The Public Meeting Index

Date Note: The source agenda, minutes, and transcription all identify this meeting as having taken place on Monday, September 21, 2026, beginning at 4:30 PM. The date used in this title is provided per external directive and does not match the source material. Committee Members Present: Chair Clark Gilman, Kelly Green, Robert Vanderpool. The Olympia Finance Committee met to consider and approve the recommended 2027 Utility Rates, General Facility Charges, Impact Fees, and a suite of special (dedicated) revenue budgets, including Inspire Olympia, Lodging Tax, Parking & Business Improvement Area (PBIA), and Housing/Homeless Response programs. The Committee subsequently received an update on the 2027 General Fund budget balancing process, reviewing the projected deficit, department enhancements, and potential tools to achieve a balanced budget. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: The meeting agenda was approved unanimously. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the August 17, 2026, Finance Committee meeting were approved unanimously. - Approval of 2027 Rates, Fees, and Special Revenue Budgets: Following the extensive discussion, a motion to approve and forward the entire package of 2027 Utility Rates, General Facility Charges, Impact Fees, and Special Revenues to the full City Council was made by Committee member Green, seconded by Committee member Vanderpool. The motion carried with a vote of 3-0 (Chair Gilman, Green, Vanderpool voting aye). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up for comment, nor were any present in the gallery. Discussion Items 6.A: 2027 Utility Rates, General Facility Charges, Impact Fees, and Special Revenues The committee heard detailed presentations covering numerous funds and fee schedules: - Lodging Tax Fund (Amelia Leighton): Estimated 2027 revenue is $1.005 million. A minimum reserve of approximately $300,000 (20% of expected contracts) is recommended. The Washington Center will now apply for competitive funding alongside other applicants due to state law changes. City Manager Jay Burney noted early discussions with the Squaxin Island tribe regarding lodging tax offsets as their property develops. - Inspire Olympia / Cultural Access Fund (Mary Grace Gadoo): Funded by one-tenth of 1% of sales tax effective through 2029. A gradual spend-down plan is in place for a carryforward balance of $3.37 million, aiming to reach 15-20% of program obligations by 2030. - Parking & Business Improvement Area - PBIA (Jenica Machado): No collection is planned for 2027. A phase two evaluation is underway with heavy local engagement, with recommendations expected after March 2027. The fund has a small surplus from prior years to cover approximately $27,000 in planned expenses. - Housing & Homeless Response (Ashley Chambers): The 2027 budget projects approximately $5.3 million in revenue from over ten funding sources, with $5.2 million in expenses, resulting in a small surplus. Operational funding sustainability and the transition of the Jungle encampment were highlighted as major challenges. Councilmember Green requested that future presentations clearly separate housing encouragement/tenant protection funding from emergency shelter/homeless services funding. - Community Development Fees & Impact Fees (Nicole Floyd): The development fee fund (006) has a projected $977,000 deficit. Staff presented options for balancing, including an 8% increase in permit fees (rather than the baseline 4.5% CPI match) and increasing the technology fee from 4.1% to 5%. A comprehensive fee study is overdue. Proposed impact fee changes include a 10% increase for transportation impact fees, while the new parks impact fee methodology (based on square footage with a minimum) is already in practice. - Parking Rates (Mark Russell): No rate increase is proposed for on-street parking fees. Staff proposed increasing reservation fees for bagging meters to better recover coordination costs, including a $40 fee for less than 48 hours’ notice. Councilmember Green asked staff to follow up on disabling advertising prompts in the parking payment app. - Utility Rates (Gary Franks, Ron Jones, Mike Vesey): Staff presented the proposed 2027 rate increases across all four utilities, driven largely by rising PSE power costs, increased indirect costs, and high cumulative CPI. The proposed rate increases are: Waste Resources (6.5%), Drinking Water (4.5%), Stormwater (8.7%), and Wastewater (9.5%). This results in a total average bi-monthly utility bill increase of 5.5% ($19.51), bringing the total to $353.04. Staff presented affordability metrics (EPA 2% of median household income threshold and an 8-hour minimum wage threshold), noting the proposed rates remain under both benchmarks. - Councilmember Vanderpool raised the concept of income-tested utility tiers to create a more progressive rate structure. - Chair Gilman noted that rising energy costs may shift the financial calculus for capital investments in energy efficiency and local energy production. 6.B: 2027 Proposed Budget Update Finance Director Mike Githens and City Manager Jay Burney outlined the current state of the 2027 General Fund budget. The budget currently has a $3.8 million gap. Key elements of the discussion included: - Enhancements: A list of Category 1 (high-need) enhancements was reviewed, including a prosecuting attorney, an event planning staffing model (to be discussed in an October 13 study session), a signs and signal operations supervisor, an HR position, climate funding (a range of $100,000 to $500,000 was presented), and an engineer position in drinking water to also support transportation projects. Staff noted that if funded, the Plum Street corridor study and downtown strategy update likely cannot be done simultaneously due to capacity. - Balancing the Gap: City Manager Burney expressed confidence in closing the $3.8 million gap. Potential offsets include the new construction property tax levy ($200k–$700k), a surplus in the workers’ compensation reserve ($1M–$1.5M), lower than expected benefits rates, and adjustments to the development fee fund forecast. - Interest Sweeping: A concept was introduced by staff regarding sweeping interest earnings from specific funds into the General Fund. Staff stated this is a one-time tool used by other cities and estimated a potential of over $2 million in total available interest. The City Manager recommended a conservative approach, using small amounts ($100k–$200k) annually rather than large one-time sweeps, and noted the practice would require a council ordinance. - Year-End Projection: The 2026 projected year-end balance is approximately $2.24 million above the mandatory 10% minimum reserve. Key Outcomes - Approved Package (3-0): The committee approved and forwarded to the full City Council the recommended 2027 Utility Rates, General Facility Charges, Impact Fees, and budgets for the Lodging Tax Fund, Inspire Olympia, PBIA, and Housing/Homeless Response programs. - Directives to Staff: Prior to presentation to the full council, staff will add clarifying slides, including a summary of expenditures for the Housing/Homeless Response fund and a revenue/expenses overview for the Parking Fund. - Next Steps: A council study session is scheduled for October 13, 2026, to further discuss event planning staffing, budget balancing, and the proposed climate funding range. The preliminary budget document will be released on October 1, 2026. - Concept Referred: The concept of interest sweeping was introduced and will be explored further by the council as a potential balancing tool.

The Germantown Design Review Commission met on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers (1930 S. Germantown Rd.), following a 5:30 p.m. executive session. All six commissioners — Ms. Meanwell, Mr. Schmidt, Mr. White, Mr. Schweikoffer, Ms. Dahlgren, and Chairman Bruns — were present, establishing a quorum. The commission unanimously approved the August 25, 2026 meeting minutes and a two-item consent agenda, approved a revised sign policy for Poplar Market Place with the frosting language removed, and received an update on the Thrive Germantown 2050 comprehensive plan. Consent Calendar - Minutes — August 25, 2026 Regular Meeting: Approved unanimously by roll call vote (6-0). - Agenda change: Following the pre-meeting executive session, the commission revised the agenda, moving two items from the regular agenda to the consent agenda: (24-019) InSouth Bank and (17-729) Goodwin Farms PUD. - Case (24-019) InSouth Bank — Directional Signs, 7878 Farmington Blvd.: Approval of directional signs requested by Mitchell Signs Inc. (Zack Brewster, Project Manager) on behalf of property owner InSouth Bank (Mike Perry, EVP/COO). No commissioner or audience member asked to remove the item from the consent agenda; approved unanimously (6-0). - Case (17-729) Goodwin Farms PUD — Phase 2 Final Plan, north side of Winchester Rd. approx. 1,000 ft east of Crestwyn Dr.: Approval of the Phase 2 Final Plan requested by Regency Homebuilders, LLC (Sean Carlson). No commissioner or audience member asked to remove the item; approved unanimously (6-0). Chairman Bruns congratulated the applicant on reaching this step. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present during the citizen comment periods; the commission heard no citizen testimony on the regular agenda or under new business. Discussion Items - Case (22-029) Poplar Market Place — Revised Sign Policy, 9435-9451 Poplar Ave.: Planning staff presented the revised sign policy for the center owned by Keeneland Downs Properties, LLC (Rik Ditter, Manager). The applicant was not present. The policy was heard the previous month, when the commission requested updates including: the ability to approve logos and wording in frosted glass used as a privacy screen; the ability to approve non-off-white colors administratively; and clarification of unclear language on blade signs mounted above tenant doors. The applicant subsequently worked with staff on blade sign sizing but requested that the commission keep the frosting language in the policy. - Existing frosting at Pure Financial: Staff and Director Ross confirmed that the frosted glass with a negative-space logo installed at the Pure Financial tenant space was applied without receiving a city permit and is not in compliance with the current sign code or the center's sign policy. Staff clarified that frosting itself is not classified as a sign under the sign code — it is a facade improvement requiring design review approval — while logos or wording on frosting are regulated as signage. - Commissioner positions: Chairman Bruns stated the existing installation is done tastefully, and he sees it regularly from his neighborhood, but expressed concern that broad frosting language in the policy would allow future interpretations that could be more extreme and detrimental to the community. Commissioners discussed that the frosting was reportedly installed for employee privacy (desks and sensitive information near the window) and that no alternative solutions were discussed with staff. - Vote on the sign policy: A commissioner moved to approve the revised sign policy contingent on removal of the frosting language, later specified as Section 4 (Door and Window Graphics), Section B (frost or edge-style vinyl), so that the entire section would be struck. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (6-0). - Next steps for the Pure Financial frosting: Staff stated the applicant will be contacted and, because the applied frosting is now out of compliance with the approved policy, must return before the Design Review Commission with a separate application for that specific tenant bay. Staff noted that a request to approve the existing installation administratively was not on the agenda and could not be considered that evening. Chairman Bruns agreed it would be best for the applicant to apply and present the bay to the commission. Old Business — Thrive Germantown 2050 Comprehensive Plan - Staff reported on the recent community visioning session, which drew very good turnout and active participation from high school students. At the Old Germantown session, residents expressed strong interest in more signage in Old Germantown, and the future of the Germantown High School site — 25 acres in the heart of Old Germantown expected to be sold within five years — was repeatedly raised. - The city has recorded over 5,000 total outreach touch points and over 1,200 direct conversations (from May through the previous week) for a city of just over 40,000 residents. - Local businesses supported the events: Sufi's restaurant donated baklava and sweet tea; Cat Sourdough and Miss Muffin donated baked goods; and Sugar Ghost ice cream offered four flavors at the Old Germantown event. - The public questionnaire and interactive map exercise remain open through October 5, 2026. Staff will be at the Neighborhood Summit on September 29, 2026, for the final push. A tutorial video for the map tool is available on Facebook, and Chairman Bruns encouraged commissioners and residents to participate. Liaison Reports - Public Art Commission: The traveling mural was displayed at the Germantown Festival and has been relocated to the fence in front of The Grove. A call for artists is open for the sculpture pads installed along the greenway. A graphic designer is working on branding for the Discover Germantown project, in which bronze wolves will be hidden in nine locations across town (three sections of three wolves each) with clues to encourage residents to explore different parts of Germantown, possibly with a prize for completing all nine. - Other announcements: Neighborhood Night Out is scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, 2026. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously (6-0). - Consent agenda approved unanimously (6-0): InSouth Bank directional signs (24-019) and Goodwin Farms PUD Phase 2 Final Plan (17-729). - Poplar Market Place revised sign policy approved unanimously (6-0) with Section 4B (frost or edge-style vinyl language) removed from the policy. - Pure Financial: The applicant will be required to submit a separate Design Review Commission application for the non-compliant frosting; the city will initiate that conversation. - Thrive Germantown 2050: Public engagement continues through October 5, 2026; the next outreach event is the Neighborhood Summit on September 29, 2026.

At 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, the Howard County Council held a hybrid legislative public hearing to receive testimony on appointments and Council Bill 58 (CB58-2026). Chair Opel Jones presided, with Councilmembers Christiana Rigby, Deb Jung, Liz Walsh, and David Yungmann present. The chair announced that several other agenda items would be moved to the following day (September 23). Appointments (Resolutions CR124-154 , CR155-158 , CR162) The council heard testimony from numerous appointees to various boards and commissions. Most spoke briefly in support of their own nominations. A notable exception occurred when Councilmember Liz Walsh questioned Rabbi Craig Axler (nominee to the Interfaith Advisory Commission) about his past conduct regarding interfaith dialogue after October 7, 2023, and Walsh stated she would not support his nomination. Rabbi Axler denied having any role in selecting commission membership and affirmed his commitment to honest dialogue. Other appointees included Larry Bratt (Opioid Restitution Fund Commission), Kim Lightfoot (Board of Social Services), Erica Davis (Housing Commission), Mustafa Akpinar, Rabbi Yanky Baron, Yolanda Bethea, Erica Cole, Ian Collier, Naresh Chandra Das, Kalpana Panigrahi, Emily Robertson, Alexander Ross, Jodi Saunders, Hamza Zgidou, Teresa Murbach (Commission on Disabilities), and several members of the SMART Data Center Task Force (Jennifer Jones, Hye Yeong Kwon, David Norfolk Jr., Jack Powell, Greg Zudock, Aftab Ahmed, Doug Siglin, Daniel Sweeney) . Josiah Wheeler (student) testified for his appointment to the Human Rights Commission. Reappointments to the Multimodal Transportation Board and Agricultural Preservation Board were also noted. Public Comments & Testimony on Council Bill 58-2026 Councilmember Deb Jung introduced CB58 , explaining it aimed to standardize county grant making, increase transparency, and require a 25% match for construction grants, among other provisions. She acknowledged concerns from nonprofits and offered to meet for amendments. A large number of community members and nonprofit representatives testified, with the majority opposing the bill: - Opponents argued the bill would create excessive administrative burdens, especially for small nonprofits; divert resources from direct services; risk client privacy through a public database; stifle innovation with a two-year experience requirement; and duplicate existing oversight. Speakers included Jessamine Duval (Bridges to Housing Stability), Lois Meek (Association of Community Services), Christy Page (Rebuilding Together Howard County), Lisa Markowitz (People's Voice Columbia), Jackie Ng (Housing Affordability Coalition), Linda Lampert Leslie (Columbia Democratic Club), Don Pop (individual), Jessica Nichols (individual), Seema Agarwal (individual), Cindy LaFollette (individual), Melissa Curtin (Community Foundation of Howard County), and others. Several cited the Office of Community Partnerships' current understaffing and the risk to vulnerable residents. - Supporters argued the bill is necessary for accountability and taxpayer protection, especially after concerns about a $25 million grant to Columbia Community Concepts for “The Source” project. They emphasized the need for clear deliverables, repayment provisions, and public transparency. Supporters included Stu Cohn (Howard County Taxpayers Association), Lisa Krause (individual), Shamica Preston (individual), Angela Bruce (individual), Andrea Levinson (individual), Ryan Powers (individual), Drew Roth (individual), Alan Schneider (individual), and Alan Steiner (individual). Several asked the council to work with stakeholders to refine the bill rather than reject it entirely. Discussion Items Deb Jung stated she was open to amendments and scheduled two meetings (September 23 evening and September 25 morning) to discuss changes with nonprofits. Councilmember Yungmann noted the bill primarily targets construction grants and supported a framework to protect the public fisc. No other councilmembers made substantive remarks on CB58 during the hearing. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken. The hearing served to collect testimony for the record. - All appointment resolutions and CB58 will be considered at a future legislative session (October 5, 2026, for final action, with a work session on September 28). - The remaining agenda items (CB49-53, CB59, CR159-161) were postponed to the next public hearing on September 23, 2026.

The Sandy City Council met on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 5:15 PM in the Council Chambers. Council Chair Marci Houseman presided. Six members were present (Brooke Christensen, Alison Stroud, Kris Nicholl, Marci Houseman, Cyndi Sharkey, Brooke D'Sousa); Aaron Dekeyzer was excused. The meeting included informational items, a public hearing and public meeting on a proposed $30 million general obligation bond for the Crescent View Middle School property, and standing reports. Key discussions covered the Fire Department's wildland mitigation grant, a proposal to move up the Police Department management study, and a request from the Mayor to reconsider a housing development. The meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - General Citizen Comment: Henry Butters alleged that Mayor Zoltanski lied to an animal control officer about an off-leash law and called for body cameras on animal control officers. Utah State Representative Tracy Miller thanked the Council and Administration for their service and offered assistance during the upcoming legislative session. - During the Bond Public Hearing (Item 5): Pat Jones spoke against the bond, arguing that the property acquisition was not an essential city necessity, that residents' resources are limited, and that only 1.35% of the population (1,229 responses) expressed feedback; she stated she would have supported taxes for essential services like public safety. Paul Godot spoke in support, stating that government should provide community benefits when the market does not and that the core question is what kind of community residents want. - During the Bond Public Meeting (Item 6): Paul Gadot argued that voting for the bond aligns with the Mayor's vision and that government provides services believed to benefit the community. Steve Van Maren appreciated the argument against the bond but expressed concern about its formatting and font, urging that voters decide. Discussion Items 1. Interlocal Agreement for Special Bond Election – Wendy Downs presented Resolution 26-88C to authorize the County to administer the 2026 Special Bond Election at a good faith cost of $14,448. This informational item will return for a vote. 2. Fire Department Deployment and Wildland Mitigation Update – Chief Ryan McConaghie reported on a three-year, $486,500 grant for mitigation projects including fuel breaks, defensible space, and evacuation signage. He summarized deployments to Oregon and Washington and noted that deployment reimbursements funded $150,000 of a $250,000 brush truck. The department is fully staffed due to prior council support and management study recommendations. Council expressed appreciation. 3. Metropolitan Water District Board Vacancy – Justin Sorenson formally notified the council; applications are due by October 30th, with interviews scheduled for November. 4. Proposal to Amend Management Studies Schedule – Council Member Houseman proposed moving the Police Department management study from the next year to December/January. Chief Jeff Nigbur supported an earlier study, citing the opportunity of new leadership to evaluate staffing, structure, fleet, policy, and facility needs. Council members discussed timing: some preferred to wait for the Think Architecture facilities assessment (due November) and allow the Chief more time, while others supported planning and identifying funding. Consensus emerged to set aside funding (possibly from carryover) and draft an RFP, with the study timeline contingent on the facilities assessment. Staff will bring funding recommendations. Bond Election Public Hearing and Public Meeting - Purpose (Items 5 and 6): The city held a public hearing on issuing up to $30 million in General Obligation Bonds for the potential purchase of the Crescent View Middle School property, and a public meeting to hear arguments for and against the ballot proposition. Administrative Services Director Brian Kelley stated that the estimated impact on the average home would be $5 per month (or $9.09 for commercial property) over up to 21 years, subject to market rates. - Arguments Read into Record (read by Executive Director Dustin Fratto): The Argument FOR the bond emphasized preserving 17 green acres, community control, and the success of past bond-funded amenities, and noted that two private developers offered the same $17 million purchase price. The Argument AGAINST cited appraisals of $8.5–$10 million versus the $17 million asking price, ongoing operating costs of at least $465,000 per year with no identified funding, duplication of existing facilities, and insufficient public outreach. Rebuttals were also read. - Following the readings, additional public comment was taken (see above). Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on informational items; the interlocal agreement will come back for council action. - The council generally supported planning and funding for a Police Department management study, with the launch date to be determined after the facilities assessment is delivered. - The public hearing and public meeting for the $30 million general obligation bond were completed; the bond proposition will appear on the ballot for voter decision. - Mayor Zoltanski asked the council to reconsider the rejection of the Canyon Gate development (86 townhomes) and negotiate with the developer. - The meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM. Council Member Business & Reports - Council Member Sharkey reported on the Heritage Festival, the Legislative Policy Committee (property tax caps, license plate readers, AI in plan reviews), and requested follow-up on allegations made by Mr. Butters. - Council Member Christensen shared positive resident feedback about city staff responsiveness. - Council Member Stroud updated the CDBG committee, praised the Heritage Festival and Police Banquet, and congratulated Detective Pomeroy as Officer of the Year. - Council Member D'Sousa also noted resident appreciation and thanked staff for the autism community event. - Chief Administrative Officer Jensen announced Passport Palooza on Friday and a Dolly Parton movie event. - Parks & Recreation Director Ben Hill updated Recreation Center construction progress, including exterior metal panels, sidewalk, outdoor pool renovations, tile work, and power scheduled for October 5th. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn.

The Green City Council met on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers at the City of Green Central Administration Building, 1755 Town Park Blvd. All seven council members were present; Mayor Yeargin was absent. Council President Speight called the meeting to order, led the Pledge of Allegiance, and the meeting adjourned at 7:29 PM. The council approved consent items, conducted a public hearing on a street lighting district, received correspondence, and acted on multiple resolutions and ordinances. Consent Calendar - TMP-5494 – Approval of the September 8, 2026 Council Meeting Minutes: motion by Neugebauer, second by Noble; passed 7-0. - TMP-5503 – Approval of the August 2026 Electronic Financial Report, subject to audit: motion by Humphrey, second by Neugebauer; passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No residents signed up to speak during the Public Report portion. - No public comment was offered during the public hearing on the Stoney Creek Estates Phase V street lighting district. Public Hearing: 2026-R49 Stoney Creek Estates Phase V Street Lighting District - Councilman Brandenburg opened the public hearing at 7:03 PM and read the legislation. Planning Director Wayne Wiethe explained that a $46 per year assessment would be levied on each of the 27 residential lots, and the developer (Frontier Land Group) would pay Ohio Edison for the installation of nine street lights. The developer discloses the lighting district at the time of sale. Councilman Meager asked whether other phases had street lighting; Wiethe indicated lighting should be throughout the development. No public comments or questions were raised. The hearing closed at 7:06 PM. The item remained on second reading, and time was requested and granted. Reading of Correspondence The Clerk read the following correspondence into the record: - Email from Anne Koceny expressing concern about the lack of an emergency alert during the manhunt incident. - September 16, 2026 Planning & Zoning Commission agenda. - August 12, 2026 Civil Service Commission minutes. - Email from Brent Trask expressing concerns about "The Core." - Summit County Sheriff's Department August 2026 activity statistics. - Email from Nick Nicholson expressing traffic and speeding concerns on Golden Wood Way. New Legislation – First Reading - 2026-26 – An ordinance to amend Section 32.03 (Service Awards) of Chapter 32 (Employees Generally) of the Codified Ordinances. Introduced and referred to the Rules and Personnel Committee. Finance Committee Report (Humphrey, Chair) - 2026-R46AA – Resolution modifying appropriations within certain funds (third reading, amended twice). Finance Director Shelley Goodrich provided an amended Exhibit A with a total request of $3,767,538.01. Councilman Humphrey noted the amendment was needed because the city would save money through bond refunding and the transaction must be recorded. The council voted 7-0 to amend the resolution, then 7-0 to adopt it as amended. - 2026-R51 – Resolution accepting the Tax Incentive Review Council (TIRC) recommendations regarding the Community Reinvestment Area. The committee recommended continuing agreements for CECO Machinery and Castle Aviation. Council voted 7-0 to bypass the three-reading rule and 7-0 to adopt the resolution. Public Safety Committee Report (DeVitis, Chair) - 2026-R48 – Resolution authorizing the Mayor to accept a $9,750 grant from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) to fund a hazardous materials training class for all fire department personnel. Councilman DeVitis noted the grant covers 100% of the funds requested, that this year's training focuses on lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles, and that funds must be used by the end of 2026. Council voted 7-0 to bypass the three-reading rule and 7-0 to adopt the resolution. Planning, Community & Economic Development Committee Report (Noble, Chair) - 2026-22A – Ordinance amending Chapter 157 to establish regulations for smoke shops and vape/smoke establishments. On second reading; a public hearing is scheduled for October 13, 2026 at 7:00 PM. Time granted. (Note: The agenda lists this as 2026-22A, while the minutes refer to 2026-22AAA with amendments dated October 13 and 27, 2026, which post-date this meeting.) - 2026-23 – Ordinance amending parking, loading and stacking regulations (driveway widths at the public right-of-way line). On second reading; public hearing scheduled for October 13, 2026. Time granted. - 2026-24 – Ordinance changing zoning of approximately 27.8 acres on the west side of Massillon Road at Stein Road from I-1 (General Industrial) to R-2 (Multi-Family Residential), requested by Redwood Development for apartment-style development near the I-77 northbound ramp. On second reading; public hearing scheduled for October 13, 2026. Time granted. - The committee also discussed draft data center legislation, which is posted on the city's website for public input. Rules and Personnel Committee Report (Speight, Chair) - Veterans Advisory Commission Appointment – Following an executive session, Councilman Speight moved to appoint Daniel Fortney, a U.S. Air Force veteran, to a 3-year term on the Veterans Advisory Commission. The motion was seconded by Meager and passed 7-0. The commission had requested expansion by two members; the mayor's appointment is pending to complete the expansion before the October meeting. Transportation, Connectivity & Storm Water Committee Report (Meager, Chair) - 2026-R43 – Resolution consenting to and cooperating with the Ohio Director of Transportation for resurfacing of SR-619 (East Turkeyfoot Lake Road) and a portion of SR-241 (Massillon Road). The city will pay 20% of the total resurfacing cost (estimated between $750,000 and $800,000) and 100% of full/partial depth repairs and project features requested by the city that the state or FHWA deems unnecessary (estimated around $100,000, including intersection detection, curb ramps, sensors, catch basins, and manholes). Adopted 7-0. - 2026-R47 – Resolution authorizing the city to apply to the Partners in Watershed Management Grant Program in the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District for remediation of the hazardous dam at Crouse Pond/spillway. Total project cost is estimated at approximately $1.3 million; the grant request is about $430,000, with an anticipated ODNR grant of about $80,000, leaving an expected city share of about $800,000. Councilman Meager noted the administration has listened to residents and the project has evolved to blend fixing the dam with maintaining a water feature. Time granted on second reading. Intergovernmental & Utilities Committee Report (Brandenburg, Chair) - 2026-R49 – Street lighting district for Stoney Creek Estates Phase V (second reading). Because the required public hearing was held earlier in the evening, the item could not be voted on tonight; time was requested and granted. Mayor's Report / Unfinished / New Business - No Mayor's Report was given because Mayor Yeargin was absent. - No unfinished or new business. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes and financial report (both 7-0). - Adopted 2026-R46AA as amended (7-0) with an amended appropriation total of $3,767,538.01. - Adopted 2026-R51 (7-0), continuing CRA agreements for CECO Machinery and Castle Aviation. - Adopted 2026-R48 (7-0), accepting the $9,750 PUCO hazmat training grant. - Adopted 2026-R43 (7-0), authorizing cooperation with ODOT for the SR-619/SR-241 resurfacing project. - Appointed Daniel Fortney to the Veterans Advisory Commission for a 3-year term (7-0). - Continued 2026-22A, 2026-23, 2026-24, 2026-R47, and 2026-R49 to a future meeting; public hearings for the three zoning/planning items are set for October 13, 2026. - Meeting adjourned at 7:29 PM.

The Clarksville Redevelopment Commission held its regular meeting on September 22, 2026, at 12:15 PM (local time). The meeting included a public hearing on expanding the South Clarksville allocation area, project updates for several infrastructure and development projects, approval of a resolution and change order, and staff reports on financial and administrative matters. The meeting adjourned at 7:39 PM. Public Hearing - Expansion of South Clarksville Allocation Area No. 1 - The commission opened a public hearing to consider expanding the South Clarksville allocation area to include portions of Main Street and South Clark Boulevard, connecting to the future Main Park project and the Colgate property. The proposal had previously been approved by the Plan Commission and Town Council. No members of the public came forward to speak for or against the expansion. The public hearing was declared closed. Approval of Meeting Minutes - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved unanimously (4-0). Project Updates - Main Street Floodwall Project: Still awaiting installation of the flood flap gate structure on Riverside Drive. Update expected from Tammy. - Shields Access Road Project: Nearly complete; grass seed installation scheduled for the next day, with a final inspection the following week. A time extension change order was noted due to drought conditions. - South Clark Boulevard Project: Working on easements, construction plans reviewed by the whaling group, utility coordination with Lightos, and pricing from Mac. Equipment relocation to accommodate the Main & Clark developer. Expecting revised plans and easements to begin work. - Lot 2 Project: Working with Denton Floyd on a reimbursement of $412,945 for town work. Denton Floyd agreed to irrigate the parking lot. Fire hydrant relocation may receive a variance. Landscape plan adjusted for tree proximity to detention basin. Forge contractor to start transformer room approach around mid-October for $75,561. Negotiating agreements for dirt stockpiling and contaminated soil storage. Conduit coordinates provided for electric to parking lot. - Flapgate Structure & Utility Poles: Mac expected on-site mid-October to install the flapgate structure and complete sidewalks. Two utility poles at the old Carmen building to be removed by Mac. Road closure expected 30-45 days. - Main & Clark (The George) Project: George presented a drone photo and field report showing progress: slabs poured (red hatched area), first-level framing with decking and perimeter walls starting, foundation work continuing. Staging areas, storm line backfilling, and footing excavation ongoing. Coordination with local utilities along Main Street. Resolution 2026 R-13 - Amendment to Declaratory Resolutions for Clarksville Commercial Economic Development Area (South Clarksville Expansion) - Staff recommended approval of the resolution to expand the allocation area, following previous approvals by the Plan Commission (September 2, 2026) and Town Council (September 15, 2026). A financial impact statement was prepared by Baker Tilly and distributed to underlying taxing units. The resolution was approved with 3 votes in favor and 1 abstention (transcript states "three eyes, one extension" – interpreted as one abstention). Change Order for Shields Access Road and Block 5 Detention Basin - Approved a change order granting a 34-day extension (new completion date September 30, 2026) to allow grass seeding during optimal growing conditions due to drought. Approved unanimously. Staff and Legal Reports - Chris: Noted the financial impact statement for the public hearing must be included in the minutes. Announced plans to carve out the Main & Clark project and the Colgate property into separate TIF districts to maximize future income and address negative assessed values. Process will start at the next meeting. - CFO (likely Mr. Cardi): Reported temporarily suspending certain claims (explanation sent to commissioners). Also disclosed that over the past seven years, approximately $136,000 in federal grant reimbursements were not properly filed for three projects (Montgomery Avenue, Blackiston Mill Road phase 2, Riverside Drive). Requested approval to zero out these negative balances before December 31, 2026, to comply with the State Board of Accounts. - Tammy: Introduced Harrison Hardy, the new Capital Project Manager, who will serve as the ERC for KIPTA to ensure proper tracking of reimbursements and project management. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Meeting minutes (unanimous), Resolution 2026 R-13 (3-1), Change Order (unanimous), Rule of Claims (unanimous). - Directives: Staff to begin process for separating Main & Clark and Colgate into individual TIFs; CFO to bring formal request to zero out $136,000+ in negative project balances. - Next Steps: Final inspection of Shields Access Road next week; Mac on-site mid-October for flapgate structure; continuation of South Clark Boulevard easements and utility work; Harrison Hardy to begin KIPTA training.

The St. Albans City Council met on September 22, 2026, at 12:05 PM. The meeting included praise for city employees, approval of minutes, appointment of a new council member for Ward 5, passage of three zoning ordinances, finance committee approvals, updates on annexation, parks events, and community activities, and a brief public comment period. Praise and Recognition - Council members commended city hall employees for recovering unclaimed property checks totaling $4,875 and a separate $59 check through the treasurer's office. - Remembrance was given for former council member Ron Hall, who recently passed away. - The Fairs and Festivals Committee was praised for a successful Train Days event featuring bluegrass music. - Debbie Keener and the parks department were recognized for the one-year anniversary of the Story Walk, which had over 250 attendees and promotes reading and exercise. Public Comments & Testimony - Jimmy Watson (St. Albans resident) asked if the city could help promote trunk-or-treat events held by other churches. Council members offered to share event information on city social media and website. Discussion Items - Annexation Update (Councilman Rucker): Petitions for and against annexation will be available for signing at Lakewood Elementary on October 8 (6–8 PM) and October 11 (3–5 PM). Council members will assist with door-to-door signature collection afterward. - Parks and Events (Councilman Knight): Upcoming events include Trail Dates (Oct 9,10,16,17, 7–10 PM at City Park), a fishing tournament at Roadside Park (Oct 10, 7 AM–3 PM), Fall Festival (Oct 17, 1–3 PM at City Park), Eerie Movie (Oct 24 at dark), Trunk or Treat (Oct 24, 3–5 PM at Maranatha), and a pub crawl (Oct 24 evening). The Parks Committee requested volunteer help from council. - St. Albans on Purpose Project: A developmental disability community resource fair will be held September 25 (5:30–8 PM) with 30 organizations. Bingo will be held September 26 at noon. - Other Events: No Hush concert at Alban Theatre (Sept 27, 2–3:30 PM); Wayne's World play (Sept 25); comedian Cleodus Judge (Sept 26); child safety seat class at police station (Sept 25, 9 AM–noon). - School Support (Councilman Clevenger): Proposed a "blackout" theme for the next home football game to increase attendance and support for athletes, cheerleaders, and band members. - Deadhead Film Festival: Scheduled for October 3 at the Omain Plaza, with ticketed film portion and free podium area. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Minutes from the September 8, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously. - Appointment to Ward 5: Roger Chambers was appointed to fill the vacancy on city council for Ward 5. He was sworn in after David withdrew his name from consideration. The motion carried with no opposition. - Ordinances Passed (Second Reading): - Ordinance amending Article 1333.01 (field of vision) – passed unanimously. - Ordinance amending Article 1333.03 (accessory structures, fences, pools, and uses in residential districts) – passed unanimously. Key changes: reduces allowable RVs from four to three per property; allows one RV in front yard on a hard surface with 4-foot front setback and 3-foot side setback; rear yards require no hard surface, up to two vehicles. - Ordinance amending Article 1333.08 (recreational vehicles in residential districts) – passed unanimously. - Finance Committee Approvals: - Approved the Finance Committee report. - Approved engagement of United ACA Solutions, LLC to resolve Affordable Care Act compliance issues at a cost of $2,880 per month. - Approved spending $27,946.67 from the Open Settlement Fund to reduce monthly payments on two 2025 Dodge Durangos from $2,077.71 to $1,038.69 per month. - Reappointment: Jeremy Faller was reappointed as the St. Albans Area Chamber of Commerce representative on the Fire Civil Service Commission, term expiring June 7, 2030 (no action required). - Next Meetings: Finance Committee – Sept 28 at 4:30 PM; Parks Committee – Oct 1 at 6 PM; City Council – Oct 5 at 6:30 PM (tentatively back at council chambers after water heater replacement).

The Joplin City Council held a special meeting on September 22, 2026, to discuss a proposed change in air service from Chicago to Houston, honor retiring IT Director Mark Morris, approve an expedited ordinance for sewer easement condemnation, and conduct a budget work session for fiscal year 2027. The meeting began at 6:00 PM in the fifth floor council chamber. Consent Calendar - The council finalized and approved the consent agenda unanimously (8-0). Presentations - Discussion of Change of Air Service (Jeremy, Airport Manager): Jeremy presented two options: (1) Accept a new Chicago schedule with a 5:00 AM departure from Joplin and a 7:40 AM return from Chicago starting December 1, 2026, which reduces connecting flight opportunities; (2) Request a switch to Houston with a 7:40 AM departure from Joplin and a noon return from Houston, improving connectivity. The current Essential Air Service (EAS) contract expires at year-end and will be rebid. SkyWest, the carrier, prefers Houston to maintain ridership. Council members expressed consensus for Houston, with Mr. Moran and Mr. Bard voicing support. The city manager will draft a letter requesting the change. Resolutions - Resolution 2026-018 – Recognition of Mark Morris: Mark Morris retired after 25 years as Director of Information Technology. The resolution recognized his service, especially during the city’s cyber attack. Mr. Morris spoke briefly, thanking God, his family, and his team. The resolution was approved 8-0. Ordinances - Council Bill 2026-146 (Expedited) – Easement Condemnation for 10 Cup Parallel Force Main Sewer Project: The ordinance authorizes condemnation proceedings for permanent and temporary easements from Richard and Danita Bruder after unsuccessful good-faith negotiations. The project will install a second 30-inch force main to increase pumping capacity. The bill was approved on an expedited basis, 7-1 (Mr. Cortez opposed), with one absent (Mr. Ditar excused). Budget Work Session - City Manager Nick Edwards opened with a call to prioritize existing promises and projects, highlighting that many voter-approved projects are 10-15 years old. He urged council to be intentional about new requests. - Finance Director Leslie presented an overview of the FY2027 budget as a balanced operating budget with focus on sustaining current services. Key points: general fund budget of $278 FTEs, public safety is the largest expenditure; unrestricted fund balance remains healthy; a regional dispatch study is proposed ($100,000) to explore interoperability and efficiency. - Departmental Presentations: Each department outlined 2026 accomplishments and 2027 key initiatives. Notable items: - Police Department: Authorized 115 sworn officers, currently 21 short but with six in pipeline; aims for zero vacancies by year-end. Key initiatives: expand CRU program, enhance peer support, increase traffic enforcement with revived motorcycle unit. - Fire Department: Record 9,980 calls in 2025; five vacancies with five new hires starting Oct 5. Initiatives: community paramedicine program, new staffing schedule to reduce overtime (30,000 hours in 2025), station upgrades. - Parks and Recreation: At Cunningham Pool, the aging big blue water slide will be removed due to safety and cost concerns. Council requested exploring replacement options, including private partnerships. Other initiatives: paint Schifferdecker pool, overlay softball complex parking lot. - Information Technology: Lane Starchman named Assistant IT Director; focus on cybersecurity (RavenAI contract), GIS expansion, and transitioning after Mark Morris’ retirement. - City Manager’s Office: Initiate a new citizen-based five-year strategic planning process, continue annexation efforts, and implement Proposition Action plans. - Council Discussion: Mr. Moran praised the budget document and emphasized focusing on voter-approved projects. Mr. Jackson expressed concern about maintaining existing amenities like the pool slide. Key Outcomes - Consensus to request change of air service from Chicago to Houston; city manager will draft letter. - Resolution 2026-018 approved (8-0). - Council Bill 2026-146 approved on expedited basis (7-1, 1 absent). - Council directed city manager to explore options for replacing the Cunningham Pool slide. - Budget work session to continue the following evening (Sept. 23) with issues and options discussion.

The Leesburg Town Council held a regular meeting on September 22, 2026, covering proclamations, a presentation from the Performing Arts Advisory Commission, regional commission updates, approval of a consent agenda, and a public hearing on batch amendments to the Town Code. All agenda items were approved with votes ranging from 5-0-1 to 6-0. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the regular session minutes of September 8, 2026 (vote 5-0-1). - Consent Agenda: Approved four items en bloc: Airport Air Traffic Control Tower Project - Construction Grant Agreement; Budget Amendment for Fiscal Year 2027; Town Attorney’s Employment Contract - Revised; and South Street Water Main Replacement Project (vote 6-0). Proclamations - Leesburg Day 268th Anniversary: Proclaimed October 12, 2026 as Leesburg Day, recognizing the town's founding in 1758. Received by Laura Christiansen. - Constitution Week: Proclaimed September 17–23, 2026 as Constitution Week. Received by representatives of the Ketoctin Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. - Retirement of Kaj H. Dentler: Honored for 30 years of dedicated service to the Town of Leesburg, including 12 years as Town Manager. Mr. Dentler expressed gratitude. Each proclamation was approved with a majority vote (one abstention noted). Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers signed up for the Petitioners section or the public hearing on batch amendments. No testimony was given. Discussion Items - Performing Arts Advisory Commission FY2026 Annual Report: Chair Anthony Cimino-Johnson and commissioners presented accomplishments: Mistletoe Market (December 2025), Senior Capstone Recital (March 2026), and Music George Washington Heard (June 2026). Budget of $13,100 was approved by council. Future plans include a Memory and Melody program for seniors, partnership with Loudoun County’s comprehensive arts plan, exploring a grant-making model, and a possible future performing arts venue. Councilmember Krukowski praised the commission and suggested earlier advertising for the capstone recital. - Regional Commission Reports: Councilmember Simono Johnson reported on a VML legislative committee meeting addressing short-term rental housing. Councilmember Cummings reported on an MBTA meeting regarding the Route 15/Leesburg Bypass/Edwards Ferry Road interchange project; the project was put on hold due to lack of funding. - Public Hearing – Batch Amendments to Town Code: Staff presented a comprehensive set of code amendments covering the Thomas Balch Library Endowment Foundation, financial board governance, airport commercial operator fees, department title updates, short-term rental tax reporting, running bamboo regulations, photo speed monitoring updates, parking provisions, and utility fee adjustments. Councilmember Cummings expressed concern about fines for running bamboo given the town's own park has bamboo; the Town Manager assured the bamboo would be removed. The ordinance was approved with a 6-0 vote. Key Outcomes - Approved meeting minutes and consent agenda. - Adopted three proclamations. - Received and noted the Performing Arts Advisory Commission annual report. - Approved the batch amendments to the Town Code (ordinance) by a vote of 6-0. - The public hearing was closed with no public input. - Meeting adjourned.