The Public Meeting Index

The Select Board and the Library Trustees of Ramsdell Library held a joint meeting to discuss a September 8, 2026 letter from the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) regarding the proposed renovation and expansion of the Ramsdell Library. The central topics included the MHC's seven recommendations, the feasibility of meeting deadlines for a $9.4 million MBLC grant, financial constraints, and the path forward for the project. Public Comments & Testimony - John Nelson, co-chair of the Ramsdell Building Committee, expressed full support for the architectural firm Perry Dean Rogers & Partners (PDR), noting their unanimous selection and experience with historic preservation. He emphasized that the firm's philosophy was to retain and respect the original 1906 building. - Deepa Venket, from CHA (Owners Project Manager), detailed the project timeline and funding process. She explained that cost estimates were originally scheduled for November 2026, but the MHC letter has caused delays. She noted that the MBLC requires certified votes by June 2027, and obtaining an extension beyond that date could result in losing the grant entirely. - Jimmy Bailey, a resident, criticized the lack of cost estimates and called the process a "pipe dream" for a select few. He urged the Select Board to prioritize the financial burdens on taxpayers, including the elderly and those struggling. - James Garzone, a resident, supported the Town Manager's fiscal caution, listing other essential town projects (wastewater, school, waterworks, PCBs, Cook's Garage) that total millions. He stated the town is "drowning in taxes and debt." - Frederica Siegel, co-chair of the Ramsdell Building Committee, reported that during the meeting, a donor had offered $10,000 to fund a historic preservation consultant if the town manager agrees to facilitate mediation. She urged the board not to end the process prematurely. - Several other residents spoke in favor of seeking an extension and working collaboratively, while others stressed the need for concrete cost figures before committing to the project. Discussion Items - MHC Letter and Consultant: The letter recommended hiring an independent consultant to review alternatives to demolishing the 1930 addition. Library trustees and PDR argued the letter contained inaccuracies and that many recommendations (e.g., archival storage, construction protection) are standard and can be addressed through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The group debated whether the consultant's findings would require a full redesign or simply a narrative assessment. - Financial Constraints: Town Manager Liz Hartwell stated that the town has no free cash available and only $500,000 in levy capacity. She emphasized that even a $5 million project would add a significant burden, and the town cannot afford a project without a clear cost estimate and revenue plan. She stated, "I cannot support moving forward with a five-plus million dollar project period." - Fundraising: Trustees reported that fundraising has been hindered by negative press and lack of clarity. They noted that potential donors are waiting for more project certainty. Some residents questioned the lack of documented pledges, while trustees stressed confidentiality. - Grant Deadlines and Extension: The first deadline is December 31, 2026, to complete the MHC process. A second deadline in June 2027 requires certified town meeting votes. CHA warned that an extension beyond June 2027 would likely cause loss of the grant and require a new application. The Select Board discussed requesting an extension from MBLC for both deadlines, acknowledging that even a successful December extension does not resolve the town's broader financial challenges. Key Outcomes - Motion to Request MBLC Extension: The Select Board voted unanimously (5-0) to request an extension from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners for both the December 31, 2026 deadline and the spring 2027 deadline (roll call vote: Bill, Ben, Garfield, Eric, Phil all voted "aye"). The motion directed the appropriate parties to petition MBLC for the extension based on the MHC letter and financial uncertainties. - Motion to Approve Festival Latino Event: The board unanimously approved a special entertainment license and site plan for Festival Latino to use the Town Hall parking lot and gazebo on September 26, 2026. - Motion to Remove 45-Room Cap on Hotels: The board voted unanimously (5-0) to initiate a zoning amendment to remove the 45-room cap on new hotels, while keeping the existing special permit process. This requires public hearings and planning board input. - Motion to Approve Special Town Meeting Warrant: The board unanimously approved the warrant for the upcoming special town meeting, which includes articles for wastewater treatment (enterprise fund), Cook's Garage abatement, a clerical error correction, a citizen petition, and prior-year invoice payments.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners convened on September 22, 2026, at 9:00 AM. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation by Pastor Abdullah from South Potomac Church. Roll call was taken with all five commissioners present. The board approved the legislative day and engaged in a series of discussions and votes on historic preservation, pretrial services, stormwater management, zoning enforcement, electrical grid challenges, and community development projects. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the September 15, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously. Commissioner Comments - Spirit Day: Commissioner Collins thanked colleagues for participating in Spirit Day to show unity and support for Charles County Public Schools, noting that all current commissioners are graduates of the county's high schools. - Blue Crabs Recognition: A commissioner congratulated the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs for reaching the Atlantic League World Series after a game-clinching win on September 20. Approval Items - Historic Preservation Commission Comment Letter on Section 106: Franklin A. Robinson Jr., Chair of the Charles County Historic Preservation Commission, requested support for a letter opposing proposed federal changes to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act that would make community consultation optional. All commissioners expressed full support, and the motion to approve the letter with all commissioner signatures (including a request to include U.S. congressmen) passed unanimously. - Funding for Historic Preservation Commission Awards: Cal Carpenter, Preservation Planner, requested $1,500 from the community support fund for the 2026 Historic Preservation Commission Award Ceremony (public event permit and Preservation Matters magazine design). The motion passed unanimously. - Draft Legislation Establishing Pretrial Services: Commissioner Collins moved to direct staff to draft a bill establishing pretrial services within Charles County government, including a fiscal note and staffing recommendations. Commissioner Bowling opposed, arguing the discussion should occur first with stakeholders (CJCC, courts, sheriff) and cautioning about costs for the next board. Commissioner Collins agreed to invite stakeholders for the October 20 briefing. The motion passed 4-1, with Commissioner Bowling voting no. Briefings and Public Hearing Requests - FY2027 MS4 Financial Assurance Plan: Karen Wigan and Connor Kech from Planning and Growth Management briefed on the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program. The county has a 1,083-acre impervious surface restoration requirement, with 57% (621 acres) achieved to date. The FY27 stormwater remediation fee is $168 per improved property. The plan projects sufficient funding through FY28. Commissioners asked about oyster restoration credits, shoreline restoration tax credits, and grant opportunities. The board approved scheduling a public hearing for October 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM. - Zoning Text Amendment 25-188 (Encroachments on County-Owned Land): Sarah Guy and Mark Potter presented a zoning text amendment to allow enforcement against private encroachments on county land through fines and court action, after revisions following Planning Commission recommendations (capping fines, prioritizing health/safety, encouraging resolution). Only one member of the public spoke (requesting continued use of right-of-ways on Cobb Island). The board voted to introduce the bill and schedule a public hearing for October 20, 2026. Informational Presentations - Indoor Plumbing Projects Update: Barbara Farmer and Joe Hodges reported on the Maryland Affordable Housing Trust grant of $300,000. To date, $221,000 has been spent to install artesian wells for six families (year one) and four approved (year two, with three nearly complete). Challenges include title issues, structural home conditions, and cost overruns. Staff is applying for additional funding to cover septic systems and drain fields. A client testimony highlighted a cancer patient who regained running water after two years. - Electrical Grid Overview: - PJM Interconnection (Jason Stanick): Stanick explained PJM's role as grid operator for 67 million residents across 13 states and D.C., noting a grid emergency on September 18 and that Maryland is a net energy importer on all but one day per year. He projected demand rising to 250 gigawatts by 2046, driven largely by data centers. He urged preserving existing resources, expediting permitting, and addressing supply-demand balance to prevent cost increases. Commissioner Bowling emphasized that any reactivation of the Morgantown plant must provide direct benefits to Charles County residents, such as reduced bills or tax revenue, and criticized state and federal policy decisions. Commissioner Stewart asked for SMECO's involvement and land-use considerations. - Office of People’s Counsel (Bill Fields): Fields presented on utility bill components, noting that data centers are driving PJM's demand growth and that transmission costs already approved (≈$22 billion in three years) will hit customer bills. OPC is advocating for data centers to bear their own costs and filed a federal complaint to protect Maryland customers from out-of-state data center cost shifts. He clarified that SMECO distribution rates are set by the Public Service Commission and are separate from generation/transmission costs. - Robelin Contracting Presentation: Scott Rux, Tracy Contrino, and Pam Frank introduced Robelin, a general contractor and disabled veteran business enterprise with annual revenue of $400 million and 400 employees. They have a footprint at Naval Support Facility Indian Head, working on base projects. They expressed interest in supporting county infrastructure and utility upgrades. Commissioners welcomed them as a local employer. Key Outcomes - Approved the historic preservation comment letter against Section 106 changes (unanimous). - Approved $1,500 for the Historic Preservation Commission Awards (unanimous). - Directed staff to draft pretrial services legislation (4-1). - Scheduled public hearings for October 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM on the MS4 Financial Assurance Plan and Zoning Text Amendment 25-188. - Received updates on indoor plumbing projects and electrical grid challenges; no formal votes taken. - The board moved into closed session at 12:00 PM to discuss a potential contract and lease, with a return to open session scheduled for 2:00 PM.

The Charles County Board of Commissioners held a regular session on September 22, 2026. Commissioners present were Bowling, Coates, Patterson, and Collins; Commissioner Stewart was absent during roll call but later joined to announce the evening town hall. The meeting covered traffic safety at the intersection of St. Charles Parkway and St. David Drive, direction on the Affordable Housing Pilot Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for FY2027, and a work session on Proposed Bill 2026-08 establishing a rental licensing program. Traffic Safety Update and School Zone Designation Staff from the Department of Planning and Growth Management and the Traffic Safety Committee presented an update on the intersection near Thornton Elementary School. The traffic signal is expected to be installed and operational in early October 2026. Interim measures included digital signage, a speed trailer, and communication efforts recommending right turns out of a neighborhood. Staff proposed designating a school zone on St. Charles Parkway with a speed reduction from 50 mph to 40 mph during school hours. Commissioner Coates expressed concern that the speed reduction should be constant rather than time-limited, citing after-school activities, and recommended adding a 'school turn' sign. The board voted unanimously to approve the school zone designation as presented. Affordable Housing Pilot NOFA Direction Staff requested direction on whether to pursue another pilot round of funding, what housing types to target, and the length of the pilot term. Staff recommended not narrowing the scope but using a scoring tool to prioritize projects. Commissioner Coates expressed support for another round, targeting multifamily housing, and a 20-year term. Discussion focused on the 'missing middle' income gap, with Commissioner Coates emphasizing the need to ensure teachers, police, and firefighters can qualify under the program’s Area Median Income (AMI) thresholds. Staff noted that coordinating with the state Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LITEC) program is essential and that projects typically include a range of affordability. The board reached consensus to move forward with another NOFA round, keep eligibility broad, and set a 20-year term. Next steps include finalizing the NOFA and issuing a press release. Proposed Bill 2026-08 – Rental Licensing Work Session Staff presented revisions to the proposed legislation based on prior board feedback. Key changes include: exempting incorporated municipalities (La Plata and Indian Head), including two inspections per unit in the license fee, honoring prior code modifications, adopting state air conditioning language, removing ambient radon testing, and striking the requirement to publish license numbers in rental listings. Commissioner Coates raised concerns about unintended consequences, such as conflicts with community services outreach and potential displacement of tenants in substandard units. Commissioner Bowling expressed major concerns about the public disclosure of rental registry data under the Maryland Public Information Act, calling it a potential 'fishing expedition.' The board voted 4-1 (Commissioner Bowling opposed) to introduce the bill as presented. A subsequent motion to schedule a public hearing for October 20, 2026, at 6 p.m. in hybrid format passed 4-1, with Commissioner Bowling again opposed. Commissioners’ New Business Commissioner Stewart announced that the quarterly town hall meeting would be held that evening (September 22, 2026) at 6 p.m. at Waldorf West Library, in-person only. Key Outcomes - Traffic Safety: Unanimous approval of school zone designation on St. Charles Parkway with speed reduction to 40 mph during school hours. The traffic signal is expected to be operational in early October 2026. - Affordable Housing Pilot: Direction given to proceed with another NOFA round for FY2027 (funding in FY2028), without narrowing eligibility, and a 20-year pilot term. Staff will finalize and issue the NOFA. - Rental Licensing Bill: Introduced (4-1) and public hearing scheduled for October 20, 2026 (4-1). Commissioner Bowling voted against both motions.

The meeting was called to order at 6:37 p.m. and opened with a motion, second, and unanimous approval. The board reviewed the August minutes, which were approved by acclamation. The main focus of the meeting was a debrief on the Long Table Dinner event, followed by discussion of possible improvements for next year's event. Consent Calendar - The August meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - The meeting was opened via a motion and second; no roll call was needed since a quorum was present. Public Comments & Testimony - [No public comments or testimony were provided during this segment of the meeting.] Discussion Items - Long Table Dinner Recap: Members reported that more than 200 people attended the event, with live music and multiple food vendors. The vendors included Oslo (mentioned as

The Charles County Board of Commissioners held a joint District 3 town hall on September 22, 2026, at the Waldorf West Library. The meeting focused on resident concerns including mold from rain, stormwater flooding in Windsor Manor, the Aqualand displacement crisis, and a wide-ranging discussion on data centers and energy policy. Commissioners heard from six public speakers and provided updates on task forces, pending state legislation, and staff follow-up actions. Public Comments & Testimony - Sharice Tony – Raised concerns about mold in her townhome due to heavy rain; her HOA president had submitted complaints without response. Commissioner Stewart directed her to staff member Julie Losh for follow-up. - William Howe (Windsor Manor resident) – Reported that partial community turnover improved school bus access but backyards still flood because drainage work was incomplete. He requested the board push developer WF Wood to finish improvements before spring rains. Director Jason Groff (Planning & Growth Management) responded that the county is holding the developer’s bond as leverage and will continue pressing for completion. - Jacqueline Moore – Asked for a plan to assist residents being forced out of Aqualand (needs: housing, food, repairs, towing). Also requested answers to prior unanswered questions from Commissioners Bowling and Patterson, and inquired whether a new data center zoning text amendment (ZTA) was being prepared before the November 3 election. Commissioner Bowling described his personal delivery of food to Aqualand and noted county and state resources offered; he said residents must take advantage of services. Staff clarified the ZTA did not pass; the board directed a study and awaits a state report and possible governor’s moratorium. - Trudy Bidow (Charles County Coalition Against Data Centers) – Expressed frustration with the pace of action, stating residential energy bills rose 44% from 2020–2025 and Maryland paid $108 million in data-center transmission costs in 2024. She urged a ban on data centers, not just a moratorium, and called for a public hearing before any task force. - Alana Davis (Charles County Against Data Centers Coalition) – Thanked Commissioner Bowling for committing to introduce county legislation banning data centers, similar to Harford and Calvert counties. She asked all commissioners whether they support a ban, when Bowling would introduce it, and requested that the task force include community advocates and not be co-opted by industry. - David Heidelbach – Raised that a 432-acre site in the Docket 90 area is being marketed as a data center site, and questioned Commissioner Patterson’s visit to the developer NEI Michael in a “personal capacity.” Patterson explained state ethics rules require him to clarify when acting personally. Heidelbach also noted a planning commission meeting where Docket 90 control was discussed. Discussion Items - Data Centers and Energy Policy – The majority of commissioner responses focused on data centers. Commissioners Collins, Bowling, Coates, and Stewart summarized a presentation from PJM (the regional grid operator) earlier that day, which indicated that residential consumers have not driven energy cost increases—data centers have. Commissioner Bowling expressed anger that the Morgantown power plant might be restarted for data centers without direct benefit to Charles County residents. Commissioner Coates stressed continued learning, including bringing in SMECO and other experts. Commissioner Stewart emphasized that energy costs are regional (13 states) and that a ban must be carefully defined to avoid unintended restrictions on small-scale data centers already in the county. - Task Force Composition – All commissioners stated the task force on data centers must include diverse voices, including opponents and community advocates. Commissioner Patterson and Stewart noted that legislation cannot move forward until the state direction is clear (governor’s possible moratorium). - Stormwater and Developer Accountability – Director Groff updated on Windsor Manor: the county holds a bond and will keep pressuring the developer. Also, cleanup of Blue Crab Lane property is scheduled to start in 1–2 weeks. - Aqualand – Commissioner Bowling reiterated that the county’s role is limited on private property but that staff from Community Services, Lifestyles, and Animal Services have offered resources. He encouraged residents to volunteer personal time and money. Key Outcomes - Data Centers: The ZTA was withdrawn; the board directed a study with a consultant. Commissioner Bowling committed to propose a local resolution banning data centers at the next state legislative proposal discussion (within a few weeks). A task force will be formed with community representation, including members from groups like the Charles County Against Data Centers Coalition. - State Direction: Commissioners noted that the Maryland Department of the Environment/Energy Administration report due September 1 has not been released, and the governor has signaled support for a statewide moratorium. Any county action will be aligned with state direction. - Resident Follow-Up: All questions requiring staff research, plus written comments, will be referred to the Citizens’ Response Office for follow-up. Individual resident cases (mold, Windsor Manor flooding, Aqualand) will be tracked by staff. - Docket 90: Commissioner Stewart confirmed the county has control over Docket 90 and has amended it in the past; staff will continue to address concerns.

The Township of Edison Zoning Board of Adjustment held its regular meeting on September 22, 2026, at 7:00 PM in council chambers. The board considered three main applications: a residential addition at 4 Burlington Court (continued), a residential addition at 3 Cottonwood Circle (approved), and a Middlesex Water Company water tank proposal at 200 Tinglin Lane (continued). The meeting also included approval of prior minutes and a resolution, as well as the continuation of a separate Hackensack Meridian JFK case to a future date. Consent Calendar - Minutes of August 25, 2026: Approved by roll call vote (all in favor). - Resolution Z10 2026 (Middlesex Water): Approved by roll call vote (all in favor). Public Comments & Testimony Case Z16 2026 – Middlesex Water Company (200 Tinglin Lane) Multiple residents spoke, raising concerns about: - The need for a 5-million-gallon tank vs. a smaller 2- or 3-million-gallon tank. - Visual impact, especially in winter when leaves are gone; requests for a comprehensive siting study. - Noise impacts from pumps and emergency generator; questions about modeling assumptions (e.g., still winter nights). - Safety and catastrophic failure; potential flooding of surrounding homes. - Impact on property values, psychological stress, and loss of tree canopy. - Presence of endangered species (spotted turtle) in the wetlands. - Request for the board to consider why 25 other sites were rejected before choosing this residential neighborhood. - Construction noise and duration (estimated 12 months). - One resident expressed that no tangible benefit to Edison residents was identified beyond water pressure improvement. Case Z19 2026 – Hackensack Meridian JFK (continued to September 29) No public comment was taken as the case was not heard. Discussion Items Case Z9 2026 – Sam Ratmandel (4 Burlington Court) - Applicant sought bulk and D variances (rear yard setback, building coverage, FAR) to add to existing single-family dwelling. - Applicant testified about family needs (wife’s medical condition requiring ground-floor bedroom, elderly parents from India). - Planner Paul Fletcher testified that variances were due to irregular lot shape and undersized lot (9,500 sq ft vs. typical 12,500). He argued no adverse impact. - Board members questioned lack of neighborhood analysis for building coverage and FAR. Applicant offered informal observations but board found proofs insufficient. - Board requested that the applicant provide professional planning analysis at the next meeting. - Outcome: Case continued to October 20, 2026. Case C24 2026 – J Badiani (3 Cottonwood Circle) - Applicant sought bulk and D variances (side yard, building coverage, FAR, rear deck) to add first- and second-floor addition to existing ranch. - Family of seven (three children, elderly parents) currently in small house; need more space and a ground-floor bedroom for parents. - Contractor (Neil Agarwal) and architect (Andrew Pod Berezniak) testified to scope: two-car garage, master suite, four bedrooms, study, deck. - Planner Christine Nizaro (Cafone) testified: D variance for FAR (0.41 vs 0.37), C variances for side yard (7.16 ft vs 10 ft), building coverage (22.61% vs 20%), and rear deck setback. She argued the site can handle the excess FAR, noting the property is undersized and the master plan supports rehabilitation of older housing stock. She highlighted that total impervious coverage remains under the 40% limit. - Board questions focused on side yard setback, deck encroachment, and a human door on garage. Applicant offered to relocate the door if needed. - Public portion: No one from within 200 feet or outside appeared to speak. - Outcome: Motion to approve by Mr. Chabra, second by Mr. Schneider. Roll call vote: 6-0 in favor. Approved unanimously. Case Z16 2026 – Middlesex Water Company (200 Tinglin Lane) - Applicant seeks site plan approval with D2 (expansion of nonconforming use), D6 (height variance), and C variances (parking, accessory structure height) to construct a 5-million-gallon ground-mounted water storage tank (125 ft diameter, 65 ft tall) and a pump station on a 27-acre site in the RAA zone. - Vice President Brian Carr testified: tank is needed to meet DEP storage requirements (50% of average day demand) and to replace a tank lost during Hurricane Sandy in Carteret. The company evaluated 25 sites over a decade; this site was chosen due to size, proximity to transmission mains, and ability to use ground storage (lower visual impact than elevated tank). The height (65 ft) is driven by wetland constraints limiting the footprint. - Engineer Joseph Weaver presented site plans, setbacks (all greatly exceed minimums), building coverage (1.2% vs 10% allowed), and impervious coverage (2.1% vs 25%). The tank will be painted a beige color to blend with winter trees; summer tree canopy (80–90 ft) will largely screen it. - Acoustical expert Mark Bastasch testified: noise modeling (ISO 9613) with conservative assumptions (all equipment operating, no ground absorption) predicts levels below Edison’s 50 dBA nighttime limit. The design includes a “room within a room” for pumps and no louvers. - Planner Christine Nizaro testified: the use is inherently beneficial (public utility). She cited the 2024 Master Plan’s goals for infrastructure upgrades and resiliency, and argued the Monarch Communities test is satisfied because the variances will not substantially impair the zone plan. - Board professionals (Mr. Curley) confirmed engineering issues are resolved, and recommended conditions: six-month post-construction look-back on lighting, noise, and landscaping. - Public comment was extensive (see Public Comments section). - After public comment closed, the applicant indicated readiness for summation but the board decided to continue the case to allow time for additional information (siting study, wetland credits) and to have six members present. - Outcome: Case continued to October 20, 2026. Case Z19 2026 – Hackensack Meridian JFK (60A Edison Ave & 99 Turner Ave) - Not heard due to time constraints. Applicant agreed to carry to September 29, 2026 at 7:00 PM. Key Outcomes - Case Z9 (4 Burlington Court): Continued to October 20, 2026 for additional planning testimony. - Case C24 (3 Cottonwood Circle): Approved (6-0 roll call). Applicant granted all requested variances and site plan approval. - Case Z16 (200 Tinglin Lane): Continued to October 20, 2026 for summation and vote. Board expects applicant to address public concerns regarding siting alternatives and wetland credits. - Case Z19 (Hackensack Meridian): Continued to September 29, 2026. - The board also took a brief recess and handled scheduling of future cases.

The Deep River Board of Selectmen (BOS) and Board of Finance (BOF) held separate sessions on the evening of September 22, 2026. The BOS session began at 6:08 PM and the BOF session at 7:00 PM. Key actions included appointments to boards, discussion of a major water leak at the elementary school, acceptance of the FY2025 audit with noted deficiencies, and planning for the upcoming budget process. Consent Calendar - The BOS tabled approval of minutes from regular meetings of August 18 and September 8, 2026, due to board members not having reviewed them. - The BOF unanimously approved the minutes from its regular meeting held on July 28, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Jonathan Lambert (62 Oak Ridge Drive, Chair of the Republican Town Committee) addressed the BOS, expressing concern that appointing Mike Weglars to the Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) while he serves on the Board of Finance could create ethical conflicts. He urged the board to seek an opinion from the ethics board or town council before appointing. Discussion Items - Board of Selectmen - Appointments: - Mike Weglars was appointed to the WPCA for a term expiring December 1, 2028. Board members discussed the potential conflict, noting past practice of allowing Board of Finance members to serve on WPCA and expressing trust in Weglars to recuse himself when necessary. The motion passed 2-0 (Selectman Gates absent). - Nick Olson was appointed to the WPCA for a term expiring December 1, 2028. Concerns about Olson's business involving septic systems and sewer lines were raised, but the board supported the appointment, trusting him to recuse himself. The motion passed 2-0. - Stasia Cowell was appointed to the Deep River Housing Authority Board of Commissioners as a tenant representative, filling the vacancy left by April Corsetti. The appointment was approved unanimously. - Transfer Station Update: The BOS reported that a member of the Transfer Station Committee will provide a five-minute update at the next monthly BOS meeting. A meeting with DPW is being set to establish new fee schedules for bulky items, and an ordinance is being revised with the town attorney. - Deep River Day: The event was highly praised. The BOS thanked Kaylee Anderson and Park & Rec, and noted the fireworks, 5K (top winner female from Middletown), and the pet parade. The town of Clinton provided lights for the event. - Town Meeting Notice: The BOS announced a town meeting on Thursday, September 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM to discuss adopting an ordinance allowing zoning to issue citations. - Infrastructure Requests: The BOS discussed improving the process for handling resident requests for road trees and other infrastructure issues, currently lacking a formal work-order system. A resident suggested using Microsoft Forms for online requests, which the BOS will explore. - Water Leak at Elementary School: A water cooler hose on the third floor burst, flooding the building and affecting the elevator. School was delayed; service masters responded; the school is expected to reopen tomorrow. Insurance adjuster Kerma was on site. Repairs to sheetrock will take one to two weeks. - School Consolidation Meetings: Consultant DMG has scheduled community engagement workshops: Chester (October 28), Deep River (October 29 at the auditorium), Essex (November 4), and a larger gathering at John Winthrop (November 10). - Board of Finance - Treasurer's Report (presented by Tom): - General fund adjusted balance: $10,563,188.08. - Federal Reserve increased interest rates by 25 basis points to 4% on September 16, 2026 (first increase in three years). - Capital improvements borrow balance: $479,087.87 (no disbursements in the month). - ARPA bonds: $1,128,219 dispersed of original $1,314,908; balance must be spent by year-end. - ECS grant for FY27: $1,676,105, with first installment of $419,026.25 due October 31. - Short-term investments earned $25,368.42 in July (16.91% of budgeted $150,000). - FY2025 Audit Results (presented by Mahoney Sable, Mike Van Divinter and Lauren): - Unmodified clean opinion on financial statements, with an emphasis of matter paragraph for implementation of GASB Statement No. 101 (compensated absences). - Material Weakness in Internal Controls: Significant number of audit adjustments were proposed and recorded due to year-end reconciliation issues, particularly bank reconciliations that were undone from July 2024 onward. The finance director (Paula) is working to catch up but lacks resources. - Significant Deficiency in Budgetary Monitoring: Several departments exceeded their approved appropriations without prior authorization from the Board of Finance. The board committed to improving communication and timely approval of overages. - State Single Audit: Unmodified opinion on compliance for major programs (Urban Act grant, Municipal Grant Aid). One immaterial instance of noncompliance: untimely final report submission for the Urban Act grant. A significant deficiency in grant reporting internal controls was noted; a schedule of all grant reports is now being maintained. - The board discussed the need for additional resources to bring the accounting current, and asked the finance director to present a list of outstanding items and estimated costs at the October meeting. - ARPA Fund Update: Of the original $1,314,908, $1,257,420.84 has been spent, leaving $57,487.16. The board reviewed line-item underspends (e.g., finance software implementation $12,000, fire radio system $11,000) and discussed whether those funds can be reallocated to other ARPA-eligible uses, pending state approval. The BOS will determine priorities. - Budget Process for FY28: A draft timeline was presented, with the major change being that the BOS will prepare the budget and submit to the BOF by February 15, 2027. The BOF will develop revenue estimates and mill rate. A special meeting was scheduled for October 7, 2026, at 6:00 PM to finalize the budget timeline and discuss board roles and responsibilities. Key Outcomes - Appointments to WPCA (Weglars and Olson) approved 2-0; Cowell to Housing Authority approved unanimously. - FY2025 audit accepted; BOF will request a resource plan from the finance director to address internal control deficiencies. - A special joint meeting of BOS and BOF is set for October 7, 2026, at 6:00 PM to discuss the budget process and board roles. - The BOS will pursue a new procedure for handling resident infrastructure requests, including a possible online form. - The town will hold a town meeting on September 23, 2026 regarding the zoning citation ordinance. - The transfer station will implement a free tire disposal program for residents (contractor Bob's Tires). - New permit stickers for the transfer station will be issued effective January 1, 2027.

The Portage City Council met on the evening of September 22, 2026, at City Hall. The meeting included a proclamation for National Senior Center Month, approval of the consent agenda, an annual update from the Senior Citizen Advisory Board, a presentation of the Planning Commission work program, committee reports, and councilmember statements. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Patricia M. Randall with all councilmembers present. Proclamation: National Senior Center Month - Linda Zahler, chair of the Portage Zhang Senior Center Advisory Council, read a proclamation declaring September 2026 as National Senior Center Month. The proclamation recognized the contributions of older adults and the center's role in supporting healthy aging, noting the theme "Happier Birthdays Happen Here." Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously by a 7-0 roll call vote with no items removed for individual consideration. Communications: Annual Update from Senior Citizen Advisory Board - Linda Zahler provided highlights of the Portage Zhang Senior Center's activities. Membership has grown from approximately 1,500 in 2022 to nearly 4,800, with expectations to break 5,000 by year-end. Annual visits exceed 11,000, with 4,700 unduplicated visitors. The center offers 40 fitness and wellness programs. Financially, the center projects $72,000 in net revenue, with $42,000 from facility rentals. Partnerships include the Friends of the Zhang Center and other community organizations. New programming includes virtual reality, Parkinson's-specific classes, falls prevention, and senior horsemanship. The centenarian brunch had 19 attendees, up from 11 previously. The senior expo attracted 70 organizations. The center is hosting the 2026 Michigan Association of Senior Centers annual conference. Councilmembers expressed appreciation for the center's growth and impact. Communications: Planning Commission Work Program for FY 2026-2027 - Pete Dame, Chief Development Officer, presented the adopted work program. Goals include aligning with City Council objectives, implementing the master plan, and supporting the Lake Center area plan—including continued Portage Road improvements and a new four-story, 151-unit mixed-use building at Center Street and Portage Road. Upcoming tasks include completing the commercial component of the unified development ordinance, adopting regulations for data centers and battery energy storage, and potentially extending the current moratorium on data centers to allow completion of commercial district redesignations first. Councilmember Olmstead asked about the city's progress toward becoming a "Redevelopment Ready Community," and Dame noted that updating the zoning code to align with the master plan is the major remaining step. Key Outcomes - Council accepted the annual update from the Senior Citizen Advisory Board and the proposed Planning Commission work program for FY 2026-2027 via voice vote (no roll call required). - The consent agenda was approved 7-0. - The committee report from Councilmember Miller regarding the Kalamazoo County Consolidated Dispatch Authority meeting of September 10 was accepted. Council Committee Reports - Councilmember Miller reported on the Kalamazoo County Consolidated Dispatch Authority meeting of September 10, 2026: she was elected clerk; the board approved an additional $2 million for the radio readiness program to replace and upgrade public safety radio equipment; approved new three-year economic terms for dispatch supervisors; adopted an updated mission statement; and is preparing for the retirement of Chair Jan Vanderklee at year-end. Statements from City Council - Councilmember Olmstead: Attended a Southwest Michigan First Learning Academy on Brownfields and Tax Increment Financing (TIFs); reminded that commission interviews will be held October 6 for several boards (Historic District Commission, Human Services Board, Park Board, Senior Citizens Advisory Board); promoted a Parks and Rec cottage food law class on October 8 and a Shop Local Greater Kalamazoo workshop on October 15. - Councilmember Miller: Reported that the National Solo Ice Dance Final at Wings Event Center brought over 230 athletes; upcoming Kickoff Classic (November 21-22) expected to bring 1,700+ skaters; celebrated the permanent display of A-10 Thunderbolt 258 at the Air Zoo; noted the first Portage P3 Parks Petal Park Poker Pedal event on September 13; attended Southwest Michigan First Chamber Choice Awards; recognized Unifab's 75th anniversary; announced the Kalamazoo Airport runway is reopened after a one-week closure; promoted AirFair on September 26. - Councilmember Young: Thanked Portage Public Schools and Public Safety for the September 11 remembrance at the Portage Northern-Portage Central football game; reminded of the Firehouse Open House on October 4; noted that she and Councilmember Miller will miss the October 6 council meeting due to the Michigan Municipal League Conference in Traverse City; encouraged residents to apply for board and commission vacancies; reminded residents to make a plan to vote for the November elections, pointing to the "Plan to Vote" page on the city website. - Councilmember Burns: Reported on the Portage Public Safety Foundation golf fundraiser on September 14, which raised over $16,000 in 2025 and hopes to exceed that in 2026; he won the 50-50 raffle for the second consecutive year and donated the winnings back. - Mayor Randall: Thanked Councilmember Burns for his generosity; noted attending the play "Harlem Duet" featuring Councilmember Ledbetter; recognized Larry Sant as the recipient of the 10th annual Portage Art Award for his piece "Avian" (a snowy egret); reminded that the last farmers market is October 11; noted cancellation of the Fall Festival due to 4.5 inches of rain but expressed hope for Oktoberfest on September 26.

Date: September 22, 2026 The Finance Subcommittee (President/Councilor Cannon, Chair; Councilor King; Councilor Stefanini; Councilor Malik, remote) met to discuss water/sewer billing equity between rental apartments and owner-occupied homes/condominiums, review approximately $6 million in outstanding water/sewer arrears and collections practices, consider reauthorization of the Opioid Stabilization Fund, and preview the upcoming fiscal year budget cycle. Public Comments & Testimony - A representative of Eagle Rock, a rental apartment community, testified about billing inconsistencies between single-family homes and condominiums versus rental apartments. He stated Eagle Rock wants to be an important, valuable member of the community and support the subcommittee and council. - He reported that people are choosing not to rent apartments in Framingham because the total cost is $1,000-$1,200 more than in Natick, while a condominium in the same exact configuration in Framingham pays $1,000-$1,200 less. - Councilors responded that the council does not set water/sewer rates, but President Cannon emphasized the council's charter responsibility to audit and investigate government performance, bring visibility to issues, and increase public understanding. He suggested helping residents advocate to the administration and rate-setting authority, and noted the council does not perform collections itself. - A councilor observed the administration did not only raise residential water rates but also changed the gallon-tier classification thresholds, pushing accounts into higher-priced categories. Apartments are taxed as residential because they are residential, even though they are billed at a commercial-style rate. - Councilors supported a discussion between the council, the mayor's office, Anthony (administration), and the new CFO to develop a structure that works better, while keeping single-family homeowners in mind if prior tier structures are revisited. Consent Calendar - Motion by Councilor Malik to approve the minutes of August 31, 2026; approved unanimously. Discussion: Water/Sewer Arrears and Collections - Councilor King presented data showing roughly $6 million total outstanding in water/sewer arrears, with nine accounts on payment plans representing under $100,000 of that total. - The city earns 14% interest on overdue accounts. State statute requires unpaid water/sewer bills to be committed to the tax bill within approximately three years (before October 1st) or the city loses the tax title remedy and would be limited to other legal collection methods. - King directed that all accounts still within the lien period must be committed to the tax bill even if on a payment plan or in bankruptcy, noting that committing preserves the city's lien enforcement rights even when collection is stayed. - Concerns were raised that some payment plans had not been documented in writing; the administration stated it is implementing written agreements with clear terms, expectations of both sides, and consequences for non-adherence. - A new notification system tied to tax bills is being implemented, with data as of July 7, 2026. The committee discussed waiting to revisit the issue until after demand notices go out, possibly later this fall or after the new year. - Councilor King will provide a yearly breakdown of arrears by district/settlement. The administration acknowledged it is still determining why certain prior collection steps were not taken, noting the responsible staff and manager had departed. - Questions were raised about how Framingham's delinquency rate compares with other communities and its own historical data; a formal benchmarking response was not fully provided. Discussion: Opioid Stabilization Fund (Order 2026-093) - In 2022, the council voted to accept MGL Chapter 40, Section 5B, paragraph 4, which created the opioid stabilization fund; state law requires the fund to remain in existence for at least three years. - Without reauthorization, the $750,000 balance would return to the general fund and close to free cash. The Health Department attended to answer questions. - Councilors described $750,000 as "a lot of money, but not so much money that we can do major, major, major things," and discussed whether the fund could be leveraged operationally, including for housing. An internal administration task force exists, but not all answers were available because the responsible program person and manager had left. - Any expenditure from the fund would still require City Council approval through the Finance Subcommittee. One councilor expressed high confidence in the city's Amazon funding relative to other, less transparent areas of the budget. - No vote was taken; the item was discussion only. Discussion: FY27 Budget Outlook - The mayor's office will hold an initial budget conversation the following week, with a plan expected; approximately $10 million in free cash is being sorted through. - Capital requests are due to the council around November 1st, and a fuller budget discussion is planned after one full quarter of revenue, especially local estimated receipts. - Councilors discussed a three-year financial plan incorporating the city's retirement liability and considered setting aside part of the large free cash pickup as a cushion in case investment returns do not meet expectations, to avoid stressing future budgets. - Councilor King reiterated his intention to step down from the Finance Subcommittee after the budget process concludes, consistent with his statement when the committee was formed. - The next Finance Subcommittee meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, October 27, 2026, for 90 minutes, with the Planning Board's own meeting time in mind. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the August 31, 2026 meeting minutes. - Directive to the administration to commit all eligible water/sewer accounts to tax bills before statutory deadlines to preserve lien rights, including accounts on payment plans or in bankruptcy. - Directive to document all payment plans in writing with clear terms, expectations, and consequences. - Councilor King will provide arrears data broken down by district/settlement. - The subcommittee will revisit arrears data after demand notices are sent and will continue budget discussions with the mayor's office the following week and after first-quarter revenue data is available. - The Opioid Stabilization Fund reauthorization (Order 2026-093) remains under discussion with no vote taken.