The Public Meeting Index

The Cleveland City Council met on September 21, 2026, and began with the recognition of championship AAU basketball teams, followed by public comments on a range of community concerns, passage of numerous emergency ordinances and resolutions, and discussions on the Rainbow Terrace explosion and fatherhood initiatives. Public Comments & Testimony - Daryl Houston (Bedford Heights) questioned Councilmember Conwell's activism and accountability, criticizing conditions in his ward and alleging disrespect from a city staff member. He stated he will not accept further disrespect. - James Box (Ward 6, Truth Ministries/Black Guard) reported that a city employee, Joaquin Simmons, threatened him with physical violence after his previous public comment. He called for the resignation of Angela Woodson and Jacke Simmons from the Department of Community Relations, citing a pattern of corrupt behavior. He denied ever requesting city funding. - Tyresha Thompson (Ward 9) apologized for her previous tone and requested help connecting her "Building Strong Individuals" program to the right resources, asking council to either assist or point her in the right direction. - St. James Singleton (Ward 9) called for collective effort among government, citizens, and church. He offered his skills in trades and said he runs programs for both youth and adults. He criticized officials for giving false hope and not returning calls. - Linda G. Corbin McKenzie (Ward 15, West Park) spoke about dangerous deteriorating trees on West 168th Street that are falling on homes and fences of seniors and veterans. She said she had not received a promised response from the Parks and Recreation Department after 13 days. - Sabrina Otis (DPC co-chair) asked whether council members would do their jobs if they were not paid, noting residents volunteer extensively. She called for the administration to align with citizen efforts and stop treating the city like a dump. - Timothy Summerfeld (Ward 11) urged passage of legislation to increase AEDs across Cleveland. He cited 2025 EMS data: 397 sudden cardiac arrests, only 29 survivors; only 5 received AED treatment before EMS arrival. He compared the toll to the 1908 Collinwood school fire. - Matthew Strazinski (Slavic Village) expressed commitment to investing in the city by purchasing multiple properties. He advocated for a goal of 1 million residents, 33 council members, and a residency requirement for city employees. - Rico Dancy (Black Lives Matter for the Deaf, AC commissioner) called for law enforcement training for deaf and hard of hearing individuals and interpreter services at council meetings. He criticized the mayor for removing Dr. Barry McCall from the RTA board and noted DC police stations have sign interpreters. - Kiana Bell (Garden Valley Neighborhood) demanded answers and accountability for the Rainbow Terrace apartment explosion that injured her children (85% and 75% burns) and killed Cordell Sheffield. She stated 44 families are still waiting, and her family was moved to a previously burned apartment. She asked where the city's heart is. Discussion Items - Councilmember Starr updated on the Rainbow Terrace explosion (June 2025). He said he has contacted the Ohio Attorney General, Congresswoman's office, the mayor's office, and building and housing officials. Despite over a year of work, families still lack answers on the cause. He noted the property is not CMHA but privately owned (Rainbow Terrace, owner in Detroit). He received a public records request from Cordell Sheffield's attorneys. He pledged to continue seeking help for the 41 displaced families. - Councilmember Conwell spoke on his fatherhood initiative, noting 25,000 dads participated in a recent walk. He called for sustaining the momentum with school programs like "Dads for Donuts" and linking fathers to employment. He announced forming a fatherhood group at Glenville High School. - Councilmember Jones expressed concern over the Rainbow Terrace situation, asking for a fire department report. He recalled a previous explosion on Federal Avenue that was resolved quickly. He vowed to dig deeper and work with Councilmember Starr. He also commended public speakers and urged leaders to help young people. Key Outcomes - All first and second reading emergency ordinances and resolutions were passed unanimously (14-0) after suspension of the rules. These included: - Ordinances authorizing agreements for forensic testing, food service at Carl B. Stokes Building, succession planning, vehicle/equipment purchases, and various bond issuances (totaling over $70 million for streets, parks, buildings, and equipment). - Ordinances allocating casino revenue funds for neighborhood festivals and food cards. - Resolutions withdrawing objections to liquor permits, objecting to a new permit, and urging the Ohio General Assembly to pass HB 303 (community energy pilot program). - Resolutions for tax levies and advances. - Councilmember Gray moved to excuse Councilmember House Jones; seconded by Councilmember Palencick; approved. - Safety Committee will meet on Wednesday, September 28, 2026, at 1:00 PM. - The next regular council meeting is scheduled for September 28, 2026.

The Vermillion City Council met on September 21, 2026, at 5:30 PM to discuss a rezoning request, second readings of ordinances, a storm drainage fee increase, an airport funding agreement, appointments, and property transfers. All agenda items were approved, with two ordinances requiring roll-call votes. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved unanimously from previous meetings. - Agenda: Approved as written without revisions. - Consent Agenda: Items moved as a block; no items pulled to new business. Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Rezoning Request (R1 to R3): Jose presented a request from Cyote Den LC to rezone approximately 3.8 acres near USD property (bounded by North University, Row Street, and Coyote Village). The property is surrounded by state-owned land (USD) which is exempt from city zoning per a 1977 Attorney General opinion. The owner was not required to collect signatures from USD. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval unanimously on September 14, 2026. No public comment was made. Council member Mike raised fire access concerns but expressed support; staff confirmed future fire code review. Council member Julia asked about surrounding zoning. The council approved the rezone for second reading on October 5, 2026. - Second Reading of Ordinance 1574 – Property Tax Levy: John (city staff) explained that due to a change in budget process, a separate ordinance was needed to certify the property tax levy to the Clay County Auditor. The ordinance slightly exceeds the memo amount to allow for formula adjustments. No changes since first reading. A roll-call vote passed 9-0. - Second Reading – Motorized Foot Scooter Definition Correction: Alex presented an amendment to add the word "no" to the definition: "has no more than two 12-inch or smaller diameter wheels." The error was discovered from a previously adopted ordinance. Roll-call vote passed 9-0. - Storm Drainage Fee Increase: Joseph proposed a 3% increase in the unit financial charge to generate approximately $353,946 in 2027 (about $10,300 more than 2026). A single-family home on a 10,000 sq ft lot would see an annual increase from $39.02 to $40.20. Council members asked about fund balance and system condition; staff noted gradual increases and about $700,000 in reserves. Approved unanimously. - Airport Pavement Maintenance Funding Agreement: Jose reported that the project was completed in advance of funding agreements. The federal government will pay 95%, the state 2.5%, and the city 2.5% (about $3,622 of the total $145,000). Council approved allowing the mayor to sign the agreements. - Appointment to Human Relations Commission: The mayor nominated Addie Oyen as the post-secondary student representative. Motion approved unanimously. - Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) – Jack Powell Lots: John requested approval to transfer six previously overlooked lots (Block 2, Lots 1-6) to the Vermillion Chamber and Development Company (VCDC) for development. Conditions include property tax payment, no reduction in lot count, and building permit within one year of sale. Council clarified lot layouts and the senior housing project. Approved unanimously. - Resolution Setting Public Hearing for Nuisance Abatement Special Assessment: Wendy presented a resolution to set a public hearing on October 5, 2026, for the special assessment of costs for grass mowing, snow removal, and debris abatement. Approved unanimously. - Invoice Payment – Broadcaster Press: An invoice of $1,761 was removed from consent to avoid conflict of interest. Council member Lyas abstained. Motion to approve passed. Key Outcomes - Rezone Approved for Second Reading on October 5, 2026. - Ordinance 1574 (Tax Levy) passed on second reading (9-0 roll call). - Motorized Scooter Definition Correction passed on second reading (9-0 roll call). - Storm Drainage Fee increased by 3% effective 2027. - Airport Funding authorized. - Addie Oyen appointed to Human Relations Commission. - Six Lots transferred to VCDC. - Public Hearing set for October 5, 2026, on nuisance abatement assessments. - Broadcaster Press invoice approved. City Manager's Report - Upcoming meetings: Human Relations Commission on September 29, 2026 (moved due to conflict); Planning and Zoning Commission on September 28, 2026, with two conditional use permits. - Board vacancies: Business Improvement District 1 (lodging owner/manager), Vermillion Housing Authority (five-year term), Tree Board (one- and two-year terms), Business Improvement District 2 (two three-year terms). - Raffle notification: USD ROTC cadets selling $50 tickets (limited to 400) for a Bergara B14 HMR rifle (valued at $3,000) until November 14, 2026. - Blue Envelope Program: New initiative for drivers on the autism spectrum; envelopes available at police department.

The West Fargo City Commission met on September 21, 2026, with Commissioners Erickson, Jorgensen, Stedman, and Zundal present; Mayor Jerdoveg was absent. The Commission approved three special assessment improvement districts following public hearings, advanced an ordinance on unpaid utility service liens, approved a fiber-optic conduit change order for the 9th Street Northeast bridge project, and authorized several 2027 mill and overlay projects. Consent Calendar - Agenda order approved by voice vote. - Minutes of the September 8, 2026, meeting approved by voice vote. - Building permits approved; Commissioner Jorgensen recused from voting on this item. - Consent agenda Items A-L approved by roll call, 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments during the public comment period. Public Hearings & Improvement Districts - Improvement District 1345 (Sand Hill Sixth Edition): Jerry Wallace presented the completed project, with a total project cost of $6,136,784.35, assessed 100% to benefiting properties as green field development. The area is primarily commercial/industrial, with some residential properties excluded at the developer's request. No one spoke for or against the district. Motion to approve passed 4-0. - Improvement District 1353 (Dakota Medical Foundation, also rendered Dako-na in the transcript): This petition-driven project northwest of City Hall totaled $2,109,294.45 and was constructed to West Fargo standards and consistent with the city's comprehensive plan. One existing business was not assessed because it already had road and utility service. No one spoke for or against. Motion to approve passed 4-0. - Improvement District 2290 (2025 Public Works Mill and Overlay): The West Wind neighborhood project was reported at approximately $1,111,122.08 total cost, with 50% city funding and 50% special assessments. Commissioner Erickson asked about the difference between amount assessed and amount benefited; Wallace explained the benefited figure reflects the determined monetary value the improvement provides to each property. No one spoke for or against. Motion to approve passed 4-0. Discussion Items - Ordinance 1286 - Liability of Owners and Occupants for Services: Schmidt presented the first reading of the ordinance, which would make unpaid water, sewer, and garbage service amounts a lien on the serviced property, allow annual special assessment of unpaid amounts, and allow the city to seek payment through a civil action against owners and occupants. Commissioner Jorgensen asked about a nuisance property for which the city paid just over $4,000 for lawn/weed service; staff confirmed the amount would be specially assessed and attached to the property until resolved. First reading approved 4-0. - Improvement District 2293 - 9th Street Northeast Grade Separation Change Order: Wallace requested approval of a $311,367 change order to add a nine-conduit fiber-optic bank across the bridge, following the precedent of the Cheyenne River bridge. The original project included two city conduits; additional conduits could be leased or sold to private providers. Staff noted Cheyenne Street conduit leases run about $2,000 per year, and the proposed per-conduit user fee would be roughly $44,000. City-owned fiber supports city facilities and traffic signal connectivity. Motion to approve passed 4-0. - 2027 Collector Street Mill and Overlay (9th Street West, 4th Street East, 36th Avenue East): This project would use a portion of the approximately $3.8 million 2027 asphalt street maintenance budget and would be funded 100% with capital improvement sales tax because the streets are collector roadways. Commissioner Jorgensen expressed support for moving forward. Motion to approve passed 4-0. - 2027 Westport Beach Neighborhood Mill and Overlay: The project covers Westport Beach 1st, 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 7th editions plus public sections of 2nd and 4th editions. It would be publicly bid and funded 50% capital improvement sales tax and 50% special assessment. Wallace explained that collector streets are treated as regional improvements while neighborhood streets are local improvements; previous funding splits had been 100% assessed and 80-20 before the current 50-50 policy. He also noted a previous consolidated mill and overlay project was stopped by protests from this neighborhood, so projects are now brought individually. This year's assessments have ranged from about $2,500 to $4,000 per neighborhood. Motion to approve passed 4-0. - 2027 Wilds Neighborhood Mill and Overlay: The project covers Wilds 1st, 4th, 12th, and 14th editions plus Wild 2nd east of 90th Street West, with a 50-50 funding split, due to differential settlement and pavement age. Motion to approve passed 4-0. - 2027 West River Neighborhood Mill and Overlay: The project covers West River and West River Second Edition with a 50-50 funding split; Wallace said the area is due for work and should not be delayed further. Motion to approve passed 4-0. - City Administrator's Report: Dustin Scott reminded Commissioners of the employee recognition event Thursday from 4:30 to 8 p.m. at Lights Plaza with a sports theme. - Correspondence and Non-Agenda Items: No additional correspondence or non-agenda items were presented. Key Outcomes - Approved all routine items, including building permits (with Jorgensen recused) and consent agenda Items A-L. - Confirmed and approved special assessment improvement districts 1345, 1353, and 2290 by 4-0 votes after closed public hearings with no comments. - Approved first reading of Ordinance 1286 by a 4-0 vote. - Approved the $311,367 change order for Improvement District 2293 by a 4-0 vote. - Approved all four 2027 mill and overlay projects by 4-0 votes: collector streets, Westport Beach, Wilds, and West River. - Meeting adjourned by unanimous motion.

The Aberdeen City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting featured extensive public comment and council discussion on data center regulations, approval of the 2027 budget, a property gift to Midwest Street Medicine, and allocation of promotion funds. The council heard from two citizens opposing data centers, debated a wide range of potential ordinance provisions, and took action on numerous routine items. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda with an adjustment moving item 7D to 7A. - Approved minutes from the September 8 and September 14 meetings. - Approved six consent items: a rezoning, a lottery notice, a temporary noise variance for police low-light training (October 5–8, 7–10:30 PM at the city firearms range), and a community event permit for the Aberdeen Downtown Association’s Downtown Brew Walk (October 8). All passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Lisa Ronane requested that the council extend the data center moratorium, citing new information. She noted that the draft ordinance from August 31 lacked an environmental impact study requirement. She reported an audible hum from the Ellendale data center (air-cooled) and challenged each council member to visit the site. - Janelle Meyer urged the council to vote against data centers, arguing they consume thousands of acres of land, millions of gallons of water daily, strain the electrical grid, produce constant low-frequency noise harming residents and livestock, and create fewer than 30 permanent jobs. She stated that the long-term harm outweighs short-term corporate investments. Discussion Items Data Center Ordinance (Item 7A – moved from 7D) City Manager Dave McNeil and City Attorney Ron introduced the discussion. They clarified that no data center application is pending, no non-disclosure agreements have been signed, and the council cannot call an advisory election. The council must adopt an ordinance to either prohibit, limit, or regulate data centers (per state law effective July 1). A draft sales tax refund repeal for data centers was also proposed. Council members then shared detailed “wish lists” for potential ordinance provisions: - Councilman Nielsen: Support extending zoning jurisdiction up to three miles beyond city limits; favor a 5 MW cap (not 10); appreciation for staff reports. - Councilman Econger: Proposed a 5 MW per facility cap, a citywide total cap of 15 MW, an 18-month build-out window, noise limits (70 dB at property line with no tonal variation 15%), closed-loop cooling, water chemical restrictions, proximity buffers, independent city testing and semi-annual reporting, no tax breaks, a power agreement protecting residential customers, and a housing plan for construction workers. - Councilman Ward: Advocated for tiered scrutiny based on project size rather than arbitrary megawatt limits; recommended requiring more proof (noise modeling, water analysis, road planning) as size increases; suggested community benefit agreements (e.g., $1M per MW). - Councilman Liebelt: Prioritized requiring data center companies to provide their own housing for employees, citing housing strain from Ellendale. - Councilman Ronane: Supported either prohibition or very robust regulation; emphasized expanding zoning jurisdiction to a three-mile extra-territorial zone; called for a ban on NDAs for all city business; demanded real accountability (ability to shut down violators). - Councilman Floberg: Raised concerns about future-proofing definitions, sunset clauses, and the possibility that “data center” definitions may become obsolete; suggested thinking about what kind of computing industry Aberdeen wants to attract. - Deputy Mayor Johnson: Proposed extending the moratorium to approximately June 1, 2027, due to the Ellendale project’s housing impacts; suggested allowing only data centers up to 10 MW, prohibiting hyperscale campuses, no tax breaks, no TIF, I-2 zoning with special exception, closed-loop cooling, developer-funded infrastructure, and workforce/housing analysis. Discussion also included the need to get accurate information on Ellendale’s timeline and a general sense that the council wants a tiered ordinance with strong enforcement. City Attorney Ron indicated he would draft two ordinances: one to repeal the sales tax refund for data centers and a second with robust requirements. The council did not vote on substantive ordinance language but provided direction. Promotion Funds Allocation (Resolution 260902R) Council debated an amendment to reduce the Aberdeen Downtown Association allocation from $125,000 to $124,999 to avoid a financial review requirement. The amendment failed 1-8. The original allocation of $125,000 (and all other allocations in the proposed chart) were then approved on a roll call vote (8-0). Total promotional fund distribution is $1,750,000. Other Discussion Items - Ordinance 260901 (2027 Budget) – Second reading and final adoption; passed unanimously on roll call. - Resolution 260904R (Surplus Property Gift) – Declared surplus the house at 824 Third Avenue SW and gifted it to Midwest Street Medicine for a walk-in clinic/headquarters, with a five-year use requirement; passed unanimously. - Ordinance 260902 (Rezone 24 North State Street) – Rezone from I-2 to R-2 to match existing single-family use; approved unanimously. - Ordinance 260903 (Off-Street Parking Updates) – Amended sections 60-159 and 60-160 to modernize parking standards; approved unanimously. - Pay Request 15 – Water Reclamation Facility – $2,561,414.94 to PKG Contracting; approved 8-0-1 (Nielsen abstained). - Byrne Grant Application – Authorized application for about $21,000 to split with Brown County Sheriff; used to upgrade less-lethal munition launchers; approved unanimously. - Pay Request 2 and Change Order 1 – Water Treatment Plant – $41,289 base plus $4,272.47 change order for added steps; approved unanimously. - Snow Removal Services Bids – Approved 2026-2027 contract awards; approved unanimously. - Ride Line Grant Extension – Extended grant 81238 for bus storage facility planning to December 31, 2026; approved unanimously. - Claims and Payroll – Approved as presented. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - 2027 budget (Ordinance 260901) adopted unanimously. - Surplus property gift to Midwest Street Medicine approved unanimously. - Promotion funds resolution (260902R) approved with original $125,000 for Aberdeen Downtown Association (amendment failed). - All remaining consent and new business items approved as noted, most unanimously. - Data center ordinance: Council directed staff to draft a comprehensive ordinance based on the wish list, including size caps (likely 5-10 MW), strict noise and water standards, no tax breaks, potential zoning jurisdiction expansion, and strong enforcement. The council will consider extending the moratorium resolution at a future meeting; timeline remains ambitious with a target to present a draft at the next meeting (September 28). - City manager’s report: Confirmed water sales to Ellendale facility (over 1 million gallons in two months) are within capacity; announced a housing and workforce update from the economic development director for the next meeting.

The Planning and Zoning Commission met with only five members present due to attendance issues, resulting in multiple continuances. The meeting included public comments, approval of a street vacation, a rezoning, and discussion of a special district expansion. The commission also reviewed subdivision standards updates. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the August 2026 meetings by voice vote. - Withdrawn Case S5926 (lake subdivision) at the petitioner's request. - Approved continuances of several cases to October and November due to the lack of six voting members. Public Comments & Testimony - Russ Richardson spoke regarding Westerbelt cases (rezoning Z2225 and resubdivision S6926) continued to November. He requested that before approval, the commission address how the resubdivision would affect homeowner voting rights and restrictive covenants, particularly concerning HOA formation. Discussion Items - Special District Petition SD0426 (1401 Greensboro Ave): Staff presented a proposal for a 1,100-square-foot addition to an existing crisis care facility, adding four patient bedrooms. Commissioners expressed concerns about the facility's use, potential expansion in a growing downtown residential area, and whether the commission's authority was limited to design review. The petitioner (architect Eric Request) requested a continuance to allow the facility owner to address the commission's questions. The continuance was granted. - Street Vacation V0326 (31st Street East): Petitioner Michael McGuire explained the 0.49-acre vacation was necessary to complete Cedar Forest subdivision phase two. No public comment. Approved unanimously by voice vote. - Rezoning Z2626 (58 Springbrook): Petitioner Jimmy Duncan and developer Michael Delaney requested rezoning 0.2 acres from SFR2 to GC for commercial development as part of Springbrook. They reported four of six lots are pre-leased with tenants including a coffee shop, sit-down restaurant, and an oil change service. No public comment. Approved unanimously by voice vote. - Subdivision Standards & Guidelines (Article 4): Staff reviewed updates to design standards, utility placement, street design, lot sizes, and easements. No significant changes are anticipated; further discussion will occur next month. Key Outcomes - Approved consent calendar items (minutes, withdrawal, continuances) by voice vote. - Approved street vacation V0326 and rezoning Z2626 unanimously via voice votes. - Continued special district petition SD0426 to the October 2026 meeting at the petitioner's request to allow the facility owner to answer commission concerns.

The Providence Recreation Advisory Board met in regular session on Monday, September 21, 2026, at Rod River's Recreation Center (referred to as 'Roger's' in the transcript). No agenda or minutes were available, so this summary is based on the raw meeting transcript; some passages were unclear due to audio quality. Director Mike and his team, media content specialist Lucy, data coordinator David, Councilman Vargas, and board members attended. The board reviewed a summer programming recap, seasonal hiring data, camp enrollment results, winter programming expansion plans, and the status of Kennedy Recreation Center. Summer Programming Recap - Staff reported that day camps, pools, and water parks were well attended, and every recreation center held end-of-summer cookouts with face painting and live music. - The city hosted the Mayor's Cup baseball tournament for a second straight year in partnership with local youth Little Leagues. Teams from across the city competed, with the Mayor and city council members in attendance. - The annual swim meet was held, and field trips included kayaking plus sports-related activities coordinated with Providence R.I.N.G. - A basketball court was added at the Basketball West End location, expanding youth sport options, with formal programming beginning in the spring. - Pool operations included swim lessons from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by open swimming. Summer attendance at the center exceeded 2,000, though the precise program figures were not clear from the transcript. - Parking and site circulation changes at the center were expected within a couple of weeks. Hiring and Staffing Data - Data coordinator David presented year-over-year hiring figures: 543 seasonal employees were hired this summer, a 15% increase over the 470 hired the previous summer. - Board member Sean said he would like to see hiring increase even further, noting that not all seasonal hires are youth and that adults fill important roles. - The pool monitor position was discussed at length. Staff and board members described the evening and overnight shift as a critical safety role at centers with pools, explaining that a visible staff presence deters misconduct. It was noted that other cities with public pools fill similar positions. Camp Enrollment and Program Access - Lucy reported that camps used a week-to-week enrollment format this summer, allowing families to customize their camp experience instead of registering for seven consecutive weeks. This approach kept 'more people in seats every single day at camp' and received positive feedback from parents. - When a center reached capacity, families were directed to other centers with space, such as West End. Board members acknowledged that some centers are small but called the cross-referral approach 'a good move.' Winter Programming Expansion - Staff presented plans to add boys' volleyball, girls' volleyball, and additional swim programming, with each recreation center enrolling participants from its own district. The volleyball program will be citywide. - Volleyball will launch as an introductory, instructional program following the model used for other department programs, with a path toward competitive play. - The board discussed recruiting volunteer coaches, potentially from existing youth leagues or parents, and noted that experienced participants could help get the program started. - Senior programming was highlighted as an area for significant expansion, though the board observed that the city has limited other spaces with the capacity to serve this group. Kennedy Recreation Center Update - Staff reported that Kennedy Recreation Center is now operational, with construction completed to the point that the facility can operate. - For the first time, Kennedy will have its own distinct identity, which Director Mike said it never had in past years. - Board members asked what additional spaces or resources would be needed to make the center successful and whether it operates as a standalone center or in coordination with the adjacent school. - Staff confirmed that standard data-tracking and cleanup procedures used at all recreation centers will apply at Kennedy. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or motions were recorded; the meeting consisted of staff reports, data presentations, and board discussion. - The board expressed general support for the summer recap, the 15% hiring increase, the week-to-week camp model, and the planned winter expansion of volleyball, swim, and senior programming. - Next steps include finalizing winter schedules, recruiting volunteer coaches, and monitoring registration capacity across centers.

The meeting was a public hearing convened by Mayor Mary Robishot and the Roswell City Council to gather public input on a proposed millage rate of 5.9 mills for tax year 2026. The meeting began at 6 p.m. and included a detailed presentation by Finance Director Adam Navorty on $18 million in capital needs, followed by council discussion and 31 public comments. The final vote on the millage rate is scheduled for September 28, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Stefan Lewis (Roswell resident, veteran): Expressed strong opposition, stating the increase is a “crushing tax burden” and urged council to listen to residents. - Gary Boss (20-year resident): Requested a better budget process and opposed the increase, noting burden on retired individuals. - Carmel Sardone (resident): Argued the city has excess reserves ($21 million above the mandated 25% reserve) and called the proposed 19.2% permanent hike unnecessary; stated the true critical needs are $16 million after accounting for double-counted buffers. - Mark Portera (12-year resident): Emphasized the vote is only for 2026 millage rate, not 2027 budget; questioned the legal requirement for the bond millage increase; noted the roof repair estimate rose from $700,000 to $1 million in one week. - Joe Durso (40+ year resident): Asked about zero-based budgeting, questioned justification for large increase given new construction and increased property values, and suggested scrutinizing contracts and P-cards. - Mary Bostwick (30-year resident): Urged prioritizing needs, financing options, and growing business tax base before burdening homeowners; asked for a tax break for seniors 70+. - Katie Benson: Accused the mayor of breaking a campaign promise to make Roswell affordable; opposed the increase. - Matt Rowenzak: Called the initial 56% increase “tone deaf”; noted revenue is at or above expenses for 2026, so no increase is justified; urged keeping millage flat or allowing only the bond debt increase. - Roman Pierzak: Opposed the high increase but suggested a small adjustment is acceptable to avoid a larger hike later; noted property values have already driven up taxes. - Dave Woodrow: Criticized lack of transparency and collaboration with council; stated the city is not in crisis; argued the increase should be discussed as part of the 2027 budget, not for 2026. - Travis Roth (born and raised in Roswell): Expressed concern for senior citizens and his in-laws who left California due to high taxes; opposed permanent tax increase; preferred funding specific projects through bonds rather than a vague millage increase. - Areta Pereira (30-year resident): Called the debate “asinine” for conflating 2026 and 2027 budgets; demanded no increase for 2026; quoted the Georgia Bill of Rights to remind council of their duty to the people. - Lee Holesworth: Asked the council to finish the 2026 budget process without distraction. - Claire Snedeker: Noted the city projects a $5 million surplus and has $40.6 million in unrestricted fund balance; argued no tax increase is justified for the 2026 budget; said the $18 million list belongs to the 2027 budget process. - Michael Tomprose: Criticized the council for wasting time with internal questions and for manufacturing emergencies. - Tracy Palma Duran (project manager): Demanded transparency on the true unrestricted fund balance (net of pending items); said the city should cut spending, not raise taxes. - George Eloquin: Questioned the calculation of the 5.9 millage rate – why not 5.7 or 5.5? Criticized the attempt to set revenue before the 2027 budget is presented (October 13). Noted national affordability crisis and rising costs for residents. - Jim Walsh: Thanked council members opposing the increase; questioned why zero-based budgeting was abandoned; called the capital list a “wish list” and suggested council should forgo their salaries as an example. - Maria Gaudio: Linked the millage increase to broader Fulton County tax increases; criticized high city salaries ($242,000 for the city administrator) while asking residents for more. - Chris Dora (CFP and auto mechanic): Questioned the fleet replacement plan, saying $3.2 million is excessive; a proper inspection and repair would cost far less. - Rich Moon: Noted property taxes already rose due to assessment increases; said “hard choices” are residents struggling to buy groceries, not between budget projects; asked if council would delay the vote; stated it is possible to balance the budget without a tax increase. - Jason Yowell: Accused the city of pushing 2027 capital needs into 2026 to justify an increase; questioned the $2.5 million obligation to ARC for the Gateway project; said the city has the authority to require GDOT to pay for utility relocation; called the process a “money grab.” - Courtney Rosier (supporter of the increase): Supported normalizing the M&O rate to 4.718 mills (returning to 2022 level); argued that cuts in previous years have led to $12 million in forgone revenue, contributing to deferred maintenance; requested monthly payment options for residents without escrow and more information on senior exemptions. - Richard Arena: Criticized past administrations for pushing tall buildings; said staff has contempt for residents; noted top 20 staff salaries (with benefits) exceed $200,000 each, while lower-level workers are underpaid. - Barney Zit Vogel (new resident): Confused by the budget process; requested a full picture of revenue and expenditures before a millage decision; opposed raising the 2026 rate. - John Evans: Stated the discussion has been about future spending, but the real question is whether the current millage covers the 2026 budget; argued it does, so no increase is needed. - State Representative Scott Hilton (representing part of Roswell): Opposed the increase, noting Peachtree Corners (his city) has a zero millage rate; shared a story of a senior struggling with property taxes; highlighted state tax relief efforts (rebate, senior exemption, assessment caps); warned the legislature has stepped in when local councils are “out of control.” - Dillo Rajou: Asked if the adopted 2026 budget of $229 million requires an M&O rate above 4.049 mills; answered that it does not, so he cannot support any increase beyond that plus the bond component. - William Reese (22-year resident): Questioned raising taxes when people are already struggling to buy new cars; asked council to consider that before voting. Discussion Items - Capital Needs Presentation: Finance Director Adam Navorty presented a list of 26 capital items totaling approximately $18 million, including road resurfacing ($3M), Historic Gateway project ($3M), IT firewall replacement ($55K), police laptops ($50K), health insurance ($1M), elections ($100K-$1.2M), fleet replacement ($3.973M), dredging assistance ($325K), building maintenance ($4.9M), fire transition ($1.2M), fire pumper ($1.4M), signal pole replacements ($400K), ADA transition plan ($1M), ballistic vests ($? unspecified), park maintenance ($378K), facility security ($57K), Crab Apple Drive entrance design ($80K), comprehensive plan housing study ($250K), police rifles ($110K), and $2M in capital reserve funds. Staff detailed risks of deferring each item. - Council Discussion: Council members debated the merits of raising the millage rate for 2026 versus waiting for the 2027 budget process. - Councilmember Alan Sells opposed the increase, calling the capital list “obfuscation” and a “slush fund.” He noted the city has $40.6 million in unrestricted reserves and a $5 million projected surplus; argued the increase is not needed for 2026 and should be part of the 2027 budget discussion. - Councilmember Christine Hall supported keeping the current millage rate, stating the 2026 budget is on track and that the 2027 millage rate will be determined in September 2027 after proper budget hearings. - Councilmember Sarah Beeson supported the increase, arguing the capital items were deferred from FY25 and are now critical; emphasized that capital expenses cannot be paid after the fact with reserves that include carry-forwards and encumbrances; challenged opponents to identify which capital items they would cut. - Councilmember Jennifer Philippi raised concerns about the 2027 budget outlook, noting declining sales tax revenue (post-FIFA) and lower vehicle tax revenue; questioned whether postponing the 2026 decision would provide time to preview the 2027 budget. - Councilmember Aaron Brumley reminded that bonds are loans that must be repaid; cautioned that using bonds to mask millage increases is unsustainable. - Councilmember Chris Zach acknowledged many council members have not made a final decision on the increase; urged residents to express their views. - Mayor Robishot defended the proposal as necessary to address deferred needs (e.g., roof repairs escalated from 2017 estimate of $1.3M to current $6-8M); noted the city’s tax digest declined this year and that economic development revenues will not materialize until 2028. - Discussion on Delaying the Vote: Councilmember Philippi proposed postponing the final vote to October 13 to coincide with the 2027 budget preview. City Attorney Joe stated it is legally possible but requires re-advertising and leaves no margin for error to meet bill collection deadlines. Councilmember Hall and others opposed the delay, preferring to vote on September 28 as scheduled. No motion was made. Key Outcomes - No vote was taken; the meeting was a public hearing to gather input. - The final vote on the 2026 millage rate is scheduled for a special called meeting on September 28, 2026. - The city will proceed with the second reading and potential adoption of the millage rate (proposed at 5.9 mills, down from an initial 7.732 mills) at that time. - The 2027 budget will be presented on October 13, 2026, with budget discussions to follow.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary can be generated.

The Environmental Services Commission (ESC) met to recommend the 2027–2028 utilities budget, capital improvement plan, and rates to the City Council, and received an informational update on the environmental monitoring program. The meeting included public comments and was adjourned at 7:48 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - Alex Zemirman, president of the Stand Up America Party, criticized the City Council for prioritizing corporations, stating the city has a $1.2 billion budget while the local GDP exceeds $150 billion. He accused the commission of being complicit and used inflammatory language. - Abraza Barajas, a Bobby Youth League Board Member, invited the commission to the Youth Link Gumball event on October 28 (6–8 p.m. at Cosmos Community Center) for dialogue with youth and city leadership. Discussion Items - Utilities 2027–2028 Biennium Budget, Capital Improvement Program, and Rates Recommendation: Staff presented the proposed $508 million operating budget for 2027–2028, a six-year capital improvement program (2027–2032), and associated rate increases. The budget emphasizes affordability, transparency, and equity, with 51% covering external costs (wholesale water, sewer treatment, taxes, support services), one-third for capital reinvestment, and 15% for direct operations. Rate increases are driven partly by wholesale cost passthroughs. The commission had reviewed these proposals over nine months. No new information was presented. - Environmental Monitoring Program Update: Brianna Pierce (aquatic ecologist) presented findings from the program, which measures hydrology, water quality, benthic macroinvertebrates, physical habitat, and salmon. Key findings: high stream flashiness (especially in Kelsey and Coal Creeks), E. coli exceedances in Maidenbauer Creek, low dissolved oxygen in Richards and Kelsey Creeks, elevated zinc from road runoff (especially in Kelsey Creek), poor macroinvertebrate scores, and severely declining salmon returns (last Chinook spawning in Kelsey Creek in 2010). The program is foundational for the forthcoming watershed management plan. Commissioners asked how the data translates into policy and capital project prioritization; staff noted that the watershed management plan will guide future investments. Key Outcomes - The ESC unanimously (5–0) voted to recommend the proposed 2027–2028 operating and capital budgets and rates to the City Council. Chair Juan will present the recommendation on October 13, 2026. Council adoption is anticipated on November 17, 2026. - The next commission meeting is scheduled for November 5, 2026. The October 1 meeting was canceled.