The Public Meeting Index

The Redmond City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, beginning at 7:00 PM at Redmond City Hall (15670 NE 85th St), with remote participation by broadcast and phone. Mayor Angela Birney presided, with Council President Melissa Stuart, Council Vice President Angie Nuevacamina, and councilmembers Jessica Forsythe, Vanessa Kritzer, Sayna Parsi, Vivek Prakriya, and Menka Soni. The agenda included a Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation, the One Redmond 2025 annual contract report, the consent agenda, items from the audience, a public hearing on the 2027–2032 Capital Investment Program (CIP), the second quarter 2026 financial report, and new business on a sole-source HR organizational assessment contract. (Source transcript spells the mayor’s surname variously as “Bernie,” “Burney,” and “Birney,” and one councilmember as “Sony”; the official roster spellings are used here.) Proclamation and Tribute - Councilmembers remembered former councilmember Arnie, who served 12 years on the Redmond City Council. - Mayor Birney proclaimed September 15 through October 15, 2026, as National Hispanic Heritage Month in Redmond. One Redmond 2025 Annual Contract Report - One Redmond presented its 2025 annual contract report and 2026 highlights, including the One East Side Small Business Advising Services program, which provides fee-free advising to businesses and nonprofits in Redmond and East King County. - Council asked One Redmond to share learnings from two new Space District programs scheduled for September and October 2026, particularly what the city can do to support small businesses and the creative economy. Consent Calendar - Council approved a motion to reorder the agenda so that the consent agenda would be taken up before items from the audience. - Item 5, the 2026 Community Stability Funding recommendation (Part Two), was removed from the consent agenda at a councilmember’s request. - The remaining consent agenda was approved, including: the minutes of the September 1, 2026 regular and special meetings and the September 8, 2026 special meeting; the September 15, 2026 check register; and Ordinance 3269, amending Title 21 of the Redmond Municipal Code (the Redmond Zoning Code). Five “yes” votes were recorded; no “no” votes appear in the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony Speakers are limited to three minutes; the sign-up sheet closed at 7:00 PM. - A Redmond native who now lives in Sammamish’s Inglewood community, referencing their past work on “last year’s public roads debacle,” asked why more families with young children choose North Sammamish over Redmond or Kirkland when the larger cities offer more housing and transportation, and whether that status will be resolved before the city commits to nearby development decisions. - A speaker described difficulty recovering from ankle surgery without access to a quiet environment. - A speaker said they usually handle conflict “in a rather diplomatic and reasonable way” but feel “not commonly respected,” and drew inspiration from LGBTQ community members who had spoken. - A speaker criticized the city’s listening sessions as framed “exactly like last year’s listening sessions,” which peers criticized as “one way rather than conversational.” - A speaker said the city has made a “strategic and concerted effort to prioritize focus to those who do fit their mold, and especially those who have the ability to pay,” urged councilmembers to talk with and visit seniors and adaptive recreation participants, and said, “Do not repeat your mistakes and be clear about your goals.” - Members were reminded that state law prohibits public comment in support of or opposition to ballot propositions, measures, or candidates. Public Hearing: 2027–2032 CIP - A public hearing was held on the proposed 2027–2032 Capital Investment Program. - One speaker stated that the city’s own testing shows PFAS levels in supply wells 1 and 2 that will require treatment before the 2029 federal deadline. - Councilmembers said they heard substantial community discussion about the CIP and related topics both during the hearing and in items from the audience. Staff Report: Second Quarter 2026 Financial Report - Staff presented the second quarter 2026 financial report. - Staff reported that inflation is projected to remain above normal ranges. - The report referenced crisis response positions the council had wanted to fund, which a public speaker had also referenced earlier in the meeting. New Business: HR Organizational Assessment - Council considered authorizing an HR organizational assessment. Staff introduced Shelley Gatty, CEO of Project Core, and senior staff were present to answer follow-up questions, including from a question matrix provided to council the prior day. - Staff stated the mayor exercised her right to sole-source the contract to expedite the assessment and avoid other HR risks. Staff said the city had not done this level of analysis in HR before and were not aware of it being done in any other city department. - The proposed scope includes a senior consultant working full time (40 hours per week for 20 weeks) and a principal consultant working 25 hours per week for 20 weeks, plus additional support. - Staff cited Project Core’s claimed 100% success rate over 20 years and similar prior engagements, including work with the Seattle Police Department not found through public disclosure due to the nature of the work, and referenced the Workday enterprise resource planning rollout about two years earlier that staff said “didn't have things properly categorized.” - Staff said the approach would pair baseline diagnostics with “as much execution as we can in the time we have,” giving an incoming HR director a foundation that identifies strengths, gaps, red flags, and risks. - Councilmembers raised questions, including: who has final say if the consultant recommends something a new HR director is not on board with (staff acknowledged this was “a very good question”); why the assessment was not deferred until after an HR director was hired, given employees may be reluctant to share gap information with someone who will become their supervisor; how similar projects in other cities compared; and whether the work was scoped to include classification and compensation issues (staff said that was not in scope for this contract). - Councilmember Parsi asked for clarity on sequencing the consultant hire before the HR director is hired. Staff responded that the HR director would implement the recommendations and that the assessment would help ensure the HR department functions as highly as possible. - No final vote or formal direction on the HR assessment contract appears in the available transcript excerpt. Committee Reports and Ombuds Items - A councilmember reported that the Association of Washington Cities legislative priorities committee has concluded its draft agenda and transmitted it to the board. - The “Breaking the Cycle” revenue work group was discussed; Mayor Birney is one of two Sound Cities Association representatives on the group. - Councilmembers noted the council had received broad community input, particularly through items from the audience and the CIP discussion, and noted a related project will be taken up in Councilmember Soni’s committee the following week. Key Outcomes - Adopted the National Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation for September 15 – October 15, 2026. - Approved a motion to reorder the agenda so the consent agenda preceded items from the audience. - Removed item 5 (2026 Community Stability Funding, Part Two) from the consent agenda. - Approved the consent agenda, including meeting minutes, the September 15, 2026 check register, and Ordinance 3269. Vote: five yeses, zero noes indicated. - Held the public hearing on the 2027–2032 CIP. No action required or shown. - Received the second quarter 2026 financial report. No action required or shown. - Discussed, but did not show a final vote on, the proposed sole-source HR organizational assessment with Project Core.

The El Paso City Council met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers, City Hall, and virtually. The meeting included mayoral proclamations, public comment, consent agenda, and action on several ordinances and resolutions. Key decisions included approving a motion to remove all Flock Safety automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras from city property within 60 days and directing the City Manager to refrain from entering into future contracts for fixed networked ALPR technology without Council approval. The Council also approved the El Paso County 911 District FY 2026-2027 budget, reallocated $2.5 million in HOME funds from a first-time homebuyer program to affordable multifamily housing, and adopted ordinances updating tattoo studio regulations, public utility communications, and floodplain administrator qualifications. Consent Calendar - Approved with revisions (striking and replacing language on item 19, correcting ordinance citation on item 21, adding co-sponsor to items 25 and 26). Items 7 and 16 were moved to the regular agenda. The consent agenda as revised passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 25 & 26 (Flock Safety ALPR cameras): Multiple speakers urged removal, citing Fourth Amendment concerns, privacy risks, and lack of transparency. One speaker noted Flock software runs on outdated Android 8.1 with no security patches; another reported nationwide misuse by law enforcement. A speaker from Sembrando Esperanza Coalition supported the items and offered volunteer help for removal. - Call to the Public (non-agenda): 31 speakers addressed various topics: - Several speakers criticized El Paso Animal Services for suspending rescue partner Pause of Promise after they raised concerns about animal care; asked for independent investigation and restoration of partnership. - One speaker reported children going hungry and food banks receiving only coffee creamers; urged Council to address food insecurity. - Others discussed library fees for non-residents, EMS optimization, racial disparities in policing, and the need for transparency in city contracts. - Public comment on consent items: A speaker questioned broad authority for city officials to sign “any necessary documents” (item 6), and another criticized donating $1,000 for a dance event while children go hungry (items 9 and 10). Discussion Items - Item 7 – Substantial Amendment to HOME Program: Staff proposed reallocating approximately $2.5 million in unfunded HOME funds from a first-time homebuyer program to affordable multifamily housing, citing a median home price of $279,000 vs. a maximum allowable purchase price of $226,000 under federal rules. Council discussed the need for first-time homebuyer support and alternative programs. The resolution passed unanimously after being moved from consent. - Item 16 – Change Order 3 for Landfill Project: Approved a $123,989.25 change order for a fire department connection system at the Greater El Paso Landfill. A discrepancy in completion dates was clarified; the motion passed unanimously. - Item 20 – Helistop Special Permit: Second reading of an ordinance granting a special permit for a helistop at Fire Station 35 (12230 Pine Springs Dr.). One public commenter raised safety concerns about power lines and nearby neighborhoods. The permit was approved 7-1 (Representative Acevedo dissenting). - Item 25 – Removal of Flock Safety ALPR Cameras: Council debated the legality of removal within 60 days given contract terms (Section 10.1 prohibits city removal). An amendment was added allowing bagging/covering cameras as an interim measure for an additional 30 days if full removal not possible. The item passed unanimously. - Item 26 – Ban on Future Fixed ALPR Contracts: Directed the City Manager to refrain from entering into any contract for fixed networked ALPR cameras unless authorized by Council. An amendment added language allowing the City Manager, Police Department, or a Council member to bring forward a proposal for future consideration. The item passed unanimously. - Item 27 – El Paso County 911 District FY 2026-2027 Budget: Presented as flat revenue; using rainy day funds. Approved unanimously. - Item 21 – Tattoo Studio Registration Amendments: Ordinance requiring inspection before license issuance, specifying inspection hours (12 PM–5 PM), and allowing denial for refusing entry. Passed unanimously. - Item 22 – Public Utility Communications Ordinance: Requires utilities to present filings to Council at the next available meeting. Amendments corrected language; passed unanimously. - Items 23 & 24 – Floodplain Administrator Amendments: Changed qualification from Texas licensed professional engineer to Texas certified floodplain manager (aligned with HR job specs). Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Flock Safety Cameras (Item 25): Approved directing the City Manager to remove all Flock ALPR cameras from city property/right-of-way within 60 days; if not possible, all cameras must be bagged/covered within 60 days and fully removed within 90 days. Vote: unanimous. - Future ALPR Contracts (Item 26): Approved direction to refrain from entering into contracts for fixed networked ALPR cameras unless Council authorizes; City Attorney to draft a binding resolution within 30 days. Vote: unanimous. - HOME Fund Reallocation (Item 7): Approved reallocating $2.5 million from first-time homebuyer program to affordable multifamily housing. Vote: unanimous. - 911 District Budget (Item 27): Approved FY 2026-2027 budget. Vote: unanimous. - Public Safety Regulations: Adopted ordinances for tattoo studios, public utility communications, and floodplain administrator qualifications. All passed unanimously. - Note on Auto Theft Data: Chief Petty stated that since the Flock system was shut down, auto thefts increased 62%. - Correction on Contract Process: The City Manager clarified that the Police Chief followed internal policies when initially entering the ALPR grant; the new process requires Council direction.

The Board of Public Works and Safety met on September 15, 2026, to consider several permits, project updates, and routine approvals. All motions passed unanimously. Attendees included board members, city officials, and representatives from utility companies and development firms. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the previous meeting (amended to correct name spelling from "Howard Furman" to the correct name). - Approval of bank reconciliation worksheets for May 2026, presented by the controller. Public Comments & Testimony - Chase Blakeman (Prima Bear Associates) requested signatures on plats for two subdivisions: Rock Ridge (23 lots off Mel Smith Road) and Ma Shareed Reserve (58 lots off Glen Mill Road). Discussion clarified that Mel Smith Road is a county road; the City can sign the plat but Floyd County Commissioners must approve the connection. The board approved the plats. - A representative from Duke Energy (unidentified) requested two permits: 1. A smart-grid reliability project on Spicker Knob Road and Glen Mill Road, adding a wire and replacing nine poles, scheduled to begin January 2027 and take about three months. The board approved after discussing resident notification for new down guys. 2. An emergency permit to replace a damaged pole on State Street across from Dairy Queen (State Street and Daisy Lane), with work planned next Monday from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. using flaggers. Approved. - Pat Houseburg (Naval American Tractors) provided updates: East 13th Street work nearly complete; Spring Street paving expected by next Friday. Shelby Street still has 13-14 services to tie in. He requested approval to proceed with the Lynn Street project (Lynn Court) – the board noted it is outside the utility policy and paving rating, but approved moving forward. He indicated East 14th Street would be presented next week. Discussion Items - City Engineer Larry McWilliams' report: - Fenwick and Connor Street work completed; Bono Street began; Gary Street being worked on. - Concrete work continuing on Greenview Drive and Jaffrey Drive. - Milling and resurfacing expected on Lone Oak Drive, followed by striping for trail project. - Excavation between Elm and Culbertson for underdrain installation, concrete pours for sidewalk and curb between Spring and Elm, and pipe installation between Market and Elm. - Oak Street trail project: surface completed; storm and sanitary sewer work ongoing at Oak and Bank Street. - Meeting with USPS about a permanent mail drop-off location on Bank Street due to Oak Street conversion to two-way. - Charlestown Road and Slate Run Road project on schedule. - Additional items added by city officials (not on original agenda): - Amendment to a previously approved permit for an event on Sunday to add portable restrooms (at foot of ramp to floodwall) and two tables with a tent near the amphitheater due to larger expected crowd and weather. Approved. - Amendment to a permit for contractor Marvell (not Martin) to widen a residential driveway entrance to 20 feet (homeowner requested extra room for pickup truck turning). Approved. - Permit request by Indiana American Water to replace a fire hydrant at 4917 Grant Line Road and replace valve box top at Mount Tabor and Industrial Boulevard. Approved. Key Outcomes - All motions were made, seconded, and carried unanimously (no opposed votes recorded). - The board approved two subdivision plats, two utility permits, three permit amendments, the Lynn Street project, and various routine items. - The meeting adjourned following approval of minutes and claims.

The Board of City Service Commissioners met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, in City Hall Room 301-A and via Microsoft Teams (public access was also available by phone and City Channel 25). The agenda scheduled the meeting for 9:00 a.m.; it was called to order at 9:09 a.m. Present: President Frank Bock, Vice President Marilyn Miller, and Commissioner Janet Cleary. Excused: Commissioners Steve Smith and Heidi Wick Spoerl. The board unanimously approved the September 8, 2026, meeting minutes, then conducted a quasi-judicial appeal hearing on the 15-day unpaid suspension of Skylar Wilkerson, Equipment Operator 1, Department of Public Works (Operation Division, Sanitation Section). Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - Approved the September 8, 2026, meeting minutes (File 260715). Motion by Commissioner Janet Cleary, seconded by Vice President Marilyn Miller. Vote: 3-0 (Bock, Miller, Cleary); Smith and Wick Spoerl excused. Suspension Appeal Hearing — Skylar Wilkerson (File 260714) - Legal basis. Under state statute and CSC rules, an employee may appeal a second unpaid suspension imposed within six months of a prior unpaid suspension. The suspension before the board was a 15-day unpaid suspension signed July 16, 2026, following a May 12, 2026, accident involving the city garbage truck Wilkerson was operating. - The city's position. The department's witness testified that the city had cause to issue the 15-day suspension and that it was appropriate discipline. The witness described the suspension as addressing three infractions and emphasized the work rule requiring employees to contact fleet services as soon as practical — "if possible at the scene" — so an accident report can be generated and the scene preserved so evidence is not altered. The city's rules on preventable accidents, including reporting duties, were entered into the record. - Prior discipline. The city presented Wilkerson's prior disciplinary history (including memos, performance improvement plans, and a one-day suspension) as background. A commissioner noted that the department had jumped from a one-day to a 15-day suspension, and asked how often the city had made such a jump; the witness responded that it had occurred in the past, but usually for "a much more dramatic problem than this." - The appellant's position. Counsel for Wilkerson argued that the suspension letter's explicit reasons were the three stated infractions; that Wilkerson's manager — not Wilkerson — placed the call reporting the accident; that the May 12 incident did not fit the patterns of Wilkerson's prior incidents (e.g., a prior fuel-overhang incident involving turning too sharply or failing to notice small things); and that no cost assessment for the damage had been completed, with prior incidents used as a stand-in for the cost estimate during the city's review. - Testimony details. The witness could not recall similar prior incidents to the May 12 accident, testified that comparable remedial training for such incidents typically ran 16 to 24 hours (a practice the witness said the department does not use), and acknowledged that the city cannot be aware of an accident unless it is notified. - Board deliberation. The board questioned the proportionality of the discipline, what records the decision-maker actually relied on, whether similar incidents had drawn similar discipline, and the fact that the suspension notice did not, by practice, recite the employee's full disciplinary history. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 8, 2026, meeting minutes (File 260715): carried 3-0. - Moved into closed session (motion by Commissioner Cleary, seconded by Vice President Miller; carried 3-0) to deliberate on the suspension appeal under the state open-meetings exception for discussion of a specific employee's discipline, which "if discussed in public, would be likely to have a substantial adverse effect" on the employee. - The open session was adjourned by motion after the closed session. The excerpted record provided does not include the board's final written determination on the 15-day suspension appeal.

The Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee met on September 15, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Room 301-B of City Hall. The committee considered 13 agenda items, including an appointment to the Housing Authority, a rental property inspection pilot program, zoning amendments, a tax incremental district, and compliance reports. All items were approved or recommended for adoption, many unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 2 & 3 (Rental Inspection Pilot): Mabel Lamb, Executive Director of the Sherman Park Community Association, expressed support for the pilot, describing the association's door-to-door outreach and resource packets. Anna Branderhorst, a 20-year resident of the Uptown neighborhood, voiced support, citing visible deterioration from investor-owned properties and the need for a maintenance baseline. - Item 5 (Metcalfe Park Liberation Hub): Danielle (via online) spoke in support of the project, highlighting its benefits for community connection, children from Milwaukee College Prep across the street, and affordable housing. Discussion Items - Item 1: Appointment of Ayanna Ellzey to the Housing Authority – Ayanna Ellzey, a Milwaukee native and litigation attorney at MWH Law Group, was nominated. She discussed her previous work at the Housing Authority and her vision for implementing stable systems. Committee members praised her legal and community perspective. Recommended confirmation. - Items 2 & 3: Rental Property Inspection Program District and Ordinance – Commissioner Hesamila Royovega (Department of Neighborhood Services) and Deputy Commissioner Mike Desmanian presented a 5-year pilot program for a district in the 15th Aldermanic District, roughly bounded by West Center Street, North Avenue, North Sherman Boulevard, and North 50th Street. The pilot covers approximately 200 eligible one- and two-family rental properties (399 units). The program includes proactive inspections for habitability issues, with compliant properties receiving a five-year exemption and violators facing reinspection fees (up to $300 maximum). Alderman Stamper noted that 58% of eligible properties received at least one complaint between 2023 and 2025, with complaints increasing from 106 (2023) to 214 (2025)—a 100% increase. The program will involve community partnerships (e.g., Sherman Park Community Association) and tenant resource information. Approved. - Item 4: Climate and Equity Plan Update – Eric Schambarger (Environmental Collaboration Office) presented a technical amendment to update the Climate and Equity Plan, adding a disclaimer of compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and affirming equal opportunity employment. No substantive changes. Approved. - Item 5: Metcalfe Park Liberation Hub Zoning Change – Tony Fonseca (Department of City Development) presented a zoning change from Two-Family Residential (RT3) to Neighborhood Shopping (NS2) for 2600-2606 North 38th Street. Anthony Casey (KG Development) and Will Manley (architect) outlined plans for phase one (cafe, bookstore, soup kitchen, two affordable housing units) and phase two (commercial kitchen, office, laundromat, patio). Total project cost estimated at $2 million ($800,000 phase one, $1.2 million phase two). The site was purchased privately. Approved. - Item 6: Transfer of Funds for Zoning Analysis – A resolution authorizing $30,000 from the Capital Improvements-Advance Planning Fund to support technical review and engagement for zoning code updates to facilitate new housing development. Approved. - Item 7: Sale of City-Owned Tax Deed Property – Dwayne Edwards (DCD) presented the sale of 2872 South 8th Street to Enrique Murgua. Murgua plans to operate his screen printing business (Monwaukey-Oats) and a barber shop on the first floor, with his residence upstairs. The property is vacant. Approved. - Item 8: Tax Incremental District No. 137 (310W East Tower) – Seth Coston and Brad Gordon (Time Equities) presented a plan to convert the East Tower of 310 West Wisconsin Avenue into 220 apartments. The developer has invested $30 million since 2008 in office improvements, but COVID made office leasing unviable. The project includes 50 workforce housing units (at 70-90% AMI) with estimated rents of $2.70 per square foot. The TID includes clawback and cost-saving provisions. Approved. - Item 9: Maintenance Agreement with Business Improvement District No. 21 – Dan Casanova (DCD) presented an agreement for maintenance (landscaping, litter removal, snow) of Vel R. Phillips Plaza at $32,000 per year, funded by vendor rent. The agreement covers the remainder of 2026 and three additional years. Approved. - Items 10-13: Quarterly Human Resource Requirements Reports – Mary Reed (Department of Compliance and Engagement) and inclusion consultants reported on four projects. - Item 10: 100 East National (140 affordable housing units) – Exceeded all goals: 77% SBE professional services, 34% SBE construction, 57% RPP workforce participation. Placed on file. - Item 11: Filer & Stowell - Corliss on Becher (576 affordable units) – Exceeded goals: 67% SBE professional services, 30% SBE construction, 49% RPP workforce participation. Placed on file. - Item 12: CDA Scattered Sites MKE (40 units, duplexes in midtown) – Exceeded goals, including Section 3 compliance, with transitional jobs program participants hired by developer. Placed on file. - Item 13: Northwestern Mutual North Office Building – Consistently met or exceeded participation goals. Placed on file. Key Outcomes - Item 1: Recommended confirmation (unanimous). - Items 2 & 3: Recommended adoption (unanimous). - Item 4: Recommended passage (unanimous). - Item 5: Recommended passage (unanimous). - Item 6: Recommended adoption (unanimous). - Item 7: Approved (unanimous). - Item 8: Recommended adoption (unanimous). - Item 9: Recommended adoption (unanimous). - Items 10-13: Placed on file (unanimous).

Discussion Items - 2026 Municipal Budget Amendment (7R8-a): The council voted to defer the budget amendment. Councilmember Bey requested that the Business Administrator provide a list of proposed amendments prior to the next scheduled meeting, where a vote is expected. A public hearing is set for September 23, 2026 at 6:30 PM. - Sister Cities Relationship with Ecuador (7R8-b): A resolution establishing a sister cities relationship with the Canton of Nabón, Province of Azuay, Republic of Ecuador, sponsored by Council President Quintana, was introduced and adopted. - Kawaida Towers Grant Agreement Amendment (7R2-a): Allison Ladd, Director of Economic and Housing Development, explained that the first amendment aligns the grant terms with state tax credits and other funding sources. The total city grant remains at $8,000,000.00. Councilmember Kelly inquired about the Area Median Income (AMI) levels for the 31 units. Ladd stated the top range is 80% of AMI, with the majority of units at 50% and 30%. - Councilmember Bey Elevator Announcement: Councilmember Bey reported a crisis at a senior building where both elevators had failed, stranding residents, including some requiring dialysis. She announced her intent to introduce an ordinance establishing strict regulations and significant fines for elevator repairs in senior and disability-access buildings. Council President Quintana pledged immediate co-sponsorship and supported holding landlords accountable through state laws. Bey confirmed the Department of Public Safety and Office of Emergency Management were monitoring the building. Key Outcomes - Deferred: The 2026 Municipal Budget Amendment (Resolution 7R8-a) was deferred by a vote of 8-0 (Councilmember Silva absent). - Adopted: The Sister Cities Relationship with Ecuador (Resolution 7R8-b) was adopted by a vote of 8-0 (Councilmember Silva absent). - Adopted: The Kawaida Towers Grant Agreement First Amendment (Resolution 7R2-a) was adopted by a vote of 7-0-2 (Councilmembers Jackson and Silva abstained). - Future Ordinance: Councilmember Bey committed to introducing an elevator repair ordinance for senior buildings. Public Comments No members of the public appeared to speak during the public comment period.

The Chesterfield County Planning Commission held a work session at 3 p.m. and a public hearing at 6 p.m. on September 15, 2026, in the Public Meeting Room. The work session included updates on the Comprehensive Plan Modernization (PlanMod) and initiation of zoning ordinance housekeeping amendments. The public hearing featured a consent agenda with two rezoning cases, both approved unanimously. Citizen comments were received during both sessions.

The Baldwin County Commission held a pre-meeting work session at 9:00 AM and a regular meeting at 10:00 AM on September 15, 2026, at the Fairhope Satellite Courthouse. The Commission adopted the Fiscal Year 2027 budget of $276.7 million, selected a safety improvement project at State Route 181 and County Road 32 for ATRIP II grant funding, approved a new C3 intergovernmental roadway agreement with the City of Fairhope, and conducted nine public hearings on rezoning requests. All four commissioners were present: James E. Ball (Chairman), Matthew P. McKenzie, Billie Jo Underwood, and Charles F. Gruber. Consent Calendar - FY2027 Budget Adoption (CE7): Resolution 2026-140 adopted a $276.7 million budget, the largest in county history, with a 5% cost-of-living adjustment for employees, minimal headcount increases, and $2.2 million for Sheriff's Office vehicles. The budget includes $17 million in fund balance use and $13 million in debt service minimums. - Revenue Commissioner Salary (CI2): Resolution 2026-143 set the Revenue Commissioner's compensation at $160,000 annually for the 2027–2033 term, with a $750,000 bond. - Addenda Items (GA1–GA3): Moved to consent: Longleaf Pine Restoration Grant application resubmission, updated Magnolia River Wetland Construction Agreement with Dauphin Island Sea Lab, and amendment to ADEM cooperative agreement for watershed protection. - Other Consent Items: Approved payment of bills ($18,075,797.35), ratification of interim payments ($3,572,494.53), and numerous other routine actions including road acceptances, development agreements, grants, personnel changes, and purchase/service contracts. Public Comments & Testimony - Tony Dickey (South Alabama Representative, Alabama Association of Rescue Squads): Expressed gratitude for Commission support of search and rescue organizations. Commissioner McKenzie recognized his volunteer chaplain work. - Leslie Goff: Voiced concerns about the Baldwin County Animal Shelter, citing lack of volunteer training, staff conduct, and absence of a doggy day-out program. Requested Commission intervention for humane care and safety. - Rian Hamby: Discussed digital connectivity dead zones in established neighborhoods, recounting a 911 failure incident. Recommended county regulation of providers. Commissioner Underwood suggested meeting with County Engineer Frank Lundy and CIS Director Brian Peacock. - Robert Echols: Urged the need for an emergency veterinary clinic in Baldwin County, describing his experience driving a dying dog to Mobile. Suggested county inducements to attract such a facility. - Lee Worsham, Deann Servos (Prodisee Pantry), and Gene Bouchillon (Bouche's Premium Cigars): Recognized the Bouche's Balls & Butts golf tournament’s $111,000 contribution to Prodisee Pantry in 2026, the largest in the pantry's 23-year history. The fundraiser has generated over $160,000 since 2018, resulting in $2.3 million in groceries. Commission donated land for a new pantry in north Baldwin County. Discussion Items - FY2027 Budget Presentation: Budget Director Beth Hodges highlighted employee investment (5% COLA, 5 new commission positions, 9 sheriff positions), public safety funding ($2.2M for 38 vehicles, $868K equipment), strategic use of fund balance, increased debt service minimums ($13M vs. $9.4M actual), centralization of services, and long-range project planning. Countywide headcount is 1,221. Revenues increased 6.5% overall, with ad valorem up 8.5%. Commissioners praised staff collaboration and noted the budget was the culmination of a multi-year effort. - ATRIP II Project Selection (26-1165): County Engineer Frank Lundy presented two options: safety improvements at Blakely State Park entrance (requested by Director Mike Bunn) or at State Route 181 and County Road 32 (a problematic intersection with high traffic and narrow lanes). Commissioners unanimously selected the SR-181/CR-32 project, citing safety concerns and high traffic volume. The application is due in early November 2026. - C3 Program – Fairhope Roadway Agreement (FO1): Assistant County Engineer Mark Acreman introduced the new Connecting Communities Collectively program, which replaces the award-winning 30 Cubed program after its funding goal was met in one year. The first C3 project is an intergovernmental agreement with Fairhope for Twin Beech Road improvements: a roundabout at Founders Drive/Boothe Road, geometric and signal upgrades at US 98/Twin Beech, and pedestrian safety enhancements. Total project cost: $5 million ($2.5 million county match). The city will own and maintain improvements within its limits. Motion approved 4-0. Public Hearings – Rezoning Cases - ES1 – Goodrich Property (Z25-53): Rezone 414 acres from RA to RSF-1 in District 10. Mayor Brad Bass of Spanish Fort and several residents opposed, citing traffic, access, and drainage concerns. The applicant noted access plans and willingness to annex. Approved 3-1 (Commissioner McKenzie dissented, citing infrastructure impacts). - ES2 – Morgan Property (Z25-62): Rezone 153.51 acres from RA to RSF-1 in District 15. Applicant reduced proposed lots from 344 to 138 and offered a donation to the Belfast Volunteer Fire Department. Opponents raised stormwater runoff and rural character concerns. Approved 3-1 (Commissioner McKenzie dissented). - ES3 – Coburn Property (Z26-08): Request to rezone 19 acres from RSF-2 to RSF-3. After discussion on lot sizes, the applicant withdrew the request. Approved unanimously to accept withdrawal. - ES4 – Hensley Property (Z26-29): Rezone 8.3 acres from RSF-1 to RA in District 22 to allow farm animals for 4-H and FFA. No opposition. Approved unanimously. - ES5 – Kahlbau Property (Z26-30): Rezone 1.5 acres from RR to RSF-1 in District 39 to subdivide into two lots. Commissioner Underwood expressed concern about domino effect. Approved 4-0. - ES6 – Clifford Property (Z26-31): Rezone 4.67 acres from RA to RSF-E in District 12. An adjacent property owner requested maintaining RA; applicant stated two houses already permitted. Commissioner Underwood noted RSF-E is compatible with agricultural character. Approved unanimously. - ES7 – Nelson Property (Z26-32): Rezone 3.05 acres from RA to RSF-1 in District 32 for family subdivision. Applicant explained sibling division. Approved unanimously. - ES8 – Frego Property (Z26-33): Applicant withdrew request. Approved unanimously. - ES9 – 5 Rivers Capital LLC (Z26-34): Rezone 1.19 acres from RSF-1 to B-2 in District 22 to allow a car wash, matching adjacent commercial zoning. Adjacent property owner strongly supported for more services in Lillian. Approved 4-0. Key Outcomes - Adopted Fiscal Year 2027 Budget (Resolution 2026-140) totaling $276.7 million. - Selected ATRIP II project: Safety improvements at State Route 181 and County Road 32. - Approved C3 Intergovernmental Roadway Construction Agreement with the City of Fairhope for Twin Beech Road improvements ($5 million total). - Approved revenue commissioner salary at $160,000 annually for 2027–2033 term. - Rezoning decisions: Nine public hearings concluded with six approvals (ES1, ES2, ES4, ES5, ES6, ES7, ES9), two withdrawals (ES3, ES8), and one approval with dissenting vote (ES1, ES2). - Consent agenda passed including FY2027 budget, addenda, and numerous routine items. - Public comments directed staff to follow up on animal shelter concerns, digital connectivity, and emergency veterinary clinic feasibility.

The Wichita City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 9:00 AM in the City Council Chambers on Main Street, Wichita, Kansas. The meeting opened with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by three proclamations, a public comment period, approval of consent agenda items 1 through 19, and discussion of items pulled for council consideration, including Wichita Police Department command vehicles, a proposed land lease involving Botanica, and the Housing Authority's September 2026 recovery plan status update. Awards & Proclamations The Council proclaimed the following weeks in 2026: - National Diaper Need Awareness Week (September 14-20): Cedar Hurst of Simply Hygiene accepted, noting the organization's partnerships with more than 250 schools and 120 nonprofits across South Central Kansas to deliver diapers directly to families in need. - Wichita Assisted Living Week (September 13-19): A representative of the assisted living community accepted, emphasizing that assisted living is about celebrating people, not buildings, and that "there is no expiration date on purpose." - Direct Support Professionals Week (September 13-19): A Goodwill representative accepted, stating that Goodwill serves over 100 Kansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities each workday. Public Comments & Testimony One member of the public spoke in opposition to the proposed Botanica land/conservancy lease, stating, "Say no to this land grab and limit the lease to five years." The speaker also expressed concern about the $20 million project and how much private funding would come from inside versus outside Wichita. No other members of the public signed up to speak. Consent Calendar The Council considered consent agenda items 1 through 19, including the Board of Bids and Contracts report dated September 14, 2026, CMB licenses, and Board of Park Commissioners meeting minutes from June 8 and July 13, 2026. Per the City Manager, an item regarding the Notice of Intent to Use Debt Financing was moved to September 22, 2026. A Bureau of Justice Assistance item was pulled by the City Manager on September 9, 2026. The Council also considered a public exigency approval under City Code. Discussion Items Wichita Police Department Command Vehicles WPD staff reported that the department conducted two requests for proposals for specialized command vehicles, evaluating vendors on warranty, price, and package. A council member asked whether a local vendor was used. Staff noted that the vendor would not begin designing the vehicle until a contract is in place. The vehicles support interoperable communication between two counties and with 911. Federal grants would each cover 50 percent of vehicle costs. Staff stated that the vehicle discussed remains in Wichita for city use while other regional assets serve the city's 19 regions. Staff acknowledged funding concerns but stated, "we overcome it all the time." Botanica Land/Conservancy Lease Staff discussed the proposed lease, noting that petitions representing 100 percent of the improvement districts were valid per Kansas statute. The proposed term was 10 years with a 5-year option, which staff characterized as typical for similar agreements. A representative supporting the nonprofit stated that the organization loses without the city's sales tax exemption, explaining that a $100 contribution to most capital campaigns would provide $100 in spending power, whereas the same contribution would provide only $92.50 in spending power without the exemption. A council member asked when the Council would receive an update on the related grant application; staff responded that grant award notifications would be announced May 1, 2027, and that staff would return to the Council after that date. The council member stated that the city should leverage its resources and collaborate with private dollars before making an investment decision. Sedgwick County Maintenance Agreement Staff discussed a maintenance agreement under which Sedgwick County controls the intervening mile between 135th and 119th Street. Litter and debris pickup and trash maintenance are performed regularly outside the mowing time frame, and the city assists with repairs when contractors are involved. A council member asked whether residents still use the city app to report issues; staff confirmed they do as part of the memorandum of understanding, with city staff providing additional support as needed. A council member raised questions about Section 11, the default provision of the contract, which allows the city to terminate the agreement with written notice to PTI and would terminate PTI's right to possession if defaults are not cured, but does not specify who would assume responsibility. Staff responded that the terms are typical for similar groups. Housing Authority Recovery Plan Update The Housing Authority board received and filed the September 2026 recovery plan status update, as required under the recovery plan. Staff detailed public notice and outreach, including posting materials to the city website, distribution to all Wichita Public Library branches, and publication of the notice in the official newspaper of Wichita (Wichita.gov) on August 27, 2026, with public comments accepted beginning August 28, 2026. Other Items Discussed Staff noted that interpretation services include languages such as Swahili and Kinyarwanda, which appear frequently in the courts, at $77 per hour with a two-hour minimum. Staff also noted that special assessment activity in the City of Wichita is currently very active. A council member recognized an individual who served as chair of the District One Advisory Board for quite some time. Key Outcomes - The Council approved consent agenda items 1 through 19. - The Council directed staff to return with a post-May 1, 2027 update following the grant award notification for the Botanica-related project. - A public speaker called for a five-year cap on the Botanica lease; no formal vote on the lease was taken during this meeting. - The Housing Authority recovery plan status update for September 2026 was received and filed.