. No appropriation was made. Arcadis Consent Decree Program Management - Item 8A was the original $2,474,000 agreement tabled from October 20; staff recommended no action. Item 8B was the revised negotiated agreement with Arcadis, U.S., Inc. for Federal Wastewater Consent Decree program management, Project No. 26-01-ES1, at a not-to-exceed $2,256,000 for one year, a $218,000 reduction. The contract is time-and-materials, not a guaranteed amount. The board approved 8B on a recorded 5-1-1 roll call: Settle opposed and Christina Catsavis abstained. A later transcript phrase says four in favor and three opposed, but the specific roll call was 5-1-1. Discussion covered IDIQ delivery, competitive procurement, audit rights, reporting, and the absence of a guaranteed first-year savings figure. Todd Mittge said year two was estimated at $1.75 million in the CIP as a placeholder pending a revised scope. SSA Remedial Measures & Consent Decree Contracts - Items 9A and 9B concerned 2023 SSA Remedial Measures, Sub-Basin Z003, Project No. 25-12-C1. The sole bid from Goodwin & Goodwin, Inc. was $5,500,715.50, about 19% over the $4,619,393 engineer's estimate. The board did not adopt 9A; it approved 9B, the revised negotiated bid of $5,060,015.50, about 9.5% over the estimate, with 390 calendar days, by a recorded 5-1-1 vote: Settle opposed and Christina Catsavis abstained. - Item 10A: Approved the bid of InLiner Solutions, LLC for 2022 SSA Remedial Measures, Sub-Basin S005, Project No. 25-13-C1, at $3,441,442.90 and 330 days. Six bids were received; the engineer's opinion was $6,499,163.50. Neil Martin questioned the low bid; staff and Halff's Alan Deaver said InLiner stood behind the bid and had performed prior city work. Approved 7-0. - Item 10B: Approved an agreement with Halff Associates, Inc. for engineering services on Sub-Basin S005, Project No. 25-13-EC1, at $106,610 and 365 days. Approved 7-0. - Item 10C: Approved Change Order No. 1 with Forsgren, Inc. for 2017 SSA Remedial Measures, Sub-Basin P009, Project No. 19-18-C1, adding $684,184 and 89 days, bringing the total contract to $5,580,574 and the substantial completion date to April 8, 2027. Approved 7-0. Capital Improvement Plans - Items 11A–11G were approved as a batch, with all passing 7-0 except item 11C, which passed 6-1 with George Catsavis opposed. - 11A: 2027-2028 Water CIP, with $5,900,000 funded for 2027 and $5,991,000 estimated for 2028. - 11B: Ten-year 2027-2036 Streets and Traffic Control CIP and 2027 Sidewalk Program; 2027 vehicle and equipment replacements totaled $1,120,000, and the 2027 sidewalk program proposed 3.21 miles of new construction and 1.04 miles of repairs. - 11C: Five-year 2027-2031 Parks and Recreation 1/8% sales and use tax CIP. - 11D: Ten-year 2027-2036 Solid Waste Services CIP; 2027 requests totaled $12,348,000, including $7,000,000 for a new landfill cell. - 11E: Adopted the 2026 Transit Asset Management Plan; the plan identified about $6.95 million in asset investments over five years, about $1.17 million local impact after grants, and about $9 million in active federal grants. - 11F: Five-year 2027-2031 Police CIP; 2027 expenses were $6,135,390 against $5,349,045 in revenue, requiring $786,345 from the General Fund. - 11G: Five-year 2027-2031 Fire CIP; 2027 totaled $2,252,069, including $80,000 in General Fund items and $2,172,069 in 1/8% sales tax apparatus costs. Consent Agenda - Approved items 12A–12D as described above, with Christina Catsavis abstaining on 12A. Officials Forum - The mayor encouraged residents to vote. Director Rego thanked candidates for running. Director Kemp raised conflicts with the November 13 budget hearing; four directors supported rescheduling, and City Administrator Jeff Dingman was directed to find an alternate date. George Catsavis asked whether candidates elected in the election could attend budget meetings; the City Clerk said historically they are included. Christina Catsavis requested a policy on political signs on city-owned property after a sign was moved inside the Creekmore polling place, saying signs should be stored at Public Works rather than a polling location. The administrator announced no meeting November 3, a study session November 10, city offices closed November 11 for Veterans Day, and that an alternate budget hearing date would be sought. The meeting adjourned. Key Outcomes - All zoning ordinances and emergency clauses passed 7-0: South 11th Street, Methodist Village PZD and reverter removal, Chad Colley Boulevard, Xavier/South 29th, and Phoenix Avenue. - Fire pay ordinance passed as amended, 7-0, with an average 13.7% increase and an amended January 1, 2027 effective date. - Parrot Island's $144,000 appropriation was tabled to the first December meeting, 7-0. - Arcadis item 8B was approved 5-1-1; item 8A was not acted on. - Goodwin & Goodwin item 9B was approved 5-1-1; item 9A was not adopted. Consent-decree items 10A–10C passed 7-0. - Capital improvement plans 11A–11G passed, with 11C passing 6-1. - Consent agenda 12A–12D passed, with a 6-0-1 vote on 12A. - The budget hearing date is to be re-set, and staff was asked to develop a political-sign policy for city-owned property.

The Rochester City Council held its regular session on November 2, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Government Center Council Chamber. All seven council members and Mayor Norton were present. The meeting included open comment on automated license plate readers and Salvation Army housing assistance, four public hearings, a report on private sewer lateral cost assistance, and ordinance readings. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved as presented (Miller moved; Keene seconded). - The consent agenda was approved in full with no items pulled (Fredericks moved; Miller seconded). It included minutes from October 19, 2026; accounts payable totaling $65,176,428.94, including $24,997,618.72 in investment purchases and $40,178,810.22 in accounts payable; authorization for Electric Utility Revenue and Refunding Bonds, Series 2027A; a temporary two-hour free parking program in City ramps from December 1–31, 2026; FY2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant application/acceptance; MnDPS 2027 Traffic Enforcement grant acceptance; and multiple contract amendments and agreements (including Toole Design $60,283.95, Widseth $96,720, Kimley-Horn $25,120, Bolton & Menk $445,883, amended Farmland LLC annexation of about 188 acres, Mayo Clinic B3/B4 coordination, and a settlement related to the Tap House litigation). - During consent, a council member clarified that the MnDPS 2027 traffic enforcement grant (F6) covers salaries for enforcement activities such as distracted driving, DWI, and speed—not equipment. Public Comments & Testimony - Adam Sechla and Sarah Jackham spoke against automated license plate readers (ALPRs), which they associated with Axon/Flock cameras. They asked that the MnDPS 2027 traffic enforcement grant not fund ALPRs and urged the Council to cancel current ALPR contracts, remove equipment, and commit to no further installations. Jackham cited United States v. Kyle (case no. 426 CR00189) as finding ALPR use an unconstitutional warrantless search and listed numerous Minnesota communities and counties that she said had paused or suspended ALPR use. The speakers expressed concerns about privacy, data sharing, and wrongful tracking. - Major Randy Halstrom, commanding officer of the Salvation Army in Rochester, thanked the city for a block grant. He said the $12,000 grant would help 10 to 16 additional households remain in their homes this year; the Salvation Army averages 12 households per month receiving rental assistance but receives about 30 calls per month it cannot cover. He said more than 40 households call weekly because they are not secure in their housing and described the need as greater than available resources. - John Creasel opposed the proposed 4% increase in 2027 Downtown Special Service District charges. As a street-level business owner, he cited difficulty for clients accessing his facility, lack of handicap parking on Third Street, and street closures during downtown events; he said downtown retail businesses were not seeing 4% growth. - Linda Parker urged the Council to embed rigorous fraud-prevention and oversight measures in the CDBG Annual Action Plan, including sub-recipient audits, progress-to-payment disbursements verified by city inspectors, data matching against county property records, and a public-facing CDBG contract tracker. - No public testimony was offered during the vacation petition (G3) or Cassidy Heights final plat (G4) hearings. City Administrator and Mayor Reports - City Administrator Zelms noted that election day was the next day and that Rochester Public Transit would provide free rides to polling places. He announced a Rochester Public Library event on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m., and a Sound School performance by Dusky Waters at the Historic Chateau Theater on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at 7 p.m. with a $10 entry fee. - Mayor Norton responded to the ALPR comments by saying Rochester does not use Flock cameras but uses Axon, which she said is not used to track citizens. She cited a June town hall with RPD, strict access rules, in-house data retention, and regular deletion unless needed for court. She also mentioned a recent shooting at 41st and 52 in which no one was shot but a car was hit, said a 41st Street camera had been vandalized and was not active, and encouraged residents to contact Chief Franklin with questions. - Mayor Norton also announced the League of Minnesota Cities Mayor for a Day contest through December 11, a free all-ages fifth-anniversary New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., several board and commission vacancies, and a December event to recognize board and commission members. Discussion Items - 2027 Special Service District Service Charges (G1): Josh Johnson explained that the Downtown SSD is a self-imposed charge supported by downtown property owners, not a traditional city property tax levy, and funds Rochester Downtown Alliance services. The district was renewed in 2024 for 10 years. Staff recommended a 4% increase, within a 4%–8% range, producing approximately $425,893 in total 2027 service charges—about a $16,000 year-over-year increase and about 30% of the RDA annual budget. Sean Fagan described RDA programming, including 424 free live musical performances in summer/fall, marketing, and a Sunday market pilot; he said one business reported its busiest Sunday in months, another reported an 11% sales increase, and a survey found 60% of attendees came downtown for the event and 60–65% planned to explore more of downtown. Council members discussed the RDA role, accessibility parking, and the December free-parking program. Public Works noted that hang-tag holders can park four hours at any downtown location and that accessible parking would be inventoried and addressed block by block during upcoming downtown reconstruction projects over the next four to five years. - 2027 CDBG Allocations (G2): Brent Svenby presented the 2027 Annual Action Plan. The city projects $650,000 in HUD CDBG funds plus $75,000 in program income. Public-service requests totaled about $260,000, but the 15% cap allowed about $97,500. The plan included about $97,500 for public services, $145,000 for administrative activities, $70,000 for housing coalition affordable-housing planning, $250,000 for single-family rehab loans, $125,000 for rental rehab loans, and $107,000 for rehab-program administration. Svenby said public-service grantees are reimbursed after expenses, monitored, and subject to agreements; rehab work is inspected before payment. Councilmember Doring asked whether any grantee had fallen out of compliance or been accused of fraud; Svenby said he was not aware of any, and noncompliance would result in funds not being released. - Vacation Petition CD2026-008VAC (G3): Elliot Muller presented a request from Pougiales SE Rochester LLC to vacate an unused 10-foot-wide utility easement south of Center Street East and west of Sixth Avenue Southeast. Public Works and RPU supported the vacation with a future easement; new utility easements would be dedicated through site development and minor subdivision. The overall project is a six-story, 211-unit multifamily development. The Development Review Team recommended approval with one condition. Applicant engineer Craig Britton acknowledged the developer would pay relocation fees for a service serving the adjacent property and that RPU Electric required certain facilities to remain until relocation. Councilmember Keene asked about notification; Britton said the relocation affects the home to the south and other lots would be consolidated. - Cassidy Heights Final Plat CD2026-028PLAT (G4): Muller presented a final plat by RJR Land Development LLC to subdivide 12.7 acres (agenda: 12.77 acres) into 18 residential lots and one outlot at the terminus of Cassidy Ridge Drive Northeast. The roadway would be extended and temporarily terminated in a cul-de-sac for fire access, with future extension. The major land subdivision was approved September 9, 2026, and the final plat was consistent with the general development plan and major subdivision. The Development Review Team recommended approval with four conditions. Applicant Dan Horsch of SEH said the applicant would meet the conditions. - Private Sewer Lateral Line Cost Assistance Research (H1): Aaron Luxtein reported on a 2025 action-plan item. Under current ordinance, homeowners are responsible for private sewer laterals from the main to the house, and right-of-way work can be costly. From January 1, 2021 through September 17, 2026, the city recorded 84 permits for private lateral repair or replacement—an average of 14 per year, with a high of 18 in 2024. Luxtein said 59% of permits included work from the main to the house and characterized the split as roughly 70% full main-to-house work versus 30% only within the street/sidewalk area. Staff evaluated expanding RPU Service Assured, shifting responsibility to the curb/right-of-way, grants or low-interest loans, and voluntary private insurance. Staff did not recommend the first three because of staffing/funding, rate increases, or lack of Rochester-specific inflow/infiltration need. The recommended option was a voluntary third-party insurance program through Oncourse Home Solutions: up to $30,000 coverage, average repair about $1,000 but potentially $15,000 when sidewalks/streets are involved and up to $30,000 in worst cases; a discounted introductory rate (transcript records $699 per month) rising to just under $10 per month after the first year; 95%+ claims approval; no city funds; opt-in with no minimum policies; and a one-time $25,000 community partnership fund for hardship assistance. Administrator Zelms noted the proposal has no deductibles or service fees. Council members debated the value of the program, prior logo-use concerns, geographic distribution, homeowner responsibility, and whether to bring Oncourse in for more discussion. Palmer raised concern about a prior program using the city logo; Zelms said the earlier use was unauthorized and not a city partnership. Keene estimated about 80 repairs over roughly 40,000 services, about two per 1,000 over five years. - Ordinance Readings: First readings were introduced for Zone Change CD2026-002ZC by 75th AZ, LLC (15.75 acres at the northwest corner of 60th Avenue Northwest and Valley High Road from H Holding to MXC Mixed Use General); Zone Change CD2026-001ZC by Stencil Group (about 3.83 acres northwest of Superior Drive Northwest and Badger Hills Drive Northwest from MX-S to R-3 Medium Density Residential); and a stormwater management criteria text amendment to Rochester Code Title 6, Chapter 6-4, Section 6-4-12. The 2027 Master Fee Schedule ordinance received its second reading and was adopted. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved in full; no items were pulled. - G1: Adopted a resolution authorizing $425,893 in 2027 Downtown Special Service District service charges (Doring moved; Fredericks seconded; voice vote, no opposition noted). - G2: Adopted a resolution approving the 2027 CDBG Annual Action Plan (Fredericks moved; Miller seconded; voice vote, no opposition noted). - G3: Adopted a resolution approving Vacation Petition CD2026-008VAC with one condition (Fredericks moved; Keene seconded; voice vote, no opposition noted). - G4: Adopted a resolution approving Final Plat CD2026-028PLAT, Cassidy Heights, with four conditions (Fredericks moved; Doring seconded; voice vote, no opposition noted). - H1: A motion to maintain the current approach on private sewer lateral cost assistance failed on a roll-call vote; Fredericks and Palmer voted aye, Keene, Miller, Doring, and Schobring voted nay, and Wall’s vote was unclear in the transcript. A subsequent motion directing staff to bring Oncourse Home Solutions to a study session or report and recommendation for continued discussion of a voluntary insurance program passed 6–1 (Fredericks voted nay; Keene, Miller, Wall, Palmer, Doring, and Schobring voted aye). - K1: The 2027 Master Fee Schedule ordinance was adopted (Keene moved; Wall seconded; voice vote, no opposition noted). - The meeting adjourned after a motion by Miller, seconded by Wall.

The Committee of the Whole met on November 2, 2026, to discuss the 2027 Budget, with a primary focus on allocating a $1.1 million general fund surplus. The board reached consensus on several key allocations, including maintaining a 5% property tax rate reduction, funding a water utility rebate, increasing non-union employee compensation, and ordering a new dump truck. Public Comments & Testimony - Colleen Schmidt, a resident of the Seaple Shea subdivision, expressed concerns about traffic safety at Kendall Point Drive and Route 34 with the upcoming opening of Trader Joe's. She requested lane markings and synchronized traffic lights. She also inquired about the future use of a vacant lot under contract. The Village President directed her to Development Director Rod Zenner and the Village Engineer for follow-up. Discussion Items - 2027 Budget and Surplus Allocation: Staff presented options for using the surplus. The board discussed the proposed 5% property tax rate reduction, balancing resident relief against fiscal conservatism for future economic uncertainties. Consensus was reached to maintain the 5% reduction already factored into the draft budget. - Grocery Tax Rebate: The board confirmed it would continue the $50 annual water utility rebate for approximately 12,500 households, costing $625,000 from the surplus. - Non-Union Wages: A trustee-proposed increase to non-union salary and bonus pools was discussed. A previous compensation study indicated market gaps. The board agreed to add a 0.5% base salary increase (raising it from 3.5% to 4%) and a 0.5% bonus pool increase, totaling $75,400. - Fleet and Equipment: Trustee Koenig raised concerns about deferring a $350,000 dump truck replacement. Given a one-year lead time, the board directed staff to order the truck immediately to ensure it is available for the following winter. - Signage and Amenities: Rough estimates for a Route 34 gateway sign and a digital Village Hall sign ($75,000 each) were presented. The board deferred a final decision for more detailed proposals and cost analysis. The board also informally agreed to ask the Cultural Arts Commission to address the aesthetics of the bollards at Village Hall. - Pothole Management: Trustee Andrew proposed a specific fund for a pothole remediation program. Village Administrator Phil noted a record-setting MFT road program already in the 2027 budget and committed to analyzing staffing and response times to determine if faster repairs are feasible without additional dedicated funds. Key Outcomes - Property Tax Rate: Consensus reached to maintain the proposed 5% decrease in the village's portion of the property tax levy. - Water Rebate: $625,000 allocated from surplus to continue the $50 annual residential rebate. - Staff Compensation: $75,400 allocated for a half-percent increase to both the base salary pool (3.5% to 4%) and the bonus pool. - Dump Truck: Staff directed to order a new $350,000 dump truck to replace a 17-year-old vehicle and address extended lead times. - Remaining Surplus: $55,602 left unallocated in the general fund balance. - Deferred Items: Decisions on the two proposed signs and a targeted pothole fund were tabled for further staff analysis and detailed design costing.

The Indianapolis City-County Council met on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. with 24 members present. Prior to the meeting, the Mayor approved several fiscal and special ordinances as communicated by the clerk. The council adopted special resolutions honoring flood response and youth justice, approved the 2027 meeting schedule, passed multiple speed limit reductions, and allowed rezoning ordinances to become law. Consent Calendar - Approval of the meeting agenda and the October 19, 2026, meeting minutes. - Proposals 375–381 (rezoning ordinances) were passed into law without objection, as no district councilor called them down. - Proposals 307–315, which included speed limit reductions to 25 mph in several subdivisions and weight restrictions on Indian Creek and McGregor Roads, were adopted unanimously (24–0) after receiving a “Do Pass” recommendation (8–0) from the Public Works Committee. Public Comments & Testimony - Proposal 372 (Honoring Flood Response): Representatives from the Rocky Ripple Town Council (Councilor Hollins and President Randy Sanders) and the Ravenswood community (GW) expressed gratitude for the support from the city, first responders, and volunteers. They noted ongoing recovery needs and called for continued assistance. - Proposal 373 (Youth Justice Action Month): Youth justice advocates spoke in favor: - Dianyoor Dior Valentina (Center for Lived Futures) stressed the importance of accountability for youth in custody and referenced the proposed Daily Shea Act. - Liz Quade (Marion County Commission on Youth) discussed the Juvenile Advisory Council and the need to better understand youth violence. - Isha Weide (Children’s Policy and Law Initiative of Indiana) urged investment in young people and listening to their experiences. - Michelle Terry (Indiana Youth Institute) thanked the council for the recognition. Discussion Items - Proposal 372 – Special Resolution (Flood Response): Councilor Barth introduced the resolution, recounting the community’s response to the historic August 2026 flooding. The resolution expresses gratitude to first responders, volunteers, and community leaders; urges a transparent after-action review of flood preparedness with public participation; calls for online publication of emergency plans; and encourages continued recovery efforts. - Proposal 373 – Special Resolution (Youth Justice Action Month): Councilor Robinson presented the resolution, recognizing October 2026 as Youth Justice Action Month. The resolution commends young leaders and advocates and reaffirms the council’s commitment to policies that promote opportunity, healing, and accountability for youth. - Proposal 374 – 2027 Meeting Schedule: Vice President Barth moved to approve the schedule of regular council meetings for 2027; the motion carried. Key Outcomes - Proposal 372 (flood response resolution) was adopted. - Proposal 373 (Youth Justice Action Month resolution) was adopted. - Proposal 374 (2027 meeting schedule) was adopted. - Proposals 307–315 (traffic safety measures) passed with a vote of 24–0. - Proposals 375–381 (rezoning ordinances) became effective upon passage. - All other proposals introduced (334–370) were referred to committees as listed in the agenda. The meeting concluded with a motion for adjournment honoring the memory of Courtney Bride, Chukwuma Anyanwu, Jacqueline Hall Moore, Gary Kirk, Christopher Wilson, and Patrick Pat Crosley.

The Leesburg Board of Architectural Review (BAR) met in a work session on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The transcript covers two deferred cases: a window-replacement application at 105 Rivanna Terrace and the proposed deconstruction and reconstruction of the historic bank barn at 1221 S. King Street. The agenda also listed TLHPBR2026-0038 (18 E. Market – Loudoun County Courthouse – Bollards – critical action date extension request), but no discussion or action on that item appears in the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - Dory O’Brien, homeowner at 105 Rivanna Terrace, stated the Palladian window was installed with contoured mullions before she purchased the property. She argued the BAR should approve it because it was an existing condition, because the contoured mullions make the window appear to have external muntins, and because she said even BAR members had thought the muntins were external when viewing a photograph. - Later, speaking as an HOA board member, O’Brien asked the BAR to consider that other homes in the 88-home community may seek replacement Palladian windows with vinyl internal contoured muntins. She said the HOA had updated its guidelines and that the community was built in 1999 as an internal, separate part of the historic district with limited visibility from outside. Discussion Items - 105 Rivanna Terrace (TLHPBR2026-0043). Staff said its current position was to allow articulated, three-part contoured muntins between the glass for this specific neighborhood. Staff cited findings that the community has private streets, contemporary construction, individual lots, 88 homes, and limited visibility and impact on the historic district; staff also said the 2009 guidelines generally disfavor grills between glass but that context and intent can be considered. Staff clarified that the HOA was proposing to allow contoured muntins between the glass but not flat grills, and that each property would still need its own certificate of appropriateness. - Rick said he struggled with the request because the BAR is supposed to uphold the Old and Historic District guidelines and should not weaken them; he said changing the district map would be outside the BAR’s purview. - Don said the guidelines should guide the decision and questioned whether snap-in external grills would be reasonable for a fan-light window with unusual geometry. - JP said he was leaning toward finding that the intent was met for a non-contributing, modern townhouse, because the internal contours read similarly to external muntins even if they are primarily aesthetic. - Julie said she was concerned about consistency but could support limited findings, while noting that HOA restrictions may be stricter than the BAR’s. - Tom said a neighboring house’s divided-light wood windows looked better and warned that approving grills between the glass would make a visible difference; he later advocated extremely specific findings to avoid setting a broad precedent. - 1221 S. King Street historic barn (TLHPBR2026-0023). Staff recapped that the BAR had deferred the application because the deconstruction plan lacked detail. Staff said the applicant had updated the plan, but the Town was still trying to hire an independent qualified consultant; staff requested detailed documentation of each course of brick, how materials would be removed, cleaned, stored, tracked, and reused, and how reconstruction would relate to the approved addition. - Applicant Greg Wigfield and builder Joe Matthews of TMG Construction described a brick-by-brick deconstruction and reconstruction. They said a 40-by-70-foot fabric tent would be used to sort and catalog materials; approximately 18,000 bricks would need to be removed; timber would be harvested and reused; and the building had been laser-scanned inside and out. - Matthews proposed an 8-by-8-foot or 6-by-6-foot mock-up wall as a condition of approval. He said a masonry restoration contractor referred to in the transcript as Gen Co-Masonry had advised that the brick could be salvaged, while acknowledging that some interior brick had deteriorated. He also said the revised drawings removed the word veneer, but the discussion characterized the proposed wall as CMU backup with a brick veneer; Matthews agreed that description was accurate. - Don asked how materials would be cataloged, photographed, verified, and judged unsuitable for reuse, and what minimum salvage percentage would trigger a return to the BAR. Staff said the deconstruction plan should require documentation of each brick course from exterior to interior. - Julie asked whether deconstruction was necessary to preserve the barn’s overall integrity. The applicant said the east wall had moved five to six inches since a 2017 stabilization attempt, the north wall was leaning somewhere between four and five inches on the lower level, and the change of use to an A1 performing-arts theater required a higher standard. The applicant also said the ground floor would go two feet deeper, requiring underpinning, and committed not to deconstruct until the building permit for the entire project was issued. - Tom asked for complete documentation of the timber frame so future researchers could understand how the barn was built. The applicant said the structure had been laser-scanned and timber could be tagged and numbered. - Staff and board members repeatedly emphasized that the plan must specify how bricks would be tracked by wall, location, and color, how they would be stored and protected, and how the reconstruction would preserve historic character rather than create a purely cosmetic replica. Staff also said aggressive cleaning or pressure washing should be avoided. Key Outcomes - The BAR approved TLHPBR2026-0043 for the window replacement at 105 Rivanna Terrace, based on the staff report findings as revised during the meeting, with a condition that any alterations resulting from HOA review or site plan, zoning, or building permit review require a revised application, including changes to footprint, height, attachment, scale, or materials. The motion as read also referenced garage door and window replacements, while the agenda described the case as a window replacement. The motion passed 6-0-1. - The BAR deferred TLHPBR2026-0023 for the deconstruction, repairs, replacements, and reconstruction of the historic barn at 1221 S. King Street to the BAR meeting on December 16, 2026. The motion passed 6-0-1. Staff noted the critical action date was December 17, 2026. - Staff was directed to continue pursuing an independent historic-masonry and deconstruction consultant and a documentation template, and to arrange a site visit with the consultant. The applicant was encouraged to work on site plans concurrently. - Staff announced that the Town Council had ruled on the appeal concerning 7 Royal Street and upheld the BAR’s approval and findings from August; a further appeal to circuit court remained possible. Staff also reminded members to respond to FOIA requests, noted the January 4 work session, and discussed reappointment applications and quorum planning. The meeting was adjourned.

The Visalia City Council convened for a Work Session at 4:00 PM and a Regular Session at 7:00 PM on Monday, November 2, 2026, in the City Council Chambers. Major topics included the Cross Valley Corridor transit study, the Race Communications fiber optic network proposal, an Entertainment Ordinance update, and revisions to the Fireworks Ordinance. Council Member Emmanuel Hernandez Soto was absent for the Work Session but present for the Regular Session. Consent Calendar - Approved 5-0. Key items included: - Authorization to purchase two 35-foot battery electric buses for the Cross Valley Corridor and Bus Rapid Transit project (Gillig, $3,129,442). - Contract amendment for BSK Associates for the Civic Center Phase 2 ($405,596). - Water Reclamation Facility Well No. 1 replacement agreement with Living Water Industries ($325,000). - Five-year HVAC maintenance contract for the Water Reclamation Facility ($27,000 annually). - Sole source battery purchases for public safety radio equipment ($50,545) and the Emergency Communications Center ($67,270). - Audio/video equipment purchase for the Phase 2 Civic Center ($220,162). - Contract for electronic door access controls at various facilities (NTM Productions, $1,300,000). - Materials testing contract for Digester 9 (Krazan & Associates, $122,550). - Grant submittal authorization for the Riggin Ave Widening project. - Fire alarm system replacement at the Manuel Hernandez Community Center ($32,400). Public Comments & Testimony - Work Session: Kathy Falconer (Visalia) spoke on the Cross Valley Corridor, asking about ridership surveys, service hours, emissions impacts, and signal timing. During the Race Communications item she asked about sign-up rates, costs, and new development coordination. - Regular Session (General): Irene Lapin (Visalia) commented on national politics and local campaign finance reform. Jeff Pool (Visalia) raised concerns about child sexual abuse, stating that his organization has identified 10 survivors and expects the number to reach 30, and urged council to assist in prevention and response efforts. - Public Hearings: No members of the public spoke during the Entertainment or Fireworks Ordinance hearings. Work Session Discussion Items - Cross Valley Corridor Special Area Studies (Informational): Assistant City Manager John Lollis, Transit Manager Angelina Baker, and TCAG’s Giancarlo Bruno presented an update on transit stop locations. The preferred stop for the Visalia Industrial Park is at the Doe Center, with microtransit serving the surrounding area. The College of the Sequoias (COS) stop analysis focused on traffic flow and pedestrian safety on Mooney Boulevard. Full Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) operations are projected for 2031, but a “BRT Light” version is expected to begin through the Short Range Transit Plan in 2028. Ridership projections range from 700 to 4,000 daily trips. The item was for information only; no action was taken. - Race Communications Fiber Optic Network (Action): RACE Communications presented a plan to install a pure fiber network in Visalia. Phase 1 is an $18 million investment covering approximately 14,000 homes and businesses over 18–24 months, offering symmetrical speeds up to 10 Gbps. City Engineer Chris Crawford outlined the city’s oversight, including the moratorium street map, encroachment permits, potholing procedures, and a 100% performance bond. Council discussed communication, private street restoration, and the timeline for future phases. A motion by Council Member Poochigian, seconded by Council Member Nelsen, to approve the city staff’s recommended process carried 4-0 (Soto absent). Regular Session Discussion Items - Entertainment Ordinance Adoption (26-0228): Associate Planner Colleen Moreno presented the ordinance creating two approval pathways: an administrative Entertainment Permit for activities ending before 10:00 PM (30-day review, $588 fee) and a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for activities past 10:00 PM reviewed by the Planning Commission. Council discussed accountability through bar detail inspections. Council Member Nelsen motioned to adopt the first reading with a 1:30 AM hard cutoff for DJs and live entertainment. The motion carried 5-0. - Fireworks Ordinance Update (26-0190): Fire Marshal Corbin Reed and Fire Chief Dan Griswold proposed increasing fines by $1,000 per tier and holding property owners accountable for repeat violations. - Charitable Threshold: Staff proposed a 51% threshold for funds benefiting Visalia. Mayor Taylor supported the 51% figure; Council Member Nelsen advocated for 75%. Vice Mayor Wynn and Council Member Soto supported the 51% threshold or a simpler local-presence rule. The motion to bring back amendments was broad and did not lock in a specific percentage. - Reward System: Staff recommended against a reward for reporting use, citing evidence issues, neighbor disputes, and a 50% collection rate on over $817,000 in citations. Staff supported increasing the reward for reporting sales from $500 to $1,000. Council agreed with staff on both points. - Motion 1: Vice Mayor Wynn moved to direct staff to return with amendments to Chapter 8.24. Carried 5-0. - Motion 2: Following clarification from the City Attorney, Vice Mayor Wynn separately moved to increase the reward for reporting illegal fireworks sales to $1,000. Carried 5-0. Key Outcomes - The Council approved the process for Race Communications to begin Phase 1 of its fiber optic network installation in Visalia (4-0). - The Council approved the first reading of the Entertainment Ordinance, creating an administrative/CUP split process with a 1:30 AM cutoff for amplified live entertainment and DJs (5-0). - The Council directed staff to draft amendments to the Fireworks Ordinance reflecting increased fines and updated definitions, and separately approved raising the reward for reporting illegal fireworks sales to $1,000 (both 5-0). The Council declined to create a reward system for reporting use. Next Meeting The next regular City Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 16, 2026, at 7:00 PM.

The Peekskill Common Council met on November 2, 2026, in a work session described in the transcript as a committee of the whole meeting; the agenda listed a 6:45 p.m. start. No minutes were available. Most items were discussed for resolutions to return at the November 9 Common Council meeting, and no final council votes on the substantive items were recorded before the meeting moved into executive session. The agenda covered recreation and event approvals, property-tax exemptions, water and sewer bids and grants, a fire event closure, a Maple/Hudson traffic study, a DISH Wireless bankruptcy claim, and liaison reports. Recreation & Events - Jonathan Zamora of Recreation/Community Hub presented five items. For the annual holiday tree lighting, staff requested a street-closure application for Saturday, December 5, 4–8 p.m. Construction at the downtown intersection prompted discussion about anchoring the approximately 25-foot tree; staff said the best alternative location was across the street near the Harriet Tubman statue/flagpole, but anchoring remained unresolved. A council member asked whether to move the event to 'Bugsley Park'; staff agreed to return next week with clarification. - New Year’s Eve celebration: street closures were requested for Thursday, December 31, in the downtown area; staff said the event would be organized in-house, including band/entertainment. - Chapter 416 bikes and parks: staff presented Parks Advisory Board input on whether hiking and biking should share trails or have separate trails/access. One member had reservations and urged long-term stewardship of DePew Park; one supported maintaining access and said there was no evidence it would increase parking, bathroom, trash, or other conflicts and would keep the status quo of 20 years; one disagreed and said alternative days could improve safety and reduce conflict; a fourth disagreed via email; a fifth supported via email; a sixth did not respond. Staff said documents do not require biking as the only use and the city could manage access. Council members raised concerns about outside organized events, parking in residential areas, and maintenance costs, and clarified the discussion concerned pedal bikes, not motocross or e-bikes. A suggested green trail from the pool parking lot into Blue Mountain was noted as often muddy and not suitable for beginners. A council member said they would not favor circumventing Blue Mountain parking fees by parking in DePew and suggested the city should charge if needed. No decision was made; staff will continue gathering information. - Fireworks: staff requested authorization for a December 31, 2026 display with Garden State Fireworks at $8,500, and a July 4, 2027 display at $50,925; both contracts include inclement-weather rescheduling language and would return by resolution. - The council asked staff to group street closures and fireworks items for the next agenda/consent. Assessor & Tax Exemptions - Paula of the Assessment Department presented four items. Surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty: a local option for up to a 50% assessed-value exemption, not applicable to special districts; based on the 2026 city tax rate and an average $9,707 assessment, an eligible taxpayer would save $1,535.79. Westchester County has adopted it effective for the 2027 assessment roll. A council member asked whether remarriage affects eligibility; staff said the law is unclear and would confirm. - Military active service members exemption: for active-duty U.S. Armed Forces, National Guard, or New York Naval Militia who own/claim a primary residence and served in a combat zone in the prior calendar year before the May 1 taxable status date. It would reduce assessment by up to 25% or $20,000 in full value, whichever is less; it is temporary and must be renewed annually. Staff estimated the maximum benefit at approximately 130.37 cents as stated, based on the current equalization rate and 2026 tax rate; Westchester has adopted it effective 2027. The council would need to set the percentage by resolution/local law. - Alternative veterans exemption revision: the current exemption is 50% of an established disability rating and does not apply to special districts. The new local option would provide a full property tax exemption for seriously disabled veterans with permanent and total disability due to military service, including special districts; it would apply only to the alternative veterans exemption, not the Cold War veterans exemption. Fiscal estimate: total veterans tax exemptions would increase by approximately $40,000 — $33,000 city and $7,000 library — benefiting no more than 26 existing disabled veterans, with average additional savings of $1,540 per household. Westchester has adopted it effective 2027. - Tax map maintenance contract: staff recommended renewing with CAI Technologies for 2027 at unchanged pricing, citing responsiveness and service. - If the council proceeds, resolutions would be prepared for November 9 and a public hearing scheduled for November 23. Water, Sewer & Infrastructure - Dave Rambo presented the water maintenance materials bid: 43 categories and six bidders/companies, with an additional bidder winning about 13 categories at substantially lower prices and meeting AWWA standards; a resolution was requested. Council discussion noted price increases; staff said exact calculation was difficult, while chemicals rose about 15%. - Water treatment plant chemicals/sludge removal: staff reported about a 15% increase and more bidders; liquid carbon dioxide from the usual vendor rose from $350 two years ago to $440 last year to about $520–$525 this year. A quote was also obtained to supply bulk chlorine to the DePew Park pool. - Sewer: staff requested acceptance of a $50,000 NYSEFC wastewater infrastructure engineering planning grant to study inflow and infiltration; the $10,000 match would be offset by city staff administrative/field work rather than a cash check. The study would focus on the north end and support future remediation applications; separate south-end work including Bleelock Park and Washington Street was noted, with $1 million from an earlier water infrastructure grant. - Staff also announced a $2.5 million award for rehabilitation of the lower water-supply dam, addressing DEC requirements that the dam pass more water; council thanked state and DEC partners. Fire, Planning & Legal - Fire Department Reindeer Run: requested closure of Park Division, Bank, Brown, and Broad for one hour on December 5, 10–11 a.m.; the event collects new unwrapped toys and non-perishable food, with Santa at the firehouse 11 a.m.–1 p.m. A resolution is to return. - Maple and Hudson traffic study: staff requested approval of $9,280 for a traffic safety assessment including a field visit, 24-hour vehicle/pedestrian/cyclist data, peak-hour review, signal warrant evaluation, crash/DOT records, quick-build treatments, concept designs, and a cost estimate. The intersection involves a county-managed state road; staff said they would coordinate with the county. Recent actions included parking regulations, additional signage, enforcement, and possibly three blinking stop signs, which staff would confirm. Speed data near Ferris on Maple would also be collected. A resolution is to return. - DISH Wireless bankruptcy: the City Attorney reported DISH filed for bankruptcy in Houston and sought to cancel leases, including a 2003 lease for equipment at the water tower on 138 Banafield. The city filed a claim for $39,150; CRG Financial offered to purchase the claim at 57%, or $22,511.25, which the attorney recommended accepting given uncertainty and delay. Council members asked about removal or abandonment of equipment and the cost to remove it; the attorney would confirm. A resolution was recommended. Liaison Reports - Councilman DeGrazia: CAC garlic festival November 6, 3:30–5 p.m. at Regeneration Farm in DePew Park, rain date November 7 at 2 p.m.; youth bureau community giveaway November 7, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.; Fordham football trip November 14; Thanksgiving basket giveaway November 18; Father Factor Thanksgiving brunch November 21, 1–3 p.m. at the firehouse; youth bureau closed November 3, 11, 26, and 27. - Councilman Bassett: farmers market and flea market have three weekends left; vendor appreciation next weekend; BID board meets Wednesday this week at 6 p.m. at City Hall. - Deputy Mayor: senior Halloween party and trunk-or-treat were well attended; thanked the fire department. - Councilman Rigger: thanked Ben Alexander, DPW, and Cornell for quickly fixing a Paramount dock light. - Councilman Chang: HRC met and is working with police on a community survey by month’s end and with faith leaders; attended a heart-health event with NAACP and a local hospital; noted the Mount Olivet bell dedication. - Mayor: encouraged voting on Election Day and noted Wilfredo is gathering history on the Mount Olivet bell. Key Outcomes - No final votes were taken on the substantive agenda items; staff was directed to return with resolutions at the November 9 Common Council meeting, including street closures, fireworks, tax exemptions, tax map renewal, water/sewer bids and grant, Reindeer Run closure, traffic study, and DISH claim assignment. - Public hearings on the tax exemptions were contemplated for November 23 if the council proceeds. - The meeting closed with a motion to enter executive session to discuss personnel/medical/financial/credit/employment history or appointment/employment matters; it was seconded and approved by all in favor.

The Joplin City Council held an informal meeting on November 2, 2026, at 11:30 AM. The sole agenda item was a quarterly update from the Joplin Sports Authority (JSA), presented by Jared. The meeting concluded with a question from Council Member Moran and adjourned, with the council to reconvene at 6:00 PM for the regular meeting. Discussion Items - JSA Quarterly Update: Jared provided an overview of JSA as a not-for-profit sports commission aiming to attract and support sporting events to enhance quality of life and generate economic revenue. He highlighted the 2026 Hall of Fame class inducted in October, including Olympic softball player Nicole Hudson, posthumous inductee Forrest Reed, state championship teams from 1978 and 1984, and Joplin Globe sports writers. He also discussed a collaborative event, the Velo Solutions Pump Track USA Qualifier, which involved multiple city agencies and local businesses, with top finishers advancing to world championships in Beijing. Jared listed upcoming events, including the JUCO national championship (hosted again) and the NCCAA cross country national championships, and noted an anticipated 12,000 participants across events. He outlined ongoing recruitment efforts for disc golf, bowling, collegiate baseball, and other sports, and acknowledged key partners like Freeman Health System, Joplin Schools, and Missouri Southern State University. - Council Question: Council Member Moran inquired about interest in hosting ultimate frisbee tournaments. Jared responded that JSA recently interviewed ultimate frisbee organizations at a convention and expressed interest in pursuing such events. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were made during the informal meeting. The update was informational only. The council is expected to consider the information in future planning.

The Lafayette City Council met on Monday, November 2, 2026. The open session resumed at 5:31 p.m. after an executive session under C.R.S. §§ 24-6-402(4)(b) and (e)(I) regarding legal advice and negotiation positions on the JAX-Coal Creek Shopping Center Economic Development Agreement. The meeting included an Extended Producer Responsibility presentation, extensive public comment focused on the proposed Boulder Ranch/8600 Baseline annexation, a consent agenda, the Boulder Ranch substantial-compliance resolution, a 2026 budget supplemental, six LURA cleanup actions, affordable housing policy recommendations, and council governance discussion. No minutes were available; this summary is based on the agenda and transcript. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda unanimously by roll call, including: October 20, 2026 City Council minutes; October 27, 2026 workshop summary; Resolution 2026-29 approving 2027 Mental Health and Human Services Grant Program disbursements; investment policy revisions; a change order with Artaic Group for capital bond program/project management services; and second readings for two General Improvement District bond defeasance ordinances (Lafayette Tech Center GID Series 2006 and Lafayette Corporate Campus GID Series 2002), with motions to convene/reconvene the GID boards. Public Comments & Testimony - Mayor Tapia Vega clarified that agenda item J (Boulder Ranch annexation) was not a public hearing and no annexation decision would be made that night; it was the first step in a long process with future public comment opportunities. - The majority of speakers opposed the proposed 8600 Baseline/Boulder Ranch annexation. Robert Scott, David Rubin, Marion Dynes, Elise Strom, Dan Glick, Jason Sands, John Burry, Terry Hefty, Elizabeth Denizo, Ben Deal (phone), and others raised concerns including: incompatibility with comprehensive plans and rural character; the 2018 unanimous rejection of a smaller 87-unit proposal; the current proposal around 185-186 units; wildlife/open-space habitat impacts; traffic and evacuation safety on two-lane Baseline Road and Nyland Way; wildfire risk; water/infrastructure costs; lack of transit and grocery access; spot zoning/DR zoning; use of affordable/senior/IDD housing language to justify density; and whether the project would fiscally benefit Lafayette. Terry Hefty said over 2,800 individuals had signed a petition opposing the development and groups were committed to oppose it 'at every stage, including the ballot box.' Ben Deal specifically opposed Resolution 2026-30, calling it an 'upzoning enrichment play,' an 'anchoring trick' on unit count, and a cynical use of progressive housing values; he encouraged the applicant to respond in writing. - Donald Harley announced plans to open 'Iron Fence,' a steak/seafood/sushi restaurant at the old 95A Bistro, aiming for January before Valentine's Day; he described it as first-responder-friendly with free appetizers for first responders, military, doctors and civil service. - Michael Watson criticized city administration and the use of open-space tax funds, said the 8600 Baseline property should be purchased as open space, cited $1,276,861 of 2026 open-space tax money going to maintenance/staff pay, and raised water/conservation concerns. Christopher Rice (phone) called for a moratorium on all new building, including the new city hall and rec center, warned of a water crisis, and criticized the council's recent Flock decision. A final in-person speaker said the large turnout showed the community cared about the 8600 Baseline/open-space issue. Discussion Items - Extended Producer Responsibility: Sustainability Director Elizabeth Bocan presented HB22-135/EPR recommendations. The program shifts recycling packaging/paper responsibility to manufacturers; CDPHE oversees and Circular Action Alliance administers; local governments/haulers can receive reimbursements. Lafayette's existing Republic Services three-cart contract (since Oct. 1, 2022) would continue. Anticipated 2027 reimbursements: recycling collection just under $1 million; one-time education/outreach $42,283; general operating/EPR administration $75,989; total just over $1 million, beginning January 2027 with annual CPI adjustments and reconciliation. Participation is intended to avoid increasing the city's $2 solid waste administrative fee in 2027 and not add a residential rate increase. Staff cited added administrative/reporting duties, a January utility-billing notice, and upcoming agreements/Republic contract amendment. Council asked about outreach, resident costs, downsides and contract impacts; no vote. - Boulder Ranch Annexation Substantial Compliance: Planning Manager Jake Mitchell presented Resolution 2026-30 for the 34.4-acre property south of Baseline Road and east of Nyland Way. Staff found the petition substantially compliant with the Colorado Municipal Annexation Act of 1965, emphasizing that this was a ministerial completeness check, not a final annexation decision or a position on desirability. The applicant proposed the process using Developing and Resource (DR) zoning without site-specific development applications. Council members expressed frustration that the step felt like a checkbox; Fridland and Jensen asked about community of interest, urban/urbanized status and city service capacity, and the city attorney explained those criteria would be examined at the eligibility hearing. Gianola requested the relevant code sections in future packets. The resolution passed 7-0, setting an eligibility public hearing described as in December. - 2026 Budget Supplemental: CFO Heather Balser presented first reading of Ordinance No. 23, Series 2026. Major items included $35.4 million in bond revenue, $6 million in bond proceeds and $5 million in service expansion fee revenue; $32.3 million for BBRC construction and $9.9 million for the service center; a $5 million service expansion fee transfer; $350,000 in cemetery closure/sellback costs; $115,000 for GPR survey/consulting; and $90,000 in additional legal fees for Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport. Beaulieu noted about $465,000 in cemetery-related costs for the year. The ordinance passed first reading 7-0. - LURA Items: Bridget Keating, LURA Executive Director/Economic Development Director, presented six cleanup actions as LURA winds down after its TIF expired in October 2024. Council unanimously approved: Resolution 2026-31 assigning the Coca-Cola mural easement at 103 N. Public Road to the city; a $50,000 LURA contribution for mural preservation/restoration/relocation activities; Resolution 2026-32 assigning the façade conservation easement at 201 N. Public Road; Resolution 2026-33 assigning the permanent sign easement at 290 N. Highway 287; Resolution 2026-34 authorizing purchase of a portion of 709 S. Public Road for $164,000 for right-of-way/alley improvements; and Resolution 2026-35 accepting conveyance of vacated Spaulding Street right-of-way from LURA. Keating described a $1.2 million TIF-funded streetscape/alley project including sidewalks, drainage, public art, landscaping, alley paving and holiday tree outlets. Staff noted LURA would later be abolished by ordinance. - Inclusionary Housing and Affordable Housing Impact Fee: Phil Pleisler, Molly Fitzpatrick (Root Policy Research) and Matt Prosser (EPS) presented recommendations. Staff proposed a conservative, phased approach: inclusionary housing for residential projects of 10+ units, with 8% of units at 50% AMI for multi-household rental and 12% at 100% AMI for attached for-sale and 120% AMI for detached for-sale; compliance options include on-site units, fee-in-lieu based on the affordability gap, land donation, attainable housing credits and negotiated agreements. The current $1/sq ft affordable housing impact fee would rise gradually, with residential mitigation rates of 15-25% (about $5-$9.50/sq ft) and commercial rates of 1-3% (about $2-$6/sq ft), phasing to an ultimate fee in 2028. Council members generally supported proceeding: Jensen supported the staff recommendation but stressed regular market review and flexibility; Beaulieu was enthusiastic about regional leadership; Gallegos questioned whether 120% AMI for detached for-sale was truly affordable; Gianola supported the direction and asked about fee-in-lieu details; Fridland asked about negative triggers and peer lessons. Staff said fee-in-lieu could be set as a percentage of the affordability gap and that monitoring building-permit/land-use data could flag problems. No formal vote; staff was directed to continue drafting an ordinance and return with details, including periodic review and fee-in-lieu methodology, alongside or after land use code adoption. - Council Governance/Norms: The council norms subcommittee reported it had not met but outlined categories for recommendations: meeting length, council preparation, conduct during meetings and workshops, attendance expectations, and public conduct. Beaulieu pressed for rules of decorum 'immediately,' citing effects on staff, residents and council, and asked for a deadline. Jensen raised the need for a formal process to place items on future agendas, citing Longmont's practice of allowing motions to add future agenda items, and discussed whether minutes should capture consensus/new ideas. The city attorney explained open-meetings-law requirements for minutes and cautioned about expanding them. Beaulieu said he would forward prior recommendation lists and wanted further discussion at the next meeting (Nov. 17). No formal action was taken; staff/subcommittee were to bring back norms/decorum recommendations and continue discussion. Staff Reports & Announcements - The city manager recognized Alex Nelson, assistant to the city manager, on his appointment as next city manager of Cascade Locks, Oregon; his last day was Nov. 2, 2026, and council members thanked him. - City Attorney's Report: no report. - City Manager's Report: Election Day was Tuesday, Nov. 3; ballot drop-off at Lafayette Library and East Boulder County hub on South Public Road. A cemetery name plaque installation was scheduled for Friday, Nov. 6 at 4:30 p.m. at Lafayette Cemetery. A community update on the Ballberger Recreation Center Capital Bond project was scheduled for Monday, Nov. 9 at 6:30 p.m. at Lafayette Public Library (program at 6:45), covering construction team, aquatics design concepts, timeline and construction impacts. The Nov. 17 council meeting was to include a Small Business Saturday proclamation, water supply update, water readiness plan adoption, and fall 2026 board/commission appointments. The Nov. 24 workshop was still being evaluated because it falls two days before Thanksgiving. - Council reports included thanks to the Lafayette Farmers Market team, Mental Health and Human Services Advisory Committee, and a note about the Lafayette mural tour; members encouraged ballot drop-off and discussed improved intergovernmental resource sharing. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda 7-0. - Approved Resolution 2026-30 finding the Boulder Ranch annexation petition substantially compliant and setting an eligibility public hearing; vote 7-0. Council emphasized this was not a final annexation decision. - Approved first reading of Ordinance No. 23, Series 2026, the 2026 budget supplemental, 7-0. - Approved all six LURA resolutions/motions unanimously (7-0 each): mural easement assignment, $50,000 mural funding, façade conservation easement assignment, permanent sign easement assignment, $164,000 purchase of 709 S. Public Road right-of-way, and acceptance of vacated Spaulding Street right-of-way. - Received the EPR presentation; agreements and a Republic Services contract amendment were expected later in 2026, with reimbursements beginning January 2027. - Directed staff to proceed with inclusionary housing and affordable housing impact fee ordinance development, incorporating council feedback on periodic review, market monitoring, and fee-in-lieu methodology; no formal vote. - Subcommittee/staff to bring back council norms/decorum recommendations; further discussion on agenda-setting and minutes expected Nov. 17.