The Public Meeting Index

The Hooksett Economic Development Committee met on September 16, 2026 to discuss business tax incentives, TIF district progress, traffic improvements, sewer expansion for major retailers, a potential chip manufacturer, and concerns about a data center in Bow. The meeting was chaired by Anthony Poole with members Jim Sullen, Matt Barrett, Holden Bochman, Jim Petrie, and town staff Brian and Dana. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the previous month were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Marmon Wire and Cable Tax Credit: Town council approved a 25% business tax credit (not the requested 30%) for the Marmon facility at 18 Legends Drive. The 260,000-square-foot building is about halfway through steel erection and visible from the safety center. - TIF Info Night: A TIF information night was held on September 8, but turnout was low due to voting day. The presentation from last year needs tweaks. Another info night is planned for early November; the date will be coordinated with Leanne. - Traffic Improvements Recap: Members reviewed the previous month's discussion with Councillor Stevens regarding Hooksett Road, Route 3A, and toll plaza relocation. Stevens was receptive but noted limited state funds for non-state roads. - Bass Pro Shops and Sewer Expansion: The Bass Pro septic system is failing, spurring urgency. The committee met with Bass Pro representatives (including the current manager and staff from Missouri and Arkansas) to discuss a sewer line under the Merrimack River. Bass Pro expressed willingness to contribute funds they would have spent on a new septic system. A dry line exists from the building to the road. Outreach has also been made to Walmart, Target, and Market Basket, all expressing interest in hooking up once pricing is available. Ken (sewer department) is developing per-acre cost estimates and may waive connection fees if businesses contribute to the main line. The committee plans to present to the town council on October 14, potentially with Bass Pro and Walmart representatives in attendance to demonstrate business buy-in. - Vicor Chip Manufacturing at Exit 11: Vicor, a chip manufacturer from Andover, MA, has purchased the 54-acre Tebo property at exit 11 for approximately $7 million (closing occurred the prior week). They plan 300,000–380,000 square feet of facilities with 680–800 employees over three shifts. The site has water and sewer access via a nearby pumping station and underboring. They will need a variance because the current commercial zoning does not permit industrial manufacturing. The committee sees potential for leveraging the project to advance state road improvements and possibly toll exemptions for employees. - Data Center in Bow: Chairman Poole raised concerns about a proposed data center in Bow at the old coal power plant. His research indicates data centers consume significant electrical resources (a small center can use 300 GW/year vs. 96 GW for an average region) and can cause regional rate increases. The committee discussed that if Bow's planning board deems the project a regional impact, surrounding towns like Hooksett would receive notification and could comment. Members resolved to monitor the situation. - Other Development Updates: Brady Sullivan is purchasing the Heads Pond property (Manchester Sands) with plans for 1,200–1,400 residential units. Sewer capacity upgrades are underway, including a new 15-inch pipe on Thompson Road. A Brady Sullivan North parcel request for a design committee appears on the planning board agenda. The Pluid site (Lord's Sand & Gravel) remains idle. The old Texaco station is being demolished; testing found no contamination. The sign will be preserved. Key Outcomes - The committee will present the sewer expansion proposal (with business support) to the town council on October 14, 2026. - Ken will provide pricing for the sewer line to Bass Pro, Walmart, Target, and other businesses. - The next TIF info night is targeted for early November; date to be confirmed. - Vicor's zoning variance request will be monitored; committee members may advocate for road improvements and toll relief in coordination with Councillor Stevens. - The committee will track the Bow data center and participate in any regional impact process. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 21, 2026.

The Hooksett Town Council met on September 16, 2026, to review proposed budgets for FY2028, discuss economic development initiatives, including sewer expansion and a potential chip manufacturer, and consider warrant articles. The meeting included presentations from department heads and public input. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The council approved the minutes from the previous meeting (August 2026) unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Marmon Wire and Cable Tax Credit: The town council approved a 25% business tax credit (not the requested 30%) for Marmon's facility at 18 Legends Drive. The building is 260,000 square feet, with steel halfway up. The tax credit was noted as approved. - TIF Info Night: A TIF information night was held on September 8 (voting day) with low turnout. A revised presentation by Jim will be shared. Another info night is planned for early November; the council will finalize a date. - Traffic Discussion: A recap of a meeting with Councilor Stevens regarding traffic improvements on Hooksett Road, Route 3A, and the toll plaza. The state has limited funds for roads. Next steps include an introduction to the governor's council on transportation. - Bass Pro Shops Septic System: Bass Pro's septic system is failing. The TIF committee met with Bass Pro representatives (from Missouri). Bass Pro is willing to contribute funds toward extending sewer lines. A dry line exists from their building to the road. The town administrator is working on pricing. The TIF committee may present to the town council on October 14, possibly with Bass Pro and Walmart representatives. - Vicor Potential Development at Exit 11: Vicor, a chip manufacturer from Andover, MA, has closed on the Tebo property (54 acres) at Exit 11 for approximately $7 million. They plan a 300,000-380,000 square foot facility with 680-800 employees over three shifts. They will need a variance (not rezoning) as the site is commercial. Water and sewer are available. The council discussed potential traffic impacts and the possibility of toll exemptions for employees. The project aligns with the governor's focus on chip manufacturing. - Data Center in Bow: Chair LaLiberty noted that a data center proposed for the old coal plant in Bow could have regional impacts, including increased electrical rates. The council discussed regional impact notification processes. The Bow planning board may consider it soon. - Budget Reviews: The council reviewed proposed budgets for FY2028 for several departments: - Town Clerk: $97,563 (1.14% increase). Increase due to higher pay for supervisors of the checklist and moderator; part-time hours reduced to align with election cycles. - Library: Proposed budget includes restoring hours to 9:30 AM–7:30 PM (from 10 AM–7 PM) and increasing collection funds. Library staffing is 77.72% of operating budget, comparable to peers. Councilor Duhaim questioned payroll efficiency; library director offered to provide role details. - Conservation Commission: $1,095 (same as last year). Minimal increase for training and dues. - Cemetery Commission: $1,402 (46% increase, $439 more). For hiring a sexton to maintain records and grounds. - Police Department: $6,387,879 (2.73% increase). Includes a 12% health insurance increase, reduced NH retirement costs, and a freeze on one position. Vehicle purchases shifted to a warrant article. Chief noted hybrid cruisers are now same price as gas and save $2,000-$3,000 annually in fuel. - Fire Department: $5,228,444 (1.87% increase). Includes a 12% health insurance increase, reduced retirement costs, and a frozen position. The department requested an additional $3,023 for professional services based on updated pricing. - Warrant Articles: The council reviewed a list of 25 potential warrant articles, including capital reserves for vehicles, equipment, revaluation, and election poll pads. The town administrator recommended using fund balance for revaluation ($250,000) and police cruisers. Councilor Sullivan noted that combining articles had been tried and was not favored by the budget committee or voters. Key Outcomes - Budget Approval: The council voted (5-1) to approve the FY2028 operating budget of $22,614,964 (a 1.24% increase) and send it to the budget committee. Councilor Duhaim voted no, seeking a lower increase. The budget includes the additional $3,023 for the fire department professional services. - MS 535 Financial Report: The council unanimously approved signing the MS 535 report for the period ending June 30, 2026, showing an unassigned fund balance of $7.3 million (up from $5.6 million). The council will decide later on applying excess fund balance to tax rates or warrant articles. - Next Steps: The TIF committee will present to the town council on October 14, 2026, regarding sewer expansion with potential business contributions. The budget committee will review the proposed budget in October and November. The next town council meeting is scheduled for October 21, 2026.

The Saint Paul City Council met on September 16, 2026 at 3:30 PM in the Council Chambers. All seven council members were present. The meeting covered consent agenda items, a discussion of a federal Safe Streets for All grant, a budget presentation from the St. Paul Port Authority, public hearings on a salt storage ordinance and multiple Xcel Energy franchise fee ordinances, and numerous other resolutions and assessments. The meeting adjourned at 4:29 PM. Consent Agenda - Items 2 through 15 (except Item 6, which was pulled for separate discussion) were approved by unanimous vote (7-0). Key actions included: approving a labor agreement with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (RES 26-1364), authorizing various agreements for police, fire, and safety inspections (RES 26-1377, RES 26-1546, RES 26-1548, RES 26-1555), approving a tobacco shop license change of ownership (RES 26-1542), directing adverse action against a tobacco license with a $500 penalty (RES 26-1566), accepting a travel scholarship from the Knight Foundation (RES 26-1568), approving meeting minutes (Min 26-1), and approving reimbursement for the Ward 6 Budget Event (RES 26-1582). All were adopted. Public Comments & Testimony - Murph Dawkins (Ward 7, representing RONITOS) testified in favor of the four Xcel Energy franchise fee ordinances (Ord 26-40, 26-41, 26-43, 26-44). He stated that the new fees are more equitable because they return 50% of the franchise fee to low-income residents on the LIHEAP program, and also shift a greater share of the fee burden from residential to commercial customers. - John Purdy (West Side resident) testified on Ord 26-40 and Ord 26-43 (gas franchise fee). He argued that the discount for low-income residents would not benefit renters in legacy apartment buildings (318 identified buildings) where tenants do not pay gas bills directly because the building has a single gas meter (and Xcel classifies those accounts as commercial). He claimed this creates a 5% gap between low-income homeowners and low-income renters. He submitted a list of properties. Discussion Items - Item 6 – Safe Streets for All Grant (RES 26-1460): The council pulled this from consent. David Peterson (Transportation Planner, Public Works) presented the grant agreement with the Federal Highway Administration. The grant totals approximately $18.1 million ($14 million federal + $4 million state match). Funds will be used for low-cost safety improvements (high-visibility crosswalks, curb extensions, traffic circles, median refuges, beacons, reflective signal back plates) along about 40 miles of the city's high-injury network. The project has a five-year timeline: preliminary design (2027), final design (2028), construction (2029-2030), and closeout (2031). The council asked about specific intersection lists and public engagement; staff noted those will be developed during year one. The resolution was adopted unanimously (7-0). - Item 16 – St. Paul Port Authority 2027 Budget Presentation (SR 26-185): CFO Mike Solomon presented. He highlighted the Port's role as an economic engine, its barge terminal infrastructure projects (e.g., $18M dockwall rehab at Barge Terminal 2, $8M phase one and $10M phase two at Barge Terminal 1, and a $38M federal grant application for grade separation at South Port Terminal). The Port's 2026 operating budget is 35% supported by property tax levy. For 2027, the mayor proposed a $75,000 increase in the operating levy to cover inflationary costs, but the Port still projects a $125,000 gap which it will address internally. The Port's mandatory levy is capped at 0.01813% of the city's market value; the proposed levy would use less than 50% of that capacity. The Port also plans to decertify three TIF districts early (Great Northern North and South, Energy Lane) returning about $66 million in tax base. The presentation was received and filed. Key Outcomes - Salt Storage Ordinance (Ord 26-39): Public hearing was held; no testimony. The hearing was continued to September 23, 2026 for final adoption. Unanimous (7-0). - Xcel Energy Franchise Fee Ordinances (Ord 26-40, 26-41, 26-43, 26-44): Public hearings were held and closed. All four ordinances were laid over to September 23, 2026 for final adoption. Unanimous (7-0). - Fire Department Resolutions: - RES PH 26-123: Accepted $1,250,000 federal earmark for Burn Building Restoration. Adopted. - RES PH 26-255: Accepted $5,467 from scrap metal recycling. Adopted. - RES PH 26-256: Accepted $30,000 state grant for apprenticeship program. Adopted. - Assessment Ratifications: - RES PH 26-176: Ratified assessment for sanitary sewer line repair. Adopted. - RES PH 26-180/181: Approved Seventh Place Mall O&M assessments for 2025 and 2026. Adopted. - RES PH 26-192: Approved Grand/Snelling parking lot O&M assessment for 2027. Adopted. - Sound Level Variances: Approved for University of St. Thomas football games (RES PH 26-248), Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon (RES PH 26-251), Get Your Rear in Gear Twin Cities (RES PH 26-252), and Xcel Energy infrastructure project at Eagle Parkway (RES PH 26-253). All adopted unanimously (7-0). - Legislative Hearing Consent Agenda (Items 33–69): Approved as amended with unanimous vote (7-0). Notable amendments: - Item 40 (Appeal of Richard Schoolmeesters at 1111 Fourth Street East): Granted compliance extension to October 16, 2026. - Item 62 (RLH AR 26-54): Referred to October 6, 2026 Legislative Hearing. - Item 64 (RLH AR 26-56): Deleted 1166 Colette Place for separate consideration, referred to September 22, 2026 Legislative Hearing. - Item 65 (RLH AR 26-57): Deleted 1101 Hoyt Avenue West and 1431 Arundel Street for separate consideration, referred back to September 22, 2026 Legislative Hearing.

The Transportation Committee of the Annapolis City Council met on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 4:00 PM in City Council Chambers under Chair Alderwoman Allsup-Johnson. The committee heard a Safety and Mobility Plan update, a Phase 1 Parking Reform Work Group update, a Transportation Department update, and considered two parking-related ordinances. No vote was taken on O-12-26, and O-17-26 was postponed. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved. The July 22, 2026 meeting minutes were approved by motion; the agenda identified them as special meeting minutes, while the motion described them as regular meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - The chair acknowledged online public comments, specifically thanking testimony related to the parking reform work group. Discussion Items - ID-169-26 Safety and Mobility Plan Discussion: Planning staff presented a mobility action plan supported by Safe Streets for All funds and aligned with Annapolis Ahead 2040 and the county visioning process. The plan will update the bicycle network, recommend complete-streets improvements, include public engagement, and is targeted for completion in spring 2028. Staff also reported on the school helmet and safe-walking program, positive comments on the new Tyler Street bike lane treatment, and the near-completion of the Drop Bike bike-share contract. - ID-173-26 Parking Reform Work Group Update - Phase 1: City Manager Yolanda Lewis and Transportation Director Marcus Moore reported that nearly 40 percent of constituent services cases from March to June 2026 were parking-related, prompting the work group. It produced 12 recommendations across five objectives: unified customer experience, enforcement reform, revenue sustainability, capacity and mobility, and long-term growth. Phase 2 will include a community survey and at least one public forum. The work group discussed a single parking platform and one-vendor model, a benchmarking rate study, intergovernmental coordination with the county, and preserving resident access during event parking. - ID-11-26 Transportation Department Update: Director Moore reported the department is transitioning to a new permit-and-enforcement platform, performance metrics were slightly up by less than 1 percent, and the RP for the build is expected to go out before the end of September or in the first week of October. - O-12-26 Removing Forbes Street and Monterey Avenue from Special Residential Parking District No. 5: The committee discussed the legislation with the primary sponsor absent. A Transportation Board member argued that on-street parking is a public amenity, said the area already has abundant parking, and questioned whether a two-street removal was the right scope compared with addressing the district more broadly. Committee members discussed postponing rather than acting without the sponsor, and staff offered additional information for the full council vote. No final action was taken. - O-17-26 Right to Park in Front of Residential Private Driveways: The committee considered the legislation introduced by Alderman Smith-Brown. Questions included enforcement and how drivers would know vehicle and license-plate information without police involvement. The committee agreed to postpone action for one meeting, invite the lead sponsor and Alderman Thorpe, and allow for potential amendments. Key Outcomes - Approved agenda and the July 22, 2026 minutes. - Received informational updates on the Safety and Mobility Plan, Parking Reform Work Group Phase 1, and Transportation Department operations; no action taken. - Took no final action on O-12-26. - Postponed O-17-26 for one meeting and scheduled further sponsor and amendment discussion.

The Public Safety Committee met on September 16, 2026, at 4:05 PM for its annual Law Enforcement Appreciation Program. The meeting featured prayers, remarks from city officials and the police foundation, and recognition of Officer of the Year, Rookie of the Year, and unit awards from LMPD, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, and Metro Corrections. Committee members expressed strong support for law enforcement. The only pending legislation (R-120-26) was held in committee without discussion. Special Discussion: Law Enforcement Appreciation Program - Opening and Prayer: Chair Dan Seum called the meeting to order at 4:05 PM. Bishop Steven Kelsey (Jefferson County Sheriff's Office) led an invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. - Remarks by Chair Seum: He noted that September is Law Enforcement Appreciation Month and this was the second annual ceremony. - Misty Wright (Mayor's General Counsel): Highlighted inter-agency collaboration, including the Sustained Focus Improvement (SFI) strategy that led to a 50% decrease in shootings in high-violence areas as of end of 2025. She also cited the Bardstown Road corridor coordinated response. - Steve Bass (Board Chair, Louisville Metro Police Foundation): Reported that the foundation raised $2 million for a police wellness center and thanked Metro Council for a $500,000 investment in the Repeat Offenders Initiative. - Recognition of Awardees: Proclamations were presented for: - LMPD: Second Division Impact Unit (Unit of the Year); Fourth Division Officer of the Year Eric Burnett; Fifth Division Officer of the Year Juliano Lutz and Rookie of the Year John Cornette; Sixth Division Officer of the Year Alex Thomas and Rookie of the Year Brett Milliner; Seventh Division Officer of the Year Andrew Woodard and Rookie of the Year Jaron Crittenden; Eighth Division Officer of the Year Derek Williams. - Jefferson County Sheriff's Office: Deputy of the Year Gene Fay and Rookie of the Year Tyler Franklin. - Metro Corrections: Sergeant of the Year James Brooks, Officer of the Year Summer Hendricks, and Rookie of the Year Isaac Garrett. - Committee Member Remarks: Each member spoke in support of law enforcement: - Vice Chair Tammy Hawkins: Shared her personal journey from negative experiences to building trust; thanked officers for their responsiveness. - Councilman Andrew Owen: Noted progress in rebuilding community trust over four years. - Councilwoman Ginny Mulvey-Woolridge: Encouraged officers to lean on each other; acknowledged the unseen work. - Councilwoman Betsy Ruhe: Emphasized the toll of constant stress and thanked officers. - Councilman Jonathan Joseph: Quoted scripture and expressed gratitude for officers' sacrifice. - Councilman Markus Winkler (virtual): Thanked officers for doing work he could not do. - Councilwoman Shameka Parrish-Wright (virtual): Commended awardees and stressed constitutional policing and human rights. - Councilman Scott Reed (virtual): Shouted out Major Tatum and suburban departments. - Chair Seum read the poem “I’m a Police Officer” and reaffirmed the committee’s support. Pending Legislation - R-120-26: A resolution authorizing the Mayor to accept $38,000 from the Kentucky Fire Commission for a training facility grant to be administered by the Louisville Fire Department. This item was held in committee; no discussion or vote occurred. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; all business was limited to the appreciation program. - The meeting adjourned at 4:55 PM. - The next Public Safety Committee meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 4:00 PM.

The Zoning and Planning Committee considered six items: two zone changes, three special use permits (SUP), and one local landmark designation. The committee made recommendations to the full City Council, including approval for most cases and disapproval for a proposed gas station SUP after strong community opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 5 (Gas Station SUP): Multiple residents from the Old West End neighborhood spoke in opposition. Gregory Kane (411 Boston Place) noted the applicant owns multiple gas stations in Detroit and does not live in Toledo, and argued the area already has five gas stations within a mile. Carol Couchet (2483 Scottwood Ave), a 30-year resident, cited concerns about gang activity and violence near existing gas stations. Sue Jones (2516 North Detroit, Detroit Stop) spoke in favor, stating the neighborhood needs a gas station and that negative activity is not exclusive to her store. Tammy Mikelack (2056 Scottwood Ave) presented on behalf of the Women of the Old West End Association, arguing the proposal fails to meet approval criteria under Toledo Municipal Code Section 1111.0706, including incompatibility with the Forward Toledo plan, lack of public need (six gas stations and six convenience stores within one mile), negative impacts on safety, property values, and environmental concerns. Tony Moore (2369 Robinwood) and Lori Hammond (921 Nessawood) also opposed, with Hammond questioning transparency and noting the owner did not provide renderings. Lynn Sheehan (444 Kenilworth Ave) raised safety concerns about unregistered fuel tanks and urged support for thoughtful planning. Joyce Singer (662 Collins St) listed 14 gas stations/convenience stores within a two-mile radius, arguing these businesses take advantage of the underserved community. - Final Public Comment: Richard Arnold (3305 Middlesex) addressed a recent settlement (Singletary v. City of Toledo) related to a group home, urging the committee to revisit group home policies to avoid future litigation. Discussion Items - Case 1 – Zone Change (1302 Kelsey Ave): Applicant Macy Obu requested a change from CO (Office Commercial) to RD6 (Duplex Residential) to convert a legacy commercial building back to residential use. The property was previously residential and is surrounded by residential. Plan Commission recommended approval with no opposition. Councilmember Gaddis recommended approval. - Case 2 – Zone Change (3910 Haverhill Dr): Applicant Craig Joseph requested a change from IL (Limited Industrial) to CR (Regional Commercial) to restore an existing commercial use. The property had been changed to industrial but plans for a warehouse fell through. A tenant plans a used car business. Plan Commission recommended approval with no opposition. The committee member representing the district (Chair Gaddis? – unclear) recommended approval. - Case 5 – Special Use Permit – Gas Station (2485 N Detroit Ave): Applicant Boron Gobo requested an SUP to reopen a gas station with convenience store (no alcohol, no lottery initially). Plan Commission recommended approval in a 3-2 split vote with 38 conditions. Two neighborhood meetings were held; the second was well attended with concerns about traffic safety and land use. Councilmember Driscoll argued the use is not walkable and contradicts the Forward Toledo plan, and questioned how the transportation department approved the site without a left-turn lane. Councilmember McPherson expressed concern that the applicant lives in Michigan, does not know the community, and has unpaid taxes. President Williams recommended disapproval based on code criteria (safety, property values, environmental impact). No objection was raised. - Case 3 – Special Use Permit – Tow-Away Vehicle Storage (5825 Angola Rd): Applicant Eric Stearns (PySecki Towing) requested an SUP for storage of tow-away vehicles. The property has a long history of transportation-related use. Plan Commission staff recommended disapproval due to a spacing requirement near residential, but Plan Commission recommended approval (5-0) with 29 conditions and two waivers. No public opposition. Councilmember Martinez recommended approval with a one-year review to ensure compliance. - Case 4 – Special Use Permit – Scrap and Salvage Facility (4103 LeGrange St): Applicant Gary Gersick (on behalf of RM Recycling) requested an SUP to expand an existing operation. Plan Commission recommended approval with 44 conditions and three waivers. The applicant requested modifications to waive conditions on parking, gravel surfacing, sewer inspection, and a sign. Director Catrell noted the sign should be brought down per code. Councilmember Driscoll supported retaining the sign condition. Councilwoman Morris visited the site and recommended approval with most waivers approved but sign condition retained and parking waiver disapproved. - Case 6 – Local Landmark Designation – Dura Building (4500 N Detroit Ave): Ellen Rodriguez (Thomas Porter Architects) presented the history of the Dura Manufacturing Company, a major automotive parts manufacturer with over 300 patents, which operated from 1928. The building is proposed for warehousing and light industrial reuse. Plan Commission staff supported the designation to enable state tax credits. No opposition. Councilmember Gaddis expressed enthusiasm for preserving history. The committee member for District 6 recommended approval. - Director’s Report: Director Catrell previewed upcoming studies: modifications to industrial site plan review thresholds for small additions, a gas station study (likely November), the zoning code rewrite (consultant Code Studio to present in third week of October with community engagement), progress on stock designations, group home reasonable accommodation policies (in coordination with Ability Center and Fair Housing Center), an industrial study, and a complete streets guide. Key Outcomes - Case 1: Recommended approval by committee. Will go to full City Council on October 6, 2026, at 4 p.m. The applicant does not need to attend. - Case 2: Recommended approval by committee. Will go to full City Council on October 6. - Case 5: Recommended disapproval by committee (based on safety, property values, environmental impacts). Will go to full City Council on October 6. - Case 3: Recommended approval with conditions and waivers, plus a one-year review. Will go to full City Council on October 6. - Case 4: Recommended approval with conditions, with specific recommendations on waivers: the sign waiver (Condition 40) was recommended to be retained (sign must be brought down), the parking waiver (TMC 1107.1202) was recommended for disapproval, the gravel waiver for the southern area (TMC 1107.1906) was recommended for disapproval (the applicant accepted this), while other waivers were approved. Will go to full City Council on October 6. - Case 6: Recommended approval for local landmark designation. Will go to full City Council on October 6.

Note on the date: the transcript opens with “September 15th, 2026,” while the meeting’s recorded timestamp is September 16, 2026 at 06:00:48 UTC. Consistent with the meeting record, this summary uses September 16, 2026. Opening & Invocation - Councilmember Baldimia Alkala was announced as associated with the invocation, and Imam Omar Hazim of the Islamic Center of Topeka delivered the evening’s prayer. (The transcript is garbled and appears to attribute the invocation to both.) - The Mayor introduced Imam Hazim as Islamic Advisor to the Kansas Department of Corrections, a role he has served since 1990, and noted he was the first Muslim to deliver the invocation to the Kansas House of Representatives and Senate on March 9, 1995. - Hazim prayed for the success of the Mayor and the governing body. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda included the minutes of the regular meeting of September 8, 2026; no applications were on the agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident, identified as Ms. Daniel Twimlow, signed up for public comment on the amendment item; the substance of the comment is not captured in the transcript. - Housing affordability: A public commenter said market-rate housing “is not affordable for me and my family,” calling it “unethical to prioritize luxury housing over the homeless human beings on our streets right now.” The commenter objected to a push to direct half of the proposed sales tax to market-rate housing — citing a downtown luxury apartment complex as the example — and asked why residents struggling to afford housing should pay a tax for “luxury” they would never be able to live in or enjoy. The commenter began writing their remarks on Thursday, September 10. - Data center: A community speaker urged the council to consider “the more human side of what a data center can do to a community” and told the governing body, “We must not give in to exhaustion or despair because the decision we make now will shape our communities for generations to come.” The Mayor allowed the speaker to finish even though the budget item was running long. Discussion: Sales Tax and City Order Initiatives (March 2027 Ballot) - Staff presented proposed sales tax and city order initiatives that, if approved by the governing body, would go before voters in March 2027. - Staff noted the city had 1,187 positions in 2024, and that roughly $17.5 million in budget adjustments would be needed over the next couple of years to balance the budget “without any significant changes in our revenues.” If current projections held through 2028, reserves would be 11.82% above the 20% reserve target. - Timeline discussed: the Policy and Finance discussion occurred September 3; council discussion is scheduled for October 6; the governing body was asked to consider and approve ballot language, with samples provided. One councilmember questioned why the deadline is October 20 rather than November 10, noting the election date (March 2) and a December 1 certification date, and requested that deadline information be provided. - A councilmember said they did not want to give any group “an open-ended sales tax that goes on in perpetuity.” Another reported that constituents “don’t want” a sales tax. A third noted the sales tax would allow the city to pay for things with cash. - The city manager pointed to a Friday memorandum addressing performance measures for each department, with monthly reporting to the council. - Technical and legal discussion covered the existing 0.5% special-use sales tax (which currently caps the rate at 0.5%), the distinction between general and specific-use taxes, and the city manager’s statement that the sales tax could not be used for street maintenance. - Councilmembers noted the RHID program “was not created for affordable housing” — with one challenging staff to bring a formal change if the governing body wants one — while the Affordable Housing Trust Fund was described as the intended vehicle for much of the housing discussion. One councilmember explained the market-rate housing rationale: as households move up, more affordable units become available. Discussion: Affordable Housing Trust Fund - Staff provided an update on the activation of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, an FY2026 strategic goal, and the Trust Fund Committee’s recommended use of remaining funds for smaller projects. - Discussion included small “gut rehab” grants of about $10,000 to bring homes to code and price them as affordable, as well as co-op housing — Topeka has only one or two co-ops. - Councilmember Hiller requested that information be shared with the full governing body. Discussion: 2027 Budget - The city manager reviewed budget line items, noting that a first item would reclassify a current position to create a city auditor role, with no new expense line item because the money is already levied in the budget. - Councilmembers discussed a program transition, with one saying the community “doesn’t think they can do it” and urging that lines of accountability — including to public-health authorities — be clarified before any change. - On School Resource Officers (SROs), a councilmember expressed support while noting officers they have spoken with plan to retire; another noted there is “a little under a year” for related training. - A councilmember expressed concern about deferring a $150,000 item, warning that if the council waits until June, the $150,000 “will not be able to be done.” Another suggested adopting the item and making any changes — whether by proviso or budget request — before the evening is over. - A councilmember observed that personnel and capital project costs are the two major spending areas and that, absent a tax increase, the structural imbalance would make those areas the first affected. - The city manager reiterated the intent to hold a budget discussion each month at council and noted tough decisions will be made about unfilled positions as people leave. - The Mayor asked the city clerk to take a vote on the amendment before the body; the tally and outcome are not captured in the transcript. Recognitions & Announcements - It was announced that this was Nick Jefferson’s final council meeting. - A councilmember praised the Topeka Fire Department’s testimony and the Topeka Police Department for quickly identifying a suspect in the NOTO double homicide. The councilmember called the incident horrific but isolated, and encouraged residents to support NOTO businesses, including at First Friday. - Councilmember Miller recounted explaining to his son that he and Councilman Ortiz had spoken “as adults” after a conversation earlier that evening. - The final fire department open house (held the previous Friday) was praised, and new employees were welcomed. - The Mayor said the meeting would not run past 10:00 p.m. and that the budget discussion — limited to 15 minutes — would begin immediately. Key Outcomes - The sales tax and city order initiative remains under discussion; the next council discussion is set for October 6, with ballot language consideration and approval expected around the October 20 deadline (which one councilmember questioned). - Councilmember Hiller’s request for Affordable Housing Trust Fund information to be shared with the full governing body was agreed to. - The 2027 budget discussion proceeded to a vote on the item before the body; the outcome is not captured in the transcript. The city manager committed to monthly budget discussions at council. - The consent agenda, including the September 8, 2026, minutes, was presented with no applications.

The Fitchburg Library Board met on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, to approve routine reports, review the 2027 budget, hear the library director's update, and enter closed session for the director's evaluation. All votes were voice votes; no vote totals were recorded in the transcript. Consent Calendar - Approved the August meeting minutes after correcting the record to show that a member listed as participating via Zoom had actually been absent. - Approved the June 26 financial register and overview. The finance report noted summer performer expenses, outside printing through Sprint Print because of copier overage fees, and a return to normal spending in account 387 after the spring system outage prevented ordering. Discussion Items - 2027 budget review: The library director reported that the mayor's proposed budget increases the library levy amount by $33,890 to offset salary increases, insurance increases for benefits and building coverage, and a steep increase in IT capital. Net new construction was reported at 2.4, and the budget carries a 4% increase. The utility account for MGE power is set at $90,000, up from $70,000, and building repairs are restored to $10,000 from $5,000. A prior $3 overage was corrected, leaving $2 in the budget. - Future budget concern: The director said the library will likely need another increase next year for a new position required to meet standards. - Administrative services: The proposed administrative services line is up about 6%, attributed mainly to city departments adding staff and cost-of-living increases. The fee is based on FTE counts; the library is a separate fund and receives an FTE equivalency. The board discussed inviting Finance Director Misty Dodge and IT Manager Nick Joseph to explain the costs more fully. - Draft budget correction: A zero amount listed for custodial supplies was identified as an error; the correct amount remains $4,000, and the director said she would fix it. - Agenda amendment: The board voted to move items 9D and 9E before item 9C so Wendy, the library director, could leave after those items and not return for the closed session. - Budget schedule: The mayor's proposed budget will be published Friday, September 18; referred to the Common Council on September 22; department presentations to the finance committee are September 29 and 30; the public hearing is October 13; amendments are due October 14; and final budget approval is November 10. The library exemption resolution has been delayed but is due by the end of October, so the director said there is no timing issue. Library Director Report - Holds numbers are still unavailable in the new library system, and checkout and renewal totals appear to be 1,000 to 2,000 lower per month than June through August of last year. This may be a system issue or a real usage decline; other libraries in the system report similar concerns. - Summer reading and program numbers were strong. - Facilities: no report. Personnel: the library is fully staffed. Strategic planning: no report yet, but work will restart during the fall in-service. - Outreach Librarian Minda Maurer won South Central's Patron Advocate Award; the director nominated her for the award in recognition of her community outreach work. Closed Session - The board voted to enter closed session under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(c) to discuss a personnel issue, specifically the evaluation of the library director. Tim and Wendy were excused for the closed-session portion. - The board reconvened in open session at 6:52 p.m. Key Outcomes - Approved the August meeting minutes and the June 26 financial register and overview by voice vote. - Approved the 2027 budget for transmittal through the city budget process by voice vote. - Amended the meeting agenda to reorder items 9D and 9E before 9C by voice vote. - Held a closed session to evaluate the library director and reconvened in open session. - Next regular meeting: October 21 at 5:30 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 6:54 p.m.

The Fitchburg Police and Fire Commission met on Tuesday, September 16, 2026, for its regular monthly meeting. The commission approved prior minutes, heard one virtual public comment, received reports from the fire and police departments, and held a closed-session discussion before authorizing an internal detective recruitment process. The meeting adjourned at 5:28 p.m. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the August 19, 2026 meeting minutes by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - John Endris, speaking virtually during public appearances for non-agenda items, said he had made no progress since his last appearance and alleged that the Fitchburg Police Department and an HMO were involved in actions he considered disturbing. He asked Chief Morales to contact him, said he believed he could overturn a conviction if he could ask three questions of Matthew Leahy, and said he would continue fighting the case. Discussion Items - Command staff hire process: Commissioner Wheeler requested the discussion, saying he was uncomfortable with elements of the prior promotional processes, particularly candidates undergoing a second interview after the chief's recommendation that they may not have expected. Newer commissioners responded that the second interview had been useful and helped them understand candidates before voting, while supporting guardrails around it. The group agreed to have staff and the chief review the process and ensure candidates are told in advance that the commission may ask questions; no formal action was taken. - Fire department report: Fire Chief Server reported that August responses were on track for a summertime increase. Call types included four fires, a sprinkler save in a multifamily building, and a significant multifamily fire that temporarily displaced 24 units and displaced 8 units long-term. Inspections were on track. Average response time had dropped from July's roughly seven-minute average, which had been driven by calls to the perimeter of the coverage area; he hoped to get it back below six minutes. Council had authorized two additional career firefighters; one background check was complete and the other nearly complete, and both new hires were current interns expected to be integrated by the end of the month. A recruitment process to replace those interns closes Sunday. Overtime was high in August, but the department had integrated three POX chiefs, cleared three more people to drive apparatus, and expected scheduling to improve in October. Mandated overtime totaled 214 hours, and hours with three-person staffing on at least one engine fell from 652 in July to 188 in August. The chief also promoted an upcoming open house and awards ceremony. - Police department report: Captain McCarthy reported that Community Night Out was again successful. Activity trends included increased property crime, burglaries mostly of basement storage units, and vehicle thefts or attempted thefts; one vehicle was physically stolen in August. Aggravated assaults were up year-to-date, and the department was working with countywide partners on recent gun and violent crime affecting Fitchburg, Madison, and other municipalities. Staffing: 52 of 54 authorized positions were technically filled, five officers were at the academy, three were on light or restricted duty, and there were two vacancies. Police officer interviews are scheduled for the following week. Because a detective may retire next year, Captain McCarthy requested permission to open an internal detective recruitment process. Key Outcomes - The commission approved the August 19 minutes. - After moving into closed session under Wisconsin Statutes section 19.85(1)(c) to discuss employment promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation matters, the commission voted unanimously to authorize an internal detective recruitment process. - The commission took no formal action on the command staff hiring process beyond agreeing that staff and the chief should review and communicate it. - The motion to adjourn passed at 5:28 p.m. with one commissioner voting no.