The Public Meeting Index

The Saco City Council met Monday, September 28, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. All seven councilors (Edwards, Parks, Gay, Onan, Gale, Hewitt, and Johnston) were present, along with City Administrator Pelletier. The council approved three action items 7-0, heard administrative updates, and entered executive session before adjourning at 8:18 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved 7-0 the grant of an easement to Central Maine Power (CMP) for electrical installation for restructure at Foss Road. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the council; public comment closed with no speakers. Discussion Items - Committee correspondence: Councilor Hewitt thanked the Saco Museum for an art exhibit by three local artists, with an anonymous benefactor covering all admission fees. Councilor Edwards announced that Saco Main Street won the Maine Downtown Center 2026 Project of the Year award from the Maine Development Foundation for the Riverfront Park Revitalization; he also noted that Executive Director Angie Presby is leaving after four years and that the organization is seeking a new executive director. - First reading (action item A): The council voted 7-0 to approve the first reading of amendments to Saco Code Chapter 112, General Assistance Program Appendices (Portland HMFA Appendix A1), and set a public hearing for October 19, 2026. - Emergency ordinance (action item B): The council voted 7-0 to re-establish a temporary prohibition on data centers to allow time to update city code. - Cardiac monitors (action item C): The council voted 7-0 to authorize a lease purchase of cardiac monitors for up to $284,000, with zero percent financing over five years, with lease payments from the ambulance fund. Councilor Hewitt asked to confirm the equipment was what the fire department wanted; the response was that it was approved by Chief Hamill. - Council discussion: Councilor Onan thanked public works for supporting Camp Ellis during weather events and urged the public not to visit the seawall in dangerous conditions. Councilor Edwards asked why minutes were not included on the agenda; the mayor said she would follow up. Administrative Update City Administrator Pelletier provided the following updates: - The November 3 election ballot will include mayor, city councilor seats for wards 2, 3, and 7, and school board seats for wards 2, 4, and 6, plus charter amendment questions, U.S. House and Maine legislature races, and governor. Absentee ballots are available; in-person absentee voting begins October 5. - Beach Street paving is expected to be complete the week of October 5; the Front Street boat launch is closed for the season due to wastewater treatment plant construction. - The Arts Commission seeks artists for two Joe Riley Park projects (piping plover installation and a traffic signal cabinet wrap). - City offices will be closed October 1 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for employee appreciation. - IT staff were recognized for supporting the city's departments; last fiscal year they responded to nearly 2,000 help desk tickets and managed more than 750 devices and 74 applications. - Public works will pave Gooch Street the week of October 5, and crosswalk relocation on North Street begins the week of September 28. Executive Session The council voted 7-0 to enter executive session at 6:55 p.m. pursuant to MRSA Title 1, Chapter 13, Subchapter 1, Section 456-E (consultation between municipal officers and counsel). The council exited at 8:17 p.m. with no report. Key Outcomes - All votes were 7-0 in favor. - Public hearing on the General Assistance amendments set for October 19, 2026. - Temporary data center prohibition extended. - Lease purchase of cardiac monitors authorized up to $284,000. - Upcoming council meetings: October 5, October 19, and October 26.

The Port Huron City Council met on September 28, 2026, to discuss and act on several major items including the potential sale of the Municipal Office Center (MOC) and purchase of the former Woman's Life Insurance Building for a new City Hall, a brownfield plan for affordable housing, ordinances regulating automated license plate reader technology and e-bikes on sidewalks, and various resolutions. The meeting also included a public hearing and extensive public comment on homelessness, infrastructure, and community safety. Consent Calendar - Resolution 4: Accepted a federal firefighter grant of $243,560.16 for technical rescue training. - Resolution 5: Approved $32,000 for Blue Water Recovery and Outreach Center and $30,000 for Crossroads Recovery Services from opiate settlement funds. - Resolution 6-9: Confirmed single lot assessments for foreclosed properties, blight removal, emergency board ups, and brush pickup. - Resolution 10: Appointed Brandy McFarland to the Beautification Commission. Public Comments & Testimony - Brownfield Plan Public Hearing: Marilyn Krumka (Michigan Community Capital) described the plan to develop 12 middle-income owner-occupied homes (six duplexes) on a city-owned vacant lot at 2921 25th Street, emphasizing the Brownfield plan makes financing possible. Aaron Kriner expressed full support. Bruce Seymour (Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Chair) noted the authority unanimously approved the plan and urged council approval. A resident advocated for fair rules so low-income families are not unfairly denied. A second resident expressed support and noted her own affordable housing plans. The council held the hearing but did not take a recorded vote on the resolution to approve the plan. - General Public Comments: Multiple speakers addressed the MOC/Women's Life proposal, with strong support. Aaron Kriner highlighted volunteer opportunities and backed the Women's Life purchase. Rachel Farquhar praised the move and asked for details on flock camera access and tracking. Brian Farquhar criticized the e-bike ordinance as "irresponsible" and urged better bike infrastructure. A young woman called for safer crosswalks and pedestrian infrastructure, criticizing council for neglect. Kathy New Jim complained about homeless individuals leaving trash and needles, demanding action. Nick, a homeless individual, challenged stigmatization and urged rent control and subsidized housing. Other speakers addressed the e-bike ordinance, flock cameras, and nitrous oxide misuse. Discussion Items - MOC Transition and Women's Life Building Purchase: City Manager James Freed presented a detailed proposal to sell the MOC (100,000+ sq ft) to developer Paul Veldman/BMI Group for $2 million, with redevelopment into mixed-use (housing, potential hotel). The city would purchase the Woman's Life Building (55,000 sq ft) at 1338 Military Street for $1 million to relocate city hall and police. The MOC sale requires voter approval in May 2027. Council discussed zoning protections, capital needs (estimated $3-5 million for Women's Life), and the rigorous due diligence period. John Borgan (CEO of Trusted Fraternal Life, parent of Woman's Life) spoke in favor, citing the building's historic significance and his commitment to maintaining a local presence. - Flock Camera Ordinance (Ordinance 4): Councilman Archibald introduced a stopgap measure making misuse of automated license plate reader technology a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days. Council members expressed concern about privacy and called for state and federal regulation, but supported local action. The ordinance passed unanimously. - E-Bike and Sidewalk Ordinance (Ordinance 5): The ordinance bans bicycles, e-bikes, electric scooters, and mopeds from downtown sidewalks, Edison Parkway boardwalks, marinas, and scenic turnouts. It was narrowed from a citywide ban after public feedback. Council debated safety, enforcement, and the need for bike infrastructure. Councilmembers Peyton and Haremza voted no, citing insufficient bike lanes and pedestrian safety. Passed 5-2. - Non-Owner Occupied Certification (Ordinance 6): Changed certification period from 2 to 3 years, reflecting improved rental housing quality. Passed unanimously. - Budget and Reports: The city manager's September administrative report was received and filed, highlighting progress on infrastructure, housing projects, and an emergency cold weather shelter plan. Council noted the report's improved format. Key Outcomes - Resolution 1 (HUD performance report): Passed unanimously. - Resolution 2 (Water treatment plant switch gear engineering): Passed unanimously. - Resolution 3 (Purchase of 1338 Military Street for $1 million): Passed unanimously. - Resolution 11 (Sale of MOC to Paul Veldman for $2 million): Passed unanimously. The sale is contingent on voter approval in May 2027. - Ordinance 1 (Rezone 929 Division Street from R1 to C1): Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 2 (Service charge in lieu of taxes for OM Senior Apartments): Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 3 (Service charge for residents of 256 housing project): Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 4 (Misuse of flock technology penalty): Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 5 (E-bike ban on select sidewalks): Passed 5-2 (Councilmembers Haremza and Peyton dissenting). - Ordinance 6 (Three-year rental certification): Passed unanimously. - No vote was taken on the Brownfield plan for 256 residents; the council only held the public hearing.

The Spartanburg City Council met on September 28, 2026, for a regular meeting that included public comments, proclamations, an update on the International Festival, board appointments, a detailed employee engagement survey presentation, staff updates on a high-profile arrest and a zoning rewrite initiative, and council member updates. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, and the agenda was approved as amended. Proclamations - International Festival Day: Mayor Jerome Rice Jr. proclaimed October 3, 2026, as International Festival Day in Spartanburg. Representatives from several countries were present. - National Night Out: The council proclaimed October 6, 2026, as National Night Out in Spartanburg, encouraging citizens to join the 43rd annual event. Public Comments & Testimony - James A. Jones spoke on behalf of National Hispanic Heritage Month and urged the city and county to develop a consistent, published process for undocumented crime victims eligible for U visas. He also proposed establishing an immigration law clinic at USC Upstate, offering his firm’s assistance. No other public comments were received. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously without discussion. Discussion Items - International Festival Update: A representative presented details for the October 3rd festival, now held downtown. The 2025 festival drew 10,000+ attendees, including 1,500 from North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. The 2026 event features 33 countries, a new downtown footprint, a “Dining Around the World” challenge (18 participating restaurants), and a passport activity. It is a rain-or-shine event. - Boards & Commissions Appointments: The council approved staff recommendations: Brian Sanders (reappointment to Design Review Board), Dennis Mitchell (Board of Zoning and Appeals), and Mary Fields Chun (Planning Commission). All votes were unanimous. - Employee Engagement Survey Results: City Manager Chris Story presented results from a voluntary survey of the city’s 425 employees (58% response rate, administered by Dr. Patrick Jinks’ firm). He identified three gaps: compensation (dissatisfaction with pay), accountability (concerns over handling poor performers), and communication (between senior leadership and employees). Strengths included confidence in immediate supervisors, role clarity, and a strong sense of purpose and mission. Council members discussed the need for regular surveys, revisiting the 2023 compensation study, and improving council-employee understanding. Story outlined ongoing efforts to address gaps, including training, new communication platforms, and cultural mapping. Staff Updates - Police Department: Story praised the diligence of the Spartanburg Police Department in making arrests related to the tragic murder of 7-month-old Zamir Smith (August 3, 2026), emphasizing the methodical process over speed. - Code Spartanburg: A zoning ordinance rewrite process was announced, with two public input sessions scheduled: October 7 (4:30-7:30 PM at the Barrett Room, Library) and October 8 (same time at Dr. TK Gregg Community Center). The effort is expected to take about a year. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda, proclamations, and board appointments were approved unanimously. - The employee engagement survey results were received and discussed; no formal action was taken, but the city manager committed to continuing improvement efforts and considering a two-year survey cycle. - Council members expressed support for the police department’s work, community events, and ongoing initiatives. Council Updates - Council members reported on attending events (One Spartanburg annual celebration, Hampton Heights Porch Fest, RB Sims water treatment plant 100th anniversary, Wofford Parents Weekend, etc.), highlighted upcoming events (fire prevention open house, candy drive for trunk-or-treat), and reiterated concerns about gun violence and youth. The meeting adjourned without a recorded time.

This public hearing was held on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The committee, including Councilman Justin Reyers and Councilman Miguel Sanchez, heard testimony on several petitions to abandon city streets but took no votes or decisions. The hearing was limited to listening to public concerns. Item 7: Utah Street Abandonment (Withdrawn) - The petitioner, Jeffrey Padua (Padwa Law LLC), requested to abandon the northerly portion of Utah Street. The petitioner asked to withdraw the matter, and no testimony was taken. Letters and emails requesting withdrawal were entered into the record. Items 1 & 2: Providence College Petitions (No Testimony) - Item 1: Petition from Mark Raposa (Providence College) to abandon the south portion of Cumlin Street from Sandringham Avenue. No one testified. - Item 2: Petition from Mark Raposa to abandon the south portion of Dante Street from Ventura Street. No one testified. Item 3: Divine Street Abandonment (Eddy Street LLC) - Petition from Kelly Morris Salvatore (Darrow Everett LLP) on behalf of 888 and 908 Eddy Street LLC to abandon portions of Divine Street. - Joseph Baxter, attorney for the applicant, described the two portions: one paved but used only by the client and an abutter, and one unpaved and overgrown. He noted the City Plan Commission recommended approval and that the paved portion accumulates debris. - Dan Gory, owner of HookFast Specialties on Seymour Street, opposed the abandonment. He stated that Divine Street is a critical access route for his 22 employees, suppliers, and customers to reach Allen’s Avenue and I-95 North, especially when Eddy Street is congested. He argued that closing the street would add minutes to travel daily. - Jason Sister, one of the applicants, supported the abandonment. He testified that the street is constantly filled with debris (boats, trailers, mattresses) and that the city (DPW) does not respond to calls. He and the co-applicant have been fined and have spent thousands cleaning the street. He claimed that access to Allen’s Avenue is not via Divine Street, and that abandoning the street would reduce burden on DPW and allow the property to go back on the tax roll. Item 4: Nancy Street Abandonment (Destiny Partners LLC) - Petition from Dylan Conley (Rhode Island Land Use Law) on behalf of Destiny Partners LLC to abandon portions of Nancy Street. - Lily Porchfield and Mark Clinton expressed support and deferred to the attorney. - Dylan Conley, attorney for the applicant, explained that the paper street behind their lot is unimproved and part of a larger site subject to a DEM remedial action plan for environmental cleanup. The applicant seeks to acquire the right-of-way to roll it into cleanup efforts and overall site development. There is also an abandoned cemetery on site; the applicant seeks city permission to clean and maintain it but not acquire it. Conley noted the area is a dumping ground. He requested ability to respond to the appraisal figure and to present cleanup costs. Conley stated no development is planned on the green area (right-of-way) but only use as buffer, and any future development would require planning and zoning review. He confirmed willingness to grant an access easement to the cemetery for families. - Councilman Royus asked about the cemetery and access for families; Conley agreed to provide an access easement. Item 5: West Park Street Abandonment (Eric Bright) - Petition from Eric Bright (124 West Park Street) to abandon a portion of West Park Street. - Mr. Mott, attorney for the petitioner, reported that police, fire, DPW, parks, and planning raised no objections, and the City Plan Commission unanimously voted support subject to an administrative subdivision and easements. He submitted a letter of support from neighbor Neil Kaplan. - Eric Bright, applicant, stated he owns property on both sides of the road. He described neglect: street light not working for 10 years, no sidewalks, overgrowth, and a falling fence. He proposed to address safety at the street end, put the street light on his own electric bill, and keep the street open for snow plowing. Goal is to beautify and reduce blight. Item 6: Western Street Terminus Abandonment (Sandra Lee) - Petition from Sandra Lee (23 Western Street) to abandon the northern terminus of Western Street (30 ft wide, 35 ft deep). - Sandra Lee testified that for 25 years she has parked on this parcel, but it belongs to the city and she does not have legal permission. She wishes to purchase and absorb it into her lot. She noted only one abutter (neighbor on Duncan Avenue) whose backyard abuts the terminus; she sent him a note but received no response. The neighbor does not use the land. Key Outcomes - No motions or votes were taken. The hearing was solely for receiving public testimony. - All petitions remain under consideration for future committee action. - The meeting was adjourned after completion of all agenda items.

The Commission for the Las Vegas Centennial met on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 2:00 PM with Vice Chair Stotl presiding in place of Chair Berkeley, who was excused. A quorum was present. The meeting covered financial reports, a documentary update, strategic planning discussions, and a motion to establish funding priorities. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (Agenda Item 4): The minutes from the July 27, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. - Strike of Abeyance Item (Agenda Item 6): Item 26-0359-CLC was struck from the agenda by unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public came forward to speak. Discussion Items - Budget Report for FY2027 (Agenda Item 5): Paul President, Senior Financial Analyst, reported that the commission began the year with $6.2 million. Total awarded grants were $5 million, with $1.687 million spent and $3.4 million rolling over. Operating expenditures were $215,000, resulting in a $12,500 net loss. Current year revenues are only $15,000 against $235,000 in expenditures. The five-year projection assumes a 2.25% annual decline in license plate revenue. Commissioner Clappen inquired about Raiders registration fees for license plates. Commissioner Truesdale asked if the Harrison House had drawn any funds; no invoices had been submitted. - Documentary Update – “A Sure Bet” (Agenda Item 7): Ted Faye of Gold Creek Films presented the final report on the documentary about the 1905 Las Vegas land auction. Principal photography is complete, shot in 8K with no stock footage or AI. The budget of $176,000 is on target, with $161,000 used and $39,000 in pledged in-kind contributions (exceeded). A sneak peek screening is scheduled for September 30, 2026. Faye requested permission to widely distribute the film (PBS, film festivals, community screenings) at no cost to the city. The commission expressed support but noted legal requirements must be met. Questions were raised about identifying recreations and the railroad engine graphics. - Strategic Planning Overview (Agenda Item 8): Anthony Lambert from the Office of Strategic Services presented the city’s strategic planning process. The city’s current priorities are economic development, housing and homelessness, public safety, and health care. Commissioners noted that the commission had a strategic plan from 10 years ago that was not effectively implemented. - Future Strategic Plan and Grant Guidelines (Agenda Item 9): Dr. Cebran presented categories of past grants (bricks & mortar, events, documentaries, education, conservation, arts) to guide priority setting. Commissioners debated the need for an “action plan” rather than a broad strategic plan. Vice Chair Stotl suggested a 90-day freeze on new funding. Commissioner Ryan moved to send a questionnaire to commission members to identify priorities, with results compiled for the next meeting. The motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Helton was authorized to meet individually with the school district to explore education partnerships, with the caveat that she speaks only hypothetically and not on behalf of the commission. Key Outcomes - Motion Passed (Unanimous): Staff will distribute a questionnaire to commissioners within one week, with a one-week response deadline. Results will be compiled and presented at the next meeting to inform priority-setting and updates to grant guidelines. - Documentary Distribution: The commission expressed willingness to explore broad distribution of “A Sure Bet” but deferred action pending legal review. - Education Outreach: Commissioner Helton will contact the Clark County School District to explore potential educational partnerships, acting in an individual capacity.

The Sparks City Council met on Monday, September 28, 2026, followed by the Sparks Development Agency (Redevelopment) meeting. The council approved several items including consent items, an amendment to a water reclamation facility project, and a tentative map for a 142-lot residential subdivision. The redevelopment agency approved a pre-construction contract for the new City Hall project. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved consent items 8.1 through 8.8 as submitted (motion by Councilmember Vanderwell, second by Councilmember Anderson). - Approved minutes of the September 14, 2026 City Council meeting (motion by Vanderwell, second by Anderson). Public Comments & Testimony - Walt Rosenberg: Asked about water sprinklers on Los Altos Parkway being under HOA control; requested an answer at the next meeting. - Carol Perry (representing CR Interfaith Action for Peace): Read a proclamation for International Day of Peace (September 21, 2026) and thanked the city for signing it; requested future proclamations be submitted in time. - Sean Sullivan: Spoke against AI use, surveillance cameras, and lack of police oversight; cited Bible verses about leadership; urged removal of cameras. - Chris Wayne: Expressed support and gratitude for the peace proclamation. - Libby Dehart (OCD Nevada): Thanked the city for recognizing OCD Awareness Week (October 11–17, 2026); invited the public to the OCD walk on October 4th at Sparks Marina. - Sarah Grocki (Nevada Cancer Coalition): Thanked the city for recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October 2026); noted estimated 2,880 breast cancer diagnoses and 430 deaths in Nevada this year; promoted mobile mammography on October 1st and a lighting event. Proclamations & Recognition Items - OCD Awareness Week: Proclamation read by Councilmember Rodriguez; Libby Dehart accepted. - Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Proclamation for October 2026 read by staff; accepted by Sarah Grocki and Melissa Kroll of Nevada Cancer Coalition. Discussion Items - 9.1 – Amendment No. 2 to Consulting Agreement with Jacobs Engineering Group for Truckee Meadows Water Reclamation Facility Dewatering Building Project: Casey Menser, Director of TMWRF, presented. The amendment adds $197,338 (Sparks share $61,904.93) for submittal review due to code changes (adoption of latest International Building Code and revised Sparks fire standards). Total agreement not to exceed $6,161,272. Funded from contingency in FY27 CIP. Approved unanimously. - 11.1 – Tentative Map for Miramonte Phase 8 (142-lot single-family subdivision): Senior Planner Dani Ray presented. The 30-acre site is east of Belmar Drive and south of Iridium Way. Density 4.77 DU/ac (allowed up to 14). Access via Dry Wine Drive from Belmar with a secondary gated emergency access from Iridium Way. A 50-foot earthen fill with culverts will cross a drainage way (not a dam per state engineer). Traffic impacts less than previously approved 448-unit townhome project. No additional road improvements needed. Fire department reviewed emergency access. Planning commission recommended approval. Public hearing: no public comments. Approved unanimously with conditions 1–18. - Redevelopment Agency Item 7.1 – Professional Service Contract with Core Construction for New City Hall CMAR Pre-Construction: Capital Projects Manager Brian Kasen presented. Core Construction selected through a competitive process (six proposals, three shortlisted). Contract amount $163,120, funded through Redevelopment Area 2 tax increment. Benefits include early contractor involvement, accurate cost estimating, and reduced risk. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved Amendment No. 2 to Jacobs Engineering agreement (motion by Councilmember Abbott, second by Vanderwell; vote: unanimous). - Approved Tentative Map STM-26-0001 for Miramonte Phase 8 (motion by Councilmember Anderson, second by Rodriguez; vote: unanimous). - Approved Minutes of September 14, 2026 City Council meeting (motion by Vanderwell, second by Anderson; vote: unanimous). - Approved Consent items 8.1–8.8 (motion by Vanderwell, second by Anderson; vote: unanimous). - Approved Redevelopment Agency agenda, minutes of August 24, 2026, claims/bills report for period August 12–September 15, 2026, and professional service contract with Core Construction (motions by various agency members; votes: unanimous). - Item 9.2 was removed from the agenda by motion of Councilmember Anderson prior to approval of the agenda. Note: The council also approved two proclamations (OCD Awareness Week and Breast Cancer Awareness Month) as part of recognition items.

This special session of the City Council’s Planning Board Working Group was held to receive updates on the Unlocking Housing Choices (UHC) project, a zoning code text amendment aiming to increase missing middle housing options near transit. The project team presented four major structural changes to the original proposal, responding to feedback from community members, stakeholders, and elected officials. Council members discussed the changes extensively, expressing mixed reactions ranging from support to opposition, with many raising concerns about equity, compatibility with adopted plans, and potential unintended consequences. Discussion Items Project team presentation (Rob Sasser, Andrew Webb, and others from Community Planning & Development): - The UHC project proposes code updates to allow missing middle housing via two bonuses: a retention bonus (preserving an existing primary structure for at least five years) and an affordability bonus (one unit affordable at 70% AMI rental or 100% AMI for-sale). - Four structural changes were introduced in this latest iteration: 1. Narrowed applicability: Bonuses would only apply to single-unit and two-unit zone districts within ¼ mile of transit priority streets (as identified in Blueprint Denver) and existing/future rail stations, reducing eligible area to about 54% of previously eligible zoned land (58% of parcels). 2. Postponement of floor area allowance (FAA): The proposed gross floor area limits for new housing were removed from Phase 1 and deferred to Phase 2, citing the need for further calibration and to avoid market shock amid interest rates, tariffs, and construction costs. 3. Retention of bulk plane regulations: After testing, the project team decided to keep the existing house-scale bulk plane system rather than replace it with sidewall/height measurements, while still making other building form updates (e.g., combining house scale forms, allowing multiple primary structures, updating half‑story definitions). 4. Unit limits per lot: Maximum of two primary dwelling units in suburban neighborhood contexts and four in urban edge/urban contexts when using the bonuses. - The building form updates (except FAA) would apply citywide, not just within the narrowed bonus areas. - Next steps include an advisory committee meeting on October 20, 2026, public meetings from November 4–19, 2026, and release of a draft amendment in winter 2026–2027. Planning board and city council hearings are expected in early spring 2027. Councilmember Flynn (District 2 – Kevin Flynn): - Asked for more intentional refinement of the transit corridors map, noting discrepancies such as a section of Sheridan in Bomar that should be excluded and old R2 zones already developed with triplex/row houses on Wadsworth. - Questioned the elimination of the floor area maximum and requested the survey data showing community input. - Raised a conflict between the mapped transit corridors and adopted plans, specifically the far northeast plan for Montbello/Green Valley Ranch, which states even duplexes are not appropriate in low‑residential areas. Noted that the UHC survey had only 3 respondents from those two neighborhoods, while the NPI plan involved over 1,000 participants. - Emphasized that specific plans should override general citywide guidance. Councilmember Heinz: - Expressed surprise at the removal of lot maximums, calling it a “green light for lot monsters” and counterproductive to limiting large houses. - Questioned the feedback that led to the changes, characterizing it as a mix of NIMBY and YIMBY that was confusing. - Concerned about the timeline, noting that further slippage could push the project into 2027 with competing priorities. Fred Glick (Planning Board): - Asked for data on how the pilot (narrowed geography) vs. citywide approach affects expected outcomes, particularly regarding concentration of development. Wanted to see comparisons from other cities that have piloted such zoning changes. - Noted that concentrating the pilot may attract capital in a way that undermines disbursement goals. Councilmember Torres (District 3 – Jamie Torres): - Clarified that the changes are independent—each could be kept or returned to original. - Questioned the administrative difficulty of limiting bonuses to transit corridors, contrasting it with the citywide approach used for eliminating parking minimums. Was assured by staff that the zoning code already uses similar transit‑proximity rules (e.g., mini‑storage) and can be administered via text, not map amendments. - Noted that the project team had not yet taken the changes to the advisory committee due to scheduling, but would do so in October. Councilmember Sawyer (District 5 – Amanda Sawyer): - Declared she could not support the revised proposal for three reasons: 1. Removing floor area limits fails to address gentrification in her district, where scrapped mid‑century homes are replaced by large McMansions. 2. The urban edge context effectively allows ADUs without the existing primary residence requirement, which was important to residents. 3. The proposal is incompatible with the Near Southeast Area Plan, which recommends duplex zoning in suburban contexts (not four‑unit buildings) and was developed with extensive community input. - Noted that many of these concerns were raised in her earlier briefing. Councilmember Albitris (District 7 – Laura Albitris): - Asked who made the decisions on the four changes; learned they were project team recommendations. - Questioned the definition of transit corridors, pointing out that WIPAN was previously called a transit corridor during a rezoning but is not on this map. Requested a transit study from DOTI. - Asked how many housing units would be lost by the cutback and whether the map includes areas already upzoned; was told the yellow areas are single‑unit/two‑unit zones, not upzoned lands. - Requested parcel count data rather than just acreage; was told about 58% of parcels remain eligible. - Expressed that she was hesitant to support without understanding the potential loss of units and disproportional impact. Councilmember Cottington (Mary Cottington – Planning Board): - Strongly supported the project, calling it a powerful way to unlock capital from homeowners and create a stronger tax base. - Worried that the pilot geography might concentrate capital too quickly, repeating issues seen in the West Area plan, and that findings from a pilot may not be applicable citywide. - Raised equity concerns: denser parts of the city subsidize less dense areas, and the pilot does not impact all districts equally. - Asked about the size of a rear house under the revised building forms; was told it would still be limited by building envelope standards. Councilmember Watson (District 9 – Daryl Watson): - A strong supporter of the original proposal, but expressed confusion about the revised map and requested a detailed briefing for his district (Globeville, Elyria‑Swansea, Five Points). - Wanted to ensure that neighborhoods that had carefully chosen solutions (e.g., with Tierra Collectiva) were not disincentivized. - Indicated that if the phased pilot approach is necessary to obtain a council majority, he would be supportive, pending deeper understanding. Councilmember Caitlin (Alicia Caitlin): - Supported removal of floor area limits to Phase 2 to allow calibration. - Asked for clarity on whether the transit map is a firm ¼‑mile buffer or subject to tweaking (staff said mostly yes/no, with minor exceptions like streets not controlled by Denver). - Asked for a concrete example of how the unit limits work with combined lots; staff explained the retention bonus scenario. - Raised a concern similar to Sawyer’s about the ADU primary residence requirement being circumvented. Councilmember Alicia (Alice No Man / Alicia Caitlin? – another speaker): - Emphasized that baby steps are bold and important in a housing crisis. - Supported using Blueprint Denver’s transit priority streets as the pilot geography, noting that it aligns with transit‑based land use, reduces parking concerns, and ensures utilities are already in place. - Discouraged combining house, duplex, and tandem building forms, as it could create confusion between zoning and building codes. - Noted that lot coverage regulations (maximum lot coverage) should be better explained as an already‑existing control on development. - Expressed general support for Phase 1, even with compromises. Councilmember Lewis: - Asked about equity: whether narrowing applicability concentrates density in displacement‑prone areas, contradicting UHC’s anti‑displacement values. Staff responded that the transit priority streets were chosen to spread impact citywide across different neighborhoods and land values. - Noted that some council members have appetite to go further, and asked how the team landed at these changes. Staff replied that it was a balance of feedback, including calls to pilot the project. - Asked if the administration had weighed in; Tim Hoffman (Mayor’s Office) said they have been informed and are deferring to the project team. - Asked how the team plans to “atone” for not presenting to the advisory committee first; staff said they will bring the changes to the October advisory committee meeting. Council President Campbell (District 4 – Diana Romero Campbell): - Asked whether adding both retention and affordability bonuses could allow more than the stated unit limits; staff confirmed no—the unit caps are maximums regardless of bonuses. - Raised the challenge of aligning the proposal with neighborhood plans that are still pending (e.g., Southeast Denver). Staff explained that citywide guidance is applied uniformly, with input from adopted NPI plans and ongoing engagement. - Noted that in her district, many homes are split internally (rented rooms, basements) rather than demolished, and asked if the retention bonus would address that. Staff said yes, it would allow legal conversion of existing units. - Pointed out that the ¼‑mile buffer as the crow flies may not reflect actual pedestrian access (e.g., crossing a highway); suggested more explanation is needed. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The purpose of the session was to gather feedback from council members on the proposed structural changes. - The project team will use this feedback to refine the proposal before presenting it to the advisory committee on October 20, 2026. - Additional public meetings are scheduled from November 4 to November 19, 2026 across various locations. - A draft zoning code amendment is expected in winter 2026–2027, followed by planning board and city council hearings in early spring 2027. - Several council members indicated conditional support or opposition, setting up a potentially contentious path to adoption. Key unresolved issues include the scope of the pilot geography, the removal of floor area limits, and consistency with neighborhood plans.

The Westchester County Board of Legislators Appointments Committee met on Monday, September 28, 2026, beginning at 3:17 PM in the Committee Room at the Michaelian Office Building, White Plains, NY. Chair Anant Nambiar presided with a quorum present. Committee members in attendance were Legislators Nambiar, Clements, Cunzio, Puja, and Ulaj; Legislator Margaret Cunzio participated remotely from 770 Commerce Street, Thornwood, NY. Committee Coordinator Althema Goodson and Warren Watson were also present. The committee considered election commissioner certifications and reappointments, approving all items unanimously. Discussion Items - Election Commissioner Certification – Tajian Nelson (Agenda Item 2026-296): The committee received the New York State Board of Elections certification for Tajian Nelson as Election Commissioner. On a motion by Legislator Clements, seconded by Legislator Ulaj, the committee voted 5-0 to sign the item. - Election Commissioner Certification – Douglas Colety (Agenda Item 2026-348): The committee considered the Election Commissioner Certification for Douglas Colety, forwarded by the Westchester Republican County Committee, and voted 5-0 to sign and refer it to the Board of Legislators. Note: The printed agenda listed this item as informational only with no committee referral necessary, but the minutes and transcript show a motion, vote, and referral to the full Board. - Reappointment – Terrance Raynor to the Traffic Safety Board (Agenda Item 2026-433): The committee voted 5-0 to approve the reappointment of Commissioner Terrance Raynor for the term May 11, 2026 through December 31, 2028, and referred it to the Board of Legislators. - Reappointment – Elaine Du to the Traffic Safety Board (Agenda Item 2026-434): The committee voted 5-0 to approve the reappointment of Elaine Du for the term May 11, 2026 through December 31, 2028, and referred it to the Board of Legislators. - Reappointment – Khalia Carter to the Domestic Violence Council (Agenda Item 2026-435): The committee voted 5-0 to approve the reappointment of Khalia Carter as an at-large member of the Westchester County Domestic Violence Council for the term June 23, 2026 through December 31, 2027, and referred it to Budget & Appropriations. Key Outcomes - All five items were approved unanimously by the five committee members present. - Four items were signed and referred to the Board of Legislators; the Carter reappointment was referred to the Budget & Appropriations Committee. - No public comments were made during the meeting. - No minutes were available to approve; the committee adjourned at 3:20 PM on a motion by Legislator Clements, seconded by Legislator Ulaj.

The Elizabethtown City Council convened on September 28, 2026, for a special meeting and subsequent work session. The special meeting focused on the first reading of a general obligation bond ordinance to finance city office renovations. During the work session, the Council addressed schedule changes, community events, and heard reports from the Kentucky League of Cities conference, while the scheduled police department presentation was canceled due to an ongoing emergency. Discussion Items - General Obligation Bond (First Reading): The Council voted to hold the first reading by summary of Ordinance 18, 2026. The ordinance authorizes the issuance of up to $17 million in general obligation bonds to finance the acquisition, renovation, and equipping of city offices at 2323 Ring Road. The Mayor noted that the projected cost is approximately $16 million, with the extra $1 million included to cover potential unanticipated fees. The bonds mature over 30 years and require a levy if other funds are insufficient, though this is not anticipated. Police Department Presentation Canceled - Chief Jeremy Thompson was scheduled to deliver a presentation but was unable to attend. The Council was informed that a Kentucky State Trooper had been shot on an interstate in Warren County, and Chief Thompson was assisting in the response effort. City Council Reports & Information Items - Meeting Schedule Change: The regular council meeting scheduled for October 5, 2026, was canceled. The next regular meeting will be held on October 12, 2026. - Community Events: - Parks and Recreation will host a SNAP event on September 30th at Malibu Jacks. - The Heartland Harvest Festival was reported as highly successful, with the Mayor expressing appreciation for the event staff, police, fire, parks, and public works departments. The concert featured Kevin Jaggers, the Crashers, and Little Texas. - Downtown District Open House: A public meeting was announced for the downtown district open house from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Historic State Theater. This will be the fourth meeting held to gather public input on potential downtown redistricting or rezoning. - Kentucky League of Cities Conference: Councilman Jones reported that several city staff members received awards at the recent conference, and the Mayor was elected first vice president of the Kentucky League of Cities. Executive Session - The Council unanimously voted to enter a closed session pursuant to KRS 61.810 to discuss pending litigation and the future acquisition or sale of real property. The Council indicated that no action would be taken following the closed session. Key Outcomes - The first reading of Ordinance 18, 2026, authorizing up to $17 million in general obligation bonds for city offices, was successfully conducted. - The October 5, 2026 regular council meeting was canceled. - The Council entered executive session for legal and property matters.