The Public Meeting Index

The Board of Public Works met on Monday, September 14, 2026, at City Hall in La Crosse, Wisconsin. (Note: The agenda indicated a 10:00 AM start, but the meeting was called to order at 10:06 AM per the transcript.) All five members were present: Andrea Trane, Erin Goggin, Matt Gallager, Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey, and Tamra Dickinson. The board unanimously approved four agenda items, each discussed and voted on individually. Approval of Minutes - A motion to approve the minutes from September 8, 2026, was made by Council President Dickinson and seconded by Director Trane. The motion carried unanimously without discussion. Discussion Items - Kwik Trip Intersection Plan (Item 26-0938): Staff presented a concept from Kwik Trip to modify public right-of-way at the Kwik Trip Way and Oak Street intersection. The plan includes constructing a small island for pedestrian refuge, pavement markings for crosswalks, and utility work to manage storm sewer overflow—all funded and executed by Kwik Trip. The design aims to accommodate large truck turns while maintaining pedestrian safety. After clarifying questions about the curb design and rationale, the board approved the motion (vote: 5-0). - Payment List for Losey Blvd ROW Acquisitions (Item 26-0952): A motion to approve the payment list for right-of-way acquisitions was made by Director Gallagher and seconded by Council President Dickinson. No questions were raised, and the motion carried unanimously. - Construction Contract Change Order (Item 26-0965): Staff reported a net reduction of approximately $6,000 for the Badger Hickey Park project, resulting from savings on concrete work offset by increased excavation costs due to relocating a building northward to address flood issues. Councilmember Goggin inquired about a 120-day extension for substantial completion, which staff confirmed was granted to allow for the building relocation. The change order was approved unanimously (vote: 5-0). - Xcel Energy Street Privilege Permit (Item 26-0967): Alex Lewick, community relations manager for Xcel Energy, presented a request for relocation and replacement of a gas main and services in the Hintgen Neighborhood, tied to the Losey Boulevard project. Work is expected to take 6–8 weeks. The permit was approved unanimously (vote: 5-0). Key Outcomes - All four agenda items were approved unanimously by a 5-0 vote. - The meeting adjourned at 10:10 AM.

On September 14, 2026, at 9:01 AM, the El Paso City Council held a work session in Council Chambers and virtually, with Mayor Renard Johnson presiding and a quorum present. The council received staff updates on the Meta Platforms community agreement and the FY26 Vision Zero program, heard public comment on both topics, and later acted on executive session claim items. Public Comments & Testimony - John Muniz opposed the way the Meta community agreement had been politicized and criticized several council members by name for rhetoric he said drives business away. He warned that the city faces rising contractual obligations of nearly $30 million split between unions, while property tax exemptions reduce revenue, and urged council to act on public safety data and recommendations from deputy city managers. - Patricia Osman, speaking on the Meta item, expressed opposition to the project and called the presentation 'double speak and gaslighting.' She said Meta is the wrong type of business for El Paso, will harm residents through pollution and lower property values, questioned the claimed household savings and job numbers, and criticized transparency, including NDAs. She stated her family has been on the land over 400 years and she will continue to protect it. - Patricia Osman, speaking on Vision Zero, said the presentation lacked full data on the effectiveness of completed improvements. She cited resident and business opposition to roundabouts and bike lane changes, and asserted that work sessions are being used to 'slide things under the rug.' Discussion Items Meta Platforms Community Agreement Update - Fernando Berjano and Omar Martinez of Strategic and Legislative Affairs presented an update on the council's June 23, 2026 directive to draft a community agreement and regional framework with Meta. Staff held technical work sessions at UTEP on August 21, 2026 with UTEP, EPCC, Workforce Solutions Borderplex, El Paso County, El Paso Electric, and El Paso Water, using the city's Climate Action Plan as a framework. - Stakeholders identified priorities including hiring and training El Pasoans first for Meta's 300 permanent positions; residential energy-efficiency weatherization to lower utility bills; energy efficiency in public facilities; water conservation and green infrastructure; expanding the 915 Tree Keepers program; neighborhood mini-grants; and resilience hubs. - Omar Martinez reported that Meta released its $1 billion 'Future Is for Everyone' grant fund that morning. Staff plan to bring a city application in two weeks; applications are due October 19, 2026. Each entity may submit one application, projects must be implementable within one year, and the program is administered by the third-party platform Change X with internal evaluation. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, school districts, and universities. - City staff had proposed a replenishing annual program fund and an oversight committee of regional stakeholders, but Meta's current program uses an internal evaluation committee; staff will continue advocating for community representation. - Staff stated Meta has made no commitments, specific allocations, or implementation schedule. Meta indicated intent to increase local staff, participate in stakeholder meetings, and hold community meetings across all council districts. Mayor Johnson's letter to Meta and Meta's response helped shape the application strategy. - Rep. Cynthia Boyar Trejo gave a statement describing prior council actions on data centers and noting that terminating the 380 agreement could expose taxpayers to liability and would not guarantee ending construction because Meta already owns the property. She asked that partner agencies and Meta present when the community agreement comes back to council. Council members also asked about expanding stakeholders to include ISDs, neighborhood associations, and nonprofits, and about who controls fund decisions; staff said invitations to ISDs and nonprofits are coming, and they will ask Meta about local control. FY26 Vision Zero Program Update - Ana Zendt of the Capital Improvement Department presented the FY26 Vision Zero update. Vision Zero was adopted in 2023 to end roadway fatalities, with Safe Routes to School adopted in 2024. - FY26 education and outreach included two walk-to-school days, five bike rodeos, participation in La Nube STEAM Discovery Day, and the third annual May bike safety event at the plaza with roughly 920 attendees. - The city's bike plan, adopted in 2016, is being updated. Staff surveyed at 14 community events and collected more than 1,000 survey responses; a draft will come back to council before the end of 2026. - The National Center for Safe Routes to School awarded $10,000 for a quick build project at Lydia Patterson Institute, including curb extensions, crosswalks, and signage. - Safe Routes to Parks bond projects are in early design, with construction estimated to start in summer 2027. - Quick build projects are being implemented under Vision Zero at locations including Sun Valley, Edgemere, Northwestern, and Ford Boulevard; the first quick build, at Canes Middle School, is becoming permanent. A public call produced 53 applications; about 26 qualified based on crash history or the high-injury network, and about 8 projects were selected within budget for design and spring construction. A five-way intersection in Sunset Heights with a recent fatality was among the selected locations. - The FY23 Safe Streets and Roads for All grant of about $9 million, plus match, was delayed by the federal discretionary freeze but has now been signed; it includes safe routes to school, intersection safety, quick builds, education, and a signature reconstruction of North Yarpur Drive. - Fatalities declined from 83 in 2023 to 70 in 2024 and 53 in 2025. The pedestrian fatality rate from 2020 to 2024 fell to 2.33 deaths per 100,000 people. Mayor Johnson praised the city's progress from being ranked the 17th most dangerous pedestrian city to one of only 20 of the 101 largest cities. - In response to council questions, staff said they are working with Streets and Maintenance and ESD on bike lane cleaning and maintenance, considering an adopted bike lane program and minimum standards, engaging all three school districts, and treating Alabama as a priority corridor under the bike plan and Safe Streets and Roads for All funding. Key Outcomes - No action was taken on the Meta community agreement update or the Vision Zero update; both were informational. - The council voted unanimously to enter executive session and later returned. - EX1 – Claim of Lorenzo Diaz, Claim 720: Motion passed unanimously authorizing the City Attorney's Office, in consultation with the City Manager, to deny the claim and take all necessary steps. - EX2 – Claim of Menda Wangchuk Dorji, Claim 881: Motion passed 7-1 authorizing denial of the claim; Rep. Acevedo voted no. - EX3 – Cities of Houston, San Antonio, and El Paso v. State of Texas: no action. - EX4 – Virtual currency kiosk/ATM regulation ordinance: no action. - The work session adjourned at 11:07 AM.

September 14, 2026 – 7:00 PM The Novato Planning Commission held a public hearing on the 200 San Marin Residences, a proposed eight-unit single-family attached townhome development at 200 San Marin Drive. The Commission considered resolutions recommending approval to the City Council for a General Plan amendment, zoning map amendment (via Senate Bill 10), master plan, precise development plan (PDP), design review, and tentative map with two exceptions. The meeting also included a staff report, applicant presentation, public testimony, commission deliberation, and a report on the Fireman's Fund project. Consent Calendar - Approved Meeting Minutes of May 11, 2026 (Commissioner Tiernan abstained as he was not present at that meeting). Design Review Resolution (Item F.1 – DP2025-1324) The Commission voted 4-0 to recommend approval of the design review to the City Council with a modification that the siding colors and treatments be of a darker earth-toned nature (as opposed to the white proposed). This followed discussion about the Mediterranean architectural style's compatibility with the surrounding San Marin neighborhood. Public Comments & Testimony - Susan Wernick (former Novato Planning Commissioner and Council Member, 44-year resident): Expressed strong opposition to the Mediterranean architectural style, stating it "does not fit in San Marin in any way, shape, or form" and would "stick out like a sore thumb." She urged the Commission to require a style compatible with the neighborhood, noting she supported the project overall. - Casey Ward (Novato resident, parent of two children at San Ramon Elementary): Expressed full support for the project, praising the design as "fantastic" and the applicant as cooperative. He urged approval to avoid delays and highlighted the importance of street design improvements along San Marin Drive. Commission Discussion – Architectural Compatibility Commissioners debated the three-story (37'8") height and massing of the buildings relative to adjacent one-story commercial and single-family homes. The Mediterranean style, which includes barrel tile roofs and stucco, was considered a departure from the prevalent ranch-style architecture in the San Marin neighborhood. Some Commissioners expressed concern about visual prominence, while others felt the design added value and that a different architectural style could be considered. Staff noted that the Design Review Commission had previously vetted and approved the Mediterranean style after considering alternatives. The Commission ultimately decided to recommend approval of the design review with a color modification rather than requiring a full architectural redesign, aiming to avoid significant project delays. Key Resolutions Adopted (Votes: 4-0 on each) The Commission voted to recommend City Council approval of the following: 1. General Plan Land Use Map Amendment (GP2025-1318) – Changing the designation from General Commercial (CG) to Medium Density Multiple Family Residential (R10). 2. Zoning Map Amendment (REZ2025-1319) – Rezoning the site from General Commercial (CG) to Planned District (PD) under Senate Bill 10 (the first SB10 project in Novato). 3. Master Plan and Precise Development Plan (MP2025-1320 / PDP2025-1321) – Establishing building footprints, height (max 37'8"), setbacks, landscaping (20+ new native trees), and eight-foot privacy fences. 4. Design Review (DP2025-1324) – With a modification that siding colors and treatments be darker earth tones (burnt orange, brown, etc.) rather than white. This condition was added to address neighborhood compatibility concerns. 5. Tentative Parcel Map (TSM2025-1322) – For eight residential lots and one common-ownership parcel, plus approval of two exceptions: (a) forgoing undergrounding of existing overhead utility lines along the frontage (to avoid triggering costly undergrounding of the intersection), and (b) reducing the private street width from 28 feet to 26 feet to meet fire department access requirements. Staff supported both exceptions. Commissioner Kevin Haroff (newly appointed) voted with the majority. Commissioner Tiernan noted that all votes are recommendations to the City Council, which retains ultimate decision-making authority. The Council is expected to consider the project in late October 2026. Other Business - Fireman's Fund Project Update: Staff reported that demolition continues (concrete/asphalt removal, grading for drainage). Two active applications are in process: a vesting tentative map for subdivision and a design review application covering about 200 units across two areas. The design review will be subject to objective standards and will likely come before the Planning Commission due to the project's size. Construction is expected to start in 2028. - Commission Changes: Commissioner Derby resigned due to a move out of the area. A recruitment is underway for an open seat on the Planning Commission. - Upcoming Training: A Marin County housing law training session for commissioners is scheduled for September 30, 2026; RSVP deadline is September 18, 2026. The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:30 PM.

The Judiciary & Legislation Committee of the Milwaukee Common Council met on Monday, September 14, 2026. The agenda listed a 9:00 AM start; the meeting convened at 9:09 AM and adjourned at 11:52 AM in Room 301-B at City Hall, 200 E. Wells Street. Present were Chair Ald. DiAndre Jackson, Vice-Chair Ald. Lamont Westmoreland, and Alds. Robert J. Bauman, Andrea M. Pratt, and Jose G. Perez. The committee considered property damage claims and appeals, an early voting site lease, an Election Commission report, state legislative updates, litigation settlements, a tax cancellation resolution, and a claim payment. Public Comments & Testimony - Several claimants appeared on their property damage appeals. April Minor accepted a $1,500 settlement; Susan Quinn accepted $800 after stating her actual damages were about $1,600; Sherry Kelly accepted $308 after asking for the full $614 tire repair cost; Martha Malik challenged the denial of her $15,000 claim and called the situation unfair; Joshua Falls said he completed titling steps but the vehicle had already been auctioned. - Milwaukee Election Commission Executive Director Paulina Gutierrez testified that the August 11, 2026 primary download error did not affect election accuracy and described procedural changes to prevent recurrence. - Intergovernmental Relations Director Jordan Primoco and Legislative Affairs Division representative Calvin Lee presented the 2025-26 state legislative update and answered committee questions. Property Damage Claims and Appeals - Item 1 – Larhonda Faye Locke: Held to the call of the chair by a 3-0 vote, with Alds. Westmoreland and Perez excused. - Item 2 – Anthony Braglia: Held to the call of the chair by a 3-0 vote, with Alds. Westmoreland and Perez excused. - Item 3 – April Minor: Amended and recommended for adoption on a 5-0 vote; settlement amount $1,500. Ms. Minor said her insurance did not cover the damage and she was fully out of pocket about $3,000. - Item 4 – Sheron Johnson: Held to the call of the chair on a 5-0 vote; this was noted as a first non-appearance. - Item 5 – Susan Quinn: Amended and recommended for adoption on a 5-0 vote; settlement amount $800. City staff said the city had no prior notice of the loose manhole cover, and the city attorney had recommended denial. - Item 6 – Sherry Kelly: Amended and recommended for adoption on a 5-0 vote; settlement amount $308. Ms. Kelly said her tire repair cost $614 and that she spent four hours at the dealership; she accepted the lower offer. - Item 7 – Martha Malik: Recommended for disallowance and indefinite postponement on a 5-0 vote. Ms. Malik sought $15,000 for a 1996 Mercedes-Benz E320 she said was totaled during a police pursuit of a stolen vehicle. City Attorney staff and the MPD risk manager said the claim exceeded the vehicle's likely market value and was submitted after the 120-day deadline. Ald. Bauman moved denial after citing those issues. - Item 8 – Joshua Falls: Recommended for disallowance and indefinite postponement on a 5-0 vote. The towing manager said the vehicle was towed as unregistered with no plates, notices were sent to the titled owner, and the vehicle was auctioned for $582. Mr. Falls said he later completed the required steps but was told the vehicle had been sold. American Serb Hall Early Voting Lease - Item 9 – The committee recommended adoption on a 5-0 vote of a lease between American Serb Hall, as landlord, and the City of Milwaukee, as tenant, for 5101 West Oklahoma Avenue for use as an early voting site for the November 2026 general election in the 11th Aldermanic District. Election Commission Executive Director Paulina Gutierrez said the site has ample parking and space; the city rents about one-third of the building. Election Commission Communication - Item 10 – The committee held the communication to the call of the chair on a 5-0 vote. Ms. Gutierrez explained that one of three download teams mistakenly downloaded the audit log rather than the election results during the August 11, 2026 partisan primary, and that the error had no impact on election results. She said the Wisconsin Elections Commission was provided a response, and that the audit log and EL-104 inspector statements are publicly available. Planned safeguards include adding visual images to instructions, using a point-and-call verification process, conducting pre-briefings with download teams, and providing security-appropriate instructions. Ald. Bauman expressed concern that repeated references to human error undermine public confidence and asked whether staff were disciplined; Ms. Gutierrez declined to discuss personnel matters. She also said Wisconsin is one of only two states that cannot begin opening absentee ballots until election day, and that pre-processing would help Milwaukee count its large number of absentee ballots more efficiently. State Legislative Updates - Item 11 – The committee held the communication to the call of the chair on a 5-0 vote. Staff reported on the 2025-26 legislative session, including city-supported measures related to truth in planning, housing tax credits, historic rehabilitation tax credits, battery stewardship, environmental improvement fund bonding, reckless driving vehicle empowerment, EMS reimbursement, postpartum Medicaid extension, breast cancer screening coverage, the state film office, the Opportunity and Attraction Program, DACA occupational credentials, and the Transform Milwaukee Jobs Program. Staff also discussed opposed election administration bills, including restrictions on absentee ballot drop boxes, election observer changes, a Help America Vote Act compliance bill that was vetoed by the governor, and an automatic absentee ballot bill. A clean Monday absentee ballot pre-processing bill did not pass despite bipartisan support. Ald. Bauman raised concerns about heavier trucks on city streets; staff said a letter from DPW and the administration would be needed. Nicotine Pouch Marketing Resolution - Item 12 – The committee recommended adoption on a 5-0 vote of the resolution amending the City of Milwaukee's State Legislative Package to express opposition to the marketing of nicotine pouches to youth. Calvin Lee credited the City of Milwaukee Youth Council for raising the issue and said nicotine pouches are a rapidly expanding oral nicotine product category with colorful packaging and flavors that appeal to youth. Litigation Settlements, Tax Cancellation, and Claim Payment - Item 13 – Recommended adoption on a 5-0 vote of a settlement in Kristen S. Noack and Barbara R. Smith v. City of Milwaukee, based on reasons discussed in closed session. - Item 14 – Recommended adoption on a 5-0 vote of a settlement in MBI Properties, LLC v. City of Milwaukee, based on reasons discussed in closed session. - Item 15 – Recommended adoption on a 5-0 vote of a resolution cancelling real estate taxes levied against certain parcels on the 2025 tax roll, plus interest applicable to date of repayment, if appropriate. - Item 16 – Recommended adoption on a 5-0 vote of a resolution authorizing payment of the claim of Janet Wilhelms. The raw transcript refers to the claimant as Janet Williams, while the agenda and minutes list Janet Wilhelms. Key Outcomes - Held to the call of the chair: Items 1, 2, 4, 10, and 11. - Recommended for adoption: Items 3, 5, 6, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16. - Recommended for disallowance and indefinite postponement: Items 7 and 8. - Most votes were 5-0. The Item 1 and Item 2 holds were 3-0 with two members excused. The meeting adjourned at 11:52 AM.

The Shoreline City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. All council members (Mayor Robertson, Deputy Mayor Pobee, Councilmembers Snider, Mork, Scully, Ademasu, and Roberts) were present. The meeting opened with proclamations for Welcoming Week, Safe Shoreline Month, and Hispanic Heritage Month. The agenda included a public hearing on the 2027 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Human Services Funding Plan, a study item on a proposed 0.01% sales tax supporting children and families, and a preliminary view of the 2027-2028 Biennial Budget. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved unanimously (7-0) on a motion by Deputy Mayor Pobee and Councilmember Ademasu. - Approved items included: Meeting minutes; expenses and payroll of $16,750,057.72; Resolution No. 569 authorizing a grant application for the expansion of Ronald Bog Park; and a $4,448,848 agreement with the U.S. EPA for a Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Program grant. Public Comments & Testimony - Quang Vo, Shoreline: Criticized the Energize Shoreline heat pump program, asserting anticompetitive roster restrictions lead to inflated pricing and that subsidies are padding contractor margins rather than lowering consumer costs. - Amanda Lopez Castañon, Director of Food Programs, Hopelink: Expressed appreciation for the city's support, noting the Shoreline Market served 2,621 households (over 6,000 individuals monthly) in the third quarter of 2026. She requested continued and additional investment. - Emily Jones, Shoreline Senior Center: Thanked the Council for support, reporting 5,463 hot meals served and over 25,000 participation hours as of August 31, 2026. She stressed the need to prepare for the incoming wave of older adults. - Jonelle Kemmerling, Save Shoreline Trees: Requested single-point oversight for the city's tree canopy and asked if the proposed City Urban Forester position would encompass this role. - Norbert Steele, Shoreline: Expressed concerns about verifying ICE warrants, the city's budget projections, and reliance on regressive taxes amidst a potential recession. Public Hearing on CDBG and Human Services Funding Plan: No members of the public provided oral testimony; the hearing was closed by Mayor Robertson. Discussion Items - 2027 CDBG and 2027-2028 Human Services Funding Plan: Staff presented the CDBG ($320,000) and Human Services ($1,114,554) funding plans. Council discussed the non-renewal of the Community Support Specialist FTE, the end of the KCRHA interlocal agreement, and the high priority of establishing a robust severe weather response. Councilmember Ademasu highlighted potential unique needs related to El Niño conditions. The item will return for action on September 28. - Election of Temporary Presiding Officer: With the Mayor and Deputy Mayor absent for the September 21 meeting, Councilmember Roberts nominated Councilmember Snider, who was elected by a vote of 6 to preside. - Ordinance No. 1070 (0.01% Sales Tax for Children & Families): Staff proposed the tax to generate $130,000–$145,000 annually for youth mental health and rental assistance. Council debated the regressive nature of the tax versus the loss of local control if the county enacts it. Councilmember Ademasu expressed full support as a prevention program. Councilmember Roberts requested a contingent clause. The ordinance will return for potential adoption on September 28. - Preliminary View of 2027-2028 Biennial Budget and 2027-2032 CIP: Staff presented a strong fiscal position ($16.8M unassigned fund balance) alongside a long-term structural deficit ($14.7M projected over six years). No new ongoing general fund FTEs are proposed. City Manager Ellington confirmed that councilmembers wishing to revisit programs such as holiday baskets or grocery cards should submit formal amendment requests to him. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Temporary Presiding Officer: Councilmember Valerie Snider elected to preside over the September 21, 2026 meeting. - Public Hearing Closed: CDBG and Human Services Funding Plans will return for formal action on September 28. - Tax Ordinance Direction: Staff directed to bring Ordinance 1070 back for adoption on September 28, with a potential contingency tied to King County action. - Budget Process Timeline: Formal budget transmittal is October 12, 2026, with department presentations through October 26, public hearings in November, and final adoption on November 16, 2026. - Council Amendments: Councilmembers were advised to submit budget amendment requests directly to the City Manager.

The Joint Budget and Appropriations, Infrastructure and Housing, and Social Services committees of the Westchester County Board of Legislators met on September 14, 2026. Chaired by Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels, the meeting addressed a bundle of capital items for the Oasis Center shelter, the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), and the Fiscal Year 2026 Second Quarter Budget Update. Oasis Center Capital Project and Land Acquisition (Items 2026-381 through 2026-384) - The committee considered four items related to the purchase and renovation of the Oasis Emergency Overnight Shelter at 19 Washington Avenue, New Rochelle. Department of Social Services First Deputy Commissioner John Befus presented the proposal, stating the county plans to purchase the property for $1.2 million, based on appraisals of $1.3 million and $1.1 million and a tax assessment of $1.6 million. - The total $11.1 million request includes $1.2 million for acquisition, $100,000 in transaction fees, $500,000 for client relocation, and $9.3 million for renovations. The current lease of $107,100 annually expires on December 31, 2026. - The facility is the county’s only drop-in shelter on the Sound Shore, currently housing approximately 50 men. Renovations are expected to take 27 months (9 months design, 18 months construction), requiring clients to be relocated to the Grasslands shelter or area hotels. Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for 2025 (Item 2026-349) - Representatives from PKF O’Connor Davies presented the county’s audited financial statements, which earned a GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. The general fund balance increased by $5.7 million in 2025 to $568.9 million, with an unassigned fund balance of $436 million (17% of general fund expenditures). - Gross sales tax receipts totaled $956 million, a $26 million increase over 2024 but $13 million below budget. The airport fund balance grew to $75 million, while the health insurance fund was drawn down to $5.9 million as planned. - A significant deficit was reported in the tobacco securitization fund; subordinate bonds face a potential default in December 2027, though the county has no legal or financial obligation for this separate corporation’s debt. Second Quarter Update for Fiscal Year 2026 (Item 2026-420) - Budget Director Larry Soule reported the projected deficit improved from $16.6 million in the first quarter to $9.4 million. Higher sales tax revenue ($17.2 million net) and state operating assistance ($5 million) helped offset pressures from Playland revenue ($1.6 million shortfall) and lower bus farebox collections. - Legislator Williams Johnson raised the issue of over 5,000 unenforced school bus stop-arm camera citations, calling it a public safety and revenue concern tied to a lack of enforcement at the municipal court level. - Director Soule cautioned that while the 2026 fiscal year is manageable, significant structural challenges are anticipated for the 2027 budget. Key Outcomes - Oasis Center Package (Items 2026-381, 382, 383, 384): All four items were approved. Ayes: Woodson-Samuels, Holstein, Nambiar, Tubiolo, Williams, Williams Johnson. Absent: Pierce. Away: Gashi. Referred to the full Board of Legislators. - Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (Item 2026-349): Received, filed, and approved. Ayes: Woodson-Samuels, Holstein, Nambiar, Williams, Williams Johnson, Gashi. Away: Tubiolo. Absent: Pierce. - Second Quarter FY 2026 Update (Item 2026-420): Received, filed, and approved. Ayes: Woodson-Samuels, Holstein, Nambiar, Williams, Williams Johnson, Gashi. Away: Tubiolo. Absent: Pierce. - The meeting was called to order at 10:05 AM and adjourned at 12:05 PM. (Note: Draft minutes originally listed the start time as 10:04 PM, which appears to be a clerical error.)

The Howard County Council held its monthly meeting on September 14, 2026, with a hybrid format. The primary agenda item was the annual meeting with the Inspector General, followed by reports. Key discussions centered on the Inspector General's progress, access to records, and challenges with obtaining information from county systems. A notable procedural dispute arose over adding an item regarding Columbia Community Concepts to the agenda. Annual Meeting with Inspector General - Inspector General (IG) Kelly Madigan provided an update on the office's status, including securing permanent space at 9755 Patuxent Woods Woods, hiring Deputy Inspector General Frank Lopez, and onboarding two additional investigators. The office has implemented a case management system and created an ethics training course for county employees. - The IG reported that as of September 11, 2026, the office had received 97 complaints, converted 19 into active cases, and had 13 active cases and 15 open complaints. She explained that complaints must involve Howard County government, employees, or funds and touch on fraud, waste, abuse, efficiency, accountability, or integrity to become cases. - Councilmember Young questioned the impact of an upcoming court decision in Baltimore City (Judge Pamela White) on IG access to documents. The IG outlined three potential remedies: judicial, legislative (drafted with County Solicitor Gary Cook and sponsored by Delegate Chao Wu for local and statewide bills), and a third option making the IG a co-custodian of records (disagreed upon by Mr. Cook). - Councilmember Rigby asked about staffing, noting the IG's current team (herself, deputy, two incoming investigators). The IG plans to request an administrative assistant in the next budget cycle. - Councilmember Yungmann expressed concern that legislation to improve access might not pass the General Assembly. The IG confirmed she will contact former council members when hearings are scheduled. - Councilmember Walsh emphasized the need for the IG to set a marker of 30 priority systems for access and urged the IG Advisory Board to advocate for the office's needs proactively. - The IG Advisory Board member expressed frustration over the slow pace of granting direct records access, noting it has hindered investigations and impeded the board's oversight. - Councilmember Young asked whether the IG has been denied information outright under the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA). The IG clarified that all denials are based on mandatory denials under MPIA, not bad faith, but confirmed these denials have prevented pursuit of some cases, e.g., personnel records to verify employee qualifications. Reports - Council Administrator reported technology upgrades for meetings and a new database for council appointments to boards and commissions. - County Auditor reported two audit reports issued (GASB 75 and Office of Transportation) and noted the audit of Columbia Community Concepts (CCC) is stalled because CCC's legal counsel is challenging the county's authority to conduct the audit. Procedural Dispute - Councilmember Young requested to add an item about Columbia Community Concepts to the agenda under Rule 5 (each council member can add one item per year). Chair Jones initially denied the request, stating that as no representative would appear (due to the pending audit), it would be a waste of time. After the County Auditor clarified that the audit has not commenced, Chair Jones agreed to place the item on the October meeting agenda. Councilmember Yungmann noted significant time has passed since the audit was first proposed (May 2026) without cooperation from CCC. Key Outcomes - The Council will place Columbia Community Concepts on the October monthly meeting agenda. - The IG will continue pursuing legislative remedies in Annapolis with support from the Council. - The IG Advisory Board is expected to advocate more strongly for the office's access needs. - The County Auditor will provide an update on the Columbia Community Concepts audit status at the next monthly meeting.

Chair Aisha Chuktai convened the regular adjourned meeting of the Minneapolis Budget Committee on September 14, 2026. With nine members present, the committee had a quorum. The posted agenda was reordered so the biannual personnel report was heard first, followed by presentations on 2026 council dedicated funds (earmarks) and 2026 change items. The meeting was informational and ended with an adjournment to the afternoon budget session. Biannual Personnel Report - Deb Kruger, director of HR operations, presented the fourth biannual personnel report, required by council directive since 2024. Data was effective September 4, 2026. - Total city workforce was 4,603.78 FTEs, including budgeted, unbudgeted, and temporary employees. Council-approved FY2026 budgeted FTEs totaled 4,292.13; 311 additional active FTEs were above that approved count, including trainees, over-allocation positions, and temporary/seasonal staff. - 91.6% of budgeted FTEs were filled, about the same as September 2025; 8.4% (360.35 FTEs) were vacant. Police had 109 vacancies among 969 budgeted positions (11.3%, down from 13%). Public works had about 91 vacancies (8.7%). Convention center had about 31 vacancies (18.8%, down 3.6 points). - 40% of vacancies were open six months or less; 30% three months or less; 32% (about 130) were open a year or longer, with about 72% of those attributable to sworn police or seasonal positions. - FY2026 approved personnel budget was $654 million; $385 million had been spent through July (59%), about 1% above pace with 42% of the year remaining. - Overtime budget was $7.2 million; $19.1 million had been spent through July, with overages mainly in public safety, 911, and police. - 19 administratively added FTEs had been approved through Q2 2026, with a budgetary impact of about $1.2 million, generally funded by transferring non-personnel dollars or capital funds. 13 FTEs had been transferred between departments, including 9 communications positions. - Councilmember Palmasano asked whether the data reflected the mayor's proposed cuts to vacant positions; Kruger said it did not. Palmasano asked how to identify targeted vacancies; staff said department-level presentations would provide more detail. Kruger cautioned that longer vacancies, especially seasonal public works positions, should not automatically be considered nonessential. - Vice Chair Schaefer asked about administratively added FTEs and average salary calculations. Budget Manager Justin Carlson said budget-division salary figures generally covered permanent budget positions, not temporary employees or election judges. Schaefer requested a by-department pivot of FTEs hired since 2020, noted for administrative follow-up. 2026 Council Dedicated Funds (Earmarks) - Health Department: Heidi Ritchie reported $150,000 for South Minneapolis underserved communities opioid response, used for long-acting buprenorphine treatment training with California Bridge, including North Minneapolis organizations in the cohort. A $25,000 autism and water safety earmark was contracted with St. David's for water therapy and parent education. Councilmember Osman requested follow-up details; Councilmember Warren asked about North Minneapolis work. - Public Works: Tim Sexton reported the zero waste project manager position was about to be posted, with funding shifted to commercial/multifamily work; a zero waste work group was being fit into the city's tier four advisory structure. The sidewalk snow/ice plowing pilot, in its third year, had spent about $299,000 of its $595,000 annual appropriation as of September 1. - Office of Community Safety: Jared Jeffries said police off-duty fee implementation awaited a transition from Workforce Director to the UKG scheduling/time system and additional technology; $329,000 allocated for implementation had not been spent. The non-fatal shooting/Firearm Assault Shoot Team (FAST) was fully staffed and operating. Council President Payne called failure to collect off-duty fees unacceptable and asked for a resource conversation. Councilmember Warren questioned the non-fatal label for shooting investigations; Councilmember Chavez defended the task force as life-saving while criticizing the delayed off-duty fees. - Neighborhood Safety Department: Amanda Harrington reported $100,000 for Stevens Square safety initiatives; services began December 31, 2025 and continue through 2026. - CPED: Eric Hanson reported tenant organizing funds contracted; Tiny Homes and Big Dreams consultant contract signed for $15,000; emergency operation/shelter funding contracts in place. For the commercial adaptive reuse study and child care worker investment, CPED was taking alternative approaches and had not spent the $125,000 and $102,000 appropriations, which remained locked to their council-directed purposes. Hanson said redirecting them required council action. 2026 Change Items (Additional Spending) - George Floyd Square art preservation: $300,000 appropriation; projected 2026 spending of $50,000-$60,000 due to the later start of road construction; outside art conservators are under contract. Councilmember Stevenson asked about remaining funds; Brett Jelly said preservation needs would continue in 2027. - CPED program updates: Hanson described a wide range of items, including 38th Street Thrive implementation (with a legislative update due by the end of September), economic development/cultural activation grants and grocery store activation delayed until the 2027 budget was announced, emergency housing vouchers contracted with the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority, nighttime business license inspector positions affected by the mayor's reduction-in-force plan, a street vendor grant/compliance program, retail space 'demising' activation, the Affordable Housing Trust Fund awards coming in November, Minneapolis Homes awards, shelter response contracting with Hennepin County, Cowles Center and People's Way property maintenance, developer technical assistance, ownership opportunity funds, Great Streets, and youth workforce/Step-Up and 2050 plan funding. Hanson also said CPED held about 464 parcels and was working to move properties to the market more quickly. - Councilmember Stevenson questioned the City of Lakes land trust process for 38th Street Thrive and said she did not think a direct contract with City of Lakes should work; Hanson said procurement decisions had not been made. Stevenson also asked about People's Way trash removal; Hanson described complaint-driven property management. - Councilmember Chavez said council-approved programs should not be put on hold and warned that the $1.2 million in 38th Street Thrive funding should not become a 'slush fund' for MPD. Councilmember Vita argued many CPED programs duplicate existing county or nonprofit services and questioned long-term city ownership of the Cowles Center and People's Way. Councilmember Warren questioned the emergency housing voucher program as duplicative of Hennepin County's coordinated entry and requested a briefing. Councilmembers Stevenson and Chavez responded that the voucher program serves people newly experiencing homelessness and helps 50 families and 50 adults. - Public Works change items: Sexton said the downtown bathrooms project continued, with possible agency partnerships, aiming for spring 2027. Traffic Safety for All's $5.5 million was on track for full spending, with about $3 million for neighborhood traffic calming, $2.3 million for ADA improvements, and $700,000 for protected bikeways, covering about 165 project areas and nearly 300 traffic safety treatments. - Civil Rights: Director Kayla McConnell reported co-enforcement contracts with community partners, including the Workers Center, Restaurant Opportunity Center, and New Justice Project, totaling just under $350,000 and 5,810 hours. Outcomes included 79 know-your-rights presentations, 988 workers trained, 215 peer trainers, 534 worksites reached, 318 consultations, and 109 workers receiving ongoing case support. Councilmember Stevenson requested data on wages recovered; McConnell said she would follow up. Vice President Osman asked about the proposed 2027 budget; McConnell confirmed the $427,862 co-enforcement amount in 2026 was not in the proposed 2027 budget. - Communications: two one-time $12,500 amendments for cultural media and public access services were contracted and spent. Councilmember Osman requested the total cultural media budget as follow-up. - Finance and Property Services: a custodian position and an Animal Care and Control security position were filled; a mobile security position was still in hiring and expected to be filled by end of 2026. - Health Department: Patrick Hanlon reported the $3.8 million franchise fee weatherization allocation was spending at a record pace, with 60% of funding going to environmental-justice target areas, exceeding the 40% target, and about 600 projects moving forward. Utility assistance included $150,000 one-time and $50,000 ongoing; 93 households were enrolled, about $46,000 spent, and 800 applications were in progress. Councilmember Warren raised concerns about green zone remapping affecting North Minneapolis; Hanlon offered a follow-up conversation. Councilmember Vita thanked staff for rapid program rollout. - Convention Center: Jeff Johnson reported the city spent $500,000 from the Downtown Assets Fund to help secure WWE SummerSlam; tens of thousands visited from all 50 states, with hotel occupancy up 10% Thursday, 41% Friday, 71% Saturday, and 147% Sunday compared with 2025. A $100,000 competitive study had produced a final draft; the city had a three-year vendor agreement, with $70,000 spent initially and $30,000 remaining. - Neighborhood and Community Relations: Karen Moe reported additional 2026 funding for the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, including ongoing and one-time increases for immigrant legal services with five nonprofit providers. Funding expanded services to include habeas petitions and rapid response during Operation Metro Surge; over half the funds were spent. An additional staff person was hired in July. Moe said the proposed 2027 budget did not recommend cuts to immigration legal services, though the department merger made allocations harder to identify. Councilmembers Warren and Osman urged continued and expanded immigrant legal services. - Office of Community Safety/MPD: Jeffries reported a downtown safety and security resource partnership with the Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District for the Warehouse District Live effort, June through October 2026. Commander Chris Brown reported MPD's civilian case investigator appropriation increased from $3.4 million to $3.6 million; MPD was on track to spend the full amount, with 28 civilian case investigators currently employed and 3 hired in June-July. He said the need for civilian investigators would continue while sworn staffing remained low. Key Outcomes - The committee received and filed the biannual personnel report. - No formal votes were taken; the session was an update/reporting session for 2026 council dedicated funds and change items. - Administrative follow-ups were noted: by-department FTE hires since 2020; water-safety program delivery details; cultural media total budget; franchise fee contracting details; wage recovery data for co-enforcement; an emergency housing voucher briefing; and a meeting on off-duty fee implementation resources. - Chair Chuktai adjourned the meeting, with budget work to resume at 1:30 p.m.

The regular meeting of the Alameda Planning Board scheduled for Monday, September 14, 2026, at 7:00 PM was canceled due to a lack of a quorum. The cancellation was announced at 4:52 PM on the same day. No agenda items were discussed, and no actions were taken. Scheduled Agenda Items (Not Heard) - Consent Calendar: Approval of draft meeting minutes for June 22 and August 24, 2026. - Regular Agenda Item 5-A: Planned Development Amendment for South Shore Beach and Tennis Club (PLN26-0472). - Regular Agenda Item 5-B: Downtown Commercial Zoning Text Amendment (PLN26-0422). - Staff Communications and Board Communications. Outcome The meeting was canceled before convening; no votes, public testimony, or staff reports occurred.