The Public Meeting Index

The Annapolis Public Safety Committee met on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The committee approved two parking-related ordinances, received updates from the Annapolis Police Department, Annapolis Fire Department, and Office of Emergency Management, and accepted a donation from the Knights of Columbus to the Annapolis Police Foundation. Consent Calendar - The committee voted to amend the agenda to add ID-18-26, an Annapolis Police Foundation/Knights of Columbus presentation, as the first item; the amended agenda was approved by voice vote. - Minutes of the June 17, 2026 Public Safety Committee regular meeting were approved by voice vote. Donation Presentation - Representatives of the Knights of Columbus presented a donation to the Annapolis Police Foundation, describing proceeds from weekly 50-50 bingo games that support community charities. A speaker noted the foundation's growth and the Knights' commitment to selecting a charity each quarter. Legislation O-12-26 – Removing Streets from Special Residential Parking District No. 5 - Sponsor Alderwoman O'Neill said Forbes Street and Monterey Avenue businesses had requested relief for more than three years because the residential parking district has no residents along the corridor except condominium residents with their own parking lot; employees must move cars every two hours, while the 103 Forbes building needs spaces for patients. - O'Neill confirmed the ordinance is in Ward 2 and has full support from the affected businesses. The committee voted unanimously to give O-12-26 a favorable recommendation. O-17-26 – Right to Park in Front of Residential Private Driveways - Sponsor Alderman Smith-Brown said the legislation was inspired by a Ward 3 resident (Larry Powell) who received a $200+ ticket for parking in front of his own driveway; she cited Maryland State Code allowing such parking and said the bill was shaped by resident feedback from all eight wards. - Amendment 1 (Smith-Brown) added a one-year carve-out for specified Ward 8/Eastport streets and an appeal process allowing the transportation director to waive fines with proper documentation. Smith-Brown further amended it to set the carve-out expiration as December 31, 2027, rather than one year after adoption; this amendment to Amendment 1 passed. The committee then gave Amendment 1 a favorable recommendation. - Amendment 2 (Thorp) received no action because its provisions were incorporated into Amendment 1. - Amendment 3, a technical amendment, received an unfavorable recommendation. - Amendment 4, allowing legal occupants to request waiver of citations, received no action because it was included in Amendment 1. - The committee voted to give O-17-26, as amended, a favorable recommendation. Department Updates ID-15-26 – Annapolis Police Department Update - Although the agenda listed Acting Chief Miguez as the presenter, the transcript identifies the APD update presenter as Captain Guy Thacker. He reported on the summer crime plan: on Fridays and Saturdays, non-patrol units (detectives and administrative staff) were deployed in uniform for 7 p.m.–3 a.m. shifts, adding eight officers and supervisors per night in three phases: community engagement, targeted initiatives (traffic, warrants, business corridors), and commander-discretion patrols. - Year-to-date results cited: total crime down 6 percent, property crime down 10 percent, traffic accidents down 15–16 percent, more than 443 days without a gun-crime homicide, two non-fatal shooting incidents (one cleared, one near clearance), robberies down, and aggravated assaults slightly up, driven by domestic incidents. - Thacker described responses to a 48-hour stolen-auto uptick (six vehicles, Kia/Hyundai ignition issue, steering-wheel locks distributed) and shoplifting (partnership with Walgreens corporate loss prevention, Comstat process). - Alderman Smith-Brown noted that Ward 3 is no longer the top crime ward and asked about youth operating e-motors; police said they would address it in October and described summer youth outreach efforts. ID-16-26 – Annapolis Fire Department Update - Fire Chief Remaley introduced Deputy Chiefs Matthew Lopez and Ortleib and Fire Protection Engineer Charles Ruth. He announced a federal fire grant of approximately $165,000 to replace three Lifepak cardiac monitors/defibrillators and 15 AEDs, and a $100,000 port security grant for an underwater rescue robot. He also noted that the new state fire marshal is retired AFD Deputy Chief Carol Spriggs. - Deputy Chief Lopez summarized summer activities and upcoming fall initiatives, including a paramedic-only hiring pilot with county funding, physical ability testing, boat show and Navy football planning, the Pride Parade/Festival, new EMS vehicles from state grant funding, and a new fire boat. - Alderman Smith-Brown asked about out-of-service fire hydrant notices; Chief Remaley explained hydrants are maintained by Public Works, tagged and flagged in the computer-aided dispatch system, and that some have been out of service more than a year due to larger projects. Smith-Brown said she would follow up with Public Works Director Burr. ID-17-26 – Office of Emergency Management Update - Director Simmons thanked Chair O'Neill for joining a Clay Street beautification day of service. Kyle Abkowski reported the cooling center program had 26 activations this summer, 11 more than last year, using Pitt Moyer Recreation Center as primary and Annapolis Walk Community Center as secondary, with activation at a heat index of 105°F, or 95°F under code orange/red air-quality alerts. - Abkowski described the winter relief program's 17th season: November 1 to April 30, 7 p.m.–7 a.m. hours, activation threshold of 32°F or OEM discretion, moving to Robinwood Recreation Center, minimum two staff members with a 1:10 staff-to-patron ratio, cots/blankets/pillows, hot meals from an on-site kitchen, and connections to services. Last season totals included 1,868 overnight visits, 108 activations including nine daytime activations, three families, and 11 minors; January had 726 patron visits; Winter Storm Fern drove eight days of continuous 24-hour operations. - O'Neill asked whether overnight staff are paid (yes, from the approximately $30,000–$37,000 OEM budget), whether the budget was adequate (yes), and about volunteers (under exploration with the Office of Law). O'Neill also stressed providing bus passes for clients at Robinwood, which is farther from support services. - Smith-Brown asked why the program relocated from Pitt Moyer to Robinwood; Director Simmons cited the need for a Stanton Center-like venue, coexistence issues at Pitt Moyer, and a better fit, with roughly two years of expected use at Robinwood before redevelopment. - Patrick Cammer reviewed winter weather coordination after Winter Storm Fern: an after-action process, corrective action tracker, and September mini-meetings on sidewalks, snow routes/phases, community volunteers, and parking garages. A winter weather tune-up for department heads is planned for October 26, followed by additional training. Smith-Brown asked for an update to the committee/council; Director Simmons confirmed. Key Outcomes - Favorable recommendation: O-12-26 (unanimous). - Favorable recommendation: O-17-26 as amended; Amendment 1 favorable, Amendment 2 no action, Amendment 3 unfavorable, Amendment 4 no action. - Accepted donation from the Knights of Columbus to the Annapolis Police Foundation. - Received annual updates from APD, AFD, and OEM; APD agreed to address youth e-motor concerns in October; OEM will continue winter weather planning and provide updates.

The Rules and Open Government Committee (ROGC) met jointly with the Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM in a hybrid format. The committee reviewed the final agenda for the October 6 City Council meeting, approved the consent calendar, discussed a memo on Council transparency and non-disclosure agreements, and combined two related items on Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) data access and safeguards. Extensive public comment was heard, particularly on the ALPR items. All actions were unanimous (5-0). Consent Calendar - The committee approved the consent calendar (7 items) by a 5-0 vote. Items included: receiving the public record (September 17-24, 2026); amending the Public Safety, Finance and Strategic Support Committee work plan to drop a Downtown High-Acuity Referral System status report; reviewing a joint special meeting agenda with the San José/Santa Clara Treatment Plant Advisory Committee; authorizing travel for the Mayor’s Director of Innovation to attend a convening in New York City (October 7-9, 2026); approving free use of the rotunda for the “Conversations for Good 2026” event; approving the District 9 End-of-Term Farewell Celebration as a city council sponsored special event; and retroactively approving the Golden State Valkyries Flag Raising event. Public Comments & Testimony - Item C1 (NDA transparency): Brian spoke in support of transparency, urging that public comments be considered. Virtual speaker Jordan argued the policy should apply to all city staff, not just councilmembers, and requested an immediate scope expansion. The committee did not amend the motion. - Items C2 & C3 (ALPR safeguards): Over 30 speakers testified, most representing organizations such as Siren, Silicon Valley Democratic Socialists of America, Safety Over Surveillance Coalition, Bay Resistance, and community members. Speakers uniformly urged the city to cover all Flock cameras, cancel the contract with Flock, conduct an independent audit, and hold the police chief accountable. Many cited the egregious breach where an SJPD officer used ALPR data to stalk a domestic violence survivor (his cousin) and noted that the police chief had previously assured the council that data was secure despite an open investigation. Several speakers argued that no amount of regulation can prevent intentional abuse and that mass surveillance violates constitutional privacy rights. A few speakers also linked the issue to ICE surveillance and the need for warrants. No speaker supported the current ALPR system. Discussion Items - C1: Council Transparency and Private Non-Disclosure Agreements – Councilmember Kamei noted the importance of looking at neighboring jurisdictions and possibly including leadership staff. The committee approved the workload analysis, directing staff to return with policy options for full council consideration in early 2027. Motion carried 5-0. - C2 & C3: Automated License Plate Reader Data Access and Safeguards – The committee combined the two memos (one from Mayor, Foley, Candelas, Casey; the other from Kamei, Tordillos, Cohen, Mulcahy). Vice Mayor Foley explained that the committee’s role is to send items to staff for workload analysis, not to make final policy decisions; full council will decide on covering cameras, canceling the Flock contract, and independent auditing. Councilmember Duan noted he had initial concerns about a private right of action but acknowledged the Police Officers’ Association had not objected. Councilmember Cohen emphasized the need for multi-factor authentication, criminal penalties for misuse, and independent police auditor oversight. Both memos were directed to staff for a merged workload analysis, to return to the committee in approximately three weeks. Motion carried 5-0. Key Outcomes - Approved the final agenda for the October 6 City Council meeting, moving the Civil Service Commission interview to the end (5-0). - Approved the consent calendar (5-0). - Directed staff to develop policy options on prohibiting councilmember NDAs related to city business, with a return to council in early 2027 (5-0). - Directed staff to merge the two ALPR memos into a single workload analysis and return to the committee within three weeks for further consideration; final policy decisions to be made by the full City Council (5-0). - Adjourned at 2:55 PM.

The meeting was scheduled for 09:30 UTC on September 30, 2026. However, no agenda, minutes, or raw transcript were supplied. Therefore, no consent calendar, public comments, discussion items, or key outcomes can be summarized, as there is no available record of the proceedings.

The Rockville Historic District Commission (HDC) held its regular meeting on September 30, 2026, covering committee reports, public comments, consent items, tax credits, certificates of approval, evaluations of significance, a rules of procedure update, and old business. Commissioners debated several applications, with the most contentious being the reconsideration of 200 Monroe Street for historic designation. Committee and Organizational Reports - Peerless Rockville (Nancy Picard): Reminded that the “Rockville 250: Our American Story” exhibit remains open at the Red Brick Courthouse until approximately November 20, 2026. Hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, or when a sign is posted. - Lincoln Park Historical Foundation (Commissioner Anita Neil Powell): Invited attendees to a 250th anniversary celebration on Saturday, September 19, 2026 (event date in past relative to meeting) at the Red Brick Courthouse, including a tour of African American sites, a film screening, and a panel discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the open public comment period (non-agenda items). - For case 2027-390 (4 Courthouse Square signs): Nancy Picard (Peerless Rockville) spoke in support of the proposed illuminated cabinet sign and donor plaque, finding them compatible with the historic building and period. Matt Logan (Executive Director, Montgomery History) and Patience Schaefer (Art Display Co.) also spoke in favor. - For case 2027-407 (203 Forest Avenue handrail): Joseph Richardson (property owner) explained the need for accessibility for aging visitors and praised staff work. - For the evaluation of significance at 200 Monroe Street: Nancy Picard (Peerless Rockville) acknowledged the loss of integrity but argued the core building still holds value as a visual anchor at the entrance to Rockville's commercial core and could be adaptively reused. Alyssa Stein (EHT Traceries) , testifying for the applicant, presented detailed evidence that the building lacks integrity due to extensive alterations following a fire and redevelopment, and recommended against designation. Discussion Items - Tax Credit Application (2026-332) – 419 West Montgomery Avenue: Staff reported the requested $15,593.40 credit was ineligible because the work was interior. The commission voted to deny the application. - Certificate of Approval 2027-390 – 4 Courthouse Square (Signs): Staff explained that an internally illuminated cabinet sign required HDC approval because it conflicted with Technical Guide No. 9 (self-illumination). Despite this, staff recommended approval due to compatibility with the building's Art Deco style and historic precedent (a similar sign existed in 1974). The commission approved both the illuminated sign and a bronze donor plaque. Commissioner Seth Dembo raised a concern about precedent but city attorney Nick DeMay stated no legal issues. - Certificate of Approval 2027-393 – 417 West Montgomery Avenue (Shed): A retroactive application for an already-built shed in the rear yard. Staff found it consistent with Secretary of the Interior standards. Approved unanimously. - Certificate of Approval 2027-407 – 203 Forest Avenue (Handrail): Approval for a wrought iron handrail on the front steps of the Hawk-Richardson House. Staff noted the work had also been approved by the Maryland Historical Trust for state tax credits. Approved unanimously. - Evaluations of Significance for 1600, 1700 Research Boulevard, and 1441 West Montgomery Avenue: These three properties, part of the former West office campus, were evaluated for potential historic designation. Staff, supported by the applicant team, recommended against designation, finding they do not meet HDC criteria. The commission voted to recommend against designation for each. - Evaluation of Significance 2026-330 – 200 Monroe Street (Reconsideration): This was the most debated item. The property includes a 1906 core house (200B) heavily altered after a 1950s fire and 1980s additions, and a 1980 office building (200A). In July, the HDC had initially voted to designate the original structure, but the August vote to reconsider voided that decision. Under the new zoning ordinance effective August 1, 2026, properties must also display integrity. Staff and the applicant's consultant (Alyssa Stein) argued the property lacks integrity due to loss of character-defining features (roof, porches, dormers) and changed setting. Commissioner Michael Goldfinger questioned the argument that urban change diminishes integrity, noting preservation of remaining fabric could be more important. Commissioner Chair Fosselman and others expressed being torn. After extensive discussion and legal advice from Attorney DeMay about split zoning concerns, Chair Fosselman made a motion: "Finding that the property at 200 Monroe Street does not meet one or more of the designation criteria and display integrity. I move that the HDC recommend against historic designation. However, it is strongly recommended that the applicant and the owner of the property incorporate some aspect of the original structure on the property to the new structure that is built on that property." The motion was seconded and passed with one commissioner opposed. - HDC Rules of Procedure Update: Staff presented a draft update to align with the new zoning ordinance. Commissioner Dembo noted a few clerical errors (missing text in 1.4D, wording inconsistency, duplicate notation in 2.1I). The commission approved the update with those corrections. Commissioner Powell abstained. - Historic Preservation Event: Commissioners reported that the HDC is sponsoring a fall historic preservation conference on November 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Red Brick Courthouse, featuring a panel discussion on preserving and protecting historic properties. Staff confirmed it is listed on the city calendar. Key Outcomes - Denied tax credit application for 419 West Montgomery Avenue ($0 recommended). - Approved certificate of approval for signs at 4 Courthouse Square (both illuminated cabinet sign and donor plaque). - Approved retroactive certificate of approval for shed at 417 West Montgomery Avenue. - Approved certificate of approval for handrail at 203 Forest Avenue. - Recommended against historic designation for 1600, 1700 Research Boulevard, and 1441 West Montgomery Avenue (three properties). - Recommended against historic designation for 200 Monroe Street, with a non-binding recommendation to incorporate original elements into future development. Motion passed 3-1 (one opposed). - Approved updated rules of procedure with minor corrections. - Noted that the mayor and council had designated 24 Martins Lane as historic on September 28, 2026. - Scheduled a historic preservation conference for November 14, 2026.

The Pittsburgh City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Council Chambers. Eight members were present (Charland, Coghill, Gross, Lavelle, Salinetro, Strassburger, Warwick, Wilson); Council Member Mosley was absent. The meeting featured adoption of two proclamations, public testimony (primarily opposing the closure of the Roots drop-in center), introduction of new resolutions, and final passage of multiple committee-recommended items. Proclamations - Week Without Driving (Resolution 2026-0913): Council recognized the week of October 1–8, 2026, as “Week Without Driving” and encouraged residents to use transit, walk, bike, or carpool. Adopted (Enactment No. 566). - Will of Council – Paid Parental Leave (Resolution 2026-0936): Council expressed strong support for Allegheny County’s paid parental leave proposal and called on the Pennsylvania General Assembly to implement a statewide program. Adopted (Enactment No. 567). Public Comments & Testimony - Paid Parental Leave Support: Aidan Halpern (Bloomfield) and Ebony Flowers (New Voices for Reproductive Justice) thanked Council for the will of council and urged Allegheny County Council to pass the 12-week paid leave proposal. Flowers cited the city’s ranking among the worst 3% of comparable U.S. cities for Black maternal mortality. - Opposition to Closure of Roots Drop-In Center (East Ohio Street): Multiple speakers (Mallory Brangan, Lyndsey Sickler, Kit Knight, Lynn Glory Wood, Martha Shaefer, Nathan Salamaca, Carl Shaylee) opposed the city’s decision to end the lease for the Roots service facility. They argued the closure was sudden, the landlord was willing to extend the lease, and the site is a vital hub for homeless individuals. Speakers warned the gap in services could lead to deaths. - Other Comments: - Stormie Morris defended Mayor Gainey’s accomplishments and cited alleged disparities in treatment of Black residents. - Carlino Giampolo (Panther Hollow) complained about an illegal DIY skate park in Oakland and criticized council members for phone use during public comment. - Yvonne F. Brown requested a letter from Council to Allegheny County Council regarding a bus route and reported being threatened by a county councilman. - Special Agent Sunshine claimed a trust fund and houses were stolen. - Rafiq Brookins (Highland Park) presented “Project Prosper,” a proposed $200 million public-philanthropic-entrepreneurial collaboration to create a perpetual economic engine for Pittsburgh. Committee Reports – Final Actions Finance and Law - Negative Recommendation – Bill 2026-0847 (Vibrant Pittsburgh membership, $50,000): Recommitted to committee for further review. - Affirmative Recommendations – All passed by 8-0 roll call: - Bill 2026-0879: Amendment to Fisher Phillips LLP contract for labor dispute legal services, adding $150,000 (Enactment No. 575). - Bill 2026-0897: Update to ARPA funding allocations (Version 11) (Enactment No. 576). - Bill 2026-0898: Increase street resurfacing by $200,000 using ARPA funds (Enactment No. 577). - Bill 2026-0899: Reduce LED streetlight upgrade by $146,683 and increase street resurfacing by same amount (Enactment No. 578). Public Safety and Wellness - Bill 2026-0873: Accept donation of outdoor AED cabinet and Zoll 3 AED valued at $8,399 from SaveStation (Enactment No. 570). - Bill 2026-0874: Lease with East End Cooperative Ministries for Office of Community Health & Safety space, $23,745 over two years (Enactment No. 571). Public Works and Infrastructure - Bill 2026-0876: Accept $200,000 grant from PA DCED for Farmhouse Field upgrades, water fountains, and Allegheny Riverfront Trail connectivity planning (Enactment No. 572). - Bill 2026-0877: Accept $3,000,000 PennDOT Multimodal Transportation Fund grant for Boulevard of the Allies renovation (city match $900,000, total $3,900,000) (Enactment No. 573). - Bill 2026-0878: Accept $1,533,315.69 PennDOT Green Light Go grant for intersection upgrades at Bingham/10th, Butler/Main, and East Liberty/Larimer; city match $257,988.99 plus pending local transfers of $125,339.94 (Enactment No. 574). Human Resources - Bill 2026-0872: Amendment to Dayforce HR/payroll contract, increasing amount by $677,790 (new total $6,218,540 over 12 years) (Enactment No. 569). Land Use and Economic Development - Bill 2025-2224: Rezone parcels in Banksville from RM-M, P, R1D-L to RP (Residential Planned Unit Development) (Enactment No. 30). - Bill 2026-0732: Designate Allegheny Arsenal Officers Quarters and Wall Segments as a Historic Site (Enactment No. 568). Presentation of Papers (New Business) New resolutions were introduced and referred to appropriate committees. Notable items include: - Bill 2026-0914: Remove streets from Residential Sticker Parking Program Area T in Beechview (Referred to Land Use & Economic Development). - Bill 2026-0918: Accept $273,300 donation from Community Family Advocates for co-response and downtown policing (Referred to Public Safety & Wellness). - Bill 2026-0919: Procure scheduling software for EMS from First Due, $135,606.99 over 3 years (Referred to Innovation, Performance, Asset Management, and Technology). - Bills 2026-0920/0921: License agreements for City vehicle parking and native plantings in South Side Park (Rule 8 waived; referred to Public Works & Infrastructure). - Bills 2026-0922/0923: Tree inventory and appraisal projects with Davey Resource Group for Ohio Riverfront Trail ($4,290) and Arsenal Park ($7,620) (Referred to Public Works & Infrastructure). - Bill 2026-0924: Improve Flagstaff Hill entrances in Schenley Park with Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy (no cost) (Referred to Public Works & Infrastructure). - Bill 2026-0925: Supplemental agreement for 28th Street Bridge final design, $2,320,581.14 (increase of $62,057.28) (Referred to Public Works & Infrastructure). - Bills 2026-0926/0927/0928: Amendments to procurement and professional services agreements (Referred to Finance and Law). - Bills 2026-0929/0930: Litigation warrants ($85,000) and legal consultation with Racunas Law Group ($25,000) (Referred to Finance and Law). - Bills 2026-0931/0932: Grants for artist-in-residence consultant ($200,000 total) and soccer programming ($52,008) (Referred to Recreation, Youth, and Senior Services). - Bills 2026-0933/0934: Grants for zoning code overhaul ($300,000 total) and fire truck purchase (amended grant) (Referred to Land Use & Economic Development). - Bill 2026-0917: Inter-municipal liquor license transfer for Adda Gelato (Referred to Intergovernmental and Educational Affairs). - Bill 2026-0935: Extension of Acting Director of Innovation and Performance for 90 days through December 31, 2026 – passed finally by 8-0 roll call (Enactment No. 579). Key Outcomes - Proclamations adopted: Week Without Driving and support for paid parental leave. - Final passage of 11 bills on consent (Enactment Nos. 569–579) covering ARPA reallocations, capital budget amendments, grant acceptances, contract amendments, a rezoning, and a historic designation. - Vibrant Pittsburgh membership dues ($50,000) recommitted to Finance and Law after a negative committee recommendation. - Post-Agenda scheduled: Council Member Warwick moved for a post-agenda on the Housing Opportunity Fund; motion carried. - Upcoming meetings: Executive session on litigation (bills 929/930) at 1:00 PM; Standing Committees on September 30, 2026 at 10:00 AM; Pre-agenda interviews for Housing Opportunity Fund advisory board at 1:30 PM. Note on date discrepancy: The agenda, minutes, and transcript all record the meeting date as Tuesday, September 29, 2026. The summary title and structure use this date, consistent with the source materials.

The Finance, Debt & Budget Oversight Committee met on September 30, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting covered the Department of Public Utilities' collection efforts, a proposed reallocation of ARPA funds, the monthly financial report, and the city auditor's update. Committee members raised concerns about the structural budget deficit, fire overtime costs, and transparency in ARPA fund usage. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard Arnold (3305 Middlesex) urged the committee to hold a hearing on city communications, citing unreceived responses from residents regarding property damage, industrial incidents, and sidewalk concerns. He noted budget cuts to the communications department and requested a simple handout on call volumes and prioritization. He also shared a historical anecdote about a 1946 city council meeting where a meat substitute was thrown. - Councilwoman McPherson responded that the law department is addressing the property damage issue mentioned by a previous speaker. Discussion Items - Department of Public Utilities Report: Director Patika reported that the installment payment plan program collected approximately $7 million year-to-date through August 2026. The total active delinquent balance is $37.8 million, with residential accounts at $33.2 million, commercial at $4.1 million, and industrial at $556,000. The Fresh Start program ended on September 30, 2026. Disconnections for August were 364 residential and 5 commercial, with reconnections at 108 and 1, respectively. Commissioner Geronimo noted that many delinquent customers have not received new meters or have plumbing leaks, and efforts are underway to address those issues. Councilmembers requested breakouts by zip code/council district, and data on vacant houses versus occupied residences. Councilwoman Gaddis asked about linking fire resource usage to delinquent commercial accounts. - ARPA Fund Reallocation: Director Campbell proposed reallocating $713,000 from three underperforming ARPA projects (Healthy Food Systems Hub, Grocery Store Construction Incentive, and ARPA Administration) into the Municipal Recovery Revenue Replacement fund, which supports police and fire salaries. The funds must be fully expended by December 31, 2026. Chief Clemens explained that the healthy food projects are being shifted to general fund financing. Vice Chair Driscoll questioned the timing and transparency, noting council could potentially redirect general fund dollars elsewhere. Councilwoman McPherson expressed disappointment that the reallocation was not clearly communicated to council. Councilman Hobbs vehemently opposed using funds for Red and White market and Swain Field, citing lack of community investment. Councilwoman McPherson raised concerns about the Swain Field pop-up market pilot project. Councilwoman Jones noted a housing committee meeting on October 5th to discuss urban farming equity. Councilman Driscoll suggested delaying the ordinance to allow further deliberation. - Financial Report: Commissioner Zavisha reported income tax collections are down 5.2% year-to-date, driven largely by six companies' net profit declines. Withholding was up 6.1% for August, but business net profits dropped by $7.6 million for the year. The structural budget deficit is approximately $48 million, with plans to cover $24 million from the Capital Improvement Fund and $24 million from reserves. Fire overtime spending is at 92% of the annual budget, causing concern. Councilwoman Gaddis asked about billing companies for overtime related to disasters. Income tax revenues are expected to improve in September due to quarterly filings. Investment earnings are at 36% of budget, but expected to pick up. - City Auditor's Report: Auditor John Ravalsky reported ongoing audits of the Flock System, utilities receivable, and grass cutting/monitoring. Councilwoman Gaddis offered support if additional resources are needed. Key Outcomes - Multiple referrals were made by councilmembers for additional data: breakdowns of disconnections by zip code/district, information on commercial accounts by meter size, status of water meter repair funds, contract details for the Undue medical debt program (with a November 1, 2026 deadline for responses, after which leftover funds may be reallocated), and reports on open contracts and program mandates per department. - No formal votes were taken on the ARPA reallocation ordinance; discussion will continue at a future meeting. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, 2026.

Date: September 30, 2026 The Public Infrastructure and Utilities Committee of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen met on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM UTC. Chair Browning presided, and Vice Chair Sweitzer took the gavel for Board Bill 85. Six members were present, constituting a quorum. The committee reviewed two board bills, heard public testimony, and discussed ongoing infrastructure issues. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the September 23rd, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously with a 6-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Tommy O'Shaughnessy (Public Comment on BB85): Expressed frustration that the committee was prioritizing a land donation and street closure over urgently addressing the train horn issue affecting residents across multiple wards. He asked the committee to cut red tape and expedite train crossing repairs. Chair Browning stated the comment period was specific to Board Bill 85 but offered to discuss the matter privately after the meeting. - Written Testimony (BB64): A letter from President Levin of the Fox Park Neighborhood Association was read into the record by the bill's sponsor. The letter detailed years of safety issues on the 2600 block of Oregon Avenue, including illegal traffic, criminal activity, and dangerous driving conditions near a QuikTrip and Gravois Avenue, expressing strong support for the permanent street closure. Discussion Items Board Bill 85 (Donation of Land – St. Louis Water Division to MODOT) - Presenter: Patrick Patterson, Attorney, City Counselor's Office. - Topic: The bill authorizes a donation and quick claim deed of approximately 250 square feet of useable land (1,300 square feet total) from the city's water division to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT) for sidewalk accessibility improvements on the northeast corner of Stacy Park in St. Louis County. - Discussion: Members generally supported the proposal. Chair Browning raised a concern about the City Charter (Article 27) regarding the sale or transfer of park land, questioning if a city-wide vote is required since the property is located in a park (Stacy Park, leased to Olivette) but owned by the city. Mr. Patterson stated he would verify the charter implications. - Outcome: The bill was held in committee pending a legal review of the charter requirements regarding the transfer of city-owned park land. No vote was taken. Board Bill 64 (Street Closure – Oregon Avenue) - Sponsor: Alderwoman Sarnier (10th Ward). - Topic: An ordinance to permanently close the 2600 block of Oregon Avenue at Pestalozzi Street to block illegal northbound cut-through traffic from Gravois Avenue and a nearby QuikTrip. - Discussion: The sponsor stated the closure would involve planters (painted by community artists) and signage, coordinated with the Streets Department. The Fire Department reviewed and had no concerns. Alderman Devotee raised concerns about the timing in relation to the Gravois Avenue plan and asked if SLMPD had been formally consulted; the sponsor confirmed she would follow up with the local police captain. Alderwoman Cox asked for clarification on the barrier's location; the sponsor explained it was recommended by the Streets Department. Chair Browning expressed strong support for the closure as a safety measure for neighborhood streets adjacent to the dangerous Gravois Avenue corridor. - Outcome: The bill was voted out of committee with a favorable recommendation by a vote of 6-0. Key Outcomes - Board Bill 85: Held in committee for further legal review of City Charter Article 27 regarding the transfer of park land. - Board Bill 64: Approved by the committee (6-0) and recommended to the full Board of Aldermen. - Future Agenda Item: Chair Browning announced that the Streets Department will be invited to the October 7, 2026, committee meeting to provide updates on the ongoing train horn issue, non-compliant crossings, and the city's website for public information. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned.

The Lake County Public Works and Transportation Committee met on September 30, 2026, at 8:30 AM. The meeting was called to order by Chair Clark with roll call and Pledge of Allegiance. The committee unanimously approved several resolutions related to capital improvements, contracts, land acquisition, and grant applications. Key discussions included the Cedar Lake Road realignment, Old McHenry Road underpass, and the establishment of a special service area for Del Mar Wood subdivision. Consent Calendar - Item 8.1: Consent agenda approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - 8.2 – 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Program (CIP): Director McFarland presented the CIP for the Department of Public Works. No significant comments were received; the program was recommended for acceptance. - 8.3 – Contract with Kirschhofer Truck Service for sand, gravel, stone, and spoil removal services ($291,783): The contract supports restoration after water main and sewer repairs. Kirschhofer was the lowest responsible bidder. - 8.4 – Contract with Amber Mechanical Contractors for HVAC replacement at Vernon Hills New Century Town Water Reclamation Facility ($194,400): The unit had reached end of useful life (over 25-30 years). - 8.5 – Contract with Capital Industrial Coatings for painting of lift stations ($183,300): Painting protects exposed lift stations; specific paint specifications are used for durability (5-6 years). - 8.6 – Contract with Archline Construction for force main replacements at West Columbia Bay Road and Lakeside Drive ($1,672,084): These pressurized sewer mains have reached end of service life. Bypass pumping will be used to avoid service interruption. Director McFarland noted proactive assessment of water and sewer mains with CDM Smith to prioritize future repairs. - 8.7 – Resolution requesting quick take powers for Cedar Lake Road realignment: Director Schneider explained this is a risk management tool to secure a $19 million RAISE grant by allowing parallel land acquisition and negotiations. The project is about $50 million. Support from state legislators noted. - 8.8 – Resolution dedicating county property along Winchester Road to DOT for public roadway: Formalizes existing usage, including a bike path and intersection improvements. Also facilitates upcoming IDOT ADA improvements. - 8.9 – Resolution appropriating $7,600,000 for right-of-way acquisition for Old McHenry Road improvement: This transformational project includes an underpass under the Canadian National Railroad to eliminate 30-minute delays from 20 daily freight trains, plus intersection and non-motorized improvements. 50 parcels involved. Construction targeted for 2029. - 8.10 – Authorizing grant applications for ITEP grants for Patriot Path segment along IL 137 and non-motorized improvements for Cedar Lake Road: Patriot Path segment connects to Robert McClory bike path; previous $2M grant expired but they are reapplying for up to $5M. Discussion about delays with IDOT on appraisals for land acquisition at the naval base. - 8.11 – Appropriation of $200,000 for right-of-way acquisition for Fairfield Road culvert replacement at Round Lake Drain: Partnership with SMC; culvert replacement to address upstream flooding. Work to occur next year with staged construction. - 8.12 – Director's Report: Three items: (1) Returning a $6M CMAP grant for connected vehicle technology due to lack of standardization; (2) Low bid for Deerfield Road Reconstruction Project was $64M vs engineer's estimate of $50M – analysis underway; (3) Lake County will provide a semi-truck and worker to assist Cook County with debris removal after an August tornado (500,000 cubic yards of woody debris). - 8.13 – Ordinance establishing Special Service Area No. 18 for Del Mar Wood Subdivision: Deputy County Administrator Matt Myers and Attorney Steve Rice presented. This resolves a decades-long issue where the subdivision's sanitary district lacked maintenance funding. After public hearings and no petition, the county will take over operations. 110 homes will benefit. Future steps include dissolution of the old district. Key Outcomes - All resolutions (items 8.1 through 8.11 and 8.13) were approved unanimously by voice vote (all "Aye", no opposed). - The committee expressed support for creating signage to highlight Lake County infrastructure projects, similar to the "Rebuild Joaquin" signs in Waukegan. Staff will explore options and report back. - The next meeting is scheduled for October 7, 2026.

The Housing, Urban Development and Zoning (HUDZ) Committee met on September 30, 2026, at 5:00 AM UTC to consider Board Bill 81, a text amendment to the zoning code that would require smoke shops to obtain conditional use permits in all districts where they were previously permitted by right. The meeting included a presentation from the Planning and Urban Design Agency, testimony from the Building Division, and discussion among committee members. The bill passed unanimously out of committee with a due pass recommendation. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the hearing held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The motion was made by Alderman Aldridge and seconded by Alderwoman Sweitzer; all six present members voted aye. Discussion Items - Board Bill 81 – Smoke Shop Zoning Regulations: Alderman Oldenburg, the bill sponsor, introduced the legislation, explaining that smoke shops operating as general retail under 3,500 square feet currently receive permits by right, leading to issues such as loitering, illegal signage, vape/smoking products in public right-of-ways, sales to minors, and other nuisances that negatively impact adjacent residential areas. The bill would define "smoke shop" in the zoning code and make it a conditional use in the F, I, J, K, and L districts (effectively where previously permitted by right). Conditional use permits would allow the city to impose specific conditions and more efficiently revoke occupancy permits if violations occur. - Planning Department Presentation: James Pfister, Senior Planner with the Planning and Urban Design Agency, presented the rationale. He noted that the Planning Commission unanimously recommended the text amendment on September 9, 2026. The amendment mirrors prior special use districts (Bevo in 2020, Dutch Town in 2022) and aligns with the future comprehensive zoning update (ZOOP), which lists vape/tobacco shops as conditional in all mixed-use districts. Pfister emphasized that the definition excludes convenience stores, gas stations, and other uses that already have stricter permitting, and that a recommended list of conditions will be developed by the Zoning Administrator rather than codified, to allow flexibility. - Building Division Testimony: John McLaughlin, from the Building Division Special Project Unit, testified in strong support. He described the formation of a task force (including St. Louis Metropolitan Police, Attorney General’s office, DEA, Building Division, and License Collector’s Office) to address illegal activity at some smoke shops, including sales of synthetic marijuana products with THC levels well above the legal 0.3% threshold. He noted that conditional use permits would give communities a voice and provide a quicker enforcement mechanism (revocation of occupancy) if conditions are violated. - Committee Discussion: Committee members expressed unanimous support. Several members (Alderwoman Sweitzer, Alderman Browning, Alderman Aldrich, Vice Chair Sanya, Alderman Cohn) requested to be added as co-sponsors. Concerns were raised about businesses misrepresenting themselves to avoid a conditional use hearing; Vice Chair Sanya suggested using a percentage-of-sales threshold to define smoke shops, but Pfister noted enforcement challenges and that ancillary smoke shops already face stricter permitting. The discussion emphasized that the bill is not a ban but a regulatory tool to allow community input and tailored conditions. Key Outcomes - Vote on Board Bill 81: The committee voted unanimously (6 ayes) to pass Board Bill 81 out of committee with a due pass recommendation. The motion was made by Alderwoman Sweitzer and seconded by Vice Chair Sanya. All present members (Alderwoman Sweitzer, Vice Chair Sanya, Alderman Browning, Alderman Aldrich, Chair Clark Hubbard, and Alderman Cohn) voted in favor. The bill now proceeds to the full Board of Aldermen for consideration. - No other resolutions, committee discussions, or public comments were presented. - The meeting was adjourned after the vote.