The Public Meeting Index

Climate and Infrastructure Committee Meeting - September 24, 2026\n\nThe Climate and Infrastructure Committee met on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 6:32 PM. Chair Robin Wandsley presided, with five members present (Vito, Vice Chair Stevenson, Chughtai, and Wandsley) and two absent (Warren and Chowdhury, the latter excused for a League of Minnesota Cities commitment). The meeting began with the chair addressing Mayor Fry’s recent memo restricting staff presentations, which she argued undermines legislative oversight and public transparency. She pledged to continue open dialogue and collaboration with staff. The agenda included three public hearings, followed by a lengthy discussion section covering items 5–22, and a community presentation on HERC and zero waste.\n\n Public Hearings\n- Sanitary Sewer Service Charges (SAC): Steve Poor, Director of CPED Development Services, presented the annual resolution adopting assessments. 14 properties were assessed: 10 triggered by audits or building permits, and 4 SAC deferrals that failed. No public testimony was given. The committee unanimously approved the resolution.\n- Downtown Improvement District: Continued from a prior meeting due to a noticing error, this hearing had no public testimony and was unanimously approved.\n- Commercial and Multifamily Energy Disclosure Repeal Ordinance: Sustainability Manager Alice Frelick presented a comparison of the city’s benchmarking program (since 2013) and the state’s program (since 2024). Key differences: the city requires water use data, audit requirements for low-performing buildings, and fines (collections: 2023 – $5,980; 2024 – $12,200; 2025 – $26,960). Staff argued the state program allows streamlining and shifting staff to direct engagement. Chair Wandsley and several members expressed concerns about losing stronger local requirements, especially for water data and audits. A motion to delay the item by one cycle (to October 8, 2026) was made by Chair Wandsley, seconded by Councilmember Chughtai, and passed unanimously.\n\n Discussion Items\nAll consent items (5–22) were moved to discussion per committee request. Public Works Director Tim Sexton noted the importance of advance notice for staff attendance. Key items included:\n- Item 5 – Areaway Removal (1800 1st Ave S): Approved unanimously after clarification that costs ($584,371.30) will be specially assessed to the property owner.\n- Item 6 – Metro H-Line BRT Comments: Approved unanimously; Chair Wandsley thanked staff for incorporating community feedback on student transit access.\n- Item 8 – Uniform Assessment Rates: Director Don Elwood explained the dollar-per-square-foot rate used for road projects. Vice Chair Stevenson asked about an ongoing evaluation of special assessments; Sexton confirmed it continues. Approved unanimously.\n- Item 9 – Hoff Ramp Vehicle Door Installation: Vice Chair Stevenson raised questions about parking revenue vs. land opportunity cost. Sexton said no study on tax revenue potential had been done. Approved unanimously.\n- Item 10 – Hauling and Disposal of Waste Materials: Councilmember Chughtai clarified the contract does not cover encampment debris. Approved unanimously.\n- Item 13 – Citywide Traffic Signal Retiming: Engineers Ben Brasser and Don Elwood described the first comprehensive retiming in over a decade, covering 800+ signals. They confirmed inclusion of light rail, bus priority, and engagement with disability and senior communities. Approved unanimously.\n- Item 19 – Legislative Directive on Bike Lane Conflicts: Co-authored by Chair Wandsley, Vice Chair Stevenson, and Councilmember Chavez. Director Sexton noted the scope was narrowed to two-way bikeways at signalized intersections in agreement with Councilmember Chavez. Approved unanimously.\n- Item 20 – Green Cost Share Program Guideline Updates: Staff explained the program will move from PRC process to council approval of guidelines and awardees. Approved unanimously.\n- Item 21 – Pedestrian Advisory Committee Appointments: Approved Eli Harvey and Michelle Einstein.\n- Item 22 – Dakota Black Party Block Event Permit (Sept 26, 2026): Approved without recommendation due to late permit timeline.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- SAC Resolution: Approved unanimously.\n- Downtown Improvement District: Approved unanimously.\n- Energy Disclosure Repeal: Delayed by one cycle to October 8, 2026, via unanimous vote.\n- Items 5–21: All approved unanimously except item 22 (approved without recommendation).\n- Receive and File – HERC/Zero Waste Presentation: The Zero Burn Coalition (led by Leslie Mint of MN Environmental Justice Table) presented updated health impact data: HERC contributes to 1–2 premature deaths/year and $18–32 million in health damages, with disparities in BIPOC communities. They advocated for closure by Dec 31, 2027, a clean community fee, zero waste ambassador program, and city-county negotiations on HERC conversion. The presentation was received and filed; no vote taken.\n\nThe meeting adjourned without further business.

The Lehi City Council held a brief open meeting on September 24, 2026, in the Lehi City Council Chambers at 131 N. 100 E., Lehi, Utah. The sole substantive agenda item was a motion to hold a closed meeting to discuss pending or reasonably imminent litigation and to discuss the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health of an individual. After an opening prayer and a unanimous roll-call vote, the council moved to the council conference room for the closed session. Opening Comment - Councilmember Lockhart offered an opening prayer asking for discernment, collaboration, and teamwork, and blessing Lehi residents and city employees. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were made during the open session. Discussion Items - The council considered a motion to hold a closed meeting to discuss pending or reasonably imminent litigation and to discuss the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health of an individual. - Councilmember Freeman moved to hold the closed meeting; Councilmember Stallings seconded the motion. - There were no questions or discussion before the vote. Key Outcomes - The council voted unanimously (5–0) to hold the closed meeting: Councilmembers Newell, Harrison, Stallings, Freeman, and Lockhart all voted yes. - After the vote, the open session adjourned into the council conference room for the closed session.

The Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee met on September 24, 2026, at 6:15 PM to consider three liquor license transfers and hold a hearing on tree canopy equity and resource allocation in District 6. All three liquor license transfers were approved unanimously and forwarded to the full Board of Supervisors with positive recommendations. The tree canopy hearing featured extensive testimony from the Department of Public Works and community members, and was continued to the call of the chair for further discussion. Consent Calendar - No items were considered on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 4 – Tree Canopy Hearing: Multiple District 6 residents and community advocates spoke, expressing strong support for increased tree planting and maintenance in underserved neighborhoods, especially South of Market (SoMa). Speakers highlighted low tree canopy (2.7% in SoMa, tied with Tenderloin), empty tree basins filled with trash, and the need for policy changes such as revising Public Works Order 1872 to allow planting on narrow sidewalks. Several speakers praised the partnership between DPW and community benefit districts (e.g., SoMa West CBD) for watering and maintenance. Alex Ludlum (SoMa West CBD) described a successful pilot program where the CBD waters 83 trees. Josh Clipp, former vice chair of the Urban Forestry Council, emphasized the importance of tree preservation and noted that since 2017 the city has not net gained a single street tree. Residents urged the committee to set binding tree canopy or tree count targets and to establish a stable funding source. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Coit Liquors (1657 Powell St): Officer Brendan Erickson (SFPD ABC liaison) reported zero letters of protest or support. The location is in a high crime area (Plot 130) and high concentration census tract. Central Station had no opposition. The Alcohol & Other Drugs Unit (AOU) recommended approval with conditions requiring the applicant to monitor for loitering and maintain litter-free premises. The applicant, Shoddy, stated he moved after a fire at his previous store and wishes to continue serving the neighborhood. Supervisor Sauter voiced strong support, calling the proprietor a fantastic merchant. The committee voted unanimously to direct the clerk to prepare a resolution finding the transfer serves public convenience or necessity and to forward it to the full board with a positive recommendation. - Item 2 – Mission Bay Community Market (1360 Fourth St): Officer Erickson again reported zero letters, high crime area (Plot 295), high concentration census tract, Southern Station no opposition, AOU recommendation with identical conditions. The owner, Ray Dan Salah, noted alcohol would be a small part of a broader grocery store. Supervisor Dorsey expressed strong support, stating the market serves a convenience/necessity need in Mission Bay. The motion passed unanimously. - Item 3 – Noriana Farmers Market (4929 Mission St): Officer Erickson reported zero letters, low crime area (Block 896), low concentration census tract, Ingleside Station no opposition, AOU recommendation with conditions. The applicant's representative, David Villalobos, noted the applicants are responsible business owners who purchased a POS system with ID reader. The motion passed unanimously. - Item 4 – Tree Canopy Equity and Resource Allocation in District 6: Led by Supervisor Dorsey, the hearing focused on DPW's response to a letter of inquiry. Superintendent David Moore presented an overview: the Bureau of Urban Forestry maintains 125,000 street trees, planted 1,880 trees last year (a record), and aims to plant 2,500 this year. Key challenges include lack of a consistent funding source (estimated $13 million per year needed to plant 5,000 trees), staffing vacancies (e.g., inspection shop has 5 of 9-10 positions filled), and data system limitations (work orders not linked to geographic assets). Moore explained that equity priority areas guide grant applications, but factors like community demand and operational feasibility also influence planting locations. He noted that 87 of 250 trees planted under a CNRA grant were vandalized or missing, underscoring the need for community partnerships. Discussion covered the use of environmental justice maps, the impact of in-lieu fees from development, empty tree basins (221 identified in District 6), narrow sidewalk planting policy (Order 1872 allows exceptions case-by-case), and the difficulty of setting tree canopy targets due to long growth times and inclusion of non-city land. Supervisors questioned how funding is allocated and whether development-dependent resources disadvantage District 6. Moore acknowledged technology needs and expressed openness to working with the board. Public comment echoed the need for systemic changes. Key Outcomes - Items 1, 2, 3 – Liquor License Transfers: Each motion passed unanimously (3-0). The clerk was directed to prepare resolutions finding the transfers serve public convenience or necessity and to forward them to the full Board of Supervisors with positive recommendations. - Item 4 – Tree Canopy Hearing: The committee voted unanimously (3-0) to continue the hearing to the call of the chair, allowing future follow-up. Supervisor Dorsey committed to continuing collaboration with DPW and community stakeholders to address funding, data systems, and planting policies.

The Kent County Community Board of Appeals held a public hearing on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 1:05 PM (originally scheduled for 12:30 PM) in the Levy Court Chambers. The sole agenda item was an appeal by Michael W. Braun of an administrative fine (ticket 2026-3026) issued for violation of Kent County Code §205-27C(2) regarding an unregistered vehicle on his property at 18 Wimbledon Drive, Dover, DE. The board heard testimony from the appellant and staff, deliberated, and ultimately voted to table the matter for further information due to a split vote. Public Hearing & Testimony - Staff Presentation: Shannon Morris, Chief Code Enforcement Officer, presented the staff recommendation to deny the appeal. He explained that a notice of violation was sent on June 30, 2026, giving 30 days to correct. A follow-up site review on July 31, 2026, found the vehicles still unregistered, and a $100 ticket was issued on August 3, 2026. The violation was later corrected after the appeal was filed, but the county could not refund the $400 appeal fee unless the appeal succeeded. Staff argued enforcement procedures were followed correctly. - Appellant Testimony (Michael Braun): Mr. Braun, an 80-year-old veteran and former executive director of Kent County Habitat for Humanity, testified that he made diligent efforts to comply within the 30-day period but encountered obstacles: the vehicle failed inspection, repair delays, tire issues, and a tow company sending the wrong truck twice. He stated he was never informed he could request an extension, and the county did not contact him to discuss the violation. He also argued that the $400 appeal fee (four times the ticket amount) was punitive and that the county offered to withdraw the ticket after the violation was corrected but still required him to attend the hearing or risk losing his appeal rights. He expressed concern that the process discriminated against his age and that the county encouraged anonymous neighbor complaints without investigation. - Staff Response: Mr. Morris clarified that the correction order explicitly stated the option to request additional time if substantial efforts were made, but Mr. Braun never contacted the county. He acknowledged that a conversation occurred on Monday, September 21, about possibly withdrawing the ticket to save time, but it was not an offer to dismiss the ticket independent of the appeal process. Mr. Morris stated the county's practice is to seek compliance, not to issue tickets. Discussion Items - Board Deliberation: After testimony, the board discussed procedural matters. A motion to enter executive session was withdrawn because it was not on the agenda. The board then considered motions. - Motions and Votes: - Motion to Deny the Appeal: Made and seconded. Vote: 2 in favor (Cahall, Melvin), 2 opposed (Hill, Cooper). Motion failed (tie). - Motion to Approve the Appeal: Made and seconded after clarification. Vote: 2 in favor (Hill, Cooper), 2 opposed (Cahall, Melvin). Motion failed (tie). - Motion to Table the Matter: Made and seconded to table until the next meeting with a full board of seven members or to seek additional information. Vote: 4 in favor (unanimous). Motion passed. Key Outcomes - The board did not approve or deny the appeal due to a 2-2 split on both motions. - The matter was tabled (CBA-26-001) for further information or until a future meeting when the full seven-member board may be seated. - The $100 ticket and $400 appeal fee remain pending pending the board's final decision.

Note: The meeting transcript references a September 23rd date, which differs from the provided meeting date of September 24, 2026. This summary uses the provided date. The Board of Ethics meeting scheduled for September 24, 2026, was called to order but immediately adjourned because no other members were present to establish a quorum. No business was conducted. Outcome - The meeting was adjourned without any votes or decisions. The chair indicated that a poll would be taken to find the next available date for a meeting with a quorum. Discrepancy - The transcript refers to the meeting date as September 23rd, while the official metadata indicates September 24, 2026. This inconsistency is noted but not resolved.

The Des Moines City Council held its regular meeting on September 24, 2026, addressing a variety of legislative, financial, and community issues. The council approved major infrastructure contracts for the 24th Avenue South Improvement Project and the Marina Tenant Restrooms, adopted the 2027 Legislative Agenda, and remanded the Development Agreement Ordinance back to the Planning Commission for further review. Proclamation - The council unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing September 24, 2026, as "Centennial of the Seashore Club Day." Consent Calendar - The council approved items 1 through 7 of the consent agenda unanimously (7-0). This included the approval of over $7.1 million in vouchers and payroll, the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee spending recommendation, the 2026 City Hall Suite A Restroom and Kitchen Remodel contract ($195,987.07 base plus a $27,000 contingency), the Judge Pro Tem Compensation ordinance (2nd Reading), the Marina Tenant Restroom Replacement contract ($944,078.00 plus a $94,407.80 contingency), and a grant authorization for the Midway Park Open Space Design project. - Item 8, the 24th Avenue S Improvement Project, was pulled by Councilmember Harris. The TIB grant resolution and the $1,200,029.98 contract with Parametrix were approved 7-0. A motion to waive the undergrounding requirement for utilities passed 5-2, with Councilmember Harris and Deputy Mayor Oxiger opposed. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Everton expressed concerns about the lack of police proactivity in his neighborhood regarding traffic enforcement and criminal activity. - Tracy Buxton, President of the Chamber of Commerce, spoke in favor of the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee funding for the Chamber's Oktoberfest cruises. She reported the two cruises sold out their 400-ticket capacity (800 total passengers) and described the event as a tool for promoting the city's waterfront and business community. - Barton DeLacy, Chair of the Planning Commission, requested the Development Agreement Ordinance be remanded to the commission for further review, stating the commission passed it in haste with insufficient public and developer input. - Chuck Coleman, a Planning Commissioner and former commercial real estate professional, supported the remand, arguing the ordinance's new language on notice, cure, and assignment required tightening to attract quality developers and protect the city. - Bobby, a resident of 226th Avenue, expressed frustration over new "No Parking" signs near Soundview Park that reduced available parking, questioning the process that allowed their installation at the request of a single citizen without a comprehensive traffic study. Regional Committee Reports - Councilmember Harris reported that Metro is shifting to a fully electrified route at the Tukwila base ahead of schedule. - Councilmember Bloss warned that federal cuts from HR1 (the "Big Beautiful Bill") starting September 30th would cause 11,000 Washingtonians to lose health benefits immediately and 175,000 by 2034, putting pressure on local services and the Des Moines Food Bank. - Deputy Mayor Oxiger announced a South King County Transportation town hall hosted by Councilwoman Stephanie Fain. Discussion Items Economic Development Update City Manager Katherine Caffrey and consultant Dan Ernesty presented results from the Business Climate Survey and Roundtables. Of 220 surveys sent to downtown and marina district businesses and property owners, 44 responses were received (a 20% return rate). Key challenges identified included poor collaboration between business owners and property owners ("they hold businesses hostages for their price"), neglected properties, high business costs, and poor connections between the downtown core and the waterfront. Despite the challenges, 81% of respondents belong to the Chamber of Commerce, and there is significant optimism regarding downtown revitalization, particularly regarding the Des Moines Theatre investment and city leadership. Development Agreement Ordinance (Second Reading) Community Development Director Rebecca Deming outlined new sections added to the ordinance, including specific performance rights (Section 9) and city discretion over assignment and expiration (Sections 10 and 11). Following public testimony and council discussion raising concerns that the new language had not been reviewed by the Planning Commission, Councilmember Desmondy moved to remand the ordinance to the Planning Commission for further refinement. The motion passed unanimously (7-0). 2027 Legislative Agenda Legislative Advocate Anthony Hemtad presented the council's priorities. Council discussed refining messaging for specific capital projects. For the Redondo Waterfront project, members preferred an emphasis on environmental and infrastructure safety (failing bulkhead threatening a wastewater pump station) over tourism. For Cliff Avenue, a focus on separating pedestrians from emergency vehicles was added. Council authorized staff to finalize wording, including broadening language on non-moving violations to cover parked vehicles with expired registration. The agenda was adopted (7-0). 223rd Street Pedestrian Project Public Works Director Michael Slevin presented Option 2, which focuses exclusively on filling missing sidewalk segments and ADA compliance between 5th and 7th Avenues without landscaping, decorative lighting, or parking removal, at an estimated cost of $500,000. Councilmember Steinitz moved to proceed with the option, which passed 6-1. Multi-Family Tax Exemption (MFTE) Program Anthony Hemtad presented an overview of the 8-year, 12-year, and 20-year MFTE programs, explaining the tax shift mechanism where the exempted value is spread across other taxpayers (estimated at $24 per year on a $591,000 median home for a 100-unit building). The city had an MFTE program from 2009 to 2019 that was never used. Council discussed program parameters. A motion to have staff bring back more detailed information before referring the topic to the Planning Commission passed 4-3. Additional Sales Tax for Children and Family Services (First Reading) Assistant City Attorney Matt Hutchins presented Draft Ordinance 26-104. The measure would increase the local sales tax by 0.01% (1 cent per $100, from 10.40% to 10.41%) to raise an estimated $41,000 annually for youth programs such as after school activities and Camp Chaos. The council voted 7-0 to advance the ordinance to a second reading. Key Outcomes - Approved Proclamation: Centennial of the Seashore Club (7-0). - Approved Infrastructure Contracts: 24th Ave S Improvement Project ($1.2M design contract, with 5-2 vote to waive undergrounding), Marina Tenant Restrooms ($1.04M total authorization), and City Hall Suite A Remodel ($223k total authorization). - Authorized Grants: Adopted Resolution 26-103 for Midway Park and Resolution 26-094 for the 24th Ave S TIB grant. - Remanded Ordinance: Development Agreement Ordinance sent back to Planning Commission (7-0). - Adopted Policy: 2027 Legislative Agenda (7-0) and approved Option 2 for the 223rd Street Pedestrian Project (6-1). - Advanced Legislation: Passed the first reading of the Children and Family Services Sales Tax Ordinance (26-104) (7-0).

The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission met on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers at 280 Madison Ave N, Bainbridge Island, WA, and remotely via Zoom. The commission received the Interim Planning Director's report, unanimously recommended the 2027-2028 Planning Commission Work Plan to the City Council, and unanimously recommended approval of two administrative departure requests for the Blackberries Short Plat. The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:57 PM, about 55 minutes ahead of schedule. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak, and no one in the audience indicated a wish to comment. Public comment closed with no testimony offered. Planning Director's Report - Interim Planning Director Emily Terrell reported that the City Council approved Contract Amendment 3 with LMN Strategic Economics and EA and the environmental engineers for just over $307,000, bringing total Comprehensive Plan consultant costs to approximately $1.4 million. Of that amount, $49,000 covers work performed but not yet paid, and nearly $100,000 is contingency in the event a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) is needed. - Consultants reviewed the February land capacity analysis (LCA) incorporating mandatory inclusionary zoning assumptions for the SEIS work. Residential impacts appear covered; transportation remains the only uncertain area, with transportation consultant Farrin Pears expected to provide an opinion around October 1. - The September LCA, with and without mandatory inclusionary zoning, shows the city can meet its buildable lands residential targets in both cases. However, the results arrived after the agenda was published and could not be formally presented; the City Council will not meet again until October 13 (the September 29 and early October meetings were canceled). - Consultants lean 80–90% toward the conclusion that an SEIS may not be required, potentially saving about six months. In response to a commissioner's question, Director Terrell clarified that the Final EIS (FEIS) is absolutely necessary regardless; the open question is whether a six-month SEIS detour occurs before completing the FEIS. - Vice Chair Blossom identified an error in the Winslow plan mapping: parcels previously approved by the commission were omitted from the map and model. Staff's internal review suggests the omission involves roughly 10 residential units and is unlikely to affect the SEIS; the time cost of re-running the model is unknown, and the consultant is on vacation until the following week. Discussion Items — 2027-2028 Planning Commission Work Plan - The commission discussed priority scores, noting that the voluntary and mandatory inclusionary zoning line items and the form-based codes for middle housing each scored 26. Members generally agreed not to over-segment priorities, and that sequencing should be guided by council priorities, available resources, and level of effort. Low-scoring items should remain in the backlog rather than be dropped. - Commissioner Peter moved to recommend the 2027-2028 Planning Commission Work Plan to the City Council for approval; Commissioner Ben seconded. The commission emphasized that the recommendation seeks council input and feedback on priorities. - The motion passed unanimously with no opposition. One commissioner noted this was the first time the commission had developed and presented a work plan to council in their six years on the commission. Discussion Items — Blackberries Short Plat Administrative Departure Requests - Planner Victoria Lewelling, the city's project manager, presented two administrative departure requests for the Blackberries Short Plat, located north of Wyatt Way and west of Madison Avenue in R 4.3 zoning. The first departure would allow buildings greater than 1,600 square feet to be attached with a zero lot line setback from building to home site boundary, affecting the two southern lots. The second would allow the same model and elevation to be built next to each other, affecting three lots. The existing two-lot plat (single-family home and garage) would become a four-lot plat. - Applicant Charlie Winslow described the project as a "micro community" providing missing-middle, small-footprint housing near the Winslow town center: six similar units (three primary residences with attached ADUs) plus a single-family house at the rear where the owner will reside. He argued the departures improve the layout by eliminating unusable six-foot building separations, creating green space along a new pedestrian path, protecting two existing trees, and improving energy efficiency through attached construction. He noted the site sits at the edge of the mixed-use town center adjacent to attached housing such as Grow Community, and that a five-foot hedge would screen the street frontage. - In response to commissioner questions, Mr. Winslow stated the units could be sold individually, including the ADUs, through a condominium structure; that the units have the potential to serve as teacher housing but involve no formal commitment to the affordable housing program; and that the R-4 zoning permits only four lots, and administrative departures cannot be used to change underlying density. - Vice Chair Blossom expressed concern that the departures do not strictly comply with the purpose and intent of the departure criteria and that the staff report's justification is "a bit of a stretch." She nonetheless supported the request, citing that the parcel was specifically in mind when the connection zone boundary was adjusted (had that change occurred, the subdivision code would not apply), that the original intent of the 1,600-square-foot threshold was to incentivize small homes, and that the applicant's proposal results in a better subdivision. She suggested the code may need amendment to provide a pathway for such development in the future. - Commissioner Alex supported the proposal as a pragmatic approach, noting the property is caddy cornered to the core district and across from Grove Avenue, and that retaining single-family housing at the rear responds to the existing R 4.3 neighborhood. - A motion to recommend that the Planning Director approve both administrative departure requests passed unanimously. Commissioner Dynas recused himself from this item due to a conflict of interest. Good of the Order - Director Terrell noted that state law requires the city to adopt the "unit lot subdivision" process within a couple of years, presenting an opportunity to revise the subdivision code so this type of development does not require departures. She also stated that, as part of ordinance 202605, the commission will receive the full list of state-mandated requirements due through the current GMA compliance declaration in the coming months, with unit lot subdivisions and child care centers as the two longer-horizon items. - Commissioner John, the newest commission member, shared a point of personal privilege: the first message he received in his official mailbox contained a direct and gratuitous reference to his sexual orientation. He stated that he is a gay man and proud of that fact, that such remarks hurt and have no place in the city's public life, and that he accepted the sender's immediate apology. He urged everyone to choose words carefully, observing that having the right to use hurtful epithets does not make it right or productive. Key Outcomes - The commission unanimously recommended the 2027-2028 Planning Commission Work Plan to the City Council for approval with feedback. - The commission unanimously recommended that the Planning Director approve both administrative departure requests for the Blackberries Short Plat (Commissioner Dynas recused). - No public comment was received. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:57 PM, about 55 minutes early.

The Government Operations and Fiscal Policy (GOFP) Committee of the Prince George's County Council met on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 1:55 PM in Committee Room 2027. Chair Edward Burroughs presided with five members present (Burroughs, Blegay, Ivey, Oriadha, Adams). The committee considered 20 pieces of legislation, including amendments to the Cannabis Reinvestment and Restoration Board, a package of property tax relief bills for elderly and disabled residents, resolutions on council transparency and public participation, contract approvals, and a proposal to establish an independent Office of the Inspector General. Consent Calendar (Unanimous Actions) - CB-112-2026 (Fair Election Fund – Post-Election Retention and Distributions in Uncontested Elections): Favorably recommended (5-0) with a technical correction noted by the Office of Law. - CR-099-2026 (Contract Approval – State’s Attorney’s Office Discovery Management System): Favorably recommended (5-0). Fiscal impact: approximately $365,000 in FY2027, $2 million over five years. - CB-126-2026 (Classification Plan – amended titles, new/abolished classes): Favorably recommended (5-0). No salary ranges provided; potential increase for Executive Director class. - CB-094-2026 (Property Tax Credit for Elderly Individuals of Limited Income): Favorably recommended with amendments (5-0). Estimated first-year cost: $846,000; five-year cost: $4.616 million. - CB-098-2026 (Property Tax Credit – Reduced Rent for Elderly/Disabled Tenants): Favorably recommended with amendments (5-0). Maximum annual impact: $250,000; five-year cap: $1.25 million. - CB-095-2026 (Real Property Tax Deferral for Elderly/Disabled Homeowners): Favorably recommended with amendments (5-0). Amended to require 20 years of homeownership and an assessed value cap of $750,000. Estimated first-year deferral: $520,000; five-year cumulative: $2.824 million (based on 20-year ownership). - CB-117-2026 (Property Tax Cap for Elderly Individuals): Reported out with no recommendation (5-0) to allow further discussion between sponsor and administration. Estimated first-year cost: $2.034 million; five-year: $32.354 million as drafted. - CR-086-2026 (Government Transparency, Performance, and Accountability Workgroup): Favorably recommended (5-0). - CR-091-2026 (Local Impact Grant Funds Multiyear Plan): Favorably recommended (4-0-1, Ivey abstained). - CB-122-2026 (Orphans’ Court Judges Compensation): Favorably recommended (5-0). Sets associate judge salary at $80,000 and chief judge at $85,000; fiscal impact $117,100 included in FY2027 budget. - CR-092-2026 (Council Rules – Monthly Evening Meeting): Favorably recommended (3-0-2, Burroughs and Ivey abstained). - CR-093-2026 (Council Rules – Annual Countywide Listening Tours): Favorably recommended (4-0-1, Ivey abstained). - CR-096-2026 (Contract Approval – Emergency Communication Equipment & Public Safety Vehicles): Favorably recommended (5-0). Authorizes up to $120 million in debt for 911 radio system replacement ($70M) and annual public safety equipment lease ($30M). - CB-125-2026 (Homestead Property Tax Credit – 104% for FY2028): Favorably recommended (5-0). - CB-127-2026 (Capital Budget Transfers – District VI Police Station, Public Safety Infrastructure): Favorably recommended (5-0). No net fiscal impact; supplementary appropriation increases debt by approximately $62 million. - CB-129-2026 (Supplementary Appropriations – FY2026 Close-out): Favorably recommended (5-0). Reallocates $28.7 million between agencies. - CB-061-2026 (Surplus Property – Removing Redevelopment Authority, Adding Office of Central Services): Favorably recommended (5-0). - CB-001-2026 (County Equity Participation Authority Act): Postponed indefinitely. - CB-103-2026 (Qualified Data Centers Personal Property Tax Exemption): Held indefinitely (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - CB-093-2026 (Cannabis Board): Several speakers opposed the original bill, arguing it would weaken the board’s authority and community voice. Crystal Carpenter (board chair) supported some amendments but raised concerns about unfilled vacancies and a 90-day deadline. Belinda Queen Cunningham (Coalition of Prince George’s County Community Organizations), Taylor Fraser McCullum, Beverly John, and others urged rejection, stating the bill was a “power grab” that would shift control from the community to the council. Council Member Oriadha responded, defending the need for deadlines and consistent staffing to ensure funds are spent, and noted an email sent by board members threatening to withhold a vote unless administrative fees were approved. - CB-119-2026 (Inspector General): Patricia Fenn (Legislative Committee Chair, M-NCPPC Retirement Association) testified in favor, citing similar offices in other jurisdictions. Chairman Hardy (Citizens for Accountability and Governance) supported with suggested amendments on independence, mandatory funding, and qualifications. Dr. Takisha Brown (resident and attorney) urged favorable recommendation, citing recent controversies. The County Executive’s Office raised concerns about overlapping responsibilities with the existing Office of Ethics and Accountability and the charter-mandated Office of Audits and Investigation. Discussion Items - CB-093-2026 – Cannabis Reinvestment and Restoration Board Amendments: The committee debated four amendments. Amendment 1 (Ivey) added a flat $5,000 annual administrative fund for the board (carried 5-0). Amendment 2 (Burroughs) extended the deadline for board recommendations from 90 to 180 days after the start of the fiscal year (carried 5-0). Amendment 3 (Burroughs) struck language allowing the council’s grants office to bypass the board if recommendations are late (carried 4-0-1, Oriadha abstained). Amendment 4 (Oriadha) changed the board’s name to “Community Reinvestment and Repair Board” (carried 5-0). The bill was favorably recommended as amended (5-0). - CB-094/095/098/117 – Elderly/Disabled Tax Credit Package: The committee discussed each bill. For CB-095, the administration requested amendments to add a 40-year ownership requirement and an assessed value cap; the committee adopted a 20-year ownership plus $750,000 cap (favorable). For CB-117, the sponsor (Oriadha) requested more time to work with the administration on fiscal impact; the bill was reported without recommendation. The Office of Finance estimated that limiting eligibility to those already in queue and using a fixed dollar amount could reduce cost, but no consensus was reached. - CR-083-2026 (Virtual Public Participation): Held in committee (2-0-3, Blegay and Oriadha aye; Burroughs, Ivey, Adams abstained). No motion to move forward. - CB-119-2026 – Independent Office of the Inspector General: Extensive discussion. Council Member Ivey proposed moving the bill without recommendation to allow further negotiations; no second was offered. Council Members Blegay and Adams expressed support for the concept but raised concerns about redundancy with existing offices and potential conflicts with the county charter. The Office of Ethics and Accountability director noted a planned legislative package for 2027 that could address some issues. The motion died for lack of a second, and the meeting was adjourned without further action on CB-119. Key Outcomes - CB-093-2026: Favorably recommended with amendments (5-0). - CB-094-2026, CB-095-2026, CB-098-2026, CB-125-2026, CB-126-2026, CB-127-2026, CB-129-2026, CB-061-2026, CR-086-2026, CR-096-2026, CR-099-2026, CB-112-2026, CB-122-2026, CR-092-2026, CR-093-2026: All favorably recommended (votes ranged from 5-0 to 4-0-1). - CB-117-2026: Reported without recommendation (5-0). - CR-083-2026: Held in committee (no motion passed). - CB-001-2026: Postponed indefinitely. - CB-103-2026: Held indefinitely (5-0). - CB-119-2026: No action; motion to move without recommendation failed for lack of a second. Meeting adjourned.

On September 24, 2026, the Jacksonville City Council's Financial Oversight Committee convened a noticed meeting to receive updates from the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) regarding its financial stabilization plan, workforce reductions, and the potential reallocation of Local Option Gas Tax (LOGT) funds. Council President Howland opened the meeting by explaining the committee's new focus on JTA matters following the closure of the unbilled water capacity fees investigation. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Mitch Reeves (Chairman, Mayport Waterfront Partnership): Expressed strong support for continued operation of the St. Johns River Ferry, noting its importance to the Mayport area and the new ferry vessel project. He emphasized the ferry's value to the community and urged protection of ferry funding. - Carnal Oliver (Public speaker): Raised concerns about JTA's contracting practices, alleging intentional racial discrimination against American freedmen contractors. He called for a carve-out to ensure compliance with the Civil Rights Acts of 1866 and 1964 in JTA policies. - John Nooney (Public speaker): Shared his personal experience riding the Skyway and buses, describing service as a 'complete cluster' and urging JTA officials to use public transit to understand rider challenges. - Pastor Timothy Johnson (Public speaker): Criticized the layoff of 200 employees before the holidays, questioned the logic of saving $40 million while approving $130 million in incentives for a high-rise, and advocated for an aquarium instead. He emphasized the need for affordable housing and jobs. Discussion Items - JTA Stabilization and Workforce Reductions: Interim CEO Cleveland Ferguson reported that JTA faced a $64 million budget gap, leading to a reduction in force of approximately $21.9 million. He detailed the separation of 33 administrative employees, 16 part-time bus operators, and 10 full-time operators. CFO Randall Barnes provided a chronology of the financial crisis, noting depleted reserves, over $20 million in payables, and a $25 million draw on a line of credit. Administrative staff will see a 45% reduction in headcount over one year, and representative staff a 29% reduction. Barnes confirmed JTA has not needed additional draws and has 28 days of cash on hand. - LOGT Funding and Reallocation: JTA proposed using up to $30 million of the $47 million LOGT2 balance as an interest-free 10-year loan to pay off the line of credit, saving $1.5 million annually. Council members discussed the flexibility of LOGT expenditures, with legal counsel Jason Gabriel noting the statutory list includes public transportation operations and maintenance. Andy Rogers, VP of Construction and Capital Programs, presented the status of LOGT2 projects, noting $294 million in unencumbered funds that could potentially be reallocated. Council President Howland suggested a three-phase approach: stabilize, right-size, and optimize. - JTA's Core Mission and Project Delivery: Council members debated whether JTA should focus more on transit rather than road projects. Councilmember Carlucci emphasized respecting JTA's independence, while Councilmember Peluso expressed concern about JTA acting as a public works department and urged the mayor's office to negotiate LOGT changes. Councilmember Miller stressed the importance of protecting vulnerable riders during service cuts. Ferguson acknowledged that reallocating some road projects to the city is on the table. - Specific Projects: Discussion included the Skyway's potential federal repayment liability (estimated between $30 and $100 million), the use of LOGT funds for Connection Plus, and the status of the Emerald Trail (with $132 million allocated). Peluso expressed strong support for the Emerald Trail and urged against diverting its funds. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were made during the meeting. The committee received the JTA presentation and will consider next steps for the Financial Oversight Committee's scope. - Council President Howland indicated he would determine the committee's future scope in the coming days, focusing on helping stabilize JTA and potentially opening up the local option gas tax for reallocation. - JTA's proposed LOGT loan legislation is scheduled for debate in the first week of October and possible approval on October 13, 2026. - JTA will engage in community meetings from October 1 to November 1 to inform the public about service changes effective November 2, 2026.