The Public Meeting Index

The Labor and Economic Development Committee met on October 6, 2026, at 3:04 PM to discuss and vote on a resolution granting local incentives to Medvantx, Inc. The meeting lasted approximately six minutes and concluded with a unanimous voice vote recommending the resolution to the full Metro Council. Public Comments & Testimony - Malcolm Jollie, representing One Louisville, spoke in support of the resolution. He detailed Medvantx's expansion into a new high-capacity pharmacy and distribution facility at 6204 Newcut Road (District 13). The project includes 122 new jobs with an average hourly wage of $35.22 and a capital investment of $26.9 million. Jollie noted that the company is requesting participation in the Kentucky Business Investment (KBI) program at 1% of the local occupational wage assessment and meets all compliance standards. He stated that Louisville Metro Government and One Louisville support the request. Discussion Items - Chair Ben Reno-Weber offered brief editorial comments, stating that businesses at the end of the runway are a vertical where the city can win and needs to invest. No other committee members spoke on the item. Key Outcomes - Committee Member Lyninger moved, seconded by Committee Member Batshon, to recommend approval of Resolution R-136-26. The motion carried by voice vote with no opposition, and the resolution was sent to the Consent Calendar for the Metro Council meeting on October 15, 2026.

The De Pere Common Council met in regular session on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 7:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers and virtually. The meeting included a Beautification Committee presentation, a Wisconsin Stormwater Week proclamation and Impact Award recognition, approval of the consent agenda, seven new business items, and four resolutions. No public comments were offered, and all items brought to a vote were approved. Presentations & Recognition - The De Pere Beautification Committee presented a visual summary of its work: 11 roundabouts, 27 planting beds, 117 planters, and a Fox River Trail cleanup. The chair and presenter Evan Earhart thanked city staff, donors, and volunteers. They noted volunteer hours ranged from 15–25 hours on smaller roundabouts to 55–60 hours on the largest ones, and that city crew assistance reduced mulching time from roughly 25–30 hours to 15–20 hours per large roundabout. - The committee reported fundraising changes: individual donors decreased from 161 to 142, civic donations stayed at 5 organizations, and business donors increased from 13 to 23. At Walsh Plaza, they removed 60–65% of the original plantings. They also described future needs related to downtown reconstruction, additional planters, and stretched watering staff, suggesting possible additional seasonal or full-time help. Mayor Boyd noted the city has increased the beautification budget each year and that the proposed budget includes an additional $1,000. - Mayor Boyd read a proclamation declaring September 19–27, 2026, Wisconsin Stormwater Week. Public Works and the Sustainability Commission received the 2026 Impact Award for stormwater system maintenance and education/outreach; they were anonymously nominated. Consent Calendar - Approved by voice vote without removed items: approval of the September 15, 2026 Common Council minutes; Board of Public Works parking and traffic recommendations; and appointment of Sarah Inman to the Redevelopment Authority by Mayor Boyd with a term expiring September 30, 2031. - Note: The agenda described the consent agenda vote as a single roll call vote, but council members proceeded with a voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items - New Business A: Council approved Bluemels’ $40,520 bid for playground fall surfacing at Carney Park (referred to as Kearney Park in the transcript). Parks staff said Bluemels was the only bidder and gave no assurance of improved quality, but the bid was in the expected range. Alderperson Hanson raised past durability concerns. - New Business B: Council accepted a $25,000 donation from the David and Rita Nelson Foundation for additional Wilson Park improvement costs, with thanks to the foundation. - New Business C: Approved a Class “B” fermented malt beverage / “Class B” intoxicating liquor license for ASN Tavern & Grill LLC (DBA Baba Louie’s), 419 Main Avenue, agent Sandeep Singh. - New Business D: Approved a change of agent for Walgreen Co., DBA Walgreens East 15637, 150 South Wisconsin Street. - New Business E: Approved a premises description change for Nicolet Ale Works, LLC, 301 Main Avenue. - New Business F: Approved a 1-lot extraterritorial preliminary plat for Grande Ridge Estates Third Addition at 4835 Big Sky Pass in Ledgeview (Parcel D-2641). - New Business G: Approved EV charger rates for the parking garage at 224 North Wisconsin Street. The mayor said to stay posted for a possible grand opening the following week. - Resolutions A–D: Council suspended rules and approved four resolutions together by roll call: 26-95 authorizing a utility easement at 747 Heritage Road; 26-96 authorizing Amendment 1 to Municipal Project Agreements for South Bridge Connector Segments GV-15, GV-16, and GV-18; 26-97 referring the vacation of a portion of public thoroughfare at 450 BLK Fortune Avenue to public hearing; and 26-98 authorizing a business park development agreement with NSN Real Estate LLC at 2330 American Boulevard. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda by voice vote. - Approved the Carney Park playground surfacing bid of $40,520 by roll call, all present voting aye. - Accepted the $25,000 David and Rita Nelson Foundation donation. - Approved the liquor license, change of agent, premises description change, preliminary plat, and EV charger rates. - Approved Resolutions 26-95 through 26-98 by roll call, all present voting aye. - No future agenda items were suggested, and the meeting adjourned.

This study session featured detailed presentations from the Human Resources department and the city's benefits consultant, followed by discussions on several legislative items scheduled for the upcoming council meeting. Topics included HR metrics, health insurance changes, a bridge replacement grant, a tax levy resolution, a record plan for a fueling station, salt purchase, and a public works monument sign. The session concluded with a motion to enter executive session. Discussion Items HR Department Update: Leanne, the HR Manager, presented an overview of the department's activities from August 2024 to September 2025. Key statistics: 161 full-time staff, 230 part-time staff (fluctuating to 300), 409 full-time applicants, 164 full-time panel interviews, 133 total hires (28 full-time, 105 part-time). The average full-time tenure is 8.81 years, and the average employee age is 41.86. The turnover rate is 12.42%, in line with the Ohio state average of 11-14%. The department completed a safety walk with BWC, achieving a $2,572 premium savings from the safety council and an estimated $1,100 from the substance use program. Text Care, a virtual doctor service, saw 97 visits from January to August, with 58 distinct patients (33 employees, 25 dependents). The department is moving to a new learning management system (LexiPOL) in 2027. Upcoming projects include open enrollment and a health and wellness fair in May 2027. Benefits Presentation – Health Insurance Market & Jefferson Health Plan: Trisha Wall of McGone Braybender explained the health plan funding mechanisms (fully insured, self-funded, ICHRA, direct contracting). Vandalia is currently self-funded with United Healthcare. The city received a 29% renewal increase on its stop-loss premium from United Healthcare. To achieve long-term stability, the city plans to join Jefferson Health Plan (JHP), a consortium of over 250 public sector employers covering 30,000 employees. JHP offers single-digit stop-loss increases. The move is projected to save approximately $82,000 for the next plan year. Employee benefits will not change except for the high deductible health plan deductible adjusting to $3,500 due to IRS requirements. ODOT Final Legislation – Johnson Station Road Bridge Replacement: The council discussed a resolution to approve $238,723 as the city's share for the bridge replacement. The project received a $1.38 million grant from ODOT and $200,000 for design. Construction estimate is $1,627,327. Utility relocation and property acquisition are complete. The bridge will be built in half-width phases to maintain access to U-Build It Industries. Tax Levy Resolution: A resolution to accept the amounts and rates determined by the Montgomery County Budget Commission for tax year 2026, authorizing necessary levies and certifying them to the county auditor. Revenue estimates are based on 95% collection. Record Plan – 7249 North Dixie Drive: A request to approve a record plan dividing 12.4174 acres into two parcels (11.8 acres and 1.3 acres) and dedicating 0.6 acres of public right-of-way along State Route 8. The smaller parcel will be developed into a fueling station and convenience store, which is permitted by right. The developer will be required to improve Stop 8 Road with widening, curb, gutter, and sidewalk. The Planning Commission recommended approval 4-0 on September 22, 2026. Salt Purchase: The city plans to renew its salt supply through the Southwestern Ohio Purchasers for Government (SWOFG) consortium. The lowest bid is from American Rock Salt Company at $121.92 per ton, significantly higher than previous years. The city will only enter a one-year contract (instead of the typical two-year) due to high prices, estimating 2,000 tons. There is no minimum purchase requirement. Public Works Monument Sign: A proposed monument sign for the new Public Works facility, matching existing signs at other city buildings. The cost is $28,685 from Geograph Industries, and funds are available from the project's budget savings. Legislative Calendar: No specific items were discussed; council members had no questions. Key Outcomes The council voted unanimously (6-0) to enter executive session to discuss the purchase or sale of real property and compensation of a public employee. No formal votes were taken on the other topics, which were presented for discussion and will appear on the regular council consent or legislative agenda for action. The city plans to proceed with joining Jefferson Health Plan for stop-loss insurance, pending formal approval. The record plan for 7249 North Dixie Drive is expected to be approved at the regular council meeting based on the Planning Commission's recommendation.

The meeting was called to order on October 6, 2026, following a moment of reflection and the Pledge of Allegiance. All council members were present. The meeting included a proclamation, public comments, a city manager's report, approval of one resolution and two ordinances (one emergency), and council comments. All votes were unanimous (7-0). Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: The council study session minutes, council meeting minutes of July 20, and council retreat minutes of July 23 were approved without corrections. Proclamation and Presentations - Fire Prevention Month Proclamation: Mayor Richard Herbst presented a proclamation declaring October as Fire Prevention Month, highlighting the importance of smoke alarms, home fire escape plans, and safe lithium-ion battery charging. The director of fire services accepted the proclamation. Public Comments & Testimony - Barbara Spurgeon (777 North Edge Drive) thanked the city and police department for the police open house on September 24. She praised the event, especially Nancy Mandelic’s assistance and the children’s target shooting activity, and expressed hope it continues annually. Discussion Items - City Manager’s Report (Mr. Althouse): - Leaf collection began October 5 and runs through December. Leaves must be raked into the street; specific guidelines were provided for curbed and uncurbed areas. - Free large debris drop-off for Vandalia residents will be held Saturday, October 10, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the public works garage. Proof of residency required. This is the final drop-off for 2026. - Vandalia Fall Festival: Saturday, October 10, at the sports complex, noon–5 p.m. Free entry with live music, food trucks, pumpkin patch, corn pit, vendors, inflatables, games, and crafts. - Fire Prevention Month Open House: Sunday, October 25, noon–2 p.m. at Fire Station 1 (8705 Peters Pike). Free event. - 2027 budget workshops begin next week: Workshop 1 on Monday, October 12, 4–7 p.m. in the lower level training room. - Resolution 26-R-50: Authorized the city manager to enter into an agreement with ODOT for replacement of the Johnson Station Road Bridge. The project has received $1,382,327 in federal grant funds and $200,000 in ODOT funding. The city’s share is $238,723, already appropriated in the safe and stable fund. Bid letting is October 29, 2026. Motion by Vice Mayor Ford, seconded by Councilmember Hathaway. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance 26-14 (Emergency): Authorized the issuance and sale of up to $17,385,000 in notes in anticipation of bonds to pay for constructing a public works complex. The existing capital facilities note matures December 2, 2026, with total due of $18 million. The new note will mature in December 2027. Public hearing held (no comments). Motion by Councilwoman Dugan, seconded by Councilmember Bradford. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance 26-13 (Second Reading): Authorized the law director to prosecute annexation of the western portion of Mulberry Road from Butler Township to the City of Vandalia (territory owned by the State of Ohio). Public hearing held (no comments). Motion to approve (mover not specified in transcript). Passed 7-0. - Reports from Boards and Commissions: Planning commission minutes of July 28 were received without comment. - Council and Staff Comments: - City Manager Althouse congratulated Public Services Director Ben Borton and his wife Allie on the birth of their daughter, Kate Marlin Borton (born October 1, 7 lbs 2 oz, 19.25 inches). He also commended the police, fire, and public works departments for their work during the presidential visit, noting Secret Service collaboration led by Captain Krim. - Councilwoman Bradford echoed thanks to police and fire. - Another council member (transcript does not clearly identify the speaker) also thanked police and fire for a long weekend and for participating in the Scene 75 nonprofit event with 141 vendors and thousands of children. - Councilwoman Dugan thanked police and fire for the presidential visit. - Councilman Hathaway thanked public works for street closures and noted the impressive sight of Air Force One landing in the city. - Vice Mayor Ford commended Vandalia for showing up and the Secret Service agent’s positive impression of the city. - Mayor Herbst echoed thanks to all city staff and other municipalities involved in the presidential visit. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (7-0) on the resolution, emergency ordinance, and second-reading ordinance. - Proclamation issued for Fire Prevention Month. - Next steps: Budget workshop on October 12; leaf collection continues through December; Fall Festival and debris drop-off on October 10; Fire open house on October 25.

Note: The agenda listed this meeting for September 24, 2026, but the provided metadata specifies the meeting date as October 6, 2026. The following summary reflects the metadata date. Chair Supervisor Elisa Márquez presided; Supervisor Nate Miley was absent (hosting the 37th annual Healthy Living Festival). The committee heard two informational presentations and no public comments were made. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke on either agenda item or on non‑agenda items. Discussion Items – Item 1: College and Career Opportunities for Students at the Juvenile Justice Center The Alameda County Office of Education (ACOE) presented an update on post‑secondary programs at the Juvenile Justice Center (JJC). Presenters included Chief of Schools Eric Guthertz, Deputy Chief Dr. Lucia Moritz, and Executive Director Jessica Goode. - Student Demographics (current snapshot): 68 students (grades 6–12 and post‑secondary). 60% are special education (vs. 16.3% in Oakland Unified); 42% unhoused (vs. 6.8% in OUSD); 34% foster youth (vs. 0.5%); 17% English language learners; 100% socioeconomically disadvantaged. - Post‑Secondary Program: Launched two years ago. 23 full‑time college students enrolled at JJC/Camp Sweeney; 3 attending four‑year universities off‑site as part of “step‑down” placements. Partners include Laney College, UC Berkeley (Underground Scholars), CSU East Bay, and others. Students can earn AA, ADT, or BA. Career certifications offered (forklift, OSHA 30/10, hazmat, etc.). - Success Story: One student moved from disengagement to earning a BA from UC Berkeley while in custody. - Areas for Growth: Balancing foundational skill‑building with college coursework; limited technology access within a secure facility; challenges bringing CTE equipment into the facility. - Supervisor Marquez’s Questions and Remarks: - Asked for comparative demographics for Hayward Unified School District. - Inquired whether students arrive with known IEPs or are diagnosed at JJC (response: most have IEPs, but some are identified at JJC). - Asked about career interest assessment (response: individualized intake process). - Asked about post‑release support (response: probation contracts and college re‑entry programs). - Asked about recidivism tracking (response: probation tracks closely; ACOE also tracks its participants). - Expressed strong support and gratitude for the partnerships and investments, stating that “this investment is paying off” and that the goal is to prevent youth from ending up at Santa Rita Jail. Discussion Items – Item 2: Axon Renewal – Strengthening Public Safety Technology and Operations Captain Dan Brody (Sheriff’s Office Support Services) presented a proposal to renew and expand the Axon contract before the current agreement expires in August 2027. - Current Contract (OSP 7): Tasers 7, body cameras, evidence.com storage, limited VR training, basic PrepRed 911, 37 TB third‑party storage. - Proposed Renewal (OSP 10): - Upgrade to Taser 10 (maximum range 45 ft, 10 individually targeted probes, no drive‑stun capability). - Connected body cameras with live streaming, Axon Assistant (real‑time translation), and policy chat. - Expanded VR training (full suite). - Fleet 3 in‑car forward‑facing and interior cameras (no ALPR; that will be handled separately). - FuSicS real‑time information center (for jail and patrol). - Draft One AI‑assisted report writing (not generative AI; based solely on body camera transcripts). - Enhanced PrepRed 911 (assistive dispatch, non‑emergency triage, automated QA). - Redaction Assistant and increased third‑party storage to 130 TB. - Financial Rationale: Early renewal locks in 2026 pricing, reducing costs by 21.5% over the five‑year contract. No accelerated payment; first payment due August 2027. - Implementation Timeline: Taser 10 rollout in early 2027; software features (translation, policy chat) can be activated quickly; Draft One deliberately delayed to August 2027 for policy and training development; fleet cameras installed gradually. - Data Governance: Agency controls all data; Axon does not access data except for authorized support; federal agencies (ICE, DHS) have no access; sharing with partner agencies is audited and revocable. - Supervisor Marquez’s Questions and Remarks: - Asked about Taser 10 safety and fatality statistics (Captain Brody offered to provide numbers). - Requested examples of Northern California agencies using the new technology (50 CA agencies use Draft One; 220+ use Taser 10). - Asked about accuracy evaluation for AI policy tool (response: collaboration with DA’s office on Racial Justice Act compliance). - Asked about video redaction practices (response: required for public release under CPRA; AI reduces manual time but human review still required). - Asked about communication with deaf community (response: currently use writing; some deputies know ASL). - Asked about timeline for full board presentation (response: will present to Municipal Advisory Councils, then to full Board of Supervisors in December for contract approval; Supervisor Márquez recommended a scaled‑down presentation for public engagement). - Asked about data access safeguards and policy violation consequences (response: unauthorized access is a crime). - No opposition expressed; the item was informational only. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal actions were taken on either item. - The Juvenile Justice Center post‑secondary program received strong commendation; continued partnership and tracking of recidivism were noted. - The Axon contract renewal will proceed to presentation before the Municipal Advisory Councils and then to the full Board of Supervisors for approval in December 2026. - Implementation of Draft One is deferred to August 2027 to allow adequate policy and training preparation. - Supervisor Márquez directed that the Axon presentation be shortened and tailored for broader public understanding at the full board meeting.

The Finance & Personnel Committee, chaired by Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic, convened on October 6, 2026, at 1:09 p.m. to review the Mayor’s proposed 2027 budget for Port Milwaukee, the Department of City Development (DCD), and the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Milwaukee (RACM). The meeting lasted until 3:36 p.m. and included detailed presentations, committee questioning, and discussion on operational budgets, capital projects, housing programs, economic development, and revenue challenges. Both agenda items were held to the call of the chair on motions by Ald. Sharlen Moore, each unanimously approved (5–0). Discussion Items - Port Milwaukee – The port presented a $7.2 million operational budget (3% increase), funded entirely by user fees with no property tax support for daily operations. Key topics included: - A decline in steel imports of approximately 30%, attributed to tariff impacts, while agricultural exports rose, making 2026 the first year since 2018 that exports exceeded imports. - The 63 cruise ship visits scheduled for 2026, bringing 20,000 passengers, with passenger wharfage fees currently at $11 (increased from $8 in 2023). - The new South Shore cruise dock, set to open for the 2027 cruise season, and ongoing coordination with DPW for road reconstruction on South Lake Memorial Drive using a $2.5 million state grant. - The Summerfest lease renegotiation (lease expires January 2030), with committee members emphasizing the need for public input and maximum public use of the lakefront. - Committee members expressed concerns about transportation connections to the cruise terminal and ferry, particularly for bicycles and ride-share, and the lack of public transit frequency. - The port’s insurance claim for windstorm damage to a salt storage building was denied due to corrosion; Ald. Moore noted the building’s visible roof damage. - Department of City Development and Redevelopment Authority – Presenters covered the DCD proposed budget (up 6%, driven by salary adjustments) and RACM budget ($5.1 million total, $1.6 million from general funds). Major discussion points: - Housing programs: $1.4 million for down payment assistance (Milwaukee Homeowners Fund), $1 million for Strong Home Loans, $1 million for the Homeownership Development Fund (Revive program), and a proposed $1.1 million from TID extension revenues to continue HOMES MKE. - The Northridge mall site is being prepared for sale in 2027; no formal offers have been received, but interest has been expressed. - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and RT5 zoning: No applications have been received to date. DCD noted that education and utility code changes may be needed to reduce costs and encourage uptake. - Commercial corridor grant programs: $1 million in capital proposed; 80 grants awarded in 2026, with $770,000 city investment leveraging $6 million private investment (77% to entrepreneurs of color). - Fresh food access: A $1 million Retail Infrastructure Fund grant program (RIF Gap) for grocers was launched but has not yet allocated funds. DCD is working with 7–10 applicants. Ald. Dimitrijevic requested a written memo summarizing all city food access programs and metrics. - DCD’s partnership with M7 ($15,000 annual contribution) was questioned given M7’s public opposition to the city’s proposed data center moratorium. Commissioner Crump affirmed that differing positions do not undermine the partnership and that M7 will respect Milwaukee’s development policies. - RACM’s reliance on federal and state grants (about two-thirds of its budget) was discussed; DCD noted expenses are linked to grant revenues, mitigating risk, but the committee warned of potential federal funding instability. - The HACM (Housing Authority) PILOT payment of $1 million was zeroed out in the revenue budget because the Comptroller would not recognize it due to HACM’s ongoing financial struggles and unpaid debt. Ald. Moore urged the council to have “hard conversations” about possibly forgiving some debt to support the authority’s mission. - Committee Actions – At the conclusion of the discussion, Ald. Moore moved to hold both agenda items to the call of the chair. The motions passed unanimously: - Item 1 (260001): Communication from the Mayor relating to the proposed 2027 budget – Held to call of the chair. - Item 2 (260654): Resolution adopting the proposed 2027 budget for the Redevelopment Authority – Held to call of the chair. Key Outcomes - Both agenda items were held to the call of the chair without final action, pending further deliberation. - The chair requested written information on Healthy Neighborhoods program funding and strategy, and a comprehensive memo on city food access programs. - The department will continue working with council members to refine budget details before final adoption.

The Employee Relations and Public Safety (ERPS) Committee of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners met on October 6, 2026, under the leadership of Chair Ladina Bolton. The agenda included a delayed operational assessment update, approval of 2027 Medicare rates, several police and communications funding items, and a discussion on the animal restraint ordinance. Consent Calendar - Item 2026-1410: Minutes from the September 22, 2026 ERPS meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Operational Assessment Update: Alexis Mathis of The Momentum Firm reported that 38 of 106 recommendations from the Molden and Jenkins operational assessment have been completed. Chair Bolton noted the connection between the report's findings and current agenda items. Commissioner Davis Johnson thanked the team. Commissioner Terry and Chair Bolton commended the Police Department for reaching 640 sworn officers, the highest level in nearly five years, and the Fire Department for improved response times following the new AMR contract. Remaining challenges include facility and technology limitations and countywide training deficiencies. - 2027 Medicare Retiree Rates (Item 2026-1327): Gallagher presented the renewal. The Kaiser HMO plan received an increase under 1%. The Aetna PPO plan was negotiated from 11.9% down to 6.8%. The total annual cost increase is 4.5% ($368,000 on $8.5 million). Monthly retiree premiums will remain unchanged at under $94, keeping the county's cost share target at 60/40. Commissioner Masaya requested a future peer group study to compare costs with other metro counties. Commissioner Davis Johnson recused herself from the vote. The motion to approve carried. - Police Evidence Storage Facility (Item 2026-1384): The committee approved $150,000 in SPLOST 1 funding for preliminary design services for a new special operations and evidence storage facility at the Bobby Burgess complex. The motion carried. - Body Worn Camera Systems (Item 2026-1310): A change order for $91,148 was approved to equip new officers with body cameras and in-vehicle camera systems, driven by the increase in sworn personnel. - Bright Futures Leadership Program (Item 2026-1426): A $300,000 renewal contract with Columbus State University was approved. The program has had 189 participants across five cohorts since 2015, with 40% of graduates receiving promotions. A new "Soaring Executives" track was added for newly appointed directors and deputy directors. - Public Safety Radio Backup System (Item 2026-1336): Over $1.18 million was approved for Motorola Solutions to construct a backup prime site at the East Precinct, ensuring radio communications continue if the main site fails. The current contract expires in October 2027. - Blasting Ordinance: The committee voted to recommend approval of a substitute ordinance, which reorganizes permitting regulations and enhances community notification requirements for blasting within 750 feet. - Animal Restraint Ordinance (Item 2026-0596): Attorney Phillips presented the red-lined changes to the tethering ordinance. Commissioner Spears raised a concern about creating an exception for temporary, unattended tethering for individuals, specifically unhoused residents, receiving services. After discussion, the committee voted to defer the item to its next meeting for further refinement. Key Outcomes - Approved (Recommendation to Full Board): Minutes (2026-1410), Medicare Rates (2026-1327), SPLOST Evidence Facility (2026-1384), Body Cameras (2026-1310), Bright Futures Program (2026-1426), Radio Backup System (2026-1336), Blasting Ordinance Substitute. - Deferred: Animal Restraint Ordinance (2026-0596) to the next ERPS meeting. - Noted: The Urban Camping Ordinance is not on the ERPS agenda and will be handled by the PECS committee.

The Affordability & Economic Development Task Force, chaired by Legislator Colin Smith, held a planning meeting on October 6, 2026, via WebEx. The meeting focused on refining the task force's goals, planning a community listening tour, and discussing data collection strategies. Multiple stakeholders from business, labor, nonprofit, and education sectors participated. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and collaborative. Discussion Items - Listening Tour and First Event: Chair Smith announced the first listening forum on October 14, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Westchester Community College (WCC) during the college's common hour. The event aims to engage students, faculty, staff, and the broader community. Outreach is being coordinated by WCC's student life and support services, with student government assistance. Legislators Erica Pierce and Emiliana Uli emphasized the need for robust outreach, including engaging the faculty association and adjuncts. - Survey Design and Data Collection: A draft 8–10 question one-page survey was discussed. Tim Foley (Building and Realty Institute) suggested that the survey be consistent across all listening sessions to enable cross-community analysis, and include a "recency" question to identify affordability stressors that have escalated since 2023. Legislator Pierce stressed adding demographic questions to allow regional, age, and income-level analysis. The use of QR codes for online access and paper copies for those without digital access was supported. - Role of Existing Data: A significant debate emerged over the necessity of a new survey. Noam (HGAR) argued that extensive data already exists from organizations such as Pattern for Progress, WCA, and NPW, and that the task force's time would be better spent analyzing existing data to develop policy levers. Jan Fisher (Nonprofit Westchester) and Vlor (Westchester County Association) confirmed that their organizations have already collected substantial data on affordability and economic development, which they offered to share. Chair Smith acknowledged the point, stating the survey would be supplementary to existing data, not the primary focus. - Partnership and Outreach: Participants suggested leveraging existing platforms—NPW's meetings, faith-based organizations (via Westchester Jewish Council and legislators' initiatives), and other stakeholder events—to distribute surveys and gather feedback. Dr. Belinda Miles (WCC) noted the college's food pantry and support services as touchpoints for vulnerable students. Key Outcomes - Scheduled Listening Forum: First event confirmed for October 14, 2026 at Westchester Community College, 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. - Survey Finalization: Staff to finalize the survey within the next few days, incorporating suggestions on consistent questions, demographic fields, and recency items. - Data Sharing: Westchester County Association, Nonprofit Westchester, and other organizations committed to sharing existing data and distributing the survey through their networks. - Administrative Follow-up: Chair Smith directed that the initial task force materials be resent to all members, and that a notice about the October 14 event be distributed via e-news. - Next Meeting: No specific date set; the task force will continue to coordinate through staff and proceed with the listening tour. No formal votes were taken. The meeting adjourned at approximately 3:00 p.m.

The Edina City Council met Tuesday, October 6, 2026, from 7:02 p.m. to 11:11 p.m. in Council Chambers at Edina City Hall. The meeting included extended community comment on regional gun violence, an early community safety update from Police Chief Todd Milburn, the annual special assessment public hearings, a variance approval, a sketch plan review for the former Public Works site, and acceptance of a federal SAFER fire staffing grant. The agenda was approved unanimously and then reordered so the police chief's presentation was heard before the consent calendar. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda unanimously, with one exception: Councilmember Risser removed the regular September 15, 2026 meeting minutes for separate discussion. - Routine approvals included minutes from special meetings on Sept. 10 and Sept. 22 and the Sept. 15 work session, payment of claims, the Livable Communities Policy and Affordable Housing Program Development Grant Agreement, 2027 squad replacements, City Hall workstations, a traffic safety petition for Woodland Circle and W. 56th Street, the Interlachen Blvd soil investigation change order, milling machine replacement grinding teeth, facility management software renewal for 2027, Fire Engine-81 repair, professional services for the 2027 Vernon Avenue improvements, playground equipment for Sherwood, Normandale and Tingdale parks, Braemar Park/Courtney Fields electrical infrastructure replacement, citywide ash tree removal and replacement, Ordinance 2026-13 updating salary escalator references, and two on-sale intoxicating liquor licenses for 5036 Americana, LLC and MRK Edina, LLC. - The regular September 15, 2026 minutes were then approved 4-1. Councilmember Risser voted no, explaining that the minutes reflected a variance approval she believed did not meet water-body setback standards because the rationale focused on neighborhood quality rather than buffer and impervious-surface criteria. Community Comment - A senior resident, Ms. Nelson, expressed fear about being out at night and called for a metro-area gang task force with specialized officers, citing Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher's statistics of about 300 youth involved in 12 local Somali gangs connected to more than 100 shootings and 14 murders over two years. She said catch-and-release does not stop gang activity and urged Edina to get on board. - Sammy Sussman, an Edina resident and former candidate, expressed support for Chief Milburn and regional collaboration, called for accountability plus secure juvenile detention and treatment resources, and said the Somali community should not be defined by a small number of individuals. - Steve Clausen described property crimes and assaults he said occurred in Edina and urged enforcement, early school accountability, more police presence, cameras, federal law enforcement cooperation, and stronger gun laws. - Bishop Harding Smith said community members have failed to prosecute violent offenders and called for intelligence-led policing, parental engagement, interventions in schools, and an all-hands-on-deck approach while praising the Edina police chief. - Jack Burnett, a former juvenile lifer and justice champion at STEM Justice Center, said the issue is not only where to send children but how to help them; he urged parents to outthink their children, avoid explosive language, and provide therapy, structure, and rehabilitation. - Jordan Kalpa said he was angry and believed the problem is Somali gangs, not the broader Somali community; he called for aggressive data-driven policing, lawful stops and frisks, and a county attorney who prosecutes. - Derek Carsh opposed the city's Flock Safety camera contract, saying a camera outside his apartment logs his movements and could be misused by the federal government; he acknowledged local safeguards but asked the city to stop paying for the surveillance network. - Ryan Day, an Edina Planning Commission member speaking personally, said council overrides of staff and commission decisions should trigger an institutional review. He urged consistent application of land-use standards and more explanation when the council departs from staff analysis. - Janie Weston provided copies of state statutes and shoreland information, arguing that public-hearing notice requirements and non-conforming structure rules were not followed in a previous matter. - Kirk Adalin praised the council for reducing the proposed maximum property tax levy from 8.83% to 6.5% using an $8.65 million surplus, but opposed a proposed $2 million AI program and asked that surplus funds be used only for levy relief or deferred maintenance. - Claudia Pinella called the Kevin Key property urban blight and asked the council to offer residents three development alternatives for a public vote. - Osman, a 35-year Minnesota resident and father of eight, asked for collaboration rather than division. - A resident who moved from California urged problem-solving through mosques and faith leaders, schools, and parents, and warned against stereotyping ethnic groups. - Lou Mohammed, a Somali American from St. Louis Park, said her community feels targeted, acknowledged the need for parental accountability, and called for cross-city data sharing, youth prevention investments, compassion, and rehabilitation pipelines. City Manager Responses to Prior Community Comments - City Manager Neal reported that Edina is not a member of the Minnesota IT Services Transparent Artificial Intelligence Governance Alliance because cities are not eligible, and that Edina is an active member of the GovAI coalition. - He also explained that the Braemar Arena renovation change order was the technical and legal mechanism to authorize the guaranteed maximum price after the initial pre-construction contract with Knutson Construction was established. Community Safety Update - Chief Todd Milburn summarized recent gun violence cases in Edina: an April homicide in the 3300 block of 66th Street; a May domestic-related shooting in the 6300 block of York Avenue South where the suspect was caught with Flock camera assistance and charged with first-degree attempted murder; a July party shooting in the 7200 block of York Avenue South where 31 shell casings were recovered and two adults were arrested; a July shooting at Yancy Park where victims and witnesses were uncooperative and no reward claim was made; and a September shooting at Our Lady of Grace where 55 casings were recovered and no arrests have been made. - He also noted the Highway 100 shooting in St. Louis Park and the Eden Prairie High School homecoming shooting, both under active investigation, and said regional connections cannot be ruled out. - Chief Milburn said enforcement alone is not enough. Edina has increased park patrols, used overtime shifts, cadets and reserve officers, and made changes at Centennial Lakes Park. Firearms recovered have increased from 24 in 2024 to 40 in 2025 and 42 so far in 2026. - He described engagement with Somali elders, the Multicultural Advisory Committee, and community-police liaisons, and said those partnerships helped reduce disturbance calls at Centennial Lakes. - On policy, Edina joined the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Violent Crime Reduction Unit, known as V-Crew, with a full-time investigator and access to about 30 regional detectives. He said law enforcement leaders expected to make a broader regional task-force announcement the following week. - Mayor Hovlin said the school district reported no indication that recent incidents involve Edina Public Schools students, and noted the district's discipline data is trending downward. Chief Milburn agreed to provide recurring updates to the council. Public Hearings: Annual Special Assessments Unless noted, each public hearing was closed and the resolution adopted unanimously. Resolution 2026-59: Presidents A/B Neighborhood Roadway Reconstruction Assessment - City Engineer Chad Milner presented final assessments for Improvement Nos. BA-466 and A-293. Street costs totaled $3,449,776.94; storm sewer costs were approximately $2.184 million; sanitary sewer costs were $586,000; water main costs were approximately $3 million; sidewalk costs funded by PAX were approximately $450,000; and the alley improvement totaled $61,237.47. - Assessments were reduced to $6,953.40 per residential equivalent unit from an estimated $8,600, and alley assessments were reduced to $1,047.57 from an estimated $1,300, both about 19% lower. One formal email objection from 500 Tyler Court was received. - Resident Judy Hemstead Anderson asked the council to postpone the assessment, saying residents were told construction would finish in 2025 and final assessments would follow about a year later. The city identified substantial completion as July 24, 2026, and her hardscape restoration remained unfinished. Director Milner said restoration items were on the contractor's punch list and the city would press for completion; plantings may need to wait until spring under MnDOT planting rules. The council approved the resolution 5-0. Assessments will be filed with the county by the end of November and appear on 2027 tax statements. Resolution 2026-65: Aquatic Services Special Assessment - Water Resources Manager Jessica Wilson presented the annual aquatic services assessment for organized lake associations under the city's lake and pond policy. No formal testimony was offered, but Janie Weston asked about phragmites; Wilson said invasive phragmites was confirmed at Roslyn Park and control work would proceed. Resolution AQ-26 was adopted unanimously. Resolution 2026-60: 50th & France Maintenance District Assessment - The M-26 assessable cost was $489,110.84 across 452,347 square feet, equal to $1.081 per square foot. This was lower than the prior year's $522,951.36. Costs included contractual services, repairs and paver replacements at 41%; utilities at 20%; equipment and event costs at 5%; custodial supplies at 1%; and risk management at 1%. No public testimony was offered, and the resolution was adopted unanimously. The mayor verbally referred to Resolution 2025-93, but the item adopted was Resolution 2026-60. Resolution 2026-61: Grandview Maintenance District Assessment - The G-26 assessable cost was $14,058.14 across 433,887 square feet, equal to $0.0324 per square foot, down from about $64,300 in 2024. Costs comprised snow removal and landscaping at $10,400.26 and hand railing improvements at $3,657.88. No public testimony was offered, and the resolution was adopted unanimously. Resolutions 2026-62, 2026-63, and 2026-64: Tree Removal, Weed Mowing, and Delinquent Utilities - The tree removal assessment, TR-26, was adopted unanimously. City code requires property owners to remove disease or public-safety trees after notice and a 31-day compliance period. Assessment terms are one year for trees under $1,000, five years for $1,000 to $10,000, and ten years for more than $10,000. - The weed mowing assessment, WD-26, was adopted unanimously. Weeds over 12 inches are cited, owners have 10 days to comply, and 12 properties were mowed by a contractor this year. - The delinquent utilities certification, DU-26, was adopted unanimously. Assistant Finance Director Nellie Chick Brewer reported 1,028 accounts totaling over $1 million outstanding in September, with 547 accounts and over $600,000 still outstanding as of the prior Thursday. A $35 administrative fee is added after this meeting, and customers have until November 16 to pay before certification to Hennepin County for collection with 2027 property taxes. Reports and Recommendations Resolution 2026-66: Accepting Donations - The council adopted the donations resolution unanimously. Donations included cash from Jerry's Foods to the police department and contributions from Griswold Care, Minnesota Humanities Center, and resident Jonathan Gross to the Senior Center. Resolution 2026-48: Variance Approval at 5620 Woodcrest Drive - The council voted 3-1-1 to adopt a resolution formalizing its prior approval of a variance to replace an existing deck with a 14x12 four-season porch, reduced from the originally proposed 14x14. Director Teague said the reduction did not change the requested setbacks and the council had authority to approve a smaller scope. - Councilmember Agnew supported the variance, saying more than half of the lot is in water and the property is uniquely constrained. Councilmember Risser opposed it, arguing the property is not unique, water-quality buffer standards matter, and the decision could open the door to similar requests. Councilmember Pierce abstained because he was not present for the prior discussion. Sketch Plan Review for 5146 Eden Avenue - The development team presented a sketch plan for the former Public Works site. Partners include Brent Frederick of Gastric Concepts, John Kramer of John Kramer & Sons, Carl Runk, architect Evan Jacobson of Tushie Montgomery, and landscape architect Terry Manaric of Confluence. - The proposal includes a 6,000-square-foot retail building with two restaurant concepts, four three-story condo buildings with 18 units, two five-story condo towers with 36 units, 54 total condos, 108 enclosed parking spaces, and about 76 surface parking spaces. A formal application would seek rezoning to a planned unit development. - Carl Runk described phased construction: site work and the restaurant first, followed by one townhome-style condo building with model units, then the remaining residential buildings based on pre-sales, with construction moving south to north. - Council comments were broadly supportive. Members praised the density, landscaping, public realm, restaurant activation, larger trees, underground parking, and pedestrian connections. They also asked for clearer accessible routes to all public spaces, more detail on the water feature, and continued attention to the Arcadia setback and fire-service access. No vote was taken on the sketch plan. Acceptance of Federal SAFER Grant Funds - The fire chief announced that Edina had been awarded a FEMA SAFER grant of $3.4 million in federal funds to support 12 additional paramedic firefighters over a three-year grant period. The federal share is 75% in the first two years and 35% in year three, with the city paying the matching share. The city will also cover costs not covered by the grant, including step increases, cost-of-living adjustments, lateral pay, equipment, and training. - Edina was notified September 25, 2026, and must accept within 30 days. Hiring must be completed within 180 days from acceptance. Eight Minnesota departments were awarded grants this year, adding 85 new positions in the metro, which officials said would create a competitive hiring environment. - The chief said current staffing is insufficient for the city's risk and call volume. The grant would increase daily staffing to 19 memberships, allow the department to staff its tower for the first time, support a fourth ambulance through cross-staffing, and help prepare for a temporary or permanent fire station three. - In response to questions, officials said staffing one 24-hour position requires about 3.6 full-time employees due to the staff relief factor. Attorney Dave Kendall said the city reviewed the grant agreement and believes it is in compliance with all data-sharing and immigration-related federal requirements, and that the city has no evidence of other grant recipients being forced to provide immigration data. - The council voted unanimously to accept the fiscal year 2025 SAFER grant funds and authorize the fire chief to proceed. Manager's Comments - City Manager Neal announced that the HRA meeting scheduled for December 10 would be moved to Thursday morning, December 3, to resolve scheduling conflicts. Council members indicated availability. Council Comments - Councilmember Pierce said he still did not feel much safer and did not think the public had a clear action plan; he urged the city not to let more than two days pass without a public update. - Mayor Hovlin thanked police and city staff, suggested a public service announcement asking parents if they know where their children are, emphasized that investigations take time, and said the city must avoid merely admiring the problem. Councilmember Agnew thanked staff for organizing the previous night's community conversation, praised police officers, and highlighted election security planning, the Edina Theatre reopening, and the adaptive open at Braemar. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved unanimously; the Community Safety Update was moved ahead of the consent calendar. - Consent calendar approved unanimously, with the regular Sept. 15, 2026 minutes approved separately 4-1. - Public hearings closed and assessment resolutions 2026-59, 2026-65, 2026-60, 2026-61, 2026-62, 2026-63, and 2026-64 were adopted. All were unanimous except no contested votes were recorded. - Resolution 2026-66 accepting donations was adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2026-48 approving the variance at 5620 Woodcrest Drive was adopted 3-1-1. - The sketch plan for 5146 Eden Avenue received supportive council feedback; a formal application will follow. - The city accepted the federal SAFER grant funding for 12 paramedic firefighters and authorized the fire chief to proceed, with hiring expected within 180 days. - The HRA meeting was rescheduled to the morning of Thursday, December 3, 2026.