The Public Meeting Index

The Mobility and Transportation Advisory Board (MTAB) held its regular meeting on September 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting began with roll call, agenda approval, and approval of the August 27, 2026 minutes, followed by public comment. The board then adjourned to a study session to discuss the Clayworks development (parking/TDM), Colfax Complete Street design, and a micromobility policy update. Staff provided project updates and the board addressed new business. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion to approve the agenda by B. Palmintier, seconded by C. Brown, unanimously approved. - Approval of Minutes (8/27/2026): Motion to approve by R. Grubin, seconded by A. Zimmerman, unanimously approved with minor corrections (spelling of a name). Public Comments & Testimony - Alex Phillipson (North Ford neighborhood): Expressed gratitude for the center line striping on Iowa Drive and commented on U-turn issues at US6/Johnson Road. Requested a marked crosswalk at the intersection of Catamunt and Golden Gate Canyon to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety. He also inquired about painting parking space lines on Washington Street and nearby side streets to improve parking efficiency. - Katie Macarelli (sp?): Thanked the city for the flexible delineators on Ford Street that make the bike lane more noticeable. - Email from Meg Van Ness (Garden Street area): Read aloud by staff. Opposed any parking exemptions for the Clayworks community, arguing that employees should not be expected to change commuting behavior and that the city should enforce existing traffic and parking codes. Discussion Items - Clayworks Development Follow‑Up (Parking and TDM): The board reviewed a shared parking spreadsheet provided by Clayworks that calculates parking demand based on land‑use mixtures and time‑of‑day curves. Members raised concerns about the spreadsheet’s assumptions, data sources (ULI vs. ITE vs. Golden code), the validity of TDM reductions, and the risk of parking spillover into adjacent neighborhoods. They agreed to: - Verify the spreadsheet against recognized parking generation manuals. - Request from Clayworks the baseline inputs, land‑use scenarios, and examples of similar successful projects. - Discuss further at the next meeting before providing recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council. - Colfax Complete Street (US 40): Staff presented preliminary designs for the corridor, including a roundabout at Heritage Road, 11‑foot travel lanes, buffered bike lanes, and multi‑use paths. The board debated whether to keep the Rooney Road intersection as a signalized intersection or convert it to a roundabout. Members expressed mixed views, citing safety for cyclists/pedestrians, truck detour needs, and cost. The consensus leaned toward retaining the signal and focusing design on safe crossings and wide refuge islands. Staff will proceed with 90% plans and public engagement. - Micromobility Policy Discussion: The board revisited its draft micromobility policy (focusing on e‑bikes and e‑motos). Given rapidly changing state laws and enforcement challenges, members suggested pausing to let state rules develop further. Staff will share the current draft and an overview of state e‑bike classifications for review at the next meeting. Project Updates (provided by staff) - Pen Bridge (9th over Tucker Gulch): Delayed due to resource constraints; no start date set. - Colfax Phase 1 Roundabout (Heritage): 90% plans expected mid‑October; FONR meeting with CDOT targeted for mid‑November. - Ford & Jackson Bike Lanes: Construction complete. Staff noted green conflict markings and flexible delineators will be installed soon. Member feedback included concerns about trash collection, snow removal, and potential right‑hook conflicts at cross streets. Staff will investigate manhole/utility cover heights and evaluate ADA ramp needs at trail access points (e.g., near 1st and East). - Tucker Gulch Trail Paving: Members noted a new paved section at 1st and East lacks a ramp to the trail, forcing dismounts. Staff will follow up. - General Construction Fatigue: A member reported constituent frustration with multiple simultaneous road projects. Staff acknowledged the seasonal compression but emphasized the need to address infrastructure degradation. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda and August 27 minutes unanimously. - Directed staff to collect more data on Clayworks’ parking spreadsheet and bring developers to a future meeting. - Chose to retain traffic signals at Rooney/Colfax and improve pedestrian/bike crossing details; staff will advance design with public input. - Agreed to table the micromobility policy pending further state rulemaking and share the draft for board review. - Staff will follow up on specific project concerns (manhole heights, trail ramps, trash pickup plans). - The next regular meeting date will be coordinated via email due to scheduling conflicts; potential dates in October, November, and December.

The Plainfield Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) held a special meeting on September 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Commissioners present included Chairman Bordel, Derrick, Failing, Olson, Rapp, Schmidt, and Schulz. The commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a historic Main Street property, discussed a potential Commercial Street landmark, and approved the 2027 meeting schedule. No public comments were made. Chair's Report Chairman Bordel reported that a property owner on Commercial Street has requested a potential local landmark designation for a house built circa 1852–1854 in an early settlement area. Staff will investigate the feasibility of the request. Discussion Items - Certificate of Appropriateness (Case 2127-070426) – 23842 West Main Street: - Purpose: The applicant sought a COA to replace two ground-floor windows and second-floor doors on the south elevation (originally listed as east in staff report, corrected during discussion) of the historic structure. - Materials Review: Staff identified and the commission approved specific compatible products: the Marvin G2 Ultimate Double Hung window (aluminum-clad wood with wood interior) and the ThermaTrue Smooth Star S2000 fiberglass door. A commissioner consulted the State Historic Preservation Office, which preferred aluminum-clad wood but deferred to the local commission. A commissioner noted that a local quote for the specified windows, door, and installation totaled $12,501. - Shutters: The commission specified that shutters must be either repaired existing wood shutters or new wood shutters sized and positioned to match the historic originals. PVC or plastic materials were explicitly prohibited. - Compliance: Concern was raised about whether the building department would verify the specific product requirements. The commission added a condition requiring a pre-construction meeting with the contractor to ensure the selected products meet the COA. - 2027 Meeting Schedule: - Staff recommended removing pre-set Landmark Development Design Committee (LDDC) meetings from the official 2027 schedule, as historically more LDDC meetings are canceled than held. The commission agreed, with the understanding that LDDC meetings can be called as special meetings as needed. The standard HPC meeting dates remained mostly unchanged from 2026. Key Outcomes - Agenda & Minutes Approved: The meeting agenda and the minutes from the August 27, 2026, special meeting were unanimously approved. - Certificate of Appropriateness Approved: The commission voted to recommend approval of the COA for 23842 West Main Street, contingent on a letter of agreement specifying the approved products and requiring a pre-construction meeting. The roll call vote was recorded as 6–0 in favor (Commissioners Failing, Olson, Rapp, Schmidt, Schulz, and Chairman Bordel voting yes; Commissioner Derrick's vote was not read into the transcript). - 2027 Schedule Approved: The 2027 meeting schedule was approved via voice vote, excluding pre-set LDDC dates. - Administrative Approvals: Chairman Bordel noted that two demolition permits unrelated to the main agenda had been approved administratively. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned following the completion of business.

The City of Rio Rancho Governing Body met on September 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting covered routine consent calendar items, public comments on water infrastructure and surveillance, and public hearings on a master plan amendment, liquor license transfers, and a deeply debated home-based winegrower license application. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (6-0) included the minutes of the September 10, 2026 meeting, two board appointments (Darryl Manning to Keep Rio Rancho Beautiful, Joseph Delmos to Public Infrastructure Advisory Board), and the final decision on the Maverik Gas Station Site Plan. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephan vanHorn: Urged a proactive water leak detection policy, citing a state water task force recommendation to move from reactive to proactive maintenance. - Amanda Lundberg (District 4): Commended the city for bringing adoptable animals to the Pooch Plunge. Requested the creation of a formal volunteer and foster program for the city shelter, offering her services. Noted the Pat Finder page inaccurately listed no animals when 20 dogs and 2 cats were available. - Joaquin Montoya (DFLOC New Mexico): Criticized the city's Flock camera contract, citing Section 5.3 which allows data sharing without a warrant, and the lack of independent oversight for downloaded footage stored indefinitely on city servers. - Casey Robinson (District 2): Praised the governing body for a previous vote against a staff recommendation. Made critical remarks directed at a specific councilor. - Matt Griffin (30-year resident): Expressed strong opposition to the license plate readers, stating being recorded entering or leaving the city "does not feel free." Comments by Councilors - Councilor Tyler: Addressed concerns about the treatment of citizens at a recent PZB meeting, apologizing to the public and stating the body would work to rectify the board members' actions. - Councilor List: Celebrated the opening of the Goatheads merchandise store, noting the excitement around the new professional hockey team. - Mayor Wymer: Echoed the excitement about the Goatheads hockey team, noting the sold-out first game. Public Hearings Item 5: Resolution R68 – Paseo Gateway Master Plan Amendment - Staff Presentation: Amy Rincon, Director of Development Services, explained the amendment expands the plan boundary to the east to include antiquated platted lots and updates land use, park acreage, and zoning to comply with current standards. The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval at their August 25, 2026, meeting. - Discussion: Councilors asked clarifying questions regarding commercial and residential boundaries. City Manager Matt Geisel confirmed no commercial expansion was occurring. - Vote: Motion to approve carried 6-0. Items 6 & 7: D59 and D60 – Walgreens Liquor License Transfers - Staff Presentation: City Clerk Noel Davis presented two applications for Walgreens (2101 Northern Blvd and 1941 Southern Blvd) for transfer of dispenser liquor licenses due to a parent company merger. Note: A procedural error occurred where the initial description and vote for D59 were incorrectly applied. The item was re-called and voted on correctly upon a point of order by Councilor Culbreath. - Vote: Both D59 and D60 were approved 6-0. Item 8: D61 – Vita Brevis LLC (Matthew Chaplin) Winegrower License - Background: Matthew Chaplin, a retired deputy police chief and Rio Rancho homeowner, applied for a small-scale artisan winegrower license to operate in his garage. The request followed a staff denial, a city manager upholding, and a Planning and Zoning Board reversal deeming it permissible under home artisan business codes. - Applicant Presentation: Chaplin detailed a limited operation (under 1,000 gallons per year, 210 square feet, no on-site sales or customers). He highlighted extensive state and federal approvals (TTB permit), neighborhood outreach with letters of support, and voluntary safeguards. He showed photos of the secured indoor space via Zoom. - Council Positions: - Councilors Tyler, Mann, Lenentine: Opposed. Primary arguments included the risk of setting a precedent for other commercial home uses ("floodgate"), safety concerns (fermentation byproducts, traffic), and the belief the business belongs in a commercial district. - Councilor List: Supported. Argued the council has the flexibility to judge secondary impacts and that the limited spatial scope of this application was unlike a larger operation, mitigating the floodgate risk. - Councilor Culbreath: Supported. Emphasized the licensing process provides greater city oversight (fire marshal review, home occupation permit) than if the applicant operated purely as a hobbyist under the 200-gallon personal limit. - Vote: Motion to approve D61 failed. 1 Yes (Culbreath), 5 No (Dapson, Lenentine, Tyler, Mann, List). City Manager Comments - Matt Geisel: Announced the Fall Community Cleanup (Saturday), Western Hills road reconstruction project beginning Monday (funded by NMDOT, estimated 6 months), and upcoming community events including the Galloping Goat Pumpkin Patch and the Fall Festival on October 24. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned following the City Manager's report.

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) met on Thursday, September 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Commissioners present: Tabur, Genko, Deslin, Sereo, and Shilling. The board reviewed three variance requests, approved minutes, and received updates from staff and the council liaison. All three variance cases received unanimous recommendations for approval to the City Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (August 27, 2026): The minutes were approved with one abstention (Commissioner Deslin) and four affirmative votes (Genko, Tabber, Shilling, and Sereo). Public Comments & Testimony - Case VA-26-22 (766 N. Northwest Highway): A public commenter shared a personal story about a house fire as a child, emphasizing the importance of a second means of egress, and expressed support for the proposed stairwell and balcony. - For the other two cases, no oral public testimony was given, though neighbors provided written or verbal support noted by the applicants. Discussion Items - Case VA-26-21 – 2800 Habberton Avenue (Mechanical Equipment Variances): The applicant sought two major variances to install new mechanical equipment in the interior side yard, requesting one foot of relief (from the required 5-foot setback to 4 feet). The existing unit already occupied a similar non-conforming location. The board noted that adding a second floor (encouraged by city policy) created a need for an additional unit, and consolidating equipment next to the existing unit was the most practical design. A neighbor provided a support letter. The board found unique circumstances (corner lot, existing non-conformity) and undue hardship if strict adherence was required. - Case VA-26-22 – 766 N. Northwest Highway (Stairwell and Balcony Variances): The applicant requested three major variances: exterior stairwells encroaching the interior side yard, a balcony encroaching the interior side yard, and a balcony encroaching the rear yard by more than four feet. The lot is a parallelogram (skewed shape) due to the alignment with Northwest Highway, resulting in effective setbacks larger than standard. The stair and balcony provide a code-required second means of egress from the second floor. The board acknowledged the unique lot shape as a hardship and noted the safety benefit of an alternate exit. - Case VA-26-23 – 1309 S. Crescent Avenue (Fence Variance on Double Frontage Lot): The applicant sought two major variances to allow a 5-foot wooden fence on a double frontage lot (fronting both Crescent Avenue and Talcott Street). The city’s zoning code does not provide fence regulations for such lots, creating an undue hardship. The board observed that the rear yard area facing Talcott already functions as a backyard (garages, driveways) and that a fence would not alter the essential character of the neighborhood. The applicant received verbal approval from neighbors. - Discussion Items/Updates: Staff noted plans for a 2027 strategic work plan to assess past variance cases, categorize them, and explore potential regulatory changes to streamline approvals for homeowners. Commissioners expressed interest in understanding how future affordable housing policies may affect ZBA evidentiary considerations. Key Outcomes - Case VA-26-21: Motion to recommend approval to the City Council passed unanimously (5-0). Findings: strict adherence would cause undue hardship; plight due to unique circumstances; variance will not alter essential character. - Case VA-26-22: Motion to recommend approval to the City Council passed (3-0, with two commissioners not recorded due to transcription gaps). Findings adopted as prepared by staff. - Case VA-26-23: Motion to recommend approval to the City Council passed (unanimous based on transcript). Findings adopted. - Council Liaison Report: The council liaison reported that all cases recently forwarded from the ZBA were approved by the City Council, and noted upcoming developments (hotel on Prairie Avenue) and a pending affordable housing ordinance that may be of interest to the board.

The Planning and Zoning Commission met at Columbia City Hall on Thursday, September 24, 2026, for its regular meeting scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Seven commissioners were present; Graybau was absent. The meeting began slightly late because of extended legal training. The commission approved routine agenda items, considered one final plat and four public hearing cases, and forwarded recommendations to the City Council. Consent Calendar & Routine Approvals - The meeting agenda was approved unanimously. - The September 10, 2026 regular meeting minutes were approved with two abstentions (Commissioner Walters and the Chair). Case 245-2026 – Hunter's Landing Plat 1-A (Final Plat) - Staff described a 19.67-acre one-lot consolidation at 12 Blue Ridge Road, combining a PD-zoned west lot developed with an apartment complex and an undeveloped R-MF survey tract on the east. - The plat includes 39 feet of right-of-way dedication on the north edge and standard 10-foot utility easements. Staff recommended approval subject to technical corrections, including about 400 square feet of right-of-way adjustment for the Blue Ridge/Providence roundabout and corrections to the tree preservation plan. - Applicant Tim Crockett of Crockett Engineering said the owner plans market-rate apartments similar to the existing low-density two-story buildings. - The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval subject to the technical corrections. Case 221-2026 – Fair Lane Rezoning (R-2 to R-MF) - The applicant, Fair Lane Townhomes LLC, sought to rezone 1.1 acres at 1896 Fair Lane—five undeveloped R-2 lots at the southern terminus of Fair Lane—to R-MF for approximately 15 townhomes. The case had been tabled from September 10, 2026. - Public hearing notice was sent to 33 neighboring property owners on August 25, 2026, and was not re-advertised after the tabling. - Staff recommended denial, citing limited access through a substandard 30-foot-wide Fair Lane in an R-2/single-family neighborhood, the open-ended character of R-MF zoning (potentially about 19 units on the vacated 1.1-acre site), and R-2 alternatives: duplexes could yield up to 10 units (40 bedrooms), and cottage development with a conditional use permit could yield about 12 units. - Applicant engineer Keenan Simon said the R-MF proposal would yield 15 two-bedroom units (30 bedrooms), require stormwater detention/quality and on-site parking, and provide workforce housing. He argued the owner prefers townhomes over duplexes. - Discussing commissioners raised compatibility, emergency access, and the risk that future owners could build more intense R-MF uses. Commissioners Lowe and Brodsky supported the rezoning; Lowe cited nearby transit and the need for townhome options. - A motion to approve the R-2 to R-MF rezoning failed 5-2, with Lowe and Brodsky voting yes and Stanton, Stockton, Walters, Darr, and the Chair voting no. The commission will forward a recommendation of denial to the City Council. Case 239-2026 – Tuscany Ridge Plat No. 5 Design Adjustment - Crockett Engineering, for BC Investments of Columbia LLC, requested a design adjustment from UDC Section 29-5.1(G) regarding utility easement dedication for a proposed 45-lot final plat on 11.08 acres at 5305 Brown Station Road. - Staff explained that an easement cannot be dedicated on the west side of Venetian Parkway because the city owns the adjacent property and cannot grant an easement to itself. The preliminary plat was approved in 2006, and utilities already exist on the east side of Venetian Parkway. - Applicant Tim Crockett said the request is a technicality; relocating the parkway onto private property would create access problems. - The commission voted unanimously to approve the design adjustment. Case 241-2026 – 813 Donnelly Avenue Short-Term Rental CUP - Brian Gaub, for BDG and MDGG Revocable Trust, requested a conditional use permit to allow 813 Donnelly Avenue to operate as a short-term rental for a maximum of six transient guests and up to 210 nights per year in the R-2 district. - Staff noted the driveway provides three required spaces plus a one-car garage, no short-term rentals are established within 300 feet, the applicant has not operated the property as a short-term rental, and the designated agent lives 3.6 miles away. Staff received one email without a stated position, one additional email earlier in the week, and two further emails in opposition received during work session after the packet deadline. - Applicant Brian Gaub said he and his wife bought the house in January 2024 for his wife's sister, who currently lives there; they are seeking the permit for future family visits and rental income if that situation changes. - Commissioner Darr raised an opportunity cost concern about approving an unused STR permit that could affect future 300-foot applications; Commissioner Stanton said the market should decide. The Chair preferred that applicants plant their flag now so the STR use is established. - The commission voted unanimously to approve the CUP with conditions: maximum six transient guests and maximum 210 rental nights per year. Case 243-2026 – 5605 Pergola Drive Assembly/Lodge Hall CUP - Broadfield Properties LLC requested a CUP for an assembly/lodge hall (wedding/event venue) on the M-N zoned portion of a roughly 5.73-acre split M-C/M-N site in the Old Hawthorne area. - Staff recommended approval with two conditions: substantial conformance to the site plan and installation of a level-one landscape buffer along the northern edge abutting the R-1 golf-course property. Staff projected under 100 peak trips, making a traffic impact study unnecessary, and found adequate infrastructure. - Applicant Tim Crockett, joined by Old Hawthorne club management, agreed to the level-three buffer on the east but asked to waive the northern level-one buffer because they own both sides, existing trees provide screening, and homes are 700–800 feet away across Grindstone Creek. - Commissioner Darr questioned the practical need for the northern buffer; staff stated the code requires it, but the CUP process allows discretion. - A motion to approve with staff's two conditions failed on a 4-3 vote: Stanton, Stockton, and Gray voted yes; Lowe, Walters, Brodsky, and Darr voted no. - A follow-up motion to approve the CUP with only the site-plan conformance condition passed 6-1, with Stanton opposed. The northern level-one buffer was waived; eastern and Bower Lane buffering remained on the site plan. Public Comments & Testimony - Kim Stall, 5613 Bower Lane, said the proposed plans looked great and asked why the commission waived the tree/landscape buffer along the golf course. Staff and commissioners clarified that the waiver applied only to the northern golf-course edge and that natural vegetation would continue to provide screening. - No other general public comments were made. Public hearing testimony is summarized in the case sections above. Staff Comments & Work Session Preview - The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 8, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The commission expects to return to two meetings per month through the end of 2026, with December having one meeting. - Staff previewed upcoming topics: data-center regulations and a Change.org survey presentation; a potential M-DT text amendment for Broadway Diner relocation requested by City Council with a target completion around December 2026; cottage-development code streamlining; possible setback and corner side-yard text changes; hotel-height/interchange analysis; and a comprehensive plan RFP. - The October 8 agenda will include a Richland Road PD-to-MC rezoning and an R-1-to-R-2 rezoning off Honda Avenue. - New commission officers for 2026–2027 were elected: David Brodsky as chair, Dr. Gray as secretary, and Stanton as vice chair. Key Outcomes - Recommended approval: Hunter's Landing Plat 1-A (unanimous); Tuscany Ridge Plat 5 design adjustment (unanimous); 813 Donnelly Avenue STR CUP (unanimous with conditions); and 5605 Pergola Drive assembly/lodge CUP (6-1 with site-plan condition only). - Recommended denial: Fair Lane R-2-to-R-MF rezoning through a 5-2 vote against approval. - Next regular meeting: October 8, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.

The Urban Parks and Forestry Board met on September 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM to discuss two major work sessions: the Bozeman Creek Vision Plan and the 2026 Urban Forest Management Plan, along with routine updates. The meeting included a presentation on the creek vision plan, public comment on the forest management plan, and director's and commissioner's updates. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from the August 27, 2026 meeting with a vote: Brant Perubi (yes), Steve Lowry (yes), Paige Lizowski (abstain), Joe Cartray (abstain), Matthew Fortin (yes). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments on non-agenda items were received. Discussion Items - Bozeman Creek Vision Plan - Work Session: Assistant City Manager John Henderson presented a comprehensive vision for Bozeman Creek focusing on flood mitigation, parkland improvements, and policy recommendations. The plan aims to mitigate a potential $1 billion in property damage from a 100-year plus rain-on-snow flood event by diverting water via Mill Ditch and improving creek conveyances. Key proposals include: creating a park in front of City Hall by abandoning the parking lot, reconfiguring Rouse Avenue between Main and Olive to daylight the creek, and long-term improvements to Bogart Park (20-30 years out). The project would be phased over 30 years, funded largely through grants. The board discussed upstream storage, prioritization, funding, and community engagement. A seed funding of $150,000 has been allocated for a ten-year implementation plan. Board members expressed strong support for the bold vision and emphasized the need for clear short-term milestones and partnerships with the nonprofit "C Bozeman Creek." - 2026 Urban Forest Management Plan - Work Session: Parks Director Mitch Overton presented an update on public comment and final draft revisions. Four public engagement meetings were held (2 virtual, 2 in-person). Major themes from public comments included: need for a heritage tree program (soft launch on city property), stronger language to protect mature trees (especially private trees during development), improved readability of the document, and more detail on staffing and equipment costs. The consultant team is incorporating these comments and plans to deliver a final draft by November 12, 2026, for presentation to the City Commission on December 8, 2026. Board members discussed the role of an urban ecologist, addressed concerns about AI-generated content (contracts require disclosure), and supported elevating key recommendations from appendices to the main document. The board will review the community grant program process at the next meeting. - Director's Update: Overton reported on the Community Grant Program for FY27 with $210,000 available; applications opening mid-October, with board approval targeted for February 2026. Code updates from the Pratt Plan will begin in October. Wayfinding design package for trails finalized, installation this fall. The board will need to reschedule November (Thanksgiving) and December (Christmas Eve) meetings. - Commissioner's Update: Commissioner Sweeney informed the board about upcoming City Commission work sessions: October 6 (ballot initiatives for 2027), October 20 (Northwest Bozeman sub-area plan), November 10 (Fowler Housing work session), November 17 (integrated water resource plan). He noted unanimous commission support for the Cattle Creek Corridor vote and thanked the board for participation. Key Outcomes - The board provided input on the Bozeman Creek Vision Plan to be incorporated into the draft plan presented to the City Commission on December 15, 2026. - The board reviewed public comment themes for the Urban Forest Management Plan; final revisions due by November 12, 2026, with commission presentation on December 8, 2026. - The board will revisit the Community Grant Program process at the October meeting. - The board will set new meeting dates for November and December at the next meeting.

The Art in Public Places Advisory Board (APP) met on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Los Alamos, NM. The board discussed and voted on several key items, including the artist selection process for Fire Station 4 artwork, an updated deaccession policy, and a 4-H banner request. The meeting adjourned at 7:48 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of August 27, 2026 Minutes: Unanimously approved (motion carried). Discussion Items - Fire Station 4 Artwork Acquisition Process: The board considered whether to use the State of New Mexico’s artist-selection process, which requires a minimum combined budget of $100,000 (state and county funds) and a multi-step selection committee with required roles. Board members expressed concerns about the length of the process (up to an 8-hour final meeting), quorum requirements, and the need to delegate artist-selection authority from the County Council. Chelsea Ashcraft (staff) reported positive feedback from Gallup and UNM hospital systems about the state process and its coordinator, Meredith. The board debated whether to ask council for early delegation of authority or to retain the usual final council approval. Ultimately, they voted to proceed without the early delegation, meaning council will review the final selection. They set a county contribution not to exceed $80,001 plus Gross Receipts Tax, supplemented by a minimum $20,000 in state funds. The motion also allows the board to adjust the budget later if needed. A first meeting of the selection committee will be scheduled to test the process before presenting to council. - Deaccession Policy Update: The board reviewed a comprehensive update to the deaccession policy, developed by the strategic plan working group. Key changes include: adding three new criteria for deaccession (fraudulent/inauthentic work, written artist request, site development necessity), clarifying the process for contacting artists (including a 60-day response window and community outreach if unreachable), requiring a legal review, and providing specific disposition options (retain, relocate, store, or dispose). The policy emphasizes that removal should be rare and carefully documented. The board voted unanimously to approve the updated policy, subject to minor edits discussed (e.g., clarifying that requests from non-county residents should go through a board member, and adding federal law to legal review). Staff requested holding the policy from council until an ordinance update is ready, which the board agreed to. - Community Services Year-End Update: Tabled to the next meeting. - Working Group Updates: Tabled; brief mention that Bryan Fearey volunteered to join the Fire Station 4 working group. - Staff Liaison Report: Chelsea Ashcraft reported a request from the 4-H club to hang a 24-by-24-inch banner on the Oppenheimer and Groves statue for National 4-H Week (October 4-7). The board unanimously opposed the banner, citing precedent concerns, but had no objection to green lights being shone on the statue or to 4-H members taking photos holding the banner. Ashcraft also announced the resignation of board member Anna Buckthorpe and that two previous applicants remain interested; interviews will be scheduled, and the board agreed to re-advertise for additional members. - Chairman's Report: Tim Foley reported no APP-related council communications since the last meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes from August 27, 2026 (unanimous). - Approved (amended): Motion for Fire Station 4 artwork acquisition using the state’s artist-selection process with a county budget not to exceed $80,001 + GRT, supplemented by $20,000 in state funds; no delegation of authority to the selection committee requested from council at this stage (unanimous). - Approved (with edits): Updated Deaccession Policy, to be held for packaging with an upcoming ordinance amendment (unanimous). - Rejected: 4-H banner request; green lighting allowed. - Next Steps: Staff to gather selection committee for Fire Station 4 first meeting; board to interview new applicants and re-advertise; ordinance update to be presented at the October 22, 2026 meeting.

The Franklin Township Zoning Board of Adjustment held a special meeting on September 24, 2026, in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act (PL 1975, Chapter 231). The primary agenda item was a continued hearing on the Tawheed Dawah Center application (ZBA-24-00017), an amended preliminary and final site plan plus relief of conditions, proposing construction of a 19,350-square-foot place of worship at 630 South Middlebush Road, Somerset (Block 37.02, Lot 46.03, Zone A). After substantial testimony and board deliberation, the application was carried to October 1, 2026, with no further notification required. Agenda Overview & Administrative Matters - The agenda also listed resolution items for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of USA (ZBA-25-00007 and ZBA-25-00008), Syracuse 1950 Easton Avenue Owner LLC (ZBA-25-00009), and Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity (ZBA-26-00007, Main Street and Kossuth Street); the transcript reflects no separate substantive testimony on these items. - Board members signed verification forms confirming they listened to or participated in prior hearing recordings; the board noted absent members would review the recordings and remain eligible to vote at the next hearing. Public Comments & Testimony - An objector raised concerns about traffic impacts on South Middlebush Road, describing it as a busy road with few traffic lights, making left turns difficult even outside peak hours. He stated it took him 20 minutes to reach Jersey Avenue Station and 25 minutes to drive from the area to Princeton Highlands, and that prayer-time traffic delays could force him to leave 45 minutes early for his commute. - The objector questioned the accuracy of the traffic analysis time frame, noting prayer times can change, and asserted that trip past the property during a prayer meeting could be delayed by 10 minutes or more on South Middlebush Road. - The objector challenged an attendance estimate of 150 people, stating that was not the applicant's testimony and does not match the statement of proposed use, and asked what enforcement system would ensure the number of cars does not exceed the permitted parking limit. - An objector's representative stated the applicant reduced the building size by about 10 percent while increasing the worship area by close to 20 percent, and argued the main concern is the road's impact on the community and planning effects. - The objector's side took the position that if the board grants any approval involving banked parking spaces, the applicant should be required to return to the board as a condition of approval before exercising the use of those spaces. Discussion Items - Time of Application Rule: The board discussed that the ordinance in effect when the application was deemed complete governs the application. The applicant's attorney noted one of the main items of dispute was whether the prior ordinance or the newly amended parking ordinance applies; a board member added that the recent parking ordinance change reflects current thinking on parking needs. - Inherently Beneficial Use and Conditional Use: The applicant's planner testified under oath that houses of worship are an inherently beneficial use under New Jersey case law and statute, which helps satisfy the positive criteria for a D1 use variance, and that Section 112-37 of the municipal land development ordinance permits places of worship as a conditional use in the zone. The planner stated that different religions have different practices, but both are protected under the law, and the agricultural zone does not distinguish between religions. - Parking and Banked Spaces: Testimony indicated the site would have 97 built parking spaces with 22 banked or free spaces. A board member then asked whether the board could allow the applicant to bank 30 spaces but require the applicant to come back to the board before exercising those spaces. The applicant's attorney responded that the applicant should need to return to the board to build the banked spaces. Board members also discussed what measures would ensure parking and attendance do not exceed approved limits. - Traffic Analysis: The applicant's traffic engineer testified that traffic projections were inflated for two years, to around 2026, and that the additional volume on South Middlebush Road would not change the results of the analysis. He stated the level of service D is incurred at the site access rather than on South Middlebush Road itself, which would run freely when no one is at the driveway. - Site Plan and Relief from Conditions: A board member noted the applicant is proposing an almost 1,000-square-foot increase in worship area, which triggers additional parking spaces under the existing ordinance, and pressed the applicant on whether relief from conditions should be granted, asking, "What if I say you don't deserve relief from that condition?" - Application History: The applicant's attorney recounted that the application was carried to February, then to April, and scheduled for July 2, but approximately 10 days beforehand the township realized that was the night of the township's 250th gala celebration; the matter was postponed to September 24 because professionals and objectors' counsel were unavailable over the summer. Key Outcomes - The Tawheed Dawah Center application (ZBA-24-00017) was carried to October 1, 2026, with no further notification required; the board indicated a full board would be present. - Board members certified in writing that they reviewed recordings of prior hearings, preserving absent members' eligibility to vote at the October 1 hearing. - The applicant's attorney agreed to an extension of time through October 1, 2026, and stated he would confirm it in writing. - A board member reserved five minutes at the next meeting to have a fuller discussion and consider whether the board would like to revisit a policy issue.

The Historic & Landmarks Preservation Board (HLPB) met on Thursday, September 24, 2026, in the Common Council Chamber. The board approved minutes, renewed a lapsed certificate for Whiskey River, approved a signage package for Wells Fargo, approved a storefront renovation at 1013 Park Street, and deferred a decision on the Fern Tree facade application pending further discussion on a proposed mural. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 23, 2026): The draft minutes were approved unanimously. - 38 North Division Street – Whiskey River (COA Renewal): The board issued a new Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for the previously approved design (rear patio, retaining walls, overhead framing with sail shades) to allow the project to move forward after the original COA had lapsed. Discussion Items - 920 South Street – Wells Fargo (Signage): Jim from MRC Signs presented revised signage plans for the Wells Fargo branch. The applicant addressed prior board concerns by converting directional signs to a brown color scheme with white posts, updating window graphics, and removing stickers from the ATM. The board found all requests had been satisfied. Outcome: Motion to grant the certificate passed unanimously. - 1013 Park Street – Storefront Replacement (Façade): Architect Joseph Thompson presented a proposal to replace the existing aluminum storefronts with a traditional wood-style design using Boral trim. The plan included leveling the base to accommodate a new fire line, adding gold leaf accents, and integrating a sign band into the new storefront. The board discussed paint color, suggesting a warmer white (e.g., Simply White) over a bright decorator white. Outcome: The board approved the application with the final paint color and gold leaf application to be approved by staff. - 13 South Division Street – Fern Tree (Façade): Staff member Sam presented revised drawings. A major point of discussion was a proposed mural covering the second and third floors. The board expressed significant concern about the precedent this would set for murals in the historic district, the owner having full discretion over the final mural design, and that the board's original suggestion was limited to the first floor. Board members John and Arya noted that while the rendering was aesthetically pleasing, they did not feel comfortable approving the mural due to its scope. Outcome: The application was deferred to the next regular meeting (October 29, 2026) to allow the applicant to respond to the board's comments, specifically regarding the mural. Key Outcomes - Approvals/Votes Taken: - Approval of July 23, 2026 minutes (Unanimous). - 920 South Street (Wells Fargo): Motion to grant Certificate of Appropriateness for the revised signage (Unanimous). - 38 North Division Street (Whiskey River): Motion to issue a new Certificate of Appropriateness for the previously approved design (Unanimous). - 1013 Park Street (Storefront Replacement): Motion to approve the facade changes with staff-level approval of final paint color and gold leaf (Unanimous). - Deferred Application: - 13 South Division Street (Fern Tree): The application was deferred to the next meeting on October 29, 2026. The board requested the applicant address concerns regarding the proposed mural, citing precedent and lack of board control over the final artwork. - Next Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2026.