The Public Meeting Index

On September 22, 2026, the Redmond City Council held a special joint meeting with the Redmond Arts & Culture Commission at 6:18 PM. All council members were present (Councilmember Prakriya online), with Mayor Birney absent. The meeting featured a presentation by the commission on its recent work, priorities, and the nearing completion of the 2026 Public Art Master Plan, followed by a Q&A and discussion with council members. Discussion Items - Commission Presentation: Chair Pamela Waters and members outlined the commission's mission, vision, and successes over the past year. Key achievements included: - Grant awards totaling $26,500 to 9 organizations (up from $15,000 the previous year) for unrestricted support of Redmond-based arts and cultural organizations with annual budgets under $500,000. - New integrated sculptures installed on 152nd Avenue in Overlake in January 2026. - Poet Laureate Nancy Mburu's inaugural storytelling project, culminating in a presentation this winter. - Community rotating art exhibits at the Redmond Senior & Community Center featuring nearly 100 two-dimensional artists. - Support for signature events (Derby Days, Redmond Lights) and the 4th annual Downtown Redmond Art Walk. - Training programs for local artists and input on private development public artworks in Marymoor Village and Overlake. - Four Priorities: 1. Cultural inclusion and outreach to reflect the city's diverse population. 2. Public art funding: Updating the 1991 Public Art Ordinance to increase and stabilize funding, supporting the goals of the 2026 Public Art Master Plan. 3. Artist pipeline: Efforts to retain, attract, and provide opportunities for artists from underrepresented communities, including the Eastside Workshop and low-barrier temporary art calls. 4. Public Art Master Plan: Near completion, focusing on three goals—citywide public art, arts ecosystem nurturing, and streamlined city systems. - Council Questions: Councilmembers inquired about grant criteria (two applicants not selected—one not Redmond-based, one with too large a budget) and heard commissioners' enthusiasm for the master plan, including asphalt art at Idlewood Park, art in everyday places, and community interaction. Commissioner Joyce Paul emphasized art's role in combating loneliness and mental health issues. Councilmember Parsi asked about focusing on a specific art type (e.g., visual art vs. dance/music), with commissioners expressing support for diversity over a single focus. Councilmember Prakriya asked about underappreciated art pieces (e.g., the water feature outside City Hall needing repair) and upcoming works like a video installation at Redmond Lights. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the session was informational and discussion-based. - Council members expressed strong support for increasing and stabilizing public art funding through the ordinance update and for the master plan's implementation. - Council President Stuart noted the success of the downtown art walk and the need to activate growing neighborhoods (e.g., Overlake intercultural district) with art. The Busker program remains active with two downtown performance locations. - Upcoming major event: Redmond Lights kicks off Saturday, December 5, 2026 at 4:00 PM. - Commission and council agreed to continue collaboration, including input on the future of the Old Firehouse Teen Center and ensuring art is integrated into community development.

The Olympia Planning Commission met on September 22, 2026, to conduct a public hearing on the Preliminary 2027-2032 Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) and receive a briefing on proposed amendments to the Critical Area Ordinance (CAO). The meeting was called to order at 6:32 p.m. and adjourned at 8:32 p.m. The commission unanimously recommended the CFP with considerations and scheduled a public hearing on the CAO for October 5, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda for the September 22, 2026 meeting. - Approved the minutes from the August 17, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the designated public comment period or during the CFP public hearing. Discussion Items Preliminary 2027-2032 Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) – Public Hearing Staff introduced the revised plan, noting the six-year total of $412.6 million (up from $396.6 million originally, a 6% increase) and a revised first-year budget of $82.3 million (up from $70.3 million). Commissioners discussed ongoing concerns: Vice Chair Daniel Garcia highlighted the declining cable tax without a replacement and the need for more mobility and pedestrian/cyclist safety projects. Commissioner Jessica Grubb expressed concern about a projected 25% decline in Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) revenues, which accounts for 20% of the transportation budget. Commissioner Zainab Nejati noted that the Waste Resources facility (currently $51 million) has only a 10% contingency and a high likelihood of cost growth. Chair Greg Quetin raised deferred maintenance issues, especially for transportation, where the pavement condition index (PCI) is 66 against a goal of 75, with only $2.86 million per year invested versus an estimated $16 million needed. Commissioner Jessica Grubb added that property value declines may affect general obligation bonds for fire stations. Concerns about grant funding uncertainties and the difficulty of raising the PCI also emerged. Commissioner Nejati moved to recommend the plan as proposed with considerations to be documented in a comment letter; the motion was seconded by Commissioner Jason Taellious and passed unanimously. Critical Area Ordinance (CAO) Update – Briefing Current Planning Manager Kernan Lien presented proposed amendments driven by best available science (BAS). Key changes include: adopting Option 1 for wetland buffers (based on mitigation measures and habitat corridors); maintaining current stream buffers (consistent with site-potential tree height of 196-235 feet); adding provisions for functionally disconnected buffers and non-conforming structures (limited to hard surfaces); consolidating geologically hazardous area reviews as administrative; adjusting trail disturbance thresholds; and requiring hydrogeologic reports for underground injection controls deeper than 20 feet in wellhead protection areas. Commissioners asked clarifying questions: Commissioner Nejati questioned whether a pipe under a road could make a buffer functionally connected; Commissioner Raphael Garcia asked about the basis for the 4,000-square-foot threshold for Category IV wetlands; Commissioner Jason Taellious inquired about fencing requirements; and Commissioner Grubb noted that GIS wetland data is not fully up-to-date. The briefing was informational; a public hearing is set for October 5, 2026, with potential deliberations on October 19, 2026. Key Outcomes - The commission unanimously recommended (9-0) that City Council adopt the Preliminary 2027-2032 Capital Facilities Plan as proposed, with considerations to be outlined in a comment letter drafted by the finance subcommittee. - The Critical Area Ordinance update briefing was received; the commission will hold a public hearing on October 5, 2026, and aims for City Council adoption by November/December 2026. - The finance subcommittee will meet on September 23, 2026 to begin drafting the CFP comment letter.

The Boston Zoning Board of Appeal (ZBA) held a virtual hearing on September 22, 2026, beginning at 9:30 AM and continuing after a 15-minute break. The board considered minutes, extensions, recommendations, and 20+ appeals, including several Article 80 large-project cases. Public testimony was heard on each case. Votes were conducted by roll call, with most motions carrying. Consent Calendar - Minutes of September 8, 2026: Approved unanimously. - Extension Requests (7 cases): Granted as a bundle after discussion on the fourth extension for 683 Columbia Road. The applicant explained the delay was due to the property being on the market; the board granted a one-year extension for that case. Motion carried. - Subcommittee Recommendations (6 cases): Five cases approved; one (1117-1125 Blue Hill Avenue) deferred to November 10, 2026. Motion carried. Public Comments & Testimony - 1200 Soldiers Field Road: Support from Councilor Braden’s office, Brighton Allston Improvement Association, and BPDA staff. No opposition noted. - 98 Mount Hope Street: Support from Councilor Wells’ office; four letters of support. No opposition. - 1519-1521 Hyde Park Avenue: Support from Hyde Park Neighborhood Association. No opposition. - 1702 Hyde Park Avenue: Opposition from Readville Watch neighborhood association citing insufficient parking. Support from Carpenters union. Applicant addressed parking ratio (34 spaces for 68 units) as transit-oriented. - 12 Pendil Road: One letter of opposition regarding parking. Applicant noted one space per unit. - 157 Granite Avenue: Opposition from Cedar Grove Neighborhood Association over height, density, parking, and traffic. Support from a former civic association president. - 372 Neponset Ave: Community concerns about scale and loss of restaurant parking. Popes Hill Neighborhood Association supported after changes (reduced units, removed roof deck). Support from Councilor Fitzgerald’s office. - 24 Mount Everett Street: Mixed community feedback; supporters cited proximity to bus lines and IDP units; opponents cited density and parking. Initial community meeting described as “terrible” by applicant. Revised project reduced units to 16 with 1:1 parking. - 85 Parker Hill Ave: Strong opposition from Mission Hill Neighborhood Housing Services and 53-year resident citing insufficient parking, undergraduate student housing concerns, and lack of hardship. Support from Carpenters union and nearby property owner. BPDA approved after changes (8 three-bedroom IDP units). - 1511-1525 Washington Street: Over 140 letters of support from parents, neighbors, and businesses. Three objections from community groups citing loss of commercial space and parking. Washington Harrison Neighborhood Association opposed permanent change of use. South End Business Alliance opposed but school supporters argued for conditional use. - 86 Walworth Street: 68-signature petition and 22 letters of opposition; 7 support letters. Abutters cited size, height, loss of green space, parking, and character. Speaker at hearing noted “erosion of public trust.” - 121 River Street: Five letters of opposition originally; after revisions, River Street Civic Association supported. One abutter (41 Idaho) continued opposition citing safety and code issues. - 425 East 3rd Street: Opposition from Gate of Heaven Neighborhood Association and direct abutters citing safety, easement concerns, and lack of setback. Support from one unit owner with parking easement. - 336 E Street: No opposition; Councilor Flynn supported. Discussion Items - 1200 Soldiers Field Road (Article 80): New 6-story, 58-unit residential building with 10 affordable units, 37 parking spaces. Variances for FAR, height, rear yard, conditional use for ground floor residential. BPDA approved July 16, 2026. Board approved without additional conditions. - 25A Alabama Street: Proposal for two-family house lacking detailed site plan and violation chart. Deferred to November 10, 2026, without prejudice for applicant to submit missing information. - 98 Mount Hope Street: New two-family dwelling with garage on undersized lot (2,297 sq ft). Ten variances including FAR, setbacks, open space. Approved with proviso to submit site plan and tree canopy details to planning department. - 1519-1521 Hyde Park Avenue: Attic renovation and vertical addition. Variances for roof structure and existing footprint. Approved. - 1702 Hyde Park Avenue (Article 80): Revised 7-story mixed-use building with 68 condos (12 affordable), 34 parking spaces, 2,500 sq ft retail. BPDA approved April 16, 2026. Board approved; discussion on tree planting (5 trees) and transit-oriented parking. - 12 Pendil Road: 6 units, 6 parking spaces on vacant lot. Variances for FAR, height, side yard. Approved with proviso for design review of curb cut dimensions. - 157 Granite Avenue (Article 80): 5-story, 24-unit condominium on ledge-ridden lot. Variances for FAR, height, rear yard, side yard, parking (25 spaces vs 34 required). Board approved despite opposition. - 367-371 & 372 Neponset Ave (companion): 372 approval allowed 10 rental units (2 affordable), 13 garage parking. Variance for FAR, height, side yard, parking, and removal of restaurant parking at 367-371. Approved. - 24 Mount Everett Street (Article 80): Renovation and addition of 10 units (total 16) in existing 6-family building. Reduced from 4 stories to 3 after community feedback. 1:1 parking. Approved. - 655 Morton Street: Legalization of fourth unit in three-decker (basement apartment). Four variances for use, parking, non-conforming extension. Approved after applicant addressed maintenance concerns. - 85 Parker Hill Ave (Article 80): Renovation of Landmark on Longwood into 103 units (8 three-bedroom IDP family units), 11 parking spaces. Variances for use and parking. BPDA approved June 16, 2026. Approved despite opposition. - 1511-1525 Washington Street: Conditional use permit for kindergarten/elementary school (South End Village Academy) in former Croft School space. 80 students enrolled. Over 140 letters of support. Concern from some about loss of commercial corridor. Board approved conditional use permit. - 795 Saratoga Street: Addition and roof deck on existing 3-unit building. Variances for roof structure and side yard. Approved with design review focus on shed dormers. - 248-250 Everett Street: Renovation of single-family to 4 units. Minimal variances. Jeffries Point Neighborhood Association voted 7-6 in support. Approved. - 21 Gatua Street: New single-family home on undersized lot. Variances for lot size, FAR, setbacks. West Roxbury Neighborhood Council supported. Approved. - 86 Walworth Street: New 6-unit building (all 3-bedrooms), 8 parking spaces on large lot. Variances for use, FAR, height, open space, parking. Draft rezoning for street supports higher density. Approved with BPDA design review for parking maneuverability. Vote: 5-2 in favor. - 105 Pleasant View Street: Conversion to two-family by adding second story. Additional use variance discovered post-approval. Approved. - 1 Hopkins Place: 6-unit building, 8 parking spaces. Variances for use, front-yard parking. Approved with BPDA design review for open space and parking layout. - 2 Hopkins Place: 3 units, 4 parking spaces. Variances for use, front-yard parking. Approved with proviso to reduce lot coverage and improve parking layout (no front-yard parking). - 121 River Street: ADU (accessory dwelling unit) conversion of barn. Six variances. Community process revised; River Street Civic Association supported. Deferred to November 10, 2026, for further community engagement after request from Councilor Wells’ office citing strong opposition. - 57 Mount Vernon Street: Curb cut approval for existing driveway. Community process conducted; Columbia Seven Hill Civic Association supported (6-2-1). Approved. - 425 East 3rd Street: 4-story, 2-unit building over existing surface parking. Variances for lot area, height, setbacks, open space, parking design. Approved; board accepted planning department’s recommendation to remove one parking space for better maneuverability. - 336 E Street: Legalization of existing second-story rear deck. Two variances (open space, setback) resolved. Approved. Key Outcomes - Deferrals: - 196 Maverick Street deferred to October 6, 2026. - 25A Alabama Street deferred to November 10, 2026. - 121 River Street deferred to November 10, 2026. - Withdrawal: 213-21 Bowden Street withdrawn. - Approvals (20 cases): All motions carried, including several with provisos for design review or further community engagement. - Vote Highlights: - 86 Walworth Street passed 5-2 (two no votes from Turner and Chair Wells). - 425 East 3rd Street approved despite opposition from Gate of Heaven Neighborhood Association and abutters. - Next Meeting: October 6, 2026, at 9:30 AM.

On Tuesday, September 22, 2026, the Public Safety, Health and Human Services Committee of the Prince George's County Council met at 10:00 AM in Committee Room 2027. The meeting was streamed live. Present were Chair Wanika Fisher, Council Member Edward Burroughs, and Council Member Krystal Oriadha. Vice Chair Wala Blegay and Council Member Danielle Hunter were absent. The committee considered a briefing on the implementation of Executive Order No. 13-2026 (transferring DPIE's enforcement division to the Office of Homeland Security) and legislation (CB-123-2026) codifying the transfer and increasing fines. Briefing: Implementation of Executive Order No. 13-2026 Director Katina Gomez of the Office of Homeland Security (OHS) presented the restructuring, highlighting that code compliance now includes divisions for single-family rental, short-term rental, multi-housing, vacant properties, zoning, and property maintenance. The transition began in early 2026, with Executive Order 13-2026 effective July 24, 2026. Ongoing steps include transferring HR and fiscal functions, rebranding fleet vehicles, and finalizing an MOU. Early achievements included the Golden Standard Initiative (all 39 senior living communities inspected regularly), tobacco/convenience store initiatives (over 300 stores), shopping center initiatives, and the clean lot program, which received FY27 funding after being unfunded in FY26. The clean lot program allows the county to abate conditions and place liens. OHS is also supporting illegal dumping strike force initiatives. Council Member Fisher asked about inspector safety in high-crime areas, noting that the transition to OHS under public safety could streamline police escorts. Director Gomez confirmed partnerships with police and health departments. Fisher also raised concerns about proactive enforcement versus complaint-driven responses, citing shopping cart violations at major retailers. She noted that a bill she sponsored requires retailers to have cart retention mechanisms; non-compliant stores should be cited. The committee discussed using 311 service requests, but Fisher argued that reliance on complaints disadvantages districts with lower report rates. Assistant Director Rease noted that nine new enforcement liaison positions (one per council district) were funded in FY27 budget, though OHS had not yet received details from OMB. Fisher also urged tracking data on fines to support future state legislation raising maximum fines to $10,000 for repeat offenses (currently $5,000). Deputy Director Hinton confirmed data tracking initiatives. Council Member Burroughs asked about enforcement of flashing light restrictions at tobacco/liquor stores. Director Gomez said a list of violations could be sent for action. Burroughs commended enforcement agent Santiago for responsiveness. Gomez clarified that the clean lot program applies to both vacant and occupied properties. Burroughs noted pending legislation to allow interior inspections with law enforcement accompaniment. Council Member Oriadha requested proactive enforcement and evening hours to address nighttime violations (e.g., lights). Director Gomez confirmed that new hires would have later shift hours. Oriadha also requested periodic evaluations of existing legislation (e.g., clean lot violation thresholds) to identify needed tweaks. Assistant Director Rease reported that OHS is working with police on issuing radios to inspectors for constant communication and is updating the 311 system. Deputy Director Bryant is meeting with council district staff to streamline constituent service referrals. Legislation: CB-123-2026 CB-123-2026 amends multiple County Code subtitles to transfer enforcement, licensing, and inspection authority from DPIE to OHS and increases civil fines and penalties. Committee Director Anya Makarova presented the bill. Budget analyst David Noto stated there would be no direct fiscal impact; the transfer is administrative, and increased fines may improve compliance and reduce litigation. The Office of Law confirmed legal sufficiency. Council Member Burroughs moved for a favorable recommendation, seconded by Council Member Oriadha. Key Outcomes - Vote on CB-123-2026: Motion carried 3-0 (Ayes: Fisher, Burroughs, Oriadha; Absent: Blegay, Hunter). The bill received a favorable committee recommendation. - Briefing acknowledged: The committee received the update on the transition under Executive Order 13-2026. No formal action was taken on the briefing. - Next steps: OHS will work with council offices and OMB on the nine enforcement liaison positions. The committee expressed interest in receiving a follow-up report in 90 days on enforcement gaps and legislative needs. The clean lot program funding for FY27 was noted.

Note on date discrepancy: The meeting agenda provided is for a Regular Session on Monday, August 31, 2026 at 7:00 PM, but the user instruction specifies the meeting occurred on September 22, 2026 at 2:30 PM. No minutes or transcript were available; only the agenda is the source. The agenda contains multiple test/placeholder items and a list of meeting dates from 2024, suggesting the document may be a template. Consent Calendar - Civic Plus Social Media – $11,099.31 (listed as a consent agenda item; assumed approved without discussion in the absence of contrary evidence). Public Comments & Testimony - No transcript or minutes are provided, so no public comments are recorded. Discussion Items - Unfinished Business: Two test items were listed: "Test for Work Session Item" and "Test item for VoteCast Session." These appear to be placeholder entries with no substantive content. - New Business: Three items were listed: "test lease," "Frosty Friday!!!," and "Summer Friday's are a thing, or they should be!!" These also appear to be test or placeholder items, not serious proposals. Key Outcomes - No votes, directives, or decisions are recorded in the available agenda. The consent agenda item (Civic Plus Social Media) would typically have been approved as part of the consent calendar, but no confirmation is available. - The meeting schedule announced includes several dates in October 2024 (Work Sessions on Oct 1, 8, 15, Regular Session on Oct 22, and no meeting on Oct 29), which are inconsistent with a 2026 meeting date. This summary is based solely on the agenda provided. Without a transcript or minutes, the actual proceedings cannot be reported.

Note on date discrepancy: The agenda provided for this meeting is dated Monday, August 31, 2026, but the user-specified meeting date is September 22, 2026. No minutes or transcript were available for either date. The summary below is derived solely from the agenda and may not reflect actual proceedings. The meeting was called to order with an invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by announcements (including rules of procedure and meeting schedule for October 2024) and a 30‑minute citizen comments period (pre‑registration required). Consent Calendar - Civic Plus Social Media – $11,099.31: Listed for approval; no further details on outcome. Unfinished Business - Test for Work Session Item – placeholder. - Test item for VoteCast Session – placeholder. New Business - Test lease – placeholder. - Frosty Friday!!! – placeholder. - Summer Friday's are a thing, or they should be!! – placeholder. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or substantive discussion are recorded in the available materials. The agenda items appear to be test/placeholder entries, and no transcript or minutes exist to confirm proceedings.

Note: The agenda and transcript list this meeting as Monday, September 21, 2026; however, the provided timestamp indicates the meeting took place on September 22, 2026. This summary uses the date given but notes the discrepancy. The Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (CVMAC) met at the Castro Valley Library on September 22, 2026 (as recorded), at 6:00 p.m. The meeting included public comment, approval of minutes, informational presentations on updated fire hazard maps and fire station rebuilding projects, and approval of the 2027 meeting schedule. Consent Calendar - Minutes of May 18, 2026 – Approved unanimously (6 ayes, 2 excused) with a request to include speaker names in future minutes. - Minutes of July 20, 2026 – Approved unanimously with a correction to Councilmember Mota’s attendance status. Public Comments & Testimony - Monica Carr (Groveway resident) – Requested that the council add the ACPWA Groveway Improvement Project to a future agenda. She argued that the proposed widening for class II bike lanes is unsafe and that class III bike lanes should be installed instead. She stated that the community has received insufficient communication and that similar projects on Somerset received more outreach. - Devana Belser (Outsiders Coalition) – Presented a formal grievance regarding health, safety, and civil rights violations at the First Presbyterian Church Shelter (2490 Groveway). She reported chronic plumbing failures, lack of ADA-compliant restrooms, and dismissive staff, placing the council and county on notice. - Linda Honeyman – Opposed class II bike lanes on Groveway, citing safety risks from door zones and the burden of right-of-way widening. She supported class III bike lanes with shared road space. - Dr. Ann Maris (longtime Groveway resident) – Opposed the project, noting that CEQA documents were filed in 2024 as categorically exempt, but the public learned of the project only in 2026. She stated that the project would remove approximately 30 mature trees, relocate sidewalks, and reconfigure travel lanes. She requested more than the standard 72-hour notice for affected residents. Discussion Items I. Zone Zero and Recent Changes to California Fire Hazard Maps (Informational) - Presenters: Aaron P. Panfilio, Division Chief, and Breanne Slimick, Public Education Assistant, Alameda County Fire Department. - Overview: Explained the shift from 2009 fire hazard severity zones to updated 2025 maps using better data and technology. In Castro Valley, the number of very-high-hazard parcels dropped from 2,348 to 984, with an additional 1,531 parcels designated high, 838 moderate, and about 1,000 reclassified as non-wildland. The new “Zone Zero” rule (0–5 feet around structures) was adopted by the state on August 19, 2026, and will be phased in over 3–5 years for existing properties. - Q&A: Councilmembers asked about evacuation planning, annual inspections (only for very-high zones), insurance impacts, the relationship between zones and PG&E shutoffs, and the chipper program. Slimick explained that she personally inspects 984 very-high-zone homes annually. Panfilio and Slimick committed to follow up on questions about remodels, tree requirements in Zone Zero, and the Diablo Fire Safe Council. II. Update on Fire Station Rebuilding Projects Funded by Measure X (Informational) - Presenter: Deputy Chief Eric Moore, Alameda County Fire Department. - Updates: - Fire Station 7 (Palomares Hills): Located at 6855 Villarreal Drive. The structure is nearly complete; sheetrock installation is underway. Expected completion around January 15, 2027. A ribbon-cutting event is planned for late February/early March. The station will house a fire engine and a Type III wildland engine, plus an apparatus storage building. - Fire Station 25 (San Miguel): Slab pouring scheduled for tomorrow. The project includes a vapor mitigation system due to soil contamination. An underground pool observed is groundwater. Will house a Type I engine, tiller truck, and battalion chief. - Fire Station 26 (Castro Valley): Demolition of the former public market has begun. Design and environmental studies are underway. Estimated total cost $25 million. The current Station 26 property (Lake Chabot) is owned by ACFD and future use is undetermined. - Budget: The four stations will use $90 million from Measure X. ACFD will fund Station 24 (Ashland) from reserves. Stations 7 and 25 are currently tracking under budget despite unexpected soil remediation costs at Station 25. - Council comments: Members expressed appreciation, asked about traffic impacts near Castro Valley Elementary, and urged partnership on zoning for the Station 26 site. III. Approval of 2027 CVMAC Meeting Schedule (Action) - Presenter: Chair Bill Mulgrew. The schedule (including both general purpose and land use meetings) was presented. Councilmember Mota requested ensuring technology functions on Thursday meeting dates. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (6 ayes, 2 excused). Key Outcomes - Minutes of May 18 and July 20, 2026 – Approved with minor corrections. - 2027 Meeting Schedule – Approved unanimously. - Directives/Follow-up: Chief Panfilio will provide answers on fire-resistant construction requirements for remodels, tree pruning rules, and Diablo Fire Safe Council contacts. Councilmember Mota requested a formal tracking process for council requests and follow-up items. Staff agreed to share responses via email to the full council. - Next meeting: The regular meeting for September 28, 2026, was canceled.

The Novato City Council met on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 901 Sherman Avenue, Novato, with virtual participation. Mayor Rachel Farac presided. The council approved agenda changes, adopted a large consent calendar (minus a pulled streetlight contract), denied Argonaut Constructors’ bid protest and awarded the Novato Boulevard Improvements contract to Team Ghilotti, adopted the Economic Development Strategic Plan, received the Climate Action Plan 2030 progress report, and voted 4-1 to discontinue work on pre-incorporation subdivision right-of-way and setback changes. Ceremonial Matters and Agenda Actions - City Attorney Gary Bell reported there was no reportable action from closed session. - The council presented a proclamation honoring Make It Home Bay Area, a nonprofit furniture bank founded in 2020 that has served over 8,300 people and kept more than 8.5 million pounds of furniture out of landfills. - The council voted 5-0 to approve the final agenda after moving City Council/City Manager reports to the end of the meeting and pulling Consent Item G.8 (wooden streetlight pole replacement contract) at staff’s request; the item was to return at a later date. Consent Calendar The consent calendar was approved unanimously in one 5-0 vote. Approved items included: - Waiver of full ordinance readings and approval of August 18, 2026 special meeting minutes. - Ordinance 1734 replacing flood damage prevention requirements, including a one-foot freeboard requirement for NFIP Community Rating System compliance. - Ordinance 1735 implementing General Plan 2035 Land Use Categories and 6th Cycle Housing Element programs, including permit processing procedures for certain housing projects. - Updates to the city investment policy and a separate investment policy for the Section 115 pension/OPEB trust. - 2027 City Council meeting schedule, with meetings generally on the second and fourth Tuesdays. - Mural design by Lynsey Vera for Hamilton Amphitheater Park Playground, which will become Mark J. Milberg Community Park. - Support for the League of California Cities resolution on final local authority over housing and land use decisions, with Mayor Farac as the voting delegate. - Authorization to apply for up to $1,200,000 from the Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Program grant. - 2026-2027 Utility Box Art Program with the theme “Where Stories Grow,” seven proposed locations, and $7,000 from the Public Art Fund. - Support for the Veterans and Affordable Housing Bond Act of 2026 (Proposition 1), authorizing $11.25 billion in state general obligation bonds. - Introduction of an ordinance updating the Conflict-of-Interest Code employee position titles. Public Comments & Testimony - Christina Mendez, CEO of the Novato Chamber of Commerce, thanked city staff, the Corp Yard, and the Novato Police Department for supporting chamber events including the Art and Wine Festival. - During the bid protest hearing, Stephen Copeland, representing Argonaut Constructors, opposed the award. He argued Team Ghilotti’s bid was materially unbalanced, citing item 134 roadway removal at $26.50 per cubic yard versus $1–$12 in other bids and HMA line item 20 at $300 per cubic yard versus about one-third of that in other bids. He warned that change orders in overrun areas could expose the city to large cost risks. - During the Economic Development Strategic Plan item, Denise Athis of the Novato Chamber voiced strong support, especially for zoning modernization. Robert Sundberg of the Downtown Novato Business Association supported the plan and sought more detail on the envisioned DNBA refresh. EDAC members Susan Mornick and Daniel Christensen urged adoption, with Mornick saying “perfection is the enemy of good.” Online commenter Sarah Turkley supported preserving Novato’s historic character and asked that data centers be prevented from entering Novato. - During the Climate Action Plan item, Jeremy, a Reuse Alliance board member, thanked staff for highlighting the repair fair and invited the council to the October 10, 2026 Novato repair fair. Online commenter Bob Brown praised staff but said CAP implementation could not be a one-person job, urged stronger organizational commitment and cross-departmental priority, and referenced Petaluma as a model. He cited 19 of 161 CAP actions as worked on; staff described CAP 2030 as containing 54 greenhouse gas reduction measures. Discussion Items I.1 Bid Protest and Novato Boulevard Improvements Contract Staff reported that bids were opened August 19, 2026, with Team Ghilotti the apparent low bidder. Argonaut submitted a timely protest on August 25, 2026. Staff, the City Attorney’s office, and outside construction managers reviewed Team Ghilotti’s bid and found it responsive, responsible, mathematically correct, and not unbalanced. Team Ghilotti confirmed its bid was valid. Staff also noted a factual correction: the bid advertisement date was July 21, 2026, not July 14, 2026. Councilmember Karkal recused because the project includes improvements at his employer, the Novato Sanitary District. The council voted 4-0 with Karkal recused to deny the protest, and 4-0 with Karkal recused to award the contract to Team Ghilotti in the amount of $16,824,358, repeal Resolution No. 2026-091, authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement, and approve a $7,500,000 FY 2026/27 Capital Improvement Program budget amendment. J.1 Tourism Committee Annual Report and Budget The council heard from Garrett Guerillo, chair of the Tourism Committee, and Christina Mendez. The report highlighted 52,000 hotel website referral clicks, up 5% over the prior year; about 60,000 unique website visitors; approximately 39,000 social media followers; Instagram growth of 20%; TikTok audience growth of 45%; and about 153,000 total engagements. Future plans included more influencer campaigns, short-form video, a return to trade shows, and continued focus on hotel referrals. Council discussion addressed declining print and Google-ad metrics, visitor center traffic, and hotel occupancy still below pre-pandemic levels due partly to new hotel supply. The council voted 5-0 to accept the FY 2025-26 Annual Tourism Committee Report and FY 2026-27 Tourism Budget. J.2 Economic Development Strategic Plan Staff and consultants from Good City Company and Strategic Economics presented a 10-year economic development roadmap. Engagement included a community workshop with about 80 attendees, a farmers market table with more than 80 conversations, 843 survey responses, nearly 1,500 written responses described as equivalent to 42 hours of public testimony, and 105 business survey responses. The plan has six goals, including making it easier to open businesses, revitalizing commercial corridors, supporting industrial areas such as Bel Marin Keys and Hamilton Field, strengthening downtown, facilitating housing as economic infrastructure, and leveraging city-owned and historic assets. Year-one actions include a commercial code modernization audit, a cross-departmental business team, regular broker engagement, employer outreach, and strengthened DNBA and Chamber partnerships. Councilmember Eklund asked whether adoption would approve the Appendix A zoning recommendations; the City Attorney clarified it would not, and future zoning or ordinance changes would return to the council. The council adopted the plan unanimously, 5-0. J.3 Climate Action Plan 2030 Progress Report Staff reported that Novato’s community-wide greenhouse gas emissions decreased 34% since 2005, equivalent to 22% below 1990 levels. Transportation and natural gas in buildings account for about 93% of total emissions, with passenger vehicles comprising most transportation emissions. CAP 2030 targets a 40% reduction below 1990 levels by 2030. Highlights included safe routes to school maps for all eight elementary schools and two middle schools, a repair fair, a compost giveaway, energy efficiency upgrades projected to save about $26,000 per year, and a Clean Energy Expo. Staff cited the expiration of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit and AB 130’s building code pause as headwinds. The council discussed capacity, EV charging infrastructure, and future budgeting. The transcript does not record a formal motion or roll-call vote before the council moved to the next item. J.4 Pre-Incorporation Subdivision Right-of-Way and Setbacks Public Works Director Chris Benigni presented options for homeowners in pre-incorporation neighborhoods such as Nave Gardens, built roughly between 1940 and 1960. Staff identified 17 similar subdivisions within a one-mile radius and said 40- to 60-foot rights-of-way were typical. Options were: vacating right-of-way, at an estimated total cost of about $7,000 per parcel including a $4,500 right-of-way vacation deposit and $2,500 lot line adjustment; grants of variance, which are rarely granted, require a $4,500 deposit, and take 16 to 120 days; and zoning ordinance amendments, which are city-initiated, have no application fee, and take more than 120 days. Staff and the City Attorney noted risks including utility conflicts, ADA and fire access concerns, non-conforming structures, property tax increases, neighborhood character changes, and equity impacts. Councilmember Eklund wanted a Nave Gardens community meeting, while other members cited complexity and competing citywide priorities. The council voted 4-1 to discontinue the work at this time, with Councilmember Eklund dissenting. Mayor Farac said she would inform the neighborhood of the outcome. Key Outcomes - Final agenda approved 5-0, with reports moved to the end and Item G.8 pulled. - Consent calendar approved 5-0, excluding G.8. - Argonaut bid protest denied and Novato Boulevard contract awarded to Team Ghilotti for $16,824,358, with a $7,500,000 budget amendment; Councilmember Karkal recused on both 4-0 votes. - Tourism Committee report and FY 2026-27 tourism budget accepted 5-0. - Economic Development Strategic Plan adopted 5-0. - Climate Action Plan 2030 progress report was presented and discussed; no recorded vote appears in the transcript. - Work on pre-incorporation subdivision right-of-way and setback solutions was discontinued 4-1, with Councilmember Eklund voting no.

The Carroll County Board of Zoning Appeals convened at 9:00 a.m. on September 22, 2026, in the Reagan Room of the County Office Building. The board heard two cases: Case 6636, a request for a conditional use for a private K-8 Amish School and one variance, and Case 6609 (continuance), a request for a conditional use and multiple variances for a commercial kennel of more than 10 dogs. The board approved Case 6636 unanimously. Case 6609 continued from a previous hearing and included additional expert and public testimony; the board did not reach a decision and the hearing was adjourned after a medical emergency, with plans to reconvene. Case 6636 – Private K-8 Amish School and Variance - Applicant: Chris Glick for a site at 4780 Piney Creek Road, Taneytown, in the Agricultural District. - Request: Conditional use for a private K-8 Amish school (30 children max, operating 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., no plumbing) and a variance to reduce the required driveway width from 18 feet to 14 feet (utilizing an existing 14-foot driveway). - Public Comments: Neighbor William Powell initially expressed opposition due to proximity to his home and concerns about privacy, property value, and well water. After reviewing a site plan showing the school would be over 200 yards from his home, he withdrew his objection, stating he was “not so objectable” and felt better about the location. - Discussion: Board members noted minimal traffic (horse and buggy, one van), daylight-only hours, no new road cut, and use of existing driveway. The variance was justified as reducing disturbance. - Decision: Motion to approve the conditional use and variance with the condition that the existing driveway be used and no new driveway installed. Approved unanimously (3-0). Oral decision to be followed by a written decision within 30 days. Case 6609 – Commercial Kennel (Continuance) - Applicant: Rachann Mayer for a site at 6270 Davis Road, Woodbine, in the Conservation District. Proposal: a commercial kennel for up to 120-150 dogs with daycare, boarding, and multiple variances (16 total, including setback reductions from 600 feet to 317 feet). - Witnesses for Opposition: - Thomas Casper (appraiser): Qualified as an expert. He testified that a comparable property adjacent to a smaller kennel (a few dozen dogs) sold at a 10% discount, suggesting a 10% negative impact on property values for the Wilburn property (adjacent). He noted the proposed kennel is larger and closer, so the impact could be greater. - Eric Peart (neighbor, 2871 Summersby Road): Opposed, citing noise, traffic, waste, and safety concerns. He stated the kennel would create a “forever hardship” for residents. - Daniel Lobel (neighbor, 2863 Summersby Road): Opposed due to his work as a maritime pilot requiring uninterrupted daytime sleep, safety risks from increased traffic (especially near a school bus stop and church), noise (dog barking up to 100+ decibels), water well depletion, and environmental runoff. He noted the requested setback reduction from 600 to 317 feet. - Jennifer Pagliaro (neighbor, 6100 Davis Road): Opposed, citing severe noise, traffic hazards (narrow roads, blind spots), sanitation and odor, heavy water consumption (up to 1,200+ gallons/day for a 150-dog facility), well water impacts, and diminished property values. She stated the proposed use is incompatible with conservation zoning. - Karen Wilburn (adjacent neighbor, 6276 Davis Road): Testified that the kennel would be in her backyard, with noise, traffic, and visual impacts. She stated her deck would become unusable, and heavy traffic on narrow Davis Road would worsen. She submitted photos showing the kennel site is visible from her property even with leaves on trees. - Sarah Patton (neighbor, 2712 Mount Olive Court): A dog trainer with 57 years of experience. She opposed due to deficient staffing (1:50 dog-to-staff ratio vs. recommended 1:10-15), noise nuisance, risk of loose dogs, traffic dangers (blind spots at church and school bus stop), and environmental pollution (water table, runoff). She argued the property is “entirely the wrong location” for a large commercial kennel. - Public Comments (from audience): - Michelle Anderson (5906 Davis Road): Raised safety concerns for school children waiting at three bus stops on Davis Road (no sidewalks), narrow road conditions (vehicles must pull over), emergency access, and drought-related water issues. - Mike Plas (5611 Sierra Court): Stated that noise from dogs would carry for miles (he can hear a train whistle 4.3 miles away). He argued the 16 variances show the property is inappropriate, and the proposal would adversely affect public health, safety, and welfare. - Julia Uphoff (6120 Davis Road): Opposed, noting her home is only 203 feet from the property (no variance requested for her). She stated other larger properties are available (e.g., 75 acres near Route 70) and that the kennel would depreciate home values. - McKenzie Cantris (attorney, 6245 Davis Road): Described Davis Road as the worst road in southern Carroll County – narrow, with telephone poles 21 feet apart, a one-lane bridge, and limited visibility. He submitted a deed document and argued the kennel is a “bad idea in a horrible location.” - Carla Viviano (real estate broker, 22810 Summersby Road): Stated that as a professional, she sees that buyers value quiet surroundings and that a commercial kennel would reduce buyer demand and lengthen marketing times. - Decision: No decision was reached. The hearing was adjourned after a medical emergency, with plans to reconvene at a later date. Key Outcomes - Case 6636: Approved unanimously (3-0) with a condition to use the existing driveway. Written decision to follow within 30 days. - Case 6609: Hearing continued; no decision made. The board will reconvene to complete the hearing. - General: The board received extensive public testimony and expert evidence regarding Case 6609, including traffic, noise, water, and property value concerns.