The Public Meeting Index

The Shade Tree Commission met on September 30, 2026, at the Radnorshire Room. The board reviewed several grading permits, discussed a budget request to the Board of Commissioners, debated a proposed "look-back" ordinance for retroactive tree removal, and approved a tree planting project at the Blue Route Gateway. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from August 26, 2026. - Announcements included: (1) Wayne Fall Festival was very successful with a table and tree giveaway; (2) A memorial redbud was planted for Sara Pilling at the Willows; (3) The Radnor Conservancy's "TreeTOberfest" tree giveaway and fall festival will be Sunday, October 25, 1–4 PM at Willows Mansion; (4) The Wayne Master Plan is available at avisionforwayne.com. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments during the designated public participation periods. Discussion Items - New Grading Permits: The board reviewed seven grading permit applications. - 11 Lockwood Lane: A revised grading permit for a new single-family dwelling. The applicant removed five trees not previously approved. The board approved contingent on the engineer updating plans to show five replacement trees. - 3 Lockwood Lane: A revised grading permit. The applicant had removed two hazardous trees earlier. The board approved contingent on updating the tree replacement plan to include nine trees (six large canopy, three any size) to compensate for those removals. - 319 Louella Ave: Pool construction, no trees removed. Approved contingent on tree protection fencing around a maple tree in the driveway. - 326 S Wayne Ave: No applicant present; tabled. - 544 St Davids Ave: Pool and patio, no trees removed. Approved. - 3201 Greene Countrie Drive: Addition and remodel. The homeowner discussed steep slope grading and erosion control. Approved, with an expectation that a civil engineering plan would be submitted. - 645 Radnor Valley Drive: In-law suite, no trees removed. Approved. - 2026 Budget Request to BOC: Commissioner Frank presented a request for $20,000 from the general fund to support spring planting ($11,000) and maintenance of riparian projects at the Willows and Filipone Park ($9,000). Discussion included the need for maintenance funding and the potential for using MS4 funds. The board voted to approve the presentation to the Board of Commissioners, with an added component on MS4 requirements. - Retroactive Tree Removal "Look-Back" Ordinance Provision: Kristen presented a draft ordinance allowing the commission to review tree removal on a property within the preceding six years. Key debate centered on the word "may" vs. "shall," the six-year lookback period, the burden of proof on applicants, and the treatment of prior ownership changes. The board tabled the item until John Hosback (the tree expert) could attend a future meeting to explain its necessity. - Blue Route Gateway Tree Planting: James proposed planting three redbuds, three serviceberries, and one swamp white oak at the Blue Route and St. Davids Avenue gateway. The plant material cost is $530; James offered to donate installation and mulch. The board approved the planting contingent on confirming that township funds can be used on state property. If not, James will fund the materials privately. - Tree Protection Fencing: Tabled pending a response from Mr. Norcini. - Willows & Filipone Riparian Projects Update: The project is progressing. John Hosback recommended welded steel tree protection for 200 new plants. The board discussed grouping plants to simplify fencing and using deer-resistant species. A volunteer planting day is planned; refreshments and logistics will be finalized offline. Key Outcomes - All seven grading permits were approved, most with conditions related to tree protection or updated replacement plans. - The commission voted to proceed with the $20,000 budget request presentation to the Board of Commissioners (unanimous). - The look-back ordinance was tabled for further discussion with John Hosback. - The Blue Route Gateway planting was approved (unanimous), subject to funding confirmation. - The hazardous trees removed by residents and the township were noted, with no further action. - Meeting adjourned without any other new business.

The Newport City Council met on September 30, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, 43 Broadway, Newport, RI. The meeting included a consent calendar, public comment, several license approvals, appointments, and ordinances. The council also convened as the Board of License Commissioners to approve liquor license transfers. Consent Calendar - Approved consent calendar in entirety with exceptions of items A2 (Newport Public Education Foundation event) and J (School Committee resolution), which were considered separately. - Item A2 (Newport Public Education Foundation event) approved after Councillor Thompson Boravong recused himself. - Item J (Communication from Patricia Reynolds regarding School Committee resolution) was pulled by Councillor Carlin for discussion and subsequently approved by voice vote. - After initial approval, the council reconsidered and approved item A3 (Armstead-Barnhill Foundation sickle cell awareness event); a representative spoke about the event. - All other consent items (special events, bingo license, bicycle rental renewal, resignations from Charter Review Commission, historic cemetery alliance request, Castle Hill Neighborhood Association stormwater opposition, Perrotti Park harbormaster building request, Hazard Mitigation Report, OCD Awareness Week lighting) were approved or received as listed. Public Comments & Testimony - Pete Rice (Third Ward) expressed concern about 50,000 cubic yards of dirt behind Rogers School, stating it appeared to have no owner and asking for a plan. The City Manager responded that a plan is being developed. - Barry Freeman (Bike Newport) spoke during the bicycle ordinance discussion, reporting that 11th Hour replenished Bike Newport's inventory of lights, that a statewide micromobility work group has formed to address e-bike legislation (recognizing Newport's process as a model), and praised the council's comprehensive bicycle ordinance work. Discussion Items - Annual Entertainment License: Broadway Tavern (Tavern on Broadway) approved for a Class A indoor entertainment license (noon to 1 a.m., Sundays through Saturdays) – second hearing. - New Victualing License: MXR-RD-RI-1 LLC (El Tapatio Newport) approved for 140-142 Broadway (first and second floors and rear patio) in conjunction with liquor license transfer. Attorney Michael Mano and principals Pedro Baracas and Jack Watson answered questions, noting El Tapatio is a Mexican restaurant chain expanding to Newport and that the Class C liquor license is being transferred from Pivotal Brewing (the brewing license will not be retained). - Appointments: Michael Rego appointed to the Sister City Commission (three-year term expiring 9/30/29). Elliott Caldwell reappointed to the Historic Cemetery Advisory Commission for a third term (expires 10/14/2029). Both approved. - Action Item 6679: Authorized Newport Fire Department to pursue grants and philanthropic funding for replacement of the fire training structure behind Fire Station 2 at 100 Old Fort Road. Approved. - Ordinances: Items 6–10 (amendments to sections 5.97.020, 10.08.010, 10.16.020, 10.16.030, 10.20.120) approved en bloc as second readings. - Bicycle Ordinance (Chapter 10.72): Two amendments approved: (1) adding Spring Street to the list of prohibited parking areas in subsection H; (2) amending subsection L (lights) per the Chief of Police's memorandum. Councilor Rice changed his prior position, now supporting removal of mandated lights from ordinance due to enforcement limitations; the Chief recommended a voluntary equipment list. The amendment as proposed by the Chief was approved by voice vote. - Board of License Commissioners: Convened after council adjourned. Consent calendar approved except item 1; Class F daily liquor licenses approved for Newport Public Education Foundation and St. Augustin Church. The transfer of the Class C alcoholic beverage license from Pivotal Brewing Company to El Tapatio Newport was approved after a hearing. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items approved or received as listed. - Tavern on Broadway entertainment license approved. - El Tapatio Newport victualing license and Class C liquor license transfer approved. - Michael Rego appointed, Elliott Caldwell reappointed. - Fire department authorized to seek grant/philanthropic funding for training structure. - Six ordinance amendments approved (items 6–10 and bicycle chapter amendments). - All Board of License Commissioners items approved. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 7:23 p.m. after a 23-minute session.

The Pekskill Common Council held a special work session budget meeting on September 30, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting featured budget presentations from the Assessor, Department of Public Works (DPW), Community Hub (Seniors/Nutrition and Recreation), and Youth Bureau. Council members reviewed proposed budgets for fiscal year 2027, discussed departmental accomplishments and needs, and heard liaison reports. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session. Discussion Items - Budget Line Explanations: Tony (Finance) explained that 100 lines are salaries, 200 lines equipment, 400 lines contractual, and 800 lines benefits, with health insurance and pension now in a citywide section. - Assessor Presentation: The Assessor described the office's role in valuing property, administering 2,800 exemptions, and mailing 5,100 bilingual postcards in 2026. A major accomplishment was successfully challenging the state's proposed 21.9% equalization rate increase, reducing it to 2.06% and cutting the commercial property value spike to 10.7%. This saved Pekskill taxpayers $655,000 in county taxes for FY 2027. The 2027 budget request is $1,700 lower than 2026. Council praised the in-house effort. - DPW Presentation (Cornell Hammonds): Cornell presented the DPW 2027 budget proposal of $7,998,000, a 2.5% decrease from 2026 ($8,141,000). He outlined departmental responsibilities: building maintenance (one person), vehicle maintenance, parks (14 parks, 36 acres), sanitation (8,930 tons trash in 2025, projected 9,000+ in 2026), street maintenance (254 tons asphalt, 22 catch basins repaired, 13 speed bumps). Equipment needs include dump trucks, a stump grinder, and a garbage truck. Staffing requests (unfunded) include an electrician, HMEO, MEO, laborers, and additional mechanics. Discussion covered snow removal overtime (budgeted $110k, spent $170k in 2026), parking meter removal (kiosks arriving by end of October, removal in new year), and the need for a building maintenance assistant for Carlos. - Community Hub – Seniors/Nutrition (Jonathan Zamora): Jonathan reported on the 53rd year of the senior nutrition program. Accomplishments: 30% increase in Spanish-speaking attendance, distributed over 10,000 lbs of fresh produce, 50 trips in 2026, 75 seniors daily in center. The program serves 48,000 meals annually. The 2027 budget request for nutrition is $609,221, with $274,721 from federal contracts, $104,194 additional funding, and a net general fund need of $230,306. Senior services budget request $200,812. Discussion included federal funding delays, capacity limits (max 90 comfortably, possible two meal times), and need for Spanish translation services. Council expressed strong support. - Community Hub – Recreation (Jonathan Zamora): Recreation accomplishments: 8,776 pool visits, 26 staff, 12 saves (down from 25 in 2025 due to life vest rental program). Summer camp programs ran on registration fees, netting positive for day camp ($12,143) and creative arts ($8,011). Pool net cost was $74,039; a new pool liner ($40,000-$50,000) is needed. Other programs: tennis (net $3,070), volleyball (net $50), soccer (net $6,851), flag football (net $1,074). Events included movie nights (avg 40-100), concerts (avg 200-400), FIFA activations, and a West Point Band concert with 800 attendees. Fourth of July had 11,000 attendees. Recreation 2027 budget request $1,090,640. Discussion on pool maintenance and capital needs (liner will be bonded or leased). - Youth Bureau (Daryl Francis): Daryl presented the Youth Bureau's mission and 2026 impact: served 436 unduplicated youth, managed 6 grants and 9 programs, partnered with 37 organizations. Programs include Rising Stars ($50k/year grant), Grandpa's United ($25k), and Summer Youth Employment (funded by a $44k grant from Jonathan's workforce grant after county grant was not received). The current city-funded foundation is $242,562, supporting one full-time and one part-time staff. A request for $163,841 would fund two full-time positions to expand capacity. Council praised the presentation; discussed potential relocation of the youth bureau from the old firehouse (needs $10M in repairs) to the neighborhood center after library moves. A $295,000 grant is available for assessment. Council expressed strong support but noted funding challenges. Key Outcomes - No formal votes on the budget were taken; the session was a work session for review and discussion. - Motion to enter executive session (for discussion of personnel matters) was moved, seconded, and approved unanimously. - Council directed staff to continue working on parking meter removal plans with public notice. - The city will apply for the NY BRICS grant in December for the youth bureau building. - The council acknowledged the successful challenge of the equalization rate and the collaborative efforts between departments (e.g., Youth Bureau and Recreation). Liaison Reports & Community Events - Councilman Rigor announced a talk at the Field Library on October 3, 2026, at 2 PM by a Marist professor on Hudson Valley cartoonists, featuring Pekskillean Melvin Tapley. - Councilman noted the fall festival at the riverfront on October 3, 2026, from 11 AM to 5 PM. - Council recognized the retirement of Dr. McGurdy Jr. and thanked him for his service.

The Everett City Council convened at 3:00 PM on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, in Council Chambers. The meeting included recognition of the water filtration plant's state award, unanimous approval of four consent items, a second reading for the Walter E. Hall Playground renovation, a first reading of the “Everett Forward” B&O tax reform package, and action to initiate the public hearing process for the proposed Everett Transit–Community Transit merger. All votes were unanimous; Councilmember Bader was excused from the final vote because his battery died. Recognition & Mayor’s Comments - The Washington State Department of Health presented the Treatment Optimization Program (TOP) award to Everett’s water filtration team for exceeding national standards for five consecutive years (2020–2025). Laura McLaughlin (DOH Regional Environmental Engineer) presented the award to Jeff Mars (Operation Superintendent) and Ryan Sass (Public Works Director). Finished water turbidity was below 0.1 NTU 95% of the time and never exceeded 0.3 NTU. - Mayor Franklin endorsed the proposed Everett Transit (ET) merger with Community Transit (CT), citing three reasons: community growth, the unsustainability of the current transit budget (“in a year or two we’ll be in the red”), and light rail readiness. She framed the B&O reform as a modernization of a tax not updated since 2002, with exemptions for 70% of businesses and a new economic growth fund. - Mayor Franklin announced that John Carswell (Apex Everett) and other sports professionals have formed a local ownership group for a future USL professional soccer team, with a briefing expected in November. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved four consent items: claims against the City totaling $4,729,942.10 for September 12–18, 2026; a lease with One Call Locators, LLC d/b/a ELM Utility Services at Everett Station; a lease with Everett Station District Alliance dba Stations Unidos; and a lease with Snohomish County Transportation Coalition (Snotrac). Public Comments & Testimony - Andrea Ray (Director of Government Affairs, Washington Hospitality Association) expressed full support for the B&O reinvestment package. She highlighted the proposed retail/restaurant rate cut from $1.00 to $0.75 per $1,000 in gross receipts and the outdoor event center’s projected nearly 400,000 visitors and approximately $85 million in annual spending. - Ray (Economic Alliance Snohomish County) expressed strong support for ET–CT consolidation, citing waterfront and Navy base bus service needs, Everett Community College transfer challenges, and the preservation of paratransit service for riders over 65. - Brock Howell (Executive Director, Snotrac; CEO, Stations Unidos) supported consolidation, citing a 2019–2020 study projecting nearly quadruple the number of stops with 15-minute-or-better transit service, and noted roughly 23 current Everett residents aged 65+ who qualify for paratransit. - Jim Langus (Everett) supported the B&O tax reduction but urged the council to direct new revenue to unfunded capital needs and not to commit those dollars to the $140–$160 million baseball project. He noted Everett’s third-lowest family income in Snohomish County and warned that the merger would raise the sales tax to 10.5%. - Multiple small business owners voiced support for the B&O reform package: Ellie Vaskins (boutique owner, Plaza Taputo), Carrie Lonergan Drakey (Lombardi’s restaurant group), Diane Kimianka (Executive Director, Northwest Innovation Resource Center), Ryan Spivey (founder, Everett Performance Omnium Bike Race), Jack Aang (owner of two waterfront restaurants), and Tony Foreasier (Marysville small business owner with 20 years in Everett’s community). - A written comment from John Peoples regarding Flock cameras was entered into the official record. Discussion Items Item 5: Walter E. Hall Playground Renovation (CB 2609-50) — 2nd Reading - Parks & Facilities Director Kimberly Moore presented the $1.25 million renovation, which will expand the playground from roughly 3,500 to 8,347 square feet. The design reflects outreach that included an English/Spanish survey (April–May), input from 300+ Horizon Elementary School students, and engagement with Casino Road area communities. Swings and zip lines were the top requests from children. - The project will use the CIP3 funding model and park impact fees. Third and final reading is scheduled for October 7, 2026. Item 6: B&O Tax Reform — “Everett Forward” (CB 2609-51) — 1st Reading - Mike Falling (Senior Executive Director) and Tyler Chisholm (Economic Development Manager) presented a three-part package: - Small business relief: raise the exemption threshold from $20,000 to $250,000 in gross receipts (exempting roughly 6,500 of about 9,500 businesses, or 70%); eliminate the $111 license fee and $15 renewal fee for micro businesses under $45,000 in revenue. - Rate modernization: reduce the retail/restaurant rate by 25% (from $1.00 to $0.75 per $1,000 in gross receipts) while modestly increasing other categories. Examples: a $200,000 business saves $200/year; a $500,000 food truck saves $125/year; a $1 million business pays $500 more; a $10 million business pays $2,000 more. - Economic investment: dedicate roughly $3.5 million in new annual revenue to a business support/navigation function (including public safety civilian support and permitting navigation), commercial district grants, and public spaces such as the outdoor event center (projected 400,000 visitors/year and $85 million in annual visitor spending). - Staff plan to implement changes January 1, 2027, track the incremental revenue in a dedicated subfund, and bring future budget amendments to council. - Councilmember Burbano asked about consolidating permits across jurisdictions (citing his wife’s business, Tanya Cakes); staff cited ongoing discussions with Snohomish County Public Health. - Third and final reading is scheduled for October 14, 2026. Item 7: Everett Transit–Community Transit Annexation ILA (Initiation Action) - Bob Leonard (City Administration) explained that a 2025 state law requires this initiation action to open a four-week notice period ahead of the public hearing. He reported on an August 18 open house at Walter Hall golf course. Top community themes: paratransit continuity, employee protection, keeping the $2 fare, an Everett board seat, and light rail readiness. - ILA highlights: annexation effective April 1, 2027; Community Transit will transfer $54.5 million to Everett; at least one Everett board seat; and the city’s boundaries would be annexed into CT. - Note: the agenda lists the public hearing at 12:30 p.m. on October 28, 2026, while the transcript states 6:30 p.m. — a discrepancy exists. - Next steps: full ILA briefing October 21, public hearing October 28, ordinance adoption November 4. Council Comments & Updates - Councilmember Burbano raised concerns about temporary tarps at Walter E. Hall Playground not providing rain or sun protection and urged permanent structures; he also reported a two-car collision on Airport Road near Berberley Park Road and described the Airport Road bike lane as unsafe at a 45 mph speed limit. - Councilmember Tui announced the Monte Cristo Awards on October 29 at 6:30 p.m. at the Snohomish County PUD auditorium and noted the October 7 community health and safety committee meeting is cancelled. - Councilmember Zarlingo reported on the Snohomish County Tomorrow General Assembly, including new committees (transportation infrastructure, housing, economic development, health and human services) and the westbound Highway 2 trestle replacement effort, with roughly $17 million allocated for the study and an expected cost of about $2 billion. - President Schwab announced that the Evergreen Neighborhood Association has restarted and meets at Evergreen Middle School. - Administrative staff reminded the public of Sound Transit Everett Link DEIS open houses: October 6 (Zoom), October 13 (Mariner High School), and October 15 (Carl Gibson Center), 5:30–8:30 p.m. except the online session. Key Outcomes - Minutes of September 23, 2026 approved unanimously (7-0). - Consent calendar approved unanimously (7-0). - CB 2609-50 advanced to third/final reading on October 7, 2026. - CB 2609-51 first reading held; third/final reading set for October 14, 2026. - Item 7 (initiation ILA with Community Transit) approved unanimously (6-0; Councilmember Bader excused due to a dead battery). Public hearing set for October 28, 2026 (time discrepancy noted above).

The Tulsa City Council met on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber at 175 E. 2nd St., Tulsa, OK. The meeting was called to order by Chair Gilbert with all six councilors present (Bellis, Gilbert, Bengal, Dr. Wright, Lakin, Dutton). Councilor Archie was absent. The council considered a public hearing on a street closure, approved a block of Mayor's items including floodplain plans, surplus property, license agreements, travel donations, special events, and utility easements, passed ordinances on first and second reading, and accepted registration donations for councilors. Public speakers addressed several agenda items. Two agenda items for public comments (Ferris Andrews and Jim Pink) were listed but not heard as the meeting's televised portion concluded prior to that agenda section. Public Hearing - Street Closure for Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church and School: A public hearing was held to receive comments on a proposed ordinance closing a street as a public way at 1419 N. 67th E. Ave., between E. Oklahoma St. and E. Oklahoma Pl., requested to allow safety improvements for the campus. One speaker, John Huffines, expressed support, stating "Yes to their proposed ordinance." The hearing was closed without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - John Huffines (on Mayor's items 4O, 4P, 4Q): Expressed support for the special event applications for Faith & Blue 2026 (October 10), Monte Casino Octoberfest Fun Run (October 9), and Parish of Christ the King Parish Picnic (October 4), highlighting the role of faith and community unity. - Janet Davis (on Mayor's items 4J, 4G, 4H): Raised questions about the travel donation for Aron York to visit Friendship City Sumy, Ukraine ($2,214.39), asking why municipal staff time is allocated for international travel tied to an active foreign conflict. She also expressed concerns about the city's ongoing relationship with Cities for Financial Empowerment (CFE) Fund, questioning whether financial empowerment and banking access initiatives are an appropriate use of city staff time and travel versus private or nonprofit efforts. - Janet Davis (on second reading item 7B): Opposed accepting federal grant revenue of $9,055.71 from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry—Forestry Services under the Inflation Reduction Act Urban and Community Forestry Program, stating it "normalizes reliance on federal spending package that was deeply controversial and passed without bipartisan support." - Janet Davis (on council items 8B and 8C): Objected to the registration donations from the Coretz Family Foundation of $799 each for Councilor Archie and Councilor Dutton to attend the Aspen Ideas: Economy Conference, saying "the city has a spending problem." Discussion Items - Mayor's Items (4B through 4Q): The council considered and approved a block of 16 items including: adoption of the Floodplain Management Plan and Repetitive Loss Area Analysis (RLAA) Annual Progress Report 2025-2026 (with emergency clause); adoption of the 2026 RLAA plans (with emergency clause); declaring property at 9415 S. Yale Ave. surplus and directing its sale; a license agreement with CJT Real Estate, LLC for parking at 3703 S. Harvard Ave.; travel donations for Troy Franklin ($800 to Milwaukee), Kennedy Dixon ($946 to Baltimore and $1,004 to Charlotte), and Aron York ($2,214.39 to Ukraine); a deed of dedication for a lot split; two utility easement donations for sanitary sewer and water main extensions; and five special event applications (Crowell Heights Block Party, Tulsa Native American Day Celebration, Faith & Blue 2026, Monte Casino Octoberfest Fun Run, Parish of Christ the King Parish Picnic). Councilor Dutton clarified that the travel to Ukraine is part of the sister city program through Tulsa Global Alliance, which focuses on cultural exchange and economic opportunity beyond geopolitical conflicts. The item 4M (Block Party) was approved with amended language. - Ordinances – First Reading (Items 6B and 6C): These ordinances (street closure for Saints Peter and Paul Church and CoxCom LLC franchise correction) were read by title and forwarded to the next council meeting for action without objection. Item 6A (Next Generation 911 budget amendment) was pulled from the agenda. - Ordinances – Second Reading (Items 7A, 7B, 7C): Three ordinances were approved: (7A) reallocating $750,000 within the 2023 Temporary Sales Tax Fund for a River Parks Maintenance Building; (7B) a supplemental appropriation of $9,055.71 from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture for tree and planting expenses; (7C) closing a detention easement at 1123 N. Garnett Rd. for future expansion. - Council Items (8B and 8C): Registration donations from the Coretz Family Foundation of $799 each for Councilor Archie and Councilor Dutton to attend the Aspen Ideas: Economy Conference (October 13-15, 2026, in Tulsa) were approved. Councilor Bellis noted that multiple councilors would attend for educational opportunities. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing: Closed without objection. The related ordinance will be considered at a later meeting. - Mayor's Items 4B through 4Q: Approved unanimously (6-0) with amended language on 4M and emergency clauses on 4B and 4C. - First Reading Ordinances (6B, 6C): Forwarded to the next regular council meeting on October 14, 2026, for action. - Second Reading Ordinances (7A, 7B, 7C): Approved unanimously (6-0). - Council Items 8B and 8C: Approved unanimously (6-0). - Public Comments (Agenda Items 11a and 11b): Not heard; the meeting's televised portion concluded prior to that agenda section. No action was taken.

The subcommittee met on September 30, 2026, at 3:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. Items included a discussion on underfunded maintenance districts, repairs to Bob Hart Square fountain, and the subcommittee's roles and meeting schedule. Public Comments & Testimony - Shirley Farr, a resident of Fahrens Park, expressed concern about deteriorating landscape maintenance and asked how the city missed the accounting error for 34 years. She urged faster action to restore services. - Sandra Clay, also from Fahrens Park, described the assessment ballot amount as a "sticker shock" and asked if discussions could be reopened with residents to explore phased increases. She also inquired about upcoming state water regulations affecting common areas. Discussion Items - Maintenance Districts Assessment Ballot Proceeding (D.1): Stacey Hicks, Landscape Maintenance Coordinator, presented on seven underfunded maintenance districts (Campus North, East College Homes, Fahrens Park I, Hansen Park, Olivewood, Pleasanton Park, Yosemite Village). Previous ballot attempts in 2025 failed for some districts. Council members discussed outreach strategies, timing (preferring spring 2027 over holiday season), and a potential tiered rate increase for Fahrens Park, where the city had inadvertently subsidized 90% of costs. Public Works Director Ken Elwin confirmed the option to focus on Fahrens Park first. The subcommittee agreed to recommend the full council proceed with ballot proceedings, possibly prioritizing Fahrens Park, and to schedule a town hall in mid-November to gauge community sentiment. - Bob Hart Square Fountain Repairs (D.2): Jeff Frederick, Parks Manager, presented two options: repair the fountain for about $24,000 or convert it to a planter. Council members expressed strong support for keeping the fountain, citing its iconic downtown value. They suggested gathering input from stakeholders (already surveyed, with split opinions) and bringing the final decision to the full council. Staff will prepare more details on both options for council consideration. - Subcommittee Roles and Meeting Dates (D.3): The subcommittee discussed meeting frequency, settling on three times per year. They agreed to elect a chair to facilitate meetings. They also considered adding high-speed rail reports and regional agency updates to future agendas. The next meeting was tentatively set for March 24, 2027, at 3:00 PM. Key Outcomes - The subcommittee directed staff to return to the full City Council with a recommendation to proceed with assessment ballot proceedings for the underfunded maintenance districts, with a focus on Fahrens Park I and community outreach after the holiday season. - The subcommittee recommended repairing the Bob Hart Square fountain rather than converting to a planter, and asked staff to present both options to the full council for final approval. - The subcommittee will propose meeting three times per year and elect a chair; the next meeting is scheduled for March 24, 2027.

The Beloit Community Development Authority (CDA) met on September 30, 2026, at 4:30 PM in the City Hall Forum, 100 State Street, Beloit, WI. The agenda included consideration of previous minutes, a public comment period, reports from the Beloit Housing Authority, and several resolutions related to housing programs and federal grant budgets. Because no minutes or transcript were provided with the agenda, the summaries below reflect the items scheduled for discussion and action, but outcomes are not documented. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar was listed on the agenda. Item 2.a (consideration of August 26, 2026, minutes) was a standalone item. Public Comments & Testimony - Agenda item 3 allowed for public comment, but no comments or speakers are recorded in the available material. Discussion Items - Minutes (Item 2.a): Consideration of the minutes from the August 26, 2026, CDA meeting. - Beloit Housing Authority (Item 4): - Presentation of the August 2026 Activity Report (Cole). - Presentation of the June–July 2026 Financial Report (Cole). - Public hearing and consideration of Resolution 2026-10 approving revisions to the Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan. - Public hearing and consideration of Resolution 2026-11 approving revisions to the Public Housing Admissions and Continued Occupancy Policy. - Consideration of Resolution 2026-13 approving submission of the Fiscal Year 2026 Family Self-Sufficiency Grant Application. - Community and Housing Services (Item 5): - Consideration of Resolution 2026-15 recommending approval of the 2027 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) budget and Annual Plan (Bown/Gile). - Consideration of Resolution 2026-16 recommending approval of the 2027 Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) budget (Christensen). - Other Matters (Item 6): No business to discuss. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or directives are recorded in the agenda. The next CDA meeting is scheduled for October 28, 2026.

On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., the Indianapolis-Marion County City-County Council's Public Safety and Criminal Justice Committee convened in the Public Assembly Room. Chair Leroy Robinson presided. The agenda included a presentation from the Early Intervention Planning Council (EIPC), two property tax levy proposals for police and fire special service districts (Proposals 261 and 262), and review of the public safety portion of the 2027 budget (Proposal 264). Public Comments & Testimony - Carlette Duffy, Chair of the Marion County Community Corrections Board, spoke in support of eliminating ankle monitor fees. She shared her personal experience paying $5,110 in monitoring fees over one year as a single mother re‑entering society, emphasizing that many lack the family support she had. - Sheikh Devontae Gilbert Bay of the Valdist Movement urged timely action on the ankle monitor fee proposal, noting it was submitted on August 31 and still pending. He called for a decision by October 9. - Erica Davis of the Valdist Movement expressed disappointment with the Office of Financial Management for not acting sooner on the fee review, demanding an affirmative answer by October 9. Discussion Items - Early Intervention Planning Council (EIPC) Presentation: Sarah Comfort, Public Policy and Advocacy Director at Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY), presented EIPC’s 2027 budget of $71,500 (unchanged since 2023). She described EIPC’s mission to prevent child abuse, neglect, and delinquency through data‑informed collaboration. She highlighted a forthcoming white paper on preventing youth gun violence, noting that firearms were the leading cause of death among Hoosier youth ages 1–17 in 2024. In Indianapolis, youth gun deaths fell from 44% to 17% from 2023 to 2024, but non‑fatal shootings rose 7%. Councilors discussed: Councilor Mowry asked if EIPC had taken a stance on curfew; Comfort said no official stance. Councilor Boots raised the disproportionate violence among Black males 18–25 and asked about providing alternatives for youth. Councilor Delaney noted he feeds these topics into EIPC to drive data‑driven answers. Councilor Brown asked about unfilled board seats; Comfort confirmed the mayor’s appointee and controller’s position are being filled. Councilor Hart linked unemployment (9% on the Far East Side vs. 3% citywide) to violence, citing a quality‑of‑life plan. Comfort acknowledged the need for third spaces and mentioned the Family and Youth Intervention Center. - Proposals 261 & 262 – Police and Fire Special Service District Levies: Deputy Controller Jake McVay explained these are statutory administrative actions adopting the 2027 tax levy and rates. No questions from the public or committee. The committee voted on both proposals together. - Proposal 264 – 2027 Budget (Public Safety Portion): Deputy Controller McVay confirmed no changes since prior presentation; representatives from each department were present. Councilor Brown questioned IMPD Chief Terry about Flock cameras: (1) why external sites show 500+ cameras while IMPD has 301; Chief Terry noted private and other agency cameras. (2) whether data‑sharing agreements with other agencies are public; Chief said only in‑state agencies, with MOUs being formalized. (3) status of system‑wide audits; Chief said daily audits occur with 100% compliance since August policy, long‑term procedures are being developed with the general orders board. Brown praised the transparency hub but asked for geographic breakdowns finer than police district. Brown also raised a complaint about delayed responses to public access requests; legal counsel Ann Harrigan said requests are processed in order and they try to communicate delays. Brown then asked about officer residency – Chief confirmed 46% of IMPD officers live outside Marion County (as of Sept. 16). Brown also asked that masked officers be clearly identifiable to avoid confusion with ICE. Councilor Perkins asked Community Corrections Director Hull about a $1.5 million request to eliminate ankle monitor fees. Hull said the proposal was submitted to OFM on August 31. Deputy Controller McVay acknowledged receipt but had not completed review. Councilor Allen asked whether an amendment could be made before final budget adoption; chair confirmed amendments are possible until the full council meeting on October 19. Key Outcomes - Proposals 261 and 262 (Police and Fire Levies): Passed by voice vote with no opposition. (Motion moved and seconded; all ayes, no nays.) - Proposal 264 (2027 Budget): Passed on a roll call vote. Voting aye: Councilors Allen, Boots, Delaney, Graves, Hart, Muscary, McCormick, Mowry, Perkins, Robinson, and Wells (who initially voted nay but corrected to aye). Voting nay: Councilor Cahill. The motion carried. The budget will proceed to full council for final adoption; the Office of Financial Management committed to respond to the ankle monitor fee proposal before October 19.

The Diversity and Community Relations Committee met on September 30, 2026, at 4:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Chairperson Suzanna Ibarra presided, with Councilman Joe Clement and Councilman Juan Moreno present. The committee approved minutes from the July 16, 2026 meeting, and reviewed and approved three agenda items: CDBG PY 2026 resolutions, updated CDBG policies and procedures, and a contract extension for the City's Poet Laureate. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the July 16, 2026 Diversity & Community Relations Committee meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Gurtowski (Chair of Joliet Arts Commission): Expressed full support for extending Uxmar Torres's poet laureate contract through December 31, 2027. He noted that the Arts Commission voted unanimously to extend the agreement, and that Torres had gone above and beyond original requirements, including representing Joliet at the Printers Row Lit Fest and being recognized as Illinois's first poet laureate of Mexican descent. - Uxmar Torres (Poet Laureate): Spoke in favor of the contract extension, emphasizing that his goal is to ensure the position continues for the community, not for personal gain. He clarified that the $5,000 in the contract is for specific programming (including paying other artists), not for holding the title. He noted he is willing to serve without compensation for the title itself. He also highlighted programming with District 86 schools and expressed desire to help transition to a future selection process. Discussion Items 1. Approval of CDBG PY 2026 Resolutions (TMP-10351) Staff (Bridget) presented the resolutions for each Community Development Block Grant subrecipient agreement, noting they cleaned up language and held post-award meetings with subrecipients to clarify scopes and compliance. One minor change: Trinity had to reduce from three homes to two for repairs. Councilman Moreno asked about the timeline for the next year's process; staff indicated plans to start earlier (January) and mentioned developing a nonprofit academy to help organizations navigate grant requirements. The committee approved the resolutions unanimously. 2. Review of CDBG Policies and Procedures (TMP-10356) Staff reported on a recent technical assistance meeting with HUD, which recommended more detailed policies and procedures. The updated document aligns with city ordinance and changes procurement requirements – subrecipients must now follow City of Joliet procurement policies instead of their own. Staff noted other minor improvements. No questions from committee; approved unanimously. 3. Poet Laureate Extension Contract (TMP-10362) Luke Gunderson (Special Events Coordinator) presented the proposed contract extension for Uxmar Torres as Joliet's Poet Laureate through December 31, 2027. The original term ended June 30, 2026. Under the extension, Torres will continue to provide five public readings, five writing workshops, and one original poem about Joliet at no additional fee. Additionally, he will provide three specific programs (Poetry Under the Stars, Concert on the Hill open mic, three City Square poetry open mics) totaling $5,000 in compensation, which includes paying other artists. Torres will also assist in developing an RFP to select a future poet laureate. Committee members expressed strong support: - Councilman Clement praised Torres's past performance and emphasized the need to "sell" the program to the full council, noting the $5,000 is modest. - Chairperson Ibarra commented that she felt the compensation was not enough for the value Torres provides, and hoped future poet laureates would receive more adequate funding. - Councilman Moreno recalled his own appreciation for poetry. Torres clarified that about half of the $5,000 goes to other contracted artists for events. The committee approved the extension unanimously. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve CDBG PY 2026 Resolutions (TMP-10351): Approved unanimously. - Motion to approve CDBG Policies and Procedures (TMP-10356): Approved unanimously. - Motion to approve Poet Laureate Extension Contract (TMP-10362): Approved unanimously. The item will be forwarded to the full City Council for final approval. - Meeting adjourned after no further business. Note: All votes were recorded as "Aye" by all three members present.