The Public Meeting Index

The Finance & Personnel Committee met on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 6:01 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. All six members (Newberry, Janssen, Kahlow, Goggin, Sleznikow, Northwood) were present. The meeting adjourned at 6:55 PM. The committee considered 13 agenda items, including a public hearing, financial audits, and several resolutions. All items were recommended to the Common Council except item 26-0958, which was referred without recommendation. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public registered to speak on any agenda item. The public hearing for item 26-0297 (special assessment for non-compliant utility services on 33rd St S) was opened but no testimony was offered. Discussion Items - 26-0297 – Special Assessment for Non-Compliant Utility Services (33rd St S): This was the third and final pilot program to replace noncompliant laterals. Staff reported that final assessment numbers came in lower than preliminary estimates. The assessment covers only the portions in the right-of-way, based on per-lineal-foot cost. Property owners can choose a 10- or 15-year repayment on their tax bills starting in 2028. The utilities covered costs for street paving, curb, gutter, and sidewalk repairs. The committee voted unanimously to recommend adoption. - 26-0875 & 26-1016 – Financial Statements and Single Audit (as of December 31, 2025): Auditor Joe Haas of Hawkins Ash CPAs presented an overview of the city’s three annual audits (financial statement, federal single audit, state single audit). He explained that the city is required to have an audit due to its population (over 25,000) and its federal spending (over $1 million, with $15 million in federal awards in 2025, including $10 million in COVID-related funds). The audit resulted in an unmodified opinion with no internal control or compliance findings. The finance department prepared 135 items for the audit team. A material audit adjustment was made only for airport funds. Both reports were received and filed unanimously. - 26-0958 – Council Member Expense Accounts and Reimbursement Procedures: Councilmember Kahlow moved to refer the resolution to the full Common Council on October 6 without a recommendation, citing the importance of having all council members participate in the discussion. Councilmember Janssen expressed a preference for discussion at the committee level but did not object. The motion passed 5–1, with Janssen voting no. - 26-0968 – Sunset Lane Sanitary Sewer Easements: This resolution authorized the acquisition of sanitary sewer easements related to the Sunset Lane project. Approved unanimously. - 26-0970 – Reallocation of Funds for Water Utility Capital Equipment: Unused funds from completed capital purchases were reallocated to new equipment for the Water Utility. Approved unanimously. - 26-0991 – Repurpose Three Fleet Trucks for Water Utility: Three trucks scheduled for auction will instead be retained and repurposed as light-duty trucks for the Water Utility. Staff explained that increased operations (flushing, valve turning) required additional vehicles. The annual operating cost per truck (insurance, maintenance) is roughly $4,000, less than renting three trucks for six months ($2,000/truck). The trucks will be used year-round, including for hydrant thumping in winter. The water utility’s budget covers all costs. The resolution passed 5–1, with Chair Goggin voting no. - 26-0992 – Scope Change at 16th & State Streets (CIP 2026 159): Director Gallagher noted that the revised cost for the raised intersections (for traffic calming) was $90,000, not the originally estimated $60,000. Councilmember Northwood moved to amend the resolution to reflect $90,000. The amendment passed unanimously, and the resolution as amended was adopted unanimously. Councilmember Sleznikow noted that residents had expressed concerns about speeding and pedestrian safety. - 26-1009 – Contract Extension with ASI Flex for Section 125 Plan Administration: Director Franzen explained that the one-year extension aligns the contract with other benefits renewals. There is no fee increase for the city. The committee approved the extension unanimously. - 26-1030 – Amendment to GO Promissory Notes Borrowing (increase to $13,805,000): Staff reported that the municipal bond market had risen about 1% over the prior 30 days, making it unlikely that bids would come in under the previously approved 5% true interest cost (TIC) ceiling. The requested amendment raises the TIC cap to 6.25% to provide cushion. City officials plan to sell the notes within two to three weeks. The increased debt service is estimated at $20,000–$30,000 per year, which can be addressed through a budget amendment in November. The resolution passed unanimously. - 26-1032 – Flood Risk Management Project with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Director Gallagher announced that the assistant secretary of the Army approved a federal interest determination on September 15, allowing a three-year $3 million study (50-50 cost share, city share $1.5 million). The study will assess current levee conditions (last assessed in 1975) and consider five alternatives for flood mitigation. It will also unlock eligibility for future federal grants. The resolution passed unanimously. - 26-1033 – CPI-Based Sewer Utility Rate Adjustment for 2027: The resolution authorizes a 4% CPI-based increase for sanitary sewer rates, effective potentially November 1, 2026 (two months early) to meet Clean Water Fund loan requirements. Estimated impact: fixed rate increase of about $0.95 over three months ($0.30/month) and consumption rate increase of about $0.08 per unit. The resolution passed unanimously. - 26-0001 – Collective Bargaining Update: The committee did not take action and did not go into closed session. Key Outcomes | Item | Description | Vote | Action | |------|-------------|------|--------| | 26-0297 | Special assessment – 33rd St S | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-0875 | Financial Statements (2025) | 6-0 | Received and filed | | 26-0958 | Council expense accounts | 5-1 (Janssen no) | Referred without recommendation | | 26-0968 | Sunset Lane easements | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-0970 | Water utility capital reallocation | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-0991 | Repurpose fleet trucks | 5-1 (Goggin no) | Recommended to adopt | | 26-0992 | 16th & State scope change (amended) | 6-0 (amendment) then 6-0 (as amended) | Recommended to adopt as amended | | 26-1009 | ASI Flex contract extension | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-1016 | Single Audit (2025) | 6-0 | Received and filed | | 26-1030 | GO Notes borrowing amendment | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-1032 | Flood risk management agreement | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-1033 | Sewer rate adjustment | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-0001 | Collective bargaining | N/A | No action | Note: All recommendations are for the Common Council meeting on October 6, 2026.

The Los Alamos County Environmental Sustainability Board (ESB) met on Thursday, October 1, 2026, with members Chandler, Growe, Blairs, La Shell, and Hampton present, constituting a quorum. The board approved an agenda amendment, unanimously approved the August minutes, received briefings on the proposed Northern New Mexico Regional Landfill and the county's Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program, and finalized its annual update to County Council, scheduled for presentation on October 20, 2026. No public comment was offered for items not on the agenda. Consent Calendar - Agenda amended by unanimous consent to move the Integrated Pest Management update ahead of the review of the annual ESB update to Council. - August meeting minutes approved unanimously. Landfill Feasibility Study Overview Presented by Armando of the Environmental Services Division: - The proposed Northern New Mexico Regional Landfill is a regional project intended to provide a sustainable, long-term solid waste disposal option for participating communities. A feasibility study completed under a memorandum of agreement between the City of Española and Rio Arriba County evaluated a 62-acre parcel owned by the City of Española, located approximately 6.5 miles west of Española on 31 Mile Road, and determined it is viable for development as a regional landfill. - Potential regional partners include the City of Española, Rio Arriba County, Los Alamos County, Santa Clara Pueblo, and Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo. The project is in the planning, coordination, and funding stages; the full process could take five years or more. - Los Alamos currently hauls municipal solid waste (MSW) approximately 135 miles one way to Valencia County. The proposed site, about 28 miles and a 43-minute drive one way, would reduce contracting hauling costs, fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, equipment repairs, and maintenance, and would help control long-term costs affecting customer rates. - The regional landfill would complement, not replace, the county's existing diversion programs. Current program costs include: household hazardous waste collections averaging $18,000 per month ($216,000 per year); medical sharps about $1,500 per quarter ($6,000 per year); metals and freon-containing appliances shipped to Oklahoma City ($18,000 per year for about one load); glass shipped to Broomfield, Colorado at about $2,400 per shipment (about six per year, $14,400 per year); and tire waste shipped to Denver City, Texas at $2,500 per shipment (about seven loads per year, $17,500 per year). Green waste is processed into mulch and biocompost. - Current disposal costs: a 20-ton trailer (tipping and hauling fees) costs about $2,000 to the current landfill and about $2,400 to Rio Rancho; haul costs to the proposed site would be almost one-third less than hauling to Valencia County. - A board member noted that the estimated build cost is about $39 million, with strong grant opportunities, and that over a 55-year lifespan savings could reach $148 million for the region; the presenter agreed Los Alamos would provide the bulk of tonnage, largely attributed to LANL. - The presenter recalled an expected lifespan of about 55-60 years if well managed; a board member asked about a 30-year expectation in the study, and the presenter indicated diversion programs could extend the life. The presenter also noted that methane extraction currently occurs, but the gas is flared rather than captured; gas-to-energy capture could be considered eventually. - In response to questions, the presenter said the site is near an old pumice mine, about six miles off pavement from the Fairview/Industrial intersection in Española; partner communities do not have diversion programs as extensive as Los Alamos's, and the county could help coach partners on recycling. A board member expressed interest in touring the facility in five years; another called the projected return on investment 'crazy.' Integrated Pest Management Update Presented by Mr. Styron of Parks and Recreation: - The IPM plan was formally adopted about two and a half years ago. Mechanical control methods have proved challenging in hard-to-maintain areas such as medians and rock gardens, and hiring and retention of entry-level staff remains difficult for both Parks and Recreation and Traffic and Streets. - Preventive measures are coming online: a redesign of the Canyon medians to minimize cracks and joints (presented to the Park Board; a County Council presentation is anticipated in October), and, with Traffic and Streets, a permanent crack-seal program placing higher-level venues on a five-year rotation to prevent vegetation growth and protect sidewalks and curbs; a stand of elm trees is already causing long-term maintenance concerns. - The county now has a fleet of 14 electric robotic mowers, reducing carbon emissions and freeing staff time. - Pollinator gardens have been established with the BCD US group at the golf course; a demo garden near the summer house was moved back to PEAK due to maintenance challenges. - Council added three positions last year, but recruitment remains constrained, primarily by housing; the division is exploring trainee positions modeled on a successful lifeguard program. - A board member praised the golf course pollinator garden as 'fabulous,' noted a weeding session the following Thursday, and said a larger area between holes 12 and 13 is planned for redo next spring. Annual ESB Update to County Council The update will be presented to County Council on October 20, 2026: - The update covers the board's four teams (Sustainability Alliance, Supporting Local Food Systems, Education and Outreach, and Commuter Trip Reduction), 2026 accomplishments, events, presentations, priorities, challenges, and opportunities. - Accomplishments highlighted: ESB endorsement of the Fleet Conversion Plan and Community-wide EV Charging Plan (both later passed by Council); contribution to the year-one Climate Action Marketing Plan; and a work group that proposed a single-use plastic bag ordinance, which the ESB did not endorse and Council did not pass. - Events included booths at the PEAK Earth Day Festival and the County Earth Day celebration, support for Science Fest (the following weekend), farmers market booths, the DPU Water Festival, the sustainability newsletter, and Facebook/Instagram; the upcoming Cleanup LA Day and recruitment of new board members were also noted. - Board feedback included: add the Open Meetings Act inspection to the presentation; expand descriptions of the local food systems and commuter trip reduction work groups; include the Climate Action Plan (CAP) dashboard showing progress on 13 focus areas; add food composting and the search for an alternative compost site as a priority; change 'climate action initiatives' to 'sustainability and climate action'; and consider 'community and council priorities.' - Members discussed the tension between the CAP and shifting community and Council priorities, citing the proposed plastic bag ban, the natural gas phase-out, and a Councilor's Ridwell-type proposal that was rejected due to cost (about $9 per household). - Members proposed being more proactive in advising Council, reviewing the CAP against emerging community priorities more frequently (quarterly, semi-annually, or at least annually with the work plan), and developing recommendations for Council on the 'next big thing' based on current community priorities, using the CAP dashboard and public polling for input. - Members noted that quarterly ESB updates to Council, the board's community goodwill, and popular initiatives such as recycling and food composting are opportunities to build trust and momentum. Board, Committee, and Work Group Reports - Chair's report: Cleanup LA Day will be held Saturday, October 3, from 9:00-10:00 a.m., meeting at the Smith's parking lot (southeast corner facing the canyon) along Canyon Rim Trail; gloves and bags will be provided. - Board of Public Utilities update (September 2 meeting): review and discussion of water rate code ordinance 02-387; DPU FY2028 strategic focus areas, goals, and objectives; Foxtail Flats business plan update; and DPU quarterly report. At the prior evening's meeting: an Energy Day Ahead Market (EDAM) discussion and presentation by UAMPS, and authorization of tariff fee expenditures for repairs to the Abiquiu hydroelectric plant. - Transportation Board update: a lengthy public hearing on the Fairview project (streets, sidewalks, utility connections, and moving sewer lines from backyards to under streets, requiring reconnection under homes); Canyon median redesign, possibly extending to Diamond Drive; and agreement to install a crosswalk with high-intensity flashing beacons at Diamond and Sycamore, linking bus stops near the high school and Pueblo Complex. A board member said they had nearly been hit by cars there. - Parks and Recreation update: Los Alamos Mesa Trail Rehabilitation (tie-in near LA Assisted Living, new railing, widened switchback); North Mesa Picnic Grounds plans (disc golf expansion to about 18 holes with some ADA-compliant holes, preserved native character, enhanced playground and picnic shelters, nature play area, cornhole, horseshoes, updated trail connections and equestrian access); national gold medal finalist for park and recreation excellence; completed work includes athletic field renovations, North Mesa and East Park court updates, Rose Garden improvements near Fuller Lodge, playground updates at 37th Street and Piñon Park, golf course improvements including a gray water system, and an outdoor classroom planned at Mesa Public Library. - No Council report was given. The Sustainability Alliance did not meet in September. The Education and Outreach work group is not currently populated (Sue Barnes is still participating; decision deferred). - Commuter Trip Reduction: coordinating with LANL (Helica made the connection; Shannon Blair will assist); a full report is expected in October. - Supporting Local Food Systems: one meeting held; compiling existing local food resources into one accessible place; exploring a yard-sharing program (area residents with acreage are already registered on the platform); farm visits planned (Culsa Farms, Stone Family Farms, and possibly Rooms and Wildflowers); outreach to the farmers market coordinator planned; recommendations to come. Staff Report - The sustainability newsletter continues to grow in readership and subscriptions. - EV charging at Mesa Public Library: site work is complete; commissioning planned the week of the meeting; go-live depends on a software services agreement. Next: EV chargers for the county fleet at PCS. - The county issued an RFP for off-site food composting services after on-site sites proved challenging; responses have been received and are being evaluated. - On-bill financing for electrification, which could offer low-interest loans to residents, is in very early exploration; new staff member Elsa, from the Netherlands, brings renewable energy and financing experience. - The last farmers market of the season was skipped due to weather. Cleanup LA Day is Saturday, October 3 (9:00-10:00 a.m.); Science Fest is the following Saturday; volunteer help is requested. - August data: recycling was up slightly; trash and yard trimmings were down compared with the prior year, attributed by staff to the very dry summer. - A board member attended tours of the wastewater treatment facility and White Rock; Abby may arrange different facility tours next year and will seek input. Key Outcomes - Agenda amendment and August minutes approved unanimously. - No formal votes were taken on the landfill or IPM items; both were informational. - The board finalized feedback on the annual ESB update; staff will incorporate the requested changes, and the update will be presented to County Council on October 20, 2026. - The board agreed to schedule a Climate Action Plan review, including development of recommendations to Council, for its November 2026 meeting. - Upcoming agenda item: Gary Goddard will present on the Brain Box pilot project at the Municipal Building, which reduced energy usage.

The Plan Commission held a special session on October 1, 2026, to review final recommendations from consulting firm GRAEF on the City of Janesville’s Zoning Code Rewrite. The meeting focused on responding to 125 public comments, staff-identified revisions from stress-testing the regulations and the remapping process, and a detailed proposal for regulating data centers through a planned development district process. The commission also discussed the upcoming public open house on the draft zoning map scheduled for October 6. Five commissioners were present, establishing a quorum. Discussion Items - Zoning Code Revisions (GRAEF Update): Consultant Craig Heemner presented changes in response to public comments. Revisions included updating definitions of building scale to align with future comprehensive plans, expanding provisions for neighborhood-serving commercial uses in residential districts (while retaining a 75-foot height limit), and adding a “new and emerging land uses” section to review large or unanticipated industrial projects. - Land Use Table Adjustments: Major utility installations were changed from permitted to conditional uses, while minor utilities (e.g., lift stations) remained permitted. Mixed-use residential uses were expanded as conditional uses in multifamily districts (R3, B2). The P3 designation was retained for a limited number of uses. - Staff-Identified Revisions: Staff recommendations included expanding live-work dwellings and family daycares as permitted uses, adjusting lot area requirements in the R3 and B2 districts to improve housing density alignment, and revising landscaping, lighting, and stormwater standards. - Anti-Monotony Standards: Commissioner Madare noted that the code revision changed garage design requirements for multifamily buildings from mandatory to recommended. Staff confirmed this was to support housing affordability and expand housing opportunities. Commissioner Cass raised concerns about monotony in large apartment complexes affecting aesthetics and public safety; staff clarified that those projects are regulated under separate architectural design standards. - Environmental Standards in Landscaping and Lighting: Commissioner Madare requested language to encourage native prairie grasses in buffer zones and wildlife-friendly lighting (color spectrum) to reduce light pollution. The consultant team indicated openness to adding these provisions. - Data Center Regulation Proposal: - Data centers were reclassified from a standard P3 use to a new division under Article 8: Alternative Development Options. - This classification requires a Planned Development District (PDD) approval process, which includes two public hearings (Plan Commission and City Council) and a final development plan review. - Data centers would be allowed in M1 and M2 industrial districts via rezoning. - Commissioner Madare requested explicit consideration of air emissions, wastewater discharge and pretreatment, and the city’s ability to hire expert consultants at developer expense. Consultant Craig noted the code outlines 17 different performance categories for evaluation. Dwayne noted a companion ordinance is being drafted by the City Council to provide additional guardrails beyond the zoning code. - Zoning Map and Open House: The commission discussed an informal open house scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, at the Headburg Public Library (5:30-7 PM) for public review of the draft zoning map. The comment window for the zoning map was set to close on Friday, October 16. Key Outcomes - Commission Endorsement: The Plan Commission endorsed moving forward with the balance of the revisions in the staff technical memorandum, providing direction to staff and consultants to incorporate the discussed changes into the final draft. - Data Center Regulatory Path: Endorsed the planned development district framework for data centers, ensuring project-specific review and two public hearings. A companion ordinance will address additional performance standards. - Public Comment Period on Zoning Map: The public comment period for the draft zoning map runs through October 16, 2026, following the October 6 open house. - Next Steps: The complete draft of the Zoning Code, Zoning Map, and Subdivision Ordinance are targeted for formal public hearing and City Council adoption by the end of 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Kathy Erdman (1516 Southridge Drive) expressed concern over the lack of specific performance standards for data centers, particularly regarding sound and vibration. She noted the companion ordinance is on a different schedule and proposed temporarily removing the data center section from the zoning code for approval alongside that ordinance, citing the existing 12-month moratorium as providing sufficient time to align them.

The meeting was called to order at 5:15 PM with Mayor Pro Tem Barza presiding due to Mayor Morris being delayed in traffic. The agenda included a proclamation, a zoo master plan presentation, public comments on recent flooding, approval of a consent agenda, a liquor license transfer, and committee reports. Mayor Morris arrived later and resumed presiding. Consent Calendar - Resolution 3400-2026 – Authorized submission of a grant application to NMDOT for FY2028 transit assistance (49 U.S.C. 5311) and acceptance of funds when awarded; authorized the mayor as CEO and authorized representative. - Senior Center Garden Grant – Accepted a $5,000 grant from NM Aging and Long-Term Services. - Blight and Slum Condition Designation Report – Approved report for Metropolitan Redevelopment Area Expansion. - NMGRO Appropriation 26-KD029 – Approved acceptance of $180,000 and intergovernmental grant agreement with EPCOG (Police Chief Throne). - Hillcrest Park Zoo Master Plan – Approved recommendation to adopt the master plan. - Mobile Stage Rental Rates – Approved establishment of rental rates for the City’s 2026 mobile stage. - Youth Conservation Corps Grant – Approved application for up to $120,480 from NM Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department FY27 program. - Capital Development Program Fund – Approved application for up to $800,000 from NM DFA FY27 program. - Summit Food Services Amendment – Approved contract extension to June 30, 2027. All consent items were approved unanimously via acclamation. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Hogue (Coordinator, Tri-Area Baptist Disaster Relief) – Reported that his organization has already cleared one house and tarped roofs in the community; praised the city’s swift debris removal response and noted ongoing work in county areas still affected by water and mud. - Mr. Edwards (Lions Club) – Offered resources from Lions Club International for disaster relief; requested information on impacted households to coordinate aid (furniture, food, housing). Discussion Items - Flooding Response Update (Mayor Morris and Assistant City Manager Howalt) – The city and partners (Salvation Army, Red Cross, National Guard, swift water rescue teams from Santa Fe and Oklahoma) responded to a historic rain event (5-8 inches predicted, 2-2.5 inches received Tuesday night). Over 12,000 sandbags were prepared by city crews. The Purdue and Cameo drainage improvements were credited with preventing worse damage. A disaster declaration for Curry County was approved at a joint city-county meeting earlier that day. - Hillcrest Park Zoo Master Plan Presentation (Stephanie Chavez, Zoo Director) – Presented a 20-year strategic plan developed with a $100,000 grant, including survey data (800 participants, 96% local), vision for three zones (African Savanna, World Wonder, New Mexico section), and phased improvements. Commissioners expressed strong support for the plan and Chavez’s enthusiasm. - Proclamation – Joe Whitehurst Day – Sean Perkins and Joe Whitehurst’s stepdaughter and widow (Vicky) spoke about his contributions. The proclamation declaring October 4, 2026 as Joe Whitehurst Day was read and approved unanimously; the first annual memorial trap shooting competition will fund scholarships. - Liquor License Transfer – Walgreens Corporation (parent company Sycamore Partners) requested transfer of dispenser liquor license RET-00041 for package sales only at 700 E. 21st. Public hearing held; no testimony offered. Unanimously approved. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Liquor license transfer (Walgreens) approved unanimously. - Proclamation declaring October 4, 2026 as Joe Whitehurst Day adopted unanimously. - Zoo Master Plan approved via consent; next steps include bidding for maintenance garage/keeper hub. - Committee Reports: - Public Works Committee: Recommended restriping Main Street from 21st to Purdue as two-lane with parallel parking; update on Top of the Live Belt Channel trail design; CDBG sewer line replacement on 2nd Street; Norris/21st street light awaiting pole installation; public safety committee integrated into public works. - Parks Committee: Approved zoo master plan, mobile stage rental rates; reported Hillcrest Park bathrooms vandalized (porta-potties expected); announced Haunting at Hillcrest event (Oct 25) and pickleball leagues. - Armed Forces Committee: Update on MIR grants (final expected February). - Joint City-County Meeting: Provided updates on Horizon Bay Behavioral Health Center contract, disaster declaration for Curry County, appointments to NM Triple A representative (Mr. Golick) and alternate (Margaret Brasinio). - Mayor Morris reported from NM Municipal League board meeting: legislative priorities include water/wastewater infrastructure, municipal code chapter three reform, motor vehicle excise tax redirection, public safety retiree return to work, and local government stabilization fund. Also reported on a meeting with LFC capital outlay analyst and visit with governor’s chief of staff regarding flooding. - Future Agenda Item: Solar lease agreement with Long Road Energy. - Upcoming Meetings announced: Civic Center Policy Board (Oct 6, 3 PM), Civil Aviation Board (Oct 6, 5:30 PM), Revenue Review Committee (Oct 7, 5:15 PM), Senior Services Committee (Oct 8, 1:30 PM), Planning & Zoning Committee (Oct 14, 3 PM), next City Commission (Oct 15, 5:15 PM).

This meeting of the Leesburg Planning Commission focused primarily on a work session to review and recommend zoning ordinance revisions implementing recent Virginia state legislation on attainable housing. Commissioners also received a staff update, heard a liaison report from the Town Council, and approved the agenda and preceding minutes. Consent Calendar - Agenda adopted unanimously. - Minutes of the September 17, 2026 meeting approved unanimously without changes. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public testified or submitted comments. Discussion Items - Chair’s Statement: Chair reported attending a Loudoun County Data Center open house and noted concerns about water utility representation and residential setback distances. He also mentioned active work by two other commissions on Royal Street/King Street historic district and residential traffic issues. - Work Session – Zoning Ordinance State Code Updates: Affordable Housing - Planning Director David presented a summary of three state bills: HB 1279 (affordable housing on religious/nonprofit property), HB 594 (expedited review), and SB 74 (additional affordable housing tools). - Staff recommended implementing HB 1279 with a new zoning section (23-3) and updating two use tables, but taking no action on HB 594 and SB 74 at this time—HB 594 because it would convert rezonings to administrative approvals, and SB 74 pending review of Loudoun County’s forthcoming ordinance. - The proposed new section (23-3) would allow by‑right development of affordable residential or mixed‑use projects on property owned continuously for at least five years by a qualifying tax‑exempt religious or nonprofit organization. Key standards include: minimum 60% of units affordable at 80% AMI (rental) or 120% AMI (for‑sale); 30‑year deed restrictions; height up to 45 feet or tallest building within 500 feet; density up to 20 dwelling units/acre or the most intensive density within 500 feet; minimum 10‑foot setbacks; one parking space per unit; and mixed‑use projects must be 70% residential/30% non‑residential. Projects must comply with environmental, historic, and overlay district regulations. - Commissioners posed operational questions: whether the town would be obligated to extend utilities (Director David clarified it would not be automatic; existing extension policies apply), how tax exemption status would work after a church is demolished (the exemption belongs to the organization, not the structure, and the real property would become taxable once the development is complete), and whether staff had inventoried qualifying parcels (not yet, but can be done as the proposal moves forward). - Commissioner Barnes noted that church properties often have existing tax exemptions and raised concerns about revenue loss; staff reiterated that only properties already tax‑exempt qualify and that the developed portion would return to the tax rolls. - Commissioner Robinson asked about feasibility of 20 units per acre and whether there was any fiscal solvency review; staff said the by‑right status relies on IRS‐determined nonprofit status, and the town would not review financial health. - Commissioner Tuck identified minor grammatical issues in the draft (e.g., “for sale or lease by the general public” should be “to the general public”); staff agreed to correct. Key Outcomes - Motion Approved (6‑0‑1): Commissioner Tuck moved, seconded, to recommend the proposed zoning ordinance revisions (attachment one) to the Town Council with a recommendation of approval, on the basis that they implement HB 1279, further the Town Plan, and serve public convenience and good zoning practice. The motion included a friendly amendment to direct staff to analyze Loudoun County’s new zoning ordinance on HB 1279 and draft appropriate cross‑references for the Commission’s review at the October 15, 2026 meeting. The motion also left SB 74 and HB 594 for separate future consideration. The vote was 6 in favor, 0 opposed, with 1 absent (Commissioner Tuck had arrived late but participated in the vote; the absent member was not named). - Next Steps: The Commission will hold a public hearing on October 15, 2026 to gather public input on all the affordable housing zoning revisions before forwarding final recommendations to the Town Council. At that same meeting, the Economic Development Director will present data on business licensing and storefront occupancy. - Staff Report: Announced the hiring of Randall Farron as the new planner, replacing the retired Mr. Boucher. Also noted the tentative scheduling of the Islamic Center application for November 5, 2026 (pending confirmation of odd number of commissioners). - Town Council Liaison Report: Council Liaison reported on upcoming VML convention (Oct 10‑14) in Norfolk, noted the opening of Veterans Park (first phase completed after 25 years), and announced the Halloween parade on October 28, 2026.

The Rules and City Government Committee met on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The committee considered four legislative items: expanding the Board of Supervisors of Elections, amending the Resilience Authority membership and appointment process, updating the City Charter preamble, and legalizing long-term room rentals. Several amendments were debated and voted upon. Consent Calendar - Approved agenda as amended (O-21-26 moved to top of legislative action). - Approved minutes from September 3, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No formal public testimony was taken, but during discussion of O-11-26 (room rentals), the committee noted concerns from a resident about inspections and privacy, which were addressed by a simplified amendment. Discussion Items - O-21-26: Resilience Authority Membership and Director Appointment - Matt Fleming, Resilience Authority Director, presented the legislation to revise membership requirements and the director appointment process, allowing up to two non-local members for specialized expertise. He noted the Authority has secured over $80 million for city and county projects. - Two amendments were introduced by Alderman Savidge: Amendment 2 restored a city residency requirement for board members; Amendment 1 required city council confirmation of mayor's appointees. - Amendment 2 passed unanimously. Amendment 1 prompted legal concerns about consistency with county code and potential conflict. The committee voted to give a favorable recommendation to Amendment 1 pending law office review and coordination with the county. - The committee then gave a favorable recommendation to O-21-26 as amended. - CA-2-26: Expanding Board of Supervisors of Elections from 3 to 5 Members - Liam, Board of Supervisors of Elections Chair, explained the need for expansion: quorum challenges with a three-member board and lack of unaffiliated voter representation. The 2020 Charter Review Commission had recommended this change. - Alderman Savidge proposed an amendment based on voter registration (50% Democrat, 25% Republican, 25% unaffiliated at the time of drafting). Alderman Smith-Brown offered a competing amendment giving the mayor appointment authority with council confirmation, opening nominations to self-recommendations and central committee recommendations, and setting a 3% threshold for third parties. - After debate, the Smith-Brown amendment was amended to raise the third-party threshold from 3% to 10%, and passed 2-1 (Alderman Schandelmeier dissenting, preferring the clean bill). The committee then voted 3-0 to give a favorable recommendation to CA-2-26 as amended. - CA-3-26: Expanding the Preamble of the City Charter - Alderman Savidge presented the legislation, based on the 2021 Charter Review Commission report, adding statements on diversity, equity, inclusion, environmental stewardship, climate change, and other values. - Alderman Thorpe offered an amendment simplifying the preamble, removing operational language and focusing on strategic identity. The committee discussed language regarding the "three pillars of Annapolis" (historic, maritime, universities). - After debate, the committee adopted the Thorpe amendment as modified, striking the three-pillars phrase and instead beginning with "The foundation of the city of Annapolis is its residents." The amendment passed unanimously, and CA-3-26 as amended received a favorable recommendation. - O-11-26: Allowing Long-Term Room Rentals in Private Homes ("Bedrooms for People Act") - Alderman Schandelmeier, the sponsor, explained that the legislation legalizes renting single rooms in owner-occupied homes for 90 days or more. He offered Amendment 2, which simplified the original bill to just declare such rentals legal, based on Planning Commission recommendations. - Alexis Robinson, Senior Comprehensive Planner, noted the department's support for a simplified approach, with no new land use definitions and clarifying that locked doors must not inhibit emergency egress. - Discussion addressed inspections, enforcement, and the current $1,000 per day fine for illegal room rental, which disproportionately targets minorities. The committee agreed inspections were not necessary for informal arrangements. - Amendment 2 passed unanimously. The committee then gave a favorable recommendation to O-11-26 as amended. Key Outcomes - O-21-26: Gave favorable recommendation as amended (residency requirement + pending law office review on council confirmation). - CA-2-26: Gave favorable recommendation 3-0 to legislation as amended (mayor appoints, council confirms; 10% third-party threshold; expanded nomination pool). - CA-3-26: Gave favorable recommendation unanimously to legislation as amended (simplified preamble focusing on residents, equity, environment). - O-11-26: Gave favorable recommendation unanimously to legislation as amended (legalizes long-term room rentals in owner-occupied homes without rental license requirement for informal arrangements). - All items will proceed to the full City Council for final action.

The Town of Chapel Hill Board of Adjustment met at 6:30 PM on Thursday, October 1, 2026, in Council Chamber, Room 110 at 405 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. All six voting members were present. The Board approved the prior meeting minutes, approved a draft variance decision for 219 Glenhill Lane, granted a dimensional variance for 739 Gimghoul Road, and recommended Peter Maniloff for appointment as an alternate member. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting agenda by a 6-0 vote. - Approved the September 3, 2026 draft meeting minutes by a 6-0 vote and directed that they be entered into the official record. - Approved the draft variance decision for the dimensional variance at 219 Glenhill Lane by a 6-0 vote after members confirmed that the address and date on the decision had been corrected. Public Comments & Testimony - Applicant Vicky Parrot testified in support of the 739 Gimghoul Road variance, stating that the garage predates her ownership, was built with the house in the late 1930s/early 1940s, and that the property's steep slope and stone retaining walls make the garage's location the only practical place for an accessory dwelling unit. She said relocating the structure would cause erosion, tree loss, and additional expense. - Applicant Blue Chattergy expressed support for the project, saying accessory dwelling units are consistent with Chapel Hill's housing goals, including affordability and housing for students in historic districts. - No members of the public other than the applicants offered comment. Discussion Items - Dimensional Variance – 739 Gimghoul Road ([26-0321]): Planning staff presented the request for a property in the Gimghoul neighborhood east of UNC's main campus to reduce the required street setback from 26 feet to 9 feet and the interior setback from 10 feet to 4 feet to add an accessory dwelling unit above an existing garage. The applicant argued that the existing nonconforming garage, retaining walls, mature trees, and slope created an unnecessary hardship. Board members discussed whether the pre-existing nonconformity could be expanded, and the Board attorney explained that a variance supersedes the nonconformity rule and that the Board could impose conditions if it chose. The Board declined to add conditions, noting that any design would still need Historic District Commission approval. The Board then adopted Resolution A, directing staff to draft an order granting the variance, by a 6-0 vote. - Membership Recommendations ([26-0322]): The Board reviewed applications and resumes for the third alternate position. Candidates discussed included Mr. Bennett, Trevor Leatherwood, Peter Maniloff, and David Weiner. After discussion, the Board voted 6-0 to recommend Peter Maniloff to the Town Council for appointment as an alternate member. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda, the September 3, 2026 minutes, and the 219 Glenhill Lane draft variance decision. - Granted the 739 Gimghoul Road dimensional variance through Resolution A, allowing the street setback to be reduced from 26 feet to 9 feet and the interior setback from 10 feet to 4 feet. - Recommended Peter Maniloff for appointment as alternate to the Board of Adjustment. - All votes taken during the meeting were unanimous, with six affirmative votes.

The Finance Committee convened on October 1, 2026 at 3:31 PM (agenda listed 3:30 PM) in the City Hall 3rd Floor Conference Room, 1666 North Main Street, Walnut Creek. The meeting adjourned at 4:38 PM. The committee reviewed the FY26 4th Quarter revenue and expenditure results and proposed FY27 budget amendments. Both items were unanimously referred to the City Council. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (June 23, 2026): Motion by Craig DeVinney, second by Matt Francois, carried unanimously. Discussion Items - FY26 4th Quarter Revenue & Expenditure Results and Year-End Fund Balance Allocation (3:33 PM): Budget Manager Ryndie Azevedo presented the quarter-end financial results, summarizing the city's fiscal year-end position. The report included the FY26 General Fund Summary and Measure O Fund Summary. The committee voted unanimously (Craig DeVinney and Matt Francois) to refer the report to City Council with a recommendation to accept. - Proposed FY27 Budget Amendments (3:57 PM): Budget Manager Ryndie Azevedo presented proposed amendments to the FY27 budget. The presentation included the FY27 General Fund Proposed Amended Budget, Measure O Proposed Amended Budget, and a summary of proposed budget adjustments by fund and department. An addendum with revisions to Table 4 and Attachment 2 was noted. The committee voted unanimously (Craig DeVinney and Matt Francois) to refer the report to City Council for further discussion. Key Outcomes - Both discussion items were referred to the City Council with unanimous support (Craig DeVinney and Matt Francois voting in favor). - No public comments were made. - The meeting adjourned at 4:38 PM.

The Auburn City Council held a special session on October 1, 2026, although the posted agenda listed the meeting date as September 29, 2026. The only agenda item was a closed session to discuss the appointment of the City Manager. Public Comments & Testimony The agenda included a public comment period for items not on the agenda. No comments were recorded in the available materials. Closed Session The council unanimously adjourned to closed session under the authority of California Government Code Section 54957 for a public employment discussion regarding the City Manager position. No report out of closed session was included in the provided records. Key Outcomes No decisions or votes were documented. The meeting adjourned following the closed session without any announced action.