The Public Meeting Index

Chair Marita Davis Johnson (District 5) presided, joined by Commissioners Robert Patrick and Ladina Bolton. The committee approved several change orders, reviewed a presentation on the PDK Airport air quality and noise study, and discussed the draft 2027 legislative agenda. The meeting began at6:00 PM UTC. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (Item2026-0374): The minutes from August18,2026 were approved unanimously. Discussion Items Facility Management Change Orders - Item26-1149: A change order for on-call pressure washing and painting services (contracts2000310 and2003112) was approved, increasing funding to a total not to exceed $1,850,000. Discussion covered painting of water towers, graffiti removal on retaining walls, and coordination with beautification departments. The item passed with a motion and second. - Item26-1323: A sixth change order for on-call plumbing services (contract1297570) was approved, adding $1,269,307 to fund building performance assessment audits. The audit will inventory county facilities and identify needed repairs and preventive maintenance. Clarification was provided that the item covers assessment, not immediate repairs, but will inform a multi-year capital plan. The item passed unanimously. Innovation & Technology - Item26-1198: A change order for Fuel Master software maintenance (contract200149) was approved, extending the term through December31,2030 and increasing funds by $266,286 to ensure continued support and licensing for the county fleet's fuel management system. The item passed unanimously. Voter Registration & Elections - Item26-1238: Approval of a bid award for emergency/provisional ballot printing and absentee ballot mailing services, split between Tech Mail Solutions and Ford Orange Press, for a total not to exceed $121,297.50. The committee discussed offline handling of certain questions. The item passed unanimously. PDK Air quality and Noise Study Update - Representatives from HMMH (Gene Rindell) and CDM Smith (Gwen Pelletier) presented findings of a two-year study. The study used2018 as a baseline and projected2040 conditions with and without implementation of the airport master plan. Key findings: - Air quality emissions increase marginally due to assumed longer taxi times; concentration differences are less than2% of National Ambient Air quality Standards. - Noise levels (cumulative metrics like DNL) are essentially unchanged between scenarios; a slight1.5% reduction in repositioning flights was assumed with new hangars. - Human health risks from air pollution are negligible (cancer risk below one per million). - Noise health effects literature supports reducing exposure to aircraft noise, especially at night. - Questions addressed the2018 baseline choice (avoiding COVID years), the negligible increase in emissions, and qualifications for future noise mitigation programs (no residences currently in65 DNL contour). The item was informational; no vote taken. 2027 Legislative Agenda Development - John Dan from Intergovernmental Affairs presented a draft consolidating priorities from the recent legislative retreat. The original top four priorities were expanded to five by splitting tenant protections and strategic housing investments. The committee discussed elevating annexation equity as a top priority, citing concerns about cities absorbing county parks and infrastructure without compensation. Commissioners Davis Johnson, Patrick, Spears, and Bolton strongly supported elevating the annexation issue. Staff will revise the document and bring it back for committee approval on September22,2026, with full board approval expected in October. Key Outcomes - Four change orders and one bid award were approved unanimously (Items26-1149,26-1323,26-1198,26-1238). - The PDK Airport study was received as information. - The2027 legislative agenda draft will be amended to include annexation as a top priority; further committee action scheduled for September22,2026.

On September 10, 2026, the Broward County Commission and Broward County School Board held their first joint workshop in 12 years in Commission Room 430, with a hard stop at 1:55 p.m. Commission and school board members discussed facility sharing, emergency shelter coordination, legislative priorities, and workforce development. No formal votes were taken; the workshop produced staff assignments and a commitment to continue joint collaboration. Facilities & Joint Use - School Board Chief of Staff John Sullivan said the district wants to partner with the county on facilities that are available or will become available through the district's "redefining" school portfolio effort. School Board Chair Sarah Leonardi noted that community members at a Miramar-area redefining meeting suggested using future closed campuses as library space. - School Board member Rebecca Thompson supported shared "third spaces" and noted that the library space at Walter C. Young may no longer be available, creating a possible expansion opportunity. - School Board member Debbie Higson asked the county to help with graduation venues, explaining that three schools can only fit at the Hard Rock and that venue is too expensive. She raised the county convention center as a possible option and asked for equity in where students hold graduation. - The Mayor said all government facilities should be on the table, and county administrator Monica cautioned that the convention center is booked years in advance because its revenue pays bonds, but said if dates are open the county is willing to talk. - Commissioner Udine shared examples of small city-county-school collaborations, including a copy paper loan and SAT prep funding, and urged avoiding over-lawyering. The Mayor asked for a shared inventory of county and school board properties and availability. - Officials discussed reciprocal agreements and existing interlocal agreements; the current emergency shelter agreement was cited as a key existing partnership. - A commissioner raised the student ID library card program, noting roughly 80,000 students once used it. School Board staff said they believed it was still in effect, and both bodies agreed to promote it during library card month. Emergency Management & Shelter Coordination - County administrator Monica said three proposed school closures would affect emergency shelters: Panther Run Elementary, Silver Lakes Elementary, and Dolphin Bay Elementary. Together those schools represent about 1,200 shelter spaces during emergency activations. - The county asked to be the first party consulted about leasing or using the gymnasium, kitchen/cafeteria, and bathrooms at those schools if the properties are sold or repurposed. - School Board staff said Panther Run has already closed, but the superintendent asked to keep its shelter-capable spaces open to avoid scenarios where the entire school system must close because of one shelter. - Emergency Management Director Clay Pacheco said the county and school board already plan, train, and exercise shelter operations together and will share updates on shelter capacity. - The existing shelter interlocal agreement is in place through 2030; the county attorney advised that the county must be made whole for lost shelter capacity if school closures change availability. - Vice Mayor McKenzie asked for updates on North Fork Elementary and Broward Estates closures. School Board staff said Dr. Wanza would stay in touch with him, and noted that Broward Estates has a pre-K program with 100% of pre-K students kindergarten-ready and that North Fork has an approved "Sistrunk Rising" proposal. Legislative Priorities & Joint Advocacy - Debbie Higson said Florida ranks 50th in the nation for teacher pay, and Broward receives about $9,000 per student. She stated Miami-Dade receives about $300 more per student and Palm Beach County receives about $1,700 more per student than Broward. - Officials attributed the funding gap to the state's district cost differential, which equates to nearly $300 million less for Broward compared with Palm Beach County. - School Board staff explained the November 3 referendum is a renewal, not a new tax, in place since 2018. It funds supplements for teachers and frontline staff, mental health services, and school safety. Failure would mean a loss of $358 million annually; the referendum needs a simple majority. - Commissioner Geller asked whether the funding gap is state or local; the answer was that it is driven by state FEFP calculations. - Commissioner Rich discussed the property tax amendment on the same ballot, saying the county general fund depends heavily on property taxes and that libraries and parks are not core services. Both bodies agreed they can educate the public but not tell people how to vote. - The county and school board agreed to exchange their formally adopted legislative priorities and seek alignment for joint advocacy ahead of the 2027 legislative session. Workforce Development & Career Pipelines - The Mayor invited Superintendent Hepburn to participate in his long-running workforce working group and praised the school board's three vocational schools as top-ranked statewide. He said guidance counselors should not direct every student to college. - The Superintendent said the district has added CTE coaches to high schools to promote skilled technical careers, not just college paths. - A commissioner asked about relationship and domestic violence education; School Board staff cited state constraints on curriculum and said financial literacy is now a required subject, with robust finance academies in the district. - A commissioner raised the upcoming organics waste requirement: after the end of the year, organic waste can no longer go to Monarch Landfill. Solid waste RFPs will be issued in the next few months, and the commissioner asked the school board to coordinate with cities and haulers. The Superintendent said the district is purchasing compostable cafeteria items, running education campaigns, and will begin discussions with cities. - Commissioner Rogers urged broader joint problem-solving, including summer meal distribution, school kitchens, food security, and transparent lists of surplus properties. She also suggested the county and school board consider sharing one ombudsman. School Board staff responded that food is purchased to avoid spoilage, summer meals are offered, and cities are consulted during school closure discussions. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the meeting was a workshop focused on discussion and next steps. - County administrator Monica will work with Superintendent Hepburn to produce a list of available facilities and bring options back to both boards. - The county will share shelter requirement lists and keep shelter coordination with the school board a priority, particularly before the next storm season. - Both bodies will share their adopted legislative priorities and explore joint advocacy items. - Both sides will publicize the student library card program. - The school board will continue consulting the county on school closures, property reuse, shelter capacity, and organic waste coordination. - Participants expressed a shared commitment to hold regular future joint meetings, with some suggesting once or twice a year.

The Goodlettsville Board of Commissioners held a study session on Thursday, September 10, 2026, beginning at 5:48 p.m. in Massie Chambers at Goodlettsville City Hall. The agenda called for a 5:45 p.m. start, and no formal action could be taken during a study session. The two discussion items were the 2026 Pleasant Green Pool season report, required by Resolution 26-1316 as amended, and a proposed lease of the Main Street parking lot. Pleasant Green Pool 2026 Season - Recreation staff reported total pool attendance of 11,116 for the 2026 season, an increase of 1,104 visitors over the prior year and close to pre-COVID attendance. Attendance was tracked through membership check-ins and daily passes. - Total revenue was $84,616, an increase of $11,567 over the previous year. Revenue sources included gate sales, concession sales, memberships, programming, and reservations. Programming, which included a weekly water aerobics class, generated $475, and reservations generated $7,150. - Expenses were $141,390.30, a decrease of $9,341 from the prior year. Lifeguard salaries were the largest expense because salaries had been raised to remain competitive in the lifeguard market; scheduling changes helped reduce overall costs while maintaining safety. - The season ended with a net loss of $56,774, an improvement from a loss of more than $77,000 the previous year. - Staff increased marketing through paid and organic social media, news interviews, and pop-up events, which became very popular. They also extended hours on Tuesday and Thursday evenings; the 4:00-7:30 p.m. extended period averaged 20-25 paid admissions, with one evening drawing more than 50. Peak attendance remained from noon to 3 p.m. - Reservations were limited to Friday, Saturday, and Sunday based on prior demand; those days sold out, though one last-minute cancellation could not be refilled. - Staff estimated fewer than five full days were lost to weather closures. Lifeguards were paid only for cleanup time on closed days, not for the full day. - On capital needs: diving board replacements were completed, and $50,000 was budgeted for the concession stand renovation. Staff identified pool deck resurfacing and an automated chemical system as top priorities and said they would request a budget amendment for $75,000 for those items before reopening. Other future needs included lightning detection, ADA upgrades, and additional shade. Staff described the pool deck as in rough shape; resurfacing would involve grinding, leveling, and applying a new membrane rather than replacing the concrete. - Nighttime swimming was discussed; staff said it is not currently feasible because the pool has no in-pool lighting, and installing internal lighting would be a significant cost. Staff did not consider nighttime swimming a good use of funds. - Swim lessons were not offered in 2026 because staff were not WSI certified and many lifeguards were new. Staff and commissioners noted that swim lessons generated more than $12,000 in revenue in past years and were one of the most requested community programs. Staff expressed interest in certifying staff and bringing swim lessons back. - Commissioners thanked pool staff and lifeguards, noted approximately 25-26 lifeguard saves, and said the community strongly supports keeping the pool open. One commissioner reported that a social media post about the pool drew hundreds of comments, almost all in favor of keeping it. Main Street Parking Lot - Mr. Ellis presented a proposed lease for the parking lot at the corner of East and Main Street, across from Memorial, for public parking to support businesses along the Main Street corridor. - Proposed terms: a 36-month initial term from January 1, 2027, through 2029, with rent of $10,000 per year. The lease payment would increase if improvements to the property increase its appraised value by the Davidson County assessor. Legal counsel had not yet approved the draft. - The fiscal year 2027 budget includes $15,000 for the property: $10,000 for the first year's lease payment and $5,000 for paving and striping. Staff said paving and striping would be done through the city's existing contract with Rogers Group; minimal other improvements would be made until the Main Street project is complete. - Commissioner Walker expressed concern that the city would pay to improve privately owned property without a renewal right or right of first refusal, leaving the owner free to lease the improved lot to a private operator after three years. Walker asked whether the city could seek a renewal option. Mr. Ellis said the property owners are not interested in selling, are comfortable with the current terms, and have not agreed to a renewal term; he offered to take the request back to them. - Another commissioner noted the Main Street project is expected to be complete in 2028, meaning the parking lot lease would be half over before the new Main Street improvements are finished, but argued the lot would still be used for events and additional public parking. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken, consistent with the study session format. - Pool staff plan to bring forward a budget amendment for approximately $75,000 for pool deck resurfacing and an automated chemical system, and will consider pricing additional shade. - Staff will continue discussions with the parking lot property owners, including the possibility of a renewal term or right of first refusal.

The Columbia City Council met on September 10, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included a special presentation of the Carnegie Medal, updates on community events, a funding request from the Miracle League, approval of fee waivers for county projects, and the first reading of a temporary moratorium on data center developments. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the consent agenda (Items 7.1-7.15) collectively, which included: - July 2026 disbursements ($11,615,452.19). - Tyler Technologies Parks and Recreation module ($20,665 total FY27 cost). - Storage lease with Campbell & Lovell Rentals ($900/month). - Advertising in the 2027 Tennessee Vacation Guide ($10,000). - Holiday digital billboard advertising with Lamar Advertising ($5,625). - Live entertainment contract with Tuck River Touring for the 2027 Fruit Tea Festival ($15,000). - User fee study contract with Matrix Consulting Group ($20,000). - Three-year on-call traffic engineering agreements with Neel-Schaffer, Inc. and T-Square Engineering, Inc. - Purchase of a leaf vacuum truck from CMI Equipment Sales ($298,880.05). - Sewer capacity analysis contract with Water Management Services, LLC ($45,000). - Initial Rescue Squad Recognition application ($50 fee). City Attorney noted the attachment provided was incorrect; correct attachments were distributed. - AT&T fiber installation participation agreement ($3,818.28 budgeted). - Purchase of eight 2026 Ford Police Interceptor vehicles ($354,272). - Purchase of eight in-car/body camera systems from Motorola ($65,332.48). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the designated public comment period. Discussion Items Presentation of the Carnegie Medal: - Mayor Molder presented the Carnegie Medal to Samuel Harden Adcock for his heroic rescue of a man from the Duck River on May 23, 2025. The Carnegie Medal Fund recognized Adcock as the 10,561st hero in its history. This was a historic presentation, marking the first time the medal has been awarded in the City of Columbia. Presentation on the Fruit Teaser: - Kelli Johnson of Columbia Main Street presented the inaugural Fruit Teaser event (September 12, 2026 at the Maury County Public Lot). The event will feature a fruit tea competition with 17 teams, youth bands, and other activities. Two proclamations will be made at the event: declaring Columbia the "Fruit Tea Capital of the World" and fruit tea the "Official Drink of Columbia." Presentation by the Miracle League: - Mike Ugla and Julie Beck of the Miracle League requested financial assistance from the city for Phase 2 ("Tay's Place") of the project at Maury County Park. Phase 2 is an all-inclusive playground with a current estimated cost of $750,000. Of this, $230,000 has been raised through county contributions, leaving a $498,000 shortfall. The group expressed urgency as their equipment quote expires on October 31, 2026. Mayor Molder expressed full support for a city contribution, noting the project serves a significant community need, and requested the item be placed on the October 8, 2026 agenda for formal consideration. Maury County Fee Waivers (8.1 & 8.2): - The Council discussed requests from Maury County to waive building permit fees. - Unanimously approved waiving $85,000 in fees for renovations at the Maury County Courthouse. - Unanimously approved waiving $66,000 in fees for the Animal Shelter expansion project. Council members praised the partnership with the county and the work of the Animal Shelter director. Data Center Moratorium (Ordinance 4596): - The Council unanimously approved the first reading of a temporary, six-month moratorium on accepting and processing applications for data centers and high-density computing facilities. Mayor Molder explained the need for a pause to allow staff and the Planning Commission to study the infrastructure, environmental, acoustic, and utility impacts of such facilities, following similar action by Maury County. A public hearing is set for October 8, 2026. Other Ordinances and Resolutions: - The Council approved the first reading of a budget amendment (Ordinance 4594) increasing the FY 2026-2027 budget by $975,821.24 to $85,442,422. - Approved the first reading of an easement conveyance to Duck River Electric (Ordinance 4595). - Approved Resolutions 26-58 (Tax Corrections), 26-59 (Delinquent Tax Deletions), 26-60 (Parks and Recreation Fee Schedule), and 26-61 (Sewer Improvements Acceptance). Key Outcomes - Presentation and Recognition: Carnegie Medal awarded to Samuel Harden Adcock; James Blackwood Jr. honored for 24 years of service with Columbia Fire & Rescue. - Approved: Consent Agenda including disbursements, contracts, vehicle/camera purchases, and software agreements. - Approved: Waiver of building permit fees for Maury County Courthouse ($85,000) and Animal Shelter expansion ($66,000). - Approved: Resolutions related to tax corrections, park fees, sewer improvements, and delinquent tax deletions. - Approved (1st Reading): FY27 Budget Amendment, Electric Line Easement, and Data Center Moratorium. Public hearings for these items are scheduled for October 8, 2026. - Referred to Future Agenda: Formal consideration of the Miracle League playground funding request (October 8, 2026).

The Edmonds City Council met in study session to continue work on the tree code amendments (AMD2026-0001, Fifth Reading and Beyond), focusing on public feedback from the previous night's public hearing and possible further code changes. The meeting opened with an executive session on litigation; no formal action was taken. Note: the agenda packet lists the meeting as September 9, 2026 at 3:00 PM, while the meeting record timestamp is 2026-09-10 17:30:00+00:00; this summary uses the latter date. Executive Session - Council moved into executive session pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) to discuss litigation or potential litigation with legal counsel representing the city. - The session was expected to last 16 minutes; Council reconvened at 4:15 PM, and no action was taken. Public Comments & Testimony - At the previous evening's public hearing, approximately 20 people spoke in person, and multiple additional comments were submitted via email. - Staff and council summarized the themes of that public feedback: the code's complexity, length, and inconsistencies; discretionary versus more predictable code requirements; and view and view covenant concerns. Discussion Items - Tree Code Amendments (AMD2026-0001) – Fifth Reading and Beyond: - Deb, the project manager, explained that the study session was intended for staff to hear council feedback on the prior night's public hearing and to determine what further code changes staff should consider. Staff will seek direction from council at the September 22, 2026 meeting. - Delays: the tree board and planning board each took additional time, pushing the schedule later in the year than anticipated; October 6, 2026 was identified as a potential date to extend the interim ordinance. - Version 3 vs. Version 4: several council members observed that some planning board recommendations in Version 3 did not carry into Version 4 and requested better communication on why changes were made. Staff and Jeff Charity explained that Version 4 was developed from council's August 11th discussion, because the same Version 3 shown at the planning board public hearing could not be shown again at the council public hearing; any revisions intended for adoption had to appear in the public hearing packet. The schedule was extended from July 22 to August 12, shortening the time between the planning board recommendation and the first public hearing. - Council members' positions and suggestions included: - Support for incentives, especially for public owners who voluntarily retain mature trees, using tree fund and fee-in-lieu dollars (for example, a stormwater fee reduction) to encourage retention. - Caution that monetary incentives are 'ripe for unscrupulous activity' and that financial incentives are harder to administer than development-based incentives. - Retention of the tree risk assessment requirement, performed by an ISA-certified professional. - Concern that the code's 2,000 square foot threshold is treated as non-development, which is not how the development code treats it. - View easements should remain a civil matter between property owners, not enforced by city staff; the code should allow flexibility where an easement is in effect without exempting properties from the code or from tree replacement requirements. - A question about how fee-in-lieu dollars are ensured to translate back into tree canopy, referencing the city attorney's statement. - A suggestion to adopt a more strategic framework with tree retention as the first priority, followed by the activities the city will undertake to retain trees. - A council member relayed that Friends of the Edmonds Trees reported three people independently using two different AI models to find inconsistencies within the code and between the code and the Urban Forest Management Plan, with all three converging on similar refinements; the group offered to share their prompts with staff. - Staff described two enforcement tracks: clear violations, especially involving critical areas or tree protection plans, versus inadvertent removal where a permitted path exists; the city is generally not punitive when property owners self-report. For dead tree removals, staff historically accepted photos showing a tree that was clearly brown, leafless, and dead. - Process note: one council member expressed concern that the informal format was being monopolized and that all council members should receive equitable time to share perspectives, stating that continuing to abuse the process was not a fair or good use of taxpayer time and money. Items for Future Consent - Addendum No. 1 to the 2026 Summer Market Event Agreement, adding Winter Market dates (Parks and Recreation). First reading; listed for a future consent agenda. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken; the meeting was a study session. - Staff will prepare draft code changes and seek council direction at the September 22, 2026 meeting. - Two more public hearings are anticipated before adoption. - October 6, 2026 was penciled in as a potential date for extending the interim ordinance. - Council members requested clearer communication on the differences between planning board recommendations (Version 3) and staff's Version 4. - The study session adjourned at 4:50 PM.

Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting was held on September 8, 2026; however, per user instruction the date is given as September 10, 2026. The Eden Area Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) met on the evening of September 10, 2026 (as specified) at the San Lorenzo Library Green House Community Room. The meeting included informational updates on fire station construction and transit-oriented development planning, plus two action items: a subdivision application and a conditional use permit for an EV charging station. The council also heard extensive public comment on Hunger Action Month and on preserving the Sky West Golf Course open space. All action items were recommended for approval to the Board of Supervisors. Public Comments & Testimony - Hunger Action Month (non-agenda item): Several youth speakers from SLAM and local students urged the council to proclaim September 2026 as Hunger Action Month, citing food insecurity, rising costs, and the need for basic food access. An adult speaker noted this is a multi-city initiative and asked the council to relay the request to the Board of Supervisors. - Save Sky West Golf Course (non-agenda item): Two speakers requested the council's support to preserve 126 acres of open space at the Sky West Golf Course, emphasizing its habitat for the largest monarch butterfly population in the Bay Area and native turtles. They expressed concern over the Hayward Executive Airport's maintenance failures and expansion plans. - Fire Station Update (Item 1): One public speaker asked about soil mitigation at Station 22, specifically the plastic sheeting and vapor barrier; Deputy Chief Moore clarified that both mercury and PCE contamination issues are being addressed. - Subdivision (Item 3) and Conditional Use Permit (Item 4): No public comments were received on these items during their respective portions. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (August 11, 2026): Councilmember Wydler noted that the minutes incorrectly listed Stanley as absent; a correction was mentioned. Councilmember Marumahoko abstained because he had been absent. The minutes were approved with one abstention (Marumahoko) and five in favor. - 1. Update on Fire Station Rebuilding Projects (Measure X Bond): Deputy Chief Eric Moore presented progress on three fire stations. Station 7 (Palomares Hills) is nearly complete with roofing and utilities; occupancy expected mid-January 2027. Station 25 (Castro Valley) slab pour is imminent; vertical construction begins October 2026. Station 22 (San Lorenzo) interior signage and permits are underway; utility trenching begins October 2026; soil remediation for former gas station/dry cleaner site will include vapor mitigation. Construction completion targeted for June 2028. Council members expressed excitement and asked about lessons learned, community tours, public art (artist David Burke selected), and the longer timeline due to environmental work. The update was informational. - 2. Bay Fair Priority Sites Technical Assistance (PSTA): Angelica González (Planning) and Kirsten Dishinger (consultant) presented pre-development work for transit-oriented development (TOD) on the 7.2-acre county portion of the Bay Fair BART property in Ashland. Carly Payne (BART TOD program manager) explained BART's process: ground lease, developer selection, and community engagement. Key constraints include ADA access to the BART station (currently stairs only), undergrounding power lines, and coordination with the City of San Leandro (which controls the other half, approx. 7+ acres). Community input (135 survey responses) favored housing, affordability, improved bike/pedestrian safety, and neighborhood-serving commercial uses. BART's aspirational goal is 35% affordable housing across its portfolio; minimum 20% per site. The site will likely be phased; developer solicitation is 15-18 months out. Council members asked about funding gaps, interjurisdictional complexity, and timelines. The item was informational. - 3. PLN2026-00020, Subdivision (Mario Clamar): William Chin presented a tentative parcel map to divide an 18,720 sq ft lot into three parcels with two new single-family dwellings at 18449 Standish Ave., Cherryland. The existing home will be partially demolished to provide a 20-ft fire lane. The project is CEQA-exempt (Class 15). Council members asked about landscaping (to be addressed at building permit stage) and demolition. No public comment. The council voted unanimously (6-0) to recommend approval to the Board of Supervisors. - 4. PLN2026-00065, Conditional Use Permit (Ionna EV Charging Station): William Chin presented a proposal by Dewberry Engineers for a 24-hour EV charging facility with 10 stalls, five canopies, a picnic area, restrooms, and vending machines at 19895 Mission Blvd., Ashland. The amenity building makes the project require a CUP; without amenities, it would be a by-right use. The existing car lot structures and a 36-ft sign will be demolished. The applicant (Jack from Ionna) confirmed the restrooms and amenities are open to the public, with 24/7 security monitoring and daily cleaning. Council member Wydler expressed disappointment that no solar panels or additional landscaping were included, given climate goals. The council supported the project as an improvement. One public comment welcomed the neighbor. The council voted unanimously (6-0) to recommend approval to the West County Board of Zoning Adjustments. Key Outcomes - Minutes (August 11, 2026): Approved (5-0-1, Marumahoko abstaining). - Subdivision (PLN2026-00020): Council recommended approval (6-0) to the Board of Supervisors. - Conditional Use Permit (PLN2026-00065): Council recommended approval (6-0) to the West County Board of Zoning Adjustments. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

The commission convened on September 10, 2026, at 5:15 PM for a technical test of audio, video, closed captioning, and live streaming equipment. The entire session was a trial run to verify system functionality before actual meetings. No official business was conducted; all votes and discussions were simulated. Consent Calendar - Mock Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve minutes was made (Councilmember Delaney) and seconded (Council Member Mitchell). The mock vote passed unanimously. This was part of the test and not an actual approval. Public Comments & Testimony - The chair described the public comment process but no actual public comments were made or accepted during the test. Discussion Items - Zoning Change Simulation: A mock request for a zoning change from AG to R1 at 7412 Burcy Road was presented. A motion was made, and a simulated vote passed 6-1. This was a test of the voting and recording system. - Technical Checks: Staff and members tested microphones, closed captioning, live stream audio/video, and the workroom feed. No issues were reported by the end of the session. - Executive Session Description: The chair read the standard executive session notification as part of the test script. - Staff Presentation Overview: A brief mention of staff recommendations on operational challenges and energy regulations was read, but no actual presentation occurred. Key Outcomes - No real decisions were made. The test confirmed that audio, closed captioning, and live stream functionality were working properly. The meeting was concluded as a successful technical rehearsal.

The Joint Governmental Affairs, Public Works, and Budget Committee met on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Five members were present, establishing a quorum. The meeting covered approvals, board appointments, a confirmation hearing, ordinance changes, and extensive updates from the Department of Public Works (DPW) and the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO), including the Public Utility Modernization Process (PUMPS) reform effort. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved minutes from five prior meetings: Governmental Affairs (August 13, 2026), Public Works (June 9, 2026), Joint Utility/Cable/Telecommunications/Technology & Public Works (July 22, 2026), Joint Climate Change/Sustainability & Public Works (July 30, 2026), and Joint Budget & Public Works (August 27, 2026). Public Comments & Testimony - Christy McKinney (Kenner City Council member): Expressed concerns about the appointment of Barry Ranshi to the New Orleans Aviation Board, stating the Kenner Council had not ratified the nomination and that the mayor had vetoed the process. She requested the committee vote against the appointment or seek an Attorney General opinion. - Amy Vallet (Deputy CAO, City of Kenner): Requested a one-meeting deferral to resolve process conflicts with Kenner’s charter, noting that Councilman Stagney’s letter was sent without full council awareness. - Mr. Robinson (resident): Complained about unresolved potholes since 1987, lack of response from SWBNO, and urged the city to stop funding what he called an incompetent utility. Discussion Items 1. Confirmation of Austin Wilty as Director of Property Management (Sec. 4-106 hearing): Deputy CAO Steve Nelson introduced Wilty, citing his legal background and experience. Wilty was confirmed unanimously (6-0) and forwarded to the full council. 2. Boards and Commissions Appointments: - Ethics Review Board: Jay Marks approved (6-0). - Audubon Commission: Elaina Boutte approved (6-0). - New Orleans Aviation Board: Barry Ranshi advanced (6-0) despite Kenner objections; committee determined the process was proper based on the existing CEA. - New Orleans Redevelopment Authority: Sandy Duet and Adam Stumpf approved (6-0 each); Travis Phipps deferred. - Sewerage and Water Board: Ariane Greenidge approved (6-0). - Alcoholic Beverage Control Board: LaTanja Silvester approved (6-0). 3. Ord. Cal. No. 35,559 (Carnival solicitation): Councilmember Morrell explained the ordinance allows carnival organizations to advertise memberships via modern methods outside carnival season, while continuing the ban on solicitation during parades. Unanimously passed (6-0). 4. Motion M-26-374 (Waiver for fossil fuel vehicles): The motion waives code Section 2-905 to allow NOPD acquisition of three used internal-combustion vehicles for undercover operations. Council expressed concern about the after-the-fact waiver but passed it (6-0) with a warning about future compliance. 5. SWBNO Updates (presented by director Heyman and staff): - Killdeer Street water main break: Acknowledged a failure in escalation—the leak, entangled in tree roots, led to a tree collapse that damaged a home. Director Heyman called the response “unacceptable” and outlined new standard operating procedures (SOP) by September 30 to improve escalation and close-the-loop communications. - Work orders: 3,100+ completed in July–August; non-urgent water main repairs average 41 days. A new work order system is expected by summer 2027. - Co-generation/parallel operations: Lowered static frequency changer trip settings from 80% to 28% (covering 86% of voltage sag events). An Entergy agreement in place by end of 2024 will enable parallel power from turbines, targeting zero voltage sags. - Dwyer Canal investigation: Phase 1 repaired 15 defects; continued monitoring and dye testing for additional issues. Sampling results updated monthly on SWBNO website. - Catch basin cleaning: 3,366 basins cleaned (out of 76,000), 5.5 million lbs of debris removed, but data reporting gaps (closed orders not updating 311) are being corrected. - Quality of Life Initiative: Letters sent to contractors on site cleanliness; customer concern portal launching by September 30. - Council frustration: Vice President Willard reported a 20% non-response rate to council inquiries, average 7-day response time, and 55% follow-up rate. Director Heyman committed to a specific action plan by mid-next week and a dedicated customer service point-of-contact per district. 6. DPW Updates (presented by Deputy CAO Steve Nelson): - Hiring: 55 new hires (42 frontline paving, electricians, signal technicians); target 50 more by October. First in-house mill-and-overlay block by end of 2024. - Streetlights: 7,995 lights turned on year-to-date; backlog reduced from 3,000+ to 1,948; average wait time for 2026 work orders = 59 days. Focus on Interstate 10 and oldest orders from 2022–2023. - Potholes & paving: 19,000 potholes repaired, 19,000 linear feet of shoulder work, 5,000 sq ft of asphalt patching, 2,300 linear ft of sidewalk repaired. - Pavement assessment: Citywide pavement condition index contract expected within 2–3 months, using LIDAR and AI, with a 25-week study. - Traffic signals & signs: Two PTOE-certified engineers hired; backlog includes 800-day average for name signs. School zone beacon repairs prioritized. - Neighborhood focus: Starting in two months, DPW will concentrate work in 10x10 block areas each week (e.g., Ubuntu Village model) to improve efficiency. - Morrison Road & Crowder Bridge: Morrison Road project on schedule for late summer 2027; Crowder Bridge closure for piling repair expects completion by December 2026. - Coordination with SWBNO: Blanket agreement for equipment use and combined paving operations to eliminate delays between dig-and-pave. 7. PUMPS Update (Andrew Tuzzolo, Leo John Arnett, Chuck Tony): - Governance reform: New SWBNO board elected citizen president (Jonathan Stewart) for the first time in decades; board meetings moving to City Council chambers for transparency. - Integration roadmap: Two-year plan to merge SWBNO as a full city department by 2028. Board passed a resolution to support integration and appoint a transition officer. - Operational efficiencies: Proposed blanket CEA allowing shared equipment and yards; consolidation of IT, communications, and admin functions. - Parcel fee: Future ballot measure to fund drainage and street improvements by taxing non-paying parcels (40% of properties). Detailed proposal expected this fall. - Next steps: SWBNO board meeting September 16 to act on contract extensions, bylaws, and a formal transition roadmap. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved for five prior meetings. - Austin Wilty confirmed as Director of Property Management. - Six board appointments advanced to full council; all votes unanimous (6-0). - Ordinance 35,559 passed (6-0). - Motion M-26-374 passed (6-0). - SWBNO commitments: New escalation SOP by September 30; improved council response with 24–48 hour acknowledgment; action plan for council inquiries by mid-next week. - DPW commitments: Continue hiring, launch neighborhood-scale work, issue pavement assessment contract, reduce streetlight and sign backlog to 30-day target, and develop blanket coordination agreement with SWBNO. - PUMPS: Board resolution for integration; transition officer to be named; September 16 board meeting to adopt specific measures.

The Infrastructure, Innovation & Technology Committee met on September 10, 2026, at 17:15 UTC (afternoon session) with three members present: Chairwoman Micky Steinberg, Vice Chairman Keon Hardeman, and Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins. Commissioner Roberto J. Gonzalez and Commissioner Vicki L. Lopez were absent. The committee considered an ordinance to create a loan program for environmental remediation on large county-owned parcels, among other items. After extensive debate, the ordinance was deferred to the next committee meeting on October 15, 2026. Agenda Setting & Consent Items - The committee approved the official printed agenda with the addition of Item 1G1 substitute (the remediation loan ordinance). - Item 3C (garbage collection services contract extension) was pulled by the chairwoman and deferred by the administration. - Item 3F (AC replacement contract) was advanced to the next meeting. The balance of the agenda was approved by unanimous acclamation. Discussion Items - Ordinance 261035/1G1 Substitute – Environmental Remediation Loan Program - Sponsor: Commissioner Raquel A. Regalado (not a voting member of the committee) presented the substitute ordinance. It amends Section 24-34 of the county code to establish a zero-interest loan program using a portion of the Utility Service Fee (USF) fund (currently $181 million) to finance environmental remediation on county-owned parcels 10 acres or larger. - Administration (Andisha Daniel, Director of Solid Waste, and other staff): Stated that $125 million is programmed for existing projects, and $23 million is estimated for closure and long-term care of the former waste-to-energy site, leaving approximately $33 million unprogrammed. The administration expressed concerns about depleting funds needed for other mandatory remediation. - Commissioner Cohen Higgins questioned the use of ratepayer money for zero-interest loans to developers, noting that developers are already obligated to remediate under lease agreements. She proposed adding an interest rate, a loan cap, and a sunset period. - Commissioner Hardeman argued that the fund has been underutilized for years and that the loan program would spur remediation in underserved areas, particularly for affordable housing projects. He emphasized that the county has a duty to remediate its own properties and that making loans available does not force the county to spend money it cannot afford. - Chairwoman Steinberg suggested freezing the loan program’s available funds at the current unprogrammed balance ($33 million) to ensure clarity, and proposed a two-year sunset to revisit the program's effectiveness. - After extensive back-and-forth, the maker (Commissioner Regalado) agreed to amendments including: a two-year sunset, a work program to be provided by the administration, an interest rate to be set by the mayor/mayor's designee, and a loan cap per eligible property also set by the administration. However, Commissioner Cohen Higgins indicated she would vote accordingly based on ambiguity in the amendments. Key Outcomes - Motion to move the ordinance without recommendation failed due to lack of unanimity. - Motion to defer Item 1G1 to the October 15, 2026 committee meeting was moved by Chairwoman Steinberg, seconded by Commissioner Hardeman, and passed by acclamation. The administration was directed to provide a complete list of programmed projects, a rate card (interest rate and cap recommendations), and a work program before that meeting. - Item 3C (additional time and funds for garbage collection services) was deferred by the administration. - Item 3F (AC replacement contract) was advanced to the next meeting as requested by the administration. - No public comments were received.