The Public Meeting Index

The Cobb County Board of Commissioners met on the evening of October 27, 2026, for a lengthy meeting that included three proclamations, the second and final public hearing on the 2026 code amendments, extensive public testimony, section-by-section votes on the zoning and development code, and approval of routine contracts and appointments. Chairwoman Cupid presided. The meeting stretched past midnight. Proclamations and Presentations - The Board proclaimed November as Native American Heritage Month, honoring the Yamasee/Guale Nation of Georgia and its cultural preservation work. Megan Dickon and Joseph Jordan accepted on behalf of the nation. - The Board recognized Special Needs Cobb for 70 years of service. The organization was founded in 1956 and currently owns and maintains 23 group homes in Cobb County. - The Board proclaimed November as National Family Literacy Month, with the Fielding Lewis Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution recognized for promoting literacy. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard Grome, East Cobb Civic Association, opposed several amendments, especially stormwater enforcement, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), higher unrelated-adult occupancy, and expanded driveway parking, asking the Board to pause or reject them. - Virginia Chote of Indian Hills Civic Association and several other residents opposed ADUs, citing property value losses, water and sewer capacity, parking overflow, covenant enforcement, and neighborhood character concerns. Don Barth said he supported the ADU concept but did not think Cobb County was ready, and Christine Rosman also opposed the ADU proposal. - Housing advocates, students, and residents including Nikki Thomas, Peyton Mathies, Carson Farmer, Melissa East, Sam Foster, and John Morgan supported ADUs and shared-housing reforms as tools for affordability and family caregiving. Several urged the Board to go further on affordable housing. - Melanie Kagan, Center for Family Resources CEO and lead agency for the Cobb Homeless Alliance, supported more housing options but questioned whether the proposed housing incentive program would be strong enough; she asked for measurable outcomes and incentives for smaller developments. - Haley Bauer of Clipper Petroleum, Dan Brown and Park Sough of Racetrack, and Matt Yarbrough and Carson Brown of the Council for Quality Growth opposed or asked the Board to hold the proposed fuel-station distance restrictions. Yarbrough cited an ARC estimate that Cobb needs about 37,000 new housing units by 2035. Racetrack said it has about 850 headquarters employees and 600 team members at 24 Cobb stores. - Many speakers opposed data centers or asked for much stricter rules, including Joelan Smith, Joel Becker, Jesse Derivera, Michael Dreyer, Christopher Wong, Gretolyn Donato, and Comrade Cam of the Black Panther Party Georgia chapter. Concerns included water use, emissions, noise, agriculture impacts, surveillance, tax incentives, and AI risks. Some urged a ban or moratorium; others asked for a citizens' oversight committee. - One resident urged approval of Chapter 83, saying two years of living next to a nuisance property had shown code enforcement needs stronger tools. - Jeff Daniel, who said he works in power generation and data centers, encouraged flexible data-center standards and mentioned geothermal cooling. - In later public comment periods, JT Jackson promoted the Stuff-a-Bus holiday toy drive, and Craig Harfoot criticized the size of the code package and raised concerns about data centers and student debt. Discussion Items - Community Development Director Jessica Gwynn presented the second and final public hearing on the 2026 code amendments. She noted the draft had been through a September 22 work session, an October 6 Planning Commission hearing, and an October 13 first public hearing. She highlighted changes between draft one and draft two, including removal of the Chapter 83 nuisance-in-rem article, removal of Chapter 86 non-discrimination and homelessness provisions, revisions to Chapter 54 fire code sections, clarifications to Chapter 83 junk-vehicle/outdoor-storage rules, and Planning Commission recommendations on Chapter 134. - The Board discussed Chapter 2 incentives at length. It voted to keep the existing 125% county-average-wage criterion and positive-fiscal-impact criterion, but amended the housing incentive program by removing the $10 million investment and 50-unit eligibility thresholds. - Chapters 66, 106, and 118 were each approved 5-0 without changes. Chapter 10 and Chapter 50 were approved 5-0; Chapter 50's stormwater enforcement was clarified to apply to detention and retention systems rather than routine homeowner pipe failures. Chapter 54 was approved 5-0. Chapter 6 was approved 5-0 with clarification of package-store distance measurement. Chapter 78 was approved 5-0 after adding an annual measurement standard for the 75% vapor-product sales threshold. Chapter 83 was approved 5-0, and the Board agreed to study utility-easement weed-maintenance responsibility for a future code cycle. - On Chapter 134-1 definitions, the Board approved a family definition that strikes the fourth-degree limitation, and set single-family occupancy at two unrelated adults or four or fewer unrelated adults, while keeping the five-vehicle driveway parking allowance. The vote was 3-2. - Purpose-built student housing density was approved at 50 units per acre, down from the proposed 60, after debate about prior approvals and bed-count calculations. The vote was 3-2. - The ADU provisions in Section 134-37(35) were approved as drafted, 3-2, including requirements that the property remain owner-occupied, that ADUs and primary structures cannot be short-term rentals, and that occupancy and parking limits apply across the lot. - The data-center provisions in Section 134-37(36) were approved 3-2. The Board then voted 5-0 to restrict data centers to heavy industrial (HI) zoning in the use chart and 5-0 to add language to Chapter 2 stating data centers are not eligible for the county's economic development incentives. - The gas-station distance amendment in Section 134-266 was tabled. Staff warned that if it is not acted on within the statutory 60-day advertising window, it would need to be readvertised. Sections 134-193 through 134-199 were approved 4-1. - Chapter 86, which had included non-discrimination and homelessness-related provisions, was formally pulled at the sponsors' direction and received no vote. Consent Calendar - The Board approved the revised consent agenda by a 5-0 vote, authorizing the chairwoman to execute the necessary documents. Other Agenda Items and Contracts - The Board approved seven Department of Transportation items, all 5-0: two drainage-design task orders totaling $970,000; two drainage-repair contracts totaling $245,367.10; a $444,551 task order for Barrett Parkway traffic-signal improvements; a $1,068,453 LMIG intergovernmental agreement with Mableton; and a $9,039,903.58 countywide resurfacing contract with C.W. Matthews. - The Board approved, 5-0, the purchase of approximately 1.52 acres at 45 Concord Road for $360,000 plus $20,000 in due diligence, adjacent to the Silver Comet Trail. - The Board approved, 5-0, a $2,964,758 supplemental agreement with Hogan Construction Group for the Highland Rivers Behavioral Health Crisis Center renovation and buildout at 1758 County Services Parkway, and a separate $833,274 contract with Striker Construction for shell-space buildout at 3830 South Cobb Drive. - The Board announced appointments to the Cobb Workforce Development Board: Alicia Hargret, Marshall Redman, Taylor Von Pelt, Kevin Smith, and Sabrina Wright, with terms expiring June 30, 2029. Key Outcomes - The 2026 code amendments were approved with several modifications, except for Chapter 86, which was pulled, and Section 134-266, which was tabled. - Notable votes: definitions and ADU provisions approved 3-2; purpose-built student housing and data-center sections approved 3-2; data-center HI restriction and incentive exclusion approved 5-0; most other code chapters approved 5-0; Sections 134-193 through 134-199 approved 4-1. - The Board agreed to study utility-easement weed-maintenance responsibility for a future code cycle rather than change it that night. - The Board reminded residents that early voting ended Friday, October 30, with Election Day on Tuesday, November 3; Chairwoman Cupid reported advanced voting was up about 25% from the prior year.

This workshop was convened to discuss two major topics: adjustments to water and sewer rates, and the prioritization of capital projects to be funded by the general obligation bond. No formal votes were taken on substantive items, but direction was given for further analysis and design work. The meeting began with a 7-0 vote to accept the agenda and ended with a 6-1 vote to adjourn. Discussion Items Water and Sewer Rates - Mayor recapped the goal to generate an additional $3 million in revenue to bring water/sewer enterprise fund from $18M to $21–25M. He proposed using actual billing data from July (peak usage) to project impacts of various rate scenarios. - Councilman Creel advocated for a flat rate (same per-gallon cost for all users above a threshold), arguing that supply is not an issue and that high users already pay more through sewer charges. He asked to see incremental rate increases over multiple years rather than one large jump. - Councilman Glavin proposed a tiered structure: freeze rates for users under 3,000–4,000 gallons, apply recommended increases for 4,000–25,000 gallons, and steeper increases for 25,000+ gallons. He argued that large commercial users (80% of system usage) have a vested interest in infrastructure investment. - Councilman Schumacher requested that any rate scenario include projections of its impact on Woolmarket projects, as that will influence his vote. - Councilman Marshall asked for a clear itemization of what specific areas and projects the additional revenue would fund, emphasizing East Biloxi needs similar consideration to Woolmarket. - Councilman Gray warned against raising rates too high on small businesses. - Councilman Nail asked about the monthly increase for an average 3,000-gallon residential user; staff replied the revised proposal would raise a 2,500-gallon bill by $2.78/month (down from $6.91 in the original proposal). - The mayor noted that the enterprise fund is losing money (e.g., $690K deficit in the last 12 months) and that a rate increase is needed to cover expenses (including $12M annual payment to the utility authority) and build reserves for emergencies (e.g., a $23,000 emergency repair left only $22,000 in reserves). - Councilman Creel and Mayor agreed to meet with Councilman Glavin later in the week to run scenarios using real account data before the next council meeting. Projects to be Funded by the General Obligation Bond - Mr. Weaver presented a summary sheet of projects, totaling approximately $5.4 million already moved into capital projects. The remaining bond funds (about $10 million of the $16.5 million total) are available for projects in the "bottom block." - The bottom block includes: East Biloxi Recreation Building (update existing design), Brody Tribe Sidewalks, Wash Fayard Road Widening (proposed to be moved to Bell A V Parkway), and others. Projects like City Hall rehab, Division Street, and Room Magnolia upgrades were not prioritized at this time. - Discussion focused on MIMA (Mississippi Infrastructure Modernization Act) fund eligibility. Bond attorney advised that MIMA can be used for building rehabilitation if directly related to road projects, but a new legal opinion may be needed. Councilman Gray suggested tabling decisions until eligibility rules are clarified. - Councilman Marshall urged moving forward with the East Biloxi Recreation Center design to get firm costs. The mayor proposed approving design-only work for bottom-block projects (except those already deprioritized) to obtain accurate estimates without committing construction funds. - Councilman Schumacher requested a separate meeting to discuss the proposed relocation of Wash Fayard Road funds to Bell A V Parkway. - The council agreed to proceed with design services for: updates to East Biloxi Recreation Building, Brody Tribe Sidewalks, and Wash Fayard Road Widening (pending further discussion). Design for City Hall rehab, Division Street, and Room Magnolia upgrades will wait until more funds are clarified. Key Outcomes - Water/Sewer Rates: No decision made. The mayor, Councilman Creel, and Councilman Glavin will meet before the next council meeting to run rate scenarios using actual billing data. The goal is to develop a rate structure (flat or tiered) that generates $3 million in additional revenue, with clear impacts on Woolmarket and other areas. - Bond Projects: Direction was given to proceed with design-only contracts for the East Biloxi Recreation Building (updated), Brody Tribe Sidewalks, and Wash Fayard Road Widening (subject to discussion). Design for other bottom-block projects (City Hall rehab, Division Street, Room Magnolia) is deferred. Administration will seek legal clarification on MIMA eligibility for building rehabilitation. The next workshop will revisit prioritization once firm cost estimates and MIMA guidance are available. - Adjournment: The workshop adjourned on a 6-1 vote (Councilman Marshall opposed, expressing dissatisfaction with pace of East Biloxi projects).

The Norman City Council held a special meeting on October 27, 2026, to discuss updates to the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDEB) ordinance and to consider entering an executive session for settlement discussions. The council focused on expanding board membership to ensure ward representation and set a timeline for filling vacancies. Discussion Items - Economic Development Advisory Board Ordinance Update: The council continued discussions from the October 2nd meeting regarding revisions to the EDEB ordinance. Key changes included expanding the board from seven to eleven members (option two) to allow immediate representation for each ward, with a reduction back to nine members after two current terms expire in August 2027. At least seven members must have expertise in economics, business, finance, law, policy analysis, community development, small business ownership, or other relevant experience. The ex-officio non-voting member was changed from the NEDC executive director to the Cleveland County Economic Development Coalition. The ordinance also added duties to review economic and risk analyses related to TIFF. - Ward Representation and Vacancy Filling: Councilmembers debated how to handle vacancies when no qualified applicant from a specific ward is available. Suggestions included allowing business owners or managers operating in that ward to qualify, and setting a time limit before opening the seat to applicants from other wards. After discussion, a consensus emerged for a 45-day period for the ward council member to find an applicant, after which the mayor could appoint from other wards. The mayor expressed a preference for ward representation but wanted flexibility to avoid prolonged vacancies. - Councilmember Positions: Councilmember Stewart supported option two (11 members) for immediate representation. Councilmember Dixon raised concerns about difficulty finding ward representatives and suggested a release mechanism. Councilmember Bruce emphasized expertise diversity over ward geography. Councilmember Grant and Councilmember Board supported allowing business owners or managers to represent a ward where they operate. Councilmember Gansery noted past successful appointments from outside wards when highly qualified. Mayor Bree agreed with prioritizing ward residents or business owners but wanted flexibility. - Quorum and Procedural Changes: The quorum requirement was changed to a majority of appointed members to allow functioning with vacancies. Key Outcomes - Decision on Board Size: The council agreed to proceed with option two (11 members) as the preferred structure for the EDEB, with automatic reduction to nine members in August 2027. - Vacancy Fill Procedure: The council settled on a 45-day period for the ward council member to find a qualified applicant from that ward (resident or business owner/manager). If no applicant is found, the mayor may appoint from other wards. - Staff Direction: City staff were directed to draft the revised ordinance incorporating these decisions, with a goal of first reading on November 10, 2026, and second reading later in November to allow the ordinance to take effect by year-end. Applications for the board will be opened immediately. - Executive Session: The council voted unanimously to adjourn the special meeting and convene into an executive session to discuss potential settlement of pending tort claims (Lucas Ortiz and Ray Remundo Lopez).

The Tuscaloosa City Council met on October 27, 2026. The council approved routine items, acted on demolition orders and resolutions, and heard a citizen's pedestrian-safety request. All recorded votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. Proclamation and Council Announcements - Mayor and council proclaimed the week of November 1-8, 2026 as 'Beat LSU and Beat Alzheimer's Week' in Tuscaloosa, encouraging support for the West Alabama Walk to End Alzheimer's on November 8, 2026, at Parker Hawn Park. Zachary Dutton, co-chair of the walk, accepted the proclamation and thanked the city for its continued support. - A councilmember announced that the Saturday morning district meeting would be at Jack's at 8:15 a.m. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the prior meeting were approved. - The consent agenda, items A through J, was adopted. Public Comments & Testimony - Riley Baird, a Springbrook-area resident, requested safer pedestrian access at the intersection of Hargrove Road, Forest Lake Drive, and 2nd East Avenue. She cited the lack of sidewalks, crosswalks, and crossing buttons; sensor-based signals; a 40 mph speed limit; and crossing distances up to 60 feet. She asked for pedestrian crossings and eventually sidewalks on that stretch of Hargrove. Councilmembers said they would discuss the issue with city engineer Mike, work with Councilwoman Howard, and potentially inspect the area with the mayor and engineer on Friday. Discussion Items Unfinished Business: Demolition Orders - 5244 Overbrook Road: The council tabled a demolition order for 60 days. Johnny Nelms, an attorney representing Rocket Mortgage and Fannie Mae, said the property had been foreclosed on October 15, 2026, after processing a loss-mitigation request, and asked for time to complete demolition bidding. The property had 47 documented housing code violations. - 1225 19th Alley: The council ordered demolition after noting 48 documented violations, a September 28, 2026 denial of a variance request by the zoning board, and the owner's absence. - 2820 Fifth Avenue: Demolition was ordered; 48 violations were documented and no owner representative appeared. - 2830 Fifth Avenue: Demolition was ordered; 48 violations were documented and no owner representative appeared. - 2715 Oak Street: The council set the demolition cost and authorized the filing of a lien. Public Hearings - The council held the second of three public hearings on renaming 26th Avenue East in Alberta Park and amending Section 18-227 of the Code of Tuscaloosa. No public speakers testified. Resolutions and Introductions - Adopted resolutions authorizing improvement-fund disbursements for Stillman College from District 7 and District 1 funds, and for West Lawn Middle School from District 1 funds. - Tentatively awarded a public works contract to Sun Coast Infrastructure. - Authorized minor public works contracts with Miscellaneous Metals and Fabrication and IPS Power Systems. - Authorized professional services contracts or agreements with Everbridge, Matthew Murrow, and TTL, Inc.; selected TTL for environmental assessments. - Authorized the CFO to draw a draft for the Oakdale drainage improvements project easement acquisition. - Authorized Tuscaloosa Fire Rescue to accept donations; issuance of an RFP for interest in the Garner Road water tank tract; city council representation on the PARA executive director search committee; amendments to the 2010 and 2026 action plans of the city's five-year consolidated plan; and amendment one to the FY2027 Water and Sewer Reserve for Future Improvements Fund budget. - Introduced zoning amendments 49 and 50 and set December 15, 2026 as the public hearing date for both. - Amended exhibits A and B of the cited Code of Tuscaloosa section and reappointed Craig Fairburn to the PARA Board of Directors. - Authorized the payment of KIPS bills. Key Outcomes - Approved prior minutes and consent agenda items A-J. - Tabled the 5244 Overbrook Road demolition for 60 days; ordered demolition at 1225 19th Alley, 2820 Fifth Avenue, and 2830 Fifth Avenue; set demolition cost and lien for 2715 Oak Street. - Held the second public hearing on renaming 26th Avenue East; no vote on the renaming was recorded at this meeting. - Introduced zoning amendments 49 and 50 and scheduled public hearings for December 15, 2026. - Adopted all presented resolutions unanimously. - Reappointed Craig Fairburn to the PARA Board of Directors and authorized payment of bills.

The Paducah Board of Commissioners met on October 27, 2026, with Mayor Bray presiding. The agenda was modified to add a Riverport West presentation and to hold one consent agenda item until the next meeting. The board heard public comments, received a Riverport West funding update, reviewed employee benefits and street rehabilitation, and approved a routine consent calendar. Opening Items - Commissioner Wilson gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. - Greg Gubert introduced Taylor Mullins as the new assistant city engineer. Mullins grew up in Pikeville, earned a civil engineering degree from the University of Kentucky, spent seven years in the private sector, and has been with the city about a month. - Mayor Bray read a proclamation designating October 28, 2026, as First Responders Day in Paducah. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved by roll-call vote. Approved items included the October 13, 2026 meeting minutes; appointments of Isaac Marsh to the joint 911 parcel fee appeals board and Kevin Terry to the Board of Adjustment; personnel actions; a municipal order declaring 1938 Center Street surplus and accepting Twin River Equity Group LLC’s bid of $100; a policy for use of health/dental/vision spending credits for 2027; a Hub strategic health risk advisor contract for $61,900; the Anthem administrative services agreement for the 2027 group health plan; 2027 health, vision, and dental premiums; stop-loss coverage rates with Voya; and a U.S. Department of Justice bulletproof vest grant application for $8,180 to purchase 20 body armor vests. - One consent agenda item, item E, was held to the next meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Marshall Davis criticized the commission for ignoring a resident’s issue for more than a year and described a pattern of dismissing community engagement. He cited the city block project, the Catterjon building demolition, and the vacant Showroom Lounge property as examples, and said the commission did not deserve re-election. - Amy Hackney, a Jackson Street resident, expressed concern that the sidewalk project across 21st Street and Jackson began around April but remained incomplete near November, with no visible work for months. She also noted six closed businesses in the area, including KFC and two gas stations, and asked the city to clean up parking lots and address blight. - Krista Brookshire described being chased at Noble Park in mid-September by aggressive stray dogs that had reportedly been there since July. She said a park ranger mentioned the dogs were being fed, and she urged the commission to improve animal control oversight before a child is hurt. - Neil Benson, president of the local Young Americans for Liberty chapter, raised concerns about automated license plate readers (ALPRs) from Flock Safety and Axon. He asked the council to provide answers by November 10 on data storage, access, audits, retention, and deletion. He said if those questions are not answered, the council should consider an ordinance banning ALPRs, terminating the Flock contract, and amending the Axon contract to remove ALPRs. Discussion Items - Jim Garrett, executive director of the Riverport Authority, presented an update on Riverport West. The state provided $3.5 million for engineering and environmental work. On July 1, the city received a $24 million BUILD grant, matched with $4.8 million plus an additional $1.2 million to reach $30 million. The day before the meeting, a $40 million Port Infrastructure Development Program grant was announced, matched by $8 million in state funds, for a $48 million package. Combined funding is about $78 million against an estimated project cost of $78.4 million, with $2.8 million in state funds remaining. Next steps include NEPA approval, grant agreements, wetland mitigation for the 20-acre disturbance, and a Section 404 dredge permit. Construction is expected to start in about 12 months and take 18 months, with possible operations in the first or second quarter of 2029. Garrett said a company with an existing contract may use Riverport West, a second nuclear-related company is interested, and Pine Bluff has asked about moving bulk sand and rock through the dock as incremental business. - DJ Story of Hub presented the 2027 employee benefits renewal. The city’s self-funded health plan pays claims up to $175,000 per person. Employees pay about 11 percent of costs, the Joint Sewer Agency about 10 percent, and the city about 75 percent. City net cost is about $10,000 per employee per year, compared with national averages of about $9,800 for single coverage and $28,000 for family coverage. Cost drivers include specialty drugs, cancer treatment, GLP-1 drugs costing about $130,000 for 36 members through September, and high-severity claims. The stop-loss premium would rise 48.3 percent, a $241,000 net fixed-cost increase, with Voya retaining the $175,000 specific deductible and no-new-laser protection. Other quotes were worse because of individual lasers. For 2026, total projected claims are about $4.13 million, with about $1.64 million from claimants exceeding the $175,000 threshold. Recommended changes included a $25-per-pay-period employee premium increase, an IRS-required increase in the investor-plan deductible from $3,400 to $3,500, and new elite-plan copays of $40 for primary care, $80 for specialists, and $75 for urgent care. Delta Dental increased 3 percent, Mutual of Omaha reduced rates by about 50 percent for about $11,000 in annual savings, and Hub proposed a 25 percent fee reduction. - The city engineer gave a street rehabilitation update. The state contributed about $400,000 to the MAP fund in each of the last two fiscal years, with city contributions of about $2.2 million in FY26 and $2.1 million in FY27, plus a $500,000 one-time reserve contribution in FY26 and a $100,000 commission-funded increase in FY27. Total street rehabilitation work, including grants and projects, was about $3.8 million in FY26 and $3.9 million in FY27. Awarded grants include the Local Assistance Road Program resurfacing 11 streets, House Bill 501 funding for South 21st Street, and carbon reduction funding for design of the Coleman Road multi-use path. Applications are pending for the County Park Road bridge and FY28 Local Assistance Road Program projects on Jackson, Cruz, James Sanders, and County Park Road. Key Outcomes - The board approved the consent calendar, including 2027 health insurance agreements, premiums, and the employee rate changes presented by Hub. - Riverport West has secured the full $78 million needed for the estimated $78.4 million project; no formal commission action was required on the presentation. - The board voted to enter a closed session under KRS 61.810(1)(g) to discuss a specific business proposal, with no action to be taken after returning to open session.

The Richmond City Commission met on October 27, 2026, for a regular meeting. The meeting opened with an invocation by Pastor Johnny King of Grace Covenant Church of God and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Police Chief Rodney Richardson. All commissioners were present. The agenda included new business recognitions, an update on the Battle of Richmond, several ordinance readings and votes, personnel actions, and public comments. Presentations & Recognitions - Pure Wellness: Ashley Renton presented her new business at 330 Eastern Bypass, offering infrared saunas, cold plunge, contrast therapy, salt room, lymphatic body roller, and hot yoga. She described it as a wellness center for 30-minute sessions benefiting joints, sleep, and skin. - Made New Mercantile: Co-founders Stacy Jordan and Nancy Brown presented their upscale thrift store at 454 Big Hill Avenue, selling clothing, books, and housewares to generate funds for community giving. Since opening September 3, they have provided clothing or household items at no cost to nine individuals, including a Madison Central senior and a father shopping for his children. A ribbon cutting is scheduled for November 6 at noon. Battle of Richmond Association Update George Ridings, president of the Battle of Richmond Association, reported on the 23rd annual reenactment. Key statistics: - Over 100 volunteers; 174 living historians from multiple states; approximately 354 cars on Saturday (estimated 1,000–1,500 visitors) and 144 cars on Sunday (estimated 400–500 visitors). - Visitor origins: 18 states and Wales, UK signed the guest book at the visitor center in the last 26 days, with over 100 visitors. - The association celebrated the transition to city management, new roofs on buildings, and the upcoming 25th anniversary event on November 8 featuring historian Jack Davis. - Future events: Christmas open house at Pleasant View on November 29, 2–4 p.m. Consent Calendar & Routine Approvals - Minutes: Approved minutes from the regular meeting on October 13 and workshop on October 15, 2026. - Ordinances (Second Readings and Votes): - Ordinance 26-28: Annex 0.35 acres at 217 Pleasure Drive (R1C zoning) – unanimous. - Ordinance 26-29: Annex properties at 223 Pleasure Drive and 611 Benjamin Drive (R1C zoning) – unanimous. - Ordinance 26-30: Zone change at 96 Punkin Road (88.36 acres) from R1A to R1C and R3 – unanimous. - Ordinance 26-31: Zone change for 49.53 acres on Berea Road (New Carriage Place Phase) from AG to R1C – unanimous. - Ordinance 26-32: Zone change for 18.09 acres on Berea Road (same development) from AG to R1C – unanimous. - Ordinance 26-33 (First Reading): Comprehensive sewer use ordinance (72 pages) summarizing wastewater regulations, discharge limits, permits, fees, and enforcement. Includes rate changes on page 52. Second reading scheduled for next meeting. - Ceremonial Orders (All Unanimous): - 26-168: Accept retirement of Jason Rollins (Codes Enforcement) effective Oct 31. - 26-169: Hire Kendall Jones as Mechanic 1 (Vehicle Maintenance) effective Oct 30. - 26-170: Promote Jonathan Lamb from Mechanic 1 to Senior Mechanic (Vehicle Maintenance) effective Oct 26. - 26-171: Transfer Jacob Cannon from Recycle (Equipment Operator 1) to Mechanic 1 (Vehicle Maintenance) effective Nov 13. - 26-173: Award sandblasting/painting bid for Paradise Cove Pool to True Colors LLC ($228,630) from Parks Aquatic Center fund. - 26-174: Appoint Robin Sayers to Architectural Review Board (three-year term expiring Oct 22, 2029), representing downtown businesses. - 26-175: Declare surplus property (list from police department) for electronic auction via GovDeals. - 26-176: Approve CDBG administration services contract with FAHE Consulting for $1,500 application fee and $10,000 administration, contingent on state fund release. - 26-177: Reclassify Austin Hall and Felix Clems from Labor 1 to Equipment Operator 1 (Public Works) effective Nov 13. Public Comments & Testimony - Ed Brown (Richmond Downtown Neighborhood Association): Announced the annual “Mittens on Millstone” event on November 12, distributing new winter clothing (hats, gloves, sweatshirts, jackets, etc.) to homeless neighbors from 4:30–6 p.m. Collection boxes are at city hall, Signature Coffee, Jackson’s Restaurant, Fork Bank, and God’s Outreach. Encouraged donations, noting 100% of collected items go to those in need. Discussion Items - Covington Woods Drainage Issue: Commissioner Brewer asked for an update. City Manager Rob replied that engineers and the contractor met on site, with a plan to add detention ponds to catch runoff and divert water to the stormwater system. Neighbors have been contacted. Progress is ongoing. - Halloween Hoedown: City Manager announced the event has moved back downtown on Thursday (October 29?) from 6–8 p.m., with Main Street closed and free candy. Key Outcomes - All voted items (minutes, ordinances, orders) passed unanimously. - Ordinance 26-33 (sewer regulations) passed first reading; second reading at next meeting. - The city will continue to address Covington Woods drainage with engineered detention ponds. - Community encouraged to participate in Mittens on Millstone and Halloween Hoedown.

The Special Committee on Ways and Means met to review the status of Providence's school construction program, including phase 2 and 3 projects managed by Downs, and phase 4 projects managed by Leftfield. Members present included the Chair, Vice Chair Teler, Council Davidson, Councilman Grace, and Councilwoman Peterson. Finance Director Crystal, Director of Program Management Joe Sankey, Interim COO Jen Holstein, and Leftfield project executive Chris Spiegel also attended. Phase 2 & 3 Project Updates (Downs) - The Spaziano Middle School upper campus was recently completed, with a ribbon cutting a few weeks prior. - Projects under construction include Lima, Master West Broadway, Kazarian, Pre-K at Providence Pre-K, Mount Pleasant, and RK. - Kazarian has faced challenges, including contaminated soils, a work stoppage, and an impacted schedule. A recovery schedule is being reviewed, and a Plan B has been developed with PPSD to add temporary classrooms at Narducci in case the school is not ready by September 2027. - Fogerty: overall budget of $73.77 million, estimated enrollment of 858, draft GMP of $69 million, 95% subcontractor buyout, dry-in scheduled for December, substantial completion targeted for June 30, 2027. - Kazarian: budget of $79 million, estimated enrollment of 158 (as stated), new construction with a renovated gym, students temporarily housed at Narducci. - Mount Pleasant: $110 million budget, approximately 1,000 students, hybrid renovation and new addition, draft GMP of $102 million, 96% bought out, project closeout expected around February 2028. - West Broadway: $84.5 million budget, 996 estimated enrollment, draft GMP of $78.4 million, approximately 80% subcontractor buyout. - RK (RFK): $77.7 million budget, 858 estimated enrollment, slightly behind schedule, 70% subcontractor buyout; project was pulled forward from phase 4 to phase 3 due to district need and availability of Hopkins as swing space. Financing and Cash Flow Discussion - The city is closing on a $140 million bond the next day (October 28), which is expected to provide enough cash through July 2027. - A further $100 million bond is anticipated in July 2027 to cover June and July invoices. - The Finance Director stated there are currently no cash flow concerns, with constant monitoring and coordination with the OPMs to borrow only when needed. - Borrowing is structured to avoid paying a full year of debt service on projects not yet complete. - Invoicing is reviewed by the OPMs (Downs or Leftfield), who validate that work is completed before payment is processed through the city's ERP system. - A Ride request for information is due the next day; it relates to invoicing questions. Downs reported a minor discrepancy of four hours for one person over a six-month period, amounting to less than $1,000. Phase 4 Project Presentation (Leftfield) - Chris Spiegel presented feasibility study findings and proposed MOA adjustments for phase 4 projects. - Roger Williams School has a special education population of approximately 24%, compared to the 8% assumed in the original budget; this drove the budget increase to $112 million. - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. rebuild was identified as the most impactful and cost-effective approach; community engagement showed strong support for a new building while preserving the school's culture. - Del Sesto was identified as able to absorb the Carnival student population due to underutilization; the original separate budgets for Carnival and Del Sesto were $11.4 million and $12 million respectively. The revised plan proposes a new pre-K–8 school at Del Sesto for $50 million. - Carnival has structural issues related to being built on a landfill with an environmental cap; fixing structural issues would require excavation below the cap, which is prohibitively expensive. The current plan would demolish the Carnival building and potentially create green space. - Hope High School needs a roof replacement and other work; an estimated $7 million would make the building like new, and the scope was increased accordingly. - Phase 4B projects (Classical, Nathan Green, and smaller schools) are proposed to be funded through capital reserve funds and bonds; the capital reserve fund currently has $5.5 million, and no sustainable funding source has been identified. - Over 160 stakeholder engagement meetings have been held, along with surveys and multilingual videos; feedback has generally supported the proposed plans. Schedule and Reimbursement Risks - All phase 4 projects must be substantially complete by June 30, 2029 to retain an additional 10% bonus reimbursement. The base reimbursement rate is 80.201%, rising to about 90% with the bonus. - If the bonus is lost, the city would lose reimbursement on approximately $46 million, equating to about $4 million in additional annual operating costs. - Construction costs are rising: producer price growth for school construction is 5–6% annually, schematic design cost increases are 6–7%, and fuel costs are over $1.50 higher than when the MOA was approved. - Steel tariffs have already led to a $220,000 change order, and the project team emphasized the need to move quickly to lock in prices. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on project approvals; the committee heard presentations and discussion. - The committee will need to review and approve contract amendments for phase 4A projects in the winter/spring to maintain the construction start schedule. - The Ride request for information response is due the next day, October 28, 2026. - PPSD is expected to make final swing space decisions in November. - The committee will continue monitoring project schedules, cash flow, and the capital reserve fund.

The Cranston Public Works Special Committee convened on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 5:46 PM. The committee addressed four utility-related petitions from Narragansett Electric and Verizon New England, denying one and approving three. Public comment was opened and closed at 5:47 PM with no members of the public providing testimony. Discussion Items - Petition 1 (20 Tomahawk Lane) - Denied: This petition involved Narragansett Electric, Verizon New England, and Riley Energy. Council President Wall withdrew his initial motion to approve and made a motion to deny. Mr. Richie and Director Correo conducted a site visit on October 27, 2026, and submitted a memorandum recommending denial due to a conflict with the property at 20 Tomahawk Lane. The motion to deny passed unanimously. Riley Energy will submit a new proposal with a revised location for future review. - Petition 2 (24 Masera Drive) - Approved: A petition to install a new pole (P2) at 24 Masera Drive. A memorandum dated October 23, 2026, recommended approval. The motion passed unanimously. - Petition 3 (Pavilion Avenue) - Approved: A petition to relocate pole P3 approximately five feet towards pole P4 on Pavilion Avenue. The recommendation was for approval, and Mr. Richie reported no updates. The motion passed unanimously. - Petition 4 (Comstock Parkway) - Approved: A petition to relocate pole P42 on Comstock Parkway. A memorandum from October 23, 2026, recommended approval. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Denial (Unanimous): Utility petition regarding 20 Tomahawk Lane. - Approvals (Unanimous): New pole at 24 Masera Drive, relocation of pole P3 on Pavilion Avenue, relocation of pole P42 on Comstock Parkway. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 PM.

The Charleston City Council held its regular meeting on October 27, 2026, at approximately 8:59 PM, with Mayor William S. Cogswell Jr. presiding. The meeting began with an invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. Council heard several presentations and proclamations, conducted public hearings on the budget and land use items, and discussed and voted on multiple ordinances. Key items included the recognition of community members, a call for increased pedestrian safety funding, and the advancement of the Dominion Energy franchise agreement to second reading with a commitment to further public input before final approval. Presentations and Recognitions - Proclamation: Bill Walsh Day – Bill Walsh, chief meteorologist at WCSC, was honored for 40 years of service. Mayor Cogswell proclaimed September 15, 2026 as Bill Walsh Day, citing his coverage of Hurricane Hugo and his military service. - Proclamation: Lovello Day – November 7, 2026 was proclaimed Lovello Day. The annual cycling event has raised over $4.6 million for cancer research at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, with 100% of funds going to research. - Resident Academy Graduation – Seven residents graduated from the city’s first Resident Academy pilot program, which received over 90 applications for 15 spots. A second academy will be offered in spring 2027. - Resolution for Icon Altarpiece at Calvary Episcopal Church – Council recognized the dedication of the Icon Altarpiece, a contemporary sacred art piece symbolizing racial reconciliation. The church history and contributions of Honorable Lonnie Hamilton III were acknowledged. Public Hearings Budget Input (2027 City Budget) Six speakers addressed the council: - Anthony G. Bryant expressed concerns about the Dominion Energy agreement and alleged retaliation. - Dr. Jack Simmons, whose wife was killed crossing King Street in March 2026, requested $1 million for pedestrian safety projects. - Dr. Alex Rich (President & CEO, Gibbs Museum of Art) thanked council for support and announced the new wing opening in April with a Norman Rockwell exhibition. - Joe McGee (President, Harleston Village Association) urged prioritization of storm drainage, flood response, and residential parking enforcement. - Jim Hempel (East Coast Greenway Alliance) and Hart Hagerty (local business owner, parent) supported a $1 million annual recurring pedestrian safety fund, referencing a petition with over 2,200 signatures. - Carol Jackson (former councilmember) endorsed the pedestrian safety fund and urged support for newer council members. - Katie Zimmerman (Executive Director, Charleston Moves) requested that the $1 million be a recurring line item in the budget. Zoning and Annexation Items (Presented by Christopher Morgan) - E3: Rezoning 1176/1180 Sam Rittenberg Blvd from SR1 to General Business (rear portion). Unanimously recommended. - E4: Rezoning 438 King St from General Business to MU2 Workforce Housing. Unanimously recommended. - Annexations: 1657 Ashley Hall Rd (General Business), 1610 Sam Rittenberg Blvd (General Business), and 1106 San Juan Ave (SR-1). All recommended. - Councilmember Tinkler noted recent $14.5 million sale of the Sam Rittenberg site, indicating revitalization. Online Public Comments 34 comments urged adoption of short-term rental revisions; 25 requested $1 million for pedestrian safety. Others addressed STR changes, charter revisions, and park improvements. Council deferred item E2 (short-term rental ordinance) to November 17, 2026. Council then approved items 3 through 7 by voice vote. Approval of Minutes Council approved the minutes from October 13, 2026, by voice vote. Citizens Participation - Anthony Bryant thanked council for the public safety committee meeting and requested more public hearings with Dominion Energy for affected neighborhoods. - Lisa Jones (Historic Charleston Foundation) called for more public engagement on the Dominion franchise agreement and highlighted concerns about tree canopy protections and lack of clear public process. - Belvin Olasoff (Director, Charleston Climate Coalition) asked that the franchise agreement allow off-site solar for municipal facilities and that franchise fees be earmarked for renewable energy. - Carolina Richards and others shared personal safety concerns and reiterated the request for a $1 million pedestrian safety line item. - Laurie Smith (NAMI Charleston) requested support for the "NAMI on Campus" program at local colleges. - Several written comments opposed the Flock camera contract. Discussion Items Dominion Energy Franchise Agreement (Item 2) Council discussed the second reading of the franchise agreement extensively: - Councilman Seekings emphasized the need for a long-term undergrounding plan and suggested dedicating more franchise fees to the Non-Standard Service Fund (NSSF), which would generate approximately $60 million over the agreement’s life. He noted undergrounding costs are $2,500 per linear foot. - Councilman McBride highlighted unique conditions on Johns Island with Berkeley Electric and cautioned that undergrounding is not universally beneficial. - Councilman Polke raised affordability concerns for ratepayers and asked whether the agreement precludes solar (Dominion representative confirmed it does not, citing state law). - Councilman Waring supported the agreement but advocated for more public input before final approval. - Councilman Appel suggested reviving an underground utilities committee or using the Sustainability Advisory Committee to maintain focus on undergrounding. - The council approved second reading but deferred third reading to allow additional public questions and input. Mayor Cogswell committed to further education opportunities. Other Ordinances - Item 1 was approved for second and third readings. - Items 5 through 11 were approved for second and third readings as amended (item 6 corrected to Berkeley County). - Item 4 was deferred. Key Outcomes - Mayor Cogswell proclaimed Bill Walsh Day (September 15) and Lovello Day (November 7, 2026). The city celebrated the Icon Altarpiece dedication and graduated seven residents from the pilot Resident Academy. - The council heard strong public support for a $1 million annual recurring pedestrian safety fund; "no immediate vote was taken", but the request is under consideration for the 2027 budget. - The council approved zoning changes and annexations for several properties, supporting redevelopment efforts in West Ashley and on the peninsula. - The Dominion Energy franchise agreement passed second reading, but third reading was postponed to allow additional public engagement. Further discussions will include potential revival of an undergrounding committee. - The short-term rental ordinance discussion was deferred to November 17. - The meeting adjourned after completion of the agenda.