The Public Meeting Index

The Special Education Partnership Committee convened on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 3:35 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included presentations from the Oakland Thrives Youth Ventures JPA and the All City Council student leaders, along with community presentations on family camps and girls' wellness programs. The committee approved routine items and received informational reports. Public comment highlighted concerns about special education services, TK waitlists, and accessibility. Consent Calendar - Item 1 – Approval of Draft Minutes (April 13, 2026): Accepted unanimously by a vote of 3-0 (Councilmember Unger excused). - Item 2 – Determination of Schedule of Outstanding Committee Items: Accepted unanimously. Councilmembers and board members discussed desired future agenda topics including McKinney-Vento homeless student services, Measure Y bond facilities plan, unused OUSD parcels feasibility study, joint use agreements, violence prevention funding, and land swaps for disaster relief. Public Comments & Testimony - Pre-Meeting Community Presentations: - Yasi Sefini (Executive Director, Oakland Feather River Camp) described the family camp program offering scholarships and urged outreach to families in Districts 5, 6, and 7. - Jasmine Moses (Founder, Life I Love School) presented their girls' brain science and creative practice program serving 280 girls in 2025-26 (expected 400 in 2026-27). Reported 82% of participants felt more prepared to handle stress and 100% of school partners would recommend the program. Requested connections to school leaders. - Open Forum (5 speakers): - Sada Olabala criticized OUSD enrollment decline, building deficiencies, and ADA violations (elevator at Brewer broken since 2025). Called for facility consolidation. - LaShar Toki (Parent Voices Oakland) asked about OUSD's plans for TK waitlist, recruiting qualified teachers, and partnering with local child care providers. - Brianna Wallace (parent of child with special needs) shared difficulty navigating IEP process and feeling disregarded; she withdrew her son from the district. - Sylva Celebriel (Parent Voices Oakland) raised questions about TK data availability, transportation for students with special needs, and capacity planning. - Annie Banks (Parent Voices Oakland) mentioned an upcoming report on gaps in care for children with disabilities in Alameda County. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Oakland Thrives Youth Ventures JPA Update: Dr. Kyla Johnson-Trammell (new CEO) and Tony Parsons (Director of Public Policy and Finance) presented the collective impact table's work, including Rise East ($100 million philanthropic investment in Deep East Oakland), youth mental health efforts, food security grants ($3.6 million Measure W program), guaranteed income pilot (results for 600 families), and strategic planning for 2027. Key focus areas: youth violence prevention, early childhood (billion-dollar parcel taxes), workforce/economic mobility, and local resilience (Medi-Cal/HR1 impacts). Discussion included declining enrollment (from 77,000 to 34,000 OUSD students), safety concerns, and need for cross-sector partnerships. Received and filed unanimously (3-0). - Item 4 – 2026-2027 All City Council Introduction: ACC student leaders introduced themselves and outlined their structure, history (Oakland Youth Vote campaign, restorative justice resolution, A2G resolution), and priorities for the year: (1) student voice in hiring staff, and (2) improving crisis management training for staff. ACC President Anara Shafiq requested meaningful engagement from adults and urged financial support for the program. Board members offered encouragement and suggestions for internships and collaboration. Received and filed unanimously (3-0). Key Outcomes - Votes: All four agenda items passed unanimously (3-0, with Councilmember Unger excused). - Referrals: Chair Brown noted interest in scheduling reports on McKinney-Vento homeless services, Measure Y bond sales, unused OUSD parcels feasibility study, joint use agreements, and violence prevention funding for future committee meetings. - Next Steps: The committee will meet regularly in 2027; a schedule will be sent out. ACC meeting dates for the school year include Middle School Ethnic Studies Conference (March 29, 2027), Peer Resource Conference (March 12, 2027), and High School Youth Action Summit (April 30, 2027).

Date: September 28, 2026 at 5:15 PM Location: City Hall Council Chambers, 1110 18th Ave, Monroe The Finance and Taxation Committee met to consider the 2027 Initial Draft Budget Presentation. The meeting was called to order, and minutes from September 14, 2026, were corrected. No public comments were scheduled or recorded. The principal agenda item was a presentation by Administrator Rindy on the 2027 budget draft. No transcript or minutes were available to capture specific discussion or votes; this summary is based solely on the agenda. Consent Calendar - Correction of minutes from September 14, 2026, was approved (no roll call recorded). Discussion Items - C.1 – 2027 Initial Draft Budget Presentation: Administrator Rindy presented the draft budget, including supporting documents (budget summary, expenditure summary, publication, line-by-line worksheet, and a general fund presentation). The presentation was expected to last 20 minutes. No additional discussion or committee action is documented. Key Outcomes - The committee received the 2027 budget draft presentation. No votes or formal decisions were recorded on the agenda. The committee may take appropriate action on any agenda item as permitted.

The Peekskill Common Council met on September 28, 2026, for a budget work session and a regular meeting. The work session featured the presentation of the City Manager's Tentative 2027 Budget, which proposed a 3.5% tax rate increase, alongside budget requests from the Building, Fire, and Section 8 departments. The regular meeting included a public hearing on amending park rules to allow bicycles on designated trails, the unanimous renewal of the Peekskill Business Improvement District (BID), and the approval of 18 resolutions covering appointments, contracts, and grants. Budget Work Session Presentations The Council heard the first of several budget presentations for the 2027 fiscal year. City Manager's Tentative Budget (Presented by Comptroller Tony Tracy) - Total budget of $58,966,965, a 2.73% increase over 2026. - Proposed 3.5% tax rate increase, correlating to a $107.68 annual increase for the average single-family home ($8.97/month). - Challenges highlighted: Mandatory costs (pensions, retiree healthcare) accounting for large increases (9-28% annually). Personnel costs represent 76% of the budget. Debt service is 7%. - A proposal was introduced to change the use of the city's 1% property transfer tax, currently restricted by a 2010 resolution to the firehouse building fund. The City Manager recommends removing the restriction to allow funds to be used for the general fund, utilizing a $6.6 million reserve to cover the remaining 11 years of firehouse debt payments. - Staffing additions: 2 new police officers (total to 60), a DPW assistant, and a foreman. - The capital plan totals $250.6 million, with $88 million in secured grant funding. - The city secured a $3.8 million impact fee through a proposed PILOT agreement. Building Department (Nick Sasier) - Proposed budget: $710,922, a decrease from the prior year. - Department issued 1,053 permits and collected $653,890 in revenue year-to-date. - The fire inspector position is vacant and is not budgeted for in 2027, with a plan to potentially hire mid-year if revenue permits. - Goals for 2027 include hiring a full-time fire inspector, digitalizing records, and updating the department's ISO rating. Fire Department (Chief Jim Seymour) - Recommended budget: $5,791,783. - Emergency responses are up to 10.4 per 24-hour shift (projected 3,056 incidents for 2026). - The department secured $1.39 million in grants over the last 12 months, including $688,000 for a new rescue boat and $209,000 for new air packs. - Chief Seymour identified staffing as the next major concern, noting the department is often stretched thin. - He proposed allowing fire inspectors and lieutenants to write tickets for parking in fire lanes, fire hydrants, and double parking to improve response times. Section 8 Department (Jessica Gannis) - The department is utilizing cost-saving measures (lowering vouchers, enforcing strict rent reasonableness) to maintain a budget utilization rate between 95-105% amid rising rents. - The 2025 HAP utilization rate was 106.81%, prompting a conservative approach for 2027. - A housing inspector position remains vacant; the city is utilizing a third-party inspection service (CVR) as a lower-cost alternative. Public Hearing: Amendment to Chapter 416 (Parks and Bicycle Regulations) The Council held a public hearing on a proposed local law to amend park regulations, specifically to allow bicycles, e-bikes, and other non-motorized devices on the riverfront multi-use trail and designated trails in DePew Park. The current code generally prohibits bicycles on footpaths. Public Testimony: - Proponents (representing the Putnam/Westchester Mountain Biking Association, community members): - Stated that DePew Park's trails were historically designed and developed as multi-use trails in cooperation with the city. - Argued that mountain biking is low-impact, safe (no reported conflicts with hikers), and provides significant health, youth development (NICA programs), and economic benefits (tourism). - Emphasized that the mountain biking community provides volunteer trail maintenance at no cost to the city, offering a formal maintenance plan. - Advocated for allowing Class 1 e-bikes (pedal-assist with no throttle) as accessible options for older adults or those with injuries. - Expressed Concerns: - Argued that DePew Park's trails are narrow, and its quiet, natural character would be compromised by bike traffic. - Noted that Blue Mountain Reservation immediately adjacent already has an extensive network of mountain bike trails, questioning the need for Dupew. - Raised concerns about enforcement, safety on blind curves, erosion, environmental impact on wildlife, and long-term responsibility for maintenance costs. Outcome: The public hearing was left open and will continue on October 26, 2026, to allow for further language development regarding bike classifications and speed limits. Public Comments & Testimony (Citizens Desiring to be Heard) - Kenny Lewis questioned the safety of planned lane reductions on South Division Street. The City Manager stated it stemmed from the 2019 DRI plan and a traffic safety study. - Nathan Couchon requested an update on anonymous reporting for immigration status complaints under the "Peakskill for All" policy. The Police Chief confirmed an anonymous form is available on the city website. - John Ford reported a historic marble hitching post knocked over on Nelson Avenue. The city pledged to look into it. - Earl John Powell voiced frustration over the lack of downtown parking. - Tanya Dwyer (Online) asked about long-term maintenance costs for assets created by new grants (e.g., flood mitigation). - Evan (Online) raised concerns about ICE potentially having access to ALPR cameras in Peekskill via Westchester County. Police Chief Renwick stated he had received written assurance from Westchester County that they are complying with the county law and that Peekskill Police usage is internally audited. - Arnie Paglio criticized the low voter turnout (less than 10%) in the BID renewal ratification process and requested mailed notices and recorded meetings for future renewals. Key Outcomes - BID Renewal: Local Law No. 3 of 2026, extending the Peekskill Downtown Business Improvement District through September 30, 2031, was passed unanimously. - Resolution Approvals (Resolutions J1-J18): All resolutions were passed unanimously, including: - Appointments to the Parks Advisory Board (Douglas Glickert, Megan Cea) and Zoning Board of Appeals (Sheridan Taylor). - Awards for structural repairs to James Street Garage ($928,922) and Nelson Avenue Garage ($131,490) (total authorization not to exceed $2,339,472). - Acceptance of a $3 million NYSEFC Green Innovation Grant for riverfront flood mitigation. - Acceptance of a $200,000 CDBG grant for the Lockwood Drive Culvert replacement. - Authorization for the new Section 8 FSS Coordinator contract (not to exceed $70,000). - Agreement accepting various other grants and authorizing the Lockwood Drive Culvert engineering contract and the T-Mobile relocation agreement. - Budget Next Steps: The Council will continue budget deliberations. Resolutions to override the tax cap and to amend the use of the transfer tax are scheduled for future meetings. The final budget must be adopted by December 1, 2026. - Executive Session: The Council voted to enter executive session to discuss personnel matters.

On Monday, September 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers, the Duluth City Council held its regular meeting. The Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, passed several resolutions and ordinances, and heard public testimony on a franchise fee agreement, a proposed code of conduct, concerns about a potential animal shelter merger, and school district finances. All members were present; Councilor Clanaugh participated remotely via Teams. Consent Calendar - Minutes of September 14, 2026 – Approved unanimously (9-0). - 26-0834R – Liquor license issuance for Zeitgeist Arts (temporary expansion). - 26-0792R – Appointment of Muhammet Atan to the Duluth Public Utilities Commission. - 26-0845R – Appointment of Pez Davila to the Parks and Recreation Commission. - 26-0846R – Appointment of members to the Transportation Commission. - 26-0825R – Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families for up to $73,544.50 in SNAP E&T 50/50 funds (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027). - 26-0835R – Vacation of a retained utility and pedestrian easement in vacated 50th Avenue East (Crosley Park Addition). - 26-0840R – Clarifying the term of interim controls on a short-term rental permit moratorium. - 26-0841R – Conditional pre-commitment of $228,000 in Statewide Affordable Housing Aid (FY2027) to One Roof Community Housing for the Faith Haven Apartments Rehabilitation Project. - 26-0826R – Acceptance of a one-year extension of an EPA grant to improve public access to the St. Louis River Estuary. - 26-0827R – First amendment to a sub-recipient agreement with the St. Louis River Citizens Action Committee for public access along the St. Louis River. - 26-0828R – Application to the Minnesota Historical Society for up to $20,000 from the Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Small Grants Program for a building conditions assessment at Enger Tower. All consent items were adopted unanimously by roll call vote (9-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Brandon Parker (District 4) spoke on two agenda items: - Ordinance 26-042-O (Minnesota Power franchise fee): Expressed support for moving from a 10-year to a 3-year agreement, noting it allows future councils to hold Minnesota Power accountable for carbon reduction commitments, rate increases, and the proposed sale to BlackRock. Praised revised fee structure but urged raising residential rates to 4% and commercial/industrial to 6–7% to reduce reliance on property tax levies. - Resolution 26-0810R (Standing Rules Code of Conduct): Questioned whether the code would apply to councilors or the public, and whether it would address microaggressions among councilors or potential open meeting law violations. - Kelsey Pettit (District 2, Animal Allies Humane Society staff): Opposed a potential merger of the city's animal control facility with Animal Allies without a city-subsidized building expansion and additional funding. Cited capacity shortfalls (over capacity for dogs by 10 kennels and cats by 45 kennels), a three-year adoption low, and a nearly 80% drawdown of organizational savings over six years. Warned that without a real plan, euthanasia for space could occur, and the shelter may close before 2030. - Loren Martell (District 2): Discussed ISD 709's bond referendum, noting lack of media coverage in 2023 and difficulty obtaining financial information. Announced a public forum on the referendum scheduled for September 29, 2026, at 5:00 PM at The Garden in Canal Park. Discussion Items - Resolution 26-0842R (Reappointment of Andrew R. Streitz to Natural Resources Commission): Approved 8-0-1 (Councilor Desotelle abstained due to a family relationship with the appointee). - Resolution 26-0843R (Appointment of members to the Indigenous Commission): Councilor Forsman moved to return the nomination to the administration, explaining the commission is under new leadership and conducting a reset. Motion carried unanimously (9-0). - Resolutions 26-0800R, 26-0801R, 26-0802R, 26-0812R (Tax levies for 2027): These four resolutions had been tabled. Councilor Randorf successfully moved to remove each from the table (all unanimously). After brief remarks, each was approved unanimously (9-0): - 26-0800R – General purposes levy. - 26-0801R – Special Parks Fund levy. - 26-0802R – Housing and Redevelopment Authority levy. Councilor Randorf thanked HRA Executive Director Keppers for maxing the levy, enabling the Mission Heights and Union Gospel Mission projects. - 26-0812R – Duluth Transit Authority levy. Councilor Randorf thanked Finance Director Chris Beldon for a restrained budget. Councilor Klana praised DTA's utilization and encouraged social marketing of transit. - Resolution 26-0810R (Amending Standing Rules to include a Code of Conduct): Vice President Kennedy stated the authors' intention to leave the item on the table. No action taken. - Ordinances read for the first time: - 26-041-O – Taxable grant anticipation revenue notes (not to exceed $61,630) for municipal water utility improvements. - 26-042-O – Establishing the franchise fee to be paid by Minnesota Power. - Ordinances read for the second time and approved: - 26-024-O – Revising Chapter 13 of the city code (various sections). Approved unanimously (9-0). - 26-040-O – Amending Chapter 50 regarding lodging (permitted uses, parking, enforcement, etc.). Approved unanimously (9-0). Key Outcomes - The Consent Agenda was adopted in full (9-0). - Appointment of Andrew R. Streitz to the Natural Resources Commission was confirmed (8-0-1). - The nominations for the Indigenous Commission were returned to the administration (9-0). - Four 2027 tax levy resolutions (general, parks, HRA, DTA) were removed from the table and each approved unanimously (9-0). - The proposed Code of Conduct amendment to the Standing Rules was left on the table with no vote. - Two ordinances (water utility notes and MN Power franchise fee) received first readings; final passage will occur at a future meeting. - Two second-reading ordinances (Chapter 13 revisions and lodging code amendments) were passed unanimously (9-0). - Councilor Desotelle thanked staff for fiber optic solutions in District 2. - Councilor Klana thanked citizen Parker for his comments and noted the need for equitable handling of the code of conduct. - Councilor Johnson clarified that Standing Rule 18 (enforcement) is already in effect and urged caution on franchise fee increases that could affect supportive housing providers.

The Richmond City Council met on September 28, 2026, in the evening to consider a lengthy agenda. The meeting included public comment periods, approval of a consent agenda featuring a trust policy resolution, and a lengthy debate over solar power purchase agreements that ultimately were not adopted. The meeting adjourned just before 10:30 PM after continuing all remaining undisposed items. Consent Calendar - Items Adopted Unanimously with one exception: Councilmember Gibson voted no on item 13 (ordinance 2026-195 regarding data sharing with Ernst & Young), citing privacy concerns. The consent agenda included numerous ordinances and resolutions, notably Resolution 2026 R034 directing the administration to draft a trust policy protecting immigrant residents. It received strong support from speakers and council members. Public Comments & Testimony - Surveillance Technology Opposition: Rochelle Gerber and Thomas Filippini called for removal of ALPR/Flock cameras, citing privacy violations and a lack of accountability. - Code Refresh: Michael Clark opposed the Code Refresh proposal, demanding more citizen engagement; Will Wilson supported it as a means to increase housing affordability. - Tenant Complaint: Linda Azamiro described unsafe conditions at her apartment, including gas fumes and leaks, and noted a pending court case. - Solar PPA Support: Over two dozen speakers urged adoption of the solar power purchase agreements, emphasizing cost savings ($19 million over 25 years), climate benefits, and the urgency of federal tax credit deadlines. Discussion Items - Solar Power Purchase Agreements (Items 44–82): The council considered 39 ordinances authorizing leases and PPAs with RVA Solar 2050 companies to install rooftop solar on city properties. Administration and supporters highlighted the $19 million savings, zero upfront costs, and alignment with RVA Green 2050 goals. Critics, including Councilmembers Abu Baker, Gibson, Robertson, and Trammell, pointed to a risk assessment from city risk management that flagged liability gaps (e.g., no roof inspections, weak indemnity, limited decommissioning provisions). Councilmember Abu Baker proposed amendments modeled on Fairfax County’s stronger contract. After extensive debate, the administration offered to codify certain concessions in writing and schedule a special meeting. A motion to approve the ordinances and then ratify amendments later failed 4–5. Subsequent motions to enter closed session or reconsider were not successful, leaving the ordinances unadopted. - Trust Policy Resolution (Resolution 2026 R034): On the consent agenda, Councilmember Jones presented the resolution to draft a trust policy to ensure immigrant residents feel safe using city services. It passed unanimously after broad community testimony. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Adopted, minus Gibson’s opposition to item 13. - Solar PPA Not Adopted: The main motion (approval plus special meeting for amendments) failed 4–5. The ordinances remain pending, and the administration indicated the project’s viability is now at risk because of the missed federal tax credit deadline. - Remaining Agenda Items Continued: The council continued all other undisposed items to future meetings and adjourned. - Special Meeting Possible: Councilmembers discussed a Wednesday (September 30) special meeting if the vendor and administration agree to the proposed amendments, but no action was taken to schedule one.

The Dormont Borough Council held a Supercommittee and Agenda Review meeting on the evening of September 28, 2026. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including parking contract renewals, recreation plans, public works projects, and staffing. Multiple action items were advanced to the October voting meeting. Consent Calendar - Accepted the resignations of Rosa Ellenberger and Joanna Bouldin from the Human Relations Commission, effective October 3, 2026. These resignations will bring the commission below quorum, prompting a future discussion on its viability. - Approved the hiring of Marcus Springmann and Steve Christy as Borough of Dormont crossing guards. Discussion Items - Business District Relations & Development Committee: Councilperson Ventresca recommended authorizing the solicitor to renegotiate the Dormont Village parking revenue sharing contract and the Meter Feeder contract, while also exploring a potential contract with ParkMobile. Councilperson Melvin expressed concerns about the value of the Dormont Village contract, specifically the borough's lack of authority to activate the lot for public events, and stated she was "not an absolute yes" without more detailed revenue and enforcement data. Council agreed to proceed with negotiations and to re-engage ParkMobile for updated proposals. - Finance & Legal Committee: Councilperson Melvin presented a finalized Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Just Harvest to operate a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) tax site at the municipal building from January through April. The site would operate three days a week. Council discussed secure storage requirements for their materials, and a motion passed to advance the item to the voting agenda. - Finance & Legal Committee: A motion was made to approve Resolution No. 17, 2026, which establishes a Borough Pension Advisory Committee to oversee employee pension and retirement plans. Membership composition was finalized based on collective bargaining agreements, including a representative from Parks and DPW. The item was advanced to the voting agenda. - Property, Supplies & Public Works Committee: Councilperson Kipp presented an opportunity to purchase new street lights for Potomac Avenue via the Act 129 rebate program. The current lights are failing and no longer manufactured. The total cost to replace all lights on the avenue was stated as under $10,000. A sample light is being procured for council review. Comments were made about the lights' Bluetooth controls and energy savings. - Engineer's Report: An update was provided on several projects. The Next Generation Playground bids are due October 22nd, with construction anticipated for 2027. Regarding the 2026 road program, the engineer recommended using approximately $150,000 in unused Crosby Street funds to mill and pave Almond Street, Lyndon Avenue, Dwight Avenue, and Annapolis Avenue, omitting Sixth Alley to stay within budget. Councilperson Ventresca noted the need for careful coordination with Annapolis Avenue School traffic during paving. - Recreation and Community Affairs Committee: Council President Downs presented a motion to approve a waiver application letter for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) C2P2 RFP for the borough's Comprehensive Recreation and Park Plan. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Votes to Add to Voting Agenda: The following items were moved to the October voting meeting agenda: - MOU with Just Harvest for the VITA tax site. - Resolution No. 17 for the Pension Advisory Committee. - DCNR C2P2 RFP Waiver Application Letter. - Directives: - Solicitor authorized to renegotiate Dormont Village and Meter Feeder contracts and explore a contract with ParkMobile. - Staff directed to re-engage ParkMobile for updated terms. - Proclamation for Dr. Grub added to the voting agenda. - Announcements: - Budget workshop meetings rescheduled from September to October 6th and 13th. - The Dormont Colors Car Show raised $1,519 total ($519 in cash donations plus a $1,000 check from former Council Member John Moore for the food pantry). - The second annual Porchmont event was noted as a success.

The Hooksett Planning Board convened on Monday, September 28, 2026, at approximately 6:00 PM for its annual workshop to discuss proposed zoning ordinance amendments, state law alignment, and future planning priorities. The meeting was not a public hearing, so no votes were taken. Five board members were present: Paul Scarpetti, Chris Stelmack, Mike Summers, Jared Williams, and Yuri (alternate). Staff planners Avery and James presented a staff report covering statutory required changes, carryovers from previous warrant articles, and additional recommendations. Discussion Items - Multifamily Residential in Commercial Zones (RSA 674:80): The board debated allowing multifamily residential by right in commercial and performance zones as mandated by state law. Members expressed concern about compatibility with industrial areas (e.g., Route 28 Bypass) and proposed requiring 100% ground-floor commercial use, maintaining commercial architectural standards, and applying existing 50-foot setback buffers. The board directed staff to draft language incorporating these criteria and to seek legal counsel on whether the performance zone is considered a commercial base zone. - Innovative Housing Structures (Yurts, Tiny Houses): Discussion focused on whether to explicitly prohibit such structures. Concerns included tax implications, building code compliance, and potential campground-like developments. The board favored clarifying the definition of “dwelling unit” to exclude yurts and tiny houses on wheels, and agreed to first ask town counsel if silence would offer legal protection. - Dead-End Roads and Fire Code Alignment: The state requires alignment with NFPA fire codes for dead-end road length and unit counts. Members noted conflicting standards and potential impacts on parking and emergency access. The board decided to consult the Fire Chief for input on NFPA implications and to consider requiring future right-of-way connections in development regulations. - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): The board reviewed proposed changes to Article 27 of the zoning ordinance. Key decisions included: (1) increasing the maximum ADU size from 750 to 950 square feet (gross, excluding garages); (2) removing the 30% cap tied to the primary dwelling; (3) updating the definition to include detached ADUs; (4) revising the measurement from “habitable area” to gross square footage. The board expressed support for these changes and directed staff to draft updated language. - Child Care Centers (State Alignment): The state now requires commercial child care centers to be allowed by right on commercially zoned land. The board viewed this as a positive change that also clarifies small home-based daycares (limited to 30 children). Members agreed this could be bundled with other alignment-only amendments into a single warrant article. - Seven-Year Vesting Period: The board noted that state law grants a seven-year vesting period for subdivisions unless the town defines “active and substantial development.” The current definition in the development regulations (requiring roadways, utilities, drainage, and erosion controls) was considered vague. The board agreed to refine this definition to require all site civil work completed and at least one foundation in the ground, similar to a model used in Londonderry. - Multifamily Definition (24-Unit Cap): The existing zoning defines multifamily as 3–24 units per building. The board discussed moving the unit cap from the definition to the zoning regulations to avoid conflict with state law and to allow flexibility. They agreed to study appropriate caps (e.g., 48 units with elevators) in the context of future housing needs. - ZBA 2027 Ordinance Change Suggestions: A recommendation from the Land Use Subcommittee (Ann Stelmack) to remove special exception requirements for elderly housing in MDR and HDR zones sparked debate. Some members favored retaining the cumulative criteria as a protective measure; others saw no strong opinion. The board decided to seek further input from the subcommittee before proceeding. - Master Plan Committee: The board discussed initiating the process for the 2030 Master Plan, noting the previous plan took 3–4 years. They agreed to schedule a topic discussion at the next meeting and to consider public listening sessions similar to those held at Cole School. - Other Business: Staff reported that an amended site plan and impact fee discussion for 2 College Park Drive may appear on the next agenda. Also noted: Tebow’s has purchased the former Plazzi Corp site on Hackett Hill for a 300,000 sq ft manufacturing facility; a restaurant boat (barge) has been brought to a farm stand property, but no formal plans have been submitted. Key Outcomes - Staff will draft warrant article language for the first-floor commercial requirement, commercial design standards, and buffer consistency for multifamily in commercial zones, and will consult town counsel on performance zone classification. - Staff will prepare ADU amendments (size increase to 950 sq ft, definition changes, detached ADU allowance) for board review. - The Fire Chief will be consulted on dead-end road fire code impacts and NFPA standards. - The definition of “active and substantial development” will be revised to require all civil site work and one foundation installed. - A unified warrant article for alignment-only changes (child care centers, ADU definition, etc.) will be considered, with the complex multifamily item kept separate. - The Master Plan committee will be discussed at the next meeting (planned for October 5, 2026). - No votes were taken; all items remain in discussion stage.

The Janesville City Council held a special session on September 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The sole agenda item was a presentation by Maria Davis and Emily Eagon from the League of Wisconsin Municipalities on the topics of civility and good governance. The session included a Q&A and concluded with adjournment. (Note: The transcript incorrectly states the date as November 28, 2026, but the agenda and this summary reflect the correct date of September 28, 2026.) Presentation & Discussion - Emily Eagon (Director of Training and Member Services, League of Wisconsin Municipalities) opened with a discussion on the importance of civility in governance, emphasizing that "civility and good governance work in concert" and that establishing proper procedures (the "how") is essential to achieving substantive outcomes (the "what"). She used video examples contrasting a chaotic, uncivil council meeting with a more formal, respectful meeting, highlighting the impact on public trust and decision-making. - Maria Davis (General Counsel, League of Wisconsin Municipalities) provided an overview of Robert's Rules of Order, explaining its role as a rulebook for fair and efficient decision-making. She covered key principles: addressing the chair, obtaining the floor, debate limits (two 10-minute speeches per member), the importance of germane remarks, and avoiding personal attacks. She also discussed the small board rules applicable to bodies of about a dozen members, which relax some formalities (e.g., no need for a second on motions under those rules, but councils can tailor rules). - Davis highlighted common pitfalls: motions should be framed positively (e.g., "move to approve" rather than "move to deny") to avoid confusion if the motion fails. She outlined the hierarchy of motions and the process for points of order and appeals. - A councilmember asked how to retrain the brain to frame motions positively; Davis suggested forced practice and using the example of confusion that can result from negative motions. City Attorney Wald noted that Janesville has tailored Robert's Rules through ordinances and practice (e.g., requiring a second on motions, roll call votes per statute). - The presentation concluded with resources: Robert's Rules in Brief, the "Keep Your Meeting Moving" card, and the League's city handbook. Key Outcomes - The council received the presentation and training. - No formal votes or decisions were taken on any policy or action items. - The meeting adjourned by motion of Councilmember Cast, seconded by Councilmember Nino, with a unanimous voice vote (all ayes).

The Delaware City Council met on September 28, 2026, in Council Chambers. The meeting opened at 6:00 PM with an executive session under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(1) and (G)(5), then resumed at 7:00 PM for the regular agenda. Members present were Mayor Carolyn Kay Riggle, Ms. Griffith, Mr. McClellan, Dr. Bogan, and Vice Mayor Fraser. Council Members Ryder and Haynes were excused. Council approved routine items, conducted public hearings, and unanimously approved multiple annexation, rezoning, tax-incentive, and planning measures. Consent Calendar - Approved the Motion Summary from the September 14, 2026 City Council meeting. - Approved the consent agenda as amended: removed consent item 6G (an October 26, 2026 second-reading date for Ordinance No. 26-53) as redundant, and corrected agenda item 27’s ordinance number to 26-52. The original agenda and minutes had listed 26-53 in that item. - Accepted the Shade Tree Commission Motion Summary from July 28, 2026. - Set public hearing dates for October 12, 2026: 7:10 PM for Ordinance 26-50 (ADA Policy and Transition Plan), 7:15 PM for Ordinance 26-51 (Vergon Drive name change to Rainstone Drive), 7:20 PM for Ordinance 26-52 (Community Reinvestment Area boundary expansion), and 7:25 PM for Ordinance 26-53 (Northwood TIF for Byxbe Corridor Improvements). Public Comments & Testimony - Vernon Shuttles, 186 London Road, described drainage and right-of-way problems: rainwater flowing down an alley, deteriorating railroad ties, and an alley width he said varies from 13–14 feet at High Street to 10.5 feet at his property. He requested that city engineering and public works investigate the conditions. - Deborah Giebert, 265 West Fountain Avenue, presented views on climate change, arguing that climate policies can be costly and that public debate should include a wider historical temperature record. She expressed concerns about costs, grid reliability, and anxiety among young people. - During the Ordinance 26-47 public hearing, residents Dana Glassburn and Jacob Ives raised concerns about a proposed three-story building, neighborhood fit, traffic congestion on Lake Street, and the potential demolition of a historic carriage house. The applicant said the carriage house is dilapidated and contains asbestos and would be demolished. - During the Resolution 26-70 public hearing, Deborah Giebert asked how the Goodwill men’s transitional living home would be funded and what program it would offer. The applicant responded that Goodwill would fund the program and provide wraparound services without taxpayer burden. Petitions - Council acknowledged receipt of the Four Seasons at Addison Farms petition requesting alternative traffic calming on Heritage Boulevard and infrastructure reassessment within the 55+ senior community. The petition was accepted; the Parking and Safety Committee later indicated it would hear the petition at its next meeting on the 27th. Discussion Items - Staff Introduction: Jessica introduced Suzie Arehart, the newest HR specialist, who joined June 1, 2026 and has lived in Delaware for 26 years. - Proclamation: The Mayor proclaimed October 1–7, 2026 as Stormwater Awareness Week in Delaware. - Delaware County Transit Presentation: Andy Volenik, Executive Director of Delaware County Transit, presented a 0.2% county sales tax initiative for the November 2026 ballot. He cited 80 staff, approximately 40 vehicles, a $6.8 million operating budget, 95% on-time performance, a 4.9/5 satisfaction rating, and a 174% ridership increase since 2022. The tax would fund expanded microtransit in Powell and Orange, express commuter service, seven-day service in Delaware, same-day demand response, and facility and vehicle investments. Councilmembers asked about service in Ashley and noted a fair drop-off safety concern at Liberty and Pennsylvania; Volenik said he would revisit it. - Ordinance 26-47 (Lake/Flax rezoning to R-PUD): Staff presented a request by Ex Flax, LLC/River West to rezone about 1.75 acres to allow a 38-unit-per-acre development with up to 66 units as an extension of The Mill on Flax. Planning Commission and staff recommended approval. After public comment, Councilman Ryder asked to continue to a third reading so he could be present; no vote was taken. - Ordinance 26-49 (downtown hotel property conveyance): The city manager’s office presented a proposal to convey Spring Street property to the Delaware County Community Improvement Corporation so it could sell to Westwood Collective for a downtown hotel and mixed-use project. The developer noted the purchase of 81 Spring Street and approximately 280 parking spaces. Council suspended the three-reading rule and approved the ordinance. - Finance Director’s Report: August 2026 citywide revenues were down 2.4% due to timing of the county property tax settlement, while income tax receipts were up 7.6%. The finance team is finalizing a parking kiosk vendor, working on long-lead vehicle purchases, and will issue an RFP for a more transparent budget document. - City Manager’s Report: On October 8, 2026, the Point project contractor will remove steel girders from the temporary railroad bridge, causing five-minute intermittent traffic stoppages in both directions. Final paving and removal of the Central Avenue hump will follow. Committee Reports - Shade Tree Commission met and discussed landscaping issues, including invasive species. Parks and Recreation was canceled for lack of quorum. Parking and Safety will meet again on the 27th and expects to hear the Four Seasons petition. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 14, 2026 Motion Summary. - Approved the consent agenda as amended. - Acknowledged receipt of the Four Seasons at Addison Farms petition. - Approved Ordinance No. 26-48 (Hickory Woods annexation, 101.92 acres) after suspending the three-reading rule, unanimously. - Approved Resolution No. 26-70 (Goodwill Men’s Transitional Living Home development plan), unanimously, with the applicant agreeing to reduce invasive burning bush plantings and use native alternatives. - Approved third readings unanimously: Ordinance No. 26-38 (Price Farms II annexation, 175 acres), Ordinance No. 26-39 (Price Farms II MX-PUD expansion), Ordinance No. 26-40 (2.84-acre Gruber Street MX-PUD rezoning), Ordinance No. 26-41 (5.386-acre C-PUD rezoning for a senior residential care facility), Ordinance No. 26-42 (Sawmill Parkway TIF), Ordinance No. 26-43 (Snappy’s Automotive CRA agreement), Ordinance No. 26-44 (Howald Industrial Park CRA agreement), and Resolution No. 26-67 (2026–2028 Strategic Action Plan). - Approved Ordinance No. 26-49 (Spring Street property conveyance to the County CIC for a downtown hotel) after suspending the three-reading rule, unanimously. - Approved Resolution No. 26-69 (Tax Incentive Review Council recommendations), unanimously. - Ordinances 26-50, 26-51, and 26-52 were considered but scheduled for public hearings on October 12, 2026. - Adjourned at 8:43 PM.