The Public Meeting Index

The Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) held a regular meeting on September 23, 2026, with Chair Jay Mankara, Vice Chair Josh Neely, members JP Boucher and Joseph Patrick (four members present). The board heard five applications for variances and special exceptions. Key decisions included approval of a special exception for tree removal in a wetland buffer, approval of driveway width and setback variances, and approval of a personal service use variance for a commercial building. Public Comments & Testimony - 19 Vista Way (Tree removal): Applicants Clint and Mary Licorice and their arborist, Kevin Fred (Gate City Tree Service, 45 years experience), argued that 21 trees pose a danger to their home and requested removal for safety. Mr. Fred testified that the trees are within striking distance and the family sleeps in the basement during storms. The Conservation Commission chair (name not provided, address 18 Sport Terrace) opposed, stating tree-fall deaths are rare, the homeowners chose a conservation subdivision, and replacement of the trees (80–100 inches DBH) would be impractical. - 30 Edwards Street (Driveway width): Applicant Carlith Torres requested a variance to keep existing 43-foot driveway width; a neighbor letter from Leonardo Aguillian supported, citing improved safety. - 181 East Hollis Street (Front setback): Attorney Laura Gandhi represented the applicant, arguing the irregularly shaped lot with two frontages makes it impossible to meet the 15-foot setback on both sides; no public comments for or against. - Norwich Road (Rear setback): Applicant’s representative Justin Mancini presented a modest home addition; no public opposition. - 2 Adela Drive (Garage setback): Contractor Peter Montasati explained the need for a three-car garage to replace one being converted to an in-law apartment; no public comments. - 413 South Main Street (Personal service use): Attorney Brad Westgate presented the applicant’s case to allow aesthetics services in an existing office building. Neighbors from Eastman Street (Cynthia Knowles, Colleen Valente) opposed, citing concerns about traffic, safety, and past issues with the property. An employee (Kayla Gutierrez) and a neighbor (Hung Hai Gardnier) spoke in favor, noting responsible ownership and the building’s commercial character. Discussion Items - 19 Vista Way – Special Exception to Remove 21 Trees: The board discussed the safety risk, the arborist's testimony, and the Conservation Commission’s negative recommendation. Member Neely emphasized the safety card and the family’s fear; members Boucher and Patrick noted the arborist’s credibility and the large forested area (318 acres). Concerns about setting a precedent were raised. The motion to approve included conditions: work restricted to November 1–April 1, stumps left in place, no vehicles in wetland. - 30 Edwards Street – Driveway Width Variance: The board noted the corner lot, traffic on Kinsley Street, and the need for off-street parking. Unanimous support. - 181 East Hollis Street – Front Setback Variance for 48-unit Building: The board acknowledged the lot’s unique shape and the compatibility with neighboring residential developments. Approved unanimously. - Norwich Road – Rear Setback Variance: The addition was seen as reasonable and not out of character; lot irregularity justified the encroachment. - 2 Adela Drive – Front Setback Variance for Garage: The board considered the double-frontage lot, safety concerns about Tinker Road traffic, and the multi-generational housing need. - 413 South Main Street – Personal Service Use Variance: Board members debated neighborhood relations, parking usage, and whether traffic would increase. They concluded that the interior use change would not alter the building’s external impact. Motion to approve carried. Key Outcomes - Special Exception for tree removal (19 Vista Way): Approved (3-0). Conditions include seasonality (Nov 1–Apr 1), leaving stumps, and no vehicles in buffer. - Variance for driveway width (30 Edwards Street): Approved (3-0). - Variance for front setback (181 East Hollis Street): Approved (3-0). - Variance for rear setback (Norwich Road): Approved (3-0). - Variance for garage setback (2 Adela Drive): Approved (3-0). - Variance for personal service use (413 South Main Street): Approved (3-0). - Minutes from September 9 meeting were approved as drafted. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:34 PM.

The Virginia Beach City Council convened on September 23, 2026, for a meeting that included updates from the Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation (VBCDC), a presentation on lead water service line inventory, an overview of the Civic Leaders Academy pilot program, and a preview of upcoming planning items. The meeting also included council announcements and a motion to recess into closed session. Discussion Items - VBCDC Update (Quincy White, President & CEO): Quincy White reported on the organization's 40-year history, managing 500+ affordable housing units (largest owner in the city), serving nearly 10,000 people. Occupancy improved from 90% to 92%. The SSVF program exceeded goals, serving 214 households. A first-time homebuyer program has sold 6 homes (prices $225,000–$250,000). A capital campaign for Solar Springs (60 units, 9 set aside for mental health) aims to raise $24 million; $12 million pledged. A capital needs assessment estimated $35 million over 20 years for portfolio preservation, with an annual operating gap of $2.2 million. Council members discussed scattered-site challenges, community land trust development, and the need for operational support and land pipeline. - Water Service Line Inventory (Bob Montague, Director of Public Utilities): Bob Montague presented the results of the EPA-mandated lead and copper rule revision inventory. All 135,000 service lines were classified as non-lead (zero lead pipes, zero galvanized lines requiring replacement). The inventory used desktop research and 10,000 vacuum excavations. The city has been in compliance for 30+ years. A recent citizen concern about lead poisoning was addressed with testing, service line verification, and coordination with the health department. Staff confirmed no lead in the water system. The utility also discussed ongoing drought conditions and voluntary water conservation requests. - Civic Leaders Academy (Nancy Bloom, Public Engagement): Nancy Bloom reported on the successful pilot of the City Hall 101 Civic Leaders Academy, held January 8–February 26, 2026 (8 sessions, 20 hours total). 10 of 11 initial participants completed the program. The academy educated neighborhood leaders on city operations, structure, and resources. Feedback was positive, with participants valuing transparency and access to senior staff. The program will become permanent with two cohorts in 2027 (January and September), incorporating adjustments based on pilot feedback. - Planning Items Preview (Caitlin Malcock, Planning Department): Caitlin Malcock previewed seven items for the October 6, 2026 council meeting and nine items for October 20, 2026. Key items included: a conditional rezoning for 2512 Seaboard Road (three lots, planning commission recommended approval); a field house at Catholic High School (approval recommended); mini warehouse/storage on Holland Road (recommended approval with modifications); a bulk storage yard on Bells Road (planning commission recommended denial due to incompatibility with area); a mixed-use self-storage/retail on Laskin Road (staff recommends denial, citing comprehensive plan conflicts; council discussed alternative uses); and short-term rental permits. The planning commission also recommended denial for a storage facility on Bells Road. Council Comments & Announcements - Council members announced the upcoming ribbon cutting for Winston Salem Avenue (October 3), a community meeting in District 3 (September 24), the Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend, the air show at Naval Air Station Oceana, and the district forum in District 2 (September 24). - Council recognized the Backstreet event celebrating local music history and noted the positive community response. - The city manager reported that the New Bridge Road issue raised last week will be repaired without closing the road. Key Outcomes - The VBCDC update was received; no formal vote was taken, but council expressed support and requested further information on a possible parcel swap strategy. - The water service line inventory presentation confirmed zero lead pipes; council commended staff for responsiveness and transparency. - The Civic Leaders Academy will expand to two cohorts in 2027, with program refinements including electronic resource materials and adjusted session timing. - Planning items will proceed to formal council hearings on October 6 and October 20, 2026, with several items recommended for approval by the planning commission and one (Bells Road) recommended for denial. - Council recessed into closed session (motion and second) to discuss publicly held property (District 2, possible disposition) and personnel matters (council appointments to boards/commissions).

The City Council met to discuss a range of topics including proposed changes to landscape standards, ambulance hardship waivers, surplus property, intercounty fire aid, ACH fraud prevention, wage scales, budget amendments, park-and-ride code clarification, and a Costco sales tax distribution MOU. Several items were moved to the consent agenda for the next meeting, while others sparked debate among council members. Consent Calendar - Ambulance Hardship Waiver Amendment: The council approved moving this item to the consent agenda. The amendment streamlines the application process by moving it online through the billing company, uses a discount table based on federal poverty guidelines (discounts now apply up to 195% of poverty level, down from 250%), and enhances data security by keeping information on the billing company's server. - Surplus Property Declaration: A 2011 Kenworth water tender truck, already replaced, was directed for surplus sale. Moved to consent agenda. - Proposed Intercounty Automatic Aid Fire Agreement: Renewal of the 2020 agreement between Davis and Weaver Counties, now including Hill Air Force Base. Moved to consent agenda. Discussion Items - Landscape Standards (Section 10.28): Planning Commission recommended a 60% vegetation coverage requirement for remnant commercial parcels to replace gravel landscaping. Council members expressed concerns about cost, water use, maintenance, and overregulation. Councilmember noted that rocks are the most expensive component, while others worried about irrigation and plant care burdens. The council ultimately decided not to move this forward, citing that existing standards already address most issues and that the proposal might deter businesses. - ACH Fraud Prevention Policy: Required by NACHA rule to formalize existing practices. Council had no concerns and moved it to a vote. - Wage Scale Amendment (FY ending June 30, 2027): Cleanup items including adjustment to PO1 top end, correction for site supervisor, update to comparative entities, and splitting recreation assistant categories. A wording change from "assistant parks operations manager" to "assistant operations manager" was noted. Moved to next meeting for vote. - Budget Amendments (FY ending June 30, 2026): Carryover of construction projects and operational changes (employee retirement payout). Council had no questions and moved to next meeting for vote. - Park-and-Ride Code Amendment (Section 11.20.75): Clarifies that UTA park-and-ride vans can remain overnight (previously implied) and allows city vehicles with prior written approval from the city manager. Council agreed to move forward. - Costco Sales Tax Distribution MOU with Davis County: County will make monthly payments to Syracuse while the state holds up the land transfer. Council found no issues and moved forward. Key Outcomes - Landscape standards proposal: Not pursued; the council voted against moving it to a formal vote. - Fire department items: All three (ambulance hardship waiver, surplus property, intercounty fire aid) placed on consent agenda for next meeting. - ACH fraud policy: Moved to a vote. - Wage scale and budget amendments: Moved to next meeting for discussion and vote. - Park-and-ride code amendment: Moved to next meeting. - Costco MOU: Approved for proceeding. Other Announcements - City Manager's birthday celebrated with cupcakes. - Promotion of a hazardous/recyclable items collection event (CHARM event) in partnership with North Davis County mayors. - Holiday lighting ceremony scheduled for Thursday at 8:00 PM; sculpture completed and receiving positive feedback.

As the Board of Aldermen convened in special session on September 23, 2026, members received detailed updates on several key city development projects. The meeting focused on the Elm and High Street garage repairs, the NIMCO and Bagshaw mill yard projects, and the BIDA parcels, with additional context on other housing initiatives. No public comments or consent calendar items were reported. The meeting concluded with a unanimous adjournment vote. Garage Project Update - Tim Lamere, owner’s project manager, presented on the three-phase Elm and High Street garage project, funded by a $15 million bond. - Phase 1 (structural repairs) is approximately 90% complete; Phase 2 (office renovation and expansion at Elm Street) is in final design; Phase 3 (facade and wayfinding) is about 30% complete. - Budget allocations: $11.1 million (Phase 1), $2.8 million (Phase 2), $1.1 million (Phase 3). - Expected completion: Phase 1 this fall (2026); Phase 2 summer 2027; Phase 3 mostly fall 2026 with some work in spring 2027. Mill Yard Projects Update - Liz Hannem (Economic Development Director) and Matt Sullivan (Community Development Director) provided an update. - NIMCO: Originally proposed as one building, it will now be split into two buildings due to developer's purchase of the Bagshaw building, allowing a grid street layout. Phase 1 (near riverfront) will have roughly 150 units; Phase 2 about 100 units. The city retains ownership of the phase 2 parcel until construction begins. Plans are expected to go to the planning board this fall. - Bagshaw: This is a private-to-private purchase; details are not yet finalized. - BIDA Parcels: Two city-owned parcels (former police training facility and adjacent parking lot) were disposed to BIDA. After an RFP, Lansing Melbourne Group (LMG) was preliminarily selected as the developer. Negotiations are ongoing, with critical issues including phasing, public parking, one housing choice voucher unit (instead of the typical 20% affordable requirement), demolition of existing building, temporary activation, and public improvements. The unit count is estimated between 100 and 150 units, constrained by wetlands, access, and geometry. Other Housing Developments - Matt Sullivan noted other projects: 103 Temple (approximately 200 units) expected to begin construction soon; Mohawk Tannery remediation on track (October infrastructure committee update); Avery Lane opened with 100 units of fully affordable housing; Maynard Homes phase 1 (175 units of affordable housing) is underway, with phase 2 possible. Discussion and Q&A - Alderman Johnson asked about attracting businesses to offset housing costs; Director Hannem said a business recruitment plan will be shared with the PEDC committee soon. - Alderman Sullivan asked about unit count and phasing; Sullivan clarified that constraints limit the BIDA parcels to 100–150 units. - Alderman Dowd asked about coordination with neighbors and staff capacity; Sullivan confirmed that most nearby owners have been engaged, though communication with the fence company needs improvement. He also noted that staff capacity is adequate, with third-party review options available for developers. - Alderman Morgan questioned timeline acceleration and staff support; Sullivan emphasized the need for a larger mill yard build-out conversation and potential phasing. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were made; the session was informational. - The meeting adjourned via unanimous roll-call vote: 11 yeas, 0 nays.

On Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM, the New York City Council Committees on Mental Health and Substance Use, Hospitals, and Women and Gender Equity held a joint oversight hearing on access to gender-affirming care (GAC) and associated mental health outcomes for transgender and non-binary (TGNB) youth. The hearing was chaired by Councilmembers Tiffany Cabañ (Mental Health), Mercedes Narcisse (Hospitals), and Amanda C. Farías (Women and Gender Equity). The committee examined the impact of federal policy attacks and the recent cessation of services by major private hospitals (NYU Langone, Mount Sinai, New York Presbyterian). Three pieces of legislation were considered: Int 0949-2026, Res 0208-2026, and Res 0547-2026. Public Advocate Jumaane Williams delivered opening remarks emphasizing health care equity and the necessity of protecting TGNB youth. Discussion Items Oversight Context & Administration Testimony - Chair Cabañ presented research showing that access to GAC is associated with roughly 60% lower odds of moderate to severe depression and over 70% lower odds of suicidality among TGNB youth. - Chair Farías noted that 27 states plus Puerto Rico have enacted bans on GAC for youth, affecting 48% of transgender youth nationwide. She cited a Trevor Project survey finding that 40% of TGNB young people seriously considered suicide in the past year and that 87% were concerned about losing access to care. - Director Taylor Brown (Mayor's Office of LGBTQ Affairs) announced a $15 million city investment over three years to create a direct care fund for providers, a confidential call/chat line, and research initiatives. He provided 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey data: 42% of transgender, 38% of non-binary, 45% of other gender identity, and 28% of questioning students reported suicidal ideation, compared to 16% of cisgender students. Attempt rates were 49%, 29%, 33%, 61%, and 9% respectively. A 2024 Harvard study found little to no utilization of gender-affirming surgeries by TGNB youth. - DOHMH Assistant Commissioner Marnie David Off confirmed the department views GAC access as a core suicide prevention strategy, citing a Nature study linking care denial to a 72% increase in suicide attempts in states with restrictive laws. - H+H Ambulatory CMO Dr. Andrew Wallach and Chief Behavioral Health Officer Dr. Omar Fital testified that H+H operates eight Pride Health Centers, mandates LGBTQ+ training, and integrates behavioral health with primary care. - Deputy Commissioner Andrea Howard (DOHMH) described the NYC Health Map's LGBTQ services section and stated the department is conducting a comprehensive review of provider listings due to recent closures. Legislative Discussion - Members discussed three bills. Int 0949-2026 (Shulman) would create an LGBTQI+ health resource map. Res 0208-2026 (Hanief) calls for anti-bias medical training. Res 0547-2026 (Cabañ) calls for a state gender-affirming care access program. An amendment (Res 547-A) was proposed and adopted by the committee. Public Comments & Testimony Advocacy Organizations - NITAG (Nat Mogay, Filament Kind, Maxima Rodas, Zev Frank, Ellis Jablonski, Signes Pavo): Expressed full support for all three bills. Shared personal experiences of how GAC saved lives. Cited barriers: 17.3% of trans New Yorkers face cost barriers vs 7.3% of non-LGBTQ individuals; 36.2% face transportation/housing barriers. Filament Kind stated, "Gender affirming care is suicide prevention." Ellis Jablonski recounted a privacy violation scare from Mount Sinai regarding their medical records. - Legal Aid Society (Judith Goldner): Supported the bills but raised concerns that a public map could lead to harassment of providers and patients. - NYCLU (Reilly): Supported the bills and recommended amending Res 547 to align with New York State's broader definition of gender-affirming care. - NYC Trans & Queer Coalition / Make the Road NY (Tatiana Cruz, Bianca Garcia): Urged stable provider networks and continuation of care. Speakers shared personal histories of black market hormone use and suicide attempts. - Girls for Gender Equity (Kimberly Blair): Cited that one in five TGNB youth report attempting suicide and a 72% increase in attempts in restrictive states, urging passage of the bills. - Ali Forney Center (Ren Galloway): Highlighted barriers for unhoused LGBTQ youth and called for provider capacity expansion and privacy protections. - Queer Budget Center (Andy Bowen): Urged the city to leverage contracts with hospital systems to ensure care continuity. - Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Siegel: Urged passage of the bills and criticized private hospital capitulations, noting the $15 million investment is insufficient. Families and Community Members - Parents (Raina Bien, Kristen Clifford, Angelica Jadunandan): Described the disruption of their children's care, the urgent need for providers serving younger adolescents requiring puberty blockers, and the city's role in filling service gaps. They voiced privacy and safety concerns regarding public provider maps and urged the city to leverage its resources to create new care pathways, including a potential city-run clinic. - Youth Advocates and Community Members (Ocean D. Waves, JJ Cleo Mizrahi, Annabel Rogero): Emphasized the difficulty of finding affirming care, the need for comprehensive mental health support, and called for holding private hospitals publicly accountable for their decisions. Key Outcomes - Int 0949-2026: Hearing held by the committee; Laid Over. - Res 0208-2026: Hearing held by the committee; Laid Over. - Res 0547-2026: Hearing held; an amendment (Proposed Res. No. 547-A) was proposed and adopted by the committee; Laid Over. - Oversight T2026-2352: Hearing held; Filed. - The written record will remain open for 72 hours following the hearing (until September 26, 2026) for additional testimony. - Council members committed to continued collaboration with the administration and advocates, promising further oversight and legislative interventions to address the gaps left by private providers and federal actions.

The New York City Council Committees on Mental Health and Substance Use (Chair Tiffany L. Cabán), Hospitals (Chair Mercedes Narcisse), and Women and Gender Equity (Chair Amanda Farias) held a joint oversight hearing on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers. The hearing examined access to gender-affirming care and its associated mental health outcomes for transgender and non-binary (TGNB) youth. The committees heard testimony from administration officials, advocates, healthcare providers, parents, and community members, and considered three pieces of related legislation. Public Comments & Testimony - Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal expressed strong support for the oversight and legislative package. He discussed the SHIELD Law 2.0 and expressed alarm over hospital capitulations to federal subpoenas, urging the city to maintain its status as a safe haven. - Youth Advocates and Community Members (Nat Mogay, Tatiana Cruz, Ocean D. Waves, Filament Kind, Zev Frank, Ellis Jablonsky, Signes Pavo, Bianca Garcia, JJ Cleo Mizrahi, Suhaili Mendez) unanimously supported all three bills, emphasizing that gender-affirming care is life-saving suicide prevention. They detailed significant barriers to care including housing insecurity, cost, lack of culturally competent providers, and the psychological impact of provider capitulations. Several speakers shared personal stories of struggling to find care, having to educate their own providers, or experiencing the disruption of care by private hospitals. - Parents (Raina Bien, Kristen Clifford, Angelica Jadunandan) testified about their children losing care at private hospitals, having their medical records subpoenaed by the federal government, and the immense difficulty finding ongoing care, particularly for younger children needing puberty blockers. They expressed urgent support for expanded city services and the legislative package, with Ms. Clifford urging the city to attract and support more gender-affirming care practitioners. - Ren Galloway, Ali Forney Center, supported the legislation and urged the council to consider compounding barriers to care such as homelessness, immigration status, and access to sustainable mental health support. - Kimberly Blair, Girls for Gender Equity, supported the legislation, highlighting that an estimated one in five TGNCNBI youth report attempting suicide and that supportive environments cut attempt rates by over half. - Judith Goldiner, Legal Aid Society, supported the legislation but raised concerns that a public provider map could create risks for providers and patients. - NYCLU supported the legislation, recommending the definition of gender-affirming care in Res 547 be expanded to include mental health care and to explicitly exclude non-consensual surgeries on intersex individuals. - Andy Bowen, Queer Budget Center, supported the legislation and urged the city to use its contractual leverage over hospitals to compel continuation of gender-affirming care. Discussion Items - Oversight of Gender-Affirming Care Access and Mental Health Outcomes (T2026-2350): Councilmembers Cabán, Narcisse, Farias, and Wilson questioned administration witnesses (Director Taylor Brown, Assistant Commissioner Marnie Davidoff, Dr. Andrew Wallach, Dr. Omar Fital) on the evidence base for care, city efforts, and gaps in the system. The administration affirmed that access to gender-affirming care is a suicide prevention strategy, citing studies including a 72% increase in suicide attempts in states with anti-trans laws and a 2023 NYC Youth Risk Behavior Survey showing TGNB youth reported suicidal ideation at rates of 28-45% compared to 16% for cisgender peers. They outlined a $15 million, three-year investment to support providers, launch a dedicated call/chat line, and fund research. NYC Health + Hospitals confirmed they have not changed their scope of practice and are expanding capacity to meet increased demand via their existing Pride Health Centers and telehealth services, inviting patients to call 1-844-NYC-4-NYC. - Int 0949-2026 (Councilmember Shulman): This bill would require the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) to create and maintain a website with LGBTQI+ health resources and a searchable map of services. DOHMH expressed general support for the bill but noted operational details to discuss. Multiple public speakers supported the intent but flagged significant privacy and safety concerns for providers listed on a public map given the current political climate. - Res 0208-2026 (Councilmember Hanif): This resolution calls on New York State to mandate anti-bias training for all medical students. The resolution received broad support from all testifiers. - Res 0547-2026 / 0547-A (Councilmember Cabán): This resolution calls on New York State to establish a gender-affirming care access program. The committee proposed and accepted an amendment to the resolution. Speakers were broadly supportive, with NYCLU recommending the definition of care be expanded to fully align with state law. Key Outcomes - T2026-2350: This Oversight was Hearing Held by Committee. This Oversight was Filed by Committee. - Int 0949-2026: This Introduction was Hearing Held by Committee. This Introduction was Laid Over by Committee. - Res 0208-2026: This Resolution was Hearing Held by Committee. This Resolution was Laid Over by Committee. - Res 0547-2026: This Resolution was Hearing Held by Committee. This Resolution was Amendment Proposed by Committee. This Resolution was Amended by Committee. - Res 0547-2026-A: This Resolution was Laid Over by Committee. - The public record was held open for 72 hours following the hearing to accept additional written testimony.

The Metropolitan Council of Baton Rouge convened on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, beginning with special presentations and proceeding to the regular meeting. The Council recognized Junior Achievement, celebrated District 2 youth, proclaimed September 25th as Dolly Day in Baton Rouge, and engaged in substantial debate over a resolution to study deconsolidation of the City of Baton Rouge and East Baton Rouge Parish. Special Presentations - Councilmember Rowdy Goday recognized Paula Dawson, Executive Director of Junior Achievement, and Board Chair Sonella. Council staff member Sharonica shared a personal testimony about how Junior Achievement impacted her life during her freshman year of high school. A four-minute video highlighted programs including BizTown and Finance Park, hosted at the Jewel Newman Community Center. Dawson noted that volunteers and funding are the two biggest needs of any nonprofit, particularly Junior Achievement. - District 2 youth Holland Quist and Josiah were recognized for their achievements connected to the City of Baker's annual Buffalo Festival, with family members invited to the front for a group photo. - The Council proclaimed September 25th as Dolly Day in Baton Rouge, honoring Dolly Parton's philanthropy, including her children's book program. The reading cited Parton's hope to be remembered more for her books than her looks. - A separate recognition was made regarding independence for all students, not just those with exceptionalities, with an announcement of an upcoming school assembly where attendees can tour the campus and meet students. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the minutes of the Metropolitan Council meeting of September 9, 2026, and the Metropolitan Council zoning meeting of September 16, 2026, as submitted by the Council Administrative Treasurer. Public Comments & Testimony - One email comment was received in opposition to item 103. - One email comment was received in opposition to items 106, 107, and 112. - One email comment was received in opposition to item 116. - One email comment was received in opposition to item 118. - One email comment was received in opposition to item 100, which amends the nuisance ordinance regarding police notification to the mayor and additional city parish departments. - Andrew Hunley, Executive Director of the Louisiana Parole Project, presented on a proposed reentry program. Discussion Items - Deconsolidation Study Resolution: Councilmembers extensively debated a resolution to create a committee to study deconsolidation of the City of Baton Rouge and East Baton Rouge Parish. Councilmember Dunn argued the vehicle for the study is the wrong one and implored the Council not to support the item, suggesting a future proposal could accomplish the same goal. Dunn stated the report should include separation of city and parish revenues and expenses, sample annual budgets for both the City of Baton Rouge and the Parish of East Baton Rouge, and a recommendation on the stability of both entities if deconsolidation were to occur. - Councilmember noted that some information requested is considered sensitive by the finance department and the parish attorney's office and should not be discussed in the public forum. Another councilmember stated that if the Council cannot do the work with capacity, it should find an independent source with the capacity and expertise to do the work. - An amendment was offered from the floor to change the composition of the committee to designate a resident of the unincorporated area of East Baton Rouge Parish rather than only a resident of the City of Baton Rouge. The proposed committee structure includes the Baker Mayor or designee, the East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor-President or designee, three Metropolitan Council members, and a resident designated by the Council. One councilmember expressed concern about representation, stating "if we're gonna make up a committee, we ought to figure out by population or by some other mechanism." - Councilmember noted that if the unincorporated representative does not correctly represent what their municipality wants, that municipality can select another person, and that the one unincorporated representative would need to come back before the full Council to address concerns. Another councilmember stated the public wants answers about what deconsolidation would look like, and that no one knows each district better than its councilmember. - The resolution includes a severability clause providing that if any portion is held unconstitutional or invalid, the remainder continues in effect. - Nuisance Ordinance (Item 100): The item amends Title 12 regarding police notification to the mayor of nuisances, changing the section title and adding additional city parish departments as reporting agencies. One email comment in opposition was received. - Airport Authority: A councilmember noted that the new airport authority, which was extracting itself from East Baton Rouge Parish, was going into effect October, and observed that the Baton Rouge Metro Airport is unique compared to other airports. - Violence Prevention: Councilmembers discussed contracts for violence prevention, expressing the need to clarify expectations. A councilmember referenced holding a focus group with fathers and sons just days after a mall shooting, and a subsequent Sunday meeting at a facility in South Baton Rouge. The councilmember cautioned that skewed statistics can come from coroner's office reports or parish-wide reports, while city limits data from the Baton Rouge Police Department tells a specific story. The Office of Violence Prevention has had both success and issues in the past. A strike team assessment interview with Louisiana Works was scheduled for the following week. - Louisiana Parole Project: Executive Director Andrew Hunley explained the program targets a critical gap after the first month of re-entry when someone comes home, before they begin employment. The structured work program would have participants working in the community on blight and beautification to build work skills while seeking permanent employment. Key Outcomes - Minutes from the September 9 and September 16, 2026, meetings were approved. - An item regarding penalties and fines for violations by the development director was introduced for public hearing at a special meeting on September 30, 2026. - A project sponsor committed to an additional two cents of sales tax and occupancy tax to retire $55 million in debt even sooner. - The Council proclaimed September 25, 2026 as Dolly Day in Baton Rouge. - The Council scheduled a strike team assessment interview with Louisiana Works for the following week regarding violence prevention efforts.

The Capitol House Economic Development District Board of Commissioners met on September 23, 2026, to consider three resolutions related to the establishment of new taxes within the district, including a 2% sales and use tax and a 2% hotel occupancy tax, as well as a cooperative endeavor agreement. All motions carried unanimously. Discussion Items - Resolution of Intent to Levy and Collect New Taxes: The board considered and approved a resolution expressing intent to levy and collect a 2% sales and use tax on retail sales, use, lease, rental, consumption, and storage of tangible personal property and on sales of services, as well as a 2% hotel occupancy tax within the district boundaries. The motion was made by Commissioner Coleman, seconded by Commissioner Hudson, and carried without opposition. - Resolution to Authorize Public Notices for the New Tax: The board approved a resolution authorizing the required notices of intent to levy the new tax, including publication in The Advocate and written notice to the Metropolitan Council, State Representative Teddy Landry Jr., and Congressman Cleo Fields, in accordance with Louisiana Revised Statutes. Commissioner Adams made the motion, seconded by Commissioner Coleman, and it passed unanimously. - Resolution to Enter into an Amended and Restated Cooperative Endeavor Agreement: The board approved a resolution authorizing the district to enter into an amended and restated cooperative endeavor agreement among the district, the City of Baton Rouge, the Parish of East Baton Rouge, the Capitol House Taxing District, and North Shore Resorts BR LLC. The motion was made by Commissioner Coleman, seconded by Commissioner Amarosa, and carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - All three resolutions (Items 1, 2, and 3) were approved unanimously by the board. - Item 4 (scheduling the next meeting) was deferred pending completion of advertisement requirements, with no action taken. - The meeting was adjourned following a motion by Commissioner Amarosa.

The Mayor's Advisory Commission on Senior Living met on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Chair Carol Applegate led the meeting with members Anna Stout, Tammy Heaney, John Schuler, John O'Donnell, and Dave Morgan present. The commission reviewed the draft action plan for the age-friendly community designation, received transportation updates, and focused planning for the upcoming intergenerational connection conference. Discussion Items Action Plan Update Chair Applegate presented the draft action plan developed over the past few years. She noted it is not final and continues to be a working document. The plan includes sections on housing, transportation, civic engagement, community health, respect and social inclusion, and sustainability/emergency procedures (added after the recent flood). The application to the AARP for age-friendly community designation has been completed and submitted. AARP review in Washington D.C. is expected to take two to four weeks. Chair Applegate expressed hope for designation before the conference but acknowledged it is uncertain. Transportation Report John Schuler reported on a meeting with Hamilton County Express. Key developments: - In November, Roger McMichael will present a request to the school board to allow fueling of Hamilton County Express buses at the 126th Street fuel depot. The request is expected to pass without obstruction. - Several buses have high mileage (265,000 miles) and increasing repair costs. Commissioner Mark Herbrand will raise the issue at the next commissioner's meeting. The possibility of purchasing smaller retired Carmel buses (which have lower mileage) to expand the fleet was discussed. - A newspaper article promoting Hamilton County Express for seniors is pending. Once published, usage numbers can be tracked. - Regarding the conference, Hamilton County Express cannot reserve buses but will accommodate ride requests on a first-come, first-served basis. Conference Planning The conference theme is Intergenerational Connection. It will be held at University High School (Fairbanks Hall) on Thursday, October 17, 2026 (during fall break, so school is not in session). Layout includes first-floor classrooms (seating 24-30) and second-floor larger rooms (accessible by stairs). Parking is abundant on flat land. The agenda: - 9:00 AM: Registration, coffee, and sweets - 9:30-10:00 AM: Opening remarks by Mayor and Councilman Rich Taylor - 10:00 AM: Keynote speaker Dr. Carolyn Gurner, IU Kelley School of Business, focusing on intergenerational connection and later a breakout session on loneliness - 11:00 AM: Dr. Bastani on healthy living from a young age - Lunch donated by Traditions at Solano (box lunches) - Breakout sessions (seven confirmed, hoping for eight to ten): grandparenting, intergenerational housing, retired firefighter service, government involvement, neuroscience, yoga, AI, and possibly caregiving or memory loss support. - 3:00-4:00 PM: Summary session with storytelling from older and younger generations (e.g., a grandparent and a college-bound student). As of the meeting, only 35 people had registered. Last year's attendance was 185. Promotion efforts so far include an ad in the paper, an article scheduled for tomorrow, Carmel News, the city website, emails to last year's attendees (sent twice), and University High School's grandparent outreach. Chair Applegate asked each member to recruit at least 10 attendees. Members noted that walking people through the QR code registration helps, and providing specific conference details (rather than a generic flyer) increases interest. The registration system is RSVPi; texting was not used due to legal concerns but may be reconsidered. Budget - Total commission budget this year: $10,000; $7,800 remains unspent. - Leftover from last year's conference: $5,400. - Major expenses: keynote speaker ($3,000, negotiable), table/chair rental ($2,000 if over 90 attendees), food (minimal, with donations), AV equipment (provided free by school). - A $2,500 donation was received from a school trustee. Additional sponsorships are being sought from local businesses. Other - A recommendation was made to include the conference in city council meeting announcements and on the housing department website. - Chair Applegate shared a leftover ticket for the Art Garfunkel concert (postponed due to illness) for any member interested. Key Outcomes - The action plan will continue to be refined and reviewed at future meetings; no formal approval was taken. - The AARP application has been submitted; designation decision expected within 2-4 weeks. - Transportation efforts are progressing with Hamilton County Express; next meeting on October 14th. - The conference is scheduled for October 17th; members committed to promoting registration and seeking sponsorships. - No formal votes were taken during the meeting. Meeting adjourned at 6:38 PM.