The Public Meeting Index

The Yorktown Town Board held a special meeting on the evening of September 29, 2026. Actions included adopting a Day of Remembrance proclamation, scheduling a public hearing for tax exemptions, a lengthy debate and vote on sewer rates, and unanimous approval of a consent agenda. The board concluded by moving into executive session to interview vendors for an EMS RFP. Consent Calendar The board unanimously approved a block of routine resolutions: - Authorization to refer an MS4 stormwater permit application for a property at 144 Dorchester Drive (pool, patios, garage construction). - Acceptance of a $36,400 NYS Strengthening Essential Cybersecurities for Utilities and Resiliency Enhancement (SECURE) grant for a cybersecurity assessment of the wastewater treatment plant. - Execution of a restatement agreement for the town's flexible spending plan with Lifetime Benefit Solutions. - Authorization to auction no-longer-needed Parks and Recreation equipment. - Authorization to advertise bids for automotive parts and water maintenance materials for the Water Department. Discussion Items - Sewer Rate Adjustment: The board debated Resolution 409 of 2026, which amends the effective date of the new sewer rates ($1.20/$1.50 to $3.00 per thousand gallons) to May 27, 2026. Councilman Ilon Gilbert strongly opposed what he termed a retroactive increase without sufficient data, while Councilwoman Susan Siegel noted requested financial backup from the town's consultant had not been provided. In support, Deputy Supervisor Sergio Esposito argued the switch to a usage-based fee created a fairer system and eliminated a flat tax, and Councilman Patrick Murphy added that the rate simply brings Yorktown in line with neighboring towns. Supervisor Lakerman explained the date change was needed to sync billing cycles and collect consumption data for the 2027 budget. Key Outcomes - Sewer Rate Vote: The board voted 3 to 2 to pass the amendment to Resolution 409 of 2026. - Day of Remembrance: Proclaimed October 7, 2026, as a Day of Remembrance in Yorktown, honoring the victims of the October 7, 2023 attack. - Tax Exemption Hearing: Set a public hearing for October 20, 2026, on four real property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, surviving spouses of police officers, volunteer firefighters, and ambulance workers killed in the line of duty, and qualified active duty members in combat zones. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Executive Session: Moved into executive session to conduct interviews with potential vendors responding to the town's Requests for Proposals for emergency medical services (EMS).

The Rochester Public Utility (RPU) Board met on September 29, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the RPU Community Room, 4000 E River Rd NE. The Board recognized a retiring manager, approved a sizable consent agenda, awarded a construction contract for a new water booster station, authorized public notification of 2027 supplemental rate adjustments, reviewed 2027 legislative priorities, and discussed updates to the worker safety policy. All votes were unanimous. The meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m. Recognition - Board President Malachi McNeilus and General Manager Timothy McCollough recognized Ryan Moore, Manager of Geographic Information Services, for 27 years of dedicated service. Moore grew the GIS function from a single position to a department of five professionals and integrated GIS with key operational systems (CIS, ERP, outage management, AMI, SCADA). The Board formally thanked Moore and wished him well in retirement. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the August 25, 2026 Board meeting. - Reviewed accounts payable from August 12 to September 10, 2026, totaling $16,596,835.56. - Approved 2027 Board meeting dates. - Approved revised Board Policy 4: Board Organization. - Adopted a resolution authorizing purchase of five units of submersible switchgear from Border States Electric for $836,000. - Approved additional expenditure of $488,000 for the Country Club Road Water Main Extension Project (City Project J7862), increasing total authorized project expenditure from $1,200,000 to $1,688,000; approved corresponding $488,000 amendment to the 2026 Water Utility Capital Budget (including $113,000 for design from the Water Connection fund); recommended City Council approval of the second budget amendment; confirmed that previously approved agreements with Pulte Homes of Minnesota LLC and ML Group I LLC remain in effect. - Approved engagement with Baker Tilly US, LLP for financial audit and regulatory examination services for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with an option to extend through fiscal year 2028. - Approved resolution authorizing Transaction Confirmation for Secondary Firm Natural Gas Supply for the future Mount Simon generating facility, recommending City Council authorize the contract with Constellation NewEnergy – Gas Division, LLC. - Approved additional expenditure of $158,958.80 for fuel nozzle replacement on Gas Turbine 2. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Award Construction Contract for Kalmar Booster Station (Item 5.A): Assistant General Manager of Operations Todd Blomstrom presented. The project creates the 10th major water pressure zone for the growing western area. Only one bid was received from Rice Lake Construction Group of Deerwood, MN, for $2,540,300. The original budget placeholder for the project was $2.15 million; the total project cost, including design, administration, and construction, is now $3,235,300. A second budget amendment of $1,085,300 is required. Reasons for the single bid and cost escalation included: contractor capacity constraints, project complexity, location outside the metro area, and an initial estimate prepared quickly without a completed water system master plan. The Board discussed the need for future development fees for pumping stations to fund growth equitably. The motion passed unanimously. - Public Notification: 2027 Supplemental Electric and Water Utility Rate Adjustment (Item 6.A): Assistant General Manager of Administration Peter Hogan presented. The two-year general rates were set in 2025; no changes are proposed to the general rate structure. However, to achieve an effective 4% general electric rate increase, the Board authorized adjusting the power cost adjustment (PCA) to retain savings from Chero debt payoff for new debt service. The average residential electric customer impact is estimated to go from $6.12/month to $5.17/month (likely a net decrease or minimal increase? The transcript says "from $6.12 a month down to $5.17" but that may be a reduction; context suggests the PCA adjustment is meant to partially offset costs. Clarification: The speaker said "average residential customer on the electric side, going from $6.06 and twelve cents a month down to five dollars and seventeen cents" – this appears to be the reduction in PCA that will be retained? Actually, it's unclear. The summary should note the proposed 4% effective increase via PCA. Water rates are unchanged. A new "Large Load Computational Load" tariff was introduced: loads ≥2.5 MW trigger a cost/risk study; loads ≥5 MW require a separate electric service agreement. Miscellaneous fees updated, including involuntary disconnect fee reduced from $70 to $45 due to remote disconnect capabilities. The Board authorized public notification of the proposed changes; formal rate approval will be sought in October. - 2027 Legislative Priorities (Item 7.A): Informational only. General Manager McCollough outlined state and federal priorities. Key state issues: funding for lead service line replacement (current funds exhausted by early 2027), regional water supply resilience (education year as master plan completes by March 2027), large load legislation, net metering modernization, plug-in solar (aligning with City pilot), nuclear development, ECO Act reform to include demand response/solar, and transmission rights. Federal priorities: technology-neutral permitting reform (impacting North Hills Wind Project – no federal permits issued for wind since last year), lead service line funding, and positions aligned with American Public Power Association. Discussion covered the regional vs. Rochester-only water solution and risks to renewable energy goals if federal wind permits remain stalled. The Board expressed support for the direction; the legislative agenda will be coordinated with the City Council. - Board Policy 11: Worker Safety (Item 8.A): Assistant GM Blomstrom presented proposed changes to RPU Board Policy 11 (renamed "Safety Program" from "Worker Safety"). Key additions: stated goal of zero injuries, regulatory compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269 (electric) and general industry, explicit stop-work authority for all employees, quarterly safety reporting to the Board (leading and lagging indicators), and provision for Board action if safety goals are not met. Board members provided input; the policy is expected to be brought for adoption at the next meeting. - General Manager's Report (Item 9): McCollough provided updates: customer survey results showed improved portal satisfaction but persistent affordability concerns (higher summer bills due to increased volume); record in-person lobby traffic (call volumes down 10%); Silver Lake Dam modification/dredging project to be considered by Council on October 5; lead service line replacement funds nearly exhausted; solar on public buildings event planned; Flux ERP project in design/configuration phase. Discussion followed on development lot delivery (better coordination with developers) and joint trench work progress (ahead of last year, with two NPL crews). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (4.A–4.I): Approved unanimously. - Kalmar Booster Station (5.A): Approved resolution awarding contract to Rice Lake Construction Group for $2,540,300, approving second budget amendment to $3,235,300, recommending City Council approval, and authorizing project manager to proceed. Unanimous. - Public Notification of 2027 Rates (6.A): Approved resolution authorizing public notification of proposed rate adjustments. Unanimous. - Legislative Priorities (7.A): Reviewed; no action required. Board consensus to refine strategy as more information becomes available. - Worker Safety Policy (8.A): Board provided guidance; policy will return for formal adoption at next meeting. - Adjournment: Motion by Keane, seconded by Vaszily, unanimously approved at 5:45 p.m.

The Finance & Administration Council Committee of the City of Jonesboro met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 4:00 PM at the Municipal Center. The meeting was chaired by Joe Hafner. Five members were present (Hafner, Anthony Coleman, Ann Williams, Charles Coleman, Brian Emison) and two were absent (John Street, David McClain). The committee considered 14 resolutions, recommended most to the full council, and heard one public comment on roadway construction. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (September 8, 2026): Passed 4-0. - RES-26:128 (Youth Soccer Sponsorship – Cavenaugh Automotive): $7,200 sponsorship for jerseys. Passed unanimously. - RES-26:129 (Admission Passes Sponsorship – Cavenaugh Automotive): $5,000 for soccer and flag football admission. Passed unanimously. - RES-26:133 (Street Lighting Circuit – Washington Avenue): Low bid accepted; purchase order to Wilkins Electric, LLC. Passed unanimously. - RES-26:134 (Municipal Lien – 2612 Crawford Drive): $275 lien against Randy and Aley Crawford. Passed unanimously. - RES-26:135 (Municipal Lien – 700 Melody): $275 lien against Ignacio & Emilee Patino. Passed unanimously. - RES-26:136 (Municipal Lien – 2106 Cotton): $315 lien against Mickaul Rolland. Passed unanimously. - RES-26:137 (NARTPC Regional Safety Action Plan Update): $125,000 budget amendment. Passed unanimously. - RES-26:139 (FY26 JAG Grant Application): $44,681 grant for police equipment. Passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Patti Lack (4108 Forest Hill Road) asked about Caraway Road expansion. Director of Engineering Craig Light explained the lane configuration: five lanes from Parker Road to Latourette, three lanes from Latourette to Glenn's Place, and two lanes from there to Fox Meadow Lane. No roadway improvements south of Glenn Place except a side path. Lack expressed concern about proximity to houses; Light confirmed the work is within public right-of-way. Discussion Items - RES-26:126 (Elementary Basketball Sponsorship – Cavenaugh Automotive): $4,500 sponsorship for jerseys. Councilmember Dr. Anthony Coleman asked how sponsors are found and whether a standardized sponsorship package exists. Assistant Parks Director Aaron Holland said the sponsorship is a continuation from prior years under City Stars, and the department is interviewing a part-time marketing specialist to develop packages. The item passed unanimously (4-0, with two absent). - RES-26:127 (Youth Basketball Sponsorship – Cavenaugh Automotive): $5,000 ($2,500 winter, $2,500 summer). Dr. Coleman stated he supports receiving funds but stressed the need for a fair, transparent sponsorship package. Passed unanimously. - RES-26:131 (Playground & Synthetic Turf – Disciple Drive Park – ACS Playground Adventures): $602,041 contract. Dr. Coleman questioned whether council had approved park plans. City Attorney Carol Duncan clarified that the council does not approve plans, only spending. Dr. Coleman voted against. Passed 3-1. - RES-26:132 (Custom Playground Package – Disciple Drive Park – Landscape Structures): Contract value not read aloud but part of the same park. Patti Lack asked about park plans and project deadline. Parks Director Jim Stearns said there is no deadline yet, but they hope to break ground within a month; a preliminary plan exists. Dr. Coleman expressed concern about spending nearly $1 million without seeing plans. Passed 3-1 (Dr. Coleman nay). - RES-26:138 (Right-of-Way Purchase – 3519 Aggie Road): Chairman Hafner asked about remaining parcels needed. Director Light said only one temporary easement remains. Passed unanimously. - RES-26:140 (Motorola Solutions E-911 Radio Equipment): $2,170,000 agreement for radio consoles, microwave tower, etc. Chairman Hafner asked about the THUD appropriation. Chief Administrative Officer Brian Richardson confirmed a $3.5 million THUD appropriation for 2025, with approval received the day before. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All 14 resolutions were recommended to the full City Council for final approval. - Next council meeting rescheduled: The regular Tuesday, October 5, 2026, council meeting was moved to Thursday, October 7, 2026, due to National Night Out. - Community announcements: Chairman Hafner promoted the National Interscholastic Cycling Association regional race (October 2–4) at Craighead Forest Park, noting 28 student-athletes on the Jonesboro composite team. Councilmember Charles Coleman reminded attendees of National Night Out on Tuesday, October 5, featuring free food and bicycle raffles. - Vote tally on two contested items: RES-26:131 and RES-26:132 each passed with a 3-1 vote (Anthony Coleman dissenting; two members absent). All other votes were unanimous among present members.

The San José City Council met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, in a hybrid meeting starting at 1:30 p.m. (following a 9:30 a.m. closed session). The council approved consent items, land use items, a wastewater financing program, and an elevator replacement project. A major debate centered on proposed parking meter and garage rate increases, culminating in a compromise motion that passed 7-3 after initial motions failed. Consent Calendar - Approved consent calendar (9-0) including: - Approval of council/committee minutes and excused absence requests. - Amendments to airport leases (Jett Pro Line Maintenance, GSA, PrimeFlight Aviation). - Amendment to master consultant agreement with HF&H Consultants ($380,000 to $480,000). - Authorization for Interim Independent Police Auditor travel to Louisville for NACOLE training. - Amendment to grant agreement with San José Public Library Foundation (increase to $1.3 million). - Amendment to tow administrator services agreement (increase to $4,363,076). - First amendment for Race Street/Parkmoor Avenue Safety Improvements project (increase to $660,230). - Grant application for Highway 237 Trail Rail Crossing Improvement Project. - Status report on 2018 Measure T Disaster Preparedness Bond. - Travel authorizations for Mayor Mahan and staff to various events. - $500 grant to California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions. Public Comments & Testimony - Parking item (5.2): Numerous downtown small business owners, employees, residents, and parking board members spoke in opposition to the rate increases, citing harms to downtown vibrancy, employee affordability, safety in garages, and inadequate prior outreach. A downtown business owner stated he would leave San Jose after 20 years. Some speakers supported a pause and more data. - Moratorium item (3.5): Public comment included support for the moratorium (e.g., from a community member thanking council for protecting public safety) and opposition from a caller criticizing the city's approach to federal immigration enforcement. - Elevator project (5.1): A speaker with mobility issues urged ensuring elevators are accessible for all users. - Wastewater financing (Joint agenda): One speaker praised the collaborative effort; another expressed skepticism about city management. - Open Forum: Speakers raised concerns about a local service provider facing permit issues and noise disturbances at interim housing. Discussion Items - 3.3 – Performance Measures Audit: City Auditor presented audit of Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs (OEDCA) with 5 recommendations to improve clarity and documentation. OEDCA accepted all recommendations. Council approved 9-0. - 3.5 – Temporary Moratorium on Detention/Custodial Facilities: Council adopted an interim ordinance establishing a 45-day moratorium (with possible extensions) on applications for detention or custodial facilities on private/public property, to allow study of zoning implications. Motion passed unanimously (9-0). - 5.1 – SJC Terminal Elevator Replacement Project: Awarded contract up to $9,415,000 with 15% contingency. Motion passed unanimously (9-0). - 5.2 – Parking Meter and Garage Rates and Hours: Extensive debate on balancing revenue needs, downtown vibrancy, and equity. Councilmember Tordillos introduced a blue memo with a two-year phased approach vs. staff's five-year plan. Initial motion tied 5-5 (failed). A subsequent motion for a joint council-parking board meeting also failed 5-5. Finally, a compromise motion (items 1A, B, C, F and all of item 2 from the blue memo) passed 7-3. - 6.1 – Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program: Amendment with County of Santa Clara increasing compensation by $4,083,373 to $5,283,373, retroactive to September 2025. Councilmember Cohen questioned the 400% increase; staff cited reduced fee revenue, increased participation, and higher costs. Motion passed unanimously (9-0). Key Outcomes - Parking rates (5.2): Adopted a two-year phased increase (effective October 2026): - Special event garage flat rate range $13–$35 (Market/San Pedro Square, Third Street, Second/San Carlos, Fourth Street, The Globe garages). - Daily garage rate of $1.25 per 15 minutes. - Expanded Downtown Employee Discounted Permit Parking Program: 50% discount off Global Monthly Permit for employees earning ≤50% over minimum wage (excluding gratuities). - Extended 90-minute free parking at Convention Center Garage on non-event days through June 2027. - No extension of meter hours beyond 6 p.m. (existing hours remain). - Directed City Manager to develop a long-term parking and curb management plan, including a return-to-source policy for parking fund revenues, and to provide annual reports to the Downtown Parking Board with utilization data. - Moratorium (3.5): 45-day temporary moratorium on detention/custodial facilities established. - Performance audit (3.3): Accepted with recommendations to improve OEDCA performance measures. - Wastewater financing (Joint): Approved issuance of up to $200 million in subordinate wastewater revenue commercial paper notes (9-0).

The board met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 9:30 AM on the 10th floor of City Hall and Technology Center. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, staff reports on waste and recycling, a financial update, a commercial waste fee setting vote, and a news update on operations and fleet. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes from August 25 and August 28 were approved unanimously. Staff Reports & Updates - Manager Report (Philip Peaks): Recycling contamination remained stable; 35 contaminated carts were recorded in August (5 carts removed). Diversion to AEL was 2.72% (crane issues ongoing). Illegal dumping totaled 26.34 tons; 6 investigations were ongoing (3 new, 3 ongoing). No citations written. Flock cameras received city permits and are being installed. DC (code enforcement/neighborhood) dumpsters: 63 dumpsters set, 153.37 tons collected. Green waste site saw 2,590 residents and 48 MOU customers. Bulky waste pickups: 2,555 stops in August. Discussion arose about mattress dumping in neighborhoods; the manager suggested coordinating with neighborhood dumpster events and grapple truck pickups. The bulky waste fee will increase to $20 on October 1. - Household Hazardous Products (HHP) Facility (Brian Lewis): In August, the facility served 464 customers (363 Tulsa residents, 101 non-residents), collected 36,390 pounds (approx. 79 pounds per customer). The swap shop had 198 customers and 779 items taken (1,781 pounds diverted). Customer numbers increased 16 from a year ago. The facility passed its annual DEQ inspection with no needed actions. Insulation and painting projects for temperature control were completed. - Great Tulsa Cleanup Program Update: The April 2025 cleanup had 973 participants, 64 groups, and 512 bags of trash. In April 2026, records were broken: 1,337 participants, 131 groups, and 1,013 bags collected (21 groups returning). Online waivers were introduced. Advertising cost $1,200 for targeted ads. The program was nominated and became a finalist for the Keep Oklahoma Beautiful Government Excellence Award. Financial Report - Katie Myers presented the monthly financial report through August 31. Total revenues were $7,268,000 (17.34% of annual budget vs. 16.67% expected), $283,000 above target. Charges for services were $7.0 million, $125,000 over. Total expenditures, encumbrances, and commitments were $32,134,000 ($27 million encumbrances, $5.1 million actual expenses). The year-to-date spending percentage (including encumbrances) was 63% due to early-year contract encumbrances. Discussion Items - Commercial Waste Hauler Cost Calculation & Fee Setting (Gerald Black): Staff presented a cost calculation for commercial inspection and clean community fees. Residential cubic yards total 2.6 million (27% of combined residential and commercial); commercial cubic yards total 6.8 million (73%). The clean community fee (covering HHP, illegal dumping, dead animal pickup, supervised litter) was allocated 72% to commercial, resulting in a commercial rate of $0.55/cubic yard – the same as the current rate but now data-supported. The residential equivalent clean community fee was $0.57 for 96-gallon carts, $0.36 for 64-gallon, and $0.17 for 32-gallon. - News Update (Gary Percival, New Solutions): AEL issues continue (crane repairs). Battery fires, radiological, and sharps incidents were minimal. A battery responsibility bill is being drafted for the state legislature with a Senate author secured. Cart audits (routes to identify unpaid carts) have changed out about 2,300 carts, with roughly half as many remaining to be addressed. The new contract begins in two days; half of the new CNG truck fleet has been received and is being fitted with technology (WIS Technologies). Training and data rollout expected soon. Old CNG trucks have limited resale value. Key Outcomes - Vote on Commercial Waste Fee: A motion to adopt the commercial rate of $0.55 per cubic yard (supported by the cost study) passed unanimously. - Secretary Appointment: The board nominated and approved Adam (last name unclear) as secretary under the bylaws. - Next Meeting: Tuesday, October 27, at 3:30 PM in Conference Room 10 North at City Hall.

The Lakewood Committee of the Whole met to review the 2026 Lakewood Public Art Master Plan and Resolution 2026-40, which would adopt the plan. The planning team from the City of Lakewood and the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission presented the plan's background, community engagement results, recommendations, and implementation framework. Council members spoke in support, and the committee voted unanimously to refer Resolution 2026-40 to full council with a recommendation for approval. Note on date: The posted agenda notice is for the October 5, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting; the date used here (September 29, 2026) follows the source-file date provided for this meeting. Consent Calendar - Motion to approve the minutes of the September 28, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting passed by voice vote without discussion. Discussion Items - Presentation of the Public Art Master Plan: Amanda Kramer (Lakewood Planning Department) introduced the consultant team; Meg Chaney and Jim Sonnhalter of the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission presented. Lakewood was one of 10 applicants for the County's 2025 Community Planning Services Program and one of four selected; the City-County agreement was signed July 31, 2025. - Planning process: Four phases - current conditions, vision and recommendations, implementation, and final plan; a steering committee met monthly; stakeholder interviews were conducted; community engagement included tabling at the August 2025 Lakewood Arts Festival and a survey open August 3-September 30, 2025. - Survey results: 800 respondents and approximately 2,038 written comments; more than 90% rated current public art good or very good (69% rated it "Very Good"); 79% were unaware of the Public Art Advisory Board (PAAB); 63% said current art reflects community identity and values; 52% said their interests, culture, and heritage were represented; 79% supported requiring public art in new development; 77% supported increasing the public art budget. - Youth engagement: Approximately 120 students from Lakewood High School and St. Edward High School participated; the Solstice Steps was the favored existing piece; nature-based art and city parks ranked highly. - Plan goals: Four goals cover diversifying public art forms (murals, asphalt art, sculpture, illuminated/projected, interactive, infrastructural/functional, performance/temporary); strategic placement in commercial corridors, gateways, parks, community institutions, and residential areas; embedding equity (racial, cultural, gender, age, accessibility); and sustaining PAAB processes for funding, planning, outreach, and maintenance. - Implementation matrix: Includes priorities (high/medium/low), timeframes (0-2, 2-5, 5-10 years, ongoing), cost estimates (up to $50,000 to $500,000+), and lead agencies and partners. The current annual public art allocation is $50,000 from the capital budget. - Council discussion: - Council President Sarah Kepple noted the plan's alignment with the ADA transition plan, active transportation plan, Safe Streets for All, and Safe Routes to School efforts. - Councilman Bryan Evans expressed strong support, called the plan a "dream" realized, and emphasized that artists deserve fair compensation. - Vice President Kyle Baker observed that Ward 1 has relatively little public art, suggested gateway and arrival art near I-90 exits and the Winterhurst Ice Arena, raised maintenance coordination questions for Public Works, and supported asphalt art on the Detroit Avenue Extension. - Councilwoman Cindy Strebig asked about youth involvement in creating art, engagement with places of worship, and maintenance and removal; presenters cited a Lakewood High School student mural at the Public Library as a model and described maintenance plans and deaccession policies. - Councilwoman Angelina Hamilton Steiner praised the plan's attention to the diversity index and equity, flagged the 52% representation figure as a gap, and asked who will own implementation; Amanda Kramer confirmed she is the point person. - Councilman Matt Bixenstine praised the walkability analysis, diversity index, and pedestrian-safety benefits of asphalt art, and called the 52% representation figure an "opportunity for growth." - Councilman Tom Bullock urged quick action on at least one new art category as a visible example, asked about the "percent for art" funding concept, and questioned whether the $50,000 budget baseline constrained the plan; Meg Chaney responded that the plan is not cost-constrained and that adoption opens funding opportunities. - Resolution 2026-40: Declared an emergency measure; adoption requires the affirmative vote of at least five members (two-thirds) of Council. Key Outcomes - The Committee voted unanimously (voice vote) to refer Resolution 2026-40 to full council with a recommendation for approval. - Next step: Full council consideration of Resolution 2026-40.

The Stockton City Council met on September 29, 2026, in a regular session that ran from 1:00 PM to 7:39 PM (with a recess from 3:19-3:34 PM and a closed session from 6:59 PM). The council approved several consent items, debated the Measure A Citizens' Advisory Committee reports, adopted a formal response to a critical civil grand jury report, and allocated over $11.6 million in state Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) funds to local service providers. Consent Calendar - Approved 16 consent items with a single 7-0 vote, pulling items 6.1 (Measure A Annual Report), 6.2 (Measure A Budget Report), 6.4 (Grand Jury Response), and 6.10 (Health Benefits Report) for separate discussion and votes. - Individual consent items approved unanimously include: quarterly investment report, Conflict of Interest Code update, $4.5M Prop 64 grant acceptance, naming of Corazón del Valle Park, team lease agreements for Stockton Thunder hockey and Stockton Crusaders arena football, fire telecommunication recruitment incentives, sole source agreements for camera repair and membrane filters, annexations to the Western Pacific Industrial Park storm drainage district, AT&T contract for dispatch centers, and construction contracts for sewer rehabilitation and B Street roundabouts. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comments (21 speakers) covered: candidate Andrew Watkins for Stockton East Water District (described his farming background and water conservation efforts); Richard Sepulveda (reported ongoing harassment and police inaction, requested outside investigation); multiple residents (Leslie Hearon, Zoyla Moreno, Donald Tofoya, Joaquin Dominguez, Shelly Hollis, and others) criticized city council dysfunction, personal attacks, and lack of decorum; Mary Elizabeth raised concerns about tobacco retail licensing and blight; several speakers urged accountability for the council's behavior. - On consent items: Ned Leiba (Measure A Chair) stated the city collected $470M in sales tax but one third is unaccounted for and zero sworn officers were added; Dan Offield (Measure A Vice Chair) said the committee cannot track the money and called for an audit; David Sengthay questioned the use of $3.45M in Prop 64 grant funds for surveillance equipment and asked for a written use policy; Mary Elizabeth opposed removing the Water Advisory Group from conflict-of-interest filer requirements. - On the Grand Jury response: Cynthia Gail Boyd, David Sengthay, Mary Elizabeth, Barbara King, and Nina Rebultan all spoke. Sengthay (Stockton Democrats Together) praised the response format but urged an independent ethics commission, contribution caps, and quarterly progress reports. Mary Elizabeth emphasized the need for a transparent dashboard and a truly independent ethics commission. - On HHAP funding: David Sengthay supported the staff recommendations and urged the council to follow the competitive scoring process. Discussion Items - 6.1 & 6.2 – Measure A Reports (Annual Report July 2018–June 2024 and Budget Report FY 2025-26): The committee reported $470M collected with no added police officers and poor accounting. Councilmembers Fugazi, Padilla, Lee, and Enríquez acknowledged past failures and committed to prospective transparency, audits, and improved reporting. City CFO Gilbert Garcia confirmed that UHY (the city's new auditor) has been tasked with a Measure A audit. The council approved both reports 7-0. - 6.4 – Response to 2025-2026 Civil Grand Jury Report No. 0125 ("Stockton City Council: Governance in Turmoil"): Vice Mayor Lee noted the response was submitted after a deadline extension to October 2, 2026. He raised First Amendment concerns about social media restrictions and asked about the process for establishing an ethics commission and campaign finance rules. Councilmember Enríquez reported that the Legislative Committee has already drafted a Stockton Ethics Commission ordinance (hybrid model of Sacramento and San Francisco). City Manager Ford said a public workshop could be scheduled for October. The council unanimously approved the response (7-0). - 6.10 – Health Benefits Report and 2027 Premium Rates: Councilmember Padilla inquired about progress on percentage-based employee premium contributions. CFO Garcia said scenarios were run and will be discussed in closed session in early October. The rates and report were approved 7-0. - 8.1 – 2026-2027 Legislative Advocacy Program Follow-up (Informational): Staff and lobbyists presented metrics: federal advocacy yielded $1.25M in secure funding (484% ROI) and is advancing $3.02M more; state lobbyist Ciara Ross reported on bill tracking, protecting $5M in grant funding, and planning for 2027 budget requests. Council members discussed relationship mapping and future advocacy trips. No action taken. - 10.1 – HHAP Funding Allocations: The city allocated $1,019,288.08 to Amelia Ann Adams Whole Life Center (Housing Justice Program); $1,019,288.09 to Family Resource Center (Housing Assistance); $5,000,000 to St. Mary's Community Services (shelter operations); $1,161,187.97 to Children's Home of Stockton (CATALYST Program); $1,161,187.94 to Lutheran Social Services (Housing Assistance); $1,019,288.09 to Family Resource Center (Childcare Vouchers); and $1,325,880.00 to Housing Authority of San Joaquin County (Emergency Housing Vouchers). Councilmember Padilla raised concerns about sustainability and urged quarterly reports. Councilmember Villapudua noted neighborhood concerns about St. Mary's campus. The resolution passed 6-0 (Vice Mayor Lee recused). Key Outcomes - Approved Measure A reports and budget (7-0). - Approved the city's formal response to the Grand Jury report (7-0), with commitments to an ethics commission, campaign finance reform, training on decorum and social media use, and a public tracking matrix. - Approved 2027 employee health plan premium rates (7-0). - Allocated $11,614,041.17 in HHAP-5 and HHAP-6 funds to seven organizations for homeless prevention, shelter, housing vouchers, and childcare vouchers (6-0, Lee recused). - No reportable action from closed session. - City Council comments included announcements of upcoming events (police awards, pumpkin giveaways, park improvements, legislative committee work) and expressions of appreciation for staff and community partners.

The Prince George's County Council, sitting as the Committee of the Whole, met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Committee Room 2027. The meeting covered two major sector plan and sectional map amendment (SMA) items, several financial authorizations, and contract approvals. Nine members were present for roll call. Public Comments & Testimony - For the Port Towns Sector Plan (TA-4-2026): The committee received 25 pieces of written testimony and five oral speakers at the joint public hearing on May 11, 2026. Two late testimony items were admitted. The town of Colmar Manor and some residents expressed concerns about zoning changes, transition areas, and density; towns of Bladensburg, Cottage City, and Edmonston submitted testimony in favor of all proposed zoning changes. - For the Central Branch Avenue Corridor Plan (TA-5-2026): A joint public hearing was held on June 29, 2026, with the record closing July 14, 2026. No speakers were listed for later legislation. Discussion Items - TA-4-2026: Port Towns Sector Plan & Proposed SMA – Staff (Emily Lutz, Arnaldo Ruiz) presented an overview of the preliminary plan, key testimony issues, and Planning Board revisions. Key topics included: a transition area around the neighborhood center boundary (originally proposed RSF-65 to RSF-A, but Planning Board removed the zoning change pending a missing middle housing study); a cultural heritage trail concept incorporating a University of Maryland PALS project; adjustments to reduce plan length by moving appendices online; revisions to preserve the transition area as a buffer; and updates to policies on green jobs, rooftop agriculture, historic preservation, and pedestrian connections. The endorsed SMA removed four zoning changes in Colmar Manor and Cottage City and corrected a zoning error in Colmar Manor. - TA-5-2026: Central Branch Avenue Corridor Sector Plan & Proposed SMA – Staff (Michael Calamis, Corey Arsenal, Kier McCune) gave a truncated presentation. The minor plan amendment and endorsed SMA were adopted by the Planning Board on September 17, 2026. No substantive changes from the Planning Board recommendations were noted. The committee discussed the timeline and opened the floor for questions; no major concerns were raised. - CB-130-2026: General Obligation Bonds – Staff (Alex Hurdle) presented a bill authorizing up to $788,587,000 in general obligation bonds and $161,463,000 in stormwater management bonds for FY2027 capital projects, plus up to $950,050,000 in bond anticipation notes. Legal sufficiency was confirmed. No public speakers. - CR-147-2026 (corrected to CR-102-2026): Contract Approvals – Staff presented a resolution approving multiyear contract modifications for snow and ice control services (three contracts) and essential transportation services (two contracts) whose approved funding was insufficient for FY2027. Legal sufficiency confirmed. No public speakers. - CR-148-2026 (corrected to CR-103-2026): Local Impact Grant Funds Multiyear Plan – This item was deferred to the October 6, 2026 Committee of the Whole. The committee voted to accept the additions package (6-0). - CR-91-2026: Local Impact Grant Funds Multiyear Plan (second item) – After a brief recess, the committee considered a separate resolution. The Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee had reported it favorably on September 24. An amendment was offered and approved, then the resolution passed as amended. - CB-131-2026: Immersive Entertainment Venue Community Impact Funding – Staff presented a bill reserving 5% of tax revenue from a new immersive entertainment venue for communities within a six-mile radius. The sponsor offered an amendment to add an uncodified section acknowledging the county executive’s support; the amendment passed, and the bill passed as amended. Key Outcomes - Port Towns Sector Plan (TA-4-2026): Motion to direct staff to prepare a resolution of approval for the sector plan (in accordance with the Planning Board) passed 6-0-1 (Councilmember Adams abstained due to his appointment to the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Commission). A separate motion for the SMA passed 6-0-1. - Central Branch Avenue Corridor (TA-5-2026): Motion to direct staff to prepare a resolution of approval for the minor plan amendment passed 6-0; motion for the SMA passed 6-0. - CB-130-2026: Motion to approve passed 7-0. - CR-147-2026 (CR-102-2026): Motion to approve passed 6-0. - CR-148-2026 (CR-103-2026): Deferred to October 6, 2026; motion to accept additions package passed 6-0. - CR-91-2026: Amendment passed 7-0-1 (Councilmember Ivy abstained); final passage as amended passed 7-0-1. - CB-131-2026: Amendment passed 6-0-1 (Ivy abstained); final passage as amended passed 6-0-1 (Councilmember Adams initially passed but later voted aye). - Adjournment: The committee adjourned at the conclusion of the legislative items.

The Board of Aldermen met on September 29, 2026, with 13 members present. The meeting included introductions of honored guests, approval of previous minutes, appointments to special boards, first and second readings of board bills, and extensive debate on a traffic‑calming ordinance and a resolution concerning a colleague’s language. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from Friday, September 25, 2026. - Received appointments from Mayor Kara Spencer to the Baden Market Center Special Business District (Kimberly Jones, Teresa Myers, Chamber Keefe, Larry Johnson, Tiana Broadway) and to the Nuisance Property Review Board (Alonzo Shaw, Erin Brocole, Bernard Pollery, Ed Ware, Kelsey Lober, Vana Sean, Walter Brownley Bonner); both sets sent to the HUDS Committee. - First reading of Board Bills 86 and 87; referred to committees. - Second reading and committee reports: Board Bill 81 (zoning/smoke shops) reported with “due pass” from Housing Urban Development Zoning; Board Bill 64 (street closure on Oregon Avenue) from Public Infrastructure Utilities; Board Bill 76 (codifying Office of Sustainability) from Health and Human Development. - Special committee reports: Board Bill 69 committee substitute (speed humps in 7th ward), Board Bill 71 (speed humps in 5th ward), and Board Bill 51 committee substitute (airport revenue bonds up to $500 million) read and sent for engrossment. - Perfection consent calendar adopted for routine bills. Discussion Items - Board Bill 75 (Traffic Calming Process) – Sponsored by Alderman from the 9th, this bill would professionalize the traffic‑calming request process, allowing residents, neighborhood associations, aldermen, and police captains to initiate requests, with the Department of Transportation evaluating and recommending treatments. The Alderman from the 12th strongly opposed, citing a history of inequitable treatment by city bureaucrats, her own successful petition‑based speed‑hump program, and concerns that the new system would harm North St. Louis neighborhoods. An amendment introduced by the Alderwoman from the 7th added transparency requirements (public dashboard with dates, status, reasons for denial, estimated construction timelines, and an annual report). The amendment passed 11‑2 (Alderman Tyus and Alderwoman Boyd voting present). The bill as amended was perfected 12‑2 (Alderman Tyus and Alderwoman Bright present). - Board Bill 78 – Sponsored by Alderman Devotee (5th), concerning the St. Louis Works street improvement fund; placed on the informal calendar without debate. - Resolution 125 Committee Substitute (Public Apology and Censure) – Sponsored by President Green, the resolution called for a public apology and a formal reprimand (defined as a verbal reprimand without sanction) for Alderman Tyus (12th) after she told a community meeting that if a colleague were in her black caucus, “you would be the first person I’d put a bullet in your head.” The Alderman from the 5th argued such language is inflammatory and unacceptable. Alderman Tyus responded at length, contending the video was taken out of context, that the committee hearing was held without inviting her, and that the board lacks authority to censure under its rules and charter. Several other aldermen spoke both in support and opposition. After debate, the resolution was adopted 8‑3‑1 (Alderman Tyus voted no; Alderman Keys and Alderman Bright voted no; Alderman Cohn voted present). - Resolution 145 – Adopted unanimously, approving the Gardenside Subdivisions District Budget for the next fiscal year. - Courtesy Resolution Calendar – Adopted without discussion. Key Outcomes - Board Bill 75 perfected as amended; referred to Legislation and Rules Committee for engrossment. - Board Bill 78 placed on the informal calendar. - Resolution 125 Committee Substitute adopted (8 ayes, 3 noes, 1 present), publicly reprimanding Alderman Tyus for the “bullet” language and requesting an apology. - Resolution 145 adopted. - Appointments to special boards sent to HUDS Committee. - Next meeting scheduled for Friday, October 9, 2026, at 10 a.m. in the Board of Aldermen Chambers.