The Public Meeting Index

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) held its Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP) tour stop in Howard County to present the draft six-year transportation program and hear from state and local elected officials. County Executive Calvin Ball and MDOT Secretary Katie Thomson (the transcript also spells the name as Thompson) opened the meeting; modal agency leaders then presented, followed by questions from Howard County officials. No minutes were available, so this summary is drawn entirely from the raw transcript. Note: the agenda lists the meeting date as September 16, 2026 at 6:00 PM, while the provided timestamp indicates September 17, 2026 11:00 AM UTC; this summary uses the timestamp date. No consent calendar, votes, or formal public testimony occurred. Welcoming Remarks - County Executive Calvin Ball, speaking at his final CTP meeting as Howard County executive, welcomed MDOT and thanked Secretary Thomson and MDOT staff for an eight-year partnership that supported transit, roads, bridges, pedestrian and bicycle improvements, safety programs, and transportation demand management. - Ball said the Route 1 Pedestrian Safety Action Plan (PSAP) will deliver more than two miles of contiguous multimodal facilities along the southern Route 1 corridor when fully constructed, and he thanked MDOT for including more than $4 million in the draft CTP for PSAP construction and implementation. - Ball listed Howard County transportation priorities including future access to Maryland 175, improved connections to Maryland 108, shared-use connections at Snowden River Parkway and Maryland 175, and a long-term multimodal connection using the former CSX corridor. He recalled that over the past eight years, state support included more than $30 million in operating assistance for local transit, $2.8 million in capital support, and nearly $1 million in transit innovation grants. - Secretary Thomson said Howard County was the fifth stop on the second day of the CTP tour. She explained that fiscal constraints required difficult choices to prioritize must-fund needs and limited MDOT's ability to bring in new programs; MDOT is modernizing how it prioritizes asset management and new capacity and intends to offer greater clarity on trade-off decisions. MDOT Modal Presentations - State Highway Administrator Will Pines said SHA is advancing safety, state of good repair, and economic development despite fiscal constraints. He noted that this month (September 2026) SHA is starting a project to resurface Maryland 100 between Snowden River Parkway and Maryland 108, and is advancing operational and safety upgrades on I-70 between Maryland 32 and the Beltway, with data collection under way and a public workshop expected in 2027. On Maryland 32 from North Linden Church Road to I-70, Pines said that if funding is not authorized, no additional SHA capital program funding is available to support noise mitigation at this time. - District Engineer Andrew described the county-state relationship as collaborative and said SHA looks forward to continuing the Maryland 175 Columbia Gateway Project collaboration. - Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) representative Melissa Williams said the Key Bridge Rebuild continues in full force as MDTA's top priority. In fiscal year 2026, MDTA's vehicle recovery unit provided roadside assistance to more than 7,700 motorists at both Baltimore tunnels, and proposed toll changes will follow the statutory public toll-setting process and require MDTA board approval in fiscal year 2028. - A Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) representative said CTP funding will advance a project through 30% design, and that MTA supports Howard County with nearly $6 million in grants toward the purchase of one heavy-duty bus, two small buses, and the rideshare program. - A Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA) representative said BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport produces an economic impact of $11.5 billion annually and supports over 117,000 jobs. MAA supports more than 30 public-use airports, and the draft CTP focuses on critical state of good repair for airfields and airport terminals. Questions & Discussion - A Howard County council member, who noted they were closing out their tenure, described BWI noise problems created by NextGen, calling it a highway in the sky, and pressed for continued partnership among MDOT, MAA, the county roundtable, and the FAA on noise. Aircraft flyovers caused several pauses during the meeting. - The same council member recalled that when they last met with a neighborhood group, about 300 residents in a church said don't take away our ability to turn left or north on Route 29; the member asked MDOT to work with the community instead of simply building another right lane out of River's Edge. - The council member asked how Howard County can access MDOT's bus rapid transit (BRT) grant funding set aside for counties other than Montgomery County, and who administers it; MDOT offered to brief them offline. - The council member asked about the high percentage of wheelchair-accessible taxis and Ubers in the city and whether the state is examining that, citing Howard County's aging population. MTA said it is exploring the issue, including its taxi access program, noted that vendors are changing their business models, and committed to follow up. - Another elected official requested an update and the date of a public open house for an unspecified priority project; MDOT said it would follow up with details. - One official noted that potential alternatives considered for a corridor access project included a right-in/right-out design that would require drivers to make U-turns near Johns Hopkins or MD 32 to head in the desired direction. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the meeting was an information-sharing and listening session on Maryland's draft CTP. - Howard County officials expressed support for the draft CTP and urged continued investment in the Route 1 pedestrian safety projects, Maryland 175 Columbia Gateway access, I-70 and Maryland 32 improvements, and BWI noise mitigation. - Speakers requested MDOT follow-ups on BWI/FAA noise coordination, BRT grant set-aside access, wheelchair-accessible for-hire vehicle policy, and project briefings or open-house timing. - MDOT, SHA, and MTA committed to continuing the county partnership and providing offline follow-up on the questions raised.

Note: The meeting agenda and minutes list the date as September 16, 2026, but the provided instruction states the meeting took place on September 17, 2026. This discrepancy is noted here; the summary follows the instruction date. The Rochester Planning & Zoning Commission convened on September 17, 2026, with 8 members present (Commissioner Lisa Ross absent). The meeting addressed three public hearings, unanimous approval of consent agenda items, and a discussion on future presentations regarding the Unified Development Code (UDC) and parkland dedication fees. Consent Calendar - Minutes of August 12, 2026: Approved unanimously (8-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the open comment period or during any of the three public hearings. Discussion Items - Zone Change No. CD2026-002ZC (75th AZ, LLC): Staff presented a request to rezone a 15.75-acre site at the northwest corner of Highway 44 and Highway 4 from H (Holding Zone) to MXC (Mixed Use General). The applicant’s representative, Bill Tointon, noted the site was recently annexed and the zone change was the next step. Commissioners asked about future development plans; no specific plan was presented. The commission unanimously forwarded a recommendation of approval to the City Council. - Zone Change No. CD2026-001ZC (Stencil Group) & Major Modification No. CD2026-012MOD: Staff presented both items together for the Forte Senior Living Phase 4 project (3.83 acres). The zone change request was to rezone from MX-S (Mixed Use Street-Oriented) to R-3 (Medium Density Residential). The modification requested an increase in maximum building height from 48 feet to 56 feet 8 inches within R-3. Applicant representative Zach Moen (Loucks) spoke. During discussion, Commissioner Boyum questioned whether the MX-S zoning district’s original intent was being undermined by the change; staff explained that adjacent development patterns made R-3 more appropriate. On the zone change, the commission voted 7-1 to forward a recommendation of approval to the City Council (Commissioner Boyum dissenting). On the height modification, the commission voted 7-0-1 to approve subject to the condition that the zone change be approved by the City Council (Commissioner Boyum abstained). - Other Business: Staff provided a City Council recap of the September 9, 2026 meeting, noting approval of the Cassidy Heights subdivision (18 single-family homes). Commissioners discussed the frequency of major modification requests and the need to track patterns for future UDC updates. A motion passed (by consensus) to request two future presentations: (1) a 10-minute overview of the UDC’s intended outcomes from city staff, and (2) a presentation from the Parks and Recreation Department on parkland dedication fee collection and use, possibly incorporated into the year-end development report. Key Outcomes - Zone Change CD2026-002ZC: Forwarded recommendation of approval to City Council (8-0). - Zone Change CD2026-001ZC: Forwarded recommendation of approval to City Council (7-1). - Major Modification CD2026-012MOD: Approved with one condition (7-0-1, one abstention). - Future Presentations: Commission agreed to request a UDC overview presentation and a parks-department presentation on parkland dedication fees, to be scheduled at staff convenience, ideally by year-end.

The City of Alexandria's Planning & Zoning Department held its bi-monthly community meeting on September 17, 2026, led by Director Paul Stoddard. The meeting covered long-range planning (Duke Street revitalization), upcoming development cases, and several zoning text amendments. Staff presented updates and took questions from attendees via Q&A. Consent Calendar - No formal consent calendar was presented; all items were discussed individually. Public Comments & Testimony - No live public testimony was taken, but attendees submitted questions through the Q&A feature. Key questions addressed: substandard lot definitions, noticing procedures for administrative site plans, the relationship between historic preservation and building height/size, and progress on the Landmark Mall redevelopment. Staff answered each question during the Q&A session. Discussion Items - Duke Street Plan Update (Jeff Farner): Farner provided a status update on the Duke Street Small Area Plan. The plan has received over 4,000 participants' input, focusing on safety, transit, housing choices (including affordability), small business retention, parks, and public benefits. A draft plan will be released on September 29, 2026, with a community meeting on that date. The plan is a 20-year vision emphasizing transit-oriented development, preserving existing affordable housing, and creating opportunities for small businesses. - Development Activity (Nathan Randall): Randall summarized four upcoming development projects: - Townhouses with rear garages on Madison Street (streetscape improvements). - St. Stephen & St. Agnes Upper School: DSUP amendment for eight new lights, concessions, and pavilion. - Bishop Arton High School: DSP amendment to expand track, add fields, concessions, bleachers, and a new entrance plaza. - Carlisle Block P: Amendment to shift 60,000 sq ft from office to senior living (no footprint or height changes). - Non-Development Cases (Tony Lakola): Lakola presented multiple Special Use Permits (SUPs) and subdivisions, including: - 911 C N D Pendleton St (conversion of storage to dwelling). - 1913 Mount Vernon Ave (outdoor live entertainment at Delray Farmhouse Market). - 1 East Custis (new single-family home using pattern book). - 501 East Howell Ave (two-unit dwelling on substandard lot). - 108 North Quaker Lane (subdivision of 68,494 sq ft lot into two). - 218 East Alexandria Ave (vacation of right-of-way, alley paved). - 424 North Columbus (subdivision into two lots, variation needed). - 5535 Dawes Ave (resubdivision, variation needed). - One additional subdivision (30,351 sq ft lot into two, no variations). - Zoning Text Amendments: - Substandard Lots: Staff proposed allowing by-right development for most substandard lots (≥90% of zone minima, similar to surrounding lots) to streamline the process. Approximately 2,933 of 9,000 single-unit lots are substandard, concentrated in North Ridge, Beverly Hills, Rosemont, and Del Rey. SUPs would still be required for lots without frontage. - Historic Preservation: Amendments include: a new process for curb cuts in OHAD (reviewed by TES and preservation staff, BAR if needed); a codified BAR concept review for DSUPs (bulk characteristics first, architecture after DSUP approval); technical corrections; removal of $10 subscription fee; striking urban renewal as a basis; administrative approvals for rooftop screening; an appeals process for administrative decisions; BAR review of ATMs; clarified maintenance standards; and extension of BAR permit validity from 12 to 36 months. - Affordable Housing Administrative Site Plan (Nathan Randall): To comply with state legislation (YIGBY), the city will create a by-right approval process for affordable housing on tax-exempt land (owned ≥5 years by non-profits or religious organizations). At least 60% of units must be affordable (80% AMI for rental, 120% for ownership) for 30 years. Staff proposes an administrative site plan process with a 40-day review, no required noticing under state law (but staff recommends placarding and considering newspaper notice). Validity period of 5 years. Additional recommendations include raising the DSP threshold to 4 units and creating a streamlined admin pathway for smaller by-right projects (≤10 units or <30,000 sq ft non-residential). Key Outcomes - The Duke Street draft plan will be released on September 29, 2026, with a community meeting that same day. Final adoption is anticipated by December 2026. - Development cases (St. Stephen & St. Agnes, Bishop Arton, Carlisle Block P) are docketed for Planning Commission and City Council hearings in October and November 2026. - Non-development cases: Most are scheduled for hearings in October or November 2026; the SUP at 1913 Mount Vernon Ave was supported by Planning Commission and goes to City Council on the Saturday following the meeting (date not specified). - Zoning text amendments: - Substandard lot amendments will go to hearing in October 2026. - Historic preservation amendments will be presented in October/November 2026. - Affordable housing administrative site plan text amendments will be brought to November 2026 public hearings. - Staff will refine all draft ordinances based on community feedback received during the meeting and via online channels. - No votes were taken during the meeting; all items are at the proposal stage.

The Queen Creek Town Council held a special meeting on September 17, 2026, beginning at 11:00 AM. The meeting included ceremonial recognitions, committee reports, public comments, and a major discussion on proposed water utility fees. The council voted unanimously to initiate a 60-day public notice process for new and increased water fees, while committing to explore alternatives for irrigation customers. Other items included updates on capital improvement and transportation projects. Ceremonial Items and Proclamations - The council recognized Constitution Week with a proclamation read by Councilmember Martineau, noting the 239th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Winners of a town Constitution Week contest were honored. - Councilmember Brown read a proclamation for National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, highlighting services provided by the Queen Creek Unified School District Family Resource Center. - Vice Mayor McClure read a proclamation for Military Families Month, recognizing the Military Moms of Queen Creek and Santan Valley for 20 years of service. - The council recognized Christabel Emin, a third-year member of the Mayor's Teen Advisory Committee (MTAC), for her service as vice chair and volunteer contributions. - MTAC was presented with the Youth Enrichment Award from the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association for organizing a teen drive-in movie event. Committee Reports - MTAC Chair Tristan Streeter reported that MTAC met on August 11 and September 15, 2026. Plans for the upcoming Founders Day (September 19) and a new Teen Fall Fest (October 17) were discussed. - Councilmember Martinow reported on the Downtown Arts and Placemaking (DTAP) Advisory Committee meeting of September 3, which included elections for chair and vice chair, a review of murals for the Switch Yard Development, and judging of the Constitution Week contest. - PRAC Chair Denine Ryder reported on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee meeting of September 8. Key items: QC Heat Softball program had 548 participants, 153 volunteers contributing over 19,000 hours, 90% satisfaction, and $3,400 reinvested. Staff presented updates on water strategy, MTAC work plan, Placer.ai foot traffic data, and park usage. Six new PRAC members were welcomed. - Councilmember Benning reported on the Transportation Advisory Committee meeting of September 10. The committee approved minutes, elected Skylar Russell (chair) and Carrie Thomas (vice chair), and received updates on general plan, water strategy, CIP projects, low-cost high-impact projects, and the transportation safety action plan. Public Comments & Testimony - G. Richie (first public comment) expressed concerns about Flock safety cameras, arguing they invite misuse and abuse, and questioned the justification for continuous surveillance. - Multiple speakers addressed the proposed water resource fee during the public comment period for Item 9 (final action items): - A resident from a 30-lot irrigated neighborhood stated their annual water bill could reach nearly $21,000 by year six, totaling $83,000 over six years. He questioned why CAGRD-exempt properties should pay the fee and why septic users do not receive a wastewater credit. - Fernando Vigil (irrigation customer) said the fee could cost a quarter of his annual salary and blamed overbuilding for the water situation. - Wendy Feldman Kirk urged the council to study the impact on large-lot, septic, and CAGRD-exempt properties before adoption, asking that the historic distinction not be eliminated without analysis. - Robert Schneider (county island resident) said the fee would be life-changing and potentially force him and others to leave, noting that residents pay water bills but cannot use town parks. - Lance Coleman (irrigation customer) provided detailed calculations: his monthly irrigation bill could rise from $391 to $2,131 in year one, a 445% increase. He asked that irrigation customers be removed from the fee or a separate study be performed. - Amanda Parker argued the fee structure disproportionately favors high-density development over large lots, with multifamily receiving an 80% credit while water-only customers get none. She requested publication of usage data. - CJ Og (Orchard Ranch resident) said the fee would destroy the

Public Works Committee Meeting: Budget Hearings and Flood Response Update - September 17, 2026\n\nThe Indianapolis-Marion County City-County Council Public Works Committee met on September 17, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the City-County Building. The committee considered two proposals: the solid waste tax levy for 2027 and the 2027 budget for the Department of Public Works (DPW). DPW CFO Sam Barris provided updates on flood recovery costs and fuel tax reimbursements. Both proposals were unanimously recommended to the full council.\n\n Public Comments & Testimony\n- No public comments were made on either proposal.\n\n Discussion Items\n- Proposal No. 263, 2026 – Solid Waste Collection Special Service District Tax Levy: Jenny Carter, budget manager, explained that the proposal adopts the tax rate and levy for the district for 2027, mirroring information in Proposal 264. The committee voted unanimously to send it to the full council with a do pass recommendation.\n- Proposal No. 264, 2026 – Annual Budget (Public Works Portion): CFO Sam Barris provided updates on flood response costs, including an estimated $2.5 million for repairs to River Road (south of 96th Street) and $700,000 in other labor, materials, and disposal costs. The city is seeking reimbursement from the Federal Highway Administration for River Road and from FEMA for other costs. Barris also noted $14 million received from the state to offset the fuel tax suspension (ongoing through early October). The department received $15 million in GO bonds for a new operations facility. Questions from councilors covered ongoing $5 million annual stormwater fee contribution to roads, sidewalk and alley repair plans (with Chief Engineer Mark St. John explaining a master needs inventory and RFQ process for 2027), and appreciation for DPW's flood response. Councilor Gibson requested a district-level breakdown of sidewalk/ally projects; St. John indicated that locations would be selected by mid-2027. The committee voted unanimously to send the proposal to the full council with a do pass recommendation.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Proposal 263 passed unanimously (all ayes) to full council with do pass recommendation.\n- Proposal 264 passed unanimously (all ayes) to full council with do pass recommendation.\n- DPW will conduct a comprehensive post-flood assessment and provide results to the council and public.\n- DPW will provide a district-level breakdown of sidewalk and alley projects by mid-2027.\n- The committee adjourned after the votes.\n\nNote: No formal minutes were available; summary based on agenda and transcript. The date is confirmed as September 17, 2026.

The Land Use Subcommittee met to discuss a draft position paper on data center development, along with updates on several land-use applications and heritage projects. The meeting was called to order at 5:36 p.m. (the agenda listed Sept. 14, 2026, but the meeting occurred on Sept. 17 per official record). Data Center Position Paper (New Business) The subcommittee extensively reviewed a draft letter/position paper addressing data center growth in Loudoun County. Key points: - The paper calls for a "pause" on new data center applications and a comprehensive study via a "blue-ribbon panel" of experts to understand long-term impacts, especially with AI-driven energy demands. - Members debated terminology: "moratorium" is politically charged; recommended using "pause." The paper should avoid using "moratorium." - Discussion on existing county work groups: Phase 2 of Data Center Standards (CPAM) is moving forward with public input meetings Sept. 28 and 30. The subcommittee expressed concern that this process should be paused until broader study is done. - The paper will request the Board of Supervisors to suspend approvals until the panel completes its work, and also consider advocating for a state-level pause. - The subcommittee decided to task the Data Center Committee with providing specific examples of impacts to cultural, environmental, and scenic resources to strengthen the paper. - Timeline: The Board of Supervisors will consider a motion on a pause tomorrow (Sept. 18). The subcommittee will not finalize the paper until after that vote and plans to present it to the full Heritage Commission in October. Old Business - Spoonbill Energy Storage: Application still incomplete; cultural resource survey was rejected in August. No immediate action taken. - Micki Gordon Park: Under review; issues with relocation of recycling center and multi-use paths requiring additional archaeological survey. PRCS recommended signage coordination with Heritage Commission. - Event Center Proliferation: Member Emily reported a surge in pre-meeting applications for event centers in rural areas, possibly in anticipation of zoning changes. At least three active applications (Eastwind, Paxson Road, Picnic Woods) and nine pre-meetings in the past year. The subcommittee will monitor. Updates - National Conference Center: No new developments. - Paris Mountain Application: New submission faces issues – site entrance grading, multiple uses (restaurant, spa) submitted as by-right but likely requires special exception. Staff review pending. - Paxson Road Event Center: Stalled. - Goose Creek Stone Bridge: Engineering contract awarded ($750,000); heritage engineer not retained as requested. - Training Track (Army Meeting): Army non-committal on public access; they may need to demolish barns to build indoor ring. Archaeological work on family cemetery ongoing; public access allowed only with Army escort. - Preservation Plan: Monthly focus continues on various heritage topics (environmental, maintenance, archaeology, underrepresented communities, etc.). Key Outcomes - The data center position paper will be revised to include specific examples from the Data Center Committee and adjusted based on the Sep. 18 Board vote. - The subcommittee will not issue a letter before the Board vote; instead, the paper will be finalized for the full Heritage Commission meeting in October. - No votes taken at this subcommittee; all items were discussions and directives. - Discrepancy noted: Agenda dated Sept. 14, but meeting held Sept. 17.

On September 17, 2026, the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners held its second and final public hearing to adopt millage rates, fees, and budgets for fiscal year 2026-27 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027). The meeting began at 5:01 p.m. and lasted until the early morning of September 18. Commissioners voted on eight ordinances covering countywide general fund, debt service, unincorporated municipal service area (UMSA), fire rescue, library, proprietary budgets, and special assessment districts. Extensive public comment and board debate focused on public safety funding (Sheriff’s Office), transit service cuts, environmentally endangered lands (EEL) funding, water and sewer rate increases, and community-based organization (CBO) support. Consent Calendar - All eight budget ordinances (Items A–H) were approved after various amendments, with the following final votes: - Item A (Countywide General Fund Millage): Passed 11–1. - Item B (Bonded Debt Service Millage): Passed 12–1. - Item C (Countywide General Fund Budget): Passed 8–3 after multiple amendments. - Item D (UMSA Operating Millage): Passed 9–2. - Item E (UMSA Fund Budget): Passed 10–3. - Item F (Fire Rescue Service District Millage): Passed unanimously. - Item G (Library System Millage): Passed unanimously. - Item H (Proprietary and Other Budgets): Passed 10–3 (including bifurcation of water/sewer rate increase). Public Comments & Testimony Over 100 residents spoke, with positions on the following key issues: - Arts & Culture: Speakers (e.g., Heaven Jones, Mark Fahet, Pedro Diaz) urged continued and increased funding for the Department of Cultural Affairs, citing economic impact ($2.1 billion annually) and youth development. - Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL): Dozens (e.g., Melissa Ortega, Rachel Silverstein, Andrea Miró) requested restoring EEL funding to $20 million, emphasizing flood protection, storm surge reduction, and biodiversity. Some noted a 54% budget cut over two years. - Public Transit: Riders and advocates (e.g., Shakquis Floyd, Cathy Dos Santos, Thomas Bussey) opposed cuts to early morning and late-night bus service, warning that 45 routes before 6 a.m. and 38 after 10 p.m. would be eliminated. Many noted reliance on transit for work, school, and medical appointments. - Water & Sewer Rate Increase: Several speakers (e.g., Elizabeth Boone, Steven Vargas, David Putt) supported the proposed 6% rate adjustment, arguing it is needed for infrastructure compliance with federal consent decree and ocean outfall requirements. A few opposed, citing cumulative burden on families. - Sheriff’s Office Funding: Multiple speakers (e.g., Sharon Frazier, Keith Biggins) urged full funding for the Sheriff’s Office, emphasizing low starting salaries and understaffing relative to other Florida agencies. - Community-Based Organizations (CBOs): Representatives (e.g., Amanda Altman, Maria Giamont) requested a 3% increase in funding to sustain safety-net services, pointing to rising demand. - Illegal Dumping: Employees (e.g., Michael Estavillo, Jose Escobar) opposed cuts to the illegal dumping unit, noting 9 positions would be eliminated, impacting neighborhood cleanliness and public health. Discussion Items Sheriff’s Office Budget: Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz presented a request for a $55 million increase (total $1.2 billion), stating that $62.5 million is a mandatory collective bargaining obligation that the mayor’s proposed $55 million increase does not cover. She warned of canceling 6.5 academy classes, resulting in 180 fewer deputies by end of FY 2026-27. Mayor Levine Cava’s administration countered that the proposal funds all requested positions with a 6% attrition assumption, and that the Sheriff’s Office could hire as many as possible with carryover funds. After debate, Chairman Rodriguez offered an amendment allocating an additional $11.376 million from tax collector surplus to the Sheriff’s Office for personnel uses. The Sheriff declined to rule out appealing to the state if not fully funded. Transit Cuts: Mayor Levine Cava announced restoration of early-morning service (before 6 a.m.) on 45 routes costing $12.5 million. Late-night and eliminated routes remained unfunded. Commissioner Bastien proposed restoring her district’s eliminated routes, which evolved into a broader discussion. Ultimately, the board directed the administration to prepare a model for a 50-cent fare increase (by resolution on October 6) and to return with a plan to restore evening and eliminated routes, funded by the fare increase and other savings. EEL Funding: Commissioner Cohen Higgins moved to transfer $12 million from the utility service fee reserve to EEL for land acquisition and restoration. The motion passed 11–2. Additional EEL funding came from Commissioner Regalado’s motion to create a 501(c)(3) for EEL and explore naming rights and public donations. Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB): Chairman Rodriguez proposed $5 million to GMCVB for attracting major events, with a requirement for matching funds and clawback provisions. Passed 8–4 after debate. Illegal Dumping: Chairman Rodriguez moved $3.2 million from solid waste interest earnings to fully fund the illegal dumping unit, code enforcement, and litter pickup. Passed unanimously. Clerk of Court Funding: Commissioner Bastien’s motion to allocate $1.536 million from future services reserve to restore 14 positions in the Comptroller Finance Department passed unanimously. Hialeah Reverse Osmosis Plant: Commissioner Milian Orbis’s motion to continue dispute resolution with Hialeah and provide updates every 60 days passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Millage Rates Adopted: All millage rates approved as proposed (countywide, UMSA, fire, library, debt service). - Additional Sheriff Funding: $11.376 million from tax collector surplus allocated to Sheriff’s Office for personnel. - Transit Restoration: Early-morning bus service restored ($12.5 million); administration directed to prepare fare increase (50 cents) and return with plan to restore evening and eliminated routes by October 6. - EEL Funding: $12 million from utility service fee reserve allocated to EEL; also directed creation of 501(c)(3) and naming rights program. - Illegal Dumping: $3.2 million restored from solid waste interest earnings. - GMCVB: $5 million allocated for major events, contingent on matching funds and clawback provisions. - Community-Based Organizations: Funded at flat level (same as prior year); no increase approved. - Water & Sewer Rate Increase: Section 22 of Item H (6% rate adjustment) was bifurcated and approved 7–6. - Future Reserves: Remaining future services reserve balance after amendments approximately $5.8 million. - Amendment 3 Contingency Plan: Commissioner Orbis’s motion passed unanimously requiring a report within 60 days of election certification detailing projected revenue losses. - Next Steps: The board will consider a fare increase resolution and transit restoration plan at the October 6 meeting.

The Dunedin Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held a special meeting on September 17, 2026, at 4:30 PM. Key actions included approval of the previous meeting minutes, adoption of the FY 2027 operating and capital budget, receipt of advisory committee and director reports, and discussion of future projects and strategic issues. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance - The meeting was called to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by City Attorney Jen. Citizen Input - No members of the public came forward to speak on items not on the agenda. New Business 1.a Draft Minutes from July 23, 2026 - Staff recommended approval. No changes were requested. A motion was made, seconded, and the minutes were approved unanimously by voice vote. 1.b CRA Resolution 26-03 FY 2027 Operating and Capital Budget - Staff recommended approval. Economic Development Director Bob Irons presented the budget, highlighting major initiatives: - Main Street Streetscape: Widening sidewalks on the north side from the trail to Broadway with brick pavers and landscaping, planned for after Easter (April/May 2027). Construction will maintain one lane of traffic and use the north side parking for staging. - CRA Master Plan Update: A partnership with Forward Pinellas will fund an economic development study costing the CRA approximately $49,000 (total study cost estimated at up to $250,000). The plan will inform CRA activities beyond its 2033 sunset, including potential city continuation. - Additional projects: Bollard removal and landscaping near City Hall, and a sidewalk connection on Douglas Avenue. - Debt Service: $9.1 million line item includes $440,000 for existing property debt on Scotland and placeholder borrowing for a potential parking garage. The garage financing would likely extend past 2033, with CRA revenue then flowing to the general fund. City Manager Jennifer Bramley emphasized planning for Amendment 3 impacts. - Public Comment: None. - Board Discussion: - Commissioner Gow questioned the debt service and was informed it is largely a placeholder pending commission decision on the parking garage. Financing would be a general government loan with competitive rates. - Commissioner Dugard noted the diminishing ending fund balance (from $1.6 million to $727,000) due to capital projects and asked about the garage's necessity. Bob Irons responded that the CRA pays over $200,000 annually in parking leases, the downtown asset exceeds $300 million, and at-risk leased parking (Ocean Optics, First United Methodist Church, Artisan) is disappearing, justifying the garage. - Commissioner Gow raised the possibility of dissolving the CRA, arguing the $1.1-$1.2 million in city property tax increment could go to the general fund. Bob Irons countered that the CRA leverages county funds and generates additional revenue through franchise fees and tourism. - Vote: The resolution passed unanimously on a roll call vote (Commissioners Sandberg, Gow, Vice Mayor Walker, Commissioner Dugard, Mayor Frantz all voted aye). 1.c Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Committee Chair Report - Kim Gale (Vice Chair) presented the report in place of Chair Alan Hale. She summarized the May 6, 2026 committee meeting, which included: - Approval of minutes. - Discussion of land development code updates. - Director's report covering Grand Oak Park progress, Main Street Exchange development (main street hotel/retail/restaurant), and downtown housing trends (Flats project with 78 units). - Pride event updates: $15,000 donated to charities, $38,000 remaining for next year. - Citizen input on managing multiple downtown construction projects simultaneously. - No questions from the board. 1.d Community Redevelopment Agency Director's Report - Bob Irons reported on project milestones: - Skinner Boulevard: Completed transformation from a four-lane state road to a two-lane boulevard with bike lanes, landscaping, and irrigation. Total grant funding was approximately $7 million. - Grand Oak Park: Expected completion in a few weeks (restrooms in March 2027). The pocket park features a pergola, brick pavers, and seating. - Main Street Exchange: Hotel/retail/restaurant project by Bill Mazas; construction crane active on Douglas Avenue. Demolition of Ocean Optics parking lot (48 spaces) expected around June 2027. - CRA Master Plan: Kickoff in October 2026. - Recognition: Rails-to-Trails Conservancy selected Dunedin as the starting point for a coast-to-coast bike ride; Dunedin to be named Florida's first official Trail Town. - Board Discussion: - Commissioner Sandberg inquired about using Grand Oak Park as a wedding venue. Bob Irons and City Manager noted it would require programming coordination with Parks and Recreation but could generate revenue. - Commissioner Sandberg raised concerns about the layout of merchants at the end of the seasonal market and suggested moving the market. Bob Irons indicated staff is planning a transition of the Saturday market to Loudon Avenue and the city parking lot to alleviate wear on Pioneer Park and spur east end development. One more year at the current location before transition. - Commissioner Sandberg reported a one-way alley near Vescalini being used the wrong way due to construction. Bob Irons will work with engineering to add markings. - Commissioner Sandberg asked about the Gateway property (purchased for $2.1 million years ago). Developer Joe Kokalakis is waiting to see progress on the Main Street Exchange before moving forward; no immediate timeline. - Commissioner Sandberg noted the Honey Lane/Casadina building remains fenced with no recent progress. Owner paused due to interest rates. - Commissioner Sandberg inquired about the COP property (former City-Owned Property, site with arsenic soil). DEP clearance expected within two months, potential listing in January 2027; developers have expressed interest. - Commissioner Gow reiterated his earlier comment suggesting dissolution of the CRA. Mayor Frantz asked if there was support for staff analysis of the CRA's financial benefits versus dissolution. Vice Mayor Walker supported a financial analysis including the parking garage impact. Mayor Frantz noted the $1.2 million county leverage and expressed desire to continue the CRA but respected the suggestion. Key Outcomes - Approved: July 23, 2026 CRA meeting minutes (unanimous). - Approved: CRA Resolution 26-03 FY 2027 Operating and Capital Budget (unanimous roll call). - Received: Advisory Committee Chair Report and Director's Report. - Directives: - Staff to study the alley issue near Vescalini and add directional markings. - Staff to explore Grand Oak Park programming for potential wedding venue use. - Staff to continue transition plans for the Saturday market to Loudon Avenue/parking lot. - Discussion only: Commissioner Gow's suggestion to dissolve the CRA will be considered for further financial analysis; no formal motion made.

The Annapolis City Council held a work session on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Mayor John T. Chambers, Jr. City Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order at 5:01 PM by Mayor Gavin Littmann and began with announcements that FEMA had released $35 million in funds for the city, including $33 million from the original grant and $2.5 million for stormwater upgrades. The sole agenda item was a briefing on the proposed development at 932 and 935 Spa Road, presented by Central Services Director Matt Flinner. The work session focused on environmental remediation, a new government center, potential workforce housing, and the city's real estate strategy. Discussion Items - FEMA Funding Announcement: Mayor Littmann announced that after many years, FEMA released $35 million, which includes the original $33 million grant and an additional $2.5 million for stormwater management. He credited Team Maryland and former Mayor Buckley for setting the project in motion. - Spa Road Property Overview: Director Flinner presented the history and current status of the Spa Road site, which includes 935 (east side) and 932 (west side). The east side lot 1, a sliver of land from the tree line to Spa Road, is the intended location for a new government center. The west side is planned for workforce housing in partnership with the Housing Authority of the City of Annapolis (HACA). The city's fuel site on the north side will remain in the short term. - Environmental Remediation: The site has been used as a landfill and incinerator, and later for automotive maintenance, creating contamination. Central Services has conducted Phase I and II environmental assessments, identifying recognized environmental conditions (RECs) from the landfill and oil/grease. Remediation plans (e.g., capping, soil removal, vapor barriers) will depend on the final site development plans. A $4 million Brownfields grant from the EPA (awarded June 2026) will fund cleanup, but must be spent within four years (starting October 2026). The Resilience Authority holds the grant and will oversee procurement. - Current Lease and Urgency: The city leases the Gorman Street building for $600,000 per year, with the lease expiring in 2030. The city has paid rent for 30 years. Mayor Littmann emphasized that 2030 is soon, and planning must begin immediately to avoid needing to renew the lease. Director Flinner noted that after feasibility, design, and construction, the project could take 4-5 years. - Building Options and Constraints: The Development plans are in “step zero.” A feasibility study (6 months) will determine how large a building can be built on lot 1, given critical area regulations that allow only 50% site coverage under current zoning (R3). Rezoning to MX could allow up to 90% coverage. Potential building costs are estimated at $10-20 million, comparable to the Hudson Street facility ($16 million). The building could house city offices, and possibly include ground-floor retail (coffee shop, salon) to serve employees and HACA residents. - Council Questions and Positions: - Alderman Smith Brown asked for total rent paid on Gorman Street over 30 years to justify building ownership. She expressed support for affordable housing but concerns about residential use on the east side due to runoff and creek health. - Alderman Thorpe emphasized urgency and the need for a clear timeline. He urged Director Flinner to present bold, aspirational plans rather than compromised solutions. - Alderman Savage stressed keeping the site for public use, cautioning against selling or gifting land. He highlighted coordination with the Resilience Authority's transit feasibility study for the West Street Corridor, which may affect Spa Road planning. He also noted the opportunity to improve cycling and transit connectivity. - Alderman Shandemaier questioned the Brownfields grant trigger (when terms signed), procurement risks (city’s slow process), and prevailing wage requirements. He recommended relocating the fuel site to a fire station to free up land. - Alderman Johnson expressed concern about traffic congestion and the need for community meetings to inform nearby residents. - Mayor Littmann prioritized owning rather than leasing, and suggested that a location not in downtown could provide parking and be more cost-effective. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The work session served as a kickoff for council guidance. - Director Flinner will complete the feasibility study in approximately six months and return to council with findings on buildable area, parking, and site coverage. - The council expressed strong support for a new government center, but varied on housing and transit integration. Mayor Littmann and Alderman Savage stressed public ownership of land and caution about residential use. - Next steps include public feedback sessions (required by EPA grant), traffic and parking studies, and coordination with the Resilience Authority on transit planning. - Director Flinner will provide a decision-tree analysis with options (e.g., Gorman Street purchase, leasing elsewhere, building at Spa Road). Council asked for a comprehensive real estate plan for the city, including cataloging city-owned properties and market opportunities. - The city’s real estate manager position (recently approved) will help develop a strategic 10-year real estate plan.