The Public Meeting Index

The San Diego City Council met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, in morning and afternoon sessions chaired by Council President Lacava. The morning session included a land acknowledgement and pledge of allegiance, approval of eight proclamations (Items 30–36 and S500), and non-agenda public comment. The afternoon session approved a five-year lease extension for the city-owned Sports Arena (Item 330) and a right-of-way vacation at 40th Street and El Cajon Boulevard (Item 331). Council President Lacava noted that the consent calendar had already been handled during the Monday, September 28 session, so no consent items were before the Council this day. Proclamations The Council unanimously approved the following proclamations (7–0, with Councilmembers Von Wilpert and Campbell absent per the Clerk's roll call, though Campbell had been marked present at the start of the meeting): - Item 30 – San Diego Climate Week (October 1–8, 2026): Sponsored by Mayor Gloria, Lacava, and Councilmember Elo-Rivera. Climate Week co-chairs Erica Rodriguez and Meg Brigneau reported the event grew from 120 events with roughly 6,000 registrations last year to more than 200 events this year, organized around five summits (water, land, fire, air, and people). - Item 31 – San Diego Hunger Awareness Month (September 2026): Sponsored by Lacava, Lee, Whitburn, and Von Wilpert. Councilmembers cited an estimated 362,000 San Diegans facing hunger (Lee) and more than 360,000, including 84,000 children (Foster). The San Diego Hunger Coalition noted one in four San Diegans — including nearly 29% of children and older adults — cannot reliably count on three nutritious meals a day; Councilmember Lee noted the San Diego Food Bank distributed more than 51 million pounds of food last year, serving about 400,000 people per month. - Item 32 – La Jolla Country Day School Centennial Day (October 6): Recognized the school's 100th year; head of school Jeff Turwin noted it began in 1926 with four students and now serves more than 1,100 students. - Item 33 – National Pedestrian Safety Month (October 2026): Sponsored by Lacava and Whitburn; highlighted Vision Zero, speed management, leading pedestrian intervals, and pedestrian hybrid beacons. Circulate board chair Belody Cote accepted the proclamation on behalf of the Vision Zero Coalition. - Item 34 – Scott Mercer Day: Recognized Scott Mercer's retirement from the City Planning Department after 29 years of city service. - Item 35 – Autism Acceptance Day (October 3): Sponsored by Whitburn; honored Autism Society San Diego's 60 years of service. Executive Director Teresa Contreras cited prevalence of 1 in 31 nationally and 1 in 19 in San Diego. - Item 36 – Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15–October 15): Sponsored by Moreno, Foster, Campillo, and Elo-Rivera; Councilmembers noted roughly 1.1 million Latinos live in the San Diego region. - Item S500 – Amigos San Diego Car Club 50th Anniversary Day: Sponsored by Moreno; the club was described as established April 18, 1977, has coordinated the Lowrider Car Show for over 40 years, created the first car club mural in Chicano Park (2019), and was recognized in connection with the first U.S. Postal Service lowrider stamp. Public Comments & Testimony Proclamation-related testimony: Speakers expressed broad support for the hunger, climate, pedestrian safety, heritage, and school proclamations, including representatives of the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, the San Diego Hunger Coalition, the Autism Society San Diego, the Chicano Federation, and La Jolla Country Day. Several speakers opposed specific proclamations: Maximilian Schmidt opposed Items 30 and 33, asserting that climate awareness is being used to advance communism; a speaker identified as "Allegedly Audra" opposed Items 30, 31, 33, and 35, calling the proclamations propaganda, disputing sea-level rise claims, and alleging vaccines cause autism; Hector opposed Items 30, 31, and 36, making statements about immigration and food assistance; and Natalie Rashke questioned climate change narratives. Non-agenda public comment: Topics included the Civil Grand Jury report "Shifting Gears" on the City's bicycle infrastructure (Joy Sonata); the January 28, 2025 fatal shooting of 16-year-old Kanoa Wilson by San Diego Police Officer Daniel Gold II at the Santa Fe Depot, the City's $30 million settlement with his family, and the absence of criminal charges (Daniel LaSalle); calls to replace the Flock ALPR system with a more accountable vendor and to reduce surveillance, including a cited 32% error rate and 167 false tags in one month in Los Angeles (Blair Beekman, Tony Rolfs, Allegedly Audra); Kratom enforcement, citing 233 kratom-associated deaths nationally from 2015–2025 with more than 10% in San Diego County (Barbara Gordon); the conflict between marijuana advertising and Vision Zero impaired-driving messaging (Becky Rapp); tobacco's effect on fertility, including a WHO finding that women who smoke have a 40% higher risk of infertility (Madison); allegations of Council corruption regarding the Torrey Pines Glider Port (Bob Kazuski, remote); and electrical grid and construction-safety failures attributed to infill development, including a transformer fire at 6142 Mesita Drive and a scaffolding collapse on Mississippi Street that crushed six vehicles (Dave Nicolai). Announcements & Procedural Notes - City Clerk Deanna Fuentes announced a ballot drop box for the November 3 election, located in front of the City Administration Building, open October 4 through Election Day per SB 884, with registration information available at SDvote.com. - Council President Lacava responded to public questions about the prior day's continuance, stating he was seeking City Attorney guidance on Brown Act requirements and would adjust the protocol for continuances and returning items to Council if needed. Discussion Item: Item 330 – Sports Arena Interim Lease Second Amendment Economic Development Director Christina Bibler presented the second amendment to the percentage lease with Midway Rising Venue Management LLC for the city-owned property at 3500 Sports Arena Boulevard. The amendment grants a five-year extension of the interim lease, running through December 4, 2031, with minimum rent increasing 3% annually, ensures continued operations and bookings at the arena, and directs lease revenue to the general fund. The current interim lease, effective August 1, 2023, coincides with the exclusive negotiating agreement for the site's redevelopment, which expires December 4, 2026; nothing is currently booked past December. The item also included a CEQA categorical exemption for existing facilities. Public comment included opposition from Maximilian Schmidt and Allegedly Audra; concern about sea-level rise, liquefaction (including a California Supreme Court ruling cited by a District 7 speaker), and acquisition practices (Amanda, Blair Beekman); a note that Legends' acquisition of ASM Global triggered a $3.5 million DOJ settlement (Joy Sonata); allegations of human trafficking and illegal sales at arena-area swap meets (Hector); and a "who gains and who loses" analysis of the lease benefiting the developer (Natalie Rashke). Council President Lacava clarified that the item is about operating the existing arena — which he stated generates up to $750 million a year in revenue to the city (as transcribed) — not about the future Midway Rising redevelopment project. Councilmember Campbell moved approval, noting the City owns nearly 50 acres that are not being sold, and emphasized that the future Midway project's 4,200 housing units are not part of this lease action. Councilmember Whitburn seconded. In response to a question about flooding and sea level rise, Bibler stated the lessee maintains and operates the site in its current fully impervious format, and flooding is not currently occurring inside the arena itself. Vote: Approved 8–0, with Councilmember Von Wilpert absent. Discussion Item: Item 331 – 40th Street and El Cajon Boulevard Right-of-Way Vacation (PRJ-114743) Development Services project manager Ben Heffertepi presented the vacation of 0.10 acres of public right-of-way, comprising Parcel A (3,645 square feet of 40th Street, acquired by the State for highway purposes and relinquished to the City in 2005) and Parcel B (786 square feet of an unnamed alley dedicated in 1908 under Subdivision Map 1108, with ownership reverting to abutting fee owners). Conditions require the applicant to dedicate and improve a vehicle turnaround area and to enhance an existing pedestrian accessway into a 26-foot-wide promenade, preserving pedestrian and bicycle access from 40th Street to El Cajon Boulevard. The project's prior 2021 CEQA exemption and vacation resolution expired on December 14, 2024, because conditions of approval were not met within three years. The Council declared Parcel A exempt surplus land and authorized its sale on July 21, 2022; a first amendment to the purchase and sale agreement with Bridge Deck Owner LLC will be presented by the Economic Development Department at a future hearing. The Land Use and Housing Committee recommended approval of the first amendment on September 3, 2026, and the Normal Heights Community Planning Group recommended approval 100 to 1 with no conditions (as transcribed). This item is not subject to mayoral veto. Public comment included concerns from abutting owner Ray Salem about the fire-department turnaround design and drainage relocation, noting three of his units were nearly flooded three years ago; support from 2D Thomas of the El Cajon Boulevard BIA; neighborhood-character concerns about ending the alleyway (Blair Beekman); and opposition from Allegedly Audra and Maximilian Schmidt. Councilmember Elo-Rivera asked staff to address the concerns: Supervising Deputy Fire Marshal Tyler Larson confirmed a modified T-turnaround meeting California Fire Code Appendix D and described emergency apparatus staging; staff described two new private storm drain inlets, abandonment of the existing storm drain, and a connection to a public storm drain, with the right-of-way permit expected within weeks and a two-year construction window. Councilmember Elo-Rivera moved approval; Council President Pro Tem Lee seconded. Council President Lacava asked about future development: staff confirmed there is no active ministerial building permit, future land development would likely proceed ministerially, and the western alley will remain, with a 2.5-foot dedication now and eventual widening to 20 feet as adjacent development occurs. Vote: Approved; the transcript does not state the vote tally. Key Outcomes - Proclamations (Items 30–36, S500): Approved unanimously, 7–0, with Councilmembers Von Wilpert and Campbell absent per the Clerk. - Item 330 (Sports Arena lease extension): Approved 8–0 (Von Wilpert absent). The five-year lease extension runs through December 4, 2031, with 3% annual minimum rent increases; the CEQA categorical exemption was approved, and revenue will flow to the general fund. - Item 331 (Right-of-way vacation): Approved with conditions including the vehicle turnaround and 26-foot pedestrian promenade; the vote tally was not announced in the transcript. - Procedural commitment: Council President Lacava committed to reviewing continuance protocol with the City Attorney's office and sharing any Brown Act guidance with committee chairs.

The Finance and Business Committee of the Denver City Council met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 10:30 AM local time (17:30 UTC) under Chair Chris Hinds. The agenda featured a briefing on the Labor Acknowledgement Update (26-1424) and three consent items. After the briefing and discussion, the consent items were advanced to the full council without objection. Consent Calendar - 26-1407: Amendment to the agreement with Rising Medical Solutions, LLC to add $300,000 (total $2,300,000) and extend one year to December 31, 2027, for medical bill review and re-pricing services for the city's self-insured workers' compensation program. Approved by consent. - 26-1408: Lease Agreement with West Community Economic Development Corporation for $10 annually, from approximately October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2029, for operation of the Westwood Community Center at 1000 S Lowell Blvd in Council District 3. Approved by consent. - 26-1409: Amendment to a contract with A Hole In The Wall Construction (AHW Construction) to add six months (new end date February 27, 2027) for emergency fencing and building board-up services for Community Planning Development and the Department of Safety, with no change to contract capacity. Approved by consent. Briefing: Labor Acknowledgement Update (26-1424) Councilmember Chantel Lewis (District 8) presented an update on the proposed labor acknowledgement originally introduced in July 2026. The initial language specifically acknowledged the forced and uncompensated labor of enslaved Africans and their descendants, co-created with community stakeholders. After previous committee discussions, alternate language from Councilmember Flynn (broadening the scope) and from Council President Romero Campbell were circulated. Lewis's office held two informal community conversations on September 15 and 16, 2026. Participants consistently expressed that the specificity of the original acknowledgement was important and that broadening the scope would risk diluting the unique harms of slavery. Based on this feedback, Lewis determined she could not proceed with an amended version and effectively withdrew the proposal. Discussion and Councilmember Comments - Councilmember Gonzales-Gutierrez thanked Lewis for her values and community engagement, agreeing that distinct histories should be recognized individually while solidarity can exist across struggles. - Council President Romero Campbell expressed disappointment that she was unaware of the September open sessions and shared her perspective that a labor acknowledgement should reflect the intertwined labor exploitations of multiple communities (African Americans, Chinese railroad workers, Bracero program, undocumented immigrants), arguing that inclusivity strengthens rather than diminishes recognition. She suggested internal council conversation on a broader acknowledgement. - Councilmember Lewis clarified that this specific proposal was not moving forward but acknowledged that if council members wish to pursue a different, broader labour acknowledgement, they should do so with the same intentional community listening process. She noted she will continue reading her specific acknowledgement in her own community meetings. - Councilmember Watson thanked Lewis, stated he has been using labor acknowledgments in his district meetings for three and a half years and will continue, and looks forward to engaging if a similar process returns. Key Outcomes - The Labor Acknowledgement Update (26-1424) was presented as a briefing only; no vote was taken. The proposal was effectively withdrawn by Councilmember Lewis. - All three consent items (26-1407, 26-1408, 26-1409) were approved by consent and will move to the full City Council for final approval. Note: The agenda listed the meeting at 10:30 AM local time, but the provided timestamp indicates 17:30 UTC (11:30 AM MDT), reflecting a possible time zone difference.

The Los Angeles City Council convened on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, with 13 members present. The meeting included roll call, approval of minutes, commendatory resolutions, a flag salute, and consideration of numerous agenda items. Key actions included unanimous approval of routine items, public comment on a wide range of topics, and adoption of several resolutions and motions on matters including fire station land acquisition, immigration enforcement, mobile home protections, and insurance transparency. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of September 22, 2026 (moved by Councilmember Harado, seconded by Lee). - Adopted commendatory resolutions (moved by Park, seconded by Hernandez). - Unanimously approved items 31–33 and 35–50 (13 ayes) after opening and closing roll. - Unanimously approved items 1–5, 8–10, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24–27, 51–58, 62, 65, 66, and 68–70 (13 ayes). - Unanimously approved motions to receive and file items 7, 11–14, and 28 (13 ayes). - Continued items 6, 19, and 22 to November 18, 2026, without objection. - Continued items 16, 23, and 29 to November 18, 2026, without objection. - Reconsidered item 31 and approved it unanimously (12 ayes) after 12 members were present. Public Comments & Testimony - Michelle Hopewalker (general comment) urged against racism targeting Black women and Mayor Karen Bass in the upcoming election, and called for voter turnout. - An unnamed speaker expressed gratitude for the council's response to the traffic death of 16-year-old Eternal Martinez in Hyde Park, and called for a state of emergency on traffic violence and recommitment to Vision Zero. - Johnny Hale spoke on items 60, 62, 68, and 52, advocating for prostate cancer awareness (citing LAPD Sergeant Duarte's recovery), criticizing council members for denying transitional housing to transgender youth, lamenting the decline of downtown Los Angeles, and urging proper pedestrian tunnel construction with lighting and patrols. - Olivia Irene Fitzsimmons (general comment) described alleged misconduct by a case manager in a Los Angeles County deferment program regarding her pregnancy, and reported that her son was withheld by paternal family and that her parental rights were set for termination on October 1, 2026, despite prior police reports. - Juan Sallasar (city employee) raised concerns about an unreported city issue since 2015, stating he had provided evidence to council members and filed a fraud waste and abuse claim, but received no response. - Jerome Kitchen Alexander spoke on traffic safety, noting that the fatal crash of Eternal Martinez occurred in front of his home. He thanked Councilmember Marquise Harris-Dawson for community support, but urged preventative safety measures before more deaths occur, and highlighted lack of services for the family. - Daniel Gus (virtual) questioned item 53 (jazz festival) about past controversies, criticized reward programs (item 55) for being taxable and ineffective, demanded clearer definitions for "emergency" in item 61, criticized language around homelessness (item 62), and mocked the council's knowledge of entrepreneurship (item 68). He also accused the City Attorney of viewpoint discrimination and referenced a recurring speaker's use of "Blue Mandingo" without definition. - Panda (virtual) supported Daniel Gus on item 62, but disagreed with his criticism of Councilmember Price. He criticized councilmembers Rodriguez and Raman for blaming each other on homelessness, urged leadership, and praised a city worker's past whistleblowing that saved millions. - Gail Raff (virtual) opposed privatization of LA Animal Services shelters, warning that private shelters would not take intakes, leading to more animals on the street, and demanded focus on spay/neuter programs. - Jason (virtual) commented on homelessness (item 62), describing encampments on Figueroa Street, and later on animal issues (general) about lost pets. - Audit LA (virtual) spoke against street vacations, specifically criticizing potential vacation on El Ron Hubbard Way related to the Church of Scientology, and opposed nuisance abatements until prior complaints about Scientology are addressed. Also questioned the jazz festival (item 53) and condemned the city's partnership with Scientology for a holiday parade. - A caller (virtual) criticized items 53 and 54 as wasteful spending given a billion-dollar deficit, and urged council to focus on road repairs, trash cleanup, street light theft, and crime prevention. He also raised concerns about catalytic converter and copper theft in Councilmember Jurado's district, advocating for flock cameras. Discussion Items - Item 59 – Fire Station 88 Land Acquisition: Councilmember Raman presented a motion to fund environmental review and due diligence for the city to acquire roughly 11 acres from the Army Corps of Engineers, securing Fire Station 88's long-term future and preserving an easement for a potential bike/pedestrian bridge over the 405. The item was approved unanimously (13 ayes). - Item 63 – Resolution on Assembly Bill 2465: Councilmember Hernandez introduced a resolution urging Governor Newsom to sign AB 2465, which would disqualify companies profiting from federal immigration detention from state tax credits, loans, and grants, and create a fund for legal services for immigrant families. The resolution passed unanimously (13 ayes). - Items 64 & 67 – Resolutions on Mobile Home Park Protections and Insurance Transparency: Councilmember Park discussed both items together. Item 64 supports Senate Bill 1093, requiring communication and rebuilding plans for mobile home parks after disasters, citing the Palisades fire and owners selling property for redevelopment. Item 67 supports legislation requiring insurance companies to provide adequate explanations for non-renewals and opportunities for homeowners to respond, referencing the insurance crisis affecting Palisades fire victims. Both passed unanimously (13 ayes). Councilmember Yaroslavsky was thanked for partnership on item 67. Key Outcomes - All motions and resolutions presented for votes passed unanimously (13-0 or 12-0). - The council approved funding for environmental review of Fire Station 88 land acquisition. - The council adopted resolutions supporting state bills on immigration enforcement accountability (AB 2465), mobile home park protections (SB 1093), and insurance reform. - Items 6, 16, 19, 22, 23, and 29 were continued to November 18, 2026. - Several liens were received and filed after payment (items 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 28). - Councilmember Padilla delivered a memorial adjournment motion honoring his uncle, José Luis Ramos.

The meeting began with prayer, pledge, and roll call (8 present, 1 absent). A proclamation designated October 4–10, 2026 as Fire Prevention Week. The public input session featured numerous speakers addressing community development, medical diamond projects, library events, police accountability, the tax cap ballot proposal, neighborhood issues, and more. Council members gave remarks and the city manager provided updates. The council then considered the consent agenda (with two items pulled for discussion), adopted a data center zoning ordinance, approved fee schedule amendments, and after a closed session, approved multiple collective bargaining agreements. Consent Calendar - Consent agenda approved with exceptions for items 3 and 9 (pulled for separate discussion). Included routine approvals such as the purchase and development agreement with Medical Diamond South LLC for 507 South Washington (item 2), supported by public speaker John Kaczynski (SVSU). Public Comments & Testimony - Kimberly Horn (Victoria’s Community Development Corporation): Presented a mobile app (VCD) to connect and uplift Saginaw, soft-launched in July, aiming for 1,000–3,000 members. - Dr. Samuel Shaheen: Updated on the Medical Diamond development, noting CMU’s four-year medical school groundbreaking and upcoming details on residential hospitality, SVSU nursing school, and a behavioral health center with Great Lakes Bay Health. - John Kaczynski (Saginaw Valley State University): Supported consent item 2 as key to the medical diamond; described the planned Greater Michigan Health Profession School with student housing and community programming. - Melanie Velasco: Raised concerns about sidewalk hazards, dark areas, and poor road conditions on Russell, Superior, and Fashion Square; urged action. - Leona Flores (American GI Forum): Announced the 70th anniversary celebration on October 17, 2026, seeking sponsorships for scholarships and veterans services. - James Furbush (Great Lakes Bay Health Centers): Provided an update on a 45,000-square-foot behavioral health center of excellence with primary care, urgent care, pharmacy, and collaboration with SVSU; noted delays but on track for groundbreaking next calendar year. - Johanna Oriana Cabrera (Hoyt Library): Highlighted fall book sales, Hispanic Heritage Month events (community ofrenda for Day of the Dead), and Banned Books Week (Oct 4–10). - Jeffrey Bowles: Requested an update on the investigation of a use-of-force incident involving Stephanie Anderson and presented a proposed “Saginaw Police Accountability and Transparency Resolution” calling for independent review, evidence preservation, timely notification, and quarterly reports from the police chief. - Michael Thompson: Questioned council’s silence on the ballot proposal to rescind the tax cap; urged council to express positions and suggest uses for the $639,000 in potential revenue (e.g., special police unit, fire station, critter control). - Cheryl Carter: Asked about an ordinance regarding basketball hoops on curbs; reported a neighbor’s hoop caused damage to her yard and attracted litter; requested enforcement. - Valerie Dansby: Delivered a message of encouragement, quoting scripture and urging unity and prayer for the city. - Chris Pryor (Victorious Believers Ministries): Announced the Bishop Marvin C. Pryor Impact Center (formerly Trinity Lutheran) with $3.2 million investment, educational programming, and a gala on October 16. Discussion Items - Data Center Zoning Ordinance (O-204): Councilmember Hammond praised the robust regulation developed after a moratorium. Councilmember Young noted it fills a gap and protects citizens. Adopted unanimously. - Police Accountability Resolution: Jeffrey Bowles presented the resolution during public comment. City Manager reported meeting with him, reviewing SPD policies, and committed to providing a comparison document and recommendations for next steps (including an online use-of-force reporting portal). Council discussion supported the framework and updating policies. - Furniture Purchase for Police Investigations Division (Item 9): Councilmember Young questioned timing given a recent use-of-force incident. Police Chief explained it is the final stage of reconstruction, unrelated, and employees deserve a safe environment. Approved after discussion. - Security Camera and Access Control Upgrade (Item 3): Councilmember Hammond asked about cybersecurity; IT staff explained the system uses separate fiber strands for video only, not affecting PLC/SCADA controls. Approved. - Amendment to City Fees (Change of Use Permit): Councilmember Seals sought clarity on potential double fees; staff confirmed the $150 change-of-use fee is waived if construction inspection fees are paid. Approved. - Collective Bargaining Agreements: After closed session, council approved successor CBAs with COEM, POAM, AFSCME, SEIU Part-Time, SEIU Aude (likely SEIU), and SEIU Salary Union, all with term July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2030, subject to legal review. Key Outcomes - Fire Prevention Week (October 4–10, 2026) proclaimed. - Consent agenda approved (items 2, 4-8 passed; items 3 and 9 discussed and approved separately). - Data Center Zoning Ordinance (O-204) adopted. - Fee schedule amendment adding $150 change-of-use permit fee approved. - FOIA appeal by Justin Engel denied (motion to oppose city’s response approved). - Closed session held for collective bargaining negotiations. - Five successor collective bargaining agreements approved unanimously. - City Manager to present comparison of police resolution with current policies and recommendations for transparency reporting.

Note: The agenda provided for this meeting is dated Monday, August 31, 2026, at 7:00 PM, which conflicts with the instructed meeting date of September 29, 2026, at 5:00 PM UTC. No minutes or transcript were provided, so this summary reflects only the agenda items listed. The actual proceedings are unknown. Consent Calendar - Approval of Civic Plus Social Media expense of $11,099.31 (listed as Consent Agenda Item A). Public Comments & Testimony - Citizen's Comments were scheduled with a 30-minute time slot. No speakers or comments were recorded in the available materials. Discussion Items - Unfinished Business: Two test items were listed: "Test for Work Session Item" and "Test item for VoteCast Session." No details on content or outcomes. - New Business: Three placeholder items were listed: "test lease," "Frosty Friday!!!" and "Summer Friday's are a thing, or they should be!!" No further description or deliberation was provided. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or actions were recorded in the agenda, minutes, or transcript. The meeting may have been procedural or placeholder in nature. The discrepancy between the agenda date (August 31, 2026) and the instructed date (September 29, 2026) suggests either a mislabeling or that the meeting did not occur on the specified date.

The Prince George's County District Council met on September 29, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Committee Room 2027, but the meeting was called to order at 11:28 AM due to a delayed start. Seven members were present at roll call; Council Member Fisher arrived at 11:41 AM. The meeting adjourned at 1:49 PM. The Council considered four zoning cases, including oral arguments, and took action on all items. Consent Calendar - Approval of District Council Minutes (September 14, 2026): Approved 6-0 (Vote: Aye – Olson, Dernoga, Harrison, Ivey, Hunter, Adams; Absent: Oriadha, Adams-Stafford, Blegay, Burroughs, Fisher). Public Comments & Testimony - Oakwood Preserve (SDP-2025-0014): Three opponents testified. Geoffrey Collins (Brock Hills resident) urged disapproval or remand due to procedural flaws (incomplete record, outdated floodplain study, limited testimony time, inadequate notice) and substantive concerns (sprawl, flooding, traffic, climate impacts). Judith Artman (Brock Hall Estates resident) concurred, emphasizing forest loss, traffic safety, and pedestrian hazards. Greg Smith (Person of Record) detailed missing documents in the pre-hearing record (floodplain study, NRI, stormwater concept, tree conservation plan), arguing the public was deprived of informed participation. - Saddle Ridge (SDP-2025-0015): Mark Calhoun (adjacent property owner) testified in opposition, citing dangerous traffic conditions, two recent accidents, and environmental destruction. He requested a reduction in density from the current 703 units. Oral Argument: Oakwood Preserve (SDP-2025-0014) - Staff Presentation: Meng Sun (M-NCPPC) presented the SDP for 112 single-family detached homes on 167.7 acres east and west of MD 202. The site includes 62% parkland dedication, noise walls, and compliance with prior approvals. The Planning Board had approved the SDP on June 25, 2026. - Applicant Argument: Robert Antonetti (attorney) argued that opponents lack standing (no aggrievement under state law) and that all issues raised were without merit. He emphasized the project's long approval history (basic plan 1993, CDP 2002, preliminary plan 2004, SDP 2006, lots platted 2008) and that the current SDP primarily updates architecture. He stated the record was complete and the Planning Board's process was fair. - People's Zoning Counsel: Stan Brown stated the standing argument was waived because the applicant did not cross-examine opponents or create a record, and that opponents did have standing as persons of record. He noted the record-posting practices should be improved but were not fatal. He recommended approval, noting the project is consistent with prior approvals and cannot be re-litigated due to the

The Mayor and Denver City Council held a brief general session on September 29, 2026, primarily consisting of introductions, announcements from council members about upcoming community events, and a unanimous motion to enter executive session to discuss settlement, pending litigation, and related legal advice. The meeting started at 4:30 PM UTC. Announcements & Upcoming Events - Councilman Alidris (District 7) invited the public to two events on Saturday, October 3: Bake Fest at 9 a.m. with sourdough, pies, and awards, and Denver Porch Fest in the Baker neighborhood in the afternoon, featuring over 100 musical performances, food trucks, and a farmers market at Daily Park. - Councilman Watson (District 9) announced community office hours on the same day (September 29) from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. at Corner Ramen, to increase support for small businesses and provide informal discussions. - Councilman Hines noted three evening events: a town hall at the SGI USA Buddhist Temple (Spear and Colfax) on Tuesday from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.; another town hall on Thursday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Cerebral Brewing (Congress Park); and a Delgeny Bridge fundraising event on a different date from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. - The Council President mentioned a groundbreaking ceremony for Santa Fe Yards (Summit Denver Stadium) on Thursday at 8:30 a.m., with possible pyrotechnics, and invited attendees. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved a motion (all in favor, none opposed) to enter executive session pursuant to DRMC 23-4A sections 3, 6, and 7 for the purpose of discussing settlement, pending litigation, and legal advice. The public session then adjourned.

The Budget and Finance Committee convened on September 29, 2026, at approximately 4:26 PM to discuss several budget amendment items, including remediation and potential expansion of the Police Service Center, a holiday bonus for city employees, and funding requests for the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, Eastdale Collective, and Purpose Point Learning Academy. The committee also set dates for the public hearing and first reading of the budget amendment. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the previous meeting – passed without objection. Discussion Items Police Service Center Mold Remediation and Expansion - Chief Chambers detailed the discovery of pervasive mold in the north building (built 1974) following a change in the makeup air unit setting. Initial remediation ($1.2 million) proved insufficient; Bell Four restoration found mold throughout ductwork, asbestos, obsolete electrical systems, and ADA non-compliance. - Three options presented: 1. Gut renovation to shell (replace interior, no expansion): $17 million. 2. Renovation plus expansion (18,000 sq ft): $26 million total ($17M renovation + $8.9M expansion). Would allow CPD to vacate the fire training facility and give fire department more space. 3. New building (three floors, 80,000 sq ft): $36 million. - Chief Chambers stated that both options 1 and 2 would address all issues and extend building life for 25+ years. Councilmember Clark requested a structural survey of the building envelope before committing. - Committee members expressed preference for Option 2 (renovation + expansion) as the most cost‑effective (same functionality as new building for $10M less). - Funding model undecided: bonding the $8.9M expansion would replace other capital projects; using the entire $26M from the reserve fund would drop reserves from 34% to 26%. Chief of staff recommended funding the whole project from reserves to avoid disrupting planned capital projects. - Next step: Administration to provide a briefing on opportunity costs if bonding is used, and a structural survey of the building exterior. Holiday Bonus for City Employees - Chair Henderson proposed a $1,000 one‑time bonus for all non‑elected city employees, costing an estimated $3.6 million (including payroll taxes and benefit impacts). - Discussion centered on eligibility (part‑time, temporary, sworn/non‑sworn), taxation (bonuses taxed at a flat 40% rate by the IRS), and equity. - Councilmember Clark suggested a tiered approach: - Employees earning under $45,000: $1,000 - Employees earning $45,000–$120,000: $750 - Employees earning over $120,000: $500 or $0. - Councilmember Hill asked for a prorated option for part‑time employees. - HR Director Erica confirmed current employee counts (384 full‑time regular, 132 part‑time, total 516 civilian employees) but later a reference to 2,653 employees (likely including sworn) caused confusion. The $3.6M figure assumed all city employees including sworn. - Several councilmembers questioned the sustainability of a one‑time bonus versus permanent pay increases, especially given the impact on reserve funds. - No final consensus; the committee requested additional analysis from HR on tiered and prorated options for the October 6 meeting. UTC Endowment Fund ($250,000) - Consensus to include in the budget amendment with no further discussion. Bessie Smith Cultural Center – Reallocation ($250,000) - Request to repurpose $250,000 from the existing fund balance (total balance $555,000 after FY27 allocation) to fund planning for the “Dream Forward” project (specialized project management, facility planning, funding strategy, etc.). - Executive Director Paula Wilkes stated the money is needed for technical capacity building before fundraising; the city’s annual maintenance contribution has kept the building operational. - Some councilmembers expressed concern about drawing down the fund balance by half. The committee voted to move the item forward to the full council. Eastdale Collective ($250,000) - Councilmember Elliott proposed $250,000 from the reserve fund to partner with the Enterprise Center for community development in Eastdale (staffing, marketing, supplies over two years). - Debate arose over funding source: Councilmember Hill preferred the Economic Development Fund (which has $25 million), while Chair Henderson and others argued for using the reserve fund to reduce its large balance. - Administration was agnostic. The committee agreed to move the item forward; final funding source to be decided. Purpose Point Learning Academy ($245,000) - Councilmembers Dotley and Clark explained that the city inadvertently caused a staffing shortage at Purpose Point by hiring away their Head Start teachers without a transition period, leading to the closure of two classrooms (16 seats). - The requested $245,000 would supplement teacher pay to reopen the classrooms. - Several councilmembers requested more detailed cost and sustainability data. The committee decided to postpone discussion to the October 6 meeting, asking for a written plan. Key Outcomes - Police Service Center: Committee consensus to pursue Option 2 (renovation + expansion, $26 million). Staff to provide a structural survey and opportunity‑cost analysis of bonding the expansion. - Holiday Bonus: No final decision; HR to present tiered and prorated options at October 6 meeting. - Bessie Smith Cultural Center: Recommended to move forward with reallocation of $250,000. - Eastdale Collective: Recommended to move forward; funding source to be determined. - Purpose Point Learning Academy: Delayed to October 6 for more information. - Next Steps: Committee will reconvene on October 6, 2026, at 3:30 PM in the chamber to finalize recommendations. Budget amendment public hearing set for October 20, first reading on October 27.

The Berkeley City Council met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 6:04 PM, in the School District Board Room. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations, public comments, approval of a consent calendar with 36 items, a public hearing on bond financing for the Ashby Lofts project, and extensive discussion and adoption of the San Pablo Avenue Specific Plan. The meeting was extended to 11:30 PM to accommodate the agenda. Ceremonial Matters - Mayor Ishii presented a proclamation honoring John Caner for 17 years of service as CEO of the Downtown Berkeley Association. - An adjournment in memory of Jean Nakamura, former BUSD educator and girls' basketball coach at Berkeley High, was read. - Mayor Ishii declared September 29, 2026, as "Julie Sinai Day" in recognition of her service as Chief of Policy. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the Consent Calendar as amended, including two urgency items: a resolution supporting Prop 1 (Veterans and Affordable Housing Bond Act of 2026) and a resolution opposing Prop 43 (limits voter ability to raise revenues). - Item 21 (window replacement contract) was removed by the City Manager. - Item 13 (Surveillance Technology Vendor Accountability) was amended to change the reporting schedule: the first report under the new calendar-year reporting period will be due in March 2028. - Item 36 (Mutual Aid Air Support Surveillance Use Policy) was moved to consent with language from the Police Accountability Board regarding audit requirements. - Councilmembers relinquished discretionary funds for various community events: Cal Sailing Club Open House (Item 27), Sinbad Voyage mural restoration (Item 28), Music in the Elmwood Festival (Item 31). - Several contracts, grants, and administrative items were approved, including the appointment of Mary Opler as Director of Police Accountability (effective October 5, 2026, at $230,000 annual salary), and ratification of recess actions. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agenda Matters: Speakers addressed concerns about encampment clearing at Ocean View, the need for Behavioral Health Commission members, affordable housing policy, and Hopkins Street bike lanes. - Consent Calendar: Speakers commented on surveillance technology reporting, the Alcohol Policing Partnership grant (urging inclusion of Fire Department data and education components), and the Realize Vision 2050 plan (criticizing Councilmember Taplin's response to a community volunteer). - Ashby Lofts (Item 33): One speaker supported the bond financing. - San Pablo Avenue Specific Plan (Item 34): A large number of public speakers expressed divided views. Supporters emphasized the need for housing, while opponents raised concerns about gentrification, displacement of businesses, and lack of on-site affordable housing. Several speakers urged a five-story base height to maximize affordable units through state density bonus. Discussion Items - Item 33: Ashby Lofts Bond Financing – The public hearing was held and closed with no objections. The Council approved the resolution authorizing tax-exempt bond issuance by the California Municipal Finance Authority for the Ashby Lofts project. - Item 34: San Pablo Avenue Specific Plan – Staff presented the three-year planning process. Key features include a new San Pablo Commercial (CSP) zoning district with maximum heights of 7 stories (75 feet) for residential/mixed-use and 3 stories (40 feet) for non-residential, with height increases allowed via state density bonus up to about 8 stories. The plan includes design standards, incentives for public open space, and sidewalk widening. Councilmember Kesarwani offered four amendments: (1) increase non-residential height to 75 feet and 5 stories; (2) set minimum density at 100 dwelling units per acre (staff had proposed 145); (3) correct a drafting error regarding ground-floor residential restrictions; (4) adjust affordable housing requirements on MULI parcels to 35% family-sized units and income mix up to 120% AMI with at least 50% at 80% AMI. Councilmember Traegub offered an amendment to reference commercial anti-displacement provisions from the Corridor Zoning Update and Renaissance referrals. Councilmember O'Keefe added a suggestion for a business license tax waiver. Councilmember Blackaby added specific ideas for business support during construction. After extensive debate, Councilmember Blackaby made a substitute motion to set base height at 5 stories (55 feet) for both residential and non-residential, which failed 3–6. The main motion (with 7-story base and amendments) passed 8–0. - Item 35: Affordable Housing Preference Policy – Continued to the October 13, 2026, council meeting due to time constraints. Key Outcomes - Adopted Urgency Resolutions: Support for Prop 1 (Veterans and Affordable Housing Bond Act) and opposition to Prop 43 (limit on revenue-raising). - Approved Consent Calendar: 34 items (including amended items) passed unanimously. - Approved Ashby Lofts Bond Financing (Item 33): Unanimous, resolution adopted. - Adopted San Pablo Avenue Specific Plan (Item 34): The Council approved the resolution adopting the Specific Plan, Design Standards, General Plan and zoning amendments, and repealing the West Berkeley Plan and San Pablo Avenue Public Improvements Plan. The motion included Councilmember Kesarwani's four amendments, the commercial anti-displacement language, and the friendly amendments from Councilmembers O'Keefe and Blackaby. Base height: 7 stories (75 feet) for residential/mixed-use; non-residential height increased to 5 stories (75 feet). Minimum density set at 100 dwelling units per acre. First reading of ordinance to create San Pablo Commercial District (Chapter 23.202.160) approved. - Continued Item 35: Affordable Housing Preference Policy to October 13, 2026. - Extended Meeting Time: Rule suspended to 11:30 PM to complete the agenda.