The Public Meeting Index

The Saint Paul City Council met on September 23, 2026, at 3:31 p.m. in Council Chambers. Seven members were present. The Council approved the consent agenda, pulled RES 26-1616 for discussion, heard a tobacco-license adverse action, proclaimed September 25, 2026 as Dolly Parton Day, recessed to act as the Library Board for the 2027 library maximum levy, reconvened to approve the 2027 maximum property tax levies for the City and HRA, gave final adoption to four Xcel Energy franchise and franchise-fee ordinances, and acted on public hearings and legislative hearing consent items. The meeting recessed at 3:47 p.m., resumed at 3:57 p.m., and adjourned at 4:58 p.m. Communications & Receive/File - AO 26-65, amending the Citywide Capital Maintenance budget for the Fleet Services division in the Office of Financial Services, was received and filed. Consent Calendar - The Consent Agenda was adopted 7-0 as amended, with item 21 removed for discussion. Items adopted by consent included: - RES 26-1352: authorized the Department of Planning and Economic Development to apply to Metropolitan Council Livable Communities Act programs for Round Two 2026. - RES 26-1365: approved miscellaneous abatement service costs for July-August 2026, with a legislative hearing set for October 20, 2026 and a City Council public hearing set for January 20, 2027. - RES 26-1464: the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 70 off-shift differential pay pilot MOA was laid over to October 7, 2026. - RES 26-1569: accepted $66,027.29 from the Minnesota Department of Commerce Solar on Public Buildings Grant Program for solar installation at the Solid Waste and Recycling Facility. - RES 26-1576: accepted a Knight Foundation/Bloomberg Center for Cities travel and tuition gift for Mayor Kaohly Her for September 28-29, 2026. - RES 26-1583: granted the appeals of Jon Knutson for Loucks and Carolyn Wolf for Tegra from the Board of Zoning Appeals denial of two variances for the hotel at United Village Block D, 1560 University Avenue West, where 43.1% window and door openings were proposed for facade length, a 6.9% variance below the 50% requirement, and 23.3% for facade area, a 6.7% variance below the 30% requirement. - RES 26-1584: granted the appeal of Joe Bennett for a variance to convert an existing lit freestanding sign to dynamic display at 1305 7th Street West. - RES 26-1586: set a November 4, 2026 public hearing date for 2027 water rates and water fees. - RES 26-1589: accepted a Knight Foundation/Harvard University travel and tuition gift for Mary Xiong for September 29-30, 2026. - RES 26-1592: approved settlement and payment of the employment-related claim of former Saint Paul Fire Department employee Jodie Carroll. - RES 26-1595: the Saint Paul Police Federation accelerated-entry program MOA was laid over to October 7, 2026. - RES 26-1597: approved a gambling location license for NS LLC d/b/a Pizza Maya at 1324 7th Street West. - RES 26-1601: authorized the Fire Department to apply for the 2025 Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness grant. - RES 26-1602 and 26-1603: approved temporary Board of Commissioners appointments for Council President Noecker to the Port Authority and Councilmember Johnson to the Board of Water Commissioners, beginning September 24, 2026. - RES 26-1607: approved a public hearing and related authorization for conduit multifamily housing revenue bonds for a project at 408 St. Peter Street. - RES 26-1611 and 26-1612: approved appointments to the Truth-in-Sale of Housing Board and the Saint Paul Public Housing Agency. - RES 26-1614: accepted a travel and lodging gift for two Parks and Recreation staff to attend the 2026 Bank On Leadership Training convening in Charlotte, North Carolina. Discussion Items - RES 26-1616 was adopted 7-0, approving the City Audit Committee's next two studies on the Department of Safety and Inspections Business Licensing Operations and Public Works Street Maintenance and Pothole Repair Operations, and authorizing Wilder Research to conduct the studies in 2026 and 2027. Council President Noecker pulled the item to raise awareness of the Audit Committee's work. - RES 26-1553 was adopted 7-0, approving adverse action against the Tobacco Shop license held by Northern Tier Retail LLC d/b/a Speedway 4420 at 1125 7th Street West. An assistant city attorney for the Department of Safety and Inspections said the recommended penalty was $1,000, consistent with the licensing matrix, for a second violation. On June 16, 2026, a 19-year-old buyer was sold tobacco after presenting an ID showing age 19; the first violation occurred in May 2025 and resulted in a $500 penalty paid in October 2025. Brittany Standing, area leader for the business, spoke about corrective actions, including removing the employee 'over 30' button, requiring physical ID scans for all tobacco and alcohol sales, changing managers, and retraining employees. Noecker said she saw no reason to depart from the penalty matrix. - RES 26-1588 was adopted 7-0, proclaiming September 25, 2026 as Dolly Parton Day in Saint Paul. Donna Valentine, MyTalk co-host of Donna and Steve, accepted the proclamation and spoke about Dolly Parton's legacy of generosity, kindness, and support for working people. Public Comments and Testimony - No members of the public testified on the public hearing items, including the salt storage ordinance, assessments, and grant authorizations. - Written comments and exhibits on the Xcel energy franchise and franchise-fee ordinances were submitted by John Purdy, SPAC, and District Energy St. Paul and were included in the record. - Councilmember Johnson acknowledged Ward 7 resident Murphy Dawkins and John Purdy for testifying during the franchise fee public comment process. - Thomas Turbes testified on the pulled legislative hearing item RLH SAO 26-66, requesting a two-week extension for nuisance-abatement compliance at 2203 Selby Avenue. Library Board Recess - The City Council recessed at 3:47 p.m. and convened as the Library Board, chaired by Councilmember Jost. The Library Board adopted RES 26-1594, requesting that the City levy property taxes for the Saint Paul Public Library Agency, by a 7-0 vote. Councilmember Johnson said the mayor's supplemental budget restored funding for Dayton's Bluff Library and Highwood Hills Rec Center and found $564,000 not previously in the proposal; she moved approval of version one, the mayor's proposed levy with no additional library levy increase. Councilmember Coleman said budget decisions must match the city's stated values and that closing libraries should not be an acceptable option. The Library Board adjourned and the Council reconvened at 3:57 p.m. Budget Items - RES 26-1605 was adopted 7-0, approving the 2027 maximum property tax levy for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority. Councilmember Johnson said it passed unanimously at the HRA board earlier that day. - RES 26-1599 was adopted 7-0, approving version one of the 2027 maximum property tax levy for the City. The maximum levy reflects the mayor's proposed 6.8% increase, which Councilmember Jost described as a $14 million to $15 million increase over the prior year and, in the context of a $26 million deficit, effectively a cut. Noecker said the city would receive $70 million more if it received the local government aid it was entitled to. Several members described the maximum levy as a ceiling, not a floor, and committed to working to reduce it before final budget adoption. Councilmember Bowie called the 6.8% increase a ceiling, not the floor, and committed to stronger performance metrics; Councilmember Kim said she was supporting the levy because failing to fund core services undermines the value residents receive; Councilmember Jost said she would have supported a higher levy before the supplemental budget restored park and library cuts, and cited regional context including Minneapolis at 11.3%, Carver County at 16.8%, and Shoreview at 10.7%; Councilmember Johnson stressed the importance of transparency about supplemental budget decisions and council-administration alignment; Vice President Yang said she would have preferred a 3% to 5% increase and wants to reduce overtime costs and close TIF districts; Councilmember Coleman called tax increases an economic justice issue and said the council must be responsible stewards of resident dollars. Ordinances - Final adoption: Ord 26-40, Ord 26-41, Ord 26-43, and Ord 26-44 were each adopted 7-0. These ordinances amend the Xcel Energy gas and electric franchises and add new gas and electric franchise fee appendices. Councilmember Jost said the agreement includes a progressive franchise fee that provides an additional 50% discount on Xcel bills for residents enrolled in the energy assistance program, including renters. Councilmember Noecker noted the agreement allows more frequent renegotiation, including on an annual basis, rather than waiting 20 years, and includes an equitable assessment policy described as a first-of-its-kind approach. - First reading: Ord 26-46 was laid over to October 7, 2026 for second reading and public hearing. Staff explained that the amendment would create a streamlined process to convey city-owned property used by Saint Paul Regional Water Services to the Board of Water Commissioners for less than fair market value when the City Council determines the property will further SPRWS's mission. The change was prompted by an Anoka County roadway easement request involving a city-owned parcel in Anoka County. Public Hearings - Ord 26-39, amending Chapter 63 regarding salt storage regulation, was considered as version two. No one testified. The Council voted 7-0 to amend and lay the ordinance over to October 7, 2026 for final adoption. - RES PH 26-182 and RES PH 26-183 were adopted 7-0, ratifying Seventh Place Mall operation and maintenance assessments for 2025 and 2026. - RES PH 26-193 was adopted 7-0, ratifying Grand/Snelling parking lot operation and maintenance assessments for 2027. - RES PH 26-201 was adopted 7-0, amending the 2026 Public Works Street Lighting Maintenance budget by $450,000 for electrician support for the Saint Paul Regional Water Services Lead Replacement Project. - RES PH 26-244 was adopted 7-0, accepting a DEED Contamination Cleanup grant for the LSBD St. Paul Broadway II LLC project known as Ember on Pine at 500 Broadway Street. - RES PH 26-250 was adopted 7-0, accepting $2,926,000 in State of Minnesota grant funding for arts and cultural heritage at the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. - RES PH 26-268 was adopted 7-0, increasing the 2026 Saint Paul Regional Water Services budget by $53,000 for a Metropolitan Council grant. Legislative Hearing Consent Agenda - RLH SAO 26-66, the appeal of Thomas Turbes for 2203 Selby Avenue, was pulled for discussion. DSI staff recommended finding the nuisance not abated and authorizing abatement. Turbes testified that he had lived on the block his whole life, had health issues, and had arranged for a salvage company to remove a travel trailer, requesting a two-week extension. Councilmember Coleman noted a factual dispute about whether inspectors observed improvement and moved to grant a two-week extension as a final deadline rather than a layover. The item was adopted 7-0 as amended: if compliance is not completed by October 7, 2026, DSI may proceed with abatement. - The remaining legislative hearing consent items were adopted as amended: RLH SAO 26-90 for 2348 Buford Avenue, Rich C. Nelson; RLH SAO 26-94 for 1552 Canfield Avenue, Barbara Clark, with nuisance abated; RLH SAO 26-92 for 1045 Charles Avenue, Mary Roach; RLH SAO 26-96 for 1597 Charles Avenue, Liam Magistad, second appeal, with nuisance abated; RLH SAO 26-63 for 1521 Hague Avenue, Jane Myers, with nuisance abated; RLH SAO 26-80 for 444 Johnson Parkway, Kinnell Tacket; RLH SAO 26-93 for 449 Van Dyke Street, Barry Campbell; and RLH AR 26-62, ratifying June 2026 demolition assessments for vacant, nuisance, and hazardous structures. Key Outcomes - All recorded votes were 7-0. - The Consent Agenda was adopted as amended; RES 26-1464 and RES 26-1595 were laid over to October 7, 2026. - The Library Board adopted RES 26-1594, and the City Council adopted the HRA and City 2027 maximum property tax levies. - The four Xcel Energy franchise and franchise-fee ordinances were adopted on final reading. - Ord 26-39 and Ord 26-46 were laid over to October 7, 2026. - RLH SAO 26-66 was granted a two-week extension, with abatement authorized if compliance is not complete by October 7, 2026. Ward Updates and Announcements - Councilmember Johnson reminded residents of a Dayton's Bluff Library community conversation on September 24, 2026 at 6 p.m. at Metro State University. - Councilmember Kim invited residents to the Ward 5 budget engagement on October 8, 2026 at 6 p.m. at the North End Community Center. - Vice President Yang announced Meet Us on Arcade Street on September 27, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Urban Village, 1082 Arcade Street, and said she would begin parental leave on September 24 with a tentative return date of January 11, 2027. - Councilmember Jost recapped the Highland Golf Course night driving range event and the Nativity Fair. - Council President Noecker promoted Selby Days on September 26, the Marydale Festival, and the downtown Aldi grand opening on September 24.

The meeting was called to order at 1:30 PM by Vice Chair Sean Hill. Roll call was taken, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and public comment was heard. The commission approved the consent calendar, heard presentations on two Eagle Scout projects, and voted on three action items: an easement request from NDOT, and updates to the fees and charges policy and schedule. Consent Calendar - Approved the draft minutes of the Open Space and Regional Parks Commission meeting of July 29, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Fred Krueger (retired federal and state employee) expressed support for designating a new regional park with open space in the area east-southeast of Golden Eagle Park, similar to Hidden Hills Regional Park. He cited the RTC's proposed Northeast Connector Road and proposed land bills as reasons for urgency, and noted that most of the area is BLM-managed public land. He asked for a contact to discuss the proposal further. Discussion Items - Eagle Scout Project – Eagle Meadows, Galena Creek Regional Park: Logan George (Troop 443) presented his project to replace the fire pit, install a flagpole, and improve drainage. The work was completed on May 30, 2026, with 7 adult and 11 youth volunteers. Materials were donated by local businesses. The statue on the old fire pit was created by a local artist. The commission thanked him for his service. - Eagle Scout Project – Davis Creek Regional Park Registration Sign: Abhinov Kaluri (Troop 15) presented his project to rebuild the registration signboard destroyed in the Davis Creek fire. The project used 35 volunteers, 256 total volunteer hours over five work days, and was completed on August 1, 2026. Total cost was $3,379 (park contributed $2,000; scout provided $1,300). The signboard features two 4-foot-deep concrete footings, a double-sided board for fees and rules, and a metal roof. The commission thanked him. - Rancho San Rafael Multi-Use Path Easement (Item 7A): NDOT requested an easement of approximately 10,381 square feet within Rancho San Rafael Regional Park for construction and maintenance of a multi-use path along North Virginia Street (from McCarran Boulevard to Panther Drive). The path will be 8–10 feet wide, plant mix (asphalt) on aggregate base, with lighting. NDOT obtained an interlocal agreement with the city of Reno for day-to-day maintenance. The project is estimated to cost $8 million, with bid opening October 15, 2026, and construction from February to fall 2027. Staff recommended approval, and the property is Land and Water Conservation Fund deed-restricted, requiring state review. The commission voted to recommend granting the easement for no charge. - Update to Open Space and Regional Parks Fees and Charges Policy (Item 7B): Minor language updates, including removal of golf enterprise fund references, addition of restriction for reciprocal government use to typical business hours, and clarified refund language (no cancellation fee for date/location changes). Approved. - Update to Fees and Charges Schedule (Item 7C): Proposed an average fee increase of 8.4% to reflect CPI increases since 2023. Data entry errors were corrected: Bowers Mansion pool pavilion rental to $100 (not $95) and swim admission to $8 (not $10). Added cleaning/security deposits for aquatic pavilions. Commission approved, effective October 1, 2026. Discussion noted historical cost recovery averaged 14% vs. 12% goal, and that fees were benchmarked against Reno, Sparks, Carson City, South Lake Tahoe, and Boise. - Pros Consulting – Park District Service Plan Update: Eric Rump reported that the draft feasibility study and service plan are nearly complete. A joint meeting with Reno and Sparks parks commissions is scheduled for October 26, 2026 (evening) in chambers. An additional public survey on priorities and funding structure will be sent to previous respondents. - Parks Report: Superintendent Stephanie DRC reported on summer programming, including Galena Campfire (over 200 attendees), Lazy5 Summer Music Series (averaged over 1,000/week), and Dragon Lights installation (opens Oct 2, runs through Nov 29). Phase 2 of South Valleys Regional Park expansion (two softball fields, concession/restroom) construction started, with groundbreaking Oct 12 at 4 PM. Canopa Ranch Trailhead celebration on Nov 12 at 10 AM. Lazy5 master plan public workshops: virtual Sept 29 and in-person Oct 1. Next commission meeting moved to Nov 19, 2026 due to Thanksgiving. - Director's Report: Eric Rump noted the Board of County Commissioners awarded the bid for the next phase of South Valleys Regional Park (softball fields, restroom/concession, ingress/egress). Recovery from Bug and Hawk fires ongoing; no parks damage. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved. - Item 7A (Easement): Motion to recommend to BCC granting NDOT an easement for the multi-use path (10,381 sq ft) for no charge. Approved unanimously. - Item 7B (Fees Policy): Motion to approve updates, effective Oct 1, 2026. Approved. - Item 7C (Fees Schedule): Motion to approve schedule with corrections and 8.4% average increase, effective Oct 1, 2026. Approved. - No other action items.

The Prince George's County Child Care Improvement Work Group met virtually on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 2:03 PM to continue its work on improving access to quality, affordable child care. Six members were present at roll call. The group approved the minutes from the September 9, 2026 meeting, reviewed the work group website, heard a presentation from the Department of Social Services on the new Child Care Navigator role, and discussed preliminary state-level legislative recommendations. Discussion Items - Agenda and Minutes: The agenda included approval of minutes from the September 9 meeting (correcting an earlier date error), a website overview, revisiting major themes from Meeting One, a presentation from the Prince George's County Department of Social Services (DSS) on the Child Care Navigator, discussion of state-level legislative recommendations, and next steps. The minutes were approved by a motion and second. - Overview of Major Themes from Meeting One: Key themes included: clarifying the scope of universal child care in Prince George's County, family child care expansion barriers, the child care scholarship program and provider stability, capacity versus enrollment mismatches, pre-K and child care continuity (including Maryland's mixed delivery system), early childhood workforce development (recruitment, credentialing, compensation, retention), coordination and implementation challenges, and the need for strong data and accountability. - DSS Presentation on Child Care Navigator: Jordan Anderson (Public Information Officer and Legislative Liaison, DSS) presented on the implementation of Council Bill 14-2026, which established the Child Care Navigator role. Key points: DSS serves about 400,000 families annually across Prince George's County with over 500 staff. The county council allocated $2 million to fund the navigator's salary. The job posting received 34 applicants in a five-day window, interviews are ongoing, and the navigator is expected to be onboarded by mid-October. The navigator will be housed in a new Strategic Partnerships and Community Impact Division and will develop a strategic plan and submit an annual report by February 1. The role focuses on business-to-business support for child care providers, connecting them with permitting, licensing, and space identification, though DSS is not a licensing entity. The navigator will work with agencies like Central Services, Office of Procurement, and others. - State-Level Legislative Recommendations Discussion: Dr. Paraken and Mr. Callender presented potential recommendations in several areas: - Family Child Care Expansion: Addressing the sprinkler requirement for homes serving 9–12 children, a financial barrier. Policy opportunities include examining county authority to modify or create alternative compliance pathways, or offering supports to meet the requirement. - Child Care Scholarship Program & Provider Stability: Advocating for sufficient state funding to reduce/eliminate wait lists, better prioritization of families with greatest need, and reducing administrative burdens on providers (payment corrections, enrollment changes, documentation). - Capacity vs. Enrollment: Using more detailed data to identify mismatches and targeting expansion efforts accordingly. Examining scholarship reimbursement structures that may limit access. - Pre-K and Child Care Continuity: Expanding participation of private providers in Maryland's mixed delivery pre-K system, aligning transportation and wraparound supports, and supporting infant/toddler care through improved reimbursement structures. Dr. Searcy noted that under the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, Prince George's County aims for 30% of pre-K seats in private settings, increasing to 50%. Currently 12 child care centers and 16 family child care providers offer free pre-K seats. She mentioned the "Push to Pre-K" sessions offered by MSDE. - Early Childhood Workforce: Building on existing state initiatives (paid training, credentialing, apprenticeships, partnerships with higher education, competitive compensation) to address shortages. - Coordination & Implementation: Establishing a clear implementation framework or interagency mechanism at the state level to track progress and ensure recommendations are acted upon. - Data & Accountability: Strengthening public reporting and data collection to identify actual gaps (e.g., available slots vs. accessible slots). - Child Care Navigator: Using the navigator model statewide, creating clear referral pathways, and tracking patterns to address systemic issues. - Group Discussion and Additional Input: - A work group member (Brianna) asked about wrap-around services for families (diapers, food, nutritionists) similar to DC programs. DSS noted no formalized program but highlighted partnerships and the Judy Centers (six early learning hubs in the county providing diapers and supports). Dr. Searcy added that Judy Centers serve families birth to five. - A public attendee (Lacey) suggested awareness of Montgomery County's Working Parents Assistance Program as a model to study, given border-sharing and frozen scholarship enrollment. - Another member emphasized the navigator role should include a synopsis of other agencies' roles (fire, zoning, approvals) to simplify processes. - Kiana Morant recommended creating a live, common data system for the navigator to track real-time slot availability, building on what Maryland Family Network offers but making it more dynamic. - Dr. Searcy raised concern that pre-K expansion could harm providers who subsidize infant/toddler care (lower ratios) with revenue from older children, urging intentional support for infants/toddlers. - Keisha Maxwell asked about opportunities to adjust licensing for school-age programs to include more pre-K children attending the same school building, noting current staff age requirements and ratios. Maxwell noted regulations are being amended (minimum age from 19 to 18, group size adjustments) and public comment is open. - Alejandra asked about a county inventory of county-owned buildings that could be leased to child care providers for expansion. Jordan Anderson responded that the navigator is mandated to identify and maintain such an inventory, and Dr. Paraken added that a state-level study is underway (DGS) on feasibility of using state government offices for child care. A work group member confirmed at least one provider is seeking such a partnership. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The minutes from the September 9, 2026 meeting were approved by a motion (Keisha Maxwell) and second. - No Formal Votes: No recommendations were finalized. The group will refine state-level recommendations to be more action-oriented (with responsible parties, measurable outcomes) for the next meeting. - Next Steps: Work group members are encouraged to share relevant data and announcements via email. The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM virtually, where discussions will continue on concrete state-level actions and also begin on improving permitting and county review processes for child care facilities. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 3:02 PM.

The Tulsa City Council Public Works Committee met at 2:30 PM on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, in Room 411, One Technology Center, 175 E. 2nd St., Tulsa, OK. Chair Bush presided; the agenda listed Dutton, Hall-Harper, and Decter Wright as co-chairs/committee members. The committee reviewed a Tulsa Development Authority reappointment, a Tulsa Housing Impact Fund update, floodplain management resolutions, and several property and easement items. No minutes were available for this meeting, and no final votes were taken during the committee discussion. TDA Reappointment Discussion (Item 2) - Steve Mitchell appeared before the committee for reappointment to the Tulsa Development Authority (TDA). The agenda listed a term expiring July 31, 2028, attendance at 7 of 15 meetings, and the appointment as Council District 4. - Mitchell said he has served on TDA since about 2014, grew up in Tulsa, attended Tulsa Public Schools, returned to Tulsa from Los Angeles in 2025, and works as an investor. He said he is proud to have over $100 million invested in North Tulsa and has 300 employees at Prior Aerospace and American Power Innovations, recently leased 100,000 square feet of manufacturing space on Marion, and expects to add about 200 more employees over the next 18 months. He later clarified that the $100 million is investor capital, including Oklahoma firefighters and teachers pension funds and Oklahoma tribal nations' capital, not solely his own funds. - Mitchell also cited large-scale development experience elsewhere, including 14,000 lots in an 8,000-acre parcel in western Phoenix and a 500,000-square-foot mall. - A council member questioned his 7-of-15 attendance record and asked what he had done for the western part of North Tulsa in District 1, saying his investments appeared concentrated in District 3 and northeast Tulsa. Mitchell responded that he does not know district lines and does not invest along district lines. - Another council member expressed concern about TDA decisions affecting District 1, including a past disagreement over dollar stores and food insecurity. She said she had requested a different appointee after Mitchell's previous term and described the reappointment as insulting because the Council had already made a decision. Mitchell said he had voted in favor of a Dollar General store after research and independent advice, and that he had helped recover 44 acres in Kirkpatrick Heights from OSU Tulsa. - Councillor Decter Wright said a county assessor list of 143 TDA properties showed 82 percent are in zip code 74106, which is District 1. She called the reappointment process highly irregular, said the Council had not gone through a process like this during her eight years at the table, and called questions about Mitchell's personal investments wildly inappropriate and unfair. She said her concern was about the process, not the person. - Other council members spoke in support of Mitchell, citing his business expertise, commitment to Tulsa Public Schools, willingness to serve, and experience on Partner Tulsa-related boards. - The chair said the Council vote on the reappointment, originally scheduled for September 30, would be rescheduled so the full Council could be present, and Mitchell would be notified. Tulsa Housing Impact Fund (THIF) Update (Item 8) - THIF President Chloe Doss presented THIF's first formal update on deploying IOT3 housing funds. Housing Partnership Network (HPN) is the managing member of the Tulsa Housing Impact Fund and provides staffing, underwriting, closing, and servicing. - THIF was incorporated in July 2025 and signed a contract with the City of Tulsa for IOT3 funds in January 2026. THIF's goal is to have 1,300 units committed and in closing by the end of 2026. - Capital raise: THIF reported a $120 million goal, with $101 million raised to date, or 84 percent, including $27 million in closing, plus $25 million in its pipeline. Commitments include City of Tulsa IOT3 funds, $27 million in local philanthropic commitments and grants, an additional $27 million senior debt facility in closing with Bank of Oklahoma, JP Morgan, and Charles Schwab, two PRIs totaling $10 million, and a $2 million grant for a developer accelerator program. The senior debt facility has an accordion structure that can expand to $75 million. - Deployment: Doss reported $7.25 million deployed in closed projects and $10.75 million in projects in closing. Three closed projects represent $62 million in total housing investment; three in-closing projects represent about $139 million in total housing investment. The presentation contained conflicting unit counts: 218 closed units and 345 in-closing units were cited later, while an earlier portion referenced 532 and 345 units. The discrepancy was not resolved during the meeting. - Pipeline: THIF reported about 90 prospective projects, roughly 5,600 potential housing units, and about $190 million in funding requests. Funding requests include about $93 million in IOT3 requests, more than the remaining IOT3 balance, and about $48 million in other program/TIP-type funds as transcribed. - Doss said IOT3 capital is the bottom floor and that without it these projects would not move forward. THIF acts as a gap filler, underwrites projects like a traditional bank, and uses flexible IOT3 financing only to fill the true gap. Developers learn about THIF through word of mouth, forums, website intake applications, and city referrals. - Jane Bowman, senior advisor to Mayor Nichols on housing, said the city has been actively referring developers to THIF and that many developers are already aware of IOT3 and how to access it through THIF. Councillors asked about policy barriers, zoning, permitting, inflation, tariffs, and how capital will be recycled; Doss said THIF works closely with Housing Forward and city staff on zoning, permitting, and regulatory improvements. Floodplain Management and RLAA Resolutions (Items 3 and 4) - City staff presented resolutions to adopt the City of Tulsa Floodplain Management Plan and Repetitive Loss Area Analysis (RLAA) Annual Progress Report 2025-2026, and the 2026 RLAA plans. Both items include emergency clauses. - Staff explained that a repetitive loss area is an area with federal flood insurance that has had two claims over $1,000 within a 10-year period. Tulsa still has 45 repetitive loss areas; some have had no claims since the 1984 and 1986 floods. - The last detailed property-level RLAA reports were prepared between 2017 and 2020. Staff said 11 reports have been rewritten and grouped by drainage basin to align with annual flood insurance letters. - Repetitive-loss status helps Tulsa prioritize stormwater projects, track flood damage and inundated roads, and evaluate benefit-cost analyses as part of the Community Rating System for the National Flood Insurance Program. - Residents can check floodplain information at cityoftulsa.org/floodcontrol, use the online GIS floodplain viewer, call 311 for a flood zone determination, and request an elevation certificate. Impacted property owners will receive letters with resources. Staff said they were willing to attend a town hall to explain the reports. Surplus Property, Easement, and License Items (Items 5-7) - Item 5: A resolution declaring 9415 S. Yale Ave. surplus. Asset Management staff said the city acquired the property through inverse condemnation due to a stormwater condition; there is no specific buyer and it will be offered for sale. - Item 6: An ordinance closing a detention easement at 1123 N. Garnett Rd., requested by Alan Betchan of AAB Engineering, LLC on behalf of Interiors One Properties, LLC. Public Works staff said the property is being redeveloped and the required detention facility has been re-oriented and completed, so the old easement can be closed. Staff recommended approval. - Item 7: A license agreement with CJT Real Estate, LLC for approximately 12 feet of parking lot on the west side of 3703 S. Harvard Ave. Public Works staff said the private use of public right-of-way has existed for about 40 years and is now being documented to protect public liability; if the city needs the right-of-way, restoration will be at the user's expense. Key Outcomes - No final votes were recorded during this Public Works Committee meeting. According to the agenda, action items are scheduled to go to the full City Council on September 30, 2026, except that the chair said the TDA vote would be rescheduled. - Staff recommended approval for the floodplain resolutions, the surplus property resolution, the detention easement ordinance, and the license agreement. - The committee heard the THIF update for discussion only; no action was taken. - Councillor Decter Wright said she would provide her list of 143 TDA properties to colleagues once confirmed by staff.

The Toledo City Council Community and Administrative Services Committee met on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 4:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting focused on updates from the Office of Community Services, including youth workforce initiatives, Save Our Community (SOC) violence intervention programs, and a capacity analysis of the city's Community Violence Intervention (CVI) ecosystem. Presentations were delivered by Dr. Tiffany Whitman (Chief Impact Officer), Dr. Stephanie Covington (Commissioner of Educational Engagement and Workforce Development), Raymond Campos (Commissioner for Save Our Community), and researchers from Bowling Green State University. Staff from the MONSE (Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement) program were introduced. No votes were taken, but several referrals and budget planning items were discussed. Public Comments & Testimony - Staff Introductions: MONSE staff members introduced themselves, including Josh Davis (Commissioner of Recent Motion in MONSE), Summer (violence interrupter at Waite High School), Roshni Ashik (C VIP Academy Coordinator), Sierra Webb (C VIP Academy Outreach Specialist), Diana Vasquez (Outreach Specialist), and Christopher Matthews (Violence Interrupter, LeGrange Corridor). - Sierra Webb (Outreach Specialist): Expressed gratitude for council's attention and urged continued engagement and collaboration beyond presentations, emphasizing the need to hear community ideas for the CVI Academy. - Unnamed community leader: Thanked for attending and acknowledged. Discussion Items Youth Workforce Initiatives (Dr. Stephanie Covington) - Comprehensive Case Management Employment Program (CCMEP): Funded through WIOA dollars, the city served as a worksite for youth ages 14–24 in departments such as parks and recreation, urban beautification, and finance. - Junior Achievement 5th Year Program: A gap-year initiative for high school graduates; the city hosted four interns this year (two in the Office of Community Services, two in Code Compliance). Visits by the 5th Year students to city hall are scheduled for November 17 and December 15, 2026. - Youth Employment Initiative (Pilot): An 8-month program for youth ages 16–24, starting with a workforce readiness institute (30 hours of classroom training from mid-October to December), followed by up to 300 hours of paid work experience (January–May). 300 applications were received for 20 slots, with emphasis on youth in NERSA areas. Selection has been completed; participants will be notified this week. - Hustle to Success Workshop (Pilot): A youth-centered lunchtime engagement initiative in partnership with SOC, targeting 45 students per week over six weeks (2nd and 4th Tuesdays and Thursdays). Launch planned for late October/November, school partner yet to be finalized. - Councilman Serantu suggested reviving a former program for youth to mow vacant lots, potentially in partnership with Local 7. Dr. Whitman noted the existing mobility program as a related pilot. Save Our Community (SOC) Update (Commissioner Raymond Campos) - SOC is a community violence intervention and prevention program focusing on youth and young adults (14+) at high risk of gun violence, using credible messengers from focus areas. - Key Statistics (as of September 16, 2026): 188 incidents of violence identified; coordinated responses completed for 105 incidents; 57 interventions (mediations, restorative justice circles, ceasefires, non-aggression agreements). - Healing and Compassion Fund: Administered by United Way, providing financial assistance to victims and families (memorial support, grief support, household needs, temporary relocation). - Youth Engagement: Includes "Intercepting Violence, Passing for Peace" flag football event (planned again for this year), summer outreach at all city pools (no incidents reported), MOUs with Lucas County Juvenile Court for referrals, weekly presence at Glass City Academy (downtown and East Toledo campuses), and attendance at TPS athletic events. - Mobility Aid Program: A paid youth workforce initiative for neighborhood beautification, run with Goodwill Industries and local businesses. Two cohorts in 2025 (18 total participants, 9 per cohort) provided free lawn care for older adults and residents with disabilities, focusing on LMHA properties. - Neighborhood Outreach: "Peace Over Pain" ceasefire event on July 4, 2026—no fatal gun violence incidents reported that day. Ongoing canvassing and public space engagement. - Councilwoman McPherson asked about response to a recent gun violence incident in the Old West End; Campos confirmed SOC attended public meetings, offered the Healing and Compassion Fund, and attempted to connect with all impacted individuals. - Councilman Serantu inquired about non-aggression agreements (not necessarily gang-related, but also school conflicts) and confirmed SOC was involved in mediating an incident at Myron Duhart Park (Frederick Douglass Center) involving a young girl attacked by other youth, successfully conducting a restorative justice circle. - Councilwoman Kramer praised the team's visibility and confirmed the flag football event will be planned again; she noted 25 residents attended her first community meeting and invited SOC to future meetings. CVI Capacity Analysis (BGSU Researchers Dr. Justin Rex and Dr. Nicole Pfeiffer, with Dr. Roshni Ashik) - Background: Part of a Department of Justice grant, this landscape assessment was recommended by the Peace in Motion plan to benchmark Toledo against best practices in community violence intervention. - Data Trends: Since 2020, fatal and non-fatal shootings have been cut nearly in half. Gun violence deaths among Black men have declined by more than half. In SOC target neighborhoods (Junction and Englewood), homicides dropped from 78 in 2020 to 26 in 2025. - Ecosystem Mapping: Categorized organizations into Core CVI (primary mission, e.g., MONSE/SOC—less than 1% of the ecosystem), Growing CVI (emerging organizations), Support Services (wraparound services—largest share), and Infrastructure Partners (data, funding, policy). The core CVI workforce is very small (less than a dozen people), carrying a heavy load. - Strengths: Dedicated organization (MONSE), strong community trust and engagement, large support services network. - Challenges: Workforce capacity (funding, burnout, turnover), uneven coordination and referral pathways, varied understanding of CVI, and community conditions (trauma, economic disruptions). - Opportunities: Build and professionalize the workforce via a CVI Academy (curriculum drafting underway, first cohort expected within six months), establish shared standards and language, improve coordination and referral infrastructure, secure sustainable multi-year funding, and enhance data sharing. - Geographic Gaps: No dedicated CVI presence on the east side (though Waite High School has a violence interrupter). Need for expansion into Greenbelt Parkway and Weiler Homes areas. - Dr. Whitman emphasized that sustainability requires multi-sector partnerships beyond city funding; budget discussions for 2027 will include potential large-scale changes. Key Outcomes - Referral: Councilwoman McPherson requested updated information on the Healing and Compassion Fund to be provided to council. - Budget Planning: Dr. Whitman noted that expansion of SOC to the east side and other areas will be part of the 2027 budget discussions, pending council action. - Next Steps for CVI Academy: Microgranting program and learning community to be launched in tandem with the academy; RFPs for technical assistance are being developed. - Community Engagement: Councilwoman Kramer will share her community meeting schedule with SOC; further outreach to faith-based communities was suggested and will be explored. - No formal votes were taken during the meeting.

The Economic and Community Development Commission (ECDC) met on September 23, 2026, at 3:03 PM in La Crosse City Hall. The meeting included discussion and votes on budget revisions, deed restriction suspensions, TIF assistance, housing rehabilitation policies, and reallocation of public service funds. The meeting adjourned in closed session at 4:24 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from the previous meeting was moved by Erin Goggin, seconded by Linda Lee, and carried by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Parenting Place representatives: Audrey Weezer Larson (Early Care and Education Director) and Kim Wagner (Child Care Development Coordinator) presented the budget revision request, noting stronger uptake from provider community and weaker interest from business community. They stated the revision better addresses community needs. - Kaylee Coutil (homeowner of 1701 Prospect St): Expressed gratitude for her home and requested a temporary suspension of the owner-occupied deed restriction to allow renting while she pursues dental hygiene education out of state. She committed to maintaining affordability and returning to La Crosse. - Jason Larson (Executive Director, St. Clare Health Mission): Spoke in support of receiving the $30,183.05 reallocation for the Total Navigation Team (TNT) program, highlighting that 100% of funds go to rental/security deposit assistance and that TNT serves as the prevention arm for Pathways Home. He stated frustration that the organization was not initially funded despite its focus on housing. Discussion Items - 26-0989: Budget Revision for the Parenting Place Staff recommended approval, stating the revision reflects the original ARPA intent and benefits the program. The revision reallocates funds from business outreach to provider support due to low business engagement and high provider interest. - 26-1008: Suspension of Deed Restriction for 1701 Prospect St Staff (Jonah) presented the request from Kaylee Coutil, who needs to temporarily leave La Crosse for education. Discussion included concerns about precedent, monitoring rent, insurance, and income checks for renters. Commissioner Padesky proposed requiring HUD eligibility for renters. Commissioner Goggin proposed a three-year term with option to extend. - 26-1000: TIF Assistance Term Sheet for Cowboy Jack’s at River Point District Staff (Andrea Train) presented the project, noting that the developer (CapVest) is partnering with Rai Key to develop on a single lot due to concrete obstacles on adjacent parcel. TIF assistance is based on increment generated; solar panels are part of the gap. Commissioner Markussen asked about risk if restaurant fails; staff explained annual look-back and PILOT obligations. The term sheet was approved without closed session. - 26-0994: Housing Rehabilitation Policy & Procedures Update Staff presented a condensed 23-page policy allowing non-income-eligible repairs when funding sources permit, to use TID funds for market-rate repairs. Commissioner Markussen asked about sub-recipients; staff indicated this may come back with an RFP. The policy was approved. - 26-0995: Review of Housing Rehab Request for Proposals (RFP) Staff introduced the RFP making $250,000 annually available starting 2027 for housing rehabilitation. The city aims to work with a sub-recipient. Discussion included the need to serve households at 80-120% AMI and floodplain issues. No action required; RFP will be posted. - 26-0990: Reallocation of 2026 Public Service Funds Staff reported $30,183.05 available, with five responses from applicants (including three already funded). After hearing from Jason Larson, the commission moved into closed session to deliberate. Key Outcomes - 26-0989 (Parenting Place budget revision): Approved unanimously by voice vote. - 26-1008 (Deed restriction suspension): Approved with amendments: (1) three-year suspension with option to extend an additional three years, (2) renters must meet HUD eligibility requirements. Motion carried unanimously. - 26-1000 (TIF term sheet for Cowboy Jack’s): Approved unanimously as presented. - 26-0994 (Housing Rehabilitation Policy): Approved unanimously. - 26-0995 (RFP review): No action; staff to proceed with posting. - 26-0990 (Public Service Funds reallocation): Following closed session, a motion by Goggin, seconded by Markussen, to allocate the entire $30,183.05 to St. Clare Health Mission was carried by voice vote.

The meeting focused on applying the city's equity rubric to the Comprehensive Housing Study and Action Plan. Members shared individual scores and feedback, discussed how to present findings to staff, and planned next steps for incorporating equity considerations into future plans. The committee also discussed upcoming community events and raised the possibility of developing a citywide non-discrimination ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes from August 26, 2026. Discussion Items - Equity Rubric Application to Housing Plan: Members Jessica, Sarah, and others presented their scores and comments on the housing plan using the equity rubric. Key themes included: the plan lacks a clear equity outcome, data was not disaggregated by race, community engagement was not broken down by identity, strategies were income-targeted rather than disparity-targeted, implementation was strong but accountability metrics were supply-focused rather than equity-focused. Members noted the plan was developed before the rubric existed, so feedback is meant to guide future plans. - Process for Delivering Feedback: The committee agreed to compile individual rubrics and comments, then produce a one-page executive summary with an average score (e.g., “approve with conditions”) and attach full feedback as an appendix. The chair will collect data from members via email to staff (Sarah) to avoid quorum issues. - Future Use of Rubric: Members discussed presenting the rubric to department heads early in plan development, possibly through a training session at a department heads meeting. The committee expressed willingness to help walk staff through the tool. - Non-Discrimination Ordinance: A member proposed exploring a citywide non-discrimination ordinance covering housing, businesses, etc., noting Fitchburg currently relies on state and federal policies. Members agreed to research similar municipalities (e.g., Madison, Verona, Sun Prairie) and discuss at the October 28 meeting. - Current Events: Recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, a proclamation by the mayor, and a Ho-Chunk Nation flag raising at City Hall. Upcoming events: Fire Station 2 open house (Oct. 10), YWCA Racial Justice Summit (Oct. 7-8; last day to register was Sept. 23). Key Outcomes - The committee will compile individual rubric scores and comments and produce a consolidated executive summary with an overall recommendation (approve with conditions) to be sent to the relevant department. - Staff (Sarah) will look into creating a digital form to standardize rubric submissions and allow aggregation of scores, pending open meeting law compliance. - The chair will collect members’ rubric data (via email to Sarah) and prepare the summary. - The committee will present the rubric and provide training to department heads at a future meeting (schedule to be determined). - A discussion on a non-discrimination ordinance will be added to the October 28, 2026 meeting agenda. Members will research ordinances in peer cities. - Next regular meeting scheduled for October 28, 2026 at the same time and location.

The Committee of the Whole met on September 23, 2026 at 6:32 PM, adjourning at 8:16 PM. The meeting included a presentation and discussion on a comprehensive communications guide and a presentation and discussion on the Mayor’s goals and priorities for 2026–2029. No public appearances were made for non-agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The draft minutes of the August 26, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote (motion by Alder Dancler, seconded by Alder Jetzer). Discussion Items - Presentation and Discussion on Communications Guidelines: Brian Lee of Revelation, a communications firm specializing in local government, presented a 60-page communications guide for the City of Fitchburg. The guide was developed following an audit of current communications, anonymous interviews with staff and elected officials, and a review of job descriptions. Key features include standard operating procedures for six categories of communications activities (e.g., city projects, community events, referenda), a media relations guide with a decision tree and press release template, social media guidelines (including recommendations for Instagram and repurposing content from “Talking Fitchburg” into short videos), and a job description for a communications director (created as part of a previous referendum effort; an alternate scenario divvies up duties among existing staff with priority levels). The guide also includes cost estimates and key performance indicators. Council members and the Mayor provided feedback and suggestions: Alder Gearhart praised the plug-and-play nature and recommended using direct mail (noting that return rates have risen to 10% or more from less than 1% a decade ago); Alder Herbst emphasized repurposing content and suggested including more specific outreach tactics for events (e.g., signage for McKee Farms Park events); Mayor Radafrata called for incorporating Instagram and La Movida radio to reach younger and Latino demographics; Alder Jetzer asked about printed materials and the recent discontinuation of physical distribution of the Fitchburg Star, suggesting a one-pager for grocery bags or food pantries; Alder Micah proposed adding a section on budget/finance communications and recommended that the referenda section use neutral talking points and avoid KPI language like “sentiment” (Brian Lee agreed to adjust wording); Alder Gearhart and Alder Micah also stressed the need for an official city website portal for alder newsletters (currently some alders fund their own) and for continuity across elected officials. Brian Lee noted the guide should be reviewed annually and that the Fitchburg Connect e-newsletter is the current citywide solution for elected official communications. - Presentation and Discussion on Mayor’s Goals and Priorities 2026–2029: Mayor Radafrata presented a draft document outlining eight priorities with associated goals and action items, developed in collaboration with City Administrator Chad and Deputy Administrator Adam. The eight priorities are: (1) Sustainable Growth and Development, (2) Strengthening Community Housing Stock, (3) Investing in Infrastructure While Maintaining Strong Financial Stewardship, (4) A City That Works for All, (5) Sustainability, (6) Regional Collaboration, (7) Focus on Effective Processes and Succession Planning, and (8) Enhance Trust in City Budgeting and Promote Financial Transparency for Taxpayers. Council members reviewed each priority section in turn, offering specific feedback: For Priority 1, Alder Jetzer recommended adding transit-oriented development and identified missing language about concentrating density; Alder Bills commended the ambition but asked if long-term items should be included alongside shorter-term actions. For Priority 2, Alder Micah suggested linking housing goals to infill and redevelopment; Mayor Radafrata noted the need to open more land for housing. For Priority 3, Alder Micah pointed out that action item 7 (assess citywide staffing) seemed misplaced and would fit better under Priority 4 or 7. For Priority 4, council discussed moving some action items (e.g., implementing communications guide, new payroll software) to Priority 7 as internal processes; Alder Herbst requested adding employee engagement survey results. For Priority 5 (Sustainability), Alder Jetzer questioned the feasibility of electrifying the entire fleet; staff clarified the goal is to prioritize EVs where feasible, and Alder Bilski suggested exploring biodiesel for snowplows. For Priority 6 (Regional Collaboration), Alder Jetzer noted the importance of shared services (e.g., a sustainability specialist); Mayor Radafrata confirmed discussions with Verona on a shared position; Alder Bills suggested expanding collaboration to all elected officials. For Priority 7, Alder Herbst recommended considering the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) for staff leadership. For Priority 8, Alder Jetzer praised tax information education; Alder Micah suggested adding a goal to utilize the Affordable Housing Fund and creative TIF tools for housing. Council members broadly praised the document as a comprehensive, living set of priorities. Deputy Administrator Adam noted that after incorporating council feedback, a polished version will be shared with the council. Key Outcomes - Communications Guide: The city will consider incorporating council feedback (e.g., expanded use of Instagram, direct mail, La Movida radio, clarifying referendum section language) and the guide will be implemented with annual reviews. - Mayor’s Goals and Priorities: Deputy Administrator Adam will clean up the document based on council comments, work with the Mayor and City Administrator, and share a revised version with the council. - Next Meetings: The next Committee of the Whole meeting is scheduled for October 28, 2026 at 6:00 PM (earlier start due to budget discussions). Two special budget presentation nights will be held on Tuesday, September 29 and Wednesday, September 30, 2026, both at 5:30 PM (Wednesday includes the Mayor’s presentation).

The Elgin City Council met in a combined Committee of the Whole and regular council meeting on September 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included public comments on automated license plate readers (ALPRs) and neighborhood flooding, followed by discussions and approvals of several agenda items including insurance renewals, a tree ordinance amendment, combined sewer separation projects, and auditing services. All votes were unanimous except for the consent agenda, which passed 7-1. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the September 9, 2026 meeting was moved, seconded, and approved with a correction noted regarding staff analysis of alternatives to GenTech. - Later in the regular meeting, the consent agenda was approved with one dissenting vote (Councilmember Ortiz voted no, resulting in a 7-1 tally). Public Comments & Testimony - Dan Mullen (resident, Douglas Avenue) expressed opposition to automated license plate readers (ALPRs), arguing the technology is fundamentally flawed and invasive, and urged the city to reject the entire technology. - Elijah Stein (resident) spoke at length against ALPR and AI-based camera systems, citing concerns about privacy, night-time installation, insufficient logging (149 multi-search plates out of 14,000+ searches in three years), and the potential for misuse via unlogged web clients. He questioned why cameras are installed at night and called for answers from the council. - Peter Sax (510 Northworth Avenue) introduced the newly formed Wing Area Neighborhood Association (WANA), a nonprofit aimed at addressing flooding and other neighborhood issues. He described spending over $30,000 on flood mitigation (sump pumps, generators, sewer backup preventers) yet still facing repeated flooding, and asked for the city's help. - Donna Berner (neighbor, Northworth Avenue) described five separate water damage incidents since 2010, losing flood insurance, and ongoing anxiety about leaving home during rain. She emphasized wanting results, not money. - Steve Jenkins (823 Demon Street) detailed flooding on July 4, 2026, showing a video of standing water at Murphy and Commonwealth, and called for sensible, low-cost solutions to redirect water. - Elizabeth King (resident, recently retired) supported her neighbors, noting a previous study was done but nothing was implemented, and urged action to mitigate worsening flood risks. Discussion Items - STEP Grant (Item A): The city will accept a Sustained Traffic Enforcement Program grant from IDOT for occupant protection and impaired driving enforcement, fully reimbursed. Approved unanimously. - Insurance Renewals (Item B): Risk Manager Kelly Wazluski explained the 3% decrease in liability, pollution, and workers' compensation premiums. The city chose to renew with Travelers over a lower bid from MEDIS (2% savings) due to a 20+ year relationship and 250,000 self-insured retention. A new lead contamination exclusion in the pollution policy (Indian Harbor) was noted; staff is working to remove it or buy back coverage. Councilmember Powell questioned the lead exclusion and the decision to stay with Travelers. Approved unanimously. - Tree Ordinance Amendment (Item C): Chapter 13.20 of the municipal code will be amended to align with Bronze-level Chicago Region Trees Initiative standards, formalizing existing tree care practices to maintain Tree City USA eligibility and improve grant competitiveness. Councilmember Powell noted the city already measures canopy coverage by neighborhood. Approved unanimously. - Combined Sewer Separation (Item D): An engineering services amendment with HR Green for the Chicago Street Combined Sewer Separation Highland Basin project was approved. Construction begins October 2026 with substantial completion by September 2027. Approved unanimously. - Edward Shock Center Streetscape Utility Improvements (Item E): Agreement with Hampton Lenzini and Renwick for design and construction engineering on underground infrastructure along Symphony Way, before streetscape work. Approved unanimously. - Auditing Services (Item F): Agreement with Sikich CPA LLC for five years of professional auditing services, with a 2-3% annual increase. CFO Deb Naraki stated the long-term relationship (over 25 years) provides deep institutional knowledge. Councilmember Dixon and Alfaro discussed the value of continuity vs. switching firms. Approved unanimously. - Emergency Sewer Manhole Repair (Regular Meeting Item 4): Authorization to pay Joel Kennedy Construction $200,000 for emergency repair of a 36-inch sanitary line at West Chicago and Vine Streets, where a sinkhole developed 18 feet deep. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All agenda items received unanimous approval (8-0) except for the consent agenda, which passed 7-1 (Councilmember Ortiz voted no). - The insurance renewal was approved despite a new lead contamination exclusion in the pollution policy; staff will continue to seek removal or buyback. - Public comments on ALPRs and flooding will be addressed through ongoing city studies and the upcoming consultant proposal in mid-October regarding flooding. - The next Committee of the Whole meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2026 at 6:00 PM, followed by the regular council meeting at 7:00 PM.