The Public Meeting Index

The Bentonville Planning Commission convened on September 15, 2026, for a Tech Review session at 4:30 PM followed by a regular meeting at 5:00 PM at City Hall. The commission addressed a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) for night work at the Bentonville Health Care Campus, a Large Scale Development (LSD) for the Botanical Garden, and multiple rezoning requests, alongside an update on the Community Code Amendments. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes: The minutes from the September 1, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously. - Consent Agenda (4 items): The following items were approved unanimously without discussion: - Lot 1 of Oakarine Subdivision Property Line Adjustment (PLA26-0024) - Lots 4 and 5 of Roth Estates Property Line Adjustment (PLA26-0016) - Utility Easement Vacation at 702 SE Yale (VAC26-0042) - Lot 1, Phase 24 of Walmart Campus Final Plat (FP26-0008) Public Comments & Testimony - Bentonville Health Care Campus TUP (TUP26-0002): Lourdes Doran (3200 NE Sixth St) voiced strong opposition on behalf of neighbors to the nighttime work, citing disruption from noise, bright lights, vibrations, and dust. - Palmer Revocable Trust Rezoning (RZ26-0042): - Matt O'Reilly (101 NE Fifth St) spoke in opposition, stating the rezoning would set a dangerous precedent for North Main Street, opening the corridor to townhome development without proper zoning adjacency. - Kim Valentine (601 N Main) spoke in opposition, emphasizing that a zoning change grants permanent property rights that could be exploited by future owners for incompatible development, recommending a variance instead. - Mark Haney (848 NW C St), the builder representing the trust, spoke in support. He cited the staff report to argue the T4.1 zoning is appropriate for the location five blocks from the square and consistent with the Community Plan's Walkable Neighborhood Place Type. Discussion Items - TUP26-0002 (Bentonville Health Care Campus Night Work): The commission considered a 6-month TUP allowing Linco to perform concrete pours at night for a parking garage and building. A key discussion point was neighbor notification. The commission crafted a condition, agreed to by the applicant, requiring written notice and door hangers to addresses within a 200-foot radius (including Prairie and Levi Lanes). The notice must include a work schedule and a contact number. Discussion also covered standard construction hours (6 AM to 7 PM) and ensuring other site work complies. - LSD26-0038 (Botanical Garden): Commissioners discussed parking lot placement, with some expressing concern that a proposed lot on Central Avenue would obstruct views of Bud's House and the downtown entrance. The applicant argued the lot (26 of 43 total spaces) was essential for functionality and code compliance, preserving a central lawn. Traffic was expected primarily via trails. The commission secured a condition for an enhanced, native evergreen screen along the lot's north and east borders. - Massary Rezoning (RZ26-0044): Applicant Dominic Massary requested a rezone from R-1 to T3.1 at 201 SW E Street. The purpose is to allow moving a garage out of the right-of-way and expanding the house footprint. No public comments were made. - Materesa Corporation Rezoning (RZ26-0043): A rezone of 901 E Central Avenue from R-1 to T3.2 was reviewed. No applicant or public comments were offered. - Palmer Revocable Trust Rezoning (RZ26-0042): Because the statutory notice sign had been posted for less than the required 15 days, the commission could not take action. The public hearing was held and testimony was collected but discussion was deferred. - Community Code Amendments: Staff updated the commission on revisions, including clarifying the Standard Review vs. Enhanced Review criteria for rezonings. An update on the City Council's parking discussion was provided, noting a directive to scope and fund a comprehensive city parking plan. The update also covered refining parking reduction language to ensure logical walkability (e.g., requiring feasible access to a greenway). Key Outcomes - Meeting Minutes & Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - TUP26-0002 (Healthcare Campus): Approved (7-0) , conditioned on a 200-foot notification radius (letter and door hanger) detailing the night work schedule and a contact number for complaints. - LSD26-0038 (Botanical Garden): Approved (7-0) , conditioned on an enhanced evergreen screening buffer of native Arkansas species on the north and east sides of the Central Avenue parking lot. - RZ26-0044 (Massary Rezoning): Approved (7-0) . - RZ26-0043 (Materesa Rezoning): Approved (7-0) . - RZ26-0042 (Palmer Revocable Trust Rezoning): Tabled unanimously to the October 20, 2026 meeting to complete the public notice period. No substantive discussion or vote on the merits was held. - Community Code Amendments: Update received; no formal action taken. Staff to continue refining standard review criteria and parking management language.

The Prince George's County Council, sitting as the Committee of the Whole, met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 11:12 a.m. to 11:53 a.m. to consider the Minor Amendment to the 2013 Approved Subregion 5 Master Plan and the associated Sectional Map Amendment (SMA) (CR-028-2026). The meeting focused on a staff presentation summarizing public testimony, Planning Board recommendations, and council deliberation leading to two separate votes. The plan area lies entirely within Council District 9. Public Comments & Testimony - Thirteen speakers provided verbal testimony at the June 9, 2026 joint public hearing, generating over 32 pages of transcribed testimony. Additionally, 40 pieces of written testimony were received. - Testimony covered land use, environment, transportation, public facilities, and historic preservation, but not economic development. - While some testimony opposed specific rezonings (e.g., zoning changes 3, 4, 12, and 13), most testimony requested additional rezonings—often for higher density residential, industrial, or scattered commercial zones in rural and agricultural areas. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Korey Arsenault (Project Manager, M-NCPPC) and Michael Calomese (Deputy Project Manager) presented the process, key themes of the minor plan amendment (reimagining Brandywine as a transit-oriented hub, enhancing transit for the Southern Maryland Rapid Transit Line, concentrating retail at Akakeek Village, supporting the Medical Innovation District, and promoting agricultural preservation). The proposed SMA included 15 targeted zoning changes affecting less than 1% of the plan area. - Planning Board Actions (September 3, 2026): The Planning Board adopted the minor plan amendment and endorsed the SMA with three modifications: - Reduced the extent of zoning change 3 (commercial zoning at Akakeek Village) to create a more compact village scale. - Deleted zoning change 4 (multifamily housing at Akakeek Village) due to opposition. - Rezoned certain properties along Piscataway Road from AR/RR to RSF-95 to support single-family detached homes. - Clerical Error: Staff identified a minor error in the Planning Board’s resolution regarding tax account numbers for zoning changes 15 and 16 (three omitted numbers and one wrongly included). A correction was recommended. - Councilmember Harrison's Proposed Revisions: Councilmember Harrison moved to direct staff to prepare a resolution of approval for the SMA with four additional revisions: 1. Add a new strategy to the minor plan amendment based on Exhibit 28 to rezone the Dyson property to the RSFA zone. 2. Direct staff to evaluate a parcel (currently in the TACE zone) for potential IE (Industrial Employment) zoning, related to the Timothy Branch road and Brandywine Town Center connectivity. 3. (Implied from context) Possibly include a correction for tax account numbers—though Harrison also explicitly called for correcting the error on tax account numbers for endorsed zoning changes 15 and 16 (Parker properties). 4. (The fourth revision was not separately enumerated but was understood as part of the motion; the motion described “four revisions” including the above and the correction of the SMA resolution error.) - Council Discussion: Councilmember Adams requested clarification on the Timothy Branch property. Councilmember Oriadha stated she would abstain because she needed more time to digest the individual amendments. Key Outcomes - First Motion (Sectional Map Amendment): A motion by Councilmember Harrison, seconded by Councilmember Ivey, to direct staff to prepare a resolution of approval for the SMA with the four revisions (including staff’s noted correction) and in accordance with the Planning Board’s endorsements. Passed 8-0-1 (Ayes: Olson, Adams-Stafford, Blegay, Dernoga, Harrison, Ivey, Hunter, Adams; Nay: 0; Abstain: Oriadha; Absent: Burroughs and Fisher). - Second Motion (Master Plan Amendment): A motion by Councilmember Harrison, seconded by Councilmember Hunter, to direct staff to prepare a resolution of approval for the minor master plan amendment in accordance with the Planning Board’s adopted recommendations. Passed 8-0-1 (same vote tally). - Next Steps: Staff will draft resolutions incorporating the council’s directions. The council has 90 days from the Planning Board’s transmittal (September 4, 2026) to take final action.

On September 15, 2026, the Mayor and Denver City Council held their weekly joint meeting. Council members shared district and citywide announcements, Councilman Watson stated positions on two shelter matters, and the council voted to enter executive session for legal advice on contracts and city real estate use. Discussion Items - A council member announced a Houston Lake Town Hall on Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Habitat for Humanity Headquarters, 430 South Navajo, for residents concerned about the future of Houston Lake. - A council member announced the Budget Book Club series, including a virtual City Budget 101 on Thursday with a 30-minute crash course and 30-minute Q&A; a budget happy hour on Friday, September 25, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Flight Co Tower in District 8; and a community convening and workshop on Saturday, October 3, from 12 to 2 p.m. with location to be determined. Budget hearings are scheduled for the following week. Sign-up information is available through Councilwoman Lewis's page and link tree. - Councilman Watson announced Hoop for Safety on September 26, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Metro State University, a free event encouraging health and sports, sponsored by the Nuggets and MSU Denver. - Councilman Watson said he does not support building a proposed 400-room shelter in the Swansea neighborhood on the border of Clayton. He said discussions are underway to set up a separate community meeting on the proposal, and he encouraged community members to attend a community information meeting about a family shelter at 4180 Columbine Street, noting that hundreds of families are waiting for shelter, winter is coming, a solution is necessary, and families have been asking for shelter for well over a year. - The council president announced that the Saturday concert at Eisenhower Park is canceled and rescheduled as a fall fest on October 24, with location to be determined, due to predicted rain during the concert time. - A council member announced a park cleanup on Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. at Berkeley Park, focused on trash along the I-70 interstate, with free coffee, snacks, and a concert ticket to the Federal Oriental Theater; participants should meet at the playground. - A council member announced Jamming on the Jetty at Sloan's Lake from 1 to 8 p.m. this weekend, and noted that $50 million in funding was identified with the Department of Finance and Denver Urban Renewal Authority for lake cleanup. - A council member moved, and another seconded, a motion to enter executive session pursuant to DRMC 2-34A for the purpose of receiving legal advice regarding negotiation of contracts and discussing the use of real estate by the city. The motion was approved. Key Outcomes - The council approved moving into executive session under DRMC 2-34A for legal advice on contract negotiations and city real estate use. - Councilman Watson expressed opposition to the proposed 400-room shelter in Swansea/Clayton and expressed support for finding a solution for the family shelter at 4180 Columbine Street. - Several community events were announced, rescheduled, or promoted: Houston Lake Town Hall, Budget Book Club events, Hoop for Safety, Berkeley Park cleanup, Jamming on the Jetty, and the District 4 fall fest.

The Raleigh City Council held a work session on September 15, 2026 to receive updates on the current drought status, water usage statistics, and long-term water supply alternatives. Presenters included Ed Bucken and Whit Wheeler from Raleigh Water. Councilor Jonathan Lambert Melton was absent and excused. The session included detailed presentations on drought recovery, water demand, conservation, and future supply projects. Discussion Items - Drought Update: Ed Bucken reported that most of North Carolina remains in some level of drought, but conditions have dramatically improved since June when the Falls Lake Basin experienced D5 (exceptional) drought. Heavy rainfall on July 23 provided 4–5 inches in the basin, raising the lake about 2 feet. The water supply pool is currently at 79%, well above the Stage 1 drought trigger of 45%. Pumpage is stable around 66 million gallons per day (MGD). A statistical model (Oasis) shows a very low probability (≤10%) of reaching 50% supply pool in the coming months, and a strong chance of recovery through winter due to a shift to El Niño conditions. - Water Usage & Conservation: Residential accounts constitute 61% of demand. The gallons per capita day has steadily declined over 25 years, partly due to tiered rates and efficient appliances. During the Stage 1 restrictions (April 20–August 3), compliance was initially good but declined in late May/June. Staff monitored 11,000 irrigation meters and cited those using over 748 gallons on non-permitted days. This enforcement improved compliance. Future revisions to the water shortage response plan will evaluate triggers, discretionary uses (e.g., athletic fields, drip irrigation), and the spacing of permitted irrigation days to reduce peak demand. - Long-Term Water Supply Alternatives: Whit Wheeler presented the Triangle Water Supply Partnership’s regional plan, projecting demand growth from 170 MGD (2022) to over 400 MGD by 2070. For Raleigh, near-term options include upgrading Lake Benson and Lake Wheeler dams with crest gates (adding 2.5 MGD for $3.5 million) and studying potable reuse via reclaimed water at the Benton plant (potential 3.5 MGD). Major alternatives analyzed: Carr Lake (38–45 MGD, high cost $1.8–2.4 billion, interbasin transfer complications), Neuse River intake (15–45 MGD in phases, cost $540–890 million, lower per-gallon cost), and Little River Reservoir (12–18 MGD, high mitigation cost due to threatened species, over $1 billion). Staff are focusing further study on the Neuse River intake option, with water quality modeling ongoing through summer 2027. - Council Questions & Comments: - Councilor Harrison asked about the water quality pool (40% level) and opportunities for conservation to extend supply. Staff noted that year-round restrictions (like Cary’s) and a communication campaign are being considered. A follow-up report on policy options was promised. - Councilor Branch inquired about the Neuse River intake location (near Poplar Creek on city property near the shooting range) and the timeline (target online by 2040). He also asked about the Little River Reservoir environmental impact study; staff confirmed it is public. - Councilor Patton commented on improving the water shortage plan: closing the drip irrigation loophole, strengthening economic disincentives, improving public communication (e.g., smart meter apps), and reducing non-functional lawns. She also requested clarity on the long-term supply decision timeline; staff indicated a decision may come in summer 2027 after water quality modeling is complete. Key Outcomes - Water Shortage Response Plan Revisions: Staff aim to complete updates by the end of 2026, incorporating lessons from the 2025–2026 drought, including La Niña triggers, irrigation day spacing, and revised reduction targets. - Future Water Supply Direction: Staff will continue studying the Neuse River intake option, conducting water quality modeling and sampling through summer 2027. An application for withdrawal permits will follow once data are sufficient. - Conservation Policy Review: Staff will provide a future report to council on potential year-round conservation measures and policy tools, including possible rate structure changes and educational campaigns. - Regional Coordination: The Triangle Water Supply Partnership will present its final regional water supply plan to Division Water Resources in October 2026, with Raleigh’s alternatives incorporated.

The 26th session of the Hawai‘i County Council’s Communications, Reports, and Council Oversight Committee convened at 4:00 p.m. (actual start 5:15 p.m.) on September 15, 2026, with Chair Michelle Galimba presiding. All nine council members were present at some point. The committee considered four communications: the quarterly affordable housing report, a presentation on Project WAO (traditional watershed stewardship), a follow-up audit of the abandoned vehicle program, and a presentation on the wastewater facility plan and cesspool conversion evaluation. No public testimony was offered. All communications were closed with unanimous votes. Consent Calendar - Comm. 35.9 – Quarterly Affordable Housing Report (Apr–Jun 2026): Housing Administrator Kehaulani Costa confirmed no changes since the last report. The committee closed the file with 9 ayes. Discussion Items Comm. 999 – Project WAO Presentation - Kamuela Plunkett (Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Science Center) presented Project WAO, a pilot project in West Hawai‘i that maps traditional ahupua‘a boundaries, vegetation zones, and aquifer recharge areas to inform modern land-use planning. He highlighted that ancestral watershed districting capped ahupua‘a at the forest line (Wao) and that fog interception can increase water budgets by up to 30%. Future rainfall projections show 30–50% decreases by end of century, with some aquifers already impaired. - Council members expressed strong support: Councilmember Kimball called it “profound” and noted the opportunity to synthesize traditional practices with Western governance. Councilmember Villegas praised the “synchronicity” with earlier discussions and the return to host-culture wisdom. Councilmember Kleinfelder appreciated the layered approach and questioned aquifer claims made in other land-use decisions. The committee closed the file with 9 ayes. Comm. 1061 – Follow-Up Audit of DEM’s Abandoned Vehicle Program - Maxine Peshecko (Office of the County Auditor) presented the follow-up review (Report 2026‑02). Of five original recommendations: three completed (PPE use, increased reporting options with QR code flyer, cross-training), two in progress (formalizing policies/SOPs – target end of 2026; vehicle auctions – last auction Dec 2024, need 55–60 vehicles to proceed). - Councilmember Hustace asked about backlog; Tiffany Wallace (DAV specialist) stated inventory not yet sufficient. Councilmember Kagiwada requested the flyer for inclusion in her newsletter. Chair Galimba asked when policies/SOPs would be finalized; Wallace said by year’s end. The committee closed the file with 6 ayes (members Kierkiewicz, Kleinfelder, and Inaba excused). Comm. 1062 – Wastewater Facility Plan and Cesspool Conversion Evaluation - Gary Deese and Jason Nikaido (Corolla Engineers) presented a summary of the two reports. Key findings: - Wastewater Facility Plan: Condition assessment of 6 treatment plants and 17 pump stations: 20% good/minor defects, 50% fair/significant defects, 25% poor, 5% failed. 70 capital projects identified. Total 20‑year program cost: $1.1 billion (near‑term legally mandated) + $0.5 billion (20‑year horizon) = $2.3 billion total wastewater needs. Most spending required in first 10 years due to AOC and Kīlauea settlement mandates. - Cesspool Conversion Evaluation: 48,600 cesspools in county. Three conversion methods: county sewer extensions ($784 million, $93,000 per cesspool), new decentralized systems ($3 billion, $300,000 per cesspool), individual wastewater systems (IWS, $1.2 billion, $40,000 per cesspool). Full technical conversion would cost $5 billion. Proposed plan reduces county role to 10 priority sewer extension projects (3,100 cesspools, $266 million), with most conversions (80–90%) via IWS by property owners. Total proposed plan cost: $2 billion. - Councilmember Kleinfelder questioned cost per mile for sewer lines; asked about cost comparison with IWS. Noted that $40,000 per IWS is far cheaper than $93,000+ per sewer connection. Called for taking findings to EPA. Councilmember Kimball noted that IWS may not improve water quality in some locations, and workforce shortages may hinder mass conversions. She also asked whether the most recent UH prioritization tool (with 14 criteria) was used; presenters confirmed they used the initial 3‑level tool. Kimball also questioned whether Phase 2 of the Hilo WWTP (activated sludge upgrade, required by 2035) is cost‑effective; Kelly Hartman (DEM) confirmed it is regulatorily required under the AOC. - Councilmember Villegas expressed hope for future technology to manage waste without water. Kelly Hartman clarified the AOC mandates. Chris Laude (DEM temporary wastewater chief) emphasized that DOH requires cesspool closure but does not mandate the county to do it; he cautioned that IWS may not prevent near‑shore water impairment, and that the Hilo NPDES permit may soon include nutrient limits. The committee closed the file with 6 ayes (Inaba and Kierkiewicz excused). Key Outcomes - All four communications were closed with unanimous votes (Comm. 35.9 and 999: 9‑0; Comm. 1061 and 1062: 6‑0, with three members excused). - The abandoned vehicle program audit follow-up will be finalized when SOPs are completed by end of 2026. - The wastewater facility plan and cesspool conversion report will be finalized by January 31, 2027 to meet AOC deadline. - Council expressed interest in further discussion with DOH on IWS feasibility, water quality impacts, and workforce capacity for mass conversions.

The St. Charles Parish Council met on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at the Courthouse in Hahnville. Chairman Walter Pilié presided. Seven members were present (Mobley, Fonseca, Skiba, Pilié, Comardelle, O'Daniels, deBruler); La Sandra D. Wilson and Bob Fisher were absent. The meeting included proclamations, reports from the Hospital Service District, Legal Services, and the Parish President, public hearings on several zoning and ordinance items, and appointments to boards. Special Business (Proclamations) - 2026-0239: Recognition of the 8U All-Star Baseball team as 2026 Louisiana USSSA State Champions. Coach Blake Prince spoke. Read and accepted. - 2026-0297: Proclamation for "Constitution Week" (September 17-23, 2026). Accepted by Daughters of the American Revolution members. - 2026-0298: Recognition of Johnny Bourgeois for service on the St. Charles Parish Communications District (absent, plaque to be delivered). - 2026-0299: Proclamation of Alligator Weekend (September 24-27) and recognition of Justin Goings as "Mr. Alligator." Goings spoke about Rotary scholarships. - 2026-0300: Recognition of Kacey Lynn Beadle as 2026 Miss Alligator Festival Queen. She spoke on service. - 2026-0301: Recognition of Elle Adeline Johnson as 2026 Teen Alligator Festival Queen. She spoke on service. - 2026-0283: Announcement of Local Board of Review meeting on September 28, 2026, at 6 PM. Council review period September 16-30. Reports - Hospital Service District (2026-0294): Chief Nursing Officer Jarrett Fuselier reported strong growth: EMS on track for 7,000 transports (7% increase), adding an ambulance and sprint vehicle; new EMS headquarters moving to hospital campus; clinic growth (8%, over 21,000 patients); hospital discharges up 4%; top-decile patient experience; adding Da Vinci surgical robot; 44% growth in MRI access; over 200,000 lab tests; infusion services with 20% growth; expanded behavioral health. CEO Keith Dakis departing after five years. Councilmember Fonseca and Parish President Jewell thanked Fuselier and staff. - Department of Legal Services (2026-0295): Director Corey Oubre reported on department staffing, risk management integration, electronic bidding process, planning and zoning enforcement (closed 14 cases in two weeks, reducing older cases), litigation numbers (11 new files in 2026, 75 P&Z files, 17 insurance files), and reduction in vehicle accident lawsuits due to driver safety programs. Councilmembers thanked staff. - Parish President Remarks (2026-0296): Matthew Jewell reported: - Ormond C-N project: Completed first and second borings beneath railway; will move to next site at Duca. - Montz Pump Station 1 and 2: Significant progress, crews working on electrical/piping for 1, pump installation for 2. C C C Road closed through October 19 for discharge pipes. - $10 million LED FastSite investment at Esperanza Business Park to extend Judge Edward Dufren Parkway; total project $25 million, construction expected 2027-2028. - Online surplus auction through September 22 at govdeals.com. - Community cleanup September 26 at Bonnet Carré Spillway. - July sales tax collections nearly 5% higher than 2025 ($1.4 million additional). Public Comments & Testimony - Milton Allemand (Hahnville) spoke repeatedly: - On the weed/grass assessment ordinance (2026-0278): questioned whether habitual offenders actually pay, suggesting fines may be too low; later supported the e-bike ordinance but argued fines should be $500 not $100. - On the e-bike ordinance (2026-0273): urged higher penalties, then later recommended tabling because multiple amendments changed the substance. - On the asphalt maintenance agreement (2026-0289): questioned reuse of documents by consultant and defective work provisions; argued the parish should rely on common sense rather than engineering studies. - On the Lakewood Pump Station contract (2026-0266): asked about contractor’s responsibility for unforeseen conditions per Article 7.04. - Allen Bryant (Destrehan) spoke on behalf of property owner for two rezoning petitions (2026-0279 and 2026-0288), stating he was available for questions. - Louis Authement (Luling) spoke on behalf of applicant for rezoning 2026-0280, explaining the old St. Gertrude Church property needs commercial zoning. - Earl Rhodes (St. Rose) spoke at length against the e-bike ordinance, arguing state laws already cover most issues and that enforcement of existing laws should come first. He questioned how many citations have been issued. His time was extended by a council vote (7-0). Discussion Items - Planning & Zoning Petitions (all approved unanimously 7-0): - 2026-0279: Rezone from R-1A and R-1A(M) to C-3 on Tract B, Coteau De France, 16825 Highway 90, Des Allemands (Sigmon Rental Properties). Councilmember Comardelle thanked applicant for investing locally. - 2026-0280: Rezone from R-1A(M) to C-3 on Lot 9A, St. Gertrude Church Campus, Des Allemands (PDJ Enterprises). Comardelle supported repurposing storm-damaged property. - 2026-0281: Rezone from C-3 to R-1M on a portion of Tract 1, Coteau De France, 117 Gwen Lane, Des Allemands (White Boot Investments). Comardelle appreciated cleanup. - Ordinance 2026-0278 – Delinquent Weed/Debris Assessment: The original ordinance levied assessment on 2025 tax bills. After reconsideration, an amendment changed the year to 2026. Final vote 7-0. - Ordinance 2026-0273 – Regulation of Motorized Bicycles, E-bikes, Scooters, and Dirt Bikes: Extensive discussion and multiple amendments. - The Sheriff explained the need for local regulation due to state law gaps and increasing injuries (citing national data: 138,500 ER visits in 2024). - Amendments adopted: - Remove “20 mph or” from speed limit reference (only “exceeding posted speed limit”). Vote 6-1 (Mobley nay). - Change the third whereas to delete “eliminate safety hazards.” - Replace “electric scooter” with “electric low-speed scooter” throughout. - Revise helmet requirements: operators/passengers under 17 on Class 1 & 2 electric-assisted bicycles and low-speed scooters must wear helmet; all operators/passengers on Class 3, motorized bicycles, motor-driven cycles, and electric dirt bikes must wear helmet. Established maximum $50 fine for helmet violations per state law. - Delete “plus court costs” from Section 15-30(c). - Final ordinance as amended passed 7-0. - Ordinance 2026-0289 – Professional Services Agreement with Digital Engineering & Imaging for Asphalt Maintenance 2027 ($212,080.50): Approved 7-0 after discussion on the value of engineering assessments. - Ordinance 2026-0290 – Act of Revocation (Cajun Paradise Levee servitude): Approved 7-0. - Ordinance 2026-0266 – Contract with Cycle Construction for Lakewood Pump Station Discharge Modifications ($959,300): Approved 7-0 after discussion of standard contract language. - Resolution 2026-0288 – Support for Planning Commission approval of fleet services use and waivers for Sigmon Rental Properties: Removed from table and approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - All proclamations and recognitions were accepted by the council. - All three zoning reclassification ordinances (2026-0279, 0280, 0281) were adopted unanimously. - The weed/debris assessment ordinance (2026-0278) was amended to use tax year 2026 and adopted unanimously. - The e-bike regulation ordinance (2026-0273) was passed as amended (6-1 on one amendment, final vote 7-0). - The asphalt maintenance engineering agreement (2026-0289) and pump station contract (2026-0266) were approved. - The servitude revocation (2026-0290) was approved. - The fleet services waiver resolution (2026-0288) was approved. - Appointments: - Library Board of Control (District VI): Althea Pollard nominated by Councilman Fisher (via Fonseca). Nomination closed and accepted. - Communications District (Firemen’s Association): Wayne Duvall appointed. Accepted. - Library Board of Control (District II): Lindsey Tullier reappointed for a five-year term. Confirmed 7-0. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:29 PM.

The Spearfish Planning Commission met in regular session on September 15, 2026 at 4:00 PM in the Council Chambers of City Hall and via Zoom. The meeting covered a consent agenda, one action item, and one discussion item. Key actions included unanimous approval of the agenda, prior meeting minutes, and a sketch plat to combine two residential lots within the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) area. Commissioners also received an informational preview of the Spring Creek Ranch Estates sketch plat and heard several departmental updates. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as presented (motion by Wilde, second by Davison; passed 6–0). - Approved the minutes from the 9/1/2026 regular meeting (motion by Wilde, second by Moths; passed 6–0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment was offered for issues not on the agenda. Discussion Items - Sketch Plat of Lot A, B, and C Spring Creek Ranch Estates (Informational): Assistant Planning Director Jaymia Ecker presented the proposed sketch plat for discussion. Property owner Rick Furnish commented on the proposed layout. Commissioners and staff discussed right-of-way dedication locations, access, and planning for future development of the properties. No action was taken. New Business - Lot Combination Sketch Plat – 2630 Lookout Mountain Road (ETJ Area): The applicant, Loren Vrem (represented by Terry Liddick), requested approval of a sketch plat combining two residential lots into one within the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) area. Planning Technician Vasiliki Pistoftzian presented the staff report recommending approval based on consistency with the ETJ Subdivision Ordinance and Lawrence County A-1 zoning standards. The Commission voted 6–0 to approve the sketch plat as presented. Departmental Updates & Informational Items - Community Development Director Peter Wysocki reported that on September 30th, Clarion and the Community Development Department will host an open house for the Shape Spearfish Title XV code re-write, with the steering committee also meeting that day. - Wysocki said the ETJ Subdivision Ordinance working group will kick off in early October to review subdivision code revisions. - Wysocki announced he has been selected as the next City Administrator and will transition to that role starting the following week. Public Comment & Testimony - No public comment was offered during the public comment period. Adjournment - The meeting adjourned at 4:28 p.m. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda 6-0. - Approved the minutes from the 9/1/2026 regular meeting 6-0. - Approved the sketch plat for 2630 Lookout Mountain Road (combining two residential lots into one within the ETJ) 6-0. - Held a discussion-only review of the Spring Creek Ranch Estates sketch plat (Lots A, B, and C); no action was taken.

The Columbia City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at City Hall Council Chambers (1737 Main Street). The meeting was called to order at 4:38 p.m. and adjourned at 6:17 p.m. All seven council members were present. Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann presided. The agenda included proclamations, public comments, consent items, zoning amendments, ordinance readings, resolutions, appointments, and committee reports. Special Tributes and Proclamations - Leshia Utsey Remembrance Day: City Manager Teresa Wilson and Councilor Edward H. McDowell Jr. honored the life and 27-year career of former Public Relations Director Leshia Utsey, who passed away on September 2, 2026. A video tribute was shown. The council proclaimed September 15, 2026 as Leshia Veronica Elaine Utsey Remembrance Day. - Harper Truslow Day: The council recognized Harper Truslow, Little Miss South Carolina's Overall Queen, for her community service through Harper's Homefront Heroes program. September 15, 2026 was proclaimed Harper Truslow Day. - Sickle Cell Awareness Day: Dr. Hilton Cooper of the James R. Clark Sickle Cell Foundation reported over 500 patients in Columbia rely on daily care-coordination. September 12, 2026 was proclaimed Sickle Cell Awareness Day. - National Hispanic Heritage Month: Tanya Rodriguez-Hodges emphasized Latino contributions and urged year-round commitment. September 2026 was proclaimed National Hispanic Heritage Month. - Constitution Week: Nancy Corbett of the Daughters of the American Revolution noted the 239th anniversary. September 17–23, 2026 was proclaimed Constitution Week. - Good Neighbor Day: Kay Patterson and Adam Negler of the Columbia Council of Neighborhoods highlighted CCN's work since 1977. September 28, 2026 was proclaimed Good Neighbor Day. - Alopecia Awareness Day: Dr. Alicia P. Harris raised awareness about alopecia affecting an estimated 10,000 South Carolinians. September 19, 2026 was proclaimed Soulful Journey with Alopecia Day. - Community Partnership Recognition: Mykle Bowman of ASC Management Group presented an award to Mayor Rickenmann for economic development and neighborhood revitalization. Public Comments (First Period) - Ellen Anderson, President of the Forest Heights Community Association, spoke on Item 26 (annexation for Windy Hills North). She requested traffic signals, sidewalks, street lights, a fire station, and an activity center for youth, noting that about 45% of residents are seniors. Approval of Minutes and Consent Calendar - Council unanimously approved the September 1, 2026 work session and regular meeting minutes (Item 9). - Council unanimously approved Consent Agenda Items 10–22, including contract amendments for grant services, beaver mitigation, wastewater projects, and construction; purchase of police vehicles and radios; equipment lease up to $15 million; a telecommunications franchise; and consent to property inclusion in an industrial park. Zoning and Planning Matters First Reading (Items 23–25): - 2359 Washington Street: Unanimously approved first reading to rezone to Residential Mixed District with a Historic Preservation Overlay, establishing the property as a City of Columbia landmark. (Staff and Planning Commission recommended approval; Historic Preservation Design Review Committee also approved.) - 617 Richland Street: Unanimously approved first reading to rezone from Regional Activity Center to Residential Mixed District, remaining within the Downtown Columbia Overlay. - Parcels on N. Main Street (Clear Dot Charter School): Unanimously approved first reading to rezone the former Lutheran Theological Seminary campus to Institutional General, Neighborhood Activity Center, and Residential Mixed districts, with existing historic overlays retained. Councilor Herbert clarified that some parcels east of Ensor Avenue will remain in the original Planned Development. Second Reading (Items 26–27): - Windy Hills North Annexation (Item 26): Unanimously approved second reading to annex approximately 128.91 acres and additional parcels along Blue Ridge Terrace, Monticello Road, and adjacent streets. The property will be assigned multiple land use classifications and zoning districts. Mayor noted future coordination with Richland County on infrastructure concerns. - 1920 Pineview Drive (Item 27): Unanimously voted to defer at the applicant's request. Ordinances – First Reading - 1507 Harden Street (Royal Motel): Unanimously approved first reading authorizing sale to Sellers Real Estate Holdings, LLC. Councilor Brennan expressed excitement about preserving this historic Green Book hotel. - 2725 Main Street: Unanimously approved first reading authorizing sale to RJL2 LLC. Public Hearing and Resolutions - City Club Neighborhood Parking Permit District (Item 30): Unanimously approved following a public hearing with no speakers. - Senate Street Median Public Art (Item 31): Unanimously approved resolution supporting a public art project by the Congaree Vista Guild. - Devine Night Out Beer/Wine Permit (Item 32): Unanimously approved resolution authorizing beer and wine consumption on November 12, 2026. Appointments - Columbia Town & Gown Committee (Item 33): Unanimously approved reappointments of Michael Anzelmo, Bambi Gaddist, and Robby Thomas as neighborhood representatives, and appointments of Todd Hudak (neighborhood representative) and Joseph Forturne (hospitality representative), for two-year terms. Other Matters - Speed Hump on Heyward Street (Item 34): Unanimously approved installation of a speed hump on the 1700 block, as requested by the Hollywood Rose Hill Neighborhood Association. Committee Reports - Homeless Services: Councilor Will Brennan reported that the Homeless Services Advisory Committee reviewed draft recommendations from consultant Health Management Associates. Homeless Services Director Kameisha Heppard, LMSW, reported FY25-26 outcomes: 417 individuals assisted, 169 clients served through Rapid Shelter Columbia, 29 placed into permanent housing, 130 positive or stabilization exits, and street outreach engaged 73% of unsheltered individuals. She invited the public to a screening of 'Beyond the Bridge: A Solution to Homelessness.' - Community Development: Councilor Tina N. Herbert reported that the Community Development Committee received guidance from South Carolina State Housing on competitive project funding, and that the Housing Authority received state funding to begin replacement work for the former Allen Benedict Court site. The committee also reviewed the City's NOFA process. Public Comments (Second Period) - George Crouch presented ideas for beautifying the Assembly Street corridor medians, including a low wall, palmetto trees, coordinated planters, uplighting, and an 'adopt a median' program. He shared AI-generated visuals.

The Valdez City Council held its regular meeting on September 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Mayor Pro Tem Lester Green presided in the absence of Mayor Fleming (excused) and Councilmember Foster attended electronically. The meeting included the inaugural Citizens' Academy graduation, public appearances, a consent agenda, a resolution on harbor rates and fees, project updates, and an executive session. Citizens' Academy Graduation - City Clerk Sherry Elise reported that 17 people signed up for the first Citizens' Academy, a multi-week program to educate residents about city government. Graduates were recognized, and several expressed gratitude for the program, with some noting it inspired them to seek future involvement in city boards or employment. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (6-0, with Mayor Fleming absent) the following items: - Proclamation declaring September 13-19, 2026, as Adult Education and Family Literacy Week. - Appointment of Melissa Kjelvik to the Valdez Consortium Library Board. - Approval of liquor license renewal for Fraternal Order Of Eagles Aerie 1971 (License 335). - Approval to enter executive session to discuss Trans Alaska Pipeline System ad valorem tax issues. Public Comments & Testimony - Lanette Oliver, Valdez Adventure Alliance: Provided an update on Worthington Glacier and Shoop Bay Trail. Reported 44,500 visitors at Worthington Glacier so far, already surpassing last season's total, with an estimated 60,000 by season end. City funding covers about $0.23 per visitor (typical cost $1/person). Noted increased vandalism and ATV/e-bike damage. No state funding received historically except $3,000 this year from DNR for cabin stove repairs. Advocated for a boardwalk to protect wetlands. - Edmore Mangena & Glenn Deputy, Providence Valdez Counseling Center: Spoke about suicide prevention, emphasizing community connectedness and training. Announced a Suicide Prevention Walk on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Kelsey Dock. Suggested adding suicide prevention modules to future Citizens' Academies. - Senator Rauscher: Gave legislative updates on Cook Inlet gas supply concerns (X Fury short by 18 days), new PICA oil field production (20,000 barrels/day, aiming for 120,000), and progress on the Valdez ferry dock agreement (state ownership with local control – “option three” selected; contract being drafted). Resolutions - Resolution 26-40 – Establishing Harbor Rates and Fees: Approved 6-0. Key changes: transient vessel fees based on length; commercial skiffs not charged extra if not impeding navigation; commercial fueling outside designated docks subject to fuel flowage fee; $10/day parking fee removed; $40/night RV fee retained for winter months (October 15 – April 15). Councilmember Foster questioned fee justification and enforcement. Reports - Monthly Projects Update (Casey Walker, Capital Facilities): - Meals Avenue: Road base installed; curb and gutter work starting next week; asphalt expected by end of September (weather permitting). - Well House Project: 60% complete; water tie-in scheduled this fall. - Hospital Generator Replacement: 70% complete; awaiting fire marshal approval. - Cell Tower (Copper Valley): Foundation work underway; tower and shelter arriving by month end. - Skate Park Replacement: Final opening event on September 19 at 1:00 PM. - Animal Shelter Fuel Lines: Tank installation expected January/February 2027. - High School Remodel: Architects held stakeholder sessions (Sept 10-11); Casey requested a work session with council for input. - Baylor Replacement: Geotechnical sampling completed. - VCT Water Line Replacement: 95% design; exploring funding for 2027. - Low River Erosion: Monitoring ongoing; working with DOW on long-term plan. - City Clerk’s Report (Sherry Elise): Noted changes to the Alaska Municipal League’s Newly Elected Officials conference; encouraged council to review agenda for additional sessions. Council Business from the Floor - Councilmembers thanked participants, highlighted the 9/11 remembrance ceremony, Alaska drone technology presentation, and the Swan Symposium. - Councilmember Green announced he will be out of state until November 8 but will attend meetings remotely. Executive Session - Council entered executive session to discuss Trans Alaska Pipeline System ad valorem tax issues. No action taken following return. Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent calendar (unanimous), Resolution 26-40 (unanimous). - Next Steps: Work session with high school architects to be scheduled; projects to continue as reported; ferry dock contract under legal review.